An Autumnal To Do List

There are so many things to get out and do when this time of the year comes around. Similarly, there are so many things to do inside when this time of year comes around. I want to enjoy it all, and therefore, I thought to compile a list to ensure that nothing gets missed off. So grab yourself a cup of tea, cosy up and have a read. 

Pumpkin Picking - I have never gone to a patch and picked the pumpkins myself. It was always pop to the supermarket closest to us and pick one from there. I want to change that! Nothing felt more autumnal than picking which pumpkins to take home from a field full of them. 100% going to make this a yearly thing. Even in the rain, it was so much fun. I also haven't carved a pumpkin for some time, and we also have that too look forward too. 

Autumnal Baking - Sam recently ordered some autumnal cookie cutters, owls, leaves, pumpkin's etc, and I cannot wait to make some biscuits with them. I'm thinking something with mixed spice and that goes down perfectly with a big cup of tea. Mmm. 

Finish Autumnal Decorating - I have accumulated some new bits recently from places that we have visited and I need to find a home for them! I also am on the hunt for some new autumnal candles - my last few trips to TKMaxx and Homesense have been disappointing. Is it just me or were there next to no autumn items this year?! I managed to stock up on Christmas scents, but want to find cosy autumnal scents, as I have now burnt through them all. 

Make A List Of Films - I want to make a list of films to get through before the Christmas films become my first choice. I haven't ever really been one for watching Halloween films and I am not a fan of a horror film. We have watched so far, The Nightmare Before Christmas and Corpse Bride. If you have any recommendations for any Halloween-esque films, please do let me know.

Plan In As Many Autumnal Walks As Possible - Westonbirt Arboretum is my happy place. I love wandering around underneath the canopy of the trees. The ever changing colours of the woods is breath taking, and nothing will make you feel more autumnal. Can't wait to wrap up warm and grab a hot chocolate there too. 

I am very much looking forward to ticking all of these activities off my list. This truly is the best time of the year.

What is on your autumnal to do list?

Amber X

What To Watch For A Little Pick Me Up

Now that nights are slowly getting darker earlier, it does seem more apparent that there is a running theme of needing a little pick me up. Going to work in the dark and getting home in the dark can leave you feeling a little bit deflated. Whether you're in need of some self care or a little pick me up, I thought to compile a short list of films that always cheer me up. So grab a cup of tea, snuggle up on the sofa, under all of the blankets/throws that you can find, light some autumnal candles and stick on one of the below.

Love, Rosie

Possibly my favourite film. If not, it's up there in the top 5. I love the story line of this film and how it elapses over time. You can't but help getting caught up in the relationship/friendship of Rosie and Alex. This is one of those films that makes you warm inside, and makes you think that everything does fall into place when it is meant too. It follows Alex and Rosie, who are best mates from school, throughout their lives into college and work. However, things aren't as simple as they should be for 2 friends, when one moves to Boston for college.

Angus, Thongs and Perfect Snogging

No question that this film was going to be on my list. One that I have watched a hundred times over and still never end up getting bored of. If anything, the more that it gets watched, the better that it is. If you didn't know what this film is about (where have you been!?), Georgia is longing to get to know Robbie, a new guy in town, who she learns has just moved to Eastbourne from London. Georgia tries many things to get realised by Robbie. Do they work? What gets in her way? I guess you'll have to watch to find out.

Patrick

Another film I have seen countless times. It's become a running joke in my family, that I love pugs. There is something ridiculously cute and endearing about their little mischievous personalities and their adorable faces. So there is no reason why this film wouldn't be on this list. I love the humour in this film too and there are a few actors that you may recognise. Sarah inherits Patrick when her grandma sadly passes away. She is due to start a new job teaching and she has no idea how she is going to balance her new lifestyle and a dog. 

Harry Potter

Espeically now that Autumn is around the corner, these are great films to get stuck into. Any of the collection is good to put on and switch off too. I don't feel that Harry Potter needs a brief description, as I would like to think that you have all seen the films..

What films do you watch when you need a little pick me up?

Amber X 

Warner Brothers Studios Round 2

This post definitely contains spoilers.. You've been warned..

If any of you have been to the Warner Brother's Studio Tour London, then you will know just how truly magical the place is. I bloody love it. Spending a Sunday morning here, a couple of weeks ago (we went on March 8th) was without a doubt, the highlight of  March. I have visited before, but not for about a year and a half. It was also Hogwarts in the Snow, so lots of items on show were dusted and sprinkled with fake snow, definitely making it even more magical. I was just as excited to go this time round, minus the snow, due to the edition of Gringotts. Now I won't spoil it for those of you who want to go (skip through the photos in this post ;-) ) but it was even better than I had imagined.

We decided to do an extra as well as doing just the tour. The 'behind the seams' extra was the addition that we decided to pay a little extra, to enjoy. We were taken into a little studio/workshop room by 2 lovely tour guides, who showed us the 5 different stages of creating and visualising the costumes for each individual character of the Harry Potter films, for each film. We were even able to see some of the very same costumes that some of the celebrities wore through out filming and heard the various stories behind some of the clothing items too. How they were created, why certain details were added, how they were distressed, why they were made with specific fabric etc. It was such an eye opening workshop. Watching the films, you definitely have no idea as to how much thought and effort goes into piecing together the costumes, let alone all the other areas that are involved when making a film.

At the end of the workshop, we also got to try on some of the official robes that were used in the filming of the Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows - something that you definitely don't get to do if you're just visiting the tour itself. So of course, photos had to be taken.

Even if you're not a Harry Potter fan as such, I definitely think that the Warner Brother Studios Tour London, is such a great day out for the whole family. Of course, the tour itself is all Harry Potter based, but there is so many things to learn about the film making process, and the other details that come with it. As well as it also being an up and running film shooting studios. One of our guides was telling us how they had Tom Holland filming for Spider Man attached to a crane, and hanging over the car park, whilst they were shooting haha. But of course, if you're a Harry Potter fan, then visiting the studios is a must. It'll make you want to re-watch all the films and re-read the books, all over again. It's such a magical place.

Just make sure you book as soon as you know you want to visit - it always seems to sell out, months in advance.

Have you ever visited the Warner Brothers Studio Tour London?

Amber X

What You Need To Watch This Weekend

With the weather being more than unpredictable at the moment - snow one minute, weather warnings put in place with blustering winds and spells of drizzly rain and sleet, a 'what to watch list' seems more than fitting. Surely it's best to stay out of the cold, and remain warm and dry with a good programme to watch? Not just my thinking I'm sure. Netflix is always a great place to start for a good watch, so here are some of my recent recommendations.

The Sinner
Throughout the snowy period at the beginning of February, I binged watched both seasons of The Sinner and absolutely loved it. I'm not and never have been one for horror films, or most thriller moves if I'm honest, however this psychological thriller scared and intrigued me all at the same time. If you're all for murder mysteries or untangling cases that follow alongside a detective then you'll love The Sinner as much as I did. It's gripping, scary, tragic and horrific, a combination I never thought I would enjoy, but definitely did.

Isn’t It Romantic
Who doesn’t love a bit of Rebel Wilson? This is such a good pick me up, feel good film and I would recommend anyone to watch it if they wanted a good giggle. It follows Rebel Wilson’s character who doesn’t like romance but finds herself hitting her head that somehow transports her into a world that’s all roses, rainbows and love hearts.

Abducted In Plain Sight 
As you can probably tell, Netflix has brought out my inner detective side and made me want to watch and immerse myself in all things serial killers and murder mysteries haha. As weird as this one was to comprehend as well as to watch, it was an interesting one nether the less. It follows the story of a beloved neighbour who obsesses over the youngest daughter of the family and eventually abducts her, twice. There are many other twists which makes the whole story a lot more in depth, and bizarre. SO many memes have been made from this one that will definitely make you chuckle (if you know, you know).

After Life
Ricky Gervais plays a grieving husband, who has just lost his wife to cancer. He HATES the world - a way to put his feelings loosely. Doesn't truly understand his purpose in life anymore, and just makes everyone around him miserable. I didn't quite grasp the premise of the series at first, but the more I watched, the more I wanted to know what happened. Plus, Ricky's character has the cutest pup which makes watching even more worthwhile. It's funny and short - one to pick if you don't fancy getting deeply stuck into hours and hours of on screen action.

The Disappearance of Madeline McCann
Again another criminal case programme.. as you can tell, I've spent most of my time watching this type of video haha. But this case is still ongoing 12 years later. I'm more than sure that most people have heard of this case, and this docuseries puts so many different perspectives into the same case. Why was Madeline's case given so much publicity and community effort in comparison to other missing children cases? That being one point made in the series, amongst many others. It's a very interesting watch!

Scooby Doo
A light-hearted recommendation to end the list, and one that surely most people watched as a child. Netflix have added both films to their site, and they're both great to stick on in the background whilst getting on with chores or to sit down, all cosied up and have a good laugh. Who doesn't love Scooby Doo?

Also, Netflix are making The Kissing Booth part 2!!

What're you watching at the moment? 

Amber X

Warner Brother Studio Tour - The Making of Harry Potter

Monday (the 19th of November) was spent in Watford at the Warner Brothers Studio Tour - The Making of Harry Potter. I have always been a fan of Harry Potter - like most I've watched the films more than several times, and had a good go at reading the books but never nearing too far into the story as a result of achy hands due to trying to hold the hearty book for too long. I love to watch Harry Potter at this time of the year especially, as it all seems Christmass-y and autumnal. So going to visit the studios where a handful of the scenes were filmed, and experiencing the magic behind the spells, quidditch, costumes and the sets was most exciting. It was the best day out, and I would highly recommend going if you're a Harry Potter fan, or not.
Each room was magical, but completely transformed by the snow/Christmas elements that was put in place on the 16th of November for the run up to the festive season. Privet Drive, platform 9 and 3/4, the forbidden forest, the great hall, the Ministry of Magic, and the flying car are just a few of the amazing props and sets that you can experience there. You can even try butterbeer! (It wasn't for me). The gift shop is filled to the brim with all kinds of Harry Potter merchandise. So if the Primark Harry Potter collection isn't quite making it for you, you're bound to find something in the shop at the studios. From chocolate frogs, to tea towels.. they have it all. It's such an experience, and without spoiling too much for those of you that are yet to go - here are some of the photos that I got from the day.

One thing I would suggest if you're dying to go is to book in advance. It is definitely hard to work out the dates that you want if you don't plan ahead. It's was such a good day and I'm sure it'll make you love Harry Potter even more.

What's your favourite Harry Potter book or film?

Amber X  

What To Watch On Netflix Right Now

Yes, I know technically, it's summer still and that means we should all be out making the most of the somewhat decent weather, going on all the walks, attending all the BBQ's and festivals and living it up. But that doesn't mean that we can't have a cosy evening in, watching the somewhat decent weather through a window, paired with eating all the ice cream as if we were outside on the beach.. Whenever I want a night to myself, Netflix is where I start. I don't know if anyone is like me, but I always find myself endlessly scrolling through the masses of TV programmes and films that Netflix has available, never finding something to watch that takes my fancy. If you're like me in this sense, I hope this will give you some inspiration, and stop the forever scrolling time wasting.

The Kissing Booth
If you're in the mood for something super cringe, almost too much cringe, then this is the one I would pick. It follows two best friends, Elle and Lee, who have a set of rules that as best friends, they have to follow. However, one appears to become broken when Elle starts a 'relationship' with Lee's older brother, Noah. 


Friends
There is never a time that Friends can't/shouldn't be watched. It is by far one of my favourite tv programmes ever, and I don't think I could get bored of watching it over and over. I also love that you don't have to sit down and watch the episodes in order and they will still make sense to the person watching. But obviously, watch them in order if you haven't seen any of them before.

Hot Fuzz
If you want a comedy, then I'd recommend this one. This film was set in the city of Wells, which isn't too far away from where I live. Being nostalgic, as well as brilliant, Hot Fuzz is about a community of individuals whose secrets become exposed due to new police officer, Sargent Angel, whose moved in from London. Although no one wants to believe Sargent Angel's recent developments, he tries his best to make everyone see.

To All The Boys I've Loved Before
This film is just so cute. If you love a chick flick/rom coms, then you'll love this one. Lara Jean writes her feelings down into love letters for 5 guys that she has had a crush on throughout her life, that way she doesn't have to express how she feels. Until one day, the letters got out and she now has a lot of explaining to do. It's definitely one of those feel good films that leaves you feeling warm and whole.

What have you enjoyed on Netflix recently?

Amber X

Christmas Eve Essentials

I don't know about you, but I feel that half the festiveness and fun that surrounds Christmas, is in Christmas Eve. Christmas Eve always used to be an exciting day, as it's the night that Santa comes whilst you sleep, of course. Some families have their little Christmas Eve traditions, and I think that's such a lovely thing to share together. Whether you get to open one of your presents early, whether you go to church, whether you have an evening in together, I thought to come up with a list of things that could make your Christmas Eve the best.

• Christmas films.
• Chocolate (yes, all of the Quality Streets, Roses, Celebrations or Heros).
• Pj's of course! Paired with your favourite dressing gown, slippers and/or fluffy socks.
• Or, if you're not a pj wearer, maybe a cheesy Christmas jumper. 
• Puzzles or board games.
• Candles (if you're in the mood for some down time), or even an advent candle.
• Playing cards.
• Blankets - the more, the better.
• Other kinds of snacks... like those oversized biscuit selection boxes, yum. 
• Music. 
• Santa tracker.
• A mince pie, carrot, beer or milk - whatever you leave out for Santa Clause. 
• A DIY activity, such as decorating gingerbread men, or even building a gingerbread house.
• Alcohol (obviously if you're of age).
• Christmas hats.
• A big mug of tea, coffee or hot chocolate (How cute is this one?!)
• Face masks.
• Wrapping paper - for wrapping those last minute presents.

How do you spend your Christmas Eve?

Amber X

What to Watch At Christmas

How could I do Christmas related blog posts without including my favourite films to watch at this time of the year?! Watching films alone, or with family members and friends is something that I love - regardless of how many times you have watched something previously. Christmas Eve and Christmas Day are the best excuse to only move from your chair or sofa, when you're called for food... So if you fancied watching something Christmassy, these are the ones that I would recommended you watch.

Home Alone
This is definitely the Christmas film that I have watched every year, for so many years. Whether it be the first film or the second, they just fill you with festive-ness. Poor Kevin always gets left behind when his family plan to go on holiday and you get to see what he gets up too whilst his family aren't around. This film is such a Christmas classic, I will no doubt be watching this one on repeat.

Arthur Christmas
This animated Christmas film is definitely one of the 'newer' Christmas releases. It's so easy to watch, follow and enjoy. You follow Arthur and his desire to make sure that every child gets what they have asked Santa for in their letters. He goes to great lengths to make sure that no child misses out on Christmas morning. This film is so sweet and great for all the family.

Christmas Specials of TV Series 
When it comes to Christmas time, I'm sure that a few TV series will do a Christmas special. There is something so festive about your favourite TV shows creating a one off Christmas episode. I must have watched Gavin and Stacey's Christmas special more than a handful of times already... If you haven't seen this one specifically, you must!

Elf
The ultimate Christmas film - am I right? Cute old Buddy makes his way to New York City in search of his Dad whom he has never met before. He gets to know himself and learns a new way of life that isn't all about elves. Not only is he the best at making Christmas decorations, but also spreading festive cheer. This film will always put a smile on your face.

The Holiday
If you've read my other what to watch posts, you'll know that I am a massive fan of a soppy drama/romcom. The holiday is exactly that, but in Christmas form. Two characters, Amanda and Iris, swap houses over Christmas time to escape their troubles and essentially, have a break. Unexpected love interests appear and they both aren't so quick to return back to their own houses after all. I'd probably go as far as saying this film is my favourite Christmas film... It's so cosy, and gives you that happy, warm, fuzzy feeling. If you're like me and a fan of this one, you'll enjoy Love Actually just as much.

What's your favourite Christmas film?

Amber X 

A December Evening Pamper

There is no doubt that a pamper session is the perfect way to spend an evening after a long day of work, studying or just generally being busy. But having a relaxing evening, after spending the day Christmas shopping, decorating, writing Christmas cards, preparing food ready for Christmas day, or even watching Christmas films all day, sounds 100x better. Here are some things I like to do when I want to spend the evening unwinding, and soaking up all the festivities. 

First on my list for some down time, is taking off my makeup. I know this may seem strange to some of you, but there are days that I genuinely look forward to taking my makeup off. It means the day is done, and it's time to get cosy. Especially after a long day, makeup can start to feel unwanted on my skin, and it feels much better once it's been removed. First off I use wipes, and then I take my trusty, Liz Earle Cleanse and Polish to ensure that everything is gone. For a gentle exfoliation, my favourite is the Neutrogena Visibly Clear Pink Grapefruit Daily Scrub. This stuff leaves my skin feeling super clean and fresh. I then tone, if I want too (this Liz Earle one is amazing) and then I moisturise with the Nivea moisturizer. 

Unfortunately, at uni we don't have a bath in our flat (big sad face). So after a hot shower, I like to put my pj's on. I recently brought myself the cutest Christmas pj bottoms from Next. Nothing is better, or cosier, than xmas pj's. I like to pair my pj's with fluffy socks, and a fleecy dressing gown. 

From here, there are so many different things I like to do, but it is completely dependent on my mood. Face masks, painting my nails, making a hot chocolate (click here for the yummiest recipe), sticking on a Christmas film whilst munching on Christmas chocolate, putting some music on, catching up on YouTube videos, browsing the internet, watching some Netflix, reading, or simply just putting on some fairy lights.

What do you like to do to pamper yourself?

Amber X 

Things To Watch This Autumn

When it comes to films, I am a massive fan of a rom com, or a drama. Having a little cry when getting slightly, too engrossed in a soppy film is a talent of mine.. Scary/horror films aren't my thing for that very reason. I just don't enjoy them and find myself getting distracted by the tiniest of things whilst they're on. Having friends round to watch a film (or two) is always fun, and don't get me wrong, the thought of watching a scary film on a dark autumnal evening, like Halloween, sounds appealing. But, if you're like me and would rather choose a less scary option for these autumnal evenings, these are the titles I would recommend to you... 

Harry Potter

Watching Harry Potter is good at the best of times, but even better in my opinion when autumn is well and truly here. Think Prisoner of Askaban when Hermione stops time and accompanies Harry back to Hagrid's hut to save the Griffin, Buckbeak. The two hide behind massive pumpkins! Yes...  Just because this film has pumpkins in it, it's most definitely seasonally appropriate to watch in autumn...  

The Vampire Diaries 

Vampires = Halloween, right? I began watching the Vampire Diaries around Christmas time last year and managed to finish it within a couple of weeks... I LOVED it. It follows the story of two vampire brothers, Stefan and Damon (the real reason why you should watch the vampire diaries), who move to Mystic Falls. Like with any TV series, the cast become acquainted and the trouble begins. 

Hotel Transylvania
Adam Sandler films are some of my most watched ever. The humour and familiar cast that appear in each and every film, never fail to cheer me up, even if I have watched them a thousand times over. Hotel Transylvania is definitely more of a 'family favourite', which wouldn't usually be my first choice, but seeing as it's filled with vampires, monsters and ghoul's, it's perfect for Halloween! If you fancy watching a light hearted autumnal/Halloween themed film, or want an appropriate Halloween film to watch with little ones -  this one is perfect.

Stranger Things 

With the second series of Stranger Things coming out in the month of October, what better reason to binge watch the first series, no matter how many times you have already watched it! The upside down, the Demogorgon and the retro 80's theme and music make me think of all things spooky and eerie - just like Halloween.

Wallace and Gromit The Curse of the Were-Rabbit 

Another family favourite that I associate with autumn and Halloween is most definitely this one. It has be something to do with the vegetable growing competition and the were-rabbit that appears when the moon is at it's highest point in the sky. Wallace and Gromit will always be a classic, and this film is most definitely Halloween-y. 

As well as the The Simpson's Treehouse of Terror episodes, I will most definitely be watching some of these in the lead up to Halloween.

What're your favourite autumnal/Halloween films?

Amber x

All Time Best Cosy Films

Do you ever find yourself in one of those moods where you just want to curl up and put a film on? I know I do, quite often! Here is a short list of the films that I will always watch if all I want to do is get cosy, and watch something.

Angus, Thongs and Perfect Snogging

Ever since this film was put on Netflix, I cannot tell you how many times I have watched it. It's definitely a film that will never get old. The story line goes that Georgia, a 14 year old school girl is desperate to get a boyfriend, and throw a birthday party for her 15th birthday. When two new boys move into Eastbourne, it all seems possible!

Love, Rosie

Netflix have recently removed this film (cries), but it's one of those films that has a happy ending after the tears. It's a story based around two best friends, Alex and Rosie, who have known each other since school. Alex's family decide to move to America, splitting the two apart. Will the distance be an issue for their friendship? Life brings them back together. 

Me Before You

Lou has been told that her job in a café is to come to an end. In search of another job, she meets William Traynor, who was left paralysed after a motorcycle accident. Whilst being Will's carer, Lou tries to persuade Will that life is better than he believes it to be. 

Safe Haven

The first time I watched this film, it took a while for me to get into it. It takes a while for the story to unfold, but by the end, I'm sure you'll be willing to watch it again. Katie moves into a new, small town to try and make a new start for herself. As she settles in, she gets to know Alex, the owner of a local shop in the town. Just as things are going well for Katie and Alex, Katie's ex husband shows up and aims to spoil things. 

The Lucky One

Zac Efron (all the more reason to watch this film) plays Logan, a marine, whose in search of a woman who saved his life, through a photograph that he found when he was serving. After finding her, he agrees to work for her in her dog kennel business. Beth, the lady in the photograph, is hard on Logan at first, but eventually lets her guard down. With bumps along the way, mainly Beth's ex husband, the two enjoy life together.

I do love myself a good soppy romantic drama every now and again. 

What films do you like to watch?

Amber X