MY FAMILY CHRISTMAS: 2018

I made no secret about how keen I was to get together with my immediate family [12 of us, including the cats, ha-ha], eat some hearty food, play fun games, listen to some classic tunes, have great conversations, laugh, take pictures, open presents, watch movies, etc.! 

My Auntie Rita is always a great host of our feast [which she single-handedly organises] and so, suffice to say, Christmas day was an absolute treat!! As well as the day itself, we enjoyed a lovely Boxing Day morning and afternoon together in front of the T.V., complete with more laughter and food, of course, all of which felt like an extra special blessing! I shared a few snaps and videos via my Instagram stories too!

NB: There are certain images / videos I do not share, or edit a particular way, out of respect for each family member, especially our young ones.

some nibbles

dining table pre grub!

me with the Christmas tree

We also had a nice 'Family Experience' day out a couple of days later, courtesy of my brother Ashley and his wife, at The City Pavilion to play Laser Quest which is great for anybody who likes the idea of paintballing without being physically hit! We ran around for a solid 30 minutes, pointing our laser guns at each other, laughing hysterically at ourselves, with everybody wanting to win! In the end it was our Uncle Dennis who took 1st place with an impressive score of 990 and Ashley was 2nd place with 972. Sadly, I placed 7th with a score of 444 [my fave number happens to be 4 so, how odd, lol]. Overall, despite not having as much time off this year as I would have liked, Christmas has been really good.

Truly hope you were blessed with a sensational Christmas, regardless of how you chose to spend it. You're worthy of greatness, we all are and that's what I want for each of us throughout 2019!! Have yourselves a wonderful New Year's Eve, click here if you've not yet decided what you're doing to celebrate. 

I'd like to take this opportunity to extend my deepest gratitude to every consistent and genuine supporter of this blog. It has been 8 years, so far, and without your support the blog would not exist so, again, THANK YOU! I'm not sure how many years I have left in the blogging world, however, it continues to make a very big difference whenever you take the time to read, comment, share, or reach out. God bless you all x

Here's to a spectacular NEW YEAR! 🎉

Thanks for reading. 

NEW YEAR GOALS: Get Ready for 2019

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NEW YEAR'S EVE IN THE U.K.!

So, in all honesty, I don't actually get involved with any NYE celebrations mostly because, I'm not one for spending silly money on the bog-standard club night to rave past midnight just to shout "happy new year" to everybody around me [I sound like such a misery, I know], but, if I were somebody who threw myself into the New Year's Eve celebrations [in such a way], below are some of the events that would probably be of interest.

LONDON - CARGO
London is my home; I've discovered so many surprisingly beautiful spots in recent years and I try to take every opportunity to explore! It's also where I have preferred to see in the New Year in the past and Cargo is an old fave so, it would be cool to see if there's any difference between a regular night at this club and their New Year's Eve night...

BRIGHTON - FUNKY FISH CLUB
Anybody who knows me well will already be aware of my love for Brighton!! I defo need to visit more often because, I'm sure there are many parts I've not yet found and experienced, but, to date, each visit has been a blessed one so, I'd have no problem seeing in 2019 by staying overnight to celebrate at Funky Fish Club which sounds / looks great!

BATH - CELEBRATIONS
I plan to take a trip here in a few months or so. I've fantasized about an idyllic stay in Bath so, I'm hoping it lives up to the fairy tale I've dreamed and heard of.

MANCHESTER - FIREWORKS
I once celebrated a birthday in Manchester and spent some time there on and off during my youth for various reasons and I've always had a good time.

LEEDS - EXPLORE
Not high on my list, but, I'm keen to see for myself what Leeds has to offer! I'm hoping to spend a few days exploring next year.

CARDIFF - CLAYTON HOTEL
No two people ever have the same vibe about Cardiff. Some people absolutely love it whilst others completely loathe it!! On the 3, or 4, occasions I've been there I really enjoyed it and would go back in a heartbeat.

LIVERPOOL - BOAT PARTY
Much like Cardiff, in the sense that it's a bit Marmite, Liverpool has been fun, eye-opening and also offered something new with each visit. I've not been for years, but, I'd be up for going again one day, especially as it's where I met one of my best friends, so, it has a bit of a special place in my heart.

BRISTOL - HEAD FIRST
I know nothing about Bristol, except for my girl Tanya Lacey and the lovely Josie Gibson, LOL!! I must arrange a day trip.

FYI - the above places are some of my fave U.K. spots to visit that's why I chose them. What will you be doing to see in the New Year? Whatever you decide, make sure you stay safe whilst enjoying the fun of it all.

I hope you each have a wonderful New Year's eve!! God bless x

Thanks for reading. 

PREVIOUS POST - Line Up Your Goals For 2019

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LINE UP YOUR GOALS FOR 2019

If you never go after the life you truly want you will end up having to settle for a life you don't want. Therefore, it makes sense to continue in the direction of your dreams regardless of any battles you face.

Now, I'm not about to preach that it's at all easy to persevere during a rough chapter, which might present a stumbling block between where you are currently and where you would like to be, but, what I will say is that, it is possible to achieve all of your goals irrespective of the inevitable bumpy road!

REVIEW YOUR LIST
- Are your goals realistic?
- Why do you want to achieve those particular things?
- How will you benefit from each achievement?
- Is your list about you, or someone else?
- When did you decide on this list; what frame of mind were you in?
- If the goals are still relevant, do they need to be reigned in a little?
- What gets you down about the pursuit of this list and why?
- Have you been honest with yourself about your failings and the next steps you need to take?

THINK GOOD, LIVE GOOD
For me personally, the moment, quite literally, that I decided to turn every negative into a positive is the second I began to enjoy my life more. It also does the world of good to not front about any hardship you might be going through. In November I had to ask for a big help from somebody new in my life and albeit incredibly hard and a little embarrassing, real talk, I did it and am so glad that I did because, without their help there would have been a serious glitch in my Matrix! Whilst we have no control over unexpected occurrences, we can always choose how we deal with those hurdles. It will never be easy, I still struggle with applying this from time to time, but, your persistence will pay handsomely!

THANK THEM & MOVE ON
Not everybody who walks into your life is to be offered a permanent seat. It is so true that, despite however many months, or years, a person may be around, they can be gone at any time - be that by their own choosing, or as a result of circumstances - and you would be doing yourself the greatest favour by sending out gratitude into the universe for having had them in your life and for whatever they may have taught you, then moving on with your own. Allowing yourself to be so caught up with emotions that you begin to spend less and less time focused on what's important will never serve you well. You've got to build resilience.

TRY SOMETHING DIFFERENT
The same routine, methods, circles, etc., can hold us back. Branch out; go somewhere you haven't been before, connect with new people, learn a skill that will support your goals and don't wait to have somebody by your side before you take those steps. The world has so much to offer you, but, you're not likely to receive these offerings if you stay in the same place, doing the same things, with the same people all the time.

TREAT YOURSELF
Take a break from the grind, now and then, to reward your hard work and progression, or to just breathe! It can be anything from spending time with a friend, to a bit of shopping, as long as it's an actual break from your hustle and doesn't impact negatively on any other area of your life.

So, revise that list and make sure your evaluation is an honest one. The New Year is hot on our heels! Have an abundance of faith in yourself. Try not to seek approval from anybody else and just do your thing. Be motivated by reminding yourself that the alternative to having what you really want is not an option for you; let this push you to stay consistent with your efforts to achieve your goals for 2019. Create a daily schedule for yourself right now and commit to it.

'Tis definitely the season to start being a bit kinder to yourself! 

As I always tell you, you've got this!!

Thanks for reading. 

PREVIOUS POST - Festive Treats For The Family!

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FESTIVE TREATS FOR THE FAMILY!

By now, you might be ready for December 25th! I hope my Christmas post last week and the week before was useful to you during your preparations. If you're anything like me [and other festive early birds] all the presents have been bought and wrapped, the decorations are in full effect, the tree is rocking its best lights, tinsel and angel [or, whatever your preference may include] and the food menu has already been decided!!

All that's left is to make sure you have a few additional essentials that will add to the joy and beauty of the day. They will also impress your loved ones too, I'm sure...

NIBBLES

Whilst waiting for the feast to be served, hungry tummy's may want a little something to keep them from growling, lol...

TABLE DECOR
My auntie has such a good eye when it comes to dressing her dining table per seasonal event and I absolutely love it. I think it's so nice to do this and, with it, you can also include things to entertain. [Look out for my end of year post where I will share with you pictures from my Christmas day!!].

SECRET SANTA STOCKING
This is not something my family and I do, but, it would be awesome to have a huge stocking by the front door filled with mini surprise gifts that your heart beats can take with them when they leave.

GAMES
My family and I have the best time with old school games such as Guess Who and Trivia as well as some of the newer activities available to buy from pretty much all good retail stores. The games provide extra fun, laughter and add to the positive, cosy vibes of the day. 

I'd really like to know some of the fun, festive things you and yours factor into the day - let me know... If you don't celebrate Christmas, which is absolutely fine, what is it that you do on the 25th and 26th of December?

Thanks for reading. 

PREVIOUS POST - Affordable Christmas Gifts

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All images taken from Google

AFFORDABLE CHRISTMAS GIFTS!

This is a very different post, but, I hope you find it just as helpful. Especially those of you who are not sure what to buy for a particular family member, or friend. More so if you're on a tight budget like I was this year...

Make sure you click on the name of each product for more information, to find other gift ideas for your loved ones and maybe even yourself! 

CHILDREN

Jumping Tubes

Baffle Puzzle

Scribble Writing Alarm Clock

All-in-one Play Table

ADULTS

Stargazing For Two

iBed lap desk

Bedside Pocket Caddy

I had to include a funny one! Although I appreciate some people have a genuine problem with snoring and might actually benefit from these so, you could actually make somebody really happy with this present. Well, if they work...

Anti Snoring Mints! 

Also, if you're looking for stocking fillers, have a look here.

There is so much available on the high street and online. Plenty unique, quirky, fun, or exciting items and products that are both affordable and right for this time of year. Regardless of your budget, shop around! Would love to know of any gems you find!! 

Thanks for reading. 

PREVIOUS POST - Are You Ready For Christmas?

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ARE YOU READY FOR CHRISTMAS?

If you know me in person, or have been reading my blog for several years, I doubt you'll be surprised by this post, LOL! 

I am so ready for Christmas this year and my excitement is on another level. Primarily because, my nephew is now aged 2 and will be more aware of the celebrations, which are bound to be a lot of fun and because, I had a tricky few months [which I, thankfully, survived] and feel that Christmas will be the time I'll have a moment to actually take it all in and rejoice. Praise be to God, always.

GIFTS
I love buying for others, however, this year, my budget was very small, so, I bought each loved one just one present [I often like to give two per person] and stuck with boutique stores on the high street which are purse friendly! I'm also terrible at wrapping so, I tried to be a tad more creative with it. I purchased affordable brown wrapping paper, recycled some rose gold ribbon and bought discounted present decorations. Albeit nothing remotely special, or unique, I feel proud of my extra effort and know that the recipients will be extra grateful.

Altogether the wrapping items cost £3.99!! There are many places you can find some gems without having to leave yourself completely broke! Try Amazon, Lidl, Flying Tiger [formerly known as Tiger and Tiger Tiger], Poundland, Savers and little, independent shops. Cheap doesn't always equal tat!! Shop wisely.

2019 TIP: You can save your November and December income for January 2020 if you buy your Christmas gifts between August and October! Nobody wants to start a new year broke!

HOME DECOR
I'm not usually one for decorations, however, sometimes, I do like to have a few basic mini Christmas ornaments around my home. I opted for a handful of items from Poundland and [my fave] B&M Stores which work a treat in my flat. I had a look in Primark too, but, their products didn't really do much for me and I found them to be a bit pricey for what they were. I don't do Christmas trees, but, if I did, I would opt for a black, or white, sparkly one with minimal decor added. Bunting and such is not for me - I find them a bit tacky.

B&M Stores

Poundland

Primark

B&M Stores

FUN THINGS TO DO
November 2017, the family and I went to Kew Gardens which was so amazing! I loved it and didn't think that I would being that I am no longer a fan of the cold weather, especially the biting temperatures we see in the U.K. The views were stunning; very beautiful and it was quite peaceful too despite it being fairly busy.

I also had a lovely time at Winter Wonderland. There was a lot to see and take part in. I'd suggest getting there at the opening time to fully immerse yourself in all that it has to offer for the day. It really is a spectacular experience, in my opinion, and I hope to visit again!

Anything fun, interactive, and that the whole family, or your group of friends, can join in with, is a great way to get into the festive spirit. From ice-skating, to a weekend ski trip, a themed outing, etc., make the most of the days leading up to Christmas if you can.

OUTFITS
When it comes to parties - from a gingerbread person, Mr or Mrs Claus, an elf, or a turkey - there are too many costumes I could suggest so, I'll leave you to research those for yourselves, ha-ha...

On the actual day itself, many of us tend to stay in our pyjamas, or lounge about in old, 'house' clothes and, in some cases, there are those who don't even bother to shower! Good grief!! I mean, if you're not into Christmas, fair enough [I totally get that], but, you should definitely bathe, lol, and, if you are into the festivities, rock an outfit reflective of that.

Why not wear something themed? You can coordinate with the seasonal colours, or the decor of your home. You could opt for a Christmas jumper, or a two piece and add a few classic jewellery items [keep them minimal though. You don't want to look like you've decided to rival the tree!]. Or, you can dress in a classic, simple yet stylish outfit that is both for the season and on trend? Maybe an old festive top will go well with your fave skirt, trousers, pinafore, or leggings. You don't need to buy something new and extravagant. Whatever you go for, it's all about having fun!

I think, for me, the most important thing is that I don't overspend. Christmas is about quality time and laughter with loved ones not the exchange of material possessions and leaving myself with empty pockets... 

Happy festive planning! x

Thanks for reading. 

PREVIOUS POST - You Versus You

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YOU VERSUS YOU

There are a number of untold situations that can have us feel utterly devastated. From break-up's to job loss, financial woes, or a life changing illness; it is never easy to navigate ourselves through testing times and find the light at the end of such a gloomy tunnel.

Many moons ago I was terrible at dealing with any intense, sudden changes in my life. I'd react badly and my behaviour would often hurt those around me. Nowadays, not only am I much stronger and far more capable [emotionally and mentally, despite my struggle with anxiety], I do very well, if I do say so myself, at getting back on track after something awful happens. While I can still get it wrong, I am now so much better at dealing with life's challenges quickly and effectively.

The following may not work for everyone, however, you've nothing to lose and potentially everything to gain by trying these steps whenever you're faced with a serious turn of events...

Take a step back from the situation
Give yourself the time and space to calm your thoughts [over thinking is never helpful] and to understand your emotional connection to the matter.

Assess things as though you are an outsider 

Being caught up in the 'drama' of it all can have us respond irrationally which is likely to make things worse. What, exactly, is the real issue and how, realistically, can it be solved?

Reflect on your most recent positive memory

We automatically smile and feel relaxed at the thought of an experience that we enjoyed - this vibe is always best when tackling difficulties.

Approach the issue with brutal honesty

Analyse your feelings and be real about why you're allowing them to stay with you... It may be an incredibly rough chapter, but, you are alive and should continue to write the many pages left to be filled in a way that has the story; your story, pan out beautifully.

Get another perspective

Speak with somebody you trust - explain things with transparency and include your part in it all. Perhaps this trusted individual will shed some light on what you haven't been able to see, or they may simply give you another view on how to deal with everything. Either way, you'll feel great once you've got it off your chest.

Be humble

You don't know everything, you never will and you're not right all of the time which is absolutely fine. Embrace the blessings of being a student for life and the numerous people in this world, some of whom, at times, will have the answers you cannot find on your own!

Try to learn and apply the lessons immediately
It's a well known fact that until we actively implement certain lessons we will continue to battle the same problems.

New strategies

Put new coping methods in place from the lessons learned so that you're less likely to fall [or stay down for too long] when you arrive at the next stumbling block.

Life is way too short to spend precious time on anything, or anyone, that doesn't encourage positive growth.

Thanks for reading.

PREVIOUS POST - I Won't Lie To You

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I WON'T LIE TO YOU...

Let me start by expressing my gratitude to each one of you who reached out to me to check that I'm okay and / or to ask whether or not I'm still blogging. Your interest and concern has meant so much more than I know how to put into words.

My initial reason for choosing to have a break from writing was due to having a new schedule. The combination of working 40 hours + over 5 days each week, setting aside time for myself, making sure I see my family and friends, keeping up with my hobbies, blogging and other pursuits literally had me living on empty and I just needed to put certain things on pause until my batteries were fully recharged. I'm sure there are so many of you who can relate.

I didn't think it would be several months before I blogged again, but, somewhere along the way I no longer felt inspired to write. The motivation was there [it's always there], I just wasn't finding anything inspiring enough to blog about.

Recently, I've had a number of experiences that, albeit shocking and completely out of the blue, have reignited the passion for blogging as well as my drive to just keep doing what I enjoy; the things that make me happy. I've also been blessed with some timely reminders:

1. REGARDLESS of the effort, time and love, you may contribute, you are replaceable. Hard pill to swallow, but, it's a fact! So, do and give to the best of your ability, but, never be fooled into thinking that anything is secure.

2. BEING a genuine, hearty soul will not protect you in a space where there is an air of paranoia, jealousy, ill vibes and a lack of trust. 

3. FRIENDSHIPS, no matter how seemingly close, are not guaranteed to last and as quickly as they may form is as quickly as they might come to an end [often down to ignorance and stubbornness].

4. SOME people are chained to the darkness of their past which can damage them in ways they remain oblivious to and, subsequently, they may hurt you. So, whether love is between you and another soul, or not, guard your heart. Try not to keep the walls up [you could miss out on so much joy] but, don't necessarily be driven by your emotions.

5. DEATH is inevitable, we cannot avoid it - we suffer loss and, one day, we will be the loss suffered. Or, let's be real, we hope we will be missed when we're gone. 

6. IMPERFECTION is not an excuse for wrongdoing. Hold your hands up whenever confronted with your shortcomings and be willing to check yourself with a view to better yourself.

7. NOBODY is responsible for any aspect of your life. Your life is entirely on you.

8. YOU CAN let go at any time!

I've been in a bit of a strange zone lately in the sense that I'm seeing a lot clearer these days yet at the same time I know I'm starting to feel less. How does that even add up? Far from being a closed book, or not giving a lolly about others anymore, I just cannot help the natural progression of change within me which I can only conclude has developed from the numerous twists and turns that have come my way without any warning, or survival guide, lol... I mean, I'm laughing but, it's the realest talk!

Anyway, all of the above shared, in what I consider to be a bit of written ramble, I want those who truly care to know that I'm doing alright and as time goes on, God willing, I'll do / be even better. My skin is a lot thicker, my resilience level has gone up a few notches, my positivity vibe is set on high and I remain very optimistic and hopeful about the future. That said, c'est la vie!

I hope things are great with you or, if not, they're about to be. God bless. x

Thanks for reading. 
PREVIOUS POST - Are You On The Right Path?

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ARE YOU ON THE RIGHT PATH?

For some people, knowing what direction to take is made obvious to them at a young age. For others, the tug of war between choosing a definite career path and accepting any job offer [to pay their bills] is a never ending battle! The struggle can be so real, but, it doesn't have to be. If you often say to your loved ones, "I don't know what I want to do; I can't decide", or you simply feel a tad lost when it comes to deciding what you want to do, the following might help.

SEPARATE YOUR LIKES and DISLIKES
This is the old school method of whittling down what your key interests are. Take pen to paper, draw a line down the centre [creating 2 columns] and title one section 'Likes' and the other 'Dislikes' then fill in accordingly. Think generally; in terms of life, not job wise.

CLARIFY WHAT MATTERS THE MOST
The 'Dislikes' section is what you will no longer accept - both personally and professionally going forward, so, take note! From your 'Likes' column, choose your 2 favourites and write a short paragraph about why you're most passionate about each one. Then, write a new list of jobs [you can create roles for yourself too], or careers that focus on, or incorporate, those particular interests. Once finished, pick the job which you feel is 'more you'.

'SELL' YOUR SKILLS / EXPERTISE / STRENGTHS
What jobs can you do, or what opportunities are, or might be, available within your chosen field? Develop / create a portfolio of experience in line with what it is you have now decided you want to do. If this isn't possible, draft an introduction letter and invite the recipient to *meet with you at a place and time that is mutually convenient. Prepare thoroughly [know exactly what your objective is] and attend with enthusiasm and optimism. Send out as many invitations as possible. Somebody will agree to see you!

*Make sure you tell a loved where you will be, with whom and at what time, etc.

STICK WITH THE PURSUIT OF ONE PASSION TO BEGIN WITH
Sometimes it's better not to juggle too many goals and instead focus on one, thus allowing yourself the necessary time to see it through. Seek out the companies, businesses, etc., whose work appeals to you [based on how closely that relates to what it is you want to do] and find out the name of the person, or people, you can reach out to for an opportunity which, be aware, might initially be on a voluntary basis despite any experience.

AN ALTERNATIVE OPTION
Once you're clear on what you want to do, think about starting your own business! I'm no expert in that area, but, DO YOUR RESEARCH. As per your key interests, could you run your own company? How can you do that? What will you need? Where should you start? What support is available to you? Can you apply for funding?

I say this to you a lot, but, I'm going to tell you again!! You've NOTHING TO LOSE and potentially EVERYTHING TO GAIN so, GO FOR IT! Take a risk... 

Ps. There's an extremely thin line between chasing money and pursuing your dreams. Your health should be as much of a priority as keeping a roof over your head - the stress of a job you don't particularly want to do could prove to be detrimental. Your time on this earth is not to be spent working just to pay bills, more so if the job you're doing is unfulfilling! The life you want is within reach, keep pushing.

Thanks for reading.
PREVIOUS POST - Essex Vibes

Random Fact > I tried coloured contact lenses when I was either 15, or 16 [it was a thing for a little while in the 90s] which caused me to have blurred vision in my left eye for some time, which I never told anyone about. Although I did tell my Optician... [My vision is fine now, praise Jah].

ESSEX VIBES!

I cannot quite put my finger on what it is about Southend-on-sea that I love so much, but, I honestly think it makes for such a great day out! 

My family and I would visit quite often when I was a child. Or, we would sometimes visit another UK seaside town such as Margate which is lovely, albeit not as much fun as Southend, in my opinion.

The Adventure Island is the main attraction, I'd say, with rides, places to eat, an arcade and a purpose built indoor activities centre [complete with additional rides] for children. It's quite exciting, especially for kids, and I recently took a friend there as she had never been before. To say, "she loved it" wouldn't come close to just how much she enjoyed herself, although, due to having motion sickness, she was sick a few times!

Most of the rides are quite full on, but, The Dragon Claw and Rage give you an intense, stomach churning experience!! Both have almost everybody screaming for the entire duration, LOL! One is a super fast roller coaster with a brutal drop and the other delivers a very quick succession of upside down spins and twists. Avoid these if you don't have a strong stomach, real talk!!

On the Island there is a beach and, although nothing like the gorgeous feel of Brighton beach, it's quite nice to sit there for a while with an ice-cream and just take in the view, or watch people enjoy the speed boat. I would suggest you don't go in the sea because, it's absolutely vile [filled with discarded rubbish, debris, etc.] and smells awful! That said, many people do opt for a little dip, or swim.

With Alicia

Entry to the Island is free, the 'adventure' comes at a cost, but, is super affordable, cheaper if you book online and the bands permit unlimited use for the rides, throughout your visit. Other attractions, e.g. Sea Life, boat rides, etc., come at an additional cost, but, again, they're super affordable. There is definitely something for everyone and laughter is guaranteed!

Add Southend to your list of places to visit in the UK this summer, if you haven't already, and make sure you check out the travel route! I suggest you postpone your trip if the trains are not in service because, taking a bus halfway is a tad long!!

Thanks for reading.
PREVIOUS POST - Free Hot Spot in London

Random Fact > I think I am allergic to people who are religiously sarcastic. Actually, I'm convinced!!