Ok, I know I said I would not use this as a ranting place but yet again I have to break my own rules and have a little moan otherwise I will burst!
Why do some people feel the need to declare their love (and other things) to their partner on Facebook?
'Hello gorgeous, thanks for yesterday lets hope we spend many more happy days together'
'I love you more than words can say'
blah blah blah.
Now I am in a loving relationship and could almost burst with how much I love my boyfriend BUT I will not put it on Facebook, or Twitter for that matter.
What is the point of sending something via Facebook? Is it just a way to show the world that you love each other? Sometimes it is just sick inducing and makes many people reach for the sick bag.
Also many occasions the person is probably sat next to you, tell them to their face!
This is what annoys me about today's culture people are more willing to email, message or text how they feel then call or talk face to face.
I sometimes think it is a little desperate to put it on Facebook. The straw that broke the camels back relates to my post 'Why oh why' the girl in question got back with the moron who now keeps posting lovey dovey messages on her Facebook wall, desperation much? Feel as if you need to show everyone you aren't a grade A arse?
I'm not against public displays of affection but why pour your guts out on Facebook.
It annoys me as much as someone saying... 'I hate the world', to which there are loads of comments saying 'What's wrong hun?' followed by the person saying 'I don't want to talk about it' DON'T PUT IT ON FACEBOOK THEN! You obviously do want to talk about it otherwise why would you put it on there, you wouldn't walk around the street with a sign around your neck or shouting the phrase for fear people will ask you so don't put it on a social networking site.
I feel my blog posts are fast making me a contender for Grumpy Old Women.
Ok I feel better, it just annoys me. Who cares if the world knows how much you love someone as long as they do isn't that the main thing?
Friday, 30 December 2011
Thursday, 29 December 2011
Gigs - past, present and future
As 2011 comes to an end I am reflecting back on one of my great loves, live music.
2011 was a pretty good year - Beady Eye, Kylie Minogue, Katy Perry, Wild Beasts, Warpaint, Miles Kane (twice), Glee, Take That with Robbie and Kasabian.
Each very different and brilliant, Katy Perry smelt of strawberries, Kylie Minogue had a water fountain, Glee was OTT, Take That with Robbie was a childhood dream and Kasabian was amazing!
2010 was an amazing year! Gaga, Rihanna, Britney and Beyonce! And those were just the major ones.
So far 2012 is looking promising.
Only two gigs booked in one in February and one in March.
In February at Alexandra Palace in London I will be seeing The Black Eyes. I am beyond excited the album is immense and I have no doubt they will be amazing live.
As support they have Band of Horses, who should also be fantastic.
And in March I will be seeing McFly at Portsmouth Guildhall. This will be my fourth time seeing the band, and they are pretty good live. Always a good atmosphere and just good.
Hopefully I will be adding to this list, especially Lady Gaga, really want to see her again so fingers-crossed!
No-one else I don't think I want to see, but time will tell.
2011 was a pretty good year - Beady Eye, Kylie Minogue, Katy Perry, Wild Beasts, Warpaint, Miles Kane (twice), Glee, Take That with Robbie and Kasabian.
Each very different and brilliant, Katy Perry smelt of strawberries, Kylie Minogue had a water fountain, Glee was OTT, Take That with Robbie was a childhood dream and Kasabian was amazing!
2010 was an amazing year! Gaga, Rihanna, Britney and Beyonce! And those were just the major ones.
So far 2012 is looking promising.
Only two gigs booked in one in February and one in March.
In February at Alexandra Palace in London I will be seeing The Black Eyes. I am beyond excited the album is immense and I have no doubt they will be amazing live.
As support they have Band of Horses, who should also be fantastic.
And in March I will be seeing McFly at Portsmouth Guildhall. This will be my fourth time seeing the band, and they are pretty good live. Always a good atmosphere and just good.
Hopefully I will be adding to this list, especially Lady Gaga, really want to see her again so fingers-crossed!
No-one else I don't think I want to see, but time will tell.
Sunday, 25 December 2011
Tuesday, 20 December 2011
Why oh why?
I try not to use this blog as a proper ranting place, however, I feel very angry.
And I'm sorry but it relates to boys.
Recently, and may I add yet again, I have had to comfort a teary eyed girl friend who has been made to feel like her boyfriend being an idiot is all her fault.
'I'm sorry but all that stress you have been going through has made me feel drained while I try to support you'.
'I feel as if you are smothering me, I need space'.
Why is it when it gets too much he makes you feel like the one in the wrong when the main reason for the break down in communication is because he has too much of an ego to tell you his problems. And that you won't understand rubbish does my head in!
Why is it some guys guilt trip you?
Why is it they don't have the guts to call time on a relationship but act like total pigs so that you do it and they are made to feel like the poor little victim.
Get the balls and do it yourself you bloody coward!
Sorry, it does my head it, and the thing is some girls don't see past it and see the tears the boys cry and feel either bad or that it must be bad if they are crying.
But I think boys are just as bad as girls (emotional blackmail-wise) but won't take the plunge if they are made to look like the bad guy.
In a relationship you go through the good times and the bad, you are there for each other no matter what, if you can't take it anymore talk about it before it gets too bad don't bottle it up.
And if you don't want to be with the other person end it. It is not fair on them or you to string something out that in the end will hurt even more. It's like ripping of a plaster do it quickly yes it will hurt but its better than peeling it off slowly pulling out the little hairs.
Someone has to get some balls and do the right thing.
*breathe* ok I feel better, sorry it just annoys me. But the rant is done now.
And I'm sorry but it relates to boys.
Recently, and may I add yet again, I have had to comfort a teary eyed girl friend who has been made to feel like her boyfriend being an idiot is all her fault.
'I'm sorry but all that stress you have been going through has made me feel drained while I try to support you'.
'I feel as if you are smothering me, I need space'.
Why is it when it gets too much he makes you feel like the one in the wrong when the main reason for the break down in communication is because he has too much of an ego to tell you his problems. And that you won't understand rubbish does my head in!
Why is it some guys guilt trip you?
Why is it they don't have the guts to call time on a relationship but act like total pigs so that you do it and they are made to feel like the poor little victim.
Get the balls and do it yourself you bloody coward!
Sorry, it does my head it, and the thing is some girls don't see past it and see the tears the boys cry and feel either bad or that it must be bad if they are crying.
But I think boys are just as bad as girls (emotional blackmail-wise) but won't take the plunge if they are made to look like the bad guy.
In a relationship you go through the good times and the bad, you are there for each other no matter what, if you can't take it anymore talk about it before it gets too bad don't bottle it up.
And if you don't want to be with the other person end it. It is not fair on them or you to string something out that in the end will hurt even more. It's like ripping of a plaster do it quickly yes it will hurt but its better than peeling it off slowly pulling out the little hairs.
Someone has to get some balls and do the right thing.
*breathe* ok I feel better, sorry it just annoys me. But the rant is done now.
Monday, 12 December 2011
Who you calling a cry baby?
I have always hated crying, I sometimes feel uncomfortable when people cry not quite knowing what to do. Personally, I have always thought crying was seen as a sign of weakness and I was not keen to let other people see they had got to me.
However, as I have got older something has happened and I cry pretty much all the time! Sad films, I can feel the tears coming, when I heard Amy Winehouse's new song I got choked up. When I get ultra stressed, the waterworks start, after having an argument once with someone they said I turned the waterworks on to get sympathy, nope really didn't, can't seem to control it.
I'm not entirely sure what has happened to me for this change to occur.
I used to be able to keep the tears at bay, keeping them in a special place to come out in private or not at all. But now I can find it really difficult keeping them in which can be quite embarrassing, when trying to keep cool.
Recently for work I spoke to a woman whose son had died. She had invited me into her home to pay tribute to him. It was always going to be difficult, she spoke about him through laughter and tears, and when I left I couldn't help but burst into tears. I didn't know him but I felt bad for her, and could feel her pain. I suppose in some situations you put yourself in their shoes and you can 't help but be overwhelmed.
My boyfriend couldn't understand why I was crying afterwards but when you are in a highly emotional and charged situation like that it is very hard not to get caught up.
I do seem to cry pretty much all the time and I have no idea why. It is almost as if at some point I opened the emotional doors and the tears started flooding and haven't been able to stop.
I'm not sure if I see it as a sign of weakness anymore though, I find it quite a release. If I am frustrated or stressed if I have a good old wail I usually feels heaps better after.
At the end of the day who cares! So what yes I am a cry baby!
However, as I have got older something has happened and I cry pretty much all the time! Sad films, I can feel the tears coming, when I heard Amy Winehouse's new song I got choked up. When I get ultra stressed, the waterworks start, after having an argument once with someone they said I turned the waterworks on to get sympathy, nope really didn't, can't seem to control it.
I'm not entirely sure what has happened to me for this change to occur.
I used to be able to keep the tears at bay, keeping them in a special place to come out in private or not at all. But now I can find it really difficult keeping them in which can be quite embarrassing, when trying to keep cool.
Recently for work I spoke to a woman whose son had died. She had invited me into her home to pay tribute to him. It was always going to be difficult, she spoke about him through laughter and tears, and when I left I couldn't help but burst into tears. I didn't know him but I felt bad for her, and could feel her pain. I suppose in some situations you put yourself in their shoes and you can 't help but be overwhelmed.
My boyfriend couldn't understand why I was crying afterwards but when you are in a highly emotional and charged situation like that it is very hard not to get caught up.
I do seem to cry pretty much all the time and I have no idea why. It is almost as if at some point I opened the emotional doors and the tears started flooding and haven't been able to stop.
I'm not sure if I see it as a sign of weakness anymore though, I find it quite a release. If I am frustrated or stressed if I have a good old wail I usually feels heaps better after.
At the end of the day who cares! So what yes I am a cry baby!
Friday, 9 December 2011
It's (nearly) Christmas!!!
I don't know what it is but Christmas makes me feel all warm and fuzzy.
I think I have said before I love everything about it, I love the decorations, the lights, the shopping, the food and just the overall feeling.
I went to a garden centre recently I was interviewing the father and daughter who own the chains, really lovely people, anyway they obviously had their Christmas section.
The theme was cities and each decoration bit had its own city, the Paris one was all romantic and beautiful, there was Stockholm one and Hollywood was very glamorous. The trees were made up all beautifully decorated and I couldn't help but feel like a child I wanted to run around and touch all the glitter and lights.
When ever I drive past homes who have made an effort with their lights it makes me feel giddy, I just love it, I love the songs and the films. No other time of the year makes you feel happy.
To me also everything I feel should be shut on Christmas day.
People should be with their family or with people like the Salvation Army, shops shouldn't be open, I feel bad for those people working for people who have forgotten to get milk or cranberry sauce.
Anyway it is only one day people no need to panic shop before.
I suppose as well I am lucky that my boyfriend is just as big a kid as me, and I just love giving presents it is great love it!
Also I love this advert.... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pSLOnR1s74o
I don't understand how anyone can watch it and not either feel warm, fuzzy and just Christmassy!
What can I saw this blog post is all about the love.
I think I have said before I love everything about it, I love the decorations, the lights, the shopping, the food and just the overall feeling.
I went to a garden centre recently I was interviewing the father and daughter who own the chains, really lovely people, anyway they obviously had their Christmas section.
The theme was cities and each decoration bit had its own city, the Paris one was all romantic and beautiful, there was Stockholm one and Hollywood was very glamorous. The trees were made up all beautifully decorated and I couldn't help but feel like a child I wanted to run around and touch all the glitter and lights.
When ever I drive past homes who have made an effort with their lights it makes me feel giddy, I just love it, I love the songs and the films. No other time of the year makes you feel happy.
To me also everything I feel should be shut on Christmas day.
People should be with their family or with people like the Salvation Army, shops shouldn't be open, I feel bad for those people working for people who have forgotten to get milk or cranberry sauce.
Anyway it is only one day people no need to panic shop before.
I suppose as well I am lucky that my boyfriend is just as big a kid as me, and I just love giving presents it is great love it!
Also I love this advert.... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pSLOnR1s74o
I don't understand how anyone can watch it and not either feel warm, fuzzy and just Christmassy!
What can I saw this blog post is all about the love.
Tuesday, 6 December 2011
Thank you for the music
Music can evoke memories, conjure up happy or sad feelings or transport you back to a time and place.
Sometimes you don't realise how important music is in your life, be it that song you sing at the top of your voice when you need an ego boost or the song you dance to when getting ready for a night out.
There are songs that remind you of first loves, exes, holidays or gigs.
I do love my music but I don't think I really realised how important it is and how it can have an impact on my mood. So in a short post I thought I would put down some songs that are important to me.
I suppose I should start with the song that made me want to write this post... Scott Mills played The Futureheads 'Hounds of Love' on his Wonder Years on Radio 1 the other day...this was a song I bought because the guy I was seeing liked it and it reminded me of him. Now it reminds me of him, when he broke my heart for the last time (after six or seven good gos) I decided I hated the stupid song, so I did what any rational person would do, I smashed it with a hammer, it was CD by the way. It felt good though believe me.
Then there is Outkast 'Hey Ya', I love, love, love this song! It reminds me of my first (and only) girly holiday to Dublin, it came on in a club called Q I think, it was an amazing night out and an amazing holiday. Britney Spears 'Toxic' brings back the same memories.
Anything Spice Girls reminds me of my childhood days, especially 'Spice up Your Life' which I remember going to my friend's grans house before school to watch the premiere of the video, we were subsequently late for school, well worth it. Me and my friend even had a band which sung Spice Girl's covers, fantastic. Aaahh those were the days.
Then gigs...my first gig was Boyzone, I know! But now Kylie Minogue 'Love at First Sight' obviously reminds me of meeting the great lady and being on cloud 9 dancing to it. And of course 'Vlad the Impaler' reminds me of the fantastic Kasabian gig in Brighton.
I will admit that I don't go out as much as I used but there are songs now that when I hear them it reminds me of those days J-Kwon 'Tipsy' reminds me of a shots bar, which I was sick in but that's by the by. 'Golddigger' by Kayne I can remember dancing with my friend.
And then there are the songs that make my heart melt because they remind me of that special someone in my life... like Elbow 'One Day Like This' is just one.
Its like when I hear the instrumental version of 'Kissing You' from Romeo and Juliet I burst into tears, it reminds me of my friends wedding.
I know it's silly but music is one of those things and I felt compelled to write about my love of music.
So to all bands and singers Thank you for the music!
Sometimes you don't realise how important music is in your life, be it that song you sing at the top of your voice when you need an ego boost or the song you dance to when getting ready for a night out.
There are songs that remind you of first loves, exes, holidays or gigs.
I do love my music but I don't think I really realised how important it is and how it can have an impact on my mood. So in a short post I thought I would put down some songs that are important to me.
I suppose I should start with the song that made me want to write this post... Scott Mills played The Futureheads 'Hounds of Love' on his Wonder Years on Radio 1 the other day...this was a song I bought because the guy I was seeing liked it and it reminded me of him. Now it reminds me of him, when he broke my heart for the last time (after six or seven good gos) I decided I hated the stupid song, so I did what any rational person would do, I smashed it with a hammer, it was CD by the way. It felt good though believe me.
Then there is Outkast 'Hey Ya', I love, love, love this song! It reminds me of my first (and only) girly holiday to Dublin, it came on in a club called Q I think, it was an amazing night out and an amazing holiday. Britney Spears 'Toxic' brings back the same memories.
Anything Spice Girls reminds me of my childhood days, especially 'Spice up Your Life' which I remember going to my friend's grans house before school to watch the premiere of the video, we were subsequently late for school, well worth it. Me and my friend even had a band which sung Spice Girl's covers, fantastic. Aaahh those were the days.
Then gigs...my first gig was Boyzone, I know! But now Kylie Minogue 'Love at First Sight' obviously reminds me of meeting the great lady and being on cloud 9 dancing to it. And of course 'Vlad the Impaler' reminds me of the fantastic Kasabian gig in Brighton.
I will admit that I don't go out as much as I used but there are songs now that when I hear them it reminds me of those days J-Kwon 'Tipsy' reminds me of a shots bar, which I was sick in but that's by the by. 'Golddigger' by Kayne I can remember dancing with my friend.
And then there are the songs that make my heart melt because they remind me of that special someone in my life... like Elbow 'One Day Like This' is just one.
Its like when I hear the instrumental version of 'Kissing You' from Romeo and Juliet I burst into tears, it reminds me of my friends wedding.
I know it's silly but music is one of those things and I felt compelled to write about my love of music.
So to all bands and singers Thank you for the music!
Friday, 2 December 2011
Money makes the world go around
Many of us have would love to have some extra cash; be it for that holiday you have been dreaming about, Christmas around the corner or just to have some extra money for emergencies. Now many people are re-evaluating their jobs and taking up hobbies which can provide a bit of extra money, which means there are more opportunities for you to do the same.
One way to make extra money is by taking craft classes and making money from the items that you make there. Craft classes are not very expensive and in the long run can help you forge a new career or at the very least an enjoyable hobby. Craft’s come in all shapes and sizes, and the image associated with them being un-cool or boring is fast changing especially as people seem to appreciate homemade items.
Card making is a very personal and great way to make extra money, it won’t make you a millionaire but it may make you feel good about yourself, especially as people seem to appreciate the personal touch. It also means people can ask you themselves what they want and what kind of cards they want, as there is nothing more frustrating than searching the shelves of your local card shop and being disappointed with the cards on offer. A great starting point to help you out is the web; one great website is www.making-greeting-cards.com, which has lots of tips for different projects and cards for different occasions including Christmas and Mothers Day. Once you pick the card or occasion you click on the link and you receive a how to list on how to make the card. There is also a page dedicated to how you can start a home greeting card business. If you are interested in card making then it may be worth starting a blog, as it is a great way to show others what you can do, also try and join as many craft forum groups as you can, they are a great way to publicise yourself and get tips from others. Another useful website if www.makingcardsmagazine.com, which has its own forum and lots of information for budding card makers.
They say that diamonds are a girl’s best friend, however, on many people’s budgets diamonds are not your credit cards best friend, so the next best thing could be to make your own jewellery. Not only can you create yourself a bespoke piece of exclusive jewellery but you can also create gifts for your friends and loved ones.
Baking may sometimes be bad on the hips but could be good for the wallet. Everybody loves cakes so why not hone your skills and sell what you make, and if a batch goes wrong then I’m sure there will be more than enough people to eat the results. Baking cakes can also be inexpensive if you buy in bulk you can make a lot of cakes for a profit. To start you off here is a recipe for a simple chocolate cake, this recipe serves eight, and preparation time is ten minutes with cooking time at fifty minutes. Now the ingredients you will need for the cake are: 175g (6oz) margarine or softened butter, 175g (6oz) caster sugar, 3 large eggs, 150g (5oz) self-rising flour-sifted, 50g (1¾oz) of sifted cocoa, 1tsp baking powder, 1tsp vanilla extra, pinch of salt. For simple chocolate icing all you will need is 100 (3 ½ oz) of dark chocolate icing and 100g (3 ½ oz) of chopped butter. To cook you need to heat your oven to 180˚C (gas mark 4). Lightly grease a 18cm (7in) round cake tin with a little extra butter or margarine and cut a piece of greaseproof paper or non-stick baking parchment to fit the base of the tin. Put all the cake ingredients into a large mixing bowl and beat with a wooden spoon or hand-held mixer for 1 minute, or until just combined. It is important at this stage not to beat the batter too much, just long enough to make it smooth. Pour the mixture into the tin and smooth the top, bake on the middle shelf of the oven for about 45-50 minutes. The cake is cooked when it looks well risen and golden; the top should spring back when lightly touched with a finger tip or insert a skewer into the centre of the cake and it should come out clean. Let the cake sit in the tin for about 5 minutes, then gently run a knife around the edge and turn the cake out onto a wire rack to cool. For the icing, place the dark chocolate and chopped butter in a heatproof bowl and set over a saucepan of very hot water until melted. Cool for 15 minutes and then spread over the top of the cooled cake. If, however, the cake business doesn’t take off at least you have learnt to make lots of delicious cakes.
There are many ways that you can make a bit of extra cash in these trying times by making something delicious or unique. At the end of the day if it’s fun you will enjoy it a whole lot more.
One way to make extra money is by taking craft classes and making money from the items that you make there. Craft classes are not very expensive and in the long run can help you forge a new career or at the very least an enjoyable hobby. Craft’s come in all shapes and sizes, and the image associated with them being un-cool or boring is fast changing especially as people seem to appreciate homemade items.
Card making is a very personal and great way to make extra money, it won’t make you a millionaire but it may make you feel good about yourself, especially as people seem to appreciate the personal touch. It also means people can ask you themselves what they want and what kind of cards they want, as there is nothing more frustrating than searching the shelves of your local card shop and being disappointed with the cards on offer. A great starting point to help you out is the web; one great website is www.making-greeting-cards.com, which has lots of tips for different projects and cards for different occasions including Christmas and Mothers Day. Once you pick the card or occasion you click on the link and you receive a how to list on how to make the card. There is also a page dedicated to how you can start a home greeting card business. If you are interested in card making then it may be worth starting a blog, as it is a great way to show others what you can do, also try and join as many craft forum groups as you can, they are a great way to publicise yourself and get tips from others. Another useful website if www.makingcardsmagazine.com, which has its own forum and lots of information for budding card makers.
They say that diamonds are a girl’s best friend, however, on many people’s budgets diamonds are not your credit cards best friend, so the next best thing could be to make your own jewellery. Not only can you create yourself a bespoke piece of exclusive jewellery but you can also create gifts for your friends and loved ones.
Baking may sometimes be bad on the hips but could be good for the wallet. Everybody loves cakes so why not hone your skills and sell what you make, and if a batch goes wrong then I’m sure there will be more than enough people to eat the results. Baking cakes can also be inexpensive if you buy in bulk you can make a lot of cakes for a profit. To start you off here is a recipe for a simple chocolate cake, this recipe serves eight, and preparation time is ten minutes with cooking time at fifty minutes. Now the ingredients you will need for the cake are: 175g (6oz) margarine or softened butter, 175g (6oz) caster sugar, 3 large eggs, 150g (5oz) self-rising flour-sifted, 50g (1¾oz) of sifted cocoa, 1tsp baking powder, 1tsp vanilla extra, pinch of salt. For simple chocolate icing all you will need is 100 (3 ½ oz) of dark chocolate icing and 100g (3 ½ oz) of chopped butter. To cook you need to heat your oven to 180˚C (gas mark 4). Lightly grease a 18cm (7in) round cake tin with a little extra butter or margarine and cut a piece of greaseproof paper or non-stick baking parchment to fit the base of the tin. Put all the cake ingredients into a large mixing bowl and beat with a wooden spoon or hand-held mixer for 1 minute, or until just combined. It is important at this stage not to beat the batter too much, just long enough to make it smooth. Pour the mixture into the tin and smooth the top, bake on the middle shelf of the oven for about 45-50 minutes. The cake is cooked when it looks well risen and golden; the top should spring back when lightly touched with a finger tip or insert a skewer into the centre of the cake and it should come out clean. Let the cake sit in the tin for about 5 minutes, then gently run a knife around the edge and turn the cake out onto a wire rack to cool. For the icing, place the dark chocolate and chopped butter in a heatproof bowl and set over a saucepan of very hot water until melted. Cool for 15 minutes and then spread over the top of the cooled cake. If, however, the cake business doesn’t take off at least you have learnt to make lots of delicious cakes.
There are many ways that you can make a bit of extra cash in these trying times by making something delicious or unique. At the end of the day if it’s fun you will enjoy it a whole lot more.
Wednesday, 30 November 2011
My Week With Marilyn
I am surprised that I have never published a piece about my love for Marilyn Monroe. For as long as I can remember I have been a fan of Marilyn Monroe, I do remember watching 'Some Like it Hot' with my Grandad so I think it stems from there.
As I got older my fascination grew, I have many posters and prints on my walls of the actress and have many books on my shelves. Many biographies and picture books, all filled with facts, theories and maybe a little fiction, probably created by Monroe herself to get the public on her side.
I have read so many they blur into one, one however I have not read it 'The Prince, The Showgirl and Me', a diary by Colin Clark, who worked as a third assistant on the filming of 'The Prince and the Showgirl' (1957) starring Monroe and Laurence Olivier.
Clark was 23, and the book is his first hand account of having to deal with Marilyn during filming, he subsequently fell in love with her and had his heart broken by her, as so many men did.
The book was published in 1995 and the film is out now.
I was a little dubious at first as a Marilyn Monroe fan I am always a little critical about people playing Marilyn.
However, I was pleasantly surprised Michelle Williams is just phenomenal, she made me fall a little in love with her portrayal of Marilyn and that is just what she does portray Marilyn. She isn't trying to be her, or do a funny caricature.
She has picked up Monroe's mannerisms and is playing a normal Marilyn. She does deserve the Oscar and at times I had to remind myself that it wasn't the real one.
I don't personally think that anyone could have played Marilyn in quite the same way. Scarlett Johansson and Megan Fox may be fans or style themselves like Marilyn but I personally feel if they had played the star they would have pushed the sexuality aspect of her persona to the forefront and rather than a fragile young woman, she would have been a sex goddess with a tinge of sadness. Whereas, Williams plays her with a vulnerability, while also showcasing her magnetism and sex appeal.
As a massive fan I just felt a sense of relief after seeing it and felt that Williams had done the actress justice.
The film itself was really good, Kenneth Branagh is brilliant as Olivier and conveys the jealousy he felt towards the Hollywood star. Eddie Redmayne as Colin has a naivety and innocence. All the cast are really good and add something. But Williams does steal every scene she is in just as Miss Monroe did.
There were moments in the film that I kept thinking if Marilyn and Colin sleep together it is fabricated as I know people think she was a bit loose, but when married I believe she remained faithful.
I think the film showed a side of Marilyn that we don't really see - her lack of confidence when she filmed and also how people she worked with saw her. As they say when she turns it on she has it, also that she had a natural talent that many try years to achieve.
This is a great film and Williams is amazing as Marilyn and if she gets the Oscar nod she more than deserves to win.
As I got older my fascination grew, I have many posters and prints on my walls of the actress and have many books on my shelves. Many biographies and picture books, all filled with facts, theories and maybe a little fiction, probably created by Monroe herself to get the public on her side.
I have read so many they blur into one, one however I have not read it 'The Prince, The Showgirl and Me', a diary by Colin Clark, who worked as a third assistant on the filming of 'The Prince and the Showgirl' (1957) starring Monroe and Laurence Olivier.
Clark was 23, and the book is his first hand account of having to deal with Marilyn during filming, he subsequently fell in love with her and had his heart broken by her, as so many men did.
The book was published in 1995 and the film is out now.
I was a little dubious at first as a Marilyn Monroe fan I am always a little critical about people playing Marilyn.
However, I was pleasantly surprised Michelle Williams is just phenomenal, she made me fall a little in love with her portrayal of Marilyn and that is just what she does portray Marilyn. She isn't trying to be her, or do a funny caricature.
She has picked up Monroe's mannerisms and is playing a normal Marilyn. She does deserve the Oscar and at times I had to remind myself that it wasn't the real one.
I don't personally think that anyone could have played Marilyn in quite the same way. Scarlett Johansson and Megan Fox may be fans or style themselves like Marilyn but I personally feel if they had played the star they would have pushed the sexuality aspect of her persona to the forefront and rather than a fragile young woman, she would have been a sex goddess with a tinge of sadness. Whereas, Williams plays her with a vulnerability, while also showcasing her magnetism and sex appeal.
As a massive fan I just felt a sense of relief after seeing it and felt that Williams had done the actress justice.
The film itself was really good, Kenneth Branagh is brilliant as Olivier and conveys the jealousy he felt towards the Hollywood star. Eddie Redmayne as Colin has a naivety and innocence. All the cast are really good and add something. But Williams does steal every scene she is in just as Miss Monroe did.
There were moments in the film that I kept thinking if Marilyn and Colin sleep together it is fabricated as I know people think she was a bit loose, but when married I believe she remained faithful.
I think the film showed a side of Marilyn that we don't really see - her lack of confidence when she filmed and also how people she worked with saw her. As they say when she turns it on she has it, also that she had a natural talent that many try years to achieve.
This is a great film and Williams is amazing as Marilyn and if she gets the Oscar nod she more than deserves to win.
Tuesday, 29 November 2011
Kasabian, The Brighton Centre, 28/11/2011
The last time I saw Kasabian was a couple of years ago when West Ryder Pauper Lunatic Asylum came out. It was up in Manchester at the Apollo I think, it was so hot and crammed full so although it was a good gig, it was a little mental.
This time however, at the Brighton Centre it was cool and although full it wasn't rammed, and it was...the best gig ever!
Now again if you don't want to know what songs they play, the encore and that stop reading!
As I was saying this gig was just phenomenal! This is a band that know what they are doing and know how to rock.
They played so many hits, it was relentless you do forget how many good songs they have. L.S.F, Clubfoot, Shoot the Runner, Vlad the Impaler and Take Aim.
Tom and Serge are just to fantastic singers, and I would say dressers but I'm not sure about Serge's parka with feathers or his tiger print tight fitted t-shirt.
Their music live is just...out of this world! When you see Serge playing the opening bit of Vlad it is just...I can't describe it but like nothing I have heard before.
Tom may not be ultra cocky but he is a fantastic front man and can command a stage and captivate an audience. It was like no gig I have been to before. Much better than the gig in Manchester, which I can only assume was like being in the centre of the sun.
The encore was hard-core! They played Switchblade Smiles, Vlad the Impaler and ended with Fire, I am not lying when I say the whole room was jumping, dancing, pogoing just going completely mental and it was fantastic. Tiring but amazing. I have never seen a room come alive, with standing and seating going crazy.
In the encore you could feel the bass through your spine and it just echoes around the room, fantastic!
The set was really good as well it was like a dome, and the graphics felt 3D at points.
They got the mix of songs right as well, mixing old with new, album and singles but the whole crowd loved it. It was the type of gig when at first you go what's this....oh yer I remember this one!
I don't think anyone left that venue disappointed, and I was for one was not at all, this was what gigs are meant to be like, your ears hurt, your legs hurt everything hurts but it was so worth it.
If you like your music live and relentless and amazing and brilliant and just....indescribable then see Kasabian you will not regret it.
I should say as well Miles Kane was the support. I had seen him before supporting Beady Eye, he was really good, he is very cocky and really got the crowd going, as a good support act should.
He played some new tracks which were really good, he did well and you wouldn't have realised as first he was the support he had the whole crowd under his spell.
So if next year at any festivals you see either Miles Kane or Kasabian on the list make sure you see them, you will not regret it.
This time however, at the Brighton Centre it was cool and although full it wasn't rammed, and it was...the best gig ever!
Now again if you don't want to know what songs they play, the encore and that stop reading!
As I was saying this gig was just phenomenal! This is a band that know what they are doing and know how to rock.
They played so many hits, it was relentless you do forget how many good songs they have. L.S.F, Clubfoot, Shoot the Runner, Vlad the Impaler and Take Aim.
Tom and Serge are just to fantastic singers, and I would say dressers but I'm not sure about Serge's parka with feathers or his tiger print tight fitted t-shirt.
Their music live is just...out of this world! When you see Serge playing the opening bit of Vlad it is just...I can't describe it but like nothing I have heard before.
Tom may not be ultra cocky but he is a fantastic front man and can command a stage and captivate an audience. It was like no gig I have been to before. Much better than the gig in Manchester, which I can only assume was like being in the centre of the sun.
The encore was hard-core! They played Switchblade Smiles, Vlad the Impaler and ended with Fire, I am not lying when I say the whole room was jumping, dancing, pogoing just going completely mental and it was fantastic. Tiring but amazing. I have never seen a room come alive, with standing and seating going crazy.
In the encore you could feel the bass through your spine and it just echoes around the room, fantastic!
The set was really good as well it was like a dome, and the graphics felt 3D at points.
They got the mix of songs right as well, mixing old with new, album and singles but the whole crowd loved it. It was the type of gig when at first you go what's this....oh yer I remember this one!
I don't think anyone left that venue disappointed, and I was for one was not at all, this was what gigs are meant to be like, your ears hurt, your legs hurt everything hurts but it was so worth it.
If you like your music live and relentless and amazing and brilliant and just....indescribable then see Kasabian you will not regret it.
I should say as well Miles Kane was the support. I had seen him before supporting Beady Eye, he was really good, he is very cocky and really got the crowd going, as a good support act should.
He played some new tracks which were really good, he did well and you wouldn't have realised as first he was the support he had the whole crowd under his spell.
So if next year at any festivals you see either Miles Kane or Kasabian on the list make sure you see them, you will not regret it.
Saturday, 26 November 2011
Back to basics...
So after the disaster of the cola cupcakes I went back to basics and made some simple vanilla ones.
I put some chocolate drops in, which sunk to the bottom but I know for next time now to put in when half baked.
To make up for it when they came out of the oven I put a chocolate button in which melted, yummy!
The icing is just a butter icing with vanilla essence and red food dye to make it that pinky colour. And finished off with pink sparkles and chocolate sprinkles.
They were very nice, which the cola ones were not.
It has restored my faith in my baking, the road to becoming a domestic goddess is a long and windy one and I went down a bit of a dead end.
I put some chocolate drops in, which sunk to the bottom but I know for next time now to put in when half baked.
To make up for it when they came out of the oven I put a chocolate button in which melted, yummy!
The icing is just a butter icing with vanilla essence and red food dye to make it that pinky colour. And finished off with pink sparkles and chocolate sprinkles.
They were very nice, which the cola ones were not.
It has restored my faith in my baking, the road to becoming a domestic goddess is a long and windy one and I went down a bit of a dead end.
Friday, 25 November 2011
Blood, sweat and tears...all in the name of competition
As I am fast becoming a bit of a foodie obsessive, watching any food programme I can turn over to, including Great British Bake Off and Masterchef I love the drama of the programme and that 'normal' people can do well.
I know I am not a great cook, I am enthusiastic and do try but I love watching these programmes.
Family members have commented that I should apply for BBC's Great British Bake Off as I have a new found passion for baking. However, I do not think my nerves could take being on a TV competition like that, or any of those cooking competitions. The pressure, the fear and the nerves, I think I would spend most of the time sat in a corner crying.
My job can be pressurised, getting things done on time but in that realm I have a level of understanding that I know what I am doing. But in a Masterchef kitchen being shouted at by a chef would make me either storm off, I don't kindly to being shouted out and strop, or cry,
I can't see how someone shouting at you can make you produce the best, it would make me a bag of nerves and fail!
I can, also, be clumsy, I burnt my hand the other day when I cooked cottage pie. I'm just a touch on the clumsy side especially if nervous, so if I did those competitions it would literally be blood, sweat and tears.
Also as a cook I am a very much a read recipe and follow, so on Bake Off when there are no instructions or just basics ones I would not do so well. My boyfriend on the other hand has a great flavour for recipes he can make something out of nothing and he can taste something and know exactly what to put in it, not me but then I would never enter something like that, just for my sanity really.
Finally, I am glad Jo won Bake Off, as out of all the bakers she was the one I related most to.
I know I am not a great cook, I am enthusiastic and do try but I love watching these programmes.
Family members have commented that I should apply for BBC's Great British Bake Off as I have a new found passion for baking. However, I do not think my nerves could take being on a TV competition like that, or any of those cooking competitions. The pressure, the fear and the nerves, I think I would spend most of the time sat in a corner crying.
My job can be pressurised, getting things done on time but in that realm I have a level of understanding that I know what I am doing. But in a Masterchef kitchen being shouted at by a chef would make me either storm off, I don't kindly to being shouted out and strop, or cry,
I can't see how someone shouting at you can make you produce the best, it would make me a bag of nerves and fail!
I can, also, be clumsy, I burnt my hand the other day when I cooked cottage pie. I'm just a touch on the clumsy side especially if nervous, so if I did those competitions it would literally be blood, sweat and tears.
Also as a cook I am a very much a read recipe and follow, so on Bake Off when there are no instructions or just basics ones I would not do so well. My boyfriend on the other hand has a great flavour for recipes he can make something out of nothing and he can taste something and know exactly what to put in it, not me but then I would never enter something like that, just for my sanity really.
Finally, I am glad Jo won Bake Off, as out of all the bakers she was the one I related most to.
Thursday, 24 November 2011
Wild Beasts, University of Southampton Student Union, 21st November 2011
I will admit outright I wasn't a massive fan of Wild Beast nor did I know the names of most of the songs before seeing them, however, after experiencing them live my opinion has completely changed.
I had seen them before a few years ago when they supported The Foals, who were on tour with their debut album, and although I can remember they were good I was there for The Foals and was a little restless. Not the case for my boyfriend it was love at first sight and so he started to follow the bands every move.
He was the one who bought the tickets and I am very glad he did.
First the band are a four piece indie rock band from Kendal in Cumbria, there are two lead singers I suppose Hayden (sings the higher notes) and Tom (the lower ones), my boyfriend said if he could sing like anyone it would be Tom.
Both the voices complement each other and are so different but blend so fantastically.
Their sound I would say is a bit of a mix of The Cure, and Editors but is then totally unique and just amazing.
My favourite song live had to be Albratross it is so hauntingly beautiful and Hayden's voice is just so enchanting.
They are unlike any band I have seen before, it was a very chilled out gig, but the audience were die hard fans and at certain points the would cheer and clap at their favourites.
However, Southampton did have one thing going against it, they couldn't clap in time! One half were one half wasn't, something Hayden said was very confusing for the band.
Now personally I don't think the union at Southampton is a great venue but for this gig the sound quality was really good.
The last gig I saw at the union was The Courteeners and the atmosphere was completely different for one people weren't throwing around pee.
This gig was just phenomenal, this band are fantastic live and I wouldn't hesitate to see them again.
For me the end did come to soon.
Set List:
- Bed of Nails
- We Still Got the Taste Dancin' on Our Tongues
- Albatross
- The Devil's Crayon
- The Fun Powder Plot
- Two Dancers (II)
- Deeper
- This Is Our Lot
- Loop the Loop
- Two Dancers (I)
- Reach a Bit Further
- Hooting and Howling
Encore:
- Lion's Share
- All the King's Men
- End Come Too Soon
I had seen them before a few years ago when they supported The Foals, who were on tour with their debut album, and although I can remember they were good I was there for The Foals and was a little restless. Not the case for my boyfriend it was love at first sight and so he started to follow the bands every move.
He was the one who bought the tickets and I am very glad he did.
First the band are a four piece indie rock band from Kendal in Cumbria, there are two lead singers I suppose Hayden (sings the higher notes) and Tom (the lower ones), my boyfriend said if he could sing like anyone it would be Tom.
Both the voices complement each other and are so different but blend so fantastically.
Their sound I would say is a bit of a mix of The Cure, and Editors but is then totally unique and just amazing.
My favourite song live had to be Albratross it is so hauntingly beautiful and Hayden's voice is just so enchanting.
They are unlike any band I have seen before, it was a very chilled out gig, but the audience were die hard fans and at certain points the would cheer and clap at their favourites.
However, Southampton did have one thing going against it, they couldn't clap in time! One half were one half wasn't, something Hayden said was very confusing for the band.
Now personally I don't think the union at Southampton is a great venue but for this gig the sound quality was really good.
The last gig I saw at the union was The Courteeners and the atmosphere was completely different for one people weren't throwing around pee.
This gig was just phenomenal, this band are fantastic live and I wouldn't hesitate to see them again.
For me the end did come to soon.
Set List:
- Bed of Nails
- We Still Got the Taste Dancin' on Our Tongues
- Albatross
- The Devil's Crayon
- The Fun Powder Plot
- Two Dancers (II)
- Deeper
- This Is Our Lot
- Loop the Loop
- Two Dancers (I)
- Reach a Bit Further
- Hooting and Howling
Encore:
- Lion's Share
- All the King's Men
- End Come Too Soon
Sunday, 20 November 2011
Not a happy cupcake bunny....
So I attempted to make some unusual cupcakes, cola cupcakes.
This recipe is from the Cox and Cookies cake cookbook, it was a little strange melting butter with coke but the cakes looked ok.
It was a slightly different cooking method from my other ones and I think it showed. I tried one and I'm not convinced, I don't really think they taste of anything maybe a hint of chocolate but not coca cola at all.
I was a bit disappointed really, no one else has had one and I feel tempted to chuck them away. I don't know if I didn't cook them for long enough either but I also worry about burning them. I don't know it feels like two steps forward eight steps back today.
The cola and chocolate icing is nice though, here they are...
I don't know... I suppose it can't go well all the time.
This recipe is from the Cox and Cookies cake cookbook, it was a little strange melting butter with coke but the cakes looked ok.
It was a slightly different cooking method from my other ones and I think it showed. I tried one and I'm not convinced, I don't really think they taste of anything maybe a hint of chocolate but not coca cola at all.
I was a bit disappointed really, no one else has had one and I feel tempted to chuck them away. I don't know if I didn't cook them for long enough either but I also worry about burning them. I don't know it feels like two steps forward eight steps back today.
The cola and chocolate icing is nice though, here they are...
Friday, 18 November 2011
The Twilight Saga - Breaking Dawn Part 1
I have said before I am a twi-hard and last night I went to the midnight screening of the latest instalment Breaking Dawn Part 1.
If you haven't seen the film or read the book then please do not read on as there will be spoilers.
You have been warned.
I will admit outright this is not my favourite book, I felt it was really long and bit boring. However, the film.... AMAZING! A little shocking, a little mental but overall director Bill Condon has done a really good job. Although I do think part 2 isn't going to be as good.
Anyway part 1...
The film starts with the wedding, honeymoon, then Bella pregnant and having the baby. It feels like two different films. The first part they are all happy, Edward even smiles! There are funny bits, the speeches at the wedding are just so funny. The honeymoon is a bit of a love in and for any twi-hard will make a smile creep across your face as Edward and Bella are finally Mr and Mrs Cullen and you would think will live happily ever after.
However, Bella gets pregnant with a 'demon child' and this is when the film starts to get a little darker. When Jacob goes to visit Bella to see if she is still human she looks almost grey and gaunt, like a completely different person. The make up and special effects in this part are just phenomenal Kristen Stewart looks completely different from her happy blushing bride at the beginning.
Anyone who has read the books will know that the birth scene is pretty brutal, the film is a 12A but even so it is still pretty bloody and shocking, you don't see a lot it's mainly from Bella's perspective fading in and out but I think you see enough.
Although I would be interested to see what someone who hasn't read the books would say as in the book Edward rips open Bella's stomach with his teeth and gets the baby out, you don't really see this just Edward disappear and then come up with blood over his face and the baby but I think because I know what happens in the book it feels worse.
There was a point as well that I thought Bella was actually going to die...just shows you how good the acting is.
The bit when she changes to a vamp is very good her body goes back to how it was instead of a skeleton frame and it goes through all the other three films, reminding you how young they looked in the first Twilight film. Also Kristen Stewart looks beautiful, like a sleeping beauty.
I think it is a shame in the films though that you don't get to see much of the Cullens, but the bits they are provide moments of laughter and apprehension.
When me and my friend came out we were a little shocked and dumbstruck, the second half just sticks with you and it is a little heavy but Bill Condon does portray it really well, it does make you wonder what the 15 rated version was like though.
One thing though when Jacob 'imprints' on Renesmee it is lame and cheesy but that is the only bit that is.
Overall, I think the film is fantastic and cannot wait to see it again. If you are a twi-hard you will not be disappointed, this film I think does live up to expectations.
On another note though I was driving to my boyfriend's house through a village and walking down the road was a husky! It scared the beegeesus out of me, when you have watched a film about werewolves you don't want to see a lone wolf like dog walking down the street.
If you haven't seen the film or read the book then please do not read on as there will be spoilers.
You have been warned.
I will admit outright this is not my favourite book, I felt it was really long and bit boring. However, the film.... AMAZING! A little shocking, a little mental but overall director Bill Condon has done a really good job. Although I do think part 2 isn't going to be as good.
Anyway part 1...
The film starts with the wedding, honeymoon, then Bella pregnant and having the baby. It feels like two different films. The first part they are all happy, Edward even smiles! There are funny bits, the speeches at the wedding are just so funny. The honeymoon is a bit of a love in and for any twi-hard will make a smile creep across your face as Edward and Bella are finally Mr and Mrs Cullen and you would think will live happily ever after.
However, Bella gets pregnant with a 'demon child' and this is when the film starts to get a little darker. When Jacob goes to visit Bella to see if she is still human she looks almost grey and gaunt, like a completely different person. The make up and special effects in this part are just phenomenal Kristen Stewart looks completely different from her happy blushing bride at the beginning.
Anyone who has read the books will know that the birth scene is pretty brutal, the film is a 12A but even so it is still pretty bloody and shocking, you don't see a lot it's mainly from Bella's perspective fading in and out but I think you see enough.
Although I would be interested to see what someone who hasn't read the books would say as in the book Edward rips open Bella's stomach with his teeth and gets the baby out, you don't really see this just Edward disappear and then come up with blood over his face and the baby but I think because I know what happens in the book it feels worse.
There was a point as well that I thought Bella was actually going to die...just shows you how good the acting is.
The bit when she changes to a vamp is very good her body goes back to how it was instead of a skeleton frame and it goes through all the other three films, reminding you how young they looked in the first Twilight film. Also Kristen Stewart looks beautiful, like a sleeping beauty.
I think it is a shame in the films though that you don't get to see much of the Cullens, but the bits they are provide moments of laughter and apprehension.
When me and my friend came out we were a little shocked and dumbstruck, the second half just sticks with you and it is a little heavy but Bill Condon does portray it really well, it does make you wonder what the 15 rated version was like though.
One thing though when Jacob 'imprints' on Renesmee it is lame and cheesy but that is the only bit that is.
Overall, I think the film is fantastic and cannot wait to see it again. If you are a twi-hard you will not be disappointed, this film I think does live up to expectations.
On another note though I was driving to my boyfriend's house through a village and walking down the road was a husky! It scared the beegeesus out of me, when you have watched a film about werewolves you don't want to see a lone wolf like dog walking down the street.
Wednesday, 16 November 2011
When life gives you lemons make.... lemon cupcakes!
No birthdays this time just the urge to make cupcakes.
Lemon cupcakes - a simple sponge with lemon zest, which makes them lemon-y, same with the icing just add grated zest. I was quite surprised that it was the zest that made them taste that way rather than juice or syrup.
I was a bit concerned at first about the icing it wasn't quite as thick as the other butter icing and I wasn't sure it would make a swirl like the chocolate cakes I made a couple of weeks ago. But actually I think it looks quite good as just a layer of icing rather than a swirl.
There are just a couple of things I wish I had done and will do next time. I will take the middle out and put lemon curd in and put sugar lemons, what you usually have at Christmas, on the top as decoration.
They were really nice though I was a bit surprised as I didn't think they would be as nice as they were. Another success.
Lemon cupcakes - a simple sponge with lemon zest, which makes them lemon-y, same with the icing just add grated zest. I was quite surprised that it was the zest that made them taste that way rather than juice or syrup.
I was a bit concerned at first about the icing it wasn't quite as thick as the other butter icing and I wasn't sure it would make a swirl like the chocolate cakes I made a couple of weeks ago. But actually I think it looks quite good as just a layer of icing rather than a swirl.
There are just a couple of things I wish I had done and will do next time. I will take the middle out and put lemon curd in and put sugar lemons, what you usually have at Christmas, on the top as decoration.
They were really nice though I was a bit surprised as I didn't think they would be as nice as they were. Another success.
Saturday, 12 November 2011
Made to measure for your special wedding day...
On a girl's wedding day there are some things that are a-given 'something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue'. There is also the fact that every girl should feel like a princess on her special day.
I, myself, have yet to get married but in the past year I have seen two of my closest friends walk down the aisle and have two friends next year also tying the knot. So I know how important one particular part of the day is.... the dress. It has to be right, as the bride has to feel comfortable, special and one in a million.
When my best friend went wedding dress shopping she tried on a few dresses, but when she tried on 'her' dress we all knew it was the right one.
However, if you don't want off the peg and can afford something a little bit more unique. There is the option to have your dress made to measure the way you want it and to your exact measurements, so this isn't a dress that has been altered for you but made from scratch to your requirements.
In life not many of us get to have a dress from scratch designed especially for ourselves so if you are going to get one made it might as well be your wedding dress, as it is meant to be the best day of your life.
So for all your needs the place I would recommend, having been to a wedding where the bride and bridesmaids all had the dresses from there and been to the shop, is Brides by Ventrella in Manchester.
The shop has an Italian heritage, which explains the unique handiwork, there are not many places now a days where the dress is made on site to your requirements and measurements. A family business with techniques passed down from mother to daughters.
Each swarovski crystal is sown on by hand, the lace delicately placed by expert eyes.
Having started in 1987 they know what they are doing and the shop was making lace dresses long before Kate Middleton walked down the aisle in her McQueen.
Even if you don't live in Manchester, contact them as they maybe able to accommodate you in a quick time, surely it is worth it for that one in a million dress.
So for your special day check them out, you won't regret it, theses dresses are just beautiful, they also do prom dresses which are just as pretty and came make any girl feel special.
http://www.bridesbyventrella.co.uk/ or visit their Facebook page where people have posted images of their own wedding dresses. http://www.facebook.com/#!/profile.php?id=100001780173503
I, myself, have yet to get married but in the past year I have seen two of my closest friends walk down the aisle and have two friends next year also tying the knot. So I know how important one particular part of the day is.... the dress. It has to be right, as the bride has to feel comfortable, special and one in a million.
When my best friend went wedding dress shopping she tried on a few dresses, but when she tried on 'her' dress we all knew it was the right one.
However, if you don't want off the peg and can afford something a little bit more unique. There is the option to have your dress made to measure the way you want it and to your exact measurements, so this isn't a dress that has been altered for you but made from scratch to your requirements.
In life not many of us get to have a dress from scratch designed especially for ourselves so if you are going to get one made it might as well be your wedding dress, as it is meant to be the best day of your life.
So for all your needs the place I would recommend, having been to a wedding where the bride and bridesmaids all had the dresses from there and been to the shop, is Brides by Ventrella in Manchester.
The shop has an Italian heritage, which explains the unique handiwork, there are not many places now a days where the dress is made on site to your requirements and measurements. A family business with techniques passed down from mother to daughters.
Each swarovski crystal is sown on by hand, the lace delicately placed by expert eyes.
Having started in 1987 they know what they are doing and the shop was making lace dresses long before Kate Middleton walked down the aisle in her McQueen.
Even if you don't live in Manchester, contact them as they maybe able to accommodate you in a quick time, surely it is worth it for that one in a million dress.
So for your special day check them out, you won't regret it, theses dresses are just beautiful, they also do prom dresses which are just as pretty and came make any girl feel special.
http://www.bridesbyventrella.co.uk/ or visit their Facebook page where people have posted images of their own wedding dresses. http://www.facebook.com/#!/profile.php?id=100001780173503
Sunday, 6 November 2011
Choccy woccy cupcakes
Yesterday was my boyfriend's birthday and as is becoming a tradition I made cupcakes. He asked for hazelnut and chocolate cupcakes.
Basically they are chocolate cupcakes with the middle taken out and chocolate spread put in its place, then covered with butter icing with added chocolate spread, basically it is a chocolaty overload!
Let's hope he likes them.
Basically they are chocolate cupcakes with the middle taken out and chocolate spread put in its place, then covered with butter icing with added chocolate spread, basically it is a chocolaty overload!
Let's hope he likes them.
You know I think I am getting the hang of this baking malarky....or have I spoken to soon?
I am going to try another item from the baking list and see how I get on.
Saturday, 5 November 2011
Magnetic nail polish update....
Just to update you, the blue one didn't work very well but I used Frankie's silver nail polish and it really worked! Let's hope when I use the other blue one again it works just as well.
Here are the results....
Here are the results....
I look forward to the new magnets and the different patterns.
Thursday, 3 November 2011
There is something magnetic in the polish
We have had Barry M's nail effects with the crackling effect, we have had Revlon and Rimmel's scented polishes, now we have magnetic nail polish.
I have the black Barry M nail effect and the peach Rimmel scent nail polish. I also have some glittery ones the Revlon Facets of Fuschia and OPI's Bring on the Bling, great but really horrible to take off as the cotton wool sticks to the glitter. Other than that I love it.
Now the latest trend is magnetic nail polish. Polish that has iron powder in it, you paint your nails, hold a magnet over the top and whatever the pattern is on there you get the same on your nails.
Nails Inc have three colours for £13 each, to see the effect you can get visit... http://www.nailsinc.com/magnetic.
However, while at Britain and Ireland's Next Top Model Live my sister and I got chatting to a man from FashionistA make up who said they made the one for Nails Inc but had now started their own range.
Who do they have as the face of the range? The Saturdays. On sale in Superdurg the nail polishes are £6 each, the magnet is £3 and at the moment it is 3 for 2. The reason why the magnet is separate is that you only need one and they are planning to launch different patterns in the next few months. The current one is a wave pattern.
As you can probably guess there are five colours...
Frankie - Notorious Silver
Una - Ego Green
Mollie - Purple Me Up
Rochelle - All Fired Up Red
Vanessa - Forever is Blue
At Britain and Ireland's Next Top Model Live they were selling them on offer, two nail polishes and the magnetic for £10. So between me and my sister we got all but the green one. (sorry Una!).
The nail polishes are quite nice on their own. When I got home I tried Vanessa's blue one, and to be honest for first go the pattern didn't come out that well, a little faint but the faintest hint of the wave.
I'm not sure if it is because it is quite dark and it doesn't show up as good. But not one to give up I will keep trying, I have the silver one as well maybe that will show up better.
You can get The Saturday's at Superdrug or here...
http://www.thesaturdays.co.uk/news/the-saturdays-magnetism-nail-lacquer-is-now-in-store-and-online/
To be honest I am looking forward to see what the next nail polish trend is.
I have the black Barry M nail effect and the peach Rimmel scent nail polish. I also have some glittery ones the Revlon Facets of Fuschia and OPI's Bring on the Bling, great but really horrible to take off as the cotton wool sticks to the glitter. Other than that I love it.
Now the latest trend is magnetic nail polish. Polish that has iron powder in it, you paint your nails, hold a magnet over the top and whatever the pattern is on there you get the same on your nails.
Nails Inc have three colours for £13 each, to see the effect you can get visit... http://www.nailsinc.com/magnetic.
However, while at Britain and Ireland's Next Top Model Live my sister and I got chatting to a man from FashionistA make up who said they made the one for Nails Inc but had now started their own range.
Who do they have as the face of the range? The Saturdays. On sale in Superdurg the nail polishes are £6 each, the magnet is £3 and at the moment it is 3 for 2. The reason why the magnet is separate is that you only need one and they are planning to launch different patterns in the next few months. The current one is a wave pattern.
As you can probably guess there are five colours...
Frankie - Notorious Silver
Una - Ego Green
Mollie - Purple Me Up
Rochelle - All Fired Up Red
Vanessa - Forever is Blue
At Britain and Ireland's Next Top Model Live they were selling them on offer, two nail polishes and the magnetic for £10. So between me and my sister we got all but the green one. (sorry Una!).
The nail polishes are quite nice on their own. When I got home I tried Vanessa's blue one, and to be honest for first go the pattern didn't come out that well, a little faint but the faintest hint of the wave.
I'm not sure if it is because it is quite dark and it doesn't show up as good. But not one to give up I will keep trying, I have the silver one as well maybe that will show up better.
You can get The Saturday's at Superdrug or here...
http://www.thesaturdays.co.uk/news/the-saturdays-magnetism-nail-lacquer-is-now-in-store-and-online/
To be honest I am looking forward to see what the next nail polish trend is.
Monday, 31 October 2011
Shock, Shock, Horror, Horror.. films!
Horror films were the staple ingredient for a sleepover when I was younger. The gorier the better. Films such as Scream, I Know What You Did Last Summer and Nightmare on Elm Street were always on the list among the rom-coms, scaring the crap out of us. Slashers and horror films were the best in the nineties and some of the ones in the eighties.
The old slasher films, I think, are so much better than the films we have now, films such as Paranormal Activity or Saw. I know when you come down to it they do the same job, scaring the begees out of us, but the way in which they do it is not normal. I know horrors are by no means normal, but a part of the scariness is that it is not out of the realm of possibility, but the new ones it is just freaky that someone has thought of it.
Films such as Saw are usually described as torture porn, as the level of torture is gratifying to some degrees for those watching. Although these films are scary, the plot is usually very loose and I personally don't think as scary.
In the slashers of old the killer wasn't some psycho nut, they were the girl's boyfriend, a disgruntled friend or the town loner. It was scary because it could be someone you know. They also were gory but by no means as gory as some of these films now.
Ghost films such as Paranormal Activity do freak me out, I'm not going to lie, ghost stories are creepy the unknown, something which is far beyond our comprehension. But I am tired of these films. Slasher films the killer usually got their comeuppance at the end, e.g they usually die, which meant at the end of the film you felt a sense of relief. These ghost films leave you on edge and if you have watched them at home, alone, you freak out at the slightest creak or squeak.
Slashers are good for sleepovers as they make you jump and panic, then giggle at how stupid you have been. Torture films and ghost films leave you after with a heightened sense of fear, which is never fun.
I suppose I want a horror film that scares and thrills but doesn't leave me with nightmares for the next few weeks. I think it symbolises the times in many ways that the only way people can get their horror scares is by being disgusted.
Which I suppose leads me onto the more recent gore-fest Human Centipede one and two. The premise of which is a mad doctor who joins people by openings in their body to form a centipede. The second one was at first banned in the UK by the BBFC due to its content but has since been given an 18 with cuts made. I personally haven't seen the first one, because I don't see how you can get enjoyment, and at the end of the day that is what a film is meant to be a form of enjoyment, from a film that is in such poor taste and disgusting. I know I cannot say too much as I haven't seen it but on the premise I really don't want to see it.
Also on my last moan but why do we have to keep remaking horror films?? They were good when they came out leave them alone!
That's it I like my horrors and feel they should be slashers, thrilling and chilling.
By the way Happy Halloween people enjoy your own horror films.
The old slasher films, I think, are so much better than the films we have now, films such as Paranormal Activity or Saw. I know when you come down to it they do the same job, scaring the begees out of us, but the way in which they do it is not normal. I know horrors are by no means normal, but a part of the scariness is that it is not out of the realm of possibility, but the new ones it is just freaky that someone has thought of it.
Films such as Saw are usually described as torture porn, as the level of torture is gratifying to some degrees for those watching. Although these films are scary, the plot is usually very loose and I personally don't think as scary.
In the slashers of old the killer wasn't some psycho nut, they were the girl's boyfriend, a disgruntled friend or the town loner. It was scary because it could be someone you know. They also were gory but by no means as gory as some of these films now.
Ghost films such as Paranormal Activity do freak me out, I'm not going to lie, ghost stories are creepy the unknown, something which is far beyond our comprehension. But I am tired of these films. Slasher films the killer usually got their comeuppance at the end, e.g they usually die, which meant at the end of the film you felt a sense of relief. These ghost films leave you on edge and if you have watched them at home, alone, you freak out at the slightest creak or squeak.
Slashers are good for sleepovers as they make you jump and panic, then giggle at how stupid you have been. Torture films and ghost films leave you after with a heightened sense of fear, which is never fun.
I suppose I want a horror film that scares and thrills but doesn't leave me with nightmares for the next few weeks. I think it symbolises the times in many ways that the only way people can get their horror scares is by being disgusted.
Which I suppose leads me onto the more recent gore-fest Human Centipede one and two. The premise of which is a mad doctor who joins people by openings in their body to form a centipede. The second one was at first banned in the UK by the BBFC due to its content but has since been given an 18 with cuts made. I personally haven't seen the first one, because I don't see how you can get enjoyment, and at the end of the day that is what a film is meant to be a form of enjoyment, from a film that is in such poor taste and disgusting. I know I cannot say too much as I haven't seen it but on the premise I really don't want to see it.
Also on my last moan but why do we have to keep remaking horror films?? They were good when they came out leave them alone!
That's it I like my horrors and feel they should be slashers, thrilling and chilling.
By the way Happy Halloween people enjoy your own horror films.
Sunday, 30 October 2011
I went to London and visited Britain and Ireland's Next Top Model
I have to admit I haven't really watched the series, but me and my sister went to Britain and Ireland's Next Top Model Live at the Excel Centre, London, last year and loved it. Who wouldn't love freebies, and discount fashion items.
We went to the catwalk show, which had twelve very fit male dancers and the girls walking down the catwalk in some great dresses. There was also some singers Bluey Robinson who was quite good and another band who were rubbish and I can't remember who they were.
The fashion show was really good though, I went last year and I do think this year was much better.
As well as the model and TV show element, there are also a lot of stalls of fashion and beauty items. Most on offer are online boutiques but there are also some big names selling items at discount prices.
If you are a bargain hunter you would love it!
So there is the goodie show bag, £5; the Cosmopolitan and Company bag £3 but we got two with the current issues and loads of goodies; you get loads of free stuff just walking about; I also got a Jelly Pong Pong cosmetics goodie bag £5 for two plus Rihanna's perfume Reb'l Fleur £20 for 100ml with a roll on version and clutch bag; and two new Saturday's Magnetism nail polishes and the magnet for £10 (I will do a separate post on this). I think that is it but it was a good day!
Winner Jade
We went to the catwalk show, which had twelve very fit male dancers and the girls walking down the catwalk in some great dresses. There was also some singers Bluey Robinson who was quite good and another band who were rubbish and I can't remember who they were.
The fashion show was really good though, I went last year and I do think this year was much better.
As well as the model and TV show element, there are also a lot of stalls of fashion and beauty items. Most on offer are online boutiques but there are also some big names selling items at discount prices.
If you are a bargain hunter you would love it!
Here is my load from the day....
So there is the goodie show bag, £5; the Cosmopolitan and Company bag £3 but we got two with the current issues and loads of goodies; you get loads of free stuff just walking about; I also got a Jelly Pong Pong cosmetics goodie bag £5 for two plus Rihanna's perfume Reb'l Fleur £20 for 100ml with a roll on version and clutch bag; and two new Saturday's Magnetism nail polishes and the magnet for £10 (I will do a separate post on this). I think that is it but it was a good day!
Winner Jade
Shows like this one and The Clothes Show are really good and you can just wonder round get some free drinks and food and just enjoy fashion.
I was surprised actually that two Essex's girls were there. My sister bought Lauren Goodger's fake tan (http://www.laurengoodgerofficial.co.uk/) Glam Tan, my sister has a very pale complexion but this tan looked really good and quite natural. I was surprised at the price points on it, obviously it was cheaper but at full price it was really good. Unfortunately we went home before we could see Lauren on person.
However, we did catch a glimpse of ex-TOWIE Amy Childs. She is launching her own clothing range which I do really like, if you have seen her in that red dress with the brown belt high top, tight fitting, well that is one of her own designers!! All the dresses are just gorgeous and priced about £50 to £70. We did try to meet Amy but you had to buy either her fake tan or eyelashes, which she would sign. So instead we had a look around the clothes and just got a peak of her. She is very pretty with massive hair. We did talk to her stylist though who was lovely. Amy's online store isn't open yet but her website is... http://www.amychildsofficial.co.uk/
BNITNM Live was really good and I would suggest going on the Sunday as a lot of the stalls slash their prices as it is the last. day.
So the live show is what it says on the tin 'a great girl's day out', it can tire you out though but well worth the handbag arm (the pain you get when you have your bag on your arm rather than on your shoulder). We came home with about six bags each.
Web address: http://www.bntmlive.com/
Friday, 28 October 2011
You like my bag? Is it designer? Actually no it's not...
In the post on Friday, 26 August 2011 - Chanel - "Imitation if the highest form of flattery." I spoke of my love for look-a-likes not rip-offs...
And yet again my love for the designer without the bank balance has meant I have found myself a bargain. I have bought a navy satchel in Topman for £15 in the sale it was originally £30, it looks like a Cambridge Satchel Company navy 'Batchel' which can cost between £74-£93 amazing.
On another note Topman is great for accessories and some clothes seem to be cheaper than Topshop I do love it.
In my last post I spoke about my bargain bags but didn't actually publish any pictures so below are my bags and my stylish copycats....
And yet again my love for the designer without the bank balance has meant I have found myself a bargain. I have bought a navy satchel in Topman for £15 in the sale it was originally £30, it looks like a Cambridge Satchel Company navy 'Batchel' which can cost between £74-£93 amazing.
On another note Topman is great for accessories and some clothes seem to be cheaper than Topshop I do love it.
In my last post I spoke about my bargain bags but didn't actually publish any pictures so below are my bags and my stylish copycats....
Cambridge Satchel Company 'Batchel' £93
Topman £15
Mulberry 'Alexa' £785
Next £30
Chloe Marcie calfskin 'Hobo' £950
Fiorelli 'Chelsea' £29.99 (TKMaxx so originally I think about £60)
See I know designer is great and may last longer but for those prices you would hope so to. I love my look-a-likes. And at one time people would cringe at having a cut price look-a-like but not now I'm proud to show off my lovely bags.
**I would like to apologise for my own photos I don't think I have done my bags any justice.
Tuesday, 25 October 2011
The road to cupcake kingdom is not an easy one
Over the weekend in my baking haze I made another batch of cupcakes.
This time I decided to make strawberry cheesecake. A simple vanilla sponge, with strawberries in the bottom and a cream cheese icing and broken digestive biscuits.
This time I decided to make strawberry cheesecake. A simple vanilla sponge, with strawberries in the bottom and a cream cheese icing and broken digestive biscuits.
My journey to cupcake heaven was going so well, I had mastered the oven so as to not burn the bottom of my cupcakes while leaving the inside completely raw and had a level of calm when baking.
However, this time I hit a bit of a speed bump. The icing....it was really, really runny! I just think I had put too much cream cheese in or not enough icing sugar. So instead of putting the biscuit on top I mixed it in, it worked in the end not as much icing just a thin layer but still yummy.
Next I am either going to do lemon cupcakes or coconut and pineapple. Not sure which yet.
Thassos, Greece
In September my boyfriend and I took a well deserved break and went on holiday for a week to Thassos in Greece.
We booked through Thomson, just because the ease of transfers and getting it all in one place was just heaven and added to the ease of going on holiday.
We booked through Thomson, just because the ease of transfers and getting it all in one place was just heaven and added to the ease of going on holiday.
Leaving it quite late it did look as if we weren't going to be able to book but a few weeks before our week off, we logged onto the late deals and managed to get a gorgeous art deco hotel, bed and breakfast booked, saving over a thousand pounds. Hotel Egeo.....
When we got to the airport our bags were left there and transported to the hotel, so when we got there our bags were waiting for us. We caught a ferry over and because we were staying in the town walked to our hotel from the port.
Thassos is just beautiful, golden beaches and the people are so friendly. We spent the evenings having dinner in the town and walking around enjoying the buzz of the town.
Our favourite restaurant that I would recommend is Ambrosia, we were recommended it by the taxi boat we took to the neighbouring beaches, his son runs it. We went there twice, on the first time we had leg of pork in honey and sesame seeds, it was delicious the best meal I had. A lot of places in Greece give you either a free shot of Ouzo or brandy Metaxa or fruit, here however, we had figs in local honey..... words cannot describe how nice it was. And imagine my disappointment when on our second trip there we didn't have it.
We visited two other beaches Golden Beach and Makryammos, the taxi boat costs between 5 to 10 euros for a return but for a day at another beach it is worth it.
On one of the days we took a trek up to the old amphitheatre at the top of the town the views of town are great. Well worth the trek.
We had a lot of great food in Thassos but one of the easiest and nicest is a Souvlaki or gyros, it is like a kebab. It has meat in it with tomato, onion, herbs with mustard and mayo. Not very healthy by cheap and filling.
We went in September so it was a lot quieter then high season but I preferred it, not as manic. Also with the beach if you want a bed, just got a drink from the bar and you don't have to pay for the bed just keep topping up the drinks.
The island is very beautiful and the people really friendly, we had a lovely relaxing holiday and would go back again.
Friday, 21 October 2011
More Cupcake Lady-in-Waiting than Queen
To celebrate my lovely mum's birthday she picked what cupcakes she wanted and me and the boyfriend set about making them.
We made marshmellow ones, vanilla cakes with the middle out with melted marshmellow in. That part was my boyfriends job and it was hilarious seeing him with marshmellow all over his fingers, as well as a teaspoon which was stuck to the mellow. He worked out how to do it in the end though, and they were delicious.
I do love making cupcakes and I am kind of good at it, but only made a few batches but they have been pretty good. So my quest is still ongoing. I'm back to work next week but me and my sister have a bake date so I will let you know how we get on.
Here are some photos of my marshmellow cupcakes and hazelnut and chocolate cupcakes....
We made marshmellow ones, vanilla cakes with the middle out with melted marshmellow in. That part was my boyfriends job and it was hilarious seeing him with marshmellow all over his fingers, as well as a teaspoon which was stuck to the mellow. He worked out how to do it in the end though, and they were delicious.
I do love making cupcakes and I am kind of good at it, but only made a few batches but they have been pretty good. So my quest is still ongoing. I'm back to work next week but me and my sister have a bake date so I will let you know how we get on.
Here are some photos of my marshmellow cupcakes and hazelnut and chocolate cupcakes....
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