tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81912917402476102542024-03-20T02:43:35.272-07:00Autumn Haired Ghost GirlAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11306809416409620098noreply@blogger.comBlogger42125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8191291740247610254.post-76605312438302518412014-05-07T13:29:00.000-07:002014-05-07T13:29:01.438-07:00Spring MadnessSo much has happened this Spring that I haven't had time to properly blog. I'm hoping to start dedicating more time to blogging at the end of the month once my life settles back down again.<br />
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So the biggest news is that I have officially moved to Northern Ireland! I have a part time job working for Her Majesty's Passport Office and I'm settling in well. Jonathan and I are enjoying living together and spending much more time with eachother. We're enjoying having a tasty home cooked vegan dinner together in the evenings and cuddling up with the duvet on the sofa and a film.<br />
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Here's some posts from my <a href="http://www.instagram.com/missamykatherine" target="_blank">instagram</a> over the last few weeks..<br />
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<ul>
<li>We constructed our first Ikea bed! Jonathan was obviously pretty happy about this...</li>
<li>The new member of the family! Meet Reginald, known as Reggie to his friends. He's a little albino gerbil I felt sorry for after all his brothers were sold in my local pets at home. This little guy was on his own for months but thanks to a friend who works there who had an old gerbilarium cage she was able to give me the little furry face has a new home! I'll be bringing my two girls, Florence and Clio, over in two weeks, though they'll be in separate cages as I'm not prepared for baby gerbils! I can't wait to have our little family all together including Jonathan's two bearded dragons Moz and Marr. </li>
<li>Jonathan turned 24 last month so we decided to spend the day at one of the local National Trust properties, Castle Ward. It's a stunning location and it was such a beautiful afternoon that we tromped around the grounds and left the actual house for another time (there's a big secondhand book and record event in the autumn we're interested in). </li>
<li>I've been training for my first 5km which is this Sunday!! The event is Race for Life and raises money for Cancer Research UK, if anyone wants to sponsor me please go to my<a href="http://www.justgiving.com/amymaries" target="_blank"> justgiving page</a>. Thankyou! :) Jonathan and I are hoping to find a 10km event in the autumn and are aiming to run the Bath half marathon next year, fingers crossed!</li>
<li>We had some gorgeous weather recently so here's Jonathan at Victoria Squares viewing platform in Belfast. </li>
<li>Leaving for work face.</li>
<li>Lorde inspired make up.</li>
<li>At the end of March I went to Birmingham to see Interpol with my good friend, Davy. It was a fun night with a tasty meal at Las Igaunas followed by a band I've wanted to see since I was 14! </li>
<li>Jonathan's been so supportive recently with all the changes in my life, I'd be lost without him. He's a very special dinosaur! </li>
<li>One of Jonathan's birthday presents from me... a HUGE canvas map of Middle Earth. I wanted it to go above the fireplace but it seems I may have ordered a tad too big! Still it's a great piece for our living room.</li>
<li>I went to my first Magic the Gathering prerelease event for the new set, Journey Into Nyx. I chose white as my main deck is a green/white midgame deck. I ended up doing really well coming 7th out of 24 and even beating Jonathan! I've met some really ace people down at the club where we play and Friday Night Magic is part of our weekly social life.</li>
</ul>
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Phew! We're heading back to England this weekend for my 5km, dental surgery (boo!) and my 24th birthday so I'll probably still be a little absent until we're back. I have lots of things planned. I hope you're all having a wonderful Spring and thankyou for your patience. </div>
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Love always,<br />Amy xx</div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11306809416409620098noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8191291740247610254.post-43561239931641101162014-02-01T10:00:00.000-08:002014-02-01T10:00:00.593-08:00Liebster Award <div class="p1">
<span class="s1"><b>The really lovely Charley from <a href="http://www.notetocharley.com/" target="_blank">notetocharley</a> has nominated me for a Liebster Award! This is one of the ways to start to get to know some of the smaller blogs and people who run them. With one of my aims this year to try and blog more often this is a fantastic opportunity and I’m really grateful to Charley for the nomination! I’ll be listing some of my favourite small blogs at the end and I really cant recommend them enough. </b></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><b></b></span><br /></div>
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<span class="s1"><b></b></span><br /></div>
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<span class="s1"><b></b></span><br /></div>
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<span class="s1"><b>There are a few simple rules that you need to follow:</b></span></div>
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<span class="s1">1. Mention the person who nominated you with a link in their blog</span></div>
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<span class="s1">2. Answer the 11 questions provided by the person who nominated you</span></div>
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<span class="s1">3. Nominate 11 other bloggers with less than 200 followers </span></div>
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<span class="s1">4. Create a new set of 11 questions for your nominees to answer</span><span class="s2"> </span></div>
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<span class="s1"><br /></span></div>
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-</div>
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<span class="s1"><br /></span></div>
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<span class="s1">What are your ambitions for this year?</span></div>
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<i>I think my biggest aim this year is to be more positive and enjoy my life again. After a long period of illness I need to learn how to be more independent again and to do this I need to go out with a positive outlook. I really want to try and make the most of any opportunities offered to me this year instead of hiding behind anxiety.</i></div>
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Where do you see your blog in 5 years time?</div>
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<span class="s1"><i>I hope it’s still going! I’ll be almost 29 by then so my life could dramatically change in that period. I’m hoping to perhaps start a more historical academic blog in the next few years as a job as a historian is my dream job. I hope that I’ll still have this blog for life and misc posts but who knows what the future holds</i>! </span></div>
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Sweet or savoury?</div>
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<i>Toughie but I’ll have to go sweet. I’ve had a sweet tooth since I was young, though I’d usually rather have sweeties over chocolate. I’m a avid baker, mostly sweet goodies and although I really enjoy a packet of crisps with dips but my sweet tooth always wins eventually. </i></div>
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What would you change about your life if you could alter one thing? </div>
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<i>Probably my health. I don’t want to say I never had a period of bad health as it’s taught me alot about life and myself and it’s been an important part of my growing into an adult in my mid-twenties. Yet, it would be helpful to have some good health now! </i></div>
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What made you start blogging?</div>
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<i> <span class="s1">Boredom and a want to share my experiences. I’ve been active on the internet on various sites for a decade now but most my blogs have about 4 posts then I get bored. I want to make more with this blog this time! I started this blog as I was lonely, as my illness has prevented my social life expanding and I live hours away from any friends. I’m hoping my social life will improve but also that I’ll have more adventures to share on the blog! </span></i></div>
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Favourite blogger?</div>
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<i>One of my favourite bloggers is Rebecca of <a href="http://theclothes.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">theclotheshorse</a> . I love her style, her appreciation of art and fashion and her general quirkiness. Plus her boyfriend lives in Northern Ireland so it’s been good to find new places I need to visit when I see Jonathan. </i></div>
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<br /></div>
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What is your day job?</div>
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<span class="s1"><i>Currently I’m unemployed. I was last employed as a bar/kitchen supervisor at a well known pub chain in the UK but had to leave due to my deteriorating health. I’m now looking at getting back into work and have a few interviews lined up already! I’m not too bothered what I do currently, I just want to earn my money again. I have a few mixed ideas about my future so I want to just settle into working life before addressing my career. </i></span></div>
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What other hobbies do you have other than your blog?</div>
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<span class="s1"><i>Alot?! Reading, crafting, sewing, baking, cooking, movie trivia, gaming, Magic the Gathering, reading historical articles and finding new artists. I like to keep myself occupied with a variety of activities so I don’t get too bored. </i></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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Favourite song?</div>
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<span class="s1"><i>This is a horrible question. I can only just about choose my favourite band, Death Cab For Cutie! I think my favourite song at the moment is Say Lou Lou - Better in the Dark. It’s suiting my dreamy kind of mood but with a beat to dance too. It’s free for itunes members in the Uk (not sure about US). I’m looking forward to their album release!</i></span></div>
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Describe yourself in 5 words.</div>
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<span class="s1"><i>Bookworm, dreamy, quirky, idealistic, overthinker.</i></span></div>
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<span class="s1"><br /></span></div>
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<span class="s1">Link your favourite blog post. </span></div>
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<i>This <a href="http://www.delightfully-tacky.com/2013/11/the-voices-in-my-head.html" target="_blank">post</a> by Elizabeth of Delightfully-Tacky really spoke to me. I get very anxious in situations and I find myself being overly negative alot, something I’m working on. This post made me feel like I’m not the only one who feels bad sometimes and that we can overcome it, in fact the voices can push us into greater things by making us want to prove them wrong. </i></div>
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<i>-</i></div>
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<b>My Nominated blogs.</b></div>
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<i>Note: I only follow five blogs currently with less than 200 followers who are still active. Annie has over 200 followers but only just so she gets included.</i></div>
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Emily of <a href="http://aficklefox.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">a fickle fox</a></div>
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Emma of <a href="http://emmaslookingglass.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">Emmas looking glass</a></div>
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Eve of <a href="http://evebaber.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">Eve Babar</a></div>
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Kate of <a href="http://katejamesphd.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">No Fluffy Slippers</a></div>
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Emily of <a href="http://watchingyourfeet.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">Paint, Walk</a></div>
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Annie of <a href="http://annieshomemadeheaven.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Three Little Buho's </a></div>
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My questions are:</div>
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1. If you could have one super power what would it be?</div>
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5. Top 3 authors.</div>
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8. What is your dream career?</div>
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9. Have any pets?</div>
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10. Favourite places to shop?</div>
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11. Favourite meal of the day?</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11306809416409620098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8191291740247610254.post-71790431806943878262014-01-31T13:59:00.000-08:002014-01-31T13:59:03.192-08:00Top 20 Books of 2013<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>-Sorry this is a little late, illness has delayed some of the posts I've been working on-</i></div>
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<span class="s1">Due to my thrifting nature I’m not reviewing books that were published this year. Instead, I’m looking at the top twenty books I rated the highest during this year on goodreads (see the link to my profile in the header). The one advantage of having an illness that has prevented me working is that I’ve been able to really indulge in my love of reading. I’m rarely seen without a book in my hands. I’ve always enjoyed the escapism from fiction or the knowledge of nonfiction and I was bought up to appreciate books. Some argue that’s gotten out of hand recently as I now own over 500 paperback or hardbooks and now I have a kindle as well the world of literature is my oyster! I hope you enjoy these recommendations, I’d love to hear any new suggestions from my readers. :)</span></div>
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<b>Brilliance - Marcus Sakey</b></div>
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<span class="s1">An alternative reality where savants started to appear more rapidly from 1980 causing conflict between them, the abnorms, and the normal population. This story is rich with philosophical and sociological questions about how we treat others who are different in some way (and in fact reminded me of an essay I did at university on whether human clones are human). </span></div>
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<span class="s1">Fast paced with believable characters and twists as turns at almost every chapter. I found this more realistic compared with authors I place in a similar category, Dan Brown for example. The overriding themes being paranoia, control and human empathy makes for a plot woven with 'what ifs' and draws parallels between how savants and other people with great intelligence are seen today; envied but feared. One of the highlights of the plot was the idea of not being able to 'turn off' the gift, constantly analysing patterns to the point where it's detrimental to human relationships; causing some abnorms to retreat to a hermit lifestyle. Another highlight were the little adverts or posters thrown in between some chapters, helping the reader emerge themselves into this alternate world. The final moral implications in the final concluding chapters were thought provoking and I'm looking forward to seeing the consequences in the follow up book, released next year.</span></div>
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<b>Rosemary’s Baby - Ira Levin</b></div>
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<span class="s1">Levin is able to bring the idea of next door horror an weave it into a story that challenges accepted thoughts in society. In Rosemary's Baby I feel that the ideas of female 'hysteria', cults and that horror was reserved for 'other' people. Kevin's books are easy to read and follow a simple story that have more complex consequences resonating in the views of the world for the contemporary audience and evolving the horror genre.</span></div>
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<b>The Stepford Wives - Ira Levin</b></div>
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<span class="s1">I wouldn't describe this novella as part of the horror of thriller genres, in fact it has a place of its own. An interesting commentary on how rising feminist movements in the 1970's caused (and to an extent still do) men to begin to panic about their roles in society. Women were rebelling against traditional roles and empowering themselves leaving men unsure of their position and loss of power. I really enjoyed this short book and I'm glad I finally got around to reading it. The prose is simple with little over description hit you can still clearly envision the suburban closed neighbourhood of Stepford in early seventies America. Recommended for anyone interested in feminism or a feminism themselves who want to see how the movement was portrayed in fiction. Part of me would really enjoy using this novella as a basis for writing something on feminism in the seventies and the various views on it - can't break that academic part of me!</span></div>
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<b>The Pianist - Wladyslaw Szpilman</b></div>
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<span class="s1">How could this beautifully haunting account of a Jew trying to survive in occupied Poland not touch me? Years ago I saw the Oscar sinning Roman Polanski directed film of this book starring Adrien Brody after attending a seminar with the Holocaust Educational Trust. A Holocaust survivor, Kitty Hart-Moxon (a truly inspirational woman) gave a speech there and during the Q&A session at the end she was asked which Holocaust film was most accurate, she immediately answered with ‘The Pianist’ over others such as the critically acclaimed ‘Schindler’s List’ starring Liam Neeson and directed by Steven Spielberg. Immediately I watched the film as soon as I could and was touched by the story of survival against the odds. Wladyslaw Szpilman, a Jewish pianist was left in the hands of others hoping for their continued help. Knowing it was based on a book for years later I kept my eyes open in secondhand bookstores until I eventually found it. This is an account without embellishments, this is honest and at times painful to read. This is the autobiography of a man who feared for his life everyday and fought against human brutality. It is not the most well written at times but it is nothing short of honest and raw. Inspirational.</span></div>
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<b>The Time Traveller's Guide to Elizabethan England - Ian Mortimer</b></div>
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<span class="s1">I first read Ian Mortimer's 'Time Traveller’s Guide to Medieval England' and I was in love. Here was a historian who could transport his readers actually into the past. When I heard he had released another based on Elizabethan England it was a no brainier for me to get my hands on it (thanks to the boyfriend for buying me it!). As much as I love detailed, academic texts Mortimer has made history interesting for more than just students and graduates of history. His prose is easy to follow and his research so in depth; with some fun little quips here and there. Again I have nothing to fault with this book, I'm excited to try some of his more academia based work soon, they're currently saved on my amazon wishlist!</span></div>
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<b>One Day the Shadow Passed - Jonathan Reggio</b></div>
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<span class="s1">An adorable little book that really fits well into my current philosophy of life - that sometimes the simplest answer is often the best. I'm also more interested in natural farming and organic so this really made me think. The prose is simple to follow, and being a real life account the characters are believable in their optimism and doubt. The rural Japanese word Reggio has described is easy to emerge into and so beautiful you can almost feel the wind caress your face. In our hectic Westernised society this novella really is the breath of fresh air we need from books, true escapism with that undercurrent philosophy this really is a wonderful short read. </span></div>
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<b>A History of the World in 100 Objects - Neil MacGregor</b></div>
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<span class="s1">This book is astonishing, an almost impossible feat but managed by the hard workers at the British Museum and the dedication of Neil MacGregor! A stunning collection of some of their most interesting collections which dictates world history! I can imagine the debates which occurs between curators as they tried to decide which items were worthy. This has also made me desperate to visit the museum again and see some of these precious objects again. A beautiful collection with descriptions not only of the items but also their influence in the wider scope of human history.</span></div>
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<b>Schindler’s Ark - Thomas Keneally</b></div>
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<span class="s1"><i>"He who saves a single life, saves the world entire."</i></span></div>
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<span class="s1">I wasn't sure how to review this book, its so profoundly important, even today, that I don't think i could review it with the credit and value it deserves. I've known about Oskar Schindler for a long time due to history lessons and a general keen interest; I've been fortunate enough to visit his factory in Krakow and Auschwitz twice and each time I'm left speechless with the contrast between inhumane brutality and inspirational kindness. I've watched the Spielberg version of this book, Schindler's List, countless times and yet reading this book made even more of an impression. The amount of work Keneally put into this biographical account of Schindler's life during world war 2 and how many risks he took to save the lives of so make Jews from the death camps is astounding. Collecting testimonies from Schindler's Jews from around the world and organising them would have been no easy task. </span></div>
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<span class="s1">Everyone should read this, everyone should know that even in great darkness there is always hope.</span></div>
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<b>Killing the Shadows - Val McDermid</b></div>
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<span class="s1">I've been meaning to read Val McDermid ever since I started watching Wire In The Blood, I still haven't found a second hand copy of 'The Mermaids Singing' which begins the Tony Hill storyline but when I saw this for 50p I thought it would be a great start to see whether I liked the authors style. Answer is, I do. Very much so! It's refreshing to read something set in your own country as many of the crime series I read are set in Canada or the US. McDermid's narrative is easy to follow, descriptive and also got me researching myself into geographic profiling - something I knew about only basically. Great storyline with heaps of tension and characters who I didn't want to scream insults at.</span></div>
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<b>The White Tiger - Aravind Adiga</b></div>
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<span class="s1">There is a reason this novel won the Man Brooker award, it’s utterly fantastic. I’ve found recently in the last decade there’s been a large surge in people wanting to read about the lives of those living in the Middle East. Whether this is due to the political upheaval and unrest is creating a growing interest in the mixed cultures of India, Pakistan, Iran and Iraq I cannot vouch for. What I can vouch for is how powerful this book is. Taking an interesting slant of narrative, an Indian taxi company owner writing to the Chinese Premier. However this is not a simple tale the protagonist, Balram Halwai, is a thief and a murderer and he does not hide his crimes. Instead he tells his story in the form of letters to the Premier who is visiting India. I think the reason this book really appealed to me is that Halwai is so flawed as a human and he has no fear talking about his past. This honesty is refreshing, though heartbreaking as you hear of a world still in a social caste society. Intriguing throughout with engaging characters and a story that will not leave you for a long time. </span></div>
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<b>I Can Make You Hate - Charlie Brooker</b></div>
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<span class="s1">Seeing this at a reduced price on the kindle store meant I downloaded it without a second thought. A long time fan of Charlie Brooker I needed something humorous to read , if only to break up all the depressing crime novels I read, and this delivered! A selection of articles written by Brooker this is a book you can read in one go or flick through now and then to a random page to make you smile - or laugh. Probably one of the most honest people in the media world!</span></div>
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<b>The End of Your Life Bookclub - Will Schwalbe</b></div>
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<span class="s1">Beautiful and inspiring. It may sound cliche but those are the two words that first come to mind after finishing this book. Elegantly written it advocates not only reading for pleasure and as a means of communication but also kindness, something I think too many people lack these days. I wish I could have met Mary Ann Schwalbe just to talk to her, she was a strong willed and wonderful woman. This book is powerful in a subtle manner and that's part of the reason I love it. I have a list of new books to read and as strange as it seems I feel like I've found some strength in myself after reading this. I'm inspired to not only be a kinder more considerate person but also to try and do more to help people around the world, to realise everyday how lucky I am to live in Britain and to have the life I have.</span></div>
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<b>Anansi Boys - Neil Gaiman</b></div>
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<span class="s1">Embarrassingly this is the first Neil Gaiman book I've read.. Mainly cos I'm a secondhand book shopper and they just don't appear often. After reading this I'm even more embarrassed. I haven't laughed at a book in so long, the creative genius an simplicity of this book had me gripped from the start. I love being inspired to research anything further and I admit I was inspired to read more Anansi stories on the net while reading this, which scores big in my world.</span></div>
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<b>The Age of Miracles - Karen Thompson Walker</b></div>
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<span class="s1">"The possibility of the impossible" Jose Saramago's quote at the end of the book describes this book perfectly. I also was thinking of the parallels with this book and his as I was reading. I finished this in a day and I have fallen in love with Karen Thompson walker, the sheer detail in this book engrossed me and I am left now feeling slightly disorientated with a distinct feeling to appreciate everything I have! I am full of praise for the style of the prose, the character development and the knowledge of the amount of work thrown into this debut. For a book which, for me, is an easy read the levels of complexity and the way it has already, only minutes after finishing, affected my thoughts has left this wonderful feeling in me. Reading this my heart was broken and yet encouraged by the willpower that humans, and all living things, have to try and adapt to survive.</span></div>
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<b>The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry - Rachel Joyce</b></div>
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<span class="s1">This is probably one of the most beautiful books I have read recently. The story of Harold Fry's journey of hope, faith and redemption is something that I believe will touch anyone who hears about it. Written in a simple, everyday prose I would recommend this to everyone who is a fiction fan. I think we all need to have a little more Harold Fry in us sometimes.</span></div>
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<b>Wolf Hall - Hilary Mantel</b></div>
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<span class="s2">This </span><span class="s1">actually challenged my opinion of Thomas Cromwell and as a budding historian, if you can do that you earn my respect. Well written and fact driven. A book you need a few days to properly absorb yourself into the world of the Tudors. It's refreshing to see a fact-driven historical novel, with an interesting take on Thomas Cromwell in this instance, presented in a way to appeal to the masses rather than the academic few. This is not a book for those wanting a light read, it is engrossing and heavy but the extra time and effort you spend reading is richly rewarded with a profile of a man who was one of the biggest influences of Britain’s political past.</span></div>
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<b>The Book of Lost Things - John Connolly</b></div>
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<span class="s1">I’m 23 and I’m still a huge fan of fairy tales. Anything to do with the mysterious fantasy world and I’m instantly interested, therefore when I saw John Connolly’s ‘The Book of Lost Things’ for only £1 I had to purchase it. I absolutely adored this book, from the imagery, the symbolism, the characters there is nothing I can find fault with except that it ended! You can choose to take it as a fantasy tale based on fairy tales or you, like myself, can choose to really emerge yourself with the imagery and symbolism. The tale follows a simple premise and would engage even older children. I’m now a big fan of John Connolly and I he continues to write more of these fantastical tales.</span></div>
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<b>The No1 Ladies’ Detective Agency - Alexander McCall Smith </b></div>
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<span class="s1">Is it obvious yet I enjoy tales set in other countries and emerged in other cultures? ‘The No1 Ladies’ Detective Agency’ is a book I’ve had on my radar for a while and was so happy when I finally found it hiding in the secondhand book shelves. A tale that feels liberating, humorous and full of adventure. Mma Precious Ramotswe is such a fun character and I’m looking forward to getting more in the series to see how her character will develop. This is quite a light read, despite some of the dark undertones.</span></div>
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<b>The One Hundred Year Man Who Climbed Out The Window and Disappeared - Jonas Joonasson</b></div>
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<span class="s1">Quirky tales have me hooked from the title alone, and this was the case with this novel. The tale of a man who on his 100th birthday escapes from his care home and embarks on an adventure that leads him to various different people and recounts his past. I loved this book, it’s written quite simply and although the tale is pretty fantastical it’s funny and lighthearted. I read this in the late winter months and was the perfect book to lighten the mood when the nights are still drawing in early. </span></div>
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<b>When I was Five I Killed Myself - Howard Buten</b></div>
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<span class="s1">I’ve had this book on my amazon wishlist for years. Finally it was reduced in price and I bought it on a whim, I don’t regret this decision. It was recommended after I really enjoyed ‘Perks of Being a Wallflower’ and although this is nothing like that book there is still the theme of childhood psychiatry, something I find really interesting. A very quick read but very hard hitting. I cannot praise this book highly enough for its powerful voice and the story of Burt. The author, Howard Buten published this in 1981 and is a psychiatrist with a special interest in autism, his expertise really came through in this novella and made it a captivating and almost harrowing read.</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11306809416409620098noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8191291740247610254.post-72076491403649483692014-01-26T15:55:00.000-08:002014-01-26T15:55:42.529-08:00Life Thoughts<div class="p1">
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<span class="s1"><a href="http://www.delightfully-tacky.com/" target="_blank">Delightfully Tacky</a>, one of my favourite bloggers often does this little post every few months about where she is in life and whats been inspiring her and I’d really like to incorporate it into this blog (I did use some of her headers as a template so I hope she doesn’t mind!). After finally recovering from the horrible few illnesses I’ve had since the new year I finally have that ‘new year new me’ feeling going and want to share some of my thoughts and ideas for the next few months. </span></div>
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<span class="s1"><b>Reading</b> Han’s Fallada’s ‘Alone In Berlin’. I’ve had this book sat on my bookshelf since its release in 2009, captivated by the synopsis on the back I bought it as part of Waterstones 3 for 2 deal in a vain effort during university to have casual reading for pleasure. Needless to say my Mum then picked it up when she visited once to read while I was bogged down in 16th century gender politics. After finishing it she told me, though she enjoyed it she found it really hard and slow to get into and admitted struggling to finish it at times. When I finally had time to read again after the review from my Mum this book was sadly pushed to the back of the pile and forgot about. With my book collection getting a little out of control a few weeks ago I decided to sort my books and pile the ones that were unread next to my bed with a determination to work through them before buying many more books. This little book appeared again. With alot more time to read I decided it was time to tackle it and I’ve found myself pleasantly surprised. Compared with my Mum’s struggle I’ve managed to engross myself into the world of Berlin during the second world war. The descriptions, the range of characters and the swelling plot line all have my full attention, even after only 100 pages! I’m really excited to finish this story now, especially as it is based on true facts. When I do finish I’ll defiantly be posting a review on my goodreads! (link in top bar).</span></div>
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<span class="s1"><b>Watching</b> CSI. I picked up season 1 (which I’ve watched a million times) for £4.50 in CeX before I left Northern Ireland needing a show to occupy me until Grey’s Anatomy returns at the end of February! Already knowing I enjoy CSI as an avid crime and forensics fan in literature and tv this was an easy decision. I find the show easy to put on while I’m doing something else so while I’m avidly applying for jobs I’m still entertained from the monotonous typing of my details over and over. I’m currently on season 2 which I’m hoping to finish before I travel to Northern Ireland again next week. </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUDGl0Q_SxiYS_2Ic3j1AVhwdoFJpYyiq92VlRhNPSYam7YZQ835OQojbCxgtHTdGn7PTJTAWtTwwNYuDEYuqrfQOwN5UySegJDa8Hrbdkh_PRb4-_6JytAQl-M1KT8oqtD-8xf91VvoWN/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-01-26+at+23.45.21.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUDGl0Q_SxiYS_2Ic3j1AVhwdoFJpYyiq92VlRhNPSYam7YZQ835OQojbCxgtHTdGn7PTJTAWtTwwNYuDEYuqrfQOwN5UySegJDa8Hrbdkh_PRb4-_6JytAQl-M1KT8oqtD-8xf91VvoWN/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-01-26+at+23.45.21.png" height="249" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Still need to fill my pokedex though..</td></tr>
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<span class="s1"><b>Playing</b> Animal Crossing New Leaf. Jonathan bought me a Nintendo 3ds XL for Christmas with animal crossing and pokemon x, I finished pokemon x and the copy of Professor Layton and Pandora’s Box I bought so I’m occupying myself with Animal Crossing. I love this game cos I can play as much or as little as I want and I just adore anything cute. Doesn’t use too many brain cells either so I find it almost relaxing. I want to get some more Professor Layton games and some Ace Attorney games as I love puzzles and Ace Attorney is meant to be hilarious. </span></div>
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<span class="s1"><b>Listening</b> to Interpol. In a total splurge I bought myself tickets to see Interpol as part of the NME awards show in Birmingham. On the 25th March I’ll be finally able to see a band I’ve wanted to see since I found them 9 years ago! I’m really excited and I’ve been told the support acts are also worth a listen but for now my ear drums are loving the post punk vibrations. </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8lSY2QJNg1aMYagAF8HLWwWH1uEjcIh8lnAS9vAeccCDfUBzoqtnmcW3WbGYEzpfee3qsDPl8DNhQS1lFAjr70BhLIV8jmSmqQKIuN1QBeyihu7VHJHTjpA8U9V5siF2sctL4f67u4gy6/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-01-26+at+23.44.33.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8lSY2QJNg1aMYagAF8HLWwWH1uEjcIh8lnAS9vAeccCDfUBzoqtnmcW3WbGYEzpfee3qsDPl8DNhQS1lFAjr70BhLIV8jmSmqQKIuN1QBeyihu7VHJHTjpA8U9V5siF2sctL4f67u4gy6/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-01-26+at+23.44.33.png" height="320" width="319" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love this guy, and I love our adventures.</td></tr>
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<span class="s1"><b>Planning</b> a road trip across Northern England with Jonathan in early April. At a Belfast Giants game over the Christmas period he won their ‘chuck a puck’ game and therefore won a free ferry crossing with Stena Line ferries to either England or Scotland. The Elite Ice Hockey League Playoff’s are played in Nottingham and we decided to make our way over there but turn it into a road trip. We’re planning to visit York, a city I’ve been desperate to visit for a very long time and make a loop across the North of England before returning home. At the moment we’re still planning times and hotels so that Jonathan doesn’t have to drive much. We’ve decided this will be our holiday this year and I’m really excited to spend some time with the guy I love and visit some amazing places. </span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge5-nawx_QWwEpxU_pUQlhCYGwPGjq9RvymQg5hzAp6ui7crrT6xSxmVdoPRXW-yIxwyl-GUYBrCuI_QYbBuatq0usFKzHq0L3Lb5TjKOm6WxVAxrpa5QViB5Q2pGdC1yKckxa6mtsn-VL/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-01-26+at+23.43.32.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge5-nawx_QWwEpxU_pUQlhCYGwPGjq9RvymQg5hzAp6ui7crrT6xSxmVdoPRXW-yIxwyl-GUYBrCuI_QYbBuatq0usFKzHq0L3Lb5TjKOm6WxVAxrpa5QViB5Q2pGdC1yKckxa6mtsn-VL/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-01-26+at+23.43.32.png" height="320" width="319" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Florence has been causing no end to mischief!</td></tr>
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<span class="s1"><b>Proud</b> of being a vegan for over a year now. Ask me a few years back and I would have laughed at the idea of me giving up cheese and eggs but look at me now! I still get the odd craving for them but then I remember why I choose to do this. The last year I’ve seen some positive health changes and I feel more comfortable with myself morally. I think the first year was going to be the hardest and now I’m more clued in I’m looking forward to spending the rest of my life on a plant based diet and advocating why we don’t need leather or wool. </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF3oCivU-oqM__nIlkkE3ycaq-SZO9AOaLJUPsFinfYL1ws-ojHNP6WJeUCuQAJS_JIaQ1lSnaoU35WXTV5qsjWcLjIIir8y1QH9uL8d-CynWq1OO-gUE2OWABij-Tt7CgVvPjy1YCapkR/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-01-26+at+23.44.14.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF3oCivU-oqM__nIlkkE3ycaq-SZO9AOaLJUPsFinfYL1ws-ojHNP6WJeUCuQAJS_JIaQ1lSnaoU35WXTV5qsjWcLjIIir8y1QH9uL8d-CynWq1OO-gUE2OWABij-Tt7CgVvPjy1YCapkR/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-01-26+at+23.44.14.png" height="310" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shopping for Interview/Office Wear.</td></tr>
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<span class="s1"><b>Preparing</b> for my return to work. It’s been a year and half since I had to leave my last place of employment and over two years since I first began to suffer with a neurological disorder (functional and dissociative neurological disorder). I’ve spent alot of that time working with my neurologist, neuro physiotherapist and my gp to get back to this stage that I feel well and in control of my symptoms enough to work again. I’m very anxious about this process but I know it needs to be done and I’m pleased to have been able to apply for several suitable jobs without letting my worries overwhelm me. It won’t be an easy time but it has to be done and I’m eager to learn some new skills and meet some new people. </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAuyZkeHhcIy3EfACH6Ih6LxNk74IX6nyE-V8IZdltO1iPI8FXDnNXiT0mpBtu2hpVImJ61TMKezccImSQQKLHAWdoxXPZAtGB7lPRa1x5W1GpH5ERFNoWM00CHqogrwGmPcrh7BnqPMhU/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-01-26+at+23.42.59.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAuyZkeHhcIy3EfACH6Ih6LxNk74IX6nyE-V8IZdltO1iPI8FXDnNXiT0mpBtu2hpVImJ61TMKezccImSQQKLHAWdoxXPZAtGB7lPRa1x5W1GpH5ERFNoWM00CHqogrwGmPcrh7BnqPMhU/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-01-26+at+23.42.59.png" height="319" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My niece, Phoebe, likes telling the teddies and everyone else stories and having tea parties.</td></tr>
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<span class="s1"><b>Perplexed about </b>my future and what to do with myself. When I was a child I was always changing my mind about what I wanted to be when I was older. I tended to flit between wanting to teach or being an paleontologist. Now I’m older, and realised I wouldn’t enjoy teaching, I got my BA degree in History and Philosophy and thought I had my life planned heading for a career in heritage and the museum business. I was then tempted to incorporate historical research into my career and progress to a masters degree in late medieval/early modern history. That was until a few months ago when looking through adult learning courses I saw a course to become a Veterinary Nurse. I’ve always been an animal lover, and always had pets around me, and I think a part of me has always wanted to work with animals so is this the way I should go? I made a quick plan before then finding my dissertation in a hidden computer folder. It flared my love of history and research so now I’ve been left a bit confused again. I’m always going to be an indecisive person, my flare and the thrill I get from research and learning new things will always push me into other disciplines. I doubt I’ll stay in the same career my whole life but for now I think I just need to focus on getting a job of any kind and then really spend some time thinking about my future. If it’s one thing I’ve learnt in the last two years is that it’s ok to be patient and take things slowly and that’s an important lesson to learn for someone who regularly panics about where their life has put them temporarily. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtt7GcF9d5RwgaXJTQPVJEzQr46iEqKiY1pqqDnxc8ZZk4nrOwOeorl-Dqs6mBHGleLdWuHCePZmONmmn7SEUg88Bc_MYBnIWxr5dIzT5TAKOm3pzaAdwJhr2je82ws-tQxWJ3-oCL4c17/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-01-26+at+23.43.14.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtt7GcF9d5RwgaXJTQPVJEzQr46iEqKiY1pqqDnxc8ZZk4nrOwOeorl-Dqs6mBHGleLdWuHCePZmONmmn7SEUg88Bc_MYBnIWxr5dIzT5TAKOm3pzaAdwJhr2je82ws-tQxWJ3-oCL4c17/s1600/Screen+Shot+2014-01-26+at+23.43.14.png" height="315" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These little girls keep me sane.</td></tr>
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<i>All pictures are from my instagram, link in top bar.</i><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11306809416409620098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8191291740247610254.post-68032986880990946562014-01-20T17:25:00.003-08:002014-01-20T17:25:53.374-08:00Not the greatest start to the year.....Dear friends, <div>
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Sorry I've not been active since my return from Northern Ireland. <div>
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Since New Year I've had viral tonsillitis which turned into viral laryngitis which I'm still poorly with. <div>
I also got diagnosed with bacterial tracheitis the weekend so I'm a very unwell duck at the moment.</div>
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I haven't had much energy to do much more than play my new 3ds xl and watch lots of CSI. I can't even concentrate on books properly. </div>
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Hopefully I'll be back on my feet in a few days and I have lots of posts to work on including my books of 2013, belated Christmas gifts, aims for 2014, projects for 2014 and more! </div>
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Hope you've had a better start to the new year than I have! </div>
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Love always,</div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
Amy</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11306809416409620098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8191291740247610254.post-90905267498798041822013-12-24T16:08:00.002-08:002013-12-24T16:08:35.117-08:00Christmas WishesI want to wish all my followers and any readers alike a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.<br />
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I will be spending the rest of Christmas with family before heading over to Northern Ireland for a few weeks to be with my Jonathan. I am truly blessed to have such a wonderful family and friends, I think that's probably what I'm most thankful for this year. (I'll do a full review on 2013 and my hopes and goals for 2014 when I come back mid-Jan)<br />
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We have my younger sister and my 2 year old niece staying with us this Christmas and already I've been touched with the magic that is Christmas through a child's eyes. I cannot wait to see her expression tomorrow morning!<br />
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I've been busy this Christmas Eve as well! I spent all afternoon and evening slaving away in the kitchen. I've not been well the last few weeks and I really wasn't feeling festive but that time baking goodies and trying some new things out really set the mood for me. I've managed to steam my Christmas pudding, make some fresh cranberry sauce, prepare my veggie pie for dinner tomorrow, make my first attempt at nut brittle (burnt the sugar a bit so its a little smokey but I kind of like it!) as well as baking my yearly tradition of shortbread and mince pies. All food being vegan, as this is my first vegan Christmas! I was vegetarian last year before I went fully vegan on the first of Jan 2013. All I have left for me to do tomorrow is put the pie in to bake, steam the pudding for two more hours and whip up some vegan yorkshire puddings! Yummy!<br />
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I really hope you have a wonderful time and you get to spend some down time with loved ones, especially those who are having hard times at the moment for whatever reason. :)Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11306809416409620098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8191291740247610254.post-80497924854256980772013-12-12T13:11:00.000-08:002013-12-12T13:11:09.410-08:00Top Ten Albums of 2013 <div class="p1" style="text-align: center;">
<span class="s1">2013 has been a good year for music fans, with several legends returning to the industry and some new talent managing to path their own way onto the airwaves and into our mp3’s. (I assume I’m not the only owner of an iPhone who still uses an iPod/other mp3 player here?!) I found this list really hard to pick after setting myself the challenge of only picking my top ten, though I couldn’t resist adding some special mentions as there really has been some corking albums this year that I don’t think my Spotify and youtube has seen so much use! With technological advances within the music industry with recording and how to play/use instruments I really feel like we’re entering a new age of music and I’m hoping that some new bands make the cut in 2014 and grace us with their beats. I’ve probably missed a few albums off my final top albums list as I’m going on memory of the last year (and thankyou google for making sure I got the right year, has it really been well over a year since The XX’s Coexist already?!). </span></div>
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<span class="s1">Enjoy. </span></div>
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<b><i>Arctic Monkeys - AM</i></b></div>
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<span class="s1">Back in 2006 when the Arctic Monkeys skyrocketed to fame in the British music scene I hated them. They were too popular and my angsty, teenage hipsterisms didn’t allow me to even listen to anything they wrote for years. Bar ‘I Bet That You Look Good On The Dancefloor’ which, let’s be honest, anyone in my generation who doesn’t know the lyrics and start dancing at the opening beats has been hiding under a rock! By 2009 I was forced by my ex to give them a chance and so I finally listened to their discography all the way through and I was as hooked as all my friends were years earlier. With AM I feel they’ve taken a different route, it feels a little old school and sexy. I fell in love with the opening bars to ‘Do I Wanna Know’ when the single was released and was counting down the weeks during the summer until the albums release this Autumn. Not only the Arctic Monkeys back, but they’re back with a bang! </span></div>
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<b><i>Daughter - If You Leave</i></b><span class="s1"></span></div>
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<span class="s1">This is only one of two new bands who have reached my top ten list, but Daughter deserve to be here. I first discovered them when iTunes had their single ‘Human’ as their single of the week (a really great way to discover new bands and get a free single) and I loved the gentle, folksy feel to their music and Elena Tonra’s vocals are memorizing and comforting. The songwriting is excellent and catchy with lyrics such as ‘and if you are in love, then you are the lucky one. ‘Cause most of us are bitter over someone, setting fire to our insides for fun to distract our hearts from ever missing them’ fueling many tumblr lyric posts. That aside, the raw emotional feeling behind the songwriting is perfectly accompanied with the whimsical music supplied by Igor Haefeli and Remi Aquilella. I’m really looking forward to what this band delivers in the future. </span></div>
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<b><i>London Grammar - If You Wait</i></b><span class="s1"></span></div>
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<span class="s1">This is the only other album that has made my top ten that’s a new band. I’d heard of London Grammar down the grapevine but it wasn’t until iTunes had their single ‘Shyer’ as single of the week that I actually paid much attention. I was blown away with the single, Hannah Reid’s almost ethereal voice is not only memorable but a sound of beauty. The album suits my taste excellently reminding me of The XX, Bat for Lashes and Florence and the Machine but holding out on their own. This is perfect chill out music and music you smile when listening too. London Grammar are on my list of bands I want to try and see live and I’ll be looking for nearby gigs with eager anticipation. They also featured on the track ‘Help Me Loose My Mind’ for Disclosure, who feature on my ‘special mentions’ list. This is a young band and I’m hoping one who manages to stay around for a while but for now I’ll keep this album ready to play when necessary. </span></div>
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<b><i>Stereophonics - Graffiti on the Train</i></b><span class="s1"></span></div>
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<span class="s1">I saw Stereophonics in March with my boyfriend and his Mum, though it was my second time after seeing them at the 2009 Isle of Wight Festival it felt more intimate being at the sold out Belfast Waterfront set. Their new album had been released a few days before and I hadn’t really had time to listen to it so I was quite excited to see how a band who’s been with us from the nineties has managed to make their music sell a decade and a half after their debut album release. I was pleasantly surprised to see that they didn’t need to change much their original format still working. Fueled with Kelly Jones gravelly, iconic voice and sing along anthems such as ‘Indian Summer’ this might not be a groundbreaking album but it’s on this list because they still have it. </span></div>
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<b><i>Foals - Holy Fire</i></b><span class="s1"></span></div>
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<span class="s1">Another band I discovered in my late teenage years thanks to my ex’s friend. ‘Antidotes’ was one of my first year of uni albums and I still listen to it regularly. I wasn’t the biggest fan of their second album ‘Total Life Forever’ but ‘Holy Fire’ has restored my love and faith. It might just be me but I feel like the album grows into itself the more you play it and I really feel they learnt from their previous two albums to make this one standout. The energy is infectious and I’ve caught myself putting it on when I need something energetic - like when doing boring jobs like cleaning - to keep me upbeat. I feel like it’s more laid back than their previous work and may be a sign of where the band is going, just following the music rather than trying to control it. Any alternative, electronia fans need this album in their collection, as well as really all their albums to date. </span></div>
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<b><i>Johnny Marr - The Messenger </i></b><span class="s1"></span></div>
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<span class="s1">I’m a big Smiths fan, I have been since my teenage years when Morrissey’s crooning voice and Marr’s unrivaled guitar skills voiced my inner emotions. Although I’ve never ‘got on’ with Morrissey finding alot of his opinions bigoted and self righteous I’ve always loved Johnny Marr, and have followed his several other projects with other bands over the years. When I saw on NME that he was releasing his own album I was pumped, I’d never really heard him sing and here was one of the forerunners of The Smiths, back and dare I say it sexier than ever? It took me a few listens for me to get The Messenger, it took me that long as I had to get rid of my expectations that it would sound like The Smiths; or even like Morrissey’s solo work. It doesn’t, it feels fresh and experienced and I love that. I’m so happy this album has came out while I’m in my early twenties, I feel like I can appreciate the mature vibe more after having The Smiths as part of my life for so long. </span></div>
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<b><i>My Bloody Valentine - M B V</i></b><span class="s1"></span></div>
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<span class="s1">Any fan of Lost In Translation will know of the band ‘My Bloody Valentine’ a Dublin foursome whose iconic track ‘Sometimes’ is played during the taxi ride after the karaoke scene. So, I was pretty late coming onto the scene (they formed in 1987) and by the time I’d heard of the band they had already broken up. Yet, all was not lost with their reunion in 2007! It’s been years in the making, including work from the nineties, but finally MBV was released this year and fans of the band, new and old, were not to be disappointed. The dream pop, ambient with just a hint of post-punk band I eagerly searched out back in 2005, after first watching Lost in Translation, were back and this is another ‘comeback’ album to make my top ten. One of the reasons I really like this band is that they’re happy to experiment with sound and to me each track and each album is something special. They’re already working on a fourth studio album so I’m already excited for the future of this band. </span></div>
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<b><i>David Bowie - The Next Day</i></b><span class="s1"></span></div>
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<span class="s1">How could any top album list of 2013 be complete without mentioning the return of the Godlike musical genius that is David Bowie? After turning into a recluse and making few public appearances since his heart problems in 2004 the announcement on his 66th birthday that he was releasing a new album caused a media storm. I remember finding out that day on Twitter and along with other Bowie fans I listened to the ‘Where Are We Now’ religiously. Upon listening to the album on it’s release in March I’ll admit I wasn’t as blown away as I expected. I think this album suffered from the mass hype surrounding it and although it’s good it’s not like some of Bowie’s classic albums. Maybe it’s his age or maybe it’s just me but I did feel like a spark was missing. I would love to see him preform this album live but he insists he will never tour again - and given his age I don’t blame him due to all the mental and physical stress causes. </span></div>
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<b><i>John Grant - Pale Green Ghosts</i></b></div>
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<span class="s1">I’m a little ashamed to know that until last year I’d never heard of John Grant. It wasn’t until my boyfriend put his album on while we were sat in his room that I realised what I was missing. His Queen of Denmark debut album alone was fantastic and I was doubtful he could master that again, I was so wrong. With Pale Green Ghosts he brings more of an electronia theme and has several collaborations other artists. His music is personal and to date he’s one of my favourite ‘confessional’ songwriters being able to allow me to listen to an hour of him hating on his ex without me wanting to scream at him to ‘get over it’, Taylor Swift and Adele take note! I think overall I prefer Queen of Denmark, and I’d suggest that to a new listener but Pale Green Ghosts still comes out on top for me. </span></div>
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<i><b>Queens of the Stone Age - ...Like Clockwork</b></i><span class="s1"></span></div>
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<span class="s1">Told you my list was full of classic bands who have made a comeback! Queens of the Stone Age were part of my teenage angst years but they’ve grown with me and as I’ve got older I’ve appreciated their unique style in the rock genre. I really enjoyed the collaborative work Josh Somme did with Dave Grohl and John Paul Jones with Them Crooked Vultures. But seriously, there just isn’t a band like them and I can’t see one appearing they really are in a class of their own. With ...Like Clockwork Dave Grohl makes a return on drums after Joey Castillo left the band, but really I’m not complaining with Grohl being one of my all time favourite drummers! The album has the seduction I felt has been missing since Songs for The Deaf but also brims with that classic, grungy rock fans love. Again, another band I really want to see live and I’m hoping good things will keep coming for another decade, at least! </span></div>
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<span class="s1"><i><b>Special mentions to:</b> </i></span></div>
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<span class="s1">The Stokes - Comedown Machine</span></div>
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<span class="s1">The National - Trouble Will Find Me</span></div>
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<span class="s1">Noah and the Whale - Heart of Now</span></div>
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<span class="s1">Yeah Yeah Yeahs - Mosquito</span></div>
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<span class="s1">Vampire Weekend - Vampires of the City</span></div>
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<span class="s1">The Flaming Lips - The Terror</span></div>
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<span class="s1">Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds - Push The Sky Away</span></div>
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<span class="s1">Birdy - Wings</span></div>
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<span class="s1">Boards of Canada - Tomorrow’s Harvest </span></div>
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<span class="s1">Daft Punk - Random Access Memories</span></div>
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<span class="s1">She and Him - Volume 3 </span></div>
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<span class="s1">Tegan and Sara - Heartthrob</span></div>
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<span class="s1">Disclosure - Settle</span></div>
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<span class="s1">Arcade Fire - Reflektor</span></div>
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<span class="s1">HAIM - Days Are Gone</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11306809416409620098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8191291740247610254.post-29035409181817750732013-10-25T12:23:00.000-07:002013-10-25T12:24:23.933-07:00The Memory Lives On : Cats 2013 UK Tour<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-hCH7tIEeC1M5GKiaB5Eq73-lOAH2f3c5CAvqTB4hNkSZwimelVJw9VpcFzSKGhsWJjUuhyphenhyphenYHHPoXSc5yKUzqdTv2wssANxIr24ivT_z4pvnrhyee5UOOnGXCLH7sE7e408_9tL_phCwS/s1600/cats_2013_9891.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-hCH7tIEeC1M5GKiaB5Eq73-lOAH2f3c5CAvqTB4hNkSZwimelVJw9VpcFzSKGhsWJjUuhyphenhyphenYHHPoXSc5yKUzqdTv2wssANxIr24ivT_z4pvnrhyee5UOOnGXCLH7sE7e408_9tL_phCwS/s400/cats_2013_9891.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
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So, last night I was walking through a rather drizzly dull Bristol city centre with my Mum in a sparkly black dress. We were already full of food from Wagamamas and as we passed faceless commuters rushing to catch their bus home we were on our way to the Bristol Hippodrome. Why? To fulfil a 16 year old dream I've had, to see the musical Cats live on stage! </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Selfie before we left. </td></tr>
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Walking through those miserable, cold streets I felt like a firework I haven't felt such intense excitement in a long time I felt like I was going to explode into bright colours, or something equally dramatic</div>
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I should probably start with the beginning of this story, the time I was first introduced to the effulgent poems from T S Eliot's 'Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats'. I was in primary school and my teacher at the time (who happened to be an old theatre actor himself) read some of the poems in english class. I was in awe and immediately went to the town library to get the book out to read myself. In the end I think it turned into the book I rented from the library the most, every few months I got it again. It was the same year that my teacher invited me to join the theatre company he ran with his wife. I ended up spending alot of my youth in that company, 'Break-A-Leg' joining both the acting and dance classes for years. This was my first exposure to Cats the Musical. We preformed 'Macavity' as part of a Cabaret performance when I was 7 and that was when my Mum bought the film version on VHS, as it happened to also come out that year. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhABZwhvfG_qom8pZfjRXL47Kf0mklh7S6onb0v2SYNRIlOT5mSCC8_GfSU9KeLH0UReR40t2GUPZc0CmuZ2pfhAPvAo2VOIHWIipmMn2HxoepIAGjKH2fbHAqzKUgAMb5i3OmPLcVf57AM/s1600/cats_2013_9747.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhABZwhvfG_qom8pZfjRXL47Kf0mklh7S6onb0v2SYNRIlOT5mSCC8_GfSU9KeLH0UReR40t2GUPZc0CmuZ2pfhAPvAo2VOIHWIipmMn2HxoepIAGjKH2fbHAqzKUgAMb5i3OmPLcVf57AM/s400/cats_2013_9747.jpg" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Was it Mungojerrie? Or Rumplteazer?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I was entranced. Ever since that day I vowed to see Cats live one day no matter what. With the same theatre group I went on to dance and sing in various Cats acts, though sadly never the whole musical. My love was sealed.</div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7zs35nvScJ1nZI23dhHJPA3aL56FiViBnXCqn5VcO56ba0VnPdQ0vioRE9U920y2twgaCrP2Ub1Tybx955xeQ751iytvDA46ZSQ2nMwQ-5Jh6hyURTYRECHQYb1hYjQJHMO1xkXICilNm/s1600/cats_2013_0533.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7zs35nvScJ1nZI23dhHJPA3aL56FiViBnXCqn5VcO56ba0VnPdQ0vioRE9U920y2twgaCrP2Ub1Tybx955xeQ751iytvDA46ZSQ2nMwQ-5Jh6hyURTYRECHQYb1hYjQJHMO1xkXICilNm/s400/cats_2013_0533.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Magical Mr Mistoffelees!</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
A few months ago I was casually browsing our local theatre, the Bristol Hippodrome, for performances (I went to see the comedian, Bill Bailey, for the second time in September) and there were those iconic yellow cat eyes staring back at me. I looked at performance dates and immediately ran downstairs to my Mum to ask if she wanted to go as part of her 50th birthday presents from me. I actually squealed one the booking was confirmed and ever since I've had excitement building, I've read my copy of OPBoPC so many times I almost know it word from word! And last night, was the night!</div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPaqM2rst92lQlMa3qVs4oW5V5buwWrWLcsXCctBmyGSiUtR02F8CFOI1b-V_ucdtyDGT57wtK_cac4tTahOPAZ6cNSW7qbQcYUhIqh4W1Fe4MVDpWAbDI4olNPqOeowEeI5QOQ7_RQC3L/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-10-25+at+19.18.20.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPaqM2rst92lQlMa3qVs4oW5V5buwWrWLcsXCctBmyGSiUtR02F8CFOI1b-V_ucdtyDGT57wtK_cac4tTahOPAZ6cNSW7qbQcYUhIqh4W1Fe4MVDpWAbDI4olNPqOeowEeI5QOQ7_RQC3L/s400/Screen+Shot+2013-10-25+at+19.18.20.png" width="268" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Outfit I wore. Forest Green Blazer, Sparkly Black cut Out Dress and Floral Tights.</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
I could hardly sit still as we took our seats (great seats in the Grand Circle) and viewing the junkyard set I was practically buzzing! The lights dimmed and the music began to swell and I could feel tears pricking, here I finally was 16 years later fulfilling the dream of a theatre lover. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRMe20qDcqmM-YCpeQmFLrPHo7twuv-yVMBfMqZBZThrZskGnFswrG8_1mPIsDnR0Fin97uMubb_ElVOn1xIQSOtTa7_izL3GfhmmgrVY6NAK36FnGp729BHuB4XtOwWPWlylvlf9S4ufq/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-10-25+at+19.17.46.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="343" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRMe20qDcqmM-YCpeQmFLrPHo7twuv-yVMBfMqZBZThrZskGnFswrG8_1mPIsDnR0Fin97uMubb_ElVOn1xIQSOtTa7_izL3GfhmmgrVY6NAK36FnGp729BHuB4XtOwWPWlylvlf9S4ufq/s400/Screen+Shot+2013-10-25+at+19.17.46.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from our seats!</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
The performance itself was flawless, in all honesty I'm still in awe of the dedication of the cast and crew to bringing the world of the Jellicle Cats to life. The singing and dance routines were flawless and I loved the little quirks of personality the actors have brought to the characters. I know the songs so well I was miming along with the cast totally enthralled. </div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnRknexaL96yQ9sjagp86muxa_H8x1fDfhO4gu4-YfNRsanfUDHt7TadablUBGhrXPM5HsbDHvIeVgUgy9mzA8APLbq0NvTaroy1mKWzritYliuvLXFxmBizTK8nhY0Oj4pwyKsxm7hk_b/s1600/cats_2013_8218.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnRknexaL96yQ9sjagp86muxa_H8x1fDfhO4gu4-YfNRsanfUDHt7TadablUBGhrXPM5HsbDHvIeVgUgy9mzA8APLbq0NvTaroy1mKWzritYliuvLXFxmBizTK8nhY0Oj4pwyKsxm7hk_b/s400/cats_2013_8218.jpg" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grisabella The Glamour Cat.</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
I don't think a smile left my face the whole time. I can't even pick out a standout performance, everyone was so perfectly cast and really gave their performance, no matter how small all their dedication. The special effects were in time and spot on, the live orchestra gave the music flair and made the performance even more magical. I feel like I'm running out of adjectives to really describe my experience but it was unreal. I've been to many fantastic theatre productions before but this one meant so much to be I don't think I could fault it if I tried! I extend all my thanks and admiration for all the cast and crew who have worked to make this tour as special as it has been. Thankyou for fulfilling my dream and going beyond all my expectations; I'm still spellbound!</div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYMuRETtwwY2Q1SQMB54jck7Z9dRPf3ZWnxaJV8PT7TvgwppVwWGY3N7b9GLRI6uSh0kv-MMWYvAyxXepP0gMWJXx1zWy2SVZsau2FXcwZKOv49JawH9m0-jqc2lGo1a55yS6w0A_q7SSd/s1600/cats_2013_6968.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYMuRETtwwY2Q1SQMB54jck7Z9dRPf3ZWnxaJV8PT7TvgwppVwWGY3N7b9GLRI6uSh0kv-MMWYvAyxXepP0gMWJXx1zWy2SVZsau2FXcwZKOv49JawH9m0-jqc2lGo1a55yS6w0A_q7SSd/s400/cats_2013_6968.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Demeter, Bombalurina and Jennylorum.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Cats is a show that has it all; memorable musical hits, beautiful ballet and gymnastic inspired dance routines, feline acting and pizazz! Faithful to the original poetry Andrew Lloyd Webber's classic score leaves you feeling breathless and wanting more; wanting to explore this mysterious world of the cats further. This is a show that I recommend to anyone, even people who do not enjoy the theatre because you will love this show. I'm hoping they do another UK tour in a few years so I can take my niece as she would be equally enthralled as I was as a young child.</div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXxnEZLgeEaSOGMeiDo6bcjPh5XRf-DUntJBFBtbfB86fjN7Z-UtBJK2j-LnI27NVAwp1ekTclJ-D-JojXgYnHcv3X8jlvCWVNwUEhcHvas0NnDhGO0xs7wI0doxcj-5Pry_rqpJys6ggr/s1600/cats_2013_8416.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXxnEZLgeEaSOGMeiDo6bcjPh5XRf-DUntJBFBtbfB86fjN7Z-UtBJK2j-LnI27NVAwp1ekTclJ-D-JojXgYnHcv3X8jlvCWVNwUEhcHvas0NnDhGO0xs7wI0doxcj-5Pry_rqpJys6ggr/s400/cats_2013_8416.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cast</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Remaining tickets for this UK/Europe tour can be found <a href="http://www.catsthemusical.com/tickets/2013-ukeurope-tour/" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Images bar my own are all from the current UK/Europe Tour and found on the official Cat's website found <a href="http://www.catsthemusical.com/" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11306809416409620098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8191291740247610254.post-76301219496048647662013-10-18T13:33:00.000-07:002013-10-18T13:33:37.010-07:00Northern Ireland Adventures: Ulster Folk and Transport Museum<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD2-R8c7wdZZ1Oi5UPLeZEDbkcu9Pmk7mhDj1Dl4BytYMXaqVLu0ZoD9qQcPmJotsBQQl2RQoDpK2iEJv8qnaMFT6G-QTYy3L9dkFZflJhLJZzZXdybTYFGxIkJMvdeol6UMUuMxD4MXRO/s1600/DSC01631.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD2-R8c7wdZZ1Oi5UPLeZEDbkcu9Pmk7mhDj1Dl4BytYMXaqVLu0ZoD9qQcPmJotsBQQl2RQoDpK2iEJv8qnaMFT6G-QTYy3L9dkFZflJhLJZzZXdybTYFGxIkJMvdeol6UMUuMxD4MXRO/s400/DSC01631.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Northern Irish countryside is beautiful. </td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
It's been a while but I'm back with a new instalment to my Northern Ireland Adventures series.</div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyYe69V6n2SDQ5q6BeXLC2lXfGEA-wjhCGecczzSoIJv5VBIOJeNsP5m1elpVfkwKGn-2vDNGecYJdsfUVatuOG4DJXVMji2XPeAEUmeY1zNkWQEAEp2YPKXpYvNTc1nK7aLQwrcDfFdV3/s1600/DSC01601.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyYe69V6n2SDQ5q6BeXLC2lXfGEA-wjhCGecczzSoIJv5VBIOJeNsP5m1elpVfkwKGn-2vDNGecYJdsfUVatuOG4DJXVMji2XPeAEUmeY1zNkWQEAEp2YPKXpYvNTc1nK7aLQwrcDfFdV3/s400/DSC01601.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me in what was a dressmakers house from the early 20th century.</td></tr>
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It was back in mid August that Jonathan woke me one Sunday morning to tell me we were going to the Folk and Transport museum for the afternoon. It's been on my list of places to visit as we pass it regularly travelling between Bangor and Belfast so I was pretty excited! The museum is in two parts and to get to the other you have to cross a bridge to the other side. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcz1hrn8XYuLB1F4TeUcpmpUzmTlTRD9yUpgyNMvS990oWDLvpQfafTOneQs-zrZnwV1H25p9iiv4Dz0qMUr-mTFqdq_hR4yj1vXPfW7KsZ3RPpCl6zFEBleZDgyzxjsgFDQ2RKqOG5Re3/s1600/DSC01609.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcz1hrn8XYuLB1F4TeUcpmpUzmTlTRD9yUpgyNMvS990oWDLvpQfafTOneQs-zrZnwV1H25p9iiv4Dz0qMUr-mTFqdq_hR4yj1vXPfW7KsZ3RPpCl6zFEBleZDgyzxjsgFDQ2RKqOG5Re3/s400/DSC01609.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Victorian Pharmacy.</td></tr>
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We decided to start with the folk part of the museum and we had the chance to look around their buildings, all from around Northern Ireland and depicting a range of periods from the late 18th century until the early 20th century. You start with a urban setting with several buildings from Ballycultra including a school, bank and shops. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRRnWy8ZIutSq_bsmA9YJvez6ZeLW7FnNzPKB5SYZ4kwrfoh4wJSe8hyphenhyphenXJKPAKeIng2cGzQn_Xpavyip0GwUQC8snxFWZp_9UowyTsBicbZOySL8lVlgKMcvBbZGoaeuwfTQG84_LSiPZn/s1600/DSC01604.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRRnWy8ZIutSq_bsmA9YJvez6ZeLW7FnNzPKB5SYZ4kwrfoh4wJSe8hyphenhyphenXJKPAKeIng2cGzQn_Xpavyip0GwUQC8snxFWZp_9UowyTsBicbZOySL8lVlgKMcvBbZGoaeuwfTQG84_LSiPZn/s400/DSC01604.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ballycultra residential street.</td></tr>
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As it was a Sunday it was quiet and not all the demonstrations were open which was a shame but I still enjoyed walking around these buildings taking in the musky smell of old wood and the places were practically tingling with history. As a huge history buff being able to walk into places like this, places that actually hold so much history literally takes my breath away. I feel privileged to generally live in a society that treasures its heritage. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBJxTdRabp2X2fF0VH-9AbmJrmnIPxZcdfhy4IweCF1RwkXckki1TNRNh-jJHKYGp2ghkEVWI7F_qRbAN8wioPr67q5BPqgC8WW_wvOS1_yPyjc0iJH2RoFUu1tN8Y3j1x-61YEjSa1GkS/s1600/DSC01635.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBJxTdRabp2X2fF0VH-9AbmJrmnIPxZcdfhy4IweCF1RwkXckki1TNRNh-jJHKYGp2ghkEVWI7F_qRbAN8wioPr67q5BPqgC8WW_wvOS1_yPyjc0iJH2RoFUu1tN8Y3j1x-61YEjSa1GkS/s400/DSC01635.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me exploring an Orange Order hall.</td></tr>
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Moving on from the urban area we explored the 60 acres which hold rural buildings including farmhouses, a blacksmith, an Orange Order hall and watermills. Walking along the dirt paths really helped with the atmosphere of the place as well as the various farm animals - including a HUGE bull we nicknamed Thor!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjADWRRyhUcZwhX14Q_kq4_oOPD-eLR8_ifFzqfrMz_740D7D1hIATJJ-Yx0lgH6RZnIIcHc2Y_s2SmntfQLuwwWNAkOyHIJFQ95dP65O0aGjP_RTsIS40GY1q69OwXWJG5LAc0Pawl5H50/s1600/DSC01632.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjADWRRyhUcZwhX14Q_kq4_oOPD-eLR8_ifFzqfrMz_740D7D1hIATJJ-Yx0lgH6RZnIIcHc2Y_s2SmntfQLuwwWNAkOyHIJFQ95dP65O0aGjP_RTsIS40GY1q69OwXWJG5LAc0Pawl5H50/s400/DSC01632.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">THOR!</td></tr>
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We also got to meet some horses, donkeys, chickens and a sow with her newborn piglets! Being a big animal lover this really enhanced the atmosphere for me as you were able to go right up to the animals to say hi. It was also great for children, who may never meet animals like this in their day to day life. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAkvZGMksnjEzCTGaLGYDnt0MTOMt6edufnq8AU_dhBep8Exyk5-KwacXmu888mrHbRal9e6CiO6O8nX0D-Tker9nxOd2lz5eU31BCeVkm9Lt5kU-nBzOw_leFvIK7dtaxehaQQcPP7-7C/s1600/DSC01636.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAkvZGMksnjEzCTGaLGYDnt0MTOMt6edufnq8AU_dhBep8Exyk5-KwacXmu888mrHbRal9e6CiO6O8nX0D-Tker9nxOd2lz5eU31BCeVkm9Lt5kU-nBzOw_leFvIK7dtaxehaQQcPP7-7C/s400/DSC01636.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Making friends with the local horses. </td></tr>
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It was a bit of a trek but it being an overcast day meant we didn't get too hot and I managed the walk with my walking problems. I liked how everything was spread out so you could try and get a feel for the isolation these villages would have been in apart from trips to market towns. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoSD5I8FngB_rq1ywk3M3YEIMT5HFKx_SfijlMtNMt5-MPFD8lujjLw-YKyePySva73vyBw-uTpdKy7dtkatEePe9n90BOiY8ZCnX2Q8imSu9LtgrBkqJvtqAf0VKG-SrKm8_Rg5q3u0U4/s1600/DSC01652.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoSD5I8FngB_rq1ywk3M3YEIMT5HFKx_SfijlMtNMt5-MPFD8lujjLw-YKyePySva73vyBw-uTpdKy7dtkatEePe9n90BOiY8ZCnX2Q8imSu9LtgrBkqJvtqAf0VKG-SrKm8_Rg5q3u0U4/s400/DSC01652.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A widows single roomed cottage which she lived in so her son's family could have the farmhouse.</td></tr>
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Most of the buildings were either working buildings like farms or watermills or were small lodgings that normal families would occupy. This really is a museum that celebrates the normal person. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjy2SRWN5Ym9clFafxwGp3n3xQF1FCUkewS0rSW3E_NyYx9rWoGBSdEpa9vZx5mRO6pDdr1HLQs6cjO4no7hZ3Gsk7vBZtqwpmUNR_x_PTdl8RgRfre9kTOAifZ1C78UGIN-HTnFY1eVVB/s1600/DSC01664.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjy2SRWN5Ym9clFafxwGp3n3xQF1FCUkewS0rSW3E_NyYx9rWoGBSdEpa9vZx5mRO6pDdr1HLQs6cjO4no7hZ3Gsk7vBZtqwpmUNR_x_PTdl8RgRfre9kTOAifZ1C78UGIN-HTnFY1eVVB/s400/DSC01664.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">George?</td></tr>
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Once we made it back to the car we crossed over to the transport museum. This museum is in two parts with a short walk between each building. The first building we entered included the steam train collection. Ireland, like the rest of the UK were able to access the railway transport system very early in its development. Although routes were smaller than those on Britain they were vital in the development of Ireland's economy and trade position. Goods and people could travel the country with ease and speed opening up a new world to the everyday person. I enjoyed being able to climb aboard some of the trains and carriages as well as all the old posters and train time logs. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhshA7tIVNYfQXXNEIYNrLG6ZmZN-wsq3blox78lqgG2dKhkHcqr6YRIMvWRu8nh1qQwNv6KE7ISuSvefXUbAtYZeBp2S_-AfO5OjUHBeJ12G59z-q6nj6mseEo7ULDYhiBgUlh0vwKPC5/s1600/DSC01666.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhshA7tIVNYfQXXNEIYNrLG6ZmZN-wsq3blox78lqgG2dKhkHcqr6YRIMvWRu8nh1qQwNv6KE7ISuSvefXUbAtYZeBp2S_-AfO5OjUHBeJ12G59z-q6nj6mseEo7ULDYhiBgUlh0vwKPC5/s400/DSC01666.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stowaway!</td></tr>
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We moved from the trains upstairs to enjoy their Titanic exhibition. Before the opening of the Titanic Museum last year in Belfast this used to be the only place to see artefacts and glean information about the doomed ship which was built in the Belfast shipyards. Despite going in thinking I knew alot about the ship I learned several new things and we enjoyed the interactive rivet game (Jonathan beat me!). The exhibition was on the small size, just one room, and it's made me more excited to eventually visit the Titanic Museum. It really is one of those events in history that's able to grasp your imagination full force. Downstairs held the museums collection of cars, including a DeLoren and an authentic 1960's bright orange Beetle. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj84Y7K2__0zUwTZVS2xzlMkpXV1jWa5cdv2ZhCIv2WsolpJ3vUMRQ0tqXVeBuNsCA9bwzm5wv4UUTjNrGHJ-XnAdgsgr778sl5ow50i1m3XptMIp4cZgwuv10_LLn51Hyg6V3SFZL2Z-lW/s1600/DSC01674.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj84Y7K2__0zUwTZVS2xzlMkpXV1jWa5cdv2ZhCIv2WsolpJ3vUMRQ0tqXVeBuNsCA9bwzm5wv4UUTjNrGHJ-XnAdgsgr778sl5ow50i1m3XptMIp4cZgwuv10_LLn51Hyg6V3SFZL2Z-lW/s400/DSC01674.jpeg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Action shot of Jonathan playing the rivet game!</td></tr>
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Moving to the second part of the Transport Museum revealed the aviation history, this part of the museum felt a little neglected and lacked the detail of the previous building. I enjoyed seeing the various horse drawn carriages and cabs but there was little in this museum to really grab anyones attention in my opinion. Luckily it was almost closing so it was a good thing we didn't stay too long there. This, for me, was the only downfall for the museum and some serious thought and vision needs to be applied to that part, of course though I appreciate money for museums is a huge issue and funding changes requires alot of donations and government funding. However, it's something I can look forward to seeing in the future. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTYvHvs-3xrGLKk_WT3yQII6Vp3GRm5CY02K7dNOiifm8G8gyUVoEXI_WadB73NKz2TU7EiKG6PfhIeX9Dt4-MqpJX6jkuZN8ODbC1Rfn5nHwAulp3_EthJssFnmaephP1KY8bO3IXUrOU/s1600/DSC01671.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTYvHvs-3xrGLKk_WT3yQII6Vp3GRm5CY02K7dNOiifm8G8gyUVoEXI_WadB73NKz2TU7EiKG6PfhIeX9Dt4-MqpJX6jkuZN8ODbC1Rfn5nHwAulp3_EthJssFnmaephP1KY8bO3IXUrOU/s400/DSC01671.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Exploring the carriages.</td></tr>
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I'm really looking forward to our next adventure, not sure where we'll be exploring next but it's sure to be fun!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11306809416409620098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8191291740247610254.post-45586248310965676122013-09-21T13:41:00.000-07:002013-09-21T13:41:46.515-07:00The good ol' Hockey game, is the best game you can name!<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF5a9acvRUCZ1VZPZrqyKkTTsDcoeew3VvKVOj2bVFke8h3uaFmZaYAqTVWdL8JObUsTUVW5z_Di_5JqLZgkRH9zwzHXnXWqil6f5mxbdlgGqkOt_ukiCuA2DnNHSb0LHiD3xlslIZhs03/s1600/Screen+shot+2013-09-21+at+20.57.40.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="395" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF5a9acvRUCZ1VZPZrqyKkTTsDcoeew3VvKVOj2bVFke8h3uaFmZaYAqTVWdL8JObUsTUVW5z_Di_5JqLZgkRH9zwzHXnXWqil6f5mxbdlgGqkOt_ukiCuA2DnNHSb0LHiD3xlslIZhs03/s400/Screen+shot+2013-09-21+at+20.57.40.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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It was a cold, wet December evening in 2011 when my boyfriend bought me to The Odyssey Arena in Belfast. I was there to witness my first ever ice hockey game, the Belfast Giants taking on the Dundee Stars. Being from the UK apart from hearing and knowing briefly about the sport it was a whole new world to me. Here, we're constantly bombarded with football, cricket and rugby none of which really grabbed me imagination and pulled me into the game. As a high school student I played in my schools netball and field hockey teams (winning a county bronze medal in the latter) and that was pretty much my general experience of sport. My Dad and Granddad are into football and some other sports, I owned a Birmingham FC shirt but honestly, I never classed myself as a sports fan. Until that fateful day in December. </div>
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My boyfriend, Jonathan, was already a dedicated fan of the Giants and I went along worried I wouldn't enjoy the game he is so passionate about. Within the first few minutes I was hooked. With the General Manager ex-Giant Todd Kelman warming the crowd up and really making newcomers like myself feel at home I was ready to see what the fuss was about. </div>
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Hockey is fast. Hockey is brutal. Hockey is unforgiving. Hockey is an amazing game. The talent these guys possess amazed me, the violence of the game left me fired up and by the end of the game I was shouting and cheering with everyone else in the crowd! I left wanting to go straight back, it was the same exhilaration I feel about a live gig; that electricity. I felt like an addict wanting nothing more but to hear that puck being shot across the ice. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKSzvKp62Oy7jFwPRATixRWfz9BlSp3TnfEG0QBwhU-_leeLJTEVBF6bnXUd5roJLXRCwJpD34uWiX2OgBt5QZYx5WKv-CfGmoX35ZxD8NKhh6ygICueqXQpURlZjH9D_5jCYZA3VdNiYk/s1600/Screen+shot+2013-09-21+at+21.03.22.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="395" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKSzvKp62Oy7jFwPRATixRWfz9BlSp3TnfEG0QBwhU-_leeLJTEVBF6bnXUd5roJLXRCwJpD34uWiX2OgBt5QZYx5WKv-CfGmoX35ZxD8NKhh6ygICueqXQpURlZjH9D_5jCYZA3VdNiYk/s400/Screen+shot+2013-09-21+at+21.03.22.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our view from every game.</td></tr>
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The Belfast Giants are one of the younger teams that form the Elite Ice Hockey League in the UK. Honestly, I didn't even know the UK had any ice hockey leagues! Compared with the standards in Europe we are not top but during championships over the last decade in particular we have improved our world seeding year on year. More people are starting to know and fall in love with the game, I now understand why sports fans hate the off season so much! The Giants have had former NHL'ers, European stars and some of the best British players don their teal jerseys; they are a force to be reckoned with. My first season 2011/12 we won the league. I got to watch us win at home and be a part of the celebrations, the pride I felt was unknown to me not being a sports fan before. </div>
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Jonathan bought me my first jersey this Valentines Day just past with my favourite player, the Northern Irish Graeme Walton's name on the back. He's now since retired (yes, I am still sad) but I wear his jersey with pride. I almost started crying when he got it me, the sport has come to mean so much to me that I keep in touch with the forums, talk to anyone and everyone about it and even have my own fantasy team battling it out! I've even branched out to the top league in the world, the NHL, supporting the Philadelphia Flyers. I am in one word hooked. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wally! <3</td></tr>
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It's hard being in England when my team play over in Northern Ireland. The nearest place I could see them play is when they take on the Cardiff Devils in Cardiff, and that's an hour and a half train or car ride and I have health concerns. My first game for the 2013/14 season will be next month when I'm in Northern Ireland and we take on the Sheffield Steelers. As one of our main rivals I cannot wait for that clash! Hockey cheers me up, it gives me something to focus my energies on and it makes my Northern Irish trips even more special. </div>
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My gratitude though goes out to the Giants themselves, and not just the players. Every single person who works as part of their team has worked hard not just to showcase hockey but to create an enjoyable night out - for all ages. Of course the players are the heart of the team and they put their all into every game, and it shows. Their dedication (especially after a bad situation last season) has shone through recently. I am proud to call myself a Belfast Giants fan and I am so thankful for Jonathan (and his Mum) for taking me to that game that December evening (and every game since!).</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMXSZpoth2a2Kz4-PCHRCvGhyphenhyphenwAgB9faQWqFYA-K8_0agRssAc3il94aI38i6qzBW0zy8GxjokrpFFtWuGvAx3b6o1k481KdkODdgOc_c7VvPbY3gWct5pMTWRrI1XVM4rBvKhR06o43JR/s1600/Screen+shot+2013-09-21+at+21.01.00.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMXSZpoth2a2Kz4-PCHRCvGhyphenhyphenwAgB9faQWqFYA-K8_0agRssAc3il94aI38i6qzBW0zy8GxjokrpFFtWuGvAx3b6o1k481KdkODdgOc_c7VvPbY3gWct5pMTWRrI1XVM4rBvKhR06o43JR/s400/Screen+shot+2013-09-21+at+21.01.00.png" width="395" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The guy I have to thank for bringing hockey into my life. :)</td></tr>
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Anyone wanting to check out the game itself please go to the <a href="http://www.eliteleague.co.uk/" target="_blank">Elite League website</a> to find your local team and details. </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11306809416409620098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8191291740247610254.post-34510704492037116212013-08-30T15:07:00.000-07:002013-08-30T15:07:03.579-07:00Northern Ireland Adventures : Mount Stewart House<div style="text-align: center;">
Hey, sorry for the lack of posts been busy back in Northern Ireland with Jonathan having more adventures. One of the places we visited was the National Trust run Mount Stewart House and Gardens just outside Newtownards. </div>
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Hidden behind the tree line as you drive alongside Strangford Loch is the beautiful 18th century house and gardens owned by the Vane-Tempest-Stewart family, Marquesses of Londonderry. The house is now run by the National Trust for six months of the year and is still occupied by the family for the other six. The family were important in past politics between Great Britain and Ireland which are reflected in the vast collection inside the house. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirVo0fEjIizuMufhhDWFTXALKmTSWRKtfU8-sX5hcE5ztfB2zIGuNIDismWpkI8x9MF1RfB1Mce1yL9LymDfaAk1SeQzvX56XJOrEp_BBkSJTLK0N2B5Nk19s94JZnIuuPPNePnvXK9eQ5/s1600/Screen+shot+2013-08-30+at+21.48.21.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="383" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirVo0fEjIizuMufhhDWFTXALKmTSWRKtfU8-sX5hcE5ztfB2zIGuNIDismWpkI8x9MF1RfB1Mce1yL9LymDfaAk1SeQzvX56XJOrEp_BBkSJTLK0N2B5Nk19s94JZnIuuPPNePnvXK9eQ5/s400/Screen+shot+2013-08-30+at+21.48.21.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The exterior of the house, wish I could transport myself back to it's creation and see the everyday runnings of the property. </td></tr>
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<b><u>The History</u></b></div>
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Mount Stewart, originally called Mount Pleasant, was formed by the Stewart family in 1816. The estate itself was bought with money from the late Alexander Stewart (1699-1781) which came from the sales of textiles. Alexander's son, Robert Stewart, became the first Marquess of Londonderry and after his death in 1821 the property was left to his son, Robert Castlereagh, who became Britain's Foreign Secretary. The next owner of the house, Lord Castlereagh's half-brother Charles. Charles married twice and it was his second marriage to Lady Frances Ann Vane-Tempest that was vital to the families finances. She was a wealthy heiress and this promoted the refurbishment and enlargement of the newly renamed Mount Stewart. Controversially, £150,000 was spent on this refurbishment and yet only £30 was given by the family for famine relief during the Great Famine. </div>
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The next 3 Marquess's of Londonderry did not live in the house and during the next several decades the house was neglected and came close to destroying the house.When the 7th Marquess, Charles, a Unionist, and his wife, Edith Chaplin came to inherit the house they bought with them a new lease of life. Edith's ancestral home was Dunrobin Castle in Scotland and this is where inspiration for the gardens came from. She is the one who redesigned and redecorated much of the interior that can be seen today. </div>
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In 1957 the National Trust took over the gardens and in 1977 the Lady Mairi Bury, daughter of the 7th Marquess, gave the house and most the contents to the Trust. Lady Bury died in 2009 and was the last member to live in the house. The present estate is 98 acres and is fully run by the National Trust who are currently doing conservation and restoration work within the house. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSi58dFfhAr2OPlERV-3YT8LxytlaC63XVJgV4AG8dDZlh1t1Yeq4sRZAbjjThPIaTJGGowWTUsdGJa8bLy24SQ4D8j8OM3mF_-Ho93vn1F3OfCfpRKPPuHgr6szjF8oLwsNppr5dp6qpx/s1600/Screen+shot+2013-08-30+at+21.48.45.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSi58dFfhAr2OPlERV-3YT8LxytlaC63XVJgV4AG8dDZlh1t1Yeq4sRZAbjjThPIaTJGGowWTUsdGJa8bLy24SQ4D8j8OM3mF_-Ho93vn1F3OfCfpRKPPuHgr6szjF8oLwsNppr5dp6qpx/s400/Screen+shot+2013-08-30+at+21.48.45.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The beautiful lake which forms most of the grounds, one day I want to try and visit during the Autumn because those trees are going to be stunning!</td></tr>
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<b><u>Now: </u></b></div>
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We visited on a Sunday, which seems a great day to visit as the Wildlife Hut was also open and we got to learn more about the local wildlife who live around Stangford Loch and the Mount Stewart property. The best part was a pair of binoculars that were set up to spy on a group of fur seals resting in the middle of the rocks. I've never seen them in the wild before so this was a real treat for the animal lover in me. It was busy, but not crowded and we easily got on the house tour without booking. Sadly half the house is currently closed as it's all being refurbished and renovated but it was still a treat getting a glimpse into the families life. The study was a dream come true with all the beautiful hardback books and open fireplace and just so beautiful!</div>
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The gardens are equally beautiful, walking around the grounds takes less than an hour and I suggest comfortable shoes to walk in as the path is rural. The lake is stunning and even with several families around it was so quiet. I would have loved to have sat under a tree with one of my books and just relaxed. This is also one of the best places to spot the endangered red squirrel! We weren't lucky enough to glimpse any but I'm glad that they have little haven's like this and I know the National Trust will work hard at keeping their population stable. Walking around the more structured gardens for some reason made me feel like Mary Lennox, star of Frances Hodgson Burnett's 'The Secret Garden'. I felt like each garden was leading into a new special place and I could imagine members of the family walking through past the beautiful flowers during the summer. Sadly, the Spanish garden was closed as it's being used as part of the set for the upcoming Dracula film but we're planning to visit again in a few years time to see the house so I'm sure we'll be able to enjoy it then. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jonathan caught in one of the stunning gardens. </td></tr>
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We had a beautiful afternoon and as usual the National Trust run a beautiful property to a high standard for all to enjoy. I really need to get myself National Trust membership soon though as paying £8 each place can get a little exhausting on the wallet!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11306809416409620098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8191291740247610254.post-86727523672730166062013-08-01T13:52:00.001-07:002013-08-01T13:52:51.459-07:00Product Review ~ Mr Fox Cases<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>This is my first product review so don't be too harsh! </i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4P8vb42VDYz8kL7YhbEwtfAT8phlWq4KzRRRuh_DHUWEFnP3Eo1MgxQYswOGmdcBERQ2qI9JoOj1fAD1-m86waX0-bxJ_k1QkchX2ediXMVNrcYYnnpV4-F22SoKEfC6CBbWxjFjzZsty/s1600/Screen+shot+2013-07-25+at+20.46.56.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4P8vb42VDYz8kL7YhbEwtfAT8phlWq4KzRRRuh_DHUWEFnP3Eo1MgxQYswOGmdcBERQ2qI9JoOj1fAD1-m86waX0-bxJ_k1QkchX2ediXMVNrcYYnnpV4-F22SoKEfC6CBbWxjFjzZsty/s400/Screen+shot+2013-07-25+at+20.46.56.png" width="396" /></a></div>
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My boyfriend bought me a kindle for my birthday, as an avid reader he thought it would be more suitable to all the travelling I do back and forth from Northern Ireland. I was a sceptic at first; I love how books feel in my hands, I adore the sound of turning pages and as someone who owns alot of secondhand books you just can't beat that old book smell! After a few days with my kindle I saw the benefits, I can travel with a whole library of books in just a tiny reader that fits in my bag or suitcase. Also, since my kindle is a ink based reader it doesn't leave my eyes sore after looking at screens for ages. </div>
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So, with my new kindle I begun searching for a cute case to keep it safe and clean in my bag. As a vegan I didn't want one of the many leather cases on offer; I also wanted something really cute that suits my personality. This is where Mr Fox comes into the equation!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmfL5ccS6fpsh5xAuFUkHy1uQZQaqu9jNB2w-qykHnS2n2NHpkP3BkJkHPnRzTnaqY8a5y4Fxk3UPJ5koqM7J_BMAitUyMOkmLGW_tQdIJfh8ctbmvNezxh1TDbvRE6imoEHC3AxNC6jI0/s1600/Screen+shot+2013-08-01+at+20.00.20.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmfL5ccS6fpsh5xAuFUkHy1uQZQaqu9jNB2w-qykHnS2n2NHpkP3BkJkHPnRzTnaqY8a5y4Fxk3UPJ5koqM7J_BMAitUyMOkmLGW_tQdIJfh8ctbmvNezxh1TDbvRE6imoEHC3AxNC6jI0/s400/Screen+shot+2013-08-01+at+20.00.20.png" width="397" /></a></div>
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A few weeks before I got my kindle my iPhone case begun to crack and therefore I was in need of a new one. I only paid £2 for the hard case I had and it lasted me over a year, so I wasn't willing to spend alot. I was tempted by the silicon cases, I'm very clumsy and I drop my phone alot and I was informed this would be more suitable so off to eBay I went. Originally I was going to indulge my love of owls and buy a case with an owl on, but I couldn't find one I liked. So I searched for other favourite animals of mine, one of them being a fox and result! Not only did I find a cute fox case but it was silicon and very well priced at £6.09 including postage. I waited only a few days for my case to arrive and from the start I was in love. The case fits my phone like a glove, is very high quality, waterproof and not cumbersome. I can use the side buttons with ease and my charger still fits in without trouble. The casing was cute and I even kept the back cardboard for a future craft as it's so adorable! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0ftZKNtA2cr7GJUVnqvtnfgNL_xQEJ8uWStjtLg43PGCKfjN3RpQFkA4pN2KhCxyP9zDbJZU0m03blZp02l7BgaZdsmhmdSEeOuqh1j3qFergIPRLRx-wjwSGqlOdvQ2WXNaYfuXslrfl/s1600/Screen+shot+2013-08-01+at+20.00.00.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0ftZKNtA2cr7GJUVnqvtnfgNL_xQEJ8uWStjtLg43PGCKfjN3RpQFkA4pN2KhCxyP9zDbJZU0m03blZp02l7BgaZdsmhmdSEeOuqh1j3qFergIPRLRx-wjwSGqlOdvQ2WXNaYfuXslrfl/s400/Screen+shot+2013-08-01+at+20.00.00.png" width="398" /></a></div>
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So, when looking for a kindle case I searched for Mr Fox again on eBay and lo and behold I found a matching kindle case in the right size for my e-reader! The case gives a cute fox design on a turquoise background and is made of strong cardboard (I think) and a canvas like material. This means that I can bend the case back making for easier reading. The kindle is fixed into place with orange elastic which is the same as what is used to keep the case closed. The case is lightweight, thin and slightly cushioned which makes it perfect for when I have to pop it into my suitcase or satchel bag. Again the product is high quality and exactly what I expected. The case was also very good value for money at £8.99 including postage. </div>
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Overall, the Mr Fox brand is fantastically made, value for money and I recommend to anyone who needs a cute case themselves or a gift for a friend or family member. :) </div>
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To buy any of these Mr Fox products <a href="http://www.ebay.co.uk/sch/i.html?_trksid=p3686.m570.l1313.TR0.TRC0.Xmr+fox&_nkw=mr+fox&_sacat=0&_from=R40" target="_blank">click this link</a>. </div>
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The sellers I used are <a href="http://www.ebay.co.uk/sch/stars-aberystwyth/m.html?_nkw=&_armrs=1&_from=&_ipg=25&_trksid=p3686" target="_blank">stars-aberystwyth </a> and <a href="http://www.ebay.co.uk/sch/from-then-to-now/m.html?_nkw=&_armrs=1&_from=&_ipg=25&_trksid=p3686" target="_blank">from-then-to-now</a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11306809416409620098noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8191291740247610254.post-42285085349438291312013-07-14T05:43:00.000-07:002013-07-14T05:43:14.814-07:00My Relationship with BooksI'm not one to like being dictated into what to do, what to say or believe but when I see lists of books, films, artwork or television shows that are classed as musts then I can't help but want to experience these cultural epochs. Today it was brought to my attention a list published by The Guardian of <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2009/jan/23/bestbooks-fiction" target="_blank">1000 books you must read</a> so of course I've sat and worked out how many I've read.<br />
Total: 73<br />
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I was a little shocked at this, I generally consider myself well read than most people. (perks of chronic illness means lots of reading time) Alot of the books on the list are ones I either currently have in my 'to read' pile or are books I want to read as soon as I find them in second hand shops and/or are bought for me. I think as a result of this I've realised my taste in books varies alot: there were books I've read in each of the genres and for this I'm quite proud. I'm a girl who's hard to pin down, who has tastes in varied things and therefore experiences so many different kinds of books. I like books that have meaning, that can transport me to another reality, that stay with me long after I've read their words. Maybe in that sense I'm a bit of a book romanticist, but they truly are some of my most treasured possessions. 99% of the time I will read a book even if it's boring me in the optimistic hope that it'll get better. I'm the type of person who always has a book in her bag, who never travels without at least one literary companion. Now I have a kindle as well I can carry lots of books with me at once, though it'll never replace the comfort of the typed words, the grainy texture and smell of a book in my hands.<br />
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Next week I'm getting 100 new paperbacks for £12, thanks to an advertisement in the local Sainsburys. I can't wait to sift through the titles and imagine what these books have seen before their life in a woman's attic (this makes me sad..). Some of the books are children's Enid Blyton's from the sixties and since my Mum sadly had to part with her copies I'm looking forward to reliving some beautiful childhood memories of sitting with my Mum's battered copies in the garden, or lying on my bed on rainy weekends filling my head with fantasy and adventure.<br />
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I wouldn't be who I am without books. Even from an early age the written word spoke to me, my Mum recalls times I got into trouble for refusing to leave book sections in shops. Being a bit of a loner in school with not many friends I sought comfort in books and would spend lunchtimes in the library huddled into a corner with a new favourite story. It wasn't just fiction, my Mum once inherited several huge encyclopaedias of science and I remember sitting in the hallway engrossed into the life of a star or learning about new and fantastic creatures I knew nothing about.<br />
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I guess my books are my faithful friends, I could never part with them as everyone I've read holds a part of my soul.<br />
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To see what I'm currently reading and reviews check out my Goodreeads account: Amy Maries.<br />
I also post pictures of my latest purchases and what I'm reading on my instagram: missamykatherineAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11306809416409620098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8191291740247610254.post-18523139012389752082013-07-10T11:37:00.002-07:002013-07-10T11:37:22.217-07:00Northern Ireland Advenutures: Dunluce Castle<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dunluce Castle, a hidden Northern Irish gem.</td></tr>
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Driving along the Northern Irish north coast between Portrush and Portballintrae it's hard to not notice the looming ruins of a castle seeming to rise from the sea. Hanging on from the basalt cliff face it's although the castle is a part natural part human made structure. This is Dunluce Castle.</div>
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<b><u>The History: </u></b></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View to the East when standing in the castle. I stood here watching the birdlife for several minutes totally absorbed in the atmosphere of the place.</td></tr>
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In the 13th century when Richard Og de Burgh, the second Earl of the kingdom of Ulster, built the formidable structure rising up from the cliffs. However there is no documented ownership of the property until 1513 when the McQuillan family built two large drum towers (30ft diameter). The McQuillans had used Dunluce to build a stronghold while they were Lords of the local territory; known as 'the Route'. The McQuillans were the holders of Dunluce and 'The Route' until the mid-late 16th century when they were displaced by the MacDonalds.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View out one of the windows towards Portrush.</td></tr>
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On the death of James MacDonald the Antrim Glens and the Route were taken by a younger brother, Sorley Boy MacDonnell. Sorley Boy improved the castle into a more traditional Scottish style and swore allegiance to Queen Elizabeth I. The Route was important to the British Crown as it's part of the main trading routes between Scotland and Ireland, it also secured British rule with the MacDonnell's swearing their allegiance. Due to Sorley Boy's decisions his son Randal was made the 1st Earl of Antrim by King James I. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jonathan looking taller than the castle!</td></tr>
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More improvements and changes were made to the castle during this time. when the <i>Girona,</i> a galleass from the Spanish Armada was wrecked nearby the cannon from the ship was installed into one of the gatehouses and the rest of the cargo sold to make money for more restoration work. During the 17th century part of the kitchen collapsed into the sea due to the castle being built on the cliff edge. After this the castle was abandoned over time. with the impoverishment of the MacDonnell's during the Battle of the Boyne in 1690 the castle has deteriorated and parts taken for other buildings nearby. </div>
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<b><u>Dunluce Town: </u></b></div>
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When Randal MacDonnell was in charge of Dunluce he began working on a town around the castle's grounds. Started around 1608 the town was eventually destroyed in 1641 during the Irish Uprising. In 2011 a major archaeological project has begun to find significant remains of the lost town. Finding's include the discovery of a complex street network built on a revolutionary grid system and indoor toilets in homes. To this date it's believed that 95% of the town is still to be discovered. </div>
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Visiting now brings you to a small vistior centre with a modest visitor fee. Due to the small amount of funding and relience of volunteers the centre is small but well informed. The walls include a detailed history of the castle and an interactive video playing every few minutes gives a more visual history. Also provided to a visitor is audio guide which you can take with you as you explore the ruins. Dunluce was a small stronghold and access is by walking over a bridge. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Access bridge, not for the faint hearted! I had a little panic as I'm scared of heights. ^^;</td></tr>
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The actual castle has little in the way of information bar the audio guide, which I found informative and gave you the castle from the perspective of one of the past owners, workers or visitors. Included is a separate guide for children. The views from the castle are stunning, however disabled people will probably have trouble with the steps and uneven flooring. Luckily I visited on a quiet Friday afternoon and my boyfriend and I were some of the only visitors which made the experience more enjoyable for us, as we dislike crowds. I felt I was able to absorb the atmosphere more acutely and I will be following for more information of the archaeological finds from the lost town of Dunluce in the future. From someone who has studied heritage I was impressed with the castle, I understood they are working on a very limited budget and what they have achieved they should be pleased with, though there's always room for improvements! I'd like to see more to enchant children as I could imagine most typical children under 10 getting very bored very fast. But overall a very enjoyable experience of somewhere I knew nothing about. One of Northern Ireland's little gems. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I honestly think ruins and anything that is touched by the passage of time are some of my favourite places. </td></tr>
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This is the first part of an ongoing series logging my adventures in Northern Ireland, where my boyfriend, Jonathan, lives. I'll put snippets of where we visit and share my thoughts of the place along with any local history or culture. </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11306809416409620098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8191291740247610254.post-18589888901686583972013-06-10T13:50:00.000-07:002013-06-10T13:51:12.241-07:00Hannibal - A Review<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The main cast of NBC's new show, Hannibal. </td></tr>
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Ever since I was about fifteen years old and I first watched <i>Silence of the Lambs</i>, starring Jodie Foster and Anthony Hopkins, I've been captivated by the character of Hannibal Lecter. I think at that age I was only just really beginning to understand intellectual and psychological evil and so the first character I found that embraced these ideas, Hannibal Lectoe, has never left me. Since watching that film I've read all the books based on Hannibal by Thomas Harris (bar <i>Red Dragon</i> cos I'm searching secondhand shops cos I want it in hardback) and my understanding has deepened into the mindset of this character and how he is an inspiration for other writers, psychologists and general people like me. In my third year of uni I had to do an textual analysis essay on 'evil' and the first thought in my head was Hannibal Lecter. I re-read <i>Silence of the Lambs</i> and then wrote an essay describing how Hannibal embodies the word 'evil' in his character. It was fun to work on, and I still have a list of books on my amazon wishlist which go further into the subject. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Anthony Hopkins in his award winning performance as Hannibal Lecter</td></tr>
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So when I heard about NBC's new show <i>Hannibal </i>my interest was immediately pipped. I have several tv shows I want to watch but as I travel to Northern Ireland for three weeks Wednesday I didn't want to start a show with several seasons as I won't have internet access there. Hannibal is only in its first season and so far only has 11 episodes, (2 more to air), I thought perfect! So yesterday evening with a cup of tea in hand I watched the first episode and I can tell you it's the best show I've watched this year so far! </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hugh Dancy as FBI's Will Graham brings a new take on the character,.</td></tr>
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The story is almost a prequel to <i>Red Dragon</i>, and explores the relationship between Hannibal Lecter and FBI Investigator Will Graham before the events depicted in <i>Red Dragon</i>. It's allowed a Hannibal fan to delve deeper into the psychiatry and understanding of this sociopath. It also gives the chance for the audience to understand Will Graham more, in the book he's alot more complex than shown in the films, I also like how he's put closer onto the autism spectrum, adding more definition and realism to the character. Hugh Dancy does an excellent job of making the character socially awkward but also likeable, it reminds me of Emily Deschanel as Dr Temperance Brennan in <i>Bones </i>but with a much darker twist. Mads Mikkelsen is equally well cast in the role of Hannibal, that almost knocks Anthony Hopkins award winning performance out the water. He's managed to, if at all possible, make Hannibal an even more intriguing character and fans of the series know he's a dangerous person to be involved with, a high-functioning sociopath with unusual eating habits. Overall the acting so far has been top notch and I couldn't have asked for a better cast in general which features some new names for me and some well known ones too. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mads Mikkelsen brings the sociapathic lover of mind games Hannibal Lecter back to life.</td></tr>
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I think my favourite part about this series is how Bryan Fuller (previous work includes the tv show <i>Heroes</i>) has developed it into something really captivating. The style of the tv show, billed as psychological thriller, reminds me mostly of Hitchcock and Lynch (which after reading up I'm not the only person to draw these comparisons). Fuller has admitted as well he's highly influenced by Lynch's work which I think can mostly be seen in the cinematography and imagery, Graham's 'flashes' into a murderers mind being the biggest example reminiscent of Lynch's use of dreams and dreamlike imagery in his work. Yes, it has it's moments of gore and blood but it's done in such an artistic manner that it does almost seem dream like and highly stylised. </div>
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Overall this is a fantastic series so far and you can tell I'm in love after only five episodes! I can't wait to see where Fuller takes us next in his journey of unveiling the Lecter-Graham relationship. I really think that Fuller has been able to take a well known and well loved series of books and films and turn them into something unique, artistic and thrilling. It's new ground for fans of the series, and despite some changes I think fans of the original books and the film series will be impressed. </div>
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For anyone interested here's the short essay I wrote on Lecter.<br />
It's a short essay and was a nightmare to write as I had to cut so much out! It was for a philosophy/cultural studies class to explain the context.<br />
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<span class="s1"><b><u>Textual Analysis: A Study Into The Evil of Dr Hannibal Lecter in Silence of The Lambs.</u></b></span></div>
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<b><u>By: Amy Maries. </u></b></div>
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<span class="s2">One of the most horrifying and influential villains from twentieth century fiction is Thomas Harris’s, Dr Hannibal Lecter. His fame comes from a trilogy of Harris’s books where the sociopath, cannibalistic psychologist is often enlisted to aid the FBI with cases of serial murderers, including that of the second novel Silence of the Lambs. Hannibal is often described as an evil person and a monster; the horror novelist Steven King described Lecter as ‘the great fictional monster of our time’1, but if one examines Harris’s work further one can find parts of Lecter’s character that reinforce ideas from great philosophers of the past whose ideas have shaped how we view evil in terms or morality or psychology. </span></div>
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<span class="s2">Hannibal Lecter acknowledges the evil within him as intrinsic to his nature and part of who he is. When asked what caused him to murder and commit cannibalism by Clarice Starling he replies, </span></div>
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<span class="s2"><i>‘Nothing happened to me, Officer Starling. I happened. You can’t reduce me to a set of influences. You’ve given up good and evil for behaviourism, Officer Starling. You’ve got everybody in moral dignity pants – nothing is ever anybody’s fault.’ </i>(Harris, pg 21)</span></div>
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<span class="s2">Immanuel Kant argues differently when he examines evil in his work, Radical Evil in Human Nature. Kant argues first by stating that ‘man is (by nature) either morally good or morally evil’ (Kant, 1960). Kant argues that there are two types of evil, radical and diabolical evil. In Lecter’s case the idea of radical evil comes into play. This is the evil, which is described as being one of free choice an evil act of ones free will. Lecter chooses to commit the crimes he does, the reasons for this are not important compared to the consequences the undeniable fact that he murders people and eats them is an act of his own free will. Kant argues that man has the choice, by nature to be ‘morally good or morally evil’ (Kant, 1960). Lecter has chosen to be morally evil and therefore faces the consequences of these actions, which in the novel means he is placed in Baltimore’s Prison for the Criminally Insane under the charge of Dr Chilton. Chilton has interesting things to say about Lecter and he is able to observe that Lecter is ‘a pure sociopath, that obviously what he is. But he’s impenetrable, much too sophisticated for the standard tests.’ (Harris, 1988) Unable to diagnose any mental illness that would directly affect Lecter’s free will and therefore whether the acts of evil he commits are done under his free will there leaves little objection to the fact that Lecter gave in to the darker side of human nature. </span></div>
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<span class="s2">This point of view is also argued in the realm of psychology with the father of psychoanalysis, Sigmund Freud. Freud, like Kant argues that humans are very much capable of evil acts and he relates this to his observations as a psychiatrist working during the events of the Second World War and the evil atrocities that occurred during that time period. Freud argued that our psyche is driven by two main desires, which he named the life drive and the death drive. The theory of the two drives was developed in Beyond The Pleasure Principle (Freud, 1920), and he argues that the two desires are constantly conflicting with each other. Freud looks at the relationship between pleasure and unpleasure to link to the two drives to explain them. This link can go deeper and look at the concepts of sadomasochism and masochism; this adds Lecter into the equation as in this sense although his crimes are not of a sexual nature he still shows some signs of being a sadist. He must derive pleasure from his evil acts or he would not commit them. When he attacks Officer pembry and boyle he enjoys the acts as he speaks to Pembry before he finally kills him and shows no disgust to the deaths or the manner of the deaths. Nor is it described later that he showed any disgust to the wearing of Pembry’s skin to escape in the ambulance. Therefore to be able to commit these crimes he must have derived some pleasure from the acts. </span></div>
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<span class="s2">Lecter is in control of his actions but he does derive pleasure from these actions, even though they seemingly have no physical effect, after the attacks on the officers although his pulse elevates to over one hundred they quickly slow back to normal. Fuss argues that ‘Hannibal Lecter acts out the most instinctual and primitive of libidinal impulses coding him within the narrative as yet another dangerous pervert whose sexual desire is sublimated into compulsive acts of aggression identification’ (Fuss, 1995). He goes even further than this arguing that Lecter possesses ‘one of the most serious transgressions against the social prohibition separating the inedible from the edible; the human from the animal’ (Fuss 1995). Lecter is highly sophisticated in this, and generally only kills those he knows who deserve death or those who get in his way, the guards during his escape for example. This allows him to separate his possible victims as Fuss argues into animals and humans, he feels justified in his actions as that he could argue he is acting out the will of the life drive, his survival drive. However, he is giving into his own nature and his own inner aggression (which all of us possess) and acting out with the crimes of murder and cannibalism. </span></div>
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<span class="s2">Most argue that it is the cannibalism that is the defining act that makes Lecter an evil, monstrous person to the eyes of the readers and many critics. Cina and Perper argue that this is because by consuming his victims and occasionally serving them to others he is exercising the greatest control over them; he absorbs them completely in the act of eating them and therefore strips them of everything they have left, including their physical bodies (Cina and Perper 2010). He gives himself an ultimate feeling of power and satisfaction, he is able to take everything from a person, without any consciousness of guilt, and he enjoys his violent nature. It is unclear why Lecter begun committing acts of murder and cannibalism but it is understood in Red Dragon, Harris’s earlier novel, that his sister was murdered and consumed in Lithuania in 1944. Although this may have given the idea of cannibalism to Lecter it does not excuse his actions, as Kant and Freud argue he still had the conscious choice to make and he gave into moral evil and his aggressive subconscious. </span></div>
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<span class="s2">It is this motivation to kill those who stand in his way, his civility and self-control that defines Lecter as one of the most memorable villains in modern literature. Garrett argues that ‘we would like to imagine that people lose control and then do something horrible. But when Lecter escapes from prison by beating his guards to death, he does so deliberately, methodically, to the ever-so-civilised music of Bach’ (Garrett, 2007). Combined with his sociopath nature and his un-nerving ability to read people with direct precision, as he does to Clarice Starling on several occasions, it is no wonder that Lecter is seen as something from a nightmare. But his most unnerving trait is that he is human, he is not a supernatural being that is often related to the word evil, he is not the devil, he is a human being and that is the reality of the evil of the human psyche. He is the image of what could happen to ourselves if we gave into what Freud would describe as our aggressive and violent desires, and it is this defeat that makes him able to commit evil acts.</span></div>
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<span class="s1"><b>Bibliography. </b></span></div>
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<ul>
<li class="li7"><span class="s3"></span><span class="s2">Cina, SJ & Perper, JA. When Doctors Kill, Springer 2010, pg 195-6. </span></li>
<li class="li7"><span class="s3"></span><span class="s2">Freud, S. Beyond the Pleasure Principle, from Penguin Freud Library 11: ON Metapsychology, The Theory of psychoanalysis, Penguin, 1964. Pg 269-339. </span></li>
<li class="li7"><span class="s3"></span><span class="s2">Fuss, D. Identification Papers, Routledge, 1995, pg 96-7. </span></li>
<li class="li7"><span class="s3"></span><span class="s2">Garrett, G. The Gospel According to Hollywood, Westminster John Knox Press, 2007, pg 71-2. </span></li>
<li class="li7"><span class="s3"></span><span class="s2">Goodrich, J. <i>“A Textual Analysis of Dr Hannibal Lecter’s Character and Motivations in Thomas Harris’s Red Dragon and Silence of the Lambs”</i>, as printed in Szumsky, B. Dissecting Hannibal Lecter: essays on the novels of Thomas Harris, Mcfarland, 2008, pg 37-47. </span></li>
<li class="li7"><span class="s3"></span><span class="s2">Hamilton, G & Jones, B. Encyclopaedia of American Popular Fiction, Infobase Publishing, 2009, pg 324-5. </span></li>
<li class="li7"><span class="s3"></span><span class="s2">Harris, T. The Silence of the Lambs, Yazoo Inc, 1988. </span></li>
<li class="li7"><span class="s3"></span><span class="s2">Hirschberg, J. Reflections of the Shadow: Creating Memorable Heros and Villians for Film and TV, Michael Wiese Productions, 2009, pg 91. </span></li>
<li class="li7"><span class="s3"></span><span class="s2">Kant, E. Religion Within the Limits of Reason Alone. Harper Torchbooks, New York, 1960. Pg 15-39.</span></li>
<li class="li7"><span class="s3"></span><span class="s2">King, S. <i>‘Hannibal the Cannibal’</i>, New York Times Book Review, 13</span><span class="s4"><sup>th</sup></span><span class="s2"> June 1999. </span></li>
<li class="li7"><span class="s3"></span><span class="s2">Morton, A, On Evil, Routledge, 2004. </span></li>
<li class="li7"><span class="s3"></span><span class="s2">Svendsen, L & Pierce, KA, A Philosophy of Evil, Dalkey Archive Press, 2010, pg 22-3. </span></li>
<li class="li7"><span class="s3"></span><span class="s2">Winder, R. <i>‘A Contemporary Dracula’</i>, New Statesman, 21</span><span class="s4"><sup>st</sup></span><span class="s2"> June 1999. </span></li>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11306809416409620098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8191291740247610254.post-68664984758601147522013-05-22T10:29:00.000-07:002013-05-22T10:29:47.921-07:00Favourite Photo Editing Apps<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">So, as someone who likes taking pictures of pretty much anything and far too many selfies on my iPhone I am always on the hunt for new photo editing apps to enhance the photos I take or give them a retro feel. So, I thought it's only fair that I share some of the ones I use the most and like. </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Cost: free</span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga_bLeIahMK9FJDwjEKVfXO03-Bu7VT-VJIWAdElylUeq0IvtIRg9_caxSZQRyIwRJNR13DnR7ujXhW6Nca9-8TG85akIr0kmcx_CX-psYZ03F7wYAKz0ucM9eLEZZYvRIRKqMcM9uwUnk/s1600/Screen+shot+2013-05-22+at+18.19.01.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga_bLeIahMK9FJDwjEKVfXO03-Bu7VT-VJIWAdElylUeq0IvtIRg9_caxSZQRyIwRJNR13DnR7ujXhW6Nca9-8TG85akIr0kmcx_CX-psYZ03F7wYAKz0ucM9eLEZZYvRIRKqMcM9uwUnk/s320/Screen+shot+2013-05-22+at+18.19.01.png" width="318" /></span></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The last selfie I took of myself as a 22 year old! I turned 23 last weekend. Eep! </span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Instagram is one of the most popular photo editing and sharing platforms used by smartphone owners of the moment. Over 100 million people have downloaded it! It offers several different filters to your image, most to help you create a vintage/retro look to your images. Much like twitter, tumblr and other such social networks instagram lets you follow your friends, celebrities, artists and other awesome people to keep up to date with their photos and lives. You can like other photos and make comments. It's a pretty standard setting and one that's so simple it's really took off. The one issue I have is that you can't share your likes with other people, which would help find people with similar interests and styles as yourself. You have unlimited uploads and sharing has never been easier with just a tap you can choose to share your images on facebook, twitter, tumblr, foursquare or send it in an email. I for one have met some lovely people through the app and am continuing to find more. Stores use the app for promotions and give aways and it's a fast growing community. My biggest grumble is that twitter won't allow your images to be seen in your feed, instead you have to click the link and go to a new page. But this is just a minor grumble. Additions to the instagram app is the instacollege app which allows you to put two images together in creative ways and offers different filters to the original app, however this does cost 69p. If you don't already have an instagram then get moving! :) If you'd like to follow me my username is: Amehduck . </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Cost: free for lite or in-app purchases for more features range from 69p-£2.99</span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN6ma8RrGIu0osz5gtDSicrNgJp6jslrBBj3c-TK4iPFd5JoqzwVDQ7ANI0K4vaIzT1wwNMDNBfm7B1fB5ZWuPEm39JTe4OMuWiQcDQLPwdo-Gu_rVrZUfhJbGFvy_CJg2LegdzkFBHeTa/s1600/Screen+shot+2013-05-22+at+18.19.58.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN6ma8RrGIu0osz5gtDSicrNgJp6jslrBBj3c-TK4iPFd5JoqzwVDQ7ANI0K4vaIzT1wwNMDNBfm7B1fB5ZWuPEm39JTe4OMuWiQcDQLPwdo-Gu_rVrZUfhJbGFvy_CJg2LegdzkFBHeTa/s320/Screen+shot+2013-05-22+at+18.19.58.png" width="319" /></span></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Edited in just photoshop. I'm so glad the flowers have started to bloom and have brought splashes of colour to the world again. :)</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I have the free version of this app and the only extras I have purchased was the extra effects. This is one of my favourite photo editing apps to help define images with subtle changes to contrast, saturation or sharpening the image. I use it as a basic clear up before I put the photo into one of the other apps for filters as to be hones the filter effects on this app aren't the best and to be honest are too heavy most of the time so I rarely use them. It's another simple app to use with sliding effects to change contrast, for example, allowing subtle changes. I don't find it uses alot of my battery life as well, which some other apps I've used does. For free I think this is an app worth checking out and playing around with. </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Cost: 69p</span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkxSjQsp4vEQsHm7tDVDoZEj8tELyTi3lzkNp-ySJ5_4s3jGARnpuKGuFjaY12ApqTTl8s3EHPlWp6rs1cGj_HMHqNflG-swVUJie5ohfoP_z0AFn5Qzk85v7mQ6rDBBeyFtxMbYI7xbmd/s1600/Screen+shot+2013-05-22+at+18.17.42.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkxSjQsp4vEQsHm7tDVDoZEj8tELyTi3lzkNp-ySJ5_4s3jGARnpuKGuFjaY12ApqTTl8s3EHPlWp6rs1cGj_HMHqNflG-swVUJie5ohfoP_z0AFn5Qzk85v7mQ6rDBBeyFtxMbYI7xbmd/s320/Screen+shot+2013-05-22+at+18.17.42.png" width="316" /></span></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Note: I edited both images in Afterlight and then put the images together using Instacollege. </span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I've only recently downloaded this app after someone on instagram mentioned it. I've only used it once but boy am I in love! As with the other apps this is simple to use and has a beautiful range of filters for different effects. Like the photoshop app Afterlife also comes with editing to the image directly (eg contrast, exposure) so it does mean I can skip the PS stage of my editing process. The real reason this app has got me got me head over heels is the camera film effects you can add. I adore film photography and I own my own Diana F+ Mini (though I have film that desperately needs developing!), I love the grain, the textures and the feeling of nostalgia for my childhood playing with my parents film camera. I'm really looking forward to use this app more and with it's beautiful design, multitude of editing possibilites (I can't wait to use the borders) I can already tell this is 69p well spent! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><b>ABeautifulMess</b></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Cost: 69p plus in-app purchases from 69p. </span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZc1o1o0Ifn1wtGDiG6shWXet95vnwJwkx58T8eQAxRLNLsnMCTqh9sahZQ8KJWQAVQA2yRQVr5P-ssU6qQ2QcI1Hjsy4h8Qk2t-O23ZyW8C7xu8rh-0Ls02Sa00scBBBj_JhENJV86Dzj/s1600/Screen+shot+2013-05-22+at+18.18.11.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZc1o1o0Ifn1wtGDiG6shWXet95vnwJwkx58T8eQAxRLNLsnMCTqh9sahZQ8KJWQAVQA2yRQVr5P-ssU6qQ2QcI1Hjsy4h8Qk2t-O23ZyW8C7xu8rh-0Ls02Sa00scBBBj_JhENJV86Dzj/s200/Screen+shot+2013-05-22+at+18.18.11.png" width="191" /></span></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Say Hi to my new three little gerbils! :)</span></i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDqBAXAjp54XRnh9lR-THX4Abh8J-JHVq_BAhIxsxgHUzHYMaws1eMTyvSoOjvWdRIcBdzwv6ou1dBeGmZ2AFbyYcjNDFTokmVzK-XWoEtzuFwYq0VgNdOC5-bFVBL8gDMLZ1uSieObWlp/s1600/Screen+shot+2013-05-22+at+18.18.24.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDqBAXAjp54XRnh9lR-THX4Abh8J-JHVq_BAhIxsxgHUzHYMaws1eMTyvSoOjvWdRIcBdzwv6ou1dBeGmZ2AFbyYcjNDFTokmVzK-XWoEtzuFwYq0VgNdOC5-bFVBL8gDMLZ1uSieObWlp/s200/Screen+shot+2013-05-22+at+18.18.24.png" width="195" /></span></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwAIqNbqCkpoXHAgHH2koX6SUXe7WePCfjAFnKRGVqNYQVaZpv_Zzv65qL3Uh4sDmb9itFM6Qp8v2x5B19Mpy8o83iyBg_dndeWu1paa2hiY9JDx-9kWhamR4ezBPp0Ua6x_XLu1bBcZ2X/s1600/Screen+shot+2013-05-22+at+18.18.00.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwAIqNbqCkpoXHAgHH2koX6SUXe7WePCfjAFnKRGVqNYQVaZpv_Zzv65qL3Uh4sDmb9itFM6Qp8v2x5B19Mpy8o83iyBg_dndeWu1paa2hiY9JDx-9kWhamR4ezBPp0Ua6x_XLu1bBcZ2X/s200/Screen+shot+2013-05-22+at+18.18.00.png" width="195" /></span></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Anyone who knows much about the blogging world will know about Elsie and Emma's A Beautiful Mess blog. I've been following them for a long time now and when they announced they were releasing a photo editing app I was very exciting! Now this app was released last week and is already proving to be a hit with various bloggers and instagramers. The main reason I love this app is that it allows you to put a personal, quirky touch to your images whether this is is with a personal message or a cute border they certainly give you new options. HOWEVER, there is a pretty big grumble with this app is that depsite already paying 69p alot of the extras cost more if you want more than the basic package (and it is pretty basic). At another 69p for each extra it soon adds to a few pounds. Ok, that's still very cheap and I maybe I shouldn't be so irked but I can see it putting people off purchasing the app. Despite this I'm looking forward to, hopefully, new content being added in the future and seeing the app grow into itself. As with the others this is a simple app to use and allows easy sharing with instagram, twitter, facebook and others. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I hope you enjoyed this post and maybe gave you an idea to try a new app. I'll give the low down if I discover anymore gems in the appstore. Would you like to see more review posts? I'll happily review books, films, music, recipes and anything really! Enter any thoughts in the comment box. :)</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11306809416409620098noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8191291740247610254.post-55304205799954016072013-05-12T14:08:00.001-07:002013-05-12T14:08:49.883-07:00She opened her eyes to see, She was the one for me<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfBMQe2pjpQr4GhSg4C4Zc_X-dcdXOUtorFlk_UUOx9WYufT5BLQMO2UttI0eXGlWRo0Yfpz4Cd5nSYIwRJ5SlyHPQig2w8SaLBBqL45GpBCXOOHOTB1qO7OgjOufNBZyINa3FbV-9WEYn/s1600/Photo+on+2013-05-12+at+16.57+%232.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfBMQe2pjpQr4GhSg4C4Zc_X-dcdXOUtorFlk_UUOx9WYufT5BLQMO2UttI0eXGlWRo0Yfpz4Cd5nSYIwRJ5SlyHPQig2w8SaLBBqL45GpBCXOOHOTB1qO7OgjOufNBZyINa3FbV-9WEYn/s1600/Photo+on+2013-05-12+at+16.57+%232.jpg" /></a></div>
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Hi! I'm back from my holiday from Devon and since being back I've already got my creative head on. A few weeks ago I found a tutorial for a simple straight line skirt and I already had bought some fabric from the NEC sewing for pleasure exhibition that I had already bookmarked for a skirt. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0iVS-1ELQD9FqEHZChS2z4CLOCc9RZl7Ny9NjmfTgobx7WD1pB1-j4-2NnhOPGuGZ6_0uxjqY5lD_KE6AWKIDLT5xhMQvPKFEEUgn0Z5qGeRyjO5n6aC4-kOxYunX59XXuVo3qCKwNiZB/s1600/Screen+shot+2013-05-12+at+21.23.36.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0iVS-1ELQD9FqEHZChS2z4CLOCc9RZl7Ny9NjmfTgobx7WD1pB1-j4-2NnhOPGuGZ6_0uxjqY5lD_KE6AWKIDLT5xhMQvPKFEEUgn0Z5qGeRyjO5n6aC4-kOxYunX59XXuVo3qCKwNiZB/s400/Screen+shot+2013-05-12+at+21.23.36.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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The tutorial is simple to follow and it's a really simple design that is perfect for a casual day look. The elastic waist is also friendly for people like me who can be prone to bloating a bit after big meals! It's also so cute for summer days out! </div>
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The only problems I had with this were:</div>
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<li style="text-align: center;"> I measured the elastic to fit exactly to my waist but when I put it on it's really loose. Next time I'll make it an inch or two smaller so it fits more snugly and allows for my continuing weight loss aims. </li>
<li style="text-align: center;"> Make sure you leave about two inches of the side sem free or else it's a nightmare when you thread the elastic through later! </li>
<li style="text-align: center;"> I used a zigzag stitch on my machine but my Mum said a straight would be better, I didn't really realise until it was almost finished. </li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy09S7y6k0GPj1y5mrQ4f22kj4xRWNzvjzQyak7EnaBBWP0-m_Yof8MJm-j5YRaHbb4k3gAo3d7-3pTkACtuHHYMvzLYXdIkQwFtiXcwdKfMmr8f0zGFPY_k9daYRL1uIOr5NH0Pvs2IXd/s1600/Screen+shot+2013-05-12+at+21.23.25.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="395" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy09S7y6k0GPj1y5mrQ4f22kj4xRWNzvjzQyak7EnaBBWP0-m_Yof8MJm-j5YRaHbb4k3gAo3d7-3pTkACtuHHYMvzLYXdIkQwFtiXcwdKfMmr8f0zGFPY_k9daYRL1uIOr5NH0Pvs2IXd/s400/Screen+shot+2013-05-12+at+21.23.25.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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If you'd like to have a go yourself then the tutorial by Brett Bara is <a href="http://www.kollabora.com/community/sewing/projects/one-hour-skirt" target="_blank">here</a>. </div>
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You can also purchase her book on amazon <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Sewing-Straight-Line-Projects-ebook/dp/B0058Z4NPK/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1368392592&sr=8-1&keywords=brett+bara" target="_blank">here</a>, I already have it on my wishlist!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf3fHWcwFqViYAhCGhB8Vi6i6DxA4KAj1TMZClerz0_HKRj5i-76xqZtA-wLXSfNlmY9AivdeYyZiuAlZuf9llNruoN10tFtFxY-vpvo1o1v2zPsRpqVXt5Ij2U-Obea7jAjzTk6qEHa4C/s1600/Photo+on+2013-05-12+at+16.57+%235.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf3fHWcwFqViYAhCGhB8Vi6i6DxA4KAj1TMZClerz0_HKRj5i-76xqZtA-wLXSfNlmY9AivdeYyZiuAlZuf9llNruoN10tFtFxY-vpvo1o1v2zPsRpqVXt5Ij2U-Obea7jAjzTk6qEHa4C/s1600/Photo+on+2013-05-12+at+16.57+%235.jpg" /></a></div>
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<i>Denim shirt - charity shop and diy, skirt - diy, belt - new look. </i></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11306809416409620098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8191291740247610254.post-41168145854127754332013-05-03T16:51:00.000-07:002013-05-03T16:51:03.617-07:00I can see clearly now the rain is goneStaying positive is a really hard thing to do, I think with all the media that's thrown our way it's so easy to get down and only see the negatives in life. It's hard to pull yourself out of that cycle but when you do, oh does it feel wonderful.<br />
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I started 2013 wanting to work on my positivity, I have trouble staying optimistic and little things can really get me into a seemingly endless sadness to the point of not wanting to do anything but lie in bed staring at the walls. I realised how much of life I'm just throwing away and therefore I decided I wanted to take 2013 as a new year and start finding and counting my blessings. Some days are obviously easier than others, as the classic Coldplay song goes 'No-one said it was easy, no-one ever said it would be so hard".<br />
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I want to share with you some of the little things that have helped me start embracing life as fully as I can again.<br />
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<b>Count your blessings. </b><br />
Every few days (I don't make it a thing I have to do everyday because then it seems like a chore) I write down the things that have made me smile, laugh or made me happy. Some of these are special days spent with loved ones, other days are just being thankful that I have people who care and love me. Anything can go into this growing list, from making a really tasty sandwich to seeing the first flowers bloom in the garden. I use this book when I feel sad, it's full of little memories now that I can fall back on when things get too much. Having a written record is great for this, you could even do one on your computer if that suits you but I love seeing my handwriting and the act of writing these things out.<br />
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<b>Get a hobby. </b><br />
In the last few months I've got back into sewing, something I hadn't done since I was a little girl, and now I have several creative projects lined up to do. Finding something you enjoy helps keep you motivated but also is a great stress or anxiety outlet. I was so overwhelmed one afternoon that I grabbed my scissors and material and ended up making a new cushion cover by the end of the evening and I felt so much better for it. I also find baking is a huge anxiety release, when things got really stressful at university I would whip up a batch of cupcakes and sometimes it helped release that stress - and gave me something yummy at the end! I personally find the hobbies that have a physical 'object' at the end of each session are the best for me. I also find working with my hands helps distract any anxiety symtoms such as hyperventilating and has also had positive effects on my neurological conditions symtoms. n days when I either feel too unwell to leave my bed I find reading is also a good outlet. I've loved reading since I knew what a book was, and my family have always referred to me as a bookworm. I find being able to drift into another reality therapeutic as a very simple hobby. Other examples could be photography (which would also help get you out the house), knitting, creative writing, playing or learning a new instrument or origami.<br />
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<b>Try to exercise more.</b><br />
So we're always hearing how good exercise is for staying healthy and increasing/maintaining fitness but guess what it has another advantage! During exercise our body releases endorphins and lifts our mood, anyone who works out regularly can testify to the exhilarated mood after a good work out. Obviously this doesn't mean you need to go forking out for gym memberships and the such, even having a walk has the same effects on the body. I personally do, almost daily, my neuro-physio excersises, a mix of yoga and tai-chi I've adapted to my health conditions and last week I started the 30 day squat challenge. I also enjoy swimming, but due to my health constraints I have to be with someone and have to be feeling well enough to do it. I know when you're really down finding the energy to do exercise cna make you feel more exhausted but doing just a little of something really has positive effects on the physical and psychological aspects of our bodies.<br />
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<b>Meditation and breathing techniques. </b><br />
I've added this even though I find it so hard to switch my mind off, after years of trying I still can't master it! But I know it's been really helpful for others, and even slowing down our minds for five minutes can have those uplifting effects. Look online for tips on breathing techniques (which are amazing during anxiety attacks!) and meditation. From what I've heard and read it is something that takes some mastering so I still try when my mind starts making quantum leaps!<br />
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<b>Try not to compare yourself to others. </b><br />
I for one know how difficult this is but it's integral to being positive about your life. Instead of seeing what everyone else has achieved write a list of everything <i>you</i> have achieved. Even the littlest things like getting through a tough period and still standing is worthy of this. We're all individuals and comparing ourselves to everyone else just makes us miserable. It's another thing that would probably help keeping a written record of to remind ones self on bad days.<br />
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These are just five suggestions but there are so many more out there. I would suggest that if a low mood or anxiety is directly affecting your daily life then it would be a good idea to speak to someone you can trust like a doctor, teacher or relative even just to chat. Sometimes we need someone who we don't know just to listen and give us a bit of a helping hand and there's no shame in that. Working towards a more positive lifestyle and attitude towards life may not be the easiest thing to do but it's worth it. I'll post any other tips and ideas to help when I can think of some more but I think these are the ones that in general have helped the most.<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11306809416409620098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8191291740247610254.post-62743198964439217202013-05-01T12:06:00.000-07:002013-05-01T12:06:28.778-07:00Two simple recipes<div style="text-align: center;">
As I've mentioned before, since going vegetarian last June and vegan this new year I've taken a huge interest in food and what's in it. I think these days there are too many shortcuts that are full of unhealthy additives, salt and sugars that really just aren't necessary. Although I'm not a perfect advocate for healthy eating (crisps, biscuits, cake and sweets still feature in my diet!) I've been working hard at making healthier main meals that have a wide range of veggies or fruit, are tasty and challenge my growing skills as a cook. Nothing really beats the feeling of satisfaction of cooking a wholesome, healthy meal that others can enjoy. It's one of my favourite feelings, and I love the smell of food cooking or baking in kitchens, makes it seem so homely. </div>
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I've been asked by people on instagram and tumblr to post some of my recipes and I did start once but now I have this blog I'll try and put in some of my successes more often. I probably should also start looking for some tips on taking good photos of my creations as well! I want to share today two simple recipes that I made yesterday and today for the evening meal shared with my Mum (though just me tonight cos she's out). These are great recipes for summertime and I can't wait to be introducing them more often into the weekly meal plan and also trying out some variations. </div>
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<b><u>Baked basil tofu pasta with mixed vegetables in a tomato sauce. </u></b></div>
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This is a simply tasted summery pasta dish. I love how I was able to use the leftover veggies in the fridge and there are so many variations to this dish. You could also make it with a little chilli for the colder months. Other variations could include olives, feta cheese, spinach, chilli, various oils and different marinades. Instead of tofu you could instead have diced chicken or turkey breast. It really is a simple recipe that can suit whatever is in your fridge/cupboards. </div>
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To serve 2. </div>
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Ingredients: </div>
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<i>5 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil infused with Basil (in the UK you can get this in Sainsburys)</i></div>
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<i>200g firm or extra firm tofu</i></div>
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<i>2 cups Pasta (I used gluten free)</i></div>
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<i>1 tin chopped tomatoes</i></div>
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<i>Fresh or dried basil</i></div>
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<i>1 cup mushrooms</i></div>
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<i>Half cup of onions (I used spring onions this time as we had some in)</i></div>
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<i>2 cloves of garlic</i></div>
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<i>1 Pepper </i></div>
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<i>100g beansprouts (I had some that needed using up)</i></div>
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<i>10 cherry tomatoes </i></div>
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Method: </div>
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<i>1. Either in the morning or an hour before cooking take your tofu and wrap in paper towels and then place between two plates to drain the water out for 15 minutes. Once the tofu is drained (it feels alot drier) cut into cubes and mix with whatever marinade you desire. For this version I placed the tofu in 4tbsp of the basil infused olive oil and left standing for 10 minutes (I would do this in the morning next time to allow more flavour absorption). </i></div>
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<i>2. Preheat your oven to 200 degrees centigrade or equivalent. </i></div>
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<i>3. Once oven is hot place the tofu onto a baking tray (foil is really useful to place underneath to protect your trays!) and place into the middle of the oven. The cubes take around 30-40 minutes to bake with turning them over after 20 minutes. </i></div>
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<i>4. Once the tofu is in the oven you can start chopping your veggies. I always do this in order of cooking and place them into bowls. The first bowl will have the chopped garlic cloves, mushrooms and onion in. The second bowl had the cherry tomatoes (halved) and sliced pepper. I find this just causes less stress as I'm prepared in advance. </i></div>
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<i>5. Heat the last tbsp of oil in a frying pan or wok and once hot stir fry the garlic, onion and mushrooms under a med-hot heat. Once they start to soften add the peppers, and tomatoes and continue to fry for about another 3 minutes before adding the beansprouts. </i></div>
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<i>6. Once everything is starting to brown in the pan add the chopped tomatoes and either the freshly sliced or dried basil. Turn the heat down to a simmer and allow to cook. Keep stirring now and again to prevent any sticking, if you find there is I find adding a little water helps.</i></div>
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<i>7. Boil salted water in a saucepan and add your pasta when the water is boiling. Cook per instructions on packet.</i></div>
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<i>8. Once your pasta is cooked, drain the water out and add directly to the vegetable mix. Mix together until the pasta is coated with the tomato sauce. </i></div>
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<i>9. Serve the pasta and vegetables, the tofu should be cooked by now so take out the oven and spoon onto the top of the mixture. </i></div>
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<i>10. Garnish with either fresh basil or watercress for a more summery look. </i></div>
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<b><u>Simple couscous salad with falafel. </u></b></div>
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Middle Eastern cuisine is an oasis for vegans, there is limited meat and the only substitutions that usually need to be made is changing to soy instead of dairy ingredients. Last summer I had my first go at making a basic tabbouleh salad and I loved it so much, along with how quick and easy it is to make it's become a staple for when I fancy a lighter meal. This is also one of those times where I did cheat a little, the falafel balls in this recipe are bought frozen from Tesco's meatfree range. Making falafel does take some time and therefore isn't always time-friendly. Though if you do want to have a go at making your own there are lots of different recipes on the internet to try. Again, this is another meal with so many variations! Usually you'd have crushed garlic in with the tabbouleh but I have none at the moment and I like it with just lemon and mint. You could add different fruits for an exotic salad (raisons go really well!) and again, feta cheese, olives or any of your favourite salad ingredients can be utilised. You could also serve this with a yoghurt (soya or dairy) based dip or some houmous. This meal works great as a lunch as well as a main meal and the tabbouleh can be eaten cold and is still tasty. </div>
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To serve 1. </div>
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<i>Half cup of wholewheat couscous</i></div>
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<i>3 frozen falafel balls </i></div>
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<i>1 cup lettuce</i></div>
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<i>1 tomato</i></div>
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<i>Quarter cup cucumber</i></div>
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<i>1 spring onion</i></div>
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<i>2 celery sticks</i></div>
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<i>1 pepper</i></div>
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<i>3 baby beetroots</i></div>
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<i>1. Preheat your oven to the temperature guided by the packet of falafel and bake for approx 20 minutes.</i></div>
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<i>2. Mix the lemon juice, couscous and mint sauce in a saucepan and add enough boiling water to just cover the couscous. </i></div>
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<i>3. Heat the couscous over a medium heat until air bubbles appear, remove from the heat and let stand. </i></div>
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<i>4. Prepare and chop all your salad ingredients and place into a bowl. </i></div>
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<i>5. Add the tabbouleh mixture on top and then the falafel balls when they're cooked. Garnish with salad cress. </i></div>
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Hope you all have fun cooking! If you'd like to see more of my meals please follow me on <a href="http://instagram.com/amehduck" target="_blank">instagram</a>. I'd love to know if you'd like to see more of my meals/baking feature on here and any questions pop in the comment box. </div>
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Amy. x</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11306809416409620098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8191291740247610254.post-2203442415688023762013-04-26T09:32:00.001-07:002013-04-26T09:32:11.960-07:00Feet don't fail me now take me to the finish line<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm back! Well truthfully I've been back a few days but I've been dizzy and was a bit down so just wanted to curl up and hide under my duvet with my books. But I'm feeling much better now, I've had some inspiring news regarding taking a Masters degree later in my life and for the first time in a long time I woke up feeling more excited and invigorated about life again. </div>
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I started the 30 day squat challenge today, I find the up and down movements hard with my dizziness but taking my time helps. Once it's over hopefully they'll be a change in my body and I'll post the before and after shots! I'm also trying out some new yoga movements this week as I really want to start working on my fitness even before I'm well enough to take on proper regular exercises, such as running. I eat pretty healthily (I do have naughty treats but they are added to my daily calorie count!) and try to get a good mix of different foods (being a vegan this is even more important to ensure I'm getting the right vitamins). I find it easier when I'm at home to keep on my diet plan, being around Jonathan menas I treat myself more and get a bit lax on the calories. This is something I'm working on when I'm away, having the strength to say no is hard sometimes! </div>
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I've got a few blog post ideas so keep your eyes peeled! :) </div>
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<i>White t-shirt - H&M, Floral patterned culottes - Miss Selfridge, Black Tights - Marks and Spencers, Black Lace Up Ankle Boots - Urban Outfitters, Thick Leather-look Belt - Primark. </i></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11306809416409620098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8191291740247610254.post-55691766764635856422013-04-03T14:04:00.001-07:002013-04-03T14:04:10.356-07:00Food Glorious Food: The 'Instafood' Craze<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i>Mixed Tabbouleh Salad.</i></div>
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I seem to talk about food alot on here, it's vital for survival and as I said in a previous post since becoming vegan I've begun to take more pride in my food and I experiment more in the kitchen. I think one of the big influences on my cooking has been the 'instafood' craze on instagram, taking pictures of food. Now, I know alot of people hate this craze but I think it's great for sharing recipes and seeing how beautifully delicious food can look as well as taste. </div>
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<i>Vegetable curry while being cooked.</i></div>
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It has also had this effect that for the first time I've started to look at how I present the food I cook. I never put much thought in before and was happy to slap stuff on a plate and be done. I did obviously follow the specifications when I worked in a pub kitchen for over a year but it was only because it was my job. Now, I want to share my cooking with the world and by joining into the instafood craze I need to make my food look pretty. </div>
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<i>Roasted vegetables with lemon slices and bay leaves fresh out the oven.</i></div>
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I think vegan food is usually pretty on its own, I mean I use several vegetables and try to incorporate lots of colours and textures which contribute so much to the overall look of my dishes. I don't think I'll ever become talented at styling my food as by the time it comes to serve it all I can think about it getting it into my tummy! But I've noticed little things like how I put a dressing onto a salad or garnishes (which add a yummy herb) make a big difference to how your food looks, and since all our senses are linked - if it looks good we obviously want to eat it more. I guess the bottom line is I'm now taking pride in my cooking and not just for it's taste. Spending a few seconds making my food look pretty means that people are more inclined to get eating it. Plus not doing anything too fancy still maintains a home cooked element to the dish. </div>
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<i>Porridge made with water with added blueberries, desiccated coconut, dried cranberries, almonds and pumpkin seeds.</i></div>
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I think it may also be helping getting people eating healthier, I can't deny looking at a picture of brightly coloured fruit and vegetables makes my mouth water more than a chocolate bar does (not that I don't enjoy some vegan chocolate now and then). I think this has more of a positive influence than a negative on people's diets and it may encourage people to try different foods. </div>
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Another part of this is taking pictures of our food when we're at restaurants and cafes. I think this is an excellent way for them to advertise their wares for free! I don't actually know if any companies use this currently but it would be something they could perhaps look into. Plus for normal people like me it means I can often see what the food looks like before I go somewhere and therefore decide if it looks tasty enough for me to visit. Again, another positive to this craze. </div>
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<i>Black Bean Chilli with rice and soya yoghurt.</i></div>
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I can't actually think of anything bad to the 'instafood' craze apart from people being grumpy. I'm all for the craze. :)</div>
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For anyone who would like to see more of my food adventures please follow me on <a href="http://instagram.com/amehduck" target="_blank">instagram</a>. </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11306809416409620098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8191291740247610254.post-86035961213212264752013-04-02T14:02:00.000-07:002013-04-02T14:02:08.292-07:00Why wait to discover your dreams?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieRFOL5R1VJTk7ijqqGLAEb5JVEZFzLVKKLdgORhfwq1Q6mnucr6bKSVyq_UatxoPrO9rzLifuUX_gT4y-EBCALKj5Dq3fYBYS17WULrVCjpkI282hK0y9plR10zvUDRn4GZRPFWpCnKXW/s1600/Photo+on+2013-03-28+at+13.25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieRFOL5R1VJTk7ijqqGLAEb5JVEZFzLVKKLdgORhfwq1Q6mnucr6bKSVyq_UatxoPrO9rzLifuUX_gT4y-EBCALKj5Dq3fYBYS17WULrVCjpkI282hK0y9plR10zvUDRn4GZRPFWpCnKXW/s1600/Photo+on+2013-03-28+at+13.25.jpg" /></a></div>
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<i>Wearing: Black pattern flatforms - Office, Black tights - Marks and Spencers, Denim Mini Skirt - Topshop, Black belt - Primark, Oversized cream blouse - Urban Outfitter's, Necklace - Etsy</i></div>
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I hope all my readers had a lovely Easter! I come from a non-religious family and I'm an atheist myself so it was never a big thing in my family bar chocolate. Now I'm older (and vegan) I didn't get any chocolate, apart from two eggs I had from Jonathan's Mum and Aunt when I was in Northern Ireland last. I did buy Phoebe the Lion King on dvd as an Easter present and I think it'll turn into a tradition now that she gets a new Disney dvd for Easter. She gets alot of chocolate from family already so I'd rather give her a little gift that lasts! I might look for some Easter crafts next year as she'll be two and able to do more. Though she did make an Easter card with my Mum for me! However you celebrate Easter or not at all then I hope you had a good weekend. </div>
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<i>Easter chick card made by Phoebe and my Mum. </i></div>
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Since I have had three weeks at home before jetting back to Northern Ireland for Jonathan's birthday I've been wanting to work on some projects I keep putting off. I'm not the best person at always finishing something I've started because my mind and imagination are always jumping off to the next thing but I'm trying to remedy this habit. As a result I've been working on some sewing projects that date from Christmas. I've made my sister and my niece each their own cushion, my first ever go at quilting! I finished all the machine sewing yesterday and then tomorrow I'm going to do the fastenings and they'll be finished. Mum's helping me with some other projects that are a tad more complicated for my current skill level. </div>
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<i> Wearing: Black shoes - charity shop, black tights - Marks and Spencers, Black PU skirt - River Island, Thin belt - Primark, Batwing jumper - Republic</i></div>
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When I get home, probably after my holiday to Devon with the family, I want to start work on a fabric covered noticeboard for my room with some of the pretty bird material I bought. I've also decided to paint my feature wall in my room cream like the rest of my room instead of wallpaper because I want to carry on my collection of pretty paintings and prints of animals and things. I currently have two owl paintings that my Mum created for my birthday, two owl prints I got for 50p each at a market and a vintage style painting of finches by my Gran. Plus I need room for my hockey jersey! I'm not a minimalist person in style as I like lots of trinkets so I'm learning to balance that to make practical spaces without overcrowding - I can't wait to have a whole house to decorate! </div>
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<i>Finches Painting by my Grandmother. </i></div>
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Another experiment of mine was a baking experiment. It being easter weekend I needed to make something sweet and yummy to celebrate and I was entranced to make the mini pineapple upside down cakes from <a href="http://abeautifulmess.typepad.com/" target="_blank">A Beautiful Mess</a>. Obviously, I would need to adapt the recipe to make it vegan so I used my now trusty <a href="http://www.thedailygreen.com/healthy-eating/recipes/vegan-red-velvet-cake-with-buttercream-frosting" target="_blank">cake batter mix</a> (it's for a red velvet cake but I just leave out the chocolate and food colouring and it makes a gorgeous batter that has tricked many into not knowing it was vegan!). I also changed the whiskey in the recipe for amaretto as I'm not a big whiskey fan and we didn't have any in anyways! The results were the best pineapple upside down cakes I've ever made! I've made them before but never thought to put a caramel layer under the pineapple and it makes such a difference. These are now my go-to party cakes and I'll be whipping up a batch for Jonathan's work colleagues next week! </div>
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<i>My vegan mini pineapple upside down cakes.</i></div>
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Currently Reading: Syd Moore's 'Witch Hunt'</div>
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Currently Listening: Deftones - Koi No Yokan</div>
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I've had three outfits here to show you as I've been a tad behind. I'm trying to brace more spring attire despite the cold temperatures for the UK. Today it was actually sunny and a lovely 8 degrees which was very welcome! It's not quite at the stage where I can not wear tights but my cute summer dresses will be hopefully be making more of an appearance now. The only things I want to buy clothes wise this spring/summer is a new swimming costume for my Devon holiday (probably not ready confidence wise for a bikini yet though with my latest weight gain) and some pretty walking around sightseeing sandals. I want some decent long lasting sandals that are going to last from May until the end of September when I go to Athens so any suggestions of brands are welcome (no leather or suede or flipflops though!).</div>
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<i>Wearing: </i></div>
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<i>Tan brogues - Urban Outfitters, Black tights - Marks and Spencers, Green retro bow pattern dress - Primark, Tan belt - New Look, Pink Lace top - Urban Outfitters, Owl necklace - Accessorize. </i></div>
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<b>Ps. I'm selling some of my old or unworn clothes on <a href="http://myworld.ebay.co.uk/hovercrab" target="_blank">eBay.</a> </b></div>
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<b>Less than a day left to bid but any that don't sell will be auctioned again. </b></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11306809416409620098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8191291740247610254.post-49051146925725070602013-03-28T13:22:00.002-07:002013-03-28T13:22:39.025-07:00My vegan journey<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSAjrJVjWT-tz0B4npkpw83qIFKNw_KJRKYEagD3ejU7nJKqVdy-M3po1DmVDOIpsf3RK0sr4FuCzChebHZhjsmGUhC8htscy0CMltBKCNy250VxfbB6u-T0eKPWrFdMfyJnwxtYNCnS85/s1600/Screen+shot+2013-03-28+at+19.38.30.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSAjrJVjWT-tz0B4npkpw83qIFKNw_KJRKYEagD3ejU7nJKqVdy-M3po1DmVDOIpsf3RK0sr4FuCzChebHZhjsmGUhC8htscy0CMltBKCNy250VxfbB6u-T0eKPWrFdMfyJnwxtYNCnS85/s400/Screen+shot+2013-03-28+at+19.38.30.png" width="396" /></a></div>
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<i>Homemade garlic and oregano bread with wholewheat pasta and roasted vegetables.</i></div>
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I've been wanting to do an post on how my journey into veganism has been going. I've now been fully vegan since Christmas and I'm proud of my progress so far. I still really miss cheese and eggs and bacon sandwiches but it'll take a long time until those cravings past - and I'm pleased to say I haven't caved! I'm going to split this post into a few sections to make it easier for me to be focused and not repeat myself.<br />
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<i>Porridge made with water, dried cranberries, fresh blueberries, desiccated coconut and pumpkin seeds.</i></div>
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<b><u>Food and cooking. </u></b><br />
I've always enjoyed cooking and baking, it's just something that helps me relieve stress and anxiety. For years I got lazy with my cooking, I was never a fan of ready meals but I did use alot of pre-made sauces and wasn't too bothered about my health. Since becoming vegetarian last year and now vegan one of the things I wanted to accomplish was eating healthier and looking after my body. I've been plagued for years with illnesses and problems with my health and I just want to help my body anyway I can. So I'm always doing my research and I'm learning to incorporate a wide variety of vegetables, pulses and fruits into my diet to get as many health benefits as I possibly can. Since becoming more health conscious I've also dived back into cooking from scratch, which is cheaper and quicker than I first thought, as a way of knowing what good things are in my food. I now know exactly what is my food, I add little to no salt and there are no preservatives in my cooking. I already feel generally more energetic (which is a big thing for a girl with chronic fatigue!) and little, niggling problems I had with my health have disappeared.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1I2YHH1P24S8MiMnN-4IdCeUvu91nplJ5YeoyykDXcjpvpjEsGH6lS0gLtTwd2qM32qrF2qoYxiLs4Ery6LE-zIYZAI8oQZqbxdCV6PFZfL8-YewCcvMUDgz5xrrtoCXXQXDvS5IS7H2L/s1600/Screen+shot+2013-03-28+at+19.39.23.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1I2YHH1P24S8MiMnN-4IdCeUvu91nplJ5YeoyykDXcjpvpjEsGH6lS0gLtTwd2qM32qrF2qoYxiLs4Ery6LE-zIYZAI8oQZqbxdCV6PFZfL8-YewCcvMUDgz5xrrtoCXXQXDvS5IS7H2L/s320/Screen+shot+2013-03-28+at+19.39.23.png" width="319" /></a></div>
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<i>Black bean and vegetable chilli with rice and soya yoghurt.</i> </div>
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Yes, I miss some foods but I know I'm looking after myself. I'm also doing my bit to help provide sustainable food sources for future generations (the meat industry is not sustainable with global population growth) and everything I eat is cruelty free. To conter with my helping animals I'm also trying to buy more things that are fair trade and ethically produced. This also includes trying to buy more locally sourced food where possible, I can't wait for my Mum's garden to explode with goodies during harvest season! My Mum has noticed food bills in general have dropped since she's trying to have more vegan meals for weight loss reasons and although sometimes buying something seems expensive they last for several meals making them cheaper in the longrun. Now, I don't want to be one of those vegans who preach all the time and I've been assured by my family I'm not, but I do want to be an advocate for healthy and nutritional diets. To do this adapting more vegetarian or vegan meals into your life is the best way, so why not try having a vegan day once a week? You'll be suprised at the wealth of delicious recipes to try! :)<br />
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<i>Vegan vanilla fairy cakes with sultanas. </i></div>
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<b><u>Clothing and Make-up. </u></b><br />
To be honest clothing was pretty easy for me as sheep's wool makes my skin come up in rashes so I tend to avoid it. The hardest thing has been leather shoes! I've found so many gorgeous shoes and boots I want but can't have because they're leather. It is great seeing more high street stores using PU plastic to make shoes and boots, it looks and feels like leather and I think it'll be great to see more styles on the shelves soon! I think it's much easier than it used to be to get animal friendly clothing. Again, same with the food I'm looking to start looking for more ethical sources for my clothing but it'll be a long journey and alot of research required.<br />
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<i>Homemade Sweet and sour sauce with tofu and vegetables.</i></div>
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Make-up has also been a challenge, I've always been against animal testing for cosmetic reasons and I already tried to avoid brands I knew where known to be animal testers. Since being vegan more research meant I discovered more brands and was devastated to learn how big the industry was. Luckily, from March 24th animal testing for cosmetics in Europe has been banned for ingredients and products. I'm waiting a few weeks but I'm pleased to say any new products released here will now not be tested on animals, no matter the brand.<br />
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<i>Vegan lasagne with tofu, spinach, tomato and vegetable sauce and a breadcrumb and garlic topping.</i></div>
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<b><u>Family. </u></b><br />
My family have been really supportive of my choice with both my Gran and Mum taking elements of the diet side into their own diets. My Gran has asked me for recipes and my Mum looks forward to nights when I'm cooking. Even my brother has adapted to using the soya mince in shepherds pies without fuss. No-one has ridiculed me and I feel blessed to be apart of such an accepting and loving family. I understand it can be difficult for some people to understand and accept, and I have had friends outrightly disagree with me, but that;s their choice. I think the hardest thing would be as a teenager who still relies on their parents for food as it can be hard to be cooking several meals at once with a family but it is possible and maybe they will learn to enjoy vegan cuisine!<br />
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<i>Vegan pancakes.</i></div>
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If anyone has any questions about veganism, recipes or healthy diets then please feel free to leave a comment and I'll reply.<br />
To follow more of my vegan cooking/baking adventures follow my instagram: amehduck or my twitter: hovercrab . :)<br />
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<i>Vegan chocolate brownies.</i></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11306809416409620098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8191291740247610254.post-54806001204404882622013-03-27T10:26:00.000-07:002013-03-27T10:26:49.118-07:00Can't make time stand still, but you can make it run<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I am the worst person at finding time to update, but in all fairness I have been really ill and busy the last week!<br />
I had a wonderful 6 weeks in Northern Ireland with my boyfriend. It's painful how much I miss him now but less than 2 weeks until I'll be back there for his birthday. :) He's a very special person and I would be totally lost without him at the moment. He also got me my first hockey jersey for Valentines. With the Belfast Giant's team member 'Walton' on the back, my favourite player. :)<br />
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I had an adventure last weekend visiting my Grandparents in the Midlands and seeing 2 good friends, Nick and Davy. My Mum, Gran and I also went to the Sewing For Pleasure show at the NEC and I now have several gorgeous new fabrics to work with. The great thing about it was that I was able to get companies websites that I now can say in confidence I can get decent fabric from at good prices rather than hit and miss with ebay. I'll do a comprehensive list on another post for anyone who is also on the search for good fabric! :)<br />
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The weather while I was in the Midlands was TERRIBLE! I was so unwell on Thursday when we left I literally just threw clothes into my bag without paying much attention to what it was or even looking at weather reports (like I usually do) so getting a few inches of snow was not expected! I had my tan brogues and dark green loafers with me... both of which have NO grip at all. I packed clothes-wise, a maxi skirt with some tops and a dress. Again, NOT snow suitable! I managed to get through this disaster though without getting too cold, wet and didn't fall over once! :) Despite this I had a good time and was feeling much better by the Friday so the weekend wasn't ruined.<br />
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<i><u>Outfit Details: </u></i></div>
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<i>Black Maxi Skirt - Exhibit (NI), Aztec 3/4 sleeved top - Charity Shop, Beatles Crop Tee - H&M, Hamsa Necklace - Internacionale</i></div>
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On coming back I had some medical appointments Monday and saw my sister and niece Phoebe can say my name now! It was beyond adorable and I was almost in tears, just seeing how much she'd grown and developed since I saw her a month and a half ago was astonishing. Her language skills are really developing and it makes me proud as her aunt that she's mastering these skills.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQszGSJDNsjBfDPb_klyx_pQ1m5zmzE3qdh1d0WCdIuXBUFHUlbejadsEKUV0tjDD1Is2nvXX5_pAa_kVpJWBirD58xP9KcHt4fzVDOKHHWCTmc10rKa5CmdT1FbpSjXIiSbVgvurIDLIl/s1600/Photo+on+2013-03-031.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQszGSJDNsjBfDPb_klyx_pQ1m5zmzE3qdh1d0WCdIuXBUFHUlbejadsEKUV0tjDD1Is2nvXX5_pAa_kVpJWBirD58xP9KcHt4fzVDOKHHWCTmc10rKa5CmdT1FbpSjXIiSbVgvurIDLIl/s1600/Photo+on+2013-03-031.jpg" /></a></div>
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Yesterday was a rest day as my various medical problems were starting to play up so I took the initiative and spent most the day sleeping and reading. Today's a similar kinda day but I've done my physio and adapted yoga (omg my legs HURT from not doing it in so long!) and I'm planning to spend the evening reading and just taking it easy. I also got some new shoes I ordered (I've had some bad news I don't want to talk about and I'm really disheartened and sad atm so I bought shoes). They're gorgeous colourfully patterned flatforms from Office for £10 reduced from £35. I've never worn flatforms before and they're surprisingly comfortable and easy to walk in! I'm actually finding it easier to keep my balance in these compared to my normal shoes! I've also donned my wig today as I've missed it, and my roots are atrocious. Mum and I are going to dye our hair this Easter weekend so just a few days left with icky blondeness!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjokzPUGqviOffLQW8N_RKw_eNSG5_E-kYHJFdfpvfUvrOS8nb8rIvDhKBBFdW6ZWywm-ar8wcsHH3Oofn0FmhFybbkFcPPB0SPTlB_Qaa_QlDn-9r1ReG0iROjbyw8AcI1EKQNlkZrDpeE/s1600/tumblr_mkbtdfBdad1qaxm96o1_500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjokzPUGqviOffLQW8N_RKw_eNSG5_E-kYHJFdfpvfUvrOS8nb8rIvDhKBBFdW6ZWywm-ar8wcsHH3Oofn0FmhFybbkFcPPB0SPTlB_Qaa_QlDn-9r1ReG0iROjbyw8AcI1EKQNlkZrDpeE/s320/tumblr_mkbtdfBdad1qaxm96o1_500.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Currently Reading: CJ Sansom's 'Revelation'<br />
Currently listening to: Doll & The Kicks (amazing band that sadly never made it. Bargin album for £5 on itunes. Highly recommended!)<br />
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<i><u>Outfit Details: </u></i></div>
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<i>Wig - eBay, 'Konichiwa' oversized shirt - Urban Outfitters, Bleached denim jeggings - new look, Flatforms - Office. </i></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11306809416409620098noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8191291740247610254.post-73596480195283204212013-03-22T05:34:00.001-07:002013-03-22T05:34:17.826-07:00Life.I've been quite absent recently due to several reasons. Firstly I was in Northern Ireland for 6 weeks with no Internet bar my awful 3G (which liked to vanish alot). Then since I've been back I've been very unwell with a dental abscess, Ive had a tooth extracted and the antibiotics have made me very sick. <br />
I'm currently at my grandparents for two days with my mum and I'm seeing some old friends and going to a sewing exhibition tomorrow. <br />
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I have lots to talk about from veganism problems, Scotland and new albums! But I'll get onto them next week when I'm back home and feeling more well! Sometimes life just gets in the way of Internet presence! <br />
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I post most often these days on twitter (username: hovercrab) so check me out there for more updates on stuff :) <br />
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11306809416409620098noreply@blogger.com0