Why wait to discover your dreams?

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 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. 

Easter chick card made by Phoebe and my Mum. 

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. 

 Wearing: Black shoes - charity shop, black tights - Marks and Spencers, Black PU skirt - River Island, Thin belt - Primark, Batwing jumper - Republic

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! 

Finches Painting by my Grandmother. 

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 Beautiful Mess. Obviously, I would need to adapt the recipe to make it vegan so I used my now trusty cake batter mix (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! 

My vegan mini pineapple upside down cakes.

Currently Reading: Syd Moore's 'Witch Hunt'

Currently Listening: Deftones - Koi No Yokan

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!).

Wearing: 

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. 

Ps. I'm selling some of my old or unworn clothes on eBay. 

Less than a day left to bid but any that don't sell will be auctioned again. 

Can't make time stand still, but you can make it run

I am the worst person at finding time to update, but in all fairness I have been really ill and busy the last week!
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. :)

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! :)

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.

Outfit Details: 

Black Maxi Skirt - Exhibit (NI), Aztec 3/4 sleeved top - Charity Shop, Beatles Crop Tee - H&M, Hamsa Necklace - Internacionale

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.

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!

Currently Reading: CJ Sansom's 'Revelation'
Currently listening to: Doll & The Kicks (amazing band that sadly never made it. Bargin album for £5 on itunes. Highly recommended!)

Outfit Details: 

Wig - eBay, 'Konichiwa' oversized shirt - Urban Outfitters, Bleached denim jeggings - new look, Flatforms - Office. 

In the valley of dolls we sleep

Did a little too much today so I'm currently curled up in bed having to focus so hard on typing cos of the vertigo. ):

Luckily it was worth it, I went shopping with my Mum and it's been a while since we were last able to go out just the two of us because we tend to go with my sister. It was nice having a few hours mother-daughter time; and since I'm going away for six weeks to Northern Ireland it reminded me how much I'm going to miss her while I'm away. I seriously have an amazing Mum who does anything for my siblings and I that's within her power. I'm very lucky to have her. :) I wish I could do more for my Mum to treat her more but I do have my own budget restrictions in place but I'm hoping to buy her a camera for her birthday (though it'll be early) that she can take on the holiday she's hoping to take to Italy in October. My Mum paints watercolours and her cameras pretty old and rubbish now so I want to give her one she can use to take pictures that she can then paint when she comes home. 

So on our little adventure we both bought some henna from Lush (I use caca rouge and my Mum's going to try it with caca maroon), I bought some earrings for £1 and a new bird blouse, aztec tights and a khaki skirt all for £12! I also wore my wig out as I was feeling lazy and couldn't be bothered to wash my hair. Shockingly, not one person questioned me and the woman in Lush thought it was my natural hair! Another woman in another store told me I look like a china doll which was a little odd but lovely nonetheless. 

I also started a new book today, Stephen King's 'The Shining'. I've seen Stanley Kubrick's masterpiece of a film based on this book and I've always wanted to extend my King collection and so when I saw this a while ago in a charity shop for 90p there was no way I could resist! I think it'll take me a few days to get through as I really need to work on my sewing projects tomorrow and Monday and then I leve Tuesday evening. I just hope it's as good as the film! 

Finally, well-done to the English rugby team for beating Scotland today in their first game of the Six Nations! Jonathan said he's going to try and teach me the rules of rugby so I can understand it more. Hopefully we can keep this winning streak and get a grand slam this year!

Outfit details

Skull playsuit - TKMaxx, Cream vintage blouse - Urban Outfitters, black opaque tights - Marks and Spencers, Mustard skinny belt - h&m, Shoes - thrifted (charity shop), black socks - Dunnes Stores, Owl necklace - bought in Rome, Mustard woollen hat - New Look, Black wig - eBay.

I'm gonna pop your bubblegum heart

I bought a wig! Well I ordered it a while ago and been waiting for it to arrive, I didn't want to mention it in case it was really awful but I'm actually impressed! For £6 the quality is fantastic (thankyou eBay!). It's not itchy and keeps on my head. 

My boyfriend doesn't like it, but I've had positive comments on other social networking sites. I used to have black hair but it was shorter and I soon changed it to brunette. I like my hair this dark as it doesn't warm my features like my normal red hair does but makes them more striking. My Mum commented on my cheekbones looking more prominent earlier. I'm pleased that it gives me the chance to change my look without changing it permanently as I have fickle days. I think if anyone wants to make a change that's temporary then wigs are a fantastic way of doing that. Just make sure you take good care of them and you'll be fine. 

Ended up in a&e last night with another asthma attack. Luckily the medication worked well enough for them to let me go home but it looks like I won't be able to lower my steroids for another week at least, going to see what my Gp says tomorrow.  I had to miss my physio as the dizziness is bad today and I fainted in the hospital and I knew the long journey would make me feel worse. Luckily, my physio understands that I have to travel quite far and I'll speak with him tomorrow about progress as I'm going away for 6 weeks from next Tuesday. 

Outfit details:

Long black wig - eBay, floral blouse - thrifted (charity shop), PU skater skirt - river island, tan belt - came with another skirt form new look, floral tights - Tesco. 

We won't let the sun go down, We're gonna chase the demons out of town

I'm finally out of hospital! Well truth be told I've been out since Thursday night but I'm still far from being well, though slowly getting better. I've used an entire inhaler for my asthma in less than 2 days which isn't so good but the consultant said it could be a few weeks until it's back under control. Which sucks. 

I've spent all weekend in bed in my pjs. I've had hardly any energy at all and I've needed to catch up on alot of sleep. However, I'm a little more perky today so I got up, dressed and even put make up on! It's amazing what a difference a bit of personal attention can make to your mood, I feel so liberated. Plus I finally have chance to wear my new zebra dress!

So during my weekend in bed I watched Wes Anderson's 'Moonrise Kingdom' which is fantastic. If you like quirky, creative films then this is one for you! My Mum thought it was strange but I was totally enchanted and I can't understand why it's taken me so long to watch it. The cinematography is stunning and now I want an adventure in New England! I'd like to watch more of Anderson's films as I've only seen a handful and he's firmly planted himself as a favourite director of mine. 

I also spent alot of time reading, I'm reading my third Patricia Cornwell book in a row. Though I prefer the work of Kathy Reichs for forensic crime novels, Cornwell's novels are still fun to read. It also brings in a little more of the legal side, which is something I don't know alot about, as well as the forensic pathology. I also like her books cos they're quick reads, usually I can finish them in one day or two nights. This gives me a break between heavier stories or the classics, as even though I adore them they can be draining. Any crime fans out there with some new suggestions?

Outfit details:

Zebra dress - h&m, black opaque tights - marks and spencers, cowboy boots - eBay (new look), pearl collar - Miss Selfridge, Belt - came with another dress, hat - vintage from my Mum, Cream and gold bracelet - too old to remember

There is no crime in being kind

So yesterday was a big day travelling to see my grandparents and to deliver a few gifts of vegan shortbread for my friends. (so far all the reviews of my shortbread have been really good so I'm pretty pleased. :)) It was amazing seeing people, albiet briefly, and it's reminded me who the important people in my life are. Presents wise I actually did quite well! I got £60 cash, a Squirtle pokemon beaded art piece, £20 Waterstones voucher, a cute owl magnet and some dog shaped paper-clip/filers. :) Everyone knows me so well and I'm very lucky. :)

Being such a long day in the car comfort was a necessity. I tend to get really hot in cars so I didn't want to wear layers and layers incase I did get a bit stuffy. What I chose ended up being perfect and I got a few comments from family about how well I dress - yay! 

I also managed all day without fainting until we were almost home and then I went twice. I'm really feeling the effects today (I couldn't even go Christmas food shopping with my Mum) and so all my last minute projects are on hold while I take a day to just rest. I'm about to watch the Supernatural season 5 finale and then I'll finish reading volume 1 of Les Miserables. I've had a lavender and jasmine bath as well so I'm pretty relaxed for once!

Outfit Details. 

Tapestry tan brouges - Urban Outfitters, Black socks - Dunnes Stores, Leggings - h&m, velvet bodycon dress - New Look, Oversized Cardigan - Charity Shop, Stag Necklace - etsy

Bye bye baby, don't be long, I worry about you, when you're gone

I've not been posting cos I've been struck down by a hideous virus. Started feeling a bit run down Tuesday night but by Wednesday morning I felt awful. It's since cleared up but since having a diet coke in town (I haven't had a fizzy drink in over a month) I got home to spend half an hour in the bathroom. ): My tummy hurts now so much! 

But I got my haircut today! In love with my hairdresser because she does exactly what I want and curls it for free (she's meant to charge an extra £5 but she didn't <3). Also got some make-up basics: mascara, pressed powder, foundation and I got a smokey eye palette for free! :) Also, I popped into the supermarket for some flavoured water and they have loads of cd's for £2 so I picked up a Pulp album and a Savage Garden album. Bargin! 

Today's outfit was based around 'I love these trousers and I want to wear them'. I got them in the Topshop sale last month for £25. That's alot for me to spend on clothes but I adore them so much and they're just so funky! I didn't need a cardigan today as the weathers gone really mild so my coat was enough so I just paired with a oxblood shirt. It was simple and comfy and I don't tend to wear trousers so it made a nice change. 

My final news is that due to being ill I've lost another 2 pounds (though whether I can keep them off remains to be seen) so I now weigh under 10 stone! This has put me in a good mood and has set me off for my next target weight perfectly. :)

Oh, and the world didn't end so that's good. Seriously though, the people who totally believed it are pretty naive! :/ 

Outfit details: 

Oxblood shirt - Topshop (found in charity shop), Pattern tailored cigarette trousers - Topshop, Silver cut out brouges - Office, 'A' necklace - urban outfitters. 

And she gave away the secrets of her past, And said I've lost control again

Today was physio day! I go to see my physio about once every month to help with the movement disorder of my neurological condition. Today I was shown a graph of my balance today compared with six months ago and the difference is amazing. It's really shown to me how much difference has been made from my exercises and how my work is paying off. There's still a long way to go but it's really inspiring to see the progress physically in front of me. :)

Because of the physio, which is mainly low key as it's balance based not running around or anything, I need to dress appropriately  But I also knew afterwards I was meeting a friend for coffee so I wanted to look good for that too! So I went with leggings and black socks, my eternally faithful black ankle boots, Joy Division 'Unknown Pleasures' vest and an tarten boyfriend blazer. I kept the accessories simple with just a black beret and no jewellery  Even with the chilly weather this was actually quite warm and I didn't feel the cold at all, which is pretty unusual but I wasn't complaining! 

I've got a few busy days ahead of me with the final preparations for Christmas and finish making some of the presents. I could do some sewing tonight but even though it's only 10pm I'm pretty tired so I think an early night is called for and then start tomorrow early after my haircut. :) (btw, please excuse my bad fringe in these pics! Getting it cut tomorrow!)

Outfit details: 

Ankle boots - Urban Outfitters, socks - Dunnes Stores, Leggings - H&M, Joy Division vest - eBay, Boyfriend blazer - River Island (found in charity shop), Beret - Primark. 

Take my eyes and paint my bones, Drill my brain all full of holes

It's been a few days but I've been wearing boring, comfy clothes cos I've not had much reason to get dressed properly. Until today! Today I had a blood test (seeing how many antibodies that cause allergens are in my blood to see if my asthma medication needs adapting), and so this involved getting dressed. :)

It's been cold out, even hitting the minus figures at times, and there's sometimes been odd patches of ice so I needed to make sure I dressed appropriately as I don't want to fall over! I have enough trouble keeping upright at the moment. Although I haven't shown it in the pics I took but I decided to wear my black, laced up ankle boots. They don't really have any grip but they're perfectly flat so I find them easier to walk over ice on. Luckily, there was no ice! I did have a disaster at the hospital, had my blood test and then fainted. But had the paramedics called out, and my Mum picked me up and took me home so I've slept all afternoon. Just had some yummy egg and chips and now I'm going to watch Grey's and try and get an early night.

Also! I've reached my first weight loss goal! I now weigh 10 stone (which sounds heavy but I am 5'8!). I couldn't tell much difference until I took these pictures and I can see a slight difference on my arms and waist. It might just be angles but I'm hoping it's not. Now to get to my next goal..

Outfit details: 

Floral blouse - charity shop, Gold rose waist belt - Uttam London, Black corduroy skirt - h&m, tights - Tesco, socks - Dunnes Stores (northern ireland), ankle boots (not pictured) - urban outfitters. 

The air we breathe is thinning the words that we speak

Woo, my first outfit post! As I said on my first post I'm only able to use my iSight at the moment but I'll  start learning how to use the timer on my camera to see if that's any better quality. This was from last Sunday (gosh, almost a week ago! how time flies!) when my Mum, sister and niece went out shopping. I was pretty late getting up so it was a quick throw on anything and get make up on fast! I bought the oversized dark green blazer at the charity shop earlier last week so I was dying to wear it with something. I wanted the focus to be on the blazer so I decided a black mini-stretch skirt and a black strappy top would do the job. Paired with a pair of tights from the Birmingham Rag Market, black ankle socks (not shown) and cute black shoes with gold fastenings that I forgot to take a picture of! Jewellery was a bronze-gold owl necklace with emerald gem eyes and a stars and moon drop earrings.

All in all, this was a perfect quick outfit and I love it. I think with the colder weather really setting in here I could wear a black cardigan under the blazer and add a scarf to keep warm; I have a vintage floral one that would look perfect. I'd dyed my hair the night before to create a red ombre look, which is so subtle and I adore it. I'll do a post on my hair at some point as I dye it with henna and I know I struggled to find information and tips when I started online.

Outfit details: 

Oversized blazer and shoes (not shown) - charity shop, black strappy top, mini stretch skirt and black patent skinny belt - h&m, striped tights - birmingham rag market, owl necklace - gift, earrings - so old now I can't remember.