Amy Antoinette - Lifestyle Blog

Rolo Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies

2013-06-17T13:02:00.001+01:00

I stumbled across these delicious looking cookies on Pinterest and knew I had to try them myself. It is so quick and simple to whip up a batch of these, which means it's all to easy to find yourself having eaten the whole lot in one sitting!

You Will Need:

Betty Crocker Chocloate Chip Cookie Mix
(If you prefer to make your own cookie dough a good recipe can be found here)

Frozen Rolos

To create these heavenly, gooey cookies, preheat the oven to 190'C, make up your cookie dough and then roll into balls, popping a frozen Rolo in the centre and ensuring it's completely covered. Place them on a baking tray and bake for around 12 minutes. I prefer to eat these when they're fresh out of the oven so they're still warm and soft. The caramel combined with the chocolate is such a delectable combination - currently my favourite indulgence!

Sunshine & Picnics

2013-06-13T17:52:00.000+01:00

After a long wait, sunshine finally arrived in the UK (although it's now disappeared just as swiftly!) and Matt and I have been enjoying every opportunity to bask in the rays. I've lost count of the amount of picnics we've enjoyed together over the last month or so. There's something so quintessentially English about unfolding a chequered blanket and opening a wicker basket to indulge in the delights of pink lemonade, sandwiches, pork pies, olives, potato salad and fresh strawberries for afterwards. The photos above are a collection from our visits to Rushcliffe Country Park, Sherwood Pines Forest, Clumber Park and most recently, we returned to Whatton Gardens, where our wedding reception was held. It's still one of my favourite places to go. So completely peaceful and serene. It was lovely to reminisce over our special day and stroll hand in hand around the beautiful gardens. The sunshine seems to bring a sense of joy and tranquility to the soul, if only it was around more.

Life Lately

2013-06-11T14:35:00.001+01:00

It has been seven months since I gave birth to William and Noah and became a mother to children I would never bring home. The speed at which life continues after the death of a child is startling. I cannot believe it has been one week. A month. Almost eight months. A year before we know it.

In so many ways it feels as if it just happened yesterday. I recall the smell of the all too familiar hospital. The feel of Matt's hand in mine. The clothes he was wearing. The physical pain of my twelve hour labour so inconsequential in comparison to the insurmountable pain of knowing each contraction was bringing our sons closer to their death. To give birth to them meant an end to their life. Holding William in our arms as he died is a moment that will live with me forever.

The night we left the hospital and returned to a dark and silent house, with only a memory box and a feeling of emptiness inside, stays with me. We are different people now. Our world is fragile, we know it will never be the same again. It took three months after William and Noah died before the fog of shock cleared and the stark reality set in. Suddenly it became a struggle to get up, to eat, to dress. To breathe. At times it still is. You do not get over the death of your children; our grief and pain will be there forever.

There are still more days with tears than days without. Not an hour goes by when I don't think about our sons. Each day I look at the photo of their precious little faces and wish I had them here to hold. Some days strength abandons me, some days the physical ache returns. These days of raw grief come out of the blue, you can never predict when they will arrive.

Living without your children requires endurance. Death is forever. It is so huge it is incomprehensible. Sometimes the overwhelming endlessness of it all completely consumes us. It never goes away, it just shifts position with the passing of time. But we are still surviving. We live a life we wish we didn't have to, but we'd rather have known William and Noah for a brief time than never at all. We can live with this life because it means they will always be a part of us.

Loves Lately - Tassimo T40 Coffee Machine

2013-06-03T12:47:00.000+01:00

A coffee machine is always something Matt and I have lusted after but never got round to actually buying. So I was delighted when I was offered the chance to review the Tassimo T40 Coffee Machine. With a fresh, contemporary design, the T40 looks stylish whilst remaing compact and easy to use. As a newbie to coffee machines, I was wondering how simple I would find the set up and everyday use of the coffee machine. It was just a matter of plugging the machine in and using the cleaning disc a few times before the machine was ready for use.

It's fool proof to use - making a drink simply involves inserting a disc into the top of the machine. The barcode is then read and the drink poured at the touch of a button. It truly could not be any easier. One of the main advantages I found is just how quick the machine is to use. I no longer have to fill the kettle and wait for an age for it to boil, a complete drink is now made in around one minute. The height of the cup stand is also adjustable so depending on whether you'll be enjoying an espresso, a big mug of tea, or a latte, the height of any cup can be accommodated.

Personally, I'm not a huge fan of tea and coffee, (although Matt has been enjoying the espresso for energy boosts), so I've ordered the Carte Noir Caramel Latte Macchiato and Suchard Hot Chocolate discs which sound delicious and have had great reviews. I'm also tempted to try the Cappuccino discs on offer.

The coffee machine has been a welcome addition to our kitchen. Our kettle has been relegated in favour of the quick fix the Tassimo T40 gives and we've been enjoying it daily since it arrived. I'd recommend it to any lover of hot drinks who wants a simple and stylish coffee machine to make their lives easier!

Tassimo T40 Coffee Machine is priced at £99.99 and is available to buy from Amazon

I am a member of the Mumsnet Bloggers Network Research Panel, a group of parent bloggers who have volunteered to review products, services, events and brands for Mumsnet. I have not paid for the product or to attend an event. I have editorial control and retain full editorial integrity.

Glossybox - The Pearl Lowe Edition

2013-04-16T16:11:00.003+01:00

It's been a long time since I've received a Glossybox impressive enough to inspire me to blog about it, but April's edition features a collaboration with Pearl Lowe and I love each and every item in this month's box, and it's no wonder as it's inspired by all things vintage and floral. The box alone is beautiful to look at and I'll be keeping it out on display in the bedroom. As for what's tucked away inside the box, it's filled with lovely things...

Essie Nail Lacquer in Cute As A Button

I love this vibrant, coral shade. It's the perfect colour for spring and as the weather improves it'll look great paired with a tan and some pastel outfits.

Crabtree & Evelyn Somerset Meadow Hand Therapy

I always keep a hand cream nearby so I was delighted to find such a pretty one from Crabtree & Evelyn - a brand I haven't tried before. The soft meadow scent is ideal for this time of year and it's highly nourishing with its macadamia nut oil, shea butter and vitamin enriched formula. I'll be purchasing the full size when it's released into stores on April 29th.

Nip+Fab Dry Skin Fix Pistachio Sundae Body Butter

I love a good body butter so this was another welcome addition. I've been wanting a pistachio scented product for a while and had been considering the pricier Laura Mercier range, so this arrived at just the right time. This whipped body butter gives long lasting hydration to the skin - which is just what I need to sort out my legs after six months in hiding!

Illamasqua Medium Pencil in Elate

I received Elate, a true white which is always handy to have to brighten up and widen the eyes. The creamy texture glides over skin easily so there won't be any tugging on the delicate waterline.

Yves Rocher France So Elixir Purple

The 5ml sample of this floral fragrance arrives in an adorable dinky purple bottle - a refreshing change from the ubiquitous tube style spritzer in cardboard. The scent itself is lovely, a light floral aroma with hints of woodiness. I'll be placing my heavier scents aside in favour for wearing this Tuberose and Patchouli elixir during the spring months.

I really love this month's limited edition box. The selected products all fit the 'Spring Fever' theme perfectly and I'll be putting all the products to good use, and the peachy floral box just makes it all the more enjoyable!

Glossybox costs £10 per month plus £2.95 P&P

PR Sample

Eucerin Even Brighter - Final Thoughts

2013-04-16T15:01:00.000+01:00

For the past 8 weeks, I've been trialling the Eucerin Even Brighter skin care range, which has been specifically designed to treat hyper-pigmentation and enhance natural radiance by evening out skin tone. My skin was desperately in need of being perked up, it was looking dull after a long winter so these products couldn't have arrived at a better time. The Eucerin Even Brighter Day and Night Creams are luxuriously thick and creamy, and have done a great job of keeping my skin thoroughly hydrated. I was prone to dry patches on my forehead and around my nose and these have been cleared up nicely, meaning makeup applies much better with a more even finish.

A combination of the three products has also worked wonders on stubborn post-spot blemishes, something which I've always struggled to combat. Whereas previously it would take months for these blemishes to disappear after a breakout, with the use of this range I've noticed a difference in just a week. Overall, my skin looks brighter and more even, so I feel confident in having more makeup-free days. As for treating hyperpigmentation, I was focused on minimising one particular sun spot which I've had for years. I haven't been quite as regimented in applying the Eucerin Even Bright Spot Corrector twice daily as I had planned, but even so, I have noticed a subtle difference in its appearance. For best results Eucerin recommend using the product over a period of 12 weeks, so I'll be continuing to do so in the hope of further improvement.

I can also announce that the winners of the Eucerin Giveaway are - Jemma, Laura and April - an email has been sent to you and I hope you enjoy the products!

Sponsored Post

Shabby to Chic - Upcycled Nest of Tables

2013-04-14T18:58:00.002+01:00

As a fan of upcycling second hand furniture, I'm always on the lookout for potential shabby chic transformations. I spotted this nest of tables in a charity shop for just £5 and I knew they'd look lovely with a coat of a paint. This was one of the more quick and simple upcycling projects I've completed - all it took was two coats of eggshell paint and cutting some Laura Ashly fabric for placement under the glass tops and it was finished! The smaller table is ideal for providing some extra space for drinks and nibbles when we have guests, and then it can be tucked away when it's not in use - perfect when you're short of space!

Click for more shabby chic upcycling projects!

Eucerin Even Brighter Giveaway - Now Closed

2013-04-03T10:39:00.001+01:00

Over the past month or so, I've been trialling the Eucerin Even Brighter range, which is designed to treat hyper-pigmentation and enhance natural radiance by evening out skin tone. Before I share the results with you, I have three sets of the range to give away! So if you too want to try the Day Cream, Night Cream and Spot Corrector which hydrate and boost radiance, just follow the instructions below and I'll pick 3 random winners next weekend...

To Enter:

- Follow my blog via Bloglovin'

- Leave a comment below along with your email address so I can notify the winners

- The giveaway will close on the 14th April
- Open to UK residents

Good luck!

Sponsored Post

Olivia Burton Big Dial Rose Gold Watch

2013-04-02T12:12:00.000+01:00

Despite being a big fan of rose gold, I'd yet to acquire a watch in the soft pink tone, so when I spotted a beautiful Olivia Burton watch on my Instagram feed, I knew it was the perfect item to satisfy my longing for a new rose gold spring/summer accessory.

After a bit of searching online, I ordered the Big Dial watch from The Dressing Room (the only store where I could find this particular model), where I was pleased to discover that UK delivery is free and first time customers receive 10% off, so the already very reasonable £62 price tag was brought down even further. It arrived in a cushioned watch box a few days later perfectly packaged inside a pretty gift bag, which I eagerly unwrapped to reveal the oversized face and slim wrist strap.

I love the pairing of the rose gold with a grained mink leather strap - it creates a very understated, chic look which I'll be able to pair with any outfit. The small details such as the embossed Olivia Burton logo on the inside of the strap and the little bird motif on the back of the watch make me love it that little bit more!

Olivia Burton Big Dial Watch is available to buy from The Dressing Room

Eucerin Even Brighter

2013-03-05T19:24:00.001Z

As I head further into my 20s, I find myself paying more attention to my skin care regime, ensuring my skin is well cared for and any problems are dealt with the appropriate product. Eye creams and serums are some of the newest additions to my routine, used in an attempt to keep my skin youthful and wrinkles at bay, but it wasn't until recently that dark spots on the skin entered on my radar, when I noticed a few sun spots and became aware of hyper-pigmentation. Pesky dark spots can be somewhat irritating, often needing a good dose of a super strength concealer to cover them, which is why I'm excited to try Eucerin Even Brighter.

The product range is specifically designed to treat hyper-pigmentation and enhance natural radiance by evening out skin tone. After just 4 weeks (the length of the skin's regeneration cycle) the hyper-pigmented cells on the skin's surface should appear diminished and visibly lighter, leaving skin looking fresh and energised. It sounds so promising, so I'll be trialling the products and reporting back in soon with a review of Eucerin Even Brighter product range, hopefully with successful results!

Eucerin Even Brighter Day Cream - £23.50

Eucerin Even Brighter Night Cream - £23.50

Eucerin Even Brighter Spot Corrector - £14.50

Sponsored Post

Aussie Miracle Shine Shampoo & Conditioner

2013-02-21T13:00:00.000Z

For the past four weeks, I've been trialling Aussie's Miracle Shine hair care range. Marketed as a dose of sunshine in a bottle, it promised to leave locks gorgeously glossy and radiant with its pearl powder and Australian Ginseng extract formula. My hair was beginning to look a little dull as a result of hair dye, backcombing and heat, so I was needing something to boost the shine. After using Aussie's Miracle Shine hair care range for the past month, I have noticed a subtle difference in its vibrancy. Using all three products in the range leaves my hair incredibly soft and smelling amazing (I've always been a fan of Aussie simply for the scent!) without being weighed down. I still like to add a drop of oil to my ends from time to time for an extra boost of glossy shine, and this range probably won't work miracles if your hair is particularly frazzled and damaged (I suggest the Miracle Moist range if that's your hair type), but for a quick pick-me-up for normal hair, it's well worth trying.

Aussie Miracle Shine is available to buy from Boots

What do you use to achieve shiny hair?

Toffee Apple & Cinnamon Cookies

2013-02-20T12:54:00.000Z

One of my New Year Hopes and Wishes was to bake more, so I started with something simple - toffee apple and cinnamon cookies. I was inspired to make some after I tried the flavour from Dominos last year, and I've been wanting to recreate them ever since.

You Will Need:

Betty Crocker Cookie Mix

Dried Apple

Toffee

Cinnamon

I had originally wanted to use Betty Crocker Maple Syrup Cookie Mix, but at the last minute of my online order, I was told it was no longer in stock - and it hasn't been since. I think it's one of those elusive flavours which I will forever fantasise about but never get to try. So I settled for the Chocolate Chip mix instead and just put the mixture through a sieve to take out the chips.

I mixed the cookie batter with a little water as instructed, then added some chopped dried apple chunks and toffee which I'd cut into small pieces (I advise popping them in the microwave for a few seconds first so they're soft). A sprinkle of cinnamon to the mix and I was done! I rolled the mixture into balls, placed them on a baking tray, popped the cookies in the oven, left them for 15 minutes, and the result was a batch of gooey, delicious toffee apple cookies.

These cookies are such a quick and easy treat to make - perfect if you're having guests round at short notice or if you just fancy something sweet yourself!

The Art of Relaxation

2013-02-18T13:47:00.001Z

Every so often, it's nice to take a little break from the stresses and strains of life and indulge in a little relaxation. My favourite way to unwind is to spoil myself with a spa treatment. I remember the first time I experienced the delights of a back, neck and shoulder massage when Matt treated me to a spa break for my birthday a few years ago. All tension and worry simply melted away. Since then, I've also experimented with a body polish and dry flotation, and I always like to follow up a treatment with a manicure. The ultimate way to feel pampered and relaxed!

For an at-home spa experience, I love to run a hot bath and add some luxurious oils. My current favourites are Neom Organic Oil and Espa Bath Elixir for providing a soothing and tranquil experience. I then follow this up by lighting a candle, snuggling under a cosy blanket and reading a good book. Most recently, I've been re-reading some childhood classics and delving into the enchanting worlds of The Secret Garden and A Little Princess. Letting your imagination run away with you whilst surrounding yourself with a lovely scent and you can't help but forget your troubles!

What are your favourite ways to relax?

Miu Miu Vitello Lux Bow Bag

2013-02-17T14:37:00.000Z

I'd been coveting the beautiful Miu Miu Vitello Bow Bag for years, so one day, I decided to save for it. I reached my goal more quickly than I thought, but rather than buying the bag of my dreams, something was holding me back. I went to visit the Miu Miu store in London to see and touch the bags in real life, but I wasn't overly keen on any of the colours and I didn't want to spend a large amount of money on something I didn't adore. So I went home empty handed. As pretty as the pink version is, for something which is so costly, I wanted a neutral colour that I could wear with anything, in all seasons. I'd also recently purchased a pink leather bag which had satisfied my need for an unashamedly girly accessory.

Then one day, I was browsing Miu Miu's online store and came across a colour I hadn't seen available before - light grey. For me, the ideal colour, so I decided I was going to dip into my savings and buy it. I went to add it to my virtual basket and my heart dropped. It had sold out. I wasn't going to give up on my dream handbag, so when I remembered I had a PR contact for Miu Miu, I got in touch and they kindly checked the stock for me and sourced the bag I wanted in a Glasgow store. A phone call to them later (when much to my relief they confirmed they do deliver) and I had bought my dream bag!

After years of yearning, it felt good to finally own this bag. The leather is supple and unstructured - a refreshing change from the other bags I own - and has a slight glazed sheen to it. I love the design of this bag. Everything from the fold-over flap which reveals a peek of the gold Miu Miu logo, to the handle size and the girly bows which adorn the sides - it's well crafted and beautiful to look at. The interior features a chocolate brown lining, with a zipped side compartment and a small pocket for carrying keys or a phone. I absolutely adore this bag, it brings me joy whenever I use it (and even when I just spot it in the corner of my room!) and I'm so glad I finally took the plunge and bought it!

The Miu Miu Vitello Lux is available to buy from the Miu Miu E-store

What's your dream handbag?

Happy Valentine's Day

2013-02-14T11:29:00.001Z

Wishing you all a wonderful Valentine's Day, whether you're spending it with your partner, or your friends. I thought I would mark the day by including a reading we had at our wedding...

"I love you, not only for what you are, but for what I am when I am with you. I love you, not only for what you have made of yourself, but for what you are making of me. I love you, for the part of me that you bring out. I love you, for putting your hand into my heaped-up heart, and passing over all the foolish, weak things you can't help dimly seeing there, and for drawing out, into the light, all the beautiful belongings that no one else had looked quite far enough to find.

I love you, because you are helping me to make of the lumber of my life, not a tavern, but a temple. Out of the works of my every day, not a reproach, but a song. I love you, because you have done more than any creed could have done to make me good, and more than fate could have done to make me happy. You have done it without a touch, without a word, without a sign. You have done it by being yourself. Perhaps that is what being a friend means, after all."

- by Roy Croft -

Do you have plans for Valentine's Day?

Philips VisaPure Facial Cleansing Brush

2013-02-13T12:52:00.000Z

The VisaPure Facial Cleansing Brush is the latest beauty gadget to be released by Philips. The rotating brush claims to cleanse 10 times more effectively than manual cleansing, whilst remaining just as gentle and helping improve skin tone and texture. Using this daily should lead to an improvement in the absorption of skin care products and dead skin cells are removed by exfoliation. I love the design of Philips VisaPure. The nude colour looks feminine yet unobtrusive, and the glossy, high shine finish gives it a touch of luxe. A very sleek and stylish gadget to keep in the bathroom!

I'm guilty of being very lazy when it comes to my skincare routine. Although I own a multitude of skin care products - some luxury, some budget - I seem to keep reverting back to the very basic regime of massaging Simple Purifying Cleansing Lotion into my skin and then removing it with a baby wipe. As much as I love the results of the Liz Earle Hot Cloth Cleanser, I just find it to be too time consuming and messy, so this one minute gadget appealed to me.

The VisaPure gives the same exfoliation and baby soft skin a hot cloth achieves without the fuss. I love how quick and easy using this is. I don't get water running down my arms, I don't need to run the tap to reach just the right temperature for repeated rinsing and cleansing - I simply apply cleanser to my face, wet the brush head and switch it on. There are two speed settings - one for normal cleansing, and a faster speed for deep cleansing. It features a one minute timer, pausing shortly every 20 seconds to indicate the need to move the brush to a new skin zone. When one minute has passed, the device automatically switches off to prevent over treatment. It's also waterproof, so it can be used in the shower - even better for time saving.

Two brush heads are included with the VisaPure - one for normal skin, and one specifically designed for sensitive skins. They also offer an exfoliation brush which can be purchased separately, for when you need to target any problem areas. The VisaPure charges fully in 6 hours, giving 30 minutes of cordless use, so depending on how often you use it, it only needs to be charged one to two times per month.

As a newly released facial cleansing brush, it's bound to draw comparisons with the Clarisonic. I haven't tried the Clarisonic myself, so I can't say if they give the same results, but in terms of price, Philips VisaPure is competitive. Both devices have a similar price point, but the VisaPure replacement brush heads cost £7 compared to Clarisonic's £21. Aesthetically, I prefer the VisaPure. It looks sleek and sophisticated whereas the Clarisonic looks a little clunky in comparison. I imagine the VisaPure would also be better for travelling as it would take up less space in a wash bag.

I love this new addition to my skincare routine. My nose and chin in particular were problem areas for me, and could feel quite rough and 'bobbly' at times. Using the VisaPure daily leaves me with soft, smooth skin - so much better for applying makeup for a flawless finish. In terms of time, it's even quicker to use than my old cleansing routine. I'm a big fan!

Philips VisaPure Facial Cleansing Brush is priced at £150 and is available to buy from Boots

Have you tried a facial cleansing brush?

PR Sample

Life Lately

2013-02-12T13:03:00.000Z

FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM: @AMYANTOINETTE for more photos taken with Apple's latest iPhone

Roses around the home always make me happy, even if they are made of foam like these ones!

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My little collection of Bath & Body Works Hand Sanitisers. I can't choose a favourite - it's between Warm Vanilla Sugar and Fresh Market Apple, both delicious scents!

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My current favourite lipsticks - both by YSL, I love their luxe packaging.

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Taking the time to make your bed means it looks so much more inviting, (and you can never have too many cushions!)

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With the persistent cold weather, I've been enjoying hot chocolate in pretty vintage teacups.

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My candle collection continues to grow - the latest addition is this 3-wick White Fig & Patchouli candle from Sainsbury's.

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I'm loving my new Stella & Dot Renegade Cluster bracelet, especially paired with my Michael Kors watch. I now have my eye on the lovely rose gold Rhea bangles.

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I can't resist a pretty blanket, so when I saw this beautiful pink herringbone throw from Bronte, I had to have it. It's made from pure wool so it keeps me nice and toasty!

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I'm guilty of letting my dressing table get in a terrible mess, so after a good tidy I'm going to try and keep it looking pretty!

Valentine's Rose Bouquet

2013-02-11T12:06:00.000Z

Flowers are always a welcome gift in my eyes - they brighten up any room and bring a sense of cheer into the air. They also remain the most traditional Valentine's Day present, so I'm delighted to feature these beautiful Interflora flowers I was sent. The hand-tied bouquet showcases red and pink roses, interspersed with white waxflower and salal. What really struck me as I prepared the flowers was the sweet fragrance of the roses - it never fails to amaze me just how incredible their scent is. Ever so romantic and pretty, these dazzling Valentine's flowers would be a thoughtful gift for anyone - whether it's a your partner, a friend or your mum. What's your favourite gift to give on Valentine's Day?

Q & A - 5 Year Journal

2013-02-10T12:39:00.000Z

This year I've been enjoying exploring different kinds of journals. The most recent addition to my collection is the 'Q & A a Day - 5 Year Journal.' This hand-sized Potter Style journal is the perfect compact size for keeping on your bedside table, in your handbag, or taking away with you. Featuring 365 questions to fill in over the time frame of 5 years, the questions range from silly to thought provoking and philosophical - each one unique and showing a different side of your personality. They are always a pleasure to answer and it's something I've come to look forward to each day. The space given to write in is just the right amount - enough for a day's thought rather than a lengthy answer, so not at all daunting!

The quality is impressive - thick pages with delicate gold edging and a robust hardcover, it certainly looks like a special journal! This is a great little book to document your life over 5 years, and it will be fascinating to return to the dates I've filled in and compare how my answers have changed over the years.

'Q & A a Day - 5 Year Journal' is priced at £7.42 and is available to buy from Amazon

Have you been writing in a journal this year?

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If you like journals and diaries as much as I do, take a peek at the others' I've featured...

The Book of Us - A Journal of your Love Story

Alice Weekly Schedule Diary

What's in my Bag

2013-02-04T17:02:00.000Z

I thought it was about time I offered a peek into my handbag, as it's something I've somehow never got round to blogging about. I switch my bags around regularly but I'm currently using my beloved Mulberry Bayswater. It can fit a good amount of things inside, so I can happily carry around what I deem to be my essentials without overloading it. Here's what's in my bag...

♥ Disaster Designs Makeup Bag - to keep all my daily touch-up products within easy reach. Currently it's holding a Bath & Body Works Hand Sanitizer, Burberry Blusher, Rose Petal Salve, YSL Rouge Volupte lipstick, Clarins Instant Light Natural Lip Perfector, L'Occitane Cherry Blossom Hand Cream and Clarins Mineral Powder.

♥ Umbrella - living in Britain sadly means a downpour can happen at any moment, so this floral design brightens up my day.

♥ Finchley Pocket Filofax in Vintage Rose - I'm never without my trusty little organiser, and it's the perfect size for handbags.

♥ Mulberry Continental Wallet - a beautiful blush pink with rose hold hardware. It brings me joy every time I use it.

♥ iPhone with a shabby chic iPhone case - for browsing all things social media.

♥ Jimmy Choo perfume - I always pop a fragrance in my bag, my favourites for travel are this one and Balenciaga Paris Purse Spray as they're fairly small.

♥ Keys - with a Cath Kidston keychain to make them a little bit more pretty.

♥ Ray-Ban Sunglasses - I have quite sensitive eyes, so if it's sunny/snowy/generally bright, I need to pop on my shades, although I feel like a terrible poser wearing sunglasses when it's not officially 'summer'!

♥ Cath Kidston tissues - pretty and practical.

♥ Alice Weekly Schedule Diary - to jot down notes and blogging ideas.

And to wrap up my 'what's in my bag' post, here's an illustrated version by the talented Natasha Nicole...

Twitter - Bloglovin' - Instagram - Facebook

DIY Marc Jacobs Daisy iPhone Case

2013-02-03T12:21:00.000Z

Not only is Marc Jacobs Daisy one of my favourite fragrances, the packaging is so whimsical and feminine, it's hard not to fall in love with it. So what could be more delightful than a Marc Jacobs Daisy style iPhone cover?! I first spotted this beautiful iPhone case on the lovely blog Daisybutter around a year ago and promised myself I would have a go, so I put my creativity to use and attempted a little DIY. I bought a plain white case from eBay for around 99p, and sourced the daisies and decorative pieces in assorted sizes from Etsy.

You will need:

A plain iPhone case

Marc Jacobs Daisy style flowers from Etsy

Flat back pearl and rhinestone cabochons

Strong Glue

I began by gluing the daisies in place and dotting some of the larger pearls around, so it was then just a matter of filling in the gaps with the smaller pieces. I found this quite fiddly to begin with, then realised there was an easier way! Rather than applying a dot of glue to each cabochon, it's more simple and a lot quicker to cover a small area of the iPhone case with glue, then press each piece with your fingertip to pick it up and place it on the glue. I chose to completely cover the case with pearls and rhinestone and left the sides bare, but you can add as much as or as little detail as you want. What do you think? I love how it turned out and can't stop giving my phone case an admiring glance every so often!

Have you tried making your own iPhone cover?

Tria Hair Removal Laser

2013-02-01T12:02:00.001Z

Over the past few months, I've been trialling the Tria Hair Removal Laser - the first and only cordless laser hair removal system available for home use. The clinically-proven Tria Laser uses the same laser technology that professionals use in-clinic for permanent results, at a fraction of the cost. When I first heard about the Tria Hair Removal Laser, I was intrigued. It promised that hair growth would appear finer and lighter after 2-3 months of treatment, and after 6+ months, hair follicles which had been deactivated by the Tria would result in permanent hair reduction, and with continued use - no hair re-growth whatsoever.

Aesthetically, the Tria looks like a swanky, luxury beauty gadget. The handle and base feature rubber to ensure there are no slips during use, and if you're not a fan of green, there's a pink option available! A laser can be an initmidating tool to use, but using the Tria was ever so easy. Once the safety guard has been unlocked (by placing the sensor over the skin you plan to treat - it will only unlock if your skin tone is suitable), there are five power settings to choose from. It's recommmend beginners start on the lowest level and progress gradually to a level they feel comfortable with.

The area to be treated needs to be shaved before beginning, so luckily using the laser doesn't require you to grow out your hair, like waxing. After the prep, it's just a matter of gliding the laser over the skin. The device beeps as you use it, so you know when the laser has fired and you can move on to the next section of skin. When using the laser, I occasionally felt a warm prickly sensation, which didn't bother me in the slightest, but for others, it may feel like a rubber band snapping. The laser tip is relatively small, so treating areas like your legs may take quite a bit of time and require a quick battery charge if used on the highest power setting. As I was just focusing on my underarms, the treatment was complete in under 10 minutes, so it wasn't something I struggled to find time for in my usual routine.

During my trial, the Tria has become one of my favourite beauty gadgets to use. My underarms are not completely hair free yet but they are very close. The little bit of hair which is remaining is much finer and and grows very slowly, as suggested by the instruction guide. I'm confident that that after another four moths of use, my underarms will be hair free - just in time for summer! Overall I've been very happy with the results so far and I believe the Tria is well worth the money if you're considering going down the laser hair removal route.

The Tria Hair Removal Laser is priced at £375 and is available to buy from Tria Beauty

Have you considered laser hair removal?

PR Sample

Palmer's Cocoa Butter Natural Bronze Body Lotion

2013-01-30T15:43:00.001Z

I thought I should dedicate a post to my current favourite beauty product...Palmer's Natural Bronze Body Lotion. As I have incredibly fair skin, I'm always on the quest for the perfect fake tan. My natural complexion means that in order to achieve the colour most people are naturally, I need to fake tan, so I look for an ultra deep and dark fake tan which me allows me to achieve this with just one application.

I have tried a multitude of fake tans... St Tropez, Xen Tan, Vita Liberata and Garnier and to name a few - and none of them have left a lasting impression. L'Oreal Sublime Bronze had been a favourite, delivering the colour I coveted, but it had it's disadvantages - being full of shimmer, having a scent that stung my eyes and remaining sticky for a good while afterwards. Then last week I tried Palmer's Natural Bronze Body Lotion and I think it may have just exceeded all others and taken the crown of favourite fake tan, with a price tag of just £5.35.

Palmer's Natural Bronze is a light lotion formula which absorbs quickly and leaves my skin soft and silky thanks to the cocoa butter which moisturises skin. There's no colour guide, so I don't need to be ultra cautious about what clothes I put on afterwards, and I can still open the door to the postman without shocking him! The scent is pleasant, with my husband commenting on how good I smelled (I usually get the - 'you smell dirty/like a biscuit' when I apply fake tan!) and it isn't at all sticky or heavy on my skin.

I left this on overnight to work its magic and I was surprised the next morning when I washed off the tan and a lovely golden colour remained. Considering Palmer's Natural Bronze is marketed as a gradual tan, I was impressed to find it had given me such a gorgeous tint in just one application. To really put it to the test, I applied it again the following day and I was pleased to discover it had given me the natural sun-kissed tan I've always coveted, as if I'd just returned from holiday. This will be perfect for use in the summer when I need a boost of colour before I get my legs out!

Palmer's Cocoa Butter Natural Bronze definitely has my vote when it comes to ease of use and the natural colour achieved. Keep a look out in Boots for offers, I bought two of these bottles when they were recently half price.

Palmer's Cocoa Butter Natural Bronze is priced at £5.35 and is available to buy from Boots and Superdrug

What is your favourite fake tan?

Little Loves Lately

2013-01-28T14:50:00.001Z

January always feels like a never-ending month. Here are a few things which have made the first month of the new year that bit more bearable...

♥ I was delighted when I unwrapped The Lumineers album at Christmas, and I've been listening to it on repeat ever since. I'm tempted to buy tickets for their concert from StubHub and enjoy their music live.

♥ Scented candles are lovely all year long, but since Matt and I have started dedicating one night a week to reading in bed, I've had a chance to put away our winter candles and enjoy softer scents, such as Fairy Dust and Gardenia Rose.

♥ My perfume collection is getting progressively larger, yet I often forget to wear any. This month I've been rediscovering old favourites.

♥ I've always loved a spot of DIY, and this year even more so. I have all sorts of projects lined up which I can't wait to blog about!

♥ There are so many wonderful blogs which I enjoy reading daily. I follow hundreds so I thought it was time I organised and shared my favourites, so I created a blogroll page.

What have you been loving lately?

The Book Of Us - A Journal of Your Love Story

2013-01-27T12:52:00.000Z

With Valentine's Day approcahing, I thought it would be the perfect time to share one of my recent purchases with you, 'The Book of Us - A Journal of your Love Story in 150 Questions.' I bought this beautiful journal late last year after stumbling across it whilst browsing Amazon. It contains 150 simple yet thoughtful questions that help record the moments of your romance - from first date to your wedding day and through the years beyond. It was lovely to open the book with Matt and reminisce about our memories together, and it's the perfect sentimental keepsake to look back on. It will be wonderful to start writing in it together and share it with our children in years to come.

Whether you fill in the answers yourself and surprise your partner with it, enjoy it together or just indulge in a heartfelt stroll down memory lane, 'The Book of Us' is a truly lovely and unique way to record and cherish your relationship. It would make the ideal gift for an Anniversary, Valentine's Day, as a Wedding gift... or simply as a poignant token of affection. A beautiful way of saying, 'I love you.'

'The Book Of Us: A Journal of Your Love Story' is priced at £8.54 and is available to buy from Amazon