Ru Reviews

My Bloggiversary! + APOLOGY FOR MY ABSENCE

2013-10-21T10:30:00.000-07:00

Update:

After this post was published I unfortunately came down with glandular fever (boo), and now have suspected Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, which means that it is taking me a while to get back to 100%, after being depleted.

Anyhoo, health stuff aside, I know I was already pretty naughty with my extended hiatus, but I will need a while to get back on my feet again and back on the blogging. But I've got loads planned, so I'll relaunch with a vengeance!

Thank you for the support.
Today is the anniversary of this blog, and although I've been having a little bit of an impromptu break at the moment from the blog I wanted to mark the occasion.

I started this blog because I really enjoyed the community of fashion and lifestyle bloggers, and wanted to be involved. I also felt as though I had been a keen writer in the past, and through lack of practice (hello, full time, non-creative jobs) this skill had left me a little bit in recent years.

Well now I'm certainly no Jackie Collins (that would be a very different blog!), but I feel as though some of my confidence in my own ability has come back. And as somebody who doesn't, and never has had, a large group of girlie mates, I really love the girl-talk element of blogging- the virtual "I love your top, where did you get it?", or "I've just bought the most amazing lipstick, and have to tell someone". And I'm guessing you do too, or you wouldn't be surfing blogs now, reading this.

And while I'm at it, thank you for reading this. I've been sporadic in blogging, I know, I've blogged about a variety of different things, which I know isn't great with "marketing", and all that. But it's been my stream on consciousness- my outlet. And I'm so glad for that. This year has been quite tough really, looking back. Even looking back I see a tinge of sadness in some of my old posts, something I was in denial about at the time. But there have also been lots of moments of happiness, and some of those have come from seeing great reactions on here, and from seeing my viewing figures. If I bring one other person happiness or entertainment from this, it'll be more than worth it.

So, where do we go from here? Well as you probably know I'm looking at buying a flat at the moment. I'm hoping it all goes well, and I may even be in by Christmas. But I also may not, or may not be in it at all. If you're not familiar with the process of buying a house, let me tell you there is an awful lot of uncertainty. You can be a long way into the process of it and still not feel able to get excited for fear of it all falling through.

And this is why I haven't been blogging much recently. All I have had in my head recently has been this property. Looking for one, finding one, and then securing it. And with a process that has many different pieces to be put in place, it's not something that is very easy to blog about. To me, booking a survey is very exciting, to you...exactly. So until it's all done and I'm in there, I won't be blogging about it. I'm also trying not to spend any money, so if you see me posting a haul you have my permission to slap me on the wrist, or whatever the virtual equivalent of that is.

So- Happy Birthday Ru Reviews, it's been emotional. Here's to another year of blogging, with home before and afters in it's midst, and hopefully a happy year for all.

Thank you for reading, supporting and being friends.

September: The Good, The Bad and The Empty

2013-10-07T11:25:00.000-07:00

THE GOOD

Breaking Bad

Now I haven't seen the finale, hell, I'm only on Season 2, but I'm captivated. It's such an interesting concept from the start, to put a "normal" person into such an extreme and desperate situation- where do you draw the line about what is "wrong" or "right"?

If you're in a bubble and have missed Breaking Bad mania over the last couple of weeks, this is an American show about a chemistry teacher with terminal cancer. He turns to drug dealing to fund his treatment and ensure security for his family once he's gone. As you can imagine it gets pretttttty dramatic.

Liz Earle Cleanse and Polish

You might have seen my post earlier this month on this product. If not give it a browse:
http://rureviewsblog.blogspot.co.uk/2013/09/liz-earle-cleanse-and-polish.html

I've been using this regularly and have to say I'm still keen. It smells great, and has been brilliant recently when I've been ill. It's a real deep clean that feels great when you're not 100%. I wouldn't use this twice a day, and find I have to be careful to moisturise afterwards otherwise my face can feel like I've been crying (anyone else get this?), but for a deep clean every now and then I think it's great.

I've seen dupes online but I've still got quite a lot left in my bottle so I'm happy for now. When it runs out I'll see if I can shop around- let me know your tried and tested dupes.

THE BAD:

Being Ill

I've been ill with tonsillitis for the last 2-3 weeks, which has been really grim. I thought it was a cold initially but I was more tired than you get with a cold and my neck felt swollen. I ploughed on thinking it was "my glands", but it was actual tonsillitis. It's left me kn-ack-eredddddd, but I'm trying to think of it as a fresh start.

THE EMPTY:

I've posted about my history with this product- take a look:

http://rureviewsblog.blogspot.co.uk/2013/10/tommy-girl-end-of-era.html

I use this for the tips of my hair, which can get really dry these days as it's getting longer, and to shave with. I always have one of these in empties posts, they're so useful.

I mentioned this in my What's In My Shower post, take a look:

http://rureviewsblog.blogspot.co.uk/2013/09/whats-in-my-mums-shower.html

I have upgraded to a slightly fancier looking version, also from Clean and Clear. I'll let you know what I think.

Anyway, can you believe it's October already? Crazy isn't it? I don't wish to annoy but I'm thinking of starting my Christmas shopping soon, because I don't want to dedicate actual trips to it, and I like to be done before December. So that's my shopping plan for this month.

I'm also still going to be house-hunting, I've not found the perfect thing yet, so fingers crossed for me!

Tommy Girl- The End of An Era (?)

2013-10-04T10:00:00.000-07:00

So this week I finished a huge bottle of what used to be my signature perfume.

A change is in order, and although I love it, and it feels like me, maybe it feels like the old me. Now as a last tribute to this trusty bottle of magic, I thought I'd give Tommy and I closure by telling you our story *insert "Love Story" theme crescendo here*.

This perfume was the first real perfume I remember using- before Tommy Girl it was Impulse body sprays and odds and ends from gift sets. I was 13, and Tommy Girl was the future. And my, oh my, was it grown up.

Now the many things I dreamt up whilst spritzing this over my school uniform never really happened- the boys falling at my feet etc. In fact "school uniform" and "boyfriend" were not overlapping chapters of my teen life, Tommy Girl or no Tommy Girl. But he was always there. And with him came the possibility of better. If I smelt good that was at least a start, right? Even though I had braces for far too long and acne for even longer? Hilfiger's stars-and-stripes, apple pie, "Land of the Free and Home of the Brave" spirit could make up for all that, right? Umm..yeh.

And although other bottles have come and gone- I remember a particularly persistent bottle of Escada's sickeningly sweet Rockin' Rio, and stale V by Valentino- I went back to this one. It just felt like me. Not a fruity sugary scent that some ad man somewhere decided was suitable to my age, and not the same as every other girl in the class. Just me.

So where did it all go wrong, I hear you ask? I don't think I've mentioned in the blog before but I have lost most of my sense of smell. Maybe the ins and outs of that are better for a dedicated post (if that would be of interest? let me know), but suffice to say smell hasn't featured in my life an awful lot recently. Maybe this is a large contributing factor- the first fray in the hem?

Or maybe I'm just evaluating what "me" smells like these days. Or even what I like and don't like in general. And of course, that's a Lady's prerogative. But I do hope that as I try to find a new soulmate scent Tommy is being enjoyed by the next generation in need of a helping hand.

And to whom will I turn now? Well, like all fabulous ladies after a break-up (of sorts), I will brush myself off and look forward. Who knows what could be in store for me next? My smell issue will hopefully be sorted by the end of the year, and then the world of scent will be my oyster. Chanel? Vera? Gaulier? Armani? Who knows. But you only have one first love, right?

Let me know your signature scents- what memories do you associate with them? Or do you chop and change to keep it fresh?

Have a great weekend!

Ru x

I'm bacckkk :)

2013-09-27T14:07:00.000-07:00

<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/4209893/?claim=syj58zyewj8">Follow my blog with Bloglovin</a>

I'm sorry I've been away for SO long. Everything in my life has been shuffled about and changed and it's all a bit up in the air at the moment. But it's all coming back together so I thought I'd get the blog back together too :)

The first thing is that I'm such a technophobe that the Bloglovin' transition scared me. A lot. I think of my blog as an online pen and paper, and anything more complicated brings me out in hives. But I've bitten the bullet and I'm all linked up to Bloglovin. Follow me on my link above. Go on, it'll spur me on to get my head around it!

I've also moved out of a rental property and back in with my Mum, while I look for somewhere of my own. So yeah, exciting in principle but the reality is all my possessions are piled up in a rather disorganised way. I'm using it as an opportunity to condense my things and live a little bit more minimally.

So watch out, I'm in total flux, anything could happen :)

What's in my (Mum's?) Shower

2013-09-25T10:00:00.000-07:00

So as some of you may know I've recently had to move back home temporarily. Now what used to seem so natural is a little bit less so. I'm used to having my own space, which I can fill with all manner of lotions and potions, and now I'm trying to be as unobtrusive as I can, especially with things like shower space!

I also thought this could be a good lesson in how to live a little bit more minimally (silver lining, eh?). So I thought it would be a good idea to show you guys what made the cut-

Eve Lom Rescue Mask
This is by far the most indulgent item. I got it in a beauty advent calendar so I don't know an individual price but I know Eve Lom is super-pricey. The actual product is good. I am an acne sufferer so have to be very careful not to irritate it and flare it up. This didn't. It has a little bit of grit to it, so it exfoliates as you wash it off, and you only need a small amount each time. I'm coming to the end of this trial size, but if I can find a dupe I'll buy it.

Clean and Clear Deep Action Cream Wash
I use this as a body wash for my top half. I get blemishes on my chest, back and upper arms, and using normal body wash really flares this up. This I think keeps its equilibrium. It doesn't get rid of the spots but it keeps them from getting red and angry. Also using it on my body doesn't use up as much product as you'd think- this bottle has lasted me months.

John Frieda Full Repair Conditioner
I went into Boots looking for a conditioner and was finding them so expensive that when this trial size caught my eye I had to go for it. I only condition about once a week, so a small size is ideal for me to try a product, see if I like it, but not be stuck with it for the rest of time. This one smells great and makes my hair very soft.

Aussie Aussome Volume Shampoo
I'm not sure about this shampoo, I think it's building up on my hair, but I trust Aussie, and I would rather stick with this one and see how it goes than try another one which might be less effective. I'll keep you posted.

St Ives Blemish Fighting Apricot Scrub
I use this everywhere, it's the only scrub you need. I use it on hands and feet, then slather moisturiser on. I use it to prevent ingrowing hairs, and I use it to soften my lips. Absolutely one of the products I would recommend to anyone and keep repurchasing forever.

Embracing your traits

2013-09-23T13:43:00.000-07:00

I saw this saying on Pinterest and it really made me laugh! This is exactly me and my Dad! We also have weak veins and strong minds.

It got me thinking about our natural traits- the behaviours that we gravitate towards. For example I am also quite a stubborn person. It is as strong and as genetic as the anger when hungry!

I used to try to suppress this, but now I try to think of it in a positive way. I was speaking to my Dad, who is similar to me in this way, and he highlighted the positive benefits of this, especially in relation to running a business, which he does, and which I aspire to do. I think you have to have some sort of stubborn determination in some situations- which is an opinion he also holds.

I drew upon this recently when I had a bad experience in trying to buy a house. The survey came back with issues, and it all just spiralled into something more and more complicated and less and less workable. I had to walk away, but my stubborn side is pushing me to look again, and to make it work. Without this I would have been lost.

I think we beat ourselves up a lot of the time over our "negative" traits, and try to push ourselves into a "perfect" mould of how we should be. When really we could just be making the most of what we are. You can be a mediocre version of someone you're not, or an amazing version of yourself. What would you rather be?

Liz Earle Cleanse and Polish-

2013-09-20T13:28:00.000-07:00

Yes, I've caved. I've been into beauty blogs for about a year now, and one of the things that I've picked up (along with that you can never have too much make up, and that you should wash your brushes more often and your hair less often) is that Liz Earle's Cleanse and Polish is a bit of a cult product.

It goes on as a non-greasy cream with the pleasant spa-y smell, and washes off with the muslin cloth that comes with it, and some warm water.

Now I do have temperamental skin, so would probably only use this to take off the amount of make up I would wear for a night out, as opposed to everyday make up, and would use a moisturiser afterwards. Otherwise for me personally I think it could be a bit stripping. Which as we all know results in more damn breakouts. Not attractive.

I got this mini size on eBay, which I will definitely do again. I think it's a good idea to try something before committing, especially skincare, which can be so hit and miss. So although paying for a smaller amount isn't cost effective per ml, it can be overall.

I'm going to persist with this, but will be looking for a dupe when it comes to an end. Any ideas? Let me know of any dupes, and what you think of Cleanse and Polish.

Have a great weekend!

I'm single

2013-05-29T12:12:00.000-07:00

So I haven't really spoke about my person life too much on here, but I like to think my blog is an extension of my mind and what's going on in my head, so here we go.

I'm single now, for the first time since I was, what, 18? So it's all new. Being a "grown-up", solo. I'm going to be living alone for the first time in my life, and you know what? I'm excited. Yes it's scary as hell, trying to work everything out to make it happen, and sometimes thinking about everything I find it kind of hard to breathe (is that normal?). But thinking about sitting in my own house- that's a sense hope I've never had before.

And yes, it's comforting to have a partner-in-crime, but for the most part I want to steer my own ship. Because that's what life is about right? You live one life, and maybe you choose to spend it with somebody, or many somebodies, or maybe you don't. But at the end of it your experience is your experience, you don't have to live only half of it.

So I don't quite know where I'm going with this, but I think sometimes you just need to get things off your chest. I hope I can be me, 100%. Not the part of me that another person wants, or the part of me that another person can handle. Even if I'm alone forever, but am totally myself and never have to justify, or convince, or apologise for being me, I will be happy.

And maybe that's something we can all relate to. It's hard, but you only get one life, right?

Make your own recipe folder

2013-05-27T11:10:00.000-07:00

Hi all!

Today I thought I'd post about a little guilty pleasure of mine- my recipe folder. It's super-easy to make, and can be pretty darn cheap too, so why not give it a go if you haven't got one already?

All you need is a recipe folder or ring-binder and a stack of plastic wallets to put the recipes in, to keep the recipes clean and wipeable.

Here's some places to find recipes:

In free supermarket magazines
In lifestyle magazines- when you're finished with a magazine just have a quick look through, most have at least a couple in there, I've seen recipes in OK magazine, Glamour, places where you wouldn't think to look
Free recipe cards you can find in supermarkets, especially around Christmas and Easter etc, when you can find themed ones.
Print off your favourites from online
Note down recipes from TV cooking shows

I think this is a great idea because you can keep all your favourites together, and can accumulate a selection of recipes by a selection of chefs and publications, which would otherwise have you shelling out (and filling your home), to accumulate their entire books.

I've seen specially made recipe folders making their way into shops, but if you have an old folder in the house why not repurpose it? You can use sticky-back plastic, a wallpaper sample from a DIY store or wrapping paper to cover it and give it a new lease of life.

So there you go, if you haven't got one already give it a go! This could also make a great gift, maybe for somebody leaving home to fend for themselves for the first time, or to a loved one with a selection of home-cooked meals that they have complimented you on.

Then the sky's the limit. You can swap with other people, or set yourself a challenge to work through all your recipes.

Let me know if you have one already, or if you'll be giving this idea a go. Where do you find your best recipes?

Lots of love
Ru X

Films at Home- Films I've been loving

2013-05-08T13:06:00.000-07:00

Lately I have been obsessed with films. I can't get enough of them. So I thought I'd let you know some great ones I've seen recently, for inspiration.

What to Expect When You're Expecting
It's about pregnancy, which is a bit different, and it's got a great cast. It's a chick flick, yeah, but it's easy watching, which is what you need sometimes, right? I like that it addresses people who can't have children, too.

To Kill a Mockingbird
I read this book in school (did everybody), and I didn't really connect with it too much, because it was written in a really difficult to read way. I think it's written with a child's voice, so it's hard to get into. But the film really helps get across some of the emotion. I great, smart film.

Sex and the City
Yep, this isn't going to be news to anyone, but this is such a great film. Again, great chick flick, but then you already know that, right? I think it's amazing to re-watch this. When I first saw this I was a teenager, or a preteen or whathaveyou, and hadn't had a boyfriend, and I watched it with a certain perspective, and now, having had a relationship for 2 years, and living with someone I watch it in a totally different way.

The Interpreter
Film about an interpreter at the UN, played by Nicole Kidman. It's one of those terrorist-y, drama, mysterious, tense kind of films. Good for when you have enough attention span to remember which character is which.

You Me and Dupree

This is one of those films that kind of bridges the gap between lad films and chick flicks. It's about a guy that won't grow up. Which is kind of annoying, but it's done in a funny way, and hell, you don't have to live with him. Kate Hudson's character does, but with hair like that it's kind of karma. Too blonde and perfect, something bad has to happen just to stop us from turning green with envy.

Ted

If you haven't seen this watch it. Loads of people saw this when it was in the cinema, including me, but I had to watch it again. There is occasional filth, which could be an issue depending on who you're watching it with (you know what I mean, sometimes things can get awkward), but it's a really sweet story at it's core.

Silver Linings Playbook

This film is amazing- you have to watch it. It had a lot of hype, which sometimes puts me off (isn't that crazy? That's how contrary I am), but I really can't think of anyone who wouldn't love this film. It's funny, it's moving, it's perfect.

April Empties

2013-05-06T06:57:00.000-07:00

Well, I wasn't going to do an empties post this month because I didn't think I had many products to discuss, but I have a lot more than I expected, upon unearthing my stash, so here we go!

Well I've loved all of the above!

Everybody rates Original Source shower gel, right? It smells really strong, which for me, with virtually no sense of smell, is ideal. It just feels like it's a treat, with how strong it is, and apparently it's quite "natural". My only downside to this is that I'm thinking perhaps it might be too strong on my skin. I have spot prone skin, and I think using something a little bit more delicate might help it not to flare up.

Aussie Mega Shampoo also smells great, and again, very strong. In terms of what it does to your hair, I find my hair very temperamental, so I can't really judge whether it's great or not, I just try to keep my hair on an even keel.

Another one of those 99p store shampoos- this will be the last one I think. the smell on this wasn't great, from what I could smell. It's supposed to be Limey, but I didn't really get much from it (again, could just be me), and I certainly didn't feel it was limey. The design of the bottle though allows you to use the product very thriftily, and get a lot out of it. And of course, a bargain.

*For some reason I can't flip my photo around- sorry ladies!*

I can't really judge the Veet Hair Minimising body lotion on such a small sachet, but the smell was great, and it really annoys me having to constantly watch out for hair regrowth, especially in summer.

Soap and Glory Supercat eyeliner is a great idea, the pen style makes it easy to use, but I find the formulation makes my eyes itch.

I bought an Elizabeth Arden 8 Hour Cream gift set for myself from a bargain store for £20 a couple of months ago, and this Body Lotion was one of the little samples. I really like it, I think 8 Hour Cream is very effective, and sorry to bang on about smells, especially when I can't really judge on them properly, but I actually like the smell. When I've used this at work everybody has commented that it's a "herby" smell, and I think that's bang on.

This is an old Malin and Goetz lip moisturiser, which I don't like because it's greasy, like a gloss. I'm really not a gloss fan, so I'm binning this one.

This is the last of my L'Oreal Preference hair conditioners (the one's that you get with hair dye), so no more. I use them occasionally on the tips of my hair, and for shaving with, as you'll know if you're a regular reader. Thrifty tip!

I've also had a clear out of make up bits and bobs, and these 3 have to go.

This sample of Benefit High Beam got me hooked on the product, but it's now difficult to use because of the design of the bottle and the lack of product. I have a dupe called High Lights, by Technic, which you can get on Amazon.

I bought Glam Crystals, by Collection 2000 for a fancy dress party, and I don't think I'll wear it again because it itches my eyes.

I love Maybelline 24 Hour Stay, I would recommend it to anybody as a lipstick that doesn't budge, but this colour is the same as my normal lip colour, so it was pointless really.

So there you go, that was my month in beauty products. It's been a bit of a crazy one this month, so I'm sorry it's been quiet. There's been a lot going on in my head, and a lot I can't really discuss on here, but I'm feeling my blogging mojo come back, so expect RuReviews to be getting back to form!

I hope you've had a great Bank Holiday Weekend!

Love

Ru x

This week I'm loving....

2013-04-08T05:20:00.000-07:00

Hi all! I hope you've had a great weekend. I've been loving all the monthly favourite posts on the bloggosphere at the mo, so I thought I'd do a little favourites post of my own!

These are things I've been loving recently, not necessarily the last month, I hope you like them too.

Nashville

This show has a kind of Desperate Housewives vibe to it- it's about Nashville country singers and has 3 different branches, a Miley Cyrus-esque starlet, a country music legend and a young couple trying to make it. But my main rave about this show is that the songs are AMAZING. And you get to hear them in full, which is great. Really, give it a go.

More 4, Thursdays at 10PM

Instagram

I'm loving Instagram. I used to be really into it but I kind of went off the boil. But something triggered my mind the other day, and I'm diving straight in again. Check me out- I'm RuReviews on there too!

Vogue "Today I'm Wearing"

I love this feature on the Vogue website. They pick a stylish individual and ask them to take a photo of their outfit every day. It's really great for inspiration. Similarly I love outfit of the day posts from bloggers, but I like the Vogue feature because it's all in the same place. http://www.vogue.co.uk/photo-blogs.

Here's my week in pictures, have a great week!:

My very first fishtail braid, my Saturday morning haul! (Vogue, Heat, Star, a Cornetto and a Twister for the Other Half), and my adventurous lunch break out and about.

I've been eBaying!

2013-04-05T19:13:00.000-07:00

I've really been feeling the joys of spring recently, haven't you? It's amazing what a little bit more daylight can do to lift the spirits!

As you'll know, I've been spring cleaning recently, and a big part of that for me has been finding things to possibly sell. Now I have a couple of boxes for a possible car boot sale, (which I'll blog about), but as I'm out of practise I thought I'd start with eBaying.

Now I'm sure you're familiar with eBay, you may have even dabbled a while back, but I'm here to tell you now's the time to dive back on in. Spring is the ideal time to sell because you can declutter, and assess what you really used in winter and what you should let go of.

In spring, and certainly in summer, you'll want to have as little clutter hanging around as possible. What can pass as cosy charming clutter around Christmas-time really can look too much once it's barbecue season (if we get one this year!).

As for me, I've been through my wardobe and am passing on clothing that I don't use, in the hope of purchasing items that I will!

Here's mini tips if you're rusty:

Is it a "label"? Now it doesn't have to be Chanel or Fendi, but eBay buyers search using specific terms ("river island size 10 jeans", rather than just "jeans"), so you're more likely to catch hits with a name behind you. Also people like a name they can trust, so if they know they like a shop's designs they'll invest more in the idea of what you're selling.
Is it in good condition? I wouldn't bother selling anything grubby or overly used. Just think, what would you want to buy?
Search for similar on eBay already, and see how much they are selling for. If it's only a couple of quid you might not find it worth your while.
In my opinion 5 day auctions are the best time length to choose. Just enough that people have time to find your product, not enough time that they're bored.
Wait for free insertion weekends. This means eBay drops the price they charge you to post the item on the site, so you might save a little bit.
Post multiple things on at once, so that you can make one trip to the Post Office.
Ask for a receipt at the Post Office. Keep it, and label it with the item which it corresponds to.
Keep any tidy packet bags from purchases you've made. Sometimes you can turn them inside out (remove your address details), and use them again. Same with Jiffy bags.
If you work in an office, and it's the kind of place that wouldn't mind, you could use the post room to help with eBaying. Don't be dodgy, but you can weigh a package and find out a postage cost, or use their guides to see how your package would be classed (letter, large letter etc).

If you're totally new, sign up to eBay and follow their brilliant guides to get yourself aquianted with how it all works. Happy selling!

Hope you're well

Ru x

March Empties

2013-04-02T11:16:00.000-07:00

Keep Calm and Shampoo and Condition,

Tesco Wake Up! Lemon and Tea Tree Shower Creme,

E45 Moisturising Lotion, Sanex Dermo Invisible Deoderant,

Sure Crystal Deoderant,

Clairol Colourseal Conditioning Gloss in Blonde and Brunette

A little bit of a shake up in format this month- I thought it was needed, as these empties are so basic!

I feel like I've been really thrifty this month, I've barely bought I thing! Something tells me this is likely to change, as I've noticed I really don't have very many tops, or summer clothing, so I'm saving a bit of a stash of money to kit myself out for warmer weather (should we get any!). I've also been selling some of my unwanted things on eBay, which will give me a bit of pocket money, as it were. So watch this space!

Anyway, a lot of these empties have been featured before, like my beloved 99p store "Keep Calm" Shampoo. I'm actually on my third bottle at the moment, it's becoming a bit of a theme. Or my Clairol mini tubes, that come free with your box of hairdye. Super thrifty, don't you think?

And then I've recently realised I'm a bit of a deoderant hoarder. I think it comes from a fear of being caught short. So getting through 2 has reduced my stash a fair bit.

e45 was actually medically recommended when I was on some medication that left me very dry, and it really does do what it says on the bottle. This has lasted me years as well, as it's a huge bottle. And of course I love a pump action bottle- so much cleaner and easier to operate.

I've loved the lemon shower gel from Tesco too, but I think it's actually no cheaper than Original Source, which is the original, and for a simular amount.

Well there you go- a low down on my month in products. I hope you've had a great month- i can't believe it's nearly April!

All the best

Ru x

My Wardrobe Tour

2013-03-29T07:23:00.001-07:00

Well, I posted a while ago about trying to streamline my possessions and be a little bit more motivated to be organised. And here's how it's going:

It's a bit more of a process than I realised. It's not that I'm a hoarder or anything, I just want to get everything right. Not half done- in a place that looks good, is convenient, and suits my needs. You know like when you see photos of perfectly organised Muji drawers full of make up, or an Instagram tableau of shabby chic objet d'art? I kind of want that at every turn. Yep, that's my problem.
I'm hitting an area at a time, because it's less daunting and more rewarding.
I thought I'd post about ideas that work for me, ideas that don't, things like that. And hopefully if it's public record I'll feel ashamed not to keep it up!

So with that in mind, here's some pics of my wardrobe, as it is now, post tidy. I'm happy that everything is easily accessible, organised in a way that makes sense, and it's even helped me to see what I don't have enough of, and what I have more than enough of!

So there's the shoes in 2 tubs in the front, with boots at the back. The plastic drawers have skirts, trousers and pyjamas in. And there's bags on the top in a box.

Then the hanging shelves have tops and jumpers. The hanging section is coats, jackets and dresses.

I then have a bag on each side, hung up on hangers. One is for clutch bags and one for belts.

It's not the tidiest set up, but it's working for me! It sounds so cheesy but it really has helped me to see what I have, and hopefully to encourage me to change it up a bit.

If you're having a big clear out over the long weekend I'd love to hear how it's gone. Leave me a message!

Wish me luck- I've got plenty more to organise!

Happy Easter!

Ru x

An Ode to A Faithful Pair of Shoes

2013-03-25T14:00:00.000-07:00

These shoes may not look that remarkable to you, but to me they have been a special addition to my wardrobe.

I'm sure we all have items like this- normal pieces to the untrained eye, but with a touch of magic. But as any good magician knows, you've got to drop the curtain while they're still wanting more. And these poor pumps have sadly had their last outing.

To celebrate the life of a trusty, versatile old friend, let me share their story:

My first introductions to ballet pumps, aged perhaps 12 or 13, were a pinchy-too tight red patent pair and a saggy gold shimmery pair. I was told that ballet pumps were the perfect addition to a young woman's wardrobe. "They go with anything", I was told. "Summer, autumn, skirts, trousers, tights, bare legs.." I was told. But I bought pairs which just plain didn't fit. I got caught in the trap of finding the pair in store that were closest to my size and going for them, instead of buying a pair that felt true to my feet. This taught me a valuable lesson.

Of course the first couple of pairs I bought were never going to go with anything anyway. Considering I most frequently wear ballet pumps now with black tights to work, the gold pair would never have done. And red patent leather only goes with a certain amount of items, as we all know, actually just about the only thing it did naturally go with were blisters.

After all this faff I'd just about given up hope. I certainly didn't think I'd get more than one wear out of these. You see I bought them for my Dad's wedding, to go with a bridesmaid dress which was a similar colour. They were only really bought so that I wouldn't be distractingly tall, in high heel induced pain, or barefoot.

Well even after their first outing they lay dormant for at least a year. For some reason I decided to give them a go again, and the rest is history. I've worn them in every job I've ever had, with just about every outfit in my wardrobe, and I've fished them out the bin more than once, when I just couldn't face parting with them.

But the poor things are losing their shape, which means they are becoming quite uncomfortable, and arent the safest shoes to drive in. So the love affair sadly has to end.

Goodbye old friends! It's been great while it lasted!

Shopping your wardrobe

2013-03-18T11:30:00.000-07:00

I know I've mentioned this before but I'm horrendously messy. Well I can be. I'm a perfectionist, and as any of you who are too will know, that comes with certain behaviours- one being a fixation on one particular area to the detriment of another. So the living room can be perfectly tidy, whilst the bedroom is a total mess. Hence I'm writing this particular post in the living room. Seriously, it's bad up there.

Another side effect of the mountain of clothing on my floor, other than the fear of being crushed in my sleep by an avalanche of rogue jeans and heavy jumpers, is that I don't really know what I have. I can't visualise my entire wardrobe as one.

So my mission is to get everything all in one place, and sift through exactly what I have. Yep, that's right. I'm getting everything washed, put away, and ready to be analysed.

Do you have this problem? Does it always seem that your best outfits are in the wash, or you have nothing to wear although your cupboards are brimming?

I'll report back when my mission has been accomplished.

Wish me luck!

Ru xx

March Money roundup

2013-03-15T13:17:00.000-07:00

Alright lovelies?

So in January we all decided to do a spending ban, or tightening of our belts, or some other money-based provision.

I don't know about you but my spending ban didn't last very long. It's not that I spent a lot of money, in fact I think I only bought a handful of things in January, but I found a spending ban a very cut and dry concept.

Then in February I went off on holiday, which to be frank gave me the shock of my life. We quite literally ran out of money, to the point where we were measuring out how many meals we could have until we left for home. And if that doesn't put a rocket up your arse to save a bit of money I don't know what will.

So in March I have been very good indeed. I think I've bought one thing for myself, a travel perfume atomiser for £1.64, because I want to have some of my perfume in my handbag rather than buying something new for that purpose. I feel more virtuous and I'm relieved to think I may have gained a little bit more control back.

I'm also really trying to "shop my stash", and won't be buying anything unnecessary for a while. I just don't enjoy it if I think I can't afford it, don't you think?

So how have you been doing financially since January? I hope you've weathered the twin terrors of Valentine's Day and Mother's Day with your purse intact. I'll be catching up with you like this every couple of months because I think it's important not to stop when January does. And hell, if things go well I'll be making more of an impact with sustained sensible habits than with an outright ban.

All the best!

Ru x

Starting a Diary...in March?!

2013-03-12T11:18:00.000-07:00

I found this little beauty in my latest clear-out (one of many), and thought I should share.

It's a question and answer diary for 5 years, which I'm really excited about. I love to look back on little comments I've made in journals in the past, and the though of looking back on 5 years all in one little book is so exciting to me.

It also allows you to assess things you normally perhaps wouldn't mention in a diary, like the last song you listened to, or the last person you ignored. I really like this aspect of it, kind of like therapy, asking questions that make you think a little bit deeper.

It's the size of your hand, so you can even put it in your handbag to make sure you never miss an entry. And you can start it at any blooming time of year you like.

This one is available on Amazon at the moment for a sale price of £7.46. Not bad considering they go for a whopping £14 on notonthehighstreet.com

February Empties

2013-03-09T11:07:00.001-08:00

Hi lovelies!

I know, I know, I've been gone for a while. I'm sorry guys, but I needed a break I think. I didn't plan it, but I think I needed a while to really get my blog mojo back. So let's jump right in shall we?

Well, I know my February empties are a tad late, but let's face it fellow bloggers, it's a nightmare getting any natural light these days, isn't it? I even had to take these pics in my very unglamourous (a nice new word for your dictionaries) kitchen.

Please excuse my lack of links. I don't want to direct you to a website or store where you'll pay over the odds, so I'll leave it up to you to find the best bargain out there.

No. 7 Soft and Soothed Cleanser
I use this to take my make up off. I have had acne in the past, so I'm not very trusting with skin products that are strong, and this has worked for me in the past fairly well, so I'm sticking with it. It's not something I rave about, I do find it can sting sometimes, and I have to wash the residue away sometimes, which I don't think is planned, but it's plain and it takes even waterproof mascara on.

Oral B Pro Expert toothpaste
I know toothpaste is a bit "out there" for an empties post but this genuinely impressed me. It gives you a REALLY fresh feeling mouth, and the sensation that you've been to the dentist, without any of the terror of an actual visit. Not bad, eh?

Chit Chat concealer pen
This is from Poundland's own brand- I don't know the exact name because mine has long since worn off, but they only do one. I'm not sure about the converage on this, but if you want to give these type pens a go it's a good little test.

Poundland Eye Makeup remover wipes
Also from Poundland, these sting on my eyes a little bit, but they are perfect for taking lipstick off, especially long lasting lipstick, which I find really tricky to remove.

Simple shampoo
I bought this bottle from the 99p store and I didn't have very high expectations for it to be honest, but I think it's great. A good, simple shampoo, great for when you have product build up going on. great for getting your hair equilibrium back.

Clairol conditioner
I mention these in every empties post so I'll keep it brief- you get these free with hair dyes, I use them to shave with as well as on the tips of my hair. I get through at least 1 every month, and I'm actually nearly through my backlog of them

Keep Clean and Shower shower gel
I love this range, which is available in Poundland (again! I know, aren't I thrifty?!). There are at least 3 scents, and tonnes of different products. This was fig and cassis. I did a post on it at the time, because I was amazed that I could buy something with a Jo Malone vibe for a quid.

Sure deoderant
This smells lovely but I still sweated. So draw your own conclusions, I'm on the fence.

I'm really making it a mission of mine to "shop my stash" so I'm pleased that I have a fair few empties this month. Long may it continue! Shopping your stash (assessing what you have and using products that you don't often use), is a good way to save money and save waste- if you're feeling the pinch give it a go!

'Til next time!

Ru xx

If you do one thing this week: Cheer Up!

2013-02-25T11:30:00.000-08:00

I'm the first to admit that I've been quite down recently, but I've been feeling a little bit sunnier since the start of this week. I don't know exactly why this has happened, but it's really made me realise how important it is to try to be cheerful.

So here's a couple of things that I've found help me when I feel a dark cloud mounting:

Find your misery trigger:
A big thing for me is feeling out of control. My finances have been totally out of control recently, but I hit rock bottom and I'm determind to address it. Hoepfully having a plan in place will make me feel more prepared.

Write a list of achievements in your life so far:
If it's driving somehwere that's far away (and a little bit scary), or having a good relationship with your family, it's good to value your achievements.

Ditch your watch this weekend:
Don't wish your life away in the week, and don't stress about a schedule on the weekends. You deserve this time, so use it however you like.

I'm thinking of doing posts like this more regularly- what do you think?
Let me know

Wishing you a cheerful week

Ru x

Ru Reviews: Real Housewives of Beverley Hills

2013-02-20T11:00:00.000-08:00

"The Real Housewives of Beverley Hills" looking gorgeous. Thanks to bravotv.com for the pic.

I thought it's high time to introduce these fabulous ladies to you fabulous ladies.

If you haven't heard of the Real Housewives franchise before, there are Real Housewives based in Orange County, New York, Atlanta, New Jersey and Beverley Hills. The shows follow a group of 40 and 50 something ladies and their social occasions, with the common thread being that they are all very wealthy, very glam, and there's an awful lot of drama. ITV2 currently show the series based in Beverley Hills and Orange County.

Real Housewives of Beverley Hills- 10.35-11.35 and 16.10- 17.05 weekdays

Real housewives of Orange County- 11.35 - 12.30 and 17.05 - 18.00 weekdays

I have to say I have a bit of a soft spot for trashy reality TV (TOWIE, I've missed you), and this show ticks all the right buttons for me. But if you don't like reality TV, this probably isn't so much for you- some of the dramas do drag on a little bit longer than you'd want, and it can be quite shallow.

"The Real Housewives of Orange County"- perkier, blonder, just as much as drama

However the show does touch on some really serious points. Taylor from the Real Housewives of Beverley Hills is a victim of domestic violence for example, and you see the strain that hiding this and trying to support her puts on the group, and her struggle. It's uncomfortable at points, but I really feel that I've learnt about domestic violence from watching it.

I think once you learn all the different characters, and their history with eachother, this is really addictive viewing. So here's my top 5 reasons why you'll love it-

5 reasons you'll like it:

Each episode has a recurring drama, or some sort of issue, which I really like, because you can assess how each character handles things, what they should have done, and who's out of line. I think this helps me to handle confrontations in my own life, because you can see how not to do it!
You can get a peek inside some gorgeous (huge) houses. I love how much space they have, I'm definitely jealous. Heather from Orange County (below, middle,the only brunette of the group) and Adrianne from Beverley Hills (top photo, top right, in the icy blue dress) are particularly wealthy and have jaw-dropping homes.
They are very glam- for somebody like me, seeing Chanel bags and heels out in action brings a smile to my face. The world needs more glam.
Both of these series are set in a sunny location, which I love. Who doesn't want a palm tree or two in February in Britain, beaming straight into your living room?
There are 2 episodes of each show every weekday. The earlier showing is the show from the previous day, whereas the later showing in the day is brand new. So if you miss the evening showing you can catch it the next working day.

I'm upping my game!

2013-02-16T05:06:00.003-08:00

Hi all! I hope you've had an awesome week. I've had a good week actually, I often feel really overwhelmed and kind of numb, especially with work, but I have felt so powerful and in control this week, it's been really great.

I'm feeling kind of liberated that my online course is coming to and end (sort of), and am really excited to use the extra time it will leave me to really up my game on the blogging front. So I thought I'd start by changing the layout around a little bit, but it's an ongoing process, so if it looks a little bit dodgy on occasions bear with me!

I really feel like my blog is a challenge to me, and an oppurtunity for me to learn different things and create something that I can really be proud of. So I'm plunging myself into this world of pixel widths and widgets and really trying to get a grasp of it.

Wish me luck!

Ru x

Valentine's Day. Spend VS Splurge

2013-02-10T14:27:00.004-08:00

Hi all! Now that I'm back from my trip I thought the next "big thing" would be Valentine's Day. Now this is always a bit of a contentious occasion, I think, both for the coupled up and for the single ladies amongst us. But it doesn't have to be.

I thought I'd share with you what my plans are for Valentine's Day, and some words of wisdom that I've learnt along the way for how to deal with this time of year- both through Splurging and Saving, and whether you're single or coupled up.

What I'm doing:
I'm personally still dealing with the aftermath of Christmas, and all the mess and clutter that the lovely holiday season brings, so the last thing I feel like I need is gifts at the moment. My other half feels the same, and we're both a bit strapped for cash, so we thought a good way around this would be to put together any cash we would have spent on pressies, and use it to treat ourselves to a day out or a meal. This will end up cheaper because on a usual Valentine's Day we would spend out on the meal, the day out AND the presents.

If you're coupled up:
Save:
- Thrifty measures you could take would be to make your own cards or presents, which is a much more personal touch than buying things, and lovely to keep to look back on.
Splurge:
- Also a nice idea would be to club together your money and buy something together to share- for example if you live together you could buy something for the home. This is quite sweet I think because you're sharing something and using it together.

If you're single:
Save:
- Now is the perfect time to spend some time with family and girlfriends. If you're coupled up you're committed to dedicating this time to your boyfriend or girlfriend, but being single you can really do whatever you fancy. Take advantage of this time.
Splurge:
- You can still buy yourself something if you fancy- maybe something you wouldn't be able to buy in a couple, like glam girly bedding. You haven't got a stinky man to moan about the pink or cover the sheets with man-sweat. Also you can buy gorgeous shoes and bags without having to justify the price tag.

And a couple of words to keep you sane:
- The size, thoughtfulness and expense of a present is not necessarily related to how much the individual loves or cares about you. Some people are are just not good at buying presents.
- Not everybody in a couple is happy, in the same way that not everybody who is single is unhappy.

So there you go- my view on this tricky little holiday. Just remember, whether it's the love element or the finances you're concerned about, it's only a day, enjoy it like any other.

See you soon! Ru x

I'm back! Photos from Rome.

2013-02-10T13:32:00.003-08:00

Hi gorgeous followers (and droppers by)! I'm back from my trip and couldn't wait to show you some photos I've taken. I literally thought about the blog with every photo I took, and I was so excited to do this post! I thought I'd make it quick and easy, there's nothing worse than endless photos and stories from somebody else's trip.

Now that I'm back I'm really embracing this as a fresh start- I think trips away do that for you, they're ideal for breaking up the year and refreshing your spirit.

So there you go-I'm back and ready for a new beginning, and I hope you are too!

See you soon!