tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35977522857005348572017-03-12T17:11:07.490+00:00Ruby Ruby Slippers // Scottish and NYC lifestyle, fashion and fitness blogRuby Ruby Slippers - A Scottish and NYC lifestyle blog by Li, with posts on fashion, travel, music, fitness and food. I write about things I love.Liannehttps://plus.google.com/109956492942340529906noreply@blogger.comBlogger328125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3597752285700534857.post-78484488789988278672016-03-05T07:00:00.000+00:002016-03-05T07:00:07.509+00:00#328. 26 things I love about NYC<div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_f04hU8f5jI/Vh08RB1VjII/AAAAAAAAGcY/u-ngEXk-2_o/s1600/Central%2BPark%2Breservoir%252C%2BNYC.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Central Park Reservoir. Li, a Scottish and NYC lifestyle blogger talks about the 26 things that she loves about NYC" border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_f04hU8f5jI/Vh08RB1VjII/AAAAAAAAGcY/u-ngEXk-2_o/s1600/Central%2BPark%2Breservoir%252C%2BNYC.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Central Park Reservoir. Li, a Scottish and NYC lifestyle blogger talks about the 26 things that she loves about NYC" /></a></div><br />Wow! You know how people always say time flies? Well, I completely feel that. This week we will have been living in NYC for 6 MONTHS! How scary is that?!?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">In some ways, I feel like I have been living in the Big Apple for ever. I feel settled, know how to navigate the subway and have made some wonderful friends. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">But in other ways the time has just flown in and I feel that it was only last week that we moved to this wonderful city. 6 months is a really long time and it is amazing how much has changed in a year. In March 2015, NYC wasn't even on our radars. We were busy getting ready for our wedding in May and constantly thinking about colours, dresses and seating plans. Fast forward, a year and I'm sitting in our cozy NYC apartment with a big mug of tea, searching for work, blogging and loving life in our new adopted home.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">So, I thought I would share my favourite things about the Big Apple. Here's what I love about NYC.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><ul><li>Everything is open all the time. NYC really is the city that never sleeps and everything is just so damn convenient. Fancy a doughnut or pad thai or a bubble tea at 3am? Easy street.</li></ul></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><ul><li>Each area of the city is so different and has a unique vibe, which makes it perfect to explore. No matter what sort of mood you are in, you can find somewhere to suit and have a great time. From laid back cocktails in the East Village, to hipster brunch spots in Brooklyn, culture galore on Museum Mile in the Upper East Side and speakeasy bars in Flatiron, the city really does have something for everyone.</li></ul></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><ul><li>There are surprises literally around every corner, from sculptures to amazing street or <a href="http://rubyrubyslippers.blogspot.co.uk/2015/11/285-subway-station-art-tom-otternesss.html" target="_blank">subway art</a>, festivals, <a href="http://rubyrubyslippers.blogspot.co.uk/2015/11/291-taking-cablecar-to-roosevelt-island.html" target="_blank">cable cars</a> and <a href="http://rubyrubyslippers.blogspot.co.uk/2015/11/289-visit-to-kings-county-whiskey.html" target="_blank">whiskey distilleries</a>, to street performers and film sets. Everyday I leave the house wondering what I'm going to discover, which is pretty exciting.</li></ul></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><ul><li>There is so much green space. Although NYC is a fully developed city and real estate heaven with construction seeming to happen on every corner, the untouched eden of <a href="http://rubyrubyslippers.blogspot.co.uk/2015/10/264-autumn-thoughts-in-central-park-nyc.html" target="_blank">Central Park</a> is amazing. In five minutes you can be lost in the beauty of this green space, well away from the honking of cars and busyness of the streets. I try to head to the park at least once a week for some calm and always discover something new, it's just that big. </li></ul><div><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9P_vZuxTxaM/Vi6XLb_E38I/AAAAAAAAGwY/giY5ERG8c94/s1600/Halloween%2BDog%2BParade%2Bat%2BTompkins%2BSquare%2BPark%2B2015%252C%2BNYC.%2BImage%2B26.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="NYC Halloween Dog Parade. Li, a Scottish and NYC lifestyle blogger talks about the 26 things that she loves about NYC" border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9P_vZuxTxaM/Vi6XLb_E38I/AAAAAAAAGwY/giY5ERG8c94/s1600/Halloween%2BDog%2BParade%2Bat%2BTompkins%2BSquare%2BPark%2B2015%252C%2BNYC.%2BImage%2B26.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="NYC Halloween Dog Parade. Li, a Scottish and NYC lifestyle blogger talks about the 26 things that she loves about NYC" /></a></div><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><ul><li>Everything is just so big. Things in NYC are the epitome of bigger is better mentality. From the skyscrapers to the shops, the burgers to the cocktails. It's all just so bright and vibrant, that you can't help but feel incredibly small wandering around in the mix of it all. It really is a grounding experience.</li></ul></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><ul><li>There is an energy in NYC that cannot be described but it will draw you in and is pretty addictive. Everyone is always on the go, trying something new. This energy makes want to go out, explore and make the most of the time you have, which can only be a good thing. No FOMO for this gal.</li></ul></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><ul><li>There is so much to do and see that you could never be bored in NYC. To explore the city fully would take your whole life I expect. From top culture and word class theatre, delicious restaurants and truly special cocktails. NYC really does have you covered.</li></ul><ul><li>The choice of theatre. There is just SO MUCH theatre to watch that it makes me such a happy person. I could quite easily, single handedly keep the Broadway theatres in business. </li></ul></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><ul><li>The cocktail and speakeasy culture. Cocktails are such a big thing in NYC and Robin and I have been slowly working our way from bar to bar, Manhattan to Manhattan, sampling ALL the drinks. I love that bars are hidden from the naked eye, behind secret doors in barber shops or at the back of 5 Guys. There is just something about them that is so much cooler than going to a regular bar and you feel like you are part of a secret. I also discovered my love of whisky in NYC.... yes it took me leaving Scotland, the land of whisky, to discover my love for it. I owe our favourites Attaboy, with their whisky based penicillin cocktail a debt.</li></ul><div><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Dx3eux49gtM/VqkKJs-qmHI/AAAAAAAAHRA/6YG0fNvUvGM/s1600/Snow%2Bphotos%2Bfrom%2Bthe%2Bwinter%2Bblizzard%2Bin%2BNYC%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B1.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Snow in the Upper East Side, NYC. Li, a Scottish and NYC lifestyle blogger talks about the 26 things that she loves about NYC" border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Dx3eux49gtM/VqkKJs-qmHI/AAAAAAAAHRA/6YG0fNvUvGM/s1600/Snow%2Bphotos%2Bfrom%2Bthe%2Bwinter%2Bblizzard%2Bin%2BNYC%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B1.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Snow in the Upper East Side, NYC. Li, a Scottish and NYC lifestyle blogger talks about the 26 things that she loves about NYC" /></a></div><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><ul><li>The brunch culture. GUYS, BRUNCH HERE IS SO GOOD! IN NYC, brunch is done right with thick croque monsieurs covered in cheese, baked eggs and my ultimate favourite, smashed avocado on toast with a poached eggs. Food heaven right there baby. Bottomless mimosas with brunch are also entirely acceptable and encouraged, which makes for a pretty fun start to your weekend. I love <a href="http://www.thesmilenyc.com/" target="_blank">The Smile</a>, <a href="http://jackswifefreda.com/" target="_blank">Jacks Wife Freda</a>, <a href="http://www.penrosebar.com/" target="_blank">The Penrose</a>, <a href="http://www.penelopenyc.com/" target="_blank">Penelope</a> and <a href="http://www.pmf.nyc/" target="_blank">Pardon my French</a>.</li></ul></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><ul><li>There is a lot of history in NYC but not a lot of it is noticeable at first glance,like cities in Europe. The modern NYC, with all it's tall buildings can disguise the history and so I love being able to discover surprising stories, sometimes hidden right in plain view.</li></ul></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><ul><li>Talking about views...There are just so many amazing views and I don't think you can get a better sight that the NYC skyline. Whenever I seen it I often have to pinch myself, as I still can't believe that I am lucky enough to live here sometimes. I love walking along The High Line at sunset. It's stunning and sometimes the sunsets really do take your breath away. Top of the Rock is also beautiful at sunset and dusk, when you see the city lights starting to wake up.</li></ul></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><ul><li>The countryside and some wonderful wild areas are only a short train ride away. Although NYC is pretty ace, sometimes you want to get away from all the hustle and bustle and it's so easy to do that. In an hour and a half you can be somewhere as pretty as <a href="http://rubyrubyslippers.blogspot.co.uk/2015/10/280-day-trip-to-see-fall-colours-in.html" target="_blank">Coldspring</a> or <a href="http://rubyrubyslippers.blogspot.co.uk/2015/11/297-hiking-in-bear-mountain-state-park.html" target="_blank">Bear Mountain</a>, perfect for long walks and fresh air.</li></ul></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><ul><li>There are so may places to eat that if you wanted you would never have to eat at the same place twice. Every sort of cuisine, dietary requirement and budget is catered to and easy to find. Now, I am a creature of habit and so I enjoy going back to the same restaurants, especially when I've had a good meal. Some of my favourites are <a href="http://hukitchen.com/" target="_blank">Hu Kitchen</a>, <a href="http://almondrestaurant.com/" target="_blank">Almond</a>, <a href="http://gingersnapsorganic.com/" target="_blank">Gingersnap Organic</a> and <a href="http://www.bareburger.com/" target="_blank">Bare Burger</a>. Oh and <a href="http://www.cafelalo.com/" target="_blank">Cafe Lalo</a> for cake! The restaurants are also really experimental with food and I've enjoyed a ramen burger, a rainbow bagel and a cronut since moving to the city.</li></ul><div><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l9GbkJ3Z_sY/VhbiphRt4kI/AAAAAAAAGb0/Uz1ECrK2wVY/s1600/Cafe%2BLalo%252C%2BNYC.%2BImage%2B7.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Cheesecake at Cafe Lalo, NYC. Li, a Scottish and NYC lifestyle blogger talks about the 26 things that she loves about NYC" border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l9GbkJ3Z_sY/VhbiphRt4kI/AAAAAAAAGb0/Uz1ECrK2wVY/s1600/Cafe%2BLalo%252C%2BNYC.%2BImage%2B7.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Cheesecake at Cafe Lalo, NYC. Li, a Scottish and NYC lifestyle blogger talks about the 26 things that she loves about NYC" /></a></div><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><ul><li>Don't fancy going out? No worries as most of your favourite restaurants will deliver takeaway to your house! A nifty little app called Seamless is wonderful for grouping together all the restaurants nearby that do takeaway, making ordering quick and easy and hey presto, your yummy dinner is at your doorstep in half an hour. I like Seamless a lot as the choice is huge and you aren't just restricted to traditional takeaway food or pizza, currys and burgers, nice as they are. Hiya sushi!</li></ul></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><ul><li>The city is so laid back that you could literally wear anything and no one would take a second look. This mentality has made me a lot more confident in my outfit choices and more experimental too.</li></ul></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><ul><li>The subway makes it so easy to get around! Its ace. Also if you are lucky you might see a pizza rat equivalent and break the internet.</li></ul></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><ul><li>There is some festival or fun event every weekend to take part in. I loved the <a href="http://rubyrubyslippers.blogspot.co.uk/2015/11/293-halloween-parade-2015-nyc.html" target="_blank">Halloween parade </a>and <a href="http://rubyrubyslippers.blogspot.co.uk/2015/11/287-east-village-halloween-dog-parade.html" target="_blank">Halloween Dog Parade</a> in October and in a few weeks time I'm going to a giant pillow fight. Yup, you read that right.</li></ul></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><ul><li>It's pop up heaven, from shops to restaurants to bars to museums. The NYC scene is constantly changing and a place that was there one week will be gone the next. My favourite so far has been the <a href="http://rubyrubyslippers.blogspot.com/2015/12/316-exploring-museum-of-feelings-nyc.html" target="_blank">Museum of Feelings</a> that I visited before Christmas.</li></ul><div><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IGgLGfp4ovI/VgWyAACVKYI/AAAAAAAAGTM/b2IH4w7Oeo4/s1600/IMG_0656%2B%2528Copy%2529%2B%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="TRex at the Museum of Natural History, NYC. Li, a Scottish and NYC lifestyle blogger talks about the 26 things that she loves about NYC" border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IGgLGfp4ovI/VgWyAACVKYI/AAAAAAAAGTM/b2IH4w7Oeo4/s1600/IMG_0656%2B%2528Copy%2529%2B%25282%2529.JPG" title="TRex at the Museum of Natural History, NYC. Li, a Scottish and NYC lifestyle blogger talks about the 26 things that she loves about NYC" /></a></div><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><ul><li>There are tasty as food trucks on every corner all which smell amazing, so you can never be short of a tasty snack or two. When we moved here I couldn't understand why there were queues at food trucks as my experience of them from the UK, other than Edinburgh Fringe time, was greasy burgers and chips. But my tiny mind was soon blown by how good they are. Fresh, tasty food, fast. My favourite is Falafel King - HELLO!</li></ul></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><ul><li><a href="http://rubyrubyslippers.blogspot.com/2016/01/321-nyc-snow-days.html" target="_blank">The snow</a> and the city wide car ban. I have never seen anything like it in my whole life and I loved it so much. It was like being in Narnia.</li></ul></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><ul><li>Robin and I live only one block from the East River, which makes it the perfect place to go for a run or a long walk and gaze back down towards the city. It is so nice to have a small bit of green space so near us.</li></ul></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><ul><li>In true Taurus fashion, I like certain things. So I was a bit anxious about being able to find the taste of home, i.e.. Yorkshire tea bags and Irn Bru which are my absolute favourites and a necessity for a fully functioning Li. Luckily for me you can find whatever you want in the city pretty easily and there is something to make everyone feel like home, no matter how specific a craving. I found Irn Bru within a week of arriving at a cute little shop in Greenwich Village called <a href="http://www.teaandsympathy.com/#!store/cee5" target="_blank">Tea and Sympathy</a>, which stocks all manor of UK goodies even maltesers for the inevitable malteser based emergency, so I'm sorted. </li></ul></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><ul><li>Every inch of the city looks iconic. It probably is as there's a high chance you will have seen it in a movie. One of my favourite games is to try and guess what movie I've seen a specific landmark in. My recent discovery was working out that the National Museum of the American Indian was actually in Ghostbusters!</li></ul></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><ul><li>There is a rooftop bar for every occasion because there is nothing better that drinking outside. It makes you feel like you are constantly on holiday.</li></ul><div><br /></div><ul><li>The people may sometimes seem scary but strike up a conversation and they are the friendliest ever. I've now met friends in a dumpling shop, at theatre festival and in taxi, after being brave and starting to chat. You really do meet people in the most random of ways and it's great! </li></ul></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />What are your favourite things about NYC?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div>Liannehttps://plus.google.com/109956492942340529906noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3597752285700534857.post-35155432630703734942016-03-01T06:00:00.000+00:002016-03-01T21:14:31.622+00:00#327. February 2016 gratitude list<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Nlu9iVajkws/VtUBzUEQMJI/AAAAAAAAHUM/3floVfz6grk/s1600/February%2B2016%2Bgratitude%2Blist.%2BConey%2BIsland%2Bin%2Bwinter%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B1.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw%2B%2528Copy%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Nlu9iVajkws/VtUBzUEQMJI/AAAAAAAAHUM/3floVfz6grk/s1600/February%2B2016%2Bgratitude%2Blist.%2BConey%2BIsland%2Bin%2Bwinter%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B1.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw%2B%2528Copy%2529.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">As I'm writing this its about 12 hours away from being the start of March and I for one can't wait. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">This morning it was pouring in NYC. That real heavy monsoon esc rain where it bounces off the pavements and you feel like the rain is coming from every angle. So I arrived at yoga a soggy mess, looking like I had just decided to shower with all my clothes on then walk into class. The rain just got everywhere.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">But an hour and a half later, the sun was beating down, warming me right to my bones. All thoughts of rain forgotten, I bought a bangin' smoothie and walked home with a spring in my step, feeling like a badass listening to Beyonce. NYC smelled like Spring today and I couldn't help but smile. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I think that's as good a way as any to start off my February gratitude list. I've been writing a short gratitude list in my Happiness Planner every evening before bed. I've been finding that it really is helping me to be a lot more positive about things, as there is always something fun to write, however small. Actively trying to find the happiness in every day has been working wonders for my general mood, especially when this month has been tough with job hunting. Onwards and upwards as they say.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><ul><li style="text-align: justify;">Walking home from yoga with a delicious smoothie in the sunshine, singing along to Beyonce</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Being inside when it's raining heavily and just listening to it pour </li><li style="text-align: justify;">This article about <a href="http://www.buzzfeed.com/nathanwpyle/this-teacher-taught-his-class-a-powerful-lesson-about-privil#.psM6B9Jge" target="_blank">privilage</a></li><li style="text-align: justify;">Discovering <a href="http://www.babevibes.com/" target="_blank">Babe Vibes</a> </li><li style="text-align: justify;">These <a href="http://ithelpstodream.tumblr.com/post/130256593372/flower-power-pit-bulls-of-the-revolution" target="_blank">dogs</a> made me smile so much</li><li style="text-align: justify;">This <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xO1vVAb7BKk" target="_blank">video</a> </li><li style="text-align: justify;">Emails from friends</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vT74LH0W8ig" target="_blank">THIS POEM</a> - pals, please please give it a watch. It's pretty special</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Discovering a new organic cafe where I can eat Whole30</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Saying yes to being Box Office Manager for an exciting show in Brooklyn during March</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Having nice compliments on my blog</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Free tea refills</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.waterpainteddreams.com/2016/02/leiden-netherlands.html" target="_blank">Hayley's post</a> really makes me want to visit Leiden</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Going to see a series of short plays with a friend and chatting afterwards about feminism, tattoos and saying yes</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Supportive friends</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Seeing Coney Island in the winter</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Reading this refreshingly honest post from <a href="http://www.arosieoutlook.com/2016/02/losing-my-weight-loss-mojo.html" target="_blank">Rosie</a>. I have been there so many times and understand completely</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Getting separated from Robin on the subway and laughing goodbye as the doors closed and the train pulled away, like in a romcom</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Alphabet date A to the Whitney art gallery</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Fun slogan badges</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://jasmincharlotte.com/2016/02/jc-chats-happiness-link-up-3-10-happy-things-29/" target="_blank">Jasmin's</a> happy posts</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Feeling myself getting stronger doing Kayla Itsines Bikini body workout plan</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Coming third in a F.R.I.E.N.D.S trivia night</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Sending care packages</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Pushing myself through workouts to Timber</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Getting my new copy of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Radical-Self-Love-Loving-Yourself/dp/0692441271" target="_blank">Radical Self Love</a> in the post</li><li style="text-align: justify;">RSVPing to a friends wedding</li><li style="text-align: justify;">I'm going to use <a href="http://www.polkadot-pink.com/2016/02/the-picky-girls-guide-to-buying-clothes.html" target="_blank">Donna's</a> tips the next time I go charity shop shopping</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Heading to the cinema with a group of girl pals to see 'How to be single'</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Long phone chats with friends</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.lemonfreckles.com/#!Things-ive-stopped-apologising-for/c21kp/56bcca760cf2062bd41f3bf3" target="_blank">Toni's</a> great post on things she has stopped apologising for</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Funny texts out of the blue</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Starting to read my book club book - The Bone Clocks</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Discovering <a href="http://www.kikki-k.com/" target="_blank">Kikki K</a> stationary - major swoooooons!</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Discovering a <a href="http://www.ofakind.com/" target="_blank">fun site</a> for buying clothes and accessories</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Buying a gorgeous jumper in Gap for only $11!</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Remaining upbeat after job rejection</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://wanderlust.com/journal/10-steps-to-self-love-success/" target="_blank">This article</a> on self love</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Going further upstate in NY to go to a farm with friends for the afternoon</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Surprise weekend away to Boston for alphabet date B</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Drinking prosecco in a 1920s cocktail bar in Boston</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Spending a good amount of time with Robin</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Mango, pineapple and coconut milk smoothies</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Photobooths</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Pre-ordering my issues of <a href="http://www.caboodlemagazine.com/" target="_blank">Caboodles</a> for the rest of the year</li><li style="text-align: justify;">My mittens</li><li style="text-align: justify;">This post on taking things slow from <a href="http://www.brightfieldnotes.com/taking-it-slow/" target="_blank">Sorcha</a></li><li style="text-align: justify;">Being inside and warm when it's so cold outside</li><li style="text-align: justify;">How beautiful it is when it is cold outside </li><li style="text-align: justify;">Starting <a href="http://galadarling.com/" target="_blank">Radical Self Love</a> bootcamp</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Interesting chats about exciting projects</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Carrot cake Lara bars</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Going to a theatrical happy hour and meeting new people</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Feeling the love for and from a <a href="http://tartanmouth.blogspot.com/2016/02/a-little-thank-you-note-to-blogging.html" target="_blank">new blogger pal</a></li><li style="text-align: justify;">Seeing The Young Vics, A View from the Bridge at the theatre </li><li style="text-align: justify;">Celebrity spotting Mark Ruffalo ahead of me in the box office queue</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Doing 24 commandos in a row in my morning workout</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Going to TedxBroadway and hearing from so many inspiring and interesting people</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Hanging out with my lovely blogger pals when they visited NYC</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Going to a yoga class set to hip hop music</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Check in from friends making sure I'm ok</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Going to the <a href="http://www.fitnyc.edu/museum/exhibitions/fairy-tale-fashion.php" target="_blank">Fairytale Fashion</a> exhibition at FIT</li><li style="text-align: justify;">This post from <a href="http://www.indigobuttons.com/2016/01/hairy-chin.html" target="_blank">Kirsty </a>made me laugh and smile, as it all sounds so familiar! </li><li style="text-align: justify;">Dancing and laughing a lot on a girls night out at <a href="http://www.rebelbingo.com/" target="_blank">Rebel Bingo</a></li><li style="text-align: justify;">Motivating myself to workout even when I don't quite feel like it</li><li style="text-align: justify;">These <a href="http://wanderlust.com/journal/31-ways-to-play/" target="_blank">fun ideas</a> for play</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Watching the Oscars in real time in a cool bar, with Robin, prosecco, nice food and trivia</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Watching a pal do amazingly well in her improv showcase</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Red lips</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.cocktailsanddaydreams.com/search/label/febeauty" target="_blank">Lynne</a> has been blogging every day in February in beauty and man, were the posts inspiring!</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Having dinner and drinks with friends</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Going for long walks around a lake</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Meeting new people and having the confidence to chat</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Reading my book in the bath</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://lastyearsgirl.pixlet.net/time-to-log-off-my-seven-days-to-digital-detox/" target="_blank">Lis </a>talking about her digital detox</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Shopping for cute baby grows for my besties baby due in a few weeks</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Vanilla chia pudding from Hu Kitchen's mash bar</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Having a nostalgia session and watching Legally Blonde, 13 Going on 30 and Hercules </li><li style="text-align: justify;">Getting Frightened Rabbit tickets for May</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Going to a REALLY HARD yoga class and surviving</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Going to a fun gig with Robin at <a href="http://www.theboxnyc.com/" target="_blank">The Box</a></li><li style="text-align: justify;">Looking at cool street art in Brooklyn</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Making a delicious <a href="http://paleomg.com/indian-butter-chicken/" target="_blank">butter chicken curry</a> with cauliflower coconut rice from Paleomg blog</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Going to a ballet fitness class and loving it</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Shortbread fingers getting me through my job hunt</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Getting to know our neighbours</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Alphabet date C to the cinema and watching Birdman</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Buying new fitness clothes from Gap</li></ul>Liannehttps://plus.google.com/109956492942340529906noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3597752285700534857.post-88094033347200578542016-02-19T18:32:00.001+00:002016-02-19T18:37:00.972+00:00#326. Diary of a rookie yogi, part 1<div style="text-align: justify;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z70UxjzTYhs/VsdcC4AZWkI/AAAAAAAAHTc/-D4NskUFmtQ/s1600/Praying%2Byoga%2Bhands.%2BImage%2B1.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger talks about starting yoga as a beginner, being a rookie yogi and what she has learned so far" border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z70UxjzTYhs/VsdcC4AZWkI/AAAAAAAAHTc/-D4NskUFmtQ/s640/Praying%2Byoga%2Bhands.%2BImage%2B1.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger talks about starting yoga as a beginner, being a rookie yogi and what she has learned so far" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Really cool illustrations at Y7 yoga studio in Flatiron</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br />When yoga springs to mind I always used to imagine tight and toned woman doing crazy handstands, twisting themselves into crazy contorted positions and pulling their legs up behind their ears. And looking incredibly serene and poised while doing it.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">HOW? These people are not normal. How is it humanly possible to be that flexible and like a total Marvel superhuman? This from the girl who struggles to touch her own toes most of the time. Yeah, cause I am a genuine granny.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">It's an image that for years made me ignore yoga as a form of exercise. I also have tight hamstrings and had heard from a few different people that yoga might help. But it seemed so scary and daunting and like OMG, I'LL NEVER BE ABLE TO DO THAT, so I just never tried. Instead I would curl up under a cosy blanket, reach for the remote and content myself with watching Julia Roberts doing yoga for me instead in Eat, Pray, Love, like a regular person. Because watching it is the same thing right? </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">But a little part of me was still intrigued and since moving to NYC, with a Classpass membership burning a hole in my pocket and some time on my hands, I thought why not? Why not try being brave and actually have a crack at something that scares the living daylights out of you? </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Not gonna lie, I also seen a BEAUTIFUL jumper with namaste written on it that I really wanted to buy. Because a girl has to look good look doing yoga, yeah? But I thought that I should probably at least go to one class first. Then it's totally legit.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">So in October, I booked a class on Classpass, bought a cheap sexy green ($8) yoga mat and set off for my first class. After signing in at the studio, I immediately felt like an outsider. Like I wasn't in the gang. It was silly things like I didn't know what to do with my shoes (why was everyone else barefoot?) or what to pick up. All the other people in the room were busy stretching with various blocks and bands, getting in their yoga zone and so I did what is always the best option when in doubt...copy everyone else. I lay down my mat, got some blocks and blankets and started stretching this way and that, like a proper profesh. But still, WHAT DO I DO WITH MY SHOES? Eventually a kind lady was my knight in shining armour and leaned over, telling me that you leave your shoes outside. Aha! In my keenness to get in and start, I must have missed this. With shoes dutifully placed outside I sat cross-legged, channelling my inner Mr Miyagi and was ready to begin.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">After telling the teacher I was new to yoga and the class we started going through a variety of poses, some harder than others in a 'flow'. I quickly realised how much harder yoga actually is than it looks. Holding yourself in even simple poses for short periods can tire your muscles quickly and muscles I didn't even know I had started throbbing like mad. I also realised really quickly how much a good yoga mat makes all the difference, as I discovered that my cheap mat had no grip at all, so I was sliding all over the place and obviously looking as graceful as a hippo doing it. Complete rookie error. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">But I started enjoying the rhythm of moving between poses and once I knew what I was doing I started feeling more confident and things started becoming quite meditative. Before I knew it, the hour was over and I was namaste-ing my way out of the class, collecting my shoes and out the door.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">And much to my surprise, I wanted to go back. I had enjoyed the class enough to give it another go, with or without buying my Namaste jumper. Since then I have tried to go to at least one class every fortnight, but I have been on FIRE in February, managing a couple of classes a week. I am feeling stronger and more confident and like I am becoming part of the gang. A yogi. Although a complete rookie one, who still has to copy everyone else, has to lift my leg into position a lot of the time as I don't stretch that way and still sniggers at the names of some of the poses.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">And so, I thought I would share my experiences as I become more practised in yoga...and work my way towards that beautiful Namaste jumper (which I still haven't bought, but I've set myself a personal goal and will buy myself it then as a treat). I can feel myself getting stronger and am no where near being able to put my leg behind my head and in fact, I might never be able to do that, but for the meantime I am enjoying learning.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">So from one rookie yogi to a potential other, here are my tips so far and things I've come to realise:</div><ul><li style="text-align: justify;">There will be tonnes of older people way more flexible than you. Don't be intimidated by the granny's doing a headstand or touching the floor with their hands, just concentrate on doing the best you can.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Although classes are a group exercise you are encouraged to search inwards and do what is 'within your practise', so if you can't touch your toes that's completely fine. Yoga is very personalised and the class is all about you, so do what feels good.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Doing the poses correctly is HARD and tiring. You may only look like you are standing with your arms out but so many of your muscles are encouraged to engage that you will feel the burn quickly. It's a different kind of strength to what I was used to. If you are struggling with a pose, don't hurt yourself trying. Just head into childs pose for a little chill and start again. This is normal and completely ok!</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Yoga gets sweaty and if you really work it, you will not walk out without a little feel good forehead shine.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">You will discover muscles you didn't know you had, when you can feel them two days later.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Man, there is a lot to think about with each pose. What is my leg doing? Hold my core tight? Where's that arm reaching to? Why's my hand doing that etc. Then when you think you finally have it nailed, a body part will do something completely on it's own and your knee will be bent instead of straight. It takes work.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">It takes time to learn and build up your strength.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">There are so many different kinds of yoga. Now, I don't know if I was naive in not knowing this. I knew that hot yoga existed but I thought that all the moves and poses were the same across yoga classes, but there are so many types that concentrate on different things. I went to one class last week and the teacher banged a gong for 30 minutes, giving all of us a 'gong bath'.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">You will have to get over putting your bum in the air, getting into awkward positions and heavy breathing in front of a room full of strangers - FACT. </li><li style="text-align: justify;">Even though everyone looks like they know what they are doing, they probably don't. They are probably just as worried and confused as you are.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Keeping your balance on one leg or in a lunge is hard, but you will feel like a proper machine when you manage not to fall over.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">You'll quickly realise you have a favourite pose (and one you hate with a passion). My fav is definitely happy baby...rolling about on the floor holding your ankles can't help but be fun and doesn't feel like exercise.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">The relaxation time at the end of every class is the actual bomb. Wake me up in five, yeah?</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Some poses have funny names and make me giggle. The pigeon always cracks me up for some reason.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">You will want ALL THE YOGA THINGS as it's all so damn pretty. When can I realistically buy the jumper that says namaste, or the tshirt that says #1 yogi?</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Your daily posture will get better. After a class I feel so long and relaxed that it's a bit addictive and hard not to want to walk that tall and confident all the time.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">It may take a little while to get down with the yoga lingo. Sometimes it's like a whole other language. I just worked out this week what 'sit bones' are - the bones in your bum that you sit on. Who knew? </li><li style="text-align: justify;">Go into a class completely open minded, so you get the most out of it. A couple of the classes I have went to were a bit more 'out there' than I had anticipated but I gave it a chance, settled in and really enjoyed them.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Don't be afraid to ask for help or ask questions after class. The class is about you and your practise.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Invest in a good mat or rent one from the studio until you know if you want to keep going with yoga. A good mat really does make all the difference.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Leave your shoes outside the studio. If you have an issue going barefoot, you can buy little socks quite cheaply with grips on the bottom.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">There is such a rush when you feel yourself getting stronger and able to hold poses for longer. You will feel yourself getting better, little by little.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Yoga is fun, so go ahead and enjoy yourself.</li></ul>Liannehttps://plus.google.com/109956492942340529906noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3597752285700534857.post-57501985417561470812016-02-13T08:00:00.000+00:002016-02-17T15:20:03.342+00:00#325. 2016 goals: One month (and a bit down)<div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kF-rPJtYQcM/Vr5aPmkvSdI/AAAAAAAAHTM/66EAYcSovoA/s1600/New%2Byear%2Bgoals%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B2.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Li, a NYC and Edinburgh lfestyle blogger updates on her 2016 goals and resolutions" border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kF-rPJtYQcM/Vr5aPmkvSdI/AAAAAAAAHTM/66EAYcSovoA/s1600/New%2Byear%2Bgoals%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B2.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Li, a NYC and Edinburgh lfestyle blogger updates on her 2016 goals and resolutions" /></a></div><br />I do quite like January. Being all cozy in the house, chilling in front of Netflix and taking some evenings just to hibernate and gather your thoughts for a fun year ahead really is the best. But I am enjoying the lights getting subtly lighter and the promise of Spring being on it's way again. (I say that, but as you are reading this it is -16 in NYC!)</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I honesty can't believe it's February already. Time seems to be rushing away from me and I feel like the rabbit in Alice in Wonderland, constantly chasing my tail.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">With that in mind I thought an update on my <a href="http://rubyrubyslippers.blogspot.com/2016/01/318-new-year-goals-2016.html" target="_blank">2016 goals</a>, one month (and a bit late) down was a little overdue.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><h4><b><br />Goal 1. Make fitness and health an essential part of my life and of my daily routine</b></h4></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Generally getting my butt in gear to tone up, exercise regularly and make healthy food choices. Why?Because it makes me feel good, confident and strong and my skin looks awesome. What's not to like? I chatted about this a little <a href="http://rubyrubyslippers.blogspot.com/2016/02/322-keeping-my-new-year-goals-with.html" target="_blank">here</a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>How'd I do in January?</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I started well with healthy eating as Robin and I decided to follow the <a href="http://whole30.com/" target="_blank">Whole30</a> program as a kick start to our 2016 goals. It focusses on eating whole natural foods for thirty days, making you think differently about what you are putting in your body and then slowly reintroducing foods again. We have been planning our meals ahead of time, eating so much delicious food and generally feeling a whole lot better for it. Yesterday was our last day and although it was hard at the start (I wanted to eat ALL THE FOOD), we got into a rhythm and ended up really enjoying it. I'll do a little post about the Whole30 itself soon.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Exercise was a slightly different story. I had been exercising a little bit before the new year but not as much as I had been earlier in the year, so starting back up after Christmas was hard and tiring and a bit demotivating as I felt all the way back at square one in terms of my fitness level and strength. Your fitness really does drop off quickly when you prefer to be a sloth! But I have been scheduling myself onto classes through Classpass, 2-3 times a week and have been working through <a href="http://www.kaylaitsines.com.au/" target="_blank">Kayla Itsines</a>' bikini body workout plan, which I am really enjoying and it is starting to feel like a routine. Hurrah! There is a good mix of cardio, strength and LISS workouts which make it completely time manageable. I do feel sorry for the neighbours though, hearing me thumping around doing burpees through our paper thin apartment walls.<br /><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><h4>Goal 2. Read more</h4></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I used to read so much as a kid but don't anymore. Little Li would be so disappointed. I want to get lost in a good book again the way I used to</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>How'd I do in January?</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I'm really proud of this one as I am doing well so far. I have started a list of books I would like to read this year as a starting point and an actively making time for reading. I've already read Orange is the New Black and the Opposite of Loneliness and have been working my way through Big Magic, which is so inspiring. The lovely <a href="http://tartanmouth.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Charlene</a> and I have also started a little book exchange to encourage us both in our goals and we have chosen the first book we will be reading which is exciting, so I can't wait for it to arrive so I can get stuck in.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><h4><b><br /></b></h4><h4><b>Goal 3. Travel</b></h4></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Life is too short and I have a huge travel bucketlist so I better start ticking some of them off</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>How'd I do in January?</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">We didn't do too well last month as we didn't actually travel anywhere. Oooops. But we have a list of all the places we want to visit this year and have started pencilling in dates. We had friends over to celebrate New Year with us, so the start of January was a lot of fun showing them around the city and discovering new places as tourists ourselves, so maybe that counts. NYC is such a big city and there are so many places to explore and discover. We have booked flights home in April for my Dad's 60th birthday and a pal's wedding and are also going with a group of friends to the Poconos at the start of March for the weekend. We have lots to be looking forward to but my goal for the end of February is to have other holidays and travel plans scheduled and make travel in 2016 a priority.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F3n-Tyuho3U/Vr5aPpNH4JI/AAAAAAAAHTM/EqK_KBQjLf8/s1600/New%2Byear%2Bgoals%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B1.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Li, a NYC and Edinburgh lfestyle blogger updates on her 2016 goals and resolutions" border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F3n-Tyuho3U/Vr5aPpNH4JI/AAAAAAAAHTM/EqK_KBQjLf8/s1600/New%2Byear%2Bgoals%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B1.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.jpg" title="Li, a NYC and Edinburgh lfestyle blogger updates on her 2016 goals and resolutions" /></a></div><h4></h4><div><br /></div><h4>Goal 4. Get happy</h4></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Actively try and be happier</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>How'd I do in January?</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I feel this goal is going really well. My moods have been a lot more consistent since I have been on the Whole30 and my outlook is a lot more positive. I have been reading a lot of books, doing some soul searching, having long and regular catchups with friends, planning fun things, applying for interesting jobs and spending time relaxing which I think has been working wonders. I really enjoyed writing my first gratitude list for January and am looking forward to doing more of these. I also invested in <a href="http://thehappinessplanner.com/" target="_blank">The Happiness Planner</a> and have been filling out my goals for each day as well as what I am grateful for last thing at night. Reflecting on the day is a nice thing to do before heading to bed, as I go to sleep positive. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><h4></h4><h4>Goal 5. Be more creative</h4></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Plan and spend more time on personal creative projects</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>How'd I do in January?</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Well...not too shabbily I think. I have been colouring in most evenings to relax before bed, which I have really been enjoying and have have been researching photography courses I would like to go on in a few weeks time. This weekend I am planning on heading to an art shop and stocking up on some paint, brushes and a canvas and just seeing what happens. It's exciting. I've also been spending time creating a Radical Self Love Bible with <a href="http://galadarling.com/" target="_blank">Gala Darling</a> - there's nothing better than tearing fun pages out of magazines and getting creative, writing positive affirmations.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u4BQlmr2z3U/Vr5aP2rCGqI/AAAAAAAAHTM/dpfTv0JJhrA/s1600/New%2Byear%2Bgoals%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B3.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Li, a NYC and Edinburgh lfestyle blogger updates on her 2016 goals and resolutions" border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-u4BQlmr2z3U/Vr5aP2rCGqI/AAAAAAAAHTM/dpfTv0JJhrA/s1600/New%2Byear%2Bgoals%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B3.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Li, a NYC and Edinburgh lfestyle blogger updates on her 2016 goals and resolutionsLi, a NYC and Edinburgh lfestyle blogger updates on her 2016 goals and resolutions" /></a></div><h4></h4><h4></h4><div><br /></div><h4>Goal 6. Get up early and make the most of everyday</h4></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I find it so hard to get up first thing and I am not a morning person in the slightest. I want to make getting up early part of my routine, so I can make the most of the mornings, rather than lazing around in bed wasting precious time. I am always running late and instead I want to ease into my day and create a fun morning routine to set me up properly.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>How'd I do in January?</b><br />I've been doing not too badly which I am so happy about. I've been using the sleepcycle app and generally I am not letting myself snooze past the time I have set. When I wake up, I have been having a large glass of water and then using the Headspace app for 10 minutes. I have never tried meditation before but I find it really helps me focus and be a lot more productive during the day, just by taking a short stretch of time out every morning. I've also been scheduling gym classes early in the day to help create more a routine and spending time reading inspiring articles over breakfast, with a big mug of tea.<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><h4></h4><h4>Goal 7. Say yes</h4>Making the most of 2016 and the relatively short time I have in NYC</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><b>How'd I do in January?</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">January was a slight hermit month for me so I maybe didn't do as well on this one as I could have, but February has been a lot better. Two friends and I (one in NYC and one bestie from home) had big chats about this and we are going to encourage each other to do fun things. AWESOME!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">So here's my plan and thoughts for the rest of February - bring it!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><ul><li>Continue with Kayla Itsines workouts as they are hard but I feel amazing afterwards. They are good for your body and soul.</li><li>Set aside time every night for some reading and colouring to relax after a busy day.</li><li>Plan and research some amazing trips and adventures for the rest of 2016.</li><li>Continue getting up early and having a slow and relaxed morning of exercise, meditation and breakfast.</li><li>Keep eating well even when the Whole30 is over. It makes me feel so much better!</li><li>Make mini daily goals and stick to them - they work and help me plan better and be more productive with my day.</li><li>You are stronger than you think you are. Keep going.</li><li>Keep planning fun things to do with friends to push me out of my comfort zone. It's worth it I promise. </li><li>Book a photography course.</li></ul><div><br /></div><div>How are your goals going? I'd love to know - update me below.</div>Liannehttps://plus.google.com/109956492942340529906noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3597752285700534857.post-59084229807202200272016-02-10T22:09:00.001+00:002016-02-10T22:36:25.357+00:00#324. Outfit: H&M Faux Fur jacket and feeling like a yeti<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EiBMPthyD7U/VoGOJ0cg0pI/AAAAAAAAHMo/IM7C37d175w/s1600/Outfit%2Bpost%2Bfeaturing%2BH%2526M%252C%2BAmerican%2BApparell%252C%2BTopshop%2Band%2BBCBGeneration.%2BImage%2B1.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger chats about her new H&M faux fur jacket and Tazo wild sweet orange tea" border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EiBMPthyD7U/VoGOJ0cg0pI/AAAAAAAAHMo/IM7C37d175w/s1600/Outfit%2Bpost%2Bfeaturing%2BH%2526M%252C%2BAmerican%2BApparell%252C%2BTopshop%2Band%2BBCBGeneration.%2BImage%2B1.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger chats about her new H&M faux fur jacket and Tazo wild sweet orange tea" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IA6t2ZZhoNo/VoGOKNLnlbI/AAAAAAAAHMs/gnuJ5dVdv4Q/s1600/Outfit%2Bpost%2Bfeaturing%2BH%2526M%252C%2BAmerican%2BApparell%252C%2BTopshop%2Band%2BBCBGeneration.%2BImage%2B2.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger chats about her new H&M faux fur jacket and Tazo wild sweet orange tea" border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IA6t2ZZhoNo/VoGOKNLnlbI/AAAAAAAAHMs/gnuJ5dVdv4Q/s1600/Outfit%2Bpost%2Bfeaturing%2BH%2526M%252C%2BAmerican%2BApparell%252C%2BTopshop%2Band%2BBCBGeneration.%2BImage%2B2.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger chats about her new H&M faux fur jacket and Tazo wild sweet orange tea" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--t4CkTXj6ic/VoGOKaGyffI/AAAAAAAAHM0/Z80eNFS1olY/s1600/Outfit%2Bpost%2Bfeaturing%2BH%2526M%252C%2BAmerican%2BApparell%252C%2BTopshop%2Band%2BBCBGeneration.%2BImage%2B3.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger chats about her new H&M faux fur jacket and Tazo wild sweet orange tea" border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--t4CkTXj6ic/VoGOKaGyffI/AAAAAAAAHM0/Z80eNFS1olY/s1600/Outfit%2Bpost%2Bfeaturing%2BH%2526M%252C%2BAmerican%2BApparell%252C%2BTopshop%2Band%2BBCBGeneration.%2BImage%2B3.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger chats about her new H&M faux fur jacket and Tazo wild sweet orange tea" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">With Valentine's Day coming up, this post is about love but not in the way you might expect.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I'm sitting writing this with my first love, a big mug of the BEST tea in the whole world. Like seriously. I'm not even kidding. I discovered it out and about at the shops last week and have almost got through the whole box already, it's that damn good.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Tazo wild sweet orange <a href="http://www.tazo.com/Product/Detail/17" rel="" target="_blank">tea</a>. Go check it out. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">You're welcome.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">It's that time of year when our bodies and minds tell us to take it easy, chill out and go into partial hibernation. I love getting all snuggly and cozying up in front of Netflix, mug of my new favourite tea in hand obvs, chocolate within reaching distance. But the nights are starting to get lighter bit by bit and the promise of spring isn't too far away.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">But what to do when you have to go out in the cold? Cause sometimes we have to. It still is rather chilly with the occasional snow flurries and most of the time I layer up to the max like the mitchilin man. This girl don't like to be cold. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Which brings me to my second love, as my recent wonderful new purchase is a complete game changer and perfect for those chilly winter nights.</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TVml7PoGEDM/VoGOKmAVNFI/AAAAAAAAHM4/KL59ggsKhhY/s1600/Outfit%2Bpost%2Bfeaturing%2BH%2526M%252C%2BAmerican%2BApparell%252C%2BTopshop%2Band%2BBCBGeneration.%2BImage%2B4.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger chats about her new H&M faux fur jacket and Tazo wild sweet orange tea" border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TVml7PoGEDM/VoGOKmAVNFI/AAAAAAAAHM4/KL59ggsKhhY/s1600/Outfit%2Bpost%2Bfeaturing%2BH%2526M%252C%2BAmerican%2BApparell%252C%2BTopshop%2Band%2BBCBGeneration.%2BImage%2B4.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger chats about her new H&M faux fur jacket and Tazo wild sweet orange tea" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AdTSHsdcEsk/VoGOK1jsAyI/AAAAAAAAHNE/PTNgSQxvUJQ/s1600/Outfit%2Bpost%2Bfeaturing%2BH%2526M%252C%2BAmerican%2BApparell%252C%2BTopshop%2Band%2BBCBGeneration.%2BImage%2B5.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger chats about her new H&M faux fur jacket and Tazo wild sweet orange tea" border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AdTSHsdcEsk/VoGOK1jsAyI/AAAAAAAAHNE/PTNgSQxvUJQ/s1600/Outfit%2Bpost%2Bfeaturing%2BH%2526M%252C%2BAmerican%2BApparell%252C%2BTopshop%2Band%2BBCBGeneration.%2BImage%2B5.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger chats about her new H&M faux fur jacket and Tazo wild sweet orange tea" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_rQT7DYoVkQ/VoGOLPs9ZeI/AAAAAAAAHNA/QpLQZsYwEKU/s1600/Outfit%2Bpost%2Bfeaturing%2BH%2526M%252C%2BAmerican%2BApparell%252C%2BTopshop%2Band%2BBCBGeneration.%2BImage%2B6.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger chats about her new H&M faux fur jacket and Tazo wild sweet orange tea" border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_rQT7DYoVkQ/VoGOLPs9ZeI/AAAAAAAAHNA/QpLQZsYwEKU/s1600/Outfit%2Bpost%2Bfeaturing%2BH%2526M%252C%2BAmerican%2BApparell%252C%2BTopshop%2Band%2BBCBGeneration.%2BImage%2B6.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger chats about her new H&M faux fur jacket and Tazo wild sweet orange tea" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">I had fancied a good ol' fake fur coat for yonks and so when I came across this one on the <a href="http://www.hm.com/us/product/32720?article=32720-B" target="_blank">H&M</a> website, I was truly smitten. A great and unusual colour, in my size, affordable and completely beautiful, what's not to like? It's also really hard not to just sit and stroke it. Like the wee girl from Despicable Me...IT'S SO FLUFFY!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I enjoy stomping around in it, completely snug and feeling either like a yeti or Penny Lane in Almost Famous. Invincible and cool either way. You should all give it a go as it's pretty epic, feeling like you can take on the world with just a jacket. It feels so glam and with a slick of red Mac lipstick I am good to go and all set to take on my day in NYC. I wore it out for New Years Eve and got so many compliments about it. Everyone loves the yeti.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I've been meaning to write this post for ages, but you know, life. So these photos were taken just before Christmas by my lovely hubby just before we headed out for brunch, which explains the reindeer sunglasses and I was so warm prancing about on our roof, even with it being a minor hurricane outside. What's more this jacket even kept me toasty warm when we had <a href="http://rubyrubyslippers.blogspot.com/2016/01/321-nyc-snow-days.html" target="_blank">major snow</a> here a few weeks ago. So pretty and practical - bangin'.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LD4fBaEAgEg/VoGOLcE6mcI/AAAAAAAAHNM/RPmwvunfKEg/s1600/Outfit%2Bpost%2Bfeaturing%2BH%2526M%252C%2BAmerican%2BApparell%252C%2BTopshop%2Band%2BBCBGeneration.%2BImage%2B7.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger chats about her new H&M faux fur jacket and Tazo wild sweet orange tea" border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LD4fBaEAgEg/VoGOLcE6mcI/AAAAAAAAHNM/RPmwvunfKEg/s1600/Outfit%2Bpost%2Bfeaturing%2BH%2526M%252C%2BAmerican%2BApparell%252C%2BTopshop%2Band%2BBCBGeneration.%2BImage%2B7.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger chats about her new H&M faux fur jacket and Tazo wild sweet orange tea" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ckNN5KJzLws/VoGOL4E0epI/AAAAAAAAHNc/rH_3k5clQlg/s1600/Outfit%2Bpost%2Bfeaturing%2BH%2526M%252C%2BAmerican%2BApparell%252C%2BTopshop%2Band%2BBCBGeneration.%2BImage%2B8.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger chats about her new H&M faux fur jacket and Tazo wild sweet orange tea" border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ckNN5KJzLws/VoGOL4E0epI/AAAAAAAAHNc/rH_3k5clQlg/s1600/Outfit%2Bpost%2Bfeaturing%2BH%2526M%252C%2BAmerican%2BApparell%252C%2BTopshop%2Band%2BBCBGeneration.%2BImage%2B8.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger chats about her new H&M faux fur jacket and Tazo wild sweet orange tea" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f_MS46_bR08/VoGOLxagwqI/AAAAAAAAHNY/fA9wFsAggL0/s1600/Outfit%2Bpost%2Bfeaturing%2BH%2526M%252C%2BAmerican%2BApparell%252C%2BTopshop%2Band%2BBCBGeneration.%2BImage%2B9.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger chats about her new H&M faux fur jacket and Tazo wild sweet orange tea" border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f_MS46_bR08/VoGOLxagwqI/AAAAAAAAHNY/fA9wFsAggL0/s1600/Outfit%2Bpost%2Bfeaturing%2BH%2526M%252C%2BAmerican%2BApparell%252C%2BTopshop%2Band%2BBCBGeneration.%2BImage%2B9.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger chats about her new H&M faux fur jacket and Tazo wild sweet orange tea" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xVqcFyfegMM/VoGOJ1kQX7I/AAAAAAAAHMk/qkdNFySpoho/s1600/Outfit%2Bpost%2Bfeaturing%2BH%2526M%252C%2BAmerican%2BApparell%252C%2BTopshop%2Band%2BBCBGeneration.%2BImage%2B10.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger chats about her new H&M faux fur jacket and Tazo wild sweet orange tea" border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xVqcFyfegMM/VoGOJ1kQX7I/AAAAAAAAHMk/qkdNFySpoho/s1600/Outfit%2Bpost%2Bfeaturing%2BH%2526M%252C%2BAmerican%2BApparell%252C%2BTopshop%2Band%2BBCBGeneration.%2BImage%2B10.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger chats about her new H&M faux fur jacket and Tazo wild sweet orange tea" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">I paired my yeti with my go-with-everything American Apparel jeans, black blouse and chunky Topshop boots with glittery socks for our chilled brunch. And finished the look off with my outlet bargain <a href="http://www.bcbgeneration.com/" target="_blank">BCBGeneration</a> bag - $30 reduced from something silly like $100 over Thanksgiving Day weekend when we visited <a href="http://rubyrubyslippers.blogspot.com/2015/12/313-thanksgiving-and-weekend-trip-to_21.html" target="_blank">Vermont</a>. I love how bright the bag is, large enough for all my necessities and like the sleek chain strap too.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">So there you have it, my two current loves... wild sweet orange tea and my yeti. Both are keeping me warm and cozy and will see me through till Spring decides to show face again.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">What are you loving at the moment? </div>Liannehttps://plus.google.com/109956492942340529906noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3597752285700534857.post-35784516954893793522016-02-03T11:00:00.000+00:002016-03-01T02:52:44.086+00:00#323. January 2016 gratitude list<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iF9RV_7WTcw/VrDqEg3yTzI/AAAAAAAAHSk/Aa_3m2Nm2XA/s1600/January%2Bgratitude%2Blist%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B1.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Li Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger chats shares her January 2016 gratitude list" border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iF9RV_7WTcw/VrDqEg3yTzI/AAAAAAAAHSk/Aa_3m2Nm2XA/s1600/January%2Bgratitude%2Blist%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B1.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.jpg" title="Li Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger chats shares her January 2016 gratitude list" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">January is always a funny month for me. Sure, it's the start of the new year with a whole 12 months of unlimited possibilities but it's also cold and just after Christmas and I have an innate pull to hibernate in my flat like a bear and binge watch Jessica Jones, Making a Murderer and 30 Rock. But, this is my year of yes and so I had a good mix of seeing pals and some chill time, wonderful theatre, applying for jobs and generally having fun.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I've really enjoyed putting this list together as it reminds me of all the good and happy things that happened over the course of the past four weeks and as part of my <a href="http://rubyrubyslippers.blogspot.com/2016/01/318-new-year-goals-2016.html" target="_blank">'get happy' resolution</a> for this year, I'll be sharing a list like this at the end of every month.<br /><br /></div><ul><li>Bringing in the bells with wonderful friends wearing the most beautiful fringed dress and sparkly heels</li><li>Ordering the biggest pizza I have ever seen</li><li>Getting a lovely and unexpected email from your Dad that made you cry just a little</li><li>Taking steps towards my new years goals</li><li>Volunteering at an exciting theatre festival, meeting a tonnes of new and lovely people and learning a lot</li><li>Not letting rejection get me down and instead use it to fuel me to keep going</li><li>Discover an exciting new podcast - <a href="http://www.sarahstarrs.com/podcast/" target="_blank">Sarah Starrs</a></li><li>Starting to receive Gala Darlings <a href="http://galadarling.com/radical-self-love-letters/" target="_blank">Radical Self Love letters</a></li><li><a href="http://rubyrubyslippers.blogspot.com/2016/01/321-nyc-snow-days.html" target="_blank">Snow</a>! And building a snowman in Central Park</li><li>Putting myself in a situation completely outside of my comfort zone and doing well</li><li>Snuggly socks to keep out the cold</li><li>Discovering <a href="http://thehappinessplanner.com/" target="_blank">The Happiness Planner</a></li><li>Planning exciting travels and adventures for 2016</li><li>Seeing some really exciting and unique pieces of theatre</li><li>Cute puppy updates from <a href="http://www.ciderwithrosie.com/2016/01/a-p-update/" target="_blank">Rosie</a></li><li>Long overdue phone chats with friends</li><li>Falling in love with some cute cats at the cat cafe</li><li>Realising how much I love colouring in</li><li>Getting a new hair cut and feeling so fly afterwards</li><li>Learning to cook pulled pork carnitas and they were the bomb</li><li>Spending time with new friends</li><li>I loved <a href="http://www.little-blog-of-horrors.com/2016/01/urban-exploration-and-trusting-your-gut.html#more" target="_blank">Ayden's post</a> on being brave and doing things that scare you</li><li>An overnight stay in a hotel with a pool and a gym - feeling pampered</li><li>Setting up an awesome work station out of the flat and feeling like a productivity unicorn</li><li>New stationary</li><li>The Netflix series <i>Jessica Jones</i></li><li>Bear hugs</li><li>Red Raspberry tea</li><li>An interesting take on new years resolutions from <a href="http://www.thesnugblog.com/2016/01/a-word-to-underpin-2016.html" target="_blank">Abigail</a>.</li><li>I want to go to Bruges so bad after reading <a href="http://www.littlemisskaty.co.uk/2016/01/postcards-from-bruges.html" target="_blank">Katy's post</a></li><li>Starting a new exercise regime and walking becoming increasingly difficult but feeling myself getting stronger everyday</li><li>My new <a href="http://rubyrubyslippers.blogspot.com/2016/02/322-keeping-my-new-year-goals-with.html" target="_blank">gym tshirt</a> with the awesome slogan - 'Busy getting stronger'</li><li>Having some free time to start planning 2016</li><li>Lovely long catchup emails from family and friends</li><li><a href="http://jasmincharlotte.com/2016/01/jc-chats-on-accepting-yourself/" target="_blank">Jasmin Charlotte's</a> awesome and refreshing post on accepting yourself</li><li>Creating a morning routine</li><li>Surprise flowers from the hubster</li><li>Setting up a fun book exchange with a lovely new <a href="http://tartanmouth.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">blogger pal</a> to help us both read more</li><li>Carrot and ginger soup with huge chunks of ginger</li><li>Sitting quietly reading in a coffee shop</li><li><a href="http://www.mutedmornings.co.uk/2016/01/london-diaries-wb-harry-potter-studio.html" target="_blank">Mimi's</a> beautiful photos from the Harry Potter studio tour - take me back!</li><li>Multi coloured tulips</li><li>This honest post from <a href="http://www.arosieoutlook.com/2016/01/is-grass-always-greener-embracing-okay.html" target="_blank">Rosie</a> asking is the grass really greener?</li><li>Laughing along to the movie <i>Sisters</i></li><li>Filling my bookshelves with inspiring and motivation books that make me want to be a better person</li><li><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/201121431/a4-badass-unicorn-drawing" target="_blank">This print</a> which I hope will find it's way to my flat soon</li></ul><div><br />What happy things have happened to you this month? What things would you add to your own gratitude list?</div><script> (function(i,s,o,g,r,a,m){i['GoogleAnalyticsObject']=r;i[r]=i[r]||function(){ (i[r].q=i[r].q||[]).push(arguments)},i[r].l=1*new Date();a=s.createElement(o), m=s.getElementsByTagName(o)[0];a.async=1;a.src=g;m.parentNode.insertBefore(a,m) })(window,document,'script','//www.google-analytics.com/analytics.js','ga'); ga('create', 'UA-35483710-1', 'auto'); ga('send', 'pageview'); </script>Liannehttps://plus.google.com/109956492942340529906noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3597752285700534857.post-72375319171302892562016-02-01T18:32:00.000+00:002016-02-01T22:38:02.748+00:00#322. Keeping my new year goals with Boohoo FIT<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-el-2js0y4hA/VqrSfzy3tZI/AAAAAAAAHSM/cEDDHwgqdtg/s1600/Items%2Bfrom%2BBoohoo%2527s%2Bnew%2Bfitness%2Brange%2BImage%2B1.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Li Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger reviews two items from the Boohoo FIT range" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-el-2js0y4hA/VqrSfzy3tZI/AAAAAAAAHSM/cEDDHwgqdtg/s1600/Items%2Bfrom%2BBoohoo%2527s%2Bnew%2Bfitness%2Brange%2BImage%2B1.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Li Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger reviews two items from the Boohoo FIT range" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5iaqNwzbDqc/VqrSf-nnZwI/AAAAAAAAHSI/pFYpHJBGBmg/s1600/Items%2Bfrom%2BBoohoo%2527s%2Bnew%2Bfitness%2Brange%2BImage%2B2.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Li Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger reviews two items from the Boohoo FIT range" border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5iaqNwzbDqc/VqrSf-nnZwI/AAAAAAAAHSI/pFYpHJBGBmg/s1600/Items%2Bfrom%2BBoohoo%2527s%2Bnew%2Bfitness%2Brange%2BImage%2B2.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Li Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger reviews two items from the Boohoo FIT range" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zjb-jTPyFL8/VqrSfuIh-VI/AAAAAAAAHSE/ZNVvAbI2mRE/s1600/Items%2Bfrom%2BBoohoo%2527s%2Bnew%2Bfitness%2Brange%2BImage%2B3.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Li Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger reviews two items from the Boohoo FIT range" border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zjb-jTPyFL8/VqrSfuIh-VI/AAAAAAAAHSE/ZNVvAbI2mRE/s1600/Items%2Bfrom%2BBoohoo%2527s%2Bnew%2Bfitness%2Brange%2BImage%2B3.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Li Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger reviews two items from the Boohoo FIT range" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Keeping fit and working out regularly are things that I am determined to make a part of my routine. I do struggle though and it takes a while for me to form habits. Even though I know that exercise is good for me there is always something more interesting or exciting to do and before you know it I have taken the rubbish out, cleared my inbox, watched two episodes of 30Rock and spent an hour strolling fitness pics on Instragram for motivation and not actually done any myself. Give the queen of procrastination a crown.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">This year I really want to prioritise my health and commit to a workout schedule, as I chatted about in my post on my <a href="http://rubyrubyslippers.blogspot.com/2016/01/318-new-year-goals-2016.html" target="_blank">new years goals</a>. Last year in the run up to our wedding I was beastin' it. I felt so strong and confident, able to run for long distances without stopping and actually enjoying it and doing Hiit workouts the whole way through, not taking pass out breaks in the middle. It felt so good. I want to get back there.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">With time on my hands over the past few weeks I've come to realise and be more aware of 'me' than I have before. I've been reading a lot, trying to spend some time focussed on myself and seeing what changes that might bring. In the past I wasn't really sure I bought into all the personal development stuff, but I have been learning a lot and so much of it rings true for me, sometimes its scary. It's funny when it takes a total stranger to speak clear enough that you can see those characteristics in yourself. Through a lot of soul searching I've realised that I am not very good at keeping habits for myself but can do things for other people readily and will actively go out of my way for others (see <a href="http://www.gretchenrubin.com/" target="_blank">Grechen Rubin</a> for more info). Not that that is a bad thing at all, I enjoy being the sort of person I am. But what that means is that commitments I have made to myself like fitness and working out, tend to fall by the wayside really, really easily. Rubbish! </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">A way to help with this though is external accountability, so I have been actively telling people (including you lovely lot!) what my goals are for this year so I won't be as encouraged to break them and will do updates every month. I'm also researching runs around NYC that I can join to keep me training and have signed up to the Night Nation 5km with some friends in June. My glow sticks are ready!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Another thing that I also find helpful is getting new workout gear. It might be a superficial thing, but if I have nice fitness clothes to wear and buy them for myself as a treat, I am more likely to get up off the couch, switch off netflix and go on a run or pop in a fitness DVD or two. I like to look good when I'm working out. Nothing wrong with that.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">So when Boohoo got in touch asking if I would like to choose an outfit from their FIT range to review I jumped at the chance. The <a href="http://www.boohoo.com/icat/boohoo-fit?cm_sp=carousel-_-item_5-_-GBP_boohoofit#esp_hitsperpage=80&esp_cf=pdxtcat&esp_filter_pdxtcat=leggings" target="_blank">Boohoo FIT</a> range is extensive, focussing on pieces that you can move in, run in, squat in...you get the picture. But also are fashion forward, making all those gym bunnies jealous and are comfortable, affordable and good quality too. There were so many pieces that I was tempted by but eventually I chose a pair of contract patterned leggings (no longer available online) and this <a href="http://www.boohoo.com/boohoo-fit/sophia-fit-stronger-muscle-back-vest/invt/dzz97855" target="_blank">motivational slogan vest</a>. I was hoping to get out and snap some photos of me actually wearing the pieces but the <a href="http://rubyrubyslippers.blogspot.com/2016/01/321-nyc-snow-days.html" target="_blank">snow</a> sortof took over a bit.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The leggings are thick and stretchy, so are very comfortable and not see-through and I've now worn them out running and doing yoga. I really like the contrast pink piping and the pattern across half the leggings, rather than just a solid colour. They also have a thick waistband so sit high up on my waist which I really like, avoiding any gym embarrassment if they decided to slip down during a hard core running session. (Trust me it's happened!). The two things that I would change about the leggings is the thickness of the piping detail and the material. I find that the piping can be slightly uncomfortable under my legs when I am doing floor work and the material means that my legs get really hot very quickly. Other than that, I think they are great and would highly recommend them to anyone for cute workout gear that won't break the bank.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The vest is definitely my favourite piece though. I love a good motivational slogan and this one is complete fitspiration and damn catchy. It's a strong slogan, so positive, body loving and ace and I was drawn to it right away. The vest is made of cotton so is soft and breathable, perfect for gym wear. The cut outs are a lot lower than I expected them to be so I have to wear another top underneath, but I enjoy the layered look. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Overall I was impressed with the two items from the Boohoo FIT range that I tried and have already been browsing online for my next purchase. There is just so much choice for whatever type of fitness you enjoy and they are affordable, making a sportwear wardrobe seem a lot more possible.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">So, I will keep wearing my new leggings and top to help me keep my fitness goals for 2016. I'll be checking in soon with an update on how things are going. Keeping me accountable ya'll.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Have you got any health and fitness goals for this year?</div><br /><span style="background-color: white; color: #616161; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small; letter-spacing: 0.5px; line-height: 15.5556px; text-align: justify;">Disclaimer - I was gifted the top and leggings featured in this pist by Boohoo. While the clothes were complimentary my thoughts on them are completely my own. I really do love them and will be wearing them a lot in my keeping fit quest, so stay tuned.</span>Liannehttps://plus.google.com/109956492942340529906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3597752285700534857.post-22049219487561886342016-01-28T17:55:00.002+00:002016-01-28T17:55:57.602+00:00#321. NYC snow days<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Dx3eux49gtM/VqkKJs-qmHI/AAAAAAAAHPM/c40KbsnATrg/s1600/Snow%2Bphotos%2Bfrom%2Bthe%2Bwinter%2Bblizzard%2Bin%2BNYC%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B1.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger talks about the snow and blizzard in NYC, January 2016. © Lianne Whitelaw" border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Dx3eux49gtM/VqkKJs-qmHI/AAAAAAAAHPM/c40KbsnATrg/s640/Snow%2Bphotos%2Bfrom%2Bthe%2Bwinter%2Bblizzard%2Bin%2BNYC%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B1.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger talks about the snow and blizzard in NYC, January 2016. © Lianne Whitelaw" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Snow! Even the word fills me with all the feels. I am giddily excited the moment there is even a whisper of snow and anxiously wait at the window with the weather app poised on my phone, complaining to Robin about why the app is wrong and where all the snow it predicted has gone. I am just desperate to get out and play and make all the snowmen and snow angels and explore the different world a fall of snow creates. Like a big kid at Christmas time, I run around, yelling, searching for my hat and gloves and not quite being able to get out the door quick enough. As an adult it's so refreshing to be as innately excited about something and just let the happiness take over. There is just something so magical watching snowflakes fall and cover the ground in a white blanket, muffling all sounds and leaving this sense of stillness and quiet. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">You might have seen on the news about the blizzard we had in NYC last weekend? Across social media it was labelled 'Snowmageddon' and from late on Friday to Saturday evening, thick and heavy snow flurries fell all across the East coast. This was the first snowfall NYC had had this winter, much to my disappointment, so you can guess how excited I was to get outside and explore on Saturday morning.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_Zzr9S56vrA/VqkKLUISdPI/AAAAAAAAHQA/S94g0_Vcoqg/s1600/Snow%2Bphotos%2Bfrom%2Bthe%2Bwinter%2Bblizzard%2Bin%2BNYC%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B2.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger talks about the snow and blizzard in NYC, January 2016. © Lianne Whitelaw" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_Zzr9S56vrA/VqkKLUISdPI/AAAAAAAAHQA/S94g0_Vcoqg/s1600/Snow%2Bphotos%2Bfrom%2Bthe%2Bwinter%2Bblizzard%2Bin%2BNYC%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B2.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger talks about the snow and blizzard in NYC, January 2016. © Lianne Whitelaw" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8sDdPp9vZfo/VqkKMOu_q7I/AAAAAAAAHQU/F_Z2Oao0CDU/s1600/Snow%2Bphotos%2Bfrom%2Bthe%2Bwinter%2Bblizzard%2Bin%2BNYC%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B3.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8sDdPp9vZfo/VqkKMOu_q7I/AAAAAAAAHQU/F_Z2Oao0CDU/s1600/Snow%2Bphotos%2Bfrom%2Bthe%2Bwinter%2Bblizzard%2Bin%2BNYC%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B3.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ol61MrSVtzU/VqkKMqwgJbI/AAAAAAAAHQg/WH2wLy_cIxQ/s1600/Snow%2Bphotos%2Bfrom%2Bthe%2Bwinter%2Bblizzard%2Bin%2BNYC%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B4.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger talks about the snow and blizzard in NYC, January 2016. © Lianne Whitelaw" border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ol61MrSVtzU/VqkKMqwgJbI/AAAAAAAAHQg/WH2wLy_cIxQ/s1600/Snow%2Bphotos%2Bfrom%2Bthe%2Bwinter%2Bblizzard%2Bin%2BNYC%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B4.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger talks about the snow and blizzard in NYC, January 2016. © Lianne Whitelaw" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-90owhQls_Yc/VqkKM3iEuPI/AAAAAAAAHQo/TNaKF2pw5iA/s1600/Snow%2Bphotos%2Bfrom%2Bthe%2Bwinter%2Bblizzard%2Bin%2BNYC%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B6.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger talks about the snow and blizzard in NYC, January 2016. © Lianne Whitelaw" border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-90owhQls_Yc/VqkKM3iEuPI/AAAAAAAAHQo/TNaKF2pw5iA/s1600/Snow%2Bphotos%2Bfrom%2Bthe%2Bwinter%2Bblizzard%2Bin%2BNYC%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B6.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger talks about the snow and blizzard in NYC, January 2016. © Lianne Whitelaw" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rgeJCZcUDbU/VqkKM_u2QnI/AAAAAAAAHQw/hYT5u90I1hM/s1600/Snow%2Bphotos%2Bfrom%2Bthe%2Bwinter%2Bblizzard%2Bin%2BNYC%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B7.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger talks about the snow and blizzard in NYC, January 2016. © Lianne Whitelaw" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rgeJCZcUDbU/VqkKM_u2QnI/AAAAAAAAHQw/hYT5u90I1hM/s1600/Snow%2Bphotos%2Bfrom%2Bthe%2Bwinter%2Bblizzard%2Bin%2BNYC%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B7.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger talks about the snow and blizzard in NYC, January 2016. © Lianne Whitelaw" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KMbQx59zF1k/VqkKNJLB6pI/AAAAAAAAHQs/YCLcIxSrU8U/s1600/Snow%2Bphotos%2Bfrom%2Bthe%2Bwinter%2Bblizzard%2Bin%2BNYC%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B8.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger talks about the snow and blizzard in NYC, January 2016. © Lianne Whitelaw" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KMbQx59zF1k/VqkKNJLB6pI/AAAAAAAAHQs/YCLcIxSrU8U/s1600/Snow%2Bphotos%2Bfrom%2Bthe%2Bwinter%2Bblizzard%2Bin%2BNYC%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B8.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger talks about the snow and blizzard in NYC, January 2016. © Lianne Whitelaw" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tUMGV92fMFI/VqkKNFNzmtI/AAAAAAAAHQ0/e9ssMVqHO8Q/s1600/Snow%2Bphotos%2Bfrom%2Bthe%2Bwinter%2Bblizzard%2Bin%2BNYC%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B9.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger talks about the snow and blizzard in NYC, January 2016. © Lianne Whitelaw" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tUMGV92fMFI/VqkKNFNzmtI/AAAAAAAAHQ0/e9ssMVqHO8Q/s1600/Snow%2Bphotos%2Bfrom%2Bthe%2Bwinter%2Bblizzard%2Bin%2BNYC%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B9.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger talks about the snow and blizzard in NYC, January 2016. © Lianne Whitelaw" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EnTmXHYK0rI/VqkKJ7b2OZI/AAAAAAAAHPU/ekG--CdNa4g/s1600/Snow%2Bphotos%2Bfrom%2Bthe%2Bwinter%2Bblizzard%2Bin%2BNYC%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B11.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger talks about the snow and blizzard in NYC, January 2016. © Lianne Whitelaw" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EnTmXHYK0rI/VqkKJ7b2OZI/AAAAAAAAHPU/ekG--CdNa4g/s1600/Snow%2Bphotos%2Bfrom%2Bthe%2Bwinter%2Bblizzard%2Bin%2BNYC%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B11.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger talks about the snow and blizzard in NYC, January 2016. © Lianne Whitelaw" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tD4WrPqlAVI/VqkKJ5vdxaI/AAAAAAAAHPQ/qi1_i7hqCCg/s1600/Snow%2Bphotos%2Bfrom%2Bthe%2Bwinter%2Bblizzard%2Bin%2BNYC%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B12.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger talks about the snow and blizzard in NYC, January 2016. © Lianne Whitelaw" border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tD4WrPqlAVI/VqkKJ5vdxaI/AAAAAAAAHPQ/qi1_i7hqCCg/s1600/Snow%2Bphotos%2Bfrom%2Bthe%2Bwinter%2Bblizzard%2Bin%2BNYC%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B12.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger talks about the snow and blizzard in NYC, January 2016. © Lianne Whitelaw" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">We are lucky enough to live one block from the East River and Carl Schurz Park and so that was our first port of call. We stepped in deep patches of freshly fallen and untouched snow, walked to the river to see the view totally obstructed by the blizzard, visited the snow covered Peter Pan statue and tried to make snowballs. The snow was so different to any I have ever seen at home. It was like powder, so light and fluffy and fell through my fingers easily, making it hard to form into balls. So like the adults we are we just threw snow at each other instead, running and ducking to avoid getting hit, which was a lot of fun.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">There weren't many people around yet. A total winter wonderland and I couldn't help but sing the song the whole time on our walk. It seemed rather fitting.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">After a quick pit stop on the roof to see the view from above, we headed back into our apartment to have some yummy and warming brunch before heading back out again in the afternoon to meet some friends. This time we ventured further afield and went to Central Park. Again, things were a lot quieter than normal as there was now a city wide car ban (apart from emergency vehicles) in place. Central Park however was full of people, sledging, building snowman, playing football, skiing, snowboarding, snow shoeing. Everyone was out enjoying the first snow of winter. And boy, it was an epic one. That's another thing I love about snow - it can make everyone stop what they are doing and just have fun. It brings people together.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7AWSjwMY3ao/VqkKKLcjyLI/AAAAAAAAHPY/1VWlNenbhB0/s1600/Snow%2Bphotos%2Bfrom%2Bthe%2Bwinter%2Bblizzard%2Bin%2BNYC%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B13.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger talks about the snow and blizzard in NYC, January 2016. © Lianne Whitelaw" border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7AWSjwMY3ao/VqkKKLcjyLI/AAAAAAAAHPY/1VWlNenbhB0/s1600/Snow%2Bphotos%2Bfrom%2Bthe%2Bwinter%2Bblizzard%2Bin%2BNYC%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B13.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger talks about the snow and blizzard in NYC, January 2016. © Lianne Whitelaw" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LDGh-Doxu2A/VqkKKbmggiI/AAAAAAAAHPg/JidVxN-VxxU/s1600/Snow%2Bphotos%2Bfrom%2Bthe%2Bwinter%2Bblizzard%2Bin%2BNYC%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B14.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger talks about the snow and blizzard in NYC, January 2016. © Lianne Whitelaw" border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LDGh-Doxu2A/VqkKKbmggiI/AAAAAAAAHPg/JidVxN-VxxU/s1600/Snow%2Bphotos%2Bfrom%2Bthe%2Bwinter%2Bblizzard%2Bin%2BNYC%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B14.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger talks about the snow and blizzard in NYC, January 2016. © Lianne Whitelaw" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l26FFQfQkLA/VqkKKRkJVwI/AAAAAAAAHPc/C1reFU3BRtU/s1600/Snow%2Bphotos%2Bfrom%2Bthe%2Bwinter%2Bblizzard%2Bin%2BNYC%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B15.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger talks about the snow and blizzard in NYC, January 2016. © Lianne Whitelaw" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l26FFQfQkLA/VqkKKRkJVwI/AAAAAAAAHPc/C1reFU3BRtU/s1600/Snow%2Bphotos%2Bfrom%2Bthe%2Bwinter%2Bblizzard%2Bin%2BNYC%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B15.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger talks about the snow and blizzard in NYC, January 2016. © Lianne Whitelaw" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E8bHle1QcSw/VqkKKsX2tnI/AAAAAAAAHPk/o0K51sTVmiY/s1600/Snow%2Bphotos%2Bfrom%2Bthe%2Bwinter%2Bblizzard%2Bin%2BNYC%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B16.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger talks about the snow and blizzard in NYC, January 2016. © Lianne Whitelaw" border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E8bHle1QcSw/VqkKKsX2tnI/AAAAAAAAHPk/o0K51sTVmiY/s1600/Snow%2Bphotos%2Bfrom%2Bthe%2Bwinter%2Bblizzard%2Bin%2BNYC%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B16.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger talks about the snow and blizzard in NYC, January 2016. © Lianne Whitelaw" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gmZgYxBNso0/VqkKK3R7ErI/AAAAAAAAHPw/iCDXjlgznNw/s1600/Snow%2Bphotos%2Bfrom%2Bthe%2Bwinter%2Bblizzard%2Bin%2BNYC%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B17.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger talks about the snow and blizzard in NYC, January 2016. © Lianne Whitelaw" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gmZgYxBNso0/VqkKK3R7ErI/AAAAAAAAHPw/iCDXjlgznNw/s1600/Snow%2Bphotos%2Bfrom%2Bthe%2Bwinter%2Bblizzard%2Bin%2BNYC%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B17.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger talks about the snow and blizzard in NYC, January 2016. © Lianne Whitelaw" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bmmHqcAFZjo/VqkKK14KiCI/AAAAAAAAHPs/7AfWrk6zJ9Q/s1600/Snow%2Bphotos%2Bfrom%2Bthe%2Bwinter%2Bblizzard%2Bin%2BNYC%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B18.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger talks about the snow and blizzard in NYC, January 2016. © Lianne Whitelaw" border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bmmHqcAFZjo/VqkKK14KiCI/AAAAAAAAHPs/7AfWrk6zJ9Q/s1600/Snow%2Bphotos%2Bfrom%2Bthe%2Bwinter%2Bblizzard%2Bin%2BNYC%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B18.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger talks about the snow and blizzard in NYC, January 2016. © Lianne Whitelaw" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">We spent a lot of time building a little snowman, watching the sledgers and exploring the beautiful park, before heading over to the the Upper West Side for a late lunch and a hot drink. By the time we had defrosted and eaten our fill of good food, we were ready to head home. It was dark with low cloud and the snow lay even thicker on the ground. The streets were getting quiet again, as everyone headed home to get warm and snuggly, vegging out in front of Netflix. As there were no cars on the roads, there were none of the insistent horns you normally hear wherever you are in the city. It was quiet, which for the city that never sleeps is a bit of a big deal and so it almost didn't feel like NYC at all. We could have been anywhere, transported back to a time before cars, phones and social media. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c1IOYsDlMBk/VqkKL5G9unI/AAAAAAAAHQI/iDLt_MRzSgM/s1600/Snow%2Bphotos%2Bfrom%2Bthe%2Bwinter%2Bblizzard%2Bin%2BNYC%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B22.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger talks about the snow and blizzard in NYC, January 2016. © Lianne Whitelaw" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c1IOYsDlMBk/VqkKL5G9unI/AAAAAAAAHQI/iDLt_MRzSgM/s1600/Snow%2Bphotos%2Bfrom%2Bthe%2Bwinter%2Bblizzard%2Bin%2BNYC%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B22.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger talks about the snow and blizzard in NYC, January 2016. © Lianne Whitelaw" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pjxHvBniDNA/VqkKME8WLzI/AAAAAAAAHQc/ccrcyPNFa7c/s1600/Snow%2Bphotos%2Bfrom%2Bthe%2Bwinter%2Bblizzard%2Bin%2BNYC%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B23.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger talks about the snow and blizzard in NYC, January 2016. © Lianne Whitelaw" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pjxHvBniDNA/VqkKME8WLzI/AAAAAAAAHQc/ccrcyPNFa7c/s1600/Snow%2Bphotos%2Bfrom%2Bthe%2Bwinter%2Bblizzard%2Bin%2BNYC%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B23.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger talks about the snow and blizzard in NYC, January 2016. © Lianne Whitelaw" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OHdlp9dxz_0/VqkKLah4tOI/AAAAAAAAHP4/fW8E9fp_GsE/s1600/Snow%2Bphotos%2Bfrom%2Bthe%2Bwinter%2Bblizzard%2Bin%2BNYC%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B20.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger talks about the snow and blizzard in NYC, January 2016. © Lianne Whitelaw" border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OHdlp9dxz_0/VqkKLah4tOI/AAAAAAAAHP4/fW8E9fp_GsE/s1600/Snow%2Bphotos%2Bfrom%2Bthe%2Bwinter%2Bblizzard%2Bin%2BNYC%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B20.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger talks about the snow and blizzard in NYC, January 2016. © Lianne Whitelaw" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FqtGm7h5RBI/VqkKLYGvHYI/AAAAAAAAHQE/ccOi6OksHKM/s1600/Snow%2Bphotos%2Bfrom%2Bthe%2Bwinter%2Bblizzard%2Bin%2BNYC%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B21.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger talks about the snow and blizzard in NYC, January 2016. © Lianne Whitelaw" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FqtGm7h5RBI/VqkKLYGvHYI/AAAAAAAAHQE/ccOi6OksHKM/s1600/Snow%2Bphotos%2Bfrom%2Bthe%2Bwinter%2Bblizzard%2Bin%2BNYC%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B21.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger talks about the snow and blizzard in NYC, January 2016. © Lianne Whitelaw" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-idgqLQ6rwxs/VqkKMCePAJI/AAAAAAAAHQY/RaVdJwtLVbI/s1600/Snow%2Bphotos%2Bfrom%2Bthe%2Bwinter%2Bblizzard%2Bin%2BNYC%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B24.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger talks about the snow and blizzard in NYC, January 2016. © Lianne Whitelaw" border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-idgqLQ6rwxs/VqkKMCePAJI/AAAAAAAAHQY/RaVdJwtLVbI/s1600/Snow%2Bphotos%2Bfrom%2Bthe%2Bwinter%2Bblizzard%2Bin%2BNYC%252C%2B2016.%2BImage%2B24.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger talks about the snow and blizzard in NYC, January 2016. © Lianne Whitelaw" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">We walked across Central Park, back home to the Upper East Side, crossing untouched sports fields and paths with snow higher than my knees, leaving big deep impressions that someone had been here, leaving our mark on this snowy wonderland and navigating by the glowing lights of the streetlamps ahead. Everything was bright white and beautiful and unbelievably quiet and meditative. It was as if Central Park had fallen asleep and time was standing still. Wandering past lampposts, with the snow glittering like diamonds underneath reminded me so much of Narnia. There was such a feeling of magic in the air that I was half expecting to see Mr Tumnus with his umbrella trotting past. It was cold and the snow was still coming down heavily, stinging our cold faces but we didn't notice or didn't care. We were in love and swept away by the magic of it all.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">What a complete winter wonderland and I'm so glad we got to experience it for our first year in NYC. Do you like snow as much as I do?</div>Liannehttps://plus.google.com/109956492942340529906noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3597752285700534857.post-12125057233843679122016-01-24T12:00:00.000+00:002016-01-24T12:00:14.085+00:00#320. Outfit: My dream boots<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-82PnKA8_LE0/VoGN53LM1oI/AAAAAAAAHL8/YjtrGfFlWy0/s1600/Outfit%2Bpost%2Bfeaturing%2BTed%2Band%2BMuffy%252C%2BASOS%252C%2BTopshop%2Band%2BJ%2BCrew.%2BImage%2B1.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger writes about her outfit featuring Ted and Muffy boots, ASOS, J Crew and Topshop" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-82PnKA8_LE0/VoGN53LM1oI/AAAAAAAAHL8/YjtrGfFlWy0/s1600/Outfit%2Bpost%2Bfeaturing%2BTed%2Band%2BMuffy%252C%2BASOS%252C%2BTopshop%2Band%2BJ%2BCrew.%2BImage%2B1.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger writes about her outfit featuring Ted and Muffy boots, ASOS, J Crew and Topshop" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I wanted to do this post before Christmas, but you know, life happened and I got distracted by all the twinkling fairy lights, working my way through my gift list and eating ALL the festive food, (here's looking at you roast potatoes) that was the last part of 2015.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">So, here you go, better late than never pals. This wee post is to show off the wonders that are my new boots* from <a href="http://www.tedandmuffy.com/us" target="_blank">Ted and Muffy</a> (formerly Duo) and also to chat about my love of boots, cause they are bangin'. Like all of them. All the boots.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I was always an ankle boot kinda gal, loving a black pair of chelsea boots teamed with skinny jeans and leather jacket combo, that was my casual to go outfit for a long time. Perfect just to throw on, slick on some led lipstick and look ace. But after being treated to a pair of Ted and Muffy kneehigh boots, I might have a new favourite. Hello tucked in jeans and barelegged with little dresses, oh and maybe with a little striped tee and look like a sophisticated Parisian lady who has life all worked out. Boots are just so versatile, come in so many styles and colours and can be worn with literally everything. They rock.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Gv6ScxWmMEg/VoGN6SVhu8I/AAAAAAAAHMA/WbmC1Tc7bRw/s1600/Outfit%2Bpost%2Bfeaturing%2BTed%2Band%2BMuffy%252C%2BASOS%252C%2BTopshop%2Band%2BJ%2BCrew.%2BImage%2B2.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Gv6ScxWmMEg/VoGN6SVhu8I/AAAAAAAAHMA/WbmC1Tc7bRw/s1600/Outfit%2Bpost%2Bfeaturing%2BTed%2Band%2BMuffy%252C%2BASOS%252C%2BTopshop%2Band%2BJ%2BCrew.%2BImage%2B2.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cAmqzfrP-AI/VoGN6Q7yx0I/AAAAAAAAHME/JV1BSKJqNZM/s1600/Outfit%2Bpost%2Bfeaturing%2BTed%2Band%2BMuffy%252C%2BASOS%252C%2BTopshop%2Band%2BJ%2BCrew.%2BImage%2B3.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger writes about her outfit featuring Ted and Muffy boots, ASOS, J Crew and Topshop" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cAmqzfrP-AI/VoGN6Q7yx0I/AAAAAAAAHME/JV1BSKJqNZM/s1600/Outfit%2Bpost%2Bfeaturing%2BTed%2Band%2BMuffy%252C%2BASOS%252C%2BTopshop%2Band%2BJ%2BCrew.%2BImage%2B3.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger writes about her outfit featuring Ted and Muffy boots, ASOS, J Crew and Topshop" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PETc9sT3kDg/VoGN6lT9uMI/AAAAAAAAHMI/NleYETT1x28/s1600/Outfit%2Bpost%2Bfeaturing%2BTed%2Band%2BMuffy%252C%2BASOS%252C%2BTopshop%2Band%2BJ%2BCrew.%2BImage%2B4.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger writes about her outfit featuring Ted and Muffy boots, ASOS, J Crew and Topshop" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PETc9sT3kDg/VoGN6lT9uMI/AAAAAAAAHMI/NleYETT1x28/s1600/Outfit%2Bpost%2Bfeaturing%2BTed%2Band%2BMuffy%252C%2BASOS%252C%2BTopshop%2Band%2BJ%2BCrew.%2BImage%2B4.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger writes about her outfit featuring Ted and Muffy boots, ASOS, J Crew and Topshop" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JpSYIYYtDv0/VoGN68a0NtI/AAAAAAAAHMM/73zHTY3t5-0/s1600/Outfit%2Bpost%2Bfeaturing%2BTed%2Band%2BMuffy%252C%2BASOS%252C%2BTopshop%2Band%2BJ%2BCrew.%2BImage%2B5.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger writes about her outfit featuring Ted and Muffy boots, ASOS, J Crew and Topshop" border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JpSYIYYtDv0/VoGN68a0NtI/AAAAAAAAHMM/73zHTY3t5-0/s1600/Outfit%2Bpost%2Bfeaturing%2BTed%2Band%2BMuffy%252C%2BASOS%252C%2BTopshop%2Band%2BJ%2BCrew.%2BImage%2B5.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Li, a NYC and Scottish lifestyle blogger writes about her outfit featuring Ted and Muffy boots, ASOS, J Crew and Topshop" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">So here's me posing in my A-MAZ-ING new boots and swinging around pipes like a numpty. On our NYC rooftop though because helloooo big city lights, even though technically we look onto a tonne of other buildings, but still. I'm in NYC! I don't think I'll get fed up of ever saying that.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I love the riding boot style, the tan colour and the little flat heel because I am definitely getting old and struggling with wearing heels for extended periods. Like an actual Granny. But hey, I'm rocking it. The leather of the boots is incredibly soft too, inside and out which makes them so comfy and perfect for strutting about NYC. What's more, they fit like a dream. Ted and Muffy call themselves 'fairytale fitters' as each boot comes in a range of sizes for calf, foot width and size so you can find your perfect fit. No more plasters for boots that are slightly too big! Nuh-uh.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I decided to wear my boots with this gorgeous denim tunic from J Crew, - getting all American over here! - layered over my Topshop blouse and the biggest and cosiest blanket scarf ever from ASOS. I like to think I am channelling my inner 70s chic. This outfit is casual and comfy and I like it. A lot.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Have you been to check out the boots at Ted and Muffy?</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Disclaimer - I was gifted my beautiful boots by Ted and Muffy. While the boots were complimentary my thoughts on them are completely my own. I really do love them and will be wearing them a lot, so stay tuned.</span></div>Liannehttps://plus.google.com/109956492942340529906noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3597752285700534857.post-59558053546070606162016-01-22T12:00:00.000+00:002016-01-22T22:08:31.361+00:00#319. Being thankful 2016<div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_ltIjxp3iQo/Vp628xQrxvI/AAAAAAAAHOk/1V19thXW-Lw/s1600/Winter%2Bberries%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Being thankful in 2016" border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_ltIjxp3iQo/Vp628xQrxvI/AAAAAAAAHOk/1V19thXW-Lw/s1600/Winter%2Bberries%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Being thankful in 2016" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">A bit more of a personal post today. 2015 was a good year and I have so much to be thankful for and so many wonderful people in my life were a part of that. So after being inspired by <a href="http://www.waterpainteddreams.com/" target="_blank">Hayley</a> and her beautiful post, I decided to do a similar list and thank a bunch of people that I have enjoyed spending time with in 2015 and who have been amazing in their own special ways. This post is just a little gesture to say thanks. Thanks for being there, for making me laugh and just generally being you.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><ul><li>To Robin for being such a wonderful best friend and hubby. You make me smile everyday, always make everything better and are so encouraging about everything</li><li>To Rubes for making me laugh constantly. I love our long text ramblings about nothing in particular and especially after a few drinks, those conversations just get even funnier than normal</li><li>To Emma, Claire, Louisa and Leanne for always being such bundles of energy, for making me feel so welcome in NYC and for beating those lonely blues when they come acalling</li><li>To Anne Gaelle for being such an inspiring person and a great new pal. Everytime we chat I want to head off and try new things. I'm looking forward to getting to know you better in 2016 and forming out NYC girl gang</li><li>To Chris for being the best wee bro a big sis could ask for and for always making me laugh...a lot, especially with your tipsy facetimes</li><li>To Charlene for your awesome <a href="http://tartanmouth.blogspot.com/search/label/Feel%20Good%20Friday" target="_blank">Feel Good Friday</a> blog posts, making me well up on a regular basis and see the good that so many people are bringing into the world. I always look forward to these posts</li><li>To Kim for listening to my long, rambling voicemails, letting me be completely honest on long distance calls and sending the best care packages</li><li>To Clair for seeing that things maybe weren't quite right and phoning for a long, much needed chat. So glad we got to bring in the new year together</li><li>To Lindsay for always being a dose of fashion inspiration and for being so supportive of my job hunt. Looking forward to seeing more of you this year</li><li>To Claire and Christie for 3 hour skype sessions - they are always brilliant - and The Crucible memes and random chats on our whatsapp make me laugh</li><li>To Mike, although we haven't caught up in a good number of years, it was awesome when we did and I'm glad to have you back in my life</li><li>To Stace for always encouraging me in whatever mad venture I have planned and always being just a text or a phonecall away</li><li>To Molly. I feel like I've known you for ages already. I'm glad to have you as an NYC pal</li><li>To Sarah for being so good at sending postcards and giving me constant itchy feet with your travelling adventures</li><li>To Cait for being a constant source of inspiration, enthusiasm and a such great listener. I really miss being so far away from you</li><li>To Nick and Bax for facetiming us on Hogmanay. It was the funniest call and gave us huge smiles on our faces. The perfect was to start 2016</li><li>To Cat, Kat, Kate and Cara for your 'just checking in' messages. They come out of the blue and always make me smile. I love catching up with all your news</li><li>To Ali for coming all the way over from the USA for our wedding in May. It meant a lot</li><li>To Laura, the best amigo invisible this year. I'm wearing these cozy socks to death and I loved your letter. It reminded me of old times</li><li>To Jen for sending THE longest whatsapp messages ever, complete with pics of the puppies</li><li>To Pip for sending daily doses of cute</li><li>To Lynne for keeping me entertained with your <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC925XVMrrL7PjLcEWFCtL0w" target="_blank">Youtube videos</a>. I love watching them and keeping up with your adventures</li><li>To Sarah for making me laugh a lot, especially when a wig is involved. I'm sad we don't live in the same place anymore but I hope to get to know you better when I come back</li><li>To Kerr for just making me smile</li><li>To Jess C Lively for your wonderful and inspiring podcasts. They make me think about things differently and to want to do more</li><li>To Ayden for all your inspiring <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thegoodlife365/?fref=ts" target="_blank">wellness suggestions</a></li><li>To Lucy for reminding me not to get down on the job hunt and to keep my chin up. My ideal job is out there </li><li>To <a href="http://www.elevatormusik.com/" target="_blank">Gillian</a> for my wonderful new blog design - I loves it</li><li>To my upstairs neighbour. You have such a beautiful singing voice and whatever that John Legend esc song you sing over and over is, it's ace</li><li>To Mum and Dad, just for being you and having the funniest and most random Skype chats. Love you both to bits</li></ul><div>Who would you thank if you wrote a similar list?</div></div>Liannehttps://plus.google.com/109956492942340529906noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3597752285700534857.post-38678077118874889052016-01-20T12:00:00.000+00:002016-01-20T12:00:01.220+00:00#318. New Year goals 2016<div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x_EXYBf81Bw/Vp6lMJ_NreI/AAAAAAAAHOU/FmGj4OFxV0g/s1600/Hello%2B2016%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Li, an NYC and scottish lifestyle blogger explians her 2016 resolutions and goals including fitness, creativity, reading more and getting up earlier" border="0" height="478" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x_EXYBf81Bw/Vp6lMJ_NreI/AAAAAAAAHOU/FmGj4OFxV0g/s640/Hello%2B2016%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Li, an NYC and scottish lifestyle blogger explians her 2016 resolutions and goals including fitness, creativity, reading more and getting up earlier" width="640" /></a></div><br />Hello 2016. Although I must admit that you crept up on me a little bit, I'm happy you're here...even if I am writing this post 3 weeks late. Ooops. (I got distracted with job applications, volunteering at a wonderful theatre festival and wonderful friends visiting). 2015 was a fantastic year, I loved every minute of it and so I'm really excited for what 2016 has in store. The air feels so full of possibility and I want to take full advantage of this fresh start and make big plans for the year. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I enjoy setting myself goals as it keeps my head focussed and gives me goals to work towards. In all honesty I dip in and out of goals/resolutions during the course of the year, but they act as a guide for how I would like things to turn out and I always find myself coming back to them. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">This year I've set myself 7 goals and I am excited to get started.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>1. Make fitness and health an essential part of my life and of my daily routine.</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">This goal is a recurring one every year as it is something I would really like to make a habit of. I was so proud of myself for sticking to this goal for a large part of 2015 and loved how it made me feel, both physically and mentally. I was in such a happy place and felt strong and confident and like a complete badass. I would like to get back there to that badassery as since moving to NYC I have fell of the bandwagon slightly. I blame the bagels! This year I would really like to exercise at least 3 times a week and take part in a 10k and a half marathon, as well as eating healthily as part of my routine. Having an event to train for will keep pushing me forward and motivated for the challenges ahead.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>2. Read more</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I used to read books like there was no tomorrow when I was wee but lately I have completely fallen out of the habit. I'm going to write a list of books I would like to have read by the end of the year and try and cross one of the list every two weeks, as I'm a slow reader. So if you have any recommendations for me, please write a comment or send me a tweet. I am very open to suggestions and would love a mixture of fiction and non fiction to keep me learning and introduce me to new perspectives. So far this year I've read the Opposite of Loneliness by Marina Keegan and have just started on Orange is the New Black.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>3. Travel</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">In 2015 Robin and I crossed a big life bucketlist item off by moving to NYC and were lucky enough to get to travel to Africa on our honeymoon. This year both of us would really like to make the most of our time in the US and travel as much as possible. We have written a list of everywhere we would like to visit and there are so many places that we better get cracking. Both of us love travelling, experiencing different places and foods and learning about new areas and it's history that I can't wait to get started.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>4. Get happy</b><br />Again, this was on my goal wishlist for the past few years and although I am generally a happy person, I don't think there is anything wrong with being more so. Spending time with family and friends, exercising and finding the time to be creative and read books, to find my way back to 'me' will help with this goal a lot.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>5. Be more creative</b><br />I would like to take on more personal creative projects this year. I love being creative and am quite a creative person, but sometimes life gets in the way and before you know it the whole day is gone in a puff of smoke. I enjoy colouring and would like to get back into painting this year. Blogging is also my little creative outlet too which I love.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>6. Get up early and make the most of everyday</b><br />I'll admit, I can be like a little lazy sloth most of the time. I just love my bed and love sleeping and being all cozy. Who doesn't? I am not a morning person at all and struggle to get my brain in gear first thing in the day. But I would like to get up a little earlier each day and really make the most of the time I have. This is going to be hard but I would like to have more time in my day and not be rushed and stressed, running out the door like every morning since the year dot. Sleep Cycle I am counting on you.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>7. Say yes</b><br />I want this to my year of saying yes to people, opportunities and situations. Yes to dinner, yes to drinks, yes to museum visits and 5k races, yes to trips, yes to new friends and yes to experiences. Even things that scare me. Actually scrap that, especially things that scare me. You never know what will come your way and I want to say yes, to go into every situation with an open heart and mind and enjoy the relatively short time we have in NYC.<br /><br />Do you have any goals for 2016?</div>Liannehttps://plus.google.com/109956492942340529906noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3597752285700534857.post-45135806916473841252015-12-27T10:30:00.000+00:002015-12-27T10:30:18.816+00:00#317. Choosing a 2016 diary and thinking about a new year<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H68USK8dzUw/Vnmn-_5lbmI/AAAAAAAAHLA/JBYotAOlKrs/s1600/2016%2Bdiary%2Bpicks%2Bfeaturing%2BPaperchase%252C%2BPapersource%252C%2BMoleskine%252C%2BFrankie%252C%2BVeronica%2BDearly%252C%2BFallindesign%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H68USK8dzUw/Vnmn-_5lbmI/AAAAAAAAHLA/JBYotAOlKrs/s1600/2016%2Bdiary%2Bpicks%2Bfeaturing%2BPaperchase%252C%2BPapersource%252C%2BMoleskine%252C%2BFrankie%252C%2BVeronica%2BDearly%252C%2BFallindesign%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Row 1</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Frankie diary 2016, <a href="http://www.frankiepress.com.au/shop/frankie/frankie-diary-2016" target="_blank">Frankie</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">2016 diary - pink/white gold foil. <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/254197066/2016-diary-pinkwhite-gold-foil?ref=shop_home_active_1" target="_blank">FRANKstationery on Etsy</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Livework piyo cute animal dated diary. <a href="http://www.fallindesign.com/2016-livework-piyo-cute-animal-dated-diary-scheduler/" target="_blank">Fall in Design</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Kraft hardback diary. <a href="http://www.paperchase-usa.com/stationery/diaries-organisers/diaries/a6-wtv-2016-text-wiro.html" target="_blank">Paperchase</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Row 2</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">2016 Terrific Project wall planner. <a href="http://veronicadearly.bigcartel.com/product/2015-terrific-project-a1-wall-planner-pre-order" target="_blank">Veronica Dearly</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Paint Stripe booklet planner. <a href="http://www.papersource.com/item/2015-2016-Paper-Source-Paint-Stripe-Booklet-Planner/3303-060-d1/842612058143.html" target="_blank">Papersource</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Star Wars daily diary. <a href="https://store.moleskine.com/usa/planners/2016-daily-planners/12-months-star-wars-daily-diary/p735?lang=en-us&ic=x0%2Fzow%3D%3D&vid=1370" target="_blank">Moleskine</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Cute daily diary. <a href="http://www.kikki-k.com/2016-daily-cute-diary-large" target="_blank">Kikki K</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Row 3</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Silver leather diary. <a href="http://www.paperchase-usa.com/stationery/diaries-organisers/diaries/a6-leather-flexi-2016-silver.html" target="_blank">Paperchase</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Personalised diary. <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/252492533/2016-planner-2016-weekly-planner-custom?ref=shop_home_feat_2" target="_blank">Simply Notebooks on Etsy</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Iconic mellow illustrated dated diary. <a href="http://www.fallindesign.com/2016-iconic-mellow-illustration-dated-diary-scheduler/" target="_blank">Fall in Design</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Wild at Heart planner. <a href="http://www.papersource.com/item/2015-2016-Wild-at-Heart-Planner/3325.010/9781622267248.html" target="_blank">Papersource</a></span></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">It's that time of year again when we start thinking of new beginnings. A fresh start always comes with a new year and whether that is what we want to build on from the previous year or change everything around completely, the choice is ours. I always find a new diary helps and I get so excited about the possibilities of a new year. Your diary is like a blank canvas, ready to be filled with fun plans, dreams and exciting adventures. It's hope and the beginning of a fresh chapter, full of possibility. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">A new year is the time when the world is your oyster and I'm looking forward to grabbing 2016 with both hands. I know some people think resolutions and goals and big life plans are cheesy but I enjoy setting them, they help me focus and work well with my personality. 2015 was a brilliant year with so many highs and adventures. While waiting on my work permit to come through and then on the job hunt, I've had a lot of time read (<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Radical-Self-Love-Loving-Yourself/dp/0692441271" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Radical Self Love</a>, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Opposite-Loneliness-Essays-Stories/dp/1476753911/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1450815134&sr=1-1&keywords=the+opposite+of+loneliness" target="_blank">The Opposite of Loneliness</a>, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Big-Magic-Creative-Living-Beyond/dp/1594634718/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1450815154&sr=1-1&keywords=big+magic" target="_blank">Big Magic</a>), to think about things and really delve deep into what I want 2016 to be. It's rare that you find the time in our busy lives to do some proper soul searching. I think 2016 is going to be pretty exciting year and I can't wait to share my journey with you as I go along, doing things I have always wanted and going on amazing adventures.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">So to help keep my plans in order I've been searching around online for a new diary, to keep a track of all my plans, to jot down ideas, space for all my inspirational quotes and to help make 2016 the best it can be. I love a diary with a day to day view, with lots of space for notes and writing. Although I use my phone quite regularly now as Robin and I have a joint calender (married life folks!), I don't think you can get better than a fun or illustrated diary to inspire you day to day. This year I'll also be popping my new years resolutions in there to remind myself what I have decided to focus on.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">So, these are my favourites I'm come across on my travels, which I hope you will like to. Although not technically a diary, I am also in love with the Veronica Dearly wallplanner. I had it in 2015 and used it while in Edinburgh, although sadly I had to leave it behind with the move to NYC. It gives you little pointers, tips and ideas each day to make your year even more terrific and I enjoyed following the prompts to love my life to the fullest. I have ordered my wall planner for 2016 and now am anxiously awaiting it's arrival. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">So here's to 2016. What a fun, exciting and adventurous year I'm hoping it will be.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Do you enjoy using a diary? Have you got your diary for 2016 yet? Have you got big plans for the year?</div>Liannehttps://plus.google.com/109956492942340529906noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3597752285700534857.post-88736612069674779532015-12-26T10:30:00.000+00:002015-12-26T10:30:09.161+00:00#316. Exploring the Museum of Feelings, NYC<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Dfu2APmS2ek/VnNf0W6daSI/AAAAAAAAHGs/i3alP7zAx5k/s1600/Exploring%2Bthe%2BMuseum%2Bof%2BFeelings%252C%2BNYC.%2BImage%2B16.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Exploring the Museum of Feelings, NYC" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Dfu2APmS2ek/VnNf0W6daSI/AAAAAAAAHGs/i3alP7zAx5k/s1600/Exploring%2Bthe%2BMuseum%2Bof%2BFeelings%252C%2BNYC.%2BImage%2B16.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Exploring the Museum of Feelings, NYC" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VXnTiNv2N3k/VnNfzePXktI/AAAAAAAAHFw/9oCFuvQWuFs/s1600/Exploring%2Bthe%2BMuseum%2Bof%2BFeelings%252C%2BNYC.%2BImage%2B1.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; 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text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cHi3xAE7Gng/VnNfz7RdtBI/AAAAAAAAHGQ/Ntp51zNlmAw/s1600/Exploring%2Bthe%2BMuseum%2Bof%2BFeelings%252C%2BNYC.%2BImage%2B13.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Exploring the Museum of Feelings, NYC" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cHi3xAE7Gng/VnNfz7RdtBI/AAAAAAAAHGQ/Ntp51zNlmAw/s1600/Exploring%2Bthe%2BMuseum%2Bof%2BFeelings%252C%2BNYC.%2BImage%2B13.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Exploring the Museum of Feelings, NYC" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1qHwO8uq0ng/VnNf0OdEY_I/AAAAAAAAHGE/oTonN7V7UU0/s1600/Exploring%2Bthe%2BMuseum%2Bof%2BFeelings%252C%2BNYC.%2BImage%2B14.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Exploring the Museum of Feelings, NYC" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1qHwO8uq0ng/VnNf0OdEY_I/AAAAAAAAHGE/oTonN7V7UU0/s1600/Exploring%2Bthe%2BMuseum%2Bof%2BFeelings%252C%2BNYC.%2BImage%2B14.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Exploring the Museum of Feelings, NYC" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Tv1RgxaHdWQ/VnNf0a8AsHI/AAAAAAAAHGY/noeDKks1DIo/s1600/Exploring%2Bthe%2BMuseum%2Bof%2BFeelings%252C%2BNYC.%2BImage%2B15.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Exploring the Museum of Feelings, NYC" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Tv1RgxaHdWQ/VnNf0a8AsHI/AAAAAAAAHGY/noeDKks1DIo/s1600/Exploring%2Bthe%2BMuseum%2Bof%2BFeelings%252C%2BNYC.%2BImage%2B15.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Exploring the Museum of Feelings, NYC" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">NYC. The land of the popups, from popup bars and restaurants to shops and now a pop up museum. The Museum of Feelings was one of the coolest things I have done since moving to NYC in September. I had tried to go twice before actually making it in the building, as the queues were always massive after work and on the weekends. So I went early one Friday morning and queued alongside lots of mums with prams and nursery groups to check it out.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">The Museum of Feelings explores the relationship between emotion and scent in such interesting ways. The exhibit was split into five different rooms, each representing a different emotion both visually and by smell; Optimistic, Calm, Invigorated, Exhilarated and Joyful. I was able to walk between the rooms, savouring each and taking my time to wander around. Each room was so different visually and by smell and all were a lot of fun. Each was so bright and colourful which I loved and could be interacted with to some extent, from playing to listening to creating. One of the rooms was even a giant kaleidoscope that changed depending on the mood. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I really enjoyed the Joyful room, which had a lot of green cords hanging from the ceiling in a mirrored room. Visually it was just stunning and I liked walking between them, feeling like I was in some sort of forest. The cords changed colour every so often and there were hanging orbs that diffused out the joyful scent around the room. I spent a lot of time in that room. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I also really enjoyed the invigorated room, where the floor was sensitive to movement...the more you moved or danced with more energy (i.e.. more invigorated you felt), the more colourful your spot on the floor became. The different patterns that were created by lots of people dancing around was beautiful and changed constantly. It was fun to play and loose your inhibitions and just concentrate on making pretty colourful patterns.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">The calm room was filled with scented smoke so it was like walking into a giant lavender cloud which I loved. Looking down I could only just see my feet. I spent a lot of time here, it was just so relaxing.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">In the final room there was the opportunity to take a mood lens selfie. Spending a while in that lavender cloud must have helped me out, as apparently I was very calm and my picture turned blue to show this and was printed on lovely paper, scented with 'calm' from the previous room. What was pretty cool was how the feelings of visitors were all grouped and used to show how NYC was feeling that day, as a snapshot of that moment in time. This was then taken one step further as there are Museum's of Feelings all around the country and so NYC was compared to other cities like Miami, Chicago and Milwaukee, so you could see how people there were feeling. On the morning I visited, NYC was feeling invigorated. The outside of the Museum also changed colour to reflect this real time data and general feelings from the city on social media.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">I loved exploring the Museum of Feelings and was sad it was only on for such a short time, as I would have loved to have went back and experienced it a second time. It was so bright and colourful and I liked discovering the connection between emotion and scent, as this wasn't something I had thought about before other than simple examples like lavender and relaxing. The Museum was suitable for all ages and it was great for an exhibit to be able to evoke such wonder across generations.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Did you visit a Museum of Feelings around the USA or in NYC? Would you visit if the Museum of Feelings came to a city near you?</div>Liannehttps://plus.google.com/109956492942340529906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3597752285700534857.post-56666921138510249692015-12-25T10:30:00.000+00:002015-12-25T10:30:05.748+00:00#315. Merry Christmas 2015<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8qPlR-6GPPo/VnNaphomFWI/AAAAAAAAHEM/GD6lUvNo7Mw/s1600/Christmas%2Bin%2BNYC.%2BImage%2B17.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8qPlR-6GPPo/VnNaphomFWI/AAAAAAAAHEM/GD6lUvNo7Mw/s1600/Christmas%2Bin%2BNYC.%2BImage%2B17.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Merry Christmas pals. I hope you all have a wonderful, safe and warm holiday whatever you are up to, surrounded by family and friends, mince pies, mulled wine and Christmas cheer.</div>Liannehttps://plus.google.com/109956492942340529906noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3597752285700534857.post-21625340454897701302015-12-22T10:30:00.000+00:002015-12-22T18:11:17.124+00:00#314. Christmas in New York 2015<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JwtyNiVY2ZM/VnNaosCElbI/AAAAAAAAHDI/tYVxxI_CKLA/s1600/Christmas%2Bin%2BNYC.%2BImage%2B1.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Christmas time in NYC" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JwtyNiVY2ZM/VnNaosCElbI/AAAAAAAAHDI/tYVxxI_CKLA/s1600/Christmas%2Bin%2BNYC.%2BImage%2B1.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Christmas time in NYC" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-otuZVk_hn3Q/VnNaqL1x0aI/AAAAAAAAHD0/pgG-iNnstUs/s1600/Christmas%2Bin%2BNYC.%2BImage%2B2.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Christmas time in NYC" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-otuZVk_hn3Q/VnNaqL1x0aI/AAAAAAAAHD0/pgG-iNnstUs/s1600/Christmas%2Bin%2BNYC.%2BImage%2B2.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Christmas time in NYC" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; 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text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8qPlR-6GPPo/VnNaphomFWI/AAAAAAAAHDk/pWYLOt15JRw/s1600/Christmas%2Bin%2BNYC.%2BImage%2B17.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Christmas time in NYC" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8qPlR-6GPPo/VnNaphomFWI/AAAAAAAAHDk/pWYLOt15JRw/s1600/Christmas%2Bin%2BNYC.%2BImage%2B17.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Christmas time in NYC" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--ooKQhDZzXs/VnNap77T9jI/AAAAAAAAHDs/D8bt3rgIt24/s1600/Christmas%2Bin%2BNYC.%2BImage%2B18.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Christmas time in NYC" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--ooKQhDZzXs/VnNap77T9jI/AAAAAAAAHDs/D8bt3rgIt24/s1600/Christmas%2Bin%2BNYC.%2BImage%2B18.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Christmas time in NYC" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Uovk2iUXWhs/VnNaqELVH2I/AAAAAAAAHDw/GOhfYUTdAkA/s1600/Christmas%2Bin%2BNYC.%2BImage%2B19.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Christmas time in NYC" border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Uovk2iUXWhs/VnNaqELVH2I/AAAAAAAAHDw/GOhfYUTdAkA/s1600/Christmas%2Bin%2BNYC.%2BImage%2B19.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Christmas time in NYC" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9kLYQ4RMda4/VnNaqY46EZI/AAAAAAAAHD8/FAqQo-sZIpo/s1600/Christmas%2Bin%2BNYC.%2BImage%2B20.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Christmas time in NYC" border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9kLYQ4RMda4/VnNaqY46EZI/AAAAAAAAHD8/FAqQo-sZIpo/s1600/Christmas%2Bin%2BNYC.%2BImage%2B20.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Christmas time in NYC" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JVGcNbKzHK4/VnNaqVRAHkI/AAAAAAAAHEA/897G7ksowHk/s1600/Christmas%2Bin%2BNYC.%2BImage%2B21.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Christmas time in NYC" border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JVGcNbKzHK4/VnNaqVRAHkI/AAAAAAAAHEA/897G7ksowHk/s1600/Christmas%2Bin%2BNYC.%2BImage%2B21.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Christmas time in NYC" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">So, all the movies and books are true. From Home Alone 2, to Serendipity, I've come to realise that there is nowhere more festive at Christmas than New York City. I have loved playing the tourist, wandering around the streets looking at all the beautiful decorations, Christmas trees and festive window displays. There is just so much of it and everything is bigger, brighter and more elaborate than anything I have seen before which is amazing. Fairylights are everywhere, fountains have exciting decorations, the Christmas trees are huge, there was a whole day of celebrating with thousands of people dressed as Santa and even the lions at the New York Public Library get in on the action. You really can't help getting in the Christmas spirit when there is so much joy and festive cheer all around. I think even the Bah Humbugs amongst us couldn't resist.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The one thing we have been missing is advent calenders. We didn't realise that they aren't a tradition in the USA, so will need to make sure we have one for next year...I've already put in an order with my wee Mum. It's funny not counting down in the way I have every year since I can remember, but I've been watching a tonne of Christmas movies and visiting all the festive sights to make up for it.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">So here are some of the beautiful festive decorations and delights that I have spotted on my travels. Hoping to do another post solely on the window displays, as there are just so many to admire and little works of art in their own right.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Christmas has come to New York!</div>Liannehttps://plus.google.com/109956492942340529906noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3597752285700534857.post-82919841869407270942015-12-21T10:30:00.000+00:002015-12-21T10:30:00.147+00:00#313. Thanksgiving and a weekend trip to Vermont<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JsUIqxjeesE/VnNnCN9AD4I/AAAAAAAAHIA/Ru4wbf7cey8/s1600/Thanksgiving%2Band%2Ba%2Btrip%2Bto%2BVermont.%2BImage%2B1.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Thanksgiving and a weekend trip to Vermont " border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JsUIqxjeesE/VnNnCN9AD4I/AAAAAAAAHIA/Ru4wbf7cey8/s1600/Thanksgiving%2Band%2Ba%2Btrip%2Bto%2BVermont.%2BImage%2B1.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Thanksgiving and a weekend trip to Vermont " /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">A few weeks ago Robin and I celebrated our first Thanksgiving in the USA, followed by the loveliest weekend roadtrip to Vermont. We were so excited for a weekend of turkey and leftovers and trying out a new holiday for size. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--y0e_0ohndU/VnNnD3zlGuI/AAAAAAAAHJM/IHfUqdQV9DU/s1600/Thanksgiving%2Band%2Ba%2Btrip%2Bto%2BVermont.%2BImage%2B2.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Thanksgiving and a weekend trip to Vermont " border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--y0e_0ohndU/VnNnD3zlGuI/AAAAAAAAHJM/IHfUqdQV9DU/s1600/Thanksgiving%2Band%2Ba%2Btrip%2Bto%2BVermont.%2BImage%2B2.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Thanksgiving and a weekend trip to Vermont " /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZOetheaz7SE/VnNnFLPRHdI/AAAAAAAAHJg/M3wYABZIekY/s1600/Thanksgiving%2Band%2Ba%2Btrip%2Bto%2BVermont.%2BImage%2B3.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Thanksgiving and a weekend trip to Vermont " border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZOetheaz7SE/VnNnFLPRHdI/AAAAAAAAHJg/M3wYABZIekY/s1600/Thanksgiving%2Band%2Ba%2Btrip%2Bto%2BVermont.%2BImage%2B3.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Thanksgiving and a weekend trip to Vermont " /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y6rPRM-_JHM/VnNnFRwRU4I/AAAAAAAAHJc/lMreWqdfr6A/s1600/Thanksgiving%2Band%2Ba%2Btrip%2Bto%2BVermont.%2BImage%2B4.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Thanksgiving and a weekend trip to Vermont " border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y6rPRM-_JHM/VnNnFRwRU4I/AAAAAAAAHJc/lMreWqdfr6A/s1600/Thanksgiving%2Band%2Ba%2Btrip%2Bto%2BVermont.%2BImage%2B4.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Thanksgiving and a weekend trip to Vermont " /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7GqGxE94gFQ/VnNnFgAmTeI/AAAAAAAAHJs/12hgvnrfSOo/s1600/Thanksgiving%2Band%2Ba%2Btrip%2Bto%2BVermont.%2BImage%2B5.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Thanksgiving and a weekend trip to Vermont " border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7GqGxE94gFQ/VnNnFgAmTeI/AAAAAAAAHJs/12hgvnrfSOo/s1600/Thanksgiving%2Band%2Ba%2Btrip%2Bto%2BVermont.%2BImage%2B5.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Thanksgiving and a weekend trip to Vermont " /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SAC-XxmwFus/VnNnE8KrSDI/AAAAAAAAHJo/MwB5rllN0Qg/s1600/Thanksgiving%2Band%2Ba%2Btrip%2Bto%2BVermont.%2BImage%2B24.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Thanksgiving and a weekend trip to Vermont " border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SAC-XxmwFus/VnNnE8KrSDI/AAAAAAAAHJo/MwB5rllN0Qg/s1600/Thanksgiving%2Band%2Ba%2Btrip%2Bto%2BVermont.%2BImage%2B24.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.jpg" title="Thanksgiving and a weekend trip to Vermont " /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">We spent Thanksgiving in Long Island in a beautiful little town called Stoneybrook with a friend and her family. It really was the perfect way to celebrate this fun holiday, meeting new friends, being welcomed into a family with open arms, laughing a lot, dancing and singing around the kitchen, a walk down to the beach and eating our fill of turkey (from the biggest turkey I've ever seen!), lasagne and sweet potato with marshmallow (British folk, this is a genuine thing and the nicest treat ever! I want to introduce this to our Christmas dinner). We felt so lucky and spoiled and completely comfortable even though this was the first time we had met everyone - the family were just so welcoming. It was so nice to spend Thanksgiving with an American family to really see the culture of this holiday and think about everything we should be thankful for. Giving thanks isn't something I think many of us do often enough, so having a holiday that celebrates this and makes you think, once the turkey and deserts have been eaten is a lovely tradition.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tdd5sYYxX28/VnNnF6-JoaI/AAAAAAAAHJw/IEmiP0wwroM/s1600/Thanksgiving%2Band%2Ba%2Btrip%2Bto%2BVermont.%2BImage%2B7.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Thanksgiving and a weekend trip to Vermont " border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tdd5sYYxX28/VnNnF6-JoaI/AAAAAAAAHJw/IEmiP0wwroM/s1600/Thanksgiving%2Band%2Ba%2Btrip%2Bto%2BVermont.%2BImage%2B7.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Thanksgiving and a weekend trip to Vermont " /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8dDntHIndA0/VnNnFztZ2lI/AAAAAAAAHJ0/P4PTedl9IBo/s1600/Thanksgiving%2Band%2Ba%2Btrip%2Bto%2BVermont.%2BImage%2B6.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Thanksgiving and a weekend trip to Vermont " border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8dDntHIndA0/VnNnFztZ2lI/AAAAAAAAHJ0/P4PTedl9IBo/s1600/Thanksgiving%2Band%2Ba%2Btrip%2Bto%2BVermont.%2BImage%2B6.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Thanksgiving and a weekend trip to Vermont " /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QOHgxQu1Yxs/VnNnGH_qspI/AAAAAAAAHJ8/5MCL-78itVI/s1600/Thanksgiving%2Band%2Ba%2Btrip%2Bto%2BVermont.%2BImage%2B8.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Thanksgiving and a weekend trip to Vermont " border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QOHgxQu1Yxs/VnNnGH_qspI/AAAAAAAAHJ8/5MCL-78itVI/s1600/Thanksgiving%2Band%2Ba%2Btrip%2Bto%2BVermont.%2BImage%2B8.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Thanksgiving and a weekend trip to Vermont " /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hNbife2S-nY/VnNnGHBPDiI/AAAAAAAAHJ4/_ueeKaZwamY/s1600/Thanksgiving%2Band%2Ba%2Btrip%2Bto%2BVermont.%2BImage%2B9.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Thanksgiving and a weekend trip to Vermont " border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hNbife2S-nY/VnNnGHBPDiI/AAAAAAAAHJ4/_ueeKaZwamY/s1600/Thanksgiving%2Band%2Ba%2Btrip%2Bto%2BVermont.%2BImage%2B9.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Thanksgiving and a weekend trip to Vermont " /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TVBfcOgzuuo/VnNnBzZALqI/AAAAAAAAHH4/CdmSJB5R2wk/s1600/Thanksgiving%2Band%2Ba%2Btrip%2Bto%2BVermont.%2BImage%2B10.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Thanksgiving and a weekend trip to Vermont " border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TVBfcOgzuuo/VnNnBzZALqI/AAAAAAAAHH4/CdmSJB5R2wk/s1600/Thanksgiving%2Band%2Ba%2Btrip%2Bto%2BVermont.%2BImage%2B10.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Thanksgiving and a weekend trip to Vermont " /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">After a lovely day eating our body weight in turkey, we loaded our car with individual named tupperwear containers (so organised!) and drove to the ferry that would take us to Connecticut, then drive onwards to Vermont. We left at 6am and everything was so foggy, it was hard to see where we were driving and when we were all loaded on the ferry, we couldn't see anything from the back of the boat. It was quite eerie but also strangely calming and so quiet, all noises were smothered as we glided silently through the water. It's the sort of thing that happens at the start of a horror movie before zombies start climbing onto the boat...creepy!</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KxZomEZhNXI/VnNnBxmH67I/AAAAAAAAHH8/qaKdm3pD60Y/s1600/Thanksgiving%2Band%2Ba%2Btrip%2Bto%2BVermont.%2BImage%2B11.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Thanksgiving and a weekend trip to Vermont " border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KxZomEZhNXI/VnNnBxmH67I/AAAAAAAAHH8/qaKdm3pD60Y/s1600/Thanksgiving%2Band%2Ba%2Btrip%2Bto%2BVermont.%2BImage%2B11.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Thanksgiving and a weekend trip to Vermont " /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Nv5tiQ3sm-4/VnNnCTr6qJI/AAAAAAAAHIE/9hJ2c90b8Y8/s1600/Thanksgiving%2Band%2Ba%2Btrip%2Bto%2BVermont.%2BImage%2B12.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Thanksgiving and a weekend trip to Vermont " border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Nv5tiQ3sm-4/VnNnCTr6qJI/AAAAAAAAHIE/9hJ2c90b8Y8/s1600/Thanksgiving%2Band%2Ba%2Btrip%2Bto%2BVermont.%2BImage%2B12.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Thanksgiving and a weekend trip to Vermont " /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0p0lAEdWUWw/VnNnEtrd27I/AAAAAAAAHKk/KU_L5Sj-_gc/s1600/Thanksgiving%2Band%2Ba%2Btrip%2Bto%2BVermont.%2BImage%2B23.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Thanksgiving and a weekend trip to Vermont " border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0p0lAEdWUWw/VnNnEtrd27I/AAAAAAAAHKk/KU_L5Sj-_gc/s1600/Thanksgiving%2Band%2Ba%2Btrip%2Bto%2BVermont.%2BImage%2B23.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.jpg" title="Thanksgiving and a weekend trip to Vermont " /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--PxSHzZCTT0/VnNnCZoqaUI/AAAAAAAAHII/DI1MZDiVPB4/s1600/Thanksgiving%2Band%2Ba%2Btrip%2Bto%2BVermont.%2BImage%2B13.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Thanksgiving and a weekend trip to Vermont " border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--PxSHzZCTT0/VnNnCZoqaUI/AAAAAAAAHII/DI1MZDiVPB4/s1600/Thanksgiving%2Band%2Ba%2Btrip%2Bto%2BVermont.%2BImage%2B13.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Thanksgiving and a weekend trip to Vermont " /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Zzex_fiX95A/VnNnD2qkXoI/AAAAAAAAHK0/8vf_iaNfArE/s1600/Thanksgiving%2Band%2Ba%2Btrip%2Bto%2BVermont.%2BImage%2B21.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Thanksgiving and a weekend trip to Vermont " border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Zzex_fiX95A/VnNnD2qkXoI/AAAAAAAAHK0/8vf_iaNfArE/s1600/Thanksgiving%2Band%2Ba%2Btrip%2Bto%2BVermont.%2BImage%2B21.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Thanksgiving and a weekend trip to Vermont " /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Vermont was just as beautiful as we had expected it to be, all wooden houses, covered bridges and heavily forested. It must be amazing in the fall with all the autumn colours. This time of year there is usually a thick cover of snow on the ground, but as it's been so warm, sadly there was none. We seen a lot of small ski runs and a huge ski jump which were still dry, but I'm sure all that will change over the coming weeks. It was still chilly and crisp which made it perfect for going on long walks, all bundled up. I do love a long walk and getting some fresh air. We stayed in a beautiful little wooden house owned by our friends family, which had everything we needed and was right in the woods beside a small stream, so we explored around there and Robin and I enjoyed taking fun Boomerangs of throwing leaves and jumping. We are so in love with that app. There were also huge wardrobes downstairs in the house which has a tonne of ski jackets and warm clothes, spread over decades, very like The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. We all had a great time dressing up in them and taking so many silly photos and selfies, wearing the florescent ski jackets to knee height furry boots.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-m25hVfIoXhA/VnNnCgls3DI/AAAAAAAAHIM/Qofix4_eiAI/s1600/Thanksgiving%2Band%2Ba%2Btrip%2Bto%2BVermont.%2BImage%2B14.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Thanksgiving and a weekend trip to Vermont " border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-m25hVfIoXhA/VnNnCgls3DI/AAAAAAAAHIM/Qofix4_eiAI/s1600/Thanksgiving%2Band%2Ba%2Btrip%2Bto%2BVermont.%2BImage%2B14.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Thanksgiving and a weekend trip to Vermont " /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UpCXLRy9Nkw/VnNnCl55D3I/AAAAAAAAHIQ/Z7fRTQiGejE/s1600/Thanksgiving%2Band%2Ba%2Btrip%2Bto%2BVermont.%2BImage%2B15.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Thanksgiving and a weekend trip to Vermont " border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UpCXLRy9Nkw/VnNnCl55D3I/AAAAAAAAHIQ/Z7fRTQiGejE/s1600/Thanksgiving%2Band%2Ba%2Btrip%2Bto%2BVermont.%2BImage%2B15.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Thanksgiving and a weekend trip to Vermont " /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vhdIabGnaT4/VnNnC2oEjbI/AAAAAAAAHIk/ZF-seCaOcp4/s1600/Thanksgiving%2Band%2Ba%2Btrip%2Bto%2BVermont.%2BImage%2B16.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Thanksgiving and a weekend trip to Vermont " border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vhdIabGnaT4/VnNnC2oEjbI/AAAAAAAAHIk/ZF-seCaOcp4/s1600/Thanksgiving%2Band%2Ba%2Btrip%2Bto%2BVermont.%2BImage%2B16.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Thanksgiving and a weekend trip to Vermont " /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ez7_pRVC2zw/VnNnEfYT5wI/AAAAAAAAHKc/Gg00fwsbxSg/s1600/Thanksgiving%2Band%2Ba%2Btrip%2Bto%2BVermont.%2BImage%2B22.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Thanksgiving and a weekend trip to Vermont " border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ez7_pRVC2zw/VnNnEfYT5wI/AAAAAAAAHKc/Gg00fwsbxSg/s1600/Thanksgiving%2Band%2Ba%2Btrip%2Bto%2BVermont.%2BImage%2B22.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.jpg" title="Thanksgiving and a weekend trip to Vermont " /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Bb0sZhk7G8M/VnNnDCTG4OI/AAAAAAAAHIc/bwF_tkyxYsw/s1600/Thanksgiving%2Band%2Ba%2Btrip%2Bto%2BVermont.%2BImage%2B17.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Thanksgiving and a weekend trip to Vermont " border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Bb0sZhk7G8M/VnNnDCTG4OI/AAAAAAAAHIc/bwF_tkyxYsw/s1600/Thanksgiving%2Band%2Ba%2Btrip%2Bto%2BVermont.%2BImage%2B17.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Thanksgiving and a weekend trip to Vermont " /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0jOQ10DWAbE/VnNnDGYblpI/AAAAAAAAHIo/gm8WfvKhHHo/s1600/Thanksgiving%2Band%2Ba%2Btrip%2Bto%2BVermont.%2BImage%2B18.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Thanksgiving and a weekend trip to Vermont " border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0jOQ10DWAbE/VnNnDGYblpI/AAAAAAAAHIo/gm8WfvKhHHo/s1600/Thanksgiving%2Band%2Ba%2Btrip%2Bto%2BVermont.%2BImage%2B18.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Thanksgiving and a weekend trip to Vermont " /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kqk68UtTD48/VnNnDfe2yXI/AAAAAAAAHIs/vgmGw6eWFBE/s1600/Thanksgiving%2Band%2Ba%2Btrip%2Bto%2BVermont.%2BImage%2B19.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Thanksgiving and a weekend trip to Vermont " border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kqk68UtTD48/VnNnDfe2yXI/AAAAAAAAHIs/vgmGw6eWFBE/s1600/Thanksgiving%2Band%2Ba%2Btrip%2Bto%2BVermont.%2BImage%2B19.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Thanksgiving and a weekend trip to Vermont " /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eKvp6HfbR0s/VnNnD4DBVSI/AAAAAAAAHI4/9LZkeWWyYDM/s1600/Thanksgiving%2Band%2Ba%2Btrip%2Bto%2BVermont.%2BImage%2B20.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Thanksgiving and a weekend trip to Vermont " border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eKvp6HfbR0s/VnNnD4DBVSI/AAAAAAAAHI4/9LZkeWWyYDM/s1600/Thanksgiving%2Band%2Ba%2Btrip%2Bto%2BVermont.%2BImage%2B20.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Thanksgiving and a weekend trip to Vermont " /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">It was the most perfect relaxing weekend; eating and drinking a lot, playing games, laughing with good friends and going for long walks. We visited Manchester, the most picture perfect little town for a wander around the outlets, the cutest book and antique shops and a trip to Stratton Mountain Resort, which was very quaint and had the most gorgeous clocktower. At Stratton we also found a man made ski run, so enjoyed making snowballs and getting a little taste of an American winter too.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Best. Time. Ever</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Have you been to Vermont before or celebrated Thanksgiving?</div>Liannehttps://plus.google.com/109956492942340529906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3597752285700534857.post-25417866608733203592015-12-20T10:30:00.000+00:002015-12-20T10:30:05.595+00:00#312. My favourite Christmas and festive movies<div style="text-align: justify;">With the nights dark and cold and it being less than a week now till Christmas, I have been enjoying snuggling up with a hot tea or chocolate, some gingerbread and a festive movie or two. It's nice to revisit old favourites that bring back memories, discover a new classic and get in the Christmas spirit. So I thought I would share my favourite Christmas movies that I love to watch at this time of year (or at any time of year in all honesty) to help you plan your festive movie marathon. Cause everyone needs a Christmas movie marathon.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DCXABw9LyLs/VnNJxT2Ni5I/AAAAAAAAHCw/ycxHRbyjivg/s1600/My%2Bfavourite%2BChristmas%2Bmovies.%2BImage%2B1.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="My favourite Christmas and festive movies" border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DCXABw9LyLs/VnNJxT2Ni5I/AAAAAAAAHCw/ycxHRbyjivg/s1600/My%2Bfavourite%2BChristmas%2Bmovies.%2BImage%2B1.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="My favourite Christmas and festive movies" /></a></div><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><ol><li style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0104940/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1" target="_blank">The Muppet Christmas Carol</a>. I have to watch this movie at Christmas every year and don't feel festive without it. On the last few days of high school, when all the work was done and everyone was winding down, we would always watch the movie in English class, so it reminds me of happy times of getting excited for the holidays and finishing up for the Christmas break. Sadly as a grown up we don't always get such long breaks, but this movie never fails to get me into the Christmas spirit. I love the story and important message of living a life worth living, being generous and kind to others and making the most of everyday you have. The change in Scrooge after being visited by the three ghosts can't help but fill you with all the feels and a warm happy festive glow. Michael Caine really does make an awesome Scrooge.</li><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></div><li style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0099785/?ref_=nv_sr_1" target="_blank">Home Alone</a> and <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0104431/?ref_=nv_sr_2" target="_blank">Home Alone 2</a>. These movies make me so happy and I laugh a lot during the course of Kevin's adventures, but the focus on family, love and striving to be together for Christmas makes me sob like a little baby at the end of each movie. Every single time. Obviously it is sad that poor Kevin being left alone twice(!) but in true Christmas movie style, everything works out well in the end and all problems are forgotten. I also don't think you can get funnier than Joe Pesci and Daniel Stern as Harry and Marv with their hysterical physical comedy, as Kevin gets the better of them. It's such a feel good movie and definitely leaves me with the Christmas glow afterwards. I've been enjoying looking at NYC at Christmas time in Home Alone 2, getting ideas of what and where to visit.</li><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></div><li style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0319343/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1" target="_blank">Elf</a>. I think this is one of my all time favourite Christmas movies as it's just so ridiculously festive and funny. I crack up watching Will Farrell every time, although I could probably recite the script I've seen it so often. It is the movie we always pop on when we are decorating the Christmas tree, a wee tradition Robin and I have started. It's a lot of fun and I love Buddy's adventures in NYC, even more so this year as Robin and I were completely new to the city and getting used to everything like Buddy (although we never ate gum from the sidewalk, don't worry!). The story is just so inventive and after watching you can't help but be filled with Christmas cheer yourself...helping the Clausometer go through the roof.</li><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></div><li style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0111070/?ref_=nv_sr_1" target="_blank">The Santa Clause</a>. I love The Santa Clause as the way the North Pole is shown in the film is exactly how I imagined it as a wee girl. I love how inventive the story is, a spin on the traditional Santa story and what the Clause is. It really is just magical Disney at it's best, from seeing the reindeer for the first time, to Bernard the elf (who I must admit having a bit of a crush on when I was wee) to Tim Allen transforming into Santa. It's a fun story of a Dad coming good, building a better relationship with his son and becoming a better person and I don't think there is anything more Christmassy or gives you as many feels as that. Feeling all the warm and fuzzy festive glows.</li><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></div><li style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0038650/?ref_=nv_sr_1" target="_blank">It's a Wonderful Life</a>. What a movie this one is and tugs at my heartstrings every single time. I go and see it at the cinema every year if I can and have it booked for this coming weekend which I'm really excited about. It's all about love, family and appreciating the little everyday things in life and how special they really are, even if it doesn't always feels that way. There isn't a happier moment in a movie than George running along the street in the snow, wishing everyone Merry Christmas and bursting into his home to see his family. It's just beautiful. Again it's full of the all important Christmas feels.</li><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></div><li style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0107688/?ref_=nv_sr_1" target="_blank">The Nightmare Before Christmas</a>. I just adore Tim Burton and his off kilter, dark animations and this is one of my absolute favourites, so I enjoy watching it at Christmas and Halloween. It looks great, its a wonderful story and has a powerful message about being comfortable with who you are. It is a lot more fun to be different than trying to pretend to be someone else. The soundtrack is really catchy too and the whole movie is a lot of fun.</li><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></div><li style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0314331/?ref_=nv_sr_1" target="_blank">Love Actually</a>. I think this movie is great and it makes me feel so Christmassy, especially the ending! I love all the individual stories, the demonstration of love in a tonne of different ways and how nearly everyone gets a happy ending, which is what you want at Christmas time. It's all about those festive feels again. It's also full of gold comedy moments, from Bill Nighy's character, to the body doubles trying to explain to their friends how they met, to the epic airport chase by the little boy, Sam.</li><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></div><li style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1401143/?ref_=nv_sr_1" target="_blank">Rare Exports</a>. This is a completely new one to me, but after hearing Lynsay and Elaine chatting about it on their <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/those-gals/id977008787?mt=2" target="_blank">podcast</a> I decided to look it up. The biggest secret of Christmas is hidden in the mountains in Lapland and someone is digging it up. It's a completely different sort of Christmas movie to the others on the list...its a lot more realistic, dark and gritty but ends on a great festive message and I was completely captivated from start to finish. It's an exciting adventure and turns out that Santa may not be quite what you expect. I imagine this movie will be one that I watch again and again, not just at Christmas time. I'm worried that if I say anything more I might give away a spoiler, so just check it out. Trust me, it's ace.</li></ol><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">So there you go. My favourite Christmas movies. Grab some gingerbread, a mince pie and a large glass of mulled wine and settle down for a fun and festive night. I know I will be.</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Do you have any favourite movies that I have missed? Will you be planning a Christmas movie marathon over the next few days?</div></div>Liannehttps://plus.google.com/109956492942340529906noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3597752285700534857.post-19042642534466236812015-12-19T10:30:00.000+00:002015-12-19T10:30:24.561+00:00#311. Christmas Gift Guide for your Best Pal, 2015<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Buying gifts for my best pals is one of my favourite things. I love spending time choosing a gift I know they will love, especially now that they are all at the other side of the world. It has made choosing a gift that bit extra special, especially since they have all been such a support this year, what with our wedding and moving country too.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">With not long now till Christmas, here are some last minute present suggestions for your best pal, your bestie and late night phonecall confident if you aren't quite there yet. There may also be some little things here for a little to-me-from-me present or suggestions for your own stocking too.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0cu4ELR6sMQ/VlYCGnKKqeI/AAAAAAAAG8I/fxsgvELsSg8/s1600/Christmas%2Bgift%2Bguide%2Bfor%2Bbest%2Bpals%2B2015%2B%2Bfeaturing%2BHannah%2BZakari%252C%2BLadybird%2BLikes%252C%2BOut%2Bof%2BPrint%2BNYC%252C%2BQueenies%2BCards%252C%2BPop%2BChart%2BLab%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Christmas gift guide for best pals 2015 featuring Hannah Zakari, Ladybird Likes, Out of Print NYC, Queenies Cards, Pop Chart Lab © Lianne Whitelaw" border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0cu4ELR6sMQ/VlYCGnKKqeI/AAAAAAAAG8I/fxsgvELsSg8/s1600/Christmas%2Bgift%2Bguide%2Bfor%2Bbest%2Bpals%2B2015%2B%2Bfeaturing%2BHannah%2BZakari%252C%2BLadybird%2BLikes%252C%2BOut%2Bof%2BPrint%2BNYC%252C%2BQueenies%2BCards%252C%2BPop%2BChart%2BLab%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.jpg" title="Christmas gift guide for best pals 2015 featuring Hannah Zakari, Ladybird Likes, Out of Print NYC, Queenies Cards, Pop Chart Lab © Lianne Whitelaw" /></a></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Top row</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Moon wooden collar clips - <a href="http://www.ladybirdlikes.com/collections/collar-clips/products/moon-wooden-collar-clips" target="_blank">Ladybird Likes</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Very Hungry Caterpillar pouch - <a href="http://www.outofprintclothing.com/collections/pouches/products/very-hungry-caterpillar-pouch" target="_blank">Out Of Print</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Butt brooch - <a href="http://www.emergingthoughts.com/products/butt-brooch" target="_blank">Emerging Thoughts</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Middle row</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Live slow die whenever mug with sloth tea infuser - <a href="http://www.sweetjanes.com/GIFTS-Kitchen/c2_91/p1481/Two-For-Tea:-mug-&-tea-infuser-gift-set/product_info.html" target="_blank">Sweet Jane's</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">The many shoes of Carrie Bradshaw's closet print - <a href="http://popchartlab.com/collections/prints-all/products/the-many-shoes-of-carrie-bradshaws-closet" target="_blank">Pop Chart Lab</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Kitch blue comic book hair bow - <a href="http://www.alternatenormality.co.uk/ourshop/prod_2802407-Kitsch-Blue-Comic-Book-Superhero-Rockabilly-Geek-Fabric-Hair-Bow.html" target="_blank">Alternate Normality</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Bottom row</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Hot coral triangle necklace - <a href="http://godivaboutique.co.uk/products/moonlight-for-violet-hot-coral-triangle-necklace" target="_blank">Moonlight for Violet at Godiva Boutique</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Indigo and gold hanging vase - <a href="http://hannahzakari.co.uk/collections/accessories/products/gold-hanging-vase" target="_blank">Hannah Zakari</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Let's Avocuddle Sigg thermos - <a href="http://queeniescards.com/product/sigg-thermos-with-tea-filter-lets-avocuddle/" target="_blank">Queenie's Cards</a></span></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">A fun piece of jewellery or accessories are always a great treat for your best pal, lasting long after Christmas has been and gone for another year. I am so in love with all the offerings at Lady Bird Likes, but was drawn to these cute globe collar clips, ready to jazz up a shirt for work or for a relaxed weekend look. This geometric necklace from my favourite Hannah Zakari is so striking but simple enough to be loved by your best pal, no matter her personal style. For a cheeky gift (pun definitely intended) this little bum broach is a fun and quirky statement on a coat or bag, as is the comic book style of this gorgeous and eyecatching hair bow.</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">When I came across this Carrie's shoe print from Pop Chart Lab I could instantly think of so many of my friends who would love it. It's perfect for any best pals interested in fashion or who are fans of Sex in the City (who isn't?) and would be an instant talking point displayed in their home. Pop Art Lab also have other prints like Broadway costumes, guitars and beer, so there is a print to suit everyone on your gift list. I have got my eye on a couple for Robin and I for the apartment, as we continue on our quest to make it feel like home. Also along the homewear lines, the mug and Sloth tea infuser set, hanging ceramic vase and avocuddle flask are fun and I know my own best pals would love to find them in their stockings. The avocuddle pun will make your bestie laugh while keeping their drinks hot and the sloth infuser is cute and the perfect wee companion when making a warming cup of tea. The vase is small but really pretty, with room for a small cactus or succulent plant and would look beautiful hanging up.</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Lastly, how about a pouch from Out of Print? They can be used as makeup bags, for stationery or little everyday essentials and come in a variety of literature based designs, from a stunning Alice in Wonderland and Great Gatsby to this really fun and nostalgic The Very Hungry Caterpillar. I hope one finds it's way into my stocking too!</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">So there you go. Here's hoping this post will have given you some fun ideas for your bestie. Remember to check out my posts for gift ideas for your <a href="http://rubyrubyslippers.blogspot.co.uk/2015/11/301-christmas-gift-guide-for-mums-2015.html" target="_blank">Mum</a>, <a href="http://rubyrubyslippers.blogspot.co.uk/2015/12/305-christmas-gift-guide-for-dads-2015.html" target="_blank">D</a><a href="http://rubyrubyslippers.blogspot.co.uk/2015/12/305-christmas-gift-guide-for-dads-2015.html" target="_blank">ad,</a> <a href="http://rubyrubyslippers.blogspot.co.uk/2015/11/303-christmas-gift-guide-for-brothers.html" target="_blank">Brother</a> and <a href="http://rubyrubyslippers.blogspot.com/2015/12/308-christmas-gift-guide-for-sisters.html" target="_blank">Sister</a> too.</div>Liannehttps://plus.google.com/109956492942340529906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3597752285700534857.post-29031410670555611072015-12-18T10:30:00.000+00:002015-12-18T19:32:29.479+00:00#310. It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3ZkLgvEd09M/VnMae1cEbZI/AAAAAAAAHBo/AVUzDQhKHoE/s1600/Putting%2Bup%2Bour%2Bfirst%2BNYC%2BChristmas%2Btree%252C%2BImage%2B8.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Preparing for our first Christmas in NYC, 2015 with a Christmas tree, decorations and gingerbread" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3ZkLgvEd09M/VnMae1cEbZI/AAAAAAAAHBo/AVUzDQhKHoE/s1600/Putting%2Bup%2Bour%2Bfirst%2BNYC%2BChristmas%2Btree%252C%2BImage%2B8.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Preparing for our first Christmas in NYC, 2015 with a Christmas tree, decorations and gingerbread" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pYLWxyfSuV4/VnMjSMFs6DI/AAAAAAAAHCU/Rxws_ow56tM/s1600/Putting%2Bup%2Bour%2Bfirst%2BNYC%2BChristmas%2Btree%252C%2BImage%2B11.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Preparing for our first Christmas in NYC, 2015 with a Christmas tree, decorations and gingerbread" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pYLWxyfSuV4/VnMjSMFs6DI/AAAAAAAAHCU/Rxws_ow56tM/s1600/Putting%2Bup%2Bour%2Bfirst%2BNYC%2BChristmas%2Btree%252C%2BImage%2B11.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.jpg" title="Preparing for our first Christmas in NYC, 2015 with a Christmas tree, decorations and gingerbread" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5_ETWByureQ/VnMadM0WAUI/AAAAAAAAHA4/m1xxxJRnxMo/s1600/Putting%2Bup%2Bour%2Bfirst%2BNYC%2BChristmas%2Btree%252C%2BImage%2B1.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Preparing for our first Christmas in NYC, 2015 with a Christmas tree, decorations and gingerbread" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5_ETWByureQ/VnMadM0WAUI/AAAAAAAAHA4/m1xxxJRnxMo/s1600/Putting%2Bup%2Bour%2Bfirst%2BNYC%2BChristmas%2Btree%252C%2BImage%2B1.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Preparing for our first Christmas in NYC, 2015 with a Christmas tree, decorations and gingerbread" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; 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text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1kAmbNg8Xjc/VnMaeb2ccBI/AAAAAAAAHBM/Xw_zM5V7K_4/s1600/Putting%2Bup%2Bour%2Bfirst%2BNYC%2BChristmas%2Btree%252C%2BImage%2B5.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Preparing for our first Christmas in NYC, 2015 with a Christmas tree, decorations and gingerbread" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1kAmbNg8Xjc/VnMaeb2ccBI/AAAAAAAAHBM/Xw_zM5V7K_4/s1600/Putting%2Bup%2Bour%2Bfirst%2BNYC%2BChristmas%2Btree%252C%2BImage%2B5.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Preparing for our first Christmas in NYC, 2015 with a Christmas tree, decorations and gingerbread" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W-7pj1KLhek/VnMaeqC5KkI/AAAAAAAAHBY/HBNE_Dd4O1s/s1600/Putting%2Bup%2Bour%2Bfirst%2BNYC%2BChristmas%2Btree%252C%2BImage%2B6.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Preparing for our first Christmas in NYC, 2015 with a Christmas tree, decorations and gingerbread" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W-7pj1KLhek/VnMaeqC5KkI/AAAAAAAAHBY/HBNE_Dd4O1s/s1600/Putting%2Bup%2Bour%2Bfirst%2BNYC%2BChristmas%2Btree%252C%2BImage%2B6.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Preparing for our first Christmas in NYC, 2015 with a Christmas tree, decorations and gingerbread" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s_pZiU-ShsI/VnMae36d6gI/AAAAAAAAHBg/XeFFScsqRJg/s1600/Putting%2Bup%2Bour%2Bfirst%2BNYC%2BChristmas%2Btree%252C%2BImage%2B7.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Preparing for our first Christmas in NYC, 2015 with a Christmas tree, decorations and gingerbread" border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s_pZiU-ShsI/VnMae36d6gI/AAAAAAAAHBg/XeFFScsqRJg/s1600/Putting%2Bup%2Bour%2Bfirst%2BNYC%2BChristmas%2Btree%252C%2BImage%2B7.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Preparing for our first Christmas in NYC, 2015 with a Christmas tree, decorations and gingerbread" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7IBxLNmifeg/VnMjSOkAmqI/AAAAAAAAHCY/7BrqdG4HzGg/s1600/Putting%2Bup%2Bour%2Bfirst%2BNYC%2BChristmas%2Btree%252C%2BImage%2B12.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Preparing for our first Christmas in NYC, 2015 with a Christmas tree, decorations and gingerbread" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7IBxLNmifeg/VnMjSOkAmqI/AAAAAAAAHCY/7BrqdG4HzGg/s1600/Putting%2Bup%2Bour%2Bfirst%2BNYC%2BChristmas%2Btree%252C%2BImage%2B12.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Preparing for our first Christmas in NYC, 2015 with a Christmas tree, decorations and gingerbread" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Blp3uuWOiyA/VnMafb3v0xI/AAAAAAAAHBs/m8DBMOoEwX0/s1600/Putting%2Bup%2Bour%2Bfirst%2BNYC%2BChristmas%2Btree%252C%2BImage%2B9.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Preparing for our first Christmas in NYC, 2015 with a Christmas tree, decorations and gingerbread" border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Blp3uuWOiyA/VnMafb3v0xI/AAAAAAAAHBs/m8DBMOoEwX0/s1600/Putting%2Bup%2Bour%2Bfirst%2BNYC%2BChristmas%2Btree%252C%2BImage%2B9.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Preparing for our first Christmas in NYC, 2015 with a Christmas tree, decorations and gingerbread" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Pn0QoLGexBw/VnMadOElKWI/AAAAAAAAHBE/HOm3vP_0llM/s1600/Putting%2Bup%2Bour%2Bfirst%2BNYC%2BChristmas%2Btree%252C%2BImage%2B10.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Preparing for our first Christmas in NYC, 2015 with a Christmas tree, decorations and gingerbread" border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Pn0QoLGexBw/VnMadOElKWI/AAAAAAAAHBE/HOm3vP_0llM/s1600/Putting%2Bup%2Bour%2Bfirst%2BNYC%2BChristmas%2Btree%252C%2BImage%2B10.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Preparing for our first Christmas in NYC, 2015 with a Christmas tree, decorations and gingerbread" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BSUOBFrd4A8/VnMjSN_bywI/AAAAAAAAHCQ/2vV7hIvAe3w/s1600/Putting%2Bup%2Bour%2Bfirst%2BNYC%2BChristmas%2Btree%252C%2BImage%2B13.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Preparing for our first Christmas in NYC, 2015 with a Christmas tree, decorations and gingerbread" border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BSUOBFrd4A8/VnMjSN_bywI/AAAAAAAAHCQ/2vV7hIvAe3w/s1600/Putting%2Bup%2Bour%2Bfirst%2BNYC%2BChristmas%2Btree%252C%2BImage%2B13.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Preparing for our first Christmas in NYC, 2015 with a Christmas tree, decorations and gingerbread" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">New York is looking very Christmassy now and our little flat is adding to that, getting all set up for our first Christmas in the city. We visited a Christmas tree seller in the street to pick up our tree a couple of weekends ago, carrying it through the streets like a movie. We brought it home and set to work like busy elfs decorating it, with our traditional Elf on in the background and Christmas jumpers.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">A lot of our baubles this year came from Tiger (called Tiger Stripe in the USA) with their cute and affordable selection of red hearts, Nordic looking snow scenes and little people with big cosy wolley hats. We also got a couple of more expensive baubles from a posh home shop near the flat, including adorable knitted stockings and a little photo frame and bought some natural made animals from our recent visit to the Botanic Gardens. Lastly no Christmas tree of ours would be complete without a Disney reference so we have a really cute Eeyore wrapped in fairy lights. Finishing up with a big apple bauble for our first Christmas in the city, some small filler baubles and candy canes and we were all set. There is something so relaxing about setting up your Christmas tree. I love it and the flat looks so warm, cosy and homely.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">With the tree up, the flat now smells amazing, of pine and holidays the moment you walk through the front door which is always welcome. You just can't beat it. I also made some gingerbread dogs at the weekend, so the flat smells of festive personified which I love. Once I had got the hang of it they were actually a lot easier to make than I thought, after making sure the dough was rolled properly (with a wine bottle after I realised we didn't have a rolling pin) and didn't flake. The first time I tried, I picked the dogs up to put them onto the baking tray only for their legs, heads and tails to keep falling off. It was awful, like a little doggy massacre. So the first batch looked like poor wee things all squished back together. Thankfully they still tasted good though! </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Due to the final postage dates, we had to be a lot more organised than previous years with our present buying. I am usually a Christmas Eve gal to get those last minute presents, but everything is done and in the post for family and wrapped and ready under the tree for Robin. I feel like I have been a busy and productive little Christmas elf this year. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Nothing left to it but to get stuck into Christmas movies, eat gingerbread, make mulled wine and soak up the wonderful festive atmosphere in NYC.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Are you all prepared and ready for Christmas?</div>Liannehttps://plus.google.com/109956492942340529906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3597752285700534857.post-67983456319669921332015-12-11T10:30:00.000+00:002015-12-11T10:30:01.908+00:00#309. Christmas party dress picks 2015<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">With Christmas party season well and truly here, it's time to dust off those gladrags or invest in something new to bring in the festive cheer. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I love that this time of year is the perfect excuse to dress up a little bit fancier than perhaps you would normally and really go for it. Why not? Now is as good a time as any to rock a statement dress and bring out those head to toe sequinned numbers and mega heels. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">As I'm currently on a job hunt, this year I don't have a work Christmas party to go to but I have a couple of fun events and New Year is calling asking about my outfit for our first Hogmanay in NYC. I'm in complete magpie mode over all the stunning sequinned, mesh, bright and feathered dresses out there. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">ASOS in particular has a wonderful selection of sequinned frocks to bring out your inner Cinderella and what is more festive than this top and skirt set featuring candy canes from Draper James - how cute! Also who could pass on being a Christmas mermaid with the bright, bold and beautiful sequinned number from Little Lies (a new shop I'm lusting over thanks to Helen at Wardrobe Conversations).</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">So to help in the quest to rock a statement dress this holiday season, here are my top picks from around the web, from ASOS, to The Whitepepper, H&M to Dahlia. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cV02uooVS2Y/VmoDU0Gj8NI/AAAAAAAAHAg/K2551-BRYAw/s1600/Christmas%2Bparty%2Bdress%2Bpicks%2Bfeaturing%2BASOS%252C%2BBoohoo%252C%2BDahlia%252C%2BLittle%2BLies%252C%2BNew%2BLook%252C%2BTopshop%2Band%2BH%2526M%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Christmas party dress picks featuring ASOS, Boohoo, Dahlia, Little Lies, New Look, Topshop and H&M © Lianne Whitelaw" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cV02uooVS2Y/VmoDU0Gj8NI/AAAAAAAAHAg/K2551-BRYAw/s1600/Christmas%2Bparty%2Bdress%2Bpicks%2Bfeaturing%2BASOS%252C%2BBoohoo%252C%2BDahlia%252C%2BLittle%2BLies%252C%2BNew%2BLook%252C%2BTopshop%2Band%2BH%2526M%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.jpg" title="Christmas party dress picks featuring ASOS, Boohoo, Dahlia, Little Lies, New Look, Topshop and H&M © Lianne Whitelaw" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Top row</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Rose pink flower jacquard dress - <a href="http://www.dahlia.com/collections/dresses/products/rose-pink-flower-jacquard-dress-with-decorative-faux-fur-detachable-collar" target="_blank">Dahlia</a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Rock n Roll mermaid sequin dress - <a href="http://little-lies.com/shop/rock-roll-mermaid-sequin-dress/" target="_blank">Little Lies</a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Black velvet polka dot mesh panel bodycon dress - <a href="http://www.newlook.com/shop/womens/dresses/black-velvet-polka-dot-mesh-panel-bodycon-dress-_361620301" target="_blank">New Look</a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Sequined dress - <a href="http://www2.hm.com/en_gb/productpage.0362077001.html" target="_blank">H&M</a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Second row</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Candy embellished skater dress - <a href="http://www.asos.com/ASOS/ASOS-Candy-Embellished-T-Shirt-Crop-Top-Scuba-Skater-Dress/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=5619368&cid=14543&sh=0&pge=1&pgesize=36&sort=-1&clr=Navy&totalstyles=425&gridsize=3" target="_blank">ASOS</a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">McKenzie printed mid length skirt and matching top - <a href="http://www.draperjames.com/mckenzie-printed-mid-length-skirt" target="_blank">Draper James</a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Pleat skirt constellation print dress - <a href="http://www.thewhitepepper.com/collections/dresses/products/pleat-shirt-dress-constellation-print" target="_blank">The Whitepepper</a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Crop top midi sequin skirt bodycon dress - <a href="http://www.asos.com/ASOS/ASOS-Crop-Top-Midi-Sequin-Skirt-Bodycon-Dress/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=5630768&cid=14543&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=36&sort=-1&clr=Bronze&totalstyles=427&gridsize=3" target="_blank">ASOS</a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Third row</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Beaded tshirt dress - <a href="http://www.warehouse.co.uk/beaded-tshirt-dress/dresses/warehouse/fcp-product/02479036" target="_blank">Warehouse</a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Dress with fringes - <a href="http://www2.hm.com/en_gb/productpage.0346870001.html" target="_blank">H&M</a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Hanna green tartan sequin dress - <a href="http://www.moddolly.com/collections/dresses/products/hanna-green-tartan-skater-dress?variant=6388398529" target="_blank">Mod Dolly</a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Boutique mia sequin high neck midi bodycon dress - <a href="http://www.boohoo.com/new-in/boutique-mia-sequin-high-neck-midi-bodycon-dress/invt/dzz94173" target="_blank">Boohoo</a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Bottom row</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Amelia woodland tunic dress - <a href="http://www.sugarhillboutique.com/aw15/amelia-woodland-tunic-dress.aspx" target="_blank">Sugarhill Boutique</a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Tinsel wrap A-line dress - <a href="http://www.topshop.com/en/tsuk/product/clothing-427/dresses-442/tinsel-wrap-a-line-dress-5040988?bi=0&ps=200" target="_blank">Topshop</a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Premium feather bead dress - <a href="http://www.topshop.com/en/tsuk/product/clothing-427/dresses-442/premium-feather-bead-dress-5049939?bi=0&ps=200" target="_blank">Topshop</a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Sequin mini shift dress with collar - <a href="http://www.asos.com/ASOS/ASOS-Sequin-Mini-Shift-Dress-With-Collar/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=5691209&cid=14543&sh=0&pge=1&pgesize=36&sort=-1&clr=Navy&totalstyles=425&gridsize=3" target="_blank">ASOS</a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Looking back at my picks, I really am a magpie! A sequinned dress and anything with glitter can't seem to get by me it seems. Major swoons over them all.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Have you got your Christmas party dresses all picked out? Have you got lots of fun Christmas parties to go to?</span></div>Liannehttps://plus.google.com/109956492942340529906noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3597752285700534857.post-13964303256065470142015-12-10T10:30:00.000+00:002015-12-10T18:49:10.731+00:00#308. Christmas Gift Guide for Sisters 2015<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">N</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">ow onto our fourth gift guide and sisters. Time really is flying but there still is plenty of time to get sorted with your last minute purchases - two weeks pals! We got our tree at the weekend and now the flat is looking ridiculously festive and I love it...votes for keeping your Christmas tree up all year round? Just me?</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V6o5rW05x5w/VlYCDPI6pWI/AAAAAAAAG8M/SFqXPCjk6p8/s1600/Christmas%2Bgift%2Bguide%2Bfor%2BSisters%2B2015%2Bfeaturing%2BBoden%252C%2BEcho%2BNew%2BYork%252C%2BBaggu%252C%2BZyzanna%252C%2BSeltzer%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-V6o5rW05x5w/VlYCDPI6pWI/AAAAAAAAG8M/SFqXPCjk6p8/s640/Christmas%2Bgift%2Bguide%2Bfor%2BSisters%2B2015%2Bfeaturing%2BBoden%252C%2BEcho%2BNew%2BYork%252C%2BBaggu%252C%2BZyzanna%252C%2BSeltzer%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Top row</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Cute shit unicorn pouch - <a href="https://www.seltzergoods.com/cute-shit-unicorn-pouch-p-1558.html?osCsid=rt7utsvbbt1nefna4r69hrmi67" target="_blank">Seltzer</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Ombre honeycomb set - <a href="http://www.echodesign.com/shop/women/coldweather/ombre-honeycomb-set.html/" target="_blank">Echo Design</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Stained glass ring holder - <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/88205376/stained-glass-ring-holder-glass-display?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=ring%20holder%20copper&ref=sr_gallery_8" target="_blank">ABJGlassworks at Etsy</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Middle row</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Gleaming feather cocktail shaker - <a href="http://www.anthropologie.com/uk/en/product/home-barware/7542088172762.jsp?color=007#/" target="_blank">Anthropologie</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Basic tote in Mineral - <a href="http://baggu.com/collections/category-totes/products/7-10874-60289-6?variant=6936176129" target="_blank">Baggu</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Cloud brooch with a raindrop pin badge - <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/164276324/cloud-brooch-with-a-rain-drop-pin-badge?ref=shop_home_active_17" target="_blank">Zyzanna at Etsy</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Bottom row</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Isabel bow point flats - <a href="http://www.boden.co.uk/en-GB/Womens-Shoes-Boots/Flats/AR689-BRZ/Womens-Bronze-Glitter_Black-Satin-Isabel-Bow-Point.html" target="_blank">Boden</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Peekaboo cat denim shirt - <a href="http://www.livinginlalaland.co.uk/collections/clothing/products/pocket-cat-shirt?variant=6132650497" target="_blank">LivinginLaLaLand</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Sincerely Yours necklace and earring set - <a href="http://www.mykitsch.com/sincerely-yours-necklace-earring-set/" target="_blank">Kitsch</a></span></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Now I don't actually have a sister, although I always wanted a big sis, so I based this list around my girl cousins and what they might like instead. There are so many amazing options and I sortof want them all myself too. I hope my wee brother is reading this! Hi Chris.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">There are some beautiful jewellery and accessory options out there which will be a delight for your sister to find in her stocking. This little cloud brooch from Scottish designer Zyzanna will look gorgeous on a winter coat or handbag or the dainty envelope earring and necklace set from Kitch is so simple and classic, that it will go with any outfit. You could also try this pretty terrarium style jewellery box to keep rings and other small items safe and secure.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Looking for a bigger gift? Then I don't think you can go wrong with a stunning Baggu bag. This US based company have a whole range of handbags/satchels/backpacks in an array of different colours, all made beautifully with top quality materials so you are bound to find one that suits your sis. I am a big fan of their basic leather totes and canvas backpacks. To keep all your sisters makeup or essentials together in one place, a fun pouch could be really useful. I love unicorns and anything with a unicorn design and so I really like this 'Cute Shit' pouch from Seltzer. Fun and practical.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Like many people do I'm sure, I always love getting clothes on Christmas day as then I have a whole new outfit to enjoy for the festivities and beyond. A twist on a classic denim shirt looks great, with that little something extra and I think this fun little cat is a great option and unexpected, popping out of the pocket. Christmas is also a great time to wear sparkle, glitter and sequins and what better way than a pair of beautiful shoes, perfect for dancing the night away in, which look chic with the tbar design and ooze major disco ball vibes when they hit the light. To keep your sis cosy and warm over the festive period, this colourful scarf and headband set would also be a welcome addition under the tree.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Finally, what better way to welcome in the holidays than by making festive cocktails with this brilliant penguin topped shaker? Perfect for parties in 2016 too and looks great on its own and even better ready to pour a fancy cocktail!</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">So that ends another giftlist. Hope it's useful in finding beautiful and fun gifts for your sisters. Do you like what I've picked?</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Next time will be some ideas for your best pal. Also here are recaps of the giftlists for <a href="http://rubyrubyslippers.blogspot.co.uk/2015/11/301-christmas-gift-guide-for-mums-2015.html" target="_blank">Mums</a>, <a href="http://rubyrubyslippers.blogspot.co.uk/2015/12/305-christmas-gift-guide-for-dads-2015.html" target="_blank">Dads</a> and <a href="http://rubyrubyslippers.blogspot.co.uk/2015/11/303-christmas-gift-guide-for-brothers.html" target="_blank">Brothers</a> in case you missed them.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Only two weeks till Christmas! The countdown is on.</span></div>Liannehttps://plus.google.com/109956492942340529906noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3597752285700534857.post-20967882586767952132015-12-07T10:30:00.000+00:002015-12-11T01:01:15.551+00:00#307. Bath yoga with Niki Wibrow and Matalan Direct review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FaEdxckQf6M/VlyRLEkqS2I/AAAAAAAAG9Y/3-iattfn8mE/s1600/Bath%2Byoga%2Bwith%2BNiki%2BWibrow%2Band%2BMatalan%2BDirect%2Breview.%2BImage%2B1.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Bath yoga with Niki Wibrow and Matalan Direct review" border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FaEdxckQf6M/VlyRLEkqS2I/AAAAAAAAG9Y/3-iattfn8mE/s640/Bath%2Byoga%2Bwith%2BNiki%2BWibrow%2Band%2BMatalan%2BDirect%2Breview.%2BImage%2B1.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Bath yoga with Niki Wibrow and Matalan Direct review" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mzVFiL9e7iI/VlyRK7gshtI/AAAAAAAAG9g/yipp5bRRklo/s1600/Bath%2Byoga%2Bwith%2BNiki%2BWibrow%2Band%2BMatalan%2BDirect%2Breview.%2BImage%2B2.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Bath yoga with Niki Wibrow and Matalan Direct review" border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mzVFiL9e7iI/VlyRK7gshtI/AAAAAAAAG9g/yipp5bRRklo/s1600/Bath%2Byoga%2Bwith%2BNiki%2BWibrow%2Band%2BMatalan%2BDirect%2Breview.%2BImage%2B2.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Bath yoga with Niki Wibrow and Matalan Direct review" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Mz74f7IuuYA/VlyRLDnyuDI/AAAAAAAAG9c/-5s8gDAwuwc/s1600/Bath%2Byoga%2Bwith%2BNiki%2BWibrow%2Band%2BMatalan%2BDirect%2Breview.%2BImage%2B3.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Bath yoga with Niki Wibrow and Matalan Direct review" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Mz74f7IuuYA/VlyRLDnyuDI/AAAAAAAAG9c/-5s8gDAwuwc/s1600/Bath%2Byoga%2Bwith%2BNiki%2BWibrow%2Band%2BMatalan%2BDirect%2Breview.%2BImage%2B3.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Bath yoga with Niki Wibrow and Matalan Direct review" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jXLCgFkCqcg/VlyRLwCKPRI/AAAAAAAAG9w/PVUBdxt1dp4/s1600/Bath%2Byoga%2Bwith%2BNiki%2BWibrow%2Band%2BMatalan%2BDirect%2Breview.%2BImage%2B4.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Bath yoga with Niki Wibrow and Matalan Direct review" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jXLCgFkCqcg/VlyRLwCKPRI/AAAAAAAAG9w/PVUBdxt1dp4/s1600/Bath%2Byoga%2Bwith%2BNiki%2BWibrow%2Band%2BMatalan%2BDirect%2Breview.%2BImage%2B4.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Bath yoga with Niki Wibrow and Matalan Direct review" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J7-jB_IufQo/VlyRMIBy4TI/AAAAAAAAG9s/YtLLerAhvuc/s1600/Bath%2Byoga%2Bwith%2BNiki%2BWibrow%2Band%2BMatalan%2BDirect%2Breview.%2BImage%2B5.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Bath yoga with Niki Wibrow and Matalan Direct review" border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J7-jB_IufQo/VlyRMIBy4TI/AAAAAAAAG9s/YtLLerAhvuc/s1600/Bath%2Byoga%2Bwith%2BNiki%2BWibrow%2Band%2BMatalan%2BDirect%2Breview.%2BImage%2B5.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Bath yoga with Niki Wibrow and Matalan Direct review" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KhDadtbu6F8/VlyRMgTai0I/AAAAAAAAG94/S4WiMTBfBXI/s1600/Bath%2Byoga%2Bwith%2BNiki%2BWibrow%2Band%2BMatalan%2BDirect%2Breview.%2BImage%2B6.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Bath yoga with Niki Wibrow and Matalan Direct review" border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KhDadtbu6F8/VlyRMgTai0I/AAAAAAAAG94/S4WiMTBfBXI/s640/Bath%2Byoga%2Bwith%2BNiki%2BWibrow%2Band%2BMatalan%2BDirect%2Breview.%2BImage%2B6.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Bath yoga with Niki Wibrow and Matalan Direct review" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Yoga is something I have always been intrigued about, but until a few weeks ago the closest I had got was to buy a pair of yoga pants in Sainsbos and use them for just chilling around the house in. That counts right? In Edinburgh I visited the </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">osteopath a couple of times as I have quite tight muscles in my legs, making them prone to injury when I am out for a run which is so rubbish. He suggested that yoga might help by increasing my flexibility and encouraging my muscles to lengthen, but I never got a chance to try this before we left.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">But since moving to NYC and currently being free in the day time, I have been to a few yoga classes with <a href="https://classpass.com/" target="_blank">Class Pass</a> and have found I really enjoy it. I like the easy going pace, focussing on holding each pose, working my core stealthily like a badass and enjoy seeing myself improving from week to week - I can now touch my toes people! So when Matalan Direct* got in touch with a new set of exercise videos, '<a href="http://direct.matalan.co.uk/blogs/inspired-living/48271809-discover-bath-yoga-with-niki-wibrow-and-matalan-direct" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Bath Yoga</a>' created by Niki Wibrow I was interested in finding out more. It sounded unusual and a bit different, so why not give it a go?</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I LOVE a bath. I like being warm in the water, throwing in a Lush bath bomb and just chilling out, often with a glass of wine and a book. I like having some 'me time' and being away from the distractions of the rest of the house - no TV, no twitter, no sweet sweet Instagram. So many of my friends feel the same and so it didn't come as a surprise that some clever bod put two and two together and created bath yoga. Strange as bath yoga might sound at first, being able to have some quiet time to relax and do some gentle exercise to unwind at the same time seems like a winning combo.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Niki Wibrow has created two video routines to choose from, '<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LCNlj2IYqjc" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Bath Yoga for Fitness and Flexibility</a>' and '<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EiZ-YSdKj0I" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">After Work Bath Yoga</a>' both of which have accompanying pdfs for an extra visual reference. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Both routines are short (under 25 minutes), simple to follow and are are easy to incorporate into a busy day. Each routine has a mixture of bath and floor work, but the after work routine focusses on tackling any aches or pains, while the fitness and flexibility routine works on improving your range of movement. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">You just have to be careful you don't slip going into the water. The first time I did a routine, I did feel a little self concious and had major trouble trying to keep balanced as my feet and legs wanted to float, resulting in a lot of splashing and beached whale impressions which maybe isn't the most graceful or relaxing. Thankfully I was home alone! </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">But now I have my flow down and have been enjoying making it a part of my routine and the excuse to run a bath at the end of the day. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Being in the warm water, concentrating on my breathing and slowly moving through each move, I am completely chilled and can really feel my muscles relaxing too. What's more, trying to balance in the water you can really feel your core working. Ace. For me it won't be a substitute for the yoga classes I have been enjoying, but a nice supplement to my existing fitness routine or it could be a gentle way to introduce someone to yoga.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">What do you think? Have you tried bath yoga before? Will you be giving it a go?</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">*This post was written in collaboration with Matalan Direct*</span></div>Liannehttps://plus.google.com/109956492942340529906noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3597752285700534857.post-83626054204967147342015-12-04T11:30:00.000+00:002015-12-04T11:30:01.928+00:00#306. Daily Snapshots - Getting a cupcake from Sprinkles ATM, NYC<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-82i_VwoRdG8/VkwD18S7kqI/AAAAAAAAG6U/xrIikJuG2y8/s1600/Sprinkles%2Bcupcake%2BATM%252C%2BNYC%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Getting a cupcake from Sprinkles ATM" border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-82i_VwoRdG8/VkwD18S7kqI/AAAAAAAAG6U/xrIikJuG2y8/s640/Sprinkles%2Bcupcake%2BATM%252C%2BNYC%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Getting a cupcake from Sprinkles ATM" width="480" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I can't think of a more exciting way to get a cupcake than from an ATM. The novelty is just excellent and it is so exciting choosing your cake, paying for it and anxiously waiting for it to arrive, following it's journey on the screen via video link. The cupcake ATM in NYC is at <a href="http://www.sprinkles.com/" target="_blank">Sprinkles</a> bakery in the Upper East Side at 60th and Lexington. This bakery has branches all over the USA and are famous for their cupcakes. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">One evening my pal Lydia and I headed over to see what all the fuss was about and were not disappointed. There were so many tasty flavours to choose from but I decided on a gluten free red velvet and Lydia chose a carrot cupcake and both arrived via the ATM in individual boxes. We got very excited waiting for them to arrive and took so many photos of both the ordering process and when the hatch began to lift with our cupcakes behind. Both cupcakes were so delicious with a soft sponge and tasty, but not too much, icing that we can't wait to go back for another one soon.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Have you been to Sprinkles or a cupcake ATM before?</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jSsQgQNcjhI/VW3Em6Qlt5I/AAAAAAAAF1A/9BzvnnBtkO0/s1600/New%2Bwords.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="81" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jSsQgQNcjhI/VW3Em6Qlt5I/AAAAAAAAF1A/9BzvnnBtkO0/s320/New%2Bwords.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">*Don't forget to enter my <a href="http://rubyrubyslippers.blogspot.com/2015/12/304-pretty-you-london-slipper-review.html" target="_blank">Pretty You London giveaway</a> to win a gorgeous pair of cosy slippers</span>Liannehttps://plus.google.com/109956492942340529906noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3597752285700534857.post-2146250058270701092015-12-03T11:30:00.001+00:002015-12-10T18:39:55.977+00:00#305. Christmas Gift Guide for Dads 2015<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Aaaaa, it's December. How did that happen? </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">My Dad and I are really similar but every year I find it really difficult to buy him a gift for Christmas. I have no idea why and so it's often a mad dash around the shops hoping inspiration will strike. This year I have the added worries of final postage dates and weight limits on my gifts, so I better get cracking!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZBdSHWhywU8/VlY3JMsBHqI/AAAAAAAAG8Y/o2waaiaRvOw/s1600/Christmas%2Bgift%2Bguide%2Bfor%2BDads%2B2015%2Bfeaturing%2BThe%2BBrotique%252C%2BASOS%252C%2BBarbour%252C%2BMan%2BCrates%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Christmas gift guide for Dads 2015 featuring The Brotique, ASOS, Barbour, Man Crates © Lianne Whitelaw" border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZBdSHWhywU8/VlY3JMsBHqI/AAAAAAAAG8Y/o2waaiaRvOw/s640/Christmas%2Bgift%2Bguide%2Bfor%2BDads%2B2015%2Bfeaturing%2BThe%2BBrotique%252C%2BASOS%252C%2BBarbour%252C%2BMan%2BCrates%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.jpg" title="Christmas gift guide for Dads 2015 featuring The Brotique, ASOS, Barbour, Man Crates © Lianne Whitelaw" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Top row</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Grill Master Crate - <a href="http://www.mancrates.com/crates/grill-master" target="_blank">Man Crates</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Dad you are my Father coffee mug - <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/235779478/dad-you-are-my-father-coffee-mug-gift?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=dad&ref=sr_gallery_1" target="_blank">the</a><a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/235779478/dad-you-are-my-father-coffee-mug-gift?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=dad&ref=sr_gallery_1" target="_blank">MugHermit on Etsy</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Lambswool rich crew neck jumper with pin dots - <a href="http://www.asos.com/ASOS/ASOS-Lambswool-Rich-Crew-Neck-Jumper-with-Pin-Dots/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=5187126&cid=17070&Rf900=1631&sh=0&pge=1&pgesize=36&sort=-1&clr=Green&totalstyles=1066&gridsize=3" target="_blank">ASOS</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br />Middle row</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Queen "Greatest Hits" vinyl record wall clock - <a href="http://www.asos.com/ASOS/ASOS-Lambswool-Rich-Crew-Neck-Jumper-with-Pin-Dots/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=5187126&cid=17070&Rf900=1631&sh=0&pge=1&pgesize=36&sort=-1&clr=Green&totalstyles=1066&gridsize=3" target="_blank">Thetickingofclocks on Etsy</a> </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Bellroy carry out wallet - <a href="http://thebrotique.co.uk/collections/wallets/products/bellroy-carry-out-wallet?variant=5661924737" target="_blank">The Brotique</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Stag head cufflinks - <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/201921869/stag-head-cufflinksgroomsmen-gift-black?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=personalised%20cufflinks&ref=sc_gallery_3&plkey=04b09032adec29dfb45f0a0f946b14d109e36f60:201921869" target="_blank">Quirkii on Etsy</a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br />Bottom row</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Game </span><span style="font-size: x-small;">of Thrones Monopoly - <a href="http://www.theworks.co.uk/p/board-games/game-of-thrones-monopoly-game/5036905024389?CAWELAID=720011340002108620&CAPCID=89744045681&cadevice=c&gclid=CNWL7u7HrMkCFWXkwgodtNAAOw" target="_blank">The Works</a> </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Drywax washbag - <a href="http://www.barbour.com/uk/all-collections/mens/bags-and-luggage/barbour-drywax-washbag/p/UBA0361OL711?gclid=CLDE5tHJrMkCFQjgGwodwCQH-A" target="_blank">Barbour</a></span></span><br /><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The Piccadilly Shaving Co sandlewood brush and bowl giftset - <a href="http://thebrotique.co.uk/collections/shaving/products/the-piccadilly-shaving-co-sandalwood-brush-and-bowl-gift-set" target="_blank">The Brotique</a></span></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">I<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">f your Dad is a bit of a TV or film buff, the Game of Thrones Monopoly and the Star Wars mug would be great gifts. Both will bring laughs and fun long after Christmas is over and Monopoly is a great way to pass time with the family over the festive period (and beyond...in a galaxy far, far away. Sorry couldn't resist). I don't think there is anything better sometimes than putting the TV off, switching off your phones (ok, maybe just popping it on silent!) and spending a few hours playing a board game. You definitely work out who in your family has a competitive streak!</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">For any budding Jamie Oliver's, this Grill Master crate from Man Crates would be ideal. Filled with three types of sauce and seasoning combos, a smoker box, thermometers and a tenderizer, this gift would let the man in your life make delicious smoked meats to his hearts content. The best bit though is you have to open the crate with a crowbar! How fun does that sound? Man Crates also have other crates to cater for all tastes from the vintage gamer to poker. I sort of want one too.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">A well crafted wallet, shaving set or washbag, the essentials, will never go amiss and it is always nice to be treated to a new one. You can also delight in the fact that your Dad will use your gift everyday, which is a great feeling. These options from The Brotique and Barbour are just the ticket </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">and will up your brownie points.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">My Dad is a big music fan. It's from my Dad that I get my love of TRex, The Eagles and Queen so I know he would love this clock from Thetickingofclocks on Etsy and it's vinyl, the 'good old days'. The perfect way to get vinyl into your life even without a record player.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Or what about a snuggly jumper to keep your Dad nice and cosy or some cufflinks for those special occasions. The stag detail on this pair from Quirkii on Etsy are bold and fun, sturdy and traditional.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Putting this list together has helped me have a better idea of what I would like to get my Dad for Christmas this year, so I hope it's given you a few ideas too. Next up will be a wee giftlist for Sisters, but check back if you have missed my suggestions for <a href="http://rubyrubyslippers.blogspot.com/2015/11/301-christmas-gift-guide-for-mums-2015.html" target="_blank">Mums</a> and <a href="http://rubyrubyslippers.blogspot.com/2015/11/303-christmas-gift-guide-for-brothers.html" target="_blank">Brothers</a> too.</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms', sans-serif;">*Don't forget to enter my </span><a href="http://rubyrubyslippers.blogspot.com/2015/12/304-pretty-you-london-slipper-review.html" style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms', sans-serif;" target="_blank">Pretty You London giveaway</a><span style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms', sans-serif;"> to win a gorgeous pair of slippers</span>Liannehttps://plus.google.com/109956492942340529906noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3597752285700534857.post-78657581203490190752015-12-01T11:30:00.000+00:002015-12-02T16:06:45.103+00:00#304. Pretty You London slipper review and exciting giveaway<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WC-_3IRKPb8/VlyNILwRwOI/AAAAAAAAG80/IXHlvGkXWkM/s1600/Pretty%2BYou%2BLondon%2Bslipper%2Breview.%2BImage%2B1.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Pretty You London slipper review" border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WC-_3IRKPb8/VlyNILwRwOI/AAAAAAAAG80/IXHlvGkXWkM/s640/Pretty%2BYou%2BLondon%2Bslipper%2Breview.%2BImage%2B1.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Pretty You London slipper review" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I love nothing more than being cosy at home during the winter months. With the nights getting darker and chillier, curling up on the sofa under a snuggly blanket, tea in hand and Netflix on the TV is the dream. </span><br /><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The actual dream.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">One thing I love to do when I get in at the end of the day, the first thing after putting on the kettle, is pop my slippers on. The moment I have my slippers on I relax, pheew, knowing that's me home and set for the evening. It's like my little relaxing trigger and they keep my feet lovely and warm and comfortable as I potter around the flat - what's not to like? If I could wear my slippers around all day everyday, I totally would. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">So when UK footwear designers <a href="http://www.prettyyoulondon.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pretty You London</a> contacted me to ask if I fancied reviewing some of their slippers* I immediately said yes. Come on, it was a no brainer. Comfy pretty feet ahoy! (<b>Stay tuned for how you can win a pair below!</b>)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8pjd6iNaQdI/VlyNIGl1p_I/AAAAAAAAG8s/puu8srQCi6I/s1600/Pretty%2BYou%2BLondon%2Bslipper%2Breview.%2BImage%2B3.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Pretty You London slipper review" border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8pjd6iNaQdI/VlyNIGl1p_I/AAAAAAAAG8s/puu8srQCi6I/s640/Pretty%2BYou%2BLondon%2Bslipper%2Breview.%2BImage%2B3.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Pretty You London slipper review" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yqxF0OsEQYE/VlyNJEuAEaI/AAAAAAAAG9A/RTlym5-n3zI/s1600/Pretty%2BYou%2BLondon%2Bslipper%2Breview.%2BImage%2B5.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Pretty You London slipper review" border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yqxF0OsEQYE/VlyNJEuAEaI/AAAAAAAAG9A/RTlym5-n3zI/s640/Pretty%2BYou%2BLondon%2Bslipper%2Breview.%2BImage%2B5.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Pretty You London slipper review" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8fAugq_nzxA/VlyNIKsrodI/AAAAAAAAG8w/fPZHFHNbVLI/s1600/Pretty%2BYou%2BLondon%2Bslipper%2Breview.%2BImage%2B2.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Pretty You London slipper review" border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8fAugq_nzxA/VlyNIKsrodI/AAAAAAAAG8w/fPZHFHNbVLI/s640/Pretty%2BYou%2BLondon%2Bslipper%2Breview.%2BImage%2B2.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Pretty You London slipper review" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2yghyT8QVYk/VlyNIxarTHI/AAAAAAAAG88/KmZienp2YRs/s1600/Pretty%2BYou%2BLondon%2Bslipper%2Breview.%2BImage%2B4.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Pretty You London slipper review" border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2yghyT8QVYk/VlyNIxarTHI/AAAAAAAAG88/KmZienp2YRs/s640/Pretty%2BYou%2BLondon%2Bslipper%2Breview.%2BImage%2B4.%2B%25C2%25A9%2BLianne%2BWhitelaw.JPG" title="Pretty You London slipper review" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">When the post arrived a few weeks ago, I excitedly opened the parcel to two gorgeous (and very glam!) pairs of slippers. All faux fur and diamonties and silkiness and a hint of Disney princess and pinup glamour. Oooooer. I had been sent two different styles to try - their signature '</span><a href="http://www.prettyyoulondon.com/ladies/toe-post.html" rel="nofollow" style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms', sans-serif;" target="_blank">toe post</a><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">' and a '</span><a href="http://www.prettyyoulondon.com/index.php/naomi-pink.html" rel="nofollow" style="font-family: 'trebuchet ms', sans-serif;" target="_blank">one band</a><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">' style of slipper - and immediately put them through their paces, wearing them around the flat. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Neither style was what I personally would have chosen, as I enjoy a more full slipper like a ballerina flat or boot to keep my tootsies warm, but both styles are extremely comfortable and a lot cosier than I had been expecting. Both styles have padding under the foot making it like walking on a cloud, (particularly the 'toe-post style) they are so comfortable and the soles are gripped, stopping any unexpected falls. The faux fur is soft and snuggly and although I am not a bling person at all, I really liked the added detail of the diamonte and pearl details. It makes the slippers that little bit extra special. They are just so damn pretty and have a real vintage glamour feel about them too which I love, to help you channel your inner Audrey or Marilyn. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Out of the two pairs I preferred the Naomi 'one band' style as my foot felt more secure while wearing them and they were lovely and cozy. I liked more of my foot being covered by the slipper, but I think that is entirely personal preference. I just tend to have really cold feet all the time, so the more my feet are covered the better.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Overall the Pretty You London slippers are very well put together and great quality. They are a bit more glam than your usual slipper, look gorgeous and come in all manner of styles to suit everyone. What's more they won't break the bank either and would be a good Christmas gift for a loved one...or if you felt like treating yourself!</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Lucikly, the lovely folk at Pretty You London have offered one reader the chance to win a pair of gorgeous slippers of your choosing from their site. All you have to do is fill in the Rafflecopter below to be in with a chance of winning. Good luck - cosy tootsies await!</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #565656; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small; line-height: 14px;">**Disclaimer - I</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small; line-height: 23px;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><span style="line-height: 23px;">was invited try two pairs of Pretty You London slippers in return for a review. Whilst the products were complimentary I was under no obligation to write a positive review and the post above reflects my true and honest opinion of the products.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><span style="line-height: 23px;"><br /></span></span></div><a class="rcptr" data-raflid="92fb79cb2" data-template="" data-theme="classic" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/92fb79cb2/" id="rcwidget_8z484wjo" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a><script src="//widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js"></script>Liannehttps://plus.google.com/109956492942340529906noreply@blogger.com29