tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29861875980719697872024-03-13T15:29:44.698+00:00deskpartiesLibbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07926263130708130278noreply@blogger.comBlogger60125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2986187598071969787.post-55251598606354019142016-08-07T09:00:00.000+01:002016-08-07T09:00:16.190+01:00Birthday G&Ts<div>
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I've had a change of taste.<br />
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Long gone are teenage nights with Caribbean Twists and Vodka and Mixers. So turning twenty *cries under breath* called for a new tipple: gin and tonic. </div>
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At first I was fearful, firstly<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"> as it`s my dad`s drink of choice (although this hints to some sophistication), and secondly, I`d heard it was pretty gross. But after finding a few recipes, gin and tonics each with a different twist, the results were pretty fab. So if you're a G&T novice, or fancy a twist on your favourite tipple, here are a couple of recipes tried and tested by a beginner-in-gin-and-tonic birthday girl.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><b>Strawberry and Mint Gin and Tonic </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">2 shots (50ml) dry gin</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">1 handful (around 8) strawberries</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">250ml tonic water</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">1 sprig (4 or so leaves) mint </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">First, grab your gin, strawberries and a couple of leaves of mint and either crush or blend until the strawberries form a thick, watery paste. Then, take a sieve and strain the gin infusion into your glass. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Then, pop in your ice, top off with your tonic and use the last couple of leaves of mint to garnish. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><b>Cranberry and Thyme Gin and Tonic</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">2 shots (50ml) dry gin</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">150ml cranberry juice</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">100ml tonic water</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">2 or 3 pieces of thyme</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue light" , , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif;">A rather simple, but sweet concoction. Take the gin, top with the cranberry juice and tonic over the ice, and pop the thyme in to infuse for a few minutes.</span></div>
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My question of the day is: what`s your favourite summer drink? Let me know!</div>
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See you on Wednesday.</div>
Libbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07926263130708130278noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2986187598071969787.post-62069195705111319122016-08-03T17:58:00.001+01:002016-08-03T17:58:28.540+01:00Turning 20<div>
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Balloons afloat, </div>
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Numbers in the air</div>
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The cake is cut,</div>
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Into slices square</div>
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Drinks are sipped,</div>
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Tipsy thoughts on mind,</div>
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Laughter is shared,</div>
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Wandering in hind</div>
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Sight of stumbling,</div>
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Inebriated friends,</div>
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Midnight is leering,</div>
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Another year will end</div>
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Tears are shed,</div>
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Salt and rum infusion,</div>
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Friends are fed,</div>
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Eating food with trusion</div>
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Forcing into bed,</div>
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Intoxicated glee,</div>
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Singing under breath,</div>
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'Happy birthday to me'</div>
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Libbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07926263130708130278noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2986187598071969787.post-9699942801736266842016-01-20T11:00:00.000+00:002016-01-20T11:00:05.725+00:00Caught in the Rain<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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'...if you like Pina Coladas, and getting caught in the rain'<br />
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Well, they're not pina coladas, but you get the point. A couple of months ago my friend came down her university city to mine, Cardiff, for a much-needed catch up, which was naturally paired with several coffees and cocktails. I took her to somewhere my friends had been for first dates or just for some cheeky 'Sex on the Beach' (the cocktail, you dirty-minded people) but I had never actually been before myself (only briefly on one of their club nights) - Buffalo; a bar by day, intimate club by night, this restaurant is tucked away on one of the side streets off of Cardiff's central shopping strip; Queen Street. Inside was fairy light-lit and buzzing - even at 4pm - so much so there was no seating left inside, probably because it was pissing it down outside (welcome to Wales). But the barman assured us that the outside terrace was undercover and seating was heated.<br />
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BEST. THING. EVER.<br />
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As for the cocktails, the whole menu is on a BOGOF offer before midnight most nights of the week, so my friend and I bought two of each cocktail and split them between us. One which I think was called 'Bramble'; with a gin base infused with lime and syrups over crushed ice. And the second, and my personal favourite, 'The Frozen Daquiri'; this time a rum base with raspberry syrup - coming together to resemble an adult-appropriate slush puppy.<br />
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Nevertheless what with the heated seats, adult slush puppies, and of course, the good company - Buffalo was a definite hit! What's your favourite cocktail? For me it's definitely a Mojito!Libbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07926263130708130278noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2986187598071969787.post-55288470534680784562016-01-13T11:00:00.000+00:002016-01-13T11:00:02.524+00:00January's Read<div>
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As exam season is well and truly underway, my head is currently burrowed in a core textbook, but between the lecture write-ups and mind maps I've been reaching for a few titles to rewind a little, and to remind myself that reading can be fun (something easily forgotten during exam season!), however one in particular has caught my fancy this month...</div>
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<b>'One Day' By David Nicholls </b><br />
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You may have seen the movie, starring the babe that is Anne Hathaway, but both the movie and the book tell a story that spans over a couple of decades, but takes place on the same day - St Swithin's Day. Emma and Dexter are two university students who spend the night of their graduation together, and incidentally the novel tells of their struggles together as two twenty-something's; with family, friends and career prospects, and of course, their love-lives.</div>
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A clever, witty and carefully written book - it's definitely one you won't be able to put down. Plus it's perfect paired with a cuppa, naturally.</div>
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Nevertheless I am looking forward to delving into another David Nicholls book or two. What has been at the top of your must-read list this month? Leave a comment below and let me know - I love getting book recommendations!</div>
Libbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07926263130708130278noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2986187598071969787.post-24162549025098379662016-01-06T18:00:00.000+00:002016-01-06T18:03:08.861+00:00A New Year<div>
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Inspired by one of the biggest babes in blogging; <a href="http://www.whatoliviadid.com/">Olivia</a>, I'm thinking it's time to cut the 'new year, new me' crap for now, and celebrate some of the things you've achieved in the past 365 days (well, 369, I'm a few days late)<br />
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Here are a few of mine, for team spirit and all...</div>
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<b>Receiving offers from all of my university choices</b></div>
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After sweating over my personal statement the September, it would have been amazing to get one offer from all of the universities I had applied for, let alone 5! </div>
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<b>Working two jobs (and surviving)</b></div>
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This is something I did for the most part of 2014 also, but looking back now I don't know how I did that, and managed a third round of A-Levels simultaneously.</div>
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<b>Voted for the first time</b></div>
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As my 18th birthday was only a couple of months short of the local elections in 2014, it was quite special to cross a ballot paper for the first time, and for a General, too.</div>
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<b>Volunteering for charity </b></div>
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...and being able to watch bands as I work? Win-win.</div>
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<b>Seeing amazing live music</b></div>
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My festival hopping with Oxfam this summer meant I not only worked several gruelling night shifts, dealt with dozens of drunken punters and had many laughs in the meantime, but I also got to see some of my favourite bands in the flesh, from the likes of Panic! to Frank Turner.</div>
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<b>Getting into my dream university </b></div>
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The greatest achievement of the year for me was definitely getting my unconditional offer from Cardiff University on results day. Hands down. </div>
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<b>Moving to a city </b></div>
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Even though I've moved several times in my lifetime, I've always been a small-town girl, so moving to a city, a capital city even was a definite adjustment. And I'm loving every second of it. </div>
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<b>Attending Fresher's Week (heck, fortnight)</b></div>
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This definitely deserves a medal, particularly for how shit I felt when the 14 days were up. But even though the whole fortnight is a bit of a haze, some unforgettable memories and amazing friendships were surely made.</div>
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What made your 2015 amazing? Pop a comment below or perhaps you've been inspired to blog about it!</div>
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Looking forward to posting more in 2016!</div>
Libbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07926263130708130278noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2986187598071969787.post-82300007957149587232015-08-16T18:13:00.001+01:002015-08-16T18:15:25.616+01:00Life Lately<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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Long time, no catch up! To say life has been hectic in the last couple of weeks is an understatement, from back-to-back festivals, to birthday celebrations, everything has been put on hold for a three week party! But I'm back to posting twice-weekly now - so keep an eye out for a new post this coming Wednesday!</div>
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First things first - my birthday! As I was in a field in deepest Dorset on my actual birthday, my family, friends and I pretty much celebrated a birthday week. The weekend before being the main event, with a cocktails night in (see Mojito above) and a riskay v-neck playsuit number from Motel (found half price on ASOS...) for a night on the town on the Saturday, followed by an obligatory lazy Sunday nursing a hefty hangover, of course!</div>
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And after two weeks in a tent, a (very small) handful of showers, numerous train/coach journeys, I have spent some of the last 14 days volunteering at both Camp Bestival and Boardmasters festivals. I will write a full blog post on my experience very soon, as my final festival, Reading & Leeds, is yet to come, but I worked several shifts with Oxfam and it was a lot of fun! And I can't wait to print my memories with the Polagram app, as I did for my birthday celebrations (see above) - perfect for displaying in my university room in September!</div>
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As mentioned earlier, a new post will be up here on the blog on Wednesday (festival related, obvs) so if you're heading to Beautiful Days/V Fest/Reading/Leeds/Bestival in the next few weeks, I'm here to help! </div>
Libbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07926263130708130278noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2986187598071969787.post-34931764091651342142015-07-29T09:00:00.000+01:002015-07-29T09:00:13.893+01:00Quit Your Job<div>
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Don't be intimidated by the title of this post, I just thought that I would take the rare opportunity to write a post about something personal and life changing for me.<br />
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Recently, I handed my notice in at my 2-year strong part-time job, and this weekend, I waved my goodbyes to my first second job.</div>
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There was no other reason for leaving the role other than my voluntary work over the summer booking my weekends up and starting at university in September, but nevertheless the move was emotional, but I am confident in moving forward in doing what I really want to do.</div>
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It was lovely to see my way through college with cash in my pocket (with some more thanks to my second job in my third year), getting a taste for the work environment and cementing my goals and aims for my future, i.e working hard wherever I work, just as the women, my former colleagues, showed me for almost 2 years.</div>
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So going back to the title - this isn't a blog post to convince you to pack in your 9-5 and travel the world, because well ain't nobody got cash for that! </div>
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But it's more of a paraphrase - be happy, and always take steps (big or small) every day to earn happiness. Because you deserve it. And sometimes stepping back can make you realise what you have learned, and what you are/have been grateful for.</div>
Libbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07926263130708130278noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2986187598071969787.post-61097818149398173352015-07-22T17:00:00.000+01:002015-07-22T17:00:13.642+01:00Money-Saving Tips<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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Whether your saving money to start or invest in something new, in my case, funding Freshers week and flat furnishings for university, or looking to save on your summer plans, here a few of my tried and tested tips when it comes to saving more and spending less.</div>
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<b>Save on your summer plans</b></div>
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Day out? Use dayrider tickets using your local bus company - you'll be surprised how far you can travel for a reasonable price. I can travel from my hometown to Oxford (50 miles away) and back for less than £3 with my student card - bargain! <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">If your destinations a bit further, consider investing in a 16-25 railcard, they cost £30 for a year of 1/3 off train tickets, and it pays itself back quite quickly; I saved the price of the card on just one pair of my train tickets for my festivals this year!</span></div>
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<b>Sell, sell, sell!</b></div>
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I don't know about you, but I own a lot of crap. So what with moving into a room a fraction of the size of mine in a couple of months I am taking the opportunity to sell a few unwanted things this summer. My favourite app for this is Depop; when ebay met Instagram and had a app baby, therefore quick and easy platform to pop my unwanted clothes and small gifts and things up for sale. And what's more is that it charges less than Ebay! Pretty and practical...</div>
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How many times do you justify a purchase with a phrase like 'well at least it was cheap' or 'it's only £2!'. In my case the answer would be too many! Try cutting back on small expenditure eg: small treats, things by the checkout in Primark and decor and you'll be surprised how much that could save you!</div>
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This seems like the most obvious one, and possibly the hardest to achieve! But my tip is to think outside the box. If you've already handed your CV to 826457 places and had no reply (I feel your pain!) then think of ways you can employ yourself! Neighbours have had a new baby? Offer to babysit, they'll appreciate a night out and babysitting always pays well! Rainy week last week? Ask your parents or family members if you can clean their car, windows, front of house. </div>
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Team Internet</b></div>
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Not only are online auctions great places to earn cash, but there are many other ways you can make money on the web! Online surveys are the easiest way; for most sites you complete market research questionnaires and earn points, which can be redeemed as cash or vouchers. Here are <a href="https://uk.toluna.com/">one</a> and <a href="http://www.valuedopinions.co.uk/">two</a> of my favourite sites - they can take a while to begin earning (Toluna requires you to earn £35 worth of points before you can make a PayPal transaction) but vouchers are often redeemable earlier. Have a lot of spare time over the summer? Start a blog or YouTube channel! You may not earn straight away, but brands may begin to contact you offering freebies and small cash rewards for sponsored posts.</div>
Libbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07926263130708130278noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2986187598071969787.post-56105464077771116872015-07-19T17:00:00.001+01:002015-07-19T17:02:13.239+01:00July's Read<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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My reading schedule used to stretch to just one or two issues of Elle a month, but in the last couple of months I have rekindled my love for picking up a paperback and gettimg stuck into a story. Plus a good book goes great with a good cup of tea...</div>
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I know that a lot of people will already have this book on their to-read list this month, as the film is set to release next month in the UK *squeals*. I've been a fan of John Green's books since before my break from reading, so as I left this book half-read a couple of years ago I thought it would be the perfect time to give it another go. </div>
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Much like John Green's other books, the beginning of the story moved at a slow pace, which in a way I quite like, as it really sets the scene before things get interesting. The plot follows character Q, or Quentin Jacobsen; an American teenager with a few friends, a band, drives his mum's van, and is secretly fascinated by his next-door neighbour, Margo Roth Speigelman, played by the babin' Cara Delevigne in the film, obvs. One night, she knocks on his bedroom window and they spend a night driving around town causing chaos. The next morning, Margo is gone. And Q makes it his job to find her.</div>
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This book will make you laugh (out loud), possibly a bit teary, and finishing it in around 3 days, I can confirm that you won't want to put it down. Or for it to finish. Ever.</div>
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What is your book of the month? Share your latest reads in the comments or tweet me @deskparties! I'd love to hear your recommendations...</div>
Libbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07926263130708130278noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2986187598071969787.post-38950703677423491612015-07-16T09:00:00.000+01:002015-07-16T10:24:08.588+01:00For Beachin' Hair<div>
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Summer is here! And what better way to channel those boho vibes than with multiples braids and wavy locks, right? My hair is naturally wavy, but also very thick, which weigh them down, turning my post-wash bouncy do into a flat, frizzy mess. <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Here are a few of my favourite products to fight all that summer throws at our hair; from frizz to tangles - come at me, Mother Nature.</span></div>
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With any beauty routine, I start with a clean slate. My standard<b> The Body Shop Banana Shampoo and Conditioner duo (£4 each)</b> works wonders to combat frizz, cleaning and comdiitoning the hair without weighing it down. However recently I've discovered the<b> shampoo and conditioner from John Freida's Beach Blonde range (£7 each</b>), which do all of the above and leave hair even more weightless and bouncy than my TBS go-tos. Perfect for beachy locks.</div>
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However after using a clarifying shampoo can sometimes strip away moisture, the same effect salt water has on your hair, so keeping it nourished and conditioned is key. On most days, I add several squirts of <b>OGX's Argan Oil of Morrocco Penetrating Oil (£7)</b>, working directly on strengthening and nourishing hair follicles. However after a day at the sea, or the bottled version sans my shampoo, a large scoop of <b>Vita Coco's Coconut Oil (£6)</b>, or any solid, natural oil can be used as a deep conditioner to add natural shine and bounce to your do. Alternatively, before you shower, a generous amount of <b>LUSH's H'Suan Wen Hua Hair Mask (£9.75)</b> can be left for 30 minutes before washing off to improve overall hair condition. But warning, this stuff smells rather funky...</div>
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For beachin' hair, I keep styling to a minimum, but before blow drying, adding several spritzes of <b>John Freida's Beach Blonde Sea Salt Spray (£7)</b> creates a more defined look for my lacklustre wavy hair. And unlike normal salt sprays, you're left without that crispy feeling when your hair is dry, which is a look you want to avoid. Knotty hair, no thank you.</div>
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Heading to any beach destinations this summer? Let me know in the comments or tweet me, I would love to hear your favourite seaside spots! And if there's any room in your suitcase, perhaps...</div>
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Libbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07926263130708130278noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2986187598071969787.post-32526547618189059492015-07-12T17:00:00.000+01:002015-07-13T22:43:30.176+01:00Postcards From My Hols<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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Last week my family and I rolled off in our VW campervan (unfortunately not the vintage kind!) and parked up on our pitch near Corfe, in Dorset; our home for 6 days. </div>
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We spent most days at Swanage Beach, but as it was only an hour's bus journey away, my brother and I spent a day in Bournemouth - and having been there plenty of times in the last few years it has fast become one of my favoruite seaside spots. </div>
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Here are a few of my favourite photos from the trip, which most of them you can also find on my instagram @deskparties, which I thought I would share here on my blog too!</div>
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Libbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07926263130708130278noreply@blogger.com0Dorset, UK50.7390661 -2.338234599999964350.093256100000005 -3.6346210999999644 51.3848761 -1.0418480999999642tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2986187598071969787.post-37698086953171446772015-07-05T17:00:00.000+01:002015-07-05T17:00:02.622+01:00TWP: Long Time, No Talk<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hello, stranger! It's been 3 months since I put up a post in this little corner of the Internet, what with A-Level exams and coursework deadlines my blog had to take a backseat.<br />
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Not much has happened since I last updated you, as life tends to slow down when you're swamped down by hundreds of prompt cards and A3 posters, however I have a lot of<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> exciting plans this summer, from festivals to quick getaways, that I can't wait to share, so k</span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">eep an eye on my blog for bi-weekly posts on Wednesdays and Sunday's at 9am GMT, and almost daily updates on my Instagram and Twitter, both @deskparties. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Enjoy the rest of your Sunday; drink too much coffee, watch too many episodes of your favourite series of Netflix (I'm currently hooked on House of Cards) and add one too many steps to your skincare routine tonight. You deserve it. See you on Wednesday! </span></div>
Libbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07926263130708130278noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2986187598071969787.post-31649075575443323012015-07-05T09:00:00.000+01:002015-07-05T09:00:07.311+01:00The July Playlist<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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...and then it was July. Where has the year gone? With spring now far behind us and in the midst of a week long heatwave, this summer is definitely off to a scorching start.<br />
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So for all the students and those with booked holiday slots this month, or even people that are making the most of the summer sun on their very few days off, this playlist is for you. Keeping it cool and collected, I've included a lot of soft electronic and folk music , with tracks from the likes of Clean Bandit, Catfish and the Bottlemen and Alt-J, for those carefree, car roof down vibes.<br />
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If you have Spotify, or not, you can listen to the full playlist for free below or <a href="https://open.spotify.com/user/deskparties/playlist/3ll117aed00ixZRQauJSM1">through this link</a>. But make sure if you are a member of the site to follow my playlist - as I will be adding more tracks throughout the month...</div>
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...now where's my Mojito at?<br />
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Libbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07926263130708130278noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2986187598071969787.post-66108023398240503462015-04-03T09:00:00.000+01:002015-04-03T09:00:03.513+01:00The April Playlist.<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"></span><br />
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(Before reading, pop on headphones and turn up volume)</div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Sharing music is something new for my blog, but as its the one of the two things that gets me out of bed in the morning (coffee being the second) and always the last thing I do before head meets pillow, (with George Ezra's 'Wanted On Voyage' being my comedown record of choice), it's safe to say it plays a major role in my life, so if so, why not share that here?</span><br />
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">April will be a busy month for me, so I'll be tuning in to easy listening tracks and travel-size tracks, keeping me sane on long train journeys and softer sounds to help me kick-start some focused A-Level revision.</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">My music taste is quite varied, favouring from acoustic to aggressive, head banging rock sounds, you can always expect an eclectic line up as I plan to post my music picks every month from April on-wards. I've also thrown in a couple of tracks from bands on my local scene; something a little different from the top 40 but tunes I have been singing at the top of my voice every morning!</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">So grab your cup of coffee, get on that bus/train and get working with this playlist, (<a href="https://play.spotify.com/user/deskparties/playlist/3WrO6DEgxmHllMeXLRLNNz">which you can listen to with this link</a>, or in this post with the player below) And let me know in the comments what your favourite song/album is at the moment - I love discovering new music!</span><br />
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Libbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07926263130708130278noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2986187598071969787.post-21637806441414219382015-04-01T09:00:00.000+01:002015-04-01T09:00:01.930+01:00Start-Up Your Studies.<div>
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They always say that starting a project is the hardest task, I mean, I am sure that most of us have spent hours, and more often than not, days staring at a blank page or word document, tapping your pen or staring at the cursor blink over and over and over. And I am definitely no stranger to this!</div>
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Yep, it's just under 3 months to go, and I have already started revising for the summer exams. You may think I am crazy, and I am, but when it comes to studying for that important test, I believe that getting ahead, before you have time to fall behind, is the key. Because cramming the night before is not the one! So if you find you are struggling to start-up your revision, here are a few ways you can.</div>
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<b>Find a workspace. </b><br />
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I am an organised chaos. My life is run by to do lists, notebook apps, reminders and post-it notes (if you ever have documents to file, I'm the girl to call) but my bedroom is a shit tip. So before I even lay hands on an exercise book, I give my desk and room a good spring clean.<br />
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I'm sure I'm not the only student that has a substantial store of notes from last year, because, just in case. But now the deadline for exam retakes has passed us by, those notes are finally useless. Clear out old notes, get rid of notebooks that are full to the brim and start making space for new study materials. </div>
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<b>Time (for a) table. </b></div>
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A revision timetable is a fundamental tool for productive revision, so take the time to draw one up, tap one into your phone calendar or use a timetable website. My favourite is a site I have been using since the beginning of my GCSEs, 5 years ago, so it gets my seal of approval. The key to a good revision plan is to be realistic - I always start by adding slots when I know I can't, or won't study, and build blocks of revision around them. That way you will be more focused, and able to make time for things you enjoy. Because, F.R.I.E.N.D.S can't watch itself, right?</div>
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Libbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07926263130708130278noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2986187598071969787.post-60828495387082952192015-03-29T18:00:00.000+01:002015-03-29T23:11:38.732+01:00The Week In Photos.<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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For this weekend's post I am bringing you yet another instagram round up, as I think its a good way to update this space on what's been occur'ng with me in the last 7 days. Now I have to confess that a few of these photos were taken a couple of weeks ago, as I am having to play a bit of catch up after my two-week blog break. If you want to see almost-daily updates from me in photo form, <a href="https://instagram.com/deskparties/">follow my instagram @deskparties</a>.<br />
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If you read <a href="http://deskparties.blogspot.co.uk/2015/03/packing-light-for-night-away.html">Wednesday's</a> and <a href="http://deskparties.blogspot.co.uk/2015/03/post-party-skin.html">Friday's</a> posts, you will know that I recently visited one of my best friends at university in Swansea. Although I have visited her there in the past few months, this time I stayed overnight, staying out until almost the crack of dawn, and crashing in her small but cosy student accomodation flat. It was brilliant. Although I definitely felt it the next morning, and learned that sitting in the opposite direction of travel on a 2-hour long train journey with a bad hangover is not the best of combinations...<br />
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Fast forward to this week, as the Easter holidays are finally upon us, the next two weeks will see me start some serious prep for the summer exams, so coffee, good music and even more coffee were at the top of my agenda this morning. Keep your eyes peeled for a post on studying going up mid-next-week. You heard it here first.<br />
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Let me know in the comments what your favourite thing is to do on a Sunday? Chilling 'till you drop, or playing end-of-the-week catch up? I'll answer my own question and say I definitely the latter!Libbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07926263130708130278noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2986187598071969787.post-87669225318568507622015-03-27T09:00:00.000+00:002015-03-27T09:00:03.697+00:00Post-Party Skin.<div>
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I hate hangovers. Sure, they are a great excuse to wear sweats all day and eat all the crap, but after going out last Wednesday? Ain't nobody got time for that on a Thursday. Needless to say that following day I felt a bit worse for wear (slight understatement) so I needed something that was going to make look and feel a little more human...<br />
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Enter LUSH; always at my beckoning call for any skin troubles, and this time their BB Seaweed Fresh Face Mask answered. </div>
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It's consistency is thick, but it absorbs into the skin rather quickly, which means you can feel the stuff getting to work from the word go. After splashing my face after the mask has completely dried (for around 19 minutes), I could see my skin looked brighter and less, well, 'bleurgh'. I've used this several times since I bought it a week or so ago, and my skin looks cleaner and cleaner every time, and unlike most radiance/deep cleaning masks it's not leaving me with 59676 dry patches. A win-win!</div>
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As LUSH's face masks are fresh, they usually last a little less than a month, and I keep mine in the fridge for longer keep, amongst other essentials for those morning after feels. Poached eggs on toast anyone? </div>
Libbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07926263130708130278noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2986187598071969787.post-740324989134522072015-03-25T08:00:00.000+00:002015-03-26T19:42:43.877+00:00Packing Light For A One-Nighter.<div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">If you've been keeping your eyes peeled on my Instagram (@deskparties if you want a quick once over) you will know that I recently took a second trip down to Wales, to visit my best friend at university and go on my first university night out. And as I chose to take a third year at college this year, visiting Swansea is not only amazing as I get to see my best girl friend and her housemates, but also for testing the university waters first hand for in six months time.</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">A night out and staying over called for taking more than a lipstick, my phone and ID; the standard contents of my evening clutch - but I also didn't want to be running around Swansea train station with 474759 bags on my arms. So relied on a few trusty tips that are great to slimline your suitcase for visiting friends, going home for a weekend or a mini break.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Roll, roll, roll your clothes</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">This is a trick I picked up from my mum. Rolling your clothes into a sausage-the shape saves twice the amount of space in your bag, as it is more compressed than when you fold them. This tip is especially useful for jumpers, as those darn things take up way too much space that it's not even funny. Another thing I always do is to stuff my underwear in any shoes I have packed. Although, try not to forget they are in there before going to put your boots on in the morning...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">As a self confessed hoarder of all things beauty and skincare, I find it hard to find the space for all the products I use on a daily basis, because let's face it, I'm not the kind of girl who's morning routine consists of a quick mouthwash and a couple of face wipes. And I know I am not alone, so this tip is handy for my fellow beauty hoarders. Not only is decanting incredible for space saving, but it saves you having to purchase all of your favourite products in minature form (so small but so pricey!). I love the travel bottle set from Primark, it costs a couple of pounds and comes with stickers so you don't confuse your cleansers and conditioners. And I can tell you from personal experience, it's not as fun as it sounds.</span></div>
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Bring things that multitask</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Three-in-one hair washes, moutrising serums, tinted lip balms. You name it, I've got it. Taking products that do than one job makes your toiletry bag that bit lighter, and saves you time getting ready in the morning, which is particularly useful when you're catching the early train or plane home.</span></div>
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Libbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07926263130708130278noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2986187598071969787.post-57851533022509509962015-03-15T16:00:00.000+00:002015-03-15T16:00:10.779+00:00The Weekend Post: Mum's The Word<div>
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Happy Mothers Day everyone! This week I am spending my Sunday making several cups of tea and ushering boxes of chocolates into my mums hands (no change from the usual, but it counts more on Mother's Day, right?)<br />
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Other than that, I surprised her with a few things from LUSH's Mothers Day range, which I thought I would share with you because, I'm going to be honest, I wish I bought some of these things for myself!</div>
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First off I picked up the <b>Ultraviolet Bubble Bar</b>; made with violet and jasmine absolutes and ylang ylang oil, this product smells of Parma Violets and I imagine would make the bath water look amazing. Then I popped the <b>Mother Superior Bubble Bar</b> in my basket, which I bought mainly because it looked so darn cute, and I knew it would make mum laugh. It contains mimosa absolute, which I have to be honest, doesn't smell incredible, but the novelty of this bubble bar won mum and me over.</div>
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After picking up a few bath things, which i thought would be a lot more relaxing and luxurious,<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> my mum is in fact more of a shower person. But as LUSH lack a good range of shower products other than body wash, I opted for the <b>Yummy Mummy Shower Gel</b>. With notes of orange and geranium I knew this would be a delicate yet refreshing gel perfect for a morning wash. And as mum wakes up ridiculously early to get ready for work, I thought this would do just the trick to wake her up.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">And lastly, I grabbed a pot of their <b>Bubblegum Lip Scrub</b>, because, well, their lip scrubs are amazing, and as mum and me have a similar skin type (dry/sensitive-combination) and she too always complains about having dry lips, I thought I could show her what she was missing out on.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Enjoy spending time with your family today, and if unfortunately you don't have a mum or mother figure to share Mother's Day with, allow yourself the day to treat yourself for staying strong.</span></div>
Libbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07926263130708130278noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2986187598071969787.post-9280663218882299242015-03-04T08:00:00.000+00:002015-03-04T08:00:00.670+00:00Things For 'That Time' Of The Month<div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">'Mother Nature, can you come back another month plz? Ty' </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">If you haven't guessed already, it's my time of the month, so I am currently writing this from the sofa whilst spooning a hot water bottle eating all the chocolate in the store cupboards. Not the most glamorous of get-ups, but desperate times... </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Now if you're like me (it's most likely); hormones drive you a little crazy (to say the least!) and the stomach pain is sometimes unbearable and the whole 3-7 day period is just plain uncomfortable, here are a few things you can rely on to make myself feel more human when Mother Nature calls.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Herbal T<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">ea</span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I love a classic cuppa when I am feeling worse for wear, but herbal teas are brilliant for soothing cramps, and as they are caffeine free they are the best before bed, when the pain is usually the worst. My favourite is <b>Pukka's Womenkind tea</b>; with liquorice root, chamomile and vanilla; first up it smells amazing, and it's sweetness keeps (some of) the cravings at bay, but all of the ingredients are best for relaxing and soothing sore stomachs.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">A small bag of emergency supplies </span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">It's good to keep a small, discrete pouch in your bag, that doesn't scream 'Hey everyone, I'm on my period! So <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">yes, that's why I'm being a moody bitch today'. It's good to avoid that kind of honesty. I use a</span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><b>H&M pouch</b> (they are dead cheap, always in stock in different designs) and in</span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> it I keep: some towels and tampons (obviously), <b>paracetamol</b> (for pain relief) <b>a mini The Body Shop Eau De Toilette Spray</b> (for feeling fresh), <b>mint tea bags</b> (to settle my stomach) and <b>hairbands</b> (because there's nothing more annoying than hair getting in my face, especially when I'm just not in the mood). It keeps everything in one place, and stops you from forgetting anything important when you need it the most.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The biggest burden of that time of the month are the spots that populate my face, and in places I never get them. However I recently discovered a few LUSH products that actually make a difference; <b>Grease Lightning Spot Treatment, Catastrophe Cosmetic Face Fask </b>and<b> Tea Tree Toning Water</b> to name a few. The products from the <b>Good Things</b> range, which is available in Boots, are also amazing for busting blemishes, or, if you have the budget for it, the <b>Origins Super Spot Remover</b> is all kinds of awesome.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Although I get spotty when I'm on my period and by logic, oil based products would in fact, make the breakouts worse, but using said spot treatments can be very drying on the skin, and already being a girl with dry skin, this means hydrating products such as oil cleansers and treatments are high on my agenda. For that I will refer to my post featuring <b><a href="http://deskparties.blogspot.co.uk/2015/01/things-for-girls-with-dry-skin-this.html">my favourite things for dry skin spells</a></b>. During 'that time' it's good to keep hydrated on the outside too, so keep large bottles of water and herbal tea nearby. Your skin will thank you for it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I think this one goes without saying, but with low magnesium levels and tendencies to act like a total bitch, chocolate seems to solve a good portion of problems I have on my period. In fact, anything containing chocolate will do - usually I favour a double chocolate digestive or three but whatever you want. You're mind is telling you no, but your body is telling you yes - no, I'm not suggesting to give some Bump and Grind, but to listen to your cravings for those few days of the month. You deserve it. </span></div>
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Libbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07926263130708130278noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2986187598071969787.post-60918398929725912262015-03-02T23:13:00.001+00:002015-03-09T23:11:24.344+00:00This Week On Instagram #3<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-9NItuKEbRxM/VPymU_cWTPI/AAAAAAAABKA/f_dikqlgsW4/s640/blogger-image--393487225.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-9NItuKEbRxM/VPymU_cWTPI/AAAAAAAABKA/f_dikqlgsW4/s640/blogger-image--393487225.jpg"></a></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Happy Sunday! Looking back at this week - it's been a long one, and a bit stressful too, so there was a significant lack of photos on my feed.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I have been quite anxious this week, I wish I could pinpoint why but nevertheless there were points this week where I had to take a step back, especially with social media - I love writing and photographing for my blog, but I have been trying harder to avoid the bits that make me feel this way, including (mainly social media). However this was only one reason I was feeling this way, so I did take some time away from the Internet and more time reading and relaxing. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I visited my new favourite coffee house again this week; whiche I wrote about in this weekend's post, which went live this morning. I decided to treat myself to a few things on Friday, including my first issue of Vogue - which made me feel like instantly cooler and older, until I realised in the same transaction I had picked quite the substantial amount of Comic Relief merchandise. Not quite a grown woman yet. And how could I forget the Lindt dark chocolate bar (salted caramel - the bomb) as first it was on offer, and I am trying to cut and limit dairy in my diet, so a win-win purchase all round. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Sorry this has been a boring one, but it's quite the typical week for me. However I do have a few exciting things lined up in the next few days, so I am sure next weeks update will be a lot more exciting. </div>Libbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07926263130708130278noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2986187598071969787.post-52573134034069082502015-02-23T17:08:00.000+00:002015-02-23T17:08:49.337+00:00This Week On Instagram #2<div>
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Happy Monday! I thought I would do my second edition of this post today since it's the start of a new week, so what better way to wish in the new college term (yay?) than to look back at my half term? I'll be uploading a post like this every Monday from now on, but be sure to follow my Instagram @deskparties for regular updates...<br>
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This week has consisted of more work than play, however there's been no shortage of lie ins and no-makeup days. So most days I have slapped on <span id="goog_1840200362"></span><a href="http://deskparties.blogspot.co.uk/2015/02/the-five-product-face.html"><span style="color: black;">my five-product face</span><span id="goog_1840200363"></span> </a>and using dry shampoo like it's going out of fashion. I mean, this might be a bit tmi, but I may of gone five days without washing my locks...I know...</div>
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More excitingly on Friday I treated my mum to a visit to a new coffeehouse that's in town; Baila Coffee and Vinyl; a cute cafe tucked into the centre of town, with awesome interior and even more awesome coffee. I've written about it ready for the next weekend post, so keep your eyes peeled for that this Sunday. Spoiler alert: they make the best brownies ever. In-house *drools*</div>
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So this week is back to college but I am sure I will take a few snaps and get up to a few things in the meantime...
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Libbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07926263130708130278noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2986187598071969787.post-26483862489385554072015-02-22T11:07:00.000+00:002015-02-22T11:10:19.305+00:00The Weekend Post: Taking Time<div>
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I'm not going to lie; I've had a pretty bad week. I've been working more than usual, as well as keeping up with college projects and revision, so sleep has been pretty limited. What's more is that I got rejected by a guy I've liked for a good few months. It could be worse, but come this weekend and I. Am. So. Tired. In both the literal and figurative senses.<br>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">So if you are mending a broken heart, stressed out to the max, or just feeling under the weather, here are a few ways that I like to take some time out today, that can hopefully inspire you to do the same. Because that's what Sunday's are for, right?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><b>Get a make-under</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Slap off the makeup, tie your hair back and let your skin breathe. Yes, those sunglasses might be necessary to hide hideous eye bags and/or any breakouts, but your skin will thank you for it. And it's a physical reminder that today is for you, and you only. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><b>Switch it off </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Work email notifications? No thanks. Apologetic texts from said ex-boyfriend/ex-crush? A-bye-bye. Remove any negative or stressful energy by removing yourself from the negative or stressful situation. However if the feelings still haunt you, engage yourself in something creative. Even if it's composing an angry poem or even email. As long as it rhymes, right?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Sundays are first and foremost for relaxing, but a useful way to spend the latter of the day - one F.R.I.E.N.D.S marathon and several one-bite brownies later - is to plan for the week ahead. I usually aallocate</span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> daily tasks, but weekly goals are good, too. Try not too think too big: make doable goals. I find planning the reward for completing it quite useful too, who wouldn't want an excuse to treat themselves to something they love? For me? This time next week I aim to be sporting a new red lipstick while scoffing a bag of mini eggs. </span></div>
Libbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07926263130708130278noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2986187598071969787.post-54039889987678071882015-02-20T19:00:00.000+00:002015-02-20T19:00:29.729+00:00The Budget Buy: Wash And Blow Dry In A Bottle<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
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Dry shampoo; a lazy girls best friend. Going for more than three days without a shampoo session is a regular occurrence for me lately, so I always rely on a can of the dry stuff to refresh those roots and go. But the bane of my life? That dry, white residue that sits in your scalp, and won't budge no matter how long you try to brush through it, it still stays put - hello, dandruff look-a-like.<br />
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So when my local Superdrug finally started stocking <b>Colab's Dry Shampoos</b>, I didn't hesitate picking a couple up. It struck my attention mainly because it's designed by Ruth Crilly; a total blogger babe, however it's sheer invisible formula was something that was worth a shot. And it works.</div>
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I picked up the London fragrance: scented with bergamot, musk and magnolia so with the mix of floral and musky notes it leaves your hair smelling warm, clean and fresh. I find the best way to apply any dry shampoo is to take my hair section by section and then spraying a few inches away from my face, onto my scalp. And the first time I picked up my can of Colab it came to my surprise to see no white patches! As I brushed it through my hair, I could definitely see the product absorbing all grease and oil and it left my hair looking somewhat presentable. </div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I also grabbed the <b>Extreme Volume</b> edition in the same fragrance, and I find this worked well after washing and blow drying for a back combed effect, without the tangled hair mess teasing leaves you with. So a</span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">t £3.49 a can (£4.49 each for the extreme volume range) for perfect third day hair every time, and reducing my frequency of bad hair days, I think this is definitely my best budget buy for quite some time...</span></div>
Libbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07926263130708130278noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2986187598071969787.post-64299918994412698352015-02-11T13:23:00.003+00:002015-02-18T16:07:08.371+00:00Waiting For The University Offers<div>
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So I wrote <a href="http://deskparties.blogspot.co.uk/2014/11/writing-personal-statement.html"><span style="color: black;">an advice post in Novermber </span></a>describing my struggle of writing a personal statement - so I thought it would make sense and be quite suitable, as I have now received all five of my offers (eep!), to give a few worlds of advice for tackling the next step in the application process: waiting for your results.<br />
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<b>Limit your UCAS intake</b></div>
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Coming from personal experience, I know how easy it to obsessively check your UCAS track page to see if somehow a university has contacted you two minutes after you last looked. Typically they will send you an email if your status on any of your applications has changed, so try to relax and just check your emails once a day, like you would in the pre-UCAS days. </div>
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<b>They haven't forgotten you</b></div>
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'How have four of the universities replied and I'm still waiting for my 5th, a month later? Have they forgotten me?'. Again, this happened to me a few weeks ago, and although the choice was at the bottom of my preference list, the chance of getting all 5 offers, something I had been longing to see on my track page for weeks, was something I didn't want to risk losing. I'm lucky to have received all of my offers quite early, however bear in mind the final deadline for universities to get back to you is May 7th; three months from now. Some universities just take longer than others: be it having a smaller admissions team, or being a much larger centre, either way it will just take a little more time for some, so don't worry too much. </div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Lastly, the most cliche tip - keep your head up. If you get rejected, if the univeristy has asked for grades you think you can't achieve, or you haven't received your first offer yet - just stay positive. Things happen for the best (most of the time, at least) and hurdles and falls will only make you stronger. If you are really struggling with the stress, I recommend copious cups of tea and as much chocolate as you require. It works best for these types of situations...</span></div>
Libbyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07926263130708130278noreply@blogger.com0