For my family and my friends -- Thank You

I started this year with a clear mind. A plan to make everything work out for me. I had a job, got promoted, planned on heading to university in September. That was 8 months ago, a lot has happened in those 8 months. 

• Had a boyfriend 
• Ended the relationship
• Failed driving test
• Got several tattoos
• Applied for university
• Joined slimming world 
• Withdrew application
• Quit slimming world  
• Applied for a teaching agency 
• Ashley passed away 
• 2 months off of work 
• Rejoined slimming world 
• I quit my job 
• 2 interviews 
• Applied for camp America 2018 
• Reapplied for university for September 2018 
• Booked driving test 

If this year has taught me anything its to keep going forward no matter what this shit show of a life throws at you. Things always get hard and they my never seem like they will never get better, but it does. It really does. 

I've learnt that I have some amazing family and friends. They keep me going and make me stronger. And they let me be angry and upset and happy and sad all at the same time. So this blog post is for them and for me. To thank them for caring about me and giving a shit even when I couldn't

For keeping me going when I saw no light.

For being my rock when I crumpled. 

For encouraging me to keep going. 

I love you all 

IsThataRedHerring 

A tribute to my brother. Eulogy

Ashley Martin (Ted) Herring

11/02/1996 – 24/05/2017

On Wednesday the 24^th of May at 10pm my life changed. I never thought that it would ever happen, that I open the door to find a police officer standing there, and telling me the worst news he could ever say. I’ve started this speech so many times, never really knowing what to say or how to say it. So fuck it, let’s do an Ashley at get straight to the fucking point.

I had the joys of 21 years with Ashley. It’s safe to say it hasn’t always been smiles and kisses, he knew how to wind me up proper good. But with his stupid smirk of a grin he was easy to forgive. As me and Ash grew up we had an unspoken rule, if we ever argued we were not allowed to stay mad at each other for any more than 2 minutes. It would normally end in us going to Sainsbury’s to buy food we really didn’t need.

Which brings me onto the story of food Tourette’s. Now anyone who knows myself or Ash knew that we were most sarcastic swearing pair of idiots. Who when together were terrible and wound everyone up… Ashley loved to take this to a whole new level, and on behalf of Ashley I would like to apologise to Sainsbury’s and Tescos workers… Ashley invented a game called food Tourette’s, where instead of swearing he would simply start shouting items of foods out loud. This has on several occasions nearly got us kicked out and banned from shops… only for me to turn around and say sorry he doesn’t mean to its his Tourette’s… meanwhile I’m pissing myself laughing and Ashley continues to swear and shout sausage rolls at this poor lady. Ashley was unable to go shopping on his own because I quote ‘people piss me off’.

I honestly have endless amounts of stories about my brother, my best friend. The one that Ashley loved to tell was that of when we were 8 or 9 years old. We had just watched Peter Pan and Ash loved the shadow scene where they fight with swords. So we are sat in his room, I have a pencil for my sword and Ash well he whips out a bloody pen knife. There we are sword fighting, he knocks my pencil out of my hand laughs and I start waving my arms around, he is still jabbing the knife and there it goes, straight into my right forearm where I still have the scar. He of course blames me and laughs. That story still makes me laugh.

On that day, Ashley had a perfect last day. Although he woke up an hour late for work, it means that I got to see him, we joked around had a laugh and I got to say goodbye. Although we didn’t realise it would be our last. He got to work, as usual happy and pissing everyone off. Got to ride his bike to and from work. Got home had eggy bread for dinner and then went back out on his bike. It may be simple but not only did I get to say goodbye, my mum got to see him, my dad got to see him, his favourite work friends worked with him and he was doing what he loved. Without a shadow of a doubt I know Ash died with a smile on his face.

Thank you to Ashley for bringing light into so many people’s lives. For making us smile and laugh even when we shouldn’t have been. For always being there and pushing us to be our best. He pushed me into university I have a degree because of him. For pushing Carl into the police force to Josh motivating him to join the army. For believing in us all when we didn’t think we could do it.

So Ash, my little brother, my best friend. Until we meet again.

Your last words to me

And my last words to you…

See yah later, Cunt 

BLOGMAS Day 12: My favourite books and why!

I have done it! That's right.. my top 5 books EVER! In no particular order at all...

The Martian by Andy Weir

FanGirl by Rainbow Rowell 

The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion 

Where Rainbows End by Cecelia Ahern

Everything, Everything by Nicola Yoon 

But why these books in particular? Each of these books mean something different to me. I read them all at different times in my life. I have reread Where Rainbows End aka Love, Rosie dozens of times. I adore it, simply adore it. It was one of the first 'bigger books' I have ever read. It's set out in such a way that I had not read before. It is constructed via emails, letters and texts. It's great. We jump from conversation to conversation and follows two best friends of the same age but at very different stages in their lives. Based in Ireland, one best friend moves away to America and the other remains in Ireland. It's a lovely book and a very easy read, and for me the ending is perfect. It has been made into a film, called Love, Rosie, and honestly I love the film as much as the book. I was hesitant at first with the film, and I didn't actually watch it until about 6 months after it was out, however I can hand on heart say I loved it. I have watched it over and over again. Although some parts are different, I feel like it works for the film. Highly recommend both film and book... let's face it I am going to highly recommend all of these books haha. 

Time to move onto my most recent read which is The Martian by Andy Weir,  I watched the film before I read the book which sometimes is a mistake, but I think for me it helped, because some of th stuff is technical in this book! But OMG this book is amazing, and really well written, And as for the film they are basically the same. I loved every word of this book, and it hit me right in the feels. I felt like I was with him, stranded. Such a good book. I haven't read anything like this before and I am really glad I did.

Everything, Everything was a really, really quick read for me, and it was great. It follows a girl who is allergic to everything and hasn't been outside her house ever. She has a full time carer for when her mum is at work. She is talented and is home schooled. Everything is fine and she doesn't miss the outside world until a new family moves in next door and she befriends the son. She begins questioning everything her mum has told her... is she really allergic to everything? Read the book to find out. I love quick easy YA novels like this. I love these types of books for the summer. Got to love a romance novel.

Thank gawd for Rainbow Rowell for bringing me this book FanGirl,  I adore this book, it follows a set of twins who could not be any different on their journey to college. Cath an introvert who loses herself to fanfiction and her sister Wren who wants to experience college and all it has to offer. Cath wants everything to stay the same between her ans her sister but Wren wants some distance. It follows the journey of these two girls, does Cath get out her comfort zone and does Wren push things to far? Cath writes fanfiction of her favourite film/book series which is very poplar, but how will it all end? This book has everything for me, adventure and romance, a really cute read that I want more of.

And finally The Rosie Project, this book follows a young man who is ready to find a wife, Don is a scientist through and through and sits somewhere on the Asperger scale and takes everything literally. His brain is very much wired in a way that everything can become an experiment including his love life. Don creates a questionnaire, and when on dates uses the questionnaire to determine if the women in question is a suitable candidate. In comes Rosie, she ticks non of the boxes but yet Don is drawn towards her. She is the opposite of what Don wants, and seeks to change Rosie in every way. But does he succeed or does Rosie change him? There is a sequel to The Rosie Project called the Rosie Effect, and I didn't feel that, that book lived up to the first one, it painted both Don and Rosie in very bad ways, and took me quite some time to finish.

Well those are just some of my favourite books, I could add loads more to the list, but for now I am happy with those. If you have any suggestions for me, please comment them below as I love reading.

Love yah
IsThataRedHerring 

BLOGMAS Day 11: My favourite Christmas Films.

It wouldn't be Blogmas without a list of my favourite Christmas films. So here goes: 

Love Actually 

Myself and my mum every year without fail, sit down in our pjs, with a hot chocolate and some snacks and watch Love Actually. For me this film has everything, it brings together so many cute and adorable stories that everyone can relate to at some point. And let's face it, the acting is great, it has a crappy Christmas song and plenty of fun. A must see, 

A muppets Christmas Carol 

This film is rather sentimental to me, I remember watching it with my Gran, my brother and my cousins many, many Christmas’s ago. It’s a great family favourite that tells the tell of a Christmas Carol but with the muppets. What more do you want?  

Grinch 

Jim Carrey as the Grinch is everything! I can relate to the Grinch on so many levels. If you haven’t seen it where the hell have you been? The scene when he is trying to decide what to wear is spot on! ‘Right that’s it I’m not going’… or when he is looking through the phone book ‘hate, hate, double hate, totally loathe’ Actually tears! And his hatred for see people. But in the end he realised the true meaning of Christmas… Bye, bye Santa. 

Others include Elf, National Lapoons Christmas Vacation and of course Deck the Halls. I love a good Christmas film, who doesn't. Right I'm off to watch the Grinch. 

Merry Christmas

Love yah 

IsThataRedHerring 

BLOGMAS Day 10: Lazy Sunday.

IT'S SUNDAY!!! And I have the day off, yey. I did a night shift last night, got home around 9am and slept until 1230 ish. Rudely woken by my brother... we went to get some bits from the shop, more Christmas shopping and instead we brought food, alcohol, chocolate and new films... only went and got Finding Dory. Promptly watched it straight away. LOVED EVERY SECOND. I'm now curled up n the sofa, in a blanket preparing some new blog posts. One to go up tonight as I once again missed last night :(. It is hard to post a blog post on time when you are at work. But I am hoping to be more prepared in this week and schedule posts going up.

Fire is lit, Christmas tree on, I have a cider and I'm making a curry. A lovely Sunday evening awaits.

Love yah
IsThataRedHerring.

BLOGMAS Day 8: I was so tired.

As you may have noticed I did not post yesterday :( and my only excuse is that I was very over tired. I couldn't even watch TV! I was that tired. I had finished a night shift, got in at 915 ish, showered and wound down like I would normally. Thinking that I had all day to sleep. Only for a reminder on my phone to go off... I had a driving lesson at 3 pm. Not my smartest move really but I couldn't cancel as I hadn't had one in a while and I need to get back into driving.. anyway it's now 1030 and I just get into bed. I set an alarm for 2 pm as I need a good hour to fully wake up and not be dangerous for driving. I had about 3 hours sleep. Now bare in mind I got up at 1 pm the previous day, done a 13 hour night shift and now running on 3 hours sleep. I did pretty well (didn't crash or stall on my driving lesson and bossed a reverse bay park, thank you very much). Anyway that's my excuse out of the way. And honestly I have no idea what to do with this post. So, its going to be picture of my dogs doing  being stupid.

Enjoy and sorry for a crap blog... My next one being posted also tonight will be better. I promise.


Love yah
IsThataRedHerring

BLOGMAS Day 7: working as a carer.

I have been working in the care industry for nearly 2 years now, wither with the elderly or with children and young adults with learning difficulties. Now it is safe to say my job is not an easy one. And on more than one occasion I have had people say oh but you're just a carer, you wipe bums for a living HAHA yeah of course that's all I do... WRONG. I work my ass off. I am currently working 13 hour night shifts in a care home with the elderly who have dementia and a residential home. People assume that because I work nights I have an easy job. A few of my residents do not sleep and are often in an out of bed and I do a lot of personal care, plus the admin jobs and jobs around the home. Its not an easy shift at all.

I'm writing this just before I go to work, I cycle to and from work getting a bit of exercise in and try to eat healthily. On an average night shift I do over 12,000 steps so a lot of walking and on a day shift its more.

So, what is it like to be a carer? I'm going to talk from the perspective of an carer working with the elderly as that is my current position. I am currently an acting senior carer at night, which means to some extent I am in charge. Just means that I help the nurses out a bit more and make sure the level of care is the highest standard. I still assist with pretty much all care but I also help with care plans, admin work and making sure all the jobs are complete. A lot of my work involves making sure my residents are safe, that they are eating and drinking enough and are happy. Personal care such as assisting with showering, bathing, changing pads that kind of thing is an hourly occurrence. I think a lot of people assume that on a night shift once everyone is in bed you just sit around and do nothing but that is not true at all. We are always busy!

20:00 - handover from day shift (15 mins)
20:15-01:00- assisting residents to bed and personal care for those already in bed
01:00-03:00-  kitchen jobs, emptying bins, laundry, cleaning and tidying. As well as hourly checks on all residents and personal care if and when needed.
03-00-07-00- getting ready for the morning, emptying the dish washer for the third time, more admin jobs and of course personal care.
07:00-08:00- checking paperwork and one final check on the residents, some residents like to be up early from 05:30-07:30 so we do showering and bathing and getting breakfast ready for those. and of course our night handover to the day staff takes place at 08:00-08:20.

That is a really basic and quick guide to my job, I have properly left out so much more I could add. But I will be doing a day shift as well soon, more tends to happen as activities take place during the day. It is a stressful job and I've wanted to quit on numerous occasions but I am sticking with it. Getting used to everything and how best to work. It is hard work and I am not JUST a carer I am much more.

I hope you enjoyed this.

Love yah
IsThataRedHering

BLOGMAS Day 5: My go to films!

.

I own a lot of DVDs, like way over 500! I can't help it, yeah I have Netflix and Amazon Prime but I am still a lover of DVDs always will be. I have a few films that I absolutely love and can watch over and over again without getting bored. It's safe to say I like a mixture of films. I can't resist a good romance film but I also love action and of course superhero movies. I love a film that makes you feel good.

Feel good movies/ Romance 

The Fundamentals of caring 

New Moon 

The Devil wears Prada 

Angus Thongs and perfect Snogging 

Who doesn’t love a good RomCom or feel good movie. Of course I love the classics Bridget Jones and Love Actually. But the ones I watch over and over again are above. The newest one to my list is The Fundamentals of Caring, it is a fantastic film, hilarious and completely heart-warming. The film follows a 18 year old boy called Trevor who is in a wheelchair and requires round the clock care, his new carer Ben (Paul Rudd) who takes him on a road trip to see road side attractions along the way, their final destination the BIG pit. Along the way they pick up two other passengers. We learn the truth behind Ben, Trevor and their new passengers. A lovely film.

Of course the others include The Devil wears Prada this film needs no explanation really, I mean it’s a classic. What more do you want, its sassy all over and down to earth. With a strong message of never give up on your dreams, keep pushing and sometimes take a leap of faith. I had to add a Twilight movie onto the list and for me New Moon is the best, I loved it so much, it was also my favourite book. I don’t even class it as my guilty pleasure because I am not ashamed. And finally classic girly feel good film Angus, Thongs and perfect Snogging I don’t care if this film is for 14 year olds this film never gets old. Slaggy Lindsay and her thong from Bulgaria. The Ace Gang and of course the snogging scale. What more do you want, okay fine let’s throw in a beautiful set of twins, Dave the laugh, some dodgy hair and a cat that swims. That’s right it has everything. A coming of age film that never gets old. And yes I still quote this film.

Action 

Lock, stock and two smoking barrels 

Rock N Rolla 

Both directed by one of my favourite directors Guy Ritchie, follows essentially a bunch of gangsters and crooks in London, who pull off some great cons. I adore these films. I know a scary amount of the words and love how there are many twists and turns throughout the films. Another to note is Snatch another Guy Ritchie must see. Bloody and dangerous.

Marvel 

X-men 

Guardians of the Galaxy: Vol 1

X-men is my favourite Marvel ‘series’ as it were, the Phoenix is y ideal. Damn I wish I was as cool as her… anyway off topic. For me X-men has everything a good superhero series needs. Also, mutation is something that happens in everyday life therefore we could all be mutants… which would be amazing. And finally Guardians of the Galaxy: Vol 1, if you haven't seen or heard of this film where have you been? This follows Starlord, a human who got picked up by aliens who wanted to eat him or so they say. He becomes a mixed up in some dangerous business and is on a quest for one of the infinity stones with a bunch of unlikely sidekicks. Fantastic film, great casting and the soundtrack out of this world. 

Love yah 

IsThataRedHerring

pictures from Google Images 

BLOGMAS 3: TV shows you have to watch.

I watch a crazy amount of TV and when I find a new show I like I tend to watch it all in one go. I just have to watch it all. And it's a good way to relax for me. I like shows that have several series, but something easy to watch. I have selected a few of my favourites and most watched but of course the list is much longer. So here goes: 

Marvel

Jessica Jones

Luke Cage

Of course Marvel shows were going to be on here, I love Marvel and the shows are great. It took me while to get into Jessica Jones but the second time of watching it I couldn't believe I didn't like it to begin with. And plus it’s nice to have a female super hero who doesn't prance around in her underwear all the time. Also David Tennant as a bad guy, top notch acting and man was he a bastard. Luke Cage was my personal favourite I adored it, great story and great acting, must watch show, and the cross overs are brilliantly written. Daredevil is the last, I loved the first series but have yet to finish the second. I am making my way through it and look forward to seeing what happens. Let's face it the Punisher us epic. 

DC

Lucifer

iZombie

Now many of you know I am not a great fan of DC, I’ve just always been a Marvel fan. But I have fallen in love with two DC shows based around comics. I didn’t even know they were DC until I did some research into them. The first is iZombie, which is a great show, when a hard working doctor (Liv Moore) is persuaded to go to a boat party with her fellow doctors. They all take some drugs which turn them into zombies, however she doesn’t take the drug just gets scratched and is turned into a zombie ... anyway we follow her development as a zombie, she stops being a doctor and works in the morgue instead. Literal brain on tap. but there it a little twist, when she eats the brain she is able to see the last moments of the person’s life and she develops characteristics of that person until the brain has left her system. It’s an hilarious show and a new concept of zombie. She teams up with a detective who thinks she has psychic abilities. What more do you want from a show?

The second is Lucifer is a spin off show from the comic The Sandman, it follows Lucifer Morningstar aka the devil, the devil has become bored of hell and wants a bit of fun, and joins the human race. Lucifer is played by the glorious Tom Ellis (best known for Gary from Miranda), it follows Lucifer and his struggled to understand the human race, throw in a bit of romance a new found job (as a civilian police detective) and endless twists and turns and you have one hell of a show. Quite possible my favourite show this year.

Comedy

Parks and Recreation

How have I not watched Parks and recreation before? This show is everything I need right now. It is hilarious. Every episode is fantastic, I honestly cannot fault this show. It follows Lesley Knope and her colleagues who work for the government of Pawnee, in the parks and recreation department. Knope is a great character over ambitious and damn right fantastic. And her colleagues, Ron Swanson who thinks veganism is a myth and doesn’t believe in the government, Andy who lived in a pit, a literal whole in the ground for year with no job now works for Pawnee government, April who is the biggest pessimist ever but really loves Lesley, her job and of course Andy, not forgetting Tom, Donna and Jerry/Gary/Larry or whatever his name is. PLEASE WATCH THIS SHOW!

Other

Grey's Anatomy

Of course I had to add in the heart breaking, tear jerking Grey’s Anatomy because that show has ripped my heart out over and over again, but I keep coming back for more. Hot doctors, hot patients, romance, medical drama, musical scenes, plane crash, ferry crash, even a helicopter crash we have seen it all. Oh just a warning do not get attached to characters because Shonda Rimes will destroy them I repeat do not get attached to characters.

Well that was a long post sorry. I do have a part 2 coming up later on this month because yah know I watch a lot of TV.

Love yah

IsthataRedHerring

Positive Post

There is a lot of negativity around lately, and I was going to jump on the band wagon. I even started writing 4 posts about how crap things are at the moment, But no! It's nearly December, time for happiness and good times. A few things that make me happy and remain positive. 

Tea and a good book. 

You may or may not be aware that I love to read. Like LOVE to read. My bedroom is dedicated to my books and love of reading. Lately I have loved nothing more than sitting in front of the open fire, with a book in one hand a cup of tea in the other. Of course with a fluffy blanket and pjs. This month I have been reading All the Bright Places by Jennifer Niven, recommended to me by my very best friend Jenny (so thanks girl). I am thoroughly enjoying the book and nearly at the end. 

Being happy. 

It is properly an obvious one, in order to be positive it to stay happy. Lately, there have been a few good/bad reasons why I might not be happy. And I have literally decided to take that thrown, and turn it upside down. Push that bad energy out of my life and enjoy the little things. I simply do not have time to spend wasting it on negativity. It doesn't make me feel good therefore it does not need to be part of my life. So thank you and good by negativity. 

Surround yourself with good people.

I have this month pushed people out of my life who do nothing but bring me down. Those people who always have an opinion on what I should or shouldn't be doing. I do not need the constant nagging and judging. This is my life and I will live it the way I feel fit. If that makes me a bad person, then good, let that be! 

Being myself, ALWAYS!

I will never ever change myself for anyone. What you see is what you get. And that should be enough. Please never change for anyone. I love ME! And that will not change. The most important thing is to be yourself, and if you are truly yourself, I already love you. 

I hope this has helped spread a little positivity. 

Love yah 

IsThataRedHerring 

Boys and Girls can be friends.

Recently I've been back on the whole dating seen, why not I'm 22, it's fun to date and have a little fun.

And I recently went for a drink with a lovely guy, this was not a date! I repeat was NOT a date, we were simply meeting up for a casual drink as we were both free. It was lovely, had a couple of pints, walked back home lovely. Anyway, I got home, sat down, checked my phone and he'd text me... 'so would you like to be my girlfriend?'. Now don't get me wrong I was flattered, but I made it clear from the beginning that I did not like this person in this way. And then all hell broke lose. The texts read something like this:

'you bitch'

'why would you lead me on like that?'

you utter bitch, why would you go on a date with me' 

Okay, well those are just some of them. I replied nicely, and he continued with the abuse, and a lot of swearing. Bit uncalled for. It was hard to explain over text, and he wouldn't listen. but the best one he wrote:

'WHY DID YOU FRIEND-ZONE ME'

And that was it! I couldn't believe it! So, sooo angry! There is no such thing as friend-zoning, I am sorry that I do not find you attractive, we are great friends why does it have to be more than that? It really annoyed me. I simply asked if he rather I pretended to fancied him, lead him on and then a few months down the line dumb him? He didn't like that! But I feel that it was the right answer. I feel that I did the right thing. I did not lead anyone on, from the start I made it clear that we were friends and nothing more, and okay he liked me differently but that does not mean I have to feel the same. I am the one with my own feelings why should I change them to suit you? Please stop using the term 'friend-zone' as an excuse! You cannot control how others feel, its not fair or right. 

Sadly, we are no longer friends or talking which really sucks, because we talked a lot, had a lot in common. It's a shame something like this has come between our friendship. But I hope we will sort this out. 

You cannot force your feelings onto someone else, that's not how it works! 

Love yah 

Isthataredherring 

August 19th 2016

Currently loving...
Band: Scouting for Girls
Film: We bought a Zoo
Book: The Cursed Child by J.K. Rowling
Product: Dove, Summer Revived
Game: Pokemon (obvs)
Drink: Almond Dark Chocolate milk (Alpro)
Food: Couscous

This month I have been revisiting old loves of mine, and the biggest one is the band Scouting for Girls. I honestly forgot how much I loved them, and quickly found myself singing, if not a little out of tune (okay a lot out of tune) to the songs. It took me right back to when I was in year 10, (some 7 if not 8 years ago), Elvis isn't dead, the heartbeat song and of course She's so lovely. And yes I ended up watching Angus, Things and Perfect Snogging. I also found out that they are touring!!! So, I might have to get me some tickets.

Little update. 
As you guys know I am on a health kick. Out with the old and in with the new and all that jazz. This week I have thoroughly enjoyed trying new healthy foods and found my love for couscous, this stuff is a life saver, some boiling water is all you need and boom healthy meal, I add chicken and loads of veg to mine. I can never finish it all which is great, because when I undoubtedly get a little hungry later on I can finish off my lunch. In my first week I lost a total of 6lb which I was over the moon about, and the second week a total of 9lb. So, as you can imagine I am a very happy girlie right now.

I also purchased a new bike and I love it. It is so pretty and beautiful. (see below) I was lucky my local Halfords have a deal at the moment on bikes and accessories 20% off all bicycles and 3 for 2 on accessories. I couldn't resist, it is beautiful :).  I am of course going to get matching basket and saddle bag, I'd be silly not to.

Also, this month I got a new tattoo, by the wonderfully talented Sophie of Skin Wizard in Thatcham. I am beyond happy with the tattoo, it means a lot to me. The photo does not do this beauty justice. 

That has been my month so far, I hope you liked my little update. Until next time..

Love yah

IsThataRedHerring 

Writers block sucks. So have a list of my favourite films.

I'm just not sure what to write. I wanted to do a heartfelt blog post but I'm honestly not sure I want to, I feel like it would be whiny and boring. So I am going to reveal my top 10 ish films that I love in no particular order.

Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels 
Snatch 
RocknRolla 
These three films are my staple films to watch, classic gangsta movies by Guy Richie, absolutly perfect and some rather lovely men as well. Ruthless violence, all conected and amazing acting what more could you want from a film? Layer cake also fits in with these films but I did not enjoy it, for me the film was compeltly ruined by how it ended.

From Dusk Till Dawn 
Has always been one of my favourite films, its an early Quentin Tarantino film, in which he stars as Richie the little brother of Seth (George Clooney) the film follows the two brothers, who are criminals and take a family hostage, they take shelter in an old bar for the night unknown to them its a popular vampire hang out. Safe to say all hell breaks lose. Its full of blood, guts, gore and hilarious moments.

Angus, Thongs and Perfect Snogging
Love, Rosie
Whip It
Amazing girly films, perfect for when too much drama is going on in my life, I put on my favourite pjs, get my duvet and some ice cream and I'm set. I would normally watch all of these films if I'm feeling particularly stressed out... On a side note, my all time favourite book is Where Rainbows End by Cecilia Ahern, Love, Rosie is based on this book. I honestly thought I'd hate the film because I knew it wouldn't be like the book (which is set out in letter, email and text form) I knew this would be hard to recreate in the film, but the film was lovely. The director and writer added their own twist to a wonderful book and I can honestly say it's one of my favourite adaptations of all time.

Love, Rosie trailer

Back to the Future 
Pretty in Pink
Say Anything
The Rocky Horror Picture Show
Breakfast Club 
My favourite 80's films, a perfect mixture of Sci-fi, romcom and damn right crazy, pretty much sums up my love of anything 80's. All a must watch.

Rocky Horror Picture Show trailer

X-men: The Last Stand
Guardians of the Galaxy
Zombieland 
Of course at least one Marvel film made the list. To be honest all of the X-men should be on this list but I have restricted myself to just the one. I adore the last stand because the Phonix aka Jean Grey is boss in it, and she happens to be my all time favoutite superhero (don't tell Wolverine because I love him too). Let's not forget the master pieces that are Guardians of the Galaxy (dude a walking kinder talking and dancing tree) and of course Zombieland, this film for me know matter how I am feeling can change my mood in an instance, what more coudl you honestly want from a film? Bill Murray YES Emma Stone YES Woody Harleson YES and of course Jesse Eisenburg, a glorious film.

Zombieland Trailer 

UP
I had to have one Disney Pixar film on here, and of course it had to be UP, I adore this film, it makes me go through all the emotions I can muster. And yes I always without a doubt cry at the beginning, middle and end of this film, its a rollercoaster of emotions okay.

UP trailer

Perks of Being a Wallflower 
This is one of my all time favourite films and books. Must read and must see.

Others that deserve a mention are
Lucky number Sleven 
Book of ELI
Jack 
Big 
Forrest Gump 
Dirty Dancing 
Footloose 
Pretty Women 

Okay I went way over my top 10 but hey I've seen a lot of amazing films. There are too many good films to write in one list without making it too long. But there were a few of them and my reasons behind it. I hope you like this blog, I'm hoping writers block will solve itself soon because I have a book to finish.

Love Yah
IsThataRedHerring

My latest book purchases and why...

My latest book purchases are:

I have recently brought a lot of books, mainly because I work nights at work and they can go a little slow when there is no work to do I am able to read. I've been flying through books which is amazing. Here is a list of books so far, and a little bit about the ones I am looking forward to the most.

• The Time keeper by Mitch Albom 
• The First Phone Call From Heaven by Mitch Albom 
• The Quiet Game by Greg Iles (series, including The Bone Tree) 
• Look Who's Back by Timur Vermes 
• The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins 
• The Opposite of Loneliness by Marina Keegan 
• Department 19 by Will Hill
• You Don't Have To Say You Love Me by Sarra Manning
• Just A Girl Standing In Front Of A Boy by Lucy-Anne Holmes 
• Attachments by Rainbow Rowell
• Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell 
• Me Before You by Jojo Moyes 

The Quiet Game by Greg Iles...
this is also a book by Iles, I have been recommended this book by several people and thought I'd give it a go, it is the first book of a series and I haven't read a series in a while so I am going to try this one and see how it goes.

Look Who's Back by Timur Vermes 
This book is based on Hitler coming back from the dead, he becomes a YouTube star and follows Hitler as a YouTubing and staring in his own TV show, I have mixed views of this book, but I am looking forward to reading it.

The Opposite of Loneliness by Marina Keegan 
From the reviews this book is heartwarming and very emotional. The book is a collection of essays written by Marina, sadly Marina died in a car accident 3 days after graduating from university. She had a very bright future ahead of her, which sadly was taken from her in a freak accident. I am looking forward to reading it but feel that I am going to need a lot of tissues at the ready.

The Girl of the Train by Paula Hawkins
This book was eagerly recommended to me by the staff of Waterstones, I was lucky enough to be given a voucher from my wonderful friend Vikki for my birthday so thought I'd give it ago. I am about to start the book and from what I've read (reviews) I will not be putting it down.

Love yah
IsThataRedHerring

P.S
You can also follow/add me on GoodReads: Gemma Herring

Avengers: Age of Ultron review

I LOVE ANYTHING MARVEL... I thought I'd put that out there.

This film from the beginning was spot on! The funny one liners from Thor, Captain America and of course Iron Man were perfect. I loved the running joke throughout the film, that Steve aka Captain America hates bad language and tells Iron Man (Stark) for swearing. Also, after a small party each of the Avengers try and pick up Thor's hammer, none of them can although Captain American jolts it a little (Thor's face is priceless).

As expected this film has a lot of exciting scenes and things that cannot be missed, and few little twists and turns that I was not expecting! This film sees the arrival of Scarlet Witch and Quicksilver... but I am torn as to which Quicksilver I prefer, and although Aaron Johnson plays him perfectly, including funny little one liners... I am still in love with Quicksilver from X-Men, Days of Future Past, Evan Peters plays him splendidly, he is funny, charismatic and lets not forget perfect on the eyes. 

I thoroughly enjoyed this film, despite Loki (Tom Hiddleston) not being present in the cast. I am also excited for Thor 3 to arrive on screens soon, along with Captain America: Civil War, another Avengers, more X-Men films and other Marvel spin-off films. I loved seeing all the original characters back and the introduction to two more Avengers (Quicksilver and Scarlet-witch). I cannot wait for what the next lot of films have to offer. I am never disappointed with a Marvel film. This is up there among my top 10 favourite Marvel films, but it cannot beat Guardians of the Galaxy, Days of Future Past or Thor (there is something about Loki okay). 

Without spoiling anything I do hope the ending is wrong and that a certain Avenger is not dead! They best not be!

If you haven't seen the film GO WATCH IT PLEASE! below is the trailer. 

Love yah 

IsThataRedHerring

I have a cunning plan!

Recently I have purchased yet another pile of books. I have a ridiculous amount of books but that will not stop me reading them. But the trouble it, I am finding it really hard to decide which book to read next. I have so many fantastic books, that picking one to read seems impossible. So I have decided to let my decision be made by fate. Much like Sheldon Cooper from Big Bang Theory did for an episode... although mine will not be dice I roll rather putting my hand into a jar and seeing what book title I pull out.

picture courtesy of Google Images 

I have started to write the tittles of the books on pieces of paper, and putting them into a jar. Today I finished the Five People You Meet in Heaven by Mitch Albom, which I shall review in the next few days, I was pleasantly surprised by this book and how lovely it was. So I am currently book free and looking for something new to read and I shall leave that to the jar to decide.

I am now calling my jar, the Jar of Destiny... so from my magical mystery jar, I chose The Quiet Game by Greg Iles which I was very happy about, because it is one of the new books I have recently purchased and is a genre of book I rarely read. It's a crime novel, I've never read any crime before so this is going to be a big change for me. It is also a rather large book, so may take me a little longer than usual to read, so far I am 50 or so pages in and I am loving it. It is beautifully written, and as it is a series I am already looking forward to reading the rest.

As I was writing this blog I couldn't help but buy 3 more books... I try to buy the majority of my books from book shops, unfortunately my trusted Waterstones is currently shut as they are refurbishing, so I brought these 3 new books online. I try to avoid this because slowly the beloved book shops are closing down because they cannot keep up with amazon. So, whenever I can I try to buy direct from the bookshop, and its always good to talk to the staff who are always enthusiastic about reading, and always recommend books.

I am pretty sure my book buying habit is a problem, but hey my parents always knew what to get me for my birthday and Christmas... BOOKS! or book vouchers I'm not fussy.

Love yah
IsThataRedHerring

Inspire Black Plain Skort - quick review

I purchased these from New Look's Inspire range. I love to wear shorts but always get worried how they sit and if they are going to ride up or not. I brought these online for £14.99 and I adore them. I got them in a size 20, but could have easily got an 18. The are the right side of baggy. Lovely light fabric that doesn't cling to your skin. They float which is lovely.... and they have pockets! I do love a good surprise pocket :D

*

Here I am... attempting to model the lovely little skorts. I always hated showing my legs, but I felt a lot more confident in these. I've tucked in a flowerly vest into the skorts , and paired it with a light blue denim jacket also from New Look (size 18). The shoes are Primark's finest, size 8, £6. I really like this little outfit, and perfect for the summer. I'd use a satchel to pull the piece together and of course a nice pair of sunglasses.

I am really enjoying these kind of post and I hope you guys are to. I have a few more items of clothes I want to review. So will post those soon. 

Love yah 

IsThataRedHerring

* picture from New Look website, 2015

A little bit of sun makes the world of difference.

For the past couple of days the weather here in the UK has been lovely, Reaching low 20C which is crazy. The tiniest bit of sun and we are all in shorts and vests, myself included. We do not know how long this sun will last so lets make the most of it.

Okay, it sucks that I am stuck in doors most of the day doing uni work, but I have the nice breeze coming through the door, some good music playing and a smile on my face. The past couple of weeks have been really great for me; and this weather is really helping. It's amazing how a little thing can make a big different.

I spent the day yesterday relaxing in the sun with one of my best friends, we did a bit of shopping followed by a spot of lunch in the sun by the canal. It was perfect. Those are the days I want more of. It allows me to forget about the crappy times, days like that make me remember what I do have in my life. Great friends and family with a a bright future.

So thank you British weather, the sun is what we all needed.

Love yah

IsThataRedHerring

March already! Nearly April!

I know this post is a little late, as it is now March 15th! ALREADY! How is this even possible. It seems like only the other week I was starting Uni and now I have less than 3 months left. Three years of my life has gone so quickly.

I've had such an amazing time so far, third year has made me step my game up an extra notch, not going out as much any more, literally once a month if that. Despite having less lectures, I've found myself working a million times more. The library is becoming a second home, I  dream about my dissertation and my other assignments. But its no longer just the stress of uni work, but what I will be doing after I finish uni. So I now find myself applying for job after job. I have resorted to making a life plan okay well up until July

THE PLAN
March

• Write between 500-1000 words a day, in order to keep up to date and not get bored.
• Along with those words, I will be reading an finding a minimum of three articles each day.

I get to go home for a week in March/April as well so that's great. I am going to take the time to relax a little, but still continue with the writing and finding those articles or books. I am also going to see McBusted on the 29th of March so I am really excited! Also to see my family and friends :D 

April

• I have scheduled a small break down for about mid April, when I realise I have less than a month to complete all my work, and then that is the end of my University career
• But on another note the new Avengers movie comes out :D

May

• Now this is a MASSIVE month for me! And a lot of fellow third year students. First is DEADLINE day, the 5th of May, that is only 51 days away! I cannot believe it
• May 5th-- Time to get drunk with all the Educational Studies lot, we certainly deserve it!
• I am also hoping that I will be going to Dublin for a few days, it is a place I'v always wanted to go and explore. 
• Also, Pitch Perfect 2 comes out :D I adored the first one so I am very excited for the second installment 
• But my favourite event will be by far the SummerBall! Last year was amazing but this year I am sure will be even better. Friends, great music, great company and booze!

June 

• Shortly after SummerBall, I will be going to Poland for a 5 day holiday with a few friends, its a cheap and great holiday and something more to look forward to, and a great way to end m final year.
• Then it means moving out of my house in Plymouth and moving all my stuff back home! How all of my stuff will fit into one car  just don't know. 

July

This leaves the last month of my plan so far, I turn 21 on the 13th, I hope to party and see all my friends. I also hope by this point I have found a relatively good job and learning to drive. Small things ay!?

This was just a rambling post, but I felt the need to share my little plan with the world. I hope you enjoyed and sorry its been so long. 

Love yah 

IsThataRedHerring

1 hour of reading everyday.

You may remember that at the start of this year I decided to read 21 books because I turn 21 this year. And well it isn't going great, I've only finished one book so far which was Paper Towns by John Green. I feel like I do not prioritise reading enough. So I have decided to start reading for at least an hour a day. It is most likely to be before I go to bed, but I feel like if I can just fit in an hour a day it will make it a lot easier and more enjoyable to read. I do not want it too seem like a task because its not, I just do not prioritise reading as much as I should. Therefore instead of watching videos on Youtube before I sleep or watching one more episode on Netflix I am going to read. Get all cosy in bed with my book and maybe a cup of tea and read, and enjoy it.


The book I read first was Paper Towns, I think this was a wrong choice for me to read because I disliked this book immensely. (I will be posting a review) I just feel this book had so much potential but failed at a lot of hurdles, and so much waffling about nothing. So, this I guess put me off a little to continue my 21 book challenge, but I have just started my new book and it is by a different author and is good so far, I am only 20 pages in therefore I cannot really comment about it, but the style of writing and layout is a lot different than what I normally read so I am excited to continue. The book is called The Shock of the Fall by Nathan Filer. Hopefully I will finish the book by Sunday the 16th, I also have a longish trip back home so I can read for the 3/4 hour journey I hope.

This was a short post so I can motivate myself to read more, and I hope you guys are somewhat motivated to pick up a book and read more, something you've been meaning to read or you've been recommended to read but never did, this is your opportunity to do so! Just 1 hour each day that's all it takes and you will fly through books.

Love yah

IsThataRedHerring