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 little haul.

Payday came and went... therefore I have treated myself to a few little bits and bobs. Enjoy my loves.

I work in a care home, and because the air is very dry and hot most of the time, my skin is getting the brunt of it. It's dry and I am having more break outs than usual. I popped into Superdrug and picked up the Garnier night cream, and the lady working there could not rave about this stuff enough, I picked up both the day and night cream in the Garnier Skin Active Moisture Bomb range, it is supposed to penetrate 5 layers of skin so we shall see. They were on offer, a third off at around £5.30 ish each. So affordable. Also in the same range the tissue masks, I love these things and always buy loads in when they are on offer, at 99p you cannot go wrong,

I popped into Body Shop, I do not tend to buy a lot from Body Shop but this Peach body mist is out of this world, it smells so nice and ideal for Spring time, I have also sprayed this on my pillows because it is so nice. It was on offer for £4, so cheap and a lovely scent. I went into Boots, of course, I have wanted to try the Rimmel Fix and Go 2 in 1 primer and setting spray for a will, I often find my make up wears off a lot around the nose area the most, maybe because I wear glasses and I am forever pushing them up but I thought I'd give this ago. I will let you know how I get on, that was £6.99. I had to repurchase this little angel again, the ARGAN Secret Miracle 10 spray is everything! My hair was in such a bad place before I started using this. I know use it everyday when styling my hair, not only does it do amazing things to my hair it smells amazing too. My hair has never been in a better condition. This is my third bottle in about 8 months, I got my latest bottle from Amazon for £15.91 and it is so worth it. £16 every three months really isn't that bad.

I decided to dye my hair (surprise!!) a darker grey this time round, my hair was previously blue so where the grey is now fading into a lighter grey the blue undertones are making it green and dirty blonde in some places. I love the Colour- Freedom Metallic Glory range, I chose the darkest grey they have which is stone grey. It is not far off black, but where I use head and shoulders itchy scalp every other wash the dye does fade, so I know that it will not be this dark for to long. A usual in Superdrug they were on offer at £7.99 each, buy 1 get 1 half price so of course I brought two. I dyed my hair today using it, and I love it. They do not damage my hair at all, the shea butter and aragn oil really help. The wash in wash out versions of these dyes also by colour freedom are great as well and long lasting.

Finally onto film and books, I had to buy the new Harry Potter and Fantastic Beast and where to find them DVD, I have yet to watch it but aim to watch it with the family tonight. A review will be coming. I also purchased the 4th and 5th series of Grimm as I have nearly finished the first 3 series on Netflix. At only £16 for both series I could not resist. Thanks Amazon Prime haha. A shopping trip with my best friend would not be complete without a stop in Waterstones, we each brought a book and together did the buy 1 get 1 half price deal. We both went for Young Adult books, I chose The Memory Book by Lara Avery, because it reminds me of dementia which is strange I know, but it follows a girl with an illness who begins to forget everything, but she wants to remember... hence the memory book. I hope to start this tonight.

I did buy some new NYX lispticks but I am going to do an individual blogpost about them. I hope you enjoyed this.

Love yah
IsThataRedHerring

Slimming World: My first month.

HAPPY NEW YEAR.

That's right I'm back and I actually have things to share with you all. The main one and for me the most important thing is that I took the step to lose weight, but properly this time. And as the title suggests I joined Slimming World. I was going to write a week by week diary of how I'm finding it but I wanted to give it a month to give it a proper go. And honestly I am loving it. I am so proud of myself for sticking with it. I joined 21/02/2017 weighing 20st 9 lb and its been a month so here is my progress. 

Starting weight: 20st 9lb
Dress size: 22
Target dress size: 14
5% target: 14lb

I did well in my first week considering I went out and got really very drunk at my cousins wedding. I ate well but wow those empty calories haha. The second week even better, I lost more and really stuck to the plan, I even out out for a meal with the girls and with making good choices I managed to lose more weight. Now the third week was a tricky one for me, I broke up with my boyfriend and well food was there for me. But I still lost, even if it was only half a pound. A loss is still a loss. I was determined this week to get my half stone reward, and I managed it. I am so proud of myself that in four weeks I have lost 8lb in total, Meaning I am now 20st 1.5lb. I aim to lose at least 3lb next week so I will be in my next stone bracket.

It has taken a lot of guts for me to put up my actual weight and size. For so long I've been ashamed of what I look like, but now I honestly feel happy. I am losing weight and on my terms, I've found something that really works for me, and although I do have those cheat meals, I know that I can jump right back on it. In four short weeks I have proven that no matter how big you are, as long as you are determined you can do what you want, Eat amazing food and learn simple ways to change your life for the better.

First week I lost 2.5lbs
Second week I lost 3.5lb
Third week I lost: 0.5lb
Fourth week I lost: 1.5lb
Total: 8lb

I'm learning to love food and not be afraid to experiment. To follow my plan and see and reach the goals I never thought were possible, If I lose 2/3 lb each week for 12 months this time next year I will reach my dress size and my target weight. I will follow this up either each week or monthly depending on how things are. I will start posting food diaries, my tips and tricks kind of thing. And of course my progress. Thank you for reading this and joining me on my journey.

Love yah
IsThataRedHerring

BLOGMAS Day 15 and 16: My favourite Yankee Candles.

I adore candles, and in particular I am a sucker for Yankee. I have so many candles, boxes and boxes but I always go back to the same candles time and time again.

The first Yankee candle I brought was garden sweet pea. I found it in a clearance bin in my local garden center, I was so excited haha. A lovely floral smell, perfect for spring.

I discovered the candy corn candle by accident. I was watching Youtube candles hauls (because I have an exciting life) and saw this, didn't think much of it. Saw it in the Yankee candle shop and fell in love with the smell. I brought a ton of the sample size ones. Ideal for autumn and of course Halloween.

I'm not sure where I found this one, but sadly you can't buy it on the shop online. But the candy cane forest sent is exactly what it says on the tin. OMG! It smells good enough to eat. I've had it lit pretty much constantly since December 1st. 

And finally, my personal favourite and go to sent is soft blanket. It is so fresh and perfect. It also smells like clean washing. I have brought several of the big jars this year so far. You need this candle in your lives. It actually calms me. 

Highly recommend all of these candles. The big jars are worth the money. I always have candles burning. Feels more homely. 

Love yah 

IsThataRedHerring 

BLOGMAS Days 13 and 14: Not very exciting facts about me...

Okay so I have been slacking on the blog posts lately, So the next couple are going to be joint days. Sorry. No excuses just how things have happened. So have some not very exciting things about me! 

MERRY CHRISTMAS

1. My favourite book is Where Rainbows End by Cecilia Ahern also known as Love Rosie.
2. I am slightly addicted to The Sims 4, not playing the game, more building the houses and killing my sims in weird ways.... you all do it! 
3. I love to cook and bake. Love finding new recipes. 
4. Marvel over DC any day. X-men in particular 
5. The Phoenix is my favourite mutant ever! (seriously she can control all matter!!!)
6. I am slightly addicted to candles. I can't resist buying them. 
7. I rewatch comedy shows all the time, and still laugh at them even though I know the jokes. Yeah I'm that person. 
8. My music taste is something to be desired. I love anything cheesey! Give me anything from the 80's and 90's. Who doesn't love ABBA? But I also love Punk and soft rock. I just like to sing badly to songs. 
9. I don't like cheese okay. I'm sorry but its horrid. It makes me sick and smells horrid. Say no to cheese. 
10. I'm single! Like really single HA.
11. I'm still learning to drive. I can drive, just haven't done my driving test. 
12. I know most of the words to the album Curtain Call by Eminem. Also 8 mile is one of my favourite films.
13. I am really untidy. Not dirty just really untidy. 
14. Cider is a glorious drink... I cannot drink vodka it never ends well for me. 

So, yeah sorry haha. 14 random facts about me, as this is day 13 and 14... 

Love yah 

IsThataRedHerring 

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 9: Reapplying for university

I thought it was about time I reapplied for university. I am lucky enough to hold a BA Hons degree in Educational Studies from Plymouth university. And after taking nearly 2 years out of education and thinking long and hard about what I want to do for the rest of my life I have finally chosen what to do. I am currently trying to write my personal statement. I don't think I am the only one who struggles to write about themselves without feeling like a vain twat! I have written half a page so far and I am cringing at every second of it.

Anyway, you may be wondering what I am applying for, well I am putting in my application for a PGCE in primary school teaching ages 5-11. I was umming and arring for so long if to do it. I was debating for a while if to do midwifery or nursing but I decided that teaching was the way forward. I am hoping to get my QTS and within 2/3 years be able to teach abroad. I really want to travel and teach. Or even move to another country to teach. But that is a few years off and I really need to get this application form done first. Haha.

I am hoping to stay close to home this time round. As it will be cheaper in the long run. My top choices are; Reading, Winchester and Southampton. Oxford Brookes was also on the list, but I can only choose 3 and Winchester won its place in the top 3. Its so pretty. All of these universities have great reviews from students. I have done a lot of research into what university to go to, and it has taken me over a year to narrow down my choices. And I am pretty happy with them.

I just need to finish my personal statement, get my references and I can then send off my application. So, fingers crossed I get through to the interview stage and get offered places. I will keep you all up to date.

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 6: Internet dating... revisited.

I did a post way over a year ago about internet dating and how I was finding it. I actually had a long term relationship come out of internet dating, but that relationship ended after a year. A mixture of different reasons and a whole other blog post I’m sure to come. Anyway, since I am single and very much ready to mingle I thought I would revisit the topic of internet dating. I joined back in September time using two apps the first Tinder and the second Plenty of Fish (POF). It began okay trying to find the genuine people from the fuckboys was the hardest part. I have since ditched Tinder because it is simply just full of fuckboys and not worth my time. So let’s focus on POF.

So, POF is a dating site, which allows you to make a profile, write about yourself, give a little bio, your basics and them do a very long and I mean very long chemistry test which I have to admit I still haven’t finished haha. Anyway, I have had a few good dates from the site and met some lovely genuine guys on there. I have had some absolute horrid dates, and some guys assume they are going to get sex on a first meeting/date. Now I am up for casual but come on dude, I barely know you let’s get to know each other. I have come up with some top tips for internet dating based on my experience.

Number 1

DO NOT GIVE A GUY YOUR SNAPCHAT

Like seriously, if you have been talking to a guy and all he ha asked you is hey, how are you and then boom straight in with have you got snapchat, you will receive a dick pic and loads of them. Words of warning that is what happens.

Number 2

DO NOT GIVE YOUR NUMBER OUT

Okay, so with this one be respectful of your mobile number. So, many guys use the excuse of this app is slow have you got whatsapp? Why yes I do, but know you cannot have it because I barely know you. If a guy really wants to get to know you they will wait. I normally do not give my number out until I’ve been messaging a person at least 3 days. I want to know them a little first.

Number 3

Don’t be afraid to play the field

I’ve had a few people ‘judge’ me because I am talking to several guys. Most of these people judging me are in relationships, and have been for a while. Now just because I am talking to several guys it does not mean I am sleeping with them. I am simply getting to know people. Figuring out if we have stuff in common and quite frankly it’s nice to know I have people wanting to talk to me. So please do not judge.

Just a quick revisit and a few little tips.

Love yah

IsThataRedHerring 

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 Day 4: Hair care and what I use.

I last dyed my hair back in July, I have bleached my hair to shit. It's been every colour under the sun. Although I love my multi-coloured hair I was sick and tired of having dry and damaged hair. I tried to kid myself that my hair was fine. I continued to abuse it, bleach, dye, heat everything bad I could do to my hair I did. I used no protection at all on it, and thought mixing conditioner in with my bleach would help the situation. And of course it didn't! I was a first class idiot.

Well now it's been nearly 5 months since I last bleached or dyed my hair. I have done nothing but try and repair my hair. I have had regular hair cuts. The first hair cut was the hardest. It was cut so short, I actually cried. I have never cried over a hair cut before, until that one. Absolutely heart broken. I knew from that moment that I need to sort my hair out.

First step
Was to stop using so much heat, I have only blow dried my hair maybe 3 times in the past 5 months and went a good 2 months without straightening it. Which was a big deal.

Second step
Better quality shampoo and conditioner. With all the bleaching came a horrid and quite frankly broken scalp. I had terrible bleach burns all over my scalp which were very painful. I started using Head and Shoulders itchy and dry scalp treatment, which has really helped. It has also helped strip out the extra colour I had in my hair. A win/win situation in my book. I've always used TRESemme and upped my conditioner to platinum protect and using the platinum protect hair mask. Both in which has helped my hair majorly. I used the mask 2-3 times a week for the first couple of months and then once or twice a week after that.

Third step
I upped my products once again. So this month, I had done a lot of overtime so got paid a bit extra. I thought it was time to buy some decent products for my hair.. so £37 later on 2 products, I purchased a heat defense spray called Argan Secret- Miracle 10 costing £17! I wanted to use it straight away, and I can honestly say my hair feels AMAZING already. It's not just for heat defense but has loads of other fantastic things (hence the miracle 10). I would highly recommend this product, expensive but well worth the money to protect your hair, as I straighten my hair almost every other day. The second was Maria Nila- Structure repair mask costing £20, I have used this twice now, once a week, I honestly felt the difference straight away and could not believe it. It felt like brand new hair. This combined with the miracle 10 spray my hair has been given a new lease of life, shiny and fresh. And people have noticed which is great.

I hope this has helped, in some way.

Love yah
IsThataRedHerring

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

BLOGMAS 2: New Look, Forever 21 and Schuh haul.

It was black Friday and I really couldn't resist. I brought a few new things. Because I'm a sucker for a deal and pretty things.

 Forever 21 

                               1                     2                          3                         4

1- Plus size Skater dress burgundy size 2x - £13

2- Plus Size Floral Mini Dress Size 2x -£13

3- Plus size Floral skater dress size 1x -  £10.27

4- Plus size Longline stripe top size 2x - £13

I wanted a few new dresses ones that I could wear on a daily basis, I often wear the same thing, jeans and a t-shirt which is fine but even I began getting bored of it. And quite frankly I love dresses. And an added bonus they were on sale so win, win really. above are the dresses I brought. My person favourite is number 4, it is so very comfortable and easy to wear. I paired it with grey jeans and my new silver shoes from Schuh featured below. I got several compliments on this look.

New Look 

                                5                        6                        7                        8

5- Curves black cold shoulder T-shirt size 20 - £9

6- Curves white striped print shirt- size 20 - £10

7- Curves khaki cold shoulder shirt- size 20 - £11.50

8- Curves black V neck skater skirt - size 20 - £14.99

This little bundle from New Look mainly consists of new shirts, like I said I have many, many t-shirts but not many nice tops/shirts. So I treated myself to some casual shirts that are great for this time of year. I also purchased another black skater dress because I love this style on me. It is very comfortable and easy to wear.

Schuh 

9

 9- Silver creep platform metallic ii flats - £28

These shoes rock! I adore them (not the blister though) now that I've worn these shoes in the are fantastic. And everyone loves them. I've been stopped a few times on the street asking where I got them from. And for £28 you can't go wrong. I do actually want to go back and get a pair in black as well.

Well that's my little haul :)

Love yah

IsThataRedHerring

BLOGMAS

BLOGMAS

It is safe to say I have been slacking on the posts these past couple of months, and I could give you loads of excuses as to why that is, but I'm not going to! Instead, I hand on heart promise to give you a post a day, for the next 25 days. I already have a few planned, got a few ideas but if you have any ideas on what I could do, or what you'd like to see/read I'd be very grateful. Some will be short and others longer. A right mixture of things; recipes, top 5 films, gift guides that kind of thing. I am really looking forward to it.

Happy 1st of December. Let's get Christmassy

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 

A leap of faith.

I have taken it upon myself to quit my job without having another to go to. I have 2 months to find a new job! Let the journey begin.

Okay, it really isn't that dramatic, but I have in fact handed my notice in at my current job as a support worker for children and young adults with severe autism and learning difficulties with challenging behaviour (yes that's a mouth full). My current job was supposed to fill the gap between my previous job and going back to university. However, I decided to put university off for another year making it two! Although I love my current job as a support worker I know that it is time for me to move on and pursue the career I really want. Which in the long run will be an end of life care nurse. Many people with I am morbid because I want to work with those who are dying but for me the job is much more than that.

5 reasons why I want to be an end of life care nurse:

1. I was born to care for people. Caring for people is in my nature
2. Knowing that the person is dying with dignity and the best care they can possibly receive makes the job worthwhile
3. Knowing that I am making that person comfortable and reassuring them they are safe is very important. Dying is a scary thing, but I want to make the process easier on them and their families.
4. Dying is a personal and very private thing. I want to be with them to ensure they are happy and have everything they could need to pass away peacefully.
5. And finally, because I know that I would be good at the job. I am passionate, caring and loyal, and have the best interests of the person at heart.

Many people think I am crazy for handing in my notice without having a job to go to first. But I believe it is the right decision. I have had two interviews so far, and I have been offered 1 job and awaiting to hear back from the other (the one I really want). The jobs I have gone for a care assistant jobs in care homes for the elderly. Both jobs offer opportunities to develop as senior health care assistants, nurses etc. Whilst writing this I have had a phone call with an interview for a slightly different job. Still as a care assistant but for adults with learning difficulties. Something else for me to think about.

A bit of a different post for you all, I will let you know what happens. Fingers crossed and all that.

Here's to next time.

Love yah

IsThataRedHerring 

UPDATE on everything. Fitness, books, goals and more

This is a much needed update (sorry). As the title suggests it is time for a big update on well my life. I know a lot of people are going to be doing New Years resolutions but this year I only have one big goal, which is being broken down to the following:

Fitness
Back in November I pledged to get fit and with every pound I lose I will donate to charity. Since then I have lost 14 pound so yes that is £14 towards a charity. In December I joined the gym and hired a personal trainer. When I sat down and talked to her (personal trainer, thank you Carrie) she reminded me that muscle weighs more than fat, so although it's a good idea in theory I will be losing fat and gaining muscle and my routine consists of a lot of weight lifting to shift the fat. So, I have decided with every dress size I drop I will donate £50 to a chosen charity (still need to be chosen) and when I get to my target dress size of a size 12 I will donate a further £100.

This year 2016! I want to do a few charity runs, particularly Cancer Research Race for Life and a few others which I need I to research more into. If you have any suggestions for charity runs then please let me know... also any suggestions you have for the charity in which the money I raise with my weight-loss, then please let me know.

Work
I started a new job in October, quitting my job as a care assistant in a care home due to a few reasons, but the main issue is that I didn't see myself furthering my career there which at the age of 21 is very important to me. So, I got a new job at a school for autistic children, it's an amazing job, very rewarding and I am part of a great team. Unlike my old job the hours are consistent and the money is a lot better, and the best thing is there are many opportunities to further myself. At some point this year I will be starting my health and social diploma. Exciting times, this also means a pay rise!

Books
Well its 2016 so there are many amazing books being released but I already have a ton of books I need to read. So after my last Waterstones voucher is spent I am going to STOP buying new books! It's going to be so hard, but my To Be Read list is so big is frightening!
The books I am looking forward to reading most this year are :-

• Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs 
• Illuminae by Amie Kaufman 
• The Lunar Chronicles by Marissa Meyer 
• The Rosie Effect by Graeme Simsion 
• The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
• Forbidden by Tabitha Suzuma 
• The Maze Runner trilogy by James Dashner 

I know a lot of these books are old (not really but so last year ;) ) but I really wanted to read them and this year I will be getting to them. I am particularly excited about the Lunar Chronicles and Illuminae. I have heard a lot of good things about these books so I am very excited to pick them up and give them a read. 

I also aim to reread a couple of my favourite books, for defiant I will be rereading Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky because it is one of my favourites and I love it. I need to reread it so badly. I think it will be my first book of 2016. Also, at some point this year I will read Life and Death by Stephanie Meyer, the reverse version of Twilight. I have heard very mixed things about this book so I need to give it a go myself. 

Blog
The main aim for my blog this year is to blog regularly, pre-write blog posts and post twice a week. It's not that hard really but I have become very lazy with my blog and well a lot of things to be honest (sorry). So, I have started a fresh notebook full of ideas for posts and I am going to start writing them as soon as I've finished this one. I want to get regular views which would be nice and hopefully make a little name for myself. But that is an ongoing goal. I hope my writing will develop.

LIFE
Just the small topic of life. But to be honest I just want to be happy and healthy and I will achieve this. I am making positive changes to my life. I am determined not to give up on anything.
A few other little things is:

• travel more
• even if it's to the next town over, or to London more. Just to discover new places... I am also going to Thailand for 10 days which is AMAZINGLY EXCITING. 
• Use my time wisely- not to waste my precious time. Because if 2015 has taught me anything it's that time does not wait around for you. 
• Appreciate the little things. 
• LIVE, LAUGH, LOVE

Sorry for such a long blog post but I felt that it was needed. 

Love yah 

IsThataRedHerring