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 

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 

The Netflix Tag

Thank you to Chelsey for tagging me in this :D

All Time Favourite 

Has to be Firefly, I will re-watch this series all the time, I know that it is not a Netflix original but it is on there, and I love it... close second is Orange is the New Black followed by Daredevil

Current Addiction 

I am really enjoying the Netflix original series Between, although it is being released one episode a week which is proving a struggle (I am after-all a binge watcher), however Sense8 (also a Netflix original) has the full series uploaded, so today I have spent 9 hours (and counting) watching the series, only 4 hour episodes to go :(

Wishlist 

I want FIREFLY back! And would also like to see more up to date films, and instead of say the first three series of an ongoing show, put them all up... my heart broke when I came to the end of Community, only to find out there were 6 series instead of the 3 on Netflix. 

Pet Peeve

Basically the same as above, I want the complete series not just the first couple... also when Netflix ask if I'd like to continue watching! Yes, I've been here for 10 hours already I have no reason to move now... so much effort to get out of bed and click that little 'Continue Watching' button. 

Marathon essentials

Bed, duvet, pjs and junk food. I'd say that is pretty standard. 

What's on your watch list?

• Buffy the vampire slayer - 2 series remaining 
• A lot of 80's films
• Teen Wolf
• Say anything 
• Pretty in Pink 
• etc.
• Airplane and Naked gun
• A lot of rom-coms 
• Action

The list is way to long to write them all out. 

You should watch 

The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt 

Firefly

Orange is the New Black

Sense8

Between 

This was something different but I enjoyed it, I tag you all, and would love to know what you guys watch and what you think I should watch.

Love yah

IsThataRedHerring

My last hour at University.

May the 31st at 3pm marks the end of an amazing era and massive chapter in my life. Three wholes years of my life has been spent at Plymouth University. I started on September the 5th and now I am leaving, only to return to graduate in September. My housemates have left, they have packed up. My room is empty and clean. Now I must catch my train home back to Thatcham, and start the next chapter in my life. A new exciting job, learn to drive, turn 21 and everything else life has to hold for me. It's a massive step and I am terrified. I have considered taking a masters because I am scared to move out of education. I've spent the past 16 years of my life at school, and uni I know its time to move on, but I just don't want to. Let me stay young!!!

But I know I have to move on, and grow up. Start paying taxes and actually save my money! No more cheeky Nandos for me :(. But like I said its exciting to move on and develop as a person. 

I have made friends for life at uni, those who have been with me through thick and thin, been with me through break-ups, mental break downs and melt downs, but most importantly through the good times. The random beach trips, or shopping sprees, the endless library hours and more Nandos I care to think about. You guys have made me cry with laughter, danced and mde utter fools of yourselves with me, and for that I am forever grateful.

And now as I sit here, on my own in my empty bedroom and empty house writing this I get to remember you wonderful glorious people, who have made every second of uni worth it. 

I love you all so so much and I cannot wait to see you all soon. I miss you already my lovers. I hope you're experience has been as good as mine. 

Love yah 

IsThataRedHerring 

My last few weeks at university.

The 31st of May will be my last day at university. I would have spent the last 3 year of my life at Plymouth University, attempting to get a degree. All work is handed in, gosh only knows how many words I've written, how many mental break downs and how many unhealthy snacks consumed. I've spent the best part of my uni life either in the library or hung over! But hey that's just part of uni life right? 

I've met some amazing people at uni, friends I will never forget. And a few close friends who I will stay in contact for a very long time. There are some people I cannot wait to forget and never see again, but that is only a few. 

What have I learnt from uni?

1. How to be independent.
2. That I can write a 3,000 word assignment in less than 12 hours and still get a decent grade. 
3. That money runs out really quickly.
4. I discovered the joys of NANDOS!
5. Attempting to date/relationship at uni is extremely hard!
6. Despite being at uni, there will always be people who think that we are still in high school!
7. NETFLIX and YouTube!
8. You can survive on 30p pasta for a very long time. 
9. Thank goodness for spell-check. 
10. The friends you make and the experiences you gain are priceless.

When I arrived in Plymouth I was scared, I was always someone who preferred to stay at home, I'd only be clubbing twice before and I was extremely nervous. But I was lucky to have great housemates and I made friends easily. I know that is not always the case. Sometimes I felt lonely, but don't we all? It's all about coping and finding things you enjoy doing on your own. That is normally when Netflix and YouTube came in, or reading a good book. 

Uni was a fantastic experience but I am excited to start my next chapter in life, a job, career, my own house, traveling and enjoying being me. Although I am sad to be leaving uni, it will be weird not living with my lovely housemates, its going to be hard not to be so close to all my friends, but I knwo they will all still be there for me. Love them all....

If you're worried at all about uni, give me a message or comment. Uni may seem big and scary but it's a wonderful experience that you will never forget. 

Love yah 

IsThataRedHerring 

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

There are only four types of people...

SO as you may know I am someone who chooses to be 'different' not 'normal' or as some may call my style individual or a phase I am going through! Well guess what guys, I am not going to change my look and personality in order to fit inside your idealistic society...Anyway, whilst walking through campus today I noticed a few people looking at me, okay I do have two toned hair, front is purple and the back is orange and I was wearing a t-shirt that said 'Normal people scare me', but to get to the point I had a few reactions which got me thinking that there are only four types of people in this world.

1. The people who think the world revolves around them and their views.

For example, I was asked today, on my way home why I can't dress normally, this was from a complete stranger, I had never seen or spoken too this person in my life. I responded with 'Why should I dress normally?' But what I should have said is what is normal? Who am I or anyone else to judge what others class as normal. I am not hurting or offending anyone by having brightly coloured hair or funny tops (I'd like to state I have zero tops I own are offence most of them are bands, Doctor Who or minion based). I just simply wear what I find comfortable, its personal taste not a debate.

2. Those who love my style and compliment me.

For example... this happened about two weeks ago, I was walking into lecture and when a women and her child passed me, when the mother turned to me and said 'Wow your hair is lovely, I like the different blues in it' and the little girly kept saying 'Look mummy blues and purples' and this made me very happy and I was shocked that there are people who can be nice, and I shouldn't be so shocked at this. That there are people who are nice. I've had a few people say that I am brave because of my style, and that they'd worry what people think. And I guess to some extent I do worry how people will see me in society but I am not a scary person, I am a kind hearted person (well I like to think I am). So when people tell me I am brave I get a sense of pride because I might be inspiring others to maybe come out of their shell more, and be themselves more. 

3. The individuals.

Those who class themselves as an individual. Those who make heads turn because they have a ‘whacked’ out style. Not necessarily bright colours like myself, but those who class themselves as emo’s, goth’s, punks, rockers etc. Let’s face it, we are ALL individuals, some may follow the current fashion trends, others prefer something different. But who cares, are you happy? Yes good that keep on doing what you are. Just don’t judge people because they aren’t the same as you. Just because they don’t like the same clothing as you does not make them a bad person, in fact they may turn out to be a great person!

4. Those who do not care, it is up to me what my style is.

            I love those people who simply couldn’t give a rat’s ass if I have blonde, blue, purple, green hair. Those who barely notice that I wear personally styled clothes shall we say?! To them I am another person on the street, and they are normally the people to become friends with because they focus on who you are and not what you look like which is wonderful. 

Sorry if this was a rant, but it just got me thinking about perceptions of people without even speaking to them and getting to know them. 

Love yah

IsThataRedHerring

I am quite British...

There is a tag currently on YouTube about how British do you think you are, and you know what I am proud to be typically British and this is why:

How many cups of tea do you have in a day?
I think I drink between 3-4 cups of tea a day, normally I drink Earl Grey Tea as it is my favourite flavour, Although I drink more if my housemate happens to be making tea as well, it's just rude not to have one if she is.

What is your favourite part of a roast?
I think I have to say either roast potatoes (especially if my mum has made them) or stuffing. They always make a good roast... Also just a note, I have to have a roast at least once a week.

Favourite dunking biscuit? 
I think mine has to be a dark chocolate digestive biscuit, classic and perfect for dunking.

Favourite quintessentially British pass-time? 
Is is either Doctor Who because I am a massive DW fan or sitting down and watching all the soaps with my mum such as Corrie, Hollyoaks and Emmerdale.

Favourite typical British word?
I think Blimey or Gosh are amazingly British words, I often say 'Oh Blimey' which means I don't believe it or shocked (if you didn't already know), gosh also means shocked.

Favourite British phrase or saying?
I use the phrase 'Not to be funny but...' or 'I don't mean to be rude...' I don't know why I use them all the time, its basically to make a less direct insult. (sorry)

Favourite sweet?
I love pear drops or jelly tots that are typically British, childhood right there.

What would your pub be called?
I reckon I would choose a classic British phrase, which would be 'let's have a knee's up'. Which in England means let's get drunk or have a few drinks, ideal for a pub I reckon.

Number one British person?
I cannot choose between Stephen Fry and Ian McKellen, they are both wonderful men, that have brought such joy into my life. Through acting and love, they are amazing role models and great people, wonderful people to admire.

Favourite shop or restaurant?
Favourite shop is Waterstones, because of my love for books, I can spend hours just looking at books, I do love that new book smell.
Favourite restaurant is Nandos and I am not ashamed at all to admit that, I am a Nandos addict.

What British song pops into your head? 
Steps, 5,6,7,8.. my favourite childhood band.

I know this blog wasn't the most exciting but this week has been a bit of a roller-coaster for me, I will be posting another this weekend.

Love yah

IsThataRedHerring

ps
I tag Chelsey in my post to do the 'How British are you?' tag

No matter what life throws at you, always get back up.

All of my life I have felt a bit left out or to some extent worthless. But as I grew up and developed my own style, got good close friends I realised screw the people that don't like me, who call me weird and think that, that is going to be an insult to me. I don't need them in my life, I stopped thinking about them and concentrated on who I am and living my life.

I think it is so important to always be yourself and never stop being who you are. I know that sounds so clique but I think it is so important to remember. You only have one life, and you have no time to worry about what other people think. I have learnt this the hard way. I was bullied so much when I was younger because I was not a 'normal' child and let's be honest I'm not, but why would I want to be 'normal'? What is so fun about being 'normal'? 

So what made me stand out so much? 

I always have been someone who has always stood out, I've never followed fashion and always chosen my own path, I most definitely have my own unique style. I often wear as many colours as possible, often wear odd shoes and have countless different unique t-shirts. I like to express myself through my clothing and hair styles. (From previous posts you may see my many different hair colours and styles just in the last year, Bright hair, I have also changed my hair again since writing this blog). I will never blend into the crowd and quit frankly  never want to. I will always choose outrageous clothing and styles, and if you don't like it then you do not have to hang around with me.

A small book that is aimed at children has really helped me develop who I am, and realise that no matter my age, my gender, my religious views or even my class, everyone has ups and downs, highs and lows. No matter how wealthy or how poor you are we all have problems. Something that may seem small to you may seem like the end of the word to another person. We must remember that if something frightens someone so much or causes them to be anxious we should respect that and help them through it, because one day that may be you, you maybe in need of help. I have learnt that it is good to let some people into your life, and have a handful of great close friends, that you know you can rely on no matter what. When you are down and see no way of being happy again and I know I have had this a few times, it makes all the difference to have those close friends with you every step of the way. Even if they are able to make you smile just a little. You know you have good friend because no matter how low you get they are able to make you laugh, they may not always say the right thing but they are there fore you when at 2 am you want to sing concrete angel as loud as you can because a boy has been a dick (thank you Chelsey, you beautiful women <3 ). In my darkest moments I always have someone to turn to and even that thought of having someone to talk to about everything and anything means the world to me.

I mentioned a children's book that myself and few friends now call our Bible. It is a simple book that many people have read, often as a child and it is called Oh, The Places You'll Go! by Dr Seuss. In all seriousness this book is pure genius and helps me keep me together on many occasion. The book is an easy read, full of rhyming words and bright illustrations, but it is also full of such great advice and reminds you that sometimes you will take the wrong path, but you need to remember that just round the corner could be the next path, and that we should keep going. Dr Seuss reminds us all that no one is perfect and helps us remember that we are in control of our own lives even if sometimes we do not quite believe it, because lets honest life on more than one occasion is a massive heartless bitch.

So I hope you like my little rant/let's be honest I am not normal speech. I am going to start putting out blogs every Wednesday and Sunday, and little blogs in-between. 

Thank you for the support you all have given me.

Love yah 

IsThataRedHerring

Not a new me, but a better me.

Inspired by the wonderful blog by Lovelychubly I have decided to rid myself of 2014 and the things that sucked, and better myself.

2014 did not start off well for me, my late Aunt Pauline passed away, I hit rock bottom, some friendships fizzled out. However, others were gained, thanks to a mutual drunken experience, lost in Amsterdam, myself and Jess met the wonderful Vikkay and Danni. Thank goodness we met them, otherwise we might still be lost in Amsterdam now, and plus they are fantastic loyal friends. Despite having an amazing time in Amsterdam my struggle with depression continued, I took a month from uni to clear my head that seemed to do the trick.

A lot of things happened throughout 2014, I turned 20, I got drunk a lot, I moved uni houses,end of second year, got a well paid job, met awesome people, made new friends. Discovered new things, had adventurers, started this blog, summer ball. Third year started;  Joined the gym, got ill (mumps, abscess, infection, flu, depression, flu) you no the usual, quite gym.. 2014 summed up, could have been better but I don't want to change anything because it is part of my life.

But here it is my small goals, things that I want to aspire to do. Some are easier than others, so here goes:

Section one, University:

1. Hand in all assignments by the deadline, by at least one hour!
2. Finish my degree (May the 5th DEADLINE DAY)
3. Enjoy last part of third year

Section two, healthy body, healthy mind:

1. Have breakfast everyday, without fail!
2. Which you lazy person, getting up early!
3. Hey guess what!.... EXERCISE... no more 11 hour naps followed by binge eating
4. And of course, eating healthy... mmmm salads! 

Section three, because why the hell not?!:

1. This year I celebrate my 21st Birthday, and I want to read 21 books this year. (separate blog too follow) 
2. Be more organised! 
3. Let's ease up on spending the money and try and save
4. By the end of 2015.... I want to be able to drive! I aim too take my driving test by Christmas 2015!
5. Run the race for life again, and actually run/jog it!

So those are my goals, not resolutions for one year, but my life goals, some are short and easy but others are ones I plan on continuing my whole life. It takes 21 days to create a new habit so here goes! A new step towards a new me.

Happy New Year , you beauties.

Love yah 

IsThataRedHerring

P.S 

        Without the help of my friends and family this year, I would not have survived, so thank you <3 forever