A small red cheery berry and a dark green spikey leaf that hurts.
It's Christmas.
Despite the normal grumbles about commuting in potential snow... December is usually my favourite time of the year. This year however it feels somewhat muted. I'm trying so hard to stay positive and enjoy it but I can't help feeling that I'm simply not as jolly this year. Perhaps it's just because of the events of the last six months, or just a general fatigue from being overworked ... I'm not sure... but I've struggled to maintain the usual excitement and this has affected my ability to plan and prepare for the holiday season too.
I've normally done all my shopping and got it wrapped under a strictly colour-co ordinated Christmas tree. I haven't. I only just finished my shopping this morning and have yet to have things delivered, wrapped and ready. My presents seem a bit hap-hazard and the ones I've made I'm not incredibly pleased with either; I've scrapped one handmade one, and have three more to complete. I've wrapped what I do have... a mishmash of Christmas wrapping paper and ribbons from previous years which are usually perfectly planned and co ordinated. I've just had to make do, unwilling to put the full effort and money into the usual standards I achieve. This is pretty much a summary of where I am in my life. Caught in between lots of things and not really completely together. But that's ok.
Despite all this... it's not all gloom. I've had some lovely festive outings already with some tasty cocktails and good company; a trip to the German market and sampling some Brum pubs; and have a few more before the end of the year. I've not spent a ridiculous amount of money and needing to save for Christmas has meant I've had some cosy weekends in sculpting instead of spending money on alcohol. I'm also back in touch with a friend I thought I lost this Christmas. You've got to be grateful for small things.
I'm sure the December reflections will be there, niggling, in the back of my mind for some time... but I'm trying to keep my focus on what is important. Whatever happens next year is next year, for now, sit back, enjoy the family, friends and Christmas cheeriness in people's eyes... and try to relax. If nothing else, two weeks off will be much needed to replenish and kick back.
Showing posts with label Shopping. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Shopping. Show all posts
Sunday, December 07, 2014
Sunday, September 08, 2013
No Dollar.
I have spent A LOT of money this weekend. I've been out drinking on both Friday and Saturday, with a shopping trip sandwiched in the middle.
I have however, now got a BEAUTIFUL dress for a friends wedding next weekend. It cost me a lot but the dress is stunning- just hope I can do it justice! I have an Ashton-Friday (flexi day off work) this Friday so I will probably spend some of that teaming up my new dress with a suitable bag and shoes from my stash at home. I also had to get some pressies for Mum for her birthday next week.
I haven't been to the gym in a week due to mother nature and straining my shoulder on some free-weights at home earlier in the week so I NEED to go to the gym tonight and smash it. I think two nights out on the trot drinking has taken its toll on my weary body. I feel pretty tired today so hopefully I'll knacker myself at the gym and sleep well tonight.
I think I've just lost a commission so I can crack on with the next one I have lined up. It should be quite a challenge as the pose is an interesting one. It's of a Police dog handler and his dog, for a friend at work. Looking forward to the challenge!
Rations until payday this month!
I have however, now got a BEAUTIFUL dress for a friends wedding next weekend. It cost me a lot but the dress is stunning- just hope I can do it justice! I have an Ashton-Friday (flexi day off work) this Friday so I will probably spend some of that teaming up my new dress with a suitable bag and shoes from my stash at home. I also had to get some pressies for Mum for her birthday next week.
I haven't been to the gym in a week due to mother nature and straining my shoulder on some free-weights at home earlier in the week so I NEED to go to the gym tonight and smash it. I think two nights out on the trot drinking has taken its toll on my weary body. I feel pretty tired today so hopefully I'll knacker myself at the gym and sleep well tonight.
I think I've just lost a commission so I can crack on with the next one I have lined up. It should be quite a challenge as the pose is an interesting one. It's of a Police dog handler and his dog, for a friend at work. Looking forward to the challenge!
Rations until payday this month!
Sunday, July 07, 2013
Sunspots.
What an awesome weekend!
It kicked off with some sunny post-work drinks on Friday evening with H from work. I survived my first round of drinking post inner-ear troubles. Having felt drunk for three weeks I was a bit wary of getting back on the good ol' Jack n Coke, but yep, it was just what I needed.
Following that I spent Saturday on a mini road trip with N up to Chester. It was beautifully sunny and we strolled around the quaint little shops and had a waffle cone ice cream by the river. We took a walk all round the ancient city walls and looked around the Roman gardens and amphitheatre although I was put off by the creepy stilt walker who seemed to be tottering around. I still hate them. Always will.
I failed miserably at remembering my digital SLR to take any decent photographs which pissed me off no end, but to redeem myself I am proud to say I refrained from spending any money in the shops despite being very tempted by a nice new handbag. Be proud.
Saturday evening was spent being set up in the back garden with some Honey Jack, Peanuts, a nice warm chicken salad and the Sono's blaring out some awesome tunes while a little lantern flickered in the gentle breeze. It was perfect.
Today I spent the morning strolling around Cars In the Park in Lichfield wishing I was rich enough to have a car for every day of the week. A quick lunch was had at Ego nearby, a Mediterranean bar where I had a Fusion Mezze platter and a Strawberry, Mango and Stem Ginger Eton Mess for dessert. Then, back to the park for a last drool over some amazing cars... before heading back in time for the Wimbledon final where grumpy-ass Murray took the cup.
I've picked the following as my faves from today although the F type Jag and a BEAUTIFUL blue TVR Sagaris also looked incredible. I think you will agree the matt black Hudson complete with skull on the dashboard is very me. :-)
The weekend was finished off with a family barbeque in place of the traditional Sunday dinner, complete with steaks, burger, sausage, rice, salad, new potatoes and kebab roasted vegetables.
I have some sunburn from today. I plastered myself in factor 30 this morning, and seem to have staved off getting burnt in the normal places like my neck. However, I do have an interesting red, stripe down my nose, and some weird patterns on my arms which look equally strange! It must have been where I was holding my bag or something and have got burnt in between the straps. No matter how hard you try, when you have ghostly white pale skin like me, the sun will get to you somehow!!!
Despite the sunburn, this weekend has been - simply PERFECT. :-)
Coming up this week... I am planning on returning to the gym now I'm fully fit, shopping for Boss' leaving present on Tuesday, Boss' leaving do on Friday and then potentially a night out in Brum on Saturday! I want to squeeze in a trip to the cinema, headphone shopping, potential holiday shopping and wedding guest dress shopping also this week.
Ooh... and I must blog about the imminent awesomeness that I have managed to source for myself.
It kicked off with some sunny post-work drinks on Friday evening with H from work. I survived my first round of drinking post inner-ear troubles. Having felt drunk for three weeks I was a bit wary of getting back on the good ol' Jack n Coke, but yep, it was just what I needed.
Following that I spent Saturday on a mini road trip with N up to Chester. It was beautifully sunny and we strolled around the quaint little shops and had a waffle cone ice cream by the river. We took a walk all round the ancient city walls and looked around the Roman gardens and amphitheatre although I was put off by the creepy stilt walker who seemed to be tottering around. I still hate them. Always will.
I failed miserably at remembering my digital SLR to take any decent photographs which pissed me off no end, but to redeem myself I am proud to say I refrained from spending any money in the shops despite being very tempted by a nice new handbag. Be proud.
Saturday evening was spent being set up in the back garden with some Honey Jack, Peanuts, a nice warm chicken salad and the Sono's blaring out some awesome tunes while a little lantern flickered in the gentle breeze. It was perfect.
Today I spent the morning strolling around Cars In the Park in Lichfield wishing I was rich enough to have a car for every day of the week. A quick lunch was had at Ego nearby, a Mediterranean bar where I had a Fusion Mezze platter and a Strawberry, Mango and Stem Ginger Eton Mess for dessert. Then, back to the park for a last drool over some amazing cars... before heading back in time for the Wimbledon final where grumpy-ass Murray took the cup.
I've picked the following as my faves from today although the F type Jag and a BEAUTIFUL blue TVR Sagaris also looked incredible. I think you will agree the matt black Hudson complete with skull on the dashboard is very me. :-)
The weekend was finished off with a family barbeque in place of the traditional Sunday dinner, complete with steaks, burger, sausage, rice, salad, new potatoes and kebab roasted vegetables.
I have some sunburn from today. I plastered myself in factor 30 this morning, and seem to have staved off getting burnt in the normal places like my neck. However, I do have an interesting red, stripe down my nose, and some weird patterns on my arms which look equally strange! It must have been where I was holding my bag or something and have got burnt in between the straps. No matter how hard you try, when you have ghostly white pale skin like me, the sun will get to you somehow!!!
Despite the sunburn, this weekend has been - simply PERFECT. :-)
Coming up this week... I am planning on returning to the gym now I'm fully fit, shopping for Boss' leaving present on Tuesday, Boss' leaving do on Friday and then potentially a night out in Brum on Saturday! I want to squeeze in a trip to the cinema, headphone shopping, potential holiday shopping and wedding guest dress shopping also this week.
Ooh... and I must blog about the imminent awesomeness that I have managed to source for myself.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013
Watches.
A few months ago I lost my beloved, trusty, old fossil watch. I'd had it a couple of years and it was still going strong. With there being a lot of building work going on at the house I figured it could have been thrown away by accident. After about a month or two I decided I was never going to see it again and set about buying a new one.
I've never been crazy about watches. It's a watch. It tells the time, and generally I just like a nice simple design which serves a functional and efficient purpose. Amazed at the sheer number of watches on the market, and the massive range in prices from about £15 to £3000 I just found the whole thing a bit ridiculous.
I finally found one I liked as a simple every day watch, and in true slink style-y I found another slightly more fancy one. In similar slink style- I bought both. And before you judge me as a materialistic, more-money-than-sense, loon I might point out that BOTH these watches together cost less than the last watch I bought for N. So there.
I think you will agree they are both awesome. I love the simplicity of the everyday one (Cross). It's very uni-sex, but with a petrol effect facia which gives it a bit of mystery. The second is a bit wacky and different (Vivienne Westwood) with a blood red facia set within a gold fancy frame, on an antique effect mustard strap. I love the contrast and quirkiness of it. It's perfect for slightly dressier occasions. As long as the watch matches the outfit of course. Hmm.
I've been enjoying my new watches for the last two weeks or so and I'm very pleased with them. They're the right size, style, design and comfort for me. I finally Instagram-ed a picture of my new fancy watch yesterday afternoon.
This morning, following a very unpleasantly dizzy shower, I was putting away my various toiletry bottles and potions into my toiletry bag and low and behold- I pulled out this...
... this, my dear readers, is my OLD watch.
His familiar, steely, little face peering at me as if to say "Hi mom, I've been in here ages! Who's that fancy gold thing on your wrist??". I mean, the timing is just pure genius. It's like he waited for me to show the social-media world my new watch before humiliatingly showing up in my toiletry bag.
I'm pleased he's back. And now I have three watches to choose from, which considering I've only ever had one watch (usually lasting me about four-five years at a time)... seems like overkill.
Like a true fossil, he was lost, buried and juuust about forgotten before reappearing. :-)
I've never been crazy about watches. It's a watch. It tells the time, and generally I just like a nice simple design which serves a functional and efficient purpose. Amazed at the sheer number of watches on the market, and the massive range in prices from about £15 to £3000 I just found the whole thing a bit ridiculous.
I finally found one I liked as a simple every day watch, and in true slink style-y I found another slightly more fancy one. In similar slink style- I bought both. And before you judge me as a materialistic, more-money-than-sense, loon I might point out that BOTH these watches together cost less than the last watch I bought for N. So there.
I think you will agree they are both awesome. I love the simplicity of the everyday one (Cross). It's very uni-sex, but with a petrol effect facia which gives it a bit of mystery. The second is a bit wacky and different (Vivienne Westwood) with a blood red facia set within a gold fancy frame, on an antique effect mustard strap. I love the contrast and quirkiness of it. It's perfect for slightly dressier occasions. As long as the watch matches the outfit of course. Hmm.
I've been enjoying my new watches for the last two weeks or so and I'm very pleased with them. They're the right size, style, design and comfort for me. I finally Instagram-ed a picture of my new fancy watch yesterday afternoon.
This morning, following a very unpleasantly dizzy shower, I was putting away my various toiletry bottles and potions into my toiletry bag and low and behold- I pulled out this...
... this, my dear readers, is my OLD watch.
His familiar, steely, little face peering at me as if to say "Hi mom, I've been in here ages! Who's that fancy gold thing on your wrist??". I mean, the timing is just pure genius. It's like he waited for me to show the social-media world my new watch before humiliatingly showing up in my toiletry bag.
I'm pleased he's back. And now I have three watches to choose from, which considering I've only ever had one watch (usually lasting me about four-five years at a time)... seems like overkill.
Like a true fossil, he was lost, buried and juuust about forgotten before reappearing. :-)
Friday, January 18, 2013
So long HMV!
I've been saying for some time that HMV would go under in the recession. Any company (like Woolworths) who haven't changed a bit since the day they opened is bound to suffer.
Don't get me wrong- I'm have fond memories of HMV since I was a child. I love music and as such I've seen a steady decline of some brilliant music shops- mainly independent ones like Andys Records, Tudor Tunes (Lichfield), Left Legged Pineapple and Castle Records (both Loughborough). HMV have been the main retailer of music throughout the years and whilst I've witnessed them expand their stock to CD's, DVD's, BlueRays and Games- but with this expansion in stock, the once good supplies of each product have become more limited. They've NEVER been competitive on price; There's been a complete lack of competitiveness in fact. They ignorantly and rather stupidly still stock some CD's for £15 when everyone with half a brain cell could find it cheaper online with free delivery or even in your local Tesco in some cases! I just don't see the logic. If HMV is to survive it needs to re-brand itself, freshen itself up, pull up its socks, get out the 90's and compete.
Sorry HMV.
Don't get me wrong- I'm have fond memories of HMV since I was a child. I love music and as such I've seen a steady decline of some brilliant music shops- mainly independent ones like Andys Records, Tudor Tunes (Lichfield), Left Legged Pineapple and Castle Records (both Loughborough). HMV have been the main retailer of music throughout the years and whilst I've witnessed them expand their stock to CD's, DVD's, BlueRays and Games- but with this expansion in stock, the once good supplies of each product have become more limited. They've NEVER been competitive on price; There's been a complete lack of competitiveness in fact. They ignorantly and rather stupidly still stock some CD's for £15 when everyone with half a brain cell could find it cheaper online with free delivery or even in your local Tesco in some cases! I just don't see the logic. If HMV is to survive it needs to re-brand itself, freshen itself up, pull up its socks, get out the 90's and compete.
Sorry HMV.
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