Make waking up the best past of your day - no, seriously!

  Let me preface this by making a statement which is probably true of lots of people; I am not a morning person!  In fact, I actually believe that"sleeping me" and "awake me" are two separate people.  "Sleeping me" is devious, and sneakily changes snooze times from five minutes to ten minutes, and sometimes even turns the alarm clock off, all to make "awake me" annoyed, and very late for work!  I can count one one hand the amount of times that I have jumped out of bed without hitting snooze at least once.  However, the times where I have managed this, I have noticed myself feeling less lethargic, and more productive than is usual before midday.  In fact, I often find that my whole day goes a lot more smoothly when I haven't had "just five more minutes..."

  Upon making this discovery, I got to thinking that the way in which you wake up is important.  More specifically, I need something to help me get out of bed, and not just push "snooze" and drift back off to sleep.  

  Primarily, my mobile phone is my gadget of choice for reminding me of important dates, keeping my phone numbers safe, and general information storing, but I realised after a while that it is not ideal as an alarm clock.  The tones are often horrendous beepy tunes, or whatever your favourite song is at the time, that you have decided to download.  I can guarantee that it won't be your favourite song for long, once it blasts from your phone at 6:30 am threatening to wake the neighbours too.  Plus, it's all too easy to "accidentally" turn the alarm off, and go back to sleep.


  I have tried positioning an alarm clock outside of my bedroom, so that I have to get up and locate it before turning it off.  I reasoned that once I was out of bed, the problem would be solved.  Apparently this was not true - "Sleeping me" simply located the clock, and brought it back to bed, therefore assisting the snoozes further.


  Maybe if I used a radio alarm clock, I thought, I could stay in bed for a little while after waking up without falling back asleep, as the sounds of the music and talking would keep me awake, yet relaxed.  This idea was also a flop, as I still managed to drift off, perhaps because of how consistent the volume was.

  Then I made a discovery - The king of alarm clocks!  The brand that I have is LifeMax Sunrise Clock, and I purchased it from an eBay electronics shop for around £25.00, but I know there are other brands with varying price tags.  The first time I used it, I awoke feeling fully rested, refreshed, and ready to face the day.  I thought it might have been the novelty of it, but continued to notice positive results.  It works by mimicking a sunrise (in your bedroom!) with a gradually brightening bulb.  This way, you don't feel like you're getting up in the middle of the night. especially on dark winter mornings.  This type of light is thought to alleviate SAD (seasonal affective disorder), and also, your eyes don't need to "adjust" once you open them, making waking up much more comfortable.  
  
  But that's not all!  The LifeMax Sunrise Clock also allows you to choose a "natural sound" to wake you up.  You can choose from tweeting birds, croaking frogs, chirping crickets, and many more, including (bizarrley!)a heartbeat.  Deciding against the latter, for fear of some repressed infantile memory, I decided on ocean waves.  This has been the best gadget purchase that I have made for years, as waking up happy is the start to a good day.  And it doesn't end there!  Because you can set the sounds at any time you like, I have used them to help drown out the sound of annoying burglar alarms that decide to malfunction at three in the morning.  So all in all, it has helped me to feel much more well rested.  


  There is one type of alarm clock that I would still like to try though, perhaps in conjunction with the Sunrise alarm clock - a Teasmade!  I can't think of anything nicer than waking up to a personal sunrise, crashing open waves, and a lovely hot cup of tea - I'd definitely stay awake then!

Alice In Wonderland at Tate, LIverpool

 Alice in Wonderland is one of my all time favourite books, and the main reason for this, I believe, is the beautiful illustrations, and imagery that are connected with the story.

 http://www.tate.org.uk/liverpool/


Tickets are £8, or £7 for concessions, and be warned, some parts of the exhibition are not family friendly.  These are marked as such, and many children visiting on the day seemed to be enjoying the activites and challenges set out for them in their free sketch books that they had collected from reception.  The money helps to raise funds for the NHS mental health programme, so it's a splurge which is relativley guilt free.

I thoroughly enjoyed exploring the inspirational displays, especially the original artwork, and different versions of the book that were released over the years.  The main exhibition space has a small room which had possibly the most beautiful articles in the whole exhibition.  Sadly, this room seemed poorly lit, with no natural light to illuminate the artwork.  The bright lights on the celing were positioned in a manner that actually cast shadows onto the pieces, making them difficult to see, which was slightly dissappointing.

It was amazing to learn the inspirations of the stories and the artwork involved in Alice in Wonderland, and the other artwork being produced at the same time, and the exhibition proved to deliver a lovely day out.  The experience was soured somewhat by the "actresses" playing Alice and the Red Queen in front of the art gallery.  Swarms of children (mostly in adorable fancy dress costumes too) were excited to speak to the real life characters from their favourite fairy tale - and were left disheartned by the rude and unproffessional manner of these girls.  I overheard two of the actresses tring to avoid some children who wanted to speak to them, saying to each other; "Just don't look at them, keep walking."  When the children eventually caught up, they were told; "There's another Alice over there, go and see her." As a childcare proffessional myself, this upset me a little, as I can imagine the dissappointment that these children probably felt.  I feel that Tate should have considered who they chose for this job a little mare carefully.  I understand that they are probably volounteers, and I'm sure that most of the girls are very pleasant and enthusiastic, but upon witnessing this, I can't help but think what a negative influence that it could have had on a young child's day out.

Pupa AEF Lip Volumizing Formula (Initial thoughts)

Retailing at around £25 fro 15ml of what I would essentially call "lip gloss", this product will have to have a serious impact for me to deem it "splurge-worthy".

The product website claims that the voumizer will "lock in moisture from the skin, and stimulate the formulation of collagen, contributing to plumper, smoother looking lips."  My lips are a little ravaged from the cold weather at the moment, and I have been looking for a product that will hopefully combine the moisture boost required to keep my lips smooth, and also, a pumping, glossing effect.

Now, assuming that lips that appear thin are partly due to lack of moisture, most lip balms and glosses appear to fill lips out to some degree, but the difference with Pupa's Lip Volumizer is that it claims to deliver prolonged effects after eight weeks of use.

Upon initial application, I was surprised at how delicate the fragrance of the product was. I don't know why, but I expected something stronger.  Also, there was no tingling sensation (I must admit - I missed the tingle a little bit!).  My lips did appear plumper, however, albeit for a little while.  After the product wore off, my lips felt dry again, possibly drier than they were before.  So, my initial thoughts are not great, but I will continue with the eight week application process, and hopefully, I should achieve some interesting results!


UPDATE

After using this formula for a few weeks, I have had to abandon the trial, due to the terrible condition that my lips are now in.  I  can't say if it's due to the cold weather, or the product itself, but my lips became dry, sore and flaky after using this product as advised in the instructions, not the look I was going for!  I have sought emergency aid from Burt's Bees lip balm (which is fantastic - and natural by the way.) 

In my opinion, this product is not worth the money.  Although it's a quick fix, I much prefer Soap and Glory's "Sexy Mother Pucker" which retails at less than half the price of Pupa's offering, and also, smells divine!

Pistachio Lark Lane

When choosing where to eat breakfast on a Sunday morning, I often lean towards The Tavern Company, with the choice of pancakes, and never ending refills of tea and coffee throughout the course of the meal.  However, on this occasion, I decided to break from this dangerously tasty habit, and instead, try a new eatery.

Pistachio is excellently located at the end of Lark Lane, just a stones throw from the beautiful surroundings of Sefton Park.  Choosing a window seat was an inspired idea, as the characters frequenting the vicinity - especially before midday - are eclectic to say the least, and one of my most favourite activities in the world is people watching.  This past time kept me entertained while waiting for my vegetarian breakfast.  My bleary eyes were nudged slightly by the coffee provided with my meal - however, it was only one cup, which disappointed me a little.  I suppose that I have been spoiled a little bit by Tavern Company's ridiculously amazing service!

I was pleasantly surprised when our breakfasts arrived, to see that the vegetarian breakfast is twice as big as the (meat) English breakfast, for the same price.  The food was lovely, and the service was fast, and friendly.  The price does not break the bank, and the decor is inviting and comfortable.  Pancakes are available on the menu, in the "American" breakfast, but sadly, this is the only breakfast on the menu to come with mini potatoes instead of hash browns.

I feel to fully experience this restaurant, I should possibly come for another meal besides breakfast, as I'm sure it has a lot more to offer, and I feel that my unfair comparisons to The Tavern are making Pistachio seem second best.  I sincerely look forward to visiting again!

New Beginnings, Williamson Street

Having such a busy schedule of late, there have been loads of places that I have been dying to visit, but one that I just needed to make room for was "New Beginnings" on Williamson Street, Liverpool City Centre.  Being a massive fan of the independent businesses in The Gostin Building, I was initially worried for the fate that would befall them, after I heard rumours that they would be relocating.  In their new location, (just next to Slaters) I'm sure that much more passing trade is attracted, and people who are actively seeking out the small independent shops will be able to find them much more easily. 

I was happy to see that the shops are laid out in such a way that you could wander quite freely, while taking everything in (which was exactly what I wanted to do!) The staff were lovely, and as I was looking for a present for a friend, offered help and advice, as to which of their products could fit the bill.  Candi Bambino is a cosmetics boutique, selling top brands such as Urban Decay, Benefit, Calvin Klein, and many more.  The only difference from any other cosmetics boutique is, that their items are reduced greatly, sometimes up to 50%.  Personally, It also makes you feel good to know that your money is going to an independent business, as opposed to an evil, corporate chain store. 

The next shop that I visited was Moo Kow Army, which is my personal favourite.  It stocks handmade jewellery for every occasion, and has fun, cute and quirky items, as well as Gothic and classy jewellery.  Cartoon characters, and video games are a theme to some of the items, and there is also an option to have items specially commissioned for yourself, and this, I think, is the most exciting part!  Gift boxes are available, and the prices of everything are really affordable.  It is the perfect place to find an original gift for a friend, or to find a statement piece of jewellery for yourself, that you know everybody will ask about!

There is another shop to the ground floor. called Dragon Indulgence, which sells a whole host of incense, candles,  and a variety of ethically sources fair trade items for your mind, body and soul. This includes vegan chocolate, ritualistic items, and beautiful dream catchers, along with other decorations and jewellery.  I am also told that the cafe upstairs "Decafe" is amazing, however, I didn't have time to visit on that occasion, but I will put it on my "to do" list!

I am glad that these lovely shops will be making more business now, in their new location, however, I did like having my own secret place to buy jewellery and make up form, and I'm a little bit (selfishly) worried now, that everyone will have all of the same things as me! I think I will have to get thinking about some commissioned jewellery to order!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H4rYaLBUpLA&ob=av2e

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Candi-Bambino/155825127784583

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Dragon-Indulgence/116171801729989?sk=wall

Ei8ght, Allerton Road

 I had always assumed that Ei8ght was too expensive and pretentious for me, but after hearing that  they offered two courses fro £8.95, even on Friday evenings, I thought it was about time that I checked it out.  I booked a table for 7:30, thinking myself a little bit silly for doing this.  Surely at half past seven on a Friday evening everyone would still be getting ready to go out, not sitting down for a meal!  When we arrived, I noted the ground floor bar was busy, with music playing, and people drinking and chatting. The atmosphere was good, and I saw a posted advertising live music every Sunday. 

Up the stairs in the restaurant, there was only one free table - the one that we had booked.  Everyone must have wanted in on the offer! The decor was classic, with quirky twists.  Bare brick walls looked contemporary, and candles and Moroccan lanterns gave a romantic edge. The staff seemed friendly, and were quick to take and deliver our drinks orders.  However, we waited a little too long to order our food, eventually having to get the waiter's attention in order to let him know what we would like.  The starters also took so long to arrive, that a member of staff must have noticed our expressions, and rushed over  to assure us that our food would be with us soon. 

When they arrived, the starters were satisfying to say the least, and we both enjoyed them thouroughly.  As a vegetarian, I had an option of about two dishes to start, and three for the main course, which is a good selection compared to other places.  Our starter plates were cleared away quickly, but it was then another longer than average wait for our main courses.  During this time, although our drinks were running low, we weren't asked if we would like to order more.

Our main courses, once they arrived were delicious.  Since I had paid for a meal-deal type service, I had in some way expected a very average meal, however, the food was hot and tasty.  The staff were obviously friendly, but the service, on the evening that I had decided to visit, was sadly not up to scratch.  I would recommend this restaurant, however, I would hope that the service would be better upon returning, and that this was just a one off.  I would have like to have stayed for dessert, however, having waited so long for the other courses, I feared for my sanity, and decided to head to the Tesco over the road, for some ice cream!

Bottom line - lovely decor, friendly staff, good choice and quality of food, excellent price, but sadly, waiting times were too long for my liking.


http://ei8ht-restaurant.com/

Mama Mio Boot Camp For Tummies

I have been using the two (wittily named) products "Skin Tight" and "Get Waisted" for over a week now, and as well as the four minutes of tummy tightening exercises, I have tried to eat a little healthier, and partake in some light stretching and cardio exercises.  Follow the official Latest in Beauty blog to see how the other challengers and myself are doing, to see if the products could work for you too!

www.latestinbeauty.com/challenge

"Spotty Face Wash" from Betty's Page

  I was excited to trial the "Spotty Face Wash" that I purchased from Crafty Mare's Bazaar.  My regular skin care routine was ok, but seemed to be lacking something.  So, after exfoliating as usual, I replaced my usual face wash with my new one.  The smell was lovely and refreshing.  Two pumps dispensed more than enough to use to was my face and neck, and the slight foaming action invigorated and awakened my tired skin - great if you're not a morning person!  After using the wash, I used my moisturiser as usual.  I have been using it for over a week now, and can really notice the difference that it has made.  My skin is clearer, and feels smoother and fresher.  I have been using it morning and night, and still have a substantial amount left in the bottle, so at three pounds, it definitely shows value for money!

Also pictured in the photo is a pink, sparkly bar of soap that I bought at the same time, so I thought I would give that a mention too.  I don't tend to buy bars of soap anymore, and so, I liked the kitsch yet classic idea of having a use for my soap dish!  It smells lovely, and only cost a pound, meaning that it would make a lovely addition to a gift for a friend.  My boyfriend was a bit worried that the glitter would rub off onto him, but that hasn't happened yet!  It has lasted well, and looks lovely in my bathroom!  The only downside is that it reminded me of why I no longer buy bars of soap, as it dried out my skin quite a bit, however, this was not a problem at all, as I moisturise religiously (as I believe everyone should!).  All in all, I am very happy with my beauty product purchases from Crafty Mare's Bazaar, and plan to return very shortly!
 

Crafty Mare's Bazaar, Slater Street

An amazing day of laid back vintage and retro shopping was drawing to a close, and I was looking for a comfy and cosy pub to delve into my latest haul (including a leather bound Jane Austen book from Oxfam, an original Gameboy Tetris cartridge game from Level Up, and a Motorhead record from Cult Vinyl) when I stumbled across a sign saying "Crafty Mare's Bazaar - now open".  Intrigued, I entered the unassuming shop on Slater Street, and could not believe my eyes!

"Bazaar" is definitely the correct word.  The whole shop is filled from top to bottom with vintage, up cycled and hand made clothing, jewellery and accessories, gifts, ornaments, as well as Eco friendly soaps, face washes, and other cosmetics.  I was absolutely enthralled!  I could have stayed in there all day, and still not seen everything that was available.  The friendly staff were keen to help, but not in the intimidating way, which often makes me feel as though I would rather leave a shop, than stay and be harassed.

The shop has been set up by several creative  independent businesses, and also includes a Holistic room upstairs for massages and pampering treatments.  As I am always keen to help independent local businesses (and everything in the shop was amazingly exciting!) I managed to stop myself from buying a whole rack of necklaces, incense sticks and scarves, and purchased a bottle of "Spotty Face Wash" by Betty's Page, which cost a reasonable £3.00, and a lovely pink glittery star shaped bar of soap, which reminded me of the lovely Eco friendly products sold at Lush (except without the hefty price tag - this soap was only one pound!).

And so, with my fabulous new products, I left feeling happy, and exited to return after pay day!  Next on my list is definitely the amazing cake stand, made from old vinyl records.  Crafty Mare's Bazaar will be my new port of call for friend's birthday gifts, as well as somewhere to treat myself to something special.  I will be trialing the "Spotty Face Wash", and reviewing it on here shortly, and I am very excited about spreading the word, and finding out more about this intriguing group of businesses.  So thank you very much ladies, you provided the perfect end to my day, and have given me lots to look forward to :)

Film Review - "Super" (18)

After watching Juno a few years ago at the cinema - and then countless other times on DVD at home, I am always compelled to watch films starring Ellen Paige.  Some of these have been amazing - her role in Inception wasn't the lead, but I enjoyed it nonetheless, however, Hard Candy was another story all together, and the less said about that, the better.  Anyway, the main reason that I wanted to watch Super was because of the usually laid back, witty actress's appearance.  I had seen some movie trailers for it online, and eagerly waited for it's cinema release...and waited...and waited...until I saw a TV trailer - advertising it's DVD and Blu-Ray release.  This alone should have caused alarm bells to ring, but instead, I excitedly purchased it, and rushed home to watch it.

The easy comparison to make would be to Kick Ass - an Average Joe creating a superhero persona in order to change things, however, Super isn't that easy to categorise.  It features a lot of genuinely funny, sometimes silly comedy, which I naively thought was the main idea of the film.  However, a much darker side is revealed, with themes of drug use, paedophilia, and extreme violence.  While Kick Ass flawlessly balanced the comedy with violence in a way that made it all seem reasonable and integral to the plot, Super seemed to use the darker elements gratuitously, making me feel guilty for laughing at the funny parts.

I genuinely can't decide if I liked this film or not.  I feel that if I watch it again sometime, I may not be as shocked, find the comedy even funnier than the first time around, and decide that I did enjoy it (that may seem like an odd conclusion to come to, but watching Napoleon Dynamite for the fist time left me confused.  The second time I watched it, it was hilarious, and it is now one of my favourite films, so you never know!)  however, I would not recommend this film to my friends, for fear of making them think that I am a bit mad.

If you are not faint hearted, and are looking for something that combines comedy with brutal violence, I'd say, give it a watch! If not, maybe this film isn't for you.

The Lodge, Lark Lane

As a huge fan of Negresco on Lark Lane, I was more than disappointed to see that it had undergone a refurbishment, and was now named "The Lodge".  The exterior seemed to have none of it's former Gothic charm, but still, I thought I would give it a go.  Once inside, however, I realised that some of the artwork and furniture were the same as before, but some had changed for the better, giving a lighter and more welcoming atmosphere.

There are a range of world beers available, and a menu offering a variety of meals and snacks, with a good vegetarian selection.  Since it was a Sunday, I ordered a vegetarian roast dinner, and a chicken roast for my partner.   The food was wonderful, with a real home cooked feeling, as opposed to the frozen roast potatoes that are becoming more and more common when ordering pub food.  The staff were really friendly, and the atmosphere was welcoming and relaxed, with a nice mix of indie, rock and classic pop music playing.  Many people were dining with their families, and high chairs are available for babies.

The beer garden is a wonderful addition,  and is a lovely place to sit and enjoy the weather.  It has a  feeling of bringing the indoors outside, which really adds to the cool, laid back vibe.  As for value for money, I would say that it's a little more pricey than some other pubs offering Sunday lunch, at £20 for two roast dinners and two half glasses of beer, but I would still highly recommend visiting The Lodge - you will not be disappointed.