I'm back. Again.

Hi guys!

Wowza. I haven't done this for ages. I was at that point where I felt I'd been gone so long that I couldn't return. But then I realised that no one really reads this and I just felt it would be a shame to abandon ship. Even without anyone really reading I still get great joy from writing and just documenting my mundane life.

I have been through many mascaras and foundation since I last wrote and I've kind of lost track of where I am....I will try not to repeat myself, but please find room in your heart to forgive me if I do duplicate items.

I guess this is a random update for now - erm.......

Life - I've mentioned previously (I think?) that my baby brother is getting married. In January I was hauling flip flops and sunglasses and in real life people my friends and family thought I was a bit over eager, but I'm so glad I started early.  Considering my small budget and suitcase weight allowance I now have a decent amount of stuff. And as a plus size fussy woman starting early was the smartest thing I could do. Truth be told most of my stuff were purchased winter/spring time. By the time summer  rolled around all the stuff I wanted were either sold out or no longer available. Have purchased (and returned!) about £400 worth of swimwear. But I think those woes deserve a post of their own! So....wedding is in November. Not too long to go really. Excited. Nervous. All sorts. And that is about it for life - everything else is the same. Still kpop crazy. Same job. Blah blah blah

As Arnie said, I'll be back!

Wait for me!

Xoxo

Haul - Nike triple black Huarache

So....this happened.

I got myself a pair of Nike triple black Huaraches.

I went to bed at 7pm the night before and I queued outside of Footlocker for these like the proper hoodrat I am.

The triple black are difficult to photograph but to be honest you're not missing much. Ugly is all part of the charm ;)

These only come in Men's and you have to get a size up so I got a UK 7 and 7.5 but wearing the 7.5.
7 are fine fit wise but getting them on and off were a b*tch. 

Gangsta swag means pairing my Huarache's with frilly ankle socks :)

I love these so much. I admit it is the exclusiveness of them that I love so much and the all black.
They are really comfortable and once you get the hang of getting them on and off they are a dream.

They are a bit...delicate? Not delicate, but all those plasticy bits make me worry and they are known for snapping. So I am still on the hunt for a pair of throw on trainers. Actually, not sure what I need trainers for a part from posing.

But anyway! I am a sheep and I am happy :)

Haul - sunglasses and flip flops

Hi Guys!

A slightly weird haul for February (it has snowed a whole 0.00001mm in London!) but hey, I need this stuff, so why not just get it now? (I was surprised that they were even selling this stuff already, but lucky me!).

I've picked up two pairs of cheap and cheerful sunglasss - £2 each!!!

One pair are matt black plastic with silver legs and are actually really nice on (if I don't say so myself).
The other pair have a (leopard?) print and are "fun". I dunno. At £2 I  can afford to have some fun right?

I also got a hot pink case and I was plesantly surprised when I realised I can fit both pair of sunglasses in one case. I can't remember the price....between £2-3.

I also got some sandals.

The nude and diamante pair (left pic) were £4 and they are my emergency beach wedding shoes. Uber tacky, blingy and girly but for a wedding situation I think it will go with my outfit. (I still plan to wear heels but thought I should prepare a back up).

The other pair were £6 and look much cooler on when hanging up in store. (There were a black pair but sadly not in my size - sad times.) The colour IRL are a reddy orange, will look amazing in the sunshine. Not even sure if these will make it to Thailand/Phillippines but even in London with my all black summer outfit - I can't wait :)

G L A M O U R

Can't do a summer holiday without some flipflops!

The black pair were £1 - yes £1 and the leopard print pair were £1.50...or maybe £2? The plan is to take them away and then leave them behind (to make room in my suitcase for all the crap I'll be bringing back).

So that's my little summer haul. I feel good starting early and having some basics in my suitcase.

Anyone else buying flip flops and sunglasses but wearing ear muffs and snowboots? xoxo

Mascara review - Bourjois Volume Clubbing Ultra Black Mascara (waterproof)

Hi Guys!

Another review of a brilliant Bourjois product - Bourjois Volume Clubbing Ultra Black Mascara (~i waterproof of course).

Got this from Boots for £7.99 and as the name would suggest, it is a black waterproof mascara that gives volume.

Once upon a time I already tried a very similar mascara from the same range and I loved it (something about it being great for foam parties?!) so when I saw this I knew it would be great - and I was right.

Firstly, not sure about waterproof, I didn't get to stand under a waterfall (or attend a crazy foam party) but it took me through many sweaty tube journeys and a few crying sessions without smudging or running so bravo.

The brush is substantial in size - not those massive things bigger than my eye, but nice and chunky. Short dense hairs but they didn't go all round the wand (tried to capture that in the photo but it's just black on black so....fail). Deposited a healthy amount of mascara on my short stubby lashes and definitely made them more voluminous.

As the product dried out slightly (I love a dry formula) the volume only got more intense. Admittedly, I am at the stage where my lashes are starting to clump together and I can't really see through them anymore (I know. Skank), so now I like to use this in conjunction with a lengthening/thinner mascara. BAM!

Love this and would recommend if you like a thick and slightly clumpy lash - hhhmmm that doesn't make it sound to great but it is exactly what I like in a mascara and I know I am not alone!

xoxo

Foundation review - Bourjois Healthy Mix

Hi guys,

I am here today with my thoughts on the oh-so popular Bourjois Healthy Mix foundation.

Let me start by saying that I resisted the hype for ages - the other reviews were so positive I assumed it had to all be lies. How could nearly everyone love this product so much? It honestly made me suspicious and admittedly I've never seriously considered Bourjois as a make up brand I could use on my face so I was just full of negativeness and resistance.

Well well well, I eat my words and negative thoughts. This is good stuff. Good like, the photo is an image of my second bottle!! Now, anytime an item is repurchased is proof enough that it is great, and when a blogger  repurchases (ok, no one read mine but I do like to try new stuff even if it means having to move away from a great product) that is the ultimate sign of greatness.

I got this from Boots and it's around £9.99 (and it is on promotion right now, buy one Bourjois product and get the second one 1/2 price - just saying!). I got the shade 54 - beige (both times).

Healthy Mix gives a great finish - light but with medium coverage and it fades down evenly so you're not left looking dry and patchy. The bottle says something about 16hours - that is a lie, but it does last around 7 hours so enough to get you through most of the working day. I just touch up my blemishes.red areas before I go home per usual.

It is really easy to work with and blend out - it isn't overly liquidy but it isn't too thick either. If you were new to applying foundation this would be a good place to start as it's consistency does give you plenty of time to work with.

The reason why I said at the beginning that I didn't consider Bourjois as a brand for me* is because I was worried they're face products would break me out. I have no idea why I thought like this, but I did. My lost! I am pleased to report that after two bottles this did not cause me any redness or break outs so bravo Bourjois.

(*That being said, regular readers will know that I absolutely love love love their mascaras! And my mum seems to love the and brand  has gifted me with a few blush pot things (not a love) and a few eye shadow palettes - massive love!)

Anyway, let's talk about the shade. This is extremely subjective but a) not impressed with the shade range generally - naughty naughty bourjois!) shade 54 is probably a smidgen smidgen smidgen bit too light for me but nothing noticeable. Let's be realistic, I always have this problem and for a tenner I'm not too bothered at all.

I usually end with - would I recommend/repurchase and I think it is quite obviously that I would say YES and YES!

I won't repurchase a 3rd bottle just because I do need to eventually move on and try new stuff, but I admit I am already sad about having to move on. Bourjois Healthy Mix - you made me eat my words, but you have proved trusty and true!

Honestly, if you are looking for a new everyday foundation to try out - try this!!

xoxo

Product review - Neutrogena PureGlow daily cleansing cushions

Hi everyone :)

While I was babysitting my mum's house I came across this interesting box of goodies - Neutrogena PureGlow daily cleansing cushions. I've tried to look these up online but not with much luck. I think they retail around the £5/under mark (22 cushions in a box).

These cleansing cushions are basically one smooth (I say smooth, but really it has little tiny bumps on it, rougher than a cotton pad) and one ridged/ textured(?) cotton pads stuck together with room to put two fingers into - like cleansing cushion finger gloves?!

You slightly dampened the cushion and gently scrub your face (I like circular motions). The cushions release a creamy lather and cleanse and gently exfoliate. I must say they were really nice to use. Left my skin feeling clean, fresh and not dry. 

I went round my face once with the stripey/textured side and then again with the smooth side. 

These are probably gently to use everyday but I just used it 3 times in the week I was there. No problems with it at all, it was particularly satisfying around the nose area!

Even if these were readily available I am not sure if they are worth £5 as you could easily recreate the effectiveness yourself, but if it was 2 boxes for £5 I may reconsider for the convenience and  novelty. They'd also be a handy product to take on a trip.

Have you tried this product before? Do you know of anything similar I could try?

xoxo

Hello 2015

Hello Hello!

Happy New Year everyone!

It is nearly the end of January so I thought I'd better show my face now rather than later.

I hope everyone has been well and that 2015 is already proving to be fabulous.

I did have a few posts to go out but I didn't think it'd be 'right' to post without acknowledging the new year.

Resolutions and stuff aren't really my thing. I'm a simple girl with simple life goals. Survive the day; go to bed; wake up; repeat. Same set of goals every year and I must say, I'm doing ok!!!

This year, I do feel a teeny tiny bit different. This year, my baby brother is getting married. Married. My baby giant head smelly brother is getting married. Like, WTF?!

I'm probably not feeling the type of 'different' you are thinking of. The fact that as of last month I cannot tick the 25-29 box doesn't bother me, and the fact that baby bro is getting married before me doesn't bother me either because I've never wanted to get married, but it is the wedding stuff that has me coming out/needing to come out of my blanket fort of solitude and get my shit together.

The wedding is towards the end of 2015 (there will be a dress haul coming your way very soon - yes of course I've already started to purchase my outfits!) and it will involve me being in the Philippines and Thailand.

So, with all the travelling, sun, sand and anti-fat people, I am feeling a bit...apprehensive? Shit scared? What am I going to wear? I got sunburn in Kent last July and am still suffering from it in Janaury, will I die on the island resort?!

Ok. Deep breaths people.This was only suppose to be a Hello 2015 type post and I've started to spiral into the depth of hells.

So, the positive stuff is someone (kinda amazing)~ loves my baby bro, and I have a ton of brand new holiday clothes already. Holiday purchases are like free dinners - they don't really count. Not a sentiment my credit card or waist line agree with but YOLO!!!

Anyways, I will post my important mascara and foundation posts now :)

Takecare everyone. xoxo

Happy New Year!

Product review - Botanics' cleansing cream and toner

Hi Guys!

Last month I was at my mum's house for a few days and instead of taking all my skincare products with me I decided that I would use whatever she had. Spoiler alert - I regret not taking my products with me.

I didn't take into account that she would have taken her favourite products away with her (the family were on holiday and I was technically squatting, but I see it as housesitting without permission) and so I was left with randoms on the beauty shelf.

Botanics:

The Botanics range is exclusive to Boots and I've always been meaning to try out thir products, as they are marketed as "natural and organic" and come at an affordable price point. Today I'll be discussing the "all brightening" gentle cleansing cream and the cleansing toner. Both were £3.99 each (and on offer for £1.99 each omg!!!)

There are products for different skin types: normal, combo, dry, senstive, oily, and aging.

First off, I must say, I really like the packaging. I just really like how clean and simple the bottles are. Some beauty products come in fancy packaging that is not always practical. My hands are wet, I've got soap suds in my eyes, I ain't got no time for some rocket science lid contraption. Give a girl a break!

Cleanser:

The cleanser was....blah. Ironically, nothing to write home about. Personally, I would not be able to use this on a daily basis, it would take years to remove my make up. To be fair, my make up does need industrial strength stuff to budge and I never have hope that this type of cream cleanser would do me any favours.

But - it was gentle, my sensitive skin did not feel like it was burning, and it did not sting my eyes. It was really refreshing on my skin and I can imagine for someone would wore no/minimum make up that this would do a decent job. 

[Big up my photography skills!]

Toner:

Toners are weird.

I guess toners are one of those products that you need to use for a while to see its outcomes. This toner was nice and refreshing and like the cleansing cream, there was no burning sensation. Was that the most useless sentence I've ever written? Probably not, but it makes the top 100 I'm sure!

So?

I won't be purchasing the cleansing cream and toner for myself, but I am interested to try out other products in the Botanics range.

Have you tried anything from Botanics before? Anything that you think I must try?

I'm really interested in the "super balm", for elbows, lips, hands, everwhere else. I love a multi purpose product.
Of course I will let you know if I give it a go :)

Hugs xoxo

Hair products I'm currently using

Hi guys!

Since going AWOL in June I've had a slight change up in the hair products I am using. Just change for the sake of change. Here are my thoughts :)

I always need some sort of hair serum or oil to be able to comb through my wet hair. I am currently using got2b's "oil-licious" styling oil. Despite the cringey name, this is a decent product. I do really like got2b/Schwarzkopf  products. This hair oil (gifted by mummy so not sure how much it was but goggle would suggest around the £4 mark)does the job well without being too oily. Initially I was using one pump but even if I get too excited and use 2 pumps my hair is still manageable and doesn't feel overloaded with crap.

I don't often use these types of products through my hair when it is dry, but on the few occassions that I have, again, it doesn't leave my hair looking overly oily. (If I do use this on dry hair, I go for not even one pump...teeny tiny is the way to go.)

Next up we have a product that I never thought I'd be writing about on this blog - hair mousse!

The last time I used hair mousse I would have been in secondary school #90skid Wow. Seriously though, hair mousse and gel were the way forward 15 years ago (omg I am old whaaaaaaaat) and everytime I think of hair mousse the word that springs to mind is "crispy". Second word would be, "crunchy". Third word, "no".

But then I heard whispers that hair mousse in the 00's (is that what we call it? I'm confused. The 2000's?) was no longer about crispy and crunchy and so I thought, let me be the brave warrior I am and give it a go.

V05 is often on 2 for £5 in superdrugs so I picked up this Plump it up mousse with my usual heat defense spray. The heat defense spray long finished before I worked up the guts to use the mousse.

I imagined that the first day would be ok but I was more fearful of day 2 hair.

So?
I like it. A lot.

I won't say I love it because I don't use it after every wash but I do reach for it often. This doesn't give me a ton of volume but maybe it poofs me up a bit. but I do like the overall extra control it has on my hair without weighing it down or looking greasy. And when I wake up the day after, my hair isn't much worse than it would normally be (I'm also a bit oily at the roots on day 2 no matter what).

Mousse in general - I will definitely be buying more mousse products in the future. Yay mousse. 

Superdrug has a new (?) own brand hair styling product line out.

I decided that you couldn't go wrong with a 2 for £4 offer so I got two heat defense sprays.

To be fair, I am no expert,  I just assume it is trying its best to defend my hair from heat damage and aside from that, it doesn't do much else.

I am never too sure if this is the sort of product that is better the more money you spend on it.
If you read my blog you will know that I am no brand/product snob, but I know for sure that the more you spend on washing up liquid, hairspray and mayonnaise, the better. I am happy buying a ton of stuff from the 99p store, but when it comes to the aforementione products, it has got to be Fairy, Elnett and Heinz. Heat defense spray? I dunno.

My heart kinda tells me I don't like this particular product. It stings my scalp, but so does Bumble & Bumbles thickening spray and I'm on my second (makes me wanna die expensive) bottle (thanks V!).

I just don't like it. I can't put it into words. (Shit blogger).

On that note, can any recommend me some heat defense sprays and mousse (volume) please?

Thank you for reading xoxo

Primark haul - Sweater season

Hi Guys!

It is so cold these days bbbbbrrrrr so I've stocked up on some new jumpers to keep me snuggly and warm.

I've only become into wearing jumpers since last year. Previous to that I just felt, honestly, too chunky to be wearing jumpers. I'm bulky enough and I didn't see the point of adding on more bulk.

But then last year I just....I dunno....accepted my bulk and welcomed jumpers into my life! And this year, with the addition of having to actually travel to work beyond 10 minutes I actually need the extra layers for practical reasons (I can be practical at times!).

Everything is from Primark. 

[£14]
This chunky jumper is a mix off creams and greys. It fits quite boxy but is by no means cropped. It gives off quite a boyfriend vibe with the wide contrast neck line. Absolutely love it. It does get a bit fluff central and leaves my office chair and  black skinnies slightly fluffy but nothing I can't live with. One thing to note is that the washing instructions says to cool wash it....which may or may not matter to you. 

[£14]

Leopard print. Nuff said.

This feels like heaven. It is so soft and fluffy. It is not as thick as the previous jumper, and it isn't very flattering but it was too cute to not buy. 

[£10]

This is the typical fluffy jumper that was all the rage since last A/W. TBH I am going to return this because the colour looks absolutely hideous on me. I look like a fluffy washed out pig. They do sell this in black but my size is never in stock. I will persevere cos I'm dedicated innit. 

[£6]

I know. I know what you are thinking.

Double chin. Triple chin. Roll neck. Really?

Yes really. As I mentioned previously, sometimes I can be practical.

I've been sick a lot since starting my new job (Hello public transport germs!) and sometimes you gotta keep, not just the chest region warm but also the neck.

This is a wardrobe essential and I shall be busting it out and probably layering it under another jumper when it is snowing and shizz. I'll be in so many layers and scarves that noone will be noticing my chins. And to be fair, my chins are there with or without the rollneck anyway.

(Also note, if you have less chins than me, this would look very stylish and it is only £6!)

[£14]

Neon yellow jumper.

Goodbye comfort zone!

I love this. It is chunky and slightly boxy. I could have gone a size smaller but the oversized look really suits the style and colour. It is neon yellow for god's sake. I took, "go big, or go home" quite literally.

This isn't everyone's cup of tea (no shit sherlock) but hey, if it garners too much hated I can always wear it around Penny Palace. Ain't no one gonna stop this star from shining!

OMG this jumper just makes me all happy and weird.

The only downside is styling it is tough. Pretty limited with which outwear and accessories I can wear it with.
But I don't mind a  challenge. 

[£14]

This is the jumper I am wearing in the first photo.

I love this jumper. This is my favourite one.

It is oversized, long (more than covers my bum) and it has slightly batwing thing going on and the sleeves are bracelet length (my absolute fav sleeve length - cos I'm the sort of person who has a sleeve length favourite).

The neutral beige is just sexy. Yes, beige is sexy. 

And I saved the best til last!

Oh come on. Just cos I've purchased a few non-black items doesn't mean I've gone bat shit cray.

But seriously, if you want a pastel unicorn rainbow jumper, go to Primark. The jumper feels like clouds.



Hope you have enjoyed my sweater haul :)
Are you guys all warm and snuggly?
Keep healthy xoxo

Mascara review - Maybelline The Falsies Volum' Express waterproof mascara

Hi Guys!

I've been meaning to try Maybelline The Falsies for absolutely ages and have just finished a tube, and here is what I think:

I don't know.

I don't know what I think.

I wanted this because the blogger reviews loved it and it was often touted as a god send for mono-lidders such as myself. And the fact that every time I looked for it in the shops and it was sold out made me want it even more.

When I first used this - I HATED IT!! I just did not get along with it at all. The formula was too wet and it hardly gave me anything - let alone the 300% more visible lashes it claims. And I didn't enjoy the spoon brush thing. I think my mascara reviews must make everyone think I am an idiot because I also struggle with any brush that isn't a traditional Christmas tree brush (you know what I'm saying!) but seriously, the 'spoon' to me was useless. So I angrily used this up. I think that this was particularly disappointing after Loreal's excess volume million lashes, which was really good (I reviewed it here: http://onepennye.blogspot.co.uk/2014/03/review-loreal-volume-million-lashes.html#links).

PLOT TWIST!

But then!!!!! - So I've mentioned before that I like to keep a bunch of mascaras on the go at once, and so I kept this one around even after I moved onto my next one (review to follow - teaser - I'm clubbing with Bourjois again...). Erm, once the Falsies was all dried out and slightly manky I have fallen in love with it! Maybe it is the spoon brush design that I said I hated but after I mascara up my lashes (with whatever), I like to comb the Falsie wand over my lashes and they really do give them a nice fanned out look!

This is why  I am so confused! I would not repurchase it as a new tube because it did absolutely nothing for my stubby lashes, but I am definitely keeping my manky used up tube forever. Maybe I should wash out the tube or something?

Have you tried this? Am I being foolish? Should I get another tube and give it another chance?

xoxo

Penny loves Pumpkin

Hi Guys!

This is just a random post but I'm feeling all type type type so here I am :) I've missed so many days with y'all! I can't believe I missed the whole of Summer and most of Autumn! Just going to update you on random bits of my amazingly boring life.

 I celebrated 100 days and 200 days at my 'new' job already.

My hair has grown out a bit (as you can see in the pic?). I'm on my way to missing two haircuts but that is due to a lack of time and not avoiding the hairdresser....not consciously anyway....I'm not too sure....

I am currently on Day 6 of Operation No Eyeliner. Which is me attempting to wear less eyeliner (because a naked eye isn't going to happen.) My mum says the amount I wear on a daily basis isn't 'appropriate'. It isn't the first time it's been mentioned but I decided to take it on board this time round. It makes getting ready in the morning quicker but I feel really exposed and fugly. Lets see how long I can keep this up for!

I'm conflicted over my eyebrow situation. I'm still growing them out but I'm bored.....I dunno.
 Brow routine post to come soon  ;)

As always, I'm loving A/W fashion. Breaking my coat/shoe ban last year has been an exhilarating experience. I think I might need to reinstate the ban in 2015. Penny Palace is not coping with the amount of stuff! I have also discovered jumpersh this year. I'll be sharing my Primark sweater season haul with you soon :)

I am in love with pumpkin.

I made my first ever pumpkin pie, inspired by my first ever pie at L's house many moons ago. Good stuff!

I had my first ever pumpkin spice late #psl from Starbucks with V and it was......ok. I prefer pie!

But then I discovered pumpkin spice frappucino with my mum and I love it. Sweetness and spice and all things nice mmmmmmmm

And that is it. Eyeliner, eyebrows, some clothes, coffee and some pie. My life!

xoxo

Foundation Review - Maybelline SuperStay Better Skin Foundation

Hi Guys :)

Here are my thoughts on Maybelline's SuperStay Better Skin Foundation.

Readily available in drugstores and costs around £8.99 for 30ml.

Previous to this I was using Loreal's Infalliable 24h foundation (which I have reviewed).

I chose Better Skin as my next foundation as it claims to be long lasting and seemed a decent consistency when I swatched it in store. With regards to the Better Skin claims - let us all be realistic here - who would actually believe that claim? If there was a foundation which could actually physically make your skin better, do you think it would come from Maybelline (no offense!) and be sold for under a tenner? Spoiler alert - no, my skin did not miraculously

Colour wise - as always with a drugstore foundation, colour matching is a tough job. I went for the shade SAND. This shade was a bit too light on me but the shade darker was too orange. It was not too bad with a smidge of bronzer dusted all over my face.

When I first used this I was really impressed. It blended in well - was not too thick or too wet and worked well with my Real Technique's expert face brush. It also lasted a decent amount of time. It isn't what I would call heavy duty but this medium coverage foundation definitely saw me through 8ish hours. And importantly, it wore off very evenly so I was not left patchy.

I was not too keen on the finish - it is suppose to give you a flawless finish but I found it a bit too...flat? To be fair, this could be because the shade was too light but I felt slightly grandma at times. On the other hand it did cover my blemishes and my redness well, but at times it could gather a bit on dryer areas of the face. (That bit between my eyebrows can get a bit dry for some reason...just me?)

So.........I would say this is a decent everyday foundation. It isn't one I'd grab for an important occasion where I need to be looking damn fine, but for going to and from work it does the job. Wouldn't repurchase it just because it is a bit blah. No wow.

Have you used this? What do you think?

xoxo

(Side note - Hello! OMG! So I said I would be back and I am here so yay? But absolutely gutted/p*ssed off cos during my absense I was taking a ton of product and swatch pics and then when I upgraded to IOS 8 (or whatever) I lost all my shizz. And I did back up and transfer my pics prior to the update but..........no pics. I don't know where da fuq my pics are but rather than dwell too much I've tried my best to retake some sort of blog pics. So apologies in advance for all the dutty and half used product pics coming your way. This is real life dude! ..........Kisses x)

YESvember slash Me Time Tag

Hello!

Erm. Apologies. Sincere apologies.

Wow, November already huh? How did that happen?

I don't want to make promises about my 'return' but at the same time, typing out my intentions (should) helps me to actually do stuff.....so NOvember is now YESvember for me.

YOU CAN DO IT, PUT YOUR BACK INTO IT!

I'm already feeling uber awkward here so I'm just going to jump straight back on the horse (is that the right saying?) and ease myself in with a tag.

I'm going to do essiebutton's and amelialiana's ME TIME TAG. Seems appropriate since I've taken a few months of me time!

What do you watch or read during Me Time?

I am slightly (extremely) embarassed to admit that I am reading a ton of kpop fanfiction. I won't even pretend to remember the last time I read an actual book. I am addicted to fanfiction. And even though it is mainly written by 13 year olds, I'm ok with that. It's a guilty pleasure and it is 'me time' so me will do what me wanna do innit!

My mind has been all over the place recently I've not really been watching anything. I can barely get through a youtube make up tutorial these days but I am hoping that this month I'll be getting my shiz together and doing important stuff that I've been neglecting - like watching vanity tours, October favs and A/W lookbooks. Don't worry people, I know what is important in life.

What do I wear during Me Time?

Wow this got personal quick! ;) Let us be real. Me Time means my nightie and maybe socks if I am feeling fancy. I don't believe in getting dressed unless I have to go somewhere or see people.

I do often think about buying fancy houseclothes (you know what I'm talking about), but then once I fill up an asos shopping basket I realise I could be spending money on real clothes instead and so that virtual basket always ends up dumped.

What are your Me Time beauty products?

It is a miracle if I brush my teeth during Me Time. But Me Time is about comfort, relaxation and replenishing oneself - so beauty products that might be utilised in this time would be coconut oil for my hair, Clinique Moisture Surge for my dry face, sudocreme for my spotty face, and lip scrub for my lips (duh).

Current favourite nail polish?

Ciate's Pocket Money, Nails Inc's Caramel and any burgundy/deep red. It is obviously A/W on my fingers!

What do you eat/drink during Me Time?

Chocolate coffee = big mug, 3 spoons of chocoalte, 2ish of coffee, 0-4 spoons of sugar, dash of hazelnut/caramel syrup (if you don't know you better get to know!), a lot of hot milk and some boiling water. It makes my heart hurt sometimes, but it is goooooooood.

I love crisps. ("I love blinking, I do.")

Current favourite candle?

Ikea's ice cream candle. Sickly sickly sweet but I can't smell it all that often so I love getting a random whiff of that sugary goodness.

Do you ever have outdoor Me Time?

NO WAY. That is an oxymoron IMO. To be outside I'd assume I'd be dressed and made up, that in itself means the situation isn't aMe Time situation. If I hear or make eye contact with another human being then that is definitely not Me Time.

Would you ever go to see a movie alone?

A part from the fact that the idea of a cinema to me is a nightmare even with a chaperone, I couldn't imagine wanting to go by myself. I guess on a less neurotic and more practical level I equate the cinema as a social activity? Something to be done with at least one other person. I couldn't imagine getting ready, travelling, paying for drinks and popcorn, paying for the movie, and then to sit there for 2 hours. And then travel home alone with no one to discuss the overpriced movie with. Maybe if this whole scenario was paid for I'd go alone....but I wouldn't count it as Me Time though.

Favourite online shop?

There are online shops I like because I know I want something from there particular, but there are some online shops that are designed so well that they are just great for browsing (as well as shopping).

I love eBay. I love searching for crap.

Asos is a brilliant website. It is so user friendly and makes virtual window shopping fun.

Anything to add?

To me, Me Time is a time to just concentrate on being me and doing nothing. That is the dream.

And that's me done :)

As always, I tag anyone reading this.

It has felt good to get typing again. I will try my best guys!

Massive hugs xoxo

Primark shoe haul

Hi Guys!

Sorry I went awol. June has been a bit intense. I will resume my two posts a week in July.

Lets keep things nice and light with a shoe haul post :)

I've gone a bit crazy with shoes lately.

These are three really simple basic pairs that form a great base for everyday outfits.

In typical Penny fashion I have a pair of double ankle strap pointed cut out shoes in black and in white. Really 'on trend' urgh but classic at the same time. These are great to commute in as they are flat and easy to walk in, and the straps keeps them on my feet when I'm running for the bus.  They were from Primark and really sorry can't remember the price - either £8 or £10.

One con - my ankles are totally bruised. And sometimes bleeding (sorry!). But to be fair that's probably cos I have fat ankles. 

These are my £3 loves! Three bloody pounds!!!!!!

You might remember my bad Converse experience and ever since selling them I've still been on the hunt for a simple pair of white lace ups. And I think I've found them. Like the Converse they don't fit very well, but at £3 a bit of shuffling is totally acceptable. Really thin sole and moderately low cut - looks great with skinny jeans et all. Really happy :)

Mini drugstore haul + Loreal Infallible 24h foundation review

Hi Guys!

Picked up some stuff at Boots and Superdrug the other day.

First up is the Real Techniques Expert Face Brush - if you tink you've seen this here before you are right. This is my second brush. I loved it so much that I had to get another one. I use this every day to apply my foundation. I love how dense it is and its so easy to use. It washes beautifully. I keep one on my vanity and one in my handbag. (rrp £9.99 but I got mine as part of Boots 3 for 2 promo).

At the moment I'm using Loreal's True Match and since it hasn't broke me out I thought I'd give another Loreal foundation a go.

In all honesty I meant to pick up Infallible 16h but picked up Infallible 24h instead but its all god in the hood. I got mine in shade 140, Golden Beige.

RRP around £9.99 but again, mine was part of the 3 for 2 promo (third and free item is not shown here...picked up Falsies mascara, review to come once I use it!)

Back to the foundation:

It's slighty thicker than True Match and I much prefer this consistency. It's a medium to full coverage I say and it blends really well. It looks great on my skin when 'i first put it on: not cakey, not too matte but not shiny.

However, considering its called Infallible 24h I'm not too impressed with its staying power. The positive point is that it fades well and isn't patchy, but the negative point is that it wears off toooooo quickly. The (slightly) warmer weather probably isn't helping but  this stuff just vanishes off my face I feel.

I like this and don't regret giving it a go but definitely won't be repurchasing this. If you are less sweaty/oily maybe this will work for you?

On that note, would anyone recommend I still try Infallbile 16h? 

Random purchase but it was on clearance for £1.75 at Superdrugs. If you can still get your hands on this I would definitely recommend this night cream.

I have used Superdrug's Optimum line before and its so so but this Line Decrease night cream is like heaven. So smooth on the skin and leaves my face feeling plump and hydrated when I wake up.

Due to the clearance price I assume they are discontinuing this product and I can't imagine why. I wish I had picked up more when I had the chance!

New hair - another haircut

Hi Guys!

Didn't think I'd be posting anything like this again so soon but last month (end of April) I had another haircut!

It doesn't really translate in pictures but it is short.

I kinda hate it. I kinda really hate it. My dad keeps calling me Auntie and finds it hilarious :(  It doesn't suit my face shape or hair type and funnily enough, this length is really high maintenance.

It gets greasy soooooo quick and needs a lot of straightening. I can't do anything with it a part from have it down. Even when I'm at home I can only top knot the top part. I have to sleep with it out which I hate, but the only way I can tie it all up is by the nape of my neck which then means my stubby ponytail digs into the back of my head when I sleep.

But I'm happy I did this because......it made me feel a bit adventurous. I've been literally wrapped in my comfort blanket of hair for so long, it feels really refreshing to throw that blanket off and face the world.

And of course, hair grows. And mine is growing at a good rate so hopefully by June it'll be nearer to shoulder length and a bit more flattering.

(On a side note - my hair stylist was really impressed with my home dye job!)

Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water

Hello!

So you may have had the pleasure of reading my previous slightly negative and ranty post regarding the Garnier express 2 in 1 make up remover. I was not a happy bunny.

During that Boot haul I also picked up Garnier's version of Micellar Cleansing Water.

I'm sure if you're reading this you know the deal with Micellar cleaning water, and the love affair people are having with the more pricier stuff such as Bioderma.

My mum uses Bioderma and loves it. She's on her third bottle. Well, I decided to dip my toe into the water and get Garnier's offering since it was on a promotion (maybe around £3 price point?)

To be honest, the concept did not appeal to me because realistically, I know my face and my make up and I know that anything so water like isn't going to work for me, and basically I was right.

I'm not going to moan and rant like my last post because saying Micellar Cleansing water is too water like is like saying a creme egg is too sweet. Its suppose to be sweet you idiot. If you don't like sweet, don't eat a creme egg. And if you wear a shovel full of make up, maybe find a different cleansing routine?

If I was wearing a foundation like Doublewear I wouldn't even bother looking in the direction of this, but sometimes I'll use it on a normal foundation day as a last cleanse, or over the weekend when I'm make up free.

Sorry that this 'review' is even more useless than normal but I just wanted to put in my 2 cents.

Are you a fan of micellar cleansing water? Do you use this to remove a full face of make up?  Does it work for you?

Garnier Express 2 in 1 Eye Make-up Remover

Hi Guys!

As you may now I am in love with Garnier's 2 in 1 make up remover (the light blue one) - I swear by it and have been through more than 10 bottles of the stuff. That being said, I do get tempted by all these other stuff promising me heaven and earth.

So I decided to take the plunge and pick up this purple thing. Promises to remove all make up, even waterproof.

LIES LIES LIES!!!

Maybe if you wear the minimum of eye make up this will work for you.

But I do not wear the minimum of eye make up. I wear the equivalent of concrete on my eyes and this does not work for me. I paid for it so of course I used it all up but every time was a struggle and filled me with unhappiness.

No rubbing required? Really? Really? NO! I had to use about 6 cotton pads and rub rub and I still had eye make up residue :(

Gentle on the eyes? Thankfully, yes it was gentle. Which isn't a  surprise, since it did nothing for me it would have been more of a shock if it had stung. That would have been the ultimate insult to my make up removing routine.

Protect eyelashes? Maybe they mean this is due to the gentleness of the formula - been since it took so much effort i did lose many an eyelash in this battle.

RRP £3.49 I got mine during a promo so paid around £2. What a waste of £2. Seriously.

So.....would I recommend this?

LMFAO

Get loss!