tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1262742967221362902024-03-05T04:11:11.185+00:00life & lumesLife and Lumeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04520756125753590023noreply@blogger.comBlogger113125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-126274296722136290.post-47276620383088486462019-02-25T07:30:00.000+00:002019-02-25T07:30:06.448+00:00How To Find A Hobby<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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How did you spend your weekend? If the answer leaves you feeling unfulfilled, don't worry. You are definitely not the only person on the planet who either doesn't have a hobby or wouldn't even know where to begin to find one. I didn't find mine until I was well into my late 20s and even then I'd have been hard pressed to call it a proper hobby. More like a distraction/obsession/thing to do.<br />
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Healthy hobbies usually tend to have a lot of the same themes - they fill your heart, your mind and your time. Hobbies are things you do not because you have to but because you want to and if you play your cards right, they'll get you out of bed when nothing else will. Plus you don't even have to be good at a hobby to do it. Learning can totally be part of the journey and for some is what is missing from our day to day lives.<br />
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I found all of this in <a href="http://www.instagram.com/lumeelumes" target="_blank">photography</a> after a particularly crappy breakup that was both utterly devastating and yet immensely liberating all at the same time. The rush of creativity that came at me once the gross fog cleared and I got my headspace back was life changing. If you love photography and would like to see more of that type of content, say the word folks. I can chat for days about it! :)<br />
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Now, hopefully it won't take a life changing event for you to find whatever brings you joy so here are a few tips that might help you along the way along with some examples from my experience to get you started.<br />
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<li><b>Think about the last day/week/month/year. When were you happiest and why?</b></li>
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<li>I was happiest when I was imagining making something beautiful. Anything.</li>
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<li><b>What are you good at/bad at/aren't good at yet? </b></li>
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<li>I loved beautiful imagery but wasn't great at creating my own - a total aha! learning opportunity</li>
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<li><b>What hobbies do you friends have? Do any of them appeal? There's power in buddying up!</b></li>
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<li>My friends are amazing! They do marathons, triathlons, make music, bake, trade art, pole dance, teach their favourite things, the list goes on. What do yours do?</li>
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<li><b>Think about what you do for work. Are there elements of it you would happily keep doing if money was no object?</b></li>
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<li>I love working with people and making cool things happen together. This was an invaluable for niche-ing (not a word) down my photography. </li>
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<li><b>Imagine you win the lottery and you never have to work again. What would you do on your first work-free Monday morning?</b></li>
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<li>This is actually a tough one when I think about it honestly. I don't do well working without a purpose and all I ever want to do is create so the first Monday morning would probably involve making a plan to do both. </li>
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Ok, your turn! Share your answers below, you really never know who needs to hear you today.</div>
Life and Lumeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04520756125753590023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-126274296722136290.post-18848703295553342052019-02-17T19:44:00.002+00:002019-02-17T19:44:51.442+00:00SOBER<div>
Let's just pretend like this isn't my first post in 3 years agreed? Grand :)</div>
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This year I embarked on dry January. Dry January (for non-UK folks) is the term given to the act of not drinking alcohol for the month of January after what is usually an obscenely boozy Christmas season. </div>
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I'm a quintessential British binge drinker: the odd glass of wine in the week with dinner and a big nights out most weekends. Why would I do this to myself on the coldest, greyest, darkest month of the year you ask? Because I've been making terrible financial decisions and it's time to grow up and ideally save enough money to move house. More on that later.</div>
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January came and went and others went back to the gin and wine while I decided to keep on not drinking. I'd been saving a fortune by avoiding alcohol so wanted to continue for a wee while longer. </div>
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If I'm honest, a part of me was expecting this to be life changing in some way. I thought I'd be a skin glowing waking up early never hungover full of energy incredibly lucid productive unstoppable bundle of better. Here's what's actually been happening. </div>
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<b><u>DATING</u></b></div>
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I'm not sure if you've ever dated sober, I certainly have always had at least one drink in hand during the early stages of dating just to ease through any awkwardness in the interaction. The one date I've had this year so far was with someone who was also dry january-ing (definitely a word). He had just moved into his new own new apartment so we decided (I decided) we should spend the evening furniture shopping at Westfield as our first date. </div>
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I have to say this was a stellar date idea because it helped us both tick off items on our life admin lists. Had we been drinking, we probably would have just sat in a pub chatting away for a few hours. Sober dating is way more fulfilling. Future dates won't be sober necessarily but I'll try to be more productive with time spent with strangers. </div>
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<b><u>HEALTH</u></b></div>
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I have so far managed to avoid catching a cold this year (yes I know the year is new) despite my nearest and dearest succumbing to the sniffles. This could also be down to the vitamin D double dose I started taking earlier this month - who can really say? I guess less time spent in hangover mode means my white blood cells can actually do other jobs around my body ha. </div>
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<b><u>WELLBEING</u></b></div>
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At the start of January, I was drinking mocktails instead of water on nights out so I could still feel like I was a part of things. This was a mistake, sugar hangovers are just as bad as booze hangovers. I've lost no weight because every alcohol calorie I've saved has been swiftly replaced with food. Switching to soda water and fresh lemon in a gin goblet or wine glass (pictured) has been a gamechanger. Tastes gross (like booze) and hydrates so mornings are slick. Also, loads of pubs won't even charge you for it! Winner. </div>
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<b><u>VERDICT</u></b></div>
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It's been nice to not have to plan around hangovers at the weekends. I've spent far less this month by catching my last train home and having the energy to cook more at home. I also used to start nights out with a g&t or a prosecco to shake off my social anxiety. Going without in these circumstances has really been the hardest part of this little experiment. My hope is once I start drinking again (when I finally get the keys to my new home whenever that will be), I'll require way less. </div>
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Yeah, didn't think so either haha.</div>
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What's the longest you've ever gone without your favourite drink? </div>
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I miss wine. Sigh. </div>
Life and Lumeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04520756125753590023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-126274296722136290.post-71074604062372278392016-08-23T17:53:00.000+01:002016-08-23T17:53:01.571+01:00COPENHAGEN EATS: GEIST<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We made the decision to go to Copenhagen and then went to Copenhagen in less that 48 hours so planning and researching restaurants just didn't happen. We left our hostel the first evening we got there and went for a walk in the hopes we'd find a gem. Spoiler alert: we did. It was awesome.<br />
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Geist is again unassuming from the street at the end of an alley way that leads off from Kongens Nytorv, the largest public square in the city. Not that I'm usually drawn to alley ways but Copenhagen is the first city to have so many family friendly treats hidden at the end of them!<br />
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We got really lucky rocking up at peak time Friday night and getting spots. They'd had a cancellation at the sharing table (big sharing table culture in these parts) so we grabbed the free spots on the door.<br />
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I grew up in a big wonderful hungry family and we had to share everything so as an adult, voluntary sharing is a concept that I've had to get my head around. Just as well as sharing plates seem to be all the rage these days. The menu changes every so often as they're all about the fresh produce. We had a little mash, a little pork belly, a little steak, and other nibbly things.<br />
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Yes many of the dishes look...questionable. I'm all for creativity in food as long as it tastes good which all of these did. The pork belly covered in apple chips (last photo) was probably the yummiest. You can't really go wrong. We left full and happy with our impeccable traveller instincts and carried on with our evening. </div>
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Here's what we got up with the rest of our time in <a href="http://lifeandlumes.blogspot.co.uk/2016/05/carrying-on-in-copenhagen.html">Copenhagen</a>.</div>
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xxs</div>
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<br />Life and Lumeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04520756125753590023noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-126274296722136290.post-2486527989499173562016-08-15T21:43:00.001+01:002016-08-15T21:43:00.248+01:00COPENHAGEN EATS: ROYAL SMUSHI CAFE<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Travel is all about new discoveries. Anyone who knows this blog and/or me will know that I like to base most (if not all) of my adulthood learnings on the edible variety. Today's post is no different and will rediefine what you think of when you hear the word smushi (you downright durtty dawgs you!). </div>
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A smushi is a cross between an open faced sandwich and sushi. Delicious utterly beautiful small bites of everything from beef to fish to veg. So satisfying. We had about 4 pieces each with lashings of tea but they also serve alcohol so wine is also acceptable. </div>
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The Royal Smushi Cafe is gorgeous. Imagine a group of resourceful business minded fairies got together and opened up an eatery. Yeah. That. The cafe is located just off one of the main high streets down an alleyway you wouldn't know was there if it wasn't for the inconspicuous signage. </div>
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Oh and did I mention how good the food was? Because it is. Surprisingly so considering its location in the heart of touristville. </div>
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Copenhagen is known for it's awesome food (i.e. Noma and one of my faves Geist, soon to be blogged). The Smushi cafe is no exception. Made to order, so very delicious, gorgeous surroundings. Basically what truck stops would be if fairies were in charge. </div>
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Give me a shout if you make it there!</div>
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xxsLife and Lumeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04520756125753590023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-126274296722136290.post-862211423316024922016-05-05T00:32:00.000+01:002016-08-11T17:12:10.935+01:00CARRYING ON IN COPENHAGEN<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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There's nothing like a shiny new passport to make you want to catch a flight or 20. Surely that's not just me?? I love a bargain and Europe is a veritable haven for quick, cheap flights from our isle to the "mainland". I'd heard so much about Copenhagen from various friends who'd been and loved it that when my buddy Reese asked if we could go away for a weekend, I had to make it our destination.<br />
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It did not disappoint. As we were short on time, we booked ourselves onto a canal tour - still the best way I've found of seeing the most things in the shortest space of time. You also get a wee history lesson thrown in too which is a double bonus.<br />
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It's a beautiful city full of beautiful very friendly Nordic people. I must say though, the lack of diversity was a little jarring especially when you live somewhere as multicultural as London but my Taiwanese/German buddy and I were told our English was more "offensive" to the small minority of drunken rowdy troublemaking locals than the color of our skin so...make of that what you will.<br />
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<b>WHERE DID WE STAY</b><br />
The Generator Hostel, location was excellent and our private twin ensuite room was clean and in very good repair. Can't speak for the shared dorms but our room was great. Highly reccommend it, it's a gorgeous hostel! Very pricey but the cheapest in Copenhagen by a mile.<br />
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<b>TIP</b>: Avoid the meatballs from the inhouse cafe. They're mostly spongey bready rusk at real meat prices.<br />
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<b>WHO DID WE FLY</b><br />
We flew Ryanair from <strike>hell on Earth</strike> Luton airport and Norwegian Air back to Gatwick. Norwegian's plane was pristine and brand shiny new, very comfortable, a rather pleasant suprise for £23 one way.<br />
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<b>TIP:</b> Don't fly over the bank holiday, you will be sodomized in the wallet without so much as a thank you ma'am :-|<br />
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<b>BEST RESTAURANT WE VISITED</b><br />
Geist in Kongens Nytorv, so spectacularly good it'll be getting its own post!<br />
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<b>BEST COFFEE </b><br />
The Coffee Factory also in Kongens Nytorv. I tried a few places but this was the only one that made me a soy latte that didn't curdle and/or taste like road. Super cosy too, real haven from the chaos that is the old town.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4cR5tRnKidR0SbAFwSMt60X6lq1tNefvsC4K_9DvMKVIcXmT8wcKlqPDQXGG5fr5jcni-rny9Jd9AsFBGLWLwUHNgVZAQptJxoa8uCzC4QNSgrEc5G1ovRJEx18pfJkkOwLwUJKArCEs/s1600/Copenhagen+coffee-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4cR5tRnKidR0SbAFwSMt60X6lq1tNefvsC4K_9DvMKVIcXmT8wcKlqPDQXGG5fr5jcni-rny9Jd9AsFBGLWLwUHNgVZAQptJxoa8uCzC4QNSgrEc5G1ovRJEx18pfJkkOwLwUJKArCEs/s640/Copenhagen+coffee-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMSwG-8j6z3SjN17Y7Nqk1B9xigdLw1OQuUA5mB94nwmSwkhhUyNO0SbEoSx-HOVuff08KVC2wEurQEL-WVFNx7p8FQTo2DCap4Ye5aWvNLPSgGqdkuZZlaVZhrRmjiACY6klGVeonBYA/s1600/Copenhagen+coffee-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMSwG-8j6z3SjN17Y7Nqk1B9xigdLw1OQuUA5mB94nwmSwkhhUyNO0SbEoSx-HOVuff08KVC2wEurQEL-WVFNx7p8FQTo2DCap4Ye5aWvNLPSgGqdkuZZlaVZhrRmjiACY6klGVeonBYA/s640/Copenhagen+coffee-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsJR50lfzZkM03r1bORm2-QZVx4CEIsTk8XzAESEfC_-f43yG9hI5JgqSEUw9by0ZJW2V150k4i6BNC3VDfJ3ymucE_vgB-RN4lhR4XWpMZ7ILpySV2Fi4-TjrVMT8AWf5QrrLBqmBp3o/s1600/Copenhagen+coffee-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsJR50lfzZkM03r1bORm2-QZVx4CEIsTk8XzAESEfC_-f43yG9hI5JgqSEUw9by0ZJW2V150k4i6BNC3VDfJ3ymucE_vgB-RN4lhR4XWpMZ7ILpySV2Fi4-TjrVMT8AWf5QrrLBqmBp3o/s640/Copenhagen+coffee-3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>FUN FACT</b><br />
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The spire on the Church of our Saviour apparently has the clock arms facing the wrong way so the time is only correct once a day but the Danes have never bothered to change it. Whether this is true or not I can't say but the tower was gorgeous from the canal.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_BFyPUB2gUaiKAY-V1697YY8OWSAM2SqpCLPIbPaHW_iXXR6ToLu4LxjfhR7yiR6tvChyphenhyphenw36TdoDnajoNpkyBHEf-HofjaEVYtUdXe4RSGwzyeOzyFamSl1mIUA0L5ThTSzUqKaiLodo/s1600/Copenhagen+gen-10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_BFyPUB2gUaiKAY-V1697YY8OWSAM2SqpCLPIbPaHW_iXXR6ToLu4LxjfhR7yiR6tvChyphenhyphenw36TdoDnajoNpkyBHEf-HofjaEVYtUdXe4RSGwzyeOzyFamSl1mIUA0L5ThTSzUqKaiLodo/s1600/Copenhagen+gen-10.jpg" /></a></div>
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And as I love a good clock tower, here are a couple more. You know, seeing as you're already here.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRn6ECt87DkJHsH_h-2L_UeymKO5gwk6RGCWNfEhAr85YDer9IPzgq_F_pbu_4Ttc4W2MKW-xsIuFSPs0uAJGvqRDoOM9_-FkYvKpa08cxIXlXFC3VxfjhzFavdw9CfYWjOOvZSkIoQNM/s1600/Copenhagen+gen-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRn6ECt87DkJHsH_h-2L_UeymKO5gwk6RGCWNfEhAr85YDer9IPzgq_F_pbu_4Ttc4W2MKW-xsIuFSPs0uAJGvqRDoOM9_-FkYvKpa08cxIXlXFC3VxfjhzFavdw9CfYWjOOvZSkIoQNM/s1600/Copenhagen+gen-1.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSpb_O6BpZ1vzK7eCUi7KRN9v6yAo6e5CmHQ1ok_Ui0Iy9uSTrJxRdpYG3WkeRYEirV2uQ4noLQh0uFaLq2ggAT5C24U5cgaDVdqdnugu7j-UYe6ksorZQKhNEiATutcz3rZ68erOWP-U/s1600/Copenhagen+gen-19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSpb_O6BpZ1vzK7eCUi7KRN9v6yAo6e5CmHQ1ok_Ui0Iy9uSTrJxRdpYG3WkeRYEirV2uQ4noLQh0uFaLq2ggAT5C24U5cgaDVdqdnugu7j-UYe6ksorZQKhNEiATutcz3rZ68erOWP-U/s1600/Copenhagen+gen-19.jpg" /></a></div>
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All in all, Copenhagen was a lovely way to start my European adventure of gallivanting and the like. The food and the smiles more than made up for the eye watering prices.<br />
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We purchased a Copenhagen Card which saved us a bundle with the canal tour and the castle tours bundled in as well as bus and public transport which is also included.<br />
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Let me know how you guys get on! :)<br />
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xx<br />
<br />Life and Lumeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04520756125753590023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-126274296722136290.post-54706796532948622262016-02-25T11:00:00.000+00:002016-02-25T11:00:10.690+00:00LONDON EATS: BEN'S COOKIES<div style="text-align: center;">
This is not a sponsored post. This is a post about a love story that has spanned through the good times and bad.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDVmNX-HakKx93YpNSfZ5iyCfwD3nwAilhNAK6VVmPavJtf6LywgjFv8HV4CEGVQtFqJAXM3lLInAHHr3cEQ3RARjE5iCjSnhxnEfkR1_KsECq2Af9AQQNlR20WoGUzMkmopC7GT6Id1w/s1600/DSC00699.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="1138" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDVmNX-HakKx93YpNSfZ5iyCfwD3nwAilhNAK6VVmPavJtf6LywgjFv8HV4CEGVQtFqJAXM3lLInAHHr3cEQ3RARjE5iCjSnhxnEfkR1_KsECq2Af9AQQNlR20WoGUzMkmopC7GT6Id1w/s1600/DSC00699.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Ben's Cookies are the best cookies I've ever had not made by my buddy Hannah. They are spectacular little creations packed full of all sorts of nutty chocolatey fruity fillings. Not all at the same time mind you but still. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLw_NPcxJMZGtVRz7CKJM23-79bia-XausjKCZ8QML_rV0RSx3UiMzZ4mfe71T2DUG_GhL_JIz81BP7MV5H1rqYMMNLjKUdtC443Nec9COsVrsZ1BJfmXhfcz7WEfh_CbCqHoBzrwHMcM/s1600/DSC00701.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLw_NPcxJMZGtVRz7CKJM23-79bia-XausjKCZ8QML_rV0RSx3UiMzZ4mfe71T2DUG_GhL_JIz81BP7MV5H1rqYMMNLjKUdtC443Nec9COsVrsZ1BJfmXhfcz7WEfh_CbCqHoBzrwHMcM/s1600/DSC00701.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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These bad boys are sold by weight. Chocolate weighs more than cookie which is why these are crammed so full of the good stuff. Honestly guys, they're so special I can't walk past the store without going in. I straight up don't walk past the stores anymore. My thighs needn't grow any further. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJYAirpWXyHMR7hHPMbn2fkt0OOW1jIgLydgTz-7gil5bQL9p95WKFiQ0-cyX9OSLoAbbOOXQBLM9kN-6gP3WpKl1V6koQVnV1fTOLv6Zbm8ADf4b5WGJAperW7cXhKd6-nK9GMXCZIME/s1600/DSC00703.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJYAirpWXyHMR7hHPMbn2fkt0OOW1jIgLydgTz-7gil5bQL9p95WKFiQ0-cyX9OSLoAbbOOXQBLM9kN-6gP3WpKl1V6koQVnV1fTOLv6Zbm8ADf4b5WGJAperW7cXhKd6-nK9GMXCZIME/s1600/DSC00703.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Useful tip for those of you who do the right thing and buy them by the box immediately:</div>
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<b><i>Stick a cookie in your microwave for 10 seconds before you chow down</i></b>. Optional - eat with ice cream.</div>
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GAME CHANGER. Enjoy!</div>
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xxs</div>
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Life and Lumeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04520756125753590023noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-126274296722136290.post-89963438542886322102016-02-22T07:00:00.000+00:002016-03-28T13:53:33.529+01:00A DEFINITIVE GUIDE TO TOUGH MUDDER<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi66W3IWyRP5ssfK-mM0RME7UExnXizUj-9DSqF2Lavo1gZlI1IxGXCnKFsqcWmV8gpC1yuJy8k_5wiirKsQhHiG3MtdYSkCwcWqwICRTFMfKvJ61TwRDgA52BOhnwz683eudI7bGblSQs/s1600/IMG_3095.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="tough mudder tips, tough mudder beginners, obstacle course" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi66W3IWyRP5ssfK-mM0RME7UExnXizUj-9DSqF2Lavo1gZlI1IxGXCnKFsqcWmV8gpC1yuJy8k_5wiirKsQhHiG3MtdYSkCwcWqwICRTFMfKvJ61TwRDgA52BOhnwz683eudI7bGblSQs/s640/IMG_3095.JPG" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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Completing Tough Mudder was one of the lowlights and highlights of my 2015. Low because of the mental and physical strain the 20km obstacle course put on me and my bones. High because I found strength I didn't know I had and managed to endure and attempt/complete all but 2 of the obstacles. If you're planning to give it a go in 2016, here's what I wish I'd known.</div>
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<span style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Be able to comfortably run 10km/6 miles. Ideally outdoors. </span></b></span></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">The course has around 30+ obstacles stretched out across the 20km and you run from one obstacle to the next. I naively thought my being able to run 3 agonising treadmill KM would be enough to see me through. I was wrong. Running on a treadmill is very different to running outside on country lanes and muddy terrains. I ended up running the first 2km and walking the rest of the way when my shins gave out. </span></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">You will get filthy.</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">These bastards like to ease you into it. You manage the first 2-3 obstacles relatively unscathed and think "oo maybe this won't be so bad after all". Don't be fooled. You WILL get muddy, you will be up to your neck in swampy smelly water trying to get from one place to another, you'll have the chance to rinse off at various points only to get covered pretty much straight away. Chances are, this will be the dirtiest you've ever been and the longest you've ever remained dirty. I had to abandon my trainers at the end. </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Pack swimwear, shower gel, and a change of clothes.</span></b></div>
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The showers are outside fully exposed in the middle of the spectator area and the water is FREEZING. I cannot express the devastation in my heart when I realised that because I couldn't take my kit off, I was not going to get a proper clean. All around me, the Tough Mudder veterans stripped down to their swimwear and soaped up all their nooks and crannies as the crowd looked on. I hosed off what I could and made the 5 hour journey back to London still covered in mud and STINKING of animal poop. </div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">The electro shock therapy obstacle is REAL.</span></b></div>
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I thought it would feel like static when it hit but nope. It was like sticking your finger in the plug socket (which I have done before - long story). That sh*t is no joke. One of the wires smacked me in the back of my head and I blacked out and woke up on the floor. Woke up to hands reaching for me as the MC went "can someone clear the path and get her out of there" :-| Not quite the power finish I had in mind (geddit??). Anyway, the key is to not stop running halfway through with your eyes closed like I did. Get your mind right, take a breathe, brace yourself and don't stop. Warcrys are also acceptable. </div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Eat a proper breakfast</span></b>.</div>
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We travelled north for the event and didn't plan properly for breakfast. You cannot get breakfast onsite so our only option at 7am was an ill-advised McDonalds breakfast. Don't make the same mistake I did. </div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">It's not a race. The key is to finish, not to finish first.</span></b></div>
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The vibe at Tough Mudder is very much one of comraderie. When you finish an obstacle, it's expected that you'll stick around and help the next few people finish before moving on to the next one. It's not about finishing first, it's about finishing.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>No regrets.</b></span></div>
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Tough Mudder was the hardest thing I've ever intentionally put myself through. I hated every single minute of it - the filth, the running, the fear, the stress, the challenge. But I do not for a second regret any of it. Completing it taught me that my mind is stronger that I ever thought it could be and that my body is actually not as fragile as I imagined. </div>
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Once in a lifetime is plenty for me but if you're giving it a go in 2016, good luck to you! Share this with your team and hopefully you guys will do a better job and crushing it. Godspeed! </div>
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xxs</div>
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If you liked this you should really put a tweet on it ;)</div>
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<a href="http://ctt.ec/q2sy8"><img alt="Tweet: The unofficial Tough Mudder survival guide: http://lifelu.me/toughmudderlessons" src="http://clicktotweet.com/img/tweet-graphic-4.png" /></a>
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Life and Lumeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04520756125753590023noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-126274296722136290.post-78815792079059439712016-02-11T07:00:00.000+00:002016-02-11T07:00:21.288+00:00LONDON EATS: THE SMOKING GOAT<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjONzYzE4RYOE3JmZXKbIVb_7uVdS_EHTHkLyhgu6-02mC-RdKbTD_5sApSt4y9Pthtzf7xK9cyuCniJZqYIpYvqfIM1EtkJgIF5cZjSirc9Hc6_nmxvCUJjiomc2UwmR5O17TbSHI25eI/s1600/P1090909.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjONzYzE4RYOE3JmZXKbIVb_7uVdS_EHTHkLyhgu6-02mC-RdKbTD_5sApSt4y9Pthtzf7xK9cyuCniJZqYIpYvqfIM1EtkJgIF5cZjSirc9Hc6_nmxvCUJjiomc2UwmR5O17TbSHI25eI/s1600/P1090909.jpg" /></a></div>
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You guys know how I feel about food, especially food made well. On a random weekday evening, my food loving friend and I ventured into this cave in the wall to see if we could undo the trials and tribulations of the day.</div>
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The Smoking Goat is located on London's iconic Denmark Street, renowned for being a key part of the British pop music scene. The restaurant describes their food as Thai BBQ. YUM. </div>
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You wouldn't know it was there when it's closed as there isn't a sign but it's number 9 and it's definitely there after their midday opening time. It's a cosy establishment, so small they don't take bookings of less than 6 for dinnerbut they do operate a civilised queue so put your name down, grab a drink nearby and wait for a phone call when it's your turn to be seated. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1W_kZuof6nCqHR3v6KTyo82YFM6qDaLtCCwcCsahFYf51G6fOmlxFz-GLBZy2izF_OHDZu4DDGpPyvMjbcxCJMUBmw8EavgO6bUSqzJ_cNlo5_w3DAqzVT_mSvecLn01mU5vBzj_CBPg/s1600/P1090904.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1W_kZuof6nCqHR3v6KTyo82YFM6qDaLtCCwcCsahFYf51G6fOmlxFz-GLBZy2izF_OHDZu4DDGpPyvMjbcxCJMUBmw8EavgO6bUSqzJ_cNlo5_w3DAqzVT_mSvecLn01mU5vBzj_CBPg/s1600/P1090904.jpg" /></a></div>
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The plates aren't particularly attractive/cheffy to look at but the flavours are OUT OF THIS WORLD - s They're renowned for their specialist rubs and their barbecue prowess allowing meat to melt right off the bone and into your face hole. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGl61sTIpfiyRgvFNBeWXm3SMiTZc2muPv7ekGZnz9pk19J3IeVY_yEftpB5MB1ZJxg92LJ6NHgeIhxXeOHno8w3yZ_GVcvRr6XHWsBplb2S3nyQsX4eQjLOkvDN3YgRQRQ2AitkBxwCU/s1600/P1090892.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGl61sTIpfiyRgvFNBeWXm3SMiTZc2muPv7ekGZnz9pk19J3IeVY_yEftpB5MB1ZJxg92LJ6NHgeIhxXeOHno8w3yZ_GVcvRr6XHWsBplb2S3nyQsX4eQjLOkvDN3YgRQRQ2AitkBxwCU/s1600/P1090892.jpg" /></a></div>
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I tried to photograph as much of what we ordered as possible but kept forgetting in my hurry to chow down. Managed to capture the wings and the wings, pork belly, and the shortrib. The rest was gone in the blink of an eye as we worked our way through their ever changing menu.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2xEPVq5Zebp9zOBdPYmlNC09gaPCeIRK9Lhyphenhyphen8T4N4UhyntL4OFvX5C0oFKn6cLqNT3Gcu8UY3__UqWemT6iXVYzpfpt3T1bM8nxYCMZf9dJR-1jd_9tlVF8ZFHi6K_m82zwaJLN4vFlc/s1600/P1090894.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2xEPVq5Zebp9zOBdPYmlNC09gaPCeIRK9Lhyphenhyphen8T4N4UhyntL4OFvX5C0oFKn6cLqNT3Gcu8UY3__UqWemT6iXVYzpfpt3T1bM8nxYCMZf9dJR-1jd_9tlVF8ZFHi6K_m82zwaJLN4vFlc/s1600/P1090894.jpg" /></a></div>
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This place is a gem, the staff are lovely, the vibe is super chilled and the food never disappoints. Get yourselves down there folks!</div>
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Life and Lumeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04520756125753590023noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-126274296722136290.post-80980912372246918222016-02-08T07:00:00.001+00:002019-02-11T01:36:46.609+00:00MAC'S DIVA<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEishBCTk8DA5CJflW0MSjDYa0-ilHB3Em_Gih22ie5s6iLX0C4q70xhPGIh7ZfpIJwcOTKC2pWKotfagdgu6xAD7Yv1mHflfngshw7g2es32VZZgIjSGsFCCGG3Gdbw2lw0M__56J_EU1Y/s1600/DSC_0023.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEishBCTk8DA5CJflW0MSjDYa0-ilHB3Em_Gih22ie5s6iLX0C4q70xhPGIh7ZfpIJwcOTKC2pWKotfagdgu6xAD7Yv1mHflfngshw7g2es32VZZgIjSGsFCCGG3Gdbw2lw0M__56J_EU1Y/s1600/DSC_0023.jpg" /></a></div>
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There comes a time in every girl's life when she purchases her first item from Mac Cosmetics and uncovers a whole new world full of magical little pots filled with colourful potential. Ok maybe not every girl ha. This girl for sure though.<br />
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I don't buy makeup as often as I used to but when I do it's usually from U.S. duty free on my way back to the UK - definitely the best time to buy as you don't pay any tax and the currency is usually in GBP's favour by the way.<br />
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In upcoming posts, I'll be working through my collection to show you guys what some of my favorite shades are and what they look like on a real life human. Plus it's giving me an excuse to actually start wearing them more often...so they'll run out and I can buy more! :)<br />
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This shade is called Diva. It goes on matte so you'll want to make sure your lips are exfoliated and flake free before you apply. Otherwise it'll peel and you'll look like a crazy person.<br />
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It's gorgeous and understated and definitely in my top 3.<br />
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xxs</div>
Life and Lumeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04520756125753590023noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-126274296722136290.post-80190332991904866002016-02-01T07:00:00.000+00:002016-02-01T07:00:24.035+00:00LONDON EATS: SALT YARD<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It was one of those gorgeous autumnal Saturday afternoons where brunch with the squad turns into lunch which turns into dinner. Our dinner was here, at the Salt Yard, a tapas restaurant in central London.</div>
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Salt Yard has been on my hit list for a while but kept slipping my mind every time someone says "hey where should we eat". Tapas plus a large group makes the perfect excuse to try pretty much everything from the menu. And it did not disappoint. </div>
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The restaurant itself is quite small but during peak dinner time on a Saturday we had no issues getting a table for 6 with no booking. They have tables outside too so if you're lucky enough to get good weather you'll complete the Spanish experience.</div>
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My favourites were the stuffed courgette flowers and the chops but it really was ALL good. Great food, lots of wine, really good vibe. It took a while for us to get the bill though as the staff did seem to forget about us all the way outside at the end. </div>
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My favourite tapas place in London is still to come but until then, this place will do nicely. </div>
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xxs</div>
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<br />Life and Lumeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04520756125753590023noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-126274296722136290.post-90918782784746951032016-01-21T07:00:00.000+00:002016-01-26T10:31:51.128+00:00THE STARS OF INSTAGRAM<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAdiuRl9f82LHa9IFbntetw64_zZhCRsyJ54A9zH7F3opyEicFpDEK__MO1K0DK-7Jj2NgYezpYov7CLPML4mDb-1wxEKNLRCwQEMv6qk0tbArtm6bVDJdDu-jn1PhGuU-c2IONvD8L80/s1600/lumeelumes_full.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAdiuRl9f82LHa9IFbntetw64_zZhCRsyJ54A9zH7F3opyEicFpDEK__MO1K0DK-7Jj2NgYezpYov7CLPML4mDb-1wxEKNLRCwQEMv6qk0tbArtm6bVDJdDu-jn1PhGuU-c2IONvD8L80/s640/lumeelumes_full.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Looking back at 2015, on thing I fell even more in love with was as the year progressed was photography, a hobby I now wish I had embraced this fully years and years ago! All that time wasted not behind the camera makes me want to cry haha.</div>
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I've always owned point and shoot cameras and learned how to load film into my Dad's camera long before I hit my tweens. 2016 is about bringing it. That means knowing when I pick a camera up and take a photo, what comes out is what I envisioned.<br />
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Instagram is the perfect place to indulge if you are also a keen shutterbug like I am. If you're not <a href="http://www.instagram.com/lumeelumes" target="_blank"><b>following me</b></a> already then get on it! I promise to keep trying to give you something worth looking at and most importantly, not a selfie in sight. Case in point, all the photos above are my own - just a sample of what following me will bring :)</div>
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Here are my current favorite Instagram accounts you should definitely follow also:</div>
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<b><a href="http://www.instagram.com/brighton" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@brighton</a></b></div>
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Gorgeous photos from our very own coast.</div>
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<b><a href="http://www.instagram.com/mighty.killers" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@mighty.killers</a></b></div>
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Insane land and city scape photos from San Francisco and beyond. </div>
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<b><a href="http://www.instagram.com/handluggageonly" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@handluggageonly</a></b></div>
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Tons of travel inspo from this globetrotting English duo. Check out their offshoot feed at <a href="http://www.instagram.com/hloblog" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@hloblog</a> too.</div>
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<b><a href="http://www.instagram.com/visualmischief" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@visualmischief</a></b></div>
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Awesome street photography from this London based photo fiend. Really wish he'd post more!</div>
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<b><a href="http://www.instagram.com/nikk_la" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@nikk_la</a></b></div>
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More awe inspiring cityscape photography.</div>
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<b><a href="http://www.instagram.com/tobyziff" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@tobyziff</a></b></div>
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London boy with skills for street and portraits.</div>
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<b>@<a href="https://www.instagram.com/jacobsantiago/" target="_blank">jacobsantiago</a></b></div>
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If you love New York then this dude will give you life.</div>
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<a href="http://www.instagram.com/lumeelumes" target="_blank"><b>@lumeelumes</b></a></div>
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Yours truly! An up and coming photofiend finding her eye, mostly documents London. Feed is more photography less selfies. </div>
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There are tons more I'm sure so if there's someone who should have been on that list then let me know! Plenty of space on my feed for awesomeness! Enjoy!</div>
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xxs</div>
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<span id="goog_838576405"></span><span id="goog_838576406"></span><br />Life and Lumeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04520756125753590023noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-126274296722136290.post-16941650885142053212016-01-18T02:50:00.000+00:002019-02-11T01:21:38.735+00:00WINNER WINNER CHICKEN DINNER<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjSY_05BaTa7xpcHIaD3cxYH6E4ae8oWTRmkGyVTFZEXMN0aP6YsEGrujZBiGh6Akg4LYuiw1NuaU5a-n-9UPZF6PXkZS7-pFLNmh6UDa6DGucQ1RO_VgNQisM3KyIXJgwXwjbBlF1CfM/s1600/DSC00734.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjSY_05BaTa7xpcHIaD3cxYH6E4ae8oWTRmkGyVTFZEXMN0aP6YsEGrujZBiGh6Akg4LYuiw1NuaU5a-n-9UPZF6PXkZS7-pFLNmh6UDa6DGucQ1RO_VgNQisM3KyIXJgwXwjbBlF1CfM/s1600/DSC00734.jpg" /></a></div>
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Yup, it's a new year. You promised yourself you were going to eat healthier and cook more and all of a sudden, a few weeks back into the 9 to 5 have obliterated your free time. What are we to do? This.</div>
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<a name='more'></a>This is one of the easiest and quickest dinners you can make in less than 45 minutes (60 seconds for prep).<br />
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<b>You'll need:</b></div>
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4 skinless chicken breasts</div>
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1 packet of cook in the bag mix (<a href="http://www.colmans.co.uk/product-category/season-and-shake" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Colmans </a>and <a href="https://www.maggi.co.uk/products/so-juicy/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Maggi</a> do great ones)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBndgan3VnF12_YaPDHscnz127zcbgob1yoonhzWD7PKNGvjBjx-zACJDkOljsQ70ND4MQvX6RXCb2Eo_srR7jcIpW5Klv_7opijKH6yu03jro_c5uwSW1_dUZQL1ueMhHuMDuz1oxH74/s1600/DSC00710.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBndgan3VnF12_YaPDHscnz127zcbgob1yoonhzWD7PKNGvjBjx-zACJDkOljsQ70ND4MQvX6RXCb2Eo_srR7jcIpW5Klv_7opijKH6yu03jro_c5uwSW1_dUZQL1ueMhHuMDuz1oxH74/s1600/DSC00710.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b>Step 1:</b></div>
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Open sachet packet and take out the bag and the tie.</div>
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<b>Step 2:</b></div>
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Place the chicken breasts in the bag and cover in the spices from the sachet.</div>
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<b>Step 3:</b></div>
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Tie securely with the included tie, gently turn the bag over in your hands to ensure the breasts are evenly coated. Bake according to packet instructions.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuQ1wtoLk0NVqMBHvZqM-JDVNJIl7rIb7tZisz4sPlzspIbbIWBgf-psNZoTJjR5Ew93ebBo0QtxxOQKgD8S4DbuPA_6icnkS-J_zV4ZuvYhscRHQCgmBw3nYSQAlkWj2_ANfFVeudpHs/s1600/DSC00727.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuQ1wtoLk0NVqMBHvZqM-JDVNJIl7rIb7tZisz4sPlzspIbbIWBgf-psNZoTJjR5Ew93ebBo0QtxxOQKgD8S4DbuPA_6icnkS-J_zV4ZuvYhscRHQCgmBw3nYSQAlkWj2_ANfFVeudpHs/s1600/DSC00727.jpg" /></a></div>
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The good thing with this recipe is there's no added oil but you get a sauce from all the chickeny juices so I usually just boil up some wholegrain rice to go with it or if I'm feeling fancy, I'll chop up a potato into wedges and get those in the oven at the same time. Or if you're feeling EVEN lazier than that, poke pin pricks into a washed sweet potato and stick it in the microwave for 5-7 minutes on high. When soft to the touch, scoop out the insides and voila - instant sweet potato mash. Possibilities are endless!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheyjn5XEJDff8e4VEvcegTMTrtIXjO_t3XSOcF_CjjoneHLLto61ZNJHef56HNGyeOLkRz0qKJgkv5-qY2gg8GOa1_sdkUYRVaF9X7F21Ex1upGJU_Ay2fhna8rjdNp4mA27bYQc_u6ZY/s1600/DSC00736.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheyjn5XEJDff8e4VEvcegTMTrtIXjO_t3XSOcF_CjjoneHLLto61ZNJHef56HNGyeOLkRz0qKJgkv5-qY2gg8GOa1_sdkUYRVaF9X7F21Ex1upGJU_Ay2fhna8rjdNp4mA27bYQc_u6ZY/s1600/DSC00736.jpg" /></a></div>
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Life and Lumeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04520756125753590023noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-126274296722136290.post-19950664130521656032016-01-11T07:00:00.000+00:002016-01-11T07:00:17.153+00:00LONDON EATS: KOPAPA<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPzYDWurBwEr7kHUe2i9QXNjIkcSI19-DCXzRM6rWgwtvE9uiD1BAfqFz_kFaWiHXMvjFrOxnFJHj0_4Kfas57wU8MjVyNt5OgOCmXkh0NJBLzQs3N70oMnfO9v7rckq7PZAXS1-nPIqc/s1600/P1110023.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPzYDWurBwEr7kHUe2i9QXNjIkcSI19-DCXzRM6rWgwtvE9uiD1BAfqFz_kFaWiHXMvjFrOxnFJHj0_4Kfas57wU8MjVyNt5OgOCmXkh0NJBLzQs3N70oMnfO9v7rckq7PZAXS1-nPIqc/s1600/P1110023.jpg" /></a></div>
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Kopapa comes from the Maori meaning for a gathering of food...loosely. From the outside you wouldn't think such treasures lie within with it's deceptively low key exterior. You would be very wrong. </div>
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Kopapa offers everything a huge variety food from sharing plates to light salads to full on meals. I meant to post this AGES ago and it's been that long that I don't remember what all the different dishes are! Mega blogger-fail. </div>
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I will say however that I have had lunch and dinner here and the decor is great, clean and well thought out for both types of vibes. The food is plentiful and you can choose to eat light and well or eat loads and well. And of course it all looks great!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4s1qqTY9jAGVx5Z-Il2JVjUzgQ-Do4l5oC6U-uGFvkZ6Yn-TQ1M67F-IhLFXm7ZZpkbAOrXpEFtGe1Yz3yiKTWBZKq6CHKzwUgdsS93Er2ia3l7ABBpjSKDIKCK_mAnVjTyPqhAHhY34/s1600/P1110018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4s1qqTY9jAGVx5Z-Il2JVjUzgQ-Do4l5oC6U-uGFvkZ6Yn-TQ1M67F-IhLFXm7ZZpkbAOrXpEFtGe1Yz3yiKTWBZKq6CHKzwUgdsS93Er2ia3l7ABBpjSKDIKCK_mAnVjTyPqhAHhY34/s1600/P1110018.jpg" /></a></div>
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This squid salad jumble was my least favorite so give it a miss if you go. Everything else was gorgeous. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilUEbVMSv3xRRrRcdoEcZTpf3g-_gp6YrpyLRisD82B8fsGw1_X4oSgR-88m1mGEDk3u54kXclzmv6A_qavrgGZOQ2WCU_cgv4T9wRFVCh7K8QuEnGB9fNvLU6XiYcOybnAe-4vaZckG0/s1600/P1110019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilUEbVMSv3xRRrRcdoEcZTpf3g-_gp6YrpyLRisD82B8fsGw1_X4oSgR-88m1mGEDk3u54kXclzmv6A_qavrgGZOQ2WCU_cgv4T9wRFVCh7K8QuEnGB9fNvLU6XiYcOybnAe-4vaZckG0/s1600/P1110019.jpg" /></a></div>
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xxs</div>
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Life and Lumeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04520756125753590023noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-126274296722136290.post-56938585150954977212016-01-04T07:00:00.000+00:002016-01-04T17:37:11.101+00:00ONLINE DATING 101 PT. 3 - THE APPS<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb7nG2ZaHfohKqGUMjmKS093bP-8xFi5sa6fCFhZNmpIiti1ws3recar5tbA_l1y3q5uBBzQAHvnc-Zspa8bTBD1x4TztktdCIPv3GnW_BiXoH9DhoEH9hZ7J2GsseScAAFVhXZaKHxTM/s1600/beyoncetotheleft.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="335" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb7nG2ZaHfohKqGUMjmKS093bP-8xFi5sa6fCFhZNmpIiti1ws3recar5tbA_l1y3q5uBBzQAHvnc-Zspa8bTBD1x4TztktdCIPv3GnW_BiXoH9DhoEH9hZ7J2GsseScAAFVhXZaKHxTM/s640/beyoncetotheleft.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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New year new beginnings. If you made resolutions for 2016 around your love life, you may find yourself a little overwhelmed by all the ways you can meet new people. Pimping ain't easy. I shared <a href="http://lifeandlumes.blogspot.co.uk/2014/09/online-dating-101-pt1-tips-tricks.html" target="_blank">my online dating tips and tricks</a> with you over a year ago and since then, times have changed ever so slightly. The number of apps has exploded. But which one is right for you? Let's dig in.</div>
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<b><u>TINDER</u></b></div>
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<b>How It Works:</b></div>
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Old faithful Tinder is the original of the dating apps having been on the radar for the longest. I wrote <a href="http://lifeandlumes.blogspot.co.uk/2014/09/online-dating-101-pt2-reviews.html" target="_blank">a blurb about Tinder</a> here way back when which still stands pretty much. Swipe right for yes and left for no.</div>
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<b>Verdict:</b></div>
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My experience of Tinder is one of frequent matches and very few conversations whereas my bestie S has frequent matches and frequent conversations but few dates. I have no idea what makes people message or not so if you guys know then holler. Recent changes to the app include a daily cap on right swiping, super likes, and paying options. I'd love for matches to expire after a period of time. 2 years of Tindering and nearly 2,000 matches later means there's a lot of 'staleness' on the app. </div>
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<b><u>HINGE</u></b></div>
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<b>How It Works</b>:</div>
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Hinge combs through your Facebook connections and presents you with 5-10 potential matches a day made up of single friends of friends and friends of friends of friends etc. If you like you heart and if they heart you back then either party has 24 hours to send the first message. If no one does then your match disappears back into the pool of potential matches. </div>
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<b>Verdict:</b></div>
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I like the time sensitive element of the app as it keeps the match list quite tidy for me but again, there's still not much talking happening. Starting to think it's me...nah!</div>
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<b><u>BUMBLE</u></b></div>
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<b>How It Works:</b></div>
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When I heard about Bumble I was super excited. Here your swipe as usual (right for yes, left for no) but when you match, only the woman can send the first message. </div>
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<b>Verdict:</b></div>
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So only the woman can message first. Great right? That is until you realise as a woman that making the first move is hard! I take back all the times I was harsh on a "Hello" opening message. My biggest issue with Bumble is the amount of fake filler profiles. Granted it's a brand new app so filler profiles help with boosting numbers. Maybe later down the line when there's more uptake, the fakes will be reduced. </div>
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<b><u>HAPPN</u></b></div>
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<b>How It Works:</b></div>
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The app uses your location and tells you when you cross paths with another app user. If you like the user, you click heart. If you don't, ignore or click the x. When you match, you chat. </div>
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<b>Verdict:</b></div>
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Despite being active on social media and blogging, I do still value privacy and the app can sometimes overshare imho. If you're at home and someone walks past your front door with the app on their phone, they'll see that you both crossed paths and an exact map of where. Obviously if you're in a public space that's fine but if not then not so much.</div>
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I will say the app with the best looking men is <b><u>Happn</u> - </b>not sure what the girls look like but if I'm anything to go by then the women must be quality too! ;) I also tried <i><b>Coffee Meets Bagel</b></i> but the quality on there was AWFUL and the app itself is extremely limited. If you're going to restrict me to one match a day, make it a good one. I was not a fan at all and it was deleted after a couple of weeks. </div>
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I hope that helps you guys in your quest for love etc. Have I missed any out? Hook me up!<br />
<br />And remember people, you won't find love by using the right app, it's about the right person at the right time. The apps just help you widen your net that much further :). I'd love to hear your what you guys think!</div>
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xxs</div>
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Life and Lumeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04520756125753590023noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-126274296722136290.post-64200394975969357452015-12-31T07:00:00.000+00:002015-12-31T07:00:09.185+00:002016 ETC.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjrLPhNp3dhQ_ItiLotlLfD0k746ANbBG7Fngzn7Ccoztw_s_As2RSNWxDemJAkYsgwahEBzVVdQ7BBet_5FnPHSczFD0JLatRZkvYXep-rPu8UoONMIClB6qybLD7FE45Pjk60qkJmIc/s1600/DSC_0056.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="372" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjrLPhNp3dhQ_ItiLotlLfD0k746ANbBG7Fngzn7Ccoztw_s_As2RSNWxDemJAkYsgwahEBzVVdQ7BBet_5FnPHSczFD0JLatRZkvYXep-rPu8UoONMIClB6qybLD7FE45Pjk60qkJmIc/s640/DSC_0056.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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2016 is upon us and all across the land, bloggers and the like are wishing for change and putting it in writing for all to see. Allow me to join them.</div>
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2015 was mental. In a good way obvs but very much within the mental category. I traipsed around 3 different continents for work and play, career kept rising, friends and family thrived around me, fitness reached new heights (and lows), debts were paid off, and all of this with a head and heart intact.</div>
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2016 is all about maintaining and elevating (as the rappers say). I have a few projects on the go which I'm excited to announce very very soon. The biggest of these will hopefully allow me to take my love of photography to the next level. More on that to come.<br />
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I want to keep travelling, learning, growing, and filling my days with all the people and things that make me happy. Keeping this at the forefront of the mind means being free to say yes to any and all opportunities that come along.<br />
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Life without fluidity hardly sounds fun now doesn't it? ;) What's on your agenda for 2016 and what are you doing to get it?<br />
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xxs</div>
Life and Lumeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04520756125753590023noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-126274296722136290.post-11834202981883611652015-12-28T07:00:00.000+00:002019-02-11T01:21:38.724+00:00NO-BRAINER MINCE PIES<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Tis (STILL) the season to be jolly folks! Mince pies are acceptable until the new year begins in my opinion if, like me this Christmas, you've been wondering why you don't have them more often. I was treated to these homemade beauties by a very special very generous very talented friend of mine renowned for the magic she makes in her kitchen. Here it is folks, mince pies made easy.</div>
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Despite my best efforts, the pastry recipe for these was sadly unpoachable but I did find great pastry recipes <a href="http://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/2174/unbelievably-easy-mince-pies" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here if you want it from scratch</a> or <a href="http://www.jusrol.co.uk/pastry-recipes/traditional-mince-pies/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here if you can't be fooked</a> because life's too short.</div>
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Hannah did the hard work and pre-made the pastry with all the trimmings and decorations so it was ready for us to fill and bake. She quickly set us to work conveyor belt style. We used shop bought mincemeat (although you can do like Mary Berry and <a href="http://www.maryberry.co.uk/recipes/christmas/special-mincemeat" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">make your own here</a>) which apparently is perfectly acceptable also. We got to work conveyor belt style.</div>
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Well, I say we. I was in charge of documenting so my hands were sorta busy but in a way that's helping too I'm sure of it. She had some leftover marsipan we she brought along, a lovely little addition to any mince pie filling. </div>
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Once done, they were baked by Hannah's capable eye until they were lovely and golden brown. </div>
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<b><u>Handy tip</u></b> for you guys, the baking parchment strips make for super easy fuss free removal of the pies from their tray holes. </div>
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To serve, remove from said holes, plate up and dust with sufficient icing sugar.</div>
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They came out crumbly, tart, and sweet - absolutely spot on and extremely Christmassy. </div>
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We powered through most of the pies with a couple fingers of port and some quality conversation of course. It was the perfect way to kickstart the Christmas season and a recipe I'll be trying again in the New Year. Just because.</div>
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xxs</div>
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Life and Lumeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04520756125753590023noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-126274296722136290.post-67413057691913056812015-12-24T23:03:00.002+00:002019-02-11T01:21:38.766+00:00THE ULTIMATE CHRISTMAS TREAT<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Well the weather outside is...rather pleasant actually for this time of year. But instead of worry about our broken climate, it's way more fun to focus on the food, hands down my favorite thing about Christmas. This recipe is the ultimate in party food and so easy to do it's ridiculous. Uuuuuuuugly as sin but packed with flavor.</div>
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Devils on horseback ares so so de-li-cious you guys and only have 2 ingredients - 3 if you're feeling fancy like I was when I made these: prunes, streaky bacon, and brandy (very much optional). </div>
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That's all you need.</div>
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The prunes melt in your mouth with their sweetness and the crispy streaky bacon adds a saltiness that cuts through the sweet and changes your world. For mine, I splurged on the bacon with this very Christmassy chestnut smoked variety bad boy. </div>
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I don't think I've ever had a chestnut actually so the nuances of the chestnut smoke are wasted on me but I know from movies this is what's done at this time of year so...ya know.</div>
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<b><u>STEP 1</u></b></div>
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Soak your prunes in brandy for at least 30 minutes.</div>
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I love what the brandy does to the flavour of the prunes and when cooked they really don't taste boozy at all. Just sweet but with more depth.</div>
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<b><u>STEP 2</u></b></div>
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While they're soaking, preheat your oven to the max and line a baking tray with foil and a light smearing of oil.</div>
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<b><u>STEP 3</u></b></div>
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Roll each prune in a strip of bacon. You may have to cut the bacon in half if you find that you are rolling the prune more than twice round.</div>
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Line them up ready for the heat.</div>
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<b><u>STEP 4</u></b></div>
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Reduce your oven to 200 degrees celsius (390 Fahrenheit), get your devils in there for around 10-15 minutes depending on the strength of your oven. You want the bacon crispy and cooked through.</div>
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These are foolproof so why not give them ago this Christmas! Or any day for that matter. They don't stick around for very long...</div>
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Life and Lumeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04520756125753590023noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-126274296722136290.post-26116111105878445992015-11-05T06:00:00.000+00:002019-02-11T01:38:04.652+00:00OUTFIT OF THE DAY #5<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8GvPtrM3Y0k0ZjqUgz2iLvVDZ4WWavSsFkpsCsw6U-HcLWEYGCbIatSpcocDfpObSL6vtjDA8jmZZStqNLubPUiJvCtEF1ciN5PQ082KWUmLDep-a-3Eo84_jvO5eD_aoXQj058HFVbs/s1600/P1070530.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8GvPtrM3Y0k0ZjqUgz2iLvVDZ4WWavSsFkpsCsw6U-HcLWEYGCbIatSpcocDfpObSL6vtjDA8jmZZStqNLubPUiJvCtEF1ciN5PQ082KWUmLDep-a-3Eo84_jvO5eD_aoXQj058HFVbs/s1600/P1070530.jpg" /></a></div>
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Yes yes it's probably raining and you haven't seen the sun in a little while and the word summer probably hasn't entered your vocab for weeks but hear me out folks!</div>
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<a name='more'></a>Colour is in. It's autumn and if mother nature isn't beaming all the usual colours into your part of the world, then guess what? You have the power to bring it yourself. Try it!<br />
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Lights up the room you're in and makes people smile. At least that's the reaction I get whenever I wear colours like this one. </div>
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Both the <a href="http://www.matalan.co.uk/womens/shop-by-category/blouses-and-shirts/s2574135/cami-top" target="_blank">top </a>(£6) and the <a href="http://www.matalan.co.uk/product/detail/s2602819/pull-on-jeggings--31-inch-leg" target="_blank">jeggings </a>(£12) are from Matalan purchased from their new store on Oxford Street. I'd never really had teh chance to shop at Matalan but this new location made it a no brainer, especially if you stick to the basics fabricwise (i.e. cotton).</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC_tu4rs1R_0YUoy_V0iDRJ4R7aEeri24ix250lDrnJFUcZktRS5QhIgvEsA-dJXuKQNmYTeH3w-_Bk0qHgKli2uXxswccjEh2svjcPy67Bxwdyv-hRvDHpDcWJTuFXvPtYK0mrMds-x8/s1600/P1070538.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC_tu4rs1R_0YUoy_V0iDRJ4R7aEeri24ix250lDrnJFUcZktRS5QhIgvEsA-dJXuKQNmYTeH3w-_Bk0qHgKli2uXxswccjEh2svjcPy67Bxwdyv-hRvDHpDcWJTuFXvPtYK0mrMds-x8/s1600/P1070538.jpg" /></a></div>
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The jeggings fit well but you can tell the sewing's a little off with the in seam on the left leg so remember you get what you pay for. </div>
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The sandals are from <a href="http://www.asos.com/asos/asos-fool-all-two-part-leather-sandals/prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=4858846&clr=Gold&SearchQuery=gold+sandals&pgesize=24&pge=0&totalstyles=24&gridsize=4&gridrow=6&gridcolumn=2" target="_blank">ASOS </a>(£15) and they're now on sale!</div>
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Here's to bringing colour into these long gray days! </div>
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xxs</div>
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Life and Lumeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04520756125753590023noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-126274296722136290.post-3420129455951771872015-11-01T22:00:00.001+00:002015-11-01T22:00:58.424+00:00LONDON EATS: PORTLAND<div style="text-align: center;">
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Yes folks. It's been a wee while since I posted. Life has a way of not
respecting the priority you set on the fun stuff you'd much rather be
doing - like talking to you guys about food and such. And boy do I have a
special treat for you today!</div>
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<a href="http://portlandrestaurant.co.uk/home" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Portland</a> is a relatively new independent restaurant, small, cozy, simple, clean. It was on my companion's hit list for quite some time and after a particularly difficult week at work, we decided to treat ourselves to what we would soon discover is a food-lovers' wet dream.</div>
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We arrived shortly after they opened for our reservation and were able to choose our table - we chose the counter as there was plenty of daylight left and people watching is always nice.</div>
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I would describe the food as classic English with an update. Lots of offal-y, hearty, gamey flavours but with bits from the continent. </div>
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The menu is split into snacks, small plates, main dishes, and deserts. We went a little wild and chose a little of everything to share. I would describe the type of food here as imaginative, unusual, extremely well thought out, and SO FREAKIN GOOD! Ok here goes. </div>
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For starters we got lardo (melt in the mouth paper thin slivers of cured meat), bread, and (what tasted like) homemade butter. I forget what was sprinkled on it sorry guys!</div>
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And the parfait, chicken liver I believe. Really decadent and lush. </div>
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We followed these pieces of heaven with items from their small plate menu - namely the unappetizing named cow's curd which was actulally pretty phenomenal. Like a cross between cottage cheese and cream cheese maybe? I dunno, whatever it was was delicious. </div>
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We also got pig's head lardons which is one of the most carnivorously named dishes I've ever had consumed. Also delicious and BEAUTIFULLY presented.</div>
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Oh and I forgot to mention the wine. OMFG. I normally don't highlight wine on the blog as I really know nothing about it so talking about it sounds a little disingenuous but hot damn. My buddy chose well. It's called Caruso & Minini Sachia <span class="highlight selected">Perricone</span> from 2013. If you go, put it in your face.</div>
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The main of the evening was the duck breast with a side of potatoes. The duck comes rare as standard, super lean, delicious as well.</div>
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Desserts arrived as the sun was starting to set. We got two because we couldn't just pick one. We settled for mille-feuille and a chocolate tart. Both were good but the tart was DIVINE.</div>
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The tart was the best possible way to finish an awesome dining experience. The food sounds so fancy but the staff and the venue are warm, friendly, and super casual. It works incredibly well.</div>
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Plus the bill came with macaroons. I mean come on! <3</div>
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xxs</div>
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Life and Lumeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04520756125753590023noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-126274296722136290.post-24192875689918566652015-09-27T17:55:00.000+01:002015-09-27T17:59:16.890+01:00DECISIONS DECISIONS...<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;">
I don't usually turn to <a href="https://buy.louisck.net/news" target="_blank">Louis C.K.</a> for advice on how to live my life but hey, there's always a first time for everything. Trust me, you're going to want to see this..<br />
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I don't remember when the uncertainty kicked in. I don't remember being an indecisive child. Quite the opposite actually. In fact, my parents often love to entertain their friends with tales of our brazenness as children. Now, the more options I have, the more my poor heart palpitates!</div>
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It's not just the what to eat or drink that breeds uncertainty, it affects the big decisions too like who to (or not to) date, where to live, where to work, having children, choosing happiness, and just generally making the right choices for you. Luckily I'm right where I need to be on all counts right now but it's never been easy going, especially when failure has been and probably will forever be an option.<br />
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Now I have heard a lot of advice and guidance around finding the confidence to go with your gut when making decisions. The best by far is from one of my favorite comics Louis C.K. who is notorious for being allergic to bullsh*t.<br />
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This is an except from <a href="http://www.gq.com/entertainment/celebrities/201405/louis-ck-cover-story-may-2014?currentPage=3" target="_blank">an interview he did with GQ Magazine</a> by <a href="http://www.gq.com/contributors/andrew-corsello" target="_blank">Andrew Corsello</a>. If you ask me, I reckon he's got it spot on:<br />
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<div data-textannotation-id="94874dae68f8613b0a29c12c08662b99">
<b><i>"These
situations where I can't make a choice because I'm too busy trying to
envision the perfect one—that false perfectionism traps you in this
painful ambivalence: If I do this, then that other thing I could have
done becomes attractive. But if I go and choose the other one, the same
thing happens again. It's part of our consumer culture. People do this
trying to get a DVD player or a service provider, but it also bleeds
into big decisions. </i></b></div>
<div data-textannotation-id="94874dae68f8613b0a29c12c08662b99">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div data-textannotation-id="94874dae68f8613b0a29c12c08662b99">
<b><i>So my rule is that if you have someone or something
that gets 70 percent approval, you just do it. 'Cause here's what
happens. The fact that other options go away immediately brings your
choice to 80. Because the pain of deciding is over.</i></b></div>
<div data-textannotation-id="94874dae68f8613b0a29c12c08662b99">
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<div data-textannotation-id="b28c303ae5f349cfcaf6bbd5f059296b">
<b><i>"And,"
he continues, "when you get to 80 percent, you work. You apply your
knowledge, and that gets you to 85 percent! And the thing itself,
especially if it's a human being, will always reveal itself—100 percent
of the time!—to be more than you thought. And that will get you to 90
percent. After that, you're stuck at 90, but who the f*ck do you think
you are, a god? You got to 90 percent? It's incredible!"</i></b></div>
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<i> </i></div>
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So there you have it folks. Say yes to the 70% of you that is actually in touch with your gut. Life is tough enough without us trying in vain to reach God-levels. I think this is solid advice so yeah, might just give it a go. <br />
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What do you guys think? Are you in touch with your gut? Do you trust it?<br />
<br />
xxs<br />
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Life and Lumeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04520756125753590023noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-126274296722136290.post-3862665799855811742015-09-07T06:30:00.000+01:002015-09-07T06:30:00.291+01:00LONDON EATS: DISHOOM<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://www.dishoom.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Dishoom </a>is one of my favourite London eateries with consistently excellent food and top notch service at a very reasonable price. </div>
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I discovered Dishoom a few years ago after erroneously believing I wasn't a fan of Indian food after countless shoddy quality Indian takeaways. </div>
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There is usually a queue a few dozen people long outside as they operate a first come first served seating system for groups of less than 6 but as we had a larger group, we were able to book and were immediately shown to our booth downstairs.</div>
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Dishoom takes the concept of the greasy mess we traditionally think of when we think of curry and produces a flavour explosion sans grease or that post-curry comatose feeling. We settled in, ordered a selection of their excellent cocktails and started picking through the menu.</div>
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Dishoom serves their dishes tapas style - in small plates. You order a selection and (depending on the solidity of your friendships) share with the table. With a large party of hungry kinfolk, the food vanished quickly so I was only able to capture a few of the dishes.</div>
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First off a couple bowls of far far crackers, a selection of samosas and some chilli cheese toast.</div>
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And a selection of mains from paneer tikka to chicken specialties to my absolute favourite Black House daal. The daal is unreal, flavours are deep rich and creamy - spectacular. The spicy lamb chops are also worth writing home about. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paneer</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">lamb chops</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">THAT DAAL THO - yaaaaas</td></tr>
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Dishoom is a winner for quality Indian food, I am yet to have a dish there I did not like (and I eat there far more than I care to admit in writing on here).</div>
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Next time you are in London, do check them out y'all. You will love it. And take a big group so you guys can reserve a table and avoid the queue. </div>
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xxs</div>
Life and Lumeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04520756125753590023noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-126274296722136290.post-60859663568268270332015-08-19T06:20:00.000+01:002015-08-24T22:49:46.307+01:00MUA LIP VELVET REVIEW<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I've been meaning to do this post for a while. Friends have heard me rave and rave on and on about these. Several of the girls in my life have complemented me so often that they eventually caved and purchased their own shades. Others have simply worn me down until I've handed mine over. It's time to share with the world.</div>
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This is NOT a sponsored post. I repeat, I received no benefits or incentives or cash for this post. I bought them myself and genuinely love them hence the sharing. </div>
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<a href="http://www.muastore.co.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">MUA</a> stands for Makeup Academy and is a brand that only recently reached our sunny shores I believe in the last year or so. At least that's when I discovered them. And I bought them all.</div>
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I have only used these lip products so I can't comment on the whole range. These are from their MUA Luxe range although with a name like Luxe, the £3 price tag might make you a little hesitant. I get it, I was too. But you shouldn't be. Here's why:</div>
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<b><u>PROS</u></b></div>
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- Matte finish which means big lips like mine can go nuts with colour without overpowering the rest of your face.</div>
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- Dries fast and stays on (I have tips on longevity below).</div>
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- Highly pigmented so perfect for girls who want colour.</div>
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<b><u>CONS</u></b></div>
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- Not kissproof, don't be fooled into thinking these will survive a smoochfest, they won't.</div>
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- Not all colours will suit so test test test before you buy. Or buy them all and give them to your friends like I will be.</div>
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In highly unscientific conditions, I tested each colour I could get my hand on in natural daylight to give you guys an idea of colour. Here they are in order of awesomeness from most to least.</div>
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Oh and ignore the fact that I didn't get the lip line right. I was losing daylight and had to get the photos done quickly.</div>
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<b>First up, my ABSOLUTE<u> favorite</u>s:</b> <a href="http://www.muastore.co.uk/mua-luxe-velvet-lip-lacquer-kooky" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Kooky</a> and <a href="http://www.muastore.co.uk/mua-luxe-velvet-lip-lacquer-reckless" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Reckless</a></div>
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<b>Next, the not so greats but totally fixable:</b> Dare and <a href="http://www.muastore.co.uk/mua-luxe-velvet-lip-lacquer-atomic" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Atomic</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0ST8kze6-AtPbmbwK1o6VD2Bdulfz4tQ0Lr4R1XMNSn7QctOfgsyLlj5QdmGRK3d0zcFdjaO3hSUs_IRC8tyT17MAG8pk3AQrTEE84MWQKh37tdWe8j5KI4UhGMwUew9-mMsuSrZGmqE/s1600/lip2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0ST8kze6-AtPbmbwK1o6VD2Bdulfz4tQ0Lr4R1XMNSn7QctOfgsyLlj5QdmGRK3d0zcFdjaO3hSUs_IRC8tyT17MAG8pk3AQrTEE84MWQKh37tdWe8j5KI4UhGMwUew9-mMsuSrZGmqE/s1600/lip2.png" /></a></div>
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<b>And lastly, the ones that need Jesus:</b> Halcyon and <a href="http://www.muastore.co.uk/mua-luxe-velvet-lip-lacquer-a-flush" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Aflush</a></div>
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With the middle and last set, they could work with some lip liner in a complementary tone i.e. I use a dark brown lip liner underneath the Halcyon shade. With the Aflush shade I use a dark purple lip liner underneath then blend with a brush to get a really cool pink. </div>
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For £3 you really can afford to play around with these colours. I have to say I haven't touched my lipstick in months since I bought them. </div>
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<b><u>TIPS</u></b></div>
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- Use a lip balm underneath</div>
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- Exfoliate your lips too if you can - the mattifying nature of these will emphasise crusty lips</div>
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- Blend quickly and one layer at a time, especially with the darker colours, they are HIGHLY pigmented and once they dry, you'll have to scrub to get the colour off which could spell disaster for a fully made up face.</div>
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- Grab them all today!</div>
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xxs</div>
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Life and Lumeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04520756125753590023noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-126274296722136290.post-15498229112802497752015-08-11T07:30:00.000+01:002019-02-11T01:38:19.723+00:00OUTFIT OF THE DAY #4<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Who ever loved that loved not at first sight?</div>
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- <i>Shakespeare, As You Like It</i></div>
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<i> </i>This is one of my favorite bits of costume jewelry, it's a faux gold necklace from Accessorize and I bought it a few years ago. As it's faded through the years, it's gone from gold coloured to a bronzey almost rose gold...from afar hehe.</div>
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Today's outfit is pretty simple for summer. I had meetings this day and it was boiling hot outside but freezing inside. I wore this with flats and put the heels on for my meeting (with leggings to combat the A/C).</div>
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<u><b>Top</b></u></div>
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Matalan</div>
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<a href="http://www.matalan.co.uk/womens/shop-by-category/tops/s2595043/cami-top" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">(Similar here)</a></div>
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<u><b>Skirt</b></u></div>
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H&M</div>
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<a href="http://www.hm.com/gb/products/ladies/skirts/short" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">(Similar here)</a><br />
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<u><b>Shoes</b></u><br />
Office<br />
<a href="http://www.office.co.uk/view/product/office_catalog/2,33/1564400000" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">(Similar here) </a></div>
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This is a great day to night outfit, it's simple and you can make it as dressed up or dressed down as the occasion calls for. Plus, the flowers remind me of the summers I wish we had...<br />
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xxs</div>
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Life and Lumeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04520756125753590023noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-126274296722136290.post-91941021082375164612015-08-07T07:30:00.000+01:002015-08-07T07:30:02.707+01:00LONDON EATS: BIBIMBAP SOHO<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Bibimbap is the name of a signature Korean dish and a staple of Korean kitchen table throughout the land. I know this because Wiki told me as I haven't yet had the pleasure of traveling the lands myself. I did go to into Soho though for my first taste of this exotic treat.</div>
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<span id="goog_1271966679"></span><span id="goog_1271966680"></span> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfXZWDlut351cGIpN0nzGmh3wJ0eYV7aJ8XHCmfyvecIf-_vwKNQOz7YM2NdqytNWmURJtaM4M9iZcSe0qtOD9ssqQO6c7uK4mhbMWpM3ODT6lHka7nYxEINDSdagOEJa07ooNkOcFibE/s1600/P1090409.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfXZWDlut351cGIpN0nzGmh3wJ0eYV7aJ8XHCmfyvecIf-_vwKNQOz7YM2NdqytNWmURJtaM4M9iZcSe0qtOD9ssqQO6c7uK4mhbMWpM3ODT6lHka7nYxEINDSdagOEJa07ooNkOcFibE/s1600/P1090409.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.bibimbapsoho.co.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Bibimbap</a> isn't just the name of the restaurant. It means mixed rice and was originally born out of a way to use up leftovers. Delicious leftovers. The best leftovers. </div>
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The Bibimbap in Soho is tiny with very little space to maneuver but after about 15 minutes of waiting, we were able to get a table as a walk in group of 4. Service is brusque but efficient which means the wait wasn't too long.</div>
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Being unfamiliar with Korean food as a whole, I did what I always do - picked a few of the meat options lol. </div>
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We started off with the prawn katsu, spicy rice cakes, and some dumplings. Prawn katsu was delicious according to my dining buddies. </div>
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The spicy rice cakes were odd - like gelatinous carbs in gloop. The veggie of the group powered through them though. </div>
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The dumplings were good so I'd recommend including them in your starter mix. </div>
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Next up was the actual bibimbap. Not knowing what to expect, I played it safe and went for the fillet beef. What showed up was a bowl made of burning hot stone with loads of fresh veg and a pile of raw mince meet hiding underneath a fried egg. </div>
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What is this I asked my chums. You gotta mix it up they said while the bowl was still hot. So I did and the sizzle was real. As you mix, the meat cooks, the veg softens ever so slightly, and it all just comes together. </div>
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If you don't fancy cooking your meal yourself, you can go for the beef strips which arrived cooked and looks just as yum. </div>
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After a spot of mixing, it was time to add the sauces. Red for chilli, yellow for miso (their version of soy). </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrNUzPXZuozGepiV1SEYL6TQhAxSX_91Po6Nw9Q_RYyjBpYkUKuXQ42t9DakDQbXiLcRolLfJlAobT33WWy7Hivbl_UYmgii0l0_g1lnc8qqxtqzDUmWKAORPzgY17YjYkAo2SEwB6KEw/s1600/P1090408.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrNUzPXZuozGepiV1SEYL6TQhAxSX_91Po6Nw9Q_RYyjBpYkUKuXQ42t9DakDQbXiLcRolLfJlAobT33WWy7Hivbl_UYmgii0l0_g1lnc8qqxtqzDUmWKAORPzgY17YjYkAo2SEwB6KEw/s1600/P1090408.jpg" /></a></div>
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The portion sizes are immense which makes the pricing seem even more reasonable. It really is a hearty, delicious meal in one. </div>
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xxs</div>
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Life and Lumeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04520756125753590023noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-126274296722136290.post-88896189232613606692015-08-04T07:30:00.000+01:002019-02-11T01:38:04.665+00:00OUTFIT OF THE DAY #3<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj42MQcmsurx5Oj2HSxmKT0WkqaVPMFhcVUYW8sIJaM3RFae35IZtxQtYXDKTZazd4goPhhct_2sW06EhRzfYoN4kuR6Q-Cj6Eb5Hi88vKmPWdoznL1NDL3fjYTv0On7FbgRxxgr730Fw/s1600/P1070636.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj42MQcmsurx5Oj2HSxmKT0WkqaVPMFhcVUYW8sIJaM3RFae35IZtxQtYXDKTZazd4goPhhct_2sW06EhRzfYoN4kuR6Q-Cj6Eb5Hi88vKmPWdoznL1NDL3fjYTv0On7FbgRxxgr730Fw/s1600/P1070636.jpg" /></a></div>
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I mentioned a while ago I wanted more fashion on this blog of ours and I've FINALLY pulled my finger out to do something about it. I should start by saying I'm lucky enough to work in a place where suits are no where to be found. This really does open my wardrobe wide open...</div>
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The biggest pro of working in a casual office environment is obvious, you can wear whatever you like (bearing in mind your personal brand). Biggest con is the absolute AGE it can take in the mornings to get dressed.</div>
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I've tried to fill my closet with comfortable bits and bobs that in theory should (in theory) come together pretty easily. This one is one of my favorites.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_26bIMpjRrB9GLHs9MbxH7TDWa98Z_AOBVfjvadCLv_d5YmPxMYiAy9UWepP4XoSF66iFf34gnkRbaLWKWi81r83cd3fJ_RXcF6Z19q6Gmm0FD7nCDzKcFtS93P5R4J33Cyw_aFuYhoY/s1600/P1070574.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_26bIMpjRrB9GLHs9MbxH7TDWa98Z_AOBVfjvadCLv_d5YmPxMYiAy9UWepP4XoSF66iFf34gnkRbaLWKWi81r83cd3fJ_RXcF6Z19q6Gmm0FD7nCDzKcFtS93P5R4J33Cyw_aFuYhoY/s1600/P1070574.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The dreaded chest gap</td></tr>
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<u><b>Top</b></u></div>
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Mango</div>
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*The shirt is hot but the chest does gape so be warned larger chested friends.</div>
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<a href="http://shop.mango.com/GB/p0/women/clothing/blouses-and-shirts/print-animal-blouse/?id=51080161_02&n=1&s=prendas.blusas&ident=0__0_1438641201899&ts=1438641201899" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Alternative here</a>. </div>
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<u><b>Trousers</b></u></div>
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H&M</div>
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<u><b> </b></u><a href="http://www.hm.com/gb/product/02192?article=02192-R" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Alternative here</a>.</div>
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<u><b>Shoes</b></u></div>
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French Connection</div>
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<a href="http://www.frenchconnection.com/product/Woman+Collections+Shoes/SFEHI/Ursie+Leather+Ponyskin+Mules.htm" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Alternative here</a>.</div>
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<u><b>Necklace</b></u></div>
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Miss Selfridge</div>
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<a href="http://www.missselfridge.com/en/msuk/product/accessories-299050/collars-299249/ombre-beaded-necklace-4515499?bi=0&ps=40" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Alternative here</a>.</div>
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This is one of my favorites however the shirt is soooo annoying sometimes with the gaping. In principle, you get what I was trying to do here with this outfit. </div>
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Let me know if you have have tricks up your sleeve for preventing the dreaded shirt gap.</div>
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xxs</div>
Life and Lumeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04520756125753590023noreply@blogger.com