The power of positivity

The last few weeks I've not felt too positive. I was going to ignore it as thought it might make for a boring post, but then I thought no. Lots of people have bad days or crappy times, so instead I thought I'd focus on what helps me.

Be warned there are some cheesy things to help combat negativity, so I try to get these out the way first.

People

It is about those around you. Surrounding yourself with friends, family and maybe even your partner (if you're not single like me) can make a huge difference to lifting your spirits. You want to be around the people who motivate, inspire and encourage you. I've realised the difference it makes; you will feel negative, when people don't value you, put you down and are generally negative about their own lives.

Self-Care

If you had told me two or three years ago that I'd recommend self-care I wouldn't believe you. It sounds like a hippy term, but can make a huge difference. For example, I dedicate Sundays to pamper myself. No makeup, doing very little and pampering. I usually paint nails and/or toes, exfoliate my face, put a body scrub on, put on my hair treatment and get in the shower! It's lovely and so relaxing. I think it's important to take time for you because it's so easy to forget these things. It's also important as part of self-care to do things you enjoy like meeting friends, treating yourself to something or generally keeping up your hobbies. When you're stressed you don't often wish to but it makes one hell of a difference!

Exercise

So many of us say we don't have the time, but now I've put the effort into losing weight (gradually) I firmly believe that is not an excuse. You make time! People you see at gyms, exercise classes or just out running often have full-time jobs,  kids and busy schedules. I believe you just can't be bothered! To be honest, most of the time I can't. However think some people need to see what works for them - fitting in 15 minutes a day to do aerobics can make a difference or even walking instead of using the car! I can not stress the difference walking can make. About a year ago, I made so many excuses not to walk. I never relied on transport but just wouldn't go on walks longer than 10 or 15 minutes. I felt out of breath and blamed it on long-term sinitus, but recently realised it was my weight. I am a 24 year old woman who was less fit than my mum and haven't even had kids! Now I feel so much better. The air on your face makes your skin feel fresher and you can feel it in your legs. Who doesn't want to aim for 10,000 steps a day? Now I dedicate about 30 minutes a day to walking the dogs or walking to and from work. I also try to do yoga at least once a week. It calms and relaxes me as well as helping me with balance and giving exercise benefits.

Diet

If you're like me, you might groan to read that. If you eat chocolate everyday and stuff your face, it might taste amazing and make you happy, but the benefits are short-term. You feel bloated and rubbish for not picking fruit or something healthier instead. I know I do. Why does unhealthy food taste nicer? Well it doesn't always. There is healthy food that is nice. I often stock up on yoghurts to snack on and have a banana in between breakfast and lunch. I also believe it's all about portions. Eat as much as you want or need, and if you're full - stop eating. I've lost weight just doing that! I do think you should never cut out bad foods - just restrict it and only have once craving it.

Be social!

It's amazing the difference just being around people can make. I was previously living in the Isle of Wight, where I had no friends and did very little. It's hard to be happy with circumstances like that. I'm not sure whether I'd describe myself more of an extrovert or introvert, but I am definitely more sociable despite often being shy on first meeting. This is why I notice the difference of skyping friends (when it doesn't break up) or attending events e.g. going to cinema, attending a party or planning trips away. It really boost my mood!

Now onto two positivity books that I've been filling out that I think you'd love to hear about:

1. The Positivity Kit: Instant Happiness on every page by Lisa Currie
- Bought here at Urban Outfitters, £12.99.

I bought this when I was at Glasgow last and have filled out a fair few pages. Here are my favourite pages from the book:

Some I haven't filled, but love ideas behind them. I especially like how it gets you to list achievements big or small above.

As you can tell it's fun to fill out, and gives you varied activities. I like how it gives you the opportunity to doodle, list positive things and aspire to more.

I liked the idea of cutting things out however ugly my mascot might be...

2. The 52 lists project: A year of journaling inspiration by Moorea Seal
This is a fab present bought by one of my friends for my birthday.

It is split into sections of seasons, so thought I'd show you what I've done for winter:

For winter, it includes 13 lists for you to complete,which include:
- List your goals and dreams for this year

I could list what is included, but it's mostly in new year post.

- List your favourite characters from books, movies,  etc.
- List the happiest moments of your life so far
- List the soundtrack of your life right now
- List what you would like your life to look like in ten years
- List the ways you love to have fun

More ways to relax...

- List all the people who brighten up your day

Granted some are animals...

- List your favourite quotes
- List the things you treasure most
- List the things you should ignore
- List the ways you can rejuvenate your space
- List your best qualities

I asked people, and listed ones. It really boosted my confidence!

- List the things that always cheer you up

I'm thinking of including more posts from the 52 lists project as complete spring, summer and autumn. Would you enjoy filling out books like this? What helps keep you positive? I'd love to hear it!

Day 8 of Blogmas - 10 things

Monday's post was very negative and listed the things I dislike about Christmas. However I want to make it very clear - I don't completely hate Christmas. I don't feel as excited this year. It could be because it doesn't feel as cold, or that I feel I've only just moved; it could be getting older or it could be the fact I'm working Christmas Eve and Boxing Day.

That being said, I do like spending time with family and all it entails, so here is my positive post about the things I love, am grateful for and goals for 2017.

10 things I love about Christmas:

1. Presents
Yes I'm still a total child! I've had to stop myself opening presents from two of my friends as they posted them.

2. Food
I love being greedy, and it's the one time Mum doesn't lecture me about how I will feel bad about it

3. Day off
It's a nice day off that you can spend off, where neither parents are stressing, and I can be with them

4. No pressure
There are no plans. I am not judged for staying my pjs most of the day!

5. Naps and time to chill
Sometimes I  get to sneak off for naps (I am known to have one, sometimes two and maybe three once).

6. Irn Bru
I've banned myself from drinking it as religiously as I used to. Unfortunately my skin flares up so I like the occasional treat of it on Christmas Day. Most enjoy a bellyful of alcoholic beverages, not me. I don't actually tend to drink anything alcoholic on Christmas Day

7. The aftermath
I love what comes after Christmas. It is the start of organising things for the new year, writing goals and tidying away anything new you've received.

8. Giving
I know presents came first, but this comes in equal measure. I usually start Christmas shopping at the end of October or early November, so love when I can finally exchange gifts; see how much they like it; if they like it.

9. Time for reflection
As it sounds, time to reflect similar to point 7.

10. Coming together
So many families might be far in distance, but come together and celebrate.

10 things I'm grateful for this year:

1. My dogs
2. My friends
3. My family
4. My increasing confidence
5. A home (this time of the year makes me feel for those less fortunate)
6. Learning new hobbies e.g. blog, scrapbooking and more
7. Enjoying being single - no need to look, and learning to enjoy own company
8. My health
9. A job
10. Having everything I need in terms of possessions

10 things I hope for in 2017:

1. Pass my driving test
2. Be the best Maid of Honour I can be for my close friend's wedding in August
3. Get a job in fundraising
4. Make a difference volunteering
5. Go somewhere abroad - preferably to visit my friend, Zara in Norway
6. Visit family who live further afield
7. Go to more gigs and events
8. Pursue more creative hobbies such as jewellery making
9. Start yoga properly again
10. Complete a charity challenge as discussed in yesterday's post here.

Hope you enjoyed this post. As you can probably tell, I love writing a good list! What are you looking forward to? Love to know!

11 Things I Loved About November

I find inspiration and blog ideas from others, and hope they don't mind too much! I saw at Claire's Comfy Corner, that she had been writing things she loved about each month - big or small. Because I loved this idea, I thought it would be nice to look for 11 things this month as it's the 11th month. Here is my list:

1. I moved to Ipswich

As you will know from previous posts, I had been living in the Isle of Wight for the last 7 months. The island was a very different way to what I was used to. I wasn't excited to move again, but feel more positive since moving here. I feel there is lots to look forward to.

2. I began volunteering again
I love volunteering and think everyone should do it at least once. You learn about yourself, help others and do something fun for a good cause! This month I started volunteering for a local hospice on the island. I am working to volunteer again.

3. I received more presents from my birthday
The great thing about my birthday being the end of month is it means I can decide when is best to celebrate. Because of Halloween, I sometimes organised things at the start of the month. Because all my friends live far away (insert sad face here), most of my presents were posted. I will discuss them in more detail as I love talking about birthdays and want to write something specific about it (yes, it will be VERY late).

4. I started to gather ideas for gifts I could get people for Christmas
It's hard to remember what I did for November (Christmas shopping-wise), but by the end of November, I usually have my entire shop done. Not this year! It started off well with me buying personalised gifts in September for friends. Then, I kinda waived. That being said, all my friends gifts were sent off by this Saturday. It's just a case of getting my parents and grandparents sorted! I've got little bits for each now.

5. Gilmore Girls started!

I was so excited for Gilmore Girls coming back, and have now watched all the episodes. I thought about reviewing it, but having read another blog that spilled it all, I didn't want to do the same for anyone else. I did write about my excitement and what I hope for the new episodes here. All I will say is, I believe the last four words make sense for the journey that the gilmore women have gone through. I believe it was just how I remembered - funny, quirky and full of characters you can't help but relate to. I won't say anymore. I feel anymore will spill it. For those who haven't seen Gilmore Girls, you can watch all the episodes from series one on Netflix. There are also the new episodes there too!

6. My dogs started to love me more!

It sounds daft, but I feel more connected to my dogs. They always got excited to see me, but now they expect me to kiss their heads or by their cheeks. It's funny. They love me walking them and generally making much more of a fuss.

7. Watched heaps of films

As you will know from reading my recent post, The film list, I LOVE films. New or old; I love them. I have watched heaps of films this month including: Bride of Chucky, Before Sunrise, Two for the Road, Brighton Rock, Big Lebowski and am sure there is much more!

8. Places visited

Truth be told, I've not seen that many new places. Far enough, I've moved to Ipswich, but it's been a case of getting used to what is nearby; testing bus routes, walking to see what's close-by and signing up to the doctors. It has been the normal dull stuff. I have enjoyed learning about all the shops that are close by, and happy that I live a 15minute bus journey from the shopping places. I've also seen a bit of a nearby town called Martlesham. I will keep you updated as I learn more on Ipswich and Suffolk. The picture above is one I took just by the shops. I thought the building looked beautiful!

9. Things I've learnt
I feel like I've really reflected on my life this month, and realised I need to stop being as hard on myself. Things happen, and sometimes you can't help it. I've found the last year I've beat myself up for not being as close to friends (when they haven't made the effort), not trying certain things, my weight gain and a lot of things that happen to people. I feel from being less hard on myself and accepting that things will never be 100% perfect, I've felt more relaxed and more motivated to try harder. I reflected on this in my moving post here.

10. The Blog
This month celebrated 4 months of writing for this blog, where I still have a lot to learn. I've done Blogtober, plan to do some of my Blogmas posts starting tomorrow and have even done my first collab post. Including this post, I've written 52 blog posts, set up a Facebook page in the past week (please like) and continue to learn how to promote my posts. Love to hear any tips from those who have been blogging longer!

11. I've made positive steps for a career in fundraising again
I love the blog, but want to be a Fundraiser and make a difference to charities. I feel it is where my heart is, I miss it when I'm not doing it and love that I might not be able to care for people but can make sure I raise funds for the best support a charity may offer. Hope that explains it in the best way. I hope by volunteering and getting into employment, something will come along again!

If you enjoyed the idea of this post, let me know as I will consider doing them for other month ends.

Moving & Updates

I can officially announce that I'm moving to Ipswich in 6 days! This is my last week on the island.

My life at the moment...

Excitement doesn't really sum-it up. There is so much to look forward to about it. I will be glad to live on the mainland and feel closer to easy transport links, more job opportunities and look forward to exploring somewhere new. I don't know much about the southern part of the country, and feel this year has expanded my knowledge of places including Isle of Wight, Portsmouth, Southampton, London and now Suffolk!

Here are just a few things I've learnt from about Suffolk as an area:

1. It has a place called Bury St Edmunds,which has a hotel which was frequented by Charles Dickens; it is now a boutique inn with a trendy underground bar. I hope to visit there!
2. The Suffolk coast is a 50 mile stretch of heritage coastline, and situated just 2 hours from Central London. I am sad I've not seen more concerts this year, so hopefully being close to even London will mean I see more in 2017!
3. They say it is the best place to visit if you love food, seaside life and world-class culture. I can't wait!
4. There is a fairytale style village called Thorpeness. It is famed for its Peter Pan inspired boating lake. Sounds interesting!
5. Ipswich itself is known for the maritime festival with lots of things that happen during it. Hopefully go and find out more about this to write for the blog!
6. Ipswich is one of the oldest towns in the country and has a fascinating history, with a cutting-edge arts and culture scene. I really hope to find it all!
7. Ipswich is a prime trading port with Europe for hundreds of years
8. Many things to do including performance art, theatre, museums (oh how I love to visit museums), fab restaurants for foodies and galleries
9. It boast the Suffolk Food Hall, which includes a market and restaurants which is described as the Best Local Food Venue in the UK & Ireland. 
10. Ipswich's most famous historic figure is Cardinal Thomas Wolsey. They even have an art gallery in his name - Wolsey Art Gallery. I WILL visit

This is where I'd use pictures, but I don't like including photos I've not used (unless it's related to a film or TV series).

This year has been a year of moving and learning about myself, which has been tough, but something I've needed to do. I refuse to be negative! Despite starting off the year living in Dundee, and due to difficult circumstances moving to Isle of Wight. Then about two months later, moving to another part of the island, which had more to it. Then of course we are moving again. I don't think Isle of Wight was for me. I'd recommend it for a holiday as there is lots to do, but if you asked me to move back - I'd kick, scream and fight against it!

This year I learnt some body confidence which I plan to write about (and link here).

I've learnt how much fundraising means to me, and how much I've missed the third sector to work in. Break ups are hard and upsetting, but losing a career you adore and means so much to you is heartbreaking. Maybe that changes due to who you date though! Fundraising was what I breathed; it made me confident, taught me to promote, was something I was regularly praised on and something I loved to do as a hobby. What is that quote? "Find a job you love, and you'll never have to work a day in your life." (I don't think this is the correct way to say it, but feel free to correct me!)

I've learnt who my friends are. Sometimes we don't talk everyday, but it means so much when we do. To know that my friends are the opposite end of the country hurts me as I deeply miss them, but love how they still play a strong part in my life. They come up with ideas to meet up and make a roadtrip of it; involve me in their weddings, and are there whenever I need them - to cry, moan or talk to. Thank you so much guys! Not sure if a dedication would make you feel awkward, but will do it anyway - Hannah, Lisa, Jools and Fi I love you so much!

I've learnt how much volunteering can build my confidence, and teach me more about the world of fundraising. Another post idea - the power of volunteering. Watch out!

I've learnt the joy of writing again with this blog. Not sure that many people actually enjoy it, but it's a good outlet for my creativity. So far since starting in July, I'm proud that while writing this I've seen over 6000 visits the blog site. As I learn more, I hope to start selling advertising, work with different brands and get my own website. However this is just a hobby so I am in rush and am taking it all very slowly.

Finally I've learnt the things I like to do for my hobbies. Almost a year ago I split up with someone who told me I have no interests, which really stuck in my head. I do, but stopped doing some things and am determined to do more. Take up yoga classes again, go to gigs (aim to see at least 3 acts in 2017), learn something crafty, watch more films I like, keep going with the blog and expand ways to write. Most importantly, I hope to take up fundraising again (if no jobs, at least as a hobby until something comes up).

2017 is fast approaching, and I have so many hopes for it, which I will save for some of my Blogmas posts! Doubt you want to hear my entire life story or every blog idea though... I would love to see links of others taking part in Blogmas though! I will be sure to promote them at the same time I'm doing my posts.

Picture credit to: Typoweblog

Hope you enjoyed reading! I'd be interested to hear from you. What have you learnt from this year? Have you visited Suffolk and have any recommendations for my visit?

20 Things that make me happy

I've got a bit of joy to spread because yesterday marked a month of the blog, where I've had 1685 views (at the time of writing this). Long may it continue. In the spirit of numbers, here is a link to my most popular post: Sun, Fundraising and Good News.

Unfortunately I'm not happy all the time, and sometimes I'm not as positive as I wish I could be. I predict that is something that many people experience. Therefore I want to spread lots of positivity with this post with a list of things that I think make me happy:

1. Fundraising

Anyone who knows me will know that this is one of my biggest passions.

2. Meeting up with friends

Granted I don't have any friends on the island yet, and therefore this is not one I can do as often as I used to, it is still a big one.

3. Being greeted by my dogs

My dogs are always happy to see me no matter what! It's amazing to have.

4. Eating italian food

It is my FAVOURITE food to eat. I love pizzas and pasta most.

5. Going somewhere new to explore

I love adventures, but who doesn't?! I like going to new towns, grabbing souveirs and making memories

6. Writing this blog!

I'm glad I've decided to start writing again as I probably haven't written anything like this since I was in college. I've missed writing but not felt inspired for a while.

7. Trying a Indian

I love trying Indian curries (as long as they are mild). Naan bread is my favourite part of eating an Indian meal though!

8. Taking pretty pictures

I'm not always patient in doing so, and will often take many photos with my finger over the lense. However if you wish to see my most recent and the pictures I'm most proud of, check out my last blog here.

9. Doing something new

I'm always looking for something new to challenge myself, and ensure that I can have something to look forward to. Previously I've skydived, bungee jumped and climbed Kilimanjaro. Although I think I have more fear now, and have chickened out abseiling off the Forth Rail Bridge.

10. Watching Netflix in my bed

I love nothing more than sitting under the covers and watching a film or a favourite series on Netflix. Recently I've been binge-watching old episodes of Gilmore Girls. Did I mention that I'm excited for the new series coming out in November? I also watch Pretty Little Liars, Orange is the new Black and House.

11. Getting something in the post

Yes, I am aware that this is pretty sad but I actually love getting mail. I prefer a nice parcel from someone or something nice I've ordered, and even like getting the odd letter. The picture shows the BEST parcel I've received.

12. Going to the cinema

I don't do this often because if I'm honest I think films made are all similar in plots and genre. Although when I do, I love to sit, eat my popcorn and have a nice slush-puppy or something. I tend to buy some of items at the cinema because I don't go that often. In fact I've not been since Easter. The great thing is when I watch a film at the cinema, I actually WATCH it. While at home, I'm doing so many other things - searching for jobs, messaging people on facebook, texting people, checking emails, eating, doing my skin routine, you name it, I do it!

13. Getting kisses and cuddles from my dogs

Similar to number 3, I just love my dogs. Getting to hug them, stroke them and kiss their heads makes me happy.

14. Seeing live music

Unfortunately I don't do this as often as I wish I could, but love going to gigs and festivals. Last year I saw two gigs over one weekend. That was the best! I wish that happened more often...

15. Skpe with friends

This is a recent development after moving from Scotland, and most of my friends living there. I might not see my friends regularly but at least I can talk to them and see their faces. At the same time! Kinda the same...

16. Looking at travel websites

I've only been abroad twice, but am always wanting to visit somewhere abroad. Unfortunately I'm nowhere near able to afford it right now. It is my dream to travel around most of Australia and teach English in China or Thailand. I would love an excuse to walk the Great Wall of China too. Until then I will continue to just dream of it happening!

17. Painting my nails and toes

I'm not that good and often have chips in them after a few hours, but love painting them all the same. It makes me feel prettier, and therefore that inch more confident.

18. Lists

If you've not noticed already, I love lists and live by them! I'm always writing lists of what I want to do with my day. I am always forgetting things and writing them down helps. Writing this post, I've compiled three lists - a list of pictures I wish to add, obviously the list of happy things and my daily to do list.

19. Jewellery

I just love jewellery. I used to get most of my jewellery from markets and fundraising events I'd attended where I could get lovely handmade bracelets and what-not. Now, my collection consists mostly of bracelets, rings and necklaces that have been nicely bought for me.

20. Animals

I love seeing animals. Whether it's cows in a field, going to an animal sanctuary or a well-kept zoo.

I was going to write a list of 50, but who can think of that many? I know there are probably more, but this is as many as I could think of. What are the 20 things that make you happy? I'm sure there are more than you think