The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time at the Gielgud Theatre, London

Months after a collapsed theatre roof meant that our tickets had to be re-scheduled (with ease, thanks to the National Theatre!) I was finally sat in the Grand Circle, clutching my programme and eagerly waiting for that moment when the lights dim, the audience hushes, and the magic begins.

I had no idea what to expect. I wasn't sure how the book, in which Mark Haddon so brilliantly portrays a boy with Aspergers, would interpret the uniqueness with which he sees the world. The stage was bare, aside from a few chairs and an intriguing grid of lights and lines across the black surfaces, like a giant chalkboard (a significant observation).

The Gielgud is a tiny theatre in London's centre;  where the seats are steep (unless you can afford to sit in the stalls), the legroom is minimal, but the views and the decor are excellent. There's just something about sitting in a London theatre that fills me with excitement.

Before the play started, I indulged in a glass of wine at the bar. Although my seats weren't the best (a bargain!) those who sit at the Dress and Grand Circles get to wait in a beautiful mezzanine area, looking down upon other theatre-goers, with beautiful architecture around them. Nothing makes a theatre trip feel special like a chandelier. It made the perfect place to await our call into the theatre itself!

Now...the play....

Well, I've been uh-ming and ah-ing about what I can write about it...I desperately want to discuss it with you all, but I'm aware of giving away surprises for those of you who are hoping to see Curious in the future. Spoilers.

So I'll just write this.

Curious is one of those shows which leaves you reeling when the curtain falls at the end. It makes you want to leave the building dancing from one foot to another amongst the London crowds, and will give you a buzz which only the best theatre productions can do. It will leave your hands sore from too much clapping, your heart swollen from the emotion, excitement, magic and creativity of it all.

Curious is an absolute roller-coaster of emotions: humour; sadness; sympathy; panic; confusion. There is not one single dull moment.

As in the book, you are shown the world through Christopher John Francis Boone's unique perspective through the power of words...but, on stage, it's all there. Right in front of you. Visually interpreting Mark Haddon's words and ideas and turning them into symbolic, visual delights. The stage itself turns into a canvas on which diagrams and illustrations are projected and drawn. This is a fully interactive experience, with lights, dance, movement, symbolism, surprises, and even some mechanical wizardry which left my hairs standing on end. There are moments when you can't help but exchange looks with the person next to you, which say 'I can't believe I just saw that'.

The cast were phenomenal too. I completely and utterly believed who they were, and never questioned otherwise. The characters had stepped straight out of the pages and onto a magical stage to tell their story. They used interpretation so well that some illuminated boxes and lines on the floor became houses on a street (yes, really). Graham Butler as Christopher gave an incredible performance- he was believable and brilliant. He was so captivating that you just could not help but get swept up in his thought processes, and his surprise at the end (no spoilers) as superb. The other cast members were also brilliant, with humour in every corner and excellent acting. For such a small cast, they filled the stage completely.

Sitting in the Grand Circle was not, as some might think, a disadvantage. In fact, I think I had the best view of all - I was able to see all of the action on stage, and never once missed some of the magic on stage; I could see every projection and stage movement perfectly, and had prime view of anything that happened on the floor of the stage (which those in the stalls may not have been able to see very well).

I left the theatre feeling inspired, elated and so incredibly impressed by a play which at first, I'll admit, I was apprehensive about. It's a good sign when you can't stop talking about it for days afterwards, recommending it to everyone you know.

I won't go on any more, but I will simply end by saying that this was one of the best performances I've ever seen, and I would really urge anyone interested to go and see it if they can, regardless of whether you've read the book. It is magical and educational and there are surprises around every corner. You can find out more about the play and ticket availabilities on the National Theatre website (though I think the play may also be touring next year).

As I left the Gielgud and darted through the Saturday-night crowds in Piccadilly Circus, the night felt alive and all I could see was falling confetti and the stars through which Christopher Boone and his pet rat, Toby, spun through just moments before on a small stage in the middle of London.

Life Lessons: In Defence of Going to University

There have been a lot of fantastic posts recently from bloggers who want to emphasise that the world of higher education doesn’t suit every body (see What Olivia Did's recent post on not graduating from university). It’s an unfortunately common expectation that everyone will go to university automatically, and people don’t consider the other options. Sometimes, people just want to get out their rut; go to college, get a job, start an apprenticeship, go travelling. There’s no should or shouldn’t about the steps you should take next in your life - whatever stage you’re at.

This month, many will be heading off to University, and more will be considering their options - going back into education, wondering what to do next, and trying to work out if it’s really what they want to do. 

I am completely in support of those who decide to take the road less common; in fact, I thoroughly admire them. However, I wanted to write this post as a reminder that it’s also OK to do the 'norm', if that’s really what you want to do, and head off to university. It doesn’t make you any less creative, ambitious or enterprising. In fact, both routes are equally as challenging, daunting and valuable - they’re both as worthwhile, it just depends on what kind of person you are. 

Some people just want to focus, start something new, or try to make their own way, doing something new after years of education...and some people just want to keep studying.

I fit into the latter category - I always have, and I think I always will. When I was taking my A Levels, I couldn’t imagine doing anything else; taking my studies further was so natural for me, I didn’t even think twice about doing it. I went to all of the open days, pored over prospectuses and debated over course content, campuses and accommodation. Eventually, back in 2009, I made my choices, applied, took my exams and managed to get into my first choice. The next thing I knew, I was moving into halls, meeting new people, and starting what I now know to be four of the best years of my life so far.

I studied at both undergraduate and postgraduate level for no other reason than I adore learning. I loved the research, the creative processes involved in the humanities, the feeling of seeing each essay improving in style and structure. Learning not just about the contents of books, but about how to think outside the box, manage my own time and improve my writing. Continuing my degree to a postgraduate level wasn’t a career move for me. Unlike many, I didn’t care about how it might get me a better job. For me, it meant having the opportunity to continue my studies for one more year, to really get involved in one or two specific subjects, discover my true academic interests and really test my abilities. My hard work paid off, and I graduated and left one year ago - and I’ve missed it ever since.

I went to university with the course in mind. To be honest, I barely thought about my independence; making friends, socialising, parties and societies had nothing to do with why I applied. I applied for academia, and the social aspect of things were simply secondary. However, this turned out to be equally as important just a few weeks into my course. Before university I was shy, awkward, uncertain, and half the person I am now. Sure, I’m still awkward, and inside I’m almost as shy as I was; but I have learnt so much aside from the academic knowledge I sought in the first place. And that’s what I want to share with you today.

Despite my initial goals, university isn’t just a place to get a degree. It’s also a place to actually work out who you are, escape adolescence, make mistakes and learn from them. It’s so much more than books, lectures, clubbing, hangovers and pot noodle. 

For me, and for many, university is a significant stepping stone into adulthood. You must learn to prioritise, time-manage, budget, choose your first shared house, clean, cook, look after the health of yourself and of others, cope with struggles and issues in your own way. And, alongside all this, you must pass your degree; hand in essays to a tight deadline, juggle numerous assignments, organise placements and work experience and increase your chances of employability. It’s no wonder, then, that so many of my friends and I graduated with academic and social knowledge which has proved vital ever since.

Going to university was the best decision I’ve ever made. Yes, I now have my student debt, and loans a-plenty to pay off…but I made lifelong friends, had the opportunity to explore knowledge, learnt from the minds of incredible academics, tried my hand at some new hobbies, learnt many important life lessons and gained independence and the ambition to try to really work myself out for the rest of my life.

I made mistakes, stayed up too late, over-spent and under-budgeted, overslept, ate too much soup and pasta…I learnt life skills which mean I can now confidently live away from home, make my own way, and search for my next path.

I  learnt about friendships, relationships, goals, career choices, mental health and wellbeing, how to say no, how to say yes, how to push myself and be kind to myself and give myself some space and time. 

All of this...and my studies. It was a hectic few years! Which is why my time as a student was so valuable.

I loved my studies, my friends, and everything that came with my years as a student. I worked hard, made a huge effort to make the most out of it and, despite the inevitable ups and downs, I wouldn't change a thing. 

And then...I graduated with good degrees, solid friendships, independence, confidence, goals, ambitions, tender memories, inspiration, and the certainty that life really can be what you make it if you put the work in yourself. Everything is down to you. Your passions, ideas, goals, and what makes you happy - whether or not that involves going to university.

I think its safe to say that my years as a student set me up for life in every way possible.

And boy, do I miss it.

But now it’s time for my next chapter, and I have no doubt that I’ll keep learning along the way.

This is a subject I'm pretty passionate about, and I hope to write a couple more posts about it all. So, with that in mind, if there's anything you'd like to hear more about, just let me know in the comments!

So Natural: So Scrubbed Lime & Lemongrass Body Scrub*

How often do you consider what chemicals are in your favourite body wash or face cream? It’s so easy to get swept up in pretty packaging, discounted offers or the next big must-have product - but what about the ingredients? What about animal testing?

After a few months of religiously using my favourite Lush body scrub, I thought it was about time that I tried something new. Keeping to the same routine isn't a bad thing, but it’s always nice when you can find another favourite to add to your bathroom shelf!

So when I was send a few products to sample from the lovely ladies at So Natural, how could I resist? A few weeks ago I was given two brown paper bags containing some very exciting skin treats. So Natural is a newly-formed family-run company who decided to take things into their own hands when ordinary skin products started to irritate their sensitive skin.

Not only am I always keen to support small businesses, I am also becoming more and more aware of what I use on my skin. I am terrible at picking skin products because of their packaging or discounted prices - I very rarely look at the ingredients…and I am ashamed to say I don’t tend to consider whether or not they are cruelty free. It’s definitely something which is overlooked by so many, including myself. Not only do some companies exploit and harm animals to create the perfect lotions and potions, but some chemicals used can still irritate your skin even after testing. I sometimes find myself asking, will we see the effects of some chemicals in a few years’ time? How do we know that anything is really safe to use?

I was sent a number of items - but I've decided to give them each their own little review, starting with the So Natural So Scrubbed Body Scrub. I'd just like to add that although I was sent these products, my review will be completely honest, and all views are my own - of course!

Firstly, let's consider the finer, technical details. So Natural don't test on animals. Their products are free from petrochemicals, parabens, minerals, sulphates (SLS) and methylisothiazolinone (MI). Phew! Not only that, but they are made with raw natural plant extracts. I'd much rather be avoiding those chemicals, thank you very much.

So Natural’s scrub is a good size and reminds me of something I’d buy in The Body Shop or another reputable skincare firm. It’s very pretty, with their recognisable branding - the white colour also means that it would fit in well with any bathroom, and looks clean, professional and cute. So far, so good - first impressions do count!

As with all skincare, however, it’s what’s inside which counts. The body scrub smells heavenly as soon as the lid is lifted- very zesty and zingy, perfect for a wake-me-up shower or a much-needed soak in the bath. As soon as I opened the pot I could also tell that it was natural, just from the look and feel of the product. The salt scrub is steeped in delicious-smelling oils, with small pieces of lemongrass hidden here and there; it’s not creamy, or over processed. I’ve used this product so many times now, and each time I do have to swirl the contents a little to mix them back up, as the salt sinks to the bottom. I much prefer this, however, as it reminds me that what I’m putting on my skin is good and simple - no hidden nasties!

And, my goodness, it smells divine.  This scrub contains lime and lemongrass which is well known for it's stimulation, and, as their handy leaflet reminded me, are great for relaxing muscles and improving circulation. Not only, then, do the ingredients treat your skin with kindness, but it benefits the rest of your body too.

It reminds me of some of my favourite citrus body products, but without the synthetic ingredients; a refreshing scent which isn't’t overpowering or synthetically fragranced. It leaves my skin feeling incredible too. Unlike some scrubs, it doesn't foam, but instead nourishes you with the oil. A little goes a long way too, which is always a bonus, and means that I can scrub myself from head to toe in a matter of minutes. I was warned by the company not to use it on the soles of my feet because of the slippery oil - which isn’t something I usually do anyway! - but it leaves every inch of me feeling smoothed and refreshed. It’s particularly good before a leg-shaving session, ladies!

Do I have any problems with the scrub? Honestly, none that I can think of...other than the fact that I would like more in the tub, so I could use it for longer! It’s certainly on the same level as the major brands I usually turn to, with the added bonuses of being kind to sensitive skin and cruelty free, so although the price is, admittedly, a little higher than my usual budget, there's a very good reason (and it's worth it).

I really, really love the fact that I don’t have to moisturise after my shower if I use it. Sometimes, especially before work, there’s just not enough time to stand and slather yourself in creams after a wash. When I use this scrub, the oils mean that my skin is incredibly soft and smooth with half the effort, which saves me a lot of time. I also love the roughness of the salt - it’s not abrasive, but you can definitely feel it working it’s magic. I like my scrubs to actually scrub, instead of lightly tickling my skin. This definitely does the job!

I have been using this scrub regularly ever since I received it, and it’s certainly up there among my favourite products. I think anyone who is a fan of Lush's body scrubs, like myself, would enjoy using this scrub too. I really like the idea that it’s completely natural - it just goes to show you don’t need to add chemicals to create lovely skin products!

I have to admit, I’m quite lucky when it comes to my skin. Apart from some pretty bad spot trouble in my younger years, and a temperamental scalp, my skin isn't particularly sensitive. However, I nearly always use sensitive skin products, just to ensure it stays that way. The thought of using a product and experiencing a reaction is enough to make me consider softer brands, whether it’s high-street or luxury. 

So Natural’s scrub isn't just for those who suffer from sensitivity and other skin complaints - it’s for anyone who wishes to use cruelty-free, simple, locally-made products, which not only do good, but smell and feel great too. 

*This post reviews products sent to me by the company. However, my views are honest and completely my own.

Patty & Bun, James Street, London

You've probably noticed by now that I am quite the fan of burgers - my blog is spotted with reviews and mentions of beefy patties, sweetly caramelised onions and generous portions of fries. In fact one of my first posts was all about my favourite burger venue, 7Bone in Southampton.

It's odd, really, because I'm not a big meat-eater. I'll nearly always choose the veggie option. But there's something I just can't resist about a succulent burger (veggie, chicken or delicious beef, I'm not picky), all the toppings and a tasty bun, with sides to boot. It's indulgent, allows for plenty of flavour, and fairly low-key. A meal you can enjoy with friends, family and your other half, on any occasion.

Which is why, after plenty of research, I deemed Patty & Bun the perfect pre-theatre dinner destination a few weeks ago, during a weekend in London town.

All dressed up after a morning lazing around in Hyde Park, I left the hotel and turned to Google Maps to take me to a little gem recommended by the lovely Rosie Londoner - who seriously knows her burgers. Needless to say, if Rosie loved it, I had very high expectations, and was delighted when I found it, tucked away at the end of the street; unassuming and very, very....well, cool.

Arriving at 5.30pm on a Saturday afternoon meant that the evening rush hadn't quite started, and I was seated within fifteen minutes of asking for a table, which I was pretty pleased with. This was something I'd been really worried about - London is notorious for it's foodie hot-spots, and  with so many restaurants declining reservation requests, you never know if the meal you've been planning for weeks will actually go ahead. It seemed we had arrived at the perfect time, and I settled myself down to peruse the menu.

The room itself was...well...tiny. Unfortunately I wasn't brave enough to take photos of the room, which would have potentially made the other diners uncomfortable; I didn't feel the restaurant was big enough to snap away unnoticed! Creatively decorated with burger-themed cartoons and basic walls, it had that 'I woke up like this' vibe; as if a lot of effort had been put into making it seem like it had been decorated in under 24 hours. It was not what I expected, but it was comfortable, welcoming and relaxing.  There was, however, a definite fast-food vibe - this wasn't the sort of restaurant you would hang about at for hours, gazing into your date's eyes, reminiscing with friends or planning your evening - this was a 'get in, eat your burger and head out for your next destination' kind of place. Perfect for that particular evening, but perhaps not somewhere to go for a long, drawn out meal with friends.

Anyway, let's cut to the best bit; the food, of course. As with any great burger joint, there wasn't a huge amount of choice; but this could only mean one thing - that the effort was put into the taste, and not the range. I ordered the 'Ari Gold' cheeseburger, chips with rosemary salt, coleslaw and a simple lemonade. Everything on the menu sounded delicious, but you can't go wrong with a simple cheeseburger.

The food came very quickly - this was seriously fast food - and presented in a suitable fashion too; expertly wrapped up in paper. The coleslaw and rosemary chips came in polystyrene bowls. I liked the burger presentation but I wasn't so sure about the polystyrene - it was quirky, but I almost felt like the food seemed less appetising that way. Perhaps I'm just being picky, though.

The moment of truth arrived; unwrapping my burger. As I peeled back the paper, strings of hot American cheese clung to the sides, oozing and stretching invitingly. It was a good size too; not too small, but not too big. It smelt great too. First impressions we very, very positive.

It tasted very good too; I particularly enjoyed the tang of pickled onions, which made a great change to the usual caramelised or fried onions you tend to find in similar burger joints. I could tell that the food was incredibly fresh, and the bun was lovely and soft. The meat was good; tasty, moist and moreish, and well cooked (medium for me).

Eating the burger was a messy business; this isn't really somewhere you go if you want to seem delicate and sophisticated. It's also probably not the ideal place for a first date, unless you don't mind your suitor watching you devour a burger with cheese and sauce smeared around your greedy mouth - which will happen when the burger is as good as this. I was told that I ate mine with such gusto that I received disapproving looks from the poised ladies next to our table; I'm not a messy eater...but I couldn't help it. This was the sort of place where ketchup down your chin is a compliment.

The fries, I'll have to admit, were a little disappointing. While they were tasty, the rosemary salt just didn't come through. The coleslaw, however, was a different story. It was some of the best coleslaw I've had. Patty & Bun added a hint of mind into the mix. This gave it a surprising and delicious twist, and I just wish I had ordered two portions.

With the burger finished and the last of the sides devoured, I sat back to relax and take a moment. The table was cleared quickly - but then, with just paper and polystyrene to deal with, this wasn't a mammoth task. I left feeling happy, full and satisfied. 

My only regret upon leaving was that I hadn't ordered any chicken wings, which I remembered were highly recommended just too late. Watching the ladies at the next table tucking into them was torture, and I will definitely be treating myself to a portion when I return. I was told with good authority that the 'Smokey Robinson' burger was very good, and I'm tempted to go for the Portobello 'Dig It' Mushroom burger next time as a veggie alternative.

So, after weeks of anticipation, what is my ultimate verdict? It was good; the burger was fresh, tasty, moreish and sufficiently cheesy. The coleslaw was wonderful, but the fries left a little to be desired - I would have liked to taste the rosemary more, and a slightly bigger portion too. Price-wise, it was standard for a popular burger venue in London. The service was good, though it wasn't as it's busiest, and the atmosphere was very welcoming and chilled. I personally like my restaurants to be a place to relax and stay a while after eating,  so I wouldn't choose Patty & Bun for a leisurely lunch or dinner. It was perfect, however, for what I wanted that evening; a quick but delicious bite to eat before an event.

I'd love to return, especially to try those chicken wings, and I'd definitely recommend going it you're a burger-lover and like your quirky restaurants and excellent fast food. 

Just make sure you order the coleslaw; and don't forget a napkin to wipe the sauce from your chin.

Have you been to Patty & Bun before? What's your favourite burger joint?

Burgundy Blogroll: July

It's time for me to share with you some more of my favourite posts of the past month (it's a little delayed, but I'm sure you'll forgive me!). There were some lovely posts in July; I won't lie to you, many of them were food based (the way to my heart really is via my stomach!) but they're all worth popping onto my monthly blogroll.

I hope you enjoy reading some of these gems - if you do, let me know in the comments! As always, the titles are linked.  Hopefully you may find some new favourites amongst them.

What Olivia Did: Salted Caramel Popcorn and English Breakfast Muffins

Salted Caramel Popcorn                         English Breakfast Muffins

Olivia's recipes are always a firm favourite of mine. Ok...I've never had the time to actually try them, but I have them all stored up for a drizzly Sunday afternoon this autumn for a baking extravaganza. These recipes are, of course, on that very list, and Olivia has outdone herself! The popcorn sounds like the perfect movie-night snack, and had me drooling all over my keyboard at work when I read it at lunchtime (not really...that would be disgusting!) Only this morning I was waxing lyrical about how much I love crumpets (with Nutella, no less!) so I'd love to make my own using Olivia's recipe - it's always best knowing what goes into your food! If you haven't checked out the rest of her recipes, I really encourage you to.

What Olivia Did: On Not Graduating from University

A Level results have now been released, and thousands will be starting university in September. But what if you didn't get in? What if you didn't even want to apply? Another brilliant (non-food related) post from Olivia, this time detailing her decision to leave university and follow her heart. I adored being a student, being quite the academic, but several family members and friends chose a different path and in today's university-centred society it's vital to remember that no degree does not mean no hope - in fact, it means just the opposite.

Zoe London: How to Get a Bikini Body

This post isn't what it says on the tin. I've been growing more and more in love with Zoe's blog and her honest, grounded and colourful view of the world. At a time of year when we are all feeling a bit inadequate in the bikini-body department (for no good reason...what even is a bikini body anyway?!) Zoe questions the entire concept and offers a little reassurance. Definitely one to read just before your trip to the pool.

Hannah Maggs: Blackout

I jump for joy whenever the lovely Hannah posts, because it always means she has something worthwhile to say. This post is just fantastic. In a world where we are always attached to a screen and constantly multitasking - when was the last time you watched TV without being on Twitter? - there is just no time or awareness of the need for literally switching off. I hope to write about this theme soon, and was completely inspired to take more care of myself when it comes to technology. Read this, and start planning your blackout. Preferably with a hot bubble bath, a best friend or chocolate, of course.

Honestly Healthy: Mindless Eating - By Chris James

I love getting inspired by Honestly Healthy, and this post really spoke to me. Another example of our need to multitask; more often than not I find myself eating dinner in front of the TV, watching Netflix, reading blogs or scrolling down my phone. It's time to be more aware of what we put in our mouths, and how it affects us; the tastes and smells and even colours of food should be a joy, not a necessary part of the day. Read this post...but not at your dinner table.

Darling Magazine: Getting your Attention

Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4

A brilliant series which I love popping back to, and on a very similar theme to those above. We have so much going on in our lives that we now have very limited attention spans; we are always thinking of something else, not giving people enough time, not listening enough. It's time to get back in the room and really take stock of what is going on around us.

Which posts or ideas have really caught your eye in the last month?

Sunday Night Bath-time Essentials

Nothing soothes the soul more than a bath - even when it's summer, and it almost feels too hot! I like to make mine into an event, of sorts. After all, if you're going to do it, you should do it properly! Facemasks, bath oils and fresh towels are all essentials for me, as well as a good book and a cup of tea!

On Sundays, I make a point of settling down for a relaxing soak. Lighting a candle is usually the first step; then, running the bath and pouring in bubble bath - last week I used Soap & Glory's Calm One, Calm All, which is light and soothing. Next step; I usually deep clean my face with Liz Earle's Cleanse and Polish to get rid of the day's dirt and prepare for a Lush face mask (of course!). At the moment I'm finishing off a pot of BB Seaweed. 

Once I'm clean and covered in clay (ahh facemasks...) I sink into the warm bubbles and start reading. During my last bath I enjoyed Nathan Filer's The Shock of the Fall (still early days, but gripping so far), sipping on my tea and finishing a Galaxy bar for good measure. 

Then comes the ritual of exfoliating, shaving and cleansing, before clambering out of the bath as pink as a peach and feeling squeaky clean. As a little addition to my ritual last week, I used Lush's Volcano foot mask - slathered all over my feet and left for ten minutes, then washed off to reveal clean and soft feet.

Finally, the moisturising. Last week I used So Natural's Face and Body Oil for the first time (utterly divine - watch this space for a review!) all over my skin, and emerged from the bathroom feeling relaxed, pampered and clean as a whistle - ready for a restful night before a long week.

I have always loved a bath on a Sunday night - there's nothing like a ritual to make you feel better.

What are your bath-time essentials?

July Favourites

I'd just like to start off by apologising for the miserable lack of posts on SWB last month. I've been pretty busy, and life has just taken over - as it quite rightly should. I've also been feeling a little distant from the idea of blogging, and putting my life out there online (something that I hope to write about in the coming weeks). However, I've been brewing many ideas and have plenty of posts drafted and ready to publish, so hopefully August will be much more fruitful, regardless of my concerns!

Now, onto my monthly favourites. This month, of course, my favourites have been mostly based around the lovely summer weather. I haven't been shopping very much, but I've still managed to pick up a few star items, and there are some really exciting and different bits and pieces in this month's post which I will be elaborating on over the next few weeks!

John Green, Paper Towns

After falling in love with John Green's novel The Fault in our Stars (and bawling my eyes out watching the film adaptation) I couldn't wait to try one of his other books. I bought this at my local independent bookstore to support them while they were going through a little funding crisis. It's a fantastic book and definitely one of my new favourites. Paper Towns tells the story of a mysterious, enigmatic, creative young lady and a straight-laced, routine-focused boy. It's a coming-of-age adventure that commands your attention and can make you consider life's bigger questions. I've got my eye on Looking for Alaska next!

Pimm's Blackberry & Elderflower

Summer just isn't summer without Pimm's, and after weeks of sunshine I finally got round to trying some of their limited edition Blackberry and Elderflower. I think Elderflower is just divine, and couldn't wait to have some. It's delicious - perhaps not all it's hyped up to be if I'm being honest (and you can't really have it with the standard fruit and mint) but it is very very tasty and I will definitely be having some again.

Seventeen Falsifeye HD Mascara in Blackest Black & Soft Smudge Pencil Eye Kohl in Grey

I picked these up when I rushed into Boots to replace my Soap & Glory mascara in a makeup emergency; the mascara was cheap and newly released,  and there was an offer on - so I grabbed them both and hoped for the best! I've been very pleasantly surprised though - the Falsifeye HD mascara is amazing, and such a bargain, and the grey eye kohl makes a brilliant change from my usual black eyeliner. I'll be writing more on these very soon, since I really am completely converted.

Warehouse Sunglasses

I picked these up at the end of June and have been wearing all through the past month. Although they're a little different to my usual style, I think they're lovely and quirky without being too 'out there'. The only little issue is that the arms are quite loose already, but otherwise they do the trick and keep the sun out of my eyes, while looking good. I think these are in the sale now, so there might be limited availability, but it's definitely worth checking them out online if you're looking for a pair of good high-street sunglasses.

Sleek Makeup Gel Effect Lacquer in Waikiki

I received Sleek Makeup's Gel Lacquer in Waikiki in my goody bag for Cosmopolitan's Superblogger Masterclass at the end of June (I never reviewed the event, sadly!) . The colour is not one I thought I would buy, personally, but it's perfect for summer and is really not as bright as I expected, which makes it very wearable and the perfect summer shade. It even makes me look like I have a slight tan, which is always a plus! I'll definitely be wearing this throughout the remaining summer months (and beyond!)

Next Point Shoes in Rose Gold

Well...these rose gold stilettos from Next aren't my usual style. They're metallic, eye catching...and very pointy. However, I casually entered Next's weekly 'Shoe of the Week' competition on Twitter...and won them! It was a huge surprise and really made my week. I was a bit worried I wouldn't like them but as soon as I received them in the post I completely fell in love. They're very elegant and put me out of my fashion comfort zone (which is what I need to do more!) . They looked perfect with a dress I wore to a friend's wedding, as they're fairly neutral with a twist! I'd love to write about them more actually - so watch this space.

Hawaiian Tropic Satin Protection Ultra Radiance, SPF 30

Another treat from the Cosmo Masterclass gift bag. This Hawaiian Tropic sun lotion is the perfect size to carry in my handbag, and it smells delicious - not the usual clammy sun-cream scent! It also has a little shimmer, to enhance your tan (not that I have one...). Simple, but effective - a definite summer staple!

This bookmark doesn't have a name or title - I bought it in a very cute little independent nick-knack store when I visited the seaside and fell in love. I'm really trying to inspire and motivate myself more at the moment, and adore the little mottoes found on Pinterest and blogs like this. I thought this saying was perfect and, since I read so much, I see it every day. It reminds me to push myself and work hard for the life I want to live. Isn't it cute?


What have you been loving this last month?