The Spoonie Community

Hello there everyone,

I hope you're well and I am ever so sorry once again that it has been such a while since I previously posted on my blog. You're probably used to the pattern now anyway, it's well known that my posts are few and far between, but that doesn't matter because when I do write I thoroughly enjoy it, making me very happy indeed!

As many of you know I am a 'spoonie' or in other words, somebody with a long standing chronic illness. I have a variety of digestive illnesses with a very long list of horrible symptoms which are very hard to treat or are incurable and they make me very poorly. I can not eat solid food, if I do it will only be a forkful because if it's any more than this, I will be paying for it for the next half a day or so. I am very underweight because I have lost a lot of weight due to my digestive problems. I live on a liquid diet of nutritional supplement drinks prescribed by my consultant and take a great deal of medication daily. I previously had a nasogastric feeding tube and may have to have one again if the new medication my consultant is trying me on, fails.

So, it must seem all doom and gloom to all of you healthy people right? You're wrong, because there is a very big and beautiful part of having a chronic illness, and that is the spoonie community which is predominantly online within social media groups on Facebook or on the social networking site Instagram under hashtags such as #spoonie #spoonielife #chronicallyill #chronicallyfabulous and so on. I have met some absolutely wonderful, caring and understanding people in the spoonie community and I couldn't be more grateful. It's comforting to be able to talk to and make life long friends in other people who are going through the same or similar things as you are, dealing and living with a variety of chronic illnesses.

I of course, am very grateful to my healthy best friends, friends and family who are supportive of me and do all in their abilities to help me and make me feel cared for and loved but nothing can compare to the deep understanding and ability to be emphatic towards each other as spoonies do. They don't care if all you manage to do is make it out of bed and onto the sofa and spend all day there under a blanket, in your dressing gown with a hot water bottle. There are no questions asked if you roll up in your sweatpants and hair tied up messily and you always know a fellow spoonie will be awake at 2 in the morning ready to chat to you through all your pain and symptoms because they're in exactly the same boat. We all stick together, take it day by day and hold each other's hands through the dark times. I do not know what I would do without my spoonie family and I am getting quite emotional writing this because you all mean the world to me! You are all stars!

As I said, it is mostly predominantly online but I have been one of the lucky ones who have fellow spoonies living close by who I have been able to meet in person and these girls are super duper lovely! We can all have a good time together on little outings when we feel well enough and not judge one another when one bails at the last minute because we've all been there, we know what it's like when even getting ready to go out can use up all of your energy so you're unable to actually make it to where you was planning on going. They know what it's like to live with debilitating symptoms day in and day out but we try not let that stop us living life to the full or having fun, all together as one cute spoonie family. I class them as sisters (spoonie sisters) and I love them with all of my heart. Even the spoonies I haven't met, you all have a place in my heart and I would one day like to be able to meet you in person!

So that goes to show that every cloud has its silver lining.

If you are a spoonie and would like me to add you to some of the social media groups where I met most of my spoonie family then do let me know!

Thank you for reading, lots of love, Koren xo

Few And Far Between

Hello there everyone,


As the title says and of course as you all know my posts to this blog are few and far between. That is, because of lack of energy to be able to write. I do apologise for this my lovely readers and as always I hope you're well and your new year of 2016 is going just swimmingly.

I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas.. In my last post I said how excited I was that it was coming up and YES I did manage to enjoy myself with my family and even have a little bit of chocolate! On Christmas Day itself temptation was at its strongest and I had my first Ferrero Rocher chocolate that I had eaten in years. In fact it was the first piece of chocolate to pass my lips in months and it was absolutely beautiful I must say! My friends know me as the super duper chocoholic with her own special secret chocolate collection stashed away in her pink tin ready to dive into whenever she pleases (of course I share with my friends). Unfortunately though because of my digestive illnesses this super duper chocoholic girl faded.. but she's slowly coming back!

Just before Christmas I stayed in hospital and trialled having an NG (Nasogastric) tube - the plan was to be fed overnight through the feeding tube and then work on building up my food portions in the day. Unfortunately the NG tube was causing me a lot of pain and discomfort in my throat and I couldn't swallow very easily with it in - I had it removed and a new one put it to no avail. After 8 days of staying in the hospital I was discharged home on Christmas Eve (I was so happy about this) and was prescribed new nutritional drinks and medication. I've been managing 3-4 of the nutritional drinks a day (900kcal-1200kcal) with tiny portions of food and have managed to put 2-3 pounds on within around 6 weeks. Although not enough as I am still dangerously underweight - it's something!

Next week I have a hospital appointment with my doctor and dietician to discuss a long term dietetic care plan with me which may involve me having to have a long term NG tube. I will soon find out anyway and make sure to keep you updated as to where we are going now! If I do have to have an NG tube I do hope it doesn't cause me as much pain as it did the first and second times.

Anyway, this year is the year I will hopefully recover enough to start enjoying my life. The year I start to get my quality of life back and actually start to live and spread my wings more. I try to stay as positive as one can do in this situation but don't get me wrong - I do have my tearful and down days where I wish I could just snuggle up in bed with my lovely pink tin of super delicious chocolate and let all of the chocolate fill me with happiness and joy (not nausea and horrible symptoms haha!) hey, at least now I can once again enjoy a little bit of chocolate and hopefully by next Christmas it'll be more than "just the one" Ferrero Rocher! Yummy!

Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed the update.

Lots of Love,
Koren xo

Hello Autumn - an update on my life.

Hello there everyone!

I do hope you're all well and have had a good time over the summer months with whatever you have been doing, a lovely relaxing holiday perhaps? Whether you've jetted of to luxurious locations the world over or stayed right here on home ground in the UK (we can't complain too much about the weather, it's not been oh so bad - has it?!) I am sure you are sad it's come to an end. Hey, Autumn is here now but don't despair as there's lots of exciting times to look forward to! Halloween, Bonfire Night and my utterly most favourite CHRISTMAS are all on the horizon, woohoo! Oh and what joy it is to be able to snuggle up under a cosy blanket whilst candles fill up the room with delightful smells and twinkling fairy lights sprinkled all around. Even though it is horrible and icy outside make sure you stay warm and safe inside whenever you can!

So once again you may be wondering where I have been hiding? A lot of you (friends and family) know I have been quite unwell and I still am. I have been having a lot of digestive trouble resulting in an unhealthy weight loss. I feel exhausted, dizzy and weak all of the time which is horrible and I spend most of my days at home with my Nana. I am so grateful for her company, unconditional love and care that she gives me - she's a star and I absolutely love her. I also need to mention and take this time to appreciate my other family members who I live with and those who I don't, boyfriend and friends who are supporting me in this hard period of my life.

I've tried all sorts of nutritional supplement drinks, have been swapping and changing due to feed intolerance although I have finally found one I am managing to have (touchwood!) called Vital 1.5kcal which is specially made for people with sensitive tummies. I drink 2 a day, they have 300kcal per 200ml and are a nutritionally complete sole source of nutrition with all of the vitamins and minerals required for a healthy functioning body. I do try and have little bits of bland food alongside these as well to build up my calories so I hope to be putting on a little bit of weight soon, I long to be beautiful and curvy again.

The NHS have been wonderful and I am grateful that I have such supportive GPs and dieticians. I can not fault them, the NHS do not get enough praise that they well and truly deserve! I have a good health care plan which has been put together so I feel a little more positive now (not 100% but I am trying). I am currently having tests done with a gastroenterologist but I do hope it's nothing too bad and something that can be turned around with the right treatment. You also know that I suffer from severe Emetophobia (such a bad combination) alongside everything else going on but I am starting therapy for that in two weeks time. Let's hope this is the beginning of my long and winding road to recovery!

I really wish that I could feel better, even just a teeny weeny bit in time for my favourite time of year. I hope to be able to enjoy Christmas without as many worries as I have now. I can't wait to be snuggled around the fire and Christmas tree with my loved ones feeling all festive opening presents, having a laugh playing board games and watching festive TV. Maybe I will be able to give in to temptation and indulge a little in the Christmas chocolate box or the other yummy delectable treats that time of year has to offer. One can wish anyway so let's hope my dreams come true and all of yours do.

A positive is I have just got a lovely new phone - upgrading from the Pink iPhone 5C to the iPhone 6 Gold (64GB) which I am in love with and is just perfect! I did originally go for the iPhone 6S Rose Gold which is so elegant and beautiful but with it only being 16GB it didn't have enough memory for me as I am such a heavy user *giggles*. I'll be sure to make good use of my new phone and I will try to start taking some new snaps for my Instagram account and also try and blog a little bit more! Please bare with me though as I haven't always got the energy to write but thank you for reading this and I hope you have a good day wherever you may be.

Coming up - I will try and do a bedroom makeover post soon!

Lots of Love,
Koren xo

10 things to do to cheer you up!

Hello there everyone!

www.weheartit.com

I am sorry that I haven't done a post since April, I am guilty of not having any motivation to write on here and have been absorbing myself into too many books - that will never change though as I will forever be a bookworm! I've had many down days myself so I decided to write this post to tell you some tips which you can do to cheer yourself up when you're having one of those days. Hopefully you're not having them often. Here's to hopefully a happier you..

1. Read a good book! This is such a peaceful and relaxing way to escape the realities of the real world and you'll most certainly get sucked into a great imaginary world where you can forget your worries.

2. Have a lovely warm bubble bath. The warm water gently surrounding your body, the sweet smells of your body wash and the clean feeling you get afterward will definitely lift your spirits.

3. Watch a Disney film. Everybody loves a good old Disney movie, what better way is there to cheer up than to get all nostalgic from Disney childhood memories.

4. Smile! Smiling even when you have nothing to smile about will fool your brain into thinking you're happy by releasing endorphins.

5. Go for a peaceful walk in the countryside or somwhere you love. Like smiling, exercise such as walking also releases endorphins - the feel good happy hormone!

6. Speak to loved ones like friends and family whether it is about how you're feeling or just general chit chat. This is bound to cheer you up!

7. Take deep breaths. This will calm your whole body from head to toe. It is very soothing to the soul and will help you feel more in control of the day or situation.

8. Turn on your favorite music and get dancing or singing!

9. Meditate for 10 minutes. Turn off your phone, go and sit in a quiet room then imagine you are on a beach or somewhere which makes you happy - smell all of the smells, see all of the sights and hear all of the sounds. Whilst doing this also keep in mind your breathing.

10. Hang out with your pet - give them lots of cuddles or stroke their fur. They will make you feel loved, wanted and happy! They stick by your side no matter what after all.

These are just a few ideas to try and make your day that little bit brighter, I hope some of these ideas help for you or your loved ones.

Don't hesitate to share your own ideas in the comments!

Lots of Love,
Koren xo

10 things to love about Spring

Source

Hello there everyone!

After my not so upbeat blog post yesterday I thought I would write something a lot more cheerful to match this lovely weather we are having. Of course - it's spring! The birds are singing, there's a sweet smell in the air and the days are getting longer, what's more to love? Well here are my top 10 things which I adore about spring time, enjoy!

                                                     

                                                               
                                                                1 - The Longer Days
I love how the days are getting longer and the evenings aren't becoming dark at 4pm, now's the chance to embrace the beautiful surroundings in your garden and relax outside after a long day. Just listen to them cute birds tweet away!

                                                                2 - A Warmer Breeze
The temperature is on the rise which means we can ditch the big thick winter coats and start to show off our pretty outfits without the extra layers! Girls, don't forget to start shaving your legs again (we all know we lack a little during winter).

                                                                      3 - New Life
It's so sweet to see the new baby animals being born such as the lambs and birds. Anyone who knows me understands how much I adore all animals and it makes me happy to see the world waking up after a cold, cold season.

                                                                     4 - Butterflies
I just love butterflies! Seeing them flutter around the garden enjoying their freedom makes me smile. They are such beautiful creatures and I long to hold one - I always try and put my hand out when ones nearby in hope they'll land on it, though it's not worked yet!

                                                                       5 - Flowers
Just how lovely is it to see all of the new flowers budding and making a fine appearance? I think they are all so pretty and they make our surroundings look a lot more cheerful and pleasant. It's a lot better than a dull, grey landscape which you often find in winter.

                                                                     6 - Fresh Air
It's great being able to stand outside and take a breath of fresh air. I tend to sometimes nip out into my garden for five minutes for some peace and quiet whilst taking in the fresh spring air, it's very refreshing and relaxing, especially after hibernating all winter!

                                                                7 - Pastel Nail Polish
Don't get me wrong, I always wear my Maybelline "pink in the park" nail polish which is such a cute pretty pastel pink colour. I just feel that pastel nail polishes suit the spring season more than others, they're just so bright and fresh.

                                                                  8 - Blossom Trees
There isn't much to say on blossom tree but I just want to say how beautiful I find them, especially the pink ones! I always smile when I see my first blossom tree, which was about three weeks ago!

                                                               9 - The Park/Outdoors
One of my favourite things to do in the spring time is spend time outdoors in pretty parks or other spaces. It's nice to get out and about with friends and family, maybe with a little picnic too and a few ball games.

                                                             10 - Promise of Summer
It's just so exciting to know that there is a lot more lovely weather to come and plenty of things to enjoy!

I hope you've enjoyed my little sum up of what I love about spring, what do you love about it?

Lots of Love,
Koren xo

A Big Hello From Me Again!

Hello there everyone,

I've missed you all and this blog so much!

Source.

So I guess you're wondering where on earth I've gotten to these past few months which have passed us by? Did you think I had fallen of the face of the universe? I've been suffering a lot with my health and if I am honest I haven't had any energy to write any blog posts, which I have been terribly sad about. Blogging is one of my most favourite hobbies among others and I haven't had any motivation to do any of them. I'm not going to let my health stop me any more though, I think If I continue to do the things I enjoy I shall feel better within myself.

I'm feeling a little more upbeat now that Spring is finally upon us (well more or less!). The weather the past few days has been beautiful and sunny and that never fails to put a smile on my face whilst relaxing me a little. I've decided I'm going to dedicate a whole blog post on my health problems which have been affecting me so that you can all have a little insight into my daily struggles and life. I feel I should be honest with you, my readers. It's only fair being as I've left you without anything to read for so long!

I also have another upcoming post about some new nail products which I've been using, I hope you'll enjoy that! There will be lots more posts coming up on my blog in the near future for you all to take a read of as well so yes, me - Koren is finally back on the blogging scene!

Thank you for taking a read of this and I truly do hope that you are all feeling wonderful!

Lots of Love, 
Koren xo

Busy, busy, busy!

Hello there everyone!

Just a quickie! I just want to let you all know that I may not be posting on here for a while as I have quite a lot going on with my life at the moment and I haven't got a moment spare.

I am very sad to be saying this and hope you all understand so please bare with me!

Lots of love, 

Koren 

xo

10 things to love about Autumn

Hello everyone,

How are you all on this lovely Autumn evening? I hope you are well and looking forward to the weekend ahead.

The weather is now getting colder in most parts of England as the shorter days are in full swing. Even though we may be looking longingly at this Summer's photographs and reminiscing at all of the happy warm memories made, it has to be said that Autumn is a breath of fresh air! So let's embrace this season with 10 things to love about Autumn..

Source.

1 - The Leaves
I think it looks absolutely beautiful when all of the crisp brown and orange leaves start to make their way to the ground and settle creating that perfect crunchy blanket when you walk over them.

2 - The Fashion
I love to wrap up in cosy woolly jumpers, thermal leggings and my ugg boots. It doesn't just stop at daytime fashion - I adore wearing warm pyjamas and onesies to bed!

3 - Apple Pie
They may be available all year round but apples are the best at this time of year! Cobbler, Strudel, Crumble and Pie - take your pick! (Don't forget the custard!)

4 - Crisp Mornings and Chilly Evenings
This isn't one of my favourite parts of Autumn but it makes a change from the heat of summer! I suppose I don't mind as long as I'm wrapped up in a nice coat and scarf.

5 - Autumn Themed Candles
I love Yankee candles and have plenty in my room though I love it when they bring out different scents for different times of year!

6 - Halloween
Even though I'm not a kid any more I still get a bit excited thinking of all the tasty treats around at this time of year! (It's great when I get invited to a fancy dress party so I can dress up as a witch) Mwahaha!

7 - Carving Pumpkins
I've already mentioned Halloween but this is the hallmark of childhood! Spooky faces glowing everywhere you look.

8 - Hot Chocolate
I love this all year round but it's great when you're sat at home in the evening, wrapped in a blanket with a hot chocolate. So, so cosy and yummy!

9 - Bonfires With The Family
It's just so nice to be standing out in the cold nights air next to a roaring bonfire, and the smell is just lush!

10 - The First Fire Of The Season
Nothing beats lighting the first fire of the season, it's just one of the most comforting warming things in the entire world! I love being all cosy.


These are some of the best things about Autumn. I hope it's helped some of you beat the blues and look forward to the cold season ahead.

What's your favourite thing about Autumn?

Great Quote!

Lots of Love,
Koren
xo

Petite Problems

Hello everyone!

Don't you just hate it when you're looking for a new coat, a pair of trousers or even a dress and nothing seems to fit right? Just lately I seem to be experiencing this problem more than ever and not just with clothes - with shoes too! I am a different size in each shop and honestly can't say I am just one size.

I've just been on a quick trip into the town near where I live with my nana this morning and went into Dorothy Perkins. I decided to look for a new winter coat being as they have a 30% off everything at the moment and tried on a few. The first one was a petite size 6 which fit perfectly on my body but was a little too short on my arms. The next coat was a size 8 but ended up being way too big and I thought I would try on a small size 10 (more like a size 8) which did look lovely though was also too big for my little body. It's strange because when I tried on a size 8 coat in Matalan the other day - it fit perfectly, so I will probably end up going for that one. Every shops size is different! A size 8 in shop A isn't the same as the one in shop B.

Just recently I've lost a lot of weight due to illness which has caused me to go down a few sizes so I have bought a whole bunch of smaller clothes until I put the pounds back on again. I've not only gone down in clothing sizes but my feet have shrunk from a 5 to around a 4 and sometimes even a 3 (it depends where I purchase the shoes from). I never knew it was possible for feet to shrink - hehe!

I would just love to have a fashion designer who tailors clothes for me and my body. It would be so much easier than traipsing round different shops spending endless hours in the changing rooms just to find something to fit! Hopefully when I've put on weight I will find it a little easier to find clothes to fit me right.

Overall I've found that I fit into most things in my size at New Look, they have a great range and a lot of pretty clothes to choose from in different styles. I have quite a wide variety of New Look clothes in my wardrobe. Talking about this has made me want to have a quick online stroll around the clothes shops websites - not to say I will buy anything because I ideally need to try the items on.. but there is no harm in having a sneaky peaky right? ;)

Do any of you girls out there have the same problem when finding clothes to fit?

Lots of Love, 

Koren 

xo 

The British Tag

Hello there everyone!

I have decided to do the British Tag as I am proud to be British and thought it would be an interesting post to do for all of you to read. I haven't actually been tagged by anyone but thought I should start the ball rolling for me and my close blogging friends, there's always got to be someone who does it first otherwise these things will never start, right?

How many cups of tea do you have a day and how many sugars?

I have around 3-4 cups of tea and they're always strong (wish a dash of milk) and no sugar. I don't think tea with sugar in tastes very nice - I love the refreshing crisp taste without.

Favourite part of your roast?
Well because I'm a vegetarian I am definitely NOT going to say the meat! I would have to say the yorkshire puddings - they're just lovely, or the mash potatoes. Yum.

Favourite dunking biscuit?
My favourite dunking biscuits are the digestive or malted milk. The malted milk biscuits tastes gorgeous when dipped into tea, its very soothing and melts in your mouth when all soggy from the tea.

Favourite quintessentially British pastime?

I would say my love for a good bargain, I am constantly trying to get a good bargain on anything I buy. Whether it be using a voucher code from a website, buying something in the sale or second hand! I love looking in charity shops and purchase quite a few of my things (especially books) from them. Looking for a bargain is quite a British thing to do hey?

Favourite word?
I honestly do not have the slightest clue what my favourite British word is, there are too many to choose from.

Cockney rhyme slang?

I quite like the saying "Apples and Pears" for stairs, it sounds pretty cool. I'm off up the Apple and Pears to bed *giggles*.

Favourite sweet?
Oh wow my favourite sweet would have to be the Foxes Glacier Fruits (boiled fruit sweets). They're absolutely gorgeous, so juicy and tasty.

What would your pub be called?

I would call my pub Rose and Crown because I think it sounds pretty. I love roses, it just reminds me of something elegant and royal.

Number 1 British person?
I would have to say Kate Middleton, she's just so beautiful and a great role model for all women throughout Britain! My grandad works in the last ever lace factory in the UK and made the lace on Kate's wedding dress, though he didn't find out until after the wedding! We were all so proud of him.

Favourite shop/restaurant?

My favourite shops are Paperchase and Primark and I don't really eat out at restaurants (because of my emetophobia) so I can't comment on that.

What British pop song comes into your head?

Well it's not a pop song but the British anthem of course.

Marmite

Well.. you either love it or hate it. I am a lover of Marmite, from when I was a little girl (my uncle got me into it).

Well that's the end of the British Tag and I really enjoyed it! I want to tag Emily, Catherine, and Rosie and of course, anyone else who would like to join in.

Thank you for reading this.

Lots of Love

Koren

xo

My September Paperchase Wishlist

Hello there everyone!

A lot of you may know already that I love Paperchase and would love to buy everything displayed in the whole entire shop, that would be a dream come true for me! I'm obsessed with stationery and have WAY TOO MANY notebooks, pens, stickers and other items. I love girly stationery the most - anything with the colour pink on, butterflies, flowers etc. At Paperchase there is a whole variety of stationery and they also sell phone/tablet cases, headphones, bags and keyrings along with a whole host of other things which makes me very happy indeed. Whenever I go into town with my boyfriend at the weekend we always end up in Paperchase and he just stands there waiting for me to take a long look around without complaining, bless his heart.. that's just one of the many reasons I love him.

Anyway the reason for this post is to show you girls my September Paperchase Wishlist! I get so excited looking at the website here (go on, take a look) you know you want to! I was looking at the website earlier on today and found four items which I really, really want and wanted to share them with you all. Here they are..

Number 1 - Butterflies Mechanical Pen
The first one is this really pretty pink butterfly pen! I think it's a great pen as it's got a sort of vintage look to it and I love the little charm which is attached to the end of it. There is also another version of this in a sort of grey colour though I'm not keen on that one (probably because it's not pink, haha). You can purchase this here.

Number 2 - Elephants Hand-stitched Notebook
This is the picture on the bottom left, the beautiful hand-stitched notebook! It looks very well made, suitable for somebody who likes to carry a notebook around with them, I think it would be a good notebook to take to college. I love the design and have a writing set which matches this. I may just have to get it to add to my snazzy elephant collection. Another thing which attracts me to this is all of the wonderful bright colours. You can purchase this here.

Number 3 - Lush Mush mini sticky notes
These are so cute and I love the little designs inside. There are a few animal sticky notes including a cat and owl, 5 different colour thin sticky notes and a main larger one with a cute little bird sat at the top of a tree on it. I am a person who likes to write everything down and am extremely organised - these are perfect for that streak in my personality. You know I'm going to say that the PINK colour is just the best! (Pinkaholic Syndrome Warning). You can purchase this here.

Number 4 - A5 glitter cupcake week to view diary 2015
This diary is just perfect for me, I adore cupcakes, the colour pink and glittery stuff - can a diary get any better?! I also love the funky repetitive design. I love having a diary because as I said above I like to jot everything down so I know what's what and I am quite a forgetful person so it's useful to have it down on paper where it'll stay (unlike my fish like memory, 3,2,1 and it's GONE). I may purchase this diary for next year, but am not too sure yet as I already have one, ouch! Can a girl have too many diaries? *squeezes eyes shut and hopes you say no*. Anyway, you can purchase this here.


I hope you've enjoyed looking at my mini September Paperchase Wishlist and hopefully I've inspired you to get some more lovely stationery.

Where do you like to purchase your stationery from?

Lots of love, 

Koren
xo

That Autumn Feeling (Life Update)

Hello everyone,

I can really tell that Autumn is coming especially in the mornings when there is such a chill in the air but thankfully it's been quite warm still throughout the middle of the day (nothing can beat the warmth).The sun is shining down right now and I am sat in my lovely bright, warm conservatory with my cat enjoying a cup of tea, my fave.

I had a job trial yesterday afternoon from 1:30 until 4:30 which went quite well, the position is for an "Office Junior" where I will hopefully get trained up on all aspects of working within this sort of sector (that's if I am successful in getting the job). The office is quite small with just three other ladies working there - my ideal kind of environment. I was quite nervous as I took a walk to the office and had to take some deep breaths though after I'd been there for a little while I soon calmed down and felt comfortable. They got me to do a whole variety of jobs which I really enjoyed! I will know if I have got the job next Monday or Tuesday, hopefully.

I've done some more baking today and I feel that they had quite an Autumnal feel to them, I made some Honey, Fruit and Nut Flapjacks (I sort of made up my own recipe) and a flourless Banana Bread which has desiccated coconut, milk and once again "Crunchy Nut Clusters" in them amongst other ingredients - I seriously can't get enough of that cereal! ITS SO DELICIOUS. The Flapjacks turned out incredibly well and are scrumptious to eat though the Banana Bread ended up being a little more sticky than I would of liked. Next time I bake Banana Bread, I'll try a different recipe or tweak the one I used!

Looking outside now through the windows I can tell that the weather is a little more chilly as the warmth of the day is fading and the trees are blowing in the wind. I'm going to stop writing now and think about what I want for my tea later on,  I might have some Sundried Tomato Basmati Rice (Tilda) which I've not tried before, but looking forward to. I bought it last night on mine and the boyfriends trip to Tesco's and also bought some new snacks to try including a Red Berry mix, Kiwi pieces and sweetened dried Apple - I'm trying to cut down on my obsession with chocolate and replace it with healthier things which I think will help with my IBS.

What do you have planned for this evening?

Lots of love,
Koren
xo

My Honey, Fruit and Nut Flapjacks

The Liebster Award

Hello there everyone!

I have been nominated by the lovely and beautiful Emily-Rose (you can find her amazing blog here) to do the Liebster Award! This is a great way to get the word about smaller blogs who have fewer views. So here goes... 

The Rules

♥You must answer 11 questions given to you by the person who nominated you

♥ You must link back to the person who nominated you

♥ You must nominate 11 bloggers (with under 200 followers) and give them 11 new questions

♥ You can not nominate the person who nominated you

♥ You need to leave your nominees a link to your page so they know what to do

The Questions

1. What genre of blog do you read the most? Beauty, fashion, lifestyle, or other?
I mostly read lifestyle blogs, I'm very interested in how other people live their lives including the way they eat such as any baking recipes, where they get their stationery from, their shopping wish lists, a new good book or just a general update of life. I could scroll through these sort of posts forever and they'll never fail to entertain me.

 2. Are you a Summer or Winter person?
This is such an easy one for me to answer - Summer! I love the longer days, the sunshine, the chance to wear pretty clothes without having to cover them up with a coat, the beautiful flowers which come to life among other things! I hate being stuck indoors and love to visit places in the summer like the zoo.

3. What's one thing people may not know about you?
One thing people who aren't that close to me won't know about me is I have a severe phobia of sick! (Emetophobia) It is such a debilitating condition to have which effects every day life from going out with friends, going on holiday to eating due to daily panic attacks. I would say that eating is the biggest problem for me and I am quite underweight.

4. What are your top three travel essentials?
My top three are sun lotion as I burn VERY easily (boo!), some fruity boiled sweets to suck on the plane and an entire case full of new pretty summery clothes/bikinis. 

5. If you could time travel to another era, where/when would you go?
I would love the chance to be able to travel back to the swinging sixties. I adore all of the fashion, hairstyles, make-up and music from that era and am so jealous that my grandparents got to live through it! I would love to look like Audrey Hepburn even though she was born in 29' - she's beautiful.

6. If you were the opposite sex, how different do you think you would be?
I honestly don't know the answer to this question, maybe I would be different? I do think that I would look pretty camp with the way I'd dress my self. I would constantly be in tight jeans and designer shirts with my hair like Spencer's from Made In Chelsea. Yeah, I think I would be a MIC boy.

7. What's the one beauty product you wish you never bought?
I can't really say one in particular because I haven't bought one I haven't liked in a while, maybe some cheap foundation which didn't sit on my skin right?

8. How would you describe you fashion style?
I would describe it as simply VERY GIRLY! I adore cute, ditsy, floral things.

9. What are your top five films?
I haven't got a top 5 though I do have a top 1 - DIRTY DANCING! ♥♥


10. Do you have a happy place? If not, describe what your happy place would be like
My happy place is my bedroom when I have my candles lit and a good book in hand! I feel the most happiest and safest at home especially when I am feeling very anxious that day (which is quite often, like now) :(

11. Post a selfie!

I nominate

Rosie at - http://www.rosielucky.co.uk/

Catherine at - http://catherine-cleevely.wix.com/simplybeauty

(Okay so this isn't 11 people but these are my two best friends and the only blogs I know with fewer than 200 followers) 


The questions for my nominees
1. What did you do and play as a child?
2. What's your favourite hobby (other than writing a blog)?
3. Do you prefer the countryside or the city?
4. What made you start a blog?
5. What's your favourite food and drink?
6. What is your idea of heaven?
7. How do you like to start your day?
8. What's your favourite season?
9. What's the best thing to you about Christmas?
10. What are you doing most days at 5pm?
11. How do you relax?
And there we have it, my completed Leibster Award - I hope you've enjoyed reading it. 

Lots of love,
Koren 

xo

Recipe: Crunchy Nut Cluster Vanilla Drops

My Paperchase Recipe Book!

Hello there everyone!

How are we all on this rather dull Friday lunch time? I hope you're not letting the weather get you down TOO much. I've just been on a quick walk to the local shop and bakery with my Nana, I can tell you that Autumn is definitely on it's way and it's best to be positive about it. I absolutely love to see the view of orange and brown leaves falling from the trees ready to crunch as you walk through them in the crisp Autumn air.

This is just a quick post of the recipe which I wrote about when I had a baking day here. I am an avid baker and sometimes like to twist things around when making recipes. I don't change the recipe ENTIRELY but I just try a few subtle changes such as using Crunchy Nut Clusters instead of Cornflakes in this recipe (which does taste much better in my opinion).

Crunchy Nut Cluster Vanilla Drops

Prep Time: 10-20 Minutes
Serves: 18 little balls
Cooking Time: 17 Minutes

Ingredients
4oz/100g Softened Butter
2oz/50g Caster Sugar

½ teaspoon Vanilla Essence
4oz/100g Plain Flour
2½oz Crushed Crunchy Nut Clusters 

Yummy!

Method

1. Cream butter, sugar and vanilla essence until light and fluffy

2. Stir in flour and Crunchy Nut Clusters (crushed)

3. Roll out 18 little balls, then flatten slightly

4. Put on baking tray well apart

5. Bake on 190C/375F/Gas no 5 for 17 minutes

6. Leave on tray for 1 minute before transferring to cooling tray

7. Sprinkle with caster sugar or more clusters if desired


And there we have it my lovely bakers! I hope you enjoy baking these as much as I do (I'm going to bake them in about an hours time - yay). They're extremely easy and a firm family favourite for us.

Please let me know of any recipes you think I should try!

Lot's of love, 

Koren xo



  

Book review: A Proper Family Holiday by Chrissie Manby

Hello there everyone!

I hope you're all well and enjoying your Tuesday with whatever you're up to. I have just finished reading another book and would like to do a little review for you all.

'Could you survive a week-long holiday with your entire family? Newly single magazine journalist Chelsea Benson can't think of anything worse. 

Your grubby small nephew torpedoing any chance of romance with the dishy guy you met on the plane... Your eighty-five-year-old granddad chatting up ladies at the hotel bar... Sarcastic comments from your older sister who's always been the family favourite... And all this is before your parents drop their bombshell.

Is a week enough time for the Bensons to put their differences aside and have some fun? Or is this their last ever proper family holiday?'

I really enjoyed this book and found it hard to put down when I had to do other things! It took me around 2-3 days to read (like most of my books).

This book is based around the Benson family taking a weeks cheap holiday in Lanzarote for Jacqui's (Chelsea's mum) 60th birthday. It has sibling rivalry and family misunderstandings throughout the book though it is written in quite a comical way - it made me giggle a lot of the time!

Chelsea and Ronnie are sisters and haven't spoken in two years but the story is written in a clever way where you get both of their perspectives of the situation. You soon realise that they have a warped view of each other's lives, thinking that other has the better.

This story is hilarious, fun and fast paced, perfect for a beach read whilst you relax on hopefully not quite as an eventful holiday as the one occurring in the book!

I would definitely recommend it for all of you who likes a great holiday read to pop into your beach bag! You can purchase it on Amazon here.

The next book which I am about to begin is Sophie Kinsella's - Twenties Girl! (I shall do a review of this after I've read it - hopefully in a few days time)

Lots of love,
Koren
xo

Let's bake!

Hello there everyone!

Crunchy Nut Cluster Vanilla Drops

I hope you're all doing okay and have had a great week with whatever you have been up to. At least the working week has come to an end now and you can relax for the weekend. What do you all have planned? I think I'm going to do a bit of shopping tomorrow as I need to get a few bits and bobs from Tesco's. I also need to clean out my cute little lady Poppy (the hamster) oh what fun!

I'm at home a lot being as I don't have a full time job and can get quite bored but one of my favourite past times is baking. I have a variety of different hobbies but baking has and always will be one of the most enjoyable for me!

Cheesy Loaf

I bake all sorts from cakes, scones to biscuits and loafs. I have a cute recipe book from Paperchase which was around £8 where I write the recipes I make the most often. I would love to build up my collection and fill the whole thing.

Today I have been baking and I've made a homely Cheese Loaf out of my nana's old recipe book and something I call "Crunchy Nut Cluster Vanilla Drops". They're originally called Cornflake Vanilla Drops but I much prefer them with the other cereal! Either of them do taste lovely though, it's whichever one you fancy putting in. I will write a post with the recipe in for you keen bakers to try! :)

Do you have any scrumptious recipes which I am able to try? I would love to hear from you so I can discover some new baking recipes.

Lots of love,
Koren
xo

Bonjour!

Chailland public gardens

Hello there everyone!

Even though this has been posted now that I'm back home in England I am currently writing this as I sit in the lovely country kitchen at my uncles holiday/future home in France. I hope that makes sense. We're in a tiny little hamlet next to a village called Chailland (pronounced Shion) somewhere around the Loire valley - it's very picturesque with lush green fields and tall trees covering the valley surrounding us.

The hamlet is quite out of the way from the hustle and bustle of people and different to everyday life in England. The French are VERY laid back and its their national three week holiday at the moment so not many places, like cafes or shops are open. I don't think I have ever visited somewhere this quiet before and beautiful as it is, it can get rather boring for somebody who's used to being in a busy village/town where there is mostly always something happening or something to occupy yourself with. Me and my cousin Nicole who's 18 (two years younger than me) are finding it hard to live without

Chailland village

WiFi!

This is my first time visiting France and I have to say it's very similar to England weather wise, it's nearly the end of August and has been quite chilly with a cool breeze this week, along with a few hot sunny breaks throughout the day. I really wish I had bought some more warmer layers, I have one cardigan and quite a thin coat which I've been living in (literally) whilst I've been here as this is the warmest of my clothes I bought along with me! I am a person who feels the cold extremely easily.

We've had a pretty laid back few days here mostly just staying around the house, garden and hamlet. They're quite a few children who live in the hamlet (perfect for my younger cousins aged 8 and 9) and a lot of freedom for them to roam around or play on their bikes etc. On Thursday I spent the afternoon being a child again playing out with the other kids and my cousins on bikes and making dens in the back garden - it was quite nostalgic.

On our last day we visited a beautiful large Fortress/Castle, the biggest I have ever seen! It was wonderful to look around and take a step back in time. We went up two towers with spiral staircases and these took AGES to walk up and down, I couldn't of put up with living there and having to do that every day (haha)! The town surrounding the Castle was absolutely lovely - very vintage and chic with cute cafes, shops and gift shops.

Overall it was a quite a nice break away from England though it's great to be back to a more lively atmosphere and WiFi! Oh yes, our WiFi at home is being horrendous again so I am going to have to ring them back up again! :(

Have you ever visited France, if so - what was it like and where about did you visit?


Lots of Love
Koren xo

The town where the Castle is

Off to France we go

Hello everyone!

I'm very sorry for not writing up as many blog posts as all of us would like. Our broadband at home has been terrible for the past three to four weeks! The BT man spent a long four hours at our home and up telegraph poles yesterday trying to sort it out which hopefully he has - at least for now anyway!

Today I am going to France and will be visiting my uncles holiday home in the Loire valley (they've had it for around two years and have been doing it up, but now it's ready for visitors!). A lot of my family are already over there and I will be travelling with my Nana, Grandad and cousin Nicole. The flight is at 1:50pm and we will be taking off from East Midlands airport.

I've always wanted to go to France and I really can't wait to share all of my pictures with you when I get back. I will make sure I take plenty :).

I hope that all of you are all right and enjoying these last few weeks of summer before autumn sets in.

Lots of love,
Koren
xo

Ps - I've got a new job in a little cafe where I live called "Little Pickle" at two days a week to start off with and I start next Tuesday. My interview tips paid off! Yay x

10 things which make me happy

Hello there everyone!

There I am, reading away with my cuppa.

I thought I would give you all a little insight of the things in life which make me happy. Everybody is different and certain things which make one person happy may not make another feel the same way. At the end of the day we all have those lovely little comforts in life to fall back on when times are tough or when you just need a little me time. Here are my top 10!

Number 1 - Reading
Okay, so you all could of probably guessed this one. This is one of the main things in life which can turn my frown into a smile before you can say strawberry. I have an unhealthy (or is it healthy?) obsession with reading - whenever any of my friends ask what I'm up to, they know what answer is coming "I'm reading" of course! I'm into a variety of genres including chick lit, romance, children's books such as those by Jacqueline Wilson as I think she's an incredible author and any others which catch my eye whilst browsing through the bookshop.

Number 2 - Magazines
This goes hand in hand with reading, I adore reading and browsing through magazines and I do have my favorites including Cosmopolitan, Glamour and Essentials. I have signed up to Cosmopolitan's subscription service so when this arrives through my letterbox each month I do a little leap of joy and want to kiss the postman/lady! The September 14 issue arrived at my house this week which I still have got to read - can't wait. I love most of the stories which are published in each of these magazines and find the problem pages quite interesting. I always used to want to become an agony aunt, in fact I still would (maybe one day, huh?)

Number 3 - Oh so wonderful cup of tea
Okay, I can't go a day without a cup of tea I think I would die if I attempted this? The first thing I reach for in a morning when I rise from dreamland is my beloved little bird mug and make myself a cuppa. I must drink around 3 - 4 cups of tea a day and it ALWAYS has to be strong with no sugar! I don't understand why people have sugars in their tea, I prefer the crisp refreshing taste. Somebody want to come and make me a brew? Anyone?

My lil' birdy mug

Number 4 - Chocolate
Now this IS an unhealthy obsession of mine which really needs to stop. I consume way too much chocolate on a daily basis - my favorite being Milkybar (the white kids chocolate). It's just so sweet, smooth and makes me happy. I love to put it in my mouth and let it sit there to melt and finally slide away into nothingness. Once it has gone and slid away I have to repeat the process to continue this mood boosting process though I draw the line at some point, otherwise I shall be turning into a chocolate bar before I know it. I'm sure all of you chocolate lovers out there can relate! ;)

A pretty lavender candle in my room

Number 5 - All things girly
Many of my closest friends will know I am probably one of the girliest girls out there in the world. I love all things pink, floral, cute, pretty, vintage and Cath Kidston. I would describe my bedroom as VERY girly - it has lots of those little plaques with quotes on hanging around everywhere, beige wallpaper on one wall with shiny butterflies, vines and flowers on, cute little trinket boxes and candles lying around. Which brings me to my 6th happy point...

Number 6 - Candles duh!
I love candles and I am the owner of many. I have quite a few Yankee candles which have been given to me as presents from family and friends, a couple of Blush candles which smell devilishly divine and other random ones I have picked up on shopping trips.

Number 7 - Animals
Animals never fail to cheer me up when I am feeling down. They have the power to boost your mood by one little stroke or touch of their silky smooth fur. I have two pets - a cat called Jessie who's mostly black though she has tiny little white patches on her chest and belly. I then have a baby hamster called Poppy which I have recently wrote about here. Animals just seem to love you unconditionally no matter what life brings and they are ever so cute!

Number 8 - My little brother
Wow, my brother means a lot to me. When my mum first announced she was pregnant I was absolutely over the moon - I never thought I would have a sibling, it was a dream come true.
My brother is called Charlie and will be three in December, time has flew by since the first time I met him with his cute little fingers and his tiny little button nose, such a lovely bundle of joy and happiness. Charlie is such a character now and into everything, though one of the main things is, he never fails to make me smile and laugh. 

Me and my fave

Number 9 - My family/friends

I'm ever so grateful for my wonderful family and friends, I couldn't live without these special people in my life. They are here for me no matter what life throws at us and I will always be here for them. I have been going through a rough patch with my anxiety/panic attacks over the last few years and couldn't thank them enough for everything they have done to support me and help me through the bad days. You all know who you are and you will always be in my heart safe.

Number 10 - Technology and blogging
Ah okay, so this is a bit of a silly one compared to what I have been writing about but I honestly couldn't live without my phone and the internet. I am so glad I have found the blogging world where I can express and write about anything I want to in my OWN special place. I also love exploring new phone apps, websites and other various things on the internet as I find it fun and it helps to pass time when there's nothing else to do. I find the internet quite comforting in an odd way. Does anyone else feel this?

There are lot's of other things which make me happy but these which I have listed are the main ones.
I love sharing who I am and what I love with you all and hope you can do the same with me. Thank you for getting this far and reading all of this quite long blog post!

What things make you happy? Comment below if you want :)

Lots of love,

Koren xo

Do what it says :)

Meet Poppy

Hello everyone,

I would like you all to be introduced to my new little pet called Poppy who's a Syrian hamster aged between 11-15 weeks now.

Hello I'm Poppy!

I've had this little lady for around two weeks now and am still in the process of taming her. I would love to be able to just pick her up and give her lots of cuddles as I find her so adorable but unfortunately I will have to wait until she feels a little more comfortable in her new surroundings, around myself and my family. We must be like ginormous moving sky scrapers who make funny noises to her.

A lovely thing is I have realised that when she's on her wheel or going about her own business in the evenings and I come up to her cage she will stop what she's doing and come up to the bars to say hello to me! This makes me smile :)

Do any of you have any good tips on taming a hamster so they feel comfortable?

Lots of Love 

Koren xo