Turkish Vibes for a Black Girl

Hey everyone,

I know I've spoken quite a lot about Turkey but I feel I need to say this too, because its playing on my mind.

General Vibes:
March is not peak season so the hotel and 'excursion type' things were relatively quiet, which was cool as I really needed the head space. Everyone who I came across was so polite and helpful, there wasn't any problem with language at all. From what I noticed the majority of the tourist were English and or German, which would be perfect expect I know any Dutch whatsoever. Not that it mattered, everyone was very inclusive so you feel really looked after.

There are a few things you should look out for; the hard sale. As a tourist in any county I guess this is to be expected. But occasionally I felt it was a bit full on, so best to have your wits about you. Being black, every now and then especially in the Town centre locals would just stare or ask to take a picture with you. They seem to be genuinely surprise that you (a black person) are there and address you as 'Chocolate'. Even walking along the street people who beep their horn to get your attention. I love flattery as much as the next girl, but this much more then that.

London is quite 'multicultural' so I have never really had this before, or knew what to feel about it. The comments and looks were not done in a malicious way (most of the time it was polite), so I'm not offended as such... just... puzzled, I guess. There was not any other black people that I noticed so perhaps there isn't much exposure to black people and their culture in those parts, as to why the people reacted like that? I am by no means labelling Turkey as racist, as I did have good time and I would absolutely go back.

 I'd be interested to know, has anyone else had a similar experience or opinion on the matter?

Until next time x

An Inspirational Quote That Will Grow With You

Hi everyone,

As I have got older I've noticed I worry a great deal more, suddenly I'm not as expressive because I do not want to offend people or be seen in a bad light. I have become more concerned and protective over the people I love. When away from them, I am anxious or overly emotional.

I find myself thinking about my future; finances, housing, my family, my health or my relationships (or lack of). This are things I never really cared about before not because they are not important, but I thought it its was better to focus on the hear and now, and just blindly assume things would fall into place. Which is not a bad attitude to have, but maybe a slightly young attitude to have.

I'm not saying to stress about the raising cost of homes of the UK, the up and down troubles in the NHS, or the horrible attacks on France and around the world; it would drive you crazy if you did. But I think its good to be wise about the future and to a degree sensible.

Its amazing how the small things that can remind you of what's important. Recently someone said something to me and its only until now that it stank in and I can really appreciate the depth and beauty of the words.

"That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life—whether you have enough food and drink, or enough clothes to wear. Isn’t life more than food, and your body more than clothing? Look at the birds. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them." 

Matthew 6:25-26

Amen.

You Just Made My Day

Hey everyone,

Hope your well and enjoy the sunny weather were having. I was chilling in the park and I got thinking how lucky I am. And how grateful I am to have this slice of happiness in my life.

It doesn't matter what mood I'm in or that I don't spend as much time as I’d like too with him. His there with a wagging tail and plenty of kisses - not in the face though I think that's gross.

It just dawn on me that Kyzer is my best friend and I am just in ore how  much I appreciate every second with him. Over the years from puppy to adult, we had a few health scares and it truly break my heart when his in pain but all worked out in the end - praise God.

The way he would come into the living room, sit down next to me, fart, then leave. I don’t know if you guys have ever had the misfortune of smelling and dog fart. But it is worst thing ever and sometimes I swear the fart smells worst then the poo.

Kyzer is quite a verbal dog and often tries to talk me, I imagine his telling me about his day and how  hot he is because his covered in fur.

His getting older and slowly but surely his developed a cataract in his eyes, so his eyes slight is not so good. He bumps into doors sometimes which I normally chuckle at, because he does it with a smile and his just so happy. Its like a cute old man whose shocked that a door has materialised out of nowhere.

The attitude of a dog is definitely something to be admired, their positivity, enthusiasm, loyalty and love are things that we humans struggle with. I have learnt so might from him and love him so much.

"No matter how little money and how few possessions you own, having a dog makes you rich." - Louis Sabin

I just wanted to share a bit of what's important to me on here, I know not everyone can relate or isn’t a pet owner. But the attachment you build to your pet is truly amazing, maybe you guys feel similar towards your pets? Let me know if you have a pet and can relate.

Have an awesome week guys x.

You Need to Sweat

Hi everyone,

With a new year everyone tends to make goals and targets of things they would like to achieve, one of the most common things people want to improve is Health and Fitness. Goals are something I tend to do throughout the year anyway, but over the Christmas I admit my eyes were far bigger then my belly. For the most part I a very happy with my weight/body and I don't really have the discipline to stick to a strict diet. For me looking good is all nice and well but being healthy is my main priority. So my goal is to tone up a bit and strengthen my core. Making exercise a habit not occasion.

A lot of you guys have probably already heard of Blogilates, Cassey Ho is one favourite fitness influencers. What I really like is her session aren't necessary long, but they are effective. And if you sign up to her Website she make these amazing monthly workout plans - she will make you sweat hard. Plus she has really bubbly friendly personality that give you an instant connection.

I will do a before and after, but for now here is one of my current favourite videos.

On the topic of health and fitness, I've noticed sportswear is really starting to fashionable these days. So now you don't  have to look a complete hot mess lol.

Take care x

2014 - Battle On

Hey everyone,

Can you believe its the end of the year already? It is no longer 2013!

Before I get into the that; I'd just like to say hope you all had a wonderful Christmas, full of family, friends and joy.

I was planning on doing a few Christmas posts, I even typed them out, but I really didn't feel like it. I was trying to feel Christmasy and get into the spirit of things but it just wasn't happening, it just felt like something was missing. Don't get me wrong getting involved with charities and stuff helped but *sigh*. Of course that is not to say I had a bad Christmas; indeed food was cooked, people gathered and a few gifts were exchanged. Yes, I'm thankful and grateful for everything I have but it all just felt hollow. I think that is why I didn't post those Christmas entries, if I'm not feeling it what is the point - got to honest right? That feeling has also carry through to now, the last day of 2013.

Hmm... kind of depressing I know, are any of you guys feeling this way? Or are you completely the opposite, has this Christmas and New Years been amazingly fantastic for you?

OK so what of 2013? Well, it hasn't been my best year in terms of achievement but on reflection I'd say its been a year of strength. Throughout this year there have been knocks, disappointments and tears but despite all those things putting me down, making me feel worthless and like giving up. I'm here! Thanks be to God.

I feel incredibly secure giving the Lord thanks and praise, I know everything will be alright and there is plan in motion. Sometimes things happen and I find myself asking why? I'm trying my best to do the right things so why is this happening? I try help and support everyone why do they choose to hurt me? But I have to have faith that God is good and wouldn't give me anything that I could not handle, and only has the best intentions for me.

So I look to 2014 standing strong motivated that better is yet to come. The trials and tribulations in 2013 and 2012 are just bruises and scars of a battle that God won. I pray for patience a revived attitude, continue to bless me that I may be a blessing to others.

Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. 1 Peter 5:6-7

So with that said I wish you all the best for 2014, may it be full success, victory and a breakthrough, in Jesus name. Amen.

See you in the New Year

Fools Easter

Hey everyone,

How is it April already? Hope your well and hope your having a cracking Easter haha see the joke there lol. But seriously I just wanted to say have a blessed Easter.

... Out of His sorrow came our joy.

This year I've been spending loads of time with the family, which has been great. Plus on top of that I had my cousins baby shower. Spending this quality time has really made me appreciate having each and every one of them in my life. and I'm really looking forward to the new additions. 

How cute are these cupcakes? They were really yummy too first cupcake I've had that hasn't been dry.

This was made by a family friend, out of baby clothes, nappies and accessories, she is so talented and creative.

Did you have a good Easter?

Take Care x

Round up the Troops!

Hey everyone,

So it’s coming up to that time of the year were I get a little older, wiser blah blah...it’s also the time were I’m bombarded with questions of what are you doing? Which is really frustrating as these are same people who claim not to have any money to do anything anyway. So what exactly can I do, be on my jack-jones? Don’t get me wrong if you haven’t got it, you haven’t got it – end of. But really, don’t you just hate that, especially when everyone knows when your birthday is. Anyway let me stop ranting like a spoilt child, my birthday hasn't even come yet. Plus it’s not the actual day that’s important it’s the time you spend with the people you care about.

Still that doesn't stop a girl from dreaming right?

 

So me and the old TM Crew decided to have a catch up over dinner, the other day. It was so good catching up with them, we've have gone our separate ways, but the team remains as strong as before. I'm so lucky to have worked with such amazing and supportive people, its fantastic that were still in touch.

 We went to Cote a really yummy French restaurant, I love their fish dishes. I went for the Roast Seabass - Roast seabass fillet, braised fennel and a champagne beurre blanc with chives and tomato concasse with a side of creamy mash. I also had the Prawn Gratinée for starters and the Praline Crepe for dessert - Wow! so nice, would definitely recommend it. Sorry I didn't take a picture of the other dishes they looked too good, couldn't help myself lol. 

Maybe I'm just easily pleased lol, I've also been spending a lot of time with my family too which has been really cool but I don't have any pictures as I'm still camera-less :'( - apart from my phone. But I will leave you with a picture me wearing Kasia's glasses, I really want some frames like these their so cute and comfy.

 

Hope your having good day, take care x 

What I Learnt

Hey everyone,

I know I’m a bit late but as it’s a new year I feel I should talk about New Year’s resolutions and also reflect on what I learnt in the previous year. I feel it is important to reflect and learn or how can you really expect to make any progression.

So last year (click here for last year's post) I kept my resolutions quite simple, in fact I wouldn't even say they were resolutions but more goals. One of which was to Pray. Throughout 2012 this was key; without God I would be truly nowhere and I am so thankful and blessed. Last year was a difficult year for me, sometimes it felt like ‘what is the point?’ or ‘there is no hope’ but my faith kept me going. I still have a lot to learn and I’m not always going to get it right but I believe there is treasure in every trial. Through every dilemma, there is a lesson and a chance to become stronger.

I wanted to share this video with guys because it touched me and I don’t know what your circumstance might be but maybe it can help you too.

Praying is again a resolution for this year (and most likely every year) because I want to get into the habit of praying more throughout the day and when making decisions whether it be big or small.

Patience was on my list last year and was a big one for me and sadly it is still one that I need to work on. I have to accept that I can’t do everything myself, things take time and I have to trust others.

Although the above are ultimate goals for the year and for my personal growth, I also have a few achievements that I’d like to tick off along the way which are;

• Spend more time with Friends and Family
• Learn – always strive to learn more, only you can make this happen
• Work progression – if you learnt the skills move on up
• TRAVEL!

I feel quite positive about this year and so far I have quite a lot going on, so its just a case of getting organised. As usual I will keep you guys up to date where I can, but for the times I can't do check out my Twitter (follow button to the side *hint, hint*) oh and my new instagram. 

So what did you learn from last year and what are your goals for this year? 


Take Care x


*Quick update: From the last post I now have a phone which can use apps, I am no longer trapped in the world of the 3210 phone LOL

I Choose you!

Hey everyone,

This post is long overdue *sorry* but I was awarded the Kreativ Blogger award! Woo-hoo my first award *AwwwYeah!* (^_-)d.

Big thank you to Rebecca at ‘A Window of Thought’ (http://awindowofthoughts.blogspot.co.uk/) for awarding it to me. Definitely check her out, she’s genuinely cool  and gives really good advice about hair care and occasionally beauty tips too :)

 

Ok so here its goes

The Conditions for Accepting the Award are:

•  Link back to the person who gave you this award
•  Answer the questions below
•  Award 10 other blogs and let them know in a comment or email
• Share 7 random thoughts about yourself

1. Name your favorite song: Aww this is such horrible question for me, I don't have a favorite but at the moment I’m really liking "Light up the World" by Yasmin, it’s kind of got that 'old skool' vibe.

 

2. Name your favorite dessert: Cake and custard! hehe I'm a kid a heart :)

3. What ticks me off: General foolishness, rudeness, liars and ignorance 

4. When I'm upset I: Walk away and keep it to myself, which works sometimes but I really have to work on letting people in and letting go

5. What is your favorite pet: KYZER! My bubbi, don't know what I’d do without him 

6. Black or white: ♪ ♪ 'Black is my colour' ♪ ♪  - *Brown Sugar stylie* - hands up for Lovers Rock LOL

7. Biggest fear: Death. It really freaks me out I try not the think about it too much but it’s always in the back of my mind.

8. Everyday attitude: The day is what you make it, because just in case you didn't know your awesome!

9. What is perfection: I don't think there is such a thing, to me perfection is something with flaws

10. Guilty pleasures: Laughing at others expense, I know it’s wrong but sometimes it can't be helped - especially when people drop and try style it out LOL. Another one I suppose is that I watch a lot of cartoons but I’m not ashamed of that :P

7 Random thoughts about ME

·         I'm really forgetful, but I’m good at making up for it (and apologies in advance lol)

·         I listen to a lot of Asian music, actually any genre I’m not even joking - I'm just big mix really depends what mood I’m in

·         The amount of friends I have has decreased dramatically, but the quality of those still with me is awesome :)

·          At this very moment I am rubbing Kyzer's belly with my foot LOL

·         Constantly talk, laugh and sing to myself, I've been doing it for years I can't help it

·         I never know how to react to compliments or when people cry - seriously I’m useless (O_O)

·         I'm a really bad liar my face always gives me away

So it’s time for me to spread the love and award cool bloggers

iconoclasp - http://iconoclaspvintage.blogspot.co.uk/ 

Natasha  - http://natsumihime.blogspot.co.uk 

Xenia  - http://www.shroder.net/ 

Nichola - http://slavetofashion-fashionslave.blogspot.co.uk 

Laura-May  -  http://septdecembre.blogspot.co.uk 

NeNe - http://cupcake-gal.blogspot.co.uk/ 

Bijou n Marie - http://lamoderocks.blogspot.co.uk 

Báš  - http://laughingisthekeyfrommyworld.blogspot.co.uk 

Dani - http://danisfashionmodelling.blogspot.co.uk

Starry Sky

Hi Guys,

Are you well? Did you have a good bonfire night? I hope so mine was a bit lame, I didn’t go to any displays or anything which is a real shame as I really like fireworks. Something about the colours and the loud sounds just feels like magic to me. I didn’t go because I felt silly and childish asking me friends to come with me, thinking about it now I shouldn’t felt that way and my friends probably would have come. But I remember going every year when I was younger I guess I was just feeling old. Also I got it into my head fireworks were for couples, which I guess is kind of true it is kind of romantic. Oh well... I stayed at home nursing a really frightened Kyzer  - bless him, he gets so scared. 

I used to love these as a kid :)

In other news for the first time in a while the news put a small smile on my face – yes I am a fan and I always will be!!

I'll See You...

Hey guys,

Grandma leaves today…last night I was pretty sad but I’m ok now because I know it’s not the last time I’ll see her and I’m am incredibly blessed to have her in my life. And as much as I love her being around, I know I can’t be selfish. I have rich precious memories of our time together, which are so strong I’m smiling just thinking about them. How could I deny friends and family overseas that? So have a safe journey Grandma, there are a lot of smiley faces waiting to welcome you back home. Thank you for everything and I’ll see you again.

Love you Grandma x

- Sorry I know this post is a bit unsocial but it’s just how I’m feeling today, hope you guys are well :)