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

Jamaican-me Laugh

Hey everyone,

Ha-ha, though I'd  make a little pun for you :)

What makes a Sunday afternoon a better Sunday afternoon? Answer; go to the park. Even better answer was to go to Brixton Splash or Crystal Palace Jamaica Day last Sunday.

Officially it was Jamaica's 51st Independence day on Tuesday 6th August 2013, but celebrations have been in full swing since last week.

Sadly I couldn't get to both in one day, so I choose to go to Crystal Palace. Crystal Palace Park was an old favourite of mine as a child; its changed a little bit, but still a really cool place to chill and enjoy the day. There was a great sense of pride in the air, everyone made an effort dressed in Jamaican colours, it felt so welcoming.

So what was going on?

There was some amazing live dance performances. Some of the dancers looked young, but they were so talented. You could tell the performance meant something to them, they looked so happy. I enjoyed watching these two (can't remember their name), I rarely see young people doing dancing like this - so this was a treat.

I'm not going to lie though, there was some parts I found slightly uncomfortable. Number one being the under 13yrs dance competition, what bothered me about it was the dancing itself. I don't think its right for young innocent children to be doing this 'cock up batty', 'jook gal',  'bruk it down' dance moves to a crowd of adults and big ass men. No, no, no not feeling that at all, what kind of messed up impression are we giving here?

Anyway… There where loads of stalls offering delicious Caribbean food, merchandise and arts and crafts. I love Caribbean art, so colourful and calming - its like it takes you to another world. And to top it off Steel pans, I love Steel Pans! I love the way they sound, the atmosphere they create and when I was younger I really used to enjoy playing them too.


Everybody will be eating all the chicken tonight lol

Naturally there was a hell of a lot of chicken, not 100% sure what the obsession is with it, but it really nice. Not dry and chewy, it was tender and well seasoned. Though, I'm more into fish these days but hey-hoo.

It was a really nice day for the whole family, there was even a funfair to keep the children busy. Various DJs for those who fancy a dance or just sit down at your picnic and nod your head. Whenever was 'your thing', there was plenty of room for you to enjoy. It was a happy atmosphere, no trouble just simple fun.

I might not able to afford a ticket to the Caribbean right now but this is a good start.

Hope your well.

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 

Water Snake Dumplings

Hey everyone,

You've probably noticed the increase of red lanterns throughout the streets, which can only mean its that time of year again Chinese New Year. 

This year is the Year of the Snake or more specify the Year of the Water Snake. Apparently *Water Snakes are influential and insightful. They manage others well and tend to be good for organizations to utilize as staff. They are quite motivated and intellectual, very determined and resolute about success. (*sourced: http://www.usbridalguide.com)

I love CNY, I like that I can see, learn and interact with different cultures and things that i wouldn't necessary through my normal everyday activities. For a run down what was going on London please see a post I did on Endz2Endz.

Sadly I didn't get to spend as much browsing and watching the performances as I normally do ... so no dragon *so sad*

I love the fun of it all, plus it also gives my friends the chance to tease me with their red pockets - honestly how cool is this tradition (their like debt collectors lol).

But I did however get to have one favorite dishes steamed dumplings! Mmmm...

Wishing you all 'Kung Hei Fat Choi' (or Happy New Year) :D

Did any of you guys go to CNY London or anywhere else in the world?

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

Good Morning Life

Good Morning Lovely People,

I am in the best mood ever and so thankful for everything and everyone in my life. No I’m not on drugs, I’m super happy because today is my Birthday!

Morning face!

I haven’t really got anything planned, plus its on a Wednesday so most people are at work etc so the weekend is the best day to do something. Today is just a day to chill and be with close family and friends, who knows that might change, I’ll tell you about it later :)

Woo-hoo another year, so excited XD

Enter the Dragon

Hi everyone,

I love Chinese New Year I always have, I don’t know if this the colors, food or whatever but it always seems to carry this magic about it.

Hows cool is this, everyone can just get involved

According to Chinese Five Element Astrology Calendar, 2012 is the Year of the Water Dragon. Water has a calming effect on the Dragon's fearless temperament. Water allows the Dragon to re-direct its enthusiasm, and makes him more perceptive of others. These Dragons are better equipped to re-evaluate situations and understand patience. Therefore, they make smart decisions and are able to see eye-to-eye with other people. However, their actions can go wrong if they do not research or if they do not finish one project before starting another. I think everyone can relate to this, plus patience was one of my ‘life resolutions’ so it’s all good :)

*Dong Dong* Here comes the Dragon :D

There were some CNY activates around Trafalgar Square and China Town so I had to check them out. Here’s what I got.  

China Town

Around Trafalgar Square they had the stage and loads of performances and stalls, but my pictures were so shaking and blurry, sorry guys I just didn't think it was worth putting them up. On top of that I completely missed the fireworks!

It was super busy, but everyone having fun

The day was a loads of fun but oh my days it was freezing I can not feel my feet! So i'm going to finish this post and my cup of tea and go to bed.

I have so many layers on under this coat and i'm still cold

Night guys x

Get It Sorted

Hey everyone,

How’s your New Years been so far?

These past few days of 2012 I’ve been feeling a bit poo, my foot is healing up nicely and I can walk fine without too much discomfort as long as I don’t bang it. But seriously, I wanted to slap this old lady on the bus with her annoying shopping trolley, oh the pain! My poor foot! (T_T)

Anyhoo since it is the new year I’m in that reflective mode, you know where you start thinking of how you could become a better person, getting yourself back on track and looking towards the future. I’m quite excited about this year, building new memories with loved one and friends, meeting new people and hopefully *fingers crossed* travelling (even if it is a few days) :3


So ready for 2012!

I never used to bother with resolutions… well I did... but I could never remember them by the time spring came around lol. So this year I’m going to keep it simple with ‘life resolutions’, things that are ongoing even after the year ends.

Patience

This is a big one me, I feel like I can be a bit impatient sometimes and I feel if I were more patient it would pay off. Like they say patience is a virtue.

Draw/Paint more

I’m a creative person and drawing makes me happy, its my release  - why am I not doing this more?!

I always find myself drawing the cliffs,  yet i've never been... weird :S

Pray

I think last year I got a bit disconnected, so this year and for years to come I’d like to have a better relationship with God

So what’s your New Year’s resolution?

New Year

Hey everyone,

Happy New Year! Hope you guys are having fun. This just a quick post to say thank you all who read or have seen my blog. Wishing you all the best, I really appreciate it. So here is to a new year and a new beginning. *cheers*

Happy celebrating and be safe ;-)