Poetry Review: In Full Velvet

Hey guys! In this week's blog I'll be reviewing Jenny Johnson's poetry collection In Full Velvet. I hope you enjoy!

Blurb

Sinuous and sensual, the poems of In Full Velvet interrogate the nuances of desire, love, gender, ecology, LGBTQ lineage and community, and the tension between a body's material limits and the forms made possible by the imagination. Characterized by formal poise, vulnerability, and compassion, Johnson's debut collection is one of resounding generosity and grace.

Review

I bought In Full Velvet as an impulse buy and I had never heard of it before. I read a lot of Amanda Lovelace and Rupi Kaur's work which is much different from Johnson's writing.

I thought that Johnson's descriptions of nature were refreshing and I enjoyed reading about the metaphors and the LGBT poems, especially the ones regarding gender identity. Johnson has a unique way of words that grips the reader into her writing, even if you can't relate. Some of the poems I couldn't understand but the overall meaning of them is recognizable.

Some of my favourite poems from this collection include Little Apophat and Vigil. If you like poems about nature, LGBT, gender identity and desire, then you'll love In Full Velvet.

Have you read In Full Velvet? Let me know what you thought of it in the comments. Until next time, love, Vee x

Book Review: Reasons To Stay Alive

In this week's blog post I want to talk about Matt Haig's Reasons To Stay Alive which I read recently and has helped me see slightly clearer.

Blurb

What does it mean to feel truly alive?

This is the true story of how Matt Haig came through crisis, triumphed over a mental illness that almost destroyed him and learned to live again. Moving, funny and joyous, Reasons To Stay Alive is more than a memoir. It is a book about making the most of your time on earth.

Review

I actually bought this book for my mum, knowing that she suffers with anxiety more so than I, but I too wanted to read it myself. It's been on my TBR for a while now and I finished it within a number of days.

Matt Haig writes from the heart, that much is true. I didn't really know what to expect when I first started reading this, but it soon became clear that he has the wildest of thoughts too, meaning I'm not alone in this battle. It's true what he says, when you have your first panic attack, you think you're the first ever person to have had one, and to have felt that bad. But you're not, for decades, people have suffered with panic attacks, anxiety and depression.

I can also understand the depression part of the book too as I have been there. It isn't there so much anymore, but the anxiety still is. It's always there, lurking, waiting for me when I'm most vulnerable. And when you have anxiety and depression mixed together like a cocktail, it has the power to break you. But what this book is about is how Haig survived the toughest of years, the worst of suicidal thoughts. He's still here; yes it may be difficult some days, but ultimately, there is so much to experience on this earth. There's so much to see, do, feel. No one wants to miss out on the good stuff, but sometimes we have to go through the shit in order to get to the good.

Mental health is still stigmatized, but if every person shares their story like Haig, the world will become less stigmatized the more we talk about it. Share your story, don't be afraid to show the real you. We have all had panic attacks, bad days and been in shit situations. You are not alone in this.

I truly enjoyed listening to the ways Haig copes with his depression and anxiety and how we should live in the moment as much as possible. It was like reading his diary. What a beautiful book it is and I urge everyone out there, with mental health problems or not, to read this. If not for you, then for someone you know who struggles. This book will help you spot the signs of mental illness more easily and how you can be there as a partner/family member for your loved one.

I hope you enjoyed this review and I'll see you soon! Love, Vee x

Poetry Review: Cavity

Hey guys! A while ago I interviewed Caitlin Conlon, a poet, who kindly sent me her chapbook of Cavity. Today, I'll be talking to you about it and why I enjoyed reading it.

Review

Cavity is about heartbreak and the heart wrenching hurt that comes with it. Conlon describes lost love in the most sad yet beautiful way and her choice of words had me rooting for her to get through this break up. Some poems are about how she misses him, others about how much hurt he caused her.

The poems aren't necessarily about how to get over a break up, but more about the fact that you aren't the only one feeling these feelings. Everyone goes through different emotions and stages in a break up but Conlon describes her emotions in such vivid detail that we feel like we are going through the break up with her. Conlon is truly a fantastic poet and I can't wait to read more of her work. Her use of metaphors was also exceptional and I can't recommend her collection enough. If you're a fan of Amanda Lovelace, you need to read Cavity.

I really enjoyed reading this collection and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. If you are going through a break up and need words of wisdom, or a shoulder to cry on, then this chapbook will be your saviour.

You can buy Cavity here: www.cgcpoems.shop

Until next time, love Vee x

End Of Year Wrap Up

Hey guys! I hope you had a great Christmas and that your New Year's is even better! This post is going to be a wrap up with my favourite books of 2018, the best opportunities I've had this year and my goals for the new year ahead.

Before I start, I want to say a huge thank you to everyone who has shared and commented on my blog posts. It means the world to me and I've made so many friends along the way. Thank you to the authors who send me free books and to the people who are always there for me.

My Top Ten Books Of 2018

1. Sasquatch, Love and Other Imaginary Things
2. Floored
3. Emergency Contact
4. Eliza and Her Monsters
5. Attachments
6. My Mum Tracy Beaker
7. Another Day
8. Someday
9. Don't Stop Thinking About Tomorrow
10. Turtles All The Way Down

What are your top ten books of the year? You can read all my reviews of these books by going to my "Book Review" section.

What I'm Thankful For This Year

I'm thankful for my partner and the family I've created through blogging. I have met so many amazing and kind people. This year has been one of the hardest I've had and you all showing your support to me has made me remember that nice things can happen.

I'm thankful for all the adventures I've had this year. My partner Oli and I have been to France, Amsterdam and Croatia this year. I have tasted amazing food, swam (okay, stood) in the clear blue sea, been on a swing that hangs off a building and went on a cable car to look over the Old Town in Dubrovnik.

I'm thankful for how my blog has grown and how hard I've worked on making my dream a reality. I'm proud of myself even if I know I quit things quickly. This is who I am and I'm learning to accept I can't stand still for too long otherwise I go stir crazy.

I'm thankful for the authors, such as Alex Owumi and Lisa Williamson, who let me have such big opportunities to collab on blog posts and book tours. Without these people's help, my blog wouldn't have grown.

My Goals For 2019

I don't like New Year's resolutions because I never stick to them. But I will create some goals for myself.

1. I'd like to work more on my blog and create more content for you guys. I'd love to get to 40,000 views next year, which is a HUGE goal for me.

2. I want to travel to as many places as possible!

3. I want to try things I've never done before, even if they scare me.

4. I want to build up my business and get clients!!! (SCARY)

5. I want to live more in the present than the past or future.

6. I want to save up for our own little place.

7. I would love to have a blogger's meet up!

8. I would like to read 30 books next year.

9. I'd love to make money through my blog and collab with brands.

10. I want to take better care of my mental health and learn to accept who I've become.

What are your goals for the new year?

Well, I'd like to end this post with another massive thank you and I hope your 2019 is the best year yet. Keep being you and stay strong; all your hard work is going to pay off. See you in the New Year! Love, Vee x

Book Review: My Mum Tracy Beaker

This week's post is a book review on one of my childhood favourite author's brand new book, My Mum Tracy Beaker. We all grew up watching the TV show or reading the books, and in this latest installment, Jacqueline Wilson mixes children's books with adult in this beautiful story about life, struggles and true family.

Blurb

Tracy has returned, hand in hand with her daughter Jess, she’s ready to make her childhood dreams come true.

Jess and Tracy Beaker are the perfect team. They do everything together.

Jess thinks Tracy is the best mum ever, even when she shouts at her teachers! Tracy has made the perfect home for Jess, leaving The Dumping Ground far behind her. Yes, their flat’s a bit mouldy. It’s only just big enough for two. And the Duke Estate is a bit scary. But it's their happy home.

Until Sean Godfrey, Tracy’s rich boyfriend, whisks them away to his mansion, life of fast cars and celebrity stardom.

Will Jess’s brilliant mum turn into a new person altogether?

And will Tracy realise that her childhood dream might not be what she needs after all?

Review

I didn't know I needed this book until I realised it was a thing! I loved reading Jacqueline Wilson's books when I was younger and I watched a lot of Tracy Beaker on TV. I loved the show and the books, but was always worried about what Tracy would grow up like.

Yes, she has her issues, but Tracy is herself. And when Sean Godfrey (Football) comes into the picture, she seems to change her persona to please, because a fancy life is all that she's ever wanted and all that she made up to tell other people. It doesn't come as a surprise that she behaves this way and I can completely understand why she is behaving the way she is, even though Jess doesn't. But in the end, Tracy will always be herself and stick up for her and Jess.

It's actually a very witty book because all Tracy wants is a flash house and an amazing car and someone to pay attention to her; she is willing to be with someone who doesn't really love her in order to give her child the life she always wanted. She thinks she's doing what's best for Jess when really, she is only doing what she's doing because of her upbringing.

What I loved about this book was how I was reading it yet I didn't feel like a child at all. I felt like it was right to be reading about Tracy and because I'm the age I am now, I feel like I can relate to both Tracy and Jess.

Wilson is extremely clever with how she writes and markets her books. I don't by any means agree with how she spews out books every five minutes, but she writes about taboo subjects in a way that children can relate to. When I was young, I found comfort in her books about child abuse and abandonment because it's something I could relate to. Her books gave me hope.

Now, let's talk about character development. Tracy hasn't changed a bit, except for the fact she has a child to care for, someone else to think about other than herself. Jess is so sweet and the complete opposite of Tracy. But my favourite character will always be Cam. She's the loving mum in the background cheering you on, giving you the space you need to make mistakes but comforting you with open arms when it all goes wrong. I love the fact Wilson has confirmed that Cam is gay, even without mentioning it, like it's the norm - which it should be!!

If you loved Jacqueline Wilson books when you were little, then you'll love this book because it seems to grow with the reader. Happy reading folks!

Until next time, love, Vee x

Blogmas: Gifts for Readers

Hey guys! I can't believe it's so close to Christmas! I wanted to write a post on what to get the reader in your family. If you have any ideas, please share them in the comments!

Gifts for Readers

• Bookmarks (you can never have enough)
• Bookish candles, these can be found on Etsy 
• Bookish subscription box (you can google where to find these but popular ones include Fairyloot, Owlcrate and Once Upon a Book Club) 
• Reading light
• Book sleeves - these can also be found on Etsy
• Book Review notebook - I have one from Fable and Black that I can write my reviews of books in 
• Bookish pins
• Bookish necklaces - I have a Fault in Our Stars one
• Bookish iron-on patches
• Bookish coasters
• A tour of their favourite author's house/book settings (such as Beatrix Potter's house)
• Prints of their favourite quotes from books/authors 
• Bookish mugs
• A book bag - not just handy for books but also shopping
• Literary tea bags - yes they do exist!
• Beanbag chair. Us bookworms love our comfy spaces
• A kindle for easy portability 

I hope this list was helpful for you! Until next time. Love, Vee x

Blogmas: Christmas on a Budget

Hi everyone! I was thinking up Blogmas ideas and I thought that because Christmas is such an expensive time for so many, that I would create a budget post to help you at this time of year! I've struggled over the years and have managed to do Christmas on a very tight, apprenticeship wage. I know, magic. But this is how you can do Christmas on a budget, too.

Christmas on a Budget

• Make things instead of spending a fortune - such as Christmas cards (if you have children, get them to do some artsy drawings for you), tags, gifts and even wrapping paper. Pinterest has some great ideas on what to make at Christmas time.
• Save pennies up in your money box throughout the year - it all adds up!
• Make a list (yes, I know I love a list) of who you're going to buy for and what you want to buy for them. Work out how much you want to spend on each person and break down the costs.
• Avoid going out to shop; do as much online shopping as possible to avoid impulse buys.
• Shop second hand - buy from CEX, eBay etc. You can find some great bargains on electronics and games.
• Avoid buying decorations for the table such as candles, napkins or paper plates - ask yourself if you really need them.
• If you're looking for a Christmas tree, shop around locally but I recommend investing in a fake otherwise you'll have to keep buying trees for £60-100 each year when that money could be spent on gifts.
• Pick up gifts in the after Christmas sale for next year - you'll be glad you bought those cards half price. If you can remember where you stored them!

I hope this post was helpful to you and if you have any Christmas budget tips yourself, please share them in the comments! Until next time, love Vee x

Book Review: Someday

Hey bookworms! This week I'll be reviewing a recent read of mine: Someday by David Levithan. If you love wacky books about people waking up in the wrong bodies, then this one's for you.

Blurb

Every day a new body. Every day a new life. Every day a new choice.

For as long as A can remember, life has meant waking up in a different person’s body every day, forced to live as that person until the day ended. A always thought there wasn’t anyone else who had a life like this.

But A was wrong. There are others.

A has already been wrestling with powerful feelings of love and loneliness. Now comes an understanding of the extremes that love and loneliness can lead to — and what it’s like to discover that you are not alone in the world.

In Someday, David Levithan takes readers further into the lives of A, Rhiannon, Nathan, and the person they may think they know as Reverend Poole, exploring more deeply the questions at the core of Every Day and Another Day. What is a soul? And what makes us human?

Review

Levithan is my favourite author, so of course I was excited about going to buy his latest installment, Someday from Waterstones Piccadilly, where he was signing. I was so excited and couldn't wait to start it.

As always, Levithan doesn't disappoint. Even though it wasn't the ending I expected, it felt like a reality check. The book made me feel like I wasn't alone and that the characters were there for me. I love when a book feels like home.

A sometimes does annoy me as a character, but ultimately, their journey is a unique one and written in such a clever way that it almost feels like a metaphor for life. We aren't always able to find ourselves if we keep searching; we just have to go with the flow and see who we become from our experiences.

Rhiannon is someone I can relate to and I think her character is the most believable. I find her to be a really strong woman after being beaten down by her ex, Justin for ages. She has emerged stronger than ever and we see her go through this journey through all three books. She has the most character development of all.

About X... Well let's just say he's scary as hell! But so well written for an author who usually writes about good, kind people. He's written in a way that we hate him, but understand him at the same time.

Overall, I wasn't blow away as I wish it had ended differently, but I admire Levithan's dedication to this series and hope there's much more to come. Until next time, love, Vee x

Ways to Practice Self Care in the Winter

Hey guys! So we all know that our mental health can go downhill in the winter months because of the nights drawing in and the cold, rainy days. This post gives you some insight on how to take care of yourself and your mental health during the winter. Self-care isn't just about face masks, eating chocolate and buying your favourite magazine (although I sometimes do this). There's a lot more to it! Read below for some ideas on how to practice better self-care!

Take a Bath or Shower

I personally hate having a bath because, as Chandler puts it, you are "sitting in your own filth." And that just does not relax me. However, I absolutely love showers and when I'm feeling really low I like to take longer ones and just feel the water hitting me; it keeps me grounded when I feel like I'm floating away. If you like showers like me, why not

But if you're a bath person, one way to practice self-care is to have a long bubble bath, buy some Lush bath bombs or read a book in the tub. Do whatever makes you feel more relaxed. Light a few candles and pamper yourself! You can even get a stand like this one so that you can read/watch TV in the tub.

Start a Bullet Journal

If you're having trouble with figuring out how you feel or just want to document your journey, then bullet journaling is a great idea to keep your mind active and to also be creative. You could use your journal for drawings, paintings, calendars or even a mood chart. You can even download bullet journal spreadsheets and printables for inspiration.

Journals are an excellent way to keep track of your mood for your mental health and gives you a good idea of how you're dealing with certain situations. The journal below is an example of a bullet journal (not mine). It's not only for self-care but it's also a great hobby to have and really lets your creativity shine through.

Declutter

Whenever I'm feeling overwhelmed or I'm struggling, I like to sort out my wardrobe and have a clear out of things I don't need or use. It helps clear my mind and keeps me busy. I tend to feel relieved and a little less confused after I've had a clear out.

Declutter your wardrobe and get rid of clothes you don't use or items you don't want. Winter is a great time to throw out the old for the new year ahead!

Take Up Meditation or Yoga

Meditation isn't for everyone, but it can be a very relaxing technique to practice for your self-care. Take ten minutes to reflect, think or listen to some tapes. I used to listen to Paul Mckenna to help with my anxiety.

Yoga is also great for relaxing and releases endorphins. If you aren't a fan of yoga, you could take up a different sport or exercise such as running or cycling. I cycle to work each morning and it really makes a difference. Make it a routine - whether you get out of bed and do the sun salutation each morning or go for a run after work in the evening.

Read

Have you got a favourite book? One that you've read over and over again? On days where you need a bit of TLC, why not read your favourite book or pick up a new read, maybe even a winter one to take your mind off things?

If reading isn't for you, then why not watch your favourite movie? My favourite is Bridget Jones and I always watch it when I need cheering up. You could watch a Christmas movie to get you into the spirit.

Go Shopping

If the cold is getting you down, then maybe you should go out for a coffee date with yourself to try a new spiced latte or hot chocolate. You can learn to be in your own company and try something new at the same time. It's good to be by yourself sometimes and to treat yourself to something new, whether you're buying new clothes for the season or something simple such as a face mask, some chocolate or a hot drink.

Make a Quotes Jar

If you're feeling down, why not ask your friends, family or online friends if they would send you a positive quote, compliment or note for you to write down on a piece of paper and keep. You can create a jar of positivity and look at these words whenever you feel down.

Alternately, create your own quotes or happy memories and read one to yourself every day to keep a positive mind.

I hope this post has given you some self-care ideas! Until next time, love, Vee x

Book Review: Floored

Hey guys! So this week is a book review about Floored, a novel about when seven lives collide and what happens in the aftermath. Enjoy!

Blurb

Floored is written by seven authors; Sara Barnard, Holly Bourne, Tanya Byrne, Non Pratt, Melinda Salisbury, Lisa Williamson and Eleanor Wood.

When they got in the lift, they were strangers. Sasha, who is desperately trying to deliver a parcel; Hugo, who knows he's the best-looking guy in the lift and is eyeing up Velvet, who knows what that look means; Dawson, who used to be on TV, used to be handsome, and is sincerely hoping no one recognizes him; Kaitlyn, who's losing her sight but won't admit it; and Joe, who shouldn't be here at all, but wants to be here the most.

And one more person, who will bring them together again on the same day every year.

Review

I bought Floored solely because Lisa Williamson had co-written it but I ended up loving all the characters and the craziness of the story. I even ended up liking Hugo, the most pompous prick there was. It was such a thrill reading this book; some nights I couldn't put it down and it really has helped me with my reading slump.

I spent the first few chapters trying to guess who's writing was who's but after a while it all melted together and I ended up thinking it was written by one person, one voice.

I think having Steven Jeffords die in the lift and the fact his death brings them together every year to celebrate life, was an excellent idea. Every single one of them has problems in their lives and although they only see one another once a year, it means more to them than any friend they've ever had. These unlikely bunch mean so much to each other, they will run all around the country to see one another. That's true friendship. No matter how often you see your best friends, they will still always be there for you in your time of need.

My personal favourite was Velvet because in the end, she finally finds her place in the world, her voice to speak up for herself. Like all of them, they find their purpose in life and having friends help you along the way is the best bit of the journey.

This book was so well written and gripping; I truly hope all the writers collab again in the future. I can't believe seven people managed to pull this off; I hardly ever read collabs because of my bad experience with them in the past, but this book has changed my mind. I cannot wait to read all the authors' other books.

This is a must read for anyone who needs a friend, a laugh or even a virtual hug from a book. Go and buy this book, now!

Don't forget to subscribe to my blog and let me know if you've read Floored or any of the authors' work in the comments. Until next time, love, Vee x

Why I'm Afraid to Succeed

Hey guys. So this week's blog is a very personal one for me. It's all about why I'm afraid of succeeding and reaching my goals. I hope others can relate to this, and that this post gives you some comfort in knowing others struggle with this too.

One of my goals in life is to become an editor in a publishing house. I'm really determined to gain as much experience in editing and proofreading as possible and I have enrolled myself on to a CPD diploma in Proofreading, Journalism and Editing. I have various experience with writing but from what a lot of research tells me, it's a very competitive career path.

This is why I would like to study English Literature and Creative Writing at university. But for some reason, I can't bring myself to actually go for it. It may be the debt, money or job aspect holding me back, but ultimately I'm stopping myself applying through my own self-doubt.

There are lots of thoughts in my head right now saying that I can't do this, that I can't succeed and do a degree. I know these thoughts are self-sabotaging and degrading. But there's the little devil on my shoulder saying not to do it, that it'll ruin everything. When in actual fact, this is something I really want and need to do for my career. Will it be hard? Yes, definitely. Will I struggle with money? Probably, but this is an investment in myself. Will it be worth it? Absolutely. I just need to ask myself if, when I'm old, will I regret not doing it? And the answer is yes, I would regret not studying.

I've been looking into university since I was able to use the computer; it's something I really wanted to do, which is why I went into school at the age of fourteen. I had been homeschooled up until this point, so as you can imagine, it was a shock to my system going straight into high school. I ended up having panic attacks and had to leave school for my mental health. I've struggled with chronic anxiety ever since then.

I made it my mission to complete my GCSEs at home through the NEC (National Extension College) where I took English Literature, English Language and Science. We could only afford a few GCSEs which meant I wasn't able to go to college. But with the Open University, I'm able to study part time or full time and it's completely flexible for me.

I need to push myself into new adventures because otherwise I'll be stuck in the same place forever. So take the leap of faith - I'll be right there beside you. Whether it's going for a job interview, applying for university or even travelling. You can do anything if you work hard and put your mind to it!

I hope this blog post is helpful in some way to you. Until next time! Love, Vee x

Book Review: Sasquatch, Love and Other Imaginary Things

Hey guys! So I recently entered a giveaway for Sasquatch, Love and Other Imaginary Things and I won the book! It came all the way from the US so I would like to thank Betsy Aldredge and Carrie DuBois-Shaw for sending it to me.

Review

This book is different from anything I've recently read and involves a Wood Ape, some British snobs and a big guy with a camera. Sasquatch, Love and Other Imaginary Things is about the Berger family who go onto a reality TV show in search of Bigfoot to win money to save their house and pay for Sam's college tuition. Sam, the middle child in the Berger family is obsessed with caring about everyone and wants to study pre-med at college. She knows her family are secretly struggling with money and does everything she can to win Myth Gnomers; even if tat means faking clues and taking snooping around.

The Netherfield team are a competitive group of seniors wanting to win money for their school and Dr. DeGraw who is also one of the judges. Devan, Kyle and Caroline are snotty, stuck up kids who are determined to win against the Berger family. Unfortunately, love gets in the way and the family are soon faced with complications, flu and planting fake clues in order to win against the Netherfield team. Even though Sam and Devan are mortal enemies in the competition, they can't help being drawn to one another.

This book was actually a breath of fresh air to me and I found it hilarious. I hardly ever read any comedy, but YA mixed with corny jokes and sarcastic comments is my idea of a dream novel. Sam reminds me of myself and is the lovable joker of the family. She cares about everyone but worries constantly and is always sarcastic.

I also really liked Sophie, her awkward older sister and Lyssa, her slutty younger one. The whole family is embarrassing and wonderful at the same time. This book is full of family values, sacrifice and support. It's a different take on romance, love and what it means to be family.

If you're looking for a funny, awkwardly romantic YA novel, then this is for you! I hope you enjoyed this review and let me know in the comments if you've read it!

Until next time, love Vee x

The Blogger Recognition Award

Hey guys! So I recently got nominated for the Blogger Recognition Award by Emma www.believeinbumble.co.uk and Heather mamabefrugal.blogspot.com. So here's my advice and nominees!

Rules

• Write a post showcasing your award
• Give a brief story about how your blog began
• Give two pieces of advice to new bloggers
• Thank whoever nominated you and include a link to their blog
• Nominate fifteen bloggers

How My Blog Began

My blog began after I was put on garden leave from my first job. I used to blog write for a digital marketing agency and I really loved it so once I was jobless, I decided to start up my own blog and this is where I am now! I love my blog and it keeps me sane; if I didn't have it I don't know where I'd be right now. I've made so many friends and found so many new authors.

My Advice

It's about quality not quantity. Write your heart out, spill it all over the internet but don't write posts for the sake of having something on your blog. I messed up and wrote posts that weren't showcasing my skills; I now write quality content when I can about books, interviews and lifestyle. I don't want to churn things out just to have a weekly post up. Make sure you're writing from the heart. If you're in it for the followers and likes, then blogging isn't for you.

Share share share. Make sure you make friends in the blogging community and take part in following other people's blogs and getting to know them. You'll soon build up a network of authors/friends/contacts and they may even help you in the future. I was asked by Alex Owumi if I would participate in a blog tour for his book and I said yes. That post got me more views than any other and I frequently talk to Alex and even wrote a blog post for him. This year, I'm taking on another book tour with him. Contacts are important and not just for views but for friendships too.

Thank you to Emma and Heather once again for nominating me. Here are my nominees:

@AlexOwumi

@hamster_says

@hhniwidamber

@LavraxB

@ejaleigh

@justmominit

@nicoleeblogs

@peachpaaige

@britonabudget1

@medbus97

@BooksNest

@thepatchworkfox

@ruthinrevolt

@RootsWingsBlog

@sophisobel_

So there you go! See you next time, love, Vee x

Poetry Review: 27, With A White Lighter

Happy Hump Day! This post is a review on Jennifer Juan's fifth poetry collection, 27, With a White Lighter.

The collection will be available on 3rd December 2018 and I was asked to review an ARC copy of the collection. Read on to see what my opinion is!

About

Jennifer Juan returns to share her early onset midlife crisis with her fifth major poetry collection, 27, With a White Lighter. A reflection of her life so far, and what the future holds. In her darkest volume yet, Juan muses over romance, the meaning of life,drug culture, sexuality, Brexit and so much more.

Review

I was a little confused about what some of these poems were inferring, but one of my favourites from the collection was Rollercoaster. It's about being at a fairground at night with her partner and wanting everything and everyone to fall away so she could spend time alone with him, forever.

I thought that the use of metaphors were very unique and effective and some of the language was particularly interesting. One of the weirdest poems involved a talking cat going on Spain's Got Talent. It was quite funny.

I thought that these poems were well thought out and are relatable to a lot of people going through heartbreak or uneasiness about the future. Mixed with photos of Jennifer and her partner, this will make an eye catching paperback. One thing that draws me to poetry books are illustrations and pictures.

If you like political poems about Brexit and stories of heartbreak, then this is the book for you. It's fairly quick to read as well. I hope everyone buying this book in December will enjoy it!

Until next time, love Vee x

A Trip To London And Its Bookstores

Hey guys! So the other week Oliver and I had an impromptu trip to London to see Surrey Scorchers play basketball. We thought we would make the most of the game and go to London for the day.

I wanted to go to a few bookshops I'd wanted to go to for a while and I finally did it! I even beat my anxiety and went in to these stores/boats.

Gay's The Word

The first place I wanted to go was Gay's The Word which is situated near St Pancras Station. It's a sweet bookshop with lovely owners and some great books. There are even postcards and a mural of pins displayed on the wall. There's plenty of books on gay topics such as comics, poetry, history and fiction.

Word On The Water

Word On The Water is also situated near St Pancreas and we had a lovely walk along the river to the boat. It's a cosy little bookshop with kid's books, adult's and even a comfy arm chair to take photos on. It was really busy with people outside pricing books and browsing. It's a great place to find a bargain and take some beautiful pictures.

Notting Hill

I've never been to Notting Hill and I wanted to see the market and take photos of the pretty houses (which is hard to do, I realise now). I also wanted to stand in front of Hugh Grant's door in Notting Hill, the film. There were loads of people invading houses and people's privacy by climbing on their walls to get a photo for Instagram.

We walked through the market, which was heaving, and there were tons of different stalls, from churros (which we had to have), antiques and clothing. It was busy and bustling which I loved and I took some lovely pictures.

Crystal Palace

After a busy day exploring, we headed off to basketball on the train to Crystal Palace. Oliver saw online that there was a Dinosaur Park next to the station and the stadium which was really strange. There were just huge dinosaur statues in a really run down park. (We also nearly got attacked by a squirrel.) It was pretty unique to see but I wouldn't want to see them in the dark!

I hope you enjoyed this post and I hope I've given you some ideas on where to go in London! Until next time, love Vee x

Book Review: Don't Stop Thinking About Tomorrow

Hey guys! So a little while ago Siobhan Curham kindly sent me her latest release, Don't Stop Thinking About Tomorrow to review. I was immensely excited and I've been really slow on my reading lately (even more so recently) but this book has managed to get me through a slump.

Blurb

Fourteen year-old Stevie lives in Lewes with her beloved vinyl collection, her mum...and her mum's depression. When Stevie's mum's disability benefits are cut, Stevie and her mum are plunged into a life of poverty. But irrepressible Stevie is determined not to be beaten and takes inspiration from the lyrics of her father's 1980s record collection and dreams of a life as a musician. The she meets Hafiz, a talented footballer and a Syrian refugee. Hafiz's parents gave him their life savings to buy Hafiz a safe passage to Europe; his journey has been anything but easy. Then he meets Stevie...

As Stevie and Hafiz's friendship grows, they encourage each other to believe in themselves and follow their dreams.

Review

I was really excited about starting this book as I love to read new authors' work. I didn't expect the story to grip me the way it did but it was so moving. I felt like I was transported into Stevie and Hafiz's world and it reminded me of the Jacqueline Wilson books I used to read.

Stevie and Hafiz's relationship is something to admire; they are both from extremely different backgrounds but both have their best interests at heart. This isn't a book about the guy getting the girl, but about the strength friendship gives you.

This story is so important for people to read because Hafiz is a refugee and the video he makes for assembly is actually moving. It's so realistic and Curham outlines the heartbreak that can come from being a refugee. She writes so eloquently about the crisis and details everything from the papers that Hafiz needed to get into the UK, to the journey he took and the sights he saw on the way. It was heartbreaking to read but sends a really important message to those who don't know about the crisis.

It's also an important read to those who know someone with depression or want to know more about it; Stevie's mum is anxious and has depression which is hard on her and Stevie. The fact that she can't work and is relying on benefits is a true crisis here in Britain. There are too many people who have mental health problems who don't receive help and have their benefits cut.

Overall, I really enjoyed this book and the journey that both Hafiz and Stevie go on. Stevie's struggles with poverty and Hafiz's problems with bullying both highlight current problems and I think this book is a must read for anyone wanting to know more about these issues. The characters were so lovable and I really rooted for all of them.

I can't wait to read more of Curham's work and I'm so glad books like this exist.

Until next time, love, Vee x

Autumn Date Night Ideas

Hey guys! Since it's autumn, I wanted to publish as many autumn posts as possible because it's my favourite season. If you're struggling for date night ideas or just general activities to take part in, this is the post for you!

Autumn Date Ideas

• Go pumpkin/apple picking
• Carve pumpkins and make funny or spooky faces
• Make a list of horror movies you want to watch and check them off as you go
• Go trick or treating together
• Have a spooky party
• Make Halloween costumes together
• Make sugar cookies
• Create a new hot chocolate recipe 
• Have a bonfire and make smores
• Make a fort with blankets and eat popcorn
• Learn a new recipe together that has pumpkin in
• Make cinnamon roles together
• Go for a walk in the woods and jump in the leaf piles
• Buy a DIY candle making kit and make cinnamon/orange spiced candles
• Go to a harvest festival together
• Visit a haunted house/location
• Bake a pumpkin pie together
• Read spooky stories to each other
• Watch that new crime show on Netflix
• Collect acorns/conkers together and get crafty 
• Make caramel apples
• Go stargazing together and take a blanket and some snacks
• Go on a haunted tour of your city
• Go to a fairground
• Go to your local pottery shop and do some DIY painting
• Have a picnic in the woods
• Go away for the weekend to a log cabin and get away from your phone
• Take up a new hobby/class together
• Make a fall wreath together
• Have a look locally and see if there are any harvest/Halloween events going on in your area

I hope this list has given you some ideas! Let me know some of your autumn date night ideas in the comments. Until next time, love Vee x

How To Achieve Your Dreams

Hey everyone! For those of you who know me, you'll know that my dream is to become an editor/writer. I have recently decided I'm going to do anything it takes to get to where I want to be, even if it means sacrificing my time, money or anything else.

I have been trying to gain experience in publishing and editing because to become an editorial assistant, you usually need to have a degree and some relevant editorial experience. And after weeks of feeling low, I've managed to secure myself an editorial internship with Society19, a student magazine. I've submitted a few articles already which is very exciting! 

The great thing about this internship is that I don't have to be a student or a graduate; usually, to do an editorial internship you need to have a degree. I'm so excited about this journey that I'm going on at the moment. Good things are coming.

I never thought I could succeed because of my education and lack of qualifications but I managed to achieve one of my goals! And you can too. Don't let your negativity, background or anyone stop you from achieving your goals. 

I'm going to be an editor one day and no matter how many times I get knocked down, I'm going to get back up and fight for what I want. I've had so many fantastic opportunities in my life. Some things may be rubbish, such as a job or a negative person in your life, but I promise you that you can do whatever you set your mind to. You just need to believe in yourself.

Stay positive and remember to take time for yourself. There's no point stressing over things right now; good things are coming, just believe in that. Surround yourself with like-minded, positive people who want you to be happy and you'll start to feel more confident and positive in yourself.

Remember, you don't have to do anything you don't want to do. You are your own person and you can tell people what you think. Speak up for yourself and be heard. You have the power to do anything with your life! Isn't that exciting?

I hope you take away some positivity from this post and work hard to achieve your dreams. It may be difficult but I promise every hurdle will be worth it. Until next time, love, Vee x