tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-69261217740009974432024-03-13T04:44:45.538-07:00A Curvy CupcakeFat fashion, body acceptance and body positivity.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17028079396857245303noreply@blogger.comBlogger108125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6926121774000997443.post-68270153391961254702016-01-03T04:22:00.001-08:002016-01-03T04:27:43.510-08:0016 in 16<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Happy new year one and all! And a belated welcome to 2016!<br />
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We've all seen by now that television and social media are flooded once again with diet talk, Oprah and "New Year New Me" rubbish, right?<br />
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Well here's the thing. We will never be anyone else but ourselves, so trying to be a different person by making drastic changes is more than likely setting yourself up for failure. As such you will never see me making a resolution that means making unrealistic adjustments to myself *especially* if it involves any of those fad diets we see promoted all over everywhere around New Year.<br />
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Instead, the list-lover in me jumped at <b>16 in 16</b> when it was originally suggested by the awesome Soph from <a href="http://www.busylittlefee.com/" target="_blank">Busy Little Fee</a>. She came up with the idea of setting sixteen achievable goals to work on in 2016 which is a much more realistic and fun thing to do than one giant looming resolution.<br />
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For my own sanity I have categorised this list. My brain doesn't like messy lists. (Unlike messy rooms which my brain is quite content with, much to my husbands dismay.)<br />
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<u><b>The Online Bits</b></u><br />
<u><b><br /></b></u><b>1. Work on the blog. </b><br />
I hope to freshen up A Curvy Cupcake this year with a new layout, updated information and a page on #thisisplus complete with press, background info and an FAQ.<br />
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<b>2. Up my Insta game. </b><br />
I am terrible at Instagram. Truly rubbish. I aim to post more relevent pictures and reach 1000 followers this year. Hopefully I'll smash it and hit 1500 but we'll see eh?<br />
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<b>3. Embrace Youtube. </b><br />
My four year old wants to make videos like his favourite Youtubers so I'm going to figure out how all this editing nonsense works and try to have some fun with it.<br />
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<u><b>Mini Adventures</b></u><br />
<u><b><br /></b></u><b>4. Go to a gig. </b><br />
It's been nearly 6 years since my last gig and it was a pretty big disappointment. I'm getting the itch to relive my yoof and with The Cure playing Wembley in December I'm thinking this year could be the one.<br />
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<b>5. Revisit the Harry Potter Studios. </b><br />
I went in 2014 for the Christmas at Hogwarts thing and it was incredible. Back then there was no Hogwarts Express which means I simply must go back.<br />
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<b>6. Get out more. </b><br />
This is vague but it does what it says on the tin. I aim to get out of the house more. On my own and with my children. I want to take my eldest to Kidzania and myself to more plus size events.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--PjtWf9R670/Vof2MUcS2tI/AAAAAAAABbA/F-y_O3VqwZA/s1600/FB_IMG_1451648087728.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="524" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--PjtWf9R670/Vof2MUcS2tI/AAAAAAAABbA/F-y_O3VqwZA/s640/FB_IMG_1451648087728.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit: The super talented <a href="http://murderofgoths.co.uk/" target="_blank">Murder of Goths</a></td></tr>
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<b>7. Get all these women in the same room. </b><br />
This is one of those goals that is out of my control but I'm putting it here because I want it to happen. This group are my gang and I'd give the world to have one of our evening whatsapp conversations actually in person.<br />
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<b><u>Money</u></b><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b><b>8. Pay off my Simply Be account. </b><br />
This one is self explanatory and needs to be on the list. I have around £150 left to pay which I can only afford in small instalments. Hopefully by around October it'll be gone.<br />
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<b>9. Save TopCashback. </b><br />
I have a <a href="http://www.topcashback.co.uk/ref/kj2703" target="_blank">TCB</a>* account that I rarely use and when I do, I cash in as soon as I hit a tenner. My aim this year is to use the site for every online purchase that qualifies and save that cashback until at least July. (*This is a referral link. If you join through here and earn £10 cashback I'll receive a £5 bonus.)<br />
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<b>10. Work the sales like a pro. </b><br />
I've always taken pride in the fact that I can shop a good bargain and I hope to continue this in 2016. Basically I want to avoid paying full price as much as possible for Christmas and birthdays.<br />
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<u><b>Life</b></u><br />
<u><b><br /></b></u><b>11. Say Yes More....</b><br />
My anxiety issues have caused me to stop making plans for fear of not wanting to follow through on them. This year I will think before I make up excuses and endeavour to say yes to more opportunities. What's the worst that could happen?<br />
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<b>12. .... And don't be afraid to say No</b><br />
Having said that, I also need to know my limits. I will strive to say Yes more but at the same time if something is too much for me or the worst that could happen is certain death I will not beat myself up for saying No.<br />
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<b>13. Schedule!!</b><br />
I am not the best at things like spontaneous housework and writing. I need a visual reminder. I have bought a planner of sorts where I can schedule my day or week, allocating time to specific chores, activities with my home educated small person, blog posts and most importantly that precious half hour of Me Time in between the chaos.<br />
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<b>14. Sleep.</b><br />
Having three boys under 5 years old who like to wake up at 5:30am would be a lot easier to cope with if I didn't stay up until 1am every night. Time to wrap up my evenings a little earlier I think!<br />
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<b>15. Wear my specs during screen time.</b><br />
I have put off wearing my glasses because in my head I told myself short sightedness is for old people. Obviously that's nonsense (and I'm now a bit old) so it's time to avoid the headaches and put my specs on.<br />
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<b>16. Love more.</b><br />
This is everything. From communicating better with my loved ones to being more patient with the kids, from commenting on more blogs to reconnecting with my own self. I'm quite a negative creature so I need to make a huge effort with people this year.<br />
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So that's my 16 in 16 list! Is there anything on there you'd like to aim for too? Or anything you think I'm missing?<br />
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Leave me a comment and let me know if you have any goals and later in the year we can check back and see how we're getting on!<br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>The following bloggers have also taken part. Once you're done here go and take a look:</i></span><br />
<i><a href="http://curvygirlthin.com/2015/12/31/16-goals-for-2016/" style="color: #7d181e; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-decoration: none;">Charli</a><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">, </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><a href="http://www.voluptuouschatterbox.co.uk/2016/01/16-goals-to-achieve-in-2016.html" style="color: #7d181e; text-decoration: none;">Kerry-Ann</a>,<a href="http://secretplussizegoddess.blogspot.co.uk/2015/12/new-year-new-me.html" style="color: #7d181e; text-decoration: none;"> Tanya</a>, <a href="http://www.fatgirlforlife.co.uk/2015/12/31/16in16/" style="color: #7d181e; text-decoration: none;">Katt</a>, <a href="http://www.adventuresofariotgrrrl.com/2016/01/16-in-16-obligatory-goal-post.html" style="color: #7d181e; text-decoration: none;">Kitty</a>, <a href="https://veryhungryfaterpillar.wordpress.com/2016/01/01/taking-the-plunge-16-in-16/" style="color: #7d181e; text-decoration: none;">Becky</a>,<a href="http://therandomnessoftwee.blogspot.co.uk/2016/01/16-in-16.html" style="color: #7d181e; text-decoration: none;">Vicky</a>, <a href="http://southernyacht.blogspot.co.uk/2016/01/a-new-year-16-in-16.html" style="color: #7d181e; text-decoration: none;">Cathy</a>, <a href="http://www.doesmyblogmakemelookfat.com/2016/01/16-in-16.html" style="color: #7d181e; text-decoration: none;">Becky</a>,<a href="http://www.lucyearnshaw.co.uk/16-in-16/" style="color: #7d181e; text-decoration: none;"> Lucy</a></span></i></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17028079396857245303noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6926121774000997443.post-49260345320901670622015-12-31T13:07:00.000-08:002016-01-04T05:14:06.226-08:00New Year, New ShoesBabes, we're coming to the end of party season. For many of us that means dusting off the LBDs and killer heels one last time. But for me? Well... not so much.<br />
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Once upon a time I'd have been more than willing to sacrifice my pain-free tootsies to look good in a brightly coloured stiletto. I would even run for the train quite comfortably in 4 inch heels without a moments hesitation. But now? Now I prefer to treat my feet to a comfortable night out and there's no reason why this should mean having to compromise on an outfit.<br />
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These looks are just three of my outfits from this year where I've opted to swap the heels for a pair of flats and right now <a href="http://www.simplybe.co.uk/shop/flats/shoes/1/_/N-1ytljc3/products/show.action?type=cmr&hnid=1245357646&cm_sp=DAL-Shoes-_-ShopByCategory-_-Flats" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Simply Be</a> have a fab selection of gorgeous flats for every occasion.<br />
Check out their <a href="http://www.simplybe.co.uk/sb-edit/pump-up-the-party-in-flat-shoes/" target="_blank">blog post</a> for some amazing footwear inspiration on how to Pump Up the Party in some stylish flats.<br />
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The plimsol shoes are my current favourite style as they come in such a huge variety of colours that you can literally have a different pair for every outfit. Brogues are another firm favourite of mine but the possibilities if you decide to give your feet a rest and <a href="http://www.simplybe.co.uk/shop/flats/shoes/1/_/N-1ytljc3/products/show.action?type=cmr&hnid=1245357646&cm_sp=DAL-Shoes-_-ShopByCategory-_-Flats" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">opt for flats</a> this New Years Eve are endless.<br />
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What will you be sporting for New Year? Comfortable fats or those once-a-year killer heels?<br />
Let me know in the comments below!<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17028079396857245303noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6926121774000997443.post-44090176727980444402015-12-14T13:53:00.000-08:002015-12-14T13:53:03.831-08:00George Secret Santa Swap<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I go absolutely bonkers for Christmas and very little excites me more than a gift swap Secret Santa style so when I was invited to take part in <a href="http://direct.asda.com/george/" target="_blank">George at Asda</a>'s Secret Santa, I was over the moon!<br />
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Each of us were given another blogger to buy for and sent off to stalk our giftee, picking their gifts from the extensive range at George. Then came the wait as the elves packed up everyone's goodies and sent them on their way. The jolly postman left me hanging and made a surprise 6pm delivery a week later.<br />
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I'll just shoosh and show you what I got shall I?<br />
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I adore this package! It has a gorgeous cushion and matching tealight holders. (I don't know if the colour coordination was intentional but I like to think it was.) There's also a Maybelline Red Siren set which I am really looking forward to trying this Christmas. You can never go wrong with all the red! I was also sent an AMAZING scented large candle. It's Baylis & Harding in Midnight Fig and Pomegranate and it smells utterly <i>divine</i>. I've not even lit it yet and the scent wafts around the room as you walk in.<br />
And of course, the piece de resistance, the spotty Christmas tree jumper with red sequin stars. I've worn this a few times but I've been a bad blogger and not taken any photos. You'll have to wait for Christmas Jumper Day to see it in all it's glory but I'll tell you now it's bloomin marvelous.<br />
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Unfortunately we weren't told who are Santas were but I want to thank them for such a wonderful gift. So if you're reading this, Santa, thank you!<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17028079396857245303noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6926121774000997443.post-18264264612670840012015-12-10T14:48:00.001-08:002015-12-10T14:48:27.527-08:00Charitable Christmas Colouring In<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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In recent months I've become a teeny bit obsessed with adult colouring books. I find it very therapeutic and soothing to channel my anxious energy into something calm and creative.<br />
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It's truly wonderful to see how popular these "mindfulness colouring" books and pages have become. Maybe it's because I've always been a big kid at heart or maybe it's because it's because I now have kids of my own that I can appreciate the innocence and simplicity of losing yourself in your own creative world. Just for a little while.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yPbtZefFXK4/Vmn4_P-QZRI/AAAAAAAABZQ/VTg0_XzjKgg/s1600/PhotoGrid_1449785283283.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yPbtZefFXK4/Vmn4_P-QZRI/AAAAAAAABZQ/VTg0_XzjKgg/s640/PhotoGrid_1449785283283.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
One of my favourite illustrators, <a href="http://www.johannabasford.com/" target="_blank">Johanna Basford</a>, already has a trilogy of incredible books to her name (Secret Garden, Enchanted Forest and Lost Ocean) and has now created some festive colouring pages for us to download and enjoy this winter with all proceeds going to Scottish charity <a href="https://www.marysmeals.org.uk/" target="_blank">Mary's Meals</a> who feed starving children the world over.<br />
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Take a look at the video below to see Johanna talk about her drawings and her chosen charity then pop over to her <a href="https://www.justgiving.com/JohannaBasford" target="_blank">Just Giving</a> page and donate any amount you want to receive the link to your printables.<br />
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(As a rough guide, it costs around £12.20 to feed a child for a whole school year. BUT between now and December 28th, the UK government are <b>doubling donations</b> made so you could feed two children for a year if you donate the same amount of money. Amazing!)<br />
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The four seasonal printables come as high quality PDFs (ie large files, mobile and tablet users) and are an absolute joy. Though I'm now realising I need better pencils and some nice pens. Something to put on the Christmas List!<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17028079396857245303noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6926121774000997443.post-22004145805724949042015-12-07T05:03:00.001-08:002015-12-07T05:03:05.289-08:00Afternoon at Bluewater feat Scarlett & Jo <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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In the buildup to Christmas there is one place I absolutely must visit; Bluewater Shopping Centre.<br />
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My husband and I found ourselves with a couple of hours to spare this weekend so we drove to the surprisingly uncrowded shopping mall with the intention of just buying my Christmas present (which for the first time ever is not an item of clothing).<br />
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Of course with Christmas being Christmas and Bluewater being Bluewater, we couldn't just buy one thing and we came away with five additional christmas presents for the kids and a refurbished PS3. Doh!<br />
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And yes of course I did get my gingerbread latte.<br />
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Since I was already in the vicinity it would've been rude not to pop into Yours Clothing to check out their <a href="http://www.yoursclothing.co.uk/scarlett-jo-collection" target="_blank">Scarlett & Jo dresses</a>. They had a lot of the stunning velvet maxis but I chose to try on the more prom-style dresses. (Please excuse the minimal makeup!)<br />
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This first dress (<a href="http://www.yoursclothing.co.uk/scarlett-jo-black-and-gold-lace-prom-dress-p" target="_blank">Black & Gold Lace Prom Dress</a>) was my favourite of the two I picked up. Classic S&J prom dress with a sheer yoke and sleeves giving plenty of stretch for those of us with big chests and/or upper arms. The thin ribbon tie details draws to the waist and the full skirt skims my belly wonderfully.<br />
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The second dress (<a href="http://www.yoursclothing.co.uk/scarlett-jo-black-red-jacquard-prom-dress-p" target="_blank">Black & Red Jacquard Prom Dress</a>) comes with an elastic belt to give the same look as their 2-in-1 dresses. I love these as they define my waist quite nicely. The jersey wrap top has a lot of stretch so it's perfect regardless of your chest size (but I think I'd need a pin to hide the bra) and the slightly gathered skirt is a lovely below-knee length. Perfect for those indoor Christmas parties where you don't want tights or leggings.<br />
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So all in all a nice productive day at old Bluey, followed by a tasty Chinese takeaway. Perfect!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17028079396857245303noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6926121774000997443.post-21275890367307848352015-12-04T16:30:00.000-08:002015-12-04T17:02:11.976-08:00The Royal Oak Beefeater ReviewI was recently invited to experience the freshly refurbished <a href="http://www.beefeater.co.uk/steak-restaurant/Kent/Royal-Oak-Wrotham-Heath.html" target="_blank">Royal Oak</a> Beefeater in Wrotham Heath.<br />
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Whilst I'd like to say I took the whole family to experience the entire menu, I opted to leave the children with grandparents and have a rare and relaxing evening out with my husband. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: right;"><i><a href="http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/" target="_blank">source</a></i></td></tr>
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We arrived on time at 6pm, were seated instantly and introduced to our waitress who promptly took our drinks order. </div>
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I was excited to try the Beefeater Festive Menu as I had heard good things about it in other restaurants but this didn't appear to be available. In fact there were no festive decorations to speak of although being November it was perhaps just a little early. So we took our picks from the <a href="http://www.beefeater.co.uk/steak-restaurant-menu/Kent/Royal-Oak-Wrotham-Heath.html" target="_blank">standard evening menu</a> and admired some of the quirky beef-related artworks mounted on the walls while we waited for our starter.</div>
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Because we went in the evening, I cannot say what this restaurant is like in natural daylight. Of an evening it is bright but cozy and has an air of familiarity that you come to expect from a Beefeater. The atmosphere was homely but vibrant and very family friendly. All of this was reflected in the staff who were extremely welcoming and a pleasure to talk to. The Royal Oak is also wheelchair friendly with great disabled access and the staff are more than happy to help with any needs or inquiries.</div>
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The food itself was wonderful. There is a fantastic selection of starters with three vegetarian options. In the end I went with the pulled beef in red onion gravy, yorkshire puds and a horseradish cheese sauce. This was a tough act to follow. The shredded beef proved to be a bit of a balancing act trying to keep it from falling off the well portioned yorkshire pudding pieces but this starter was amazing. I would've been happy even to have this as a main course.<br />
My husband opted for the sticky duck wings. I was surprised with the amount of meat you get from these wings and the sweet chilli glaze gave the perfect kick to the dish.<br />
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Our main courses weren't far behind. Despite experiencing some technical issues, our meal choices were taken down and they were brought to us in good time, hot and delicious!<br />
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I figure you can't go to a Beefeater without eating (more) beef, so I had steak and chips and my husband went for the mixed grill. His dinner went down a treat and while my beef was ever so slightly pinker than I'd expect from a medium, it was an excellent main course and tasted great.<br />
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For dessert my husband scoffed down a giant sundae before I could even focus the camera, and I asked for the raspberry bakewell with ice cream. It arrived with custard and actually I think that turned out for the best! The slice of bakewell was rather large and came with a generous helping of custard to be poured over it. This was absolutely delicious and rounded off the evening meal perfectly.</div>
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I'd like to say a huge thank you to the Royal Oak for having us. I had a wonderful time sampling the menu and taking in the friendly atmosphere on a Friday evening. I'd thoroughly recommend this restaurant to anyone in the area and I'd completely and absolutely suggest that you try the pulled beef starter.</div>
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(This review was given in return for free, delicious food. This has no bearing on the content of the review and all opinions are my own.)</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17028079396857245303noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6926121774000997443.post-58740553134025373102015-12-03T15:50:00.000-08:002015-12-03T15:50:42.751-08:00Top 5 Christmas Movies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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No Blogmas is complete without a mention of festive films and a list of our favourite flicks of the season.<br />
As mentioned in my <a href="http://www.acurvycupcake.com/2015/12/christmas-bucket-list.html" target="_blank">Christmas Bucket List</a>, I aim to watch my top 5 movies between now and Christmas Eve.<br />
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There are films that could go on this list (Die Hard, Home Alone, The Grinch) but this list is for those Christmas movies that I go back to year after year without fail.<br />
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<b><u>Santa Claus The Movie</u></b><br />
The one where an elf runs away from the North Pole and tries to find his way in New York.<br />
The heartbreak when my little sis spilled orange juice on the video tape rendering it unplayable will never be matched ever. Thank heavens we grew up and bought our own copies on those new fangled DVD things.<br />
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<u><b>Elf</b></u><br />
The <i>other </i>one where an elf runs away from the North Pole and tries to find his way in New York. I was a bit of a Will Ferrell hater until Buddy showed up but this is a film that the kids and I love equally. Basically if you don't like Elf you're a cotton headed ninny muggins.<br />
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<b><u>Love Actually</u></b><br />
Billy Mack, Top of the Pops! This is my Christmas Eve movie. Last minute wrapping next to the tree with a glass of Baileys falling in love with Mark in that scene where he's probably being a douche by declaring his undying love to his best mates wife.<br />
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<b><u>It's A Wonderful Life</u></b><br />
After the wrapping is finished, Love Actually has ended and the Baileys isn't far behind I sit alone and watch this. And I cry. And I remember all the times I mocked my mum for crying at a silly old black and white movie. And I cry some more. Attaboy Clarence.<br />
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<b><u>Polar Express</u></b><br />
I was still living with my parents when this came out and I didn't see the appeal <i>at all</i>. But it's actually a very sweet film that has fast become my childrens favourite movie. It keeps them quiet which is good enough for me... and who doesn't love Tom Hanks?<br />
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Okay, okay...<br />
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<b><u>Die Hard</u></b><br />
It just felt wrong leaving it out, ya know? Yippee ki yay.<br />
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<i>Enough now...</i></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17028079396857245303noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6926121774000997443.post-28731718158221272892015-12-02T15:53:00.001-08:002015-12-02T15:53:43.807-08:00Christmas Bucket List<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Good evening folks!<br />
Do you, like me, enjoy making lists? My usual starts as a well meaning To Do List first thing in the morning which eventually turns into The Big List Of Everything You Didn't Do Today by mid-afternoon.<br />
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But there's something about this time of year that makes me want to do a Christmassy bucket list. So without further ado, I present to you The Little List Of Things I Probably Won't Get Around To This Christmas.<br />
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What are your "must do" plans for the holidays? Do you have a Christmas bucket list? Let me know what you'd add to the list in the comments below!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17028079396857245303noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6926121774000997443.post-21572413744295303322015-12-01T14:25:00.000-08:002015-12-01T14:25:39.844-08:00So This Is Blogmas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hooray, it's December!<br />
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One day into Advent and I've already put my poor young boys in their Christmas jumpers, made a gingerbread house (out of paper, not actual gingerbread so... just a house) and sat them down to watch Polar Express with hot chocolate and marshmallows. To say I'm feeling festive is something of an understatement so I've decided to channel my Christmas cheer by taking part in Blogmas this year.<br />
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Every day from now until the 25th I'll be posting to the blog. It won't necessarily be about Christmas every time but I'm fairly certain I'll cram in as much festivity as possible in the next 3 and a bit weeks. Here goes!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17028079396857245303noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6926121774000997443.post-29622118082028370292015-11-02T10:14:00.002-08:002015-11-02T10:23:58.023-08:00Way To Go, Scarlett & Jo!It's been five weeks since I began <b>#thisisplus</b>, a campaign for diversity in models and plus size representation on the high street. Of course there are a few brands who already do this and the first brand that always comes to mind when I think of equal representation across the board is <b><a href="http://www.scarlettandjo.com/" target="_blank">Scarlett & Jo</a></b>.<br />
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If you've ever searched for a brand which supports, no, LOVES to design beautiful functional clothes for ladies with curves and rolls, you need look no further. Scarlett & Jo is the one.<br />
They don't take small patterns and make them big. They make patterns which consider curves from the outset and create timeless classics in fabrics and styles which flatter and fit plus sizes, from tunics to maxis to 40s style tea dresses.<br />
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Previously only available at Evans, Scarlett & Jo have recently extended to include Yours Clothing amongst their resellers and today they launch their very own website at <a href="http://scarlettandjo.com/"><b>scarlettandjo.com</b></a>.<br />
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I'm so excited by this as Scarlett & Jo have been the frontrunners in championing every body and showcasing their clothes on models of different sizes, shapes, ages and heights for a very long time.<br />
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Long may it continue!<br />
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A photo posted by Scarlett & Jo (@scarlettandjo) on <time datetime="2015-10-10T11:26:17+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Oct 10, 2015 at 4:26am PDT</time></div>
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<a href="https://instagram.com/p/8p9ohIHqWk/" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">A photo posted by Scarlett & Jo (@scarlettandjo)</a> on <time datetime="2015-10-10T11:38:05+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Oct 10, 2015 at 4:38am PDT</time></div>
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<b>Don't forget to visit <a href="http://www.scarlettandjo.com/" target="_blank">Scarlett & Jo</a></b> and check out the different ranges at <a href="http://m.evans.co.uk/h5/products?categoryFilter=1924491%2C1924532" target="_blank">Evans</a> and <a href="http://www.yoursclothing.co.uk/scarlett-and-jo" target="_blank">Yours Clothing</a> (where their purple velvet prom dress is to die for).Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17028079396857245303noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6926121774000997443.post-54445037186982025522015-09-29T13:18:00.000-07:002015-09-30T02:06:28.929-07:00#THISISPLUS at Curve Fashion FestivalIt's been a week since the launch of the <a href="https://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&url=https://instagram.com/explore/tags/thisisplus/&ved=0CBsQFjAAahUKEwi4m6WZ85zIAhVGbD4KHajmAUs&usg=AFQjCNEYcMfFA0AFq6UqwHAUOtfq2pztdQ&sig2=kbcrjF0MjeH6e7rr5m2qzg" target="_blank">#thisisplus</a> campaign and I have been completely bowled over by the response. Hundreds of submissions have come pouring in on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook and email, showing us that us plus size shoppers really do feel left out in the cold when it comes to "plus size" high street advertising campaigns.<br />
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I want to thank everyone single one of you for supporting this campaign in its infancy. You are all amazing individuals and it could not have happened without you. <b>Thank you!</b><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-koAP5znyisQ/Vgrml-XvSqI/AAAAAAAABSs/Ahs1_rJW1YQ/s1600/IMG-20150926-WA0019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="318" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-koAP5znyisQ/Vgrml-XvSqI/AAAAAAAABSs/Ahs1_rJW1YQ/s640/IMG-20150926-WA0019.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Beauty In All Shapes & Sizes</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
I'm sure you are aware that Curve Fashion Festival took place over the weekend and despite not being able to attend the event myself, I was inundated with photos from the incredible Daisy (<a href="http://daisysays.co.uk/" target="_blank">daisysays.co.uk</a>) who flew the #thisisplus flag in my absence.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cypSl8fT0GM/VgrlGObXdNI/AAAAAAAABSk/Tn-kC5P3dNg/s1600/2015-09-29%2B20.22.36.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cypSl8fT0GM/VgrlGObXdNI/AAAAAAAABSk/Tn-kC5P3dNg/s640/2015-09-29%2B20.22.36.jpg" width="358" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thank you Daisy!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
By all accounts the Curve Fashion Fest was the place to be last weekend for any plus size fatshionistas and I'm so proud that #thisisplus was not only represented but also supported by so many.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xVDQPc_TVCE/VgrrntbzzKI/AAAAAAAABS8/ubWESczRCXg/s1600/PhotoGrid_1443555995766.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xVDQPc_TVCE/VgrrntbzzKI/AAAAAAAABS8/ubWESczRCXg/s640/PhotoGrid_1443555995766.jpg" width="456" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.rubythunder.com/" target="_blank">Ruby</a>, <a href="http://www.doesmyblogmakemelookfat.com/" target="_blank">Becky</a>, <a href="http://www.seeingspots.co.uk/" target="_blank">Steph</a><br />
<a href="http://www.radfatfeminist.com/" target="_blank">Sharon</a>, <a href="http://www.secretplussizegoddess.com/" target="_blank">Tanya</a>, <a href="http://henryskat.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">Kat</a><br />
<a href="http://www.nattynikki.com/" target="_blank">Nikki</a>, <a href="http://daisysays.co.uk/" target="_blank">Daisy</a>, <a href="http://plussizeproud.co.uk/" target="_blank">Sarah</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I am more inspired now than ever before to show brands who we are and why we're not happy with this promotional image of plus size in all its 5ft 10in size 16 hourglass glory. This Is Plus and it will not go quietly.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dRBPfUggtVA/VgrtrpqRy5I/AAAAAAAABTM/TBRg_OXxFF0/s1600/PhotoGrid_1443556744169.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dRBPfUggtVA/VgrtrpqRy5I/AAAAAAAABTM/TBRg_OXxFF0/s640/PhotoGrid_1443556744169.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://lucielovesit.com/" target="_blank">Lucie</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/Reallisariley" target="_blank">Lisa Riley</a>, <a href="http://lottielamour.co.uk/" target="_blank">Lottie</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Remember to tag your images on Instagram and Twitter with #thisisplus and keep sharing!<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17028079396857245303noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6926121774000997443.post-7762632531850743212015-09-22T13:00:00.001-07:002015-09-28T16:02:00.251-07:00#THISISPLUS - The Campaign For ALL Plus Size Bodies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xA2UZnhKVPU/VgFIu_xgRSI/AAAAAAAABQw/AMvgRB3WI0A/s1600/IMG_20150921_073709.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xA2UZnhKVPU/VgFIu_xgRSI/AAAAAAAABQw/AMvgRB3WI0A/s640/IMG_20150921_073709.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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We've all seen by now the plus size campaigns by the likes of Evans and Lane Bryant, championing all shapes and sizes and throwing around catchphrases and hashtags like 'Style Has No Size' and 'Plus Is Equal' whilst parading women around the high street and in shop windows.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MXr7EYkXMkM/VgFJB5FJy8I/AAAAAAAABQ4/l7ZQdX9sxTE/s1600/evans1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="444" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MXr7EYkXMkM/VgFJB5FJy8I/AAAAAAAABQ4/l7ZQdX9sxTE/s640/evans1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In Case You Missed It...</td></tr>
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But these campaigns have left a sour taste in the mouths (and fingers) of social media users the world over.<br />
People are quite rightly asking, if style has no size, why are all of the models on the lowest end of plus size? Where is the size 24 model? The size 32? Where are the women of colour? Who is representing the petite among us? Why can't we see a shorter model amongst the 5'8+ leggy ladies?<br />
It seems that unless you are tall, white and have and flat tummy to complement your size 16 hourglass figure, then plus is NOT equal.<br />
<br />
But it should be. It <i>has </i>to be.<br />
Who out there will represent my hanging belly? Who represents Sarahs 4ft 11 in frame?<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mIjvkKqwwLo/VgFTdEbwKRI/AAAAAAAABRI/ciFLrcC81jg/s1600/IMG-20150922-WA0026.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mIjvkKqwwLo/VgFTdEbwKRI/AAAAAAAABRI/ciFLrcC81jg/s640/IMG-20150922-WA0026.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sarah blogs at <a href="http://plussizeproud.co.uk/" target="_blank">plussizeproud.co.uk</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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In the same way that we can't get style inspiration from a size 6 mannequin, we can't be inspired by barely-plus models posing for photoshoots in shop windows. Plus bodies are so so varied and we need the clothing industry to realise that. To represent and inspire ALL. OF. US.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IerW6ppbFJg/VgGsPS3eN9I/AAAAAAAABRc/9xyetIZzvEo/s1600/PhotoGrid_1442950155738.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IerW6ppbFJg/VgGsPS3eN9I/AAAAAAAABRc/9xyetIZzvEo/s640/PhotoGrid_1442950155738.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inspirational plus size bloggers Katt (<a href="http://www.fatgirlforlife.co.uk/" target="_blank">fatgirlforlife.co.uk</a>), MoG (<a href="http://murderofgoths.co.uk/" target="_blank">murderofgoths.co.uk</a>) and Tanya (<a href="http://secretplussizegoddess.com/" target="_blank">secretplussizegoddess.com</a>)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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#THISISPLUS is a tag for everyone but specifically anyone who feels that the high street plus size campaigns do not represent them. For the petite ladies, the older women among us, those of us with visible belly outlines or darker skin or a shape that differs from "industry standard."<br />
<br />
#THISISPLUS is for you.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U58GSqPRhYs/VgGv-e2I8-I/AAAAAAAABRo/QGYr9pIxpcM/s1600/PhotoGrid_1442951121508.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="456" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U58GSqPRhYs/VgGv-e2I8-I/AAAAAAAABRo/QGYr9pIxpcM/s640/PhotoGrid_1442951121508.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The world is not made up of industry standard people. We should not have to aspire to fit these standards. The outdated ideals are old fashioned and need a fresh start. We are all beautiful in our bodies and we deserve for those bodies to be represented fairly.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Rb0TVHQQOlU/VgGxrbgWhOI/AAAAAAAABR0/hroxJC__v18/s1600/PhotoGrid_1442951565264.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Rb0TVHQQOlU/VgGxrbgWhOI/AAAAAAAABR0/hroxJC__v18/s640/PhotoGrid_1442951565264.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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#thisisplus exists to show the international plus size industry that they need to take note. To change things up and start celebrating ALL plus size bodies, not opt for the same old formula that showcases only a tiny percentage of the people it is supposed to represent.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hLk18t7a1G0/VgGzMOG2P_I/AAAAAAAABSA/NXLbov4Fg6Y/s1600/PhotoGrid_1442951957159.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hLk18t7a1G0/VgGzMOG2P_I/AAAAAAAABSA/NXLbov4Fg6Y/s640/PhotoGrid_1442951957159.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17028079396857245303noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6926121774000997443.post-50850954650906731502015-07-31T22:35:00.001-07:002015-07-31T22:41:11.664-07:00#OMCZ - Bare Arms<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-t2Bu14xrvSA/VbxYA8VJrVI/AAAAAAAABQA/yQeiJNuSHJk/s1600/FB_IMG_1438406079303.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-t2Bu14xrvSA/VbxYA8VJrVI/AAAAAAAABQA/yQeiJNuSHJk/s1600/FB_IMG_1438406079303.jpg" /></a></div>
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Its the weekend! And the time has come for me to rejoin the Outside My Comfort Zone challenge! </div>
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For various health reasons over the past few weeks, I've been a little bit rubbish on the blog front so hopefully this challenge will keep me focused and get me back on track.</div>
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This months challenge is <b>Bare Arms.</b></div>
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This is something that I struggled with even as recently as last year. But this year I realised that the world won't stop and stare even if my upper arms are giant so I might as well just get on with it.</div>
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These are a selection of my most recent sleeveless faves.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W18Qlk7IX2g/VbxYFYW0TlI/AAAAAAAABQM/zQmNpDNZMrc/s1600/IMG_-d9yxt4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W18Qlk7IX2g/VbxYFYW0TlI/AAAAAAAABQM/zQmNpDNZMrc/s640/IMG_-d9yxt4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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How do you feel about having your arms on show?</div>
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See what the following bloggers thing by clicking their links below.</div>
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<span style="color: black;"><a href="http://www.seeingspots.co.uk/" style="border-image-outset: initial; border-image-repeat: initial; border-image-slice: initial; border-image-source: initial; border-image-width: initial; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 20px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: dotted thin; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Steph</a></span><br />
<span style="color: black;"><a href="http://plussizeproud.co.uk/" target="_blank">Sarah</a><br /><a href="http://www.doesmyblogmakemelookfat.com/" style="border-image-outset: initial; border-image-repeat: initial; border-image-slice: initial; border-image-source: initial; border-image-width: initial; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 20px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Becky Brown</a><br /><a href="http://www.nattynikki.com/" style="border-image-outset: initial; border-image-repeat: initial; border-image-slice: initial; border-image-source: initial; border-image-width: initial; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 20px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Nikki</a><br /><a href="http://www.justmeleah.co.uk/" style="border-image-outset: initial; border-image-repeat: initial; border-image-slice: initial; border-image-source: initial; border-image-width: initial; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 20px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Leah</a><br /><a href="http://www.awheelbarrowfullofstyle.com/" style="border-image-outset: initial; border-image-repeat: initial; border-image-slice: initial; border-image-source: initial; border-image-width: initial; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 20px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Natalie</a><br /><a href="http://www.readysteadyfile.co.uk/" style="border-image-outset: initial; border-image-repeat: initial; border-image-slice: initial; border-image-source: initial; border-image-width: initial; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 20px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Gillian</a><br /><a href="http://www.marysbigcloset.com/" style="border-image-outset: initial; border-image-repeat: initial; border-image-slice: initial; border-image-source: initial; border-image-width: initial; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 20px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Mary</a><br /><a href="http://www.prettybigbutterflies.com/" style="border-image-outset: initial; border-image-repeat: initial; border-image-slice: initial; border-image-source: initial; border-image-width: initial; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 20px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Hollie</a><br /><a href="http://thegirlwiththeplait.blogspot.co.uk/" style="border-image-outset: initial; border-image-repeat: initial; border-image-slice: initial; border-image-source: initial; border-image-width: initial; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 20px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Becca</a><br /><a href="http://fattyboomtatty.blogspot.co.uk/" style="border-image-outset: initial; border-image-repeat: initial; border-image-slice: initial; border-image-source: initial; border-image-width: initial; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 20px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Sam</a><br /><a href="http://www.bigfatbetty.com/" style="border-image-outset: initial; border-image-repeat: initial; border-image-slice: initial; border-image-source: initial; border-image-width: initial; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 20px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Sharon</a><br /><a href="http://adiaryofacurvygirly.blogspot.co.uk/" style="border-image-outset: initial; border-image-repeat: initial; border-image-slice: initial; border-image-source: initial; border-image-width: initial; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 20px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Lottie</a><br /><a href="http://polishedcurves.com/" style="border-image-outset: initial; border-image-repeat: initial; border-image-slice: initial; border-image-source: initial; border-image-width: initial; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 20px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Kaye</a><br /><a href="http://www.acurvycupcake.com/" style="border-image-outset: initial; border-image-repeat: initial; border-image-slice: initial; border-image-source: initial; border-image-width: initial; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 20px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Katt</a><br /><a href="http://murderofgoths.co.uk/" style="border-image-outset: initial; border-image-repeat: initial; border-image-slice: initial; border-image-source: initial; border-image-width: initial; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 20px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Kathryn</a><br /><a href="http://www.mookieslife.com/" style="border-image-outset: initial; border-image-repeat: initial; border-image-slice: initial; border-image-source: initial; border-image-width: initial; border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: 20px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Mookie</a></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17028079396857245303noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6926121774000997443.post-55059334431234338702015-07-15T09:10:00.004-07:002015-07-15T09:34:19.924-07:00Bodyshaming Instagram has banned #curvy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Only a few months ago my account with Instagram was closed without warning. On the same day, I encountered a group of other users raising the same issue on the Instagram Facebook page. The only thing we had in common? The word <b>curvy</b> in our usernames. I kicked up a bit of a fuss and my account was reinstated with no official explanation. </div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-izAUri4whnk/VaaAdsxnvuI/AAAAAAAABPM/iqKnajJoRfw/s1600/no-instagram.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-izAUri4whnk/VaaAdsxnvuI/AAAAAAAABPM/iqKnajJoRfw/s400/no-instagram.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I thought that was the end of my experience with their unacceptable body shaming but Instagram has caused a storm once again with its shameful restricting of certain search terms. </div>
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<b>From today, if you search for the hashtag #curvy, you will be met with this page.</b></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VzvE9_39OiY/VaaA196QVZI/AAAAAAAABPU/KQk9ubFRf6g/s1600/Screenshot_2015-07-15-15-58-35.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VzvE9_39OiY/VaaA196QVZI/AAAAAAAABPU/KQk9ubFRf6g/s640/Screenshot_2015-07-15-15-58-35.png" width="360" /></a></div>
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That's right folks. The curvy hashtag has been filtered out of Instagram searches to show no results. </div>
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I was informed that this was also the case for #skinny and #thin but upon investigation I have found that you can search for these hashtags and after accepting a content warning popup, you can browse the results freely.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G_QXPIhDKS4/VaaCfWcTECI/AAAAAAAABPo/9XEtCX2d1Os/s1600/Screenshot_2015-07-15-15-58-09.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G_QXPIhDKS4/VaaCfWcTECI/AAAAAAAABPo/9XEtCX2d1Os/s640/Screenshot_2015-07-15-15-58-09.png" width="360" /></a></div>
<br />
So... why the total ban on #curvy? Can they not think of an appropriate warning?<br />
<br />
An update from <a href="http://www.buzzfeed.com/norawhelan/curvy-is-a-banned-search-term-on-instagram?bffbstyle&utm_term=4ldqphh#.ronpnoLOY" target="_blank">Buzzfeed</a>:<br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="box-sizing: border-box; clear: left; line-height: 1.25rem; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 10px;">
<i>A spokesperson from Instagram said the hashtag #curvy is not searchable because, according to the company, it was being used to share images and videos that violated Instagram's community guidelines around nudity.</i></blockquote>
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<br />
But of course searching for clitoris or cunts is still entirely okay.<br />
<br />
I find it disgusting that this filter is in place yet you can find hundreds of fatshaming images with a few clicks.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>So heres the deal:</b> I don't want to miss out on all the beautiful curvesome photos that the users of Instagram have to offer so from now on I will be using <b>#curvee</b> on <a href="https://instagram.com/acurvycupcake/" target="_blank">my IG photos</a> instead.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Please feel free to do the same and spread the word. </span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17028079396857245303noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6926121774000997443.post-28953436242542424222015-07-10T13:30:00.004-07:002015-07-10T13:30:39.360-07:00Date With A Prom DressLast month I spent a lot of time trying on clothes in Evans (as can be evidenced by my <a href="http://www.acurvycupcake.com/2015/06/evans-from-changing-room.html" target="_blank">From The Changing Room</a> post) but I was stuck with the dilemma of only being able to take home one item.<br />
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I tried on dress after dress, even a pair of trousers! And what did I choose?!<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-37VS1BzaUs4/VaAjkybMKYI/AAAAAAAABOY/kWRvtvD0U4c/s1600/2015-07-09%2B21.52.16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Scarlett and Jo, Scarlett & Jo, evans, plus size fashion, plus size, curvy, fashion, blog, Blogger, review, prom, dress, prom dress, fat, fatty, chubby, alternative, curves, bbw, cleavage, sweetheart, boobs, arms, legs, thick, chunky, hourglass, waist, hips, " border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-37VS1BzaUs4/VaAjkybMKYI/AAAAAAAABOY/kWRvtvD0U4c/s640/2015-07-09%2B21.52.16.jpg" title="" width="479" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://m.evans.co.uk/h5/product?productId=19016792" target="_blank">This</a>!</b><br />
The mesh insert prom dress has flown off shelves and it's easy to see why. The quality and attention to detail in the <a href="http://m.evans.co.uk/h5/products?categoryFilter=1924491%2C1924532" target="_blank">Scarlett & Jo</a> dresses make them many fatshionistas favourite brand and one of the main reasons to visit Evans.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V1iiKI_9QPA/VaAlqSleaSI/AAAAAAAABOk/sN8d6piexz0/s1600/2015-07-09%2B21.53.13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V1iiKI_9QPA/VaAlqSleaSI/AAAAAAAABOk/sN8d6piexz0/s640/2015-07-09%2B21.53.13.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
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This dress has a mesh panel which reveals a gorgeous sweetheart neckline and an elasticated waist which gives this dress the signature Scarlett & Jo Prom Dress look.<br />
Lucky for me this dress is also lined with a net petticoat which helps it retain some shape even on the most blustery of days!<br />
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My biggest little was feeling a little left out and joined me for a photo. Check the hands on hips pose!<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IaQlBtPia-g/VaAn50EML1I/AAAAAAAABOw/_3wJjiHZm-I/s1600/2015-07-09%2B21.54.09.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IaQlBtPia-g/VaAn50EML1I/AAAAAAAABOw/_3wJjiHZm-I/s640/2015-07-09%2B21.54.09.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
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Sadly our photo session was cut short thanks to the wind and a shaky tripod. Perhaps he'll join me again soon, who knows!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7Gpr1b1xQVU/VaAoY8wehGI/AAAAAAAABO4/EogEQE3TVbo/s1600/2015-07-09%2B21.55.43.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7Gpr1b1xQVU/VaAoY8wehGI/AAAAAAAABO4/EogEQE3TVbo/s640/2015-07-09%2B21.55.43.jpg" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Outtake anyone?</td></tr>
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Unfortunately this dress is now sold out but Evans currently have a fantastic sale on and many gorgeous Scarlett & Jo pieces have been slashed in price.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17028079396857245303noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6926121774000997443.post-45554076494904494942015-07-07T15:18:00.000-07:002015-07-08T00:35:16.609-07:00What Is Plus Size?Humans exist in so many ways. Bodies are so varied. So how do we determine which category each body belongs to? What <i>is</i> plus size?<br />
<br />
To me, plus size isn't a dress size, or a body shape.<br />
<br />
To me it's in how you <i>feel</i>.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Trigger Warning: eating disorders and body dysmorphia</b><br />
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<br />
<br />
As someone who was once a size 12-14, at my lowest weight since my mid-teens, with an eating disorder and body dysmorphia, even back then I considered myself to be grossly overweight. I would eat under 250 calories a day and still dress as Princess Fiona for a fancy dress party because I wanted to make a joke out of myself before anyone could make a joke out of me.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uVrN1mq-Hko/VZxBKtc-sbI/AAAAAAAABOE/5EbPFZ3-Rgw/s1600/DSCF2166.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uVrN1mq-Hko/VZxBKtc-sbI/AAAAAAAABOE/5EbPFZ3-Rgw/s400/DSCF2166.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Princess Fiona: Once Upon A Time... 2008 to be precise</td></tr>
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<br />
When I went down a dress size and someone told me they were concerned at how fast it was happening, I thought I was being mocked. <b>I felt out of place</b> in my office of slim girls and would've been more at home among larger ladies because I felt I could relate to them more.<br />
<br />
When I thought of myself, I thought of a girl with a big bum, tum and hips and refused to look for clothes in Topshop or River Island because I had convinced myself I'd never fit into their clothes and look good.<br />
Emotionally I was a fat girl.<br />
<br />
However if I had mentioned being plus size in the PS communities I see today, I would've faced backlash for not being plus size enough. I would've been accused of attention seeking and banned from Facebook groups, shamed for being too small.<br />
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I would've spiraled into a depression, feeling shunned and isolated and like I didn't belong anywhere.<br />
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So when I see people suggesting that Plus Size is above a size 18 because "smaller sizes don't have the issues we do," I beg to differ. A size 14 who <b>feels</b> that she is too big to be socially accepted or that shops don't cater for her specific shape or style preference will have the same insecurities and feel the same body shaming that larger sizes do (regardless of whether you believe she's correct or not, whether it's a disorder or not). The issues may be slightly different in nature but they are there, much in the same way a size 24 and a size 34 will have different issues.<br />
<br />
We are not <b>Club Plus Size</b>. There is no membership and no criteria for getting past security. If you feel shamed, if you feel you don't fit in with the straight sized crowd, if you <b>feel plus size</b>.... who is anybody else to decide that you're wrong?<br />
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You are not shaming larger plus sizes by considering yourself to be above straight-size.<br />
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So please, plus size babes, before you react harshly to someone smaller than you calling themselves plus size... stop and think about how they might be feeling in themselves at that moment. Think about how it feels to be shunned because of your size. Remember that we should all support every body, every shape, every size.<br />
<br />
Because if we start pushing away smaller sized individuals, we are no better than the individuals who push us away for being big.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17028079396857245303noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6926121774000997443.post-23071028860229427582015-07-03T15:00:00.003-07:002015-07-03T15:00:39.260-07:00Blog Every Day In June- Or Not!When I started the Blog Every Day in June challenge I didn't take into account the fact that I may hit a slump in my depression cycle at some point in those 30 days.<br />
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That's the problem with depression isn't it? It's as difficult to predict as it is to understand. Out of nowhere you stop taking care of yourself and you get weak and find yourself, in this case at least, struck down with a painful intestinal infection.<br />
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Suffice it to say June was not the one. But I did learn from it. I only managed around 9 days of solid blogging but within the first week I realised that pumping out daily posts, clutching at topics and finding quick workarounds doesn't work.<br />
I want to love what I'm writing. I want to feel something for my subject and feel like I'm doing it through choice, not obligation.<br />
<br />
So whilst I'm not going to sit here and say No More Challenges, I will say this: I want a challenge I will enjoy. I need to be able to fit it around my life and children and as such I very much doubt I will take part in a frequency challenge beyond 7 days again.<br />
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So you can all breathe a sigh of relief!<br />
<br />
Normal service is resumed.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17028079396857245303noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6926121774000997443.post-77051106381741022472015-07-03T03:40:00.000-07:002015-07-03T22:58:27.298-07:00Vintage Summer with BBW Couture*The 50s style swing dress has always been a firm favourite of mine as I think they look beautiful on all shapes and sizes, so when <a href="http://www.bbwcouture.co.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">BBW Couture</a> arrived on the scene with a range of gorgeous <a href="http://www.bbwcouture.co.uk/plus-size-dresses/retro-vintage-dresses" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">vintage inspired dresses</a> amongst their vast array of plus size clothing, I was desperate to find out more.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0RYcP6moz6w/VZZHCIRHuNI/AAAAAAAABNQ/xpmSXAJHtls/s1600/1435911723096.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0RYcP6moz6w/VZZHCIRHuNI/AAAAAAAABNQ/xpmSXAJHtls/s640/1435911723096.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I am very grateful to have be sent a couple of these lovely dresses to try and it was perfectly timed as we are currently experiencing The Hottest Days In The World Ever.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HqCeEP1K6fU/VZZi-2W4JeI/AAAAAAAABNw/X-tQGdWnwrs/s1600/14359158168321.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HqCeEP1K6fU/VZZi-2W4JeI/AAAAAAAABNw/X-tQGdWnwrs/s640/14359158168321.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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This <a href="http://www.bbwcouture.co.uk/plus-size-dresses/vintage-dress-plus-size-pink-rose" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pink Rose Dress</a>* is a beautiful bright print on an off-white Base and shouts summer! The best thing about these dresses at this time of year is just how light and floaty they are. In the midst of this heatwave you won't find a more ideal dress.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UVhoiqMethQ/VZZi7yJvG3I/AAAAAAAABNs/Sx5yPsVATqM/s1600/14359177929211.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UVhoiqMethQ/VZZi7yJvG3I/AAAAAAAABNs/Sx5yPsVATqM/s640/14359177929211.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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The dress is long enough to have your legs out which is ideal in this weather. It's got coverage while also being very freeing in the arms and the chest. In fact due to the small amount of fabric in the wrap style top, my usual size was far too snug and I actually sized up twice for a better fit and popped a safety pin in for modesty. I would recommend sizing up in these beauts, twice if you are particularly generously proportioned on top!<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Zo4_FHmm-dw/VZZi4MTh2hI/AAAAAAAABNk/ROJr8-1jIJs/s1600/14359180152061.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Zo4_FHmm-dw/VZZi4MTh2hI/AAAAAAAABNk/ROJr8-1jIJs/s640/14359180152061.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
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The belt loops are quite wide allowing you to tie it at the back or the front of the dress. I chose to tie it at the front as for me that gave a better shape.<br />
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But the best thing about these dresses is the value. Ranging from £27.99 to £29.99, they are budget friendly and come in a wide range of prints to suit all tastes. I have another to show you next week so stay tuned!<br />
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If you simply cannot wait for the next installment, don't forget you can see the entire range at <span id="goog_1536054617"></span><a href="http://www.bbwcouture.co.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">BBW Couture</a><span id="goog_1536054618"></span> now.<br />
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*This item was gifted for reviewAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17028079396857245303noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6926121774000997443.post-46285701921620488612015-06-20T05:01:00.000-07:002015-06-20T05:06:13.309-07:00Evans - From The Changing RoomLast week I visited Bluewater with my mum and we spent a crazy long time in Evans.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6rIUuSnWE-8/VYVVcQYxigI/AAAAAAAABLk/sDUN06P0XCI/s1600/PhotoGrid_1434801428872-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="295" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6rIUuSnWE-8/VYVVcQYxigI/AAAAAAAABLk/sDUN06P0XCI/s320/PhotoGrid_1434801428872-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The staff were absolutely tremendous, picking up on cues of what we like to wear and filling our changing room with goodies until the clothes pegs we're fit to burst with an array of styles and colours.<br />
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I wanted to push myself a little outside my comfort zone on this trip, not just going for my usual skater style dress with leggings so I bit the bullet and grabbed the <a href="http://m.evans.co.uk/h5/product?productId=19898802" target="_blank">Scarlett & Jo trousers</a> and a tshirt. Its the first time I've worn trousers in about a year and a half so it felt pretty good! Unfortunately the proper photo of this ensemble is too blurry to share so instead here's a rather attractive outtake!<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_JFddpA4F0Q/VYU8_BFPN4I/AAAAAAAABKk/997x_a9JovM/s1600/20150612_160843-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_JFddpA4F0Q/VYU8_BFPN4I/AAAAAAAABKk/997x_a9JovM/s640/20150612_160843-1.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
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Sticking to the Scarlett & Jo theme (because I'm ever so in love with the current line), I next tried on this <a href="http://m.evans.co.uk/h5/product?productId=19016792" target="_blank">mesh insert dress</a>. I've always been a huge fan of the 2-in-1 style dresses with the thick elastic waist defining bands so this one was a definite win for me! The mesh providing a bit of modesty and the jersey top giving enough stretch to accommodate any chest size. Perfect!<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gl1F1Oeb6EA/VYVBJh3OEtI/AAAAAAAABKw/l04mOBjBh-4/s1600/20150612_155647-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gl1F1Oeb6EA/VYVBJh3OEtI/AAAAAAAABKw/l04mOBjBh-4/s640/20150612_155647-1.jpg" width="382" /></a></div>
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The above dress came home with me instead of the following one for two reasons. The first being because I somehow managed to get makeup on it (oops) and the second being the sizing.<br />
I am 100% blown away by how gorgeous this <a href="http://m.evans.co.uk/h5/product?productId=18951312" target="_blank">rose print prom dress</a> is. From the length to the sleeves and the sweetheart neckline. There is nothing about this dress that I don't like. As I said, my only issue was the sizing. I tried my usual size but it was a strangely tight (there was some misplaced stitching which could explain away some but not all of the squeeze) and the size up (pictured below) was a little too loose around the waist for my liking.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4dRSjgNo-Y8/VYVEvY1CeII/AAAAAAAABLE/2-zFuODSiOw/s1600/20150612_161923-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4dRSjgNo-Y8/VYVEvY1CeII/AAAAAAAABLE/2-zFuODSiOw/s640/20150612_161923-1.jpg" width="368" /></a></div>
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I won't lie to you, I have been pondering over a lifestyle change following some health issues and I'm tempted to buy the smaller size as it's currently in the sale at only £35 and it's Just. So. Gorgeous! We'll see.<br />
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Back to the very first outfit, the <a href="http://m.evans.co.uk/h5/product?productId=20036143" target="_blank">#stylehasnosize tshirt</a> is only £16 and ALL profits go to the Rainbow Trust Children's Charity. What's not to love about that?!<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y7builOq0Bw/VYVHsopmzsI/AAAAAAAABLQ/kjBvPBWUqbg/s1600/IMG_20150612_160944-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y7builOq0Bw/VYVHsopmzsI/AAAAAAAABLQ/kjBvPBWUqbg/s640/IMG_20150612_160944-1.jpg" width="466" /></a></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17028079396857245303noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6926121774000997443.post-17808332006458629632015-06-13T00:20:00.000-07:002015-06-13T00:20:54.630-07:00#BEDJ - OOTDI know, I know. I missed a couple of days in Blog Every Day in June. Shocking behaviour!<br />
But if there's one thing I'm learning from this challenge it's that forcing posts on topics I know/care little about is probably worse than taking a day or two off from blogging. So from now until the challenge ends, if I have nothing interesting to post, I won't force it.<br />
<br />
Yesterday's topic was in fact an Outfit Of The Day which is something I do like sharing so without further ramblings, here I am, a day late!<br />
Taken yesterday from the Yours Clothing changing room.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z5Vmq7iMtZA/VXvZHnebeSI/AAAAAAAABKM/qOcJr56VZDQ/s1600/20150612_170125-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z5Vmq7iMtZA/VXvZHnebeSI/AAAAAAAABKM/qOcJr56VZDQ/s640/20150612_170125-1.jpg" width="468" /></a></div>
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Dress: Lady V (old)</div>
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Bag: Accessorise (old)</div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17028079396857245303noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6926121774000997443.post-49058026045862487322015-06-08T15:32:00.000-07:002015-06-08T15:33:56.801-07:00#BEDJ - Favourite QuoteLots of things inspire me. Books, films, people, places, passers by on the sidewalk and body positive models on the catwalk.<br />
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<a href="http://www.buzzfeed.com/robinedds/someone-has-been-leaving-cute-motivational-post-it-notes-on#.vjmXoXokP" target="_blank">Peppy the Inspirational Cat</a> inspires me.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7zMGYCEQsV0/VXYUJmJZJbI/AAAAAAAABJk/PLSsSDFJ_ss/s1600/2015-06-08%2B23.15.00.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7zMGYCEQsV0/VXYUJmJZJbI/AAAAAAAABJk/PLSsSDFJ_ss/s400/2015-06-08%2B23.15.00.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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But when it comes to picking truly inspirational quotes, I draw a bit of a blank. I can reel off a bunch that I like but none I really connect with.<br />
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However if you go back to my Pop Culture post a couple of days ago, you'll notice one of the books I love is Oh, The Places You'll Go by Dr Seuss and really I could open that book anywhere and find a motivational bit to inspire me.<br />
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One of my fave parts:<br />
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I love the suggestion that you can do anything you put your time/effort into.<br />
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I know technically it's a children's book and meant for younger audiences but it's so great in saying that you're in charge of your own fate and that if you battle through the tough times, you can do anything you put your mind to.<br />
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I'd recommend it to everyone whether you're a book person or not! </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17028079396857245303noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6926121774000997443.post-16148374178634808532015-06-07T16:11:00.001-07:002015-06-07T16:11:41.750-07:00#BEDJ - A HaulBeauties, we're a week into June which means day 7 of the Blog Every Day In June challenge and today's theme is "Haul."<br />
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I don't shop enough to have bought what could be cosidered even a mini haul but I recently won a competition on Kitty's blog which was jam packed full of amazing things so today I am sharing with you the competition haul!<br />
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I actually missed one prize from this video and that's this gorgeous Little Miss Delicious necklace in the shape of a cupcake. Yesss. If there's one thing my life was missing it was a cupcake necklace!<br />
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So a huge thank you to Kitty at <a href="http://kittyramblesalot.blogspot.co.uk/">kittyramblesalot.blogspot.co.uk</a> and thank you to all of you for sticking around during this months challenge.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17028079396857245303noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6926121774000997443.post-77976295796949061452015-06-06T15:17:00.000-07:002015-06-06T15:35:55.829-07:00#BEDJ - Stuff I Love (Pop Culture)Going off course again for today's Blog Every Day In June post. Again, the suggested topic of nail products isn't something I'm hugely enthusiastic about. I have long nails. I love that I don't need falsies but because they're strong and grow so well I take them for granted and do nothing with them.<br />
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So today I thought I'd tell you three of my favourite bits of "pop culture." There are two books and a film, all with great messages but all sort of aimed at children!<br />
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1) Where The Wild Things Are<br />
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This book was made into a film but I prefer the book. It's really short and leaves a lot to the imagination. The illustrations are beautiful. I mean really gorgeous.<br />
Max, the boy in the book reminds me of my eldest. He's spirited. He's high energy. He makes mischief of one kind and another... but he will always come downstairs for tea.<br />
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2) Oh, The Places You'll Go<br />
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Love or hate Dr Seuss, this book is lovely. It wasn't until my son reached applying-for-school age and we decided to home educate that the meaning of this book hit me. Our destiny is in our own hands. We can be the masters of our own fate.<br />
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3) Wreck It Ralph<br />
Bit more of a modern one, this is my favourite "new" Disney movie. It's all about a bad guy in an arcade game wishing he wasn't bad anymore. It's a story of consequence and of self acceptance. With lines like "there's none I'd rather be than me" and "you must love you," it's a fantastic moral behind a brilliant story.<br />
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These 3 stories are meaningful enough to me that I have (and still am) considering tattoos of all of them.<br />
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Would you consider a tattoo of a book or a movie? Have you already got one? Let me know in the comments!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17028079396857245303noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6926121774000997443.post-73112345576987048132015-06-05T15:41:00.001-07:002015-06-05T15:41:48.444-07:00#BEDJ - Blog RollI've put todays blog off until the last possible moment because how on earth do I narrow down a list of a billion amazing bloggers to a select few to tell you about? I've met so many beautiful, inspiring women that I wouldn't have a clue where to start.<br />
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OKAY. So here are some of the beauties I have met and there are just so many more that this will never feel fair!<br />
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1) <a href="http://plussizeproud.co.uk/" target="_blank">Sarah</a><br />
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Sarah is one of the loveliest, most honest and caring people I've had the privilege of meeting. Her blog reflects this and just look how beautiful she is! Even in fancy dress stood next to a toy sheep she's bloomin gorgeous!<br />
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2) <a href="http://www.doesmyblogmakemelookfat.com/" target="_blank">Becky</a><br />
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<span id="goog_1257060117"></span><span id="goog_1257060118"></span>Becky gives me extreme dress envy. We have fairly similar loves when it comes to brands and styles. She owns almost every dress I've ever wanted and on the day the photo above was taken, after trying on the same clothes, I may have tried sneaking out of the changing room wearing her dress!<br />
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3) <a href="http://www.curvywordy.com/" target="_blank">Caroline</a><br />
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What's not to love about this lady? She's stunningly beautiful inside and out. Her blog is THE place to go for bra advice, sizing and reviews. She's also a fellow Kent lass, so she gets extra points for that!<br />
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4) <a href="http://www.justmeleah.co.uk/" target="_blank">Leah</a><br />
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Leah is one incredible lady. She tells it like it is, isn't afraid to speak her mind and sticks to what she believes in. We need more Leahs in the world.<br />
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5) <a href="http://www.wannabeprincess.co.uk/" target="_blank">Debz</a><br />
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No list is complete without Debz. She has done so much for body positivity and campaigning for size inclusive fashion. She's a huge inspiration to so many people and the plus size blogging world wouldn't be the same without her.<br />
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I told myself when I started writing that I'd limit myself to five bloggers. There are so many more people I want to mention but it is twenty to midnight and I need to stop somewhere. I will write another one of these very soon, sharing more of my favourite plus size bloggers.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17028079396857245303noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6926121774000997443.post-74036342432634378172015-06-04T14:04:00.001-07:002015-06-04T14:07:41.248-07:00#BEDJ - WishlistI love a good wishlist so I love that this is the next topic on the Blog Every Day In June list.<br />
Does anyone ever read the intro in wishlists? I don't. Just show me the pictures!<br />
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These novelty bags from <a href="http://www.matalan.co.uk/" target="_blank">Matalan</a> are <b>glorious</b>. Look at them! The ice cream and lemon slice are incredible!<br />
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I adore these recent bluesy greens dresses from Lindy Bop. I've only ever bought the Ophelia dresses and I would love to give some of these other styles a try.<br />
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And these dresses from <a href="https://ladyvlondon.com/LadyVoluptuous/" target="_blank">Lady Voluptuous</a> (top) and <a href="http://www.pollygrace.com/" target="_blank">Polly Grace</a> (bottom) are beautiful. I love the summery prints on all of these.<br />
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These are just a few of the things on my ever growing wishlist. What's on yours?Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17028079396857245303noreply@blogger.com4