Shopping For Treats - Hauls and Wishlists - Christmas Cards and Wrapping Haul.

Hi!!!

It's Blogmas Day Eight and today I wanted to show you the cards and wrapping paper that I have chosen to use this Christmas. I am a self-confessed stationery fan and so I put a lot of thought into my Christmas stationery - after all, cards on the mantelpiece and presents under the tree ought to look their best. Day Eight is definitely one for the stationery lovers (or those who would like some guidance when navigating the millions of cards and wrapping papers on offer).

It took a rather long internal debate, as there are so many lovely options available this year, but I've picked these Charity Christmas Cards from Paperchase.

They feature an intricate red and white, Scandinavian-inspired design which looks really Christmassy and 50 pence from the sale of this pack of cards has gone straight to Nordoff Robbins, a music therapy charity which has recently come to my attention and which, as a music-lover, I am delighted to support this Christmas. As I said on Day Six, there are loads of options for Charity Christmas Cards - click here if you'd like to find out more.

 I picked some wrapping paper up while I was in Paperchase yesterday - it has a white background, adorned with illustrations relating to London at Christmas time from Paperchase.

I also really love the look of these wrapping papers from WHSmith - one is dark blue with gold glitter stars and the other is white with gold glitter reindeer and they have such a magical look to them - so I might just buy those, too, when I'm next out shopping. I'm not finished buying all of my wrapping paper/wrapping accessories/cards but I've started and I wanted to show you what I'd got so far - I will almost certainly end up buying far more than anyone could possibly need.

I hope you enjoyed today's Blogmas post.

Have you bought your cards and wrapping paper yet? Do you have any other comments or suggestions for future posts? Leave a comment to let me know.

Thanks for reading.

Have a fabulous day!

GingerSnaps xxx 

I've Been Thinking... - Easy Ways To Make The World A Better Place This Christmas.

Hi!!!

Welcome back, everyone. I hope you're all having a good week so far. It's Blogmas Day Six and today's post is all about some really simple ways to help others and make the world a better place this festive season (and beyond) - I think Christmas is definitely a time when we realise just how lucky we are and feel the urge to help those less fortunate than we are so hopefully you'll find some inspiration here.

Buy Charity Christmas Cards.

This is one of the simplest things because almost all of us will be sending Christmas cards this December. Buying Charity Christmas Cards means that some of the price that you'd already be paying goes to a charity to help them with the good work they do. They are also a great way to raise awareness for charities because all of  those who receive a card from you will also see the charity you have chosen to support. Paperchase offer twenty-four different designs which each see 50p go to one of twenty-four different charities - including Action on Addiction, Centre Point, the Alzheimer's Society, Autistica and Nordoff Robbins. Charity shops also sell their own cards - check out the British Heart Foundation, their cards are always beautiful.

Donate To Food Banks.

The Trussell Trust runs a network of more than 400 food banks, giving emergency food and support to people in crisis across the UK and with increasing disparities in wealth and the introduction of Universal Credit, more and more people are having to rely on them. There are collection points in Tesco stores up and down the country and their own collection points elsewhere - you can find your nearest collection points here. Something as simple as picking up an extra bag of rice or box of mince pies or tin of beans when you're doing your weekly shop could make the world of difference to a family that is struggling this Christmas.

Wear a Christmas Jumper.

I blogged about Save The Children's Christmas Jumper Day last year and I wanted to mention it again this year because it is such a fun way to make a difference this Christmas. This year, it takes place on the 15th of December. The idea is very simple - you wear a Christmas jumper and raise money and awareness for Save The Children. You could bring Christmas Jumper Day into your workplace, you could get all of your family to join you in sporting their best festive sweaters but even if you're a one man band, you can still proudly wear your jumper and donate (here).

Buy Gifts Mindfully.

Similarly to the Christmas cards, giving Christmas presents is something a lot of us will be doing this month. There are lots of ways that you can give mindful gifts which benefit more than just you and the person who receives it. Whether you choose to buy gifts from which a percentage of the profit goes to a good cause or buy from businesses that support small communities in developing countries or buy from businesses owned by women or PoC, there are plenty of options. I've listed some ideas below but there really are so many more options out there, too.

Feminist Apparel offer t-shirts (and more) which see a percentage of profit go to social justice causes (such as this pin which benefits Black Lives Matter and these lovely t-shirts for The Equality Institute).

 L'Occitane are offering this limited edition candle which sees all profits split between three charities - Rosa in the UK, Toutes a l'ecole in Cambodia and Entrepreneurs du Monde in Africa and would be a perfect and affordable gift for any fans of home-ware (it costs £9).

The entirety of the price of Lush's Charity Pot body lotion (minus taxes) goes to grassroots organisations which align with Lush's ethics in the areas of environmental conservation, human rights and animal welfare (and, as it is available in various sizes and at various price points, it has the potential to make a perfect Secret Santa gift or stocking filler).

There's also the option of buying items such as books, DVDs, board games and vinyl records in charity shops, too - I know Oxfam are particularly good for books, for instance, but there are plenty more options so it's worth keeping an eye out.

It's Not Just for Christmas, It's for Life.

As I said at the start of this post, I think we all feel a really strong desire to make the world a better place at Christmas because it is a time when we really see how fortunate we are. However, I think one of the best ways you can do this is, is to make a promise to yourself that you will try and take this spirit into the New Year and keep offering help in whatever way you can. Whether you decide to make a monthly donation to a charity or decide to donate to a food bank every fortnight or give spare change to homeless people on your way home from work or give blood - there are so many ways you can keep up the work you start doing this December. It really isn't that difficult and if we all do something, no matter how small it seems, we really do have the power to make a difference in our local and global communities.

I hope you liked this post and that you have found it helpful.

Do you have any ideas for how we can make a difference this Christmas? Do you have any other comments or suggestions for future posts? Leave a comment to let me know.

See you tomorrow for Blogmas Day Seven!

Enjoy today and let your joy fill the world,

GingerSnaps xxx

Let's Make a Change - Helping the Cause - Wear It. Beat It.

Hi!!!

I wanted to talk to you today about the British Heart Foundation, a charity that is very close to my heart and that I support massively - they do amazing work. Every year, the run their Wear It. Beat It. campaign, which I think is a really fun way of showing support and helping the BHF continue doing what they do. Wear It. Beat It. takes place on Friday, and I thought I'd give you (just under) a weeks notice so you can get involved if you so wish.

Some Facts...

 

According to the British Heart Foundation website, one in four of our loved ones are lost to circulatory and heart disease.
Adults and children can sadly both suffer with heart and circulatory conditions.

The British Heart Foundation work to fight for every heartbeat and have pioneered life saving research for more than 50 years now and they have helped discover numerous life saving treatments.

 

Here's What You Need To Know About Wear It. Beat It.

 

The idea of Wear It. Beat It is that you wear red to show your support, whether this be in your daily life or at an 'organised-by-you' event - basically, whatever it is you're getting up to, you can wear red (and donate to the BHF) to show your support.

 

The British Heart Foundation's Wear It. Beat It. website is full of lots of super cool ideas as well as lots of resources to help you make sure that whatever you're doing is the best it can possibly be. 

 If you are in a position to and want to give money to the British Heart Foundation, then you can simply donate via their website or you might want to consider popping into one of their shops.

 

There are lots of ways to help out and participate if you can and you want to. And if you can't right now, then don't worry - I just wanted to let everyone know about this so that they could get involved if they were in a position to and felt so inclined.

 

All the Links...

 

British Heart Foundation Website - (HERE)

 

Wear It. Beat It Website - (THIS ONE)

Check out my Wear It. Beat It. Makeup Ideas post from last year (HERE) for some inspiration.

 

I hope you enjoyed this post and that if you can and would like you, you go and support the amazing work the BHF does everyday. You don't have to give the big bucks - every little bit helps.

Have you taken part in Wear It. Beat It before? Are you going to this year? What do you think of Wear It. Beat It? Have you been fundraising? Would you consider fundraising or donating now? Do you have any comments or suggestions for future posts? Tell me all about it in the comments.

See you later, you lovely people - I hope you're having a great weekend so far.

 

Have a completely beautiful day!

 

GingerSnaps xxx

 

 

 

 

 

Let's Make A Change - Charity Telethons - Children In Need 2015

Hi!!!

Aloha, my lovely readers. Children in Need has once again rolled around and now, sat here, armed with my pizza, I'm going to have a little chat with you about it.

Children in Need is a charity telethon that the BBC host for us UK people each year and is an incredibly heart-warming evening for a whole host of very worthwhile causes which support the young people in the UK who need it the most.

 

I shan't ramble on but I do want to say that we all have the power to help and make a positive change. There is always someone out there in need of a helping hand. There is always someone out there who needs support and guidance. Everyone deserves the best life possible for them and you can help by donating to Children in Need tonight. If you are in a position to, then please do give what you can.

Find Children in Need (HERE)

 

Thank you for reading. I hope that you have a lovely weekend if I don't get chance to speak to you all before its over.

What are you most looking forward to about Children in Need tonight? Have you done any interesting fundraising? Any comments or suggestions for future posts? Let me know in the comments.

Adios, beautiful people.

 

Have a totally spectacular day!

GingerSnaps xxx

 



Let's Make a Change - Charity Telethons - Stand Up To Cancer

Hi!!!

How have your weeks been? Good, I hope. Today I would like to have a little chat with you about Stand Up To Cancer, the telethon for which is, of course, tonight.

Stand Up To Cancer aims to find a cure for all types of cancers and in a world were so many people whose lives are/have been affected by or know someone else whose life has been affected by cancer, I think they are doing some utterly amazing work.

Stand Up To Cancer is providing us all with lots of entertaining programming tonight on Channel 4 - I for one am really looking forward to the Gogglebox Celebrity special - so do be sure to tune in and show your support with me.

If you are able to and are interested in donating then (HERE) is a link to the Stand Up To Cancer website so you can donate directly or maybe have a browse at some of their merchandise.

 

I hope that you have enjoyed this post and that you've all had lovely weeks.

Are you planning on tuning in or donating to Stand Up To Cancer? What part of the show are you looking forward to the most? Any comments or suggestions for future posts? Be sure to let me know in the comments, I love hearing from you guys.

Thank you for reading, have a lovely weekend.

Have a totally beautiful day!

GingerSnaps xxx

So, To Sum It All Up - March Summary.

Hi!!!

How are we all? It is somehow April already and this is all very exciting as April means Easter, going on a family holiday, eating Crème Eggs, sunshine and flowers. April also means a March Summary, which is what this is. I hope you enjoy...

What happened in March...

Comic Relief Fun Times...

Red Nose Day happened in March and it was awesome.
There were lots of very funny sketches and while I did get a bit teary or sad at one or two of the clips they showed us of families struggling, it was a great night all in all.
Highlights included: Monkey's Monumental Mission, Steven Hawking as a Transformer (robot in disguise...), getting very over excited about the fact that we got to see parts of Peter Kay's Live version of Phoenix Nights, No Direction, the Four Fundraisers and Liam Gallagher being a National Treasure...

Find the Red Nose Day website (HERE)

Find my post about it (HERE)

Find the Red Nose Day YouTube channel (HERE) to watch the clips that I mentioned above - i.e Monkey's Monumental Mission is (HERE).

Celebrating Mother's Day!

I went out for Mother's Day with my fabulous mother for a spot of shopping and some tea and cakes and we also called round to see my Auntie S.

I had a really nice day and I hope my Mom did too and that she liked her card and her gift. I know I am very fortunate to have such a wonderful mother and I love her very much.

To see the post I did about Mother's Day, click (ME)

Appreciating the Little Things.

I have a post that'll be up within the next few days about the little things that have made me smile recently, so more on that soon, but I thought I'd mention it now because they really do put a smile on my face and they make my day a bit brighter.

Excitement for my holiday!

I'm going on a family holiday in April, and so I have spent a lot of March being very, very over excited to go away.

I love travelling, I love the place we are going to and I love spending time with my family so it should be great.

My Favourite Blog Post of March.

Yeah, that's right, I'm back to choosing just the one and here it is...

"Hello March - a note" on A Rosie Outlook", (HERE)

I liked the upbeat nature of this post and I liked seeing what Rosie was looking forward to for March is looking forward to for the Spring.

It is a pretty, well written post and I likes it.

Other blogs that I like can be found in my Blogger Profile which can be found on the right...

My Favourite Song of March.

"FourFiveSeconds" by Rihanna and Kanye West and Paul McCartney, (HERE).

This song is so, so good and I am a bit in love with it. You should deffo listen. I love the music, lyrics, vocals and the simplicity of it. I find it relaxed, effortlessly cool and just awesome. Love, love, love - its on the list of favourites from now on.

That will be all for now then you guys, Happy April, and I will speak to you all very soon.

What did you get up to in April? What do you think of what I did? What do you think of my favourite blog post from March or my favourite song from March? Any comments or suggestions for future posts? Let me know in the comments below.

Thanks for reading, you lovely bunch of people.

I hope your day is totally fabulous!

GingerSnaps xxx

So, To Sum It All Up - February Summary.

Hi!!!

Hello everyone! Happy International Women's Day! Today, I'll be writing a little February summary for you, because, apparently, it is now March. Anywho, February was quite fun and so I think this summary will be a nice one.

So, what went on in February?

 

Supporting Wear It. Beat It.

The British Heart Foundation is a cause close to my heart and to my family and so I am a massive supporter of them.

I believe that Wear It. Beat It is an excellent idea and is so easy for people to participate in.

I created two posts about Wear It. Beat It. I did one in the style I often do posts concerning charities and I did another with three makeup looks in it that you could have, and still could have a go at. I just hope I explained everything well.

To see my post about Wear It. Beat It, click (ME)

and/or

To see my post of different makeup looks inspired by Wear It. Beat It, click (ME)

 

Making Holiday Plans and Building Forts.

That might sound like a weird combination but I did spend a couple of days at my Auntie's house in February and this is a good summary of what I got up to.

We went to have a family meeting with my Aunties, Uncles and Cousins about our upcoming holiday (not long now, you guys!) and made lots of plans which is great as not only do I feel nice and organised about it, but I feel even more excited than I already did about going.

Aside from the family meeting, I built the best fort ever with my younger cousins (which we proceeded to spend more or less a whole weekend in, sometimes watching Powerpuff Girls, on my recommendation, sometimes talking, often doing puzzles) and I also went to a barn dance (which was funny, confusing and Eton Mess fuelled - breaking out into the Macarena when you don't know how to barn dance is always a good idea).

All in all a good few days well spent and I had such a good time - thanks guys.

Admiring Some Inspirational Ad Campaigns.

I did a post about the "This Girl Can" campaign in February as I really like it, and have been loving seeing it throughout the past month - as well as singing along and dancing to Missy Elliott, because I love her.

I love the themes of the campaign, what it stands for and I just think that you should check it out, if you haven't already.

You can read my post, (HERE).

My Favourite Blog Posts of February.

"Doing the Math" on Charlotte's Web, (HERE)

This was a nice read, and, as expected with Charlotte, it made me smile and was quite amusing.

"We Liked: This Week" on Little Winter, (OVER HERE)

I am really partial to a little round up post, and the "little things" so this was right up my street. It was interesting and fun. See also "We Liked: Little Things" (HERE)

My Favourite Song of February.

 

"Feels Like We Only Go Backwards" by Tame Impala, (HERE)

 

While this song hasn't necessarily been stuck in my head, I have thoroughly enjoyed listening to it. I think it is pure excellence and I think you will too. Its calm, its peaceful, it gives a nod to the psychedelic and I love it.

 

And that will be all for today. Thank you very much for reading this post, I look forward to posting quite a bit more in March.

How was February for you? Did you have fun? What were your favourite blog posts from February? What about your favourite song? What do you think of mine? Do you have any suggestions for future posts? How about any comments? Let me know in the comments below.

Thanks for reading, I hope you enjoyed. See you all soon!

I hope you have a fantastic day!

 

GingerSnaps xxx



Makeup Your Mind - Makeup and Beauty Inspiration and Tips - Wear It. Beat It.

Hi!!!

Today is the British Heart Foundation's Wear It. Beat It Day and the BHF is a charity and a cause that I am so greatly behind. I think that since the idea is Wear It. Beat It that I could put together a few little makeup ideas for you to use if you choose to, to show your support. To read my post about Wear It. Beat It, click ME! This is going to be a long post, so grab a brew now!

I have three lots for you to try, and they are all conveniently put together in my beloved bullet pointed lists.

 

The steps are first, the products are after.

 

Look No. 1 = High Fashion Glamour

 

1. Apply your choice of base. You may want to only use some concealer or you may want to opt for the full shehbang of primer, foundation, concealer and powder. Choose whatever you feel comfortable with although with this look, I would consider a full base as this is a fairly dramatic look. In terms of coverage, again, choose whatever you would like. I know some people like a full coverage with a dramatic look but others would rather a lighter coverage. Whatever makes you happy.
2. Now, this look is the dramatic, out there, full power, high fashion look and so red eye shadow is going to be happening. Red eye shadow looks stunning when worn well. There are so many shades of red shadow. You can opt bright red or you could go for a pomegranate type of colour if that is more wearable for you/more up your street. I would probably blend some layers of a red shadow all over the lid, blending up and out (don't be afraid of it looking grunge). Make sure that you put on some black liner (whether it be in a winged kind of style or on the waterline or both) and lashings of black mascara to make sure it looks pretty and dramatic rather than making you look tired or ill. And blend, blend, blend people!
3. As I said, this look is a dramatic one and that is why I would opt for something red on the lips, too. I would say that a full, red lip would look ace here, maybe even a matte one? Or you could always opt for a clear gloss if you prefer.
4. If you wish to pop something on your cheeks, I would suggest contouring to keep with the dramatic themes. To contour, you can take a contour kit, bronzer, a powder or foundation/concealer that is a shade or two darker than your skin tone and blend that just under your cheekbones, and anywhere else that you wish to contour, and put a pearlescent highlighter along/above the cheekbones, down the bridge of your nose (stopping where the "straight line" of the bridge does) and on your cupids bow. For a visual demonstration, see (HERE).
5. Tah-Dah! You're done!

 

Look No. 2 = The Little Mermaid

 

1. Apply your choice of base. As I said in Look No. 1, choose the base you feel comfortable in. For this look, I would personally choose a fresh, glowy base applied and blended in with the hands.
2. The eyes on this look are fairly simple. Sweep a champagne colour across your eyelids and blend up and out. This will brighten and lift the eyes. Then, take a white eyeliner pencil (a kohl, preferably) and pop that all along the waterline to really open up the eye and give that Disney Princess vibe. Add a few coats of mascara to the top lashes, ensuring that you comb them through after each application of mascara, and one to the bottom lashes, combing those through too.
3. Obviously, if you have seen The Little Mermaid, you'll know that Ariel has that gorgeous red tone to her lips. A glossy red lip would look fabulous and Flounder and Sebastian would 100% approve.
4. If you want to pop something on your cheeks, I would opt for a pretty, peachy blush with a shimmer to it to brighten and freshen the face. Blend it across your cheeks, and, as I do with my favourite peachy shimmer blush, brush the light, excess amount of it up through the temples, a bit down the nose and the chin and cupids bow, too, to make it look more natural (not sure if that made sense?)
5. Tah-Dah! You're practically Disney royalty! 

Look No. 3 = Raspberry Sundae Girl

 

1. Apply your choice of base. As with Looks No. 1 and 2, choose the base you feel happiest wearing. For this look, I think that any kind of coverage would look good, but I would opt full to medium coverage, personally, in a doll like way.
2. The eyes on this look are pretty, fun and a bit quirky. First of all we're going to pop a light, base colour on (you can choose the shade depending on preference and skin tone) and blend it up to the brow bone. Next, we're going to take a red eye liner and create a winged liner look with it. Make sure that the flick is sharp and angled (a la the beautiful Michelle Visage). Add some black mascara (to keep the eyes looking healthy) but comb it through. Pop a highlighting shade in the inner corner of the eye and blend it through the brow bone.
3. Again, I'm going to suggest a red lip. A glossy, sheeny, cherry red lip. Or, if this doesn't sound up your street, a fuchsia or a shiny, clear gloss would be good, too.
4. On the cheeks, I would suggest a nice, fresh looking cream blush swept along the cheeks. Then, I would draw the outline of little heart (representing the BHF) on one of my cheekbones (on the top part of it/closer to my ear than my nose... does this make sense?)  with some black eyeliner, fill in in with my red eyeliner and maybe go as far as using some lash glue or Vaseline to push on glitter over the red. Beaut.
5. Tah-Dah! You are fun and fabulous!

Look No. 1 = High Fashion Glamour - My Recommended Products

 

1.  Nars Pore Refining Primer (HERE), Nars Sheer Glow Foundation (HERE) - Review (HERE), Collection Lasting Perfection Concealer (HERE) and Rimmel Stay Matte Powder (HERE)
2. (On recommendation of others/make up artists) Stargazer Eye Shadow in Golden Flame (HERE) or Maybelline Colour Tattoo in Metallic Pomegranate if you'd prepare red tones rather than a true red (HERE), Maybelline Eye Studio Lasting Drama Gel Eyeliner in Black (HERE) and/or Rimmel Soft Kohl Kajal Eye Pencil in Jet Black (HERE) and Lancôme Hypnose Doll Eyes Mascara (HERE)
3. MAC Cosmetics Lipstick in Ladybug (HERE) or for a matte, Russian Red (HERE)
4. Sleek Makeup Face Contour Kit (HERE)

Look No. 2 = The Little Mermaid - My Recommended Products

 

1. Nars Pore Refining Primer (HERE), Nars Sheer Glow Foundation (HERE) - Review (HERE), Collection Lasting Perfection Concealer (HERE) and Rimmel Stay Matte Powder (HERE)
2. Sleek Makeup i-Divine palette in Snapshots; using the colour Martini/second on the left on the top row (HERE), Rimmel Soft Kohl Kajal Eye Pencil in White (HERE) and Lancôme Hypnose Doll Eyes Mascara (HERE)
3. MAC Cosmetics Lipstick in Ladybug (HERE) or for a cheaper option, Rimmel Colour Rush Lip Balm in The Redder The Better (HERE)
4. Sleek Makeup Blush in Rose Gold (HERE) - use sparingly, you can always layer.

Look No. 3 = Raspberry Sundae Girl - My Recommended Products

 

1. Nars Pore Refining Primer (HERE), Nars Sheer Glow Foundation (HERE) - Review (HERE), Collection Lasting Perfection Concealer (HERE) and Rimmel Stay Matte Powder (HERE)
2. Sleek Makeup i-Divine palette in Ultra Matte V2; using the colour Pillow Talk/first on the right on the top row or Dune/second on the right on the top row or Flesh/third from the left on the bottom row dependant on your skin tone (HERE), Sleek Makeup Eau La La Liner in Rouge (HERE) and Lancôme Hypnose Doll Eyes Mascara (HERE)
3. For a red lip: MAC Ladybug Lipstick (HERE). For a fuschia lip: Rimmel Apocalips in Apocaliptic (HERE) or MAC Show Orchid Lipstick (HERE)
4. No.7 Pop and Glow Cream Blush Stick in Mango Sorbet (HERE). Use Rimmel Soft Kohl Kajal Eye Pencil in Jet Black (HERE) to draw the outline of the heart, the Sleek Makeup Eau La La Liner in Rouge (HERE) to fill it in and use Sleek Makeup Eye Dust in In The Nude (HERE) if you want the glittery effect.

I use Real Techniques brushes when creating all of my favourite looks. Find them (HERE)

 

 

Phew! I am exhausted! If you made it to the end then you get twelve Ginger points. I have spent hours on this post and I really hope you enjoyed.

Did you do anything for Wear It. Beat It? What do you think of these looks? Would you like to see more posts like this? What do you think of my recommended products? Any comments or suggestions for future posts? Let me know in the comments below!

See you guys soon!

 

Have a wonderful day, guys!

GingerSnaps xxx


So, To Sum It All Up - November Summary.

Hi!!!

Welcome to my November Summary, lovely people. I'm so excited December is here because CHRISTMAS!!!!!!!!!! Let us proceed with this lovely little summary, I hope you enjoy!

Doing Some Festive Things...
 

During November, I've been to see White Christmas at the Dominion Theatre in London, I've been shopping for bits and bobs and have been drinking many a festive Costa.
It has been so great to be able to kick start my Christmas with such a variety of lovely things - even if the journey from White Christmas resulted in not getting out of the car until 3:00 am and having to stop for a brew a few times on the way - and its been great to share these experiences with a number of different people.
I've had my Christmas tunes on and I've been bopping away as well.
I cannot wait to do even more in December and for it to get closer and closer to Christmas.

To see a post about my excitement for Christmas, take a look over (HERE).

Celebrating People's Birthdays...

It was my Mom's Birthday this month and we all went out for a carvery as a family to celebrate with her and we all went out for my Nan's birthday too..
I hope that everyone had a lovely time and that my Mom had a great day!

To see a post about my Mom's birthday, mosey over (HERE).

Supporting Charities...

The CiN telethon was this month and it was lovely to be able to see via the totalisers how much everyone was willing to help others.
It was heart warming and also a great night and I think this year was one of the bestest ones yet.

To see a post about CiN, go over (HERE)

Bonfire Night...

Fireworks are my favourites and I had a brilliant time at our favourite display.
The fireworks were beautiful, the bonfire was a bit epic and I really enjoyed my night.
I hope you enjoyed yourselves and stayed safe.

To see a post about Bonfire Night, click (HERE).

Remembering Those Who Serve(d)...

I think, as you all know, that Remembrance Sunday and Armistice Day are incredibly important things.
This year, as it was the Centenary Anniversary of the beginning of WW1, the celebrations were beautiful and very tasteful.
It was brilliant to see everyone so involved in remembering those brave people who have served, who served and who died serving their countries in the Armed Forces.

To see a posts about Remembrance, see (HERE) and (HERE).

My Favourite Blog Posts From November.

This month, since we've been moving house - we're officially in today!!! YAY!!! FINALLY!!! - I haven't had any WiFi/internet access except at Auntie S's - she's been kind enough to let me blog from her house, thank you - and so I haven't read any blog posts. Therefore, I'll link some of the blogs I like so you can check things out for yourself.

A Rosie Outlook: HERE
Charlotte's Web: HERE
What Olivia Did: HERE
Little Winter: HERE

I will sub this category however with...

Some of My Favourite Songs of November.

The Man by George Ezra, (HERE).

Great song, catchy, great lyrics, great music, great voice, so listen!!!

Thinking Out Loud by Ed Sheeran, (HERE)

I love this song, brilliant music, lyrics and voice - an instant classic. Love, love, love.

To see more of my fave songs from November, click (HERE).

So, I hope you enjoyed this post everyone. I'm excited for December and Christmas and all sorts and would like to thank November for being great.

What were your favourite parts of November? What did you think of what I got up to? Did you enjoy the posts I recommended? Any thoughts about this or suggestions for future posts? Let me know in the comments. 

See you guys soon....

Have a totes amaze day!

GingerSnaps xxx

 

Let's Make a Change - Charity Telethons - Children in Need 2014

Hi!!!

Welcome back, you beautiful people!!! Can you believe that it is Children in Need night already? Whether you can or not, here it is. Are you ready?

Children in Need is a massive charity telethon that the BBC put on every November. I did a detailed post last year which gave more information about CiN which you can read over (HERE). Some things you may recognise CiN by are Pudsey Bear, the adorable mascot, as well as the amazing work they do. 

So far, I've gotten through some pizza, Vanilla Coke and quite a bit of the show. I have seen a general VT including a very cute little boy demonstrating "little" and "big" donations with his hands and one about a little boy called Joe (so adorable) who has had heart problems. If you get the chance to see either of those, watch them.

I'm also very excited for Doctor Who, Strictly and the S Club Reunion!

There is always someone who needs help. There is always someone who needs support. There is always somebody out there who deserves lots better. Have fun tonight but be sure to give what you can.

So enjoy the night but don't forget to help those who need it. You'd want the same for yourself, your family and friends.

Have you donate yet? Are you planning on it? Have you done any super cool fundraising activities? What are you most looking forward to the most about tonight? Do you have any comments or suggestions for future posts? Let me know in the comments below.

See you guys soon!!!

Have a really great night!

GingerSnaps xxx

So, To Sum It All Up - October Summary.

Hi!!!

Welcome to my October Summary. I am aware it is a few days behind where it would usually be but I have been very busy! I know its no excuse, but I think that maybe it might be OK? Anyway, lets get on with this shiz.

Travelling!

During October I was travelling in Normandy for around 4 days non-stop and then came home and went to London nearly straight away!

Being in Normandy, especially in the year of numerous war anniversaries, to see cemeteries, a number of D-Day Landings museums and activities and spending time with a bunch of awesome people was really a very memorable, special and enjoyable experience.

 I was exhausted when I got home as we began our travel very, very early in the morning and basically did not stop until we got home very, very late after 4 days but it was so truly worth it.

While in London, I spent time with my brilliant family and went to see the beautiful poppy installation at the Tower of London. I had a great time and I really enjoyed myself. It was very relaxing and my sleep was "repaired".

Getting a New Follower on BlogLovin'!

I hadn't checked my BlogLovin' or my emails in quite some time and when I did the other day, I got the delightful surprise of a new follower! I now have 3 followers, which may not seem like many in comparison to some other blogs, but you have no idea how much it means to me.

Thanks to everyone who follows my blog on Blogger, BlogLovin' and everyone else who reads this blog. I hope you enjoy it.

You can follow my blog on BlogLovin' using the button on the right hand side.

Watching Charity Telethons.

I love a good charity telethon and I view it as a very easy and enjoyable way of helping out some amazing causes.

Stand Up to Cancer was on Channel 4 during October and I was watching, laughing and occasionally crying at the stories shown. It was a great night of telly and it is such a good cause to support.

To see a post about Stand Up to Cancer, mosey on over (HERE).

Appreciating a Bit of Advertising.

You guys know I love a good advert and October produced some pretty good adverts.


One of my personal favourites was the SSE advert featuring the orangutan discovering all of the beautiful things energy can do.
It was innovative, interesting and very wonderfully done.


To see a post I wrote about this advert, see (THIS).


Halloween Fun-Times.


Halloween, as I always say, is not just about creepy, spooky things. To me, it is about having fun with friends, dressing up and being silly.

This year, I spent time with the fabulous Elf Girl and some of her family, watched movies and ate too chicken and popcorn and really enjoyed myself.


To see a post about Halloween, click (HERE).


To find Elf Girl, click (HERE).


Nearly Completely Moving House.


We are finally super close to moving, with the final stages in motion and it is exciting. We are looking forward to moving in and enjoying our new home at last.


I will update you when we have made our official move and will possibly provide more updates as we enter the final stages of the move.


To see the most recent post I did on moving, see (HERE).


My Favourite Blog Posts From October.


"A weekend in the Cotswolds" on A Rosie Outlook, (HERE).


I really like places like the Cotswolds, and I love spending weekends and short breaks like this - big, long walks, pub lunches/dinners and cosy evenings - and loved Rosie's friend's home.


An enjoyable read, indeed.


"Berlin" on Charlotte's Web, (HERE).


This post included brilliant photography of the beautiful city of Berlin and a couple of very cool insights into some of the best things going on there, as well as Charlotte's personality.

A cool, wanderlust-y post.


"We liked: The Start of Autumn" on Little Winter, (HERE).


I really liked the simplicity of this post and the warmth that it gave me reading it. I too enjoy cosy evenings and trashy TV, which made this post relatable.

A nice lifestyle post which will make you want to drink hot chocolate.


"Love in Unexpected Places" on The London Project, (HERE).


This post is charming and incredibly sweet. I am a complete sucker for things like this and found this post a bit great, really.


A quirky, cute post worth a view.


See also "Postman's Park".


"5 Minutes With... Dawn O'Porter" on What Olivia Did, (HERE).


I love reading interviews and this was a quick, interesting read with lots of talk about all thing vintage and fashion.

A fun interview with a lot of Sixties moments.

So, I hope you enjoyed this post everyone. I thought October was a pretty ace month and I hope you enjoyed it as much as I did.

What were your favourite parts of October? What did you think of what I got up to? Did you enjoy the posts I recommended? Any thoughts about this or suggestions for future posts? Let me know in the comments. 

See you guys soon....

Have a completely great day!

GingerSnaps xxx



Let's Make a Change - Charity Telethons - Stand Up To Cancer

Hi!!!


How are all of you gorgeous people? I hope that you are all doing good. Today, I wanted to chat to you about Stand Up To Cancer.

It is unfortunately a very true and real thing that almost everyone knows somebody who is or has been affected by cancer.

Stand Up To Cancer aims to find a cure for all cancers, which I think is brilliant as some types of cancer are less publicised as they are so rare.

Stand Up To Cancer is offering us an all star line up (including Celeebrity Gogglebox with all of my most favourite celebrities - not even joking they actually all are, Noel Gallagher, Kate Moss, Miranda Hart, need I go on? - and my usual favourites as well!!!) in order to appeal to you.

If you are in a position where you are able to donate and would like to, then please give whatever you can - it is a brilliant cause!

If you would like to check out the website then head on over (HERE).

I hope that you have enjoyed this post and that if you can you will donate.

Are you watching tonight? What part of the show are you looking forward to? Will you be donating? Any comments or suggestions for future posts? Let me know in the comments.

See you soon everyone!

Have an awesome day!

GingerSnaps xxx

So, To Sum It All Up - March Summary.

Hi!!!

Another month over, another Summary to write. And so, without further ado, here is my March Summary. I hope you enjoy.

Getting Work Done At The New House.

Back in February, we found out that we had a new house and so the last month has been dedicated to getting as much done as possible so we can move in ASAP. Getting things done is so rewarding as you can see results straight away. Plus, the more work we get done, the sooner we can decorate (!) and move in. YAY!

I would also like to mention the friends and family members who have been giving us a helping hand, as well as those who have even just offered to help. We are very grateful and it means lot.

We have conquered lots of tasks, but I am planning on doing an update post soon, so that you know what is going on.

To hear more about the kinds of things that we have done at the new house, click (HERE).

Doing Some Really Cool Stuff.

Throughout March, I spent my time doing some really cool stuff (or at least I think so). I spent my time doing a variety of things and it felt really nice to have things to look forward to. I know most of the stand-outs were big things, but the little things count towards my monthly stand-outs too.

To see a post about my busiest weekend in March, click (HERE).

Celebrating Mother's Day, Saint Patrick's Day and People's Birthdays.

During March, we had Saint Patrick's Day (which is always a nice day - this year filled with texts in Gaelic to and from my Uncle). We also had Mother's Day, which is such a great day, because Mom's are amazing and they deserve a day to relax and enjoy. I also celebrated H's birthday, amongst others. I didn't realise quite how behind I was on my blogging this month, because I missed writing posts for two family members birthdays - you know who you are, I'm sorry, and love you!

To see a post on Saint Patrick's Day and H's Birthday, click (HERE).

To see a post about Mother's Day, click (HERE).

Supporting Charities.

 During March, Sport Relief was broadcast, and I donated to them. It is such a good cause, and I was really touched by some of the stories shown (I only saw an hour or so of the show, as I was busy). One story in particular which touched me, was the story of an old man called Bob, who had reached out to a program called The Silver Line after his wife died.

I hope that you guys support, or will support charities like this in future, as they really are worth it.

To find a post I did about Sport Relief, click (HERE).

To find the Sport Relief website, click (HERE).

To find The Silver Line website, click (HERE).

Taking Time For The Little Things.

Some of the little things this month have really stood out to me. For example, getting as much out of my weekends as possible, watching movies on my laptop in bed on a rainy evening, and singing/humming songs everywhere under my breath.

For a post on my favourite things about weekends, click (HERE).

For a post on the kind of songs I have been humming and singing, click (HERE).

My Favourite Blog Posts Of March.


Might I suggest that you check out more posts from the blogs here that were produced this month, this selection was tough.


"Doing The Lennon" on Charlotte's Web, (HERE).


First of all, I love the amount of Beatles-ness going on here - the sunglasses and Charlotte's top. I also kinda want some of those glasses. I also love the simplicity of this post. It made me smile.


"Friday Round Up" on Made Up Of Little Things, (HERE).


I have always loved the Friday Round Up's on this blog since I first started reading it. I love how images are used in the Friday Round Up posts to make them more personal. I found this one sweet and loved all the Elbow references - I do love Elbow...

"Mama's Recipe" on Little Winter, (HERE).

I found this post quite interesting, and it also made me smile. It is quite rare to get a kind of foodie post, so this was a welcome change, and there is a real sense of fun to this post - I think it is the mother-daughter relationship shining through. Oh, and some of the pictures are quite amusing i.e apple for a nose...
Good stuff.


"Happy" on Chronicles Of The Red Herring, (HERE).


Short, sweet and very wise, just like most of the posts on this blog. I liked this post very much, and the message from it is something I believe in very strongly much. This was almost motivational to me, which can never be a bad thing, right?


"Five Favourites: March" on A Rosie Outlook, (HERE).


I thought this post was interesting, personal and I love the Five Favourites concept as it is very individual as well as making things stand out more. Rosie's favourite links from March were ones I hadn't read until she suggested them, but I did enjoy a few.

So, March, consider yourself wrapped up. I hope you enjoyed this post, everyone, I can't wait to post more this month.

What did you get up to last month? What were your favourite blog posts of March? Any suggestions for future posts? Let me know in the comments.

I will see you all very soon, and hopefully you will enjoy my April content.

Have a brilliant day/night!

GingerSnaps xxx

Let's Make a Change - Charity Telethons - Sport Relief 2014

Hi!!!


Today, I wanted to talk to you about Charity/Charity telethons. You might remember (THIS) post, if you have been here a long time. This post is similar, but it is in relation to a different charity.

Sport Relief is part of the Comic Relief group. There is a Sport Relief charity telethon shown every other year in March on the BBC. Comic Relief has been going since 1985, but I'm not sure how long Sport Relief has been a part of that for.

Sport Relief helps here in the UK and internationally too. The money raised is spent on providing better futures for people, creating healthier finances for communities and individuals, helping people find employment, reducing exploitation, abuse and violence and helping make communities stronger.

To find out more, click (HERE). 

You may have heard about Davina McCall's "Beyond Breaking Point Challenge", and if you haven't, look it up. She went above and beyond to raise money for Sport Relief and to try and improve peoples lives. Obviously, you don't have to swim Lake Windermere and go through exhaustion and hypothermia, but you can still contribute.

I'm not watching it this year, because I'm busy, but I have donated. Every tiny bit of donation money can change a life, so please, give what you can, even if it is only a pound. I'm sure that we can all appreciate how much this matters to some people, and we should all look after each other.

So, I hope you do what you can over the next few days, and that you all enjoy your weekends.

What do you think about the work Sport Relief do? Are you watching it this year? Have you donated? Do you want to donate? Do you have any suggestions for upcoming posts? Let me know in the comments.

Love you lots guys, speak to you soon. Please do what you can and...

Have a completely and utterly great day!

GingerSnaps xxx

So, To Sum It All Up - November Summary.

Hi!!!

Another month over already and now its December. You know what that means. It's CHRISTMAS BABY!
So much has happened this past month, and I've written so many posts. Some are still in draft form, waiting to go, so I will send those off into cyberspace as soon as I can, but I can assure you, this month has been fun. I remember when I did my October Summary, I said that I was unsure if I'd do these every month, and I still don't know, but for November, I will. I might go on a bit here, so make sure you're sitting comfortably.

Bonfire Night and all the Fireworks.

 

I love Bonfire Night. One of my favourite things in the world is fireworks; they're glitter for the sky. My Mom and I went to our favourite display, about half an hour away from us. We had chips and a good old brew in a paper cup, and bopped about to really rather rubbish music. The bonfire was on a very windy night, and so all the sparks and ashes blew to one side. That happened to be the side I was on, and fire scares me a little, so that was a bit of a panic. But then it settled, and the fireworks started, and everything looked magic. Gold twirls, and silver swirls, green glimmers and blue shimmers - that got a bit odd... But, yes, I had a fabulous time. I wore my Primark Super Cosy Tights - the best things in the world - and so I was nice and toasty, so keep them in mind for the future. I had a great evening.

 

You can find a post I did about Bonfire Night (HERE).

 

Supporting others.

 

November, for me, is a great time for helping others. With Remembrance Day and Children in Need going on, there is plenty of reason to support people who help us and who need help. It's a lovely feeling knowing that you are showing that you care about what people do for you and that you care about people who need your help.

 

You can find my Remembrance posts (HERE) and (HERE). You can find my Children in Need post (HERE).

 

Days Out and About.

 

I've been busy this month, going out and about all over the place.

I went on a day out with my Auntie, my Mom, and my Auntie's best friend. We went to Chatsworth House for some festive shenanigans, and I had a lovely time. It was a great day, and it got me feeling incredibly Christmassy. 

Then, I was off to see the Nutcracker Ballet, which was spectacular. I can tell you right now that I had a brilliant time. I want to be a ballerina!!!

And, after all that, I was off to MCM Comic Con in Birmingham with Elf Girl, which was just... oh my glob. Myself and Elf Girl are complete and utter geeks, so we were in our element entirely and... just wow.

 

I have blog posts coming up on everything I just talked about. You can find a post about being busy right (HERE). You can find Elf Girl's blog (HERE).

 

My Mom's Birthday.

This section will be short and sweet, but I loved spending some quality time with my Mom and doing my best to make sure she had a lovely day. I even wrote her a blog post.

 

You can find that post (HERE).

 

Whovian Times.

 

The Day of the Doctor/the Doctor Who 50th Anniversary. I am a Whovian; sorry, not sorry. I found this whole thing very exciting, though I still haven't seen it, because I've been a bit too busy. Must watch soon. I hope I don't bore you lot with my weird fangirling.

 

You can find my Whovian ramblings (HERE).

My favourite YouTube video from November.

 

For a change, I haven't actually been on YouTube a lot this month, because I've had other things to keep me busy. I did, however, make some time to watch this 25 FACTS ABOUT ME! video, by Jim Chapman, (HERE). Jim is one of my favourite YouTubers and I do love a good 25 Facts About Me. Brilliant.

 

My favourite Blog post from November.

 

I love a Mundane Midweek post, and Charlotte's most recent instalment didn't disappoint. It's on the blog Charlotte's Web, and it's called Mundane Midweek - you can find it (HERE). Charlotte's version of mundane is very different to mine. If that's her day to day, then, wow. And I know I included a post from A Rosie Outlook last time, but Rosie really is a kindred spirit. Going Back to the Sea (HERE), was a nice read.

 

Alrighty then. I think after all that reading, you'll be ready to wave goodbye to November and crack on with December; a time of red lippy, Christmas trees and lighter wallets.

 

Have a completely brilliant day!

GingerSnaps xxx

 

Let's Make a Change - Charity Telethons - Children in Need

Hi!!!

Where is the year going, eh? Children in Need night already? Anywho, I thought I'd chuck my two pence into the (charity) bucket, and make a contribution... You have no idea how proud I am of that sentence... I need a life.

In case you live under a massive rock, or are not from the UK, and aren't aware of the concept, I'll give you a bit o background.

Children in Need is a charity telethon on the BBC every November. The CiN mascot is Pudsey Bear, who is just adorable. CiN supports different projects and people up and down (and to the side, if you're in Northern Ireland - side note of irrelevance; I love that place, must go back soon), the UK. Children in Need has been a part of our November's since 1980, I believe. If you want to know more then you can find out (HERE).

 

For me, having a bit of a pamper, ordering a pizza or a Chinese takeaway and plonking my rear end on the sofa for the whole evening - until I start dozing off - is a tradition. This year I may not stay up as late because tomorrow, I'm off out (more on that soon), but I will still enjoy it.

Also Children in Need Rocks was great last night my highlight being; Keane and the Madness/Rizzle Kicks collaboration.

There is always someone who needs help. There is always someone who needs support. Despite how much we enjoy the entertainment the telethon provides, we mustn't forget to contribute to the cause.

So enjoy the night but don't forget to help those who need it. You'd want the same for yourself and those you care about.

Have a great night!

GingerSnaps xxx