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Monday 29 September 2014

Good In Bad || Motivational Monday


Aloha Sprinklerinos,

As I type this, I have a Zula licking the inside of my elbow (VERY weird sensation) and a Rocket trying to sit on my boobies. I do love these kittens so but they certainly pick their moments. 

Today's Motivation Monday is about finding the good in bad situations. 


Looking for the positives in a negative situation, I think, is one of the quickest ways to get over something and the easiest way to feel re-motivated to carry on with life. It might seem quite twee and do-gooder-y but have faith, it works. 

I don't think I need to explain this too much as you are all smart Sprinklerinos but basically, if a bad thing happens (no matter how big or small), try to take something good from it. The good thing doesn't have to outweigh the bad (often it can't), but it just has to be there. One little thing that you can say, 'well at least blah blah blah'. 

For example, whilst filming this video the other day, I dropped and smashed a brand new concealer. I was prrreeeeetttyyy pissed but immediately thought, 'Ok, well I won't buy that brand again because the tube is made of thin glass (stupid), if I do, I'll know to be a lot more careful (a lesson learnt) and at least I got two goes out of it and managed to get a shot of it on camera before it went to cosmetic heaven'. As soon as I thought all those things, I didn't feel too bad. 

For all the little things that happen this week, I would like you to try and find a piece of good in them. You don't have to tell them to anyone, you don't have to write it down or make a fuss, just think it, take comfort and move on. 

Also, how did you get on from last week's homework which was behaving well even when people don't show you the same grace?

Toodlepip!

xx

PS- Still being attacked by kitties. 

Friday 26 September 2014

All About That Bass || YouTube


Aloha Sprinklerinos,

You know when you find a song that you love so much you play on repeat about a squillion times a day? I have one of those. 


I've already tweeted about it a couple of times because I love it so much but I thought that since the video is so pretty (I basically want every single outfit), I would share it here too. 

I told a friend recently that I loved everything about this song and he said, 'I don't like it. She says, 'skinny bitches' something or other in it'. I was really disappointed that he had jumped to such a speedy assumption before looking into it properly and for this reason I'm going to include a copy of the lyrics. Note the three lines following relate to the way even the girls we perceive as 'perfect' ('skinny bitches') have insecurities and that everybody, regardless of their size or shape, is beautiful. 


"All About That Bass"

Because you know
I'm all about that bass
'Bout that bass, no treble
I'm all about that bass
'Bout that bass, no treble
I'm all about that bass
'Bout that bass, no treble
I'm all about that bass
'Bout that bass

Yeah, it's pretty clear, I ain't no size two
But I can shake it, shake it
Like I'm supposed to do
'Cause I got that boom boom that all the boys chase
And all the right junk in all the right places

I see the magazine workin' that Photoshop
We know that shit ain't real
C'mon now, make it stop
If you got beauty building, just raise 'em up
'Cause every inch of you is perfect
From the bottom to the top

Yeah, my mama she told me don't worry about your size
She says, "Boys like a little more booty to hold at night."
You know I won't be no stick figure silicone Barbie doll
So if that's what you're into then go ahead and move along

Because you know I'm
All about that bass
'Bout that bass, no treble
I'm all about that bass
'Bout that bass, no treble
I'm all about that bass
'Bout that bass, no treble
I'm all about that bass
'Bout that bass
Hey!

I'm bringing booty back
Go ahead and tell them skinny bitches that
No I'm just playing. I know you think you're fat
But I'm here to tell ya
Every inch of you is perfect from the bottom to the top

Yeah my mama she told me don't worry about your size
She says, "Boys like a little more booty to hold at night."
You know I won't be no stick figure silicone Barbie doll
So if that's what you're into then go ahead and move along

Because you know I'm
All about that bass
'Bout that bass, no treble
I'm all about that bass
'Bout that bass, no treble
I'm all about that bass
'Bout that bass, no treble
I'm all about that bass
'Bout that bass

Because you know I'm
All about that bass
'Bout that bass, no treble
I'm all about that bass
'Bout that bass, no treble
I'm all about that bass
'Bout that bass, no treble
I'm all about that bass
'Bout that bass

Because you know I'm
All about that bass
'Bout that bass, no treble
I'm all about that bass
'Bout that bass, no treble
I'm all about that bass
'Bout that bass, no treble
I'm all about that bass
'Bout that bass
'Bout that bass, 'bout that bass
Hey, hey, ooh
You know you like this bass

I am constantly hoping to spread the message of self empowerment so and thrilled to see an artist producing this sort of music. 

All About That Bass is available to pre-order HERE. I NEED this on my phone for my Baby Glitter walks!!

Have you heard it yet? What did you think?

Toodlepip!

xx

PS - Would you like to see more 'videos I'm loving' kind of posts? x

Thursday 25 September 2014

Amazing Advertisers | September 2014

Aloha Sprinklerinos,

I’m pleased to announce, it is officially autumn! Hurrah! The fairy lights are on, the blankets are out and I have a stack of films ready to enjoy with my little Darcy. Oh autumn, I do love thee. Before I snuggle down to another evening of mummy time, I must first introduce you to my wonderful September advertisers, they’re a good ol' bunch after all! 


I’ve been a lover of Crown Brush make up brushes for a few years, they’ve never failed to make my face feel soft, happy and beautifully made up. Crown Brushes are super affordable, but also of wonderful quality fit for a princess. I’m particularly a fan of the brush sets which come in handy portable pots for convenient storage on the go, they think of everything those beauties at Crown Brush! If you’re in need of brushes for your face then I would give Crown Brush a whirl, I’m sure you’ll be pleased as punch!

Living Doll Los Angeles is an online junior clothing line created by self confessed lovers of fashion for the rest of the world to enjoy! I’ve had a gallivant through the clothes that Living Doll Los Angeles have to offer and I have to say, I’m impressed as pie! The clothes are beautiful, they’re designed to suit gals of all shapes and interests and they’re within reach if you’re on a lower budget, what’s more to love! If you’re in need of a new autumn wardrobe, I’d recommend giving Living Doll Los Angeles a gander.

The What Now Blog is the perfect read for those of you who are struggling to wake up your inner motivation or have lost that pep in your step, we’ve all been there! It is designed to offer you positivity in life, to bring balance and wellbeing in work and at home, sounds promising, does it not?! Often people read blogs to escape mundane life for a little while, this blog instead aims to rid you of mundane and inspire you to keep on bouncing. If you love a good blog that can potentially shake you up for the better, then give The What Now Blog a visit, it’ll leave you inspired!

Charming Threadwares is a little beauty in the world of Etsy, a firm favourite of mine and the perfect place to discover unique goodies for all occasions. Charming Threadwares offers handmade jewellery at affordable prices with some impressive bead work, buttons galore and even a dinosaur or two thrown in there, what more could you need from jewellery? The jewellery is truly unique and I’ve seen a few pieces I would have shipped to my chums in the speed of light, there’s something for everyone and I insist on exploring it for yourself, Pikachu charm bracelet anyone?

A Scottish Lass is written by Laura, a favourite of Sprinkle of Glitter and a returning advertiser, which makes me pleased as punch as I’m quite the fan of her blogging charm. Before I discuss the many wonders of a Scottish Lass, we all must appreciate how beautiful and elegant Laura looked in her 1940’s inspired bridesmaid gown, wowee! As well as making quite the beautiful bridesmaid Laura also blogs about all the pretties you can image, with Mac becoming a heavy feature, which is never a bad thing!! Keep up the good work (and those victory rolls) Laura.

Ooh we’ve got another online boutique amongst our midst and it’s certainly got me itching for new jewels! Swell Caroline sells some beautiful classic pieces of jewellery, as well as some fun, colourful ‘out there’ bits. As well as having a variety of glorious jewels to offer, Swell Caroline also sells monogram necklaces which are a lovely personal touch, very Carrie Bradshaw! I do love it when we discover another ‘something for everyone’ boutique, it’s a victory for Sprinklerino individuality!

Warning! Do not read if devilishly hungry and away from any source of food, The Noble Foodie is a blog dedicated to the love of food, and it is stomach rumbling worthy. The Noble Foodie is written by Bridget, a talent in the kitchen and a self confessed passionate about food kinda gal. The best bit? All the food is designed to be good for our tummies, that means no wheat, no gluten and no dairy. Bridget, I salute you. If you’re after an alternative recipe for your favourite meal, or just some kitchen inspiration, then Bridget is your gal! I shall now proceed to stare in awe at all the food on The Noble foodie.

Oh my giddy aunt I have discovered the clothing shop of my dreams, a website that’ll find the perfect jeans based on your measurements and preferred style, it’s something quite genius. I thoroughly tested out the High Street Fit Finder and I love the concept of using your own shape and size to determine the jeans best for you. I cannot wait to see how High Street Fit Finder expands in future, I give them 100 brownie points for uniqueness and the ability to dress my behind in jeans that’ll flatter my shape and make me feel confident. Hats off!

The Prosecco Diaries is a swanky lifestyle blog written by Sarah, a London gal with one of the swankiest blogs I ever did see. The Prosecco Diaries is simply beautiful, I love the unique design Sarah has created, particularly on her ‘About Me’ page, I also love the variety of posts, in particular those which relate to diet and fitness, from the pros of exercise DVD’s to the struggles of sticking to a healthy eating plan, I feel ya! I thoroughly recommend The Prosecco Diaries as the perfect lifestyle blog to add to your collection, it’s a good’un!

Firstly it must be said that Kirsten Learns makes my eyes very happy! I love the interaction and design, it’s something different and I’ve enjoyed having a gallivant on Kirsten’s blog, not to mention the photography is some of the most beautiful I ever did see. Kirsten Learns takes you on an adventure through the life of a twenty something married gal who hasn’t quite found her calling just yet and I love it. Kirsten blogs about what she’s learnt in life so far and it is somewhat inspiring to say the least, not to mention quick wit and humour are included! I recommend packing a virtual bag and joining the adventure.

The Peppermint Pencil is another glorious lifestyle blog written by fellow cat lover, Anya. The Peppermint Pencil is a ‘little bit of everything’ blog which has taken us on a fair few adventures recently and has truly made me appreciate the beautiful sites that the United Kingdom has to offer, wonderfully captured by Anya and her camera of dreams. Anya has also blogged about another journey she has travelled, removing sugar from her life. You’re a strong gal Anya and I salute you! I am more than intrigued by the concept of following a sugar free diet and I look forward to future posts by Anya of the sugar free variety and more! 

I think we can all agree that the Amazing Advertisers this month all deserve 100 brownie points for being some of the best blogs you ever did see! Have you discovered a favourite amongst this bunch? 

Toodlepip!

xx

Wednesday 24 September 2014

Morning Skincare Routine


Aloha Sprinklerinos,

Mornings are not my time. If I had my way, I'd wake up naturally at about 7.45am, laze about in fresh white sheets chatting and pondering the day for a while, pootle about on my laptop and then at about 9.45am, meander to the bathroom and get beautiful.

Alas, those mornings are few and far between and it's more likely to be a blur of taking a toddler to the potty, checking emails on my phone as I brush my teeth and sorting through a crumpled pile of (clean) laundry in a desperate bid to piece a respectable outfit together- results vary.

With that in mind, I've always been a beauty addict and grooming is quite the event for me. I like manicured nails, bouncy hair and glowy skin (again, results vary), so I thought I'd take the opportunity to tell you about the products I'm currently enjoying to shmear (mmm) all over my face. Yes?



First things first, cleanse. This is actually the first hurdle I fall at, don't tell the Beauty Bloggers on me. Soooooo, soommeeettimmessss (read : 'quite often actually'), I sleep in my makeup. I know, I know, very bad. I can't help it. I just get really sleepy and can't quite face dealing with it all. Water wakes me up and I want to stay all sloth-like before I get into bed. Also, I'm that girl that falls asleep watching films/TV so it's usually a case of just waking up in bed, closing my laptop and taking my glasses off. Basically, bad Louise, very sorry.

So here we are, first thing in the morning with sad skin and yesterday's eyeliner all over my face. Sexy. My saving grace here is Emma Hardie Cleansing Balm (£36 for 100ml).

To use this product you scoop out a little bit (I use about as much as I would if it were moisturiser) with your fingers, massage into dry skin, the soft paste turns to lovely warm massagey oil, any eye makeup you had on slides off giving you big ol' coal eyes, take a warm, wet flannel/muslin and gently wipe off. If you have a lot of makeup on, you may want to go back over heavy areas (for me this is eyes).

It's super gentle, smells incredible (oh hai jasmine, moringa, cederwood, orange, neroli and rose), leaves you feeling refreshed, contains vitamin E to balance and purify and claims to reduce the size of pores- something I would verify that it does.

I was quite reluctant to stray from my beloved Liz Earle Cleanse and Polish but Emma Hardie has pipped it to the post. A little luxe in price but worth it for the enjoyment and efficiency.


Since I have six hundred and fifty thousand beauty products floating around my house, I have been making an effort to use them up and lighten my load. This mini Liz Earle Instant Boost Skin Tonic (£5.50 for a mini or £13.25 for 200ml) was left over from some PR samples and, if I'm very honest, I thought wasn't going to be too special.

Wrong. With ingredients like cucumber, chamomile and aloe vera, it soothes and refreshes even very tired skin as well as leaving a 'fine layer of moisture'.

To use toner you tip a little bit onto a cotton pad (I like the flat circle kind), and gently move in circular or swiping motions across cleansed skin. The idea is that it removes anything you left behind (which technically you shouldn't have) and tightens your pores.

I always thought this step was a bit 'emperors-new-clothes', but I have found it's made a difference. It kind of leaves my skin a little bit fresher and younger- and I'm very OK with that.

I have used a couple of different toners in the past but I think I like this one best and will be picking up a big bottle soon. 


Now, the anomaly of the bunch, Origin's No Puffery Cooling Roll-On for Puffy Eyes (£24 for the size pictured).

I bought this at Heathrow airport before a long haul LAX flight to replace the (much more affordable) Simple Roll On that was lost in the great Louise-Left-Her-MakeUp-On-The-Aircraft debacle of NYC. I get around haha! I bought it kind of in a haze and if I had to make that choice again, I think I would question whether I needed such a product for such a high price tag.

In hindsight, I was excited in duty free, have a deep trust in Origins (my skin loves that brand) and the packaging was pretty.

The idea of this product is that you roll the cooling metal ball under your eyes, it calms redness, puffiness and helps brighten dark circles. Whilst it certainly feels very lovely (especially on an aeroplane), I'm not 100% sure I need this in my life. However, since I paid a lorra dolla for it, I'm going to use it up and enjoy it whilst it's there.

Not a bad product by any means, just one that is only temporary in my routine. 


The final step of my morning skincare routine though? Swoon. Let me introduce you to Origins Make A Difference Plus+ Rejuvenating Moisturiser (£34 for 50ml - the size shown).

This soft, non greasy, a-little-goes-a-long-way, delightful smelling (oh hai lychee, watermelon and rose) beauty is a new staple for me.

It soothes and quenches my normal to dry skin, wakes me up (a big plus for this tired Mama), sinks in wonderfully, allows my makeup to settle well and keeps my skin happy all day. It feels gentle the sensitive areas, I've had no breakouts at any point in the month and I think has softened fine lines near my eyes (but this could be my upped intake of water and the better sleep I've been having lately).

All in all, I love it and will be repurchasing- high praise indeed from a gal who has a box full of beauty samples to delve into!

--------------------------

So there you have it, my very basic but very-happy-with morning skincare routine. As with everything in my beauty life, I like to switch things up and play around but this little set up has been going strong for a few months now and I feel really very comfortable in it.

I would love to hear what you're doing at the moment and if you will be making any changes for Autumn/Winter? Also, let me know if you have tried any of these things and what you thought of them.

And finally, well done if you made it to the end of this post! It was a beast! Haha!

Toodlepip!

xx

Monday 22 September 2014

Behaviour || Motivational Monday


Aloha Sprinklerinos,

Did you all have good weekends? I gave a speech about YouTube at a convention for my Dad's work. It wasn't my usual audience (hello huge room full of over 50's men) but it was still quite fun. Then, I headed over to Sloane Square where Miranda Sings was performing and filmed a super hilarious collab with her which will go up soon! Yay!

This week I wanted our Motivational Monday to focus on behaviour. 


This last few weeks and months have been really challenging for me on a personal level. I will talk more openly about them eventually but for now, just know that I have been really struggling with my emotions and with trying to stay upbeat and to remain focused on positivity. I think for the most part I am managing but yanno, there are days when I just feel really cross at the world or at people or at myself and it's not ideal. 

As a result of feeling so hurt or cross or sad, I have found myself wanting to lash out at people. I've, at times, taken an, 'I'll show you!' attitude and for the people who I have felt haven't been kind, I decided I would be unkind in return. Now, by 'unkind in return', I don't mean like poisoning their morning coffee, I mean like not putting a kiss on the end of a text message or saying, 'fine' in a really harsh tone. Yes, it's true, I'm a complete lame-o. 

I spent a week feeling like this. No kisses on texts, lots of 'fine's and I didn't feel good for it. I didn't feel like the winner or like I had gained control of a situation. Instead, I felt like I had just let myself down and wasn't representing the Louise I want to put out there .

When I saw the image above, it struck such a cord with me. 

It doesn't matter what other people do or say to you, you can still be kind back. Being a good person to them in those situations does not mean that they won or that you were somehow less than them. It means you were true to yourself and that you are stronger than feelings of sadness or anger. It means that despite adversity, you can still continue to be the person you want to be and that you are not controlled or influenced by other people's negativity. And that makes you a winner in my books. 

This week, let's focus on our own behaviour. 

If your boss at work is in the grumps and taking it out on you, that's their problem to deal with. You can still get on with your tasks with a smile and a glad heart. If someone at school/college/university throws a snidey remark your way, you don't need to retaliate with a similar one, you can choose to ignore that and show them love. Often the people who are mean or unkind need the most love and care because it shows them a better way to be. 

I'm going to remind myself of this message every day this week and hope that it encourages me to make good choices in my behaviour towards others and as your homework, I'd love for you to do the same. 

Have good weeks my gorgeous Sprinklerinos!

Toodlepip!

xx

Saturday 20 September 2014

Happy 5th Blogday!


Aloha Sprinklerinos,

Today my blog is five years old. Half a decade. Wow. 

Thank you Chummysugg from Tumblr for making me this image. 

When I started Sprinkle of Glitter, I wanted it to be a fun Autumn project that I could enjoy in the evenings when I was bored or whilst Matt was at work. I was renovating our home and wanted a place to talk about all the crafts and DIY I was doing. Our house was (and still is) always a mess, we did everything on a shoestring budget and my biggest aspiration at the time was to get a nice office job in the new year. 

Thank you slowemotions from Tumblr for making this image. 

Well, I did get that office job but by that point I was so hooked on blogging that I carried it on. A couple of times Matt remarked on the fact that I had done well keeping it updated for a few months and he pondered how long I'd be keen - I'm flighty you see. I struggle to stick at things. 

Months ticked by and turned to years and in those years big, big things have happened. When I sit down and really think about all the opportunities that have come out of writing this blog, I feel teary. Because of this blog I started my YouTube channels, met other creators, visited new countries, stayed in very posh hotels, met literally thousands of Sprinklerinos, have been on TV, in magazines, on stages, in debates, on red carpets, interviewed celebrities, documented the entirety of my Daughter's life and become financial secure. Because of this one blog. It's insane. 

Thank you hey-im-zana from Tumblr for making me this image. 


When I think of all the 'things' I have been given or earned or found, I feel happy. But when I think of all the 'people' who have come into my life I feel completely blown away. I have so many memories that I will cherish for all of my life. There are the 'biggies' like dancing on stage with the boys in New York or eating breakfast on an upper class flight with Zoe and giggling at the madness of it all, but then there are the little ones that really hit me. Once I rang Ben Cook at 8pm from a hotel room in Covent Garden because I was feeling down. By 8.30pm he was there and making me laugh. Once I had to have some pretty painful dental work a couple of years ago, Zoe drove 3 hours to come and look after me and that night Alfie caught the train up to be with me too. There are the midnight skype calls with Jack where I laugh til I cry, the 2am Skype calls with Marie where we discuss everything from toddler snacks to the greater good and there are the 4am texts to Hazel to tell each other we're 'good women'. 

And then, there's you. You the community of Sprinklerinos who continues to grow but never diminishes in your cosy, loving attitude. I feel such an outpouring of kindness from you that I never thought would happen. 

Thank you LaurasObsession from Tumblr for making me this image. 

I thought that when you become well known for something, you gain 'fans'. People that like what you do, tell you so and then you say, 'thanks'. This is different. This feels so much more than that and in each message I read from you, I can imagine a person saying those things with so much feeling that I feel it too. I feel like this is a family. A huge, glittery family that does not exclude nor judge, but love and respect and cherish and I'm proud to be a part of that. I'm proud to be a part of all of this. 

Last year I said, "Happy Birthday little blog! What a journey we've been on. First year a wedding, second year a baby, third year a business, fourth year friends, fifth year a....What do you think will come next?"

Well, it's you. Hundreds and thousands and millions of you. More than I can count but not more than I can love. 

So, as is tradition- 

Happy Birthday little blog! What a journey we've been on. First year a wedding, second year a baby, third year a business, fourth year friends, fifth year a community. What do you think will come next?

Happy Blogday to every person who helps make Sprinkle of Glitter what it is and makes me so happy. You are so very, very loved. 

Toodlepip!

xx

PS- As if to further prove how much of a strong community this is, all the images in the post were kindly made by Sprinklerinos. If you click on the names below their art, you can visit them on Tumblr. Thank you so much for always making great things. x

Thursday 18 September 2014

My New Radio Show!


Aloha Sprinklerinos,

If you are a keen bean (9 Glitter Points) then you may have already heard- I'm going to be on BBC Radio 1 hosting my own show this Autumn. Say whhaaaattt?

Thank you to obsessedxaddict on Tumblr for making this image <3 font="">

My most wonderful friends Dan and Phil invited me to host a guest week on their weekly show and I couldn't be more thrilled. 


Thank you chummysugg on Tumblr for making this image <3 font="">

I've never done anything on the radio before so it's quite a unique opportunity to try something new and add another string to my bow, as they say. 

Thank you to Sprinkleofgraceffaa on Tumblr for making this image <3 font="">

I'm not fully sure what exactly I'll do yet so if you have any fun ideas or suggestions, help a girl out and leave them in the comments please haha!

There have been quite a few articles in the press so if you would like to read more or learn about some of the other YouTubers who are involved in the fun, check out THIS, THIS and THIS. 

What do you think? Exciting isn't it! Who would've thought that this little blog would lead to so much adventure!!

Toodlepip!

xx

Wednesday 17 September 2014

The Pointless Video


Aloha Sprinklerinos,

Last week my good friend Alfie Deyes bought out his brand new book- The Pointless Book.

Is is an interactive activity book where you are encouraged to play games, draw little doodles, finish off pictures, answer silly questions or do specific tasks in your life. It's a lot of fun and something absolutely worth making a video on!


Lucky for me Hazel was ready for the challenge and so we had a giggly little morning playing with the book and making a light video for you- hope you enjoy it! 

If you are having trouble viewing the embedded version, click HERE to be taken straight to my channel. 

Toodlepip!

xx

Monday 15 September 2014

Gratitude || Motivational Monday


Aloha Sprinklerinos,

Thank you so much for all your support and kindness last week. I read comments and tweets and emails and felt so uplifted by your care.

I won't go as far as to say I feel completely 100% better (that would be very flighty), but yanno, things are good and I'm a happy bean and I'm glad you're in my life.


This week I wanted to talk about a way of thinking that I constantly find myself turning to because I think it makes alllll the difference in our well being. Gratitude.

Having an attitude of gratitude is such a huge key to happiness and something that I regularly have to remind myself of.

When I consider how lucky I am and how much I have in my life, I feel incredible. My life IS incredible. I am afforded so many luxuries and so many wonderful experiences that to cast them aside and only focus on the things that make me sad or angry or anxious would be churlish.

I thought it might be a fun exercise to make a list of just some of the things I am so very thankful for in my life. As you can imagine, I am going to encourage you to do the same in the comments!

1. My Daughter. My beautiful, healthy, happy, kind, smart baby girl Darcy. She is unassuming in all she does and it so easily pleased. I love the way she unconditionally loves me and thinks I look beautiful no matter what my state. I love her tiny hands and the ways she strokes my top when she's tired and I love the way she tips her head back when she laughs at things that aren't funny unless you're three years old.

2. My Home. My house is small and cosy and happy. I feel safe here and I feel happy in every room. I have worked for five years to make it just so and I am still enjoying working on it. I love that I own it and I love that people say it has a good atmosphere inside.

3. My Job. What started as a passion is now a job- what a dream! I am so fortunate to be able to do what I love full time and to have such creative freedom on a daily basis. I never forget what a lucky position I am in and I regularly have to pinch myself at how amazing it all is. 

Those I think are the biggies. I'm also thankful for all the little things in life like my phone, yummy treats (haha I sound like a dog), rainy mornings when you're cosy inside, fairy lights, the purring sounds of my cats and pinterest. 

Making little lists, whether physical or mental, is a great way to uplift yourself and feel more positive about everything around you. 

I'd love to see some of your gratitude lists in the comments and also hear about any other things you do to keep yourself merry and bright. 

Toodlepip!

xx

Monday 8 September 2014

Inadequacy || Motivational Monday

Aloha Sprinklerinos,

Never blog in anger. A classic tip that I happily dish out to discerning new bloggers and one that I had to remind myself of yesterday after I (very eloquently, I might add) wrote about feeling so very stung by someone. 

After a while, I realised that they hadn't hurt me, I'd let myself be hurt. You have a choice. You can choose to take onboard what other people say or you can choose to simply hear but not listen. 


I don't like to use my blog or social media in general as a space to moan or begrudge, I prefer instead to use it as a highlights reel of my life, a place to share the good, offer encouragement and provide relatable inspiration for anyone who finds themselves looking for it. 

Some of you might feel the same way as I do at the moment and so I thought it might be nice to talk about it and discuss the ways we can deal with it. 

I feel really inadequate. 

I feel almost inadequate to admit that I feel inadequate. I feel like it's weak to say that I don't feel good enough. I don't quite know why I feel like this at the moment because by all accounts, everything is going fine. I'm healthy, my home has just been decorated, my Daughter is a dream and business is booming, but still, I don't feel like I'm fulfilling what I should. 

I feel like my blog should tackle better topics or that I should care more deeply for relevant subjects. I mean, I only learnt about feminism last year! Until then I just thought it had basically been solved and that woman had equal rights and we can achieve our goals and yadda yadda. 

I feel like maybe I should be making videos that aren't about the 'fluff' that I usually chitchat to you about. I feel like maybe I should see the world and take in some culture or do something impressive or learn about something very complex or just do something that someone will say, 'Oh did you hear about what Louise did?'.

I have always enjoyed writing blog posts about little bits of babyhood that please me or trinkets that I have found and thought were pretty- you know, the sweet moments of life that are to be treasured but aren't exactly earth shattering. I enjoy making videos about new clothes and shiny lipsticks and fun hair accessories. I don't know how to do special camera work and I don't know what makes a good edit. I'm not on the cutting edge of journalism. I'm not really a 'cutting edge' person haha. 

Does this make me inadequate? I'm starting to feel a tiny bit like it does. 

I promise you this isn't a pity party and a desperate bid for you all to feed my ego and stroke my hair (although the latter is always welcome), it's just a sad (and hopefully misguided) little realisation that maybe the things that I do are not as respected as I thought they were. 

With all that in mind, and because I like to find a positive (I'll always find one dammit, no matter how dire a situation), I've decided to make this week's Motivational Monday about doing what you love. 

I'm not fully feeling it myself yet but I'm aiming to consider it all week long and will get back to you on Monday with the verdict. 

Do what makes you happy. Some people are made happy by travelling the world with only a diana camera (no memory cards for them, they are far too earthy for that) and a pair of fair trade sandals. Some people are happy spending their money on photo frames and makeup brushes. Some people (I'd say most) are happiest somewhere in the middle and all of those places are OK. 

This week, your homework is to do all the things that make you happy and be happy in those choices. You can choose everything in your life. You can choose what you do, who you spend time with and who's opinions you take on board. 

Yes then. 

I realise today has been a little all over the place, it's a mirror image of my mind at the moment. Apologies. 

This is the part where I encourage you to talk in the comments and usually I ask specific leading questions. Today I don't have any specifics, I'm all wobbly and confused like a drunk squirrel. Run wild and free and write whatever you like! I love you a lot and know it will be excellent. 

Toodlepip!

xx

Friday 5 September 2014

Sometimes You Just #Fail


Aloha Sprinklerinos,

You know when everything just falls to pieces a little bit? Weeeellllll, that's what happened with this week's video. *sad face*


I'd been suffering with a terrible cold all week and thought, 'ohh nooooo I hate not having a Sunday video, what will I do?'. I quickly realised I had some footage from my collaboration with Jack Howard (HERE and HERE) and decided to use that. So far, so good.

I go to look for the footage, it's not there. I do that panicked clicking through every file on your desktop, even the one called 'Summer 2013', cos yanno, it might just be there, but alas, it isn't. I just have a big chunk of it that's missing the first part. Jolly good.

The choice was simple. Load up on lemsip, put more makeup on that a counter in Boots, film something rubbish and upload OR explain how rubbish I am as an intro, pop it in front of the good footage and hope the world understands. 

As you'll see, I went for the latter and thank goodness, you all did. 

I love you Sprinklerinos. Thank you for being so gentle with me. I need it sometimes. 

Toodlepip!

xx


Wednesday 3 September 2014

Hello September


Aloha Sprinklerinos,

Oh September, a month of cosy nights in, blankets, fairy lights, hot soups and mashed potato. I am all about September. I live all summer looking forward to September. I love you September, I just love you. Too far? Maybe. 

September = Scented Candles Galore. Swoon. 

This September I plan on filling each day with something nice. With my love of lists in mind, I've decided to share 10 things I want to do this month to make it the best yet. 

1. Prams, buggies and strollers. This year will be the last Autumn (I would think!) that we use the buggies since Darcy is 3, but I always stick to our easy fold up buggy. This September I'd like to take the Silvercross out for one last hurrah amongst the leaves.

2. Sunday nights. There is literally nothing better than watching ITV dramas after a chicken and mash dinner, with the fire lit. Be still my beating heart. 

3. Dusk shopping. I have quite the love of late night shopping when the sky goes that cobalt blue colour and all the shop lights spill out onto the streets. It feels all magical. 

4. Mooching through markets. There's a bounty of markets in London that I want to explore. I always enjoy Covent Garden and the Borough Market but am yet to delve into anything in Camden or Spitalfields. They're on my list. 

5. Girl time. After a weekend in Brighton with Zoe and Hazel, I'm hooked and want more. Sitting in a weird little hut by the beach watching the sun go down and chatting about rubbish was just what my busy brain needed to calm down. Those ladies are so good for me. 

4. Boy time. I'd like to put some fun Jack time in my diary this month. He makes me laugh a LOT and as they say, laughter is good for the soul. 

5. Me time. I'm talking bubble baths, candles, books, magazines, face masks, chilled rose spritzers, fresh sheets and manicured nails. Yes please. I aim to do this at least twice this September. 

6. Glamour. A bit of glitz and a cocktail party here and there are basically some of my favourite things in life. With Zoe launching her new beauty range (#ZoellaBeauty) there is a party on the horizon and I'm already thinking about dresses. I want a night to just feel really nice about myself (and of course to celebrate my friend's success!). I don't have low self esteem by any means but just lately I feel a little shaken up and vulnerable. A new dress and fake tan will sort that right out!

7. Crafts. I have lots of little art projects I want to complete with Darcy and rainy days and cooler weather are the perfect time to get cracking with them.

8. Romance. September is my wedding anniversary month so I'm sure Matt and I will make some nice time for each other. He's asked me to keep the date free so I'm excited to see what surprises he has up his sleeves!

9. Focus. I want/need to work a little harder on carving out a better routine for myself. Working and mummying from home can easily lead to a floaty, no structure day and that's not ideal for running a business and finding quality-engaged-mama-time. Gonna keep trying. 

10. Documenting. One of my faves! With all the lovely things happening this month, I want to document it! I will be vlogging, instagramming, and blogging my little heart out and I just can't wait!

What do you want to do this month? Are you excited for Autumn or are you a Summer-Soul?

Toodlepip!

xx

Monday 1 September 2014

Motivational Monday


Aloha Sprinklerinos,

For the first time in a very long time I've felt motivated enough to talk about motivation. The irony. 


If you are an avid reader of this blog (thank you) you will I'm sure have noticed that I've been a little be quiet over here for the last few months. 2013 was a bumper blog year and I worked my not-so-little-booty off making sure it was regularly updated and cared for. 

It's no secret that one of my weaknesses is not letting things go. I feel like I have to excel at everything and that if I do less than excellent then I've failed. I've found myself in tears before because I've felt like I did a poor job of something. Part of not doing something well has been updating and caring for my blog. I still care for it very very deeply, but as you can see, it hasn't been as busy as it used to be.

This isn't a post about, 'I've been gone a while and now I'm back...back again' (sing it), but more about acceptance. This past year I have learnt to accept that you can't do everything and actually, that's OK. 

Focus on the things you can do, realistically. You're not going to do a full day in the office, cook a banquet for the in laws, engage the children in five Montessori activities, iron three wash loads and finish a pinterest project in one day, you're just not. Can you scrap the banquet, cook something easy but yummy and involve the children in the pinterest project though? Could you look at what you have on that day, streamline it and then do those things really well? Stop making to-do lists that look impressive but leave you sad when you can't tick everything off. Stop feeling inadequate when you have to leave your inbox unanswered at the end of the day or when you have a cheeky frebreeze and batiste morning- we've all been there and we're all alright. 

I am enjoying (slowly) learning to let go of the things that don't fully matter. I am striving for success every day and being proud of what I do manage to achieve. 

Your homework for this week is to let go. What a lovely assignment. Feel free to share in the comments something you might let go of. If you don't feel like sharing, that's Ok :)

If you would like to read over my back catalogue of Motivational Mondays, click HERE

Toodlepip!

xx

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