photo 1-home-1.jpg photo 2-about.jpg photo 3-sponsor.jpg photo 4-faq.jpg
 photo header.jpg

Friday 28 November 2014

Benefit Advent Calendar | Candy Coated Countdown

Aloha Sprinklerinos, 

It's less than a month until CHRISTMAS!

I don't know about you but if there's one thing that get's me super excited for the festive season it's advent calendars. And when they come in the form of beauty? Well, it certainly beats a slither of chocolate in my opinion!

When a perfectly presented parcel arrived on my doorstop I almost couldn't stand to open it. 
Just look how lovely it is!

I gave it a good shake (as you do) and I could feel the little pockets of joy rustling inside...
The Benefit Advent Calendar - Candy Coated Countdown. 

AKA. The beauty lovers dream.

Personally, I love the whole beauty product calendar concept. In a nutshell, they contain miniature sizes of the selected beauty brands products. 
Firstly, it's perfect to stock up on travel-sized versions of your favourite products.
But the very best part is that this particular one costs £60, and wait for it!...Everything inside is worth a whopping £109.53!! So you're not only getting a lovely treat every morning in the lead up to Christmas, but also huge value for money.

It's a great treat to yourself, but it also makes for the perfect gift to friends or family.
So, what's inside you say? 
Let me tell you!

**Maximum of 2 per order**
set includes:
1. “that gal” | 7.5ml
2. the POREfessional | 7.5ml
3. benetint | 2.5ml
4. high beam | 2.5ml
5. chachatint | 2.5ml
6. posietint | 2.5ml
7. stay flawless mini
8. they’re real! mini
9. ultra plush in dandelion mini
10. ultra plush lip gloss in A-lister mini
11. ultra plush lip gloss in fauxmance mini
12. BADgal lash mini
13. stay don’t stray in light/medium mini
14. fakeup in 02 medium mini
15. it’s potent! eye cream mini
16. total moisture facial cream mini
17. ooh la lift mini
18. watt’s up! mini
19. beauty sticky notes
20. doodle pad
21. heart-shaped paperclips
22. pinky, polka-dot hair tie
23. elastic hair band with bow charm
24. metallic silvery hair tie
 
Sadly, it's sold out online (everyone had the right idea!) BUT, all hope is not lost my little loves. Benefit have been running giveaways daily on their social channels over the past few weeks, so you could potentially even nab one for free. Merry Christmas, indeed. 
And do keep your eyes peeled, let's hope they'll be back in stock before November is up!
 
What do you think? Does the beauty advent calendar hype tickle your pickle?
 
I'm so excited for next week to come around so I can start opening mine!

Toodlepip!
xx

Tuesday 25 November 2014

Amazing Advertisers | November 2014

Aloha Sprinklerinos,

I can't quite believe we've reached the penultimate Amazing Advertisers of 2014, where has the time gone I ask you?! I'm pleased as punch to announce it has been another magical month of blogging and these beauties have worked their little socks off to produce some of the best content you ever did see, so lets get cracking shall we?

Source
If I had to describe The Prosecco Diaries in one word it’d be classy. Like swanky, only with even more elegance. The adventures of Sarah, the brains behind Prosecco Diaries, are somewhat Carrie Bradshaw-esque and I personally love it! This month we’ve been treated by Sarah to swanky posts on wine tasting, the benefits of yoga, and, my personal favourite, an in depth description on the life and roll of a lifestyle blogger, which I definitely recommend a read of if you’re confused by the nature of blogging. Sarah’s writing is down to earth, informative and a pleasure to read, I cannot recommend The Prosecco Diaries enough!

Darling Dee Dee
I feel in love with Darling Dee Dee last month due to its divine photography, indepth reviews and all the brilliance you could desire from a beauty blog. Dee has achieved said brilliance once more which pleases me muchly, it’s been a cracking month of blogging on Darling Dee Dee, from product reviews a plenty, the swatches of high definition dreams and pure beauty that makes you ‘ooooh’ with lust. Darling Dee Dee is a beauty lovers haven and I’m giddy with joy to have the pleasure of sharing Dee’s hard work and passion for blogging with you, oh beautiful ones.

Swell Caroline is a returning advertiser with Sprinkle of Glitter, it is an online trove of beauties, with jewellery pieces to please everyone’s eyeballs and money bags, from statement necklaces to monogram earrings and dainty charm bracelets for those who prefer it subtle. Swell Caroline really have dazzled me with their unique pieces and I’ll bet good brownie points they’ll dazzle you too! Not forgetting that time of year is upon us where Father Christmas has gifts to be giving, perhaps have a gander and add a piece or two to your list?

Anna is my go to gal for adventure and an education, be it about history or the world and each month I enjoy packing my imaginary bag and coming along on her travels learning all about the wonders of the world. Anna has a knack for bringing fun, educational information to her blog which is a treat for the eyes and the brain. Unfortunately this month Anna has been a poorly bean and has instead be updating us on her life shenanigans from her hospital bed. I hope she’s feeling tip top again soon and ready for more adventures. Let’s all fly on over to Anna in Wonderland and offer some love!

We’ve got another traveller in our midst in the form of Lauren, an American gal with a passion for European travels and documenting her adventures along the way. Lauren’s snaps alone are bloomin’ lovely, not to mention her posts are always informative, honest and have me itching to explore more worldly landmarks with my camera in toe. Lauren’s love for discovering places and genuine enjoyment of adventures make Bon Voyage, Lauren a joy to read and I thoroughly recommend having a gander, it may even help decide your next holiday destination for ya!

Oof we’ve got a beauty.  A stationary galore, Christmas present haven, beauty. Fox and Star is perfection for those of you, like me, get excited over arts and crafts, excessive note book usage and, above all else, all forms of beautifully designed, yet practical, stationary you could possibly need. I’m particularly lusting after the sticky notes, Christmas labels and the woodland creature notebooks. By golly someone control my stationary desires, I need it all! What’s more the Fox and Star’s bits and bobs are a dream on the purse strings so a splurge is simply a must.

I have a soft spot for Alice and her blogging in all its glory, simply because I love reliving my university years through Alice’s Antics. Whether it’s a confession about boys, a honest truth on the hardship of being young or a light hearted updates on her recent gallivants with friends, Alice’s writing is a touch of young, fresh air. Any gal who can be honest about her Saturday nights in with ice cream and Desperate Housewives is always a keeper and you should definitely be keeping Alice in your blogging feed, she’ll keep you entertained have no fear!

Wonder to Wonder is a lifestyle blog written by Miho, food lover, London enthusiast and quite the camera whizz! If you’re in need of a blog with all the trimmings, then Wonder to Wonder should fill that spot snuggly, it’s a beauty. I’m a sucker for good camera action, well written words and genuine passion for blogging and it makes me oh so gleeful when Sprinkle of Glitter advertisers have it all, Wonder to Wonder being the perfect example. It’s an online wonderland of delicious food, beautiful places and beautiful people, have a look for yourself, it’s one to appreciate!

Jewellery lovers of the world unite, you’re in for a treat! The Vintage Pearl is another online jewellery boutique to have graced our presence this month and what a beautiful presence it has! The pieces are simply divine, particularly their unique keepsake pieces which give me all the feels, I would recommend anyone to have at least one unique jewellery piece which represents someone special and gives you the warm and fuzzies. The Vintage Pearl are sure to have just the piece for you, I can promise you that! The keepsake locket and sweetheart jewellery box are particular favourites of mine and would make a b-e-a-utiful gift.

The Road is Long is somewhat different to your usual blogging antics, and to say it intrigues me would be an understatement, the approach to blogging by the two talents behind The Road Is Long is unique and actually rather beautiful. Lucy and her other half capture snippits of their life together, documenting their thoughts, feelings and adventures and present them in a time capsule manner, it feels personal and I love that. Life musings are some of my favourite posts to read and The Road Is Long is brimming with all you could ask for and more. Brownie points for uniqueness!

Meet Vicki, lifestyle blogger, kitchen extraordinaire and travelling gal with a talent for writing, smiling and flashing that camera. She’s a good’un and Bowsessed is just as smashing! If you’re after a little bit of everything, from dessert recipes to travelling tips or even a bit of beauty advice then Vicki is your gal, a talented gal indeed. Even more wonderful, not long after a blogger evening of bridal gown dress up Vicki’s other half put a ring on it and we’ve been promised wedding updates in future which pleases me muchly! I love a good wedding and I look forward to future content from Vicki and her camera. 

Alrighty! I hope you've had a jolly good browse and found a favourite or two, they're a good ol' bunch and it pleases me muchly to have the pleasure of introducing them to you. Let me know who you've been loving this month.

Toodlepip!

xx

Friday 21 November 2014

A Review || Urban Decay Naked2 Basics Palette

Aloha Sprinklerinos,

A month (and a bit) after it’s official release in the UK I feel now is good a time as any to dish the dirt on Urban Decay’s latest release.

A beauty review of the new Urban Decay Naked2 Basics Palette
There isn’t one beauty lover out there that doesn’t let out a yelp of excitement when Urban Decay bring something new to the table. It’s always a highly anticipated release and this variation to the Naked family is quite the change, let me tell you.

Housed with 5 matte shadows and 1 satin for highlighting – it steps away from the sheerness of the original Naked Basics and  introduces some cooler, taupe and grey toned matte shades.

I don't know about you, but matte shadows always scare me a little? It's no secret that I love a bit of glitter, and I typically find shimmer shades so much easier to work with on the eyes. That being said, there will always be an occasion where a matte eye is more appropriate than all the glitz!

A beauty review of the new Urban Decay Naked2 Basics Palette
A beauty review of the new Urban Decay Naked2 Basics Palette

And when that occasion arises? This is the palette for you. 
For a matte finish these shadows don’t have that dry, chalky finish which is refreshing and the quality is super-duper high, exactly what you’d expect from Urban Decay. They blend b-e-a-uuutifully and combined to create a complete look they definitely achieve a more sophisticated finish, taking a neutral matte eye to a whole new level – wowee! 
Not only are they throwing in 5 brand spanking new (full-size) shades to this palette, but the packaging is my absolute favourite. Being teeny-tiny it’s perfect to slot in your handbag and with almost a suede-like finish it feels heavenly to touch!

The shades you’ll find are:

Skimp (pale nude satin),
Stark (nude-pink matte),
Frisk (warm grey matte),
Cover (muted red-brown matte),
Primal (muted brown matte)
And Undone (deep, smoky brown matte).

My personal faves are Cover, which I love to use in the crease and Stark, that I like to use all over the lid as a base colour. There's minimal fall-out with these eye shadows and the neutral colours make it perfect for a natural look at work or school!
 For £22 it doesn’t break the bank and it literally has everything you could want for the perfect basic, neutral look. I was apprehensive on this one, but actually? I ruddy love it!
It's currently sold out (boo!!), but keep your eyes peeled, I'm sure it'll be back soon enough.

What do you think? Are you going to give this palette a whirl?!

Toodlepip!
xx

Wednesday 19 November 2014

Darcy Does Disney


Aloha Sprinklerinos,

If you read THIS post way back when last year, firstly, thank you for being a long time reader, but secondly, this week I fffiinnaaallly uploaded the video of the day!

Oh me oh my editing and uploading that was like reliving it all over again, especially since we are going back to the most magical place on earth with the BitsandClips familyin March 2015. 


I remember on the holiday I hardly filmed anything (I just have these 2 vlogs) because I felt like I needed to be super present in all the moments. Whilst I do want to have those super connected moments with Darcygirl, I also wish I'd filmed more because having these visual memories are priceless. Next time, I'm going to film and snap more!

If you are struggling to view the embedded version, click HERE to watch it directly on my channel. 

To the viewers that described this video as a 'hug in a vlog', I'm so with you!

Toodlepip!

xx

Monday 17 November 2014

Motivational Monday || Letting Go


Aloha Sprinklerinos,

Merry Monday to you my little puffballs. Ooof the festive spirit is upon me. If I could call you candycansugarsnaptwinklelightpuffballs I would. Oh wait. 


Today's motivation is a bitter sweet but positive one. 

Sometimes, the very best thing you can do is let go. A scary, scary concept. 

I'm the kind of woman who likes to have her shiz together at all times, micro manage everything and everyone and keep all the balls in the air (ooer). 

Recently it dawned on me that in certain areas of my life, I. Just. Can't. I can't keep everything contained and perfect. I can't control other people. I can't make every single thing be exactly what I want it to be and by trying I only upset, hurt and frustrate myself. 

What's the point? Surely there are other precious areas of life you could focus your valuable energy on?

This week I decided to fully, fully let go of something. It's not a major thing but a thing none the less and I tell you what, I feel so good for it. I actually feel more in control for letting go of trying to control it. How crazy is that?

I know how frightening it can be to consider letting go of something. I know it can feel like if you let go you won't ever be able to pick it up again or that you won't be able to manage but, I think you will. Give it a try. If you are worried, just let go a tiny bit and see how you feel. Baby steps. 

Apologies if this all sounds very mysterious and dramatic, it's not, I just think some things are better left unsaid. 

What will you be letting go of this week?

Toodlepip!

xx

Friday 14 November 2014

Zoeva Pink Elements Eye Set & Graphic Eyes Pencils

Aloha Sprinklerinos,
  
Happy Friday! I hope you're looking forward to the weekend, with lots of lovely things planned!

*sings*
Oh yes, wait a minute Mr. Postman! Waaaaaaait Mr Postman. 
*composes self*

Ahem. It’s as if he knew, what with this rainy old weather England is experiencing that I needed a little pick me up. And so, my morning was brightened by a heavenly little parcel from Zoeva.
A beauty review on the Zoeva Pink Elements Complete Eye Set
PINK. 

PINK BRUSHES. 

I mean, I don’t think I need to say any more? (but I will).

Secured safely in a little makeup bag of goodness were 12 brand spanking new Zoeva eye brushes from their Pink Element Eye Set.

142 Concealer Buffer
224 Luxe Defined Crease
226 Smudger
227 Luxe Soft Definer
228 Luxe Crease
230 Luxe Pencil
231 Luxe Petit Crease
234 Luxe Smoky Shader
237 Detail Shader
315 Fine Liner
317 Wing Liner
322 Brow Line
A beauty review on the Zoeva Pink Elements Complete Eye Set and their graphic eyes pencils
Described by the brand as the brush collection to celebrate women - women who dare to run the world
Well, it's certainly got my vote, because who doesn't love a bit of girl power? 
Their new range is all about empowering women to be confident, be bold, be daring. 
And given all the pressure the media puts on us to be perfect? It's quite refreshing to see such a happy and positive approach from a beauty brand.
They are the perfect addition to my (ever growing) stash and have been released just in time for Christmas, too. All 12 brushes – plus the bag – retail at just under £57 which really, for so many staple brushes is pretty darn impressive. 

To go alongside them Zoeva cheekily slipped in a selection of their Graphic Eyes – ultra smooth and waterproof eyeliners. I’m yet to test them out but with glittery, magnetic pigments, bold colours and the promise of staying put? I’m excited. 
On swatching, the formula is incredibly creamy which means it’ll glide on like a dream and now it’s approaching the festive season I’ll be looking for any excuse to get my eyes all bright and snazzy!
A beauty review and swatches of Zoeva Graphic Eyes Pencils
L-R: New Jewels, Opulence, Glance, Regency, Cool Factor
You can pick them up for £5.50from Love Makeup, so they’re the perfect little stocking filler to go alongside the brush set. 

What do you think? Has the sight of pink brushes and glittery pencils got you all flustered too?

Toodlepip!
xx

Wednesday 12 November 2014

Autumn Lookbook Comments


Aloha Sprinklerinos,

I just wanted to drop by and say such a huge thank you for all the amazing comments you left on my recent Autumn Lookbook. 

I logged into my YouTube account today to be met with this little message! 



I am always so amazed at how much of a community this is. I see so many lovely things written to and about me but what really gets me is when I see the wonderful things you write to each other. 


Thank you for always being so kind to me. I'm not sure I say that enough and wanted to remind you how grateful I am for you. Big, big loves. 

Also, apologies for this being so short- I have a three year old desperate for me to do some colouring with her!!! Mama duties call!!! <3 p="">

Toodlepip!

xx

Monday 10 November 2014

Motivational Monday || Courage


Aloha Sprinklerinos,

Merry Monday! A fresh week, a fresh start! Today I will be walking the red carpet for the Hunger Games movie premiere and I am beside myself with excitement- squuee!!


Today's topic is courage. 

I don't always feel very brave, in fact, quite the opposite. I often need a lot of help from those closest to me. I lean on my loved ones a lot for reassurance and seek a lorra lorra comfort in them. Last week I opened up in a blog post about my fear of being out of my comfort zone and I felt brave for saying it. 

Since I don't do a great many courageous things, I can't talk too much about it but this week I would like to encourage you to do something a little bit brave. Nothing major (unless you absolutely want to) but just a little tiny something. If it doesn't go well, try again. That's the bravest thing of all. 

Wishing you all the most wonderful, courageous week and sending you big cuddles and sparkles. 

Toodlepip!

xx

Friday 7 November 2014

I Hate New Places


Aloha Sprinklerinos,

This is a blog post I decided to write today, quite out of the blue, just because I feel like it will help me to write it all out, help other people who have to deal with me and potentially help those who feel the same way. 

I don't do well in new places. By 'new places' I mean like foreign towns, hotels I'm unfamiliar with, areas of this country that I haven't been before and people's houses if I have to be there for a long time (ie. over an hour). 

(From Seattle. The only place I've ever felt 100% ok when on a trip)

I realise this all sounds totally pathetic and I'm often embarrassed by it but it's something that I really struggle to over come. 

It began when I was little and lived in a really turbulent home. Our house was very violent and a lot of nasty things happened on a daily basis. I never, ever felt safe and I would dread 3.35pm because I knew that was time to leave the safety of school and go home to a place where nobody cared and there was no protection or comfort. 

As this lifestyle wore on, I was moved out of my home for safety and stayed in another house for a few months. I felt safe there (the family were really loving) but always knew it wasn't my home and that I was a guest. 

Things seemed to ease up when I went to university. I was really happy in my halls and even though we moved every year, I was always with the same group of girls who very much looked after me (my friend Faye particularly who would cook for me and chat to me about all the little things on my mind- I like to think I repaid her in laughs and adventures heh heh) and so felt safe. 

Then I met Matt, slipped into a work, home, sleep routine and felt really, really safe. I liked the walk to the office, I liked the 2 bedroom city apartment we had, I liked shopping on a Saturday morning and partying til Sunday. I liked always being in a place I felt familiar with and spending most of my time with a man who I knew cared enough about me to care when I was sad or afraid. 

In that time I went abroad 3 times. The first was to Las Vegas with my Dad. It was half his business trip and half a 'well done for graduating' trip. I was so excited. The plane journey was fine - I'd flown virgin before and was sat with Dad. The hotel was nice, although at this point I found myself calling home and feeling a slight sense of panic that I was so far away, and the city, well, it was too much. It was so unlike anywhere I'd been before that I couldn't adjust my comfort zone. I felt like everything was a bit that same but totally different. Same language, different roads, same foods, different currency. It's hard to explain because I know those are things I can easily learn and handle but when I suffer from home sickness like I do, it's hard to be rational. I stood looking out of my hotel room on the first night and felt like I didn't want to go outside or be a part of all the action and that I'd feel calmer in my room. As it happened, due to a death in the family, we flew home the next morning. All the same, that's when I fully realised that holiday's weren't for me. 

A year later I tried to tackle this with a girls holiday to Ibiza. My friend Emma invited me along with some of her friends and I thought it would be the perfect opportunity to let my hair down, party all night and not worry about feeling homesick or unsettled. I was so wrong. I was on edge at the airport and by the time we arrived on the island I was so tense I could barely eat. I hated the hotel, I couldn't socialise nicely with Emma's friends and spent most of my time trying really hard not to cry. I don't fully know how to explain it but it just felt like everything was MORE. The music was louder, the food was weird tasting, the boys were lairy, the sun was hotter. Obviously it was loud music and hot climates but I mean more than everyone else found it. After two nights I changed my flight and came home alone because I couldn't cope. My friend was so kind but she couldn't really understand the extreme stress levels I was experiencing and I couldn't really articulate them either. 

Just before our wedding, Matt and I went on a honeymoon (I know, weird way round- I was pregnant and there were work commitments too) and it wasn't too bad. I was 9 weeks pregnant so felt very sick but it was in a resort I'd been to as a child with my Dad, Matt was there to look after me and I felt OK. I still had a mini panic when we left the resort to visit the local area but at the time we blamed that on the pregnancy hormones. 

In those three trips I noted that if I had a strong male with me (Matt or Dad), I did better and if it was a totally new place, I felt really freaked. Also, if it was a hotel I'd visited before, it was better (now when I work in London, I always opt for the same places and never try somewhere new unless I'm forced to).

By the by, I WISH I could use better words than 'stressed', 'freaked', 'panicked' and 'unsettled'. I don't know how else to describe it. When I'm in the actual moment of fear, it's like standing on the edge of a cliff, totally alone, watching everyone below have a wonderful time all together, all coping and happy and I feel like I'm shouting down, 'Hey!!! I want to enjoy this but I can't! I feel unsafe! I want someone to protect me! Will you do that?! No because you're all busy having the great time I should be having too!!". 

Protection seems to be a massive thing. I don't know what I want protection for precisely. I think just the fear. I worry that I'm going to get the fear, won't be able to keep a hold on it and then I'll just be a freaked out mess that needs to go home because when I'm at home, I feel safe. Then I'll feel like a failure. I hate failing too. 

I've been on a lot of work trips this last two years and there have been trips I've done really well on, and those that I haven't. One trip (Vidcon 2013) I actually surprised myself on but it took every fibre in me to keep the fear at bay and to have a good time. I spent a lot of time in my room giving myself little pep talks or not letting anyone see my cry. Still though, that's classed as a success. 

Trips I did well on (still with spells of panic or fear or having to be in my room a lot though) were Playlist 2014, Vidcon 2013 and New York for Digitour. On my family holiday to Seattle I was 100% fine the entire time. Trips that made me experience super high anxiety levels were ItaTube in Milan (everywhere was so, so, so unfamiliar), Vidcon 2014 (where I spent almost all social time in my room or in the corner of parties emotionally leaning on Hazel) and AmityFest last month. 

On a bad trip I don't eat properly, when I do eat I feel really tummy poorly, I can't hang out with Zoe (who would normally make me laugh and make me happy) much because she likes warm aircon and it makes me feel suffocated (obv she'd turn it off if I insisted but I hate being such a pain), I get so so so worried that if we leave the hotel I will get lost from the group or the group will loose me, I drink more at evening events as a (really bad) coping mechanism, I feel really insecure about how I look, I don't at all want to go near crowds (a problem at YouTube conventions) and I don't sleep well at night (although this could be the jet lag). 

On a bad trip things that calm me down are constant reassurances before and during the trip, little physical gestures like hand squeezes and hugs and such (which is unusual for me because I'm not overly into that), familiar things (people especially, stories, restaurants that I know the chain of etc) and very, very clear plans for the day (so what everyone is doing at what time and why). I've noticed when people have actually used the words, 'protect you' or 'can leave at any time' or 'I won't let you get lost, I'm looking after you', I've instantly felt calmer and safer, even if deep down I know they didn't mean it.  I've even noticed that in crowds (like at YT events or premiers) I've said in panic to whoever I'm with, 'Don't loose me will you?!!?'. Being lost is a thing. I've also noticed that I am much calmer with men than women. 

When I feel that bad all I can think about is either being at home where I feel safe or seeking out a person (usually male or a super strong female) to reassure me or escaping whatever experience I am in, going to sit on my own and going online to familiar places (skype, facebook, fave blogs etc). 

I worry that my friends think I'm high maintenance and so try to only mention it a bit. It's not only abroad that I feel this way, it's on overnight trips to their houses. Hazel and Zoe are both now in the habit of telling me all the nice things waiting for me on arrival which really touches me that they are so thoughtful and even Jack who is so un-into those little gestures will be nice about it to some extent. 

I don't know why I'm like this. I don't know if it's because of my violent and unstable upbringing or something I have developed because I'm weak in certain coping or adjustment areas but I don't want to be this way. I feel like I can never fully tell people the extent of my stress levels about this because it sounds so very pathetic and stupid and so in return, I as a person am pathetic or stupid. I know I'm a smart woman, I know how to be rational about situations and be self aware in experiences but I can't always FEEL that. 

At AmityFest I felt the fear even in Birmingham which is an hour from my home!! I could literally have been wrapped in my own duvet within 90 minutes! When it was suggested that we take the show to Australia I cried and almost couldn't go on stage because I imagined the fear I might face when I was there. Even typing about that trip is making my eyes well up a bit. 

I feel so very, very silly about this but don't know how to deal with it. My friends are kind and try to jolly me along a bit, my Dad tells me 'don't be silly, you can never get lost in the world', but it doesn't help. Although I've mentioned, 'missing home' or being homesick in a lot of vlogs, I've often cut out huge chunks of teary attempts at explainations for why I feel how I feel. I'd also like to point out, it's not a Mummy thing and panic about being away from Baby Glitter, I've been this was since long before her arrival. 

I realise that if you love new places and new experiences and meeting new people, this will sound so trivial and ridiculous. I feel a bit trivial and ridiculous sharing it to be honest. 

I always try and do things. I don't (yet) miss out. I travel frequently and do have a lot of new experiences each month but I would love to be able to do them fully excited or relaxed and not fret for days before hand. I'm going to New York in two weeks for Tristate Playlist and already I'm worrying, burdening my friends, imagining things and mentally planning what I'll do if things get too much. I hate it. 

I hope this will be of some interest to those of you that have followed me for a long time. I might one day make a video on it but for now, I feel like this is a big enough step. I'm sorry I can't be more articulate about all of this, perhaps I will do a follow up when I understand it more myself. 

If anyone has any coping tips for this kind of thing, leave them in the comments and I will gratefully read them all. 

If you think this is all a load of rubbish, please be gentle with your comments, I'm quite sensitive about this I think.

Edit - When I'm feeling like this, I don't have panic/anxiety attacks. It's not a matter of having an attack, calming down and then carrying on. It's a constant dread/worry/stress that I can't shake until I feel like I'm safe/protected/relaxed. Just thought I'd add that in because I'm not sure I was clear! 

Toodlepip! 

xx


The Best Of October


Aloha Sprinklerinos,

As promised last week in my rather late September Update, today we're looking at October and recapturing all those sweet little moments that made the month so special. 

With any luck, I'll start managing these on a more regular basis! 

All images are from my instagram account which you can check out HERE

From L-R. Top-Bottom.

Top Row

Recently my Grandma's Brother Geoff flew over from Australia to visit us. I'd never met him and it had been the first time in 20 years that he was reunited with his siblings. My Dad arranged a huge dinner for us all at a venue in the countryside and it was a lovely chance to just be amongst family. On top of that, because Matt was away, I was forced to drive a long route I've never taken before. I'm a really nervous driver so although I was really frightened to do it, I ended up super proud that I faced a fear and came out on top! Darcy wowed the Pentland crowds with her oh-so-sweet attire and enjoyed playing round the (not lit) fire place. Autumn Cuteness overload. 

Second Row
Gma rocking a selfie. I'm so proud of the women in my family and even prouder to be one of them. They're a good bunch!

Whilst Darcy sat playing on my lap one day I noticed how very, very grown up she is becoming. She likes to accessorise every outfit and just seeing a necklace clasp under her tiny fluffy baby hair made me emotional. 

A #tbt (Throw Back Thursday) snap of me, Dan and Phil. I do love those boys. 

Jack came to play. I say, 'play' but what I mean is set himself up on my sofa with every cushion available and work. Fun times. 

This was my, 'I'm so excited' face. I forget what I was excited for. Either a new video ooorrr a twitter takeover I did for Shout Magazine with Zoe. 

Third Row
Little bit of train time with Jackrobat. Lovely, lovely. 

Whilst on a newspaper photoshoot, I managed to squeeze in a bit o' Laspar time. I've seen a couple of people ask if 'Laspar' is real (as in are we dating and 'shipped' our names together). Just to clarify, nooooo, we're not! It just kind of a running joke we have with our YouTube viewers haha. 

Whilst in a meeting the next day, I opened my notepad to find these beauties from the Zoella Beauty launch party and smiled. It was nice to see such friendly faces beaming up at me. 

Bottom Row
Next morning I took a walk round Borough Market with some of my really old friends from Liverpool. We mooched about, ate tapas and chatted for hours. It was like food for the soul.

A cheeky little picture of me and Alfie snuck in there too. Isn't he a love?

Whilst with the old but gold friends, we headed up to the top of the Shard to take in the view and enjoy some sight-seeing. If you ever have the chance, you should definitely go, it's quite spectacular. 

Back home in the local petrol station (the glamour) I saw this display of heavenly goodness. Hello Nutella & Go, let's be best friends. 


From L-R. Top-Bottom.

Top Row
On to some more homey times now. Watch Darcy play is one of the most peaceful things to do in my life. I love seeing her little mind work and making up new stories. It's just the cutest. 

To celebrate Halloween, we bought and decorated 'spooky' cookies. We love doing little activities like this. Just perfect bursts of Mummy-Baby time. 

Practising her Halloween poses in the mirror. Look at that hip action!

My little fluff baby being so adorable I might pass out. 

Second Row
And then I let her have some say in what she wore and she came up with this. I'm OK with it. Creative free will and all haha. 

Another #tbt for #Laspar. Oh dear. 

It's so rare that she falls asleep in my arms and gets this cosy so when she does I cherish it tight. I could love on this little girl forever. 

Third Row
Oops.

For my main channel I made Spooky Toddler DIY's video and the night before sat up practising all the projects. This little guy became a firm friend. 

Red and Black lips for a bonus video. Oh la la. 

At a photoshoot for the AmityFest tour we did. It was SUCH an early start (I was in the car at 5am) that Pillie simply had to come with me. 

Caspar looking lovely. 

Bottom Row
Me (hopefully) looking lovely!

Lunch with the one and only, Tanya Burr. Jim came too but he was the photographer haha. 

Thank goodness for the wonderfully talented hair and makeup lady who transformed my very early morning face. 

And then before I knew it I was home with my baby and Jack too! If you hope over to his insta, you can see the journey home. I was soooo delirious with tiredness and excitement that I made myself cry laugh and he very kindly documented it. Tada! 

From L-R. Top-Bottom.

Top Row
I wore a hat. Jack didn't care. I think deep down he did but yanno, he's playing it cool. 

Reading through all your gorgeous letters from my PO Box. You lovelies melt my heart. 

An avocardo. Just chillin'. 

Darcy (who dressed herself again) hanging out by the magazines. 'Baby Glitter is in the press' was my pithy caption. Ha ha ha I make myself laugh with those. Lol. 

Second Row
Screenshot from our Halloween DIY video!

London looking oh so beautiful at night time. 

OK, this blog post has told me I've seen Caspar way too much this month. I blame AmityFest. 

Whilst we rehearsed for AmityFest, we would go to lunch at the cutest, most hipster cafe I've ever stepped foot in. Seriously, there were little chilli plants instead of flowers. 

Third Row
Screenshot from my lipstick tutorial video.....but the bit where Zula distracted me. 

Artwork on buildings like this is why I love Shoreditch and it's surroundings so very much. 

Baby Girl taking in the Autumn. 

And 'throwing the ducks some bread'. AKA. Violently throwing crumbs on the floor and then being annoyed when the ducks waddled out of the lake and came too close to her wellies. 

Bottom Row
Random cat. I can't help but document them when I see them. 

Bit o' Jack time. 

A late night craft project (why oh why do I do those to myself?!)

Hazel and I ready for the spookiest party in town. You can't fully see but Hazel sprayed her hair violet and it looked amazing. 

From L-R. Top-Bottom.

Top Row
A snap of a snap from the #AsDarknessFalls Halloween Party. I vlogged it HERE

The prettiest doorway in London that I spotted from a taxi window. You can't really see in this picture but the ceiling was powder blue with hand painted gold stars all in it. It really was beautiful. 

Shameless selfie 1. 

Dinner with Jack and Dean. They had the greatest little time, despite what this picture tells you. 

Second Row
Shameless selfie 2. (This was actually to go to a meeting and I quickly realised that glossy red lips, long wavy hair and high winds - not a good mix).

A snap with my Chummy at the launch with Tanya Burr's lashes. I do miss that lady. 

Cuddles with a boy baby that I did not birth. YouTube search 'Hannah Maggs' for all that cuteness!

Oh hai lipsticks of absolute beauty! Check out THIS post for more on them.

Third Row
A very, very, very tired little baby. Oof my heart could burst for her. 

Preparing to hit the road for AmityFest- I stocked up for the tour bus. Yum. 

Saying goodbye to my little angel made me sad. When I go away I get so insanely homesick. I'm thinking about doing a video or blog post about that soon. What do you think?

Stage hair and makeup! I'm so into little plaits at the moment!

Bottom Row
Darcy on stage during rehearsals. She loved it so much that she actually came out for a little bit in the show which was adorable. She's becoming quite the show girl!! <3 p="">

Group photo with some of our guests and then two of the actual show- the whole thing was such a blast. Vlog coming very very soon! 

-----------

And there we have it. My entire month in 48 pictures! What did you do in October that you loved?

Toodlepip!

xx

Monday 3 November 2014

Motivational Monday || Fresh Starts


Aloha Sprinklerinos,

A new week and a new month, how refreshing. I like the start of new things. They give me hope that this time I can do better than the last and the motivation to try. 


I thought this doodle was particularly apt for the new day, week, month and hoped it would bring you a little bit of invigoration to get going. 

It's quite easy, I find, to be pulled down by the daily grind or by our personal problems or even by other people's personal problems. It can feel like wading through treacle and like there is no end in sight. I try really hard to divide my time and life by the months and have them be like chapters of a book. That way, if one month has been particularly hard, you can sort of draw a line under it and start afresh in the new one. 

My October was busy and challenging but also rewarding. I don't want to draw a line under it and forget it, but more draw a line and start again with renewed energy. I want to take a moment to think about my goals for this month (more time at home, more photography, more time with Darcy) and not focus on how much I was away in October and how much focus I had to put on things that ultimately, were not the 'real' stuff of life.

If October was a big month for you (for good or for bad), take a quiet moment today to think about what you want from this new chapter and to breath deep, sit still and re-energise. It's going to be a good one!

If you'd like to share in the comments what you want to do in this new month, please do! If you'd prefer to keep that as a mental note- I feel ya!

Toodlepip!

xx

Saturday 1 November 2014

September late-date!


Aloha Sprinklerinos!

Happy November! Where oh where does time go? It seems that 2014 is wizzing by faster than I can keep track. 

With that in mind, I have looked over all my recent insta snaps and wanted to have a little catch up. Half for your (hopeful) enjoyment but also for mine, so that when I read back over this digital scrapbook of mine, I will remember all these tiny moments and cherish them. 

So, today let's remember September and next week we'll do October. Also, for once, it's in chronological order. Yay!


From R-L. Top - Bottom.

Row One
This was a #tbt (Throw Back Thursday) where I was wishing to be back with Marie and her wonderful family in Seattle. Currently we are planning a trip so there's light at the end of that exciting tunnel!

Having kittens in the house makes for mischievous little moments like this. I'm so glad to have my phone to capture moments like walking into the bathroom to find them in the tub. 

September to me is the unofficial start of Autumn, so of course, the candles were lit and cosiness re-instated!

I love giving people little keepsakes and after I found these Juicy Lucy cards, I just had to write a few for the girls in the office. 

Row Two
Since I'm in London so much, I often stay over night so that I can do two full days of meetings and projects and then be properly at home again. This was one of those night and the lovely Hazel and Ollie came to keep me company. Things got pretty wild (lol) and ended up with room service milk and cookies and laptop times. 

Next day in between meetings I had a cheeky Zizzi's with Jack. This is the moment after I whinged that my pizza was too difficult to cut and he conceeded to do it for me, mwahahaha- look how happy about it he was! ;)

That afternoon I skipped off to Claridges to intervew Kim Kardashian (as you do). Vlog of the event coming really soon!

And then before I knew it, I was home again, makeup off and have cuddles with my baby. Bliss. 

Row Three
Oop, that time I decided to insert 4 random seconds of stop-motion footage into a video, just because I'd worked out how to do it and was excited. Yeah buddy. 

Starbucks stop with my baby girl. If you don't like tea or coffee (like me), give a chocolate cream frapperchino with a shot of peppermint a go. You won't regret it. 

My beautiful friend from university married her sweetheart and Darcy delighted in the ice cream. Seriously, why does icecream make kids so completely happy?!? 

The superhero themed wedding cake- potentially the best cake I've ever seen. 

Row Four
As part of a project for Comic Relief Hazel was asked to shoot some footage at the Warner Brother Studios. I was invited along as her trustee side-kick and we had a night of duelling, touring and general giddiness. Cheeky lil smooch from Dumbledore too eh? Heh heh. 

Those crazy kids over at Boomf very kindly sent me a set of customised marshmallows. Sweets with my own face on? Yes please. 


From R-L. Top - Bottom.

Row One
Exciting goodies in my PO Box. 

The joy of finding spare Real Techniques brushes at Gleam HQ. Oh me oh my I was happy!

Jack and I played tourists for the day and someone got giddy at the Natural History Museum (hint, it was me). If you check out my Sprinkle of Chatter channel, there's a vlog of it, yay!

Cuddles with Zula. 

Row Two
Cuddles with Rocket.

I recently bought sparkle pumps from Accessorize and I'm still happy about this choice. 

Playing YouTube in a giant cardboard cutout at a google talk I did with Vivvy and Anna. It was nice to be so grown up for the day- even if I did wear the sparkle pumps. 

Oh how the mighty fell- wisdom tooth removal. I was not brave about it. Not one bit.

Row Three
Another #tbt to Malibu Beach with the gang. That was SUCH a lovely day. One of those where you look around and realise how very blessed you are. 

The day I discovered our local supermarket does these little scone, cream and jam packs was a reaaalllyyy good one!

Darcy welcomes Autumn at the playground. 

I welcome Autumn with a bubble bath. Mmmhmmm. 

Row Four
With my amazing Manager Dom Smales who is one of the most supportive men in my life. Big loves for him. 

More cuddles with Rocket. I could just cuddle him forever. 

Both my furry babies. When Zula rolls on his back like that, I feel I might die. Look. At. Himmmmm. 

That time I wanted to demonstrate how tired I was on the train but actually just posed with my eyes shut for a selfie and looked gaga to all the other passengers. Good then. 



From R-L. Top - Bottom.

Row One
En route to film a collab with Miranda Sings and bumping into lots of her very lovely fans!

Pizza's healthy if you have a heap of salad, right? 

If there's one thing I love more than loving on my cats, it's watching other people love on them.

Playtime with fluff puffs. Who knew they could be so much fun??

Row Two
More Autumn leaves. Darcy spent so, so long picking up loads to make herself a 'fan'. She was very proud. I was too really. 

My lounge is most definitely my favourite cosy space in the world. You can't not be happy in there.

PJ's and Christmas films, even if it was only September. 

Contemplative playtime. 

Row Three
I was asked by my friend Clare to give a talk at her school (which incidentally is my old school) about modern language on social media. They gave me flowers at the end. A good day!

Hair time!

A little bit of chummy lovin' at Zoe's launch for Zoella Beauty. 

Row Four
And then all smiles with Hazel in the photo booth. 

I attended and talked at a Creativity Conference in London with Jack, Finn and Jamal. This was the first public speaking event I have ever felt really uncomfortable at and felt very out of my depth- eep!

Again, rubbing a cat round my face. Standard. 

A hearty wooden lunch, served by Darcy. Lucky Mama!


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

Gracious me that was a lorra lorra catching up! I'm really glad I took the time to look back over all of those- it's made me realise how lucky I am to be so busy and have so many exciting projects, even if at the time they feel overwhelming or scary!

If you'd like to follow me on instagram, I am @Sprinkleofglitr. 

Do you ever make time to take stock? In what ways do you reflect?

Toodlepip!

xx

 photo newer.jpg  photo older.jpg  photo homebot.jpg