New Job - New Challenge

Hey, long time no speak.
I know its been a while and I just wanted to check in,
Well there have a been a few changes since I last blogged.

I have just accepted a new job, and I am in the final few days at my old company of 7 years. I will soon be moving on and hopefully progression within my career. The new company is within a similar industry and I cannot wait to work with them to progress myself and their company.

My boyfriend now has his new job, since leaving university and graduating last September, he has now got an amazing job. I am so proud that the hard work and effort of getting his degree has paid off. I just need to get used to him working away and not knowing when he will be home. Such as now 3 weeks in America, with no due date to come home (other than before his 60 day visa runs out).

A few things have happened recently that have made me realize you need to live for each and every day, and live life to the max.

Speak soon

Nic

August Favorites 2015

August Favorites:

Things that I have been loving in August:

My new Home – I moved out of my cold, expensive mouldy flat and I am very happy about that. My new house is modern, clean and cosy. The best things for me is I have storage space. I can help the place look tidy most of the time as I can put stuff away. Then I have a 5 minute wipe around and everything is done. Even a big clean takes around 20-30 minutes. I am still saving to no longer need to rent, however this will be a few years away.

Actiderm micellar lotion – over the last few months I have been introduced to a new range of skincare products. I have had a few facials and this month I have bought a few of the products.  I am loving the Micellar lotion, I had previously been using the Garnier version, however after just a week of using this my skin feels and looks cleaner and clearer. I have other items from the same face range and I may be writing a full post on this.

Bodyshop all in one face base – seeing as my skin is better I have been able to go back to my trusty all in one face base, usually I can get away with this instead of a heavy foundation for work. However I have just gone through a dry skin phase where powder was not my friend. Although I am still having bad skin days I am able to use this 5/7. I just wish you could replace the powder section rather than needing to buy a whole new compact. It just seems a waste to me.

Aldi Rose Wine – this year I have started shopping at Aldo when It opened in the village, Now I have had some product swap fails, but I have found a few items I really like. Such as the Rose that is £2.99 from there, It is sweet and not too strong and great for an everyday drink. (Not that I drink every day)

EverythingsaFiver.com – I have now lost all the wright I was planning and am a size 8, I therefore was ready for getting rid of my 10-12 clothes and fully committing to my new size and shape. As I needed essentials and lots of them I often turn to this website. I like that now you can search by size, and don’t therefore shop find the dream dress and they have sold out. Also they are constantly adding new items to the range. I have yeas had some product fails, and in fact had a delivery today of 10 items and 1 is a fail. You can return them, but if is it your own fault due to being the wrong size for your body, you have to cover the return postage. (Around £5) therefore I shall donate this. You can do well and today I received a dress with a £60 price tag left on. (I wouldn’t have bought it at that price, but someone would)

My new car – I got rid of the Yaris Hybrid, I didn’t really like its drive and feel. I therefore upgraded to a VW gold 2.0 TDI with DSG gearbox. Basically in English, it goes fast if I put my foot down, is automatic and economical.

I still think it could be a little but big for me, but I wanted 5 door with boot space and I have that.  A few people have asked why I need a sporty car. However at the time of ordering the other car I wanted was an Audi TT, therefore the golf is much less sporty.

Speak Soon

Nicola

Actiderm Makeup and products.

This week I have been contacted by a lady in my local area to see her about Actiderm products. To be honest I had not heard of the items before and did some reading online.

The products are by a British pharmaceutical company, made in their own French Labs, who work with all of the big names in French and worldwide skincare brands. They branched out and started to produce their own line, but due to contracts can only sell directly to the public. Therefore they have a brochure / party company to sell their items. There is a wide range of skin and body beauty items. However in the last 6 months they have brought out a mineral makeup range. 

Jen asked if I would like a free makeover to see more about the products myself. I went to her house where the products were all laid out on the table with their silver packaging.

She then talked to me about the products how they are all paraben free and how no talc or bulking agent is used in the items. Great for me with my sensitive skin. We then decided to go for a daring evening look. I wasn’t going out anywhere and I was still in my office work clothes but I wanted to see a change. Something I wouldn’t have known how to do at home. 

Jen went through the stages and told me what she was doing and how she applied this.

At the end I got a sheet with a link to her website and what products were used. There was no hard sell, but this is due to the products selling themselves.

I have never found a red lipstick for me, and Jen worked her magic and did in the shade strawberry. I also really likes the brow wax she used. I am currently using MUA with a wax and powder combination. But I think I’m going to convert. I was also interested in the cream to powder foundation. I have never ventured away from straight liquid, or my mineral powder. Never one that changed between, however the coverage was smooth and I can build it up if I have a bad skin day.

I have since spoken to some colleagues at work about the skincare range and they want to know more, due to the lifting, tightening and plumping that some offer. (I don’t think I’m ready for them just yet)

In conclusion:

•          I like Jen, she was lovely – if your local to Doncaster / Retford get in touch with her.
•        I like the products and they opened my eyes to new items to try
•       I like the idea of the company with their ethics of not bulking out the products and being paraben free.
•         I’m not an Actiderm convert, however I shall be adding items to my routine. I would like to learn more about the daily skincare range.

Nicola

Links:

Jens facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/jensactiderm/

Jens Website: http://www.actiderm.co.uk/me/jenny-driscoll

Whats happening / Happened

Sorry for the lack of post last week.
I have been busy and will get back on track.

I have finished decorating my flat
Bought a new car
Done a Partylite party - helping lead to more bookings

I know this wont seem like allot, but is on top of working full time and running 2 companies of my own.

I shall be next week having a makeover using some lovely facial products and I shall be writing a post about this later this week.

What have you been up to?
Nicola

What have I been up to:New Bedroom Room tour

What have I been up to:New Bedroom Room tour

Hello 2015,

I know I have been quiet recently, but I guess that’s what you get for working in retail over Xmas. Well now is New Year and a new start.

I thought it was about time I share my new room. I am finally getting there and I am pretty happy with it. There is only 1 main item that I think is missing but I shall get on to this within the post.

My new room:

I decided as I am not allowed to paint to accessories with colour, I went for Duck Egg Blue. I had to invest in all new furniture, including my new bed (storage drawers underneath). I wanted the room to be minimal, uncluttered and restful.

Along the way I have added colour splashes. Including my blind and light shade, Photo frame, wall plaques and candle holder. I had a few items of this colour from my old house. The jewellery box and Me to You teddy.

I have lots of my Partylite candles around, all in Iced Snowberries of course. As well as some non-company candles. But shush don’t tell anyone.

I do want to add in a dressing table, stool and mirror. To say I work for an on-line furniture company I cannot find a set suitable for the room. I found the ideal set, but they did not have a matching stool. Therefore I am sorry I think I will have to be a traitor to the company and go on Amazon for this. I cannot wait as my old room didn't have space for this. My make-up storage is quite good now, however I want to be better, and more space will help this.

The accessories from this room are either from.

www.MelodyMaison.co.uk

www.TheRange.co.uk

www.BMStores.co.uk

What post will be next. 

Hmmm ….. suggestions very much welcome.

Speak soon

Nic x

New Month New Start.

Hey, Me again
I have recently had a massive change, I am going to aim to restart blogging fully in the new year.
I have a few posts written and scheduled for in December.

I feel like I am letting you down a little at the minute. However I am Pencilling in a few hours a week for planning and writing.

I have recently taken on a part time job which has affected my spare time in an evening. Which was my ideal blog writing plan time.

Speak soon (nov favs i think)

Nicola

Yorkshire Wildlife Park: Part 1:

Yorkshire Wildlife Park:

Part 1:

This week I went to the wildlife park with my family. I was very excited to spend some time with my family outside. 

On arrival the park once passing the new shop and entrance area we went for lunch. We went to the newly refurbished safari cafe. This was clean, bright and unusually quiet. The menu was varied and had lots of yummy sounding food. With members on staff on hand and knowledgeable about their products. The items were reasonably priced an example was £6.95 for a large portion of quiche and salad. The food arrived quickly and freshly prepared. With large portions and good quality food this was a pleasant surprise from usual burgers and such food.

Then we went into the park fully, We bought the kids the guidebooks which had lots of facts about the animals. Great for when you don't know the answers to the million and one questions they may ask. Also there is a quiz in there to keep them occupied throughout the park.

We did go midweek however it was during the summer holidays, and also one of the special event safari nights. The car park was busy, but once you have entered the park due to the vastness the park didn't feel busy. With no ques to see the animals. 

The children's play areas were busy and the indoor one was very hard to find seats, but this did not cause any issues for the children to play.

I love to walk around the lions to see the landscaping and waterfalls.

As always went to my favourite section: South American Viva to see my Capybara Martha.

This visit the giraffes were outside and I got to see the recent addition to the gang.

I cannot wait to go later this week to see the new Polar bear and stay for the evening to experience the safari night.

Speak soon

Nicola

Blog Update: What have I been doing over the last few weeks.

Weekly update:

Sorry I have not blogged for a few weeks, I have had a busy time but I am back. I have had lots of exciting things I have done and why not turn this into this weeks post:

I have recently caught up with a few Uni friends for a few nights in Blackpool. The weather was really good this first day we were there and we popped to the pleasure beach. Im not one for big rides therefore I was enjoying sitting in the sun being the designated bag lady. The other 2 days we were there the weather was not so great but we still made the most of our time off. 

We wanted to go up the Blackpool tower but sadly due to high winds it was closed. On the final day we went to see the animals at Blackpool zoo.

It was nice to relax, and this did include a glass or two of wine. Especially catching up with friends not seen for 18 months.

I have not been feeling 100% recently and have been really tired and achey after work. I have been having quite a few baths and using lots of lovely smelling products to try and ease the stress and aches. I do really enjoy taking some time out from everything, just me, bath, candles and music on my phone. I guess now we are going into summer with the warmer nights this may have to stop soon. As I don't want to overheat in the bath, (I already come out looking like a lobster)

As my family don't live near me I had chance to go and see my mum and family. A nice sunday lunch and a good chat. Especially nice to see my niece who is growing up so quickly. I know she was dressed as a disney princess but I don't know which one. I really am loosing touch with disney films.

Last weekend I was very lucky to be invited to a wedding as a guest. One of the girls from work was getting married. It was at my local church and a lovely hotel nearby. The weather didn't quite know what it wanted to do. But the sun was shining and the Bride looked lovely. It was strange going to a wedding and seeing it from the guests eyes. Realising firstly how many gaps and breaks there are in the day when you are not a guest. And (yes I'm going to say it) how annoying the photographer can be. The day felt long for us as guests but then i found out the bride had her hair and makeup booked in for 8am that day, and the first dance was not until 9pm. It was also a lovely day as I knew quite a lot of people at the wedding due the being kind of a work wedding. Good to see people out of work relaxing too.

and finally, I got to see a very dear friend to me this week. It was really strange how even after not seeing someone properly for over 3 years I instantly felt relaxed and as though nothing had changed. A good natter, a few apologies, a few tears and a hug from her beautiful baby boy really made my day. It does make me realise that true friends are there somewhere. You may not see them all the time but you do need to put the effort in to keep in touch as it is worth it. 

Well there I am, hopefully usual service will be resumed, I am planning to write up a lot of blogs this weekend to schedule for the next few weeks.

Bye 

Nicola

Sensationail : At Home Gel Manicure

Sensationail : At Home Gel Manicure

Last year I was very lucky to receive as a gift the Sensationail at home gel manicure system. I have been a lover of nail polish for a long time but never liked that due to my job my nails chip very quickly. I feel like to keep my polish looking perfect i needed to apply it daily. Even buying more expensive brands and taking time over proper preparation, top coats and base coats did not work for me.

I looked into having gels done at my local beauty salon as I was amazed at the 14 day wear tag. However I was put off by the £25 price tag.

In the summer last year the sensationail items were reduced in my local Asda and while out shopping and seeing this I mentioned it to a family member of how good the price was. 

Next thing I knew it had been purchased for me (very lucky I know). The set I got was the Pink chiffon set including the lamp. 

To be honest I am not the biggest fan of the bright pink colour but it was a great taster for the range and for me to realise that I did get a good 10 days wear before the sids started lifting.

Next time I was in Asda the polish’s were reduced to £5 therefore it was prime time to get more colours. I purchased Taupe Tulips, the Pink French Manicure, and Mauve Mauven.

The starter kit has everything in if for 10 manicures, I know i have not been using the pink colour for every manicure, but the rest of the kits bottles are still going strong and I am on about manicure 15.

I don't like the french manicure, I cannot get along with the stickers for creating the smile line. I really feel like I need another pair of hands, and I don't have that available.  But I do Love the Taupe Tulips colour, it is the perfect nude and does not give me mannequin hands.

 It is a great colour that will go with everything for the 10ish days of wear. Mauve Mauven is a great muted bright raspberry. 

I do love the system and it is like a full on usual at home manicure. It takes me about 30 minutes and that is taking my time. 

You simply, shape the nails, push back the cuticles, buff off the shine, wipe off with an alcohol wipe, primer, base coat, colour coat, top coat, wipe again = done.

In the middle of the stages you put your nails under the lamp for either 30 seconds or 60 seconds depending on the stage. (the lamp give you a handy beep to tell you when done)

One thing I have learnt from using the system is not to get the products on the skin, i.e cuticle or the side of the nail. firstly when it goes under the lamp the product goes solid and it is hard to remove post curing, secondly if you get it on there this is the place you are likely to catch and this is where the lifting will appear first.

I do love the products, and I would like to get more colours for my collection. I do prefer the more muted colours from the range, as I have currently stuck to the beige, pinks and browns. I wish I could be more adventurous with the brighter colours.

Sensationail have just brought out a secondary line called Fuze, this is aimed i think at a slightly different audience. Everything is in the one bottle, so one coat and you put the finger under the light and you are done. But I think the wear time on this range is up to 1 week. Therefore on me with my hands on job I think this may only be about 3-4 days. I would be happy to try this range if I see it on offer. It would be a good alternative for if I don't have 30 minutes to spare. Also I think the colour are brighter and may be a good alternative for spring / summer.

Overall, I would recommend the Sensationail range. If you can paint your nails and you want hard wearing and long lasting nail colour without the salon price tag I would say give this a try.

At the time of writing this post there is an offer at Boots for a Mother day promotion to get the kit including lamp at a reduced price. This give you everything yo need to get started for 10 manicures. Why not buy one for a loved one or for yourself. 

I would suggest waiting for an offer to come up, as there are quite often discounts on Sensationail’s direct website or in boots.

February Favourites video now live:

I have just posted my February Favourites video to Youtube.

Why not take a look at what I have been loving.

Please excuse the thumbnail, Youtube did not give many flattering options.

Why not comment with you would have been liking too and maybe I will purchase it to try in March.

More blogs coming up later this week. 

I shall be still aiming for a written blog at least once a week. 

Speak Soon

Nicola

x

So who am I and what am I doing here?

Hello.

So who am I and what am I doing here?

Well then, I'm Nicola, I'm from Doncaster and I'm going to start writing about my experiences. I'm not sure if anyone will fancy reading them but I'm going to give it a go.

I'm from a pretty normal background, I have a normal job and like normal things.

Well whatever normal is...

I'm planning to blog and maybe video my thoughts on new experiences within my life. Therefore I don't think I'm best to put myself in a blogging bracket. I'm not going to be specifically beauty, fashion or lifestyle. But more writing about my journey and the products and opportunities that I come across on the way.

Yes I will probably do product reviews, but I am more about letting you know about me and my views on all things NEW. We will all experience lots of new things everyday and take them for granted. So I thought what the heck ill make a log of the new and exciting things that happen.

So what can you expect from following me. Good question.

I am about value for money and also I am passionate about doing the best you can with what you have. Whether that's saving a little money by doing your research before you buy, or buying items on offer, or environmentally friendly issues, such as me being an EV car driver.

I love photography and enjoy spending time in the outdoors capturing everything. Ill go on a holiday and take well over 1000 images. I also love to be part of weddings and I am a wedding photographer part time around my ‘proper’ job. One day I would like to make my photography hobby my full time job but I love it how its going right now.

I am very much a friends and family person. I appreciate that to get through life you need a little help along the way. I love to spend time with other people and just talk about the day/week/year. I also may blog about my days out and the new placed that I have been. Whether its a day out to a local wildlife park or going on holiday to see a new location and culture.

So there I am, What do you think? 

Well the plan is to put something online every week. (thank goodness for scheduling) Whether that's a blog or a video. Ill also share some of my images and new finds on pinterest/ instagram if you fancy taking a look there too.

Feel free to get in touch, with me about anything.

Speak soon

Nicola

So where can you find me:

Blog: nicolasnewthings.blogspot.com

Youtube: youtube.com/NicsNewThings

Twitter: @nicsnewthings

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/nicsnewthings/

Email: nicsnewthings@gmail.com