My Bucket List...

Hey everyone! So I finally got the chance to write out my bucket list the other day and I thought of sharing it with you guys so maybe you could get some inspiration. Be sure to leave in the comments what some things on your bucket list are!

 

♥Travel around the world

♥Fly in a helicopter and a glider

♥Tour-de-France!

♥Go to America and visit Times Square

♥Ride a camel

♥Hajj

♥Skydive

♥Go in a hot air balloon

♥Use a parachute

♥Climb a mountain

♥Go to Paris

♥Bungee-jump off a mountain!

♥Ride a horse

♥Ride an elephant

♥Graduate

♥Visit Egypt and the Pyramids of Giza

♥Adopt a rabbit

♥Go to Japan

♥Swim with dolphins

 

The Theory of Everything Movie Review!

Hey everybody! So a couple of days ago, I was staying at my cousin's house for a sleepover as, PRAISE THE LORD, it's the holidays, and late last night, my wonderful cousin and I and my auntie decided to go to the cinema to watch 'The Theory Of Everything'. The movie was extremely emotional- I was tearing up 30 seconds into the trailer!: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LUayjO_KgsQ 

 The movie is a re-enactment of Stephen Hawking's life. Stephen Hawking is a world-famous physicist despite suffering from a rare neurological disorder-motor neuron disease. He was given just two years to live when he was diagnosed, however, he is now 73! Hawking is an inspiration to all, achieving so much despite being so limited.

'The Theory of Everything' concentrates mostly on Stephen's love life with lover, Jane Wilde. The movie shows how Jane's and Stephen's love starts and gets stronger as Stephen's disease becomes increasingly severe. The two meet at a party in Cambridge University and they become close, and after just a few weeks of being together, Stephen is diagnosed with his disease. Jane is determined that she will support him in the few years he has left, and so they get married and have 3 children. Stephen becomes less and less able, resorting to a wheelchair as his condition worsens. Stephen still defies all odds, as he becomes world-famous after coming up with a new, rational theory to explain the start of time. Other scientists and physicists meet him, and he attends numerous award ceremonies due to is success. In the middle of the movie, there is a heart-breaking twist, which I won't spoil, which left me in a pool of tears!

Here is a little factfile on TTOE:

Directed by: James Marsh

Produced by: Tim Bevan, Eric Fellner, Lisa Bruce, Anthony McCarten

Screenplay by: Anthony McCarten

Based on: 'Travelling to Infinity: My Life with Stephen' By Jane Wilde

Starring: Eddie Redmayne, Felicity Jones

Running time: 123 mins

Genre: Romance

The movie was incredible, it was emotional and touching- a true phenomenon. The acting was brilliant and accurate. I cried the whole way through the film, but at some bits I was laughing my head off. I would definitely recommend you to watch the film. Hands down, the best movie I've ever watched.

Maryam xx

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Quotes

Hey guys! So today's blogpost is a little different. Truth be told, I have writer's block, so I've decided to compile some inspiring quotes from the internet that are my personal faves! Hope this post helps you if you ever feel down!:)

 

 

Maryam xx

 

 

15 Weird Questions Tag!

Hello everyone! So today I've decided to do the 15 weird questions tag, answering some queer questions (alliteration there;]) that I got off the internet.

Here goes...

#1. What's a nickname only your family calls you?

To be honest, I don't have a nickname. However, my cousin has a very strange habit of screaming 'MURYYYY' in an extremely fresh accent. So there you go...
#2. What's a weird habit of yours?

I CANNOT have a shower without two towels. And I have a habit of eating  sweetcorn on a (nearly) everyday basis.
#3. Do you have any weird phobias?

I have a phobia of slipping up in front of everyone. Every time I get up to do something, I pray to God that I don't trip over!
#4. What's a song you secretly love to blast and belt out when you're alone?

BLANK SPACE!
#5. What's one of your biggest pet peeves?

When people breathe all over me.
#6. What's one of your nervous habits?

I bite my nails...a lot!
#7. What side of the bed do you sleep on?

I sleep on the right side of my bed, on the right side of my body!

#8. What was your first stuffed animal and it's name?

Strawberry Shortcake. Not really animal but oh well. I've had her since I was 4!
#9. What's the drink you always order at starbucks?

Chocolate Crème Blend.
#10. What's a beauty rule you preach, but never actually practice?

Cleanse your face after wearing make up. Don't judge me!
#11. Which way do you face in the shower?

I always face towards the shower head.
#12. Do you have any 'weird' body 'skills'?

I can click my fingers and toes countless times.
#13. What's your favorite comfort food thats 'bad' but you love to eat it anyways?

Cheesecake!
#14. What's a phrase or exclamation you always say?

Not really pleasant but whenever my little brother annoys me, I tend to scream 'FARTSICLE' across the room! I also say 'Jheeze Louise' a lot.
#15. What did you dream about last night?

I don't think I had a dream last night, but the last dream I can remember is sitting in a room with my family and a blue alien-man who made our wishes come true...Jheeze

I hope you guys enjoyed this (rather strange) blogpost. Remember to let me know what you would like to see next!

Maryam xx

 

January Favourites

Hey everybody! Can you believe we're already one month into 2015?! January has flown past! I have lots of favourites for the month of January and I've collected some to share with you!

My first favourite HAS to be this amazing brush set gifted to me by my friend for my birthday-Thanks Simran! The brushes are so soft and the pouch makes it so easy to carry these brushes around with you. You can find this set at Superdrug or Boots!

 

http://www.superdrug.com/Make-Up/Make-Up-Accessories/c/makeup-accs?resultsForPage=60&q=%3ANew&minSel=1.0&maxSel=100.0&minSlider=1.0&maxSlider=100.0&resultsForPage=20&text=#.VM39hHnyEfg

 

http://www.boots.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/SolrSearchLister?storeId=10052&langId=-1&catalogId=11051&stReq=1&searchTerm=make+up+brushes#container

 

My next favourite is this AMAZING body mist from Hollister. The scent is clean and fresh-not sickly at all, and its perfect after those smelly P.E lessons! It leaves you smelling beautiful!!

 

http://www.hollisterco.com/shop/uk/girls-body-mist

 

This incredible hand cream leaves your hands moisturised and soft. Its not oily or greasy and its definitely not drying, it sinks into the skin beautifully. The perfect hand cream to use!

 

http://www.sanctuary.com/en-gb/hand-cream/

 

This match made in heaven works a treat for your skin! I've been loving this combo this month as the moisturiser helps to get rid of those dry patches and the facial wash gel cleans your face right to the pores.

 

http://www.simple.co.uk/

 

I decided to read a bit more this year and so I decided to pick up this book. 'Lament' by Maggie Steifvater is immaculately written. It is so relatable and intriguing. Once you start reading this book about a confused teen, you can't put it down. A read I would definitely recommend!

 

 

http://maggiestiefvater.com/books-of-faerie/lament/

 

Another fave for Jan is this nail polish by NYC in the colour Blue Sky. This colour is a vibrant, eye-catching colour, perfect for the summer. I know its not summer here in England but I couldn't resist!

 

http://www.superdrug.com/NYC/NYC-in-a-New-York-Colour-Minute-Blue-Sky/p/643950#.VM4E1XnyEfg

 

This Garnier oil is the BOMB at styling hair, making it look healthy, feel soft and sticking down any flyaways. If your hair is looking rough and straggly, this oil is the thing for you!

http://www.boots.com/en/Garnier-Ultimate-Blends-The-Sleek-Restorer-Oil_1422088/

 

This handwash is works wonders when it comes to cleaning thoroughly yet moisturising your hands. It cleans off any traces of dirt, but your hands still feel touchable and smooth after using it.

 

https://www.baylisandharding.com/

 

The whole of the BabyLips collection is divine, but this Intense Care one treats your lips, getting rid of those nasty cracks and making your lips feel soft to the touch.

http://www.boots.com/en/Maybelline-Baby-Lips-Lip-Balm_1365477/

 

I've saved the best till last! This beautiful silver ring is my favourite ring ever! I've been wearing it non-stop since I got it! I love it so much!

http://www.claires.co.uk/jewellery-rings/style/fcp-category/list?resetFilters=true

 

Well those are some of my favourites for this month. I hope you enjoyed this post! Let me know some of your favourites for January aswell! Bye now!

Maryam xx

 

The New Year!

Hello everyone, and happy new year! Better late than never, I always say! A new year means new beginnings for everyone. I have been busying myself, setting new goals for the year. Here are a few of my new year's resolutions:

-Spend less time on electronic devices

-Control my temper a bit better!

-Write more often on my blog

-Take better care of my possessions

-Keep my room cleaner

-Eat healthier

-Try cooking a bit more!

-And baking!

-Spend more time with the family

-Be a bit more daring and brave

-Exercise to keep fit

What are some of your resolutions?

Maryam xx

 

 

Girl Online Book Review

 Hello everyone! Today I'm going to be doing a book review on Zoella's (aka Zoe Sugg) new book, Girl Online. I borrowed my cousins copy and I can safely say that this book is up there with my favourite books alongside The Fault In Our Stars, also written by a YouTuber, and Lament, written by Maggie Steifvater. Girl Online successfully captured the day-to-day problems of a typical teenage girl and it was so relatable aswell. The anxiety aspect definitely helped to make the book more appealing and understandable as it is something many teenage girls go through. The book also less notably teaches how to deal with anxiety as it explains how Penny overcomes her panic attacks.

In summary, the book is about a 15 year-old girl called Penny who lives in Brighton with her parents and her brother Tom. Penny is the author of an anonymous blog called Girl Online. Here she writes about all her issues and tries to help others who are experiencing the same thing. At home in Brighton, she experiences many ordeals in relation to friendships and she also has to go through a horrible, humiliating time where a video of her tripping and displaying her knickers to the school goes viral. Her best friend Elliot is always there to console her and he even accompanies her to New York when the Mum is asked to plan a wedding there. This meant Penny had to leave behind her crush, Ollie and her other friends. Her anxiety doesn't get any better, in fact it seems to worsen at the thought of going on a plane and going to a different country. However, when she gets to New York, Penny's life is turned around when she meets a boy called Noah whom she falls in live with and he helps her with her anxiety. She stays in New York for a couple  of weeks and her and Noah develop a strong relationship between them. When Penny leaves New York she thought her and Noah would be finished but a huge event occurs which results in a totally different outcome. I am not going to reveal this in case you haven't read the book!

The main character, Penny is a quiet and shy girl who always seems to mess up at the wrong times partly due to her anxiety problems. As the story progresses, Penny becomes a stronger and more independent person.  Elliot is Penny's best friend and he has many problems of his own such as being denied by his family. He is caring and sweet to Penny however, he quickly becomes jealous when Penny gets too attached to  Noah. Noah loves Penny a lot and is always trying to make her see things in a more positive light. He is very open with her and he cares for her a lot.

I think that the moral of the story is all about being yourself and never pretending to be anyone else. Also to never hide your flaws from anyone. However, a more evident and less philosophical idea would be to never say or do anything (online) which takes away the happiness from someone.

I would rate this book 10/10 because of its realness. It perfectly captures the typical and difficult life of a young woman, providing you with LOL moments and moments where you're ready to get the tissues out! It is definitely a  book I would recommend to anyone out there looking for a touching, moving yet realistic read!

 

 

 

 

Room Decoration + Organisation!

Hello everyone! So, if you don't already know, we just moved house recently and I had such a fun time buying things for my room. Now, in my old house, my bedroom wasn't very organised or tidy and so I vowed to myself that I would keep the new house as tidy as possible- well my bedroom at least, and so I've come up with ways to organise my bedroom and make everything neat. I thought I'd share with you some ways I've organised my room and I'm going to throw in some decoration ideas aswell!

DISCLAIMER: I am, by no means, an expert when it comes to decoration and organisation, but I thought I'd share with you things I've learnt during my experience!

 

Don't you just hate it when you have nowhere to put a certain possession without your room looking out of place? Well, in my opinion, deodorant isn't something I would want to display, so I decided to get a little plastic basket to store all my deodorants in. I know this isn't very inventive but it's very effective to store your deodorant neatly and tidily. It prevents them from going all over the place and it's nice to have a clear view of your deodorant storage- i's easy access and it just puts all those annoying things in one place.

 

Basket-Morrisons

I checked the website but I can't find it, here are some cheap and similar alternatives:

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Rotho-Plastic-storage-18-6x15-1x-EF250012/dp/B00N0Q94C6/ref=sr_1_39?ie=UTF8&qid=1415562723&sr=8-39&keywords=plastic+basket

 

http://www.amazon.co.uk/BRAND-WHITE-STORAGE-BASKET-25x16x8/dp/B000VZ2INQ/ref=sr_1_38?ie=UTF8&qid=1415562902&sr=8-38&keywords=plastic+basket

 

Wait! I found it on Amazon!

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Curver-Rattan-Storage-Basket-Organiser/dp/B00G57BCV8/ref=sr_1_73?ie=UTF8&qid=1415562961&sr=8-73&keywords=plastic+basket



 

Continuing with the basket theme, a great way to store your shampoos and shower gels (and your other bath essentials) is to put them in a basket aswell. You can make the basket look pretty by adding seasonal material to it and also adding things like bath bombs to make it colourful and pretty. I know, another simple idea but it works a treat and looks great too!

 

 

Wicker basket- HomeSense

Again, I couldn't find the basket on the HomeSense website so here are some alternatives:

 

http://www.amazon.co.uk/GC-Wicker-Storage-Basket-Hamper/dp/B004ZPGYGU/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1415563432&sr=8-7&keywords=wicker+basket

 

http://www.amazon.co.uk/WoodLuv-Wicker-Storage-Basket-Lining/dp/B0022KNHT2/ref=sr_1_9?ie=UTF8&qid=1415563584&sr=8-9&keywords=wicker+basket

 

http://www.amazon.co.uk/WoodLuv-Medium-Wicker-Storage-Basket/dp/B007FTXRSQ/ref=sr_1_10?ie=UTF8&qid=1415563584&sr=8-10&keywords=wicker+basket

 

http://www.amazon.co.uk/east2eden-Medium-Traditional-Shopping-Gingham/dp/B00HLCPOBA/ref=sr_1_117?ie=UTF8&qid=1415563712&sr=8-117&keywords=wicker+basket



Something else I've done is put all my make-up and nail varnishes in a big cardboard (its sturdy don't worry!) chest. The chest is themed around Paris with....calm? Calm colours? I don't know but they're not over the top colours. Neutral! That's the word! he chest has a mix of neutral colours so it matches with every colour. It looks sweet and organises all your make-up without it looking messy or awkward. It looks great open and closed.

 

 

 

 

Chest- TK Maxx

Similars:

 

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Tri-Coastal-Design-Papillon-Steamer-Trunks/dp/B00NWIBZV0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1415564646&sr=8-1&keywords=paris+storage+trunk

 

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Paris-Eiffel-Tower-By-Martin-Wiscombe-Large-Collapsible-Storage-Box-/161230342562

 

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Storage-solid-Decoration-treasure-box-with-lid-home-decor-with-Paris-design-/151469747659

 

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Medium-Paris-Eiffel-Tower-French-Writing-Suitcase-Style-Storage-Box-Punch-Studio-/221591097788

 

Other themes:

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Kids-Large-Toy-Box-Storage-Chest-/271362431514?pt=UK_HG_ChildFurniture_RL&var=&hash=item3f2e761a1a

 

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Treasure-Chest-Vintage-Colonial-Map-Atlas-Design-Storage-Trunk-Wedding-Post-Box-/111371840787?pt=UK_Storage&var=&hash=item19ee476d13

 

 

 

 Because I love Paris so much, I decided to have something similar for my desk. I went for a little black box with a theme of Paris. In this, I keep pens, pencils, erasers, rulers and other desk essentials. It is effective, organised and also adds a little something to your work area.

 

 

 

 

 

Box- Not sure but I found some similar ones!

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/SET-OF-3-TAB-TOP-BOXES-IN-PARIS-ROMANCE-DESIGN-/271658343233?pt=UK_Storage&hash=item3f40195b41

 

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/SoBuy-Folding-Storage-Ottoman-Seat-Box-FSS34-L-FR-Paris-Eiffel-Tower-Pattern-UK-/331307996683?pt=UK_Home_Garden_LivingRoom_Bookcases&hash=item4d237ed60b

 

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/SoBuy-Folding-Storage-Ottoman-Seat-Box-FSS34-L-FR-Paris-Eiffel-Tower-Pattern-UK-/331307996683?pt=UK_Home_Garden_LivingRoom_Bookcases&hash=item4d237ed60b

 

Other themes:

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/vintage-rectangular-tin-box-9-bird-floral-art-nouveau-trinket-red-kitsch-3902-/171500135902?pt=UK_Collectables_Kitchenalia_RL&hash=item27ee3465de

 

Try typing in 'rectangular trinket box'.

 

Now, for storage and decoration, these glass jars from IKEA add a nice decoration to your bedside tables and they store whatever you want. I keep things like face creams and oils in these goblets and not only does it look pretty, but it also saves you from having that out-of-place cream bottle sitting on your dressing table.

 

 

 

Here it is!:

http://www.ikea.com/gb/en/catalog/products/00293121/

 

A few others...:

http://www.ikea.com/gb/en/catalog/products/30293148/

 

http://www.ikea.com/gb/en/catalog/products/80293141/

 

http://www.ikea.com/gb/en/catalog/products/30293153/

Another way to spice up your house is to spice up your doors! I got this pretty and chic bathroom sign from a random pop-up store but I'm pretty sure you can find similar ones. I think it adds to the plainness of your doors and it also comes in quite handy!

 

Since the shop I purchased this from is unknown, here are some I found, however they are not similar:

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/WHITE-DISTRESSED-WOODEN-BATHROOM-HEART-PLAQUE-SHABBY-TOILET-DOOR-SIGN-HOME-GIFT-/350980870894

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Shabby-Rustic-Chic-Beach-Blue-Wooden-Plaque-Ladies-Gents-WC-Toilet-Loo-Sign-/331178133512

 

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/White-Metal-Toilet-Sign-WC-Shabby-Chic-Vintage-Retro-Bathroom-Door-Hanging-/271683792510?pt=UK_Home_HomeDecor_Accessories&hash=item3f419dae7e

And who can forget candles! They are so versatile, allowing you to change the scent according to the season. For the Christmas season, you can light your 'marshmallow frosting' or 'Christmas pudding' candles, meanwhile for summer, you can get out the ocean-y ones!

 



 

 My favourite candle brand of all time:

http://www.yankeecandle.co.uk/

 

And lastly, who could forget a nice seasonal throw. Again you can change it up for any time of the year and it can also add a pop of colour to your bedroom. Get a nice, furry and soft one which would be great for nights in, YouTube binging in your (now) much more exciting bed!

 

I got mine from Wilkinson's some time ago, so I doubt there'll be any left. However, here are some alternatives. Yet again!

https://www.google.co.uk/?gfe_rd=cr&ei=USmCVKyaO-_H8gfl_IDQCg&gws_rd=ssl#q=plum+throw&tbm=shop&spd=4459029655436677147

 

So that's all now! I hope this has helped you to find some inspiration on how to decorate and organise your room. Thanks for reading! Bye!:)