tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-79047923533146312712024-03-19T04:36:47.240+00:00Keep calm it's only a blog...Beauty, Life, LaughsAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17717652993155709360noreply@blogger.comBlogger103125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7904792353314631271.post-23474494517236134742017-02-24T13:00:00.000+00:002017-02-24T13:00:13.154+00:00Recipe: Chocolate Orange Fudge Cookies, Feat. The Devon Fudge Company<div style="text-align: center;">
I was recently contacted by the super duper lovely Nicole (Hello Sleekchicblog!) on behalf of <b>The Devon Fudge Company</b>, asking me if I would like to try out some of their fudge. As a Devon gal through and through I of course jumped at the chance, I mean, who turns down Devon fudge? The Devon Fudge Company is a family run business based in beautiful Dartmoor. A stones throw from where I was born in Torquay, which brings back such fond memories. In their own words: <i>'All of their fudge is h</i><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>andmade in a copper kettle, with each batch taking an hour to cook</i><span style="background-color: white;"><i> and is lovingly stirred continuously with an extremely large wooden spoon! The temperature and cooling process is essential to the scrumptious creamy product, and all the fudges are cut and packed by hand.'</i> Packed into their lovingly made fudge are only natural ingredients, such as local butter and clotted cream (of course!) All of their delicious fudge flavours are free from gluten, palm oil and artificial nasties.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">I chose the zesty chocolate orange fudge, as Terry's chocolate orange is one of my favourites and I thought why not try it in fudge form? It did not disappoint! I have created a cookie recipe to share with you lovelies, using the chocolate orange fudge (that I tried not to munch my way through whilst baking...) that is delicious and pretty easy to make.</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaR4GEkDncep2uXJNCqipGpYWdwTgqzVJbpOhvIWnEyHPsF0i9qxTmeGvYSlrtoUpHzkUZiYY0uXzLqw25NfeH9ZZrD01-QXF6ybs5b3arFKfl5WY7LIquPVOUQ95nQg1XJfy4MUra1N-T/s1600/Fudge.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaR4GEkDncep2uXJNCqipGpYWdwTgqzVJbpOhvIWnEyHPsF0i9qxTmeGvYSlrtoUpHzkUZiYY0uXzLqw25NfeH9ZZrD01-QXF6ybs5b3arFKfl5WY7LIquPVOUQ95nQg1XJfy4MUra1N-T/s640/Fudge.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdcPWUPC4-M1FiSEGWBVzUeaaVdVGhblfPWXTcds2hAOn-D6n1LsyQkq7P8KFPm5PLUFVYNyFXkBc1c7jOHN_eZJYfm3OZND6hikyNobLVfL5ct1TxjgPPamKNExNNERFerlR6LmAVmgFG/s1600/Fudge+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdcPWUPC4-M1FiSEGWBVzUeaaVdVGhblfPWXTcds2hAOn-D6n1LsyQkq7P8KFPm5PLUFVYNyFXkBc1c7jOHN_eZJYfm3OZND6hikyNobLVfL5ct1TxjgPPamKNExNNERFerlR6LmAVmgFG/s640/Fudge+2.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">This recipe makes six cookies.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">You will need:</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">40g of butter or margarine (I used Flora Light)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">40g of coconut sugar (You can swap this for soft brown sugar)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">1 teaspoon of vanilla extract</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">1 medium egg</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">80g of self raising flour</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">6 - 8 squares of fudge, chopped into small chunks (You can use more or less depending on the size of your fudge, but try not to overload your cookies)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">Method:</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">Preheat your oven to 180 degrees (fan-assisted electric oven) Beat the margarine and coconut sugar using an electric hand mixer or wooden spoon, until light and fluffy. Add in the vanilla extract and egg, beat until the egg is fully combined. Fold in the flour and fudge chunks. You now have your fudgy mixture, it may look a little runny, you can always add a little more flour, until you get a thicker consistency. Place each blob onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper and bake for 12 - 14 minutes until golden brown and gooey in the middle. Allow to cool and enjoy! These cookies are best eaten the same day, as the fudge will harden too much, but will last one or two days max in an airtight container. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">These cookies are crunchy on the outside, but soft and fudgy in the middle, the perfect afternoon sweet treat with a cup of tea. I hope you enjoyed this chocolate orange cookie recipe - Are you a fudge fan? Have you ever tried The Devon Fudge Company fudge? I can highly recommend the zesty chocolate orange flavour, but you can never go wrong with classic clotted cream fudge! If you give my cookie recipe a whirl, please tag me on social media as I'd love to see your creations.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">If you fancy getting your hands on some delicious Devon fudge check out <b><a href="https://www.thedevonfudgecompany.co.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Devon Fudge Company website here</a></b> for a nosy, and a drool over their delicious flavours.</span></span></div>
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<i>If you love foodie snaps, fitness and motivation, be a babe and give me a cheeky follow.</i><br />
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<b><i>Love Lauren x</i></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_C1cXkSGJCCrT9uXhJ_AesncVQL-QtLWOPifjQwHIUcLqfPIDjle_EaBMjqg_v5UmUdZcDjFWZkV8ongLaP56E_iK0Zc1giR_v2kdt_kBbXhTP1Al79z-39S5odZEuaBakp6hZOQFYJUn/s1600/Fudge+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_C1cXkSGJCCrT9uXhJ_AesncVQL-QtLWOPifjQwHIUcLqfPIDjle_EaBMjqg_v5UmUdZcDjFWZkV8ongLaP56E_iK0Zc1giR_v2kdt_kBbXhTP1Al79z-39S5odZEuaBakp6hZOQFYJUn/s640/Fudge+3.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17717652993155709360noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7904792353314631271.post-83301726149448287242017-01-10T16:32:00.005+00:002017-01-16T16:47:42.996+00:00Lifestyle: New Year, Same Me, Different Mindset<div style="text-align: center;">
Happy New Year! I hope you have all had a wonderful Christmas full of fun and food, and a great start to 2017. It's been a long while since I last sat down and typed up a blog post. It's been a difficult time for me and my family lately, my grandma sadly passed away before Christmas which has suddenly brought up a lot of grief, sadness, shock and feelings I experienced when my mum passed away when I was 15. It's been a tough time for me lately, and it still is hard and upsetting and I do cry a lot but I thought I would try to lift myself up and make myself smile, by writing out a happy/positive/can't wait for/let's bloody smash it life list.</div>
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Every year come January, everyone starts making 'new year, new me' resolutions. Which is a great thing, it's so nice to see people feeling positive and motivated about a new year and the things that they want to achieve. I just love the positivity! But for me personally I don't feel that I necessarily need to change who I am or 'become a brand new me' to have a positive and happy 2017. So instead of the classic 'new year's resolutions' I thought I would write a list of the things I want to do and the things I want to stop doing, to be able to go back to the person I always have been, she's in here somewhere it's just a matter of finding her again.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMZbTHUhk8hbgYfFgp4uH3Lbp8SLZiBjAWO8OzD9iOaNIgOBwM7q9AEbVQUa3TQg3u3iRii3uik4OK1qU8uEg-9iATdAfssKe6UYRwrLRvVZeT9pdoFolDlP7HqPLegrPybyd1mPomhkJK/s1600/DSC_5717.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMZbTHUhk8hbgYfFgp4uH3Lbp8SLZiBjAWO8OzD9iOaNIgOBwM7q9AEbVQUa3TQg3u3iRii3uik4OK1qU8uEg-9iATdAfssKe6UYRwrLRvVZeT9pdoFolDlP7HqPLegrPybyd1mPomhkJK/s640/DSC_5717.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<u>Visit Bath</u></div>
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It's one of those places that is just so beautiful and unique. With it's cobbled streets, cute little cafes and magnificent historical features - it's definitely a place I want to explore. Me and the boyfriend have a three day trip planned for the end of January. I can't wait to be able to unwind, take my mind off everything and take in all the wonder that Bath has to offer. <i>P.S If you have any Bath travel tips, send them my way!</i></div>
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<u>Spa Day</u></div>
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I've never been to a spa before nor had a manicure/pedicure/facial/massage (I know! I need to get my pamper on) so I would love to have a day (or maybe even a weekend) of pampering, relaxation and zoning out from the world. My sister's thirtieth birthday is in July so I might whisk her away for a spa day as a birthday treat. My best friend Katie and I have also always wanted to have a lazy, girly spa day so maybe I'll be lucky enough to have two pamper days this year - winner!</div>
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<u>Dream Trip</u></div>
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Me and the boyfriend have been dreaming/wishing/lusting over the Dominican for a couple of years now. 2017 is going to be the year we scrimp and save like crazy, to hopefully jet off and sun ourselves for two blissful weeks in January 2018. Wish us luck! <i>Again, any travel trips are much appreciated.</i></div>
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<u>Date Night</u></div>
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As a couple we usually go out on a dinner date night once a month. It's a nice way to get out of the house, dress up a bit (hello heels, where have you been hiding) chat and connect without being distracted by our phones or the TV or Netflix (By the way bloody loving Fresh Price at the moment, serious nineties vibes!) I think it's important to keep that romantic spark going in a relationship. We've been together four years (3rd Jan, woo!) and we have been a bit lacking in the date night department in 2016, but hopefully 2017 will be the year we're chucking romance around like the fools we are.</div>
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<u>Saving</u></div>
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I have been saving for a mortgage/house deposit for what seems like a jillion years now (maybe a slight exaggeration, it's been about 3 years but still... snore.) so I'm hoping that this year I will continue to save, save, save and be a bit closer to buying a place to call my own. </div>
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<u>Confidence</u></div>
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I haven't been feeling confident in myself, my appearance or my body for a while now. Whenever I feel down and upset I always take it out on my appearance. I feel that in the last four months of 2016 my confidence took a big hit and I haven't yet had the strength to be able to build myself back up. I have always been a big believer in body positivity and happiness in yourself, which makes me feel bad as I always want every single person to feel happy and confident no matter what. 2017 is going to be the year I build myself back up, tone up and keep up with my fitness and healthy intuitive eating. I love exercise as it makes me feel amazing and strong and capable. Exercise is the best mood booster for me, I love to lose myself, forget about everything and just sweat it out. I'm going to up my game, try new workouts and continue to work on myself. After all we are all a work in progress...</div>
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<u>Comfort Zone</u></div>
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I am the queen of the comfort zone. I rarely leave mine as my anxiety doesn't make it easy. I'm 24 years old, and I am quite frankly sick and tired of feeling scared/worried/unsure/panicked, 2017 is going to be the year that I finally stop letting my anxiety and insecurities rule me. Who cares what other people think about me, my body, my appearance or my personality? I am me, I can only be myself and I will not change myself to suit someone else. Yes I laugh at my own jokes, yes my laugh is ridiculous, yes I prefer not to drink, yes I love to exercise, yes I love eating healthy, nutritious food, yes I love lazy Netflix nights in and yes I do care about saving over splurging. If you don't like me as I am, then tough luck Chuck. </div>
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<u>Fashion Fright</u></div>
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I love fashion, I love shopping and I bloody love buying clothes, but I feel like I am stuck in a style rut. I often see a dress or skirt and think it's gorgeous, but tell myself I don't have the figure for it/can't pull it off/will look like a potato wearing it. I'm not saying that I'm suddenly going to be head of the fashion pack, but I want to try some new styles, add new pieces to my wardrobe and stop being scared of what other people will think of my outfit. Wish me luck, I'm only slightly terrified. <i>Any tips from you fashion bloggers babes would be super, duper helpful!</i><br />
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What are some of your wants/needs/must dos/kick ass goals you want to smash in 2017? </div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><i>I'd love to know, leave me a lovely comment below.</i></span></div>
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<i>If you love foodie snaps, fitness and motivation, be a babe and give me a cheeky follow.</i><br />
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<b><i>Love Lauren x</i></b></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17717652993155709360noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7904792353314631271.post-368578316154622862016-11-20T12:06:00.000+00:002016-11-20T12:07:25.713+00:00Lifestyle: Life Through My Camera Roll #9<div style="text-align: center;">
It's been quite a while since I have sat down at my desk and written a blog post. I've not been feeling very motivated or inspired to write anything lately. I love my blog and my little space to share the things I've been loving, life updates, fitness tips, healthy eating, motivation or new recipe creations - but I've always told myself to blog when I want to, not because I feel I 'have to'. So I thought I would share with you another<a href="http://keepcalmitsonlyablog.blogspot.co.uk/search?q=life+through+my+camera+roll" target="_blank"> <b>'Life through my camera roll'</b> </a>post - I love writing these as it's a fun way to update you on the things I've been loving/doing/watching/eating lately.</div>
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The past few weeks have been pretty good - autumn/winter is my favourite time of the year. Autumn especially as the weather is at that perfect 'cold enough to wear boots and bundle up in a cosy scarf' - but not so cold that you contemplate wearing three layers and a duvet for a quick trip to the corner shop. I love the crisp air, the beautiful jewel tones and seeing the leaves fall from the trees and change from green to vibrant yellows, oranges and reds. Autumn really is beautiful.</div>
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Autumn and Winter is also a great time (read: valid excuse) to stay in and snuggle up. It's cliche but getting cosy on the sofa and whacking on Netflix is kinda the best, isn't it. Two words: Gilmore Girls. My boyfriend actually introduced me to it, he'd seen a few episodes years ago when it was first on TV, and knew that it would be right up my street. So as soon as it popped up on Netflix he insisted that I watch it. He knows me very well, and I bloody love it! It's the perfect show for cosy evenings at home, and is so easy to binge watch. I adore the relationship between Lorelei and Rory, the best friends/mother-daughter/almost sister like duo is so refreshing and hilarious to boot. They bounce off each other so well (especially with all the caffeine running through their veins) that you actually believe that their relationship is real. I also kind of want to move to Star's Hollow immediately - with the never ending autumn vibes and snow filled winters, the town had a magical vintage feel, it's like a step back in time. If you've never seen Gilmore Girls, I would highly recommend giving it a watch - if you love throwback references, all the junk food, small town gossip, sarcastic comebacks, the best puns and more one liners than you can shake a stick at, you'll love it.</div>
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I've been loving getting home from work and whipping up a hearty belly-warming dinner (hello comfort food) such as spaghetti bolognese or a vegetable casserole. There is something wonderfully comforting about home cooked classics at this time of year. My favourite dish is mushroom chilli served in a fluffy baked sweet potato - it's like a carby cuddle. Fruit crumble is another winner, it's the perfect warming breakfast or dessert, <b><a href="http://keepcalmitsonlyablog.blogspot.co.uk/2015/11/baking-healthy-apple-and-blackberry.html" target="_blank">check out my healthier recipe here.</a></b></div>
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Autumn/winter has the best fashion. From super snuggly jumpers and ankle boots to oversized blanket scarves and bobble hats. I love being comfortable and cosy, and chilly weather and drizzly days pretty much insist on comfort. I have more jumpers that I care to admit, but my favourite purchase is an oversized fade effect chunky knit - it's ridiculously comfortable and super cute. It has adorable wooden buttons all the way down the back. I love pairing it with classic grey wash jeans and ankle boots, or layering it over a black denim button up skirt and thick tights.<br />
P.S How amazing does this giant Ferrero Rocher look? It's a ferrero rocher chocolate hazelnut 'shell' with two ferrero rochers hidden inside - <a href="http://www.tesco.com/groceries/product/details/?id=276546421" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">find at Tesco and devour.</a><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
I hope you enjoyed this<b> 'Life through my camera roll' </b>update<b> </b>post. What are your favourite things about Autumn? What have you been loving lately?</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;">I'd love to know, leave me a lovely comment below.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Let's be friends!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: "times new roman";">
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<a href="https://instagram.com/clumsybaby/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/clumsybaby" target="_blank">Twitter </a>|<a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/keep-calm-its-only-a-blog-11721151" target="_blank"> Bloglovin</a></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><i>Love Lauren x</i></b></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17717652993155709360noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7904792353314631271.post-42807391957961533172016-10-20T19:21:00.000+01:002016-10-28T19:38:28.902+01:00Recipe: Broccoli Bruschetta (In Collaboration with Tenderstem*)<div style="text-align: center;">
I was recently contacted by <b><a href="https://www.tenderstem.co.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Tenderstem*</a></b> who asked me if I would like to try my hand at creating a recipe using tenderstem broccoli - I love broccoli and I love getting creative in the kitchen, so of course I happily accepted! I wanted to create a simple, but delicious recipe that was easy to follow and recreate at home. If you try your hand at recreating any of my recipes, tag me on <a href="https://twitter.com/clumsybaby" target="_blank">Twitter</a> or <a href="https://www.instagram.com/clumsybaby/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> - so I can have a nosy!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNaVL04Iw0rwAR8wqwO9STEp3z2WO-bGqagtoeEIDwRDWY1GYGx02nKOcGFKlt86AZmww3qsSGBFOsVBNCRD4FdNbcXceDGVlYttEBovL3IIoIAon9jK36yJhS8rkA5nKpsY6ltyAveow6/s1600/Broccoli+Brushetta+%25231.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNaVL04Iw0rwAR8wqwO9STEp3z2WO-bGqagtoeEIDwRDWY1GYGx02nKOcGFKlt86AZmww3qsSGBFOsVBNCRD4FdNbcXceDGVlYttEBovL3IIoIAon9jK36yJhS8rkA5nKpsY6ltyAveow6/s640/Broccoli+Brushetta+%25231.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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After a lot of brainstorming and endless lists, I finally settled on a broccoli bruschetta. Bruschetta is one of my favourites, whenever I dine out at an Italian restaurant it's always my go-to starter. Bruschetta is traditionally made with grilled bread topped with olive oil, garlic, sea salt, basil and tomatoes. I wanted to try something a bit different and put my own spin on it. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHTejMwuW4Z_PUrhB24MV3WDruyZPGC50kMQU1ivwur01PK3HcoML_-QZzBGeLeZNl0G7pd5-okayoblpSpY_HKG28MpBFOce7xP4BG8mrrQfvi7tpZKZaKmcL1yA3vomYIRD1FDHE9V8L/s1600/Broccoli+Brushetta+%25232.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHTejMwuW4Z_PUrhB24MV3WDruyZPGC50kMQU1ivwur01PK3HcoML_-QZzBGeLeZNl0G7pd5-okayoblpSpY_HKG28MpBFOce7xP4BG8mrrQfvi7tpZKZaKmcL1yA3vomYIRD1FDHE9V8L/s640/Broccoli+Brushetta+%25232.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<u>You will need:</u></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Fresh rye bread</div>
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Tenderstem broccoli</div>
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Mushrooms</div>
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Parma ham</div>
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Parmesan cheese</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
French mustard</div>
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<u>Method:</u></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Bring a pan of water to the boil and allow the broccoli to gently boil away for about five minutes, or until cooked through but still al dente. While the broccoli is cooking, slice the mushrooms and add them to a bowl along with two teaspoons of mustard, mix until the mushrooms are evenly coated. Fry the mushrooms in a pan on a medium heat until soft. Once the mushrooms are cooked, set them aside and begin to wrap your broccoli spears with the slices of parma ham. Gently fry the wrapped spears in a pan until the parma ham begins to crisp. Toast the rye bread, and you're ready to assemble the bruschetta. Top the rye bread with the mushroom mix, add the parma ham wrapped broccoli on top and finish with a generous sprinkling of parmesan cheese.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmHsy0L0prWHC1ZQLEy3b6GV4kSNYpwx2QULMJ1U3a_MvVjoWTq-JxvVZzjphVKo5CdKIL35XHdqmWg-4mgywfeVu1Rk_ZnorZSt1jSx0LY3_-fY_PqRjehPBbx-jA3wOId4moE3ef2FfB/s1600/Broccoli+Brushetta+%25233.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmHsy0L0prWHC1ZQLEy3b6GV4kSNYpwx2QULMJ1U3a_MvVjoWTq-JxvVZzjphVKo5CdKIL35XHdqmWg-4mgywfeVu1Rk_ZnorZSt1jSx0LY3_-fY_PqRjehPBbx-jA3wOId4moE3ef2FfB/s640/Broccoli+Brushetta+%25233.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The broccoli gives the dish a nice crunch, the crispy parma ham adds a lovely saltiness, combining that with the nuttiness from the parmesan and tang from the mustard - makes for a delicious and flavoursome combination.</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
I hope you enjoyed this<b> 'Broccoli Bruschetta'</b> recipe post. Will you be recreating my recipe? What's your favourite way to cook with broccoli?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;">I'd love to know, leave me a lovely comment below.</span></div>
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Let's be friends!</div>
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<b><i>Love Lauren x</i></b></div>
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<i><b>*This post is in collaboration with Tenderstem. The above recipe is my own creation. All thoughts and opinions are my own - please see the contact/pr section of my blog for more information.</b></i></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17717652993155709360noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7904792353314631271.post-76271454152062684382016-10-13T19:19:00.000+01:002016-10-13T19:21:39.278+01:00Healthy Recipe: Breakfast Bowls<div style="text-align: center;">
Breakfast is my favourite meal of the day - I go to bed dreaming of what deliciousness I'm going to whip up come morning. I don't always have a ton of time in the morning before heading off to work to whip up a fancy meal, so breakfast bowls are one of my favourite go-to dishes. Here are three of my favourite (ridiculously simple, but delicious) breakfast bowl combinations. If you recreate any of my recipes please tag me on <a href="https://twitter.com/clumsybaby" target="_blank">Twitter </a>or <a href="https://www.instagram.com/clumsybaby/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> - so I can have a nosy!<br />
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<u>The Smooth Move</u><br />
Smoothie bowls are all over instagram and for good reason - they are delicious, nutritious, picture perfect and are kinda like having ice cream for breakfast. (the dream)<br />
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You will need:<br />
1 frozen banana<br />
A handful of frozen berries<br />
(I like to use a mixed bag of strawberries, cherries, blackberries and raspberries)<br />
A splash of almond milk<br />
<br />
Method:<br />
Add all ingredients to your blender, and process for a few minutes until smooth and creamy. Add as much or as little milk as you wish - I prefer my nice cream to be thick and creamy, so I only add a splash or two. Top with whatever you fancy. Granola, chia seeds, sliced banana, fresh berries and cacao nibs are some of my personal favourites.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9xPYumc1MEQBhvdDTwKmMZ9uIqhcf7xm03wkB_lD8M1EsSJm-vEGHK9uY1UrwCjA3E_ff3icAacsnImAvB4R0ZyP5qv12BmfggFhnArQnep-tftJbxHpgFcTP95SBTENqhmygqrT2pAcg/s1600/image1+%252848%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9xPYumc1MEQBhvdDTwKmMZ9uIqhcf7xm03wkB_lD8M1EsSJm-vEGHK9uY1UrwCjA3E_ff3icAacsnImAvB4R0ZyP5qv12BmfggFhnArQnep-tftJbxHpgFcTP95SBTENqhmygqrT2pAcg/s640/image1+%252848%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<u>The Cereal Killer</u></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Cereal is so underrated. I could eat it at any time of the day, breakfast for dinner is the best. #brinner<br />
<br />
You will need:<br />
Bran flakes<br />
(or your favourite cereal)<br />
Sliced peach<br />
Chia seeds<br />
Frozen strawberries<br />
Greek yoghurt<br />
<br />
Method:<br />
Whack it all into a bowl and enjoy! Greek yoghurt makes your cereal bowl so thick and creamy, as well as being packed full of protein.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFuWahYxydrfgZw_Mh5s-sXRSYN_8hvR30NbRgO45OH4zW8F080722B0TOXzt7jg36qWzrAqiHVb_fwppQ6giHA8QsV5QFUskkVOYw5xu1JJXQ6UJFOPy8M64LIiSVcm0yav76rXMGjAcx/s1600/image2+%252836%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFuWahYxydrfgZw_Mh5s-sXRSYN_8hvR30NbRgO45OH4zW8F080722B0TOXzt7jg36qWzrAqiHVb_fwppQ6giHA8QsV5QFUskkVOYw5xu1JJXQ6UJFOPy8M64LIiSVcm0yav76rXMGjAcx/s640/image2+%252836%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<u>How A-mus(eli)ing </u><br />
Muesli is another of my favourites. I love how it goes a bit soggy when mixed with milk. I also like adding in frozen fruit as the berries start to defrost and turn the milk a pretty shade of purple. (kinda like with chocolatey coco pops but a bit more nutritious)<br />
<br />
You will need:<br />
Muesli<br />
(I like mine full of nuts and raisins)<br />
Oat milk<br />
(one of my favourites - so creamy)<br />
Sliced banana<br />
Blueberries<br />
Chia seeds<br />
<br />
Method:<br />
Add the berries, muesli and sliced banana to your bowl, top with milk and a sprinkle of chia seeds.Adding chia seeds to your muesli bowl gives you a morning boost of omega-3, fibre and protein.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiABwnNm6vRAvGx6VCZgTMUu8J9kRna2Lec9ohMsEGx7uWi2-U10nNgA5EYM8kIaTWctaQfqOZBWalsJ84VtUVY5VwMGAbLIn4bvbpPb41Xc4zeowDsnprP5myzhTS3CFVhRZ1tJohFlF2v/s1600/image3+%252832%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiABwnNm6vRAvGx6VCZgTMUu8J9kRna2Lec9ohMsEGx7uWi2-U10nNgA5EYM8kIaTWctaQfqOZBWalsJ84VtUVY5VwMGAbLIn4bvbpPb41Xc4zeowDsnprP5myzhTS3CFVhRZ1tJohFlF2v/s640/image3+%252832%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
I hope you enjoyed this <b>'Breakfast bowls' </b>recipe post. What is your favourite breakfast bowl combo? Will you be recreating any of my bowls?<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;">I'd love to know, leave me a lovely comment below.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Let's be friends!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: "times new roman";">
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<a href="https://instagram.com/clumsybaby/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/clumsybaby" target="_blank">Twitter </a>|<a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/keep-calm-its-only-a-blog-11721151" target="_blank"> Bloglovin</a></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<b><i>Love Lauren x</i></b></div>
</div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17717652993155709360noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7904792353314631271.post-79870017440863723732016-09-28T19:40:00.000+01:002016-09-28T19:40:08.221+01:00Healthy Eating: Wild Thing* (You make my heart sing, You make everything groovy!)<div style="text-align: center;">
....Wild Thing I think I love you! (Sorry, I couldn't resist!) The lovely people from <b><a href="http://www.wildthingpaleo.com/da/134378" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Wild Thing* </a></b>contacted me and asked me if I would like to try some of their products (I of course said yes please!) anything food related, especially good for you food is always a big fat yes! Wild Thing are a paleo food company who create delicious, nutritious, organic products with no added nasties, additives or chemicals - nada, nothing, zip, zilch! If you are unfamiliar with the paleo way of eating it is a diet (as in the food you eat not being 'on a diet') based on the types of foods that early humans would have eaten. Such as meat, fish, vegetables and fruit, and excluding processed foods, dairy and cereal products. It is a great concept if you are trying to eat a 'cleaner' diet and cut down on the amount of processed and junk foods you consume. </div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Wild Thing kindly sent me a variety of snack bars and a box of their brand new granola. Let's start with the snack bars shall we... damn, I'm starting to get hungry while typing this. There are four different snack bars, all of which are raw, made of 100% natural ingredients, 100% paleo, gluten free and suitable for vegans. So they really are a great all rounder!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCYovMj3LJUFKNdhzZh1C9DTxtyRaaeEGso6AoiNXhvUniC6EY_Ms71Xr-KRNqE1gGtzdpm9m3rsLaDEcQ-ubN5ISl7Pjiws03XdH1l-bcJWLq0PjcFKwT_Zhku7Mua87otmw7wsu1xI-s/s1600/Wild+Thing+%25231.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCYovMj3LJUFKNdhzZh1C9DTxtyRaaeEGso6AoiNXhvUniC6EY_Ms71Xr-KRNqE1gGtzdpm9m3rsLaDEcQ-ubN5ISl7Pjiws03XdH1l-bcJWLq0PjcFKwT_Zhku7Mua87otmw7wsu1xI-s/s640/Wild+Thing+%25231.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<u>Berries and seeds</u></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A delicious combination of juicy dates, sunflower seeds, sweet cranberries, goji berries and blueberry. This is the perfect fruity bar if you are craving something sweet, without all the added sugar.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u>Coconut and chia</u></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A mix of dates, cashews, coconut and chia seeds. I loved this bar, it had the perfect balance of coconut and chia. Chia seeds are such a great addition to your daily diet, they are high in protein and fibre, provide a good source of omega-3, calcium and potassium. </div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<u>Cacao and almond</u></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This bar of goodness is a blend of sweet dates, almonds, cacao powder, raisins and vanilla. This has to be my favourite of the four bars. I have the biggest sweet tooth, anything chocolate is a winner! This is the perfect bar if you are craving chocolate and don't want to reach for the Dairy Milk - perfect with a cup of tea! </div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u>Nuts and seeds</u></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A mix of dates (there's a recurring theme here...) sunflower seeds, cashews, almonds, cashew butter, pumpkin seeds and Himalayan salt. I love the combination of sweetness from the dates, and salty from the cashew butter and seeds. The perfect pre or post workout pick me up.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFUm2oOyOYhX1IfHw8tuubAV6Siv2Mx8mjfLN4em90YGuY1dgrUVXjnJRSjX52VfdVY9F8Pt3RCRN2V2KZiV1qtKsNPF2_Ar9QjuUCi4r5luJ_ebTCwyBh3rhaWlBG6X3_2ct7k5DnQTdU/s1600/Wild+Thing+%25234.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="446" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFUm2oOyOYhX1IfHw8tuubAV6Siv2Mx8mjfLN4em90YGuY1dgrUVXjnJRSjX52VfdVY9F8Pt3RCRN2V2KZiV1qtKsNPF2_Ar9QjuUCi4r5luJ_ebTCwyBh3rhaWlBG6X3_2ct7k5DnQTdU/s640/Wild+Thing+%25234.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Granola is one of my favourite breakfasts. I love sprinkling it on top of Greek yoghurt or as a smoothie bowl topper - delicious! I usually steer clear of packaged granola as it can contain a lot of added sugar. But as this is a paleo blend, it is organic, vegan, gluten and grain free - with no added nasties! Wild Thing have created four different granolas: Rainforest Fruit, Mountain Berry, Equatorial Cacao and Island Coconut. I was kindly sent the Rainforest fruit granola, which is a mix of sunflower and pumpkin seeds, coconut chips, dates, coconut sugar, cashew and Brazil nuts, banana, coconut oil and pineapple. The combination of seeds, nuts, dates and banana is delicious, add in the pineapple and coconut sugar and you have a bowl of tropical goodness! I enjoyed this granola with my favourite mango, pineapple and maca smoothie bowl, sprinkled on top of my healthy banana split and simply with oat milk - absolutely delicious and so versatile.<br />
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I hope you enjoyed this <b>'Wild Thing' </b>review post. I would highly recommend the snack bars if you are looking for a delicious afternoon snack that also happens to be packed full of goodness! The granola is also a delicious breakfast addition. <span style="background-color: white;">Which snack bar would be your favourite? Are you a granola addict like me?</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">I'd love to know, leave me a lovely comment below.</span></div>
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<i><b>*I was kindly sent a box of granola, and the snack bars mentioned above by Wild Thing Paleo to try and test for the purpose of a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own - please see the contact/pr section of my blog for more information.</b></i></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17717652993155709360noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7904792353314631271.post-31681721773032272412016-09-20T20:12:00.001+01:002016-09-25T20:38:01.096+01:00Health: My Top Tips For When You Feel Under The Weather<div style="text-align: center;">
That time of year is upon us again (well sort of... the sun is currently blinding me and it's muggy as anything today) but it's now September! As soon as mid-September hits I start dreaming of cooler weather, ankle boots, hot chocolates and bobble hats. I mean to be completely honest it's most likely going to be cold, rain a lot and we're all going to moan but let's pretend it's all Autumn leaves falling in slow motion and picture perfect pumpkin spice lattes. Autumn and Winter are my favourite seasons: My birthday is in October, it's not too long until Christmas, you can eat your body weight in Halloween sweets and who doesn't love jumping into piles of crunchy leaves. It's a great time of year!</div>
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But when the cooler days roll in and the night's get gloomier, I find myself feeling a little under the weather, the change in seasons always gets me. I start to feel tired, lethargic, I always have sore, dry lips and a stuffed up nose. So with that delightful picture painted for you, I wanted to share my top tips that always work for me when I am feeling run down. </div>
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<u>Tea please</u></div>
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Tea solves pretty much anything (unless you despise tea of course, sorry about that) anyway, tea is always my go to for every situation. When I'm feeling tired, if I want a boost, if I have a slice of cake or if I'm feeling unwell - tea is the answer. I was kindly sent a few samples of different green teas from the lovely people at <b><a href="http://www.tplusdrinks.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">T Plus*</a></b>. Each tea is designed to target a different part of your body, and they are all full of goodness and antioxidants which makes them the perfect brew for when you're feeling run down.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ44DFA9X9w7Cf9Ua3RdYjku7iSDGfFShz3WnHt1ZTvAtmkR2_wPLXx0R-I89Vf2WiWQ-DroidqHotFJixAYapLy0Rq7ez0guMyZSM_nM6XrMAzfSaSjvroMUmiEO1UlpXjnQiWgIvvw4S/s1600/T+Plus+%25232.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ44DFA9X9w7Cf9Ua3RdYjku7iSDGfFShz3WnHt1ZTvAtmkR2_wPLXx0R-I89Vf2WiWQ-DroidqHotFJixAYapLy0Rq7ez0guMyZSM_nM6XrMAzfSaSjvroMUmiEO1UlpXjnQiWgIvvw4S/s640/T+Plus+%25232.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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There are four green teas in the T Plus range:</div>
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<b>Boost</b></div>
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A blend of ginseng, Yerba mate, raspberry and pomegranate. This 'boost' tea is designed to energise. Ginseng and Yerba mate are both plants that naturally give a slow release of energy and combined with b vitamins, makes this tea the perfect morning pick me up. </div>
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<b>Detox</b></div>
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A blend of milk thistle, ginger root, b and c vitamins, apple and blackcurrant, makes this the ideal cuppa for when your body needs a little TLC. Maybe after an overindulgent weekend, or if you are trying to add some extra goodness into your body. The combination of milk thistle and ginger root helps to support internal cleansing, and leave you feeling fresh as a daisy.</div>
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<b>Immunitea</b></div>
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This is my favourite of the four teas, it's the perfect blend for when you're feeling run down or under the weather. The combination of orange, blueberry, echinacea <span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">(<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; line-height: 16.12px;">flowering plants in the daisy family)</span></span> and ginseng gives your body the vitamin c boost it needs, and also helps to backup your immune system. The hug in a mug you need when you start feeling that cold brewing.</div>
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<b>Multea</b></div>
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This the perfect all rounder tea, packed full of nine different vitamins and heart healthy antioxidants. A delicious green tea with a mix of cardamom, rosemary, spearmint, peach and lemon. </div>
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<a href="http://www.tplusdrinks.com/" target="_blank"><i>If you would like some more information or to pick up some teas for yourself, check out the T Plus website here.</i></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzR7zZqCEeyHl1snqLqlwCNFA7gXMzLVk4UUTE8XJs9lTDpzPQsDyAW1Fkkb-cuS5zkk0RNAvC91SazHZLaTgyS38fVBcx6R9lYC2dPTC8odGRqJnZMFSJIdCGkchi131GIpf3uv0izHGz/s1600/T+Plus+%25234.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="572" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzR7zZqCEeyHl1snqLqlwCNFA7gXMzLVk4UUTE8XJs9lTDpzPQsDyAW1Fkkb-cuS5zkk0RNAvC91SazHZLaTgyS38fVBcx6R9lYC2dPTC8odGRqJnZMFSJIdCGkchi131GIpf3uv0izHGz/s640/T+Plus+%25234.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<u>Comfort food</u></div>
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I don't know about you, but as soon as I feel even the slightest bit 'under the weather' I crave all the carbs. I'm talking bowls of chilli, fluffy baked potatoes, the pasta heaven that is spaghetti bolognese and warming bowls of soup. (with a chunk of bread for dipping of course!) I love making big batches of my chicken casserole, or a bowlful of mushroom chilli when I'm not feeling my best. It's warm, it's comforting, it's delicious (if I say so myself) and it fills your body with all that goodness it needs to get back to feeling fabulous. <b><a href="http://keepcalmitsonlyablog.blogspot.co.uk/2015/12/recipe-winter-warming-chicken-casserole.html" target="_blank">Check out my chicken casserole recipe here.</a></b></div>
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<u>Sweat it out</u></div>
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You're going to roll your eyes at me with this one, but it really does help! I find that even fifteen minutes of moderate exercise gives me a much needed rush of endorphins, and leaves me feeling full of energy. I also find a relaxing yoga session, combined with some gentle stretching a great way to relax, unwind and detox your body.</div>
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<u>Hydrate</u></div>
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When you're not feeling your best, water is your best friend. Try to drink at least 2 - 3 litres of water every day to stay hydrated, flush out your system, maintain your body's fluid balance and regulate body temperature. Add in a few slices of lemon, lime or orange for an added vitamin c boost.</div>
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<u>Relax</u></div>
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I find it so hard to relax, I'm always go go go and it's difficult for me to switch off and just do nothing. When I'm feeling run down I always try to take an hour or two out of the day for myself. Grab a blanket, get into your cosiest pyjamas, whack a good film on (chocolate bar optional but highly recommended) and just be lazy! It's okay to slow down once in a while, especially when you're feeling unwell. It's important to let your body rest and repair itself, and if that means binge watching a whole series on Netflix while it does so - even better!</div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">I hope you enjoyed this<b> 'Top tips for when you feel under the weather' </b>post<b> - </b>Which T Plus tea would be your favourite? Are you a tea addict like me? What are some of your tips for when you're feeling under the weather? </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">I'd love to know, leave me a lovely comment below.</span></div>
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Let's be friends!</div>
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<b><i>Love Lauren x</i></b></div>
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*I was kindly sent the teas mentioned and shown above by T Plus, to try and test for the purpose of a review. As always all thoughts and opinions are my own, for more information see the contact/pr section of my blog.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17717652993155709360noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7904792353314631271.post-4756833132718003842016-09-14T16:11:00.000+01:002016-12-14T22:08:25.970+00:00Fitness: My Relationship With Fitness | BooHoo Fit Collab*<div style="text-align: center;">
Fitness to me isn't about washboard could-grate-cheese abs, body fat percentage or looking great in a bikini (although I wouldn't say no to the abs, but alas I like cake too much) I feel that fitness is about challenging yourself, being healthy and strong, and feeling comfortable with yourself. I love being active, it's become such an important part of my life. I exercise around five days per week, I love starting my morning with a sweaty workout to get my blood pumping, and those feel-good endorphin's flowing. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSy_x-aQj8r9EO3sIQ8I4NEoW90gg3vGENe1Fi1PrKVwAygs0tl6BeruHXehDvy8K-V14VaNRuGiONECrgrt5bJblMALLeWlm53aMOEhRqvnnuJGzUKokmh2yRFmwvLoOree0lKed2HXBp/s1600/BooHoo+%25239.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSy_x-aQj8r9EO3sIQ8I4NEoW90gg3vGENe1Fi1PrKVwAygs0tl6BeruHXehDvy8K-V14VaNRuGiONECrgrt5bJblMALLeWlm53aMOEhRqvnnuJGzUKokmh2yRFmwvLoOree0lKed2HXBp/s640/BooHoo+%25239.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAiQOSaf-BT5ivPb8uGadjyV06O4FgvIXszvtnr6IR5KJejR_8sd-qyIUjrYInn-ExJdPEL40ycgLIPj28pJK2tuZpazA1tdtjdTDt4_dFEKT4uEFfCZI0YTKFigEaNJ7JAwaiPeSAVeqy/s1600/BooHoo+%25238.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAiQOSaf-BT5ivPb8uGadjyV06O4FgvIXszvtnr6IR5KJejR_8sd-qyIUjrYInn-ExJdPEL40ycgLIPj28pJK2tuZpazA1tdtjdTDt4_dFEKT4uEFfCZI0YTKFigEaNJ7JAwaiPeSAVeqy/s640/BooHoo+%25238.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZHn8Gx8ikCOnWhkKdziIrXlWkqE7ln7HaCVw9iRgAECSKY_rOcGnUYzDcJQdBko9H3pqa4_cZ5ZVO2aiSzH6HFre6tfRUJIVlmENK14X1gqM8RkhL66gUP6VmDIPMo3aYkaqDY1S3Trw3/s1600/BooHoo+%25236.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZHn8Gx8ikCOnWhkKdziIrXlWkqE7ln7HaCVw9iRgAECSKY_rOcGnUYzDcJQdBko9H3pqa4_cZ5ZVO2aiSzH6HFre6tfRUJIVlmENK14X1gqM8RkhL66gUP6VmDIPMo3aYkaqDY1S3Trw3/s640/BooHoo+%25236.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Two years ago my relationship with fitness was non-existent, the closest I got to exercise was a short walk to the shops or maybe a very rare trip to the swimming baths. I used to always take the lift over the stairs, and pretty much avoided exercising like the plague. The reason for my aversion to fitness was that I myself was unfit. I couldn't walk up the stairs at work without getting out of puff, and my legs would ache (and I would whinge) if my boyfriend wanted to drag me out for an evening stroll. I felt uncomfortable and unhappy in myself and my body, so I didn't want to try. I thought people might laugh at me or stare at the overweight girl attempting to exercise. But after a ski trip in 2014 the realisation of how unfit I actually was hit me. Skiing is tiring, it's tough on your legs and bum, and falling over is so much more embarrassing when you aren't able to pick yourself up without assistance. After getting home and seeing the photographs I was shocked at my size, I thought that the oversized ski pants and baggy t-shirts were masking my larger frame, but the camera doesn't lie. It was then that my relationship with fitness began. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirNy1x8B0EydmuzUqhhCMDXZe8gm23nE8_2BhaJOHMbFcgXV6Yuz8phquVElx7WiZ7-wrObZpPcyCkWbcemAt5RjGjh2qCpquCevVbvGooGTX5vedvc7GMq9gUMP5fM5RBLcNWySRn-QGj/s1600/BooHoo+%25231.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirNy1x8B0EydmuzUqhhCMDXZe8gm23nE8_2BhaJOHMbFcgXV6Yuz8phquVElx7WiZ7-wrObZpPcyCkWbcemAt5RjGjh2qCpquCevVbvGooGTX5vedvc7GMq9gUMP5fM5RBLcNWySRn-QGj/s640/BooHoo+%25231.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1WfP_9EjevPyYSfC2DUbjoHZV1nA8f2etjdS8_n0HbW_vcmBldpDYTaFvH_Qs-WlxvClPGaJwac2yq2llVvWyNzJeclu8Cf_F8Pizcb3QiZIdA4WPQx1xr8xb_gGaUnnmnFlVHddE5dir/s1600/BooHoo+%25232.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1WfP_9EjevPyYSfC2DUbjoHZV1nA8f2etjdS8_n0HbW_vcmBldpDYTaFvH_Qs-WlxvClPGaJwac2yq2llVvWyNzJeclu8Cf_F8Pizcb3QiZIdA4WPQx1xr8xb_gGaUnnmnFlVHddE5dir/s640/BooHoo+%25232.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV7Q83SEPHrXjmi0cGZmBZf3SAjz2qG3HLE0jbsGGFlK6fjI0na0nWTpS65XrxbPfTXiMKBmQtnQBRNMDUeQFyJRTdbo37nszxB3QUlaiqKewlk0v1bP-98uclTfmNx6aoDilYBonE1wyI/s1600/BooHoo+%25237.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV7Q83SEPHrXjmi0cGZmBZf3SAjz2qG3HLE0jbsGGFlK6fjI0na0nWTpS65XrxbPfTXiMKBmQtnQBRNMDUeQFyJRTdbo37nszxB3QUlaiqKewlk0v1bP-98uclTfmNx6aoDilYBonE1wyI/s640/BooHoo+%25237.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I started going out for long walks, taking the stairs and tried to be generally more active. I work in a hotel on the reception desk, so much of my time is spent sitting down. I tried to stand more and move around as much as I could. Little by little the weight started to drop off (combined with a healthy, balanced diet) and I could feel myself getting stronger. I lost five stone in eight months and went from a UK size 18 - 20 to a 10. I looked healthier and I sure felt happier, but I wasn't strong. I was slim but not 'fit'. I did a lot of cardio so I didn't really have much muscle strength. I wanted to get stronger and feel fitter so I started combining cardio with strength training. (all in the comfort of my own home) I love trying different workouts and incorporating new exercises into my routine. I've found that a mix of dance, high intensity interval training (HIIT) plyometrics, strength training, yoga and pilates works for me. I enjoy variety and learning new things, I like to keep my routine fun and varied as it stops me from getting bored or stuck in a fitness rut. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBDvmfceVUCxdY6vhMfc-t2K6stkvUAeHbyzaA5revPsUocjLuXlIVdJUsCAQQCKnXpDhVu-hBvKwv8EmxTQalXM9Za0S9F9xQ8CtIPJybjm1PGLisI_f_quiKw3FYkM8gMdNJKp2sJLPn/s1600/BooHoo+%25235.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBDvmfceVUCxdY6vhMfc-t2K6stkvUAeHbyzaA5revPsUocjLuXlIVdJUsCAQQCKnXpDhVu-hBvKwv8EmxTQalXM9Za0S9F9xQ8CtIPJybjm1PGLisI_f_quiKw3FYkM8gMdNJKp2sJLPn/s640/BooHoo+%25235.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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My body is in no way 'perfect' and I still have hang ups, but I'm strong, I'm healthy, I'm active and most importantly I'm happy. I might not have a super toned figure or long, lean legs up to my armpits but I am me, and I have come a long way from that unhappy overweight Lauren that I used to be. My body is the way it should be, the way I want it to be and is a body that I can be proud of. </div>
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I am a big cheerleader for being body positive and confident. Whatever your shape or size, be proud of your body - it is amazing and allows you to do wonderful things! Run, jump, skip, dance, swim, and be kind to yourself - you are strong, you are capable, you are beautiful and most importantly you are you. </div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">I hope you enjoyed this<b> 'Relationship with fitness' </b>collab post, What do you think of my BooHoo fit picks? I love the Aztec style sports bra - too cute! What is your relationship with fitness? Are you a cardio queen or more of a yoga lover?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">I'd love to know, leave me a lovely comment below.</span></div>
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Let's be friends!</div>
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<a href="https://instagram.com/clumsybaby/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/clumsybaby" target="_blank">Twitter </a>|<a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/keep-calm-its-only-a-blog-11721151" target="_blank"> Bloglovin</a></div>
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<b><i>Love Lauren x</i></b></div>
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*This post is in collaboration with BooHoo Fit (BooHoo X Couch To 5k), and their fitness clothing range. I was challenged to style some pieces of my choosing from their collection, combining fitness with fashion. and share my own relationship with fitness. As always all thoughts and opinions are my own, for more information see the contact/pr section of my blog.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17717652993155709360noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7904792353314631271.post-43647776383753430722016-09-07T19:35:00.000+01:002016-09-25T20:38:34.716+01:00Health: Glugging Ugly*<div style="text-align: center;">
Water is my favourite beverage. I aim to drink between 3 - 4 litres of water every day, and you will always find me with a big bottle in hand. Water is one of the best (and easiest!) things you can do for your health and there are so many benefits. It improves digestion, energy levels and brain function, improves physical performance and can also help prevent headaches.</div>
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I was kindly sent a box of cans from the lovely people at <b>Ugly*</b>. Ugly is a sparkling water drinks brand, who create delicious carbonated drinks with no added nasties!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKoEvszi5D_MIx2RNhKAPWrEYvWsZEUko0tHIXm12g-CDM34rZhrfW_9ZTUFQRKR37koe-wMn7eD81qYPJfT1z1pHXN_1HN01ovSwFZvs98zo6dcYoJZBYZd6Npz5Rt3m9j5woxdWr1lx8/s1600/Ugly+%25234.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKoEvszi5D_MIx2RNhKAPWrEYvWsZEUko0tHIXm12g-CDM34rZhrfW_9ZTUFQRKR37koe-wMn7eD81qYPJfT1z1pHXN_1HN01ovSwFZvs98zo6dcYoJZBYZd6Npz5Rt3m9j5woxdWr1lx8/s640/Ugly+%25234.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL_uN2xF54ZilNYPCQk8wo7bLSzaXX6MRu4xQdtbvtRNaFSsfneauHJbgYRfASWcWzNBKRcjsD2UtANaQov8S1Rhkwnt6ac2au5epLp0-J1RMUgnrpuKYG5W2NVLtlGtj0nlUCkItJCclW/s1600/Ugly+%25235.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL_uN2xF54ZilNYPCQk8wo7bLSzaXX6MRu4xQdtbvtRNaFSsfneauHJbgYRfASWcWzNBKRcjsD2UtANaQov8S1Rhkwnt6ac2au5epLp0-J1RMUgnrpuKYG5W2NVLtlGtj0nlUCkItJCclW/s640/Ugly+%25235.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhztfY3qURIRGQFuBhiBWSbCGRhSDNzARpfY3F_epHir52TdsxLzXGnJ74qN6nmm4FMicOnGN-EO7mUqBtuPPLUpdgaYUHFLGXyZBOOhTxRQbDQ-sX60cIl0KfGuujg3Kx1RI3qx_0czhFS/s1600/Ugly+%25233.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhztfY3qURIRGQFuBhiBWSbCGRhSDNzARpfY3F_epHir52TdsxLzXGnJ74qN6nmm4FMicOnGN-EO7mUqBtuPPLUpdgaYUHFLGXyZBOOhTxRQbDQ-sX60cIl0KfGuujg3Kx1RI3qx_0czhFS/s640/Ugly+%25233.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Their motto is: <span style="color: blue; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i><span style="background-color: white; font-weight: bold; line-height: 1.3;">Ugly isn’t dressed up to look pretty, it’s unsweet </span><span style="background-color: white; font-weight: bold; line-height: 1.3;">and has nothing to hide. It’s just sparkling water infused with natural fruit flavours. Because you’re sweet enough already.</span></i></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 20.8px;">Ugly have two different flavours of sparkling water - lemon and lime, and grapefruit and pineapple. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 20.8px;">I love that both flavours have no added sugars or sweeteners, and contain nothing </span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 20.8px;">artificial. </span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 20.8px;">It's simply sparkling water, natural (lemon and lime/grapefruit and pineapple) flavours and citric acid. Oh and as for calorie content... a big fat zero! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20.8px;">The lemon and lime tastes just as it says on the<strike> tin </strike>can. A delicious blend of citrus, with a lovely lime kick, I added a wedge of lemon to mine for even more zest! The first thing that came to mind when I spotted the grapefruit and pineapple was Lilt! (I used to<i> love</i> ice-cold, straight from the fridge Lilt in the summertime.) Again it was delicious, a lovely mix of tart grapefruit and super sweet pineapple. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20.8px;">I enjoyed both drinks chilled, straight from the fridge with lashing of ice. They are the perfect sparkling drink for a warm day, to hydrate and refresh your palate. I will admit that they aren't anything like a fizzy drink, so if you're a big fan of sugary pop they may taste a little bland. But if you love flavoured water, with a fruity kick then you'll love Ugly! #glugugly</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20.8px;">If you would like to know more about Ugly, or pick up a few cans for yourself - <b><a href="https://uglydrinks.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">check out their website here.</a></b></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPV0EywQ3AX6oYl_-boh-8cEpQwd4Yu5YdmW2gYl_FJrbhepndQX8cpgkds-HJIn7dqMGlccHuOlZ98K9elNrjfVx7iVCb9c1Rujjs5bkGt_Rnxhyphenhyphenf-0XTqZX2LA-m7FKGroyUpMppnAhd/s1600/Ugly+%25231.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPV0EywQ3AX6oYl_-boh-8cEpQwd4Yu5YdmW2gYl_FJrbhepndQX8cpgkds-HJIn7dqMGlccHuOlZ98K9elNrjfVx7iVCb9c1Rujjs5bkGt_Rnxhyphenhyphenf-0XTqZX2LA-m7FKGroyUpMppnAhd/s640/Ugly+%25231.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnkQmifrfdwrPYYBV4eznfB2HwQ1OzNIUyfN7yFm9pYQ48R8s5WYyFM7g69QWpKT0KN37pjNojfNgY3ool-hNTpnA9zO4GJbCruI-HUyu7MajVkek_u1_qrgoImovW8qzGALukSlDzfuAd/s1600/Ugly+%25232.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnkQmifrfdwrPYYBV4eznfB2HwQ1OzNIUyfN7yFm9pYQ48R8s5WYyFM7g69QWpKT0KN37pjNojfNgY3ool-hNTpnA9zO4GJbCruI-HUyu7MajVkek_u1_qrgoImovW8qzGALukSlDzfuAd/s640/Ugly+%25232.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">I hope you enjoyed this<b> 'Ugly Review'</b> post. What is your favourite beverage? Will you be giving Ugly drinks a whirl?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">I'd love to know, leave me a lovely comment below.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
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Let's be friends!</div>
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<a href="https://instagram.com/clumsybaby/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/clumsybaby" target="_blank">Twitter </a>|<a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/keep-calm-its-only-a-blog-11721151" target="_blank"> Bloglovin</a></div>
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<b><i>Love Lauren x</i></b><br />
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<b style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><i>*Ugly drinks very kindly sent me the cans of sparkling water mentioned above, to try and test for the purpose of a review. As always all opinions and thoughts are my own. For more information please see my Contact/PR tab. </i></b></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17717652993155709360noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7904792353314631271.post-3866727074397036142016-08-31T16:12:00.000+01:002016-09-01T11:55:34.690+01:00Lifestyle: Life Through My Camera Roll #8<div style="text-align: center;">
It's been quite a while since I have updated you with a <i>'Life through my camera roll'</i> post <a href="http://keepcalmitsonlyablog.blogspot.co.uk/2016/06/lifestyle-life-through-my-camera-roll-7.html" target="_blank"><b>(catch up here)</b> </a>- so I though it was about time I shared with you all the things I've been doing/loving/watching/munching lately!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU996TYV_KZZlpZiP7DfdxBti72OEbZtLuthZY4XGrlInA5QJnfuCdGdgRyLO0O2UgQD4tJGwWY2emez2HZNYUH5zgia10nlo2ghNmYaw8BxD6iC3SnXU7IeZw6KQ6S-WcDoQaQpJdl2St/s1600/Camera+roll+%25238.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU996TYV_KZZlpZiP7DfdxBti72OEbZtLuthZY4XGrlInA5QJnfuCdGdgRyLO0O2UgQD4tJGwWY2emez2HZNYUH5zgia10nlo2ghNmYaw8BxD6iC3SnXU7IeZw6KQ6S-WcDoQaQpJdl2St/s640/Camera+roll+%25238.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I have new Netflix obsession for you - <b>That 70's Show!</b> Me and the boyfriend have been binge watching it for the past month and it's so funny. It features a baby-faced Ashton Kutcher, a super spoilt Mila Kunis and a redheaded Laura Prepon (Hello Alex from OITNB) The show is set in, you guessed it, the seventies! The series revolves around Eric Foreman and his idiot friends hanging out in his basement. It's a witty sitcom full of great one-liners, and has a brilliant cast. If you like retro jokes, stupid stunts and running gags, then you'll love it. </div>
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I've been mixing up my fitness routine lately, as I love to try new workouts and incorporate different exercises into my routine. My new favourite is<b><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plyometrics" target="_blank"> plyometrics</a></b>, in which you perform exercises that exert your muscles maximum force in short intervals, with the goal of increasing power and speed strength. For example I do a combination of squat jumps, lateral jumps and skaters. I love it as it gets your heart rate up, burns fat, is fun to do and you can smash it out in twenty minutes.</div>
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I spotted this chocolate hazelnut heaven while browsing the<a href="http://www.tesco.com/groceries/product/details/?id=292991583" target="_blank"> Tesco website </a>a few weeks ago, *adds to basket*. I have tried this spread before when Jim Jam's kindly sent me a jar - but since finishing it (sob) I couldn't get my hands on another, as it wasn't readily available in my region. So I was over the moon to see that Tesco are now selling it. It tastes just like Nutella but with 83% less total sugars and is suitable for diabetics, vegetarians and is gluten free - a winner! I love spreading mine on wholemeal toast or crispbreads, with sliced banana and chia seeds, mmm. (they also sell a standard chocolate version)<br />
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<a href="http://www.hollandandbarrett.com/search?query=hippeas&isSearch=true" target="_blank">Holland and Barrett </a>is probably one of my favourite shops, I spend far too much money picking up healthy snacks and I love discovering new brands. While browsing the aisles these babies caught my eye - they are 'Hippeas' organic chickpea puffs, and being a big fan of chickpeas I had to give them a try. I can confirm that they are blimmin' delicious - they look similar to cheese puffs but are low in calories (only 90 per packet) high in fibre and are a great source of protein. They are also gluten free and vegan too. They come in a variety of different flavours, from black pepper and herbs, to fajita and paprika. The 'in herbs we trust' has to be my favourite - the combination of rosemary, oregano and thyme reminds me of pizza. A must try.<br />
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Cancer awareness: Having had a few family members lose their fight with cancer, I think that spreading awareness of any and all types of cancer is such a wonderful thing. I was recently contacted by the lovely and very brave Heather, who has battled (and won!) her fight with a rare type of cancer called <b><a href="http://www.mesothelioma.com/mesothelioma/" target="_blank">Mesothelioma</a></b>. This aggressive type of cancer can develop in the lining of the lungs, abdomen or heart and is caused by asbestos. There is no known cure and it has a very poor prognosis. Heather was unknowingly exposed to asbestos as a little girl by her father, who worked in drywall construction. Heather beat the odds and beat cancer, she is now a ten year cancer survivor and an advocate for Mesothelioma awareness (such an amazing lady!) September 26th is <span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">Mesothelioma Awareness Day</span><span style="background-color: white; text-align: start;"><span style="color: #222222;"> - which is the perfect opportunity to help spread the word and educate people about Mesothelioma. I myself knew nothing about it before reading Heather's story - it is such a rare disease, that really could happen to anyone. </span></span></span><b><a href="http://www.mesothelioma.com/heather/survivor/#intro" target="_blank">Here is the link to Heather's blog series, if you would like to read her amazing story and be kind enough to share it!</a> </b>P.S It made me sob just a bit, she is truly a remarkable woman.<br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">I hope you enjoyed this<b> 'Life Through my camera roll' </b>post, What's your current favourite Netflix series? Will you be helping to spread the word about Mesothelioma awareness day? </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">I'd love to know, leave me a lovely comment below.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
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Let's be friends!</div>
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<a href="https://instagram.com/clumsybaby/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/clumsybaby" target="_blank">Twitter </a>|<a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/keep-calm-its-only-a-blog-11721151" target="_blank"> Bloglovin</a></div>
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<b><i>Love Lauren x</i></b></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17717652993155709360noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7904792353314631271.post-50720407348289469462016-08-25T20:34:00.000+01:002016-09-25T20:38:58.648+01:00Health: We Are Tea*<div style="text-align: center;">
Tea is a daily necessity for me. I always start my morning off with a litre of water and cup of the good stuff. Green, herbal, fruit or classic breakfast - I love them all! So when the lovely people from <a href="http://www.wearetea.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><b>We Are Tea*</b> </a>asked if they could send me some of their brand new tea range, I of course happily accepted!<br />
We Are Tea are an independent British tea company based in lovely London. They describe themselves as independent, ethical and whole leaf, which is wonderful to hear. They source all of their tea leaves directly from the best tea gardens around the world. (Mainly China, India and Africa.) I love how much thought goes into their teas, from the careful chosen high quality natural ingredients, to the ethical and environmental measures they implement. The teas are all free of genetically modified organisms (so no added nasties!) and all of the tea bags are 100% biodegradable. I feel proud to support small companies that really care about how they source their ingredients and are kind to the earth, as well as producing high quality and delicious products.<br />
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We Are Tea have teamed up with Amanda Hamilton, who is a leading nutritionist to create a brand new blend of teas, called the <b><a href="http://www.wearetea.com/everyday-good-by-amanda-hamilton/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">'everyday good range'</a></b>. The idea behind this range is to provide their customers with teas that not only taste good, but that do good too! Each tea in the range has been specially created to target a different part of your body.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6UAJQX9A7S3SkEHlKchZUT-clNB9cjyJAQ5RfZVvTj6qnM3UFwO9T0pNhu3P-z3mNPWM4mZ5BO3QHXpjFTNxDNagYEqwbZ7UTluAOI_bHmVUDYYAu0S_fG1liJKKpqssh7Bd_fkEjel-F/s1600/Tea+%25235.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6UAJQX9A7S3SkEHlKchZUT-clNB9cjyJAQ5RfZVvTj6qnM3UFwO9T0pNhu3P-z3mNPWM4mZ5BO3QHXpjFTNxDNagYEqwbZ7UTluAOI_bHmVUDYYAu0S_fG1liJKKpqssh7Bd_fkEjel-F/s640/Tea+%25235.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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There are three different teas in this range:<br />
The 'svelte' tea, which is a blend of Yerba mate, nettle, dandelion, ginger, fennel and seaweed. This tea has been designed to balance your metabolism and invigorate your body. I will admit as soon as I spotted 'seaweed' I was a bit dubious of trying this blend, but it really doesn't taste of seaweed (it does have a whiff of it though!) it's not my favourite of the three, but I do love the hints of nettle and fennel which come through.<br />
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The 'glow' tea, which is meant to boost your skins radiance. This tea contains red berries, Echinacea (a type of flowering plant, belonging to the daisy family) dandelion, calendula (a mix of herbaceous plants) and petals. This is my favourite tea from the range, I love the refreshing blend of berries and herbs - it's the perfect morning pick me up, and hopefully does make my skin look that bit brighter!<br />
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The 'soothe' tea, for tummy relief. This tea is the one I was most excited about, as I often suffer from bloating and my stomach can feel quite uncomfortable. This tea is a blend of fennel, chamomile, lemon verbena (a flowering plant) holy basil, mint and ginger. I have been enjoying a cup of this tea each evening after dinner, as it's usually the largest meal and it really has helped ease my bloating and digestion. A winner!<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9LyI3JnpA2_T6pweNRPOrHswHiMX-RVwDAt3etHgrWURltnUl3ZJVpzuVUP4D_b_rNm8IGm7GpQAT9idYprtfuZ6CiUaeopSiqweluft3Hs-eUAewxUf30xOV2grGA8MX-ogvlYog0erD/s1600/Tea+%25233.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9LyI3JnpA2_T6pweNRPOrHswHiMX-RVwDAt3etHgrWURltnUl3ZJVpzuVUP4D_b_rNm8IGm7GpQAT9idYprtfuZ6CiUaeopSiqweluft3Hs-eUAewxUf30xOV2grGA8MX-ogvlYog0erD/s640/Tea+%25233.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">I hope you enjoyed this<b> 'We Are Tea' </b>review post, Are you a big tea fan like me? Which of the three blends do you think would be your favourite?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;">I'd love to know, leave me a lovely comment below.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
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Let's be friends!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: "times new roman";">
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<a href="https://instagram.com/clumsybaby/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/clumsybaby" target="_blank">Twitter </a>|<a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/keep-calm-its-only-a-blog-11721151" target="_blank"> Bloglovin</a></div>
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<b><i>Love Lauren x</i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b></div>
</div>
<b><i>*We Are Tea very kindly sent me three packets of the teas mentioned above, to try and test for the purpose of a review. As always all opinions and thoughts are my own. For more information please see my Contact/PR tab. </i></b></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17717652993155709360noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7904792353314631271.post-35548083409952018742016-08-16T20:40:00.002+01:002016-08-16T20:40:17.478+01:00Lifestyle: Confidence<div style="text-align: center;">
If I had to describe how I feel about myself I would say that I lack confidence. From my hair to my thighs, I am constantly critiquing myself. Last year I started getting a few spots on my chin, and after going through most of my life spot free it was quite worrying. Those worries only made the bastards multiply, the more I fretted the more spots appeared on my face. It got to the point where I would feel so self conscious that I would cover my face with my hair as much as I could, and conceal the hell out of my skin. I used to often go out sans make up but this became an absolute no-no. </div>
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After hiding for what felt like an eternity, I booked myself an appointment with my GP to try and get some advice. He told me to remove all of my make up so that he could see my skin, I freaked out and maybe had a little sob at the request but I obliged, and he told me I had acne. I asked him how and why this had happened to me as my skin was always clear, and he explained how it could be hormonal or stress related. He prescribed me some tablets and a cream to use nightly, and sent me on my way. After months of using a combination of the two daily, my spots slowly started to disappear and no new ones were rearing their ugly heads. I felt happier and brighter, but my bubble was slightly burst by the scarring I was left with. A lovely little reminder of my acne struggle. I continued to use the medication daily and my scars did start to fade a little. </div>
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It's now a year on and I am still using the medication. My scars are still there, and they probably will be for the foreseeable future but I have learnt to embrace them as one of my little 'flaws'. I still have days when I look in the mirror and yearn for my previously clear face, but I just remind myself that no one is perfect, we can only be the best version of ourselves and if the best version of myself has a few acne scars on her face, then I can handle that. I have shared a make up free photograph of myself that my boyfriend took - it was taken completely off guard but I love it. I feel happier, brighter and am more confident in myself, and I think this photograph highlights that. I'll never have oodles of confidence and sass, and I'm okay with that. I'm me, and I won't hide anymore.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4meiIutQj7QIDvhjX4LH2urDAImZQJHhutcge6hDabxT9bl_PWht_nqmUgJdSFJ8Pnwk_wVPtWr5cSVKziNossFDQbjT5ESM-OBntpdMuiT8h7vGPeoO1Qlz3Y58NM00BKIbyL7Uha0T1/s1600/image4+%252816%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4meiIutQj7QIDvhjX4LH2urDAImZQJHhutcge6hDabxT9bl_PWht_nqmUgJdSFJ8Pnwk_wVPtWr5cSVKziNossFDQbjT5ESM-OBntpdMuiT8h7vGPeoO1Qlz3Y58NM00BKIbyL7Uha0T1/s640/image4+%252816%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">I hope you enjoyed this<b> 'Confidence' </b>post, and it wasn't too much of a ramble! How do you feel confident in yourself? Have you ever had or have acne?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;">I'd love to know, leave me a lovely comment below.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Let's be friends!</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: "times new roman";">
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<a href="https://instagram.com/clumsybaby/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/clumsybaby" target="_blank">Twitter </a>|<a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/keep-calm-its-only-a-blog-11721151" target="_blank"> Bloglovin</a></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><i>Love Lauren x</i></b></div>
</div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17717652993155709360noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7904792353314631271.post-32043841831100942412016-08-05T20:53:00.000+01:002016-08-05T20:53:48.219+01:00Lifestyle: Fun In The Sun<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm a homely girl through and through. I love nothing more than curling up in my comfiest clothes on my big, squishy sofa with a mug of tea and shutting the door on the world. Home is my safe place, my own private haven and a place I feel happiest and most content. Having anxiety can often make me feel as though I have no control over certain situations - so being at home is always a big comfort. I have been trying push myself bit by bit, out of my little bubble and into the wide world. It sounds silly but it's important for me to push myself to at least try, otherwise I end up retreating into myself... which is never a positive thing. Anyway enough rambling my point was over here somewhere.. oh yes, SUN! Since the weather is somewhat warm in England at the moment (I say warm, it's currently chucking it down as I type) I thought I would share with you some of my favourite ways to spend a sunny day. We don't often get much sun, so as soon as it comes out (even just a brief glimpse) I race outside to soak up every last ray.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHyvEuDVUNptzphvqEiPjMB_MqkNYXUZBs-vLy_SgOJn7HPt_god1tUUKvRZadSXWVwv0FIwzlVJZql_6Tds0vvetVgQcHauqsHoA56-ezwzEr9ydx0dJGzGNaAWWOHTSrFl1TLeRn7u4M/s1600/image1+%252847%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="566" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHyvEuDVUNptzphvqEiPjMB_MqkNYXUZBs-vLy_SgOJn7HPt_god1tUUKvRZadSXWVwv0FIwzlVJZql_6Tds0vvetVgQcHauqsHoA56-ezwzEr9ydx0dJGzGNaAWWOHTSrFl1TLeRn7u4M/s640/image1+%252847%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<u>Picnics</u></div>
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Be it in a park, in the woods, at a castle or on a cute bench somewhere - picnics are the epitome of a British summer. (well that and a barbie in the rain) Grab a wicker basket or Tesco bag for life, whatever floats your boat, some plastic cutlery and paper plates, freshly made sandwiches (smoked salmon is a firm fave) a bag of fancy crisps, cocktail sausages and sweet treats and you're good to go. For extra posh picnic points pack a cheeky bottle of Prosecco. </div>
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<u>Beach day</u></div>
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I love the beach. The sound of crashing waves, more ice creams than you can shake a flake at and the rare opportunity to catch some rays, and maybe a tan. Unless you're anything like me, then you will end up looking like a lovely little lobster. </div>
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<u>Sunset</u></div>
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My boyfriend Ian is a dab hand at sunset photographs - he just has the gift. We love nothing more than heading out on summer evening armed with our camera's to capture a beautiful sunset. The combination of pretty pinks, mellow yellows and vibrant oranges is definitely a sight to be seen. </div>
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<u>Sweet treats</u></div>
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I have the biggest sweet tooth, seriously just look at my <a href="https://www.instagram.com/clumsybaby/" target="_blank">instagram feed (cheeky plug)</a> if it's chocolate covered, dipped or rolled I'm sold. Some of my favourite summer treats have to be homemade lemonade, ice lollies - Fabs, Twisters and Magnums are all winners or freshly baked scones with lashings of clotted cream and jam - I can't help it, I'm a Devon gal after all!</div>
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<u>Garden time</u></div>
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Be it a family barbecue, garden party or a weekend get-together, there's nothing like grilling up a feast and sipping on homemade Pimm's in the comfort of your own backyard. I wish I had a garden of my own, but alas I live in a second floor flat. I used to love my old house, as we had a decent sized garden, which was perfect for sitting outside on a warm summer evening, with a good book and a cup of tea. </div>
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<u>Lunch date</u></div>
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Ian and I try to go out on a date together at least once a month. Be it dinner, watching a film at the cinema, heading to a city for a day of shopping or simply slobbing on the sofa with a chippy tea - it's important to spend some quality time together as a couple. I think it makes you stronger, happier and feel closer to each other. Hello soppy. We love going out for lunch dates, especially in the summer time. There's something about eating al fresco that's so lovely, especially in England. </div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">I hope you enjoyed this<b> 'Fun in the Sun' </b>post, What are some of your favourite ways to spend a sunny day? </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;">I'd love to know, leave me a lovely comment below.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Let's be friends!</div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://instagram.com/clumsybaby/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/clumsybaby" target="_blank">Twitter </a>|<a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/keep-calm-its-only-a-blog-11721151" target="_blank"> Bloglovin</a></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><i>Love Lauren x</i></b></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17717652993155709360noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7904792353314631271.post-12329616416264572332016-07-21T19:18:00.001+01:002016-07-21T19:18:29.833+01:00Healthy Recipe: Homemade Nutty Granola<div style="text-align: center;">
I love granola, it's one of my favourite breakfast toppings. I like to sprinkle it on top of yoghurt, banana splits or smoothie bowls for some added crunch. I have always bought large bags of granola from the supermarket to last me a few months, usually just simple oats and honey or nutty varieties. But after reading the ingredients list on the back of some of the packets, I realised just how much added sugar and nasties can be lurking in seemingly 'healthy' brands. Don't get me wrong, some brands are better than others, but it's the ones with the hidden sugars, salt and unnecessary added ingredients that you need to steer clear of - just because it seems 'healthy' or is marketed as such, doesn't mean that's always the case. It's definitely worth checking the label.</div>
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With all of that in mind I decided to start making my own granola - it's actually super duper easy to make, and you know exactly what your putting in to your body. You can also customise it to suit your tastes - Hate raisins? Leave them out. Love hazelnuts? Add more in! After a few trial and error attempts, I have finally perfected a nutty granola recipe that is quick to make, crunchy, sweet and delicious too. Oh, and it only requires four ingredients - win, win!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNhpsOvhcNPXvjPynlOtRBjUXhWq_BDbjq62wEBAF3Pm7hNSejlXS4LCL9r0KZ3u2zutuyVU3xFngWi_moy9RSGA08M12qabYYBZfN8zWZ8qRQSOGuJ_td2cUAAxE4pWZFnCMMJM_NvEUT/s1600/image1+%252846%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNhpsOvhcNPXvjPynlOtRBjUXhWq_BDbjq62wEBAF3Pm7hNSejlXS4LCL9r0KZ3u2zutuyVU3xFngWi_moy9RSGA08M12qabYYBZfN8zWZ8qRQSOGuJ_td2cUAAxE4pWZFnCMMJM_NvEUT/s640/image1+%252846%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<u>Ingredients:</u></div>
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100g of rolled oats</div>
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2 tablespoons of melted coconut oil<br />
(Lucy bee is my gal)</div>
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2 tablespoons of maple syrup<br />
(I love the Clarks maple carob syrup)</div>
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30g of chopped nuts </div>
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(I love hazelnuts, almonds, pecans, Brazil nuts and cashews)</div>
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You can also add in anything else you fancy - such as seeds, raisins, dried fruit, cinnamon, honey or dark chocolate chips.</div>
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<u>Method:</u></div>
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Preheat your oven to 180 degrees (electric fan assisted) and line a tray with baking paper.</div>
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Chop the nuts, not too finely as you want some nice chunks in there too.</div>
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Melt the coconut oil, I do this in the microwave in 30 second bursts - it usually takes about a minute or so to melt completely.</div>
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Add the oats and chopped nuts into a large bowl, then pour the coconut oil and maple syrup into the bowl. Mix well until all of the oats are coated in the maple syrup, coconut goodness.</div>
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Pour the mixture onto your lined tray, and spread it out into a thin layer using a spatula. </div>
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Bake in the oven for fifteen minutes until golden brown.</div>
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I like to check mine half way through, to make sure it isn't burning.</div>
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And that's it! Granola done for the week. My recipe makes between 4 - 5 servings, depending on how much you like to use. Pop your granola once cooled, into a airtight jar and it should keep for up to a week. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;">I hope you enjoyed this<b> 'Homemade Granola Recipe' </b>post, Are you a granola fan? What's your favourite flavour?</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;">I'd love to know, leave me a lovely comment below.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Let's be friends!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: "times new roman"; text-align: center;">
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<a href="https://instagram.com/clumsybaby/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/clumsybaby" target="_blank">Twitter </a>|<a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/keep-calm-its-only-a-blog-11721151" target="_blank"> Bloglovin</a></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><i>Love Lauren x</i></b></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17717652993155709360noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7904792353314631271.post-51189436864267482792016-07-14T19:59:00.000+01:002016-07-14T19:59:12.631+01:00Health: Finding Your Healthy Balance<div style="text-align: center;">
As you probably already know if you're a regular reader of my blog, or happen to follow me on <b><a href="https://www.instagram.com/clumsybaby/" target="_blank">instagram </a></b>- I love to eat a healthy, balanced diet full of delicious and nutritious foods, to fuel and nourish my body inside and out. Don't get me wrong I love to indulge in whatever I fancy, usually all the chocolate/cookies/cake, every now and then, as I am big believer in eating everything in moderation. I have been following the 80/20 rule since losing five stone in 2014. <a href="http://keepcalmitsonlyablog.blogspot.co.uk/search?q=weight+loss" target="_blank">(Catch up on my weight loss journey here)</a> the concept of which is simple - you eat healthy, nutritious foods 80% of the time and indulge in whatever you fancy for the other 20%. It's not a diet, and I use the term 'rule' loosely as I personally don't believe in restricting myself, or classing foods as 'good' and 'bad' - it's a way of living! Life is meant to be full of fun and freedom, not restriction and guilt.<br />
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I try to eat a healthy, rainbow of foods on the days that I am working, and I save my indulgent 20% for a lunch date on my day off, ice cream by the seaside or a big bag of pick n mix while watching a film. But I don't plan a 'cheat day', if I fancy a bar of chocolate and a cup of tea on a Tuesday night I'll go right ahead, but I won't have another one on Wednesday night, or maybe I want to have a takeaway pizza and ice cream on a Friday night, then on Saturday I'll have something a bit lighter and more nutritious. It's all about finding a healthy balance that works for you!</div>
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Along with eating healthily, I am also an active person. (Believe me, I never used to be! #coachpotato) I actually enjoy working out, maybe not always in the middle of a bikini HIIT workout but on the whole I do enjoy it. It makes me feel strong, confident and full of energy. I work out at home, I don't have access to a gym as the nearest is about 20 miles away, but even if that wasn't the case I actually prefer to exercise in the comfort of my little flat. It's free, it's easy and I can do it any time, any day and for as long as I want to.<br />
I don't really have a set fitness routine (for example, leg day, arm day etc) but I do plan out what workouts I want to do on particular days. For example I like to do yoga on Wednesdays and a dance cardio workout on Mondays, as I have a little more time before work. I prefer to exercise in the morning, but it's not always possible with my work schedule. If I'm starting work at 10.00am, I will do a morning workout, but if I'm starting at 9.00am, I will workout in the afternoon.<br />
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I aim to work out about five days per week. I usually have one rest day each week, maybe two if I've been overly active, as I do love to go out for long hikes with my boyfriend, weather permitting. A few weeks ago on my planned 'rest day' we ended up going on a five mile walk by the river, it was beautiful! I do find it hard sometimes to sit still and do nothing, I feel restless and like I should be moving my body in some way. But it is so important to let your muscles have a rest and recover.<br />
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The main message I wanted to share with this post is that you know yourself better than anyone, do what works for you, and what makes you happy. Try to eat well, indulge in the things you love, move a little every day and just be happy. Every body is beautiful. There's no point in living your life feeling miserable because you've put on a few pounds after having a fun weekend of ice cream and pancakes with your loved ones, or beating yourself up because you skipped a planned workout to spend some quality time doing something else you enjoy. Balance in definitely the key in my eyes, it's just a question of finding yours. </div>
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<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;">I hope you enjoyed this<b> 'Healthy Balance' </b>post, Have you found your healthy balance? Do you also follow the 80/20 'rule'?</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;">I'd love to know, leave me a lovely comment below.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Let's be friends!</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
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<b><i>Love Lauren x</i></b></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17717652993155709360noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7904792353314631271.post-49255753029141203852016-07-07T19:16:00.000+01:002016-09-25T20:39:37.327+01:00Lifestyle: Feeling Fancy With Stone Bridge Hair*<div style="text-align: center;">
When the lovely Claire from <a href="http://www.stone-bridge.co.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><b><i>Stone Bridge Hair*</i></b> </a>asked me if I would like to try out some of their hair accessories, I of course jumped at the chance! I've been following Stone Bridge Hair on Twitter for a few years now, and they have the prettiest hair accessories - from clasps to hairbands, clips and everything in between. Each piece is hand finished, forged and stitched either right here in the UK or across the pond in Canada and the States, by designers who's work appears in Hollywood films and major Television series. How amazing is that! The level of care and passion that goes into these creations, is clear to see in each beautiful piece.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ61pPpPqpr0QNQ1yNsSu0pA8vVV6_vSMAhZEY7I08CrvUON8P8ybrlJYQBBXoag8Ct0lzwxPysc48QpFYefgIZnt3mvdaxMN1hpUvIELU5tHQ_3PmmJYtrWDMYJpWyU5cI4wZLskQ_JQ0/s1600/Hair+%25236.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ61pPpPqpr0QNQ1yNsSu0pA8vVV6_vSMAhZEY7I08CrvUON8P8ybrlJYQBBXoag8Ct0lzwxPysc48QpFYefgIZnt3mvdaxMN1hpUvIELU5tHQ_3PmmJYtrWDMYJpWyU5cI4wZLskQ_JQ0/s640/Hair+%25236.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMELEDHACW_q5Hg06pM9hA2pfZmHKpEa6OjmdGGRcvY4Ntzmo7l31T3zMFNM0_Sd6qIX3IOHVARaAAa1yUYEx1dDtQaSEskxglszyBJgqv3K_fpyQGVr6YsMv6Q8TfQSf4lyUIJ1yUVjm0/s1600/Hair+%25237.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMELEDHACW_q5Hg06pM9hA2pfZmHKpEa6OjmdGGRcvY4Ntzmo7l31T3zMFNM0_Sd6qIX3IOHVARaAAa1yUYEx1dDtQaSEskxglszyBJgqv3K_fpyQGVr6YsMv6Q8TfQSf4lyUIJ1yUVjm0/s640/Hair+%25237.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
After a quick chat via email, a few questions about my hair type, shape and thickness and a couple of shameless selfies, my accessories were then carefully chosen to suit my hair and then shipped straight to my door. Upon opening the parcel I first noticed the level of attention to detail, from the beautiful silk drawstring bag containing carefully packaged items, to the pretty red ribbon tying the parcel together. The whole experience felt like such a treat. I think it'd make such a wonderful present for a loved one to brighten their day, or even a little gift from you to you.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMoVFeUNW0VrXEATyMnvK3ns5yOxPdKCmZJDLqPd_zMmwTgkgK3PVAuv4cQhX8yWq6zRtTggMmiKKz2vvaq3GUIX0FTu6NyWohWmjLN7V04Qkg9DBoxHA0vzAZWWYa8bla_UgqHSdUkwbR/s1600/Hair+%25231.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMoVFeUNW0VrXEATyMnvK3ns5yOxPdKCmZJDLqPd_zMmwTgkgK3PVAuv4cQhX8yWq6zRtTggMmiKKz2vvaq3GUIX0FTu6NyWohWmjLN7V04Qkg9DBoxHA0vzAZWWYa8bla_UgqHSdUkwbR/s640/Hair+%25231.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4_qu6udOfwcJ7OlpCq2gT0bG6BNPorELKE7O9mVA27vAe987MDVUY48Yy_0_ri-nvWUTUo0P41468v4GEGnL2TNBlt9ZTbu3I58Vx4hgZSBGrfdOGrS55Jg2DRPplXGpvs0xd-qHtlwT3/s1600/Hair+%25232.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4_qu6udOfwcJ7OlpCq2gT0bG6BNPorELKE7O9mVA27vAe987MDVUY48Yy_0_ri-nvWUTUo0P41468v4GEGnL2TNBlt9ZTbu3I58Vx4hgZSBGrfdOGrS55Jg2DRPplXGpvs0xd-qHtlwT3/s640/Hair+%25232.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I absolutely love all of the pieces chosen for me. The bright silk hairband adds a lovely pop of colour, and I think it looks great against my brunette curls. The perfect piece for summertime.<br />
The butterfly clip is just beautiful, it adds a feminine touch to any outfit. I have been wearing the baroque claw in my hair most days at work, it looks lovely pinned back in a half up half down style, which gets my hair out of my face while also looking pretty too.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhheAWR4EyQo1IvxwleJJyViSgIcQ9cJtj2HCcfJYld_mAQ7xqmIH1-s9yM97_kAnJLQGf5XXt6ZG7u99IUeqjoY3ctocVSn5am2LQzG9L91tDV5x3I1qje5dbF8u_9s_BcNscUBnfBuCaL/s1600/Hair+%25234.NEF" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhheAWR4EyQo1IvxwleJJyViSgIcQ9cJtj2HCcfJYld_mAQ7xqmIH1-s9yM97_kAnJLQGf5XXt6ZG7u99IUeqjoY3ctocVSn5am2LQzG9L91tDV5x3I1qje5dbF8u_9s_BcNscUBnfBuCaL/s640/Hair+%25234.NEF" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGARlZQgYrxKUdO0Q-UsEgAeDSostCAbFrF2rR_2qjiX5WfbAtULWO76GHUuzHdeQ7MgLMcV0lqA34bTE39zvqIyLKacmGPjJTrRGNDBVioJ9h4eB0ZTHcp_kHLhcm_zTiQ5v5ilHnqpkh/s1600/Hair+%25235.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGARlZQgYrxKUdO0Q-UsEgAeDSostCAbFrF2rR_2qjiX5WfbAtULWO76GHUuzHdeQ7MgLMcV0lqA34bTE39zvqIyLKacmGPjJTrRGNDBVioJ9h4eB0ZTHcp_kHLhcm_zTiQ5v5ilHnqpkh/s640/Hair+%25235.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Hair is something I don't often spend much time or money on, (opposed to jewellery or make up) or try to 'dress up', but with these beautiful accessories I am definitely going to be making more of a statement with my hair style. I would highly recommend Stone Bridge Hair, their service is impeccable, the accessories are unique and stunning, and the ladies who own the company are so lovely! <a href="http://www.stone-bridge.co.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><b>Here is the link to their website</b> </a>if you would like to treat yourself (and your locks) to a pretty clip or hairband. They also have a great section on their site where you can <i><a href="http://www.stone-bridge.co.uk/hair-accessories-perfect-for-your-hair-25-w.asp" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">'tell them about your hair'</a></i> to help you find the perfect accessories to suit your style!</div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">I hope you enjoyed this<b> 'Stone Bridge Hair' </b>post, What do you think of these lovely accessories? Will you be treating your hair to a new piece?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">I'd love to know, leave me a lovely comment below.</span></div>
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Let's be friends!</div>
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<a href="https://instagram.com/clumsybaby/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/clumsybaby" target="_blank">Twitter </a>|<a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/keep-calm-its-only-a-blog-11721151" target="_blank"> Bloglovin</a></div>
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<b><i>Love Laurenx</i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b><b><i>*Stone Bridge Hair very kindly sent me the hair accessories shown above, to try and test for the purpose of a review. As always all opinions and thoughts are my own. For more information please see my Contact/PR tab. </i></b></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17717652993155709360noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7904792353314631271.post-2454559261256323802016-06-30T20:02:00.001+01:002016-09-25T20:39:58.130+01:00Lifestyle: Life Through My Camera Roll #7<div style="text-align: center;">
It's been far too long since my last<i> 'life through my camera roll' </i>post, I usually try to make them a monthly edition, (<a href="http://keepcalmitsonlyablog.blogspot.co.uk/search?q=through+my+camera+roll" target="_blank">catch up here</a>) so I thought it was about time I shared with you what I've been loving/doing/munching lately! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgGJT3OmgGNDquQEB1z9WTQGF6mMvhMwkrC6Gk2q0VfVPsMfNrWimuZIjKCXDtyiYuCHa9vvhcRLi-R_4KOY6Y4Qo5R7C-ZeP6N9_6hl4_7omHLWwoQ53iHe6jr4SUiSASJNPu2gLUsjoS/s1600/Camera+roll+%25237.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgGJT3OmgGNDquQEB1z9WTQGF6mMvhMwkrC6Gk2q0VfVPsMfNrWimuZIjKCXDtyiYuCHa9vvhcRLi-R_4KOY6Y4Qo5R7C-ZeP6N9_6hl4_7omHLWwoQ53iHe6jr4SUiSASJNPu2gLUsjoS/s640/Camera+roll+%25237.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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A few weeks ago, the lovely people from<a href="http://dragonflytea.com/"> </a><b><a href="http://dragonflytea.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">DragonFly Tea*</a> </b>kindly sent me a few boxes to try out. They are a wonderful family-owned, British tea company who are passionate about introducing tea lovers (like myself!) to new, quality tea experiences. I am a huge green tea fan, I am constantly sipping endless cups throughout the day. I find green tea so refreshing and hydrating, it's packed full of antioxidants and nutrients which are great for your skin, nails and general health. It's also been proven to speed up your metabolism and increase fat loss. I am loving the Dragonfly tea range, the citrus and berry flavours are both delicious. I love the combination of green tea with lemon, it's a great way to start your morning. You could even brew up a cup, allow to cool, add some ice and enjoy a refreshing iced tea. For more information, or to pick yourself up some dreamy teas - <a href="http://dragonflytea.com/collections/all-products" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">check out their website here.</a></div>
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Me and my boyfriend are both box set addicts. (hands up if you can relate!) We spend most evenings curled up on the sofa with all the food and a few episodes of our latest obsession. But after whizzing our way through many a series far too quickly, we have gone back to an old favourite -<b> Modern Family! </b>If you've never watched it before, where have you been? It's hilarious, real and so down to earth. Full of brilliant one-liners and a fabulous cast, Phil and Gloria have me in stitches! Watch it now. </div>
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Breakfast is my favourite meal of the day - I go to bed dreaming of what deliciousness I'm going to be munching on come morning. I am a big fan of yoghurt, granola and fruit, I have a combination of the three at least twice a week. But after reading the back of some of the bags of granola I had been picking up from the supermarket, I realised just how much added sugar can be in one serving. With that in mind I have started baking my own granola, it's cheap to make and so easy too! I love that you can add in whatever you fancy, and make it to suit you. If you would like me to share my easy, peasy granola recipe - leave me a lovely comment below.</div>
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I love fitness - I work out at least five times a week and love to mix it up. Lately I have been trying out yoga. I love how the focus is on your breathing and clearing your mind - my brain is always full of to do lists/stress/worries and negative thoughts, so it's been nice to switch my buzzing brain off for half an hour and just be in the moment. Yoga isn't just all oms and savasana, it's also a great way to tone up, strength your core and it has also helped to improve my posture. Give it a try, you might love it and if not you can just enjoy a lovely relaxing stretch on your mat for half an hour!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoHdQw8pGX1C1OW9gwyYlXtGYyLnaqbynemYbAAkad7ej9KZDqktZHg8K982BkRZwDBqX5yd80_dRtwfqMVQDfCxDoTVmYtddR24Urv_ES6HroSMQ665GLXsAuQJJiVN8njRhSTpgNcUSe/s1600/Camera+roll+%25237+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoHdQw8pGX1C1OW9gwyYlXtGYyLnaqbynemYbAAkad7ej9KZDqktZHg8K982BkRZwDBqX5yd80_dRtwfqMVQDfCxDoTVmYtddR24Urv_ES6HroSMQ665GLXsAuQJJiVN8njRhSTpgNcUSe/s640/Camera+roll+%25237+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Healthy baking is a passion of mine, I love creating my own dishes and trying out new recipes be it from blogs, YouTube or cookbooks. My current favourite sweet treat are my <a href="http://keepcalmitsonlyablog.blogspot.co.uk/2016/06/healthy-recipe-nutty-banana-cookies.html"><b>Banana almond butter cookies</b></a>, they are so quick to make and require only six ingredients, all of which are probably already sitting in your cupboard! They are full of nutritious ingredients, have no added sugar and taste pretty damn delicious (if I do say so myself). Tweet me a snap if you try them out, I'd love to see them!</div>
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Flowers are one of my favourite things. They are so beautiful, and really brighten up my flat. I was kindly gifted a lovely bunch of bright yellow carnations from a lovely guest at work, it was such a nice surprise and a thoughtful gesture. It just goes to show that something so small can really brighten someones day!</div>
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I did it! A few weeks ago I was challenged by the Exeter Deaf Academy to take part in their #VoiceOff challenge - I had a great day, raised some money for a wonderful cause and also gained so much knowledge. <i><a href="http://keepcalmitsonlyablog.blogspot.co.uk/2016/06/lifestyle-i-took-on-voiceoff-challenge.html" target="_blank">Check out my blog post here.</a></i></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">I hope you enjoyed this<b> 'Life through my camera roll' </b>post, What have you been loving lately? What's your favourite healthy sweet treat?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">I'd love to know, leave me a lovely comment below.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
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Let's be friends!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://instagram.com/clumsybaby/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/clumsybaby" target="_blank">Twitter </a>|<a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/keep-calm-its-only-a-blog-11721151" target="_blank"> Bloglovin</a></div>
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<b><i>Love Laurenx</i></b><br />
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<b><i>*Dragonfly Tea kindly sent me three boxes of green tea to try and test for the purpose of a review. As always all opinions and thoughts are my own. For more information please see my Contact/PR tab. </i></b></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17717652993155709360noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7904792353314631271.post-9438687348485689282016-06-26T19:21:00.001+01:002016-06-26T19:21:16.450+01:00Lifestyle: I Took On The #VoiceOff Challenge<div style="text-align: center;">
A few weeks ago I put up a post all about taking on the Exeter Deaf Academy 24 hour #VoiceOff Challenge. Well the challenge took place on June 15th, and I did it! WOO! So I thought I would share a little round up of how I got on, the hardest parts of the challenge and how much money I raised for such a wonderful charity! <b><a href="http://keepcalmitsonlyablog.blogspot.com/2016/05/lifestyle-voiceoff-challenge.html">(catch up here)</a></b><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF9gAI07J1hNXdJGdU27OcQc087XkA0lVb65ARQ09TVze-aVHx3uDTscABLUSFSICaLsRxAWU3vng5_gXGBERS4IfLyfCGlE5pSYu9Hu9ADTYd9uisASADFoQ-7LT0ShkXgoE_FYV_nlR1/s1600/Voice+Off+Challenge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF9gAI07J1hNXdJGdU27OcQc087XkA0lVb65ARQ09TVze-aVHx3uDTscABLUSFSICaLsRxAWU3vng5_gXGBERS4IfLyfCGlE5pSYu9Hu9ADTYd9uisASADFoQ-7LT0ShkXgoE_FYV_nlR1/s640/Voice+Off+Challenge.jpg" width="424" /></a><br />
I started my morning off as usual with a hearty breakfast and a cup of tea, but I really missed saying good morning to my boyfriend and wishing him a lovely day. I then got myself ready, put on my badge, grabbed my white board and headed off to work. I work in a hotel and the guests were so kind about my challenge, although some thought I had a sore throat that's why I wasn't speaking! haha.<br />
I explained my challenge by displaying a sign next to my desk, wearing my badge (this had 'I'm doing the Voice Off Challenge in aid of Exeter Deaf Academy. I have switched my voice off for 24 hours, please be patient with me.' written on it) and using my whiteboard. I found having a whiteboard made this challenge so much easier, it was a simple way to quickly write a message or note to a guest. I wrote 'Good morning, how can I help you?' on one side and 'Thank you' on the reverse side. The hardest part about not speaking at work was not being able to answer the phone - every time I was left alone for a few minutes the phone would ring, and I would have to run across the building to find someone to answer it! (getting my cardio in for the day!) The only small thing that made me feel a little awkward was that some guests would look right past me to my Manager, instead of attempting to communicate with me.<br />
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My work day seemed to fly by surprisingly, and I even received a few sponsors from some of my guests. I did feel a little left out and isolated from the rest of my colleagues, as they were all laughing and joking and I felt I couldn't always join in, as it was difficult having to write everything down. It can be very time consuming. I feel that deaf people must have the patience of a saint, as it can be quite frustrating trying to 'act out' or sign what you are trying to explain. I did manage to sign for sorry, thank you, hello, goodbye and deaf, while doing my challenge - all of which were provided to me on a leaflet included in my fundraising pack. This was a huge help!<br />
The rest of my day went well, I popped to the shops and acted out what I wanted and spent the evening at home with my boyfriend watching TV. Although it did feel as though we didn't chat as much, as we usually comment on the show we are watching or ask how each others days have been. My boyfriend was so supportive of my challenge though, he texted me throughout the day and left me little notes around our flat, which was so lovely.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlFVZSYOJwyieZ95hUdMzYBDlMg0LioWVsbcKZCG2hOtebKGuhNEDw5_MKf-jGyvqk_d5JnFdm_d8sIt0q3qPVxTFlyIxsuxFHLWzjyM0lLCKZ-F3Cvi7DzivbIaUITos6y8vjaxslJJ_Y/s1600/Voice+Off+Challenge+%25232.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlFVZSYOJwyieZ95hUdMzYBDlMg0LioWVsbcKZCG2hOtebKGuhNEDw5_MKf-jGyvqk_d5JnFdm_d8sIt0q3qPVxTFlyIxsuxFHLWzjyM0lLCKZ-F3Cvi7DzivbIaUITos6y8vjaxslJJ_Y/s640/Voice+Off+Challenge+%25232.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
I found the challenge tough, but inspiring. We rely so much on expressing ourselves through speech that we sometimes forget to listen. I found that I listened so much more to what people were saying, and read their expressions. It was an eye opener, I will be trying to make more of an effort to stop and listen fully more often.<br />
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I managed to raise a wonderful £153.96 (£157.96 with gift aid) for the Deaf Academy, and I am so proud of myself for being able to take on such a difficult challenge. It was a great experience, I learnt so much about sign language, the struggles deaf people have to face every day, and I also raised money for a great charity! I want to say a huge thank you to Nicola at the Deaf Academy for being so kind, my dad for supporting me through my work day, all of my friends, family, colleagues and blogger babes for sponsoring me, and my lovely boyfriend for making me smile all day long!<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-ef07jliJM4CNUbXducgR4zORgJW2f0uiZZsvG90m0ZRueg-F-gM7BIVJovfHTezwheOVypk2p9d5_-Sro4-FTjmPp3NwyNwjf6IEAFXLsGEy9iWTk9BJR7_OQo1EWsCeVz8QNPvp9Kmk/s1600/image1+%252838%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-ef07jliJM4CNUbXducgR4zORgJW2f0uiZZsvG90m0ZRueg-F-gM7BIVJovfHTezwheOVypk2p9d5_-Sro4-FTjmPp3NwyNwjf6IEAFXLsGEy9iWTk9BJR7_OQo1EWsCeVz8QNPvp9Kmk/s640/image1+%252838%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I hope you enjoyed this <i><b>#VoiceOff </b></i>challenge post. Would you be able to switch your voice off for 24 hours?<br />
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Let's be friends!</div>
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<b><i>Love Laurenx</i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b><b><i>*I am not being compensated or paid for taking part in the #VoiceOff Challenge, I am simply taking part to raise money for a good cause!</i></b></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17717652993155709360noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7904792353314631271.post-90203681894056392322016-06-19T19:52:00.000+01:002016-09-25T20:40:22.576+01:00Devon Delights #5: Cheesecake Heaven At Boston Tea Party*<div style="text-align: center;">
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When the lovely people from <a href="http://www.bostonteaparty.co.uk/perch/resources/btp-main-menu-2016.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><b><i>Boston Tea Party*</i></b> </a>kindly invited me back to my local cafe to review their new menu additions (<a href="http://keepcalmitsonlyablog.blogspot.co.uk/2016/03/devon-delights-4-boston-tea-party-review.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">I reviewed their wonderful healthy menu options earlier this year, catch up here)</a> I of course jumped at the chance, as I had such a lovely lunch on my last visit. I saw the words 'review' and 'cake' and was instantly sold! I have such a sweet tooth, so I was excited to see what new creations they had come up with.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdjLzw_BHYE-hM3RcdtEy0esp9S4gqRaVVP2Q0SJ5OOEJjUbvgiLCSPv1Ggf7hiMaeVzOlmofG0XMQHivK2vVL-wgHMz_VZiZOVk-dM63EG_3Ph6VSnJvE4TA_8xfepPiEuWOMzklvWwTc/s1600/image1+%252841%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdjLzw_BHYE-hM3RcdtEy0esp9S4gqRaVVP2Q0SJ5OOEJjUbvgiLCSPv1Ggf7hiMaeVzOlmofG0XMQHivK2vVL-wgHMz_VZiZOVk-dM63EG_3Ph6VSnJvE4TA_8xfepPiEuWOMzklvWwTc/s640/image1+%252841%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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First up on the menu was a smoothie. I love smoothies - they are the perfect pick me up to start the day, and are also a tasty lunch addition. There are two new smoothies on the menu, The Green One and The Red One - I opted for the green one as it sounded right up my street. The raw vegetable smoothies are made with fresh, wholesome ingredients and are full of goodness. The green one is a delicious combination of spinach, cucumber, banana, chia seeds, apple juice and lime. A must try!</div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnsNLlgF3kBIJGYILHk2sfeqTiwq5Ta86SX4pK2wsP7FALrA5zxum0ltGIqdTY-prHnYmBNGTKUrk8bFLSFq1QmzmmxddK7CWo1g-n3efCG974z3a_8MtQaFZjsx0S4ry2bhS_rX4AJDvk/s1600/Boston+Tea+Party+Toastie+%25231.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnsNLlgF3kBIJGYILHk2sfeqTiwq5Ta86SX4pK2wsP7FALrA5zxum0ltGIqdTY-prHnYmBNGTKUrk8bFLSFq1QmzmmxddK7CWo1g-n3efCG974z3a_8MtQaFZjsx0S4ry2bhS_rX4AJDvk/s640/Boston+Tea+Party+Toastie+%25231.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<span style="text-align: center;">I am a big fan of sandwiches for lunch, I often whip myself up a stuffed pitta or wrap when I'm at home, as I find myself lagging around lunchtime as my post workout breakfast fuel starts to waver, s</span><span style="text-align: center;">o I always go for some carbs to keep me satisfied</span><span style="text-align: center;"> and energised for the afternoon ahead. Toasted sandwiches are a gift from the gods. Cheese and bread is just heaven on it's own (cheese on toast anyone...mmm) but Boston Tea Party have upped their game and added some amazing toasted sandwiches to their menu. I went for the Chipotle chicken and parmesan, which has chicken, chipotle sauce, sun blushed tomatoes, parmesan cheese and roasted peppers. The combination of crispy sourdough, juicy chicken and gooey parmesan is delicious</span><span style="text-align: center;">, add in the spicy chipotle sauce, sweet peppers and tomatoes, and you have a winner! </span><span style="text-align: center;">I love that all of their toasties are made with freshly baked Hobbs House Bakery</span><span style="text-align: center;"> sourdough bread, which is yeast free and with it's soft texture, makes it perfect for toasting! (They also have gluten free options available)</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmE7D-iaeqSrmpc99ceEmMwhnNxDUKJ7aUj4A5-fBid_MiBRW1Xjd82FNY-8eN4DWEkarY02x74GZQq1DE82LqBpcgFh-7ohpV-b792Zm1Ku1xEadZVTePMfI5jWfEY4i2k9_srkkbHBPo/s1600/image1+%252842%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmE7D-iaeqSrmpc99ceEmMwhnNxDUKJ7aUj4A5-fBid_MiBRW1Xjd82FNY-8eN4DWEkarY02x74GZQq1DE82LqBpcgFh-7ohpV-b792Zm1Ku1xEadZVTePMfI5jWfEY4i2k9_srkkbHBPo/s640/image1+%252842%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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And now for the <span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #222222;">pièce de résistance... dessert of course! No lunch date is complete without dessert. I love all things sweet and indulgent, so when I spotted this beauty on the counter I was sold! </span></span></span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="color: #222222;">It's a lemon cheesecake like no other - a pastry base, with a layer of baked cheesecake, topped with lemon curd, a thin layer of soft meringue, then topped with crumble. </span></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">I think I just drooled on my keyboard while writing this... it is by far the best lemon cheesecake I have ever had! </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">The zesty lemon curd is to die for, pair that with thick, creamy cheesecake and a buttery crumble and you have dessert heaven. It's so indulgent and creamy, yet so fresh and light on the palate. Oh, and if it couldn't get any better - it's also gluten free!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">As if the baked cheesecake wasn't enough, they also have a few other new sweet offerings. </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i>Coconut and lime cake.</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i>Earl Grey and cranberry malt loaf</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i>Vegan Date and walnut flapjack with peanut butter icing</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i>(Hazelnut meringue filled with Nutella mascarpone cream - also gluten free! I wanted to try this bad boy, but they didn't have any in my local cafe, I'll definitely have to hunt it down next time!)</i></span></span></div>
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We had such a wonderful lunch at Boston Tea Party, the food is incredible! I would highly recommend popping into your local cafe for a spot of lunch,<b><a href="http://www.bostonteaparty.co.uk/our_cafes/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> here is a list of their locations</a></b>, we will definitely be returning!</div>
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I hope you enjoyed this<b> 'Boston Tea Party Review'</b> post, I had such a wonderful lunch, and I wish I had a slice of cheesecake right about now... mmm. Have you ever visited a Boston Tea Party cafe? What were your thoughts? Do you have a right old sweet tooth like me?</div>
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I'd love to know, leave me a lovely comment below.</div>
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Let's be friends!</div>
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<a href="https://instagram.com/clumsybaby/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/clumsybaby" target="_blank">Twitter </a>|<a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/keep-calm-its-only-a-blog-11721151" target="_blank"> Bloglovin</a></div>
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<b><i>Love Laurenx</i></b></div>
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<b><b><i>*Boston Tea Party kindly offered me a complimentary lunch for two, for the purpose of reviewing their new menu additions. As always all thoughts and opinions are my own, for more information please see my Contact/PR tab.</i></b></b></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17717652993155709360noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7904792353314631271.post-15376167945497956322016-06-12T19:54:00.000+01:002016-09-25T20:40:45.222+01:00Lifestyle: Cheerz x Polaroid Collaboration*<div style="text-align: center;">
I was recently contacted by the lovely people at<b><i> <a href="https://www.cheerz.com/en" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Cheerz*</a></i></b>, who kindly invited me to review their brand new Polaroid 3000 prints. If you're not familiar with Cheerz, they are a <span style="text-align: center;">photo printing company who in their own words </span><i style="text-align: center;">'bring your memories to life'. </i><span style="text-align: center;">Cheerz have a website and app, full of great products onto which you can print your favourite photographs. </span>I have worked with Cheerz before when I reviewed their amazing four square photo frame and magnets - I absolutely love their prints, so I of course jumped at the chance to work with them again! </div>
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<b><a href="http://keepcalmitsonlyablog.blogspot.co.uk/2015/11/lifestyle-cheerz-photo-printing-review.html" target="_blank">Check out my previous Cheerz post here.</a></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-P4Gqy-gUMtA7ZOYA3ARoDsQKItd8DlSQ9-r5WEDlhwOzl9DJFnUOhu5kLh2IxwaUPIeBQwv12v4qJlOFBy_pY2IOd9IRhnSvZILWUC6EQcTJOX_2DaMGtp5_BHy_jQle2NQFxoY-z2H8/s1600/Cheerz+%25231.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-P4Gqy-gUMtA7ZOYA3ARoDsQKItd8DlSQ9-r5WEDlhwOzl9DJFnUOhu5kLh2IxwaUPIeBQwv12v4qJlOFBy_pY2IOd9IRhnSvZILWUC6EQcTJOX_2DaMGtp5_BHy_jQle2NQFxoY-z2H8/s640/Cheerz+%25231.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNcQmmE1QB1XI9aO2n0bJadr2MMwIrX3E_sB5DSJcVzz6H1Cenf_yrp9zjsAp-jZ1yWddI5pQ6W9Rma1syDbvdSyuxFv6zQVKX4YFSu50Vlj5s7VPZy6IepI30q36gsyXjsLI1E6KEB5P8/s1600/Cheerz+%25232.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNcQmmE1QB1XI9aO2n0bJadr2MMwIrX3E_sB5DSJcVzz6H1Cenf_yrp9zjsAp-jZ1yWddI5pQ6W9Rma1syDbvdSyuxFv6zQVKX4YFSu50Vlj5s7VPZy6IepI30q36gsyXjsLI1E6KEB5P8/s640/Cheerz+%25232.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I love Polaroid photographs and I actually own an Instax mini Polaroid camera, that my lovely boyfriend kindly surprised me with a few Christmases ago. I love the idea of being able snap a photograph and then instantly have the print in your hand. It's such a great concept! No muss, no fuss.</div>
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Cheerz have taken the idea of Polaroid images and put their own unique spin on it. Of course they aren't 'instant' photos per say but to be able to receive your personalised printed Polaroids within 4 - 5 days of placing your order is pretty darn good!</div>
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Cheerz have teamed up with Polaroid to create a brand new set of prints, <b><a href="https://www.cheerz.com/en/products/polaroid-3000" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">the 'Polaroid 3000' box</a></b>. Cheerz wanted to create a box that was inspired by the classic look of Polaroid prints, but with your own chosen photographs. The prints are on thick, glossy paper and have that classic embossed look to them. I love how you can also personalise your prints to suit your style, by adding text. I added a few words to each of my prints, as I think it's such a wonderful way to look back on where you were when the photo was taken, or when a particular event happened. </div>
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Cheerz are such a great company; the service, quality and delivery are all top notch - as is the quirky packaging. You simply download the app, which is free or use their website, then select the photographs you would like to print straight from your phone or computer album, then pick the type of print your would like to create. There are so many different options available; from magnets to photo albums, frames and of course the brand new Polaroid 3000 box - you'll be spoilt for choice!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKcIATbdvln7KZotJC845bN205LKaSQjzFP4nkP14YROXYoSp5ELddC5quKiSQCZQJlNRVTrEDPaOaDWCSRJcX_CUhuMBP-xaEfs890YjPowMPbtvYALP4Odpgzgvrh3OZD_zy0gz4amMf/s1600/Cheerz+%25233.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKcIATbdvln7KZotJC845bN205LKaSQjzFP4nkP14YROXYoSp5ELddC5quKiSQCZQJlNRVTrEDPaOaDWCSRJcX_CUhuMBP-xaEfs890YjPowMPbtvYALP4Odpgzgvrh3OZD_zy0gz4amMf/s640/Cheerz+%25233.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOAoiGlpPt3Q53VDT37DnoqsjxGCq91wKFxnDFND0BYpQYhn-n57v8pxLgQhHfAD7Kzq_AZYfHRs9P2mKx5AjJCBuCOZmU5yzIkVTNUwdN0UYSXDGUMBeSpHBHdkUYYPdZkgJ9fgEHdzI0/s1600/Cheerz+%25234.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOAoiGlpPt3Q53VDT37DnoqsjxGCq91wKFxnDFND0BYpQYhn-n57v8pxLgQhHfAD7Kzq_AZYfHRs9P2mKx5AjJCBuCOZmU5yzIkVTNUwdN0UYSXDGUMBeSpHBHdkUYYPdZkgJ9fgEHdzI0/s640/Cheerz+%25234.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I am so pleased with how my prints turned out! I love the style and look of the photographs - the box also comes with a magnetic Polaroid style outline 'frame' in which you can slot one of your prints inside and display on your fridge - how fab is that! I would highly recommend Cheerz, the prints are so professional and it's such a quick and easy service to use. They also make such brilliant gifts for anyone - perhaps for a personalised Father's day present!</div>
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I hope you enjoyed this <b>'Cheerz review' </b>post, What do you think of my personalised Polaroid prints? Will you be giving Cheerz a whirl, and picking up a gift for yourself or a loved one?</div>
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I'd love to know, leave me a lovely comment below.</div>
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Let's be friends!</div>
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<b style="line-height: 22.72px;"><i style="line-height: 22.72px;">Love Laurenx</i></b><br />
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<b style="line-height: 22.72px;"><i style="line-height: 22.72px;"><b style="color: black; font-style: normal; line-height: normal;"><i>*I was kindly sent a code from Cheerz to create my own 'Polaroid 3000' box to try and test for the purposes of a review, as always all opinions and thoughts are my own. See my Contact/PR tab for more information.</i></b></i></b></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17717652993155709360noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7904792353314631271.post-33006769069870651862016-06-06T20:19:00.000+01:002016-06-06T20:19:33.109+01:00Healthy Recipe: Nutty Banana Cookies<div style="text-align: center;">
I love taking seemingly 'unhealthy' dishes and giving them a healthy makeover. I've already revamped a <a href="http://keepcalmitsonlyablog.blogspot.co.uk/2015/11/baking-healthy-apple-and-blackberry.html" target="_blank">fruit crumble</a>, <a href="http://keepcalmitsonlyablog.blogspot.co.uk/2015/08/recipe-breakfast-of-champions.html" target="_blank">French toast and pancakes</a>, so I thought I'd try my hand at some healthier cookies. Perfect to enjoy with a cuppa or to take as a snack on the go. Delicious! This cookie recipe is easy peasy, healthy and only requires six ingredients to make - win win!</div>
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If you recreate this or any of my recipes, I'd love it if you tagged me on <a href="https://twitter.com/clumsybaby" target="_blank">Twitter</a> or<a href="https://www.instagram.com/clumsybaby/" target="_blank"> Instagram </a>(@clumsybaby) so I can have a nosy!<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOp-kh1NqP6ZJSdBWDoedjRQ5gCTa7e-O-y-QjkFelycp2n7BRLfFAEUifo-TapXA_0B1pG6XuUQ_rihcxQV0EBPUUvHNZpPkAqpaXEIZpFOSmBcAmwglUgFICy7zoie-4U_23bVsGrN9B/s1600/image2+%252832%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOp-kh1NqP6ZJSdBWDoedjRQ5gCTa7e-O-y-QjkFelycp2n7BRLfFAEUifo-TapXA_0B1pG6XuUQ_rihcxQV0EBPUUvHNZpPkAqpaXEIZpFOSmBcAmwglUgFICy7zoie-4U_23bVsGrN9B/s640/image2+%252832%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><u>To make five cookies you will need:</u></b><br />
1 ripe banana<br />
1 tablespoon of soft but not melted coconut oil<br />
1 tablespoon of maple syrup<br />
75g of rolled oats<br />
2 tablespoons of almond butter<br />
(I tried these with cashew butter too and they were heaven)<br />
Half a teaspoon of vanilla extract<br />
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If you want to make a bigger batch simply double the recipe.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxyF3Rk43ku2DBwMjcM8vMboUlcLLK1YaoC3Hjc_SlhqD9iaAu8qAlf3UwU_XRkmTeyE7R-u63N86I84cIYi__qvRwtPlIehzuoGSFiCTg5wlbxGy5Gjo_a2YyWb9lSVbvgAKwkP4VrNoa/s1600/image1+%252839%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxyF3Rk43ku2DBwMjcM8vMboUlcLLK1YaoC3Hjc_SlhqD9iaAu8qAlf3UwU_XRkmTeyE7R-u63N86I84cIYi__qvRwtPlIehzuoGSFiCTg5wlbxGy5Gjo_a2YyWb9lSVbvgAKwkP4VrNoa/s640/image1+%252839%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<b><u>Method:</u></b><br />
1. Preheat your oven to 180 degrees (fan assisted) and line a baking tray with greaseproof paper.<br />
2. Peel and mash the banana in to a bowl using a fork, until it's a smooth consistency and there are no lumps.<br />
3. Then add the coconut oil and maple syrup and continue mashing until all the ingredients are combined.<br />
4. Pour in the oats, nut butter and vanilla and stir well.<br />
5. Form the mixture into five cookies and bake for 15 to 20 minutes until golden brown.<br />
Leave to cool and enjoy!<br />
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The cookies should last up to three days in a sealed container.<br />
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These cookies are soft and almost cake like on the inside but crunchy on the outside, with a lovely nutty, banana taste throughout. I have been whipping up batches of these beauties to take to work with me as a mid-morning snack. I hope you love them as much as I do!<br />
(Oh and my dad gave them a big thumbs up!)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5X3F3oa02nUuVBxBbglYGJeXQPIY3tjj1F-CBoHsb6Kv63lvZ51ZU3DWwfvCSWk4TccbcSkMxVMaTYVd5_NLPmphn188wzF_Wz7xk4xrfHw4enCjryMHn8iVrfs7lZ_oEpV1-8d1PvlMV/s1600/image3+%252829%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5X3F3oa02nUuVBxBbglYGJeXQPIY3tjj1F-CBoHsb6Kv63lvZ51ZU3DWwfvCSWk4TccbcSkMxVMaTYVd5_NLPmphn188wzF_Wz7xk4xrfHw4enCjryMHn8iVrfs7lZ_oEpV1-8d1PvlMV/s640/image3+%252829%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
I hope you enjoyed this<b> 'Nutty banana cookies' </b>recipe post. Will you be recreating my cookie recipe? What's your favourite healthy sweet treat?<br />
<br />
I'd love to know, leave me a lovely comment below.<br />
<br />
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Let's be friends!</div>
<br />
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<a href="https://instagram.com/clumsybaby/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/clumsybaby" target="_blank">Twitter </a>|<a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/keep-calm-its-only-a-blog-11721151" target="_blank"> Bloglovin</a></div>
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<br /></div>
</div>
<b><i>Love Laurenx</i></b></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17717652993155709360noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7904792353314631271.post-32741763999230832682016-05-29T19:39:00.003+01:002016-05-29T19:39:24.252+01:00Lifestyle: #VoiceOff Challenge <div style="text-align: center;">
I was recently contacted by the lovely Nicola, from <i><b>The Exeter Deaf Academy </b></i>who invited me to take part in their <b>#VoiceOff challenge</b>. I am a big supporter of local charities, so I jumped at the chance to take part in their campaign to raise some money and awareness for a wonderful cause.</div>
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If you aren't familiar with The Exeter Deaf Academy, they are a charity who run a residential school and college for students throughout the UK, 40% of which are from Devon and the students range in age from 4 to 24 years old. </div>
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The main aim of the Deaf Academy is to enable deaf people to acquire language skills, develop socially, emotionally and excel educationally. Their vision is to see deaf people valued by themselves and their society, to build confidence and education, and also to help with good and appropriate employment and housing.</div>
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They also have an outreach program to support deaf students in mainstream schools and colleges too.</div>
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I think The Deaf Academy is such a wonderful charity, they support their students in everything from language skills to housing, all while building their confidence and independence for when they leave full-time education.</div>
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<i><a href="http://www.exeterdeafacademy.ac.uk/" target="_blank">Here is some more information about The Exeter Deaf Academy, and the work that they do.</a></i></div>
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<u><b>#VoiceOff Challenge</b></u></div>
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I have signed up to take part in the Ultimate #VoiceOff challenge, which involves switching off your voice for 24 hours. It's different from a sponsored silence in that you can find fun, alternate ways to communicate, such as texting, miming or even signing. I talk all day every day (I'm the biggest chatterbox), from answering the phone at work, to chatting with my boyfriend about how our days have been - my voice is the main way I communicate with the people around me. So I can only imagine how difficult it must be to not be able to communicate through speech - trying to share your opinion or simply asking a question becomes a mammoth task.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk2mzODgtcX6OeWpauMFY2LutaJaWbrqUAyJ3Lmks0PUHOfxmIAE2h2o6RoaavrpitajNifC1bhEqaW0nyy2APMQGjvc3VsKiJT1HJAJJ53mU1uxHTWqSLR8JcF8bCaFOVjeooiQ3GddGS/s1600/image1+%252838%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk2mzODgtcX6OeWpauMFY2LutaJaWbrqUAyJ3Lmks0PUHOfxmIAE2h2o6RoaavrpitajNifC1bhEqaW0nyy2APMQGjvc3VsKiJT1HJAJJ53mU1uxHTWqSLR8JcF8bCaFOVjeooiQ3GddGS/s640/image1+%252838%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Voice Off day is on the 15th of June, and I will be working all day. (I work in a hotel)</div>
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I have already informed my Manager that I will be unable to answer the phone, or speak with any of the guests all day. I know it's going to be a hard challenge, as my job does require me to speak with our guests, workmen, visitors and colleagues and I answer the phone multiple times a day.</div>
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My workplace are being very supportive, and my Manager has told me that he will be happy to answer the phone for the day!</div>
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I am going to be communicating via text message, gestures, writing down messages and pictures, and I will attempt to mouth words to see if people can understand me. I will also be wearing a badge on the day, provided in my fundraising pack to let the people around me know why I won't be speaking for the day.</div>
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I will be getting all of my work colleagues, friends and boyfriend to sponsor my #VoiceOff challenge, to hopefully raise some money for The Exeter Deaf Academy. </div>
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The sponsorship money raised will all be going straight to the Exeter Deaf Academy to support their projects, such as family support and counselling services and the development of a social enterprise to provide work experience opportunities for young deaf people.</div>
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I will be documenting how I got on with the #VoiceOff challenge here on my blog, along with my thoughts on how it felt to switch my voice off for 24 hours and also to let you know how much money I have raised for such an amazing charity.</div>
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If you also want to take part in the ultimate Voice Off challenge, and raise some money for a brilliant cause or to find out some more information - <a href="http://www.exeterdeafacademy.ac.uk/support-us/voice-off/voice-off-faqs" target="_blank">click here to read the #VoiceOff FAQ's. </a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivK8oT841jy3mNvHhkG3NNgpflIpdM91gm1kBuIFxzhPZsG95iZjhPfQvyoKYi8aRh7MEfEwD1MG0LDDGX_5V865BKltU-zitr0tu499scAHHPQBwKufK5jXauRBNt1TL9Cbyzye3WYswH/s1600/2016+Voice+Off+Poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivK8oT841jy3mNvHhkG3NNgpflIpdM91gm1kBuIFxzhPZsG95iZjhPfQvyoKYi8aRh7MEfEwD1MG0LDDGX_5V865BKltU-zitr0tu499scAHHPQBwKufK5jXauRBNt1TL9Cbyzye3WYswH/s640/2016+Voice+Off+Poster.jpg" width="452" /></a></div>
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I hope you enjoyed this <i><b>#VoiceOff </b></i>challenge post.<br />
<b>If you would like to support my Ultimate Voice Off Challenge, and help me to raise some money for the Exeter Deaf Academy - that would be amazing!</b><br />
Here is the link if you would like to sponsor me!<br />
<b><a href="https://mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/laurenpercival">https://mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/laurenpercival</a></b><br />
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Let's be friends!</div>
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<a href="https://instagram.com/clumsybaby/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/clumsybaby" target="_blank">Twitter </a>|<a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/keep-calm-its-only-a-blog-11721151" target="_blank"> Bloglovin</a></div>
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<b><i>Love Laurenx</i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i>*I am not being compensated or paid for taking part in the #VoiceOff Challenge, I am simply taking part to raise money for a good cause!</i></b></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17717652993155709360noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7904792353314631271.post-85818966857565824422016-05-22T19:28:00.000+01:002016-05-22T19:28:09.885+01:00Lifestyle: Sleep Easy<div style="text-align: center;">
I have been struggling to get a good night's sleep recently. I keep stirring in the night, waking up bursting for wee thinking my bladder may or may not explode at any second, getting up hours before my alarm, and feeling so drained of energy after working all day that I've been having afternoon disco naps. So I thought I would share with you some of the steps I have been taking, to try and get some much needed shut eye.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix6Yp2B23cLD0x0xfRWWwRnTnn7OpFkULU5HqLrcncrSSPWY_T1MgD5Kr2CuI48xPIXpqlGa-accWumgWCNaqP9AVEHvLoSw02gk04zKWvdBC4MNVEjDgfV5cF7m_8aDuOU0GIABNZFo6T/s1600/image4+%252812%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix6Yp2B23cLD0x0xfRWWwRnTnn7OpFkULU5HqLrcncrSSPWY_T1MgD5Kr2CuI48xPIXpqlGa-accWumgWCNaqP9AVEHvLoSw02gk04zKWvdBC4MNVEjDgfV5cF7m_8aDuOU0GIABNZFo6T/s640/image4+%252812%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Unwind</b></div>
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Evenings are always my time to get everything done. I usually work my way through my to do list for the next day, maybe squeeze in a workout, binge watch my YouTube subscription box, write up blog posts and have a <strike>where did the last hour go?</strike> quick scroll through Twitter. </div>
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I like to try and get everything done by about 9.00pm, which leaves me the rest of the evening to relax.<br />
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<b>Namaste</b><br />
I've recently started doing at home yoga once a week, in the evenings. I find it so difficult to switch off from the world, my head is so full of lists, schedules, doubts and worries, that it's nice to take half an hour to sit, stretch, breathe and lose myself - all while strengthening my body at the same time.</div>
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<b>Pamper</b></div>
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I love having a hot shower in the evening - oh how I wish I had a bath! At the moment I've been loving the <a href="https://www.lush.co.uk/products/twilight-0" target="_blank">Lush Twilight shower gel</a> I received for my birthday last year. It has a lovely lavender scent, which feels so calming and really clears my mind. I then do my skincare routine, and if I'm feeling rather fancy I might pop on a face mask or paint my nails.</div>
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<b>Comfort</b></div>
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Comfort is definitely key in my eyes. After showering I'll whack on some cosy pyjamas, and maybe my dressing gown if it's a chilly evening and settle down on the sofa with a cup of green tea.</div>
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I love fresh bed sheets - there is no better feeling than sliding into a clean, fresh bed and cocooning yourself in those sweet smelling sheets. Pure bliss.</div>
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<b>Netflix</b></div>
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Ian, my boyfriend and I, don't get to spend much time together during the day as we both have full time jobs, friends and commitments. So we always make sure we spend some quality time together in the evenings. After ten is our time - we curl up on the sofa, pyjamas on, with all the snacks and settle down to watch our current Netflix obsession. Some of our favourites are: Person of interest, Chuck, White Collar, Dexter and Warehouse 13.</div>
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<b>Phone Free Zone </b><br />
I try, emphasise on the<i> try</i>, to not check my phone after 10.30pm. I find it's a good time to switch off from the online world. It's nice to spend an evening with your loved ones or even solo, without refreshing your instagram feed every five minutes and missing half an episode of How I Met Your Mother because you were liking a picture of someone's cat. However cute it may be...</div>
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<b>Tea</b></div>
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I love a good cup of tea. I always make myself a green, peppermint or camomile tea before bed, as I find it relaxes me, settles my stomach and helps me to drift off. My current favourite is the PG Tips strawberry cupcake green tea - deeelicous. I'm always on the hunt for new teas, so if you have any recommendations please leave me a comment below.</div>
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<b>Bedtime</b></div>
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I try to go to bed at a reasonable hour. I usually go to sleep around midnight, as that's the time I start feeling tired and ready for my bed, and I get up any time between 6.30am and 7.30am, depending on what shifts I'm working, or if it's my day off I usually lie in until around 8.30am. That gives me about seven to seven and a half hours of sleep, which for me is just right.</div>
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<b>Light's Out</b></div>
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My last tip is the most important. For me, total darkness is key for a good night's sleep.</div>
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Draw your curtains, drop those blinds, turn that pesky hallway light off and starfish!</div>
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Sweet dreams.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I hope you enjoyed this<b> 'Sleep easy' </b>post, What are some of your tips for a good night's kip? Maybe you a yoga fan too, what are some of your favourite ways to unwind in the evening?</div>
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I'd love to know, leave me a lovely comment below.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Let's be friends!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://instagram.com/clumsybaby/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/clumsybaby" target="_blank">Twitter </a>|<a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/keep-calm-its-only-a-blog-11721151" target="_blank"> Bloglovin</a></div>
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<b><i>Love Laurenx</i></b></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17717652993155709360noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7904792353314631271.post-86651035434447526612016-05-15T20:01:00.001+01:002016-05-15T20:01:35.557+01:00Lifestyle: Positive Vibes<div style="text-align: center;">
I like to think that I am a positive person. I've always been a glass half full kinda gal and you will usually see me with a big smile on my face and a ridiculous cackle to boot - but sometimes other people, difficult situations and my anxiety (I don't talk about it much here on my blog, but it is something I have privately been struggling with for a while now) can bring me down, until all of my positive intentions go right out of the window. </div>
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Once you get into that negative state of mind, it can be difficult to pull yourself back out - but I always <i>try </i>to lift myself up again. </div>
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Here are a few little tips that I use to get those positive vibes flowing, and try to get back to my happy self.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS-44EFE5MohA6-VLdKgk5P_kq2CyMauImXq6SKbIV8q9zvNsNxScgbXR_-bjSCX4Qq2_3u8vZwiGUwtazl_Wzw0HKVR_ABn-H_TYsGIQrJm0TGRkg4uSRL2njqJ-rvSLNBzJpFMlCkI63/s1600/image1+%252837%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS-44EFE5MohA6-VLdKgk5P_kq2CyMauImXq6SKbIV8q9zvNsNxScgbXR_-bjSCX4Qq2_3u8vZwiGUwtazl_Wzw0HKVR_ABn-H_TYsGIQrJm0TGRkg4uSRL2njqJ-rvSLNBzJpFMlCkI63/s640/image1+%252837%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>Crank up the tunes</b></div>
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Music is a huge love of mine, I always have some form of tune playing in the background be it dancing around to the radio in my kitchen, going for a walk with my headphones in or having a car sing-along with my boyfriend.</div>
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Here are some of my favourite feel good songs that always put a smile on my face whenever I hear them (even when I'm feeling particularly low) hopefully they'll put a smile on your face too!</div>
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<i>Send me on my way - Rusted Root (90's kids, you'll probably remember this one from Matilda!)</i></div>
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<i>You make my dreams come true - Hall and Oates</i></div>
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<i>Buddy Holly - Weezer</i></div>
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<i>If it makes you happy - Sheryl Crow</i></div>
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<i>The Longest Time - Billy Joel (If you watch How I met your mother, you'll get me!)</i></div>
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<i>I believe in a thing called love - The Darkness</i></div>
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<i>Cool for cats - Squeeze</i></div>
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<i>Waka Waka - Shakira</i></div>
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<i>Hey ya - Outkast</i></div>
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<i>One week - Barenaked Ladies</i></div>
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<i>Chelsea Dagger - The Fratellis</i></div>
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<b>Fresh air</b></div>
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Walking is one of my favourite things to do - just going for a brisk walk can give me a fresh perspective and helps to clear my mind. It's just me, the beautiful surroundings, my feet pounding away and my thoughts. Perfect.</div>
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<b>Sleep it off</b></div>
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Naps are a gift from the gods. It's amazing what a twenty minute power nap can do to boost your mood. Sometimes you need to just switch off from the world, curled up with your cosiest blanket, in your favourite pyjamas. Snooze away.</div>
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<b>Social media free zone</b></div>
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As much as I love social media, it's nice to take some time for yourself offline every now and then. Read your favourite book, flick through a magazine, watch a few episodes of your current Netflix obsession, soak in a hot bath or grab a cuppa and a slice of cake with a friend. Social media can sometimes be the cause of negative feelings, so it's nice to log off and enjoy some well deserved you time.</div>
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<b>Sweat it out</b></div>
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I love exercising, I find that it helps me to relax and also takes my mind off any negative feelings I might be dealing with. It doesn't have to be an hour long slog in the gym, just fifteen minutes of yoga, stretching or even dancing around your living room is enough to get that blood pumping, and releases those delightful feel good endorphins.</div>
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<b>Chocolate is the answer, who cares what the question is</b><br />
Sometimes only chocolate will do - fact. I'm not talking about 'eating your feelings', but the odd bar of chocolate while enjoying some quality time with my other half, best friend or even solo while watching Friend's re-runs can really brighten my mood!<br />
<i><a href="http://keepcalmitsonlyablog.blogspot.co.uk/2016/05/health-five-favourites.html" target="_blank">Check out my top five favourite bars here.</a></i> #drool<br />
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I hope you enjoyed this <b>'Positive Vibes' </b>post, Do you struggle with anxiety too? What are some of your top tips for getting back into a positive mindset?<br />
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I'd love to know, leave me a lovely comment below.<br />
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Let's be friends!</div>
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<a href="https://instagram.com/clumsybaby/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/clumsybaby" target="_blank">Twitter </a>|<a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/keep-calm-its-only-a-blog-11721151" target="_blank"> Bloglovin</a></div>
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<b><i>Love Laurenx</i></b></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17717652993155709360noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7904792353314631271.post-44162762724234995412016-05-07T17:29:00.001+01:002016-05-07T17:29:28.967+01:00Health: Five Favourites<div style="text-align: center;">
Ah, chocolate - the answers to all of life's questions are hidden in the smooth, decadent layers of each piece. Just kidding, but it's pretty damn delicious isn't it.</div>
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Dark chocolate is my favourite. I love the bitterness and rich flavour - it satisfies those sweet cravings without giving me a sugar crash. I find that sometimes when I overdo it on the sugar (looking at you Easter!) I get a headache and just end up feeling a bit rubbish to be honest.</div>
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So with all of that in mind, I thought I would share with you my top five favourite chocolate bars, that will keep your sweet tooth well, sweet - and are much better for you than a slab of Dairy Milk. Win, win.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBpnjf1IUB9z2paZ9bfLHHpxnThbujLOcvslMiQpo7Qp3C1xCAYjpKIZe2oq6Y7Cy73EwMR2Wxu5Ajt1S-6g02f7yfauZIV_tqASp62679a3-3M66lHVV1vf9w0eNs8Zpek6Ht8ZsaM7JG/s1600/image1+%252836%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBpnjf1IUB9z2paZ9bfLHHpxnThbujLOcvslMiQpo7Qp3C1xCAYjpKIZe2oq6Y7Cy73EwMR2Wxu5Ajt1S-6g02f7yfauZIV_tqASp62679a3-3M66lHVV1vf9w0eNs8Zpek6Ht8ZsaM7JG/s640/image1+%252836%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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1.<a href="http://doisyanddam.com/products/coconut-lucuma" target="_blank"> <u>Doisy and Dam Coconut and Lucuma Dark Chocolate</u></a></div>
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Dark, with a kick of lucuma (which has an almost butterscotch/maple syrup taste to it) and a subtle hint of coconut. I love the combination of flavours, and the coconut doesn't overpower the bar - simply delicious.</div>
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2.<u> <a href="http://www.lindt.co.uk/shop/our-brands/excellence/lindt-excellence-90-cocoa-100g" target="_blank">Lindt 90% Dark Chocolate</a></u></div>
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Super dark, with a rich flavour. A square or two of this is more than enough to satisfy your sweet cravings. I love that Lindt chocolate bars have the biggest squares (the bigger the better I say!) as it makes having a couple of squares seem like so much more - the perfect after dinner treat.</div>
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3. <u><a href="http://www.ombar.co.uk/collections/all/products/ombar-coco-mylk" target="_blank">Ombar Coco Mylk Chocolate</a></u></div>
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Milky, creamy and just delicious. If you are a fan of milk chocolate but want to be a bit healthier, I'd definitely give Ombar a whirl. Their chocolate is so creamy, and tastes just like milk chocolate but without the sugar overload. It's dairy free, and suitable for vegans too - a winner!</div>
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I'm desperate to try their buttons too, mmm.</div>
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4. <u><a href="http://www.consciouschocolate.com/the-dark-side-85-50g-organic-bar/" target="_blank">Conscious Chocolate The Dark Side</a></u></div>
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This one is a bit Marmite. The chocolate has a soft, squidgy texture to it and doesn't have that 'snap', which might not be to everyone's taste. I always keep my chocolate in the fridge regardless, but I'd definitely recommend storing this bar in the fridge, as it hardens up and has a lovely rich taste to it.</div>
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5. <u><a href="http://www.therawchocolatecompany.com/shop/raw-chocolate-bars/vanoffe" target="_blank">The Raw Chocolate Co Vanoffe</a></u></div>
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Super sweet almost white chocolate taste, with a strong vanilla flavour throughout. This is the perfect bar if you're not a fan of dark chocolate, or are making the transition to raw. It has the creamiest texture, and just melts in your mouth. I love that it comes in a handy 22g bar, which is perfect for taking on the go and helps to keep my portion sizes in check. (I could easily nibble my way through so many bars!)</div>
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I hope you enjoyed this<b> 'Five favourites' </b>chocolate heaven post, What is your favourite chocolate bar? Are you a dark chocolate lover like me?</div>
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I'd love to know. leave me a lovely comment below.</div>
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Let's be friends!</div>
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<a href="https://instagram.com/clumsybaby/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/clumsybaby" target="_blank">Twitter </a>|<a href="https://www.bloglovin.com/blogs/keep-calm-its-only-a-blog-11721151" target="_blank"> Bloglovin</a></div>
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<b><i>Love Laurenx</i></b></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17717652993155709360noreply@blogger.com3