Sunday 14 August 2016

Series round up *CONTAINS SPOILERS*

General Favourites

The Walking Dead (2010-) and Hannibal (2013-2015) have to be my all time favourites. Season 7 of The Walking Dead starts again October this year, the new trailer doesn't give anything away but looks incredible. The Walking Dead went through a phase of becoming repetitive for me with no major change in character or scene (between season 3-4) but once I pushed through a couple of episodes I still enjoyed it as much as season 1, if not more. A lot more characters from the comic books are being introduced in season 7, so it will be interesting to see if the storyline remains true to the comic book (I hope not because Glenn is my favourite).

Hannibal is a series portraying characters from the Thomas Harris novels Red Dragon and Hannibal focusing mainly on the relationship between Dr Hannibal Lecter and Will Graham (Hugh Dancy). Actor Mads Mikkelsen portrays Dr Lecter as a refined gentleman despite being a serial killer and cannibal. Hugh Dancy is my favourite actor throughout the series playing the endearing Will Graham, who is thought to have autism along with an incredibly overactive imagination. Will Graham not only works for the FBI as a criminal profiler but he also rescues stray dogs (what's not to love about him?).


Parks and Recreation (2009-2015) and The Office US (2005-2013) are the two series that got me through my final year of uni. They are such easy, light hearted, feel good shows with just 20-30 minute episodes. In the Office US, the relationship between character Jim Halpert (character crush) and Pam Beesley was the thing that drew me in as well as the hilarious Michael Scott played by Steve Carell. Parks and Recreation introduced me to Chris Pratt (definitely a major positive). The show follows the different events of town officials trying to make Pawnee, Indiana a better place and whilst doing so is unbelievably funny.

Obviously, Game of Thrones (2011-) requires an honourable mention and just continues to get better and better as the series go on. When Joffery died in Season 4 it felt like the show had hit an all time high but the events in the following seasons particularly the finale of season 6.

Guilty pleasure 


Gilmore Girls (2000-2007)- If I don't know what to watch I tend to put Gilmore Girls on. I hate to think how many times I have watched the whole series. Gilmore Girls was the start of my love for Lauren Graham and Alexis Bledel and I can not wait for the 3 part reunion show in November. This series got me through the whole of High School (and college... and university). If I'm feeling down or unmotivated Gilmore Girls is always the answer.

Most recently finished

Stranger Things (2016)- Stranger Things was INCREDIBLE the best sci-fi series yet. This Netflix Original series is set in 1983 and investigates the captivating idea of the world known as 'The Upside Down'. The ending indicates a second season but it is yet to be confirmed, fingers crossed! Everyone has been raving about this series and I can completely understand why. It's one of those shows that you just have to watch for yourself.

Ray Donavon (2013-)- Couldn't stop, I pretty much watched season 1-3 back to back and I'm currently waiting for season 4 to be over in order to binge. Ray Donavon is the man that everyone turns to, including the rich and famous, to make their problems disappear.

Preacher (2016)- My favourite thing I have watched in a long time, with such a good finale. I was so disappointed when the season came to an end. My love for Joe Gilgun is amplified by his incredible interpretation as the Irish vampire, Cassidy throughout the series. Preacher is developed by Seth Rogan, Evan Goldberg and Sam Catlin. It is commonly known that Seth Rogan is a huge fan of the Preacher comic books created by Gareth Ennis and Steve Dillon and was eager to be part of the tv show adaptation. I would highly recommend this to any sci-fi and/or DC comic fans.

Any recommendation of tv shows/movies?

Friday 22 July 2016

"You're basically a cactus"

When discussing various blog posts that I could post, a friend of mine suggested that I should write about my struggles with dry and sensitive skin. My skin goes through phases and flares up due to the smallest irritation or slightly increased stress levels. What I have learnt is that everyone's skin is different and changes over time, what works for my skin now may not make a difference in a months time therefore, trial and error is the way forward. Struggling with dry, eczema prone skin all of my life I have come to find my 3 holy grail products that feature in my daily skincare routine.


1. The Body Shop, Aloe Soothing Gel - £9.50

This Body Shop gem has saved my skin. This product has multiple purposes it soothes, cools and moistures my face without causing any irritation. I use this gel before putting my make-up on as it soaks in fast and creates a great base for smoothing on foundation. When my skin is feeling dry, tight or tired I turn to this product for a pick me up. I am yet to find another product on the market quite like this one, I am now on my third bottle and will continue to repurchase! On top of a great product, I love the packaging and the ease of having a pump and not having to dip into a pot, it also makes it great to chuck in your bag for when your skin needs an extra boost throughout the day.

2. The Body Shop, Camomile Cleansing Balm - £13

I have tried so many cleansers that feel like they strip my skin of moisture or cause a reaction even when they state for 'sensitive skin'. I have found balm cleanser to be the most effective and moisturising option. This camomile balm completely melts away any make-up and impurities on the skin. It is easy to apply, softens in the warmth of your fingertips and does not tug. I remove the residue with lukewarm water and cotton pads or a flannel and it leaves my skin happy and not at all tight feeling like other cleaners. I would love to try more products from both the Aloe and Camomile Body Shop ranges.

3. Lush, Dream Cream - £12.95

Lush describe this product as 'A soothing and cooling cream that is designed to go on even the most sensitive and easily upset skins' and I couldn't agree more. This cream contains ingredients that calm and cool down hot itchy skin which is one of the biggest irritations of eczema. I tend to use this product on my body when my skin is going through a rough patch and requires an instant remedy. I would recommend using when you have a bit more time before getting dressed as it takes a while to soak in but it is completely worth it.

Thursday 21 July 2016

Instagram favourites #1

I'm a huge fan of Instagram and could scroll for hours looking at fun prints, memes and cute pictures of kittens. I thought I would share my three current favourites and maybe make this a regular post (weekly/monthly).

Firstly, Kerby Rosanes, a successful illustrator with a unique style. Rosanes has several books out including two colouring books which showcase his talent and inspire people to get creative.


Graphic designer and Illustrator (as well as my close friend), Amy Lesko showcases her fun and innovative collection of work. Amy' style is 'doodly' and bold and when scrolling through her Instagram I can't help but to smile. I can't wait to see more of Amy' future posts and her creations.


Finally, poorlydrawnlines Instagram created by Reza Farazmand, brings out new comic designs every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. The comics are punny and pointless and bound to make you smile. This Instagram really is one to share with your friends.