tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-46645480802492040792024-03-13T07:11:57.094+00:00Julz ObsessionsHi and welcome to Julz Obsessions: a lifestyle blog where I share my love of books, makeup, organisation and generally have a good old chat about life. Based in Glasgow, Scotland.Juliannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04806731639495868566noreply@blogger.comBlogger325125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4664548080249204079.post-70445778272043407432021-12-23T14:48:00.001+00:002021-12-23T14:50:15.145+00:00Christmas at Little Beach Street Bakery by Jenny Colgan | Book Review<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj3xRG1kRuLmPj0-zB9WXImbGPIl1CBVnxOwrgeMLI1_1LUj1347cIbXffVvrrk7ohu7UwJrmxNI5zwaTaG9rjZ-A8hOXumo7Zx0LXS2X4Wg6-UUaknGKpQkhUIJ7rqM3YYEOzfzXRVm8wLCbOrH_rjZ2k7DS08eotQY4UFssNNjugxRNjmZa6dLNB8=s4021" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="white hard back book spine on red velvet with red santa ornament on top" border="0" data-original-height="3015" data-original-width="4021" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj3xRG1kRuLmPj0-zB9WXImbGPIl1CBVnxOwrgeMLI1_1LUj1347cIbXffVvrrk7ohu7UwJrmxNI5zwaTaG9rjZ-A8hOXumo7Zx0LXS2X4Wg6-UUaknGKpQkhUIJ7rqM3YYEOzfzXRVm8wLCbOrH_rjZ2k7DS08eotQY4UFssNNjugxRNjmZa6dLNB8=w640-h480" title="Christmas at Little Beach Street Bakery review - good festive chick lit story" width="640"></a></div><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><i>This is a spoiler-free review of Christmas at Little
Beach Street Bakery by Jenny Colgan.<o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">You will like Christmas at Little Beach Street Bakery if
you’re looking for a cosy Christmas book with plenty of spirit and a great
story that keeps you hooked.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Set in a harsh coastal winter, it’s the perfect book to read under blankets, drinking a warm hot chocolate. There are even recipes at the
end.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">It has an almost whimsical feel, with exotic characters from
across the globe whose lives converge on the small seaside village of Mount
Polbearne.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Christmas at Little Beach Street Bakery has:<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>lavish decorations</li><li>a pet puffin</li><li>freezing cold weather</li><li>wrapped-up villagers</li><li>drama</li><li>secrets</li><li>more Christmas baking than you can imagine</li><li>romance</li><li>reunions</li><li>a Christmas fayre·<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; text-indent: -18pt;"> </span></li></ul><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">This Christmas chick lit is guaranteed to get you in the
festive spirit. <o:p></o:p></p><span></span><a href="https://julzobsessions.blogspot.com/2021/12/christmas-at-little-beach-street-bakery.html#more">Read more »</a>Juliannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04806731639495868566noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4664548080249204079.post-27306402433285306682021-12-10T11:39:00.003+00:002021-12-10T11:39:35.732+00:00Christmas at Rosie Hopkins’ Sweet Shop by Jenny Colgan | Book Review<p> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi30aIxVmunwW2E_d1BuiRzPqhuUrEh4-fDdvrmpEKW4WouxCn1V5LngSRPcftotSQYE-GhNZBkSRDKZk25xK2-WuoQnTcFsuKtrW7DVTMnsAdc89pgt9ovTWRG7Cnw4pizboQPvIzMshonD2b9IF5sPAbOaSFZrv5fe0aukA1k1tUX8a-1ojiR7ZiN=s1680" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="red hard back book spine with small santa head on top and gold tinsel on left" border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="1680" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi30aIxVmunwW2E_d1BuiRzPqhuUrEh4-fDdvrmpEKW4WouxCn1V5LngSRPcftotSQYE-GhNZBkSRDKZk25xK2-WuoQnTcFsuKtrW7DVTMnsAdc89pgt9ovTWRG7Cnw4pizboQPvIzMshonD2b9IF5sPAbOaSFZrv5fe0aukA1k1tUX8a-1ojiR7ZiN=w640-h480" title="Christmas at Rosie Hopkins Sweet Shop review - good festive chick lit story" width="640"></a><br><br><i>This is a spoiler-free review of Christmas at Rosie
Hopkins’ Sweet Shop by Jenny Colgan.</i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">You will like Christmas at Rosie Hopkins’ Sweet Shop if you’re
looking for all<i> </i>the festive feels wrapped up in one cosy novel. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">This book is a brilliant Christmas read. It’s bursting with
everything you’d want at this time of year including:<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>carols</li><li>excited cute kids</li><li>sweets galore</li><li>a puppy</li><li>snow</li><li>family reunions</li><li>romance</li><li>Christmas shopping</li></ul><p></p><p class="MsoNormal">It’s perfect for reading while
sipping a hot chocolate in the cold dark evenings, wrapped up in a warm
blanket.</p><span></span><a href="https://julzobsessions.blogspot.com/2021/12/christmas-at-rosie-hopkins-sweet-shop.html#more">Read more »</a>Juliannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04806731639495868566noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4664548080249204079.post-91590703913328675412021-09-15T16:29:00.002+01:002021-09-15T16:29:39.991+01:00Autumn vibes<p> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-Oz738p8Y9rgWpP7uxjZT5lCIMgiuOh1QKZfDRrjYl3-UGxKxnDJquHcFpi8-Z8F6McjCN9s8ZITOUUIqko-Ro9b2-zZjZXaToT1jAuF2q7YmYDv8Dp9pr862aaAs5va74dtig8_Je1g/s2048/Autumn+light+in+the+park++Julz+Obsessions+blog.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="low sun behind tree in green park with leaves on the ground" border="0" data-original-height="1537" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-Oz738p8Y9rgWpP7uxjZT5lCIMgiuOh1QKZfDRrjYl3-UGxKxnDJquHcFpi8-Z8F6McjCN9s8ZITOUUIqko-Ro9b2-zZjZXaToT1jAuF2q7YmYDv8Dp9pr862aaAs5va74dtig8_Je1g/w640-h480/Autumn+light+in+the+park++Julz+Obsessions+blog.JPG" title="Autumn vibes | Julz Obsessions blog" width="640" /></a><br />I always get a wee notion to blog around this time of year. Something about the nights drawing in, the autumnal colours and of course, the pumpkin spice lattes, makes me feel all cosy and nostalgic. </p><p>In my <a href="https://julzobsessions.blogspot.com/2020/09/autumn-is-in-air.html"><b><i><span style="color: #e06666;">Autumn is in the air</span></i></b></a> post last year, I was already fully ready to embrace the new season by the beginning of September. This year I'm grateful for a slower transition out of summer because it seemed to go by in a flash. We've had some serious sunshine over the last week (unheard of in Scotland) so I'm dipping my toe into autumn without the darkness and freezing-ness. </p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9ha19jpz4IGfTSJKtVNu3mawfHS4sygE1dofidW3t2lm6h6H9dy3MEL08x6xdEPgqoVLzNZchjgdJeFOIPNOmw_ueguVTbOunf_keYrxzV-am4ArQivadacyV6Ngld2qBCFKrKEaQkWo/s2048/Orange+roses+Julz+Obsessions+blog.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="2 bright orange roses with soil in the background" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9ha19jpz4IGfTSJKtVNu3mawfHS4sygE1dofidW3t2lm6h6H9dy3MEL08x6xdEPgqoVLzNZchjgdJeFOIPNOmw_ueguVTbOunf_keYrxzV-am4ArQivadacyV6Ngld2qBCFKrKEaQkWo/w640-h480/Orange+roses+Julz+Obsessions+blog.JPG" title="Autumn flowers | Julz Obsessions blog" width="640" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-gxJgUtdebxJWCsvYPRYHvimCxaW_dIKEzJ-PzLKo2QyV_AA5TIFP-Rw8atUKI4TkWjhBKWfuzL_0O6c1oKS9dVE_l6VBYg4CZPEHn0tdhz-4MFezSjPt5KTPkZkNR3Qar7Gqie6RZfc/s2048/Rainbow+bench+Julz+Obsessions+blog.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="black bench with steel rainbow attached" border="0" data-original-height="1537" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-gxJgUtdebxJWCsvYPRYHvimCxaW_dIKEzJ-PzLKo2QyV_AA5TIFP-Rw8atUKI4TkWjhBKWfuzL_0O6c1oKS9dVE_l6VBYg4CZPEHn0tdhz-4MFezSjPt5KTPkZkNR3Qar7Gqie6RZfc/w640-h480/Rainbow+bench+Julz+Obsessions+blog.JPG" title="Rainbow park bench | Julz Obsessions blog" width="640" /></a></p><p>I'm a creature of habit, and many of the <a href="https://julzobsessions.blogspot.com/2020/09/autumn-is-in-air.html"><b><i><span style="color: #e06666;">exciting things about autumn</span></i></b></a> I mentioned last year still apply. What I'm most loving about autumn right now is:</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>pumpkin spice lattes - but this year skinny and decaf - they taste just as good </li><li>gold glitter nail polish - cos I've finally stopped biting my nails</li><li>autumn makeup - red eyeshadow and Velvet Teddy</li><li>cropped camel jacket - third hand #lovetheplanet</li><li>taking photos of nature and other gems while out running</li><li>burning candles</li><li>chilli con carne for dinner</li><li>pinning to my <a href="https://www.pinterest.co.uk/julzobsessions/autumn/"><b><i><span style="color: #e06666;">autumn board on Pinterest</span></i></b></a></li><li>my new matching white hoodie and joggers - channelling Molly Mae</li></ul>And now restrictions are mostly lifted, I'm thoroughly enjoying doing fun things again and savouring every second. A real highlight was last weekend when I went to see Chicago. It was the first show back at the Kings Theatre in Glasgow and it was incredible. <div><br /></div><div>What do you think is the best thing about autumn?</div>Juliannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04806731639495868566noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4664548080249204079.post-21109641534556908222021-05-22T23:17:00.009+01:002021-05-22T23:19:16.982+01:005 easy swaps to be more sustainable <p> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVf353IlNiQ7jfYvCy-AddRGsTd7_g5ZVVcZaURbe586zf9xT1qeuxPTpr4UULcz7Jf0TrXpXodHZjj0boIWdcGdKdPpk1XZNbfHJ0XYunsumB4iY0XXPNJYa8uTNjDOYTPV1mRMQ6Zhc/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="black bag behind pink cotton round, silver tin and stacked white cloths with plant in background" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVf353IlNiQ7jfYvCy-AddRGsTd7_g5ZVVcZaURbe586zf9xT1qeuxPTpr4UULcz7Jf0TrXpXodHZjj0boIWdcGdKdPpk1XZNbfHJ0XYunsumB4iY0XXPNJYa8uTNjDOYTPV1mRMQ6Zhc/w640-h480/5+easy+switches+to+be+more+sustainable.JPG" title="5 easy ways to be more sustainable" width="640"></a><br>It's a sunny Saturday evening and I'm blogging. Ah, feels like 2012 again. </p><p>A lot has moved on since 2012 though.</p><p>I've learned how the things I buy (or want to try) affects not only my purse, but the planet too.</p><p>As much as possible, I try to be minimalist and:</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>don't buy stuff I don't <i>need</i></li><li>use what I've already got</li><li>repurpose things</li></ul><div>However, there's always going to be things I need to do like wash my face. I now try to go for more sustainable options.</div><div><br></div><div>I should probably note here, by way of disclaimer, that while I'm definitely eco conscious, I'm no expert. There are plenty of other people much further down the road than me. However, I know there are also a lot of people who are just taking tentative steps towards being more sustainable, or maybe haven't considered it yet. I know because that was me a few years ago. </div><div><br></div><div>Being a bit more eco conscious doesn't have to be a massive lifestyle change though. </div><div><br></div><div>So, I want to share 5 easy ways you can be more sustainable. </div><div><br></div><div>These are the things that've worked for me and were a painless swap from my earlier planet-damaging alternatives. </div><span></span><a href="https://julzobsessions.blogspot.com/2021/05/5-easy-swaps-to-be-more-sustainable.html#more">Read more »</a>Juliannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04806731639495868566noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4664548080249204079.post-54813167583004092002021-05-09T14:50:00.002+01:002021-05-09T15:24:01.994+01:00ffs smashes it again... this time with fake tan*<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGeKmwow-Wv6wCdUFLOSCbBJdiHNiz3KVhEfVlHPjsJ3EvhcZoztW5vIRwkrIAE319P5LGjy5RAj7GIf9BdEQ6hlwiJuf65HLELsLIsgssMnUwGbqGzM-urWVI6rNZa_XzEUkCTJ8V1Ag/s2048/FFS+Deluxe+Glow+Kit+Review.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="ivy plant behind 2 pump bottles and lilac velvet applicator mits" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGeKmwow-Wv6wCdUFLOSCbBJdiHNiz3KVhEfVlHPjsJ3EvhcZoztW5vIRwkrIAE319P5LGjy5RAj7GIf9BdEQ6hlwiJuf65HLELsLIsgssMnUwGbqGzM-urWVI6rNZa_XzEUkCTJ8V1Ag/w640-h480/FFS+Deluxe+Glow+Kit+Review.JPG" title="ffs dark fake tan mousse review" width="640"></a></div><p>Believe it or not, we're teetering towards summer. I know, blows my mind too. Other than the one day of sun we've had here in Scotland, the rain has been near biblical.</p><p>However.</p><p>The second I get a sniff of sun I'm diving head first into the fake tan bottles. </p><p>After four months of lockdown, being a wallflower has no appeal. It's go hard or go home.</p><p>Glitter nails? Yep.</p><p>Pink head to toe? Why not.</p><p>Straight to dark tan? Of course.</p><p>After how much I loved the <a href="https://julzobsessions.blogspot.com/search/label/ffs"><b><i><span style="color: #e06666;">body care products from ffs</span></i></b></a>, I jumped at the chance to try their <b><i><a href="https://www.ffs.co.uk/products/full-tanning-set"><span style="color: #e06666;">Deluxe Glow Tanning Set.</span></a></i></b>*</p><span></span><a href="https://julzobsessions.blogspot.com/2021/05/ffs-smashes-it-again-this-time-with.html#more">Read more »</a>Juliannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04806731639495868566noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4664548080249204079.post-85508138846333116322021-04-25T17:34:00.007+01:002021-10-31T12:20:15.748+00:00List of Lists | Daily Edition<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0XoZKjLHHS3dLA5-qP-Td_SLRthqYJ6YJy7ydOYL-NYNUiNI6i1YQZqeXbwa11fuXcAQ-nYfYY2QuziGo2UeBbuDxJj9K4TJVcW5cLrqIAGVxmOtmZV7VZI2rBwxesECORS7TAV5GYkA/s1280/5+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="pink planner with pink peony next to it and gold keyrings and rings" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0XoZKjLHHS3dLA5-qP-Td_SLRthqYJ6YJy7ydOYL-NYNUiNI6i1YQZqeXbwa11fuXcAQ-nYfYY2QuziGo2UeBbuDxJj9K4TJVcW5cLrqIAGVxmOtmZV7VZI2rBwxesECORS7TAV5GYkA/w640-h480/5+%25282%2529.jpg" title="List of Lists | Daily planning | Julz Obsessions blog" width="640"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br></div><p>Way back in 2013 I wrote a post called <b><i><span style="color: #e06666;"><a href="https://julzobsessions.blogspot.com/2013/08/my-list-of-lists.html"><span style="color: #e06666;">My List of Lists</span></a> </span></i></b>and even now it's one of the most popular posts on Julz Obsessions. Guess it just shows how many list lovers like myself are searching the web for list-spiration (?) </p><p>Back then, I realised lists weren't just scraps of paper for to dos but could:</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>be an alternative to journalling</li><li>help me set goals</li><li>let me reflect</li><li>keep me motivated</li><li>help prioritise what's important</li><li>make me feel in control</li><li>organise my life when I have a lot on</li><li>mark myself at a certain point in time</li><li>reduce stress</li></ul><span></span><a href="https://julzobsessions.blogspot.com/2021/04/list-of-lists-daily-edition.html#more">Read more »</a>Juliannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04806731639495868566noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4664548080249204079.post-62826938825329710712021-04-12T15:49:00.004+01:002021-05-13T20:12:54.084+01:00ffs Natural Deodorant Review*<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUMmDWl7AhfyEevc1SbhRJ-vDiywVNeUYkmQc4kpLkg8_NY77mJdrZE8MUTeteoEJNpgWjQjieudTaiF9NR1xy0i58WsdnU1RzJh87Vofp_RIBymPqH8OqTUsG10JjxFRUXWhWYwVlPZo/s2048/FFS+natural+deodorant+review+%25282%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="2 small silver tins next to candle framed by ivy plant" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUMmDWl7AhfyEevc1SbhRJ-vDiywVNeUYkmQc4kpLkg8_NY77mJdrZE8MUTeteoEJNpgWjQjieudTaiF9NR1xy0i58WsdnU1RzJh87Vofp_RIBymPqH8OqTUsG10JjxFRUXWhWYwVlPZo/w640-h480/FFS+natural+deodorant+review+%25282%2529.JPG" title="FFS natural deodorant review | sustainable body care products | Julz Obsessions blog" width="640"></a></div><p>Following on from my rave <a href="https://julzobsessions.blogspot.com/2021/04/ffs-review-shaving-and-beauty-products.html"><b><i><span style="color: #e06666;">review of their razor subscription box</span></i></b></a>, today I'm sharing my experience of using natural deodorant from <a href="https://www.ffs.co.uk/"><b><i><span style="color: #e06666;">ffs</span></i></b></a>.* There's a lot of reasons to get onboard, its:</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>organic</li><li>vegan</li><li>handmade in the UK</li><li>paraben / aluminium / BPA / petrochemical / palm oil free</li></ul><p></p><p>I really care about the planet. Over the last few years I've educated myself on the impact of fast fashion and single-use plastic on the environment. So, I've tried to cut back on my consumerism and buy thoughtfully.</p><p>I've been meaning to make the switch to natural deodorant for months. </p><p>But, probably like many people teetering on the edge of 'what I've always done' and ethical alternatives, I worried natural products wouldn't be as good or effective.</p><p>I was totally wrong.</p><span></span><a href="https://julzobsessions.blogspot.com/2021/04/ffs-natural-deodorant-review.html#more">Read more »</a>Juliannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04806731639495868566noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4664548080249204079.post-44524983643821668732021-04-11T13:21:00.005+01:002021-04-12T15:51:14.002+01:00ffs Review: Shaving and Beauty Products with the WOW Factor*<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbcLJwylVxJjKSAIRvqGS4avkyB_3sG6Ug-w-pyGHPBZ_-jMVvVCWHKqR9S0G1dP9TLOy_DolV1rPqPDQRFk74GvCe-KQi9PSioEFMTuiyrTqrLot2G1IhWPrRvbueldPF6K8m0L6MtEA/s2048/FFS+women%2527s+razor+subscription.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="3 tubes behind rose gold razor, small canvas bag, and razor blades with ivy plant in background" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbcLJwylVxJjKSAIRvqGS4avkyB_3sG6Ug-w-pyGHPBZ_-jMVvVCWHKqR9S0G1dP9TLOy_DolV1rPqPDQRFk74GvCe-KQi9PSioEFMTuiyrTqrLot2G1IhWPrRvbueldPF6K8m0L6MtEA/w640-h480/FFS+women%2527s+razor+subscription.JPG" title="FFS women's razor subscription box review | Julz Obsessions blog" width="640"></a></div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">When it comes to shaving, I've always done what you absolutely shouldn't do. Despite being part of the beauty blogging community for nearly a decade, I didn't invest or care about it at all. </div><p>I feel like I'm confessing my sins here but... I bought the nastiest, cheapest, disposable plastic razors. To make myself feel better about the disposable part, I'd probably use them more times than you're supposed to. I would occasionally exfoliate before, but more often than not it was simply a case of - cringe - hacking my poor legs. They'd be irritated and dry. Definitely not a nice blank canvas for the fake tan I love when it's legs out season.</p><p>With summer just around the corner (hooray!), you can imagine how delighted I was when <a href="https://www.ffs.co.uk/"><b><i><span style="color: #ea9999;">ffs</span></i></b></a> got in touch asking if I'd be interested in trying their <i><b><span style="color: #ea9999;"><a href="https://www.ffs.co.uk/pages/subscribe#signup" rel="nofollow"><span style="color: #ea9999;">razor subscription box</span></a>.*</span></b></i> One look at their website and of course I said yes. </p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Real bodies? Check. </li><li>Aesthetically pleasing? Check. </li><li>Cruelty-free? Check. </li><li>Rave reviews? Check.</li><li>Kind to the planet? Check check check check check. </li></ul><p></p><p>I'm so <i>here </i>for sustainable beauty products.</p><span></span><a href="https://julzobsessions.blogspot.com/2021/04/ffs-review-shaving-and-beauty-products.html#more">Read more »</a>Juliannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04806731639495868566noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4664548080249204079.post-29958281715171596742021-03-28T11:40:00.000+01:002021-03-28T11:40:36.404+01:00Spring it on!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQltwMNo7NHBulhXMbVLdY0RjhjNAhyL_BLHHejbOq74U0nea8mybUozCO-Jvcm9EwWUshtGqAOL6gnIW-bCIqNZLpjNsfNjyfL4KCzvq5NiKgGSqjk0r6LAbkjhDCaM07jWZxrE-vP3g/s2048/IMG_5772.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="crooked tree with lilac blossom in wood against cloudy sky" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQltwMNo7NHBulhXMbVLdY0RjhjNAhyL_BLHHejbOq74U0nea8mybUozCO-Jvcm9EwWUshtGqAOL6gnIW-bCIqNZLpjNsfNjyfL4KCzvq5NiKgGSqjk0r6LAbkjhDCaM07jWZxrE-vP3g/w640-h480/IMG_5772.JPG" title="5 reasons to be excited for spring" width="640"></a></div><p>The clocks have just gone forward, daffodils are shooting up everywhere and the days are finally getting longer. Hooray!</p><p>In winter, we can get bogged down in our routines, bracing ourselves against the weather, and - after Christmas - just getting through the daily grind. I'd never appreciated the phrase 'bleak mid-winter', but I think the lockdown has really brought home its meaning this year. Staying ok can be a daily effort. </p><p>Spring makes me excited about the future. </p><p>There's something fresh and inspiring in the air.</p><p>It's a new chapter.</p><span></span><a href="https://julzobsessions.blogspot.com/2021/03/spring-it-on.html#more">Read more »</a>Juliannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04806731639495868566noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4664548080249204079.post-79290772969696405132020-10-10T11:07:00.005+01:002020-10-10T11:08:55.085+01:00My Couch to 5K Experience<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq1447kjC9WISN8jLyiAp1o0ffm5BoSYHoD2zrnSSR5inMvrETvg_D3MajspYbMdNc7NYU73tJEDfq5m2bfbGqhJznoGfdIHHoV-QlHBHKyz_KKIBQuuCYXrbfmCltYuQFkMhjttxxKk8/s2048/Park+run.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="lots of trees around footpath in park, leaves changing colour" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq1447kjC9WISN8jLyiAp1o0ffm5BoSYHoD2zrnSSR5inMvrETvg_D3MajspYbMdNc7NYU73tJEDfq5m2bfbGqhJznoGfdIHHoV-QlHBHKyz_KKIBQuuCYXrbfmCltYuQFkMhjttxxKk8/w640-h480/Park+run.JPG" title="My Couch to 5K Experience | Julz Obsessions" width="640"></a></div><p>Three weeks ago I completed my final run of Coach to 5K. I could not be prouder, or more shook.</p><p>To give you a bit of background - I've literally <i>never </i>been a runner. Even when I was small. And let's not even go into the absolute tragedy I'd be if I had to run for the train in the morning. At the beginning of lockdown I made an extremely optimistic running playlist and tried to run around the block but didn't even make it that far. </p><p>Couch to 5K is something I've heard people talking about for years. It's like when more than one person recommends a TV show - you know you'll like it. So one day I decided to just try it.</p><h3 style="text-align: left;">What's Couch to 5K?</h3><p>For those of you who don't know, the Couch to 5K app is a running programme which takes you from couch potato to being able to run 5K in 30 minutes, 3 times a week. It takes 9 weeks. </p><span></span><a href="https://julzobsessions.blogspot.com/2020/10/my-couch-to-5k-experience.html#more">Read more »</a>Juliannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04806731639495868566noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4664548080249204079.post-91975000824730764382020-10-01T18:00:00.001+01:002020-10-01T18:00:07.456+01:00Autumn iPlayer Recommendations Part 2<p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMfwydYkMjFE90eqEv7oJqoZnqBIGLeRN4WvwC8C7PhLRgD_KeeHwRdDSxWjF-VMNHD-issIeJ1baBsNHKHde3oimnpEDZgq1GpUXGOsJlMU1iXbapu2VldcPgEQJXcusW9WBQMjD7jhM/s2048/Must+watch+iplayer+shows.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="Autumn iPlayer Recommendations - October 2020 Must Watch Shows" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMfwydYkMjFE90eqEv7oJqoZnqBIGLeRN4WvwC8C7PhLRgD_KeeHwRdDSxWjF-VMNHD-issIeJ1baBsNHKHde3oimnpEDZgq1GpUXGOsJlMU1iXbapu2VldcPgEQJXcusW9WBQMjD7jhM/w640-h480/Must+watch+iplayer+shows.JPG" title="black laptop with iplayer on screen with ivy plant, lit candle and pink and green crochet blanket on left" width="640"></a></p>Hello friends and welcome back to my new fave kind of post which pretty much consists of me gushing about the TV I've been bingeing lately. <p></p><p>If you haven't already, check out my previous posts <a href="https://julzobsessions.blogspot.com/2020/09/4-must-watch-iplayer-recommendations.html"><b><i><span style="color: #e06666;">4 Must-Watch iPlayer Recommendations Autumn 2020</span></i></b></a> and <b><i><a href="https://julzobsessions.blogspot.com/2020/04/5-tv-shows-you-should-watch-on-bbc.html"><span style="color: #e06666;">5 TV Shows You Should Watch on BBC iPlayer</span></a></i></b>.</p><p>By the way, it has dawned on me - now I'm 3 posts deep in iPlayer recommendations - that you may be getting concerned that I don't know other channels or streaming services exist. To be honest, I just really like the fact there's no adverts and it's free. No shame in my game.</p><h3 style="text-align: left;">The Bridge</h3><p>From the show's premise, this is the last thing I'd expect to be obsessed with. It's a subtitled police drama based between Sweden and Denmark. When a body is found on the bridge, one half in Sweden and one half in Denmark, two police officers, Saga and Martin, have to work together to figure out why.</p><span></span><a href="https://julzobsessions.blogspot.com/2020/10/autumn-iplayer-recommendations-part-2.html#more">Read more »</a>Juliannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04806731639495868566noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4664548080249204079.post-83900688791521575272020-09-26T19:46:00.004+01:002020-09-26T19:53:29.220+01:004 Must-Watch iPlayer Recommendations Autumn 2020<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjWpf_FB77LhyphenhyphenvLga5E5mzDh9_uY-Ph9Zl2n4mUFlsLwI2XNAMQeKYHwBQ17c9hM-DE03j7PQGNSFvfl2l63gO9zA1h-snAhRHuKc2fBiJv_Wi602HBSj3KEN9VhUfUUYwoCQIGnl_6Jo/s2048/Autumn+2020+bbc+iplayer+recommendations.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="black laptop on bbc iplayer website with lit salt lamp and candle on left" border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjWpf_FB77LhyphenhyphenvLga5E5mzDh9_uY-Ph9Zl2n4mUFlsLwI2XNAMQeKYHwBQ17c9hM-DE03j7PQGNSFvfl2l63gO9zA1h-snAhRHuKc2fBiJv_Wi602HBSj3KEN9VhUfUUYwoCQIGnl_6Jo/w640-h480/Autumn+2020+bbc+iplayer+recommendations.JPG" title="Must-Watch iPlayer Recommendations Autumn 2020" width="640"></a></div><div>Looking for some thrilling dramas to sink you're teeth into this autumn? Look no further. </div><div>Since my previous post, <a href="https://julzobsessions.blogspot.com/2020/04/5-tv-shows-you-should-watch-on-bbc.html"><b><i><span style="color: #e06666;">5 TV Shows You Should Watch on BBC iPlayer</span></i></b></a>, I've been searching for even more great content. And let me tell you, I've found it. So much so that this is actually going to be a 2 part post. Expect another 4 incredible recommendations next week. I'm mixing it up a bit too so whether you're looking for dozens of episodes to keep you going or just a one-off fix, I've got you covered.</div><div><br></div><div>I've worked my way through the good, the bad and - let's face it - the awful, to find the absolute gems on BBC iPlayer. I'm talking truly mindblowing tele you can't turn off. Because as the evenings draw in and restrictions tighten again, one thing I really look forward to is sitting down to an episode of my current fave programme every night with some tasty treats. </div><div><br></div><div>Also, since iPlayer is free, I find more people tend to be watching the same thing at the same time. That means even more enjoyment because you can talk about it and gasp at the same parts.</div><div><br></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><u>I May Destroy You</u></h3><div>Without a word of exaggeration, this is the best TV show of 2020. </div><div><br></div><div>Millennial writer Arabella pulls an all nighter to finish a creative project she's working on. She breaks to get something to eat and meet friends. Then blank. She comes to, back at her desk writing, with no idea what just happened. The series follows Arabella as she pieces together the horror of sexual assault, and how she begins to deal with it. </div><div><br></div><div>The show deals with issues of consent from multiple angles. Angles I hadn't even thought of, let alone understood before. </div><div><br></div><div>It also depicts our hustling, swiping, validation seeking, woke, hedonistic generation and it's vulnerable underbelly. And it's not just the issue of sexual assault which is explored, but the fine line we all tread in maintaining our mental health and relationships.<span></span></div><a href="https://julzobsessions.blogspot.com/2020/09/4-must-watch-iplayer-recommendations.html#more">Read more »</a>Juliannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04806731639495868566noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4664548080249204079.post-64096366695836751702020-09-07T21:42:00.000+01:002020-09-07T21:42:51.703+01:00Autumn is in the air<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUKohvN_i4lZk-mOxnultvpa0b1uu9cgDW0_5LtkT6FBxhOLcAbLUPDfSnSgrLVyayeQWElIB5i0wD4hQPM6_lfI-nTICeszHBH2eYvG5pcLjjdLoZwnsfBrS485ZQmGG_t-h7PVWUrg0/s1920/Autumn+is+in+the+air+Julz+Obsessions.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="salt lamp next to two small candles and a cup of tea in white mug on top of notebook" border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1920" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUKohvN_i4lZk-mOxnultvpa0b1uu9cgDW0_5LtkT6FBxhOLcAbLUPDfSnSgrLVyayeQWElIB5i0wD4hQPM6_lfI-nTICeszHBH2eYvG5pcLjjdLoZwnsfBrS485ZQmGG_t-h7PVWUrg0/w640-h480/Autumn+is+in+the+air+Julz+Obsessions.jpg" title="Autumn is in the air | Julz Obsessions blog" width="640"></a></span></div><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">Usually when this time of year rolls around I'm just </span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">not<span> </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">ready </span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">to say goodbye to summer. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">I'm a summer baby and love nothing more than long days and light nights. This hasn't been a 'usually' kind of year though.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">Even though it seems like we've been in Julember for months, I also feel like spring and summer have had their time. I've been out walks (and now runs!) almost every day since April, so for the first time ever I've noticed nature and the transition through the seasons. Now the leaves and pine cones are starting to fall and I couldn't be more excited.<span></span></span></p><a href="https://julzobsessions.blogspot.com/2020/09/autumn-is-in-air.html#more">Read more »</a>Juliannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04806731639495868566noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4664548080249204079.post-87784662799998656892020-06-15T17:00:00.002+01:002020-10-16T18:38:09.337+01:00The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod | Book Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQpyhKkk3gGcFPBkvkz8pXJDAa07F4tDKpRoL5SP1w5MjrAa1AEIky_c4a3p6yYaRytTX8dU41gtXJnWGg6X4_t30MlDWa1NYaTDeR7SrrOica22u2YdWxPzBizw_e9RhGUevZoKJjin0/s1600/Miracle+morning.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><font face="helvetica"><img alt="yellow and white book on pink quilt" border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQpyhKkk3gGcFPBkvkz8pXJDAa07F4tDKpRoL5SP1w5MjrAa1AEIky_c4a3p6yYaRytTX8dU41gtXJnWGg6X4_t30MlDWa1NYaTDeR7SrrOica22u2YdWxPzBizw_e9RhGUevZoKJjin0/w640-h480/Miracle+morning.JPG" title="The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod Book Review" width="640"></font></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><font face="helvetica">I am absolutely not a morning person. I never have been. I'm pretty much a demon until 11am. I know that the early bird catches the worm and all that and because I start work at 8am I do need to rise early out of necessity. Honestly though, I'd rather not.</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><font face="helvetica"><br></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><font face="helvetica">I'm just finishing an online course called The Science of Well-Being by Yale University. It sounds obvious, but one of the most essential factors in people's happiness levels, studies have shown time and time again, is sleep. While I may falter in some of the other contributory factors like exercise, meditation and gratitude, sleep is something I can't not prioritise. When people say to me 'I only got 4 hours sleep last night' I'm like 'HUH?! How are you still functioning?!' I'd literally collapse. So, whether its been before exams, stressful times at work or after a night out, I always get the amount of sleep I need. I think that's why, until now, I've classified mornings as time which would be better spent unconscious.</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><font face="helvetica"><br></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><font face="helvetica">Therefore, even though I've heard The Miracle Morning recommended time and time again over the years alongside books I have loved, I prematurely judged it as 'not my thing'. However, when my cousin dropped her copy at my house in the middle of a pandemic saying it had changed her life, I kind of had to take notice. And I'm super glad I did.</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><font face="helvetica"><br></font></div><h3 style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><u><font face="helvetica">What is The Miracle Morning?</font></u></h3><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><font face="helvetica">The book begins with testimonies about how The Miracle Morning has transformed people's lives. From losing 25 pounds to quitting smoking to attaining top grades to finding true love to improving relationships to having more energy to accomplishing long term goals to having every day 'feel like Christmas' - this book can purportedly help you do anything.</font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span></span></div><a href="https://julzobsessions.blogspot.com/2020/06/the-miracle-morning.html#more">Read more »</a>Juliannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04806731639495868566noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4664548080249204079.post-3330157106652406492020-06-13T22:38:00.002+01:002020-06-13T22:39:28.322+01:00The Existence of Amy* by Lana Grace Riva | Book Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-uVzkGT17pxmsZgzMSjMJ5PxfUKmsxIYAXew233yX6vL8watYlcPtcdDYpwogANkMVhChVQDueJY8JTu8HAdknqndqQODvIXQpDZ-4yclzazKOaxWfafG1Ezkp_io_QLxZG6-xxwHTXY/s1600/The+Existence+of+Amy+1.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="pale blue book spine with rainbow in middle with teal book spine on top reading 'The Existence of Amy' with blue and cream floral teacup on top" border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-uVzkGT17pxmsZgzMSjMJ5PxfUKmsxIYAXew233yX6vL8watYlcPtcdDYpwogANkMVhChVQDueJY8JTu8HAdknqndqQODvIXQpDZ-4yclzazKOaxWfafG1Ezkp_io_QLxZG6-xxwHTXY/w640-h480/The+Existence+of+Amy+1.JPG" title="The Existence of Amy by Lana Grace Riva Book Review | Mental Health Fiction" width="640"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i>Trigger warning - this book contains depictions of OCD, depression and suicidal thought patterns.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i><b>This is a no spoiler book review.</b></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i><br></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Hello you lovely folk and happy Saturday! I hope you're having a swell weekend. As I mentioned in <a href="https://julzobsessions.blogspot.com/2020/05/the-husbands-secret-by-liane-moriarty.html" target="_blank"><font color="#e67c73"><b>my last book review</b></font></a>, for a few months now I have been really struggling to get into a book. Only a tiny fraction are cutting it. I've currently got three books on the go and they're all very mediocre. So, I was delighted to read <b><font color="#e67c73"><i>'</i><a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B07VXS4KQN" target="_blank"><font color="#e67c73">The Existence of Amy</font></a>'</font></b>* by Lana Grace Riva<b> </b>last weekend because it gripped me straight away and I finished it within a few hours.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br></div><h3 style="clear: both; text-align: left;">What's the story?</h3><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">From the outside you'd be forgiven for thinking Amy was normal (whatever 'normal' actually means...). She has a great job in digital marketing, brilliant work friends and a nice house. However, we are privy to Amy's perspective, and from the inside her life is a constant struggle. The title pretty much sums it up: she's just existing, not living.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Amy's whole existence is dictated by her OCD (and subsequent anxiety and overthinking) and bouts of depression. She fights with herself to keep up appearances and continue the charade of a normal life but its exhausting.</div><span></span><a href="https://julzobsessions.blogspot.com/2020/06/the-existence-of-amy-by-lana-grace-riva.html#more">Read more »</a>Juliannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04806731639495868566noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4664548080249204079.post-42747463166468120732020-05-31T22:22:00.002+01:002020-05-31T22:23:35.608+01:00The Sunday Post #19<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqVHJwOExRF0cK_ykvu0gJq3F4bn_MXrUg1G6gG2C1nOGgd_agtpmjBT2oOb7hwbM6Am5wjYXA-GFC3W0kTEQak1SwfnGM2WxSSgGoX0YO0t4oLU459A-VO6NB_6B_lS8a1O0-WDo-pd0/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="expansive view of clear blue water and clear blue sky with some trees in background" border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqVHJwOExRF0cK_ykvu0gJq3F4bn_MXrUg1G6gG2C1nOGgd_agtpmjBT2oOb7hwbM6Am5wjYXA-GFC3W0kTEQak1SwfnGM2WxSSgGoX0YO0t4oLU459A-VO6NB_6B_lS8a1O0-WDo-pd0/w640-h480/image1.jpeg" title="Brilliant view" width="640"></a></div></div><font face="helvetica">Good evening one and all. I come to you live from the heart of hayfever hell, with a face that feels like it's going to fall off and probably a tree equivalent of used hankies (ew). It's not all bad though, as I'm working my way through some Cadbury's Heroes and it's still lovely and light outside. Have you all been basking in the beautiful weather this week?</font><div><font face="helvetica"><br></font><div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><font face="helvetica">What Have I Been Doing This Week?</font></h3><div><h4 style="text-align: left;"><font face="helvetica"><b><u><br></u></b></font></h4><h4 style="text-align: left;"><font face="helvetica"><b><u>Doing the 7 Day Thigh Challenge</u></b></font></h4><div><font face="helvetica">This week I completed Blogilates 7 Day Thigh Challenge. I couldn't believe how difficult the simple-looking exercises were and I was so proud of myself for following through. A couple of months ago I would have given up after Day 1. While I haven't transformed into Miss Stick-Insect Legs, I was pleasantly surprised with how quickly I improved over the week. What absolutely killed on Monday and Tuesday was totally doable by Friday. It just goes to show - 20 minutes a day can make a huge difference.</font></div><div><span></span></div></div></div></div><a href="https://julzobsessions.blogspot.com/2020/05/the-sunday-post-19.html#more">Read more »</a>Juliannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04806731639495868566noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4664548080249204079.post-73793898212661598542020-05-23T23:30:00.004+01:002020-05-25T00:07:36.938+01:00The Sunday Post #18<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzcslZcJLyhHwOzybDOdljF4f8sRbwVp6HDeO8PeVyly6FmoYcNEAVzLdX0zZ7qkhp6sF-iZ8xe0mUXwU7J_7Ezeh6htuxT2rt3C31bFxSHl7oJxWueEbgO9r9K7R7WPOHKIBzt0zMJSg/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><font face="helvetica"><img alt="large mac computer with Julz Obsessions blog on screen with Himalayan salt lamp, keyboard, mouse, A5 pale blue organiser and various lit candles in front" border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzcslZcJLyhHwOzybDOdljF4f8sRbwVp6HDeO8PeVyly6FmoYcNEAVzLdX0zZ7qkhp6sF-iZ8xe0mUXwU7J_7Ezeh6htuxT2rt3C31bFxSHl7oJxWueEbgO9r9K7R7WPOHKIBzt0zMJSg/w640-h480/IMG_4276.JPG" title="The Sunday Post #18 - Julz Obsessions - A Scottish Lifestyle Blog" width="640"></font></a></div><div><font face="helvetica">Happy Sunday folks! I've had a lovely evening consisting of Line of Duty, an online book club chat, a Harry Potter quiz and Neapolitan ice cream. Not too shabby at all. I took the above photo today when I went a bit on a candle rampage. Does it feel inception looking at it?</font></div><div><font face="helvetica"><br></font></div><div><b><u><font face="helvetica">The Week</font></u></b></div><div><font face="helvetica">I finished the SEO work I've been doing piecemeal for weeks on Julz Obsessions. None of my photos had alt text so going through 300 posts and adding it was pretty laborious. I did love re-meeting old me as I went back in time though.</font></div><div><font face="helvetica"><br></font></div><div><font face="helvetica">This week I wrote my first article for Quite Literary, a new online magazine called '<a href="https://quiteliterary.com/2020/05/22/books-to-read-in-your-early-twenties/" target="_blank"><font color="#e67c73">Books to Read in Your Early Twenties</font></a>'. Give it a read and let me know what you think. Writing is exactly what I want to be doing more of in the months and years to come so I feel like this is the first step of a fabulous journey. </font></div><div><font face="helvetica"><br></font></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><font face="helvetica">It looks like we're finally going to start coming out of lockdown. Is it just me or has everyone else lost all sense of time? It's as if we've been like this for 2 years, but also 2 minutes. While I'm very much looking forward to doing things like going to my fave restaurants, seeing my friends and family, going to the pub and shopping when we can, I also think I'll emerge on the other side changed. It's like the reset button has been pushed on my life and I can see clearly what's important, what I want, what I should be doing more of and less of. </font></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span></span></span></div><a href="https://julzobsessions.blogspot.com/2020/05/the-sunday-post-18.html#more">Read more »</a>Juliannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04806731639495868566noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4664548080249204079.post-12249976948131478182020-05-17T23:57:00.003+01:002020-05-23T18:21:33.205+01:00The Sunday Post #17<div><font face="helvetica"><br></font></div><font face="helvetica"><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHHrF2ZRqAj7nMwLBk-qYMPbEG9eKdRT019CxhXD9r1KhEfvdxusscia_u-pO-n_3v6ed4DK-sPiHFjl0rHs0APDRHnoT19bJJe1ZTiLkWSobKJXzvoZnJZwhumQL00yYBR3bMBOkERso/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="pink surface with white ivy plant with pink suede bow tied around next to pink quartz stone, small pink plant pot with succulent and pink candle holder with burning white candle" border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHHrF2ZRqAj7nMwLBk-qYMPbEG9eKdRT019CxhXD9r1KhEfvdxusscia_u-pO-n_3v6ed4DK-sPiHFjl0rHs0APDRHnoT19bJJe1ZTiLkWSobKJXzvoZnJZwhumQL00yYBR3bMBOkERso/w640-h480/plants.JPG" title="The Sunday Post on Julz Obsessions- a scottish lifestyle blog" width="640"></a></div><font face="helvetica"><br></font></div>I've been going through old posts fixing some technical aspects (lack of alt text, broken links etc) and very happily stumbled upon an old series I wrote in 2013 called 'The Sunday Post'. Each week on a Sunday evening I'd write a short blog post about what was going on in my life that week and what I'd been enjoying. Honestly, for the most part it was me gushing about One Direction and calling into the online abyss for friends who shared my Pretty Little Liars obsession. But I have completely <i>loved </i>reading these back. They're such a vivid reminder of a very specific time in my life where I was completely immersed in Higher exams and, as cheesy as it may sound, I was finding myself and my voice. Incidentally, reading through the number of posts I managed to produce back then, I'm in awe at how I managed to find any time for studying at all. I'd just got my first proper part time job in Wetherspoons and my favourite song was Avicii Wake Me Up. I ended up working in spoons for 3 years (maybe one day I'll write a book about the fun and games that went on in there). Funny enough, I've been listening to Best of Avicii on Spotify the whole lockdown. I guess we don't change that much even though our circumstances might.</font><div><div><font face="helvetica"><br></font></div><div><font face="helvetica">So, I thought I'd dive back in - 7 years later - and write The Sunday Post #17. Even if no one reads it, I absolutely love looking back and catching a glimpse of myself in time.</font></div><div><span></span></div></div><a href="https://julzobsessions.blogspot.com/2020/05/the-sunday-post-17.html#more">Read more »</a>Juliannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04806731639495868566noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4664548080249204079.post-199248367483999752020-05-13T20:32:00.004+01:002020-10-16T18:41:15.399+01:00'The Husband's Secret' by Liane Moriarty | Book Review<div><b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;"><font face="trebuchet"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuQom4gyXOi2XUSYAgT1dRvJwwGTk7bcLcGxYQj1euRGrJa1e3m1Kxi-ZWLwZ3nSOq7xu8ilioYeotHeRLJo0u4xgqFTzaRc899RkPnUAEPzbhNMt_gcrEkgSCiyOKwatzbStRy0CiXKU/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="teal blue book with hand opening jar on front on top of two plain pink book spines on pink quilt" border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuQom4gyXOi2XUSYAgT1dRvJwwGTk7bcLcGxYQj1euRGrJa1e3m1Kxi-ZWLwZ3nSOq7xu8ilioYeotHeRLJo0u4xgqFTzaRc899RkPnUAEPzbhNMt_gcrEkgSCiyOKwatzbStRy0CiXKU/w640-h480/The+Husbands+Secret+book+stack.JPG" title="The Husband's Secret by Liane Moriarty Book Review" width="640"></a></div><i><br></i></font></b></div><b style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;"><i><font face="trebuchet">This is a no spoiler book review</font></i></b><div><font face="trebuchet"><br></font></div><div><font face="trebuchet ms, sans-serif">The Husband's Secret has been on my to-be-read pile for well over a year after I got it at a jumble sale 3 for £1 (bargain!). </font></div><div><font face="trebuchet ms, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div><font face="trebuchet ms, sans-serif">For such a book-loving gal who usually roars through novels alongside working full time, since we've went into lockdown and I've had <i>so much free time,</i> I've been finding it so difficult to get into a book. I don't know if it's because right now our brains are constantly distracted by the enormous threat of a pandemic. Anyway, while other folk have been using this time to whittle down their TBR pile, mine has been slogging along almost untouched. </font></div><div><font face="trebuchet ms, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div><font face="trebuchet ms, sans-serif">Have you been feeling the same difficulty in settling into reading lately?</font></div><div><font face="trebuchet ms, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div><font face="trebuchet ms, sans-serif">I'm a big believer in 'feeling' what to read next. I need to be in the mood for a particular genre or type of book. For every few fiction books I read, I'll throw in a non fiction between to change things up. The diversity is the beauty of reading: having such variety to choose from means I never get bored.</font></div><div><font face="trebuchet ms, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div><font face="trebuchet ms, sans-serif">Let's leave all the hard hitting science and canonical literature for later. My brain just can't deal. </font>Right now? I need something light with a <i>great story </i>which hooks me in immediately. </div><div><font face="trebuchet ms, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div><font face="trebuchet ms, sans-serif">Cue The Husband's Secret.</font></div><div><font face="trebuchet"><span></span></font></div><a href="https://julzobsessions.blogspot.com/2020/05/the-husbands-secret-by-liane-moriarty.html#more">Read more »</a>Juliannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04806731639495868566noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4664548080249204079.post-21340908618084237642020-04-28T18:12:00.003+01:002020-04-29T18:03:45.181+01:00Great Home Workouts For People Who Hate Exercise<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBVSMdvyHpPDEjMPOQM2vtRQKpYb4Q7_GQrPYAS8xqLIWMtrWFy1i488dOQkm-DFGo3wx3sVE__T5ldTx2ZGyCqu7dWNzPKsJ9YJ8vBAFVOtcusHyx5R5QNniJheMxagMzMf1wm4TpMaU/s1600/home-5030361_1920.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="illustration of woman with ponytail in yellow vest and blue leggings going yoga lunge in bare room with a couple plants on right" border="0" data-original-height="1279" data-original-width="1600" height="511" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBVSMdvyHpPDEjMPOQM2vtRQKpYb4Q7_GQrPYAS8xqLIWMtrWFy1i488dOQkm-DFGo3wx3sVE__T5ldTx2ZGyCqu7dWNzPKsJ9YJ8vBAFVOtcusHyx5R5QNniJheMxagMzMf1wm4TpMaU/s640/home-5030361_1920.png" title="Great home workouts for people who hate exercise" width="640"></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I've always been a fully fledged member of the lazy gals club. My base instinct is to sloth. Give me a phone, a TV or a book and I'll beat records for time spent sitting.</span><br>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">You can therefore imagine my sheer incredulity upon discovering that lockdown has made me somewhat of a fitness fan. I know right?! </span><br>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Hear me out.</span><br>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br>
<a href="https://julzobsessions.blogspot.com/2020/04/great-home-workouts-for-people-who-hate.html#more">Read more »</a>Juliannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04806731639495868566noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4664548080249204079.post-90696096281135683162020-04-23T15:36:00.001+01:002020-05-22T15:22:32.340+01:00Book Wishlist 2020<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp1ab-SVFzBLAPtSbT7RweGGrMrKzpEPOG2nCEb92J1RwhpwQCy3Fhz2OZagD-Ut_TRy1Yqf58axwbwRWmCJ48g1RbbScHe3IQV08qCCGZ-m2aYYQmGwx3kSpUPjP2VxMIpECGxK1K3uc/s1600/Book+wishlist+2020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="multi-coloured covers of the books listed below" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp1ab-SVFzBLAPtSbT7RweGGrMrKzpEPOG2nCEb92J1RwhpwQCy3Fhz2OZagD-Ut_TRy1Yqf58axwbwRWmCJ48g1RbbScHe3IQV08qCCGZ-m2aYYQmGwx3kSpUPjP2VxMIpECGxK1K3uc/s640/Book+wishlist+2020.jpg" title="Fiction and non fiction wishlist of books to read in 2020" width="640"></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Having a large To Be Read (TBR) pile seems to be a common trait among book lovers. I'm totally overcome with excitement whenever I enter a book shop or, as is more often the case, a charity shop or jumble sale. I simply buy books faster than I can read them and this has been the case for years.</span><br>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br></span>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">As a result, I currently have about 15 books I haven't read yet. In an effort to reduce the pile and save money, I'm not buying any more books until my TBR pile has reduced considerably. While we're in lockdown, I'm trying to read as much as I can. However, I'm finding it more difficult than usual to concentrate on a book. Once I'm 100 pages in I'm fine but getting to that point takes days. Anyone else feeling like this?</span><br>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"></span><br>
<a href="https://julzobsessions.blogspot.com/2020/04/book-wishlist-2020.html#more">Read more »</a>Juliannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04806731639495868566noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4664548080249204079.post-65118001926696959862020-04-20T19:57:00.003+01:002020-04-20T19:58:39.107+01:005 TV Shows You Should Watch on BBC iPlayer <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzsFFLWFp8bInE6kyKFfBJv5qO3A-fCLkxkeMsDtRjAjAiFLtlByvXI9WLfVv-80U9Jk_DUHib6W5Ty1L8PAy1qqeVZTUnyXiuoJc_8t9AVb-CyGVZ33rnYDhgIiuCOt4JtBWAiN1H0f8/s1600/iPlayer.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="acer laptop with iPlayer Most Popular page opened on pink quilt with pink and gold cushion behind and velvet heart on left" border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzsFFLWFp8bInE6kyKFfBJv5qO3A-fCLkxkeMsDtRjAjAiFLtlByvXI9WLfVv-80U9Jk_DUHib6W5Ty1L8PAy1qqeVZTUnyXiuoJc_8t9AVb-CyGVZ33rnYDhgIiuCOt4JtBWAiN1H0f8/s640/iPlayer.JPG" title="BBC iplayer must watch recommendations " width="640"></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif;">I've never been a big one for Netflix because 1) it costs and 2) I literally can't be trusted not to binge 12 hours of shows every day. BBC iPlayer have really upped their game in the last couple of years and it's a great free alternative to Amazon Prime, NOW TV and Netflix. With classic series from Miranda and Two Pints of Lager to Doctor Who available, there's endless hours of entertainment. While I am making a conscious effort not to spend the entire lockdown glued to the TV, it's something I will do for an hour or two a day, perhaps even while doing something else like crocheting or journalling.</span><br>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">There's nothing better than stumbling upon a brilliant new TV show, so I've rounded up my top 5 must-watch list.</span><br>
<br>
<h3>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Recommendations on BBC iPlayer for 2020</span></h3>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br></span></div>
<h4>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The Nest</span></h4>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The final episode of this 5-part series aired just last week, so I partly envy those of you who can now go on and watch the whole lot rather than waiting a week for the next instalment.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The Nest follows the story of a rich couple, Dan and Emily, who are desperate to have a child. They find an unlikely surrogate in Kaya, a troubled young girl who has just left the care system and is determined to make a success of her life. The series unravels the mystery of why Kaya was in care and how Dan managed to go from scheme boy to owning half of Glasgow. That's the other fantastic part of this show. It's set in Glasgow. I absolutely loved the beautiful aerial shots of my city, the Merchant City sets and the <i>incredible </i>lochside mansion house.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Gripping, emotional, unbelievable.</span><br>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br></span></div>
<h4>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The Capture</span></h4>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I watched The Capture when it dropped last year and I don't think it got anywhere near the amount of praise and hype it deserved. I therefore take any opportunity to convince anyone to watch it.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Shaun Emery, a British soldier, has his murder conviction overturned at retrial because his brilliant barrister proves the evidence which convicted him was faulty. He is released and, after a night of celebration, his barrister Hannah is caught on CCTV being brutally attacked and kidnapped... by Shaun. But he doesn't remember it like that. Meanwhile, ambitious Detective Rachel Carey starts with the Homicide and Serious Crimes Unit and is determined to prove herself.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The six part thriller follows Shaun as he becomes entangled in the multi-layer nets of police, secret service and other actors. Shaun, Rachel and we, the audience, search for the truth about what happened to Hannah, and what is at stake by her disappearance.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Wonderful, addictive, brutal.</span><br>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br>
</div><a href="https://julzobsessions.blogspot.com/2020/04/5-tv-shows-you-should-watch-on-bbc.html#more">Read more »</a>Juliannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04806731639495868566noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4664548080249204079.post-71382610396120307062020-04-16T20:43:00.003+01:002020-10-16T18:42:49.261+01:00'Pride and Prejudice' by Jane Austen<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkCQKeC_XlgD3nIp-LZBO5_4uqhf2XJV9dvB7yaNdOpoQNtNzqooV04juxQLUodUqXIw44rbEST0jp29SQxCfRNYrVdurkxxz6NrSyuZj2P2dXmLt-6M67CnJ_7UBohD79evaAtJcoh2k/s1600/Book+and+mug+1.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Pale blue and gold large novel standing up on white shelf reading 'Jane Austen 7 Novels' next to green and white pride and prejudice mug with illustrations of unhappy man and woman" border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkCQKeC_XlgD3nIp-LZBO5_4uqhf2XJV9dvB7yaNdOpoQNtNzqooV04juxQLUodUqXIw44rbEST0jp29SQxCfRNYrVdurkxxz6NrSyuZj2P2dXmLt-6M67CnJ_7UBohD79evaAtJcoh2k/s640/Book+and+mug+1.JPG" title="Beautiful copy of Jane Austen 7 Novels next to Pride and Prejudice mug" width="640"></a></div>
<b><i>This is a no spoiler book review (except the mug in the photo)</i></b><br>
<br>
Way back in 2014 in <a href="https://julzobsessions.blogspot.com/2014/10/the-reading-tag.html" target="_blank">The Reading Tag</a>, I said the next book I had my sights set on was Pride and Prejudice. When I wrote that, I was just about to start university studying English Literature. Fast forward nearly six years, I have the degree and a whole lot of other classics under my belt, but still no Jane Austen.<br>
<br>
Why?<br>
<br>
<a href="https://julzobsessions.blogspot.com/2020/04/pride-and-prejudice-by-jane-austen.html#more">Read more »</a>Juliannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04806731639495868566noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4664548080249204079.post-82621891203910624022020-04-10T17:45:00.000+01:002020-04-19T00:19:45.466+01:00My Top 5 Podcast Recommendations<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPItPXKNW2Z-qqYXs5eDSE5nv5n-I4BqvXTuHus2xNMf1W2svYsitipmH5cU7aCU9Wq-byq_hUe0uDJCQx65zaX_Hf3dPhH8Ii3LieTeS1lSiU_qFwCnUVxiA5gcJSc25qNdoR46twCl0/s1600/Thick+and+thin+podcast.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img alt="iphone 8 with earphones on white desk playing 'Thick & Thin' podcast" border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPItPXKNW2Z-qqYXs5eDSE5nv5n-I4BqvXTuHus2xNMf1W2svYsitipmH5cU7aCU9Wq-byq_hUe0uDJCQx65zaX_Hf3dPhH8Ii3LieTeS1lSiU_qFwCnUVxiA5gcJSc25qNdoR46twCl0/s640/Thick+and+thin+podcast.JPG" title="Podcast recommendations for millenials" width="640"></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">During this weird and wild time where we're all on lockdown, if you're blessed enough to be safe and well and finding yourself at a loose end, you'll be looking for some great content to pass (and make the most of) the time. </span><br>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Whether it's Youtube videos, blog posts or articles, I'm always on the lookout for something new and inspiring to become obsessed with. Podcasts are no different. Over the last year I've listened to these on the commute, before I go to sleep, as I do housework and as I walk to the gym. Now, they're my go-to for my daily walk. </span><br>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I thought I'd share my all-time favourite podcasts in case you're looking for a fabulous new listen. There's an eclectic mix of educational, entertaining, spiritual and just plain fascinating. </span><br>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br></span>
<u><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The High Low</span></u><br>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The High Low provides my weekly injection of culture, pop culture, news, intellectual happenings and general silliness. I happily stumbled upon it after reading the brilliant 'Everything I Know About Love' by Dolly Alderton and <strike>stalking</strike> looking for more of her work online. She co-hosts the show with Pandora Sykes, a journalist who has written for ELLE and The Sunday Times.</span><br>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The High Low balances a light-hearted take on current affairs with a multi-faceted examination of every angle, interpretation and consequence. I'm a critical thinker, and the style of this podcast is the very definition of 'Yes, but...' that is right up my street. Their manner of speaking about the world is so refreshingly self aware and socially aware. </span><br>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">It's also hilarious.</span><br>
<br>
<a href="https://julzobsessions.blogspot.com/2020/04/my-top-5-podcast-recommendations.html#more">Read more »</a>Juliannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04806731639495868566noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4664548080249204079.post-81752596481843324602020-02-08T12:45:00.007+00:002020-05-22T15:26:10.850+01:00Self-care Sats<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFo0gC-LNs_FyenFnlADi1Yca_jUOXs8kytlRk0SFd30L538TLgErWHSfpUAYlbdPzjsoPD4YL3UjSzyovek7Sq5ARbhKFndtJuA7uLBpY9J_FPxJI3-jfRa80JAN-5AvkDlUutCCk0wY/s1600/thumbnail_IMG_3375.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><img alt="Dancer by Colum Mccann book with I Love Tea mug on top next to rose gold candle" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFo0gC-LNs_FyenFnlADi1Yca_jUOXs8kytlRk0SFd30L538TLgErWHSfpUAYlbdPzjsoPD4YL3UjSzyovek7Sq5ARbhKFndtJuA7uLBpY9J_FPxJI3-jfRa80JAN-5AvkDlUutCCk0wY/s640/thumbnail_IMG_3375.jpg" title="Self-care ideas" width="640"></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I've always been a bit sceptical about the term 'self-care' as when it first became a thing when I was in uni it always seemed a bit self-indulgent and well, shallow. 'Feeling blue? Paint your nails and put on a face mask.' I got where people were coming from but thought the whole thing was a bit naff.</span><br>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">However, fast-forward a couple of years where I'm now working a hectic job Monday to Friday, self-care is essential. I've got a much better insight into the need to recharge and come back to yourself. If nothing else, when you have limited free time you realise the need to make the most of it.</span></span><br>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">With the motivation of a new year wearing off, and Valentine's Day just around the corner, there's no better time to regroup, celebrate yourself and spread the love to everyone around you - family, boyfriends, girlfriends, old friends...</span></span><br>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span><br>
<a href="https://julzobsessions.blogspot.com/2020/02/self-care-sats.html#more">Read more »</a>Juliannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04806731639495868566noreply@blogger.com0