Urban Decay Greens | Makeup

Ohay, remember that time I used to blog about makeup? Yeah... it's been a while. Even though my interests have moved on from obsessing over makeup day and night, I do still love to experiment every now and again, and I do still own way more makeup than is necessary for one person to own (this is even after a massive purge! Yeah I'm a hoarder). Today I'm going to share with you a recent eye look I created during one of my "lets slap this on and see what happens" sessions. Yup, they're a thing.

To create this look I used various Urban Decay Shadows in a arsenal of palettes I have sitting in a draw. I believe a combination of Deep End on the lid, Haight through the crease and Blackout on the outer corners with Vanilla to highlight made up the bulk of this look with the perfection that is Kat Von D Tattoo Liner to create the wing. For my lips I used my new Sleek Matte Me Lip Cream in Bittersweet.

Green really seems to be one of my "go to" colours lately. Since going back to my natural hair colour, i really lean towards it as it just goes so well with auburn hair! Admittedly, It has been a while since I've properly played with colour, but since doing this look I've found myself looking longingly at my unloved Sugarpill palettes so I think a few more makeup sessions are a-coming!

What's your "go to" eyeshadow colour? When was the last time you experimented with makeup?

xox

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Turning 25 Feelz

 Last week I turned 25. Amongst the "oh my god where has my life gone" feelz was the equally as scary "how the heck do I adult" feelz, although I did spend my birthday in Disneyland Paris being the personification of "never grow up". A lot has changed in the past year, so I thought I would revisit the "25 things before 25" list I wrote a year ago on my 24th birthday. Some things I've achieved, some things I haven't, good things have happened, bad things have happened, but I've come out a stronger person with a few things i can be proud of.

1. Start a ‘big girl’ savings account.
I did actually start a savings account recently and now transfer money into it evey month. How long it's going to stay untouched is questionable, as I do have several holidays to pay for, but we shall see!

2. Get a promotion at work to become salaried staff.
Another recent step was my promotion to become a General Manager. Even though I still don't know what i want to do with my life, I have a career and options for the future.

3. Move into my own place with the boyfriend.
This one is a toghie. I did move into my own place last December, but unfortunatly me and him broke up in April. It's by far one of the hardest things I have ever had to deal with in my life. We were together for 5 1/2 years and to say it hurt is an understatement. It was nothing anyone did, these things just sometimes happen. I did have to move back in with my parents though. It's a work in progress.

4. Spend more time being creative and learning to use my sewing machine.
Learning how to use my sewing machine was a big fail, but I would like to think I have become more creative in my thinking, even though I don't have much physically to show for it.

5. Learn more about creating content on YouTube, from editing to the filming process.
Although I have come such a long way from when i first started making videos, there is still so much for me to learn and it's a constant process that I'm always improving upon. What I want to improve upon the most now days, is the visuals of my videos and am excited to develop them further.

6. Gain 3000 subscribers on my channel.
I've gone through a few bouts of "creators block" this year, and a hiatus after the breakup, which I think has affected my channel growth, however, I am close to 2000 subscribers so that is a big achievement for me! I love making videos and sharing my Disney trips, so its just mind boggling that people are actually watching!

7. Find a direction with my blog.
My blog has taken the back burner over the last few years, and to be honest, I cant see that changing. Trying to juggle working full time, putting out 2 videos a week and trying not to be a complete social recluse is tough and I just don't have much time to blog anymore. I wish I did, honestly I do, but I cant see myself being a dedicated blogger any time soon.

8. Rediscover my passion for photography, somehow its gotten lost along the way.

Photography isn't something I think about much anymore. Don't get me wrong, I enjoy it, I just don't think it's going to be something I actively pursue in the future.

9. Go to more concerts and see more shows.
I was so hyped to see Motley Crue and Alice Cooper last November, and have recently booked to see Avenged Sevenfold next year so I reckon this definitly counts as a sucess (I mean, have you see the price of gig tickets recently? Ouch!)

10. Stop comparing myself.
You know what, I don't compare myself. While there is always going to be a flicker of a thought that compares myself to others, I generally don't. I'm not going to waste my life being jealous of others and wishing I had something I'm never going to get.

11. Become more creative in the kitchen.
This was actually the year I decided to become a Vegan! I've been following a plant based diet for 8 months now and couldnt be happier. Admittidly I was alot more creative in the kitchen when I was living in the flat, as trying to cook meals at my parents house is abit of a pain, but I can now make some delicious dishes that i'm super proud of.

12. Join some sort of sports club or activity.
This totally hasn't happened, but I'm still thinking about it! Maybe this year, eh?

13. Learn a new language to a conversational level.
Again, something I'm still thinking about. Leaning more towards French or Japanese now.

14. Visit a country I’ve never been before.
Disney has too much of a hold on me and I just cant bring myself to book another location when I know I can jet over to Disneyland Paris for cheap with my Annual Pass. I am going to California in October though, and while I have been before, It's been 3 years.

15. Have a clear out – I own way too much stuff.
I still own too much stuff, but I did have a big clear out when I moved into the flat so that totally counts.

16. Connect with family. I barely talk to my extended family, that needs to change.
I'm still anti-social when it comes to my family. Im terrible at keeping in contact with people in general though.

17. Pass my driving test.
This is probably one of the things I'm proudest of so far this year. In february I passed my driving test and am now flitting around in my own little Fiat 500!

18. Get a tattoo.
Let's be honest here, I'm just too stingy to pay for a tattoo. There is also part of me that dreams of working for Disney again (who don't allow visible tattoos) so I stay clear, just incase.

19. Write an open letter to my future 35 year old self.
I haven't done this, but I probably should. What would I even say?

20. Watch every single Disney film, both classic and live action.
I rarely watch movies, even Disney ones, so this was always going to be abit of a push.

21. Book a trip to Japan.
I haven't booked anything yet, but me and some friends are seriously considering a trip in 2018. Fingers crossed!

22. Invest in a new DSLR.
I was going to buy a new DSLR, but instead decided to go for a Canon G7X Mark 2, which is pretty much the same price as a DSLR and I will use alot more. Yup, it counts.

23. Get involved with animal charities.
Something else I keep telling myself I'm going to do. I would love to volunteer at the Dog's Trust again, walking the dogs and cuddling puppies, or do one of those "work abroad volunteer programs", it's just finding the time.

24. ‘Organize’ my memories. I want to start scrapbooks or the like, to put all of my memory bits in.
Again, time is the issue, and when I am free I just don't even think about doing this.

25. Let the bad things go.
This year has been one of the hardest of my life. I always thought people were being dramatic when they went through breakups, but it sucks. It's like my whole life was turned upside down in such a short amount of time. My future was ripped from me and my best friend wasn't there anymore. I would like to say we are still friends, but we're not. He hasn't bothered so why should I? That's probably the hardest thing. After being together for so long, I'm nothing. We're nothing. Yes I'm moving on, but no I'm not fully over it and I probably won't be for a long time. I just need to focus on myself and I do realize that bad things happen, we just need to deal with them, then focus on getting over them.

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Supergoop! Everyday Sunscreen SPF50 Review

As we will all know, the Florida sun can be harsh and unforgiving. One of the biggest struggles that I have had when holidaying to Orlando, where beauty is concerned, is finding a facial sunscreen that sits well under makeup. I've had many people ask, why do I even bother with makeup in such hot weather. Well, because I like wearing makeup. The Supergoop Everyday Sunscreen ($19) was recommended to me by Florida locals so I made sure to pick it up in one of my Sephora orders. 

The squeeze tube packaging is simple and contains 71ml of product, enabling you to sqeeze out every smidge of sunscreen. Don't you just hate fancy packaging that wastes half of the product? The formula is lightweight, moisturizing and fast absorbing which makes it perfect for under makeup. Is isn't greasy at all, although I would recommend using a powder to set as liquid products can slide a little after a few hours. I found that my Tarte Powder Foundation held up amazingly and I had no trouble at all with it moving around during a long day in the Disney Parks. There is a slight "suncream" smell, but it isn't too noticeable and didn't put me off at all. You are meant to reapply after a few hours, as with any sunscreen, but lets be real, with a face full of makeup that isnt going to happen. Luckily, apart from a few touch ups on my nose, this lasted the whole day, and by whole day I mean a 14 hour Magic Kingdom day, and my face didn't burn at all. I'm a very pale ginger kid who burns instantly in the sun, so the fact that this lasted all day is a complete winner in my book. However, I don't encourage you to go without reapplying, this is just my experience. The only negative is that this product is only available (to us in the UK) from Sephora. But have no fear, Sephora do now ship to the UK and there is a new store that has opened in Disney Springs!

Pros: Fast absorbing, moisturizing, none-greasy, lightweight, long lasting, cruelty free, sits well under makeup.
Cons: A slight smell, hard to get hold of in the UK (only available from Sephora).

What is your favourite "under makeup" facial sunscreen?

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My Hogwarts Story | Tag

 

I saw this tag over on Amy's blog earlier today and just couldn't resist doing my own! I've been obsessed with Harry Potter for years, it being such a big impact of my life, notably for introducing me to reading.

 

Are you Pure Blood, Half Blood or Muggle Born?

I don't really think it matters but I always saw myself as being a Pure Blood.

 

Which wand chose you (what is is made of)?

Ash, Phoenix feather, mid length, slightly springy. Reading up on wandlore these are aspects that seem to match my personality. I'm stubborn, not easily swayed from my beliefs and independent, aspects which match the Phoenix feather core and Ash wood. The rigidity to represent my adaptable and open minded nature while still not being totally yielding, as I stay true to what I believe in.

Did you take an Owl, Cat, Toad or Rat with you?

If I could I would choose a snake as they're cunning yet I imagine them to be loyal. If not, probably a little black rat.

 

Where did the Sorting Hat place you?

Slytherin

What house did you want to be in?

I've always been a Slytherin and felt like its where I belong, ever since I first read Harry Potter. I know it has a bad reputation for hailing dark wizards but I'd still be a kind and unique presence in the house, until someone pissed me off. Then I'd plot my revenge.... ahaha!

 

Which lessons are your favourite and least favourite?

My favourite would have to be Defense against the dark arts or care of magical creatures. The first sounding fun and interesting while I have a love for animals, thus wanting to learn about them all! My least favourite is probably potions, who even wants to sit next to a sweaty pot all day, and divination as I don't believe in things like the tarot etc.

 

The form your Patronus takes is…

I reckon a wolf or wild cat of some description. I'm loyal to my "pack" (friends) and I love dogs more than anything, so a wild dog of some form would match me perfectly.

 

When confronted with a Boggart, what does it look like to you?

You know what, I don't know. I mean, I dislike things and am abit scared of some things but there's nothing that really gets my heart racing and makes me feel true fear. It would be interesting to see what a Boggart would become to me!

 

Do you partake in any school sports or magical hobbies?

I've never really been one of activities, sports, school pride and all that jazz. If anything, I would say some sort of reading or art club. Maybe I would just hang out with Hagrid and look after his array of magical creatures.

 

If you have free time, where would you be found hanging out?

In the library hunting down my next read, curled up in the common room in front of the fire or trying to sneak into the Forbidden forest to explore.

 

You are most likely to get detention for what?

I seem to attract detention like a moth to a flame. I was literally in detention every week in school. At Hogwarts I doubt it would be any different. For talking in class, answering back, arguing with other students, not caring enough to hand work in (yet I still manage to pass all my classes and be in the "top" group).

 

What career do you want after leaving Hogwarts?

I would say something to do with working with magical creatures or books of some sort. I like the idea of working with dragons or some sort of dangerous yet misunderstood creature.
(When i asked my friends what I would do they all said Death Eater! As much as the dark side is tempting I'm not prejudiced against other people. I just like my own way and think my way would make the world a better place haha ;) I don't wanna go around killing muggle-borns! Maybe I could be an anti-hero. Still a little bit bad but in the end fighting for a good cause. )

 

 

I tag everyone to do this and make sure to link me to your Hogwarts story!

xox

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Auberge de Cendrillon | Vegan in Disneyland Paris

 

 

Auberge de Cendrillion has been one of the restaurants in Disneyland Paris that I have most wanted to visit for a while. Of course, since becoming Vegan back in January I knew that it was unlikely that I was going to be eating a culinary masterpiece from there seeing as Disneyland Paris isn't as clued up about vegan eating as its American counterparts, but the food isn't all we do these expensive dinners for is it? Auberge de Cendrillion is a character dining experience in which you visit with three princesses, one prince and Cinderella's mice friends Suzie and Perla. In my opinion, these character meals are a great way to meet several characters in a short space of time without having to wait in long queues. Upon our arrival I spoke to my server informing him that I didn't eat any meat, dairy, fish or eggs and asked what they could make for me. At first he was a little confused but eventually he advised that I could have the vegetarian starter, just without the sauce. The main was a little more tricky, but seeing a spaghetti and sauce dish on the children's menu I asked if he could check if that was suitable and if I could have that in an adult portion. Luckily it was and he offered to put some vegetables on the side for me. One thing I did notice about ADC is that service seemed a little slow. We were waiting around for about 20 minuets before our order was even taken, same with ordering a pudding as well (by the time it arrived the place was empty and we had to rush to see the parade in time). Speaking of pudding, as everything on the menu contained dairy I just opted for a fruit salad. The food its self was nothing special. I really enjoyed the starter which was grilled vegetables with salad. The main was very basic as expected, but I enjoyed it none the less while the vegetables I was presented with on the side were again, pretty basic. The pudding was a standard bowl of fruit with orange juice.

 

 

As I said, I didn't expect anything amazing from the food here. It was basic, but filled a hole and I didn't dislike it. I came here for the experience, getting to meet the characters, watching the princesses dance and experiencing the beautiful dining room. One thing I noticed was that the tables were placed really close together so you were practically sitting with the party next to you. Funnily enough though, we actually started chatting to a lovely lady from the Netherlands named Paula, that was sitting on the table next to us and we discovered we actually already followed each other on Instagram and know of a few of the same people in the twitter Disneyland Paris community. Pretty small world eh?

Overall I don't think I would be rushing back to Auberge de Cendrillion any time soon as I've eaten much better food elsewhere, and for the price of €69 per person, I just wouldn't be able to justify it. If they were to add a Vegan option to the menu I would definitely consider returning (or if they could guarantee Ariel & Eric or Belle & Human Beast would be there haha)!

Have you ever been to Auberge de Cendrillion?

xox

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52 Books in 2016

 You may or may not know, but I am a huge book worm. I always have a book on the go and love nothing better than curling up and getting lost in a fictional world. Whereas I get bored with films and TV shows, books have a way of keeping me hooked in a way that no other form of entertainment can. Unfortunately last year I went through a massive reading slump and it wasn't until I started watching my friend Roisin's booktube videos, and from them the whole world of booktube, that I was really inspired to rediscover my love for reading again. To keep me on track I joined GoodReads and set myself a challenge to read 52 books in 2016, that's a book a week! Now to me, this doesn't seems like a lot as I've been known to devour 5 books in a week, but I guess it will have to make up for weeks that I'm working a lot or don't have much time to read.

As of April 24th 2016 I have read 16 books this year and have a "to read" list that is miles long! Books I have read so far include a series re-read in Garth Nix's Old Kingdom series and a part re-read in Cassandra Clare's Mortal Instruments Series (I originally read the first 4 books years ago, but never finished it, so am rectifying the situation). I have also started the Grisha Trilogy by Lee Bardugo and the Queen of the Tearling Trilogy by Erika Johansen, in which the final book is being released later this year.

My immediate "to be read" books are the final two Mortal Instruments Series books (City of Lost Souls & City of Heavenly Fire) which will then open up Lady Midnight to me, as i don't feel like I can read it until I've finished the original story. I'm also planning on finishing the Grisha Trilogy and a few other series "loose ends" such as the final book in the Sookie Stackhouse Chronicles that I still haven't read!

Do you enjoy reading? Have you set yourself a reading challenge for 2016?

xox

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Working for the Mouse | Not So Secret Cast Member Rules

 

 

If you have followed me for a while you will know that in summer 2013 I was a cast member at Walt Disney World, so today I am going to share with you some "Rules" Disney has for employees and why most of these still apply to me today. Disney provides Cast Members with world class training and some of the things I was taught will stay with me forever.

1. The Disney Point. This is absolutely a thing. During training I was taught that we must only point or gesture using 2 fingers, as pointing with 1 can be considered rude in some cultures. I will now only ever point using 2 fingers, and I'm pretty sure most former cast members will agree that it just sticks.

2. Never say I don't know. It was drilled into us that were never to say "I don't know" to a guest if asked a question. Even if it was something we had no idea about, we had to radio the coordinators to find the answer.

3. The bend and scoop. Cast Members are encouraged to feel proud of their park both when working and when visiting as a guest, that meant picking up any litter hanging around. We were taught to do this in a particular way while walking, dubbed the bend a scoop, the name being pretty self explanatory for the action. Even though I am no longer a cast member, you will sometimes find me doing the bend and scoop in the parks while tutting and muttering about litterbugs.

4. Never break character onstage. This does not only apply to entertainment cast members, but everyone. From keeping a smile on your face to telling stories, we were all in character while on stage. Why is there a wire going from Cinderella's castle you ask? Well Prince Charming needs somewhere to hang his washing, doesn't he?

5. Disney Look. Disney are very strict on Cast Member grooming, which includes not having any visible tattoos or piercings (except 1 pair of studs in ears, female only), hair colour has to be natural and cannot show a difference of more than 2 shades (meaning no highlights or dip dyes, also dyed hair cannot have roots showing), men's hair cannot go below their ears, no extreme hairstyles, no jewelry (except a plain wedding band or religious symbols) and neat looking nails are among a few of the guidelines put in place. These are enforced, especially when becoming a new Cast Member. We were all "inspected" by a manager and if anyone was found to be not sporting the Disney Look they had to change it.

6. Make Magic. We were encouraged to always make magic for our guests. People spend thousands to come to Disney, and some may not ever make it back again, so making every moment count was key. From wishing someone a "Happy Birthday" to giving a free bucket of popcorn, it's the little things that keep people smiling during a hot, busy Florida summer.

7. Getting down to their level. Children are at the heart of Disney, and Cast Members are to treat them as equals. When talking to a child we were always to get down on one knee so we were at their level, making the child not feel talked down too, but like that are equally as important in a conversation. By making that child feel special and putting a smile on their face, it gives the parents a much needed break from a possible upcoming temper tantrum. 

Being a Cast Member really was one of the most magical experiences of my whole life and really helped me develop my skills in the workplace while giving me memories that will last a lifetime. If only I could re-live that summer again and again!

Have you ever been a Cast Member?

xox

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My Disney Confessions

After seeing Sam and Sarah do posts like this, I thought I would join in and share with you some of my Disney confessions. I've really dug deep for these and have never really admitted them out loud until now. Some, I'm even ashamed at myself for. Please don't hate/disown me!

1. I don't watch Disney movies very often. When I say very often, I mean I probably watch 1 every few months. While I do love the films, I'm just not a big movie person. I get bored so quickly and most of the time end up wandering off half way though. This goes for all movies of course, not just Disney.

2. I called Walt Disney World "Disneyland Florida" up until I was 20. The shame! It's now one of my biggest pet peeves  it's so shameful to admit that i made the same blasphemous mistakes in the past. These days I even correct people when they call it Disneyland. In fact, I only really started getting into Disney when I turned 21 and visited Disneyland Paris. Before then I wasn't massively fussed. Since then, a whole new world has opened to me and I feel like I've found my 'thing' in the Disney fandom.

3. I'm not a big fan of Toy Story. I know this is technically Pixar and was first released as such, but it falls under the Disney umbrella so totally counts. Anyway, I've just never really been into the franchise. Don't get me wrong, I don't dislike it, I just wouldn't choose to watch it or buy the merchandise.

4. I never go on Soarin'. I've been on it in the past, and it just doesn't interest me. I don't want to waste a fastpass on it nor wait in a long queue for it. I will probably try it again when the refurb is over, with the new theme/scenes, but I doubt it will "wow" me.

5. I really miss 'The Sorcerer's Hat" in Hollywood Studios. Some old school Disney fans may hate on the hat, but I loved it! It means so much more to me than the Chinese Theater, as I'm not a film person at all. I feel that it really linked with Fantasmic and just brought the park together a little more, although if it was still there now I doubt it would have brought that current mess of a park together at all.

Do you have any Disney confessions?

xox

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Counter Service Meals | Vegan in Disneyland Paris

One of the things I was most concerned about with being a Vegan at Disneyland Paris was the counter/quick service options. With table service it's easy enough to get something replaced or substituted, but most counter service meals are pre-made/made in bulk so it's harder to swap and change things. Luckily, I did manage to find some options that were meat, dairy and egg free. This, combined with some sit down meals, kept me well fed during my trip, although i would recommend taking some snacks for the hotel room/on the go munching.

Breakfast at Sequoia Lodge

The continental breakfast at Disney hotels, while very pastry and cold meat/cheese based, do offer quite a few vegan options. I did ask a cast member if any of the products I had contained any dairy/eggs, just incase, so as far as I am aware these items from the breakfast buffet are vegan. I pretty much got the same things everyday which included Frosties (frosties in europe are vegan friendly unlike their US counterparts), toast with jam and breadrolls dipped in chopped tomatoes that I used the microwave to heat up. I was also over the moon that soya milk is available so took advantage of stuffing myself full of cereal. There is also whole fruit and a fruit cocktail available, but the latter I wasn't a fan of as it tasted really bitter.

Earl of Sandwich 

 

Earl of Sandwich has always been one of my absolute favorite places to eat at Disney, usually opting for the Caprese (€6.95). I had heard that they can substitute items in their sandwiches so off we trotted, keeping my fingers crossed that my obsession with EOS wouldn't come to a devastating end. When reaching the order point I asked the lady if I could substitute the mozzarella cheese in the caprese for avocado, to which she replied "are you a vegan?" Wait what... someone who knows what a Vegan is? Oh praise Walt! She then proceeded to ask the manager if i could get the avocado at no extra cost as i wasn't having cheese (usually its extra), to which they agreed. The lady then told me that she was becoming a Vegan herself and that the rest of the sandwich is suitable. Needless to say by this point I was beaming. We power walked back to the hotel and I devoured my sandwich, which I do have to say, was absolutely amazing. I need another one in my life asap! 

Bella Notte 

Bella Norte is probably one of the only counter service locations in Disneyland Paris that has a Vegan meal already on the menu, that isn't salad or chips. The Rigatoni Napolitana (€8.99) is pretty much a pasta with tomato sauce, but its delicious! Simply yet satisfying. I had it twice during the trip, once as a meal (€11.99) with the side salad (the dressing for that is also vegan, having a white bean base for the light colouring). There is also a vegetarian salad that's vegan which my friend had and said its very good.

Market House Deli

Before I went to Disneyland Paris I read on a blog that the Bagnat aux légumes grillés (€6) served at Market House Deli had recently become Vegan friendly. It used to be made with pesto which contained dairy, but has since been replaced by an aubergine paste. The sandwich contains a medley of roasted vegetables and rocket, which combined with the paste makes a tasty lunch option. I'm not a big fan of wholemeal breads and seeds, but the filling sure made up for that.  I would double check that it isn't made with pesto in future, as recipes can change, i asked the lady on the till and she confirmed there was no pesto in it.

Snacks

 

 

I didn't have many snacks during this trip, mostly just devouring bucket loads of tea to counteract the cold weather. One evening I did treat myself to a bucket of popcorn, which the vendor said was made with popcorn kernels, sugar and vegetable oil. The popcorn in Walt Disney World is made this way and is suitable for vegans (I used to work on the popcorn stands in Magic Kingdom), so I'm pretty confident that Disneyland Paris follows suit. I also had a soya milk hot chocolate from Starbucks on the walk back to the hotel once or twice. There are also chips/fries available from most counter service locations which are great for a light lunch or for when you are feeling just a bit peckish, just ask to make sure they aren't cooked with the meat.

I do suggest you make your own enquiries when visiting Disneyland Paris, as recipes can change and language barriers can mean the wrong information is given. There isn't a massive selection of Vegan food as compared with the American parks, but it's a start and I hope in the future they will provide a lot more options for those with specific dietary requirements. Just know that you're not going to starve and that i would recommend doing your research before a visit.

xox

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Bistrot Chez Rémy | Vegan in Disneyland Paris

Rémy Menu: 1 Starter & 1 Main Course €29.99

 

Starter: Mixed leaf salad without cheese and without dressing.

 

 Main Course: Vegetable, tofu and white bean casserole without the sauce.

Eating Vegan is notoriously difficult in France, apparently its not really a "thing" there. So I was pretty nervous to whether I was going to be able to find something to eat during my recent Disneyland Paris trip. I've never really had a problem eating vegetarian there, so was hopeful that i could find something suitable. I am going to be doing another post on Quick Service/Counter Service options and my experience at Auberge De Cendrillion, but today's post is about a place I've wanted to eat at since it opened, Bistrot Chez Rémy. This a recent addition to Disneyland Paris, themed around the film Ratatouille in where you are "shrunk down" to the size of Rémy and his friends. As we visited Disneyland Paris during the off-peak season, it was easy enough to make a reservation on the same day, us opting to go for a late lunch. Upon being seated I told the hostess that I don't eat any meat, dairy or eggs, to which she then recommended the salad starter and Tofu and White Bean Casserole, both without the sauce. I knew I was going to go for this option anyway but it was lovely of her to reassure me that the dish can be made dairy-free. There are 4 different menus of "set meals" that you can choose, each varying in price and what dishes are served, to which I chose the Rémy Menu. This includes a starter and main course, and also happens to be the cheapest. With my annual pass we also got a free none-alcoholic "cocktail" as well as 10% off the bill. Not bad! I was concerned that without a sauce, the food was going to be a little dry but I had no need to worry, adding a little olive oil to the salad to make it just right. The main had no need for any such additions, being cooked to perfection and adequately moist. I thoroughly enjoyed the casserole, the only disappointing factor being when I finished eating it! Do note that portion sizes in Disneyland Paris are alot different to the American parks. They are a lot smaller, and as someone who is used to eating in Walt Disney World restaurants, I did kind of wish I had more food on my plate or some sort of side. 

The service at Bistrot Chez Rémy was great, our server being friendly and attentive. There was a bit of a language barrier when my friend Daniel tried asking did the cheese have meat rennet in it, the server didn't really understand what we were trying to say (which is fair enough), so he just went without cheese just to be safe. I would be wary with having cheese in France if you're vegetarian, as french cheese can be made with meat products.

Overall I really enjoyed the meal and would totally recommend it to anyone, not only those looking for a Vegan option. It's a great atmosphere (if not a little bit of a squeeze, tables seem to sit much closer together in Disneyland Paris restaurants than I'm used too), amazing decor, lovely service and delicious food.

Have you eaten at Bistrot Chez Rémy?

xox

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Tarte Lights, Camera, Splashes Mascara Review

When it comes to mascara, I've never really favored one particular brand or been inspired to try anything raved about. I just pick up whatever is there. However, after trying my sisters Lights, Camera, Action by Tarte, I just had to have one of my own. Opting for the waterproof version, as it was mere weeks before my annual Florida holiday, Lights, Camera, Splashes set me back about £15. Pretty steep for a mascara in my opinion, but when I consider how amazingly it has performed I won't hesitate to repurchase.

The packaging is a little strange, I don't hate it nor love it, while the wand has short bristles which I personally prefer as my lashes are really short and stumpy, so I can really "get in there" with the product for maximum effect. It successfully manages to lengthen while not clumping up and doesn't smudge at all. When I say waterproof, I really mean waterproof. I wore this to the pool when on holiday and it was still there 3 hours later. Now that does mean it is tough to remove, needing a dollop of cleanser and a good ol' massage, but I would personally prefer that over something that's going to smudge all over the place. I am 100% going to be repurchasing this mascara, although I think this time I'm going to go for the non-waterproof version to see how that holds up.

Pros: Lengthening, None-Clumpy, Doesn't Smudge, Very Waterproof, Easy Application, Pigmented, Cruelty Free.
Cons: Difficult to Remove.

Have you tried any Tarte mascaras? What's your favourite waterproof mascara?

xox

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What I Eat in a Week | Vegan

It's been 3 weeks since I decided to embrace a Vegan diet, and surprisingly it's been rather easy. Heck, the most difficult part has been in eating healthy food, as I've been back and forth between my new home in Chester and my parents home in St Helens, due to my transfer at work being delayed. The more I learn about a Vegan lifestyle, the more I'm determined to stick with it and it's really encouraging me to be creative in the kitchen. Now that I'm 100% based at home, I'm going to get a little meal planner on the go so me and Craig can cook delicious home-made food around our busy working lives. Just to note, Craig hasn't gone Vegan or even vegetarian. He does primarily eat what I eat at home and rarely buys meat in, but he will eat whatever when he's out. I'm lucky to have such a supportive boyfriend, as I know some whose partners refuse to eat meat-free.
I put a little video together of my first week of Vegan eating, which is up on my second Lifestyle based YouTube channel. It's not the healthiest of weeks, but sometimes I just don't have time for more than "grab and go" food. As I learn more I'm sure that my skills in the kitchen will improve and expand! 

Are you a Vegan or Vegetarian? What's your "go-to" meat-free dish?

xox

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Kat Von D Tattoo Liner in Trooper Review

Declaring a holy grail makeup item is a big claim, but believe me when I say that I have found my Holy Grail of Liquid Eyeliners. The Kat Von D Tattoo Liner in Trooper is without a doubt the best liquid liner I have ever tried in my 10 years of wearing makeup. From the first use I was besotted. Now I do know a few people don't get on with this eyeliner, but let me give you my thoughts on it. At $19 (£13ish) is isn't the cheapest on the market, but then again is isn't the most expensive. Considering how long it lasts and how amazing the product actually is, I would pay for it again in a heartbeat.The only issue is that it, and the whole Kat Von D range, can only really be found in the USA. Luckily, Sephora do international shipping for £10 if you spend £70, including customs fees, so for me personally that isn't a big issue as I tend to make an order every 6 months anyway. Pssst, a little birdy told me that Kat Von D will be making an appearance in Boots soon, so keep your eyes peeled. The eyeliner itself is housed in pretty, yet practical packaging, feeling comfortable when holding and easy to apply with the felt tip applicator. The formula glides onto the skin without tugging while the applicator makes it easy enough to dictate whether a thin or thick line is wanted. I love the pigmentation of Trooper, being a jet black colour that dries rather quickly so accidentally smudging is practically non existent. My favourite thing about the eyeliner is most definitely the staying power. It Does Not Budge! I've always had issues with liquid eyeliners running, fading or smudging, especially when its windy or rainy and my eyes water. Seriously though, Kat Von D Tattoo Liner really doesn't move at all. I've even had a shower with it on and it's stayed put! This does mean it can take a little more effort taking it off at night, but my Liz Earle Cleanse and Polish does a great job, it just needs a little extra attention. 

Additionally, the whole Kat Von D makeup range is cruelty free, which is a requirement for me. The lady herself is also working on making the whole range Vegan in future.

Pros: Amazing staying power, Strong pigmentation, Applies smoothly, Dries quickly, Lasts a long time, Cruelty Free

Cons: Only really available in the USA, Requires a little more effort to remove.

Have you tried any products from Kat Von D? What would you most like to try?

xox

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On Becoming a Vegan

I've never really been one to talk about food on my blog, apart from the rare post on how to eat vegetarian in Disney Parks or a brief mention within a lifestyle post. Today though, I thought I would talk about making the jump from vegetarian to vegan. This time last year if you told me that I would become a Vegan I wouldn't have believed it, being way too in love with cheese and chocolate to even consider it. However, over the past few months its been something I have been thinking about more and more. I've felt an overwhelming need to take that step into Veganism and have chosen to do Veganuary to kick start it. I've been vegetarian for over 10 years, its something that's been a big part of my life and helped mold me into who I am today, I would even go so far as to say it's the best decision I ever made. So, as of January 1st I've cut all animal sourced products from my diet completely. Yes, i know we're only 2 days in, but so far it's become second nature. To be honest, alot of the food I eat is Vegan based anyway, I just used to add cheese and butter. Sure, there's a lot of label checking and eating out may be a bit of a pain until I'm used to things, but I really do aim to embrace Veganism fully. I will always be a vegetarian, no matter which way this goes, but so far I'm really optimistic and am enjoying looking up new recipes and inspiration. Also, Alpro Soya Chocolate Milk... Wow!

I have decided to film my Veganuary adventures on my channel, so if you would like to see more about Veganism here, do let me know!
Do you have a vegetarian or vegan diet?

xox

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