tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14120555723296979432024-03-13T17:24:49.163+00:00Mrs BeautifulHoping to entertain you all with the latest news from my life - working on a newspaper, weddings, babies, fashion and beauty, gifts and loads more.
Toss in a bit of celebrity gossip and hey presto, I think we have a recipe for a blog!!Naiomi Madden-Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10608815040438405552noreply@blogger.comBlogger27125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1412055572329697943.post-74483633445025243022012-11-22T13:16:00.000+00:002012-11-22T15:56:37.917+00:00The Almora baby changing bag by PacaPod <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wP7pkfCVTgo/UK4jNfSl6aI/AAAAAAAAANc/8itA1CuATWk/s1600/BB0184_NS_8523_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" rea="true" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wP7pkfCVTgo/UK4jNfSl6aI/AAAAAAAAANc/8itA1CuATWk/s200/BB0184_NS_8523_1.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
A few weeks ago it had occurred to me I should actually buy a changing bag for when the baby arrives. Having looked around on the internet and visited a few stores, my husband and I couldn’t agree on a bag. He had his eye on a “man” changing bag from John Lewis and I had my eye on a pretty girly one from Mothercare. <br />
<br />
I was beginning to think we’d have to buy two bags! Then I came across the Almora baby changing bag, from <a href="http://www.pacapod.com/">PacaPod</a>. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8iCITRW9rq4/UK4jPYMOtPI/AAAAAAAAANk/hcLDS0rvHL8/s1600/16786.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" rea="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8iCITRW9rq4/UK4jPYMOtPI/AAAAAAAAANk/hcLDS0rvHL8/s200/16786.jpg" width="179" /></a><br />
Stylish and very practical, it is a changing bag, nappy bag and cool bag all rolled into one. <br />
<br />
Sold in four colours and different patterns, I picked the Highland tartan design, it is great for both mum and dad. <br />
<br />
It features a feeder pod, changer pod and changing mat and has a fully adjustable shoulder strap that can be worn across the body or wrapped on a pram. Perfect. <br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
Now all I need is a baby and I am ready to go! </div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
The Almora costs £75 and is available to buy from <a href="http://www.pacapod.com/">PacaPod</a> at <a href="http://www.pacapod.com/baby-changing-bag-print-almora.html">www.pacapod.com/baby-changing-bag-print-almora.html</a> </div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<br /></div>
Naiomi Madden-Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10608815040438405552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1412055572329697943.post-17095760657814960322012-11-08T14:00:00.000+00:002012-11-08T15:02:56.840+00:00Mothercare's Snug moses basket<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lEyy_HY8-qM/UIwmRoLRaNI/AAAAAAAAANI/nYR7CLH52oM/s1600/$(KGrHqRHJEcFBfRM5YyMBQcfGY,30Q~~48_79.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lEyy_HY8-qM/UIwmRoLRaNI/AAAAAAAAANI/nYR7CLH52oM/s400/$(KGrHqRHJEcFBfRM5YyMBQcfGY,30Q~~48_79.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Now I like to think of myself as a traditional kinda person. <br />
I always imagined buying a classic moses basket; the same type my mum had for my younger brothers and sister. <br />
This was until I literally fell into the Mothercare's The Snug Moses Basket!<br />
<br />
Luxurious and stylish with a unique snug wicker basket, I could not imagine my new arrival sleeping in anything else. <br />
<br />
The
mattress is dressed with a lovely velvor coverlet and fitted flat sheet
with soft padding. The moses basket has strong cream leather handles making it easier to transport. <br />
<br />
At a cost of £99 for the basket and a further £29.99 for the rocking stand, the moses basket is quite expensive. <br />
However, it was love at first sight and I was sold.<br />
We pre-ordered the basket straight away and had to wait a few weeks for it to be delivered. <br />
<br />
Now it has arrived and I can't wait to see our newborn looking so snug and comfortable :-) <br />
xxxNaiomi Madden-Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10608815040438405552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1412055572329697943.post-86958223143718226592012-11-02T13:00:00.000+00:002012-11-05T19:52:33.496+00:00Mylo - Mamas & Papas' amazing pushchair<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o0uRrOauh_E/UIwj7r3j0WI/AAAAAAAAAM4/-yuNeEeRREI/s1600/mylo_black-300x300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o0uRrOauh_E/UIwj7r3j0WI/AAAAAAAAAM4/-yuNeEeRREI/s1600/mylo_black-300x300.jpg" /></a></div>
Having spent months trying to decide what pram we would buy, my husband and I finally stumbled upon the Mamas & Papas creation, Mylo. <br />
<br />
With my heart originally set on buying the Silver Cross Balmoral, it was hard to find any other pram that even came close to this amazing traditional coach-built design. <br />
Having decided the Balmoral is too large and heavy for everyday life, I didn't think we would ever find a pram I loved half as much.<span class="st"> </span><br />
<br />
<span class="st">However, that all changed when we discovered the sleek and stylish Mylo puschair - loved by celebrities Alicia Keys and Gwen Stefani! <br />Unlike the Balmoral, Mylo has </span><span class="st"><span class="st">a range of fashionable accessories and innovative features for both baby and parents:</span></span><br />
<span class="st"><br /></span><span class="st"><b><br /><br />Features for Baby</b><br />- Unique soft moulded seat - best in class for baby comfort.<br />- Seat faces both ways - face mum and dad, or face the world<br />- Multi-position seat recline for sitting up or comfy naps<br />- Front and rear wheel suspension for a smooth and comfy ride<br />- Travel system compatible with the Aton car seat - adaptors sold separately<br />- Five point safety harness with adjustable height setting as baby grows<br /><br /><b>Features for Parent</b><br />- Iconic design with a choice of co-ordinating accessories<br />- Unique and effortless single handed fold, with or without seat attached<br />- Compact fold for easy storage, even with the seat attached<br />- Light and easy to steer<br />- High quality fabrics and leatherette handle - adjustable for your comfort<br />- Includes rain-cover and extendable hood for getting out and about in any weather<br />- Lockable swivel wheels for easy manoeuvrability<br />- Large easy access shopping basket with easy access</span><br />
<span class="st"></span><br />
<span class="st"></span><br />
<span class="st"></span><br />
<span class="st"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zRB7RHAkkMA/UIwkCrWXvyI/AAAAAAAAANA/W9QAPomQoKE/s1600/A211P_SP763_47_22MPW.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zRB7RHAkkMA/UIwkCrWXvyI/AAAAAAAAANA/W9QAPomQoKE/s320/A211P_SP763_47_22MPW.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<span class="st"><br />While a tad on the pricey side - £595 for the chassis</span>, another £200 for the carrycot, not to mention the car seat, footmuff and so on - I would say the money we spent on the black jack Mylo is worth it. However, as we are yet to try it out with a baby, I'll reserve my full judgement until afterwards! <br />
<br />
While the service we had from Mamas and Papas was pretty appalling (long story) there is no denying the quality of their goods. <br />
<br />
Visit <a href="http://www.mamasandpapas.com/">http://www.mamasandpapas.com/</a> to find out more. Naiomi Madden-Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10608815040438405552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1412055572329697943.post-18652093745116349412012-10-27T18:09:00.002+01:002012-10-27T19:44:00.095+01:00Isabella Oliver - maternity wear at its best <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B3Cw-syf2Vc/UIwV2_f4ECI/AAAAAAAAAMo/uQJz2mwYfB4/s1600/logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B3Cw-syf2Vc/UIwV2_f4ECI/AAAAAAAAAMo/uQJz2mwYfB4/s1600/logo.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span id="yui_3_7_2_1_1351354928976_248"><span id="yui_3_7_2_1_1351354928976_244">32 weeks pregnant and I have finally discovered Isabella Oliver - the chic maternity desgn label. </span></span><span id="yui_3_7_2_1_1351354928976_248"><span id="yui_3_7_2_1_1351354928976_244"> </span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span id="yui_3_7_2_1_1351354928976_248"><span id="yui_3_7_2_1_1351354928976_244">Claiming to offer 'pregnant </span></span>women around the world unrivalled quality
and fit' I just had to find out for myself if this statement was true. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />I was not to be disappointed. Well, only in the sense that I wish I had discovered the award-winning brand sooner in my pregnancy. That way I could have taken advantage of the amazing flattering clothes. </span></span>
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DjeHibOQrTA/UIwScXHxVTI/AAAAAAAAAMQ/TpXBDdMOAJo/s1600/DR151_01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DjeHibOQrTA/UIwScXHxVTI/AAAAAAAAAMQ/TpXBDdMOAJo/s320/DR151_01.jpg" width="233" /></a>The garment which sealed the deal for me is the Olivia Maternity Dress. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">As soon as I tried the jersey dress on I was in heaven!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">With a V shaped neckline and ruched body this dress clung to my body in all the right places. It is smooth, comfortable and very flattering. No longer did I feel like a whale, I was now a sexy goddess! </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">No wonder celebrities Reese Witherspoon, Jennifer
Garner and Natalie Portman were spotted wearing Isabella
Oliver clothes when pregnant! </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: small;">I wore the Olivia dress on a night out with heels and lots of accessiories but it would be great with a pair of tights and flats for the day.<br /></span></span>
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">The dress comes in cobalt blue (my choice) and wine. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">It costs £119 and is worth every single penny.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">See for yourself and visit <a href="http://www.isabellaoliver.com/">www.isabellaoliver.com</a> for more m<span class="st">aternity wear designed in amazing fabrics that will flatter
your new pregnancy curves. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="st">Genius. </span></span></span><br />
<br />Naiomi Madden-Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10608815040438405552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1412055572329697943.post-26053749724508011432012-09-09T17:57:00.000+01:002012-09-09T17:57:12.767+01:00Becoming a mum-to-be...<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aox-M6Wrmmk/UEzHYpEIWfI/AAAAAAAAALQ/oceHuySB1kQ/s1600/Baby+Smith.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aox-M6Wrmmk/UEzHYpEIWfI/AAAAAAAAALQ/oceHuySB1kQ/s200/Baby+Smith.jpg" width="200" /></a>I'M HAVING A BABY!!! <br />
<br />
Six months pregnant and the reality I will soon be a mum has now hit me! For the first four months, nausea, extreme tiredness and worry took over my life. I'm a bit of a worrier at the best of times but for the first few months of pregnancy, it was extremely hard to relax and feel incredibly excited about the news. What if something happened to the baby? What if the ultrasound showed there was no baby? Would I be able to cope with such a life changing event? <br />Even though my husband and I had planned this pregnancy and were 100% sure we wanted a child, it still didn't stop my worrying. <br />
<br />Now six months down the line we couldn't be happier :-)<br />
<br />
At our anomaly scan we decided to find out the sex of the baby. We were absolutely thrilled to be told we are having a <b>boy</b>!!! Since finding out the sex everything has become so real. On August 26th I felt my little man move for the first time :-) To say it was amazing is an understatement.<br />
I feel him every day now, sometimes it is just small butterfly type movements but other times it is pretty intense. While eating ice-cream the other day it would seem our baby was having a blast inside me! I can't work out whether he loved or hated it...<br />
<br />
For the remainder of my pregnancy I will keep you all updated with the goings on, reviews of baby products and no doubt I will have a moan about some of the rubbish side effects of pregnancy - back ache, tiredness, heartburn, sleeplessness, urinating a lot - the list is endless! <br />
<br />
Bye for now<br />
Naiomi xxx<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span id="goog_1741083528"></span><span id="goog_1741083529"></span></div>
<br />Naiomi Madden-Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10608815040438405552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1412055572329697943.post-8441082312642595122011-12-06T12:47:00.004+00:002011-12-13T12:10:09.079+00:00Air Hogs, Paper Jamz, Lite Sprites and more - Christmas gifts for your little helpers!Christmas 2011's season of goodwill is nearly upon us, so I have decided to do the hard work for you and feature my favourite children’s gifts currently on the market - sent to me from a number of great PRs. Get some of these stocking fillers for your little treasures now and enjoy the rest of the run up to Christmas Day in relaxation and happiness - result! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P_6mluPDtRM/Tt0llzXXtNI/AAAAAAAAAK4/n25HPXz8Zd0/s1600/22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P_6mluPDtRM/Tt0llzXXtNI/AAAAAAAAAK4/n25HPXz8Zd0/s200/22.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<i><b>Air Hogs Hyper Active </b></i> <br />
The new Air Hogs Hyper Active Stunt is one of the fastest remote control cars around. It is capable of doing amazing stunts (well amazing for little boys), 360° spins and jumps, while always landing on its wheels! <br />
Air Hogs Hyper Active Stunt costs £34.99 and is suitable for youngsters aged 8 and over. <br />
Visit <a href="http://www.airhogs.com/">http://www.airhogs.com/</a> for more information. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AjdPd0bcCqQ/Tt0k9HlXf_I/AAAAAAAAAKw/OTrAdWMeI1A/s1600/44363_SS11_ARH_Vectron+Wave_Pack+blue.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AjdPd0bcCqQ/Tt0k9HlXf_I/AAAAAAAAAKw/OTrAdWMeI1A/s200/44363_SS11_ARH_Vectron+Wave_Pack+blue.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<i><b>Air Hogs Vectron Wave </b></i><br />
Air Hogs Vectron Wave is the UFO you can control with the palm of your hand. Eliminate the need for a remote with this flyer, as the Vectron Wave uses altitude sensing technology and effortlessly glides over almost anything, using clever obstacle sensors to detect the proximity to the ground. When you’re done, dock it on the launch pad for easy charging.<br />
Air Hogs Vectron Wave costs £24.99. <br />
Visit <a href="http://www.airhogs.com/">http://www.airhogs.com/</a> for more information. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GLjM2Vd6bdg/Tt0kYFGpY7I/AAAAAAAAAKo/kH7QD1h_0jA/s1600/64361_BAKUGAN_SS11_DRAGO+COLOSSUS_Pack+angle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GLjM2Vd6bdg/Tt0kYFGpY7I/AAAAAAAAAKo/kH7QD1h_0jA/s200/64361_BAKUGAN_SS11_DRAGO+COLOSSUS_Pack+angle.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<i><b>Bakugan Drago </b></i><br />
Combine multiple Bakugan and traps to form one massive monster! <br />
For the ultimate battle brawler, build a Dragonoid Colossus with 4 exclusive Bakugan Battle Gear and 1 Bakugan. Each piece fits together to make the most fierce Dragonoid yet and by dropping the final brawler into position, auto-transforms into the ultimate weapon! <br />
Bakugan Drago costs £39.99 and is suitable for children aged 5 and above. Visit <a href="http://www.bakugan.com/">http://www.bakugan.com/</a> for more information. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jnKGOFEnkCY/Tt0mTKbI4mI/AAAAAAAAALA/9gm-G0frrgE/s1600/76.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="197" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jnKGOFEnkCY/Tt0mTKbI4mI/AAAAAAAAALA/9gm-G0frrgE/s200/76.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<i><b>Fab Effex </b></i><br />
Fab Effex is a fabric youngsters can decorate clothes, shoes, hair bands or make rings and dolls clothes with. <br />
The fabric can bend, shape, twist, wrap and stick to items to decorate and design. <br />
It’s re-useable so youngsters can undo and re-make their decorations over and over again. <br />
The Variety Pack offers lots of fabric sheets, pre-cut shapes and all the tools including moulds, key rings, a greetings card and finger rings to make and create. It costs £19.99 and is suitable for girls aged 6 and over. Visit <a href="http://www.fabeffex.com/">http://www.fabeffex.com/</a> for more information. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BIogpYuAgcE/Tt0kCGGz_TI/AAAAAAAAAKg/jQ3edWTSGKA/s1600/tn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BIogpYuAgcE/Tt0kCGGz_TI/AAAAAAAAAKg/jQ3edWTSGKA/s200/tn.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<i><b> Zoobles </b></i><br />
Zoobles are colourful collectible toys which magically transform from tiny balls, into cute creatures when placed in their habitat. <br />
When “petted” the Zoobles react by blinking their eyes, wagging their tails, wiggling their ears and more! There are now over 250 Zoobles to collect from every corner of the Zoobles Isle. <br />
Each quirky character is named and numbered to ensure that keen collectors won’t miss out on any Zoobles. <br />
The Mama and Zoobling Play set, which comes with exclusive twins and all the accessories, includes a highchair, nappy changing area, swing, slide, playpen and pushchair. <br />
It costs £24.99 and is suitable for girls aged 5 and over.Visit <a href="http://www.zoobles.com/">http://www.zoobles.com/</a> for more information. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YpJfAxWcjEU/TtzNeHUbidI/AAAAAAAAAKA/dwcMkAgS_Pc/s1600/Pink+PJ+PRO+microphone.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="182" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YpJfAxWcjEU/TtzNeHUbidI/AAAAAAAAAKA/dwcMkAgS_Pc/s200/Pink+PJ+PRO+microphone.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-35MDcL9BU7g/TtzNlwrT7_I/AAAAAAAAAKI/IRb5vbYndyQ/s1600/6424_PJ_Pro_Microphone_front_pkg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-35MDcL9BU7g/TtzNlwrT7_I/AAAAAAAAAKI/IRb5vbYndyQ/s200/6424_PJ_Pro_Microphone_front_pkg.jpg" width="173" /></a><i><b> Pro Microphone from Paper Jamz Pro series </b></i><br />
Pro Microphone has perfect pitch vocal-tuning technology and four other voice-enhancing effects to make you sound like a superstar. <br />
Download MP3s to sing to - making it suitable for all musical tastes. <br />
Available in three cool designs for girls and boys, Pro Microphone costs £34.99. <br />
Visit <a href="http://www.paperjamzpro.com/">http://www.paperjamzpro.com/</a> for more information. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tO54FbZIPyU/TtzNSuhvY8I/AAAAAAAAAJ4/eB0tp8v-z4g/s1600/Paper+Jamz+Pro+Guitars.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="178" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tO54FbZIPyU/TtzNSuhvY8I/AAAAAAAAAJ4/eB0tp8v-z4g/s200/Paper+Jamz+Pro+Guitars.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<i><b>Paper Jamz Pro Guitar </b></i><br />
Pro Guitar, which features real chords, individual notes, a working ripstrip and a built-in accelerometer, plays like a true instrument. <br />
Download MP3s to the guitar and play along to your favourite hits, switching between notes and chords in three different play modes.<br />
Pro Guitar costs £44.99, and is suitable for youngsters aged 8 and over. <br />
Visit <a href="http://www.paperjamzpro.com/">http://www.paperjamzpro.com/</a> for more information.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nDWVnaY3Q0I/Ttzy4kwpfHI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/jlQVRKFhI3c/s1600/Lite+Sprites+range+shot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="128" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nDWVnaY3Q0I/Ttzy4kwpfHI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/jlQVRKFhI3c/s200/Lite+Sprites+range+shot.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<i><b>Lite Sprites </b></i><br />
Lite Sprites are a collection of interactive dolls which use and share colour and light to create a magical playtime for little girls. <br />
There are five dolls available to buy.<br />
The toys, recommended for ages 4 years old and over, cost from £14.99. <br />
To occupy the dolls, why not buy your little one the Tree of Lite Play set where girls can hang the Sprites in the canopy and spin it for colourful lit-up display and sound. The play set costs £39.99. Visit <a href="http://www.litesprites.com/">http://www.litesprites.com/</a> for more information. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-r9tGpFgByI8/TtzzSH6PmxI/AAAAAAAAAKY/EyVgByHAIoM/s1600/Rifle_023_front_bg_new.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="126" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-r9tGpFgByI8/TtzzSH6PmxI/AAAAAAAAAKY/EyVgByHAIoM/s320/Rifle_023_front_bg_new.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<i><b>Light Strike </b></i><br />
A bit like Laser Quest, Light Strike is a brilliant interactive shooting game - a dream present for young boys aged 8 years and above. <br />
The fully customisable weapons come with interactive light and sound affects so youngsters can imagine being in the middle of combat while creating exciting ever-changing battle scenarios.<br />
Youngsters can conquer individual challenges, play one-on-one or create the ultimate team battle with unlimited players. <br />
Strikers start from £29.99 with accessories from £9.99. <br />
Visit <a href="http://www.lightstrike.com/">http://www.lightstrike.com/</a> for more information.<br />
<br />
MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!Naiomi Madden-Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10608815040438405552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1412055572329697943.post-85258687395340657112011-12-04T12:37:00.005+00:002011-12-04T16:54:10.343+00:00Elemis Little Superstars Top-to-Toe Spa treats - a perfect gift for Christmas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7eNUXazss3c/TtjMCJXssvI/AAAAAAAAAI4/dUFnhZA3v6g/s1600/10535748-1319795374-524139.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7eNUXazss3c/TtjMCJXssvI/AAAAAAAAAI4/dUFnhZA3v6g/s200/10535748-1319795374-524139.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="color: black;"></span><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Enjoy a touch of luxury with
this sparkling gift set from Elemis. </span><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"></span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<span style="color: black;">Beautifully packaged in a chic
make-up bag, these face and body treats come in handy travel-sized bottles to
use at home or away. <br />
</span><b><span style="color: black; font-weight: normal;">The set contains
Pro-Collagen Marine Cream, Pro-Radiance Cream Cleanser, Frangipani Monoi Body
Oil, Tranquil Touch Creamy Body Wash and Tranquil Touch Indulgent Bath Elixir. </span></b><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black;"></span></b></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<span style="color: black;">The aromas are truly delightful
and, in my opinion, a great Christmas gift for mums, aunties or sisters. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<b><span style="color: black; font-weight: normal;">Elemis
Little Superstars Top-to-Toe Spa treats gift set </span></b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">costs £37.50,
down from £47.</span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> For more information visit </span><a href="http://www.hqhair.com/elemis-little-superstars-top-to-toe-spa-treats/10535748.html" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">http://www.hqhair.com/elemis-little-superstars-top-to-toe-spa-treats/10535748.html</a>
</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;"></span><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif; font-size: small;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>Naiomi Madden-Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10608815040438405552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1412055572329697943.post-39117806572794911672011-12-02T10:18:00.002+00:002011-12-04T17:59:37.750+00:00Be the belle of the Christmas ball with treatments from The Chelsea Day Spa<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--iZNzFWsMPY/TteEOkwSRII/AAAAAAAAAIo/lFJ85Szn_Ng/s1600/new-york-manicure.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--iZNzFWsMPY/TteEOkwSRII/AAAAAAAAAIo/lFJ85Szn_Ng/s320/new-york-manicure.jpg" width="226" /></a></div>
There is almost nothing better than indulging yourself with a set of beauty
treatments and relaxing after a hard week’s work.
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black;">So, you can imagine my delight when I was invited
to road-test the New York manicure and pedicure at <b>The Chelsea Day Spa</b>
in London. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black;">I went to the beauty salon after work on a Monday
and I was surprised to see it was indeed very busy at 6.30pm. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black;">The salon itself is cosy enough and decorated
nicely but the room where the manicures and pedicures are carried out was tiny.
</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black;">If it is comfort and relaxation you are looking
forward then <b>The Chelsea Day Spa</b> is probably not the place for you.
There were six people in the room while I was having my treatments done - three
of whom were customers waiting to be seen next! </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black;">If, on the other hand, you aren’t fussed about the
above, the quality of the manicure and pedicure - which costs a bargain £12.50
and £20 respectively - was second to none. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black;">My nail technician Pinkie Nguyen, who helped me choose a
gorgeous dark purple nail varnish, was ever the professional. She soaked, filed
and shaped my nails, and sorted my cuticles out - quite a job as it had been
two months since my last manicure!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lI0syZbdcw0/TtuqimHa41I/AAAAAAAAAJw/w3tuofThgUU/s1600/SAM_4579.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lI0syZbdcw0/TtuqimHa41I/AAAAAAAAAJw/w3tuofThgUU/s200/SAM_4579.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="color: black;">The end result was brilliant - beautifully
manicured hands and feet. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: black;">To book an appointment at <b>The Chelsea Day Spa</b>
call 020 7351 0911. Visit <a href="http://www.thechelseadayspa.co.uk/">www.thechelseadayspa.co.uk</a>
for more information about treatments carried out at the spa. </span></div>Naiomi Madden-Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10608815040438405552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1412055572329697943.post-67608809333578125972011-12-01T12:06:00.004+00:002011-12-02T16:39:09.291+00:00Give your feet a boost with Pedi Pro Deluxe<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-41ipcNv8y0M/Ttdr6dZS-nI/AAAAAAAAAIg/G-WPEu3syNA/s1600/image001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" dda="true" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-41ipcNv8y0M/Ttdr6dZS-nI/AAAAAAAAAIg/G-WPEu3syNA/s200/image001.jpg" width="130" /></a></div>
The Christmas party season is nearly upon us! <br />
With that in mind its imperative we ladies make sure our feet are in great shape and that cracked heels are not on show, when wearing gorgeous peep-toes shoes. <br />
<br />
In just minutes, this can be done with the battery operated <b>Pedi Pro Deluxe</b>. <br />
The bullet shaped gadget uses a rotating disc to remove hard skin, corns and calluses from your feet. <br />
It also comes with buffing pads which can be attached to exfoliate and give your feet a smooth finish. <br />
A pretty pink colour, <b>Pedi Pro Deluxe</b> is easier to use on dry skin before bathing. <br />
I won’t lie to you, my hand did ache after working for a couple of minutes on my first foot but it was very worthwhile in the end for the silky smooth result. <br />
<br />
The gadget costs £19.99. <br />
Visit <a href="http://www.jmldirect.com/">www.jmldirect.com</a> for more information. <br />
<br />Naiomi Madden-Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10608815040438405552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1412055572329697943.post-12481664552832263402011-11-16T17:05:00.001+00:002011-12-01T13:44:38.648+00:00Spectacle Wearer of the Year 2011 awards - and a bit of bitchiness!<br />
Having attended the Spectacle Wearer of the Year 2011 awards last night, at London's Battersea Power Station, there seems to be three hot topics people are talking about today... <br />
<ul>
<li>Kara Tointon's plunging neckline</li>
<li>Martine McCutcheon's weight gain</li>
<li>The Wanted's "heart throb" and celebrity winner of the Spectacle Wearer of the Year 2011, Max George </li>
</ul>
First of all, when in god's name did Max start wearing glasses?! <br />
Second of all, Martine looked great. She isn't a beast, like some tabloids would have you believe. <br />
Thirdly, what's the point in wearing a plunging neckline with no breasts?! <br />
<br />
Here's what I enjoyed on the night...<br />
<ul>
<li>The endless supply of champagne</li>
<li>Seeing TOWIE's Lauren Pope and Lauren Goodger </li>
<li>Speaking to The Apprentice winner Tom Pellereau about his forthcoming wedding and a 3D Printer (seriously!) </li>
<li>My goodie bag</li>
<li>Meeting some great journalists</li>
</ul>
Overall, a good night xxx<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-19rK8CYnsc8/TsPoD-oBQuI/AAAAAAAAAII/WVe_dLM1Sec/s1600/2600806_161111_specs7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-19rK8CYnsc8/TsPoD-oBQuI/AAAAAAAAAII/WVe_dLM1Sec/s320/2600806_161111_specs7.jpg" width="185" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G6cF4CufU0M/TsPoMQsyGwI/AAAAAAAAAIY/pU2frLx6ins/s1600/5103781_161111_specs12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G6cF4CufU0M/TsPoMQsyGwI/AAAAAAAAAIY/pU2frLx6ins/s320/5103781_161111_specs12.jpg" width="205" /></a></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<br /></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<br /></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<br /></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5lPJ-K0b8RY/TsPoH0BE4bI/AAAAAAAAAIQ/Y7EjrWumkwg/s1600/4499066_161111_specs3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5lPJ-K0b8RY/TsPoH0BE4bI/AAAAAAAAAIQ/Y7EjrWumkwg/s320/4499066_161111_specs3.jpg" width="249" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RGK_goIvPyo/TsPngFSVvhI/AAAAAAAAAIA/QNmnLTMfI-0/s1600/lauren_m.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RGK_goIvPyo/TsPngFSVvhI/AAAAAAAAAIA/QNmnLTMfI-0/s320/lauren_m.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c0nVr7vdqnk/TsPnF1O9dCI/AAAAAAAAAH4/LKWQ5SVh3Ew/s1600/martine_m.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hda="true" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c0nVr7vdqnk/TsPnF1O9dCI/AAAAAAAAAH4/LKWQ5SVh3Ew/s320/martine_m.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>Naiomi Madden-Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10608815040438405552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1412055572329697943.post-46933673670165065712011-07-11T22:21:00.000+01:002011-07-11T22:21:34.266+01:00Becoming Mrs Smith!<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k1GQpQirT1E/ThtoKhP1EZI/AAAAAAAAAHs/27jI1SnXAn0/s1600/BJC_2.7.11-wedding-4365.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k1GQpQirT1E/ThtoKhP1EZI/AAAAAAAAAHs/27jI1SnXAn0/s320/BJC_2.7.11-wedding-4365.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Smith wedding!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
SO we meet again :-)<br />
<br />I'm sure everyone in the universe knows by now but I thought i'd share my news anyway...I have become a MRS!!<br />Yes I married the man of my dreams and have taken on the rather unoriginal surname of Smith.<br />
I have already experienced the 'are you really Mr and Mrs Smith or is she your mistress' looks while checking into a hotel in Paris for our minimoon! I think I am going to love playing the mistress...<br />
<br />
Our big day occurred on July 2 at the magnificent venue of Tatton Hall in Cheshire.<br />
The day was the most amazing I have experienced so far in my life (I like to think there are still good times ahead :-)).<br />
<br />
Everyone who knows me knows I am ALWAYS late for everything so my wedding day was no exception. I arrived 35 minutes late! Luckily my other half wasn't too worried about me leaving him at the altar as he knows me so well!<br />
The ceremony was beautiful.<br />
Very intimate, romantic, nerve-wracking and overwhelming.<br />
The harpist was superb.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e2Xh0wxEJTw/ThtobVxrk6I/AAAAAAAAAHw/pnrYWRdWFJA/s1600/BJC_2.7.11-wedding-3109.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-e2Xh0wxEJTw/ThtobVxrk6I/AAAAAAAAAHw/pnrYWRdWFJA/s320/BJC_2.7.11-wedding-3109.jpeg" width="202" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Ceremony</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Afterwards we had our drinks reception in the stunning grounds of Tatton Hall while listening to the sounds of the steel band in the background and sipping on champagne in the sunny picturesque setting.<br />
<br />
We then had a three-course wedding breakfast of which I literally ate zero of as my dress was so tight!<br />
Both Andy and I gave a speech.<br />
Mine was off the cuff and very, err, interesting!<br />
Andy's was amazing. He said the nicest things about me, our families, bridesmaids and guests.<br />
A true gentleman and really one of a kind :-)<br />
<br />
After our first dance to Al Green's Let's Stay Together, we danced the whole night to our favourite songs (obviously the Jimmy Choos were tossed aside!). The 5ive megamix was one of my favourite parts of the night - brilliant!<br />
<br />
Before we knew it it was midnight and time for Andy and I to go back to the hotel, take in the whole day and drink our mega expensive champagne!<br />
<br />
Nine days later, I am only just feeling recovered!<br />
<br />
Nobody warned me beforehand how hectic your own wedding can be and how every single person would want to spend time with you, leaving you and your husband separated more than you are used too.<br />
I would definitely recommend, to all brides-to-be, to make sure you snatch a few minutes with each other at various intervals throughout the day to take things in.<br />
Andy and I did this and those moments were so precious. <br />
<br />
I had an AMAZING wedding day.<br />
Go Team Smith!!<br />
xxxx<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />Naiomi Madden-Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10608815040438405552noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1412055572329697943.post-35364014294926800142011-04-30T18:07:00.000+01:002011-04-30T18:07:42.345+01:00The Quadrante by Douwe Egberts - for coffee lovers!<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qrsor6t98Rw/Tbw9NISwacI/AAAAAAAAAHk/GjNzCYAAT_o/s1600/HD7860_60-GAL-global.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qrsor6t98Rw/Tbw9NISwacI/AAAAAAAAAHk/GjNzCYAAT_o/s320/HD7860_60-GAL-global.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Quadrante by Douwe Egberts</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Now I really like <b>coffee</b>.<br />
I need one every morning to give me the strength to leave the house and battle my way through the commuters in the London Underground.<br />
So, when I was sent <b>The Quadrante</b> - by <b>Douwe Egberts</b> who make the Senseo coffee pod machines in association with Philips - I was delighted.<br />
With its sleek lines and edgy curves, the machine not only looks great in my kitchen but actually makes two <b>coffee</b> specialities in less than a minute.<br />
All you have to do is fill the large eight-cup water tank and then simply pop a <b>Douwe</b> <b>Egberts</b> <b>coffee</b> pod into the tray. Within a minute you will have a quality cup of <b>coffee</b> ready to drink at a good temperature.<br />
There is a wide variety of pods available from the <b>Douwe Egberts Senseo Coffee</b> Pod range.<br />
These include, Moments Morning Americano, Classic Roast, Medium Roast, Dark Roast, Decaffeinated and Brazil.<br />
There are also tea pods and various types of hot
chocolate etc available (next on my list to try).<br />
You can buy the pods from <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/s?ie=UTF8&x=0&ref_=nb_sb_noss&y=0&field-keywords=senseo%20coffee%20pods&url=search-alias%3Daps">Amazon.co.uk</a> <br />
<b>The Quadrante</b> is an ideal gift for busy coffee-loving people.<br />
It is available to buy from <a href="http://shop.philips.co.uk/store/rpeeub2c/en_GB/DisplayProductDetailsPage/productID.189442800">Philips.co.uk</a> at a very reasonable price of £99.Naiomi Madden-Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10608815040438405552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1412055572329697943.post-58397555636585703072011-04-16T15:00:00.004+01:002011-04-18T10:13:41.329+01:00The nightmare wedding invite challenge<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NB-XNmfoUJA/TamfHdY3bhI/AAAAAAAAAHg/Nq2p95g5J2U/s1600/SAM_2587.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NB-XNmfoUJA/TamfHdY3bhI/AAAAAAAAAHg/Nq2p95g5J2U/s200/SAM_2587.JPG" width="150" /></a></div>
Now, I never knew making a wedding invite would be so time consuming and so stressful. <br />
After months of researching invites on the internet and being sent dozens of invites from specialist wedding companies, Andy and I decided to go it alone and make our own.<br />
Our reasoning for this was...<br />
a) To save money<br />
b) To make our wedding more personal to us<br />
c) I wasn't 100% happy with ANY of the invites I had researched, most seemed to be plain and dull<br />
<br />
So, after much consideration we decided to make scroll invites.<br />
Easy, right?<br />
Er no, it wasn't!<br />
Having an image in my head of what I wanted the invites to look like was a lot easier that actually trying to turn that image into reality.<br />
<br />
After buying the scroll postal tubes from a company in Essex we came across our first battle.<br />
We couldn't find the exact paper I wanted to use!<br />
Now most people would think this would've have been easy but by god it wasn't (well to me anyway). We bought loads of different textured paper and I wasn't 100% sure about any of them.<br />
Finally after a good one (or four) months we (Andy) found the paper I was after.<br />
<br />
Then came the difficult decision on deciding how the invites would look. <br />
We bought some gold ink for the printer and sat down one evening at the computer and got to work on the design of the invites.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
That process can only be described as being a nightmare! <br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gHt_e7rDUFA/Tame4V1ASNI/AAAAAAAAAHc/BWT-FGxqnY0/s1600/SAM_2581.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gHt_e7rDUFA/Tame4V1ASNI/AAAAAAAAAHc/BWT-FGxqnY0/s200/SAM_2581.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Andy hard at work</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The font, the size of the font and the actual information we wanted on the invite was so difficult to decide. We experimented with what seemed like hundreds of different looks (and had quite a few arguments!) until finally I was happy with a design. <br />
<br />
We then had to print each invite out, cut each one into shape and glue ribbon onto them. Again, a nightmare.<br />
Finally we wrapped each invite up, tied ribbon around them and added a few gold heart confetti pieces to each tube. <br />
Then, the real nightmare came.<br />
I decided I DID indeed love one of the sample invites we had made about 10 hours previously on a DIFFERENT textured paper!!<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iGp_s3etqDE/Tamd71b-rDI/AAAAAAAAAHU/wYQZeOSV2KY/s1600/SAM_2577.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iGp_s3etqDE/Tamd71b-rDI/AAAAAAAAAHU/wYQZeOSV2KY/s200/SAM_2577.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The final design</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
But by this time it was too late to go and change all the invites and I had to bite the bullet and go with what we had made.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_XVdAoIK9ZY/Tamebc1w7XI/AAAAAAAAAHY/Gn_Z7VBerFY/s1600/SAM_2572.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_XVdAoIK9ZY/Tamebc1w7XI/AAAAAAAAAHY/Gn_Z7VBerFY/s200/SAM_2572.JPG" width="150" /></a><br />
That decision was the best one ever.<br />
I now actually love our invites.<br />
Even though they took so long to make, were more expensive than if we would have bought them, and nearly caused me and Andy to call off the wedding (well that's obviously a joke but at least that gives you some idea of how stressful it all was!!), we have truly unique invites and I wouldn't change them for the world.<br />
<br />
So the moral of the story is, go with your heart and not your head and don't bother being practical and making sacrifices. If you have something in your head persist and you will get it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Goodbye for now! xxx<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z62VRP1_Hk8/TamdrxhKLkI/AAAAAAAAAHQ/YFI3SR8edwA/s1600/SAM_2585.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z62VRP1_Hk8/TamdrxhKLkI/AAAAAAAAAHQ/YFI3SR8edwA/s200/SAM_2585.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A pleased and relieved Naiomi</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
P.S: 11 WEEKS UNTIL THE BIG DAY!!!!! <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Naiomi Madden-Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10608815040438405552noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1412055572329697943.post-38778885559045166392011-03-03T12:42:00.001+00:002011-03-03T12:44:50.547+00:00Marc Jacobs’ summery Daisy Eau So Fresh<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-D3f1fj2SI6Q/TWu6RfICd7I/AAAAAAAAAHM/-saTLSNta9U/s1600/perfume.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" l6="true" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-D3f1fj2SI6Q/TWu6RfICd7I/AAAAAAAAAHM/-saTLSNta9U/s320/perfume.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Fresh from the Marc Jacobs collection, and the latest take on classic favourite <em>Daisy</em>, is <em>Daisy Eau So Fresh</em>. <br />
<br />
This beautifully presented perfume launched at <a href="http://www.theperfumeshop.com/fcp/product/womens-perfumes/Marc-Jacobs/Daisy-Eau-So-Fresh/2635">The Perfume Shop</a> on February 27. <br />
<br />
It sounds cheesy but when I first opened the box and saw the perfume my first word was wow. <br />
<br />
I love the way the bottle has been designed. <br />
<br />
It has a very luxurious clear glass shape with a scattering of beautiful pink, yellow and white daisies which appear to bloom from the gold rounded cap. <br />
<br />
The scent itself is very alluring, feminine, light, fruity and fresh. <br />
<br />
Wearing the perfume makes me feel very girly and it somehow puts me in a good mood as it reminds me of summer! <br />
<br />
I would go as far as to say <em>Daisy Eau So Fresh</em> is my second favourite perfume (my first is Chanel No5) and I would definitely recommend this to all my girl mates. <br />
<br />
<em>Marc Jacobs Daisy Eau So Fresh</em> is available to buy at <a href="http://www.theperfumeshop.com/fcp/product/womens-perfumes/Marc-Jacobs/Daisy-Eau-So-Fresh/2635">The Perfume Shop</a>.<br />
<br />
It is priced from £47.50.Naiomi Madden-Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10608815040438405552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1412055572329697943.post-41163716899447284572011-02-10T21:42:00.000+00:002011-02-10T21:42:12.371+00:00Spoil your partner this Valentine's Day with these great gifts<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cPcJq4le7OU/TVRWlzx0Q0I/AAAAAAAAAG8/mh7lLP9MU58/s1600/Valentines-Day_Feb-13-789574.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cPcJq4le7OU/TVRWlzx0Q0I/AAAAAAAAAG8/mh7lLP9MU58/s320/Valentines-Day_Feb-13-789574.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Stuck for ideas on what to buy the love of your life on February 14? Worry no more as you can’t go wrong with the below fab gifts – all will go perfectly with the Valentine’s Day basics: cool cards, lush flowers and chocolate treats. <br />
<br />
<br />
<b>VALENTINE’S DAY FOR HER...</b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jpJfVoFmI-A/TVRIefYMo4I/AAAAAAAAAF4/Rdykf3o8Rs4/s1600/youframe_3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jpJfVoFmI-A/TVRIefYMo4I/AAAAAAAAAF4/Rdykf3o8Rs4/s200/youframe_3.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><i>You Frame Photos to Canvas</i><br />
Treat your good lady to a YouFrame DIY box canvas kit. The kit turns your digital photographs into stunning canvas wall art in minutes. Each Photo to Canvas takes less than 3 minutes to assemble and allows you to create stunning original canvas art from your digital photo library. The kit is a great romantic and thoughtful Valentine’s Day present and is priced very well too. <br />
Cost: £10.49. <br />
Purchase from <a href="http://www.dealtastic.co.uk/you-frame-photos-to-canvas-triple-pack.html">Dealtastic.co.uk</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wdAHLZhUFOs/TVRJITbzqhI/AAAAAAAAAF8/LrDN-zyFABw/s1600/2551.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wdAHLZhUFOs/TVRJITbzqhI/AAAAAAAAAF8/LrDN-zyFABw/s200/2551.jpg" width="200" /></a><i>Chloe Love</i><br />
Now, this is a perfume I love. The scent is a gorgeous feminine and elegant fragrance that lasts for hours after just one spray. It’s not for everyone as the smell is quite sweet and flowery but it would make a great Valentine’s Day gift for a lot of women. The bottle has a lovely design too. <br />
Cost: £22.50<br />
Purchase from <a href="http://www.theperfumeshop.com/fcp/product/womens-perfumes/Chloe/Love-Chloe/2551%20">The Perfume Shop</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-REL7Lvm2Q9w/TVRJkzecvJI/AAAAAAAAAGA/g4U-fdVXL-0/s1600/i-love-you-chocolate-heart-open.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-REL7Lvm2Q9w/TVRJkzecvJI/AAAAAAAAAGA/g4U-fdVXL-0/s1600/i-love-you-chocolate-heart-open.jpg" /></a><i>Guylian chocolates </i><br />
Chocolates! No one can celebrate Valentine’s Day without giving or receiving chocolates! My favourite pick is Guylian 'I love you' hearts chocolates. These are the perfect gift for those with a sweet tooth. They come in a gorgeous red heart shaped gift box and feature the Original chocolate Sea Shells or delicious heart-shaped pralines. I loved them.<br />
Purchase from <a href="http://www.guylian.be/en/products/seasonal-specials/valentine/">Guylian </a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pj723ctFm_k/TVRJ6KdL5vI/AAAAAAAAAGE/krZl0x2Cltk/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pj723ctFm_k/TVRJ6KdL5vI/AAAAAAAAAGE/krZl0x2Cltk/s200/images.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><i>Flowers </i><br />
Roses are red; violets are blue, blah blah blah.<br />
Show how much you care with a bunch of lush flowers for your favourite girl. Like chocolates no Valentine’s Day would be complete without a pretty bunch of flowers. Ladies you can also surprise your man with a bunch of flowers. You never know, they might like them…<br />
Cost: as little or as much as you’d like to spend! <br />
Purchase from all good shops…<br />
<br />
<br />
Now I know the following two gifts, from Nicky Clarke, wouldn’t normally be classed as romantic and especially not for Valentine’s Day but if my man bought me them I would be VERY happy. I love my hair and if that is looking great then the rest of me is feeling great which means my other half gets great Naiomi and will be rewarded for that! Do you understand me men?!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZjaUazhAbTU/TVRKfHNSMvI/AAAAAAAAAGI/73im8wElmcc/s1600/nhd082.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZjaUazhAbTU/TVRKfHNSMvI/AAAAAAAAAGI/73im8wElmcc/s200/nhd082.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><i>2000W Frizz Control Dryer </i><br />
The Nicky Clarke Frizz Control Dryer is perfect for creating lots of volume. My hair was left virtually frizz-free after using the stylish chrome powerful 2000W hairdryer. There are 3 speed settings, 2 heat settings and a turbo button which all help you to get more control and a perfect hairstyle. Whatever look you go for, this hairdryer will help you get great results every time. Accessories include a styling concentrator and diffuser. I have nothing but praise to say about this product. You lady should love it. <br />
Cost: £21.99<br />
Purchase from <a href="http://www.nickyclarke.com/products/electrical-products/frizz-control/2000w-frizz-control-dryer.html">Nicky Clarke</a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AC9uGIzIeeg/TVRK8ytMBAI/AAAAAAAAAGM/juOrh-mIseg/s1600/file_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AC9uGIzIeeg/TVRK8ytMBAI/AAAAAAAAAGM/juOrh-mIseg/s200/file_2.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><i>Professional Flexi Stylers </i><br />
These flexi stylers allow you to create all different types of curls including tight, spiral, large and bouncy curls. There are 18 of them in total – with my hair I reckon I could do with another 5 or so – and they come housed in a heated storage case with a step-by-step guide on how to create a host of different curls and styles. The curls are fabulous. I love the fact the stylers are hassle-free - you can leave them in your hair while you do your make-up and have a drink, then whip them out and have an instant gorgeous hairstyle. A must-buy for women who like to experiment with hairstyles. <br />
Cost: £19.99 <br />
Purchase from <a href="http://www.nickyclarke.com/products/electrical-products/classics/professional-flexi-stylers.html">Nicky Clarke</a> <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HgShm4pJBD0/TVRLY8JcFGI/AAAAAAAAAGQ/vQbpttzVe5k/s1600/lh025.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HgShm4pJBD0/TVRLY8JcFGI/AAAAAAAAAGQ/vQbpttzVe5k/s200/lh025.jpg" width="165" /></a></div><i>Boutique off Shoulder Sweat </i> <br />
This cute off-the-shoulder sweatshirt comes in a fetching shade of dusky pink. I understand it isn’t what you’d call a “normal” Valentine’s Day gift but it is pink, snuggly and don’t you men like us women dressed in big jumpers doesn’t it make us look sexy?! Anyway, I really like the jumper so would be happy to receive it as a present (with a lot more besides!).<br />
Cost: £27.95<br />
Purchase from <a href="http://www.joebrowns.co.uk/sp+Womens-Sweatshirts-Boutique-Off-Shoulder-Sweat+LH025">Joe Browns</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BP1SZkZ2dW0/TVRMm5G0juI/AAAAAAAAAGU/ok0rLiKRagk/s1600/11173.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BP1SZkZ2dW0/TVRMm5G0juI/AAAAAAAAAGU/ok0rLiKRagk/s200/11173.jpg" width="198" /></a><i>Melvita Petal Soft Skin Gift Set </i><br />
Now every lady loves to be pampered and this scented collection, containing three beauty treats, is a great gift. <br />
There is the Rose Shower Cream - leaves your skin feeling soft, silky and smelling divine - Moisturising Body Lotion - absorbed in nourishing Rosehip Seed Oil and Olive Squalane leaving your skin feeling smooth and radiant - and Rose Raspberry Soap Bar - a velvety soap that leaves skin clean and soft and is gentle enough for sensitive skin like mine. <br />
Cost: £25<br />
Purchase from <a href="http://www.melvita.co.uk/">Melvita</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--X65UoZz54k/TVRU5KhnayI/AAAAAAAAAGs/ayfXYMqBics/s1600/g88k0003_3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--X65UoZz54k/TVRU5KhnayI/AAAAAAAAAGs/ayfXYMqBics/s200/g88k0003_3.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><i>Little Messages' Love Message Cards </i><br />
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:View>Normal</w:View> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:TrackMoves/> <w:TrackFormatting/> <w:PunctuationKerning/> <w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/> <w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:DoNotPromoteQF/> <w:LidThemeOther>EN-GB</w:LidThemeOther> <w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian> <w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript> <w:Compatibility> <w:BreakWrappedTables/> <w:SnapToGridInCell/> <w:WrapTextWithPunct/> <w:UseAsianBreakRules/> <w:DontGrowAutofit/> <w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/> <w:DontVertAlignCellWithSp/> <w:DontBreakConstrainedForcedTables/> <w:DontVertAlignInTxbx/> <w:Word11KerningPairs/> <w:CachedColBalance/> </w:Compatibility> <m:mathPr> <m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/> <m:brkBin m:val="before"/> <m:brkBinSub m:val="--> <m:smallfrac m:val="off"> <m:dispdef> <m:lmargin m:val="0"> <m:rmargin m:val="0"> <m:defjc m:val="centerGroup"> <m:wrapindent m:val="1440"> <m:intlim m:val="subSup"> <m:narylim m:val="undOvr"> </m:narylim></m:intlim> </m:wrapindent><!--[endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="267"> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin-top:0cm;
mso-para-margin-right:0cm;
mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt;
mso-para-margin-left:0cm;
line-height:115%;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:11.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
</style> <![endif]--> <div class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-US">Surprise your valentine where she least expects it with these Little Messages’ credit card sized Love Message Cards. There are 8 cards in the pack featuring messages such as 'Hey Sexy', ‘I Love You’and We're Great Together'. To be honest the cards are pretty cheesy but if you're a chessy person they will be great for you! I personally like my unique messages left in places around the house by my other half on simple post it notes. ,uch more personal to me. There are lots of gifts available from Little Messages so the website is definitely worth a visit.</span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><span lang="EN-US">Cost: £2.50<br />
Purchase from <a href="http://carteblanchegreetings.com/shop/catalogsearch/result/index/?q=little+messages&x=0&y=0&p=1">Carteblanchegreetings.com</a></span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222;"></span></div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FEzW9vf21sk/TVROAiBTLpI/AAAAAAAAAGY/5k1AOcUh9GE/s1600/18ct_w_love_heart_pendant_4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FEzW9vf21sk/TVROAiBTLpI/AAAAAAAAAGY/5k1AOcUh9GE/s200/18ct_w_love_heart_pendant_4.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><i>LOVEheart pendant </i><br />
The LOVEheart pendant is the ideal main gift for your Valentine this Monday. The quirky pendant, which is set in silver and diamond, has the word 'love' and heart entwined together and is highlighted by a solitaire 0.10ct diamond. <br />
The large pendant is 37mm in length and is supplied on a 45cm silver chain. The brilliant-cut diamond set in silver is available from £195.<br />
The pendant is also available in a blue or pink sapphire set in silver for £145. If you are loaded and feel like splashing out treat your lady to an 18ct white, yellow or rose gold heart set with 0.10ct diamond for £750.<br />
Purchase from <a href="http://www.davidmrobinson.co.uk/jewellery/necklaces-pendants/love-heart-pendant-set-in-silver-and-diamond-793">David M Robinson</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<b>VALENTINE’S DAY FOR HIM…</b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mLTtcwxb3rs/TVROsNypzaI/AAAAAAAAAGc/A9h7Ae4ELWs/s1600/7532.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mLTtcwxb3rs/TVROsNypzaI/AAAAAAAAAGc/A9h7Ae4ELWs/s200/7532.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><i>BOSS Orange for Men </i><br />
This scent is both uplifting and energizing. It smells like vanilla but with a masculine blend of crisp apple. <br />
It is apparently “a relaxed and sociable character; just like the BOSS Orange man himself.” <br />
Cost: from £24.50. <br />
Purchase from <a href="http://www.theperfumeshop.com/fcp/product/mens-fragrances/boss/boss%20orange%20man/7532">The Perfume Shop</a><br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2tQV3ytdGr8/TVRPGf4U2qI/AAAAAAAAAGg/zZtLxTNF69s/s1600/NAUGH251.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2tQV3ytdGr8/TVRPGf4U2qI/AAAAAAAAAGg/zZtLxTNF69s/s200/NAUGH251.jpg" width="200" /></a><i> </i><br />
<br />
<i>52 Weeks of Naughty Nights </i><br />
This game is supposed to be full of surprises, sensual thrills, kinky surprises, expressions of love and playful games of seduction. <br />
It contains a year's supply of scratch and win cards with naughty I.O.U.'s, suggestions, coupons, roll plays, gestures and more...<br />
Now I’m yet to test this but it does sound good and I’m sure our guys would quite like it!<br />
Cost: £9.99<br />
Purchase from <a href="http://www.treathim.com/product/52_weeks_of_naughty_nights">Treathim.com</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JoSMbmPoVRY/TVRQAq2nW8I/AAAAAAAAAGk/tvJCjQfYaWo/s1600/516R2viqcIL._SX182_SH35_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JoSMbmPoVRY/TVRQAq2nW8I/AAAAAAAAAGk/tvJCjQfYaWo/s200/516R2viqcIL._SX182_SH35_.jpg" width="183" /></a><i>Personalised Champagne And Gift Box </i> <br />
Now as my other half is a wine connoisseur it’s so difficult for me to know exactly what wine/champagne will make a good present for him – so I tend to stay clear from that!<br />
But for men who may lack an extensive knowledge of fine wine and champagne this Veuve Hennerick Brut Champagne could be a brilliant gift for him. Not only will he have something nice to drink he will also get some delicious Belgian chocolates as they come with the alcohol luxuriously presented in a satin-lined box with a pull-out tray. Kills two birds with one stone!<br />
Cost: £45<br />
Purchase from <a href="http://www.marksandspencer.com/Marks-and-Spencer-Touch-Class/dp/B000OEV5JC?ie=UTF8&ref=sr_1_2&nodeId=547558031&sr=1-2&qid=1297356762&pf_rd_r=0G1C5J46SZNRHY252K6C&pf_rd_m=A2BO0OYVBKIQJM&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_i=547558031&pf_rd_p=215570647&pf_rd_s=related-items-3">Marks and Spencer</a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AhpZ9HwQ5iU/TVRQZM9NfCI/AAAAAAAAAGo/DQL73tVcnHY/s1600/1000459.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AhpZ9HwQ5iU/TVRQZM9NfCI/AAAAAAAAAGo/DQL73tVcnHY/s200/1000459.jpg" width="142" /></a></div><br />
<i>Emporio Armani watch </i><br />
I bought a watch similar to this for my other half one Christmas and he hardly takes it off! <br />
Lovely design, Amber Dial with Roman Numeral, Stainless Steel Case, Brown Leather Strap and Quartz Movement. <br />
Cost: £179<br />
Purchase from <a href="http://www.goldsmiths.co.uk/product/emporio-armani-gents-watch-with-amber-dial-ar2018">Goldsmiths</a> <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
So there it is - some perfect gifts for Valentine’s Day. <br />
If you’re like me - a Valentine’s Day cynic who loves her fiancé spoiling her every day apart from February 14 - you’ll be pleased to see most of the above presents are great for any day of the year. Plus most of the gifts are great for singletons so get treating yourself!<br />
<br />
HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!! xxx<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
</m:defjc></m:rmargin></m:lmargin></m:dispdef></m:smallfrac>Naiomi Madden-Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10608815040438405552noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1412055572329697943.post-20364773691857023792011-01-18T19:31:00.001+00:002011-01-18T19:49:51.173+00:00Happy New Year - finally!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_zWRsSDd9AlU/TTXoQflPjDI/AAAAAAAAAFg/WpUVJHE2XCk/s1600/New-Year-2011-wallpapers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_zWRsSDd9AlU/TTXoQflPjDI/AAAAAAAAAFg/WpUVJHE2XCk/s200/New-Year-2011-wallpapers.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Hi everyone<br />
<br />
It has been a while and for that I am sorry. Oh yes and HAPPY NEW YEAR!!<br />
I hope you all have had a great start to the year so far. <br />
<br />
AS IF I am getting married this year! Haha!<br />
So, Andy and I went home to Manchester for Christmas and New Year to spend with the family. It was a brilliant Christmas, full of presents (woo!), happiness and surrounded by my favourite people. Obviously no Christmas would be the same without an argument and mine had one of those too but that is all just part of the fun!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_zWRsSDd9AlU/TTXju0BUm-I/AAAAAAAAAFc/WsdcyFaQdjo/s1600/SAM_0333.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_zWRsSDd9AlU/TTXju0BUm-I/AAAAAAAAAFc/WsdcyFaQdjo/s200/SAM_0333.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A small selection of the Madden family!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Armed with my bridesmaids on New Year's Eve I headed into town (Manchester) to find their dresses for the big day. This was at 10am. <br />
By 10.50am I had found my dream wedding dress, tried it on (and a few others to be extra certain) and had paid for it!!! <br />
I obviously can't reveal too much about the dress as we don't want the other half finding out but it is definitely my dream dress. I can't wait to wear it! <br />
Hmm and we never did find the bridesmaid dresses :-) <br />
<br />
Anyway, I do love the start of a New Year. I just love getting a new diary (or five this year - don't ask!) and filling it in with exciting plans for the next few months. It makes me feel like I'm important and wanted! Also, I love the start of a New Year because my birthday is in January. And yes that means more PRESENTS!! <br />
<br />
I hope you have all got your diaries (or you can have one of mine) and have started making plans for this year. What else is better than planning lots of fun things to do - holidays, weekends away, parties and shopping trips - while you're skint and waiting for your January payslip? <br />
I would say not much!<br />
<br />
Have a brilliant New Year! <br />
<br />
Love Naiomi xxx<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_zWRsSDd9AlU/TTXo-rA4DUI/AAAAAAAAAFk/YsJ9QaHT-cU/s1600/SAM_2096.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_zWRsSDd9AlU/TTXo-rA4DUI/AAAAAAAAAFk/YsJ9QaHT-cU/s200/SAM_2096.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cheers! </td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Naiomi Madden-Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10608815040438405552noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1412055572329697943.post-81016933674455531652010-12-07T13:50:00.002+00:002011-12-05T13:51:57.366+00:00Fun presents for Santa's little helpers - Christmas 2010Ho ho ho! It's that time of year again - Christmas time!<br />
With just over two weeks to go until the big day, most of us have been busy running around the shops spending money like there is no tomorrow on what seems like, and in some cases is, hundreds of presents for the whole family. <br />
But if you are still trying to decide what to get the little ones, worry no more as I have decided to take a look at some of the toys currently on the market.<br />
Grab some of these stocking fillers now and enjoy the rest of the run up to Christmas Day in relaxation and happiness - until next year... <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_zWRsSDd9AlU/TPuhjE8D2FI/AAAAAAAAAE8/uo-9DGvZs3c/s1600/soniccolors1127x-large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_zWRsSDd9AlU/TPuhjE8D2FI/AAAAAAAAAE8/uo-9DGvZs3c/s200/soniccolors1127x-large.jpg" width="140" /></a></div>
<b><i>Sonic Colors</i> - SEGA</b><br />
Released just in time for Christmas is <a href="http://www.sega.co.uk/games/sonic-colours/">Sonic Colors</a>, a brand new high speed action adventure - the ideal gift for old school Sonic fans as well as boys and girls.<br />
Whilst I'm not a huge fan of playing on computer consoles, I used to love playing Sonic the Hedgehog, on our old Sega Megadrive, when I was younger. I was an expert (even if I do say so myself!), but if I'm being honest, my seven-year-old nephew is today a lot better on computers than I ever was. So, I gave him <a href="http://www.sega.co.uk/games/sonic-colours/">Sonic Colors</a> to play on his DS. <br />
He loves it. The game, available on Nintendo DS and Wii, sees Sonic accelerating to adrenaline-pumping super speeds and blasting through obstacles. It features the diabolical Dr. Eggman, who in a bid for world domination, has built an extraordinary amusement park floating in space around Sonic’s home planet - and has abducted an alien race. Before Dr. Eggman completes his evil plans, Sonic discovers his mysterious theme park in space. <br />
Sonic will need all his speed and skill as he faces this test, but it’s a test he’s sure to pass with flying colours, isn't he?<br />
<a href="http://www.sega.co.uk/games/sonic-colours/">Sonic Colors </a>costs £24.99 on Nintendo DS and £29.99 on the Wii. It is available from game retailers such as <a href="http://www.play.com/">Play.com</a> and <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/">Amazon</a><br />
<div style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_zWRsSDd9AlU/TPuu08zE2BI/AAAAAAAAAFA/9iM_Wj6B_wo/s1600/bob2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_zWRsSDd9AlU/TPuu08zE2BI/AAAAAAAAAFA/9iM_Wj6B_wo/s200/bob2.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;">
<i><b>Build it with Bob</b></i> <b>-</b> <b>Bob the Builder </b></div>
<div style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;">
Popular children's show <a href="http://www.bobthebuilder.com/uk/about_bob.asp">Bob the Builder </a>first appeared on UK TV in 1999. Since then it has broadcast in 240 countries across the world! Kids just seem to love Bob and his Can-Do Crew - not to mention the vast range of toys. Therefore, my pick for a great present for Christmas this year is <i>Build it with Bob</i> - a 50 brick construction set. </div>
<div style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;">
This set features actual real bricks and cement - amazing! Suitable for children aged three and over, the construction set allows youngsters to use their imagination to build all kinds of structures. As well as the bricks and cement, the set comes with a large wipe clean playmat, bowl and trowel. </div>
<div style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;">
The only negative thing I can say about this gift is that it does create a lot of mess from the bricks and cement, but for children, I suppose that is great! </div>
<div style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;">
<i>Build it with Bob</i>, by <a href="http://www.mapstoys.com/">Maps Toys</a>, is available to buy from stockists such as <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Build-Bob-Builder-Brick-Building/dp/B001IZZ37G/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=kids&qid=1249313943&sr=1-1">Amazon</a>, <a href="http://www.boots.com/en/Bob-The-Builder-Build-it-with-Bob-70-Piece-Brick-Set_1111247/?exploreAttributes=-_--_--_--_--_-Best%20Match-_-List-_-%27Search%3A%20All%27-_--_--_-Supermenu-_-%270%27">Boots</a>, <a href="http://www.toymaster.co.uk/index.php?page=storefinder">Toymaster</a>, <a href="http://www.play.com/Search.aspx?searchtype=allproducts&searchstring=Bob+the+builder%3A+build+it+with+bob&page=search&pa=search&go.x=0&go.y=0">Play.com</a></div>
<div style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;">
It costs between £9.99 and £14.99. </div>
<div style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_zWRsSDd9AlU/TPu2Ke2-m-I/AAAAAAAAAFM/662IDT5uNrA/s1600/british_heart_foundation.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_zWRsSDd9AlU/TPu2Ke2-m-I/AAAAAAAAAFM/662IDT5uNrA/s200/british_heart_foundation.png" width="153" /></a></div>
<div style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;">
<b><i>Castle Pop Up Book (Life in a Castle</i>) and <i>Pirate Fun Masks </i>- British Heart Foundation</b></div>
<div style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;">
Who knew heart charity, British Heat Foundation (BHF), sold children's toys? I didn't until I was contacted by one of their PR team. And to shock you even more, they also sell wedding items, gifts for adults, home and garden equipment and so on. Obviously for this feature I am most interested in their children's toys for Christmas (I will take a look at their wedding items tomorrow!). </div>
<div style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;">
There are far too many children's gifts from the BHF to mention, so I will concentrate on the <i>Castle Pop Up Book</i> and <i>Pirate Fun Masks</i>.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_zWRsSDd9AlU/TPu11-DsvRI/AAAAAAAAAFE/nl3GR93aRhI/s1600/62186_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="153" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_zWRsSDd9AlU/TPu11-DsvRI/AAAAAAAAAFE/nl3GR93aRhI/s200/62186_2.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
The <i>Castle Pop Up Book</i> is a tie back book which contains a highly detailed two-story, six-room castle, filled with three-dimensional wonders including a moveable drawbridge. There are press-out figures and a story book which should keep children amused for hours - giving you time to cook the Turkey in peace! The book is for children aged five and over - although personally I'm not too sure why as I cannot see any really small parts - and is perfect for travelling with as the castle folds back into the book without any hassle. The<i> Castle Pop Up Book</i> is available to buy from the <a href="http://gifts.bhf.org.uk/stockinfo.asp?SID=1291562991000100&CAT=271&STK=62186&LNK=">British Heart Foundation</a> at a cost of £16.99.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_zWRsSDd9AlU/TPu18taOMrI/AAAAAAAAAFI/tcrfbo1lOHs/s1600/62184.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="153" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_zWRsSDd9AlU/TPu18taOMrI/AAAAAAAAAFI/tcrfbo1lOHs/s200/62184.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
The <i>Pirate Fun Masks</i> is a great way for children to let their imaginations run wild and imagine they are Captain Hook (and whatever other fantasy pirates there are!). The pack features a set of 12 card pirate masks, a treasure map, elastic, crayons and pirate tattoos. Little ones need to be aged three and over to be able to use this set due to the elastic. At a cost of just £6.99, the <i>Pirate Fun Masks</i> should make a great stocking filler for any young boy. It is available to buy from <a href="http://gifts.bhf.org.uk/stockinfo.asp?SID=1291562991000100&CAT=271&STK=62184&LNK=">British Heart Foundation</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_zWRsSDd9AlU/TPvNkeQKswI/AAAAAAAAAFQ/OufyuGChe1s/s1600/bloco.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="193" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_zWRsSDd9AlU/TPvNkeQKswI/AAAAAAAAAFQ/OufyuGChe1s/s200/bloco.png" width="200" /></a></div>
<i><b>Bloco </b></i><b>- construction toy</b><i><b></b></i><br />
The next fun present for little one's this Christmas 2010 is the Bloco construction Toy, by <a href="http://www.mapstoys.com/">Map Toys.</a> <br />
Using high density foam designed in unique colourful shapes, the Bloco toy is formed of foam pieces which children can link together and rotate to any angle using the special connectors. This then enables youngsters to build and create 3D models. The one I tested was of dinosaurs Velociraptor and Pterosaur. Now, i'm no dinosaur expert (although I did used to love The Land Before Time) but the one's pictured to the left are not the one's I recreated, god knows what they are called. As a 27-year-old you would think I would've found these two models easy to assemble, but no, I found it a little tricky. I definitely needed to follow the instructions! My eight-year-old nephew had no trouble whatsoever assembling the creatures, so I can only imagine kids today are smarter than us adults when it comes to toys!<br />
Bloco, which comes with two models per box, is available to buy from places such as <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/search/ref=sr_nr_i_0?rh=k:bloco,i:toys&keywords=bloco&ie=UTF8&qid=1285663088">Amazon</a>, <a href="http://www.boots.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/CatalogSearchResultView?langId=-1&Ntk=All&Nr=AND%28DIM_BASIC_RECORD_TYPE_ID%3aIS_PURE_PRODUCT%2cDIM_PARENT_PRODUCT_ID%3aIS_PARENT%29&catalogId=11051&Ne=13&Rpp=12&storeId=10052&Ntx=mode%2bmatchall&N=4294899036+4294924245&Ns=P_IS_HERO_PRODUCT%7C1&pageSize=12&categoryId=6223&searchv2=true">Boots</a> and <a href="http://www.gltc.co.uk/fcp/product/-/new_toys_games/Dragons-and-Reptiles/10000001910">Great Little Trading Co</a><br />
It costs £20. <br />
<br />
<div style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Times,'Times New Roman',serif;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_zWRsSDd9AlU/TPvS47ALCPI/AAAAAAAAAFU/c_zerEkJCN8/s1600/8281066.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_zWRsSDd9AlU/TPvS47ALCPI/AAAAAAAAAFU/c_zerEkJCN8/s200/8281066.jpg" width="131" /></a></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
<b><i>Postman Pat </i>- Special Delivery Service</b> <b>DVD box set</b></div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
I can't believe Postman Pat is still going! The iconic children’s favourite is still as popular as ever - and stars in this new “Head of the Special Delivery Service” DVD box set. The set contains three DVD’s, an interactive game, an interactive tour of Greendale and colouring pages. I think it is great for keeping the kids entertained while us adults get on with clearing the mess from Christmas dinner - woo hoo, not!</div>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
The set costs from £9.99 to £14.99 and is available to buy from <a href="http://www.postmanpat.com/">Postman Pat</a> and <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Postman-Pat-Special-Delivery-Service/dp/B0042I0ZVK">Amazon</a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;">That's it for my list of fun presents for Santa's little helpers this Christmas - I hope it helps. Obviously there are loads more on the market but I think all the above gifts are great for stocking fillers (not forgetting the traditional oranges and apples!). Whatever you get up to during this year's festive season, I hope you all have a fab time. </span></div>
<br />
<b>Merry Christmas!!</b> </div>Naiomi Madden-Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10608815040438405552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1412055572329697943.post-17393015315434880682010-12-02T13:43:00.004+00:002010-12-02T13:52:22.966+00:00New Baileys Hazelnut Flavour - review<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_zWRsSDd9AlU/TOkikPpDCGI/AAAAAAAAAEo/y1T3t1knVdw/s1600/baileys_hazelnut.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_zWRsSDd9AlU/TOkikPpDCGI/AAAAAAAAAEo/y1T3t1knVdw/s320/baileys_hazelnut.jpg" width="152" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baileys Hazelnut Flavour </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
</tbody></table><span style="font-family: inherit;">I don't half love an ice cold glass of </span><a href="http://www.the-baileys-lounge.baileys.com/en-gb/"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Baileys</span></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Original Irish cream liqueur. </span><br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Even though it's available to buy all year round I tend to crave </span><a href="http://www.the-baileys-lounge.baileys.com/en-gb/"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Baileys </span></a><span style="font-family: inherit;">around Christmas time. I think it must be the richness and smooth luxurious taste which makes the drink a festive must-have for me. It makes me feel all Christmassy! </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Anyway, I was excited to hear about the October launch of </span><a href="http://www.the-baileys-lounge.baileys.com/en-gb/"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Baileys</span></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Hazelnut Flavour and even more excited when I was asked to sample a bottle. </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I first tried the new flavour while getting ready to go to my work's first Christmas party. </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The drink was very rich and blended the ingredients of </span><a href="http://www.the-baileys-lounge.baileys.com/en-gb/"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Baileys </span></a><span style="font-family: inherit;">Original, comprising fresh Irish cream and triple-distilled Irish whiskey, with the hazelnut flavour.</span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-family: inherit;">It also tasted a little like chocolate - great for chocolate lovers! </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-family: inherit;">However, I could only drink two small glasses because of its rich flavour, but that wasn't a problem as it's not the sort of drink you down or drink lots of in any one drinking session.</span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-family: inherit;">A spokeswoman for </span><a href="http://www.the-baileys-lounge.baileys.com/en-gb/"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Baileys</span></a><span style="font-family: inherit;">, which also makes </span><a href="http://www.the-baileys-lounge.baileys.com/en-gb/"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Baileys</span></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> with a hint of coffee, </span><a href="http://www.the-baileys-lounge.baileys.com/en-gb/"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Baileys</span></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> with a hint of Mint Chocolate and </span><a href="http://www.the-baileys-lounge.baileys.com/en-gb/"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Baileys</span></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> with a hint of Caramel, added: "With its velvety smooth and luxuriously rich taste, there is no better way to discover the delights of new </span><a href="http://www.the-baileys-lounge.baileys.com/en-gb/"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Baileys</span></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Hazelnut Flavour than by pouring it over ice and sharing it at home with your partner or friends." </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The drink is available to buy from all good supermarkets at a cost of £15.50 for a 700ml bottle.</span></div>Naiomi Madden-Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10608815040438405552noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1412055572329697943.post-26606566140428119032010-11-25T21:00:00.003+00:002010-11-25T21:20:26.600+00:00Duvet covers for your feet?! Well, Big Brother's Craig Phillips loves them<m:smallfrac m:val="off"> <m:dispdef> <m:lmargin m:val="0"> <m:rmargin m:val="0"> <m:defjc m:val="centerGroup"> <m:wrapindent m:val="1440"> <m:intlim m:val="subSup"> <m:narylim m:val="undOvr"> </m:narylim></m:intlim> </m:wrapindent> </m:defjc></m:rmargin></m:lmargin></m:dispdef></m:smallfrac><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_zWRsSDd9AlU/TOfbzfyTOOI/AAAAAAAAAEc/QAaoaFpYZIY/s1600/Heat+Holders+Image+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_zWRsSDd9AlU/TOfbzfyTOOI/AAAAAAAAAEc/QAaoaFpYZIY/s320/Heat+Holders+Image+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Big Brother 1 winner Craig loves <i>Heat Holders</i> socks</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">I love the summer and HATE the winter. </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">It's not that I don't like seeing crisp white snow layered upon every surface outdoors - I do. I just hate having to drag myself through the centimetres of thick snow and then arriving at work with freezing cold feet of which, no matter how hard I try, do not get warm again!</span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">So, I was thrilled when the Sock Shop contacted me in regards to their new range of<i> <a href="http://www.heatholders.com/">Heat Holders</a></i> Thermal Socks. </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">I was told the socks can keep your feet seven times warmer than normal cotton socks. When I first heard this I was a little sceptical but thought there was no harm in trying them. </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">I received two pairs of the socks - one long length and suitable for wearing with wellies and the other best suited to shorter boots. They both came in pretty pink girly colours, which I was very happy about, but the most interesting part is they both have a tog rating of 2.34. </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">As soon as slipped the socks on to my feet I was amazed. Honestly it is like wearing a foot duvet!</span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">I have never EVER come across socks that are so comfortable. </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">I know it's not snowing everywhere - yet - but it has gotten quite cold these last few weeks, so I have worn the socks pretty much daily (when I have had boots on) to work. While in the house, I haven't even bothered to wear slippers, there is just no point when you have socks on which are that good!</span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">A spokeswoman for the Sock Shop said: "<i>Heat Holders</i> provide a practical and economical alternative to layering socks. The intense brushing process each sock has been through holds warm air close to the skin, keeping feet warmer for longer. The long pile cushioning adds comfort and support where feet need it the most. Their gentle grip prevents rubbing or discomfort that may be experienced from a sock with a lower tog rating." </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">She added: "<i>Heat Holders</i> provide a perfect solution to the snow day blues. No longer will family snowball fights in the garden be plagued by cold feet."</span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_zWRsSDd9AlU/TOfcJCiRW0I/AAAAAAAAAEg/Xf-I1AKCKTI/s1600/Image_3400+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_zWRsSDd9AlU/TOfcJCiRW0I/AAAAAAAAAEg/Xf-I1AKCKTI/s200/Image_3400+2.jpg" width="133" /></a></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">Available in a variety of different colours <i>Heat Holders</i>, suitable<i> </i>for men, women and children, start at around £4.99.</span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">The socks are perfect and can be used time and time again.</span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">As they are so thick my only criticism is you can't wear them with certain boots and shoes - I couldn't get my feet into one pair of boots the other day. But just do what I did - change your boots and be warm! </span></div><div class="MsoNoSpacing"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt;">With Christmas just weeks away a pair of<i> Heat Holders</i> will make a brilliant stocking filler so visit the <a href="http://www.heatholders.com/">Heat Holders</a> website and get yours now. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span></span></div>Naiomi Madden-Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10608815040438405552noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1412055572329697943.post-26688771033898214172010-11-20T13:05:00.002+00:002010-11-20T13:32:40.427+00:00Elemis Eau De Parfum Exotic review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_zWRsSDd9AlU/TOfH5xI_kFI/AAAAAAAAAEM/rcAta2c59j8/s1600/Elemis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_zWRsSDd9AlU/TOfH5xI_kFI/AAAAAAAAAEM/rcAta2c59j8/s320/Elemis.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><m:smallfrac m:val="off"> <m:dispdef> <m:lmargin m:val="0"> <m:rmargin m:val="0"> <m:defjc m:val="centerGroup"> <m:wrapindent m:val="1440"> <m:intlim m:val="subSup"> <m:narylim m:val="undOvr"> </m:narylim></m:intlim> </m:wrapindent> The second fragrance from spa and skincare brand <a href="http://www.elemis.com/">Elemis</a>, loved by celebrities Sienna Miller and Emma Bunton, is Elemis Eau De Parfum Exotic.<br />
After trying Elemis' first fragrance Eau De Parfum, after its launch in spring this year, I was eager to try the second creation from this well-known brand. <br />
Described by Elemis as "intoxicating, sensual, mysterious and exotic" I decided to try out the perfume to see if it was indeed those things - although if i'm honest I really don't know how a perfume can be mysterious!<br />
Upon using the product for the very first time, my initial thoughts were that of a overwhelming floral scent.<br />
As an avid fan of Chanel No.5, which has a delicately light flower feminine fragrance, I found Elemis Exotic had a smell which was maybe a bit too powerful for my liking.<br />
It is the type of perfume you smell on people when they walk pass you on the street and you can still smell it minutes later!<br />
However, after an hour or so when the smell was less powerful, the fragrance - which combines ylang, ylang with sandalwood, tuberose, frankincense and jasmine - was a lot nicer and quite traditional but not old fashioned.</m:defjc></m:rmargin></m:lmargin></m:dispdef></m:smallfrac><br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_zWRsSDd9AlU/TOfIMyYU3mI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/EjwEcaSmFdQ/s1600/Elemis1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_zWRsSDd9AlU/TOfIMyYU3mI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/EjwEcaSmFdQ/s1600/Elemis1.jpg" /></a><m:smallfrac m:val="off"><m:dispdef><m:lmargin m:val="0"><m:rmargin m:val="0"><m:defjc m:val="centerGroup"><br />
Noella Gabriel, Director of Treatment and Product Development at Elemis, said she was thrilled about the new perfume addition.<br />
She said: "Following the debut Eau de Parfum I am excited to introduce a second scent that encapsulates the ‘exotic’ discovery phase within Elemis’ 20 year journey. The combination is a deep fragrance with a heady mystery and a powerful effect on your mood.”<br />
For me as a 27-year-old woman, I personally wouldn't put Elemis Eau De Parfum Exotic in my top 10 list of favourite perfumes, but I'm sure women in their 40s and above would love the traditional, powerful smelling scent. <br />
I really loved the packaging and the purple pouch that comes with the perfume as it is really stylish and also means the bottle can pop into your bag neatly. <br />
For those who would love to try Elemis Eau De Parfum Exotic, it costs £35 for a 28 ml bottle. <br />
It is available to buy from <a href="http://timetospa.co.uk/">timetospa.co.uk</a>, Elemis spas and salons nationwide and at Elemis counters at selected Debenhams, Harvey Nichols, John Lewis, House of Fraser and Selfridges' stores.<br />
</m:defjc></m:rmargin></m:lmargin></m:dispdef></m:smallfrac>Naiomi Madden-Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10608815040438405552noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1412055572329697943.post-88205290521427782182010-10-26T19:12:00.005+01:002010-11-20T13:28:14.913+00:00Coca-Cola launches receipe book<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_zWRsSDd9AlU/TMcXPQTN_bI/AAAAAAAAAEI/3I2aPh5xWlA/s1600/When+you+Entertain,+by+Coca-Cola.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_zWRsSDd9AlU/TMcXPQTN_bI/AAAAAAAAAEI/3I2aPh5xWlA/s320/When+you+Entertain,+by+Coca-Cola.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:WordDocument> <w:View>Normal</w:View> <w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:TrackMoves/> <w:TrackFormatting/> <w:PunctuationKerning/> <w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/> <w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:DoNotPromoteQF/> <w:LidThemeOther>EN-GB</w:LidThemeOther> <w:LidThemeAsian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian> <w:LidThemeComplexScript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript> <w:Compatibility> <w:BreakWrappedTables/> <w:SnapToGridInCell/> <w:WrapTextWithPunct/> <w:UseAsianBreakRules/> <w:DontGrowAutofit/> <w:SplitPgBreakAndParaMark/> <w:DontVertAlignCellWithSp/> <w:DontBreakConstrainedForcedTables/> <w:DontVertAlignInTxbx/> <w:Word11KerningPairs/> <w:CachedColBalance/> </w:Compatibility> <w:BrowserLevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> <m:mathPr> <m:mathFont m:val="Cambria Math"/> <m:brkBin m:val="before"/> <m:brkBinSub m:val="--> <m:smallfrac m:val="off"> <m:dispdef> <m:lmargin m:val="0"> <m:rmargin m:val="0"> <m:defjc m:val="centerGroup"> <m:wrapindent m:val="1440"> <m:intlim m:val="subSup"> <m:narylim m:val="undOvr"> </m:narylim></m:intlim> </m:wrapindent><!--[endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" DefUnhideWhenUsed="true"
DefSemiHidden="true" DefQFormat="false" DefPriority="99"
LatentStyleCount="267"> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="0" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Normal"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="heading 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 7"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 8"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="9" QFormat="true" Name="heading 9"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 7"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 8"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="toc 9"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="35" QFormat="true" Name="caption"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="59" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Table Grid"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Placeholder Text"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Revision"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="List Paragraph"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Quote"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light List Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Emphasis"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Emphasis"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Subtle Reference"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Intense Reference"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" SemiHidden="false"
UnhideWhenUsed="false" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" Name="Bibliography"/> <w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-priority:99;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin-top:0cm;
mso-para-margin-right:0cm;
mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt;
mso-para-margin-left:0cm;
line-height:115%;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:11.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif";
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}
</style> <![endif]--> <span style="color: black;">Nowadays cooking and entertaining is something of a phenomenon.</span><br />
</m:defjc></m:rmargin></m:lmargin></m:dispdef></m:smallfrac></div><m:smallfrac m:val="off"> <m:dispdef> <m:lmargin m:val="0"> <m:rmargin m:val="0"> <m:defjc m:val="centerGroup"> <m:wrapindent m:val="1440"> <m:intlim m:val="subSup"> <m:narylim m:val="undOvr"> </m:narylim></m:intlim> </m:wrapindent> <span style="color: black;">With shows like Come Dine With Me, Masterchef and Saturday Kitchen becoming increasingly more popular it has become more cool than ever before to learn how to cook. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: black;">For those of us who aren’t yet culinary experts (naming no names) a cook book, released this month by Coca-Cola, YES the manufacturer of Coke, Diet Coke, Cherry Coke and the like (who would've thought they published books and knew anything other than what makes a nice soft drink?!), could be right up your street. <i> </i></span><br />
<br />
<i><span style="color: black;">When You Entertain</span></i><span style="color: black;">, edited by Tiffany Darke, editor of the Sunday Times Style magazine, is a modern twist on the original 1932 recipe book by Ida Bailey Allen. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: black;">The limited edition cookery book features recipes from four food celebrities: Michelin star chef Tom Aikens, Celebrity Masterchef Winner 2008 and former Atomic Kitten Liz McClarnon, organic farmer and former Blur member Alex James, and food writer Julia Parsons.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: black;">Each foodie has picked 10 recipes brings back memories of family mealtimes and other special (food) occasions for them. </span><br />
<span style="color: black;">Some but not all of the simple and easy to follow recipes have Coke integrated into the ingredients.</span><br />
<span style="color: black;">Examples I tried were Alex's Coca-Cola Chicken Salad with Garden Potatoes, and Julia Parsons' tasty Cherry Ice Cream Sundaes - surprisingly the Coke didn't taste out of place in any of the dishes. </span><br />
<span style="color: black;">Plus it was great making these receipes as I always had a nice refreshing glass of Coke to wash down when I was thirsty (not good for my wedding diet plan!). </span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: black;">There is quite a variety of mouth-watering recipes in the book, with each dish being divided into four sections: Saturday Nights with Friends, Family Meal Times, Weekend Lunch & Brunch and Easy Lunch. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: black;">"<i>When You Entertain </i>offers ideas from food-linked personalities for entertaining family or friends, while celebrating a long-standing heritage and association of Coca-Cola enjoyed at meal times,” </span>said a <a href="http://www.coca-cola.co.uk/">Coca-Cola</a> spokeswoman.<br />
"The book has delicious recipes that will excite your taste buds,"<br />
<br />
<span style="color: black;">Overall, none of the recipes in the book are too difficult to master which makes them perfect for those of us with busy lives and who wouldn’t class themselves as a talented cook. </span><br />
<span style="color: black;">For those people out there who are talented cooks, I reckon your expertise would be wasted on this book! </span><br />
<i>When You Entertain</i> <span style="color: black;">is available to buy now exclusively at Harvey Nichols. </span><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
</m:defjc></m:rmargin></m:lmargin></m:dispdef></m:smallfrac><br />
<div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div>Naiomi Madden-Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10608815040438405552noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1412055572329697943.post-91125162934338675042010-10-19T21:07:00.008+01:002010-10-19T21:20:57.020+01:00What a great haircut!<hr class="messageHeaderDivider colorK2" noshade="noshade" style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;" /><div id="cg_msg_content"><div style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><style>
_filtered { font-family: Calibri; }_filtered { font-family: Tahoma; }p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal { margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; font-size: 11pt; font-family: "sans-serif"; }a:link, span.MsoHyperlink { color: blue; text-decoration: underline; }a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed { color: purple; text-decoration: underline; }p { margin-right: 0cm; margin-left: 0cm; font-size: 12pt; font-family: "serif"; }p.MsoAcetate, li.MsoAcetate, div.MsoAcetate { margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; font-size: 8pt; font-family: "sans-serif"; }span.EmailStyle17 { font-family: "sans-serif"; color: windowtext; }span.BalloonTextChar { font-family: "sans-serif"; }.MsoChpDefault { }_filtered { margin: 72pt; }div.WordSection1 { }
</style> </div><div class="WordSection1"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_zWRsSDd9AlU/TL36MltUhuI/AAAAAAAAAD8/-L-k5qkr0PM/s1600/Wahanda.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_zWRsSDd9AlU/TL36MltUhuI/AAAAAAAAAD8/-L-k5qkr0PM/s1600/Wahanda.gif" /></a></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span lang="EN" style="font-size: small;">EVERY girl loves to be pampered.<b><i> </i></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span lang="EN" style="font-size: small;">There is almost nothing better than indulging yourself with a new haircut and massage after a hard few week’s at work. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN">So you can imagine my delight when I was invited to the very stylish and sleek Mahogany Hairdressing in King Street, Manchester, courtesy of Wahanda - a global health and beauty website.</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span lang="EN">As part of Wahanda's MobDeals - where you can save up to 90 per cent on daily limited time offers </span></span><span style="font-size: small;">for beauty products, spa, salon & wellbeing deals in Birmingham, Leeds and Manchester (soon to be in Liverpool and Newcastle) - I was treated to a haircut, intensive conditioning treatment and head massage by senior stylist Kalvin.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Having been a hairdresser for 12 years, I was <m:smallfrac m:val="off"> <m:dispdef> <m:lmargin m:val="0"> <m:rmargin m:val="0"> <m:defjc m:val="centerGroup"> <m:wrapindent m:val="1440"> <m:intlim m:val="subSup"> <m:narylim m:val="undOvr"> </m:narylim></m:intlim> </m:wrapindent><span style="line-height: 115%;">certainly </span> in very capable hands with Kalvin (although if I'm honest I was at first a little <m:smallfrac m:val="off"> <m:dispdef> <m:lmargin m:val="0"> <m:rmargin m:val="0"> <m:defjc m:val="centerGroup"> <m:wrapindent m:val="1440"> <m:intlim m:val="subSup"> <m:narylim m:val="undOvr"> </m:narylim></m:intlim> </m:wrapindent><span style="line-height: 115%;">sceptical</span> about letting a man cut my hair).</m:defjc></m:rmargin></m:lmargin></m:dispdef></m:smallfrac></m:defjc></m:rmargin></m:lmargin></m:dispdef></m:smallfrac></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I needn't have worried.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">After a full consultation and some</span><span style="font-size: small; line-height: 115%;"> recommendations </span><span style="font-size: small;"> to lose some of my (bland) layers, Kalvin was the BEST hairdresser I have EVER been too (sorry girls). </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">His attention to detail was second to none. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">He worked his way through my hair with extreme skill and sophistication. </span></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">He really listened to what I wanted from the experience providing me with a hairstyle I really wanted rather than the hairstyle he THOUGHT I wanted. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">The end result? A lovely modern haircut, with a sweeping fringe and the feeling of looking pretty hot (even if I do say so myself!).</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_zWRsSDd9AlU/TL36Y6Eq5qI/AAAAAAAAAEA/8QEXwiT0dtU/s1600/mahogany.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_zWRsSDd9AlU/TL36Y6Eq5qI/AAAAAAAAAEA/8QEXwiT0dtU/s1600/mahogany.gif" /></a></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Kalvin, trained internally by the Mahogany Creative Team to ensure a consistency in skill and technique,</span><span lang="EN" style="font-size: small;"> and the rest of the staff at Mahogany Hairdressing were very professional during my visit and they made the whole experience truely wonderful. </span> </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span lang="EN" style="font-size: small;">It is clear their clients mean a great deal to them - and that can sometimes be a bit of a </span> <span style="font-size: small;"><m:smallfrac m:val="off"> <m:dispdef> <m:lmargin m:val="0"> <m:rmargin m:val="0"> <m:defjc m:val="centerGroup"> <m:wrapindent m:val="1440"> <m:intlim m:val="subSup"> <m:narylim m:val="undOvr"> </m:narylim></m:intlim> </m:wrapindent><span lang="EN" style="line-height: 115%;">rarity</span><span lang="EN"> these days.</span></m:defjc></m:rmargin></m:lmargin></m:dispdef></m:smallfrac></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span lang="EN" style="font-size: small;">I for one will be gracing the stylish award winning hairdressers again in the very near future.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span lang="EN" style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span lang="EN" style="font-size: small;">For more information on treatments, opening times, and prices at Mahogany Hairdressing visit <a href="http://www.mahoganyhair.co.uk/index.php">Mahogany Hairdressing</a></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span lang="EN" style="font-size: small;">For more information about Wahanda's fab MobDeals visit <a href="http://www.wahanda.com/mobdeal/uk/">Wahanda MobDeal</a> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div></div></div>Naiomi Madden-Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10608815040438405552noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1412055572329697943.post-825962319522457852010-10-07T15:05:00.002+01:002010-10-07T19:14:39.940+01:00Back to school...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_zWRsSDd9AlU/TK4N72gi-kI/AAAAAAAAADw/Vm3Pt8YUC_E/s1600/Back_To_School.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="193" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_zWRsSDd9AlU/TK4N72gi-kI/AAAAAAAAADw/Vm3Pt8YUC_E/s200/Back_To_School.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>So, I've been in my new job for nearly two weeks and I'm now starting to feel like a proper member of the team!<br />
My first day was, in one word, weird.<br />
It was weird because I felt like I was eleven again and just starting high school!<br />
You probably all remember feeling both excited and nervous, dressed in your new school uniform not knowing what the hell the day, left alone years, would consist of. <br />
That's exactly how I felt when I began my new job (only this time I made sure my hair looked nice rather than in a big disgusting pineapple type hairstyle!). <br />
<br />
Even though I'd had two interviews for the job and researched the company I still wasn't 100 per cent sure what my actual job would entail - and to be honest I'm still not exactly sure! <br />
But what I am sure of is I am happy with the way things are going at the moment. My employers (who are oozing with professionalism) are gradually easing me into the role and the company definitely seems to be going places.<br />
<br />
The people are all so friendly, which is always a good thing because no matter how much you love a job if the people are freaks you just don't enjoy the experience as much (plus they seem to like a drink or two something I realised when I was drunk and had to go home at 9pm one night!). <br />
<br />
For the moment I'm happy and the future looks bright. <br />
I hope you all feel the same!<br />
<br />
Until next time people, take care xxxNaiomi Madden-Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10608815040438405552noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1412055572329697943.post-78340056576174502752010-09-16T16:42:00.004+01:002010-11-20T13:25:02.690+00:00She's back!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_zWRsSDd9AlU/TJI6seO3iwI/AAAAAAAAACQ/y4pAldkKN2s/s1600/me.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" qx="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_zWRsSDd9AlU/TJI6seO3iwI/AAAAAAAAACQ/y4pAldkKN2s/s200/me.bmp" width="130" /></a></div>Hello, hello, we finally meet again! <br />
It’s been four months since I last blogged and for that, I am sorry. <br />
But I am back, hell yeah. And in the words of the band Take That (have you heard of them?) I am back for good. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>I’ve changed the blog template (was a bit bored of the other one) and I have added a few new pages (oh yeah call me a technological queen).<br />
Over the coming days I’m going to fill the pages with more info about myself, including both personal and work related stuff. <br />
I’m also going to branch out and do reviews on a number of subjects, such as beauty, fashion, restaurants etc. <br />
So if there is anything you’d like me to test please get in touch! <br />
<br />
It’s been a busy few months in the land of Naiomi. <br />
<br />
Andy and I have booked the majority of suppliers for the wedding of the year (well, next year).<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_zWRsSDd9AlU/TOfMJGLYUXI/AAAAAAAAAEY/m9WWyA1L5vc/s1600/TattonHall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="252" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_zWRsSDd9AlU/TOfMJGLYUXI/AAAAAAAAAEY/m9WWyA1L5vc/s320/TattonHall.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> <span id="goog_105657365"></span><span id="goog_105657366"></span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_zWRsSDd9AlU/TJI6Aibd6cI/AAAAAAAAACI/PK-bFUB9nJA/s1600/Tatton.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" qx="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_zWRsSDd9AlU/TJI6Aibd6cI/AAAAAAAAACI/PK-bFUB9nJA/s320/Tatton.bmp" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tatton Hall (host to Roy and Hayley's wedding in Coronation Street!)</td></tr>
</tbody></table> Planning the big day, which takes places at Tatton Hall in Cheshire in July, has been sooooooo much fun but also quite a lot hard work. <br />
<br />
Those of you who are married will know exactly what I’m talking about. Those of you who haven’t will someday know exactly what I’m talking about! <br />
<br />
Even though the wedding is months away, a bride-to-be can find themselves stressing at the smallest of things. <br />
In my case, it is the favours! <br />
<br />
I mean, bloody hell, who would have thought something as simple as favours would interrupt a person’s sleep?! I honestly do not know why. Does anyone else get bothered by small, unimportant things?! <br />
Anyway, forget trailing around venues, whittling down millions of DJs, choosing the right caterers etc, the favours are and will be (until we decide what to have) the bane of my life! <br />
<br />
<br />
Ok, so what next shall I tell you? <br />
Oh yes, after nearly three years on the Welwyn Hatfield Times and Potters Bar Edition I am off!!!!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_zWRsSDd9AlU/TJI5HnIRtmI/AAAAAAAAACA/k0NW4QuBWs8/s1600/gorkana.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qx="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_zWRsSDd9AlU/TJI5HnIRtmI/AAAAAAAAACA/k0NW4QuBWs8/s320/gorkana.jpg" /></a></div>On September 27, I start my new job with online media business Gorkana. <br />
The company provides a range of products and services to PRs and journalists to help them communicate with each other more effectively.<br />
<br />
They have around 150,000 journalists signed up to their huge database so I may have one of the best contact books in the business!<br />
While I’ll be concentrating on my job at Gorkana (I can't wait to start and learn new things!), I will also carry on with freelance magazine journalism, woo!<br />
Did I tell you my new job is based in Covent Garden in London?! Woo hoo, bring it on!! <br />
<br />
Right, I’ll leave it there for today. <br />
<br />
Until next time… xxx<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.gorkana.com/uk/">http://www.gorkana.com/uk/</a>Naiomi Madden-Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10608815040438405552noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1412055572329697943.post-91858915430892177232010-05-01T14:20:00.005+01:002010-09-15T23:26:10.955+01:00For the love of Twitter!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="235" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_zWRsSDd9AlU/TJFHMGkkYXI/AAAAAAAAABw/lPE05YlnfqU/s400/national_newspapers_montage.jpg" width="400" /><a href="http://twitter.com/Naiomi">Naiomi Twitter </a></div>I absolutely love Twitter.<br />
<br />
Some of you may never have heard about it, some of you may have heard the word because i'm always going on about it, and those of you who do know about it love it just as much as I do!<br />
It's a social networking site, not to unfamiliar with Facebook and MySpace etc.<br />
You follow people (anyone who has an account: celebrities, 'actual' friends, journalists, business people, ANYONE).<br />
You tweet updates (no more than 140 words) every so often to let people know what you're up to and you speak to other people by tweeting them.<br />
<br />
For me, Twitter has been a brilliant tool for making contacts in the media industry (even though I am already a journalist).<br />
Once upon a time it was so hard to be able to speak to an editor of a national magazine or newspaper.<br />
Having known I wanted to become a journalist at the age of 11, I would frequently send letters to journalists in the industry asking for advice and tips on how I could get into my chosen career path.<br />
Sometimes I was lucky.<br />
I got quite a few responses (my favourite one was from GMTV presenter Carla Romano whose best tip was to dress to impress - seeing as though the industry was full of men!). <br />
However, there were also many times I would not get a response at all.<br />
I never got annoyed with that, seeing as though editors are busy people.<br />
<br />
But now luckily for up and coming journalists, there is Twitter!<br />
<br />
Over a year ago, I set out to use Twitter as a way to source industry contacts (something you can't really do on Facebook).<br />
And now I regularly speak to successful magazine editors, journalists, authors, PR people and actors about everything and anything!<br />
Like I said, Twitter is great!<br />
<br />
A few people I work with said Twitter was rubbish.<br />
They just couldn't understand the point of it.<br />
Now, having gone on about it loads, some of these people have converted to Twitter having heard of the benefits - which is great.<br />
<br />
Twitter is not just good for making contacts; it's a valuable tool for sourcing news stories.<br />
Often the biggest news stories appear first on the site before making it into the national newspapers.<br />
<br />
So, getting back to how Twitter has helped me.<br />
Over the year I have worked shifts at Real People magazine, Star magazine and Chat magazine.<br />
I got these placements PURELY through my contacts on Twitter (one of them was by chatting to the editor herself!).<br />
<br />
I've talked/emailed/called/got drunk with editors, journalists, freelancers, an author, a 3am girl and a Cosmopolitan girl (to name a few) about the industry.<br />
All gave me valuable tips - something which would have been a lot harder to do if it had not been for Twitter.<br />
<br />
The majority of the contacts i have made through the site are not just contacts to me anymore; they are actual friends.<br />
We go out, get drunk and have a laugh (just like my actual 'real-life' friends!).<br />
<br />
Of course, you cannot just rely on Twitter to help you further your career, that's something that requires way more work than just joining the site.<br />
But it definitely will not do you any harm.<br />
<br />
Twitter is great, so if you want to get with the times and maybe help your career get joining now.<br />
My name is @Naiomi so get following me and i'll follow you back (if you're lucky!). <br />
<br />
Have a brill weekend.<br />
I'm off to get drunk (with people who unfortunately are not YET on Twitter!!) <br />
<br />
Byeee<br />
xxxNaiomi Madden-Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10608815040438405552noreply@blogger.com3