I have been in love a couple of times, and I love that tingly feeling you get when you see that person, the way you breathe in every inch of them, the way you feel totally at ease with that person. You can just relax and be yourself, and even if the love isn't felt back you still hold a special place in your heart for them.
This is how I feel about New York. I knew i would adore it from the stories people have told me, books I've read, films seen and endless episodes of 'Sex And The City' I have watched. However I wasn't aware of how hard I would fall for it. I have fallen hook line and sinker for this big city. Full of life, New York has a buzz that you can not describe unless you have experienced it for yourself.
Standing in the middle of times square on a busy Thursday night, looking up at the blinding lights,huge billboards, and enjoying the hustle and bustle of Christmas shoppers rushing by whilst taxis honk their horns in frustration. I have never experienced anything quite like it, yet i have never felt so at home.
When looking out at the sun setting behind the skyscrapers, I breathed in the nights air and made a promise to myself and the city that I will return, maybe not this year, maybe not even the next, but I will return and until that day I will hold New York City closely to my heart.
Friday, 9 December 2011
Thursday, 27 October 2011
Are you dazed and confused...
As part of one of my core units for second year we have been asked to pitch a potential magazine to a publishing house... this project immediately excited me. The chance to put ideas together, my ideas something that will open peoples minds, broaden their interests and Draw people in with witty but thought provoking articles.
The first thing me and my group had to do was figure our target market, it became immediately clear that the teen market was seriously lacking in what I would class as good reading material. Therefore it became abundantly obvious that this was the market we should tackle.
Yes, of course you get the standard gender pacific girly magazines and sport magazines for the lads, however is this really enough? I know as a teen I would read the likes of bliss, it being filled to the brim with tips on how to attract boys and all of the stuff I undoubtedly loved during my teen years,However are these interests just a product of society telling me what it is I should like and be concerned with, distracting me from the issues I should of been interested in with all of their fancy type, bright colours and freebies.
This got us thinking why isn't there any alternative magazines out there for teenagers, something less mainstream and less blah,something less gender defining, something appealing to the teenagers out there who care about gigs, unique fashion,comedy,bands,films,plays,books....
People who care about the environment they are growing up into, people who want to make a difference to the world we live. People who want to be influential in the future and get their voices heard. So we are putting together a pitch aimed at these people,boys who are sick of nuts, match of the day and kerrang. And for the girls who just want something other than to learn about how to dress to get boys attention. Im hoping our magazine goes down a treat... will keep you informed... let me know what your feelings are?
Kylie
xxx
The first thing me and my group had to do was figure our target market, it became immediately clear that the teen market was seriously lacking in what I would class as good reading material. Therefore it became abundantly obvious that this was the market we should tackle.
Yes, of course you get the standard gender pacific girly magazines and sport magazines for the lads, however is this really enough? I know as a teen I would read the likes of bliss, it being filled to the brim with tips on how to attract boys and all of the stuff I undoubtedly loved during my teen years,However are these interests just a product of society telling me what it is I should like and be concerned with, distracting me from the issues I should of been interested in with all of their fancy type, bright colours and freebies.
This got us thinking why isn't there any alternative magazines out there for teenagers, something less mainstream and less blah,something less gender defining, something appealing to the teenagers out there who care about gigs, unique fashion,comedy,bands,films,plays,books....
People who care about the environment they are growing up into, people who want to make a difference to the world we live. People who want to be influential in the future and get their voices heard. So we are putting together a pitch aimed at these people,boys who are sick of nuts, match of the day and kerrang. And for the girls who just want something other than to learn about how to dress to get boys attention. Im hoping our magazine goes down a treat... will keep you informed... let me know what your feelings are?
Kylie
xxx
Wednesday, 20 July 2011
Can't blame it on the weather man...
The thought of summer is what drives us British through the months of horrific winter weather, endless months of trying to keep our toes and fingers from falling off.
When summer eventually rolls around we get very excited and dig out the summer shorts and flip flops with such an air of optimism, yet year after year we are bitterly disappointed. We average around a week of actually what could be described as summer weather, and everything in between is disastrous. Being inside watching the rain blast against my window for yet another day got me contemplating why it is that there always seems to be a mad rush for all things summer come spring time? For example T.V adverts blast us with images of the perfect nuclear family enjoying a bbq on a beautiful summer day, bathing in the heat on their new garden furniture sets. It plants this idea in our heads that summer must be coming ,and we must rush down to B&Q and get a new bbq and patio set, so we too can enjoy this bliss just like the family on the T.V seem to be. This of course as we all know from previous experience is totally unnecessary, as by the time we have mowed the lawn, re-planted the flowers that winter has so carefully destroyed and brought a new summer dress, the sun will have disappeared from its five minute appearance and been replaced by big fat rain clouds.
So if we know this is going to happen why do we subject ourselves to this false hope of sunny days filled picnics and long walks? There is one good thing about the summer in this country being so awful it allows us to appreciate the sunshine when it does come out, as we all pull out the summer clothes and head into it hoping to gain a little bit of colour. Sure enough within the blink of an eye it is time to wrap up warm again, pull on layer upon layer and head into the icy cold British winter, with the thoughts of summer pulling us through.
When summer eventually rolls around we get very excited and dig out the summer shorts and flip flops with such an air of optimism, yet year after year we are bitterly disappointed. We average around a week of actually what could be described as summer weather, and everything in between is disastrous. Being inside watching the rain blast against my window for yet another day got me contemplating why it is that there always seems to be a mad rush for all things summer come spring time? For example T.V adverts blast us with images of the perfect nuclear family enjoying a bbq on a beautiful summer day, bathing in the heat on their new garden furniture sets. It plants this idea in our heads that summer must be coming ,and we must rush down to B&Q and get a new bbq and patio set, so we too can enjoy this bliss just like the family on the T.V seem to be. This of course as we all know from previous experience is totally unnecessary, as by the time we have mowed the lawn, re-planted the flowers that winter has so carefully destroyed and brought a new summer dress, the sun will have disappeared from its five minute appearance and been replaced by big fat rain clouds.
So if we know this is going to happen why do we subject ourselves to this false hope of sunny days filled picnics and long walks? There is one good thing about the summer in this country being so awful it allows us to appreciate the sunshine when it does come out, as we all pull out the summer clothes and head into it hoping to gain a little bit of colour. Sure enough within the blink of an eye it is time to wrap up warm again, pull on layer upon layer and head into the icy cold British winter, with the thoughts of summer pulling us through.
Saturday, 2 July 2011
The Polygon
Finally the big day had arrived for me and my seven flat mates to make the big venture into our house. Our very own (well rented) town house, finally somewhere other than the small cramped accommodation that the university halls provided.
As our little family has been through so much for this house, so many problems, people dropping out, money worries etc.it finally felt as though we had gotten back up on our feet and had got a beautiful home to match our beautiful family.
Other than some disappointments with the general cleanliness of the property, the house went beyond what I remember it to be.
Its strange now, although we all moaned about halls, the size of the rooms, the state of our out-dated kitchen and many problems with the appliances. We all had a sense of loss as we said goodbye to our Deanry Halls, what had become our little piece of home for the last several months, will shortly become someone else’s piece of home.
We have had some great memories in that place, became different people to the people we went in there as, made many friendships and created our family from a group of total strangers.
And as we moved our stuff across to The Polygon House, I thought to myself , yes it is sad that we are no longer officially freshers and yes we no longer have the security that halls provides. I cant help but have the feeling of excitement buzzing through my veins.
I have a feeling this will be an amazing next couple of years in this house. We shall make loads of new memories, friends and throw some damn good parties.
So cheers to Deanry , but Hello The Polygon!!
Kylie xXx
As our little family has been through so much for this house, so many problems, people dropping out, money worries etc.it finally felt as though we had gotten back up on our feet and had got a beautiful home to match our beautiful family.
Other than some disappointments with the general cleanliness of the property, the house went beyond what I remember it to be.
Its strange now, although we all moaned about halls, the size of the rooms, the state of our out-dated kitchen and many problems with the appliances. We all had a sense of loss as we said goodbye to our Deanry Halls, what had become our little piece of home for the last several months, will shortly become someone else’s piece of home.
We have had some great memories in that place, became different people to the people we went in there as, made many friendships and created our family from a group of total strangers.
And as we moved our stuff across to The Polygon House, I thought to myself , yes it is sad that we are no longer officially freshers and yes we no longer have the security that halls provides. I cant help but have the feeling of excitement buzzing through my veins.
I have a feeling this will be an amazing next couple of years in this house. We shall make loads of new memories, friends and throw some damn good parties.
So cheers to Deanry , but Hello The Polygon!!
Kylie xXx
Friday, 27 May 2011
Men are like a well trusted make-up product...
What is it about a particular brand that makes us girls cry out for it?
This question I pondered when having a conversation with one of my closest friends about make-up. We all have our favourites one foundation, concealer or perhaps a mascara, that we stick to, that never steers us wrong.
Now imagine my friends horror when her concealer finally dies on her and she is forced to boots to purchase some more of her trusted brand, the same type and colour that she has used for years, but wait it is no longer there. She panics and thinks "what will i do if they have run out? Ill have to trudge around the stores looking for it!" she asks a shop assistant if they have any more left, out back or if not when will the next order be coming in? The shop assistant regretful informs my friend that "They discontinued that line, so we wont be getting any more in."
Oh the frustration, the panic the hatred toward the poor member of staff who delivered this devastating news. When my friend told me of her troubles, I instantly compared make-up and a relationship;
It starts with you picking it up, and thinking yes this could work for me, it looks appealing and will (if it does what it promises in the adverts) make you happy. So you buy the product, instantly committing yourself to it, and as you use it daily you begin to love this product, and when it runs out you go for exactly the same again. You trust it and feel that you will never stray from it. You may cheat on it with other brands, but you will always end up staying loyal to it coming back to purchase it again and again. And this is exactly why when you can no longer have it it breaks your heart. You feel at a loss, feel like you will never have anything as good as it again. However never fear , one day you will find something just as perfect, it may take a few tries and fails to get there but you will one day find love with a product again.
With this parting advice I told my friend "Go with benefit, it will never let you down."
Kylie xXx
This question I pondered when having a conversation with one of my closest friends about make-up. We all have our favourites one foundation, concealer or perhaps a mascara, that we stick to, that never steers us wrong.
Now imagine my friends horror when her concealer finally dies on her and she is forced to boots to purchase some more of her trusted brand, the same type and colour that she has used for years, but wait it is no longer there. She panics and thinks "what will i do if they have run out? Ill have to trudge around the stores looking for it!" she asks a shop assistant if they have any more left, out back or if not when will the next order be coming in? The shop assistant regretful informs my friend that "They discontinued that line, so we wont be getting any more in."
Oh the frustration, the panic the hatred toward the poor member of staff who delivered this devastating news. When my friend told me of her troubles, I instantly compared make-up and a relationship;
It starts with you picking it up, and thinking yes this could work for me, it looks appealing and will (if it does what it promises in the adverts) make you happy. So you buy the product, instantly committing yourself to it, and as you use it daily you begin to love this product, and when it runs out you go for exactly the same again. You trust it and feel that you will never stray from it. You may cheat on it with other brands, but you will always end up staying loyal to it coming back to purchase it again and again. And this is exactly why when you can no longer have it it breaks your heart. You feel at a loss, feel like you will never have anything as good as it again. However never fear , one day you will find something just as perfect, it may take a few tries and fails to get there but you will one day find love with a product again.
With this parting advice I told my friend "Go with benefit, it will never let you down."
Kylie xXx
Tuesday, 24 May 2011
I do... Not ? or maybe I do ... urmmm Ill get back to you....?
Weddings: A beautiful day to celebrate a couples love and devotion to one another? A way for a couple to prove to the world (or a collection of friends and family) that they are the real thing and will last forever? Or simply a excuse to wear a nice dress, be the centre of attention and have a huge piss up in your honour. What ever way you look at them they are surely a good thing yes...??
I am contemplating the idea of marriage, not for myself but because I have a wedding to attend in about a weeks time. Which means I am faced with the dilemma of what to wear. I have been told by the bride that it is not a 'formal do' and 'It is something casual and like a family reunion with lots of alcohol'
So with this information, I decided to go for something casual, a little summer dress, I did not fancy rocking up to the wedding over dressed in a formal cocktail dress. I know the day should be more about the love and the coming together of two families, but it does bring on alot of concern and panic for the guests involved, well it does for me anyway.
I love to have everything planed when it comes to an outfit for a special occasion, everything down to the last detail. This may be an issue If some mad/crazy foolish man ever dares to make me his wife. I will be and to quote my mother "An ultimate bride-zilla" Slightly harsh, but undoubtedly the case, I have already (like most women) planned my wedding, well the important parts any way; The dress, The shoes, the colour scheme and the flowers. This I feel is not obsessive and Ill be sure to let the future Mr Kylie's Bitch have a few impacted decisions of how the day shall be. But lets face it us girls, dream of having this day a day to be admired, envied and praised, so I would expect nothing less.
So when It comes to picking an outfit for as a guest to the wedding, i believe it is a huge dilemma, one that should not be approached lightly.
Because the pictures taken from this day will be in the family album for years to come and I for one do not wish to look like I have been just woken up and am having a what is becoming increasingly common in my world 'slob day'
Kylie xXx
I am contemplating the idea of marriage, not for myself but because I have a wedding to attend in about a weeks time. Which means I am faced with the dilemma of what to wear. I have been told by the bride that it is not a 'formal do' and 'It is something casual and like a family reunion with lots of alcohol'
So with this information, I decided to go for something casual, a little summer dress, I did not fancy rocking up to the wedding over dressed in a formal cocktail dress. I know the day should be more about the love and the coming together of two families, but it does bring on alot of concern and panic for the guests involved, well it does for me anyway.
I love to have everything planed when it comes to an outfit for a special occasion, everything down to the last detail. This may be an issue If some mad/crazy foolish man ever dares to make me his wife. I will be and to quote my mother "An ultimate bride-zilla" Slightly harsh, but undoubtedly the case, I have already (like most women) planned my wedding, well the important parts any way; The dress, The shoes, the colour scheme and the flowers. This I feel is not obsessive and Ill be sure to let the future Mr Kylie's Bitch have a few impacted decisions of how the day shall be. But lets face it us girls, dream of having this day a day to be admired, envied and praised, so I would expect nothing less.
So when It comes to picking an outfit for as a guest to the wedding, i believe it is a huge dilemma, one that should not be approached lightly.
Because the pictures taken from this day will be in the family album for years to come and I for one do not wish to look like I have been just woken up and am having a what is becoming increasingly common in my world 'slob day'
Kylie xXx
Sunday, 22 May 2011
Because I miss him...
My second tattoo...
I have now booked my second tattoo, and the nerves are getting the best of me. Since my first tattoo in August 2008 I have been determined to despite the pain get another one. People say they are addictive, I would not necessarily agree with that, however it is true once you take the plunge once it begs the question what is stopping you from doing it again?
Seen as it was so long ago I got mine the memory of the pain and nervousness has had time to fade and me being determined and willing to put myself through it all again, booked it for next Friday.
I wanted something that would hold true meaning to me, something that I would be able to look at and it would conjure up memories, so therefore I have chosen to get a feather on the inside of my foot, a sign that a guardian angel is watching me. Someone once told me that if a feather lands by your foot then that is what is symbolizes, this I never gave much thought to until my Pops passed away a few years ago and now from time to time I always find a little white feather floating around on the odd occasion anyway.
I know most people find this simply crazy and believe me I'm not 100% sure if i truly believe this to be the case, however I know in my heart my Pops was always therefore me in life so why should he stop after this. So when I finally get this long awaited tattoo on Friday , when people ask me why I chose this , I can say with truth "Its because I miss him"
Kylie xXx
I have now booked my second tattoo, and the nerves are getting the best of me. Since my first tattoo in August 2008 I have been determined to despite the pain get another one. People say they are addictive, I would not necessarily agree with that, however it is true once you take the plunge once it begs the question what is stopping you from doing it again?
Seen as it was so long ago I got mine the memory of the pain and nervousness has had time to fade and me being determined and willing to put myself through it all again, booked it for next Friday.
I wanted something that would hold true meaning to me, something that I would be able to look at and it would conjure up memories, so therefore I have chosen to get a feather on the inside of my foot, a sign that a guardian angel is watching me. Someone once told me that if a feather lands by your foot then that is what is symbolizes, this I never gave much thought to until my Pops passed away a few years ago and now from time to time I always find a little white feather floating around on the odd occasion anyway.
I know most people find this simply crazy and believe me I'm not 100% sure if i truly believe this to be the case, however I know in my heart my Pops was always therefore me in life so why should he stop after this. So when I finally get this long awaited tattoo on Friday , when people ask me why I chose this , I can say with truth "Its because I miss him"
Kylie xXx
Friday, 6 May 2011
News story ( Uni work)
Is the student experience costing more than we bargained for?
With the cost of student accommodation increasing, are students being discouraged from coming to university and in turn missing out on the experiences that come with living in student residences?
As prices for almost everything in the UK increase, the rise for university-supplied student accommodation is no exception. According to the NUS (National Union for students) the cost of student living has risen by 22% in the last three years.
With students in London paying up to £150 a week for their room in halls, is living the student experience worth the price. The university tuition are fees set to increase in the near future, can young people afford to both live in halls and pay their tuition? More and more students are choosing to commute in order to save money on accommodation. Luke Sisley, 20 a psychology student a Coventry University chose this option when it came to his second year: “I chose to commute into Coventry from my home in Milton Keynes as I was paying huge amounts for my standard university room, I was paying around £3,800 a year for a non en-suite bedroom. By staying at home and working when I don’t have to be at university is saving me loads on food and rent.”
“The standard of the halls of residence was nowhere near worth the money which I paid for it. The cleaners were poor, the staff were unhelpful and the common room was untidy and just consisted of a sofa and a TV. It is bad when they advertise halls in the prospectus as something totally different; they portray the halls as a clean, well equipped place to live when in theory it is something totally different.”
Prices seem to vary depending on the area of the UK. Students in Liverpool pay as little as £55 a week, and it seems the further south you go the more you have to pay. Ian Dodkins, has been the Residence Manager at Solent University for almost ten years, he says: “If you compare the package that is 'residences' with what is on offer in the private sector you will find that they offer real value. Look at - Safety, cost, service delivery, contract length.” With students in Southampton paying around £105 a week for a room in halls, is it truly value for money? “Students choose the kind of accommodation they would like, so they pay more for en-suites than they would in halls with shared bathroom facilities, therefore they get what they pay for and I believe it is fair deal.”
With this ‘real value’ package what is it exactly that students get? A room, internet connection, one common room and a laundry room between three blocks. Surely the university should understand that we are in fact students, living on our student loans and this means we struggle to get by on what is left after our accommodation fees come out.
Hyperlinks:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/8584415.stm
http://www.guardian.co.uk/education/2010/aug/19/student-accommodation-fresher-university
http://www.guardian.co.uk/buisness/2010/aug/16/student-accomodation-private-equity
With the cost of student accommodation increasing, are students being discouraged from coming to university and in turn missing out on the experiences that come with living in student residences?
As prices for almost everything in the UK increase, the rise for university-supplied student accommodation is no exception. According to the NUS (National Union for students) the cost of student living has risen by 22% in the last three years.
With students in London paying up to £150 a week for their room in halls, is living the student experience worth the price. The university tuition are fees set to increase in the near future, can young people afford to both live in halls and pay their tuition? More and more students are choosing to commute in order to save money on accommodation. Luke Sisley, 20 a psychology student a Coventry University chose this option when it came to his second year: “I chose to commute into Coventry from my home in Milton Keynes as I was paying huge amounts for my standard university room, I was paying around £3,800 a year for a non en-suite bedroom. By staying at home and working when I don’t have to be at university is saving me loads on food and rent.”
“The standard of the halls of residence was nowhere near worth the money which I paid for it. The cleaners were poor, the staff were unhelpful and the common room was untidy and just consisted of a sofa and a TV. It is bad when they advertise halls in the prospectus as something totally different; they portray the halls as a clean, well equipped place to live when in theory it is something totally different.”
Prices seem to vary depending on the area of the UK. Students in Liverpool pay as little as £55 a week, and it seems the further south you go the more you have to pay. Ian Dodkins, has been the Residence Manager at Solent University for almost ten years, he says: “If you compare the package that is 'residences' with what is on offer in the private sector you will find that they offer real value. Look at - Safety, cost, service delivery, contract length.” With students in Southampton paying around £105 a week for a room in halls, is it truly value for money? “Students choose the kind of accommodation they would like, so they pay more for en-suites than they would in halls with shared bathroom facilities, therefore they get what they pay for and I believe it is fair deal.”
With this ‘real value’ package what is it exactly that students get? A room, internet connection, one common room and a laundry room between three blocks. Surely the university should understand that we are in fact students, living on our student loans and this means we struggle to get by on what is left after our accommodation fees come out.
Hyperlinks:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/8584415.stm
http://www.guardian.co.uk/education/2010/aug/19/student-accommodation-fresher-university
http://www.guardian.co.uk/buisness/2010/aug/16/student-accomodation-private-equity
Coz we were born this way...
The ever eccentric Lady Gaga, has since the beginning of her successful music career turned heads with her outrageous costumes choices and unique sense of style. She is always pushing the boundaries of acceptability by constantly shocking and causing much controversy. Probably one of the most shocking and memorable choices being her outfit which she wore to the MTV music Video Awards in September a dress and head piece made out of meat.
So isn’t really surprising that the superstar is being awarded for her efforts. As Lady Gaga is set to receive the style icon award this June. Presented to her on behalf of the CDFA (Council of fashion designers of America)
It raises the question Does she really deserve this award? Surely a more likely winner would be someone like Emma Watson or Alexa Chung, whose picture is splattered across magazines all the time praising their style. And there is no doubt in my mind if you see them in a piece of clothing the next week you will see replicas of these pieces on the high street selling like hot cakes because of who had been seen wearing them. As her wardrobe does not consist of outfits that the average fan could easily copy it makes Lady Gaga seem an unlikely candidate for this award, however perhaps that is the point. She certainly stands out from your average pop star.
Too many people in today’s society just follow the trends, wear what they feel is socially acceptable, clothes to make them fit in, clothes to make others form an opinion based on what it is they are wearing. It all goes back to our school days, when you would wear what everyone one else was wearing and if you didn’t surely you’ll be seen as an outsider.
By showing individuality Lady Gaga, is encouraging everyone out there it is okay to be different, it is okay to express your personality with the way you dress. Although it is highly unlikely that soon we will see a million Lady Gaga inspired people walking around dressed head to toe in meat, it would be nice to see more people creating and putting their own stamp on clothing.
In my personal opinion Lady Gaga deserves this award, as anyone who puts a tea cup on her head for an interview with Jonathon Ross is a legend in the making.
My take on Lady Gaga’s famous teacup headwear.
So isn’t really surprising that the superstar is being awarded for her efforts. As Lady Gaga is set to receive the style icon award this June. Presented to her on behalf of the CDFA (Council of fashion designers of America)
It raises the question Does she really deserve this award? Surely a more likely winner would be someone like Emma Watson or Alexa Chung, whose picture is splattered across magazines all the time praising their style. And there is no doubt in my mind if you see them in a piece of clothing the next week you will see replicas of these pieces on the high street selling like hot cakes because of who had been seen wearing them. As her wardrobe does not consist of outfits that the average fan could easily copy it makes Lady Gaga seem an unlikely candidate for this award, however perhaps that is the point. She certainly stands out from your average pop star.
Too many people in today’s society just follow the trends, wear what they feel is socially acceptable, clothes to make them fit in, clothes to make others form an opinion based on what it is they are wearing. It all goes back to our school days, when you would wear what everyone one else was wearing and if you didn’t surely you’ll be seen as an outsider.
By showing individuality Lady Gaga, is encouraging everyone out there it is okay to be different, it is okay to express your personality with the way you dress. Although it is highly unlikely that soon we will see a million Lady Gaga inspired people walking around dressed head to toe in meat, it would be nice to see more people creating and putting their own stamp on clothing.
In my personal opinion Lady Gaga deserves this award, as anyone who puts a tea cup on her head for an interview with Jonathon Ross is a legend in the making.
My take on Lady Gaga’s famous teacup headwear.
Sunday, 17 April 2011
Nearlly end of first year...some great times to look back on..
As the end of my first year approaches, i am left with a feeling of sadness.. I loved this year, it has given me so many experiences some great memories and some best friends.
Looking back to before I came to Solent, i was nervous, excited and apprehensive about my journey into independence. (before uni id never even used a washing machine, believe it or not) So i was understandably scared. I even remember saying to my mum on the drive down that id give it to Christmas and see how I go... now I think i never want to leave uni!
I was lucky though because I got blessed with a great group of flatmates, although we have had our share of ups and downs, endless amounts of gossip and giggles. New comers and leavers ... we all will agree i'm sure that we have been lucky.
We have had pranks, (I've previously commented on this blog about those) we have learnt new things, we know sooo much perhaps too much about each other after spending this year together. We have seen tears, break ups and get togethers.
For me personally Uni has given me a chance to improve my skills in terms of the course a chance to travel to places id never been or will have the chance to go to. New York this December coming... exciting and Paris a month ago.
Ive progressed so much as a person by this experience , before I came I was working full time , stuck in a day to day job, which don't get me wrong I did enjoy but there was always some thing missing.
I relied on my mum way to much, and when i go home to visit I do like letting her run around for me. Ive gained so much needed independence however, i can now wash my own clothes without getting all confused about fabric and temperatures, Ive learnt how to manage my money, where as when i was working full time my money went on my car and clothes and many a drunken night out. Now Ive managed to cut back and budget, a valuable skill to have in this economy.
Ive lost boyfriends, gained one, lost him too.. Ive cried, Ive missed home, Ive worked hard , Ive been pleased with myself and disappointed also. Its all part of the fun.
To draw this blog entry to a close, I would just like to say to any one considering university, that it is something you must do, and jump in with both feet and take as many opportunities as you can. Uni is full of drunk nights, fun times, great people. And although there is tears, stress and unfortunately a mountain of assignments, as i look back in this easter holidays i do have a chuckle to myself and look forward to what the future will bring, a new house, new friends and lots of great new memories to be gained.
Kylie xXx
Looking back to before I came to Solent, i was nervous, excited and apprehensive about my journey into independence. (before uni id never even used a washing machine, believe it or not) So i was understandably scared. I even remember saying to my mum on the drive down that id give it to Christmas and see how I go... now I think i never want to leave uni!
I was lucky though because I got blessed with a great group of flatmates, although we have had our share of ups and downs, endless amounts of gossip and giggles. New comers and leavers ... we all will agree i'm sure that we have been lucky.
We have had pranks, (I've previously commented on this blog about those) we have learnt new things, we know sooo much perhaps too much about each other after spending this year together. We have seen tears, break ups and get togethers.
For me personally Uni has given me a chance to improve my skills in terms of the course a chance to travel to places id never been or will have the chance to go to. New York this December coming... exciting and Paris a month ago.
Ive progressed so much as a person by this experience , before I came I was working full time , stuck in a day to day job, which don't get me wrong I did enjoy but there was always some thing missing.
I relied on my mum way to much, and when i go home to visit I do like letting her run around for me. Ive gained so much needed independence however, i can now wash my own clothes without getting all confused about fabric and temperatures, Ive learnt how to manage my money, where as when i was working full time my money went on my car and clothes and many a drunken night out. Now Ive managed to cut back and budget, a valuable skill to have in this economy.
Ive lost boyfriends, gained one, lost him too.. Ive cried, Ive missed home, Ive worked hard , Ive been pleased with myself and disappointed also. Its all part of the fun.
To draw this blog entry to a close, I would just like to say to any one considering university, that it is something you must do, and jump in with both feet and take as many opportunities as you can. Uni is full of drunk nights, fun times, great people. And although there is tears, stress and unfortunately a mountain of assignments, as i look back in this easter holidays i do have a chuckle to myself and look forward to what the future will bring, a new house, new friends and lots of great new memories to be gained.
Kylie xXx
Wednesday, 9 March 2011
Paris - Like or Dislike ?
Since September I have been looking forward to the University trip to Paris. Paris for me screamed romance, fashion and beauty. So armed with the guide book my flat mate Emily very lovingly made for me I set off on a little adventure.
It was a long journey, early morning start, endless hours on the coach and then the dreaded ferry! Then more hours on the coach.... I was starting to think was it worth it. What will Paris hold that will take my breath away and capture my heart? Id been told you either love Paris or hate it , just like Marmite (which i find strange that I neither love or hate it i merely find it ok.)
The best way I could explain Paris to you guys is like London, just cleaner, prettier and easier to get lost. So im going to do this blog as a sort of likes and dislikes of paris...
Likes.
The fact it was sunny.
The taste of snails, surprisingly nice.
The cute little cafe they have everywhere.
The magazines
Fashion Week
The Effiel tower and various other tourist hot spots.
The cakes.
The backstreet vintage shops.
The fact Starbucks is cheaper,
Dislikes.
The metro system .. why is it so much harder to use than the underground? and its busier and scarier.
The way people drive out there. Maniacs.
The men trying to sell you cheap looking Souvenirs every five mins.
Being called Miss English or lady gaga, French people obviously aren't very aware of who or should i say what lady gaga is.
Weirdos staring at you.
Gyspies everywhere asking for money!
The main stream french shops.
Other than that...
I felt the trip was amazing, however when asked if i would go back I'm not sure I would in a hurry. I think deep down inside Im a I <3 LONDON girl more than I <3 PARIS girl.
Kylie xxx
It was a long journey, early morning start, endless hours on the coach and then the dreaded ferry! Then more hours on the coach.... I was starting to think was it worth it. What will Paris hold that will take my breath away and capture my heart? Id been told you either love Paris or hate it , just like Marmite (which i find strange that I neither love or hate it i merely find it ok.)
The best way I could explain Paris to you guys is like London, just cleaner, prettier and easier to get lost. So im going to do this blog as a sort of likes and dislikes of paris...
Likes.
The fact it was sunny.
The taste of snails, surprisingly nice.
The cute little cafe they have everywhere.
The magazines
Fashion Week
The Effiel tower and various other tourist hot spots.
The cakes.
The backstreet vintage shops.
The fact Starbucks is cheaper,
Dislikes.
The metro system .. why is it so much harder to use than the underground? and its busier and scarier.
The way people drive out there. Maniacs.
The men trying to sell you cheap looking Souvenirs every five mins.
Being called Miss English or lady gaga, French people obviously aren't very aware of who or should i say what lady gaga is.
Weirdos staring at you.
Gyspies everywhere asking for money!
The main stream french shops.
Other than that...
I felt the trip was amazing, however when asked if i would go back I'm not sure I would in a hurry. I think deep down inside Im a I <3 LONDON girl more than I <3 PARIS girl.
Kylie xxx
Sunday, 27 February 2011
A TV review...
Love Virtually ...
This channel 4 show approaches Internet dating with maybe too much optimism. All the women on this show who are sharing their experiences portray women who use these dating websites as way to be crazy desperate stalkers. They talk about how they spend hours before and after a date stalking facebook, for pictures and any information about the men they speak to. Surely this is not healthy or a great impression to give?
The show works around one Internet bloggers search for romance. Claire Ward plays 30-year-old Lucy Robinson another hopeful woman in the search for Mr. Right. Whilst Lucy’s story plays out, we get the experience and opinions from ‘real’ women about their time on the crazy world on online dating.
The one obvious thing the show is lacking apart from a believable actress is a male opinion; it focuses on the fairer sex and their stories, when it should take into account the male perspective.
According to Channel 4 a staggering 7 million people signed up for internet dating last year, so it is easy to see how this show is relevant to the modern technologically advanced world we live in. With it now being easier than ever to find other singles, it becomes as easy to meet a man as it does ordering a takeaway, you simply pick what you like, try it out, if you like it have it again and if not bin it. Simple.
The show gives you an insight to the world of online dating, it does not sugar coat it either which is nice as you see various internet dating websites advertised on the TV and they all give the picture that if you were to sign up for one of these you will find love, which is not in a lot of cases true. However some do offer your money back, which let’s face it would be slightly embarrassing and frustrating to admit defeat. In my personal opinion I can see why internet dating would appeal to certain people but I stick to my guns that surely knowing basically everything about someone before you meet them takes away some of the magic of the first date.
Love virtually seems to support internet dating yet none of the women who have been chosen to feature in it seem to have amazing experiences. This show is worth a watch even if it is just for pure giggles.
This channel 4 show approaches Internet dating with maybe too much optimism. All the women on this show who are sharing their experiences portray women who use these dating websites as way to be crazy desperate stalkers. They talk about how they spend hours before and after a date stalking facebook, for pictures and any information about the men they speak to. Surely this is not healthy or a great impression to give?
The show works around one Internet bloggers search for romance. Claire Ward plays 30-year-old Lucy Robinson another hopeful woman in the search for Mr. Right. Whilst Lucy’s story plays out, we get the experience and opinions from ‘real’ women about their time on the crazy world on online dating.
The one obvious thing the show is lacking apart from a believable actress is a male opinion; it focuses on the fairer sex and their stories, when it should take into account the male perspective.
According to Channel 4 a staggering 7 million people signed up for internet dating last year, so it is easy to see how this show is relevant to the modern technologically advanced world we live in. With it now being easier than ever to find other singles, it becomes as easy to meet a man as it does ordering a takeaway, you simply pick what you like, try it out, if you like it have it again and if not bin it. Simple.
The show gives you an insight to the world of online dating, it does not sugar coat it either which is nice as you see various internet dating websites advertised on the TV and they all give the picture that if you were to sign up for one of these you will find love, which is not in a lot of cases true. However some do offer your money back, which let’s face it would be slightly embarrassing and frustrating to admit defeat. In my personal opinion I can see why internet dating would appeal to certain people but I stick to my guns that surely knowing basically everything about someone before you meet them takes away some of the magic of the first date.
Love virtually seems to support internet dating yet none of the women who have been chosen to feature in it seem to have amazing experiences. This show is worth a watch even if it is just for pure giggles.
Tuesday, 22 February 2011
Push it , push it...
Everyone knows that the majority of people when they start university inevitably gain a few pounds, prob's from all the fatty foods, lack of exercise and most likely the alcohol. So me and my flat mates, decided enough was enough of sitting around moaning about our excess fat, we decided we should do a work out DVD.
So out came the pussycat dolls workout, on came the leg warmers and pulled out from the depth of our wardrobes came the exercise bra's.
We locked our selves in the kitchen, banned the boys from entering and did a full hour! yes a full hour of pussycat dance routines, and they can only be described as raunchy , fast and incredibly hard! It was a giggle though. And we have promised to ourselves that we shall keep this up and try to do it at least twice a week, it shall be fun to see how long this actually lasts.
Hopefully before we return home at easter we shall be slim and sexy just like the pussycat dolls...
Well thats it for me for this blog, i'm off to have a packet of crisps...all that exercise has made me hungry. ha
Kylie xXx
So out came the pussycat dolls workout, on came the leg warmers and pulled out from the depth of our wardrobes came the exercise bra's.
We locked our selves in the kitchen, banned the boys from entering and did a full hour! yes a full hour of pussycat dance routines, and they can only be described as raunchy , fast and incredibly hard! It was a giggle though. And we have promised to ourselves that we shall keep this up and try to do it at least twice a week, it shall be fun to see how long this actually lasts.
Hopefully before we return home at easter we shall be slim and sexy just like the pussycat dolls...
Well thats it for me for this blog, i'm off to have a packet of crisps...all that exercise has made me hungry. ha
Kylie xXx
Friday, 18 February 2011
A bunch of pranksters...
What is it with guys and their boyish pranks on each other.... I never really gave this much thought until the other night after a night out with my flat mates. I witnessed the prank war in full frontal messiness.
Our flat has always been one to play jokes and have a laugh with one another... in the first week or so of university the boys started a 'flat war' with the other flat, by posting an empty condom , filled with hand cream under their door, they soon repayed us by covering our door in ketup, eggs and mustard.They even posted a note under all the flats in our block doors, an invite to a party at ours so we had random people knocking on our door all evening.
It was all fun and games, and then the boys in our flat decided to turn their creativity on each other, they have done allsorts, hidden each others mattresses, tin foiled everything in someones room, selo-taped everything to the ceiling, drawn over each other in marker pen whilst the other one has been sleeping.... even tried to get me with the old cling-film over the toilet prank , lucky i was to smart / not drunk enough and caught them out.
The other day the pranks where taken to an ultimate high, when one of the king pranksters filled a empty bin up with water and lent it against the door of another lad, so when he would open his door the bin would tip into his room and spill loads and i mean loads of water into his room.
Needless to say it was hilarious, although a bit stupid as the room will start to smell of stagnant water and then in turn the hallway will smell also.
This seemed a good way to end the prank war, yes...? Well no apparently not, according to my sources the victim of the water prank, is currently thinking up ideas of how to get him back... oh my lord this should be messy! ha!
Kylie xXX
Our flat has always been one to play jokes and have a laugh with one another... in the first week or so of university the boys started a 'flat war' with the other flat, by posting an empty condom , filled with hand cream under their door, they soon repayed us by covering our door in ketup, eggs and mustard.They even posted a note under all the flats in our block doors, an invite to a party at ours so we had random people knocking on our door all evening.
It was all fun and games, and then the boys in our flat decided to turn their creativity on each other, they have done allsorts, hidden each others mattresses, tin foiled everything in someones room, selo-taped everything to the ceiling, drawn over each other in marker pen whilst the other one has been sleeping.... even tried to get me with the old cling-film over the toilet prank , lucky i was to smart / not drunk enough and caught them out.
The other day the pranks where taken to an ultimate high, when one of the king pranksters filled a empty bin up with water and lent it against the door of another lad, so when he would open his door the bin would tip into his room and spill loads and i mean loads of water into his room.
Needless to say it was hilarious, although a bit stupid as the room will start to smell of stagnant water and then in turn the hallway will smell also.
This seemed a good way to end the prank war, yes...? Well no apparently not, according to my sources the victim of the water prank, is currently thinking up ideas of how to get him back... oh my lord this should be messy! ha!
Kylie xXX
Thursday, 10 February 2011
My shoes
I have a passion for shoes, some might say I have a slight obsession.
It all started when I was around twelve and my mum let me go shopping with my friends in the local city shopping centre by myself. I spent all my pocket money on shoes and started to build up quite a collection. Although mostly in those days it was trainers and ballet pumps that I owned, as I grew up so did my shoe collection. It developed into "Every outfit needs a new pair of shoes."
To my dad's despair I would leave them laying in the hall, four or five pairs at least would be taking all the room up in our tiny hallway. He would often shout at me "Kylie, how many pairs of feet do you have?" He would chuck them up the stairs, throw them into the dingy under-stairs cupboard, and even throw them out into the front garden. Yes, many of argument over the years would be on the subject of my shoes.
My parents even brought me a shoe rack for my room so I could store all my shoes nicely. However this just encouraged me to buy more in order to fill the rack up. I quickly gained more and more pairs. My parents even brought me my first designer pair, Jimmy Choo's (I am terrified to wear them, as they are my babies.)So therefore they are a little bit to blame.
As soon as I got my first part time job during my six form days, most my wages would go on shoes and then of course clothes to match these shoes.
When I came to uni however I made a promise to myself not to buy any more shoes. I decided enough was enough, and I kept this promise, until it was my birthday and with the money I got given I brought another 5 pairs (amongst other things.) Ok I have an addiction; I even have a part time job as well as uni in order to fund this dreadful habit. I nearly had a panic attack over Christmas, when going ice skating and I had to hand over my new shoes to the chavy looking young guy behind the counter, I literally said to him: "I know your probably just going to throw them into the rack, but please, please be careful they are new and I love them." He looked at me like I was crazy, then without a hesitation chucked them into the rack.
It has now got to be seriously worrying, as I have no room in my tiny bedroom to put all of my shoes. They are all displayed around my bed, in the shoe rack, in the wardrobe; I have shoes spilling out of every corner of the room.
Why do I need so many? Well the answer is quite simple, I am a female, I need something to cheer me up when I feel sad, something to congratulate myself with when I've done well, and something to save for. It’s much better to treat myself to something I can keep forever, rather than buy Ben and Jerry's and pig out when I’m down or go out binge drinking. However I have vowed to myself no more shoes! 45 pairs is enough now. I mean it this time....
Although I do have a fabulous new dress for a birthday party this Friday, so I may need to get some fabulous new shoes to match.
Kylie xXx
Tuesday, 8 February 2011
The great Dilemma
Okay guys , why is it that life is never simple? Why do be always want what we can't have?
I started my university experience with the attitude that I could live off of my loans and grants etc. However After scrapping by last term I decided that maybe that was not such a great way to continue this term, and a small part time job to keep my head above the water would be a good idea for me. So I searched and searched, and I found a vacancy, applied, got an interview and immediately got offered the job.Which is great right? well thats what I thought. It would mean I would be able to afford a small holiday this summer and keep me fed. However also means that I would not be able to pop home when ever I feel like a weekend back.
This causes a dilemma, as I don't get to see my friends, boyfriend or family unless they travel to see me. And even if they do manage to do this, I still have to work all day sat and most of Sunday also, so I would not really be able to see them much anyway.
So Ive thought about quiting, but in reality why would I do that? I mean I like my job, I like the people I work with and lets face it the money comes in handy.
The life us students lead is not all peachy as non-students would have you believe, we have barely enough maintenance grant&loans to cover the rent, we have to pay silly amounts to do the laundry and equipment for our courses does not come cheap. So I need this job, yet I am also a home girl who loves my trips home. It is in fact one huge dilemma.
Despite all this bitching about money and how hard it is to be a student, I would not swap it for the life I used to lead of working 9-5 everyday.
In a nutshell being a student , is the best career choice I could ever make.
Kylie xXx
I started my university experience with the attitude that I could live off of my loans and grants etc. However After scrapping by last term I decided that maybe that was not such a great way to continue this term, and a small part time job to keep my head above the water would be a good idea for me. So I searched and searched, and I found a vacancy, applied, got an interview and immediately got offered the job.Which is great right? well thats what I thought. It would mean I would be able to afford a small holiday this summer and keep me fed. However also means that I would not be able to pop home when ever I feel like a weekend back.
This causes a dilemma, as I don't get to see my friends, boyfriend or family unless they travel to see me. And even if they do manage to do this, I still have to work all day sat and most of Sunday also, so I would not really be able to see them much anyway.
So Ive thought about quiting, but in reality why would I do that? I mean I like my job, I like the people I work with and lets face it the money comes in handy.
The life us students lead is not all peachy as non-students would have you believe, we have barely enough maintenance grant&loans to cover the rent, we have to pay silly amounts to do the laundry and equipment for our courses does not come cheap. So I need this job, yet I am also a home girl who loves my trips home. It is in fact one huge dilemma.
Despite all this bitching about money and how hard it is to be a student, I would not swap it for the life I used to lead of working 9-5 everyday.
In a nutshell being a student , is the best career choice I could ever make.
Kylie xXx
Sunday, 6 February 2011
For all the little people.
Right, this blog is going to come across a little bit like a rant of a mad woman, however at this point I do not care. I am sick and tired of people commenting on my height. Just today at work I had an elderly man, well i say elderly , he was old enough to know better but not old enough to come across a sweet old man. He asked me after I greeted him at the entrance of my work place "Is every one in your family this petite? Your mother? Your father?" After biting my tongue I informed him "Yes, yes we are." I even mmanaged a smile. He Tutted. Yes tutted. And said must be hard to find clothes, absolutely gobsmacked I was.
Yes It can be hard in the world of a little person , however I do not see it as a bad trait some times. It means during gigs I can sneak in between people and get to the front. And I'm pocket sized, which is cute right? well apparently not.
I understand Its not just little people like me who get this relentless mocking, no doubt taller people get this also. Things like 'giant', 'giraffe' and 'hows the weather up there?' are things often heard by friends of mine who tower above me.
But one thing that does put a smile on my face is when my tall friends moan about the fact they cant wear heels on a night out or have a boyfriend who is shorter than them, is the fact that I can wear heels of any height and not worry about guys being shorter than me because as i stand i am only a measly 5ft1 or 2, i can rest safe in the knowledge not many men will be shorter than that.
Kylie xXx
Yes It can be hard in the world of a little person , however I do not see it as a bad trait some times. It means during gigs I can sneak in between people and get to the front. And I'm pocket sized, which is cute right? well apparently not.
I understand Its not just little people like me who get this relentless mocking, no doubt taller people get this also. Things like 'giant', 'giraffe' and 'hows the weather up there?' are things often heard by friends of mine who tower above me.
But one thing that does put a smile on my face is when my tall friends moan about the fact they cant wear heels on a night out or have a boyfriend who is shorter than them, is the fact that I can wear heels of any height and not worry about guys being shorter than me because as i stand i am only a measly 5ft1 or 2, i can rest safe in the knowledge not many men will be shorter than that.
Kylie xXx
Saturday, 5 February 2011
The great Bake
The great bake….
All set for a night in with the girls, after being stuck in Southampton on yet another raining weekend due to work commitments…and serious lack of funds.. boo .. We decided to make the most of our evening and do some baking then settle down to a back to back sesh of gossip girl season one. We prepared for this momentous Saturday night in by sending my poor flat mate to the shop to pick up sponge cake mix and cookie mix.
Then we very successfully followed the instructions on the back for some chocolate chip cookies, added our little extra of caramel chocolate. They were beautiful. Although very sickly. After we munched all those biscuits we proudly took out the oven our pride and joy The SPONGE CAKE. Like a group of proud mothers oohh and ahhing at their new babies, we huddled around our cake. After taking it out the baking tin we carefully placed it onto the plate, smoothed it in melted chocolate, butter-cream and icing-sugar. Beautiful. We took it into the boys room, a very different environment than that of the girls invaded kitchen. After wading through the bottles of beer on the floor and gaming controllers, we presented them with our amazing baking skills. They looked at us like how I would imagine they look at their mothers when being displayed with yummy foods... like we had reminded them a little bit of home. Bless.
So the moral to this story is that being poor, students stuck indoors, we can provide an evening of entertainment for ourselves, (which did start with sending a flat mate flying down the corridor in an Asda shopping trolley) I think my mum would be so proud.
Kylie XxX
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