Reads of the month: December 2015

Hi Lovers,
Long time no review but I promise I have been reading!
So these are my new reads of the month.
These are two very different books.
Check them out below.

The girl next door 

 by Ruth Rendell (3.5 stars)

Flitting between the modern day and the cusp of WW2. 

A buried tin containing the remnants of two severed hands, is the catalyst that brings a group of friends long since grown up back into each other lives.

Having grown up in a small Essex suburb together, it doesn't take long before old alliances and group hierarchy of what once was are firmly back in place. 

Swept up in a murder investigation, old truths and buried memories are brought to the surface.

Rendell took an interesting route and didn't focus on the actual murderer but the children now well into adulthood.

The plot centers on how an incident that they didn't know had actually happened greatly impacted their lives. 

As the group find each other again regret, lost chances, ageing and opportunities rear their head and some to detrimental effect.

Told from a much older generation struggling to find their place in the modern world was an excellent touch.

I found the use of older people making mistakes, feeling adrift and learning to live a life other than the one set out for them refreshing.

The role of being all knowing and wise is often afforded or foisted on older characters and this certainly isn't the case here. 

I am a pretty fast reader but this is a slow burn so it took some sticking to.

Without giving the plot away I did find fault with the stereotypical scenes and internalised

 misogynistic attributes in a few of the characters.

 This often irritates me in books however one characters end story did go some way in redeeming this.

This is actually the last book Rendell before her death earlier this year.

 So I think it will be very special to a lot of her keen followers.

Kitty Peck and the Child of Ill-Fortune by Kate Griffin (4 stars)

This engrossing historical mystery thriller set in Victorian London, follows fiery and fearless 17 year old Kitty Peck. 

The newly untested heiress of Paradise, the underworld criminal empire formerly run by her grandmother Lady Ginger.

No longer one of the many girls working within her grandmothers music hall.

 Kitty is now the boss and has to fight for the right to win and command all that lies within Paradise. 

Desperate to find and be reunited with her banished brother Joey.

 She embarks on a journey, where her life is placed in danger when she can not refuse a strangers plea for help and the chance to save a child.

Kitty and her friends lives are soon in danger as she unwittingly stumbles through her Grandmothers plans for her and those who have followed her back from Paris in pursuit of this child and bury a secret that could potential bring down the English empire.

This is actually the second book in this series and I didn't feel as though I had missed out on information at all. The first Kitty Peck and the Music Hall Murders is definitely on my list.

I found myself automatically reading kitty's parts in a proper hardcore cockney accent. Although there were cases of othering. 

 I felt a good percentage of the characters were well rounded and described well.

I really enjoyed this book and really felt as though I was immersed and living this adventure with Kitty. 

I found that the author struck the right balance of Kitty being a young woman and suddenly having to don this mantle of responsibility brilliantly.

This follows the traditional penny dreadful style and although a little sketchy in places is  very enjoyable.

Until next time.......

Smooches

Stephanie aka Wednesdays Girl

xoxo

Don't forget to come find me and  Follow @GirlWednesdays  

Natural skincare: MADARA Clarifying Toner Review*

As you know I have been dabbling with natural skincare brands,
see my finding natural and organic skincare brands haul and have really enjoyed discovering effective new products.
I have had my eye on the Madara Clarify Toner* for a while and couldn't wait test it out.

Madara is a Latvian natural cosmetics brand using the forests and certified organic farms in the Baltic area to create unique formulas. 
They are organic, vegan, nut free, gluten free and ECOCERT certified.

The first thing I noticed apart from the lovely packaging was the scent.
It smells like an autumnal cocktail. Somewhere between sweet elderflower and spicy figs.
 I really like the fact this toner leaves my face matte as opposed to dry and there is a marked difference
in the two feelings!
My skin feels refreshed, smooth and supple and most importantly moisturised.

As I have combination skin it is great to find, a non abrasive exfoliant toner that balances
the skin and gives me an even surface to apply my serum to.

The Madara Clarifying Toner* is made up of a few natural ingredients such as Northern oak bark, Rose water and sweet flag which have been formulated to clarify, minimise pores and exfoliate the skin.
I was a little apprehensive about it having a naturally derived alcohol on my face but it hasn't been stripping at all and I have not had any stinging which is great.
In fact it is very gentle and soothing.

I have been using the toner for just over 4 weeks and think it a really nice toner for normal/ combination skin.
The main areas it has targeted for me is clarifying and pores.
 My blemishes were reduced and my overall skin looks clearer and a little more glowy.
Along with using my Alba Botanica products which I reviewed.  I have seen further improvement
to the small area of visible pores.
They are constantly tight and hydrated which helps to minimise their visibility.
They are definitely a great combination.

I experienced really good results on how my skin looked overall.
I still have the occasional blemish but I love the results.
Autumn onwards can be very harsh on the skin and some toners are very stripping,
 however the clarifying ingredients in this really help to balance the skin.
I have really enjoyed using this toner and can't wait to see further results.
I would definitely buy this in future, as it is so mild and nourishing.

*Lucyrose kindly sent me this product to review. However all views expressed are my own.
 Please see the  Ms. Wednesdays Girl disclaimer in full here.


Until next time..................

Smooches

Stephanie aka Wednesdays Girl

xoxo

Don't forget to come find me and  Follow @GirlWednesdays  

The discovery of blogs: Ms. Wednesdays Girl Liebster award nomination!

Hi Lovers,

  I've been been nominated for a Liebster award by the lovely Lauren Samone 
over at The Leaux Project. 

A massive shout out to her for nominating me.

 I always forget there are people everywhere reading my blog so go check her out.

“Here’s how the Liebster Award works: after you’re nominated, you create a post over on your blog about the award. 

1-  Thank your nominator (with a link back over to their blog).

2-  Answer the 10 questions they created for you.

3- Create 10 new questions and pose them to 10 new bloggers you want to nominate.
*I take this to mean a new blog to the reader instead of how long the blog has been running* 

4- The nominees should all be bloggers with less than 200 followers.” 
*I am assuming this can be any of their social media networks. 
I am being a little flexible with this part as I really enjoy the blogs I am nominating and think they deserve a little exposure.*

Laurens' questions:

The Cliche Question: Why did you start blogging?

I have always been a creative person and the idea of blogging seemed to be a outlet where my creativity was solely on my terms. 
There are so many but one that has kind of been incorporated into the blog is "Festina Lente". 

My friends always ask me for beauty advice, where I bought something, 
if I know where to find it cheaper or if I can make a D.I.Y beauty treatment. 
Along with their encouragement, I decided to put it in one place. 
If my friends wanted to know surely others would too.
 I also love trying stuff out and writing so hey a great creative space was born.

What’s 1 thing you’d like to achieve as a blogger in 2016?

I would love to grow as a blogger and be more consistent. 

I have been much better this year and want to continue. I am also working on my photography.

What was the motivation behind your blog name?

*Sigh* blogger names are sooo hard! I tried lots different name combos.

I am actually born on a Wednesday and Wednesdays aka hump day just 
seems to be a beacon of light for a lot of people. Its not all woeful on a Wednesday!

Who are you rocking out to?! Give me your top 3 favorite artists?

Gallant- weight in gold

Hozier- Like real people do

Magic system- Premier Gauo

It’s time to go SHOPPING! If you could splurge on anything OR at any store what/where would you go!?

I am guessing the Internet is out? 

I think it would be in Aldo for a  pair of stunning ankle boots,
 that they don't have in my size and I would hit up Carnaby street.

What’s 1 thing you LOVE about your city? List more if you’d like!

Ahhh London, it has an incredibly intense energy. 
As with most places it isn't perfect but it is very multicultural, 
there is always something happening and you learn something new everyday. 

It's mostly grey and erratic weather is the norm but being a Londoner you just roll.

Soundtrack: What’s 1 song that describes your life?

This is so hard as I don't think one song could encapsulate my whole existence.
However songs that describe these moments are 

Naughty boy ft Emeli Sandé Wonder and Rudimental ft Will Heard I will for love

Salty or Sweet: Which do you prefer?

Both, I am experimental!
Hula hoops originals and Galaxy chocolate, thank me later!

Describe your personal Style

An eclectic mix. I love mixing and matching.

 My clothes reflect part of my personality and how I feel.

I love the 90's dresses and boots combo, mixing causal with dressier pieces, a bold lip is life, 
sourcing statement jewellery and being comfortable in my choice. 
I never box myself  in. I wear what I like.

Beauty secrets! I know you have 1. Spill it!

Experimentation is good but you don't need to bombard your face and body 
with every product on the market!
1- Listen to your skin. 
2- Try making some of your own products. 
like Coconut oil or Shea butter whip. 
3- Floral waters make great toners if your skin is having a odd phase.
4- Eyebrows are important. Shape them well but don't demolish them. 
You will need them in future trust me!!!

**Extra** Do you have a favorite quote or words of wisdom that you live by

It means make haste slowly and can be seen in my header logo. 
The angel wing on the left is actually a tattoo I have and designed myself.
 For me this means not rushing and having to do certain things again. 
When I do it, I do it how I want it and the right way/ time for me.
 For blogging this is important as I am not looking to see where other bloggers are.
Or trying to compete, just getting where I am going and doing 
what I am doing in the time and fashion meant for me.

The nominations are:

Christine - Yve's Child

Michelle Last big tree

Brooke- Brooke-Elise

Sherida Sherida daily

Mandy- A girl obsessed 

Andreia - Diary of a lover

Brittany- Style and Wellbeing

Remi - Hands of style

Saoirse AKA Sterling- Xleptodactylous

Paola- Finding Paola

My questions:

1. What is your secret talent?
2. Name 3 skills you have learnt through blogging.
3. How has blogging impacted your life?
4. What was the first thing that made you laugh today?
5. Shopping for homeware or shopping for your favourite foods?
6. Favourite season to style?
7. The Zombie apocalypse is in full swing and you've decided to blog, as a way to connect with other survivors and update the world (wi-fi has survived lol).
    What is in your on the move blogger kit?
8. Name a perfume/spray that is the scent of your life or linked to a special memory.
9. Name one hidden gem in your city/ area everyone should visit.
10. Name a place that inspires you to blog.

 A big thank you once again to Lauren for nominating me. Check out her Liebster answers here. It is always nice to be recognised by fellow bloggers who know how much effort goes into what we do and appreciate it as a creator and reader.

Smooches

Stephanie aka Wednesdays Girl

xoxo

Don't forget to come find me and  Follow @GirlWednesdays  

Balm Balm Frankincense Deep Cleansing Balm review

So my  skin LOVES this stuff! 

The Balm Balm Frankincense Deep Cleansing Balm is fast becoming a skin saviour.

When I originally received my natural skincare haul I did think wow that is a tiny pot.

 What was I thinking?

I can hold my hands up and say I was pleasantly surprised.
This balm goes a very long way and after 7/8 weeks of using it at least 3-4 times a week.
I have just about made a dent and I can be heavy handed!

My skin really enjoys creamy cleansers and balms but this is next level.
I am not the biggest fan of frankincense but it is something I can get past with this product.
 I have been using this in conjunction with my Alba Botanica Hawaiian Facial Cleanser which I reviewed here and have really seen a difference in my skin texture and brightness. I still get a few small blemishes but the difference is really great.

The balm helps to ensure the gel cleanser which I think would suit an oil skin type (me occasionally in summer when hayfever hits) perfectly. It doesn't unbalance my skin but works in harmony to allow both to do their jobs and improve/ cleanse my skin.

 I alternate these as my second cleanse and my skin feels utterly stunning and well moisturised.

 There is no excessively oily residue left either as I wipe my face down twice with a warm flannel.

The balm is incredibly smooth and you only need half a finger tip (even that is heavy handed once you become comfortable with the product) to cover your whole face where it liquefies. Massaging it in and letting it sit for a minute ensures all debris is removed and you skin is infused with moisture.

I wish this came slightly bigger as it is only 30ml but compared to other 

balms that aren't natural or of a better quality it is affordable.

 If you like or can over look the heavy frankincense aroma this is a great natural product to try. 

The packaging is nice with an apothecary vibe and would be great as a reusable container after the product is finished.

The balm feels really luxurious and as it is 100% organic. I will definitely be buying this again.
All the ingredients (Shea butter, Beeswax, Sunflower, Jojoba, Calendula, Frankincense and Grapefruit ) used have a purpose e.g soothing, removing impurities, smoothing, healing or rejuvenating. 

You can see the formulation has been well thought out for maximum results. Each use feels like a soothing mini pamper session. Result! 

About Balm Balm: This is a family run company, that use all natural and organic ingredients in their products. They are also against animal testing and strive to be as green as they can. Click here to find out more.

Smooches

Stephanie aka Wednesdays Girl

xoxo

Don't forget to come find me and  Follow @GirlWednesdays  

Alba Botanica: Hawaiian facial range review

Hi Guys, 

I am back to review my 3 picks from the Alba Botanica Hawaiian facial range.
which you would have seen in my
Finding natural and organic skincare brands post .

Bit about Alba: Their products are made from 100% vegetarian ingredients.
They do not test on animals, use artificial colours, add synthetic fragrances, parabens, phthalates, sodium lauryl/laureth sulfate or sodium myreth sulfates.
On top of all that goodness, their bottles are made from 100% recyclable materials!

"We make natural, 100% vegetarian personal care products that do beautiful for you and your friends: people, animals + earth. This means we DON'T use parabens, sulfates, or phthalates." read more here

I have to say the stand out product for me is the Alba Botanica Hawaiian Facial Mask 85g  , which I started using 3 days after incorporating the Alba range into my routine. My skin feels smoother, the small area of visible pores on my inner cheeks looks smaller and less obvious if my skin is dehydrated. A big bonus is that my skin is brighter too.

 Papaya is well known for it's healing and youthful skin boosting properties and I am super happy to have this mask in my arsenal. I did experience mild stinging the first time I used it. I used the cleanser to cleanse my face and applied the mask about 6 minutes later and I think that is what caused the stinging the first time. Since then I have used the mask weekly whilst using a balm cleanser first and had no issues. Just to make sure my skin wasn't reacting badly to the product without the balm cleanser, I repeated the first routine again and I didn't experience that same level of stinging just a mild prickle for approx 8 seconds then it was fine.  

Alba Botanica Hawaiian Facial Cleanser 237ml  I like this gel cleanser formulation but it can be slightly drying and astringent if I use too much. As I said in my Summer skincare haul I am usually combination/ normal but during summer I felt like my hayfever made my skin feel more oily-oddly so I think this would be great for summer cleansing. I also think those with oilier skin would benefit from this cleanser. 

The first time I used this cleanser my face felt super clean, refreshed and a little dry. However a pesky little spot that had come up on my chin had all but disappeared the next morning. I have definitely had to experiment to make sure I am making the product work well for me. I have found that less than a 1/3rd of a pump is more than enough to cleanse my face each time. I use a flannel and rinse my face twice as this cleanser doesn't come off straight away. A good test is to finish your cleanse and wipe your face off with your flannel/ muslin cloth and then wet your finger tips and rub your cheeks in a circular motion to see if there is any lathering. I also use a balm cleanser (review coming soon) 3-4 times a week to ensure that my skin doesn't get super dry and remains balanced.

Alba Botanica Hawaiian Facial Toner 251ml  for me this isn't a everyday toner, although it is cooling and does calm any blemishes I may have. I do think this is a little too astringent to be an full face everyday toner. Especially as it is getting colder, I think this could be too drying for me so I have been using it every few days  and apply it with a cotton swab to any blemishes in between. I have noticed that my skin and complexion seem brighter and a little more even, which this toner promotes with hibiscus. I think this is another great one for those with predominantly oily skin or if you want something with a bit more ommphff in summer.

 I do think all three products have made some difference to the smoothness and appearance of my skin but I have had to adapt these to myself to ensure the all natural ingredients are giving me the best performance. I will definitely continue to use them with other products and definitely want to try out a few other products from their range.

As a woman of colour it is extremely important to find products that help to brighten and rejuvenate skin as darker skin is prone to hyper pigmentation and scarring. These products fit that brief perfectly.
As we get older some may become more apparent or take longer to fade so this is great for your skincare stash.
I have noticed a few small areas of hyper pigmentation from blemishes in the last year and these products have really helped with the process of smoothing out my complexion.

It's a thumbs up from me!

Smooches

Stephanie aka Wednesdays Girl

xoxo

Don't forget to come find me and  Follow @GirlWednesdays  

Autumn style: Tartan and plaid scarves

Tartan is such a style staple.
There is something about their deep, crisp and vibrant hues that
especially comes into it's own during autumn.

I came across these gorgeous oversized scarves over a year ago, whilst browsing eBay as I often do.
There was such a variety I immediately purchased 3.
I would usually buy one to do a quality check but I couldn't decide which one I wanted.
So I took a chance and it paid off.

Turns out that the scarf looks a little bigger on the Asian models (go figure) so make sure to pay close attention to measurements.
However they are a really nice size and excellent quality too.
I haven't had any wear or tear plus they aren't too thick or uncomfortable.
which makes them excellent for layering and I am always cozy when I wear these and can wear them as a  shawl wrap.

At £2.50 each for 2 and £1.99 for the third they were such a bargain.
Unfortunately my vendor has been sold out for a while but I did find this vendor who has a similar range at a slightly higher price of £3.99.
eBay seller here

Until next time.......

Smooches

Stephanie aka Wednesdays Girl

xoxo

Don't forget to come find me and  Follow @GirlWednesdays  

Superdrug Simply Pure Hydrating Serum review

I have been using the Simply Pure Hydrating Serum  for over 3 months and I LOVE it.
 I have had a few issues with small dry patches in the last few months which I have been sorting out (pretty much there) and I really like the way this glides and sinks into my skin.
 As I layer this under my moisturiser it does an amazing job at being richly hydrating without feeling heavy. 

My friend who has been using this since its launch in 2012, wept when it was discontinued and now stocks up religiously, swears by it and I am converted also.
This going to be a staple in my skincare regimen as it is giving my skin that extra bit of oomph and has great moisture boosting products packed into that 50 ml bottle.
I have spoken to women in their late 30's who love it and women in their early 20's who have jumped on to serums early who adore it. The feedback is the same , this product is an absolute gem!

The fragrance free, light weight creamy gel texture applies really well and sinks in within seconds.
 I use a pump and a half for my face and neck morning and evening and haven't experienced any stickiness.
I apply it, give my self a quick massage and within 15-30 seconds it has sunk in.
Then apply either my moisturiser for the day or a night treatment at night.
I have been using it in conjunction with Indeed Labs hydraluron™ moisture boosting facial serum  which I mentioned in my Summer skincare haul but I used this serum first independently and I am using the Indeed Labs hydraluron™ moisture boosting facial serum as a intensive treatment rather than a staple everyday serum. So once that finishes I will be using the Simply Pure Hydrating Serum solely, when I am not testing out other serums.

I purchased the Simply Pure Hydrating Serum with the purpose of layering under my moisturiser and wouldn't recommend it to be used solely on its own. In my opinion it is more a case that the serum is there to be used underneath a moisturiser which will then lock in the hydration being helped along by the serum.

I am very impressed with the Simply Pure Hydrating Serum and its very low price point. I actually thought it was on offer at £2.69 but have since seen it reduced and will definitely be going back to stock up!

Smooches

Stephanie aka Wednesdays Girl

xoxo

Don't forget to come find me and  Follow @GirlWednesdays  

7 things I want you to know #3

So ladies and gentle men,

 I bring you another 7 things I absolutely really need you to know! 

Do you feel the very fibres of your life changing with each passing second?  

Food will feature heavily- so lets do it lol

1. Nutella oh the sweet joy!

What's better than spreadable chocolate and biscuits on the go? Need I explain further.

2. Breakfast. After my healthier breakfast challenge, I have really gotten into the spirit of  having brekkie. My favourite Saturday morning breakfast of the moment is Avocado on a bloomer topped with perfectly runny eggs. Stick some grapes, a mint & green tea on the side and bobs your uncle.

3. Peppermint tea and beetroot with pineapple smoothie is literally life right now. They are both so refreshing in this muggy yet coldish weather and taste amazing. I used to hate beetroot at school and didn't touch it for years but you can't beat a roated beet ummmhm.  Adding the sweetness of the pineapple cuts through the earthy taste of beetroots and elevates it to a next level.  Plus the colour is so vibrant you can practically feel it doing your body good. I love letting my tea bag steep for ages to make sure i get all that minty goodness.
Chic builders brew much?

4. SUSHI! Ah guys I have had a lot of sushi of lately! It has been an obsession since I was 11 and is all I want to eat! After thinking about the money I would have to spend on buying quality sushi and the right amount to satisfy the hunger I decided to make some. I have only made sushi properly on my own 4 times before, so enlisted the help of my friend for this operation. Sushi is so fiddly to do correctly and you have to make sure you are well prepared in advance. I am really proud of my efforts as we went all out with the sesame seeds, poppy seeds and seaweed. We ended up making about 7 variety of salmon and veg varieties. I mixed soy, wasabi, lighly pickled ginger and horseradish into the shot glass.

5. Face masks. I have been adding to my summer skincare as well as stocking up on masks. Superdrug do really good ones and I have really been making sure to set aside time to pamper myself! The chocolate orange heated mask is my fav at the moment.

6. The Great British Bake Off! Who knew baking could be so exhilarating! I DID.
I absolutely adore GBBO and Nadiya + her facial expressions! It is such a good show for the whole family and a great way to learn about bakes whilst becoming strangely attached to people you don't know.

7. Coconut oil. I really love fresh coconut water and coconut oil is a firm fav of mine. It is such an amazing multitasker and is a great addition to every house hold and beauty sos kit. It can be used for skincare, haircare, beauty, health and cooking. The uses are endless. I also have a post on how to make your own homemade virgin coconut oil, if you have a few coconuts knocking about. A must try as AW15 is upon us.

Smooches

Stephanie aka Wednesdays Girl

xoxo

Don't forget to come find me and  Follow @GirlWednesdays