July Favourites

Well another month has come and gone, and we're another week closer to Christmas (because that's what's important, right?). Working out what this month's favourites were was surprisingly difficult; usually I can predict what will be a favourite just a few days into the month but as life has been (mostly) spent on the sofa, there hasn't really been a lot of opportunities to discover new things... unless we count all the films I finally got around to watching (ugh, I blubbed like a baby at 'The Theory of Everything').

Calling the below 'favourites' may be a bit of a stretch, but it's not all a lie, I do really dig these things: 

1. Tatler Magazine
   I'm at that point in my life where even though I'm not in full time education, I want to learn as much as I can, as often as I can. That's why I get the morning news sent straight to my inbox before I wake up in the morning. I just love learning new things, big or small, I'm down. So when I picked up a copy of this month's Tatler (having never done so before) I was interested to know what it was about and what it would teach me. And you know what, I loved it. I think this magazine is really great; the stories are insightful and unexpected, the topics are so varied with different viewpoints throughout, and everything is written so so well. Like a great book, I couldn't put this down.


2. Infused Water - with cucumber and fresh mint
   I don't know if you know this, but for a couple of days in July, Britain barrelled head first into the sun. I mean, it was sweltering. Legs and arms out weather. Which was great fun (except for the fact that I had to spend the hottest day of the year hopping on and off trains to get to a hospital appointment #SweatCity), but it meant that hydration became everyone's top priority, even when the water that spewed out of the tap was in fact, lukewarm. Yuck. So I decided to fill up a pitcher of water and stick in the fridge for ultimate coolness. And then a lightbulb bedazzled with the Pinterest logo lit up inside my brain. Infusions! So I dropped in some chunks of cucumber and a generous amount of leaves from my very own mint plant,  stirred it all together and there we have it. Infused water is so fresh and tasty, it was the perfect pick-me-up during those long hot days.


3. The Catch
   It has been a very long time since I was this excited about a television show. It's difficult to explain the storyline without giving lots of spoilers, but essentially it follows a private investigator who gets conned by her fiancé and she and her team set about finding him and bringing him down. But of course, as with every good American drama, it isn't smooth sailing. At all. There are only thirteen episodes in the first season and my sister and I ploughed through them like you wouldn't believe. The plot line is full of twists that you never see coming and the cast are not only excellent actors, but also, largely very attractive. Watch the trailer here.


4. Whole Earth Peanut Butter with Sunflower, Pumpkin & Flax Seeds
   It's no secret that I love me some peanut butter. Hand me a spoon and a jar of Sun Pat and we're going to get along just fine. But you know, occasionally a girl's gotta think about health and stuff and that's where Whole Earth comes in. I love Whole Earth nut butters, just by spreading a spoonful onto wheat free Swedish rye bread (yes, you heard correctly) I feel like I've undone a world of damage to my body. This Peanut Butter with Sunflower, Pumpkin & Flax Seeds just screamed "health" so I knew I had to try it out; it's so tasty and so filling, I can't get enough.


5. Adventures
   This month was actually filled to the brim with fun activities, which ordinarily, wouldn't have seemed like a big deal, but since my injury (I know right, shocker! I never talk about it...) I became really self conscious and the excitement for doing things was mainly replaced with pain. So when July rolled around and I was able to use my hand and was no longer confined to a ghastly splint, I was actually able to do things (like the Farnborough Air Show, the Jaguar Factory Tour, picking sunflowers, attending a presentation day in honour of a late family member), you know, the kind of things that, in hindsight, you would hate to miss out on because of an injury. Life goes on, even when your hand isn't doing too well, and I'm so happy I was able to enjoy myself regardless.

~ Eleanor xo

June Favourites

What a totally indescribably insane month June has been. The weather was humid as hell and the thunderstorms crazy as hell (I may've had to sleep with the light on...), the UK decided to leave the EU (boooo) and people flew from Vegas to London in a shorter time than it took people to drive down a country road to Glastonbury Festival; not to mention the absolutely redonkulous situation I got myself into just four days into the month.

It's been a pretty jam packed few weeks, and here's what I've been digging lately:

1. Desperate Housewives
   Before we all get ahead of ourselves, no, I have not waited this long to delve into the American delight that is Desperate Housewives. I watched the show originally way back in 2011, with the last season ending in 2012, so it's been a fair few years since I've caught up with my favourite ladies (they're all just so beautiful aren't they?), and I've loved going back and re-watching every episode right from the start. I laughed, cried and became just as obsessed as I did when I watched them the first time round. They just don't make them like that anymore. *Sigh*.


2. 7/27 by Fifth Harmony
   Somebody hold me, I cannot even put into words how much this album makes me wish I was part of Fifth Harmony. I actually downloaded this on its release day, which is very unlike me, but when Work From Home dropped, I knew the album was going to be off the chain. Do the kids still say that? Either way, I was right. The songs are so upbeat, so catchy and genuinely too good to put into words; I've been playing this on repeat all month long and I know it's going to be a firm favourite for a while to come.


3. Mitchum Shower Fresh Deodorant
   As we all know, I like to switch up the products I use as often as possible, and this month was the turn of arguably the least sexy beauty product on offer. I chose to try out Mitchum a) because I've heard a lot of good things about the brand b) because it was on offer so, duh and c) because I didn't realise it is largely regarded as 'the brand for sweaty people', so hooray for me. A lot of people tend to go for the roll-on versions, but I prefer aerosols way more so I picked up this 'shower fresh' spray and I knew as soon as I tried it that I was into it. I find it really refreshing, really long lasting and actually a really pleasant scent. No sweat happening here, thank you very much.


4. Millie Marotta's Wild Savannah Colouring Book
   I've loved the look of these colouring books since they first started popping up in book stores, but up until now, I've never owned one. I always seem to blame the fact that 'I don't have enough time' as to why I've been without one for so long, but as I've had rather a lot more free time lately, this seemed like the perfect opportunity to change that. The illustrations included in the book are so so pretty and so well designed. I didn't realise quite how relaxing it would be to spend a few hours colouring in animals, but I'm definitely a fan of switching off. 


5. Homegrown Sweet Peas
   Way back in March I bought my mum a small pot of sweet peas for Mother's Day, blissfully unaware of quite how monstrous the plant would grow to be. Currently the plant sits in a pot in our back garden and even now, the prettiest and brightest flowers are still blooming in abundance. They've been ripe for the picking throughout the last few weeks and all month long our house has been filled with vases pretty much overflowing with purple, pink and white sweet peas. Not only are they a small way to brighten a room, they also smell amazing.

~ Eleanor xo

May Favourites

You know what was great about May? Summer rolled around and it was warm and sunny and my arms were out and I started using moisturiser with SPF in it, and then, kapow, we were back in Autumn. So I hope everyone took the opportunity to enjoy the summer while it lasted because I feel like that may be all we get. Has anyone else noticed how difficult life is when the weather is going through some kind of midlife crisis? Do I short sleeve, do I long sleeve, do I ankle boot, do I pump? THE STRESS!

Anyway, here's what I totally digged during Mayo:

1. Twinings Earl Grey Tea
   Yes hello, is that MI5? Yes, I need to speak to someone about what I think is the apocalypse. Why? Well because I've taken a distinct liking to a daily cup of Earl Grey Tea. Errr.... Hello... Hello? Whatevs. The apocalypse has well and truly fallen, maybe not in the cataclysmic way we all anticipated, but all I know is this: one day I woke up with a cough/cold/illness thing (as is so often the case) and wham, I got to work, not fancying my usual Nespresso, but a cup of tea! Tea!? Of all the illness cravings in the world, mine is tea. And since then, I've been having a cup each afternoon. The whole 'lemon and bergamot' thing just really does it for me, ya know?


2. Let the Road, Rixton
   A music favourite to spice things up a bit! So I heard 'Hotel Ceiling' from this album yonks ago when those Spotify Discover playlists first came about and totally digged it, but I never really thought about trying out the whole album. Well, let me tell you a thing. That was a huge mistake. This album is ahhhmazing. I played nothing but this one album on repeat for about a week (and this may seem like no big deal but I spend about two and a bit hours in my car each day so that is a lot of playing). These guys are so awesome and every song hits the spot. My personal fave is Speakerphone because it's perfecto to belt out while zooming through the classy as heck streets of Ascot.


3. Jo Malone, Amber & Lavender Bath oil
   What is it with Jo Malone and her just knowing what works? I have yet to find a product from JML that I don't love with a passion. The bath oils are such amazing quality; you need only the teeny tiniest amount in your bath and you smell of the floral scents FOR DAYS (or until you next wash), they're so soothing and relaxing and don't irritate my skin in any way (which has been known to happen in the past with other brands). I feel like with every product I try, I love Jo Malone even more... which understandably makes my bank card shiver in its boots.


4. Showfield Street, Nails Inc London
   I plough through nail polish like it's nobodies business, and I rarely find a shade that I love so completely that I want to repaint it over and over again (unless it's L'Oreal), but this colour is just doing it for me right now. Nails Inc polishes are a great quality; I wore this for an entire week with the most minimal of chips appearing. It's not the easiest to paint on because the round lids can be kind of tricky to manoeuvre (or is that just me), but it's all worth it in the end, even if you do look like you've painted your nails with your eyes closed...


5. Light Wash Gap Jeans
   It's no secret that I L.O.V.E Gap in general, but fun fact, the first thing I ever bought from Gap was a pair of denim jeans (and an even more fun fact, that was about 8 years ago and I still have that pair, very much in working order). Gap jeans are an amazing quality and their new resolution range makes them so comfortable to wear because they fit to your body shape. Meaning all of the 'skin tight' and none of the 'stiff as a board'. And as the weather is, theoretically heating up and the sun is beginning to shine, this light wash pair are beyond perfect! I've been living in these the past few weeks and picking them up for £20 instead of £49.95, makes it an even sweeter victory.

~ Eleanor xo

April Favourites

If there are any crazy typos or sentences that don't make sense in this we can blame either:

a) the fact I'm also attempting to paint my nails (when will I learn that this is not a good idea?)

b) the fact that I have been struck down by yet another illness *swoon*. Feeling super pumped that my multivitamin popping, Actimel drinking and copious fresh fruit and vegetable consuming has worked wonders. oh. WAIT.

Still, you know me, never one to complain. *tumbleweed*. Anyhoo, let's not dwell, let's chat about my favourite thangs from the last few weeks:

1. Super Seeds Pumpkin Original Lift 9 Bar
Is my car footwell now sporting what I would like to call 'birdcage chic'? And by that I mean, is my car footwell now covered in seeds? Yes, yes it is. Because these bars are so darn delicious but incredibly difficult to chow down on while attempting to maneuver traffic. I've been a fan of snacking on nuts and seeds for a while, but I can't just grab a handful and scoff them, I prefer them in bars, a la Nature Valley or Special K. However, those bars tend to include a lot of other not-so-healthy ingredients which sort of defeats the point, whereas 9 Bars are literally just seeds stuck together with some kind of healthy oil type thing. Really should've read the ingredient list before attempting to describe it... Either way, these are super healthy, super yummy and an instant filler-upper. Also, slight pumpkin obsession forming over here...


2. Revlon PhotoReady 3D Volume Mascara
This favourite is more of a re-discovery. I loved this mascara when I first tried it way back in 2014 and I used the tube I had to death and I'm feeling no different this time around. What it does to my lashes is so subtle (is there anything worse than a mascara that makes you look like a terrifying doll?), it opens out my eyes and makes my eyelashes just that little bit longer, with zero clumps. It's so long lasting and just a dream to apply. Oh Revlon, how do you do it?


3. Snapchat
Before we all start throwing shade, I'm not so beyond my years that I've only just discovered the joy that is Snapchat. Hell no. My university years were taken to a whole new height by the introduction of this app, where sending 10 second clips of yourself pulling the most embarrassing faces to show how bored you were of writing an essay was all the rage. God knows what monstrous faces are still saved on the Snapchat servers. But I digress; this month Snapchat has windled its way into my favourites because I've discovered that you can actually follow celebrities and brands. Every morning and evening I'm clicking through various snap stories, seeing what's going down on the PLL set thanks to Shay Mitchell, learning all about Eva Longoria's turtles, the flawless make up looks of Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, experiencing what it's like to shop like Paris Hilton and so much more. It's riveting.


4. Home Fires
I saw the commercial for the second season of this show the week before Easter, so naturally, I jumped on NowTV and marathoned the entire first season over the four day weekend, just in time to settle down on Sunday evenings with many other middle-aged Brits to indulge in some wartime drama. For real though, this show is great; I'm definitely preferring the second season to the first, but the characters and plot lines are so well written and every detail has been thought through. If wartime drama is your thing, you should definitely give this a try.


5. Artisan Grains Chia Seeds
I mean, clearly getting all this extra Omega 3, protein, iron and antioxidants has worked wonders on my defunct immune system. Or not. Still, I suppose stuff like this can never be fullproof and I'm sure that all this extra goodness has done something to help me in some way... But if we push aside my failing health, I really like these seeds; I picked up this box a week or two into April at my local farm shop and each morning I sprinkle about a teaspoon on top of my cereal and blueberries (or into smoothies whenever I find the time to make one) and off we go. Because they're so tiny, there's no taste to pick up, they're really just there to be consumed as part of your meal and once inside, that's where the magic happens. Adding superseeds to my diet is basically a no-brainer nowadays. 

And in case anyone had any doubts, tulips are still my all time number one favourite thing ever. Closely followed by peanut butter, obviously.
~ Eleanor xo

March Favourites

Serious question time; have we all scoffed the entirety of our Easter chocolate yet? If the answer is no, then you may need to up your game! While of course I desperately miss the immense fun of the Easter egg hunts my mum would put together for my sister and I when we were kids (much to the dismay of my grandma's two pooches), it's nice to be at an age where I can surprise them with Easter eggs.

March has been pretty crazy what with illnesses, bank holidays and a crazy intense work schedule, but here's what I've been digging through the last month:

1. L'Occitane Lavende Scented Candle
   Lavender can be a tricky scent; too little and there's just a weird musk in the air, too much and everyone's choking and feeling a bit dizzy. This candle, however, is phenomenal. The scent is something I can't even describe; it's so soft and subtle (making it a perfect calming companion to a wet wintery afternoon spent curled up in front of our Now TV box), yet it's powerful enough to fill the air within both our lounge and dining room. The only downside is that it hasn't burnt very well and has a pretty hefty tunnel going through the middle which I'm really disappointed by; but overall it's the kind of scent you can burn for hours and never leaves you feeling suffocated.


2. Pantene Pro-V Breakage Defense shampoo & conditioner
   Pantene is a brand I always go back to. I've used a variety of their hair products on and off for almost as long as I can remember, and with the occasional exception, I really like the results. This range included. My hair feels silky and shiny, and I can really see the difference it's making to the ends of my hair. There are definitely less split ends than I'd usually have by this point after a hair cut and it's also a lot less heavy #dream. The scent of these products always puts me in a good mood and sometimes I make a mustache just to catch the scent.


3. Alpro Almond Milk
   As I mentioned in my Spring themed post, this time of year is perfect for smoothie making. Having spent the last few months eagerly awaiting the return of berry season, I am super happy to see the supermarkets stocked with raspberries, strawberries and blackberries once again. Smoothies made with fresh berries are my favourite, but if I'm in a hurry or want a quick fix then I'll whizz up two small bananas and a generous helping of almond milk. I love the creamy nutty flavour of this Alpro version; it instantly fills me up and it's pretty good for you too so that makes it extra nice. 


4. Country Living Magazine
   Because yes, I have aged fourty years since you last saw me. I've been eyeing up this magazine for months now (pretty much ever since I decided to embrace my advancing internal age last Autumn) but I could never justify buying it because it seemed a little too pricey. So we're just going to go ahead and blame the beauty of Spring on this impulse purchase. And I am so glad I caved. This magazine is JOYOUS. Now all I want to do is read about how top London business people upped sticks and moved across the country to re-train as farmers and live out a totally natural and organic life; I want to learn what kind of DIYs I should be making for a themed table display and what I should try and bake for all my other middle class friends. I'm honestly not bothered about any negative shade; I am in love.


5. VSCO Cam
   I know, I know, I'm a little late to the party but I've tried to get into this app for pretty much the entirety of the last year and I just couldn't understand the hype. Then I found a load of blog posts about which filter does what and how you can make your photos look amazing and I finally got the hang of it (like a not so cool grandma). I don't use this app for every photo I take because I actually don't like the idea of having an Instagram theme, in that I actually want my photos to look different, but it's definitely my go-to for flatlays or anything with a lot of bright white tones. Listen to me, what a pro. #Not.

I hope you all had a very merry Easter weekend and are enjoying the delights of Spring (between all the rain, that is...).

~ Eleanor xo

February Favourites

February has been a month consisting of a lot of chocolate (see exhibit A: New York haul and exhibit B: my food diary), I mean, a lot a lot. As in, 'how have I not developed diabetes' a lot. I'm not complaining, I'm just wondering how long I've got until my arteries decide they can no longer deal with how I'm treating them. But alas, let's not dwell.

Embarrassingly, my most favourite thing that's happened this month is getting to witness the evenings get progressively lighter. After a long day, it definitely boosts my mood to see even a tiny slither of light still coming through the clouds. Now all that's left is the warmer temperatures to match! Please? Anyone? Hello?!

1. Brooklyn Nine-Nine
   I really loved this show when the first season aired on E4 like a million years ago, but when the second season came out, my social life was obviously far too hectic for me to be able to find time to sit down and watch each episode every week so I found myself flagging way behind and ultimately, giving up entirely. Until a few weeks ago when I somehow managed to catch the first episode of the new season and was reminded why I digged this show so much in the beginning. And thanks to my trusty pal Netflix and his bro 'automatic next episode play', I whizzed my way through all unseen episodes and I now I'm totally hooked once again and wishing Jake Peralta was my real life best bud.


2. Korres Sensitive Cleansing Gel
   Don't get me wrong, I loved the Ren cleansing gel I was using before this, but I like to play the field when it comes to skincare, so when I saw this, I knew I had to try it out. (Also it was on special offer so it was basically fate). This gel is way more foaming than I'd probably like it to be; I mean, I suppose the whole lathering thing means it's actually doing something to my skin, but when it's 6:45am and I'm trying to wash my face, it more often than not ends up in my eyes and up my nose. Still, it smells absolutely amazing and that, as we all know, is the most important thing to me.


3. Tossed: The Healthier Eating Place
   If you're a lover of exceedingly expensive, yet massively healthy (and tasty) lunches, then this place is about to become your Mecca. Whenever we have client meetings up north, we always swing by Tossed at a service station on the M4; the breadth of food choices is astonishing and it all looks so so tasty. What's great is that it's all made fresh (and you can totally tell), but if you can't quite find what you're looking for, they'll make it for you right there and then. As it's usually a quick pit-stop for me, I opt for either the tomato, mozzarella and pesto wrap, or chicken and avocado baguette.


4. Anthropolgie Zodiac Sign Trinket Dish
   I spotted this dish in Anthropologie months ago and just knew I had to have it. I'm super into this whole zodiac/constellation trend that's going on at the moment and this is just lovely. The dish is the perfect size to sit on my nightstand and house the jewelry I wear each day, my watch, FitBit, hand cream, Peanut Butter Cup wrappers, lip balm and any other crap I decide to bestow upon it. The blue and gold combo is gorge and if you look underneath the dish, it has the shape of the star sign and its corresponding trait (which for Leo is 'Fearless').


5. Blackberry Monin Coffee Syrup
   A couple of months ago I'd have thought putting fruity flavoured syrup in my coffee was pure insanity. And then the winter coffee shop menus came about and everything changed. I found myself drawn to the Winter Berry latte from Caffe Nero and once I learnt their secret ingredient (that's actually not very secret...) I couldn't not find me some blackberry syrup. So now weekend afternoons are reserved for a warm cup of coffee with a drop of blackberry flavouring and a side order of Cantuccini because as we all know, I'm super fancy.

Catch you on the Spring-side.
~ Eleanor xo

January Favourites

Can you believe the first month of 2016 is finetoed? Me either. I also can't quite believe the plethora of weather we have suffered through. Winter I am D-O-N-E with your shenanigans. Bring back the warmth. Though I will say that I love wearing striped shirts and I feel like they're more of a winter staple than a summer staple so maybe you can hang around for a bit longer while I wear my stripes to death. If you think I'm talking crazy, you should know that I have the same striped top in four colours. And I wish I'd bought more.

1. Leftover Christmas chocolate
Because screw this whole "Christmas is over I need to lose ten pounds IMMEDIATELY" bullshit. No. Just no. In every language. Isn't the fact that it's January torture enough, without depriving yourself of the tasty nutritional goodness* of chocolate? I love getting home from work and knowing I can drown my sorrows in a reindeer shaped bundle of goodness. Look, it's either that or alcohol and I think we know we'd all rather be obese than constantly hungover.

*nutritional goodness not guaranteed.


2. Dickensian
At first I was all "what is this?" and then I was all "I'm obsessed with this". A drama series centred around all the characters from Charles Dickens' novels? What a totally genius idea! Of course after realising I was totally into watching this I had to spend a Saturday afternoon reading all the plot summaries from each book so I knew what the deal with each character was, but it was worth it! And the fact that each episode is 30 minutes long means they're easy viewing and we get two episodes a week so the party lasts even longer!


3. Nescafé Mint mochas
These have "limited edition" literally written all over them but I'm hoping that's just part of a sly marketing ploy and in reality, they're here to stay. Because they are suuuper tasty, massively easy to make and perfecto for evenings wallowing in the bath while marathoning Brooklyn Nine-Nine. Need I say more?


4. Ren Vita Mineral Daily Supplement Moisturising Cream
This smells suspiciously herby. Almost too herby. I feel I smell like an over-seasoned soup when I massage this into my face, but then I realise that it's actually an amazing moisturiser and I am somehow able to overcome my woes. Obviously, it being the dreary depths of winter, my skin starts to dry up like a desert and is not in the best of conditions, but once I apply this, it's happy once again - like, you can visibly see what it does to the skin on your face. Remarkable. Hydrating. Smell takes a bit of getting used to. But amazing nonetheless.


5. Ugg Australia Classic Mini boots
So I got the official staple of the #BasicBitch for Christmas this year and I could not have been more thrilled. Everyone knows I'm the laziest person going, and now I have the footwear to match. They are more comfortable than I could possibly have imagine they'd be and ugh I just love them so much. Running out to the supermarket? Uggs. Running out to get petrol? Uggs. Not really feeling anything? Uggs. Life is complete. And hella cosy.

Happy leap-day month, y'all!
~ Eleanor xo

December Favourites

I can't quite believe that it's the last of these for 2015, or that it was so surprisingly difficult to find things I deemed as 'favourites' for this month. Not because I've suddenly become very cynical, but because the days have whizzed past so quickly that I never had time to realise what happened or what I quite liked. And here we are at the end... Advent calendar chocolate didn't even make the list...

1. Nescafe Dulce Gusto coffee machine
If you read my post about Black Friday, you'll know that my family and I fell into the inevitable trap of discounted electronics. But can I just say, we're all pretty pleased about it. This machine is great! A frothy latte each Saturday morning is just what the doctor ordered. It's also super handy that the coffee comes out at exactly the right temperature for immediate drinkage.


2. The Twilight Saga Books
Now, before we all go ahead and judge me, I know. I know these books are awful and the plotline is diabolical and yarda yarda yarda. But I couldn't help myself. I read these books countless times back when I was a young fifteen year old desiring only the love of a handsome protective God. But now things are different, I understand these books a lot more, and while some of the themes running through now make me question certain things, they were still kind of fun (and easy) to read when I needed to shut off from digital life. I'm also making a conscious effort to read more and this seemed like a good place to start...


3. American Eagle fringed booties [here]
Another Black Friday splurge, naturally. I'm going to go out on a whim here and say that they aren't exactly the most comfortable, but I'm putting that down to the fact that American shoe sizes aren't quite designed for the awkward Brit with hugely long but seriously narrow feet (see Exhibit A). But because I am a woman, I struggle through the god-awful pain of underfoot blisters and love them (and how truly beautiful they are) nonetheless. I know, I'm an inspiration.


4. Christmas Wreaths
This Christmas has turned me into a serious decoration lover. My phone (and Instagram) are now filled with pictures of every kind of wreath hanging on every kind of door throughout Windsor. I genuinely might have to start a petition to make wreaths a year round thing because they are so gorge and make my lunchtime mooch around the town way prettier. Except when people look at me as though I'm taking pictures to show my fellow bandits which houses to rob...


5. Lazy Oaf burger print hat
Because nothing says "please take me seriously" quite like walking into a jewelers wearing a woolly hat with a print of a burger on it. Let us take a moment to applaud my life choices. Let me also add onto that little factoid that while in said jewelers, while wearing said hat, the sentence "my battery needs a new watch" genuinely left my mouth. Had I escaped from a mental institution, I felt the sales assistant ask himself. My consequent laugh probably allowed him to conclude the answer as "yes". Still, at least my head is toasty warm.

Now, when does hibernation begin? I could really do with a good sleep (and an avoidance of January blues)...

~ Eleanor xo

November Favourites

Am I writing this while shoveling huge spoonfuls of buffalo milk ice cream into my gob? Yes, yes I am. Because that's the kind of crazy thing I get up to on a Saturday evening. Well, that and getting far too into Strictly. Still, press on we must, and let me just start by saying "IT'S NEARLY CHRISTMAS" and oh yes, what an absolute whirlwind these last few weeks have been. But of course, there's still been time to pick up a few new favourites, natrually:

1. White Tea Reed Diffuser - The Scented Home [here]
   Oh my word, someone call heaven, I think they're missing a reed diffuser. This scent is so unbelievable that it still hits me and fills me with immense love every time I walk into my room. It's so subtle, so fresh and so uplifting I cannot get enough, which surprises me because often I find reed diffusers are so hugely overpowering for the first week or so that you want to gag, and then suddenly there is no scent left at all (*cough* Glade *cough*). I legit may have to start stockpiling this in case it gets discontinued or something.


2. Coconut Moisturising Hand and Body Lotion
   This probably isn't the most glamourous of favourites but then again, neither is waking up on the twenty-third day of November to find you have to scrape frost off your car. The wintery cold aint the one, and my hands are prone to getting dry, splitting, bleeding and just generally being rather painful. NOT THIS YEAR, WINTER! NOT THIS YEAR. Instead, I'm lathering on this hand cream morning, evening, night, and whenever I so desire. It absorbs into the skin really quickly and smells more exotic than the weather appears outside, so you know, small victories.


3. Instagram
   I've been a fan of Insta since I got my first iPhone back in 2012 (when overexposing your photos and plastering a frame over the top was all the rage). For the most part it's just been one of those apps I use to show off just how much cake I've consumed in a weekend. But this month I've got seriously into the social element, whether that's because autumnal foliage is the number one instagrammed scene at the mo, I cannot possibly divulge (it is)... One sec, just going to like every single photo of miniature white pumpkins while I can...


4. Savse Juice (not pictured because I'm a fool)
   I've tried getting in on the green juice craze, I really have, but it's just not for me. I prefer to chew my vegetables, not drink them. But the bargain hunter in me couldn't resist trying a juice on special offer and I was happily surprised when I took my first sip and wasn't repulsed. The thing with this juice is yes, it's raw (so I basically got to walk around feeling like the epitome of 'health guru') but they've got the mix of both fruit and vegetables perfectly balanced so that there is a sweet flavour coming through, rather than that overpowering hint of pulverized kale which isn't so appealing. The carrot flavour is ma favvve.


5. Graduating
   Way back in my July Favourites I shared the super awesome news that I'd received my university results, and a grand 128 days later, I actually got to walk across a stage (well, maybe 'hobble' is a better word for it), shake an important person's hand and claim my first class honours degree certificate. Obvs, I didn't miss the opportunity to blog about the entire thing, but in short, it was the most amazing day of my life and losing chunks from my feet was absolutely worth it. I will cherish my memories from the day forever #ClassOf2015

Spoiler alert: December favourites will almost certainly include Advent Calendar chocolate. Well, when in Rome!

~ Eleanor xo

October Favourites

I cannot tell you how difficult it was not to fill this post with foliage related favourites. BECAUSE THE LEAVES. THE LEAVES FALLING LIKE FEATHERS FROM THE TREES, LANDING SOFTLY NEXT TO THE CONKERS AND TURNING THE GREY PAVEMENT INTO A SEA OF GOLD, RED AND ORANGE. #MAGICAL. I genuinely don't understand how anyone can dislike this time of year. {Ed's note: Correction, when I find a mountain of leaves in my car foot-well, then I start to dislike this time of year...}

But let's get down to biz; besides fiery red leaves, I've been loving:

1. Montezuma's Dark Chocolate GIANT Buttons
   I was sceptical when I first opened the packet, as I usually am with chocolate I've not tried before, because I'm like, totally normal... *ehem*. But holy mother of all that is green and edible, these buttons are a SENSATION (picture me yelling that while setting off a confetti canon and doing jazz hands while a banner reading "WINNER" unravels down from the ceiling). Obviously, sorta pricey (£2.99 for 180g) but because they're made from fair trade dark chocolate, you cannot scoff them in one go in fear of poisoning yourself, so they last ages! Genius!


2. Pull and Bear knee high boots
   It's boot weather, y'all! (In case that wasn't already obvious). On a cold, rainy day, you can't beat slipping your feet into a pair of knee high boots, full well knowing that your socks have pandas printed on them and you've got a meeting to attend with someone important. No one need ever know, except you. It's thrilling! (And they're comfy and keep the rain out, but that's irrelevant).


3. Apple and Elderflower candle from The Eval Candle Company
   Controversial, I know. Who do I think I am burning a floral Spring-like scented candle in the depths of dreary afternoons and foggy mornings?! Maybe this is my midlife crisis. Not the point. I just really love how light and uplifting this candle smells; it's the perfect morning scent and it's strong enough to fill my room (but doesn't make me want to choke to death). I am also a longtime enthusiast of candles housed in tins - I just love them.


4. The Muppets TV Show
   For some ridiculous reason, the new Muppets show has been crucified by critics and I have never disagreed with something so strongly. Well, almost never. This show has me in stitches every single week - whether it's now the highlight of my Wednesday, I couldn't possibly say. (It totally is). I love that ABC have given the Muppets a chance to revive themselves and kick it up a notch to harmless adult entertainment - it's worked really well and it's seriously funny. 


5. Laura Ashley Fresh Linen and Jasmine body wash
   I know, it sounds like a totally strange mix of ingredients (I kind of think maybe this was created by a happy accident - like when Jackson and Oliver created Cheese Jerky in that Hannah Montana episode). Either way, this smells so unbelievably clean that I might as well have bundled myself into the washing machine and set myself to a thirty-degree spin cycle (because I care about the environment - wash at 30, kids!). 

Get those Catherine Wheels at the ready, amigos! It's time for remember remember the fifth of November!

~ Eleanor xo

September Favourites

I'll tell you what's not been a favourite this month, this cold I'm currently battling. Nothing makes you feel like the absolute epitome of health quite like blowing your nose in a room full of people and being so congested that when you pick up the phone and say "hello", the person at the end (who should recognise your voice) goes "Oh, sorry is Eleanor there?". Yes, yes she is. She's just having difficulty breathing properly right now...

But I digress; with Beechams and Innocent orange juice in hand, lemme tell you a thing (about what I actually have been loving this month):

1. Downton Abbey
   I know, I too am appalled that it took me this long to jump on the Downton train. Please, forgive me. I've been meaning to watch it for ages but it always seemed like too much of a commitment, what with the episodes being five hours long. Slight exaggeration there, but my desire to squeeze in as many episodes as possible means staying up late on school work nights is now proving impossible to resist! Period dramas honestly give me life. *gush, gush, gush*.


2. Felicity the Fiat
   Driving a different car after four years is a very surreal experience (if we don't count the day in 2013 where I drove a Porsche, a Ferrari and a Lamborghini...) but Felicity has made me feel right at home behind the wheel. She is a 1.2 Fiat 500 Lounge and an absolute dream to drive, handle and maneuver. I also love the feeling of knowing she's 100% mine; not a gift or a loan, I am paying for her myself, out of my own salary. Like a real grown up. I can't wait to see where our adventures take us! (As you can tell, I'm ridiculously attached to her).


3. Shea Butter Yankee Candle
   A candle that when lit makes the air around you smell like a bubble bath?! Hells to the yeah, my friends! This scent is absolutely perfect for this time of year; when you're curling up on a dreary Sunday afternoon, watching some Downton, with your fairy lights on, some dark chocolate in hand and a fluffy blanket keeping you warm. Yes, this'll do nicely.


4. Essie 'no chips ahead' Top Coat [here]
   I will be honest with you, I never believed a product like this could exist. I always saw nail polish as inevitably chippable and any top coat that claimed to feel otherwise was just a good marketing ploy. But Essie, oh how you've proved me wrong. THIS STUFF WORKS. My nail varnish stays completely and totally in tact for days. I don't know what kind of fairy dust they've put in this but my golly it works (soz, that's the incessant Downton watching leaping out of me). Seriously, I'm so impressed with this stuff, and it's an absolute steal.


5. Lindt Creation Pistachio Delight
   This year has changed me. Before, the thought of dark chocolate was almost too much to bear, and nuts? In chocolate!? The stuff of insanity! But now I can't seem to get enough of it. If I'm in the mood to pick out chocolate I'm heading straight to the dark chocolate section and picking out bars with all kinds of things in them. This pistachio and almond flavour is a dream; it's like a party's happening in my mouth and I'm the only one invited! (So far I've only found them on sale in Waitrose, so head there if I've got you in the mood)


6. Zara Blanket Scarf
   I believe it was Aristotle who was once quoted saying "scarf weather is better weather". Obviously, that's a lie. But I'd like to think that given the chance, Aristotle would've totally said that. Right now, there's nothing better than leaving my house in the morning with my hair in a top knot and my cozy blanket scarf around my neck. It's so comfy and warm that I've barely taken it off; the print also makes it perfect for this time of year.

Time to drink pumpkin spiced lattes and dance on the table!

~ Eleanor xo

August Favourites

This post comes to you as I internally happy dance over the realisation that my all-time favourite season is right around the corner! Soon life will be an endless cycle of cinnamon spiced everything, chelsea boots, crisp leaves under foot, Saturday evening casseroles, chunky knit scarves and Strictly Come Dancing. Well, so long as we ignore the tiny fact that it'll mean I'll be driving to and and from work in pitch black, which isn't so appealing...

Here's what I've been loving during this 'supposedly pre-autumnal but feeling very much autumnal' month:

1. Laverstoke Park Farm Buffalo Milk Ice Cream
   Yes, when I found out my mum chucked away the remnants of my last pot, I drove an hour down the motorway to buy a replacement. Like any twenty-first century youth, I am a lover of ice cream, but this stuff doesn't even compare. The buffalo milk gives it a much creamier texture than those made with cows milk, and apparently it's actually better for you (or it's easier to digest or something); there are a load of different flavours but I cannot get enough of this coffee one. Ice cream will never be the same again!


2. Jack Wills Atherlow Blouse
   I have worn this to death this past month because not only do I love it beyond words, it's also super comfortable and so easy to wear. I did purchase this same top in white, but then Jack Wills emailed me to say that although they'd taken my money and told me it was in stock in my size, that was all a huge lie and my day was ruined. So I'll just have to keep wearing this navy one. But I guess I'm ok with that...


3. Authentic Moroccan Scented Candle
   My sister went to Morocco and all I got was this super cute candle! Seriously, how b-e-a-u-tiful is this thing? I'm so in love with its design that I almost don't want to burn it. Apparently, my sister picked it up in the 'Medina' in Marrakesh so it's 100% authentic, original and 'artisan', if you will. Even when the wax does run out, I'm so going to keep the jar for decorative purposes.


4. Ren Evercalm Gentle Cleansing Gel
   *Hangs head in shame* The beauty bloggers got to me. I actually really dig this stuff; I've never used a cleansing gel before but I'd say I'm definitely converted - it's light, foamy and super quick and easy to add to your routine. I went for the sensitive version because my skin can be quite temperamental and I didn't want to risk using unnecessary harsh chemicals, but this formula is free of all the bad stuff and is gentle enough to use every day and keeps my skin happy and healthy.


5. Cafe Noir Biscuits
   I don't need to tell anyone about my love of biscuits, because, spoiler alert: I love biscuits. Unless they have fruit in them, in which case, no thank you. I picked these up on a whim because as we all know, I am one crazy and wild individual who cannot be tamed. I think you're supposed to eat these actually with a cup of coffee but I always seem to forget that and just scoff them whenever I so desire. Good job, Mr McVities!


6. Turning twenty-one
   I could probably do without my dad constantly reminding me that I'm now only nine years away from thirty, but alas, I am now the ripe old age of viente-uno. And to be honest, I'm feeling pretty good; there's no grey hair, no more wrinkles, no aching limbs or an inability to control my bladder. So I'd call that a success! I've uploaded posts about what I got up to on the day, what I got given andddd the most enjoyable afternoon tea ever - why not have a read?

In my opinion, September is a month of huge change, so no matter what you're starting, completing or joining, I hope you have a blast! And if it involves a school run, please try not to be on the road when I am, I am prone to slight road rage...
~ Eleanor xo

Bonus: Favourite TV show to binge watch: Orphan Black

July Favourites

This month's proudest accomplishment is a toss up between:
A) Getting totally addicted to watching Millionaire Matchmaker re-runs on ITV (oh my gosh I could binge watch this show all day) or
B) Becoming the proud (self-proclaimed and totally unofficial) adoptive parent of a wild hedgehog.
As you can tell, it's a close call, so I'll let you decide.

July has been a whirlwind month and time seems to be flying by (is this what life is like when you're old?), next thing you know, it'll be Christmas *internal happy dance*. Anyhoo, this month I've been loving:

1. Gaining graduate status!
   I woke up bleary eyed on the 13th day of July, pulled open my laptop and, partaking in what I presume to be an out-of-body experience, witnessed myself burst into full on tears after reading "graduating with first class honours" written after my name. Yes, after three crazy years, I am an advertising graduate! Three bouquets of flowers, one helium balloon and a selection of congratulatory cards arrived just for me that week and even now, it is the best feeling ever.


2. The Waterlogged iPhone app
   This month I decided to challenge myself to see if I could drink the recommended two litres of water each day. As I am not usually a huge water drinker (I know, I'm a disgrace), I wasn't so sure I'd be able to stick to it. However, thanks to my trusty iPhone, I found a free app (my fave) that I could use to log how much water I consumed each day and chart how it changed over a period of time. It's easy to use, it's a beautiful interface and most importantly, it actually kept me motivated to drink as much water as I could. Genius!


3. Rituals Hamman Hot Scrub
   People who dislike salt scrubs are the eighth wonder of the world - I mean, what's not to love!? This Rituals scrub was a new find for me this month and I really like the results; I use it every Sunday and I find it totally takes the week off and sets me up for what's to come. My skin feels so smooth and completely exfoliated after using it and the scent lasts for such a long time afterwards, which is of course, in my opinion, a very important bonus.


4. Looking after our resident garden hedgehog
   Having spent the last three years living in a city where the closest thing you get to wildlife is an oversized rat in the local park, I am loving being back in suburbia. A few years ago we spotted a tiny round hedgehog nosing around our garden and this month we discovered that he's a) still here and b) a long running resident. How could we not rush out and purchase these adorable vitamin and mineral filled hedgehog bites? French too, no less. #ImsoFancy #YouAlreadyKnowwwww


5. Homemade Apricot and Almond Bread
   My parent's new Panasonic bread maker is my new favourite thing and even better, its instruction booklet came with a bunch of fun and tasty recipes to try out. Muchas excitement por moi. I was one very happy camper curling up on a Sunday evening watching the new series of Dragons' Den, munching on slices of fresh, warm white bread with pieces of apricot and almonds baked inside, topped with Bonne Maman blackcurrant jam. Delish!


6. Zara Organic Cotton - basic striped shirt
   I am obsessed with Zara's organic cotton range and even though I already own three shirts (one in white, one in grey and this striped one), I feel I need more. They are so unbelievably comfortable to wear and because they're not fitted, they compliment your figure and hang really well (score!). They are amazing to just throw on over some skinny jeans and I think I'll just continue live in these forever.

This next month, August (duh), is in my opinion, the best of the year (December is a close second) and it's totally not because it's the month of my birth. All my fellow Leo's put your hands up! I'm looking forward to all the fun in store... and to some exciting changes!

~ Eleanor xo

Bonus: Favourite Track: War Paint by Fletcher

June Favourites

Am I sitting here writing this post while drinking coffee out of a mug with reindeers dancing on it and nibbling on ginger biscuits that for real taste like the embodiment of Christmas? You bet your sweet Aunt Petunia I am! (Soz, I've been re-reading the Harry Potter books and it's basically all I can think about now). Yes, it appears my body just can't let go of Christmas, even if it was over six months ago, or if you're being super organised, still five months away.

I may still be using my favourite Christmas mug because 2015 is flying by, I mean, how is it already three days into July? What is this witchcraft!?

June was a particularly quick month I feel, a week of which was spent on the sunny shores of the Algarve (not too shabby), and the rest were spent... Being totally productive and having zilch mental breakdowns... *cough cough*.

Anyway! Here's what I've loved this month:

1. Nivea After Sun Moisture: After six days of lying in direct sun using both out-of-date sun cream and after sun, I was elated and almost in tears when I got home to find a new (in date) bottle of heaven Nivea in the fridge. Since my return almost two weeks ago (sob), I've been applying this to my skin every morning after I shower and occasionally in the evenings if my skin feels tight. It's really great quality, affordable and the aloe vera smell is heavenly!


2. Before I Go To sleep by S J Watson: So I downloaded this book out of curiosity with the intention of reading it while on holiday... Instead, I ended up reading the entire book on the same day I downloaded it. I literally could not put it down. I'm now dying to see the film; seriously, if you enjoy mystery books with unexpected plot twists, pick up a copy of this book.


3. Diorshow Iconic Mascara: I love a good mascara, but this? This is next level stuff. I need a full size tube of this asap because I am obsessed with how it looks. This was originally a gift so I'm not sure on the price, but I think we can assume it won't be in the affordable section of Boots. Either way, my lashes look longer, fuller and more defined, without being clumpy or heavy. It's a dream! *insert heart eye emoji here*.


4. Pitch Perfect 2 Soundtrack: If you haven't been playing the song 'flashlight' on repeat for the last month then you must be living under a rock. It's an incredible track and Hailee Steinfeld (hola new girl crush) does an amazing job (listen to her acoustic version here and prepare to fall in love). I was so excited to finally see Pitch Perfect 2 and it was honestly everything I could've hoped for and more. And let's be real here, is there anything Elizabeth Banks can't do?! I am in awe!


5. Zara Black Skinny Jeans: I've wanted a pair of black skinny jeans for about a century and this month I finally found a pair I loved! And even better, they were a super affordable price, a rarity in the kingdom of Zara. I've been wearing them so much lately, I love how comfy they are and how easy it is to dress them up or down. I feel so sophisticated!


6. Tahitian Escape Shower Moisturiser: Seriously, I need this stuff on tap, it is amazing. It smells so fresh and exotic and is so nourishing on my skin (and at only £4.50 from M&S? Bargain). Can I please also have this in a scented candle, reed diffuser, perfume, and any other product that requires a scent? 

Here's to a sweltering July where I don't spontaneously combust or complain too much about the heat. Oh and that my uni results tell me I've passed.
~ Eleanor xo

Bonus: Favourite news story: "Pink flamingo receives brand new prosthetic leg after injury" via Mashable