Tuesday 29 July 2014

Chapter 55: "If You Sat Her by The Fire, She'd Melt."

Before Danii Minogue used to be an X Factor presenter and there was so much hype around her, I watched her perform one day at some festival on TV during dinner time. Dinner times in our household was a time where we all sat down and had a proper catch up about things that had happened in our days, and just general chit chat about daily occurrences. The tele is usually on as background noise whilst this happens and I turned to look at Danii. I'm pretty sure I mentioned how lovely looking she was. My Dad's response? "Patricia, if you sat her by the fire, she'd melt." Me being the innocent 15 year old I was, I responded, "What do you mean?" "Patricia, she's plastic darlin', how can you not tell?" From then on I have had a keen eye for people that have had work, even if it is miniscule. However, I still think Danii Minogue is gorgeous, even though I've always preferred Kylie (again, another one who's had work done - only a brief encounter with botox though which I myself, have never ruled out).

It one of them topics that is always brought up, whether it be at home watching the tele with your family or with your mates looking through magazines or browsing the internet. Sometimes people look better for it, a lot of the time they don't. It's a shame we go to such measures to try to enhance our looks and for what? Because we can't grow old gracefully? Because we are doing it for our own personal well being? Because you (I) want to get rid of that permanent frown mark that's even there when you smile? Yeah I have hang ups about little wrinkles on my face, all little things that would be nice if they weren't there. But there are bigger problems in the world and I figure, they make me who I am... characteristics that people recognise in me................. But if I had as much money as celebs, I'd probably not know what to do with it either and get a cheeky bit of botox on my frown ha. That's the problem you see, all these celebs don't have a clue what to use their money on. So they buy 50 gazillions cars and park them on their drives for show (and for MTV Cribs), have plastic surgery, and use drugs. Unfortunate when they turn to the latter, but sadly enough that is the case with large percentage of people in high statuses.

Here are a few celebs you may or may not know have had plastic surgery over the years:























Some of these, I just don't get. Like Megan Fox for example, why girl, why?! She's still beaut don't get me wrong but... FAR too young to even consider having such work done. Jackie Stallone, you will FOREVER be my favourite. Anyone remember her in the 3rd Celeb Big Brother? This should jog your memories... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y1yKf_FlmEs&hd=1. On going joke between me and my sister to this day! "YEAH, JACKIE!" Wish I was as cool as her... LOL.

Anyway, I thought pictures sufficed this blog entry this week. But tell me what your thoughts are on plastic surgery and whether you would ever consider having work done. Maybe you already have but maybe regret it? Maybe you plan to have it after trying other natural methods? If you have natural methods like the SBC collagen serum I'm trying, what are these? Contact on the back of here, inbox me on Facebook or tweet me @triciabaxter.

In the mean time... I'm thinking these celebs need to take a leaf out of Biggie Smalls & Diddy's book and take a listen to this.

Big love.
T.x

Tuesday 22 July 2014

Chapter 54: First Class Hair & Beauty

My friend, Katie Stead opened her first salon, First Class Hair & Beauty on Sunday. She is one of the hardest working people I know and is such an inspiration to every person who has a dream. You want someone to prove to you you can do it? Katie Stead is your woman.

I went to school with Katie but she was a few years below me and we were first introduced in 2009 - the rest is history! One of my closest friends I'll ever have. We went to New York together along with a few other holidays with our groups of friends and she is such a laugh - she works hard and has earnt her way to where she is. She has been through so much but she always comes back fighting fit. She is what I like to call "Wonder Woman" and here's why...

Katie got into hairdressing after school and went to college to study. She achieved her level 2 & 3 in Hairdressing and Salon Business Management after which went on to achieve a BA Hons in Business Enterprise... First... Frickin... Class. All whilst working a full time job AND doing hair and beauty outside of work. 

After this amazing achievement in her life, Katie went on to start her own mobile hairdressing business and decided to promote it under the name, "First Class Hair & Beauty". This was a huge success and a fantastic career move for her personally. Even though it was a massive move for her, she wouldn't be where she is today without that leap of faith with the encouragement of her family and friends. She not only does hairdressing but she does a cracking spray tan, eyelashes and brows (falsies and tinting) and gellux nails amongst other things. Here are a few examples of her work:











Pretty fecking good huh?! Katie took the big move and opened her own salon officially last Sunday. Her launch nigh was brilliant and she couldn't have asked for a better turn out! She took the big decision to put her business into a salon back in April and with the help of her family and friends, it looks beautiful! Another big decision she made, she achieved all of her goals in such a short space of time (not to mention a run of bad luck, burning the candle at both ends and falling sick in between, but she is fit and fighting now :)). She sorted everything from finance to decoration. She got her cousin, Emily Benton (founder of Bostin Design) to help her with her logo and in the end, decided on this classy and stylish finish:


Filled with a styling section, tan room, nail room, massage parlour, office (and of course a kitchen and toilet), it is the perfect little location for a new and budding business. Located in Walsall (32 Birmingham Road, WS1 2LT), you'd be silly not to go in a book in now. Either that or simply ring 01922276116. Please take a look at her price list below:


Once you go First Class Hair & Beauty, I guarantee you WON'T go back! Katie... this one's for you! Destiny's Child - Independent Women.

"I have always worked hard to where I want to get. Things haven't come easy, like working full time whilst doing a full time degree. But I got there..."

Big Love.
T.x

Tuesday 15 July 2014

Chapter 53: Mind Over Matter

Hey guys, hope you all had a great week! Going to be talking about the things we think we can't do, but when we really put our minds to it, we can. Last Sunday my sister's and I did Race for Life and it was such a lovely day. There's something about doing a race with a bunch of people and knowing that you're all in it together. We ran the race for our Mammy, who I know was looking down on us with a big smile on Sunday. I know she would have been proud of us and so thankful to you all who helped us raise the money we did. Esther informed me her school raised over £400 for us last week which is absolutely fantastic! So thank you very much Guns Village Primary School!

When I ran the race, I remembered all the tips I had learnt from training with my sisters and brother-in-law. Take it slow to start, breathe through your nose and out through your mouth and put your hands behind your head and take deep breaths if you get a stitch (this really works btw). For me I struggle with my breathing pattern, but the thing that always gets me through running is knowing my Mammy is egging me on. When we signed up to do last years 5K she said, "You can run a whole 5k." I did and couldn't quite believe it. So I have vowed to do the run every year now. It really annoys me when People say, "5K is nothing" because for me it's a big thing. I'm not the strongest runner, so to put someone down by saying that is mean in my opinion - have no time for people who do that. It reminds me of Seegar in An Officer and a Gentleman (1982) when she is trying to walk the wall but can't because her Sargent is putting her down. She eventually does when Zack Mayo (Richard Gere) eggs her on. The Sargent is constantly doing this to everyone until they are tipped over the edge. Turns out he's doing it to make them stronger people... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6g2JN2PrHJg&hd=1

I remembered a picture I seen of an overweight man running a marathon with a note on his back saying "I am in front of you and I've had a heart attack." If that doesn't egg you on, then I don't know what will. During Race for Life, everyone has an inspirational message or a message for someone in particular pinned to their backs. Most women state who they are running for. One woman wrote, "I'm running for myself." This really started me off. I started arguing with myself - how dare I even THINK I'm in pain, when there are women running around me with cancer and are having treatment like chemotherapy and radiotherapy. I then saw my sisters in front and my beautiful Mammy's face pinned to their backs. It was a picture from her retirement do in Belfast and she looked so happy. I looked at her face and thought of how strong she was throughout everything and I just knew I had to push on and give it my all, just like she did.

You know that saying, "go hard or go home"? I love it. It has to be one of my favourite sayings because it's just so applicable to everything. If you can't give something your all, what do you have to give? It's time to start thinking positively about ourselves because it is so easy to be consumed by the negativity that surrounds us on the television, the internet and in magazines and newspapers.  


When my sister and I went to a tattoo shop a couple of weeks ago, we went in with the intention of just having something drew up. The woman said, "If he can fit you in today could you do it?" We answered, "yes", without hesitation. We knew if we delayed it, we would probably be analysing it more. Granted, we were shitting ourselves, but we did it. The tattoo means something to us and we will never regret it for as long as we live. Yeah it was painful in parts, but God was it worth it. Would I do it again? Hell yeah, because I know I can now.

The point I am trying to make is, the mind is a wonderful thing, but it's only in your power how you use it. I am a serial worrier as I have made it known before, but in recent months I've just thought, "What's the point? Where is worrying actually getting me?" The answer is nowhere. If we spend all this time worrying and doubting ourselves, what exactly are we going to achieve in life? Who is going to see the best of you if you can't see the best in yourself?

So as of this week, I'm going to get back to my script writing that I postponed over a year ago, because it's what I love doing and it is another thing to tick off my bucket list :). Lena Dunham (creator of and actress in the hit TV Show, Girls) said this:
"The personal is universal and if too many people get involved in the creative process, then eventually it'll feel like nobody made it."
What she means is, everyone has a personal life; personal ideas, ambitions, loves. But if this is shared amongst everyone and everyone has their own opinions of your personal interests, you can become so influenced by other peoples thoughts, you may even doubt yourself in the end.

My point is, be yourself and have the courage of your convictions. I know I'm going to. Thanks again to everyone who sponsored us for our run and has supported us so much over the past few years. We are so touched by all of you and together, we have made a difference. Like my sister said, if this money stops at least one family going through what we have gone through losing Mammy, then it's all worth it for this amazing cause - thanks again everyone! <3.

Foo Fighters - Best of You.

Big Love,
T.x

Tuesday 8 July 2014

Chapter 52: Pampered Pooches

Hey guys! Hope you all had a great week! Last week I spoke bucket lists and listed a few of the things I would love to do in my lifetime. I can safely say I can tick one of them off now! :). My Sister and I had a special weekend, one which we won't ever forget or regret for that matter. One thing is for sure, Mammy was probably letting out a wee giggle or two whilst we ticked that off our bucket lists! :) xxx.

This week I am going to be a typical blogger and talk about products I absolutely LOVE to use. It's important to pamper yourself every now and again. I like to do this on a weekly occurrence on a Friday night whilst watching my programmes with a bottle of beer/glass of vino. However, I know this isn't so regular for everybody due to heavy workloads etc. But if you can make the time, it is a great feeling. It doesn't matter if you're a woman or a man, it's a must!

So ladies, I'm going to start by introducing you to the godsend that is... Estee Lauder, Double Wear:


This will literally cover every sin on your face. It hides blemishes, smoothes out wrinkles and best of all, the stuff is practically bullet proof. Retailing at £29.50, this foundation lasts a good few months and is worth every penny. However, I try to keep it for nights out/special occasions only. Another good tip is applying it with a foundation brush; in doing so you will add another couple of months to this precious makeup bag beauty.

Now the next product, I use EVERY DAY without fail. Men can use this as well:


This can be used as a moisturiser or you can even put it in the bath. This has been brilliant for me in the past when I have ever suffered from rashes or bites, but since using it every night before I go to bed, my skin has never been so smooth! Brilliant for men as an after shave balm too. You can purchase this from your local Lloyds chemist from as little as £2.88.

The next product I use as a thick mask at least once a week but it can also be used daily. My Dad purchased this from QVC at a great price of £26.01 for a massive 1 litre bottle:


Honest to promise... this smells AMAZING and is perfect for either a light moisturiser or a thick mask to wear before bed. It's smoothing and works to tighten the skin around your problem areas like crows feet or deep wrinkles. This was bought in our household back in February and we aren't even half way through it. You can purchase it here by clicking this link: http://www.qvcuk.com/SBC-Collagen-Gel-1-Litre.product.215693.html?sc=SRCH&cm_sp=VIEWPOSITION-_-4-_-215693.

Ladies, it's all about the brows lately, am I right? My best friend and beautician Katie Stead (who might I add has her own business - you can find her Facebook Business Page, First Class Hair & Beauty, here), bought me this for my Birthday:


This is... AMAZING! It comes with a fine brush for easy application and as you can see, comes in four shades. Now you might think, 'well... I would only need one shade', that's where you're wrong. Depending on your shading you can mix the colours and if you want to go for the smokey eyed look, the black shading is amazing for smouldering eyes or 60's flicks!

I'm going to bang on about another QVC product - me and my Dad just can't get enough of the channel! It's gel nail polish (sorry guys, another girly one), called Red Carpet Manicure Gel Polish Kit:


This comes with a portable LED light, nail files, cuticle/buffing sticks and you can choose which two colours you want. I went for the red and silver back at Christmas time to get in the festive spirit, but the silver is great for layering and the red has a tinge of sparkle in it too. What's more? It comes with a base and top coat and even if you want to paint your nails any colour that isn't a gel, you can apply a gel top coat and your colour will still last weeks! You can still purchase this by following this link: http://www.qvcuk.com/Red-Carpet-Manicure-Portable-Gel-Polish-LED-Light%2c-Accessories-%26-2-Colours.product.400596.html?sc=SRCH&cm_sp=VIEWPOSITION-_-4-_-400596

If you don't fancy paying for gel nail polish ladies... please buy this top coat:


You can get this at your nearest supermarkets for approximately £5, but let me tell you... it's worth it! Nail polish lasts for a good week and a half without chipping!

I'll end this by telling you guys, that although it is expensive, I know many men who have high recommendations for anything Clinique. My Brother-In-law swears by this Clinique moisturiser:


They do it for all skin types as well as oily skin specific and at Christmas, they have a great deal on gift sets. Why not put this on your wish list or treat yourselves guys?

Hope you enjoyed this weeks blog! I'd love to know how you pamper yourselves and if not, why not? Contact me on here, Facebook or tweet me @triciabaxter.

Only a few days until mine and my Sister's race guys! So excited to be taking part in this worthy cause and we really can't thank you enough for your constant support and donations! Massive love to you all! If you still want to donate, go to www.raceforlife.co.uk/jennys-girls xxx.

I've just GOT to play this song by Coldplay this week. They never cease to amaze me with every new album they release, but this has to be my favourite song of theirs since, Warning Sign:

Thanks for reading everyone!
T.x

Tuesday 1 July 2014

Chapter 51: The Bucket List

This week I'm talking bucket lists. What's a bucket list I hear you say? The Oxford Dictionary says it is:

"A number of experiences or achievements that a person hopes to have or accomplish during their lifetime. 'Making this trip is the first on my bucket list.'"

When I was about 6 years old, I was really into a programme called, Full House (1987-1995), starring the Olsen twins. I absolutely loved them then and still do now! I would literally copy everything they did and said. Well one day at school, I was sitting at the dinner table with 5 other kids from my year. We were all discussing the craziest things we had ever done. Someone said, "Who's ate a bug?" We all put our hands up and went, "ME!" Someone said, "Who's wee'd in a swimming pool?" We all replied, "ME!" Then I came out with, "Who's been skydiving?!" Everyone replied, "ME!" Did anyone know what skydiving was? No. I asked the question because Uncle Joey went skydiving in an episode of Full House and the Olsen Twins wanted to do it so I thought I wanted to! How innocent we all were ha! I went home and told my family and they all found it hilarious! It's still and ongoing joke to this day. "Hey Trish, remember that time you were 6 and did a skydive? That was a good day." Haha!

Truth be told though, that really is on my bucket list, all because I seen it on Full House. I want to travel everywhere at one stage. Do a Julia Roberts in, Eat Pray Love (2010). A book adaptation, Roberts plays a divorced woman who goes and finds herself by travelling the world and discovering how to be by herself and to love herself for who she is. It's a good read and film and of course, it's on the beloved Netflix! Here are a number of things on my bucket list:
  1. To write a movie.
  2. To make a movie.
  3. Possibly star in the movie, ha!
  4. Do charity work in a Third World Country.
  5. To travel the world.
  6. Skydive.
  7. Bungee Jump (not so keen on that one, but wanna say I've done it).
  8. Learn how to play guitar.
  9. Learn how to play the drums.
  10. Get a tattoo.
  11. Learn a language fluently.
  12. Learn a Martial Art.
  13. Go to Glastonbury.
The last one I just added in there because I was extremely gutted I didn't go this year. After all, Dolly frickin' Parton was there! Doesn't get much better than that. She even made a joke about the amount of botox she's had! We were all thinking it, she just said it!

In truth my list goes on and I will keep adding to it as time goes on. I think it's important to look forward to doing something and to always look forward to a goal. Stephen Sutton is one boy who we should all look up to. He fought a good fight with his bowel cancer and managed to achieve all he wanted to before he passed away. He had a 46 point bucket list and he managed to achieve all of them before passing at the tender age of 19. Some of which included raising £10K for Teenage Cancer Research and he exceeded this with a whopping £4.2 million worth of donations from people all over. He did a skydive and a bungee jump for charity along with many other charity events, got a tattoo, flew first class and hugged an animal bigger than him:


For someone so young he was so wise beyond his years and said:
"I don't see the point in measuring life in terms of time anymore. I'd rather measure life in terms of making a difference."
This quote will stay with me forever and it's so true. My mammy who also passed away of bowel cancer achieved so much in her life. She had such a zest for it and wanted nothing more than for me a my sister's to live the lives we love and to love the lives we live. A mantra we should all follow, because this much is true:


I would love to hear your bucket lists and what you all MUST say you've done in your lifetimes. Just contact in the usual places on the back of here, Facebook or tweet me @triciabaxter. Also, my family and I can't thank you all enough for your donations to our Just Giving page for Race For Life which is less than two weeks away now. It means so much to us and we are so touched by all of your support over the last year. Mammy touched the lives of many and anyone was lucky to have known her. She was the most beautiful, kindest and funniest person I'll ever know and someone who really did live her life to the fullest. She is the only reason for me writing this blog and I owe it all to her. Love and miss her more and more everyday <3 xxx.
If you haven't already, you can donate at www.justgiving.com/jennys-girls

You only get one life and it's for living. So let's live! 


Peave & Love.
T.x