Spring Saviour - Soap & Glory Hand Care

Spring is finally upon us! There's so many great things about spring and right about now you will probably be planning for your spring clean, and a fresh start for the warmer weather.

It's the perfect opportunity to turn your bedroom upside down, clear out any unwanted goods and have a good old scrub to welcome in the new season.

We absolutely love cleaning (no really, we are a bit OCD), but we aren't a fan of how much it ruins our hands. Exposure to cleaning products can leave your hands feeling dry, flakey and in need of some good old TLC, and we have the perfect solution.

If like us, you moisturise your hands everyday, only to have them feeling dry again within a few hours then you need to purchase this! 

Endless Glove (£6.50) is the best hand mask that money can buy and works for up to 12 hours after application. Apply it before bed, and sleep with the gloves on, and you will  wake up with what feels like a new set of hands.

 However if you do not have this product do not fear, as the good old Soap & Glory Hand Food (£5.50) works just perfectly. Both the products are rich, and intense in the damage repair that they do to your hands. 

As for the gloves, Em got these in a Soap & Glory gift set for Christmas last year, and we cannot seem to find them for sale separately. This does not matter at all, as the type of gloves you need are available everywhere. M&S offer manicure gloves for just £4 here and they will do the job just perfectly. 

There really is nothing worse than having dry hands, so make sure you take some time to treat them this spring. A mask is the perfect solution for intensive repair, and the Soap & Glory products are definite winners in doing so. 

Time to stop moaning about those dry hands and give them a good pamper!

Spring Wishlist

The sun is shinning and the dark, cosy knits are starting to get pushed to the back of the wardrobe. In come the florals, pastels and the flowy tops ready for the warmer weather that is about to be upon us. 

We love Spring, but we do not love our budget (where there's a love, there's a moan!). With our bills due, and our loan rapidly running out, we've found ourselves lusting over some Spring essentials that we absolutely cannot afford (why we do it to yourselves, we will never know). 

River Island - Tote Bag (£50) 

There is nothing better than Spring neutrals. This bag is huge, is the perfect balance of two tones and contains black handles so that it goes with absolutely everything! Why oh why is it £50!? It's beautiful, and compliments the warm weather perfectly. We know there are far cheaper options available, but this one is such a staple, and would be timeless so come on it must be worth it? 

New Look - White Leather Ankle Strap (£34.99)

We both have never really got involved in the white shoe trend. We don't like the big clumpy white shoes that are in fashion, no idea why, we just can't see ourselves wearing them. These on the other hand are subtle, and sophisticated whilst successfully fitting the white trend. They are understated, and fit our style much better than many others on the market. Our only problem is how much we would ruin them. They are a nice idea, but who could keep these clean after one too many drinks!? 

Accessorize - Floral Burst Satin Vest Set (£24)

We are obsessed with PJs. Seriously we can't get our pyjama draws closed, and yet we still find ourselves buying more on a weekly basis. We've never really thought of ourselves as girlie girls, but our pyjama collection really does say otherwise. Kirst has an obsession with matching, and this set is perfect for that. It's satin, and floral making it perfect for a comfy (but pretty) sleep as the weather gets warmer. 

Cath Kidston - Cake Stand (£36) 

We admit we are bit old before our time. We couldn't even count the amount of time we've wasted walking around homeware stores dreaming of our future home. Spring is the absolute perfect time for baking, and while we don't really get round to doing much of it at uni we still like to lust over kitchenware. This cake stand from Cath Kidston is the perfect stand for Easter treats, and could easily brighten any home. 

Dune - Natallie Embellished Flat Sandals (£69)

We are definitely the type to buy sandals and chuck them out after the season is over. We usually spend £10-£20 and ruin them within a few weeks of wearing them. They are not really something we put a large amount of thought into, despite them being a Spring/Summer essential. These from Dune are gorgeous! The detail is summery, but isn't too much. Definitely couldn't ruin these and chuck them away for the price though! 

H&M Bikini Set (£21)

We are both obsessed with this style of bikini, and it was the only type we wore on holiday last year. It suits our body shape (by that we mean lack of boobs), and is versatile with the removable straps. We've had lots of H&M bikini's in the past and they fit well, and lasts from all the chlorine. The floral pattern makes it perfect for round the pool, and would look so so nice with a tan (oh if only we could afford a holiday!). 

Mac - Please Me Lipstick (£26)

Colder weather calls for the deep, dark lipstick shades but warmer weather calls for warmer colours. We do need to be more adventurous in our lipstick shades, as we tend to stick to safer colours, but this one just seems perfect for Spring. It's bright enough for your lips to stand out, but soft enough to compliment the bold florals you are likely to be wearing. 

New Look - Lilac Scallop Hem Cami (£12.99)

Sunshine means pastels. While this top is pretty plain (some might even go as far as boring), there's something about it being in lilac. It doesn't stand out at all, but at the same time is unique and pretty effective for such a simple top. Definitely something that should be in your wardrobe that could easily be paired with other pastels. 

Missguided - Lace Halterneck Drawstring Playsuit (£35)

We're not sure whether this item of clothing itself, or the desire to be able to pull something like this off is what we are wishing for here. The combination of white and floral pattern make this absolutely perfect for summer. It could be worn on so many occasions, and has that simple but stylish look. Something that you could throw on, and still look like you've made heaps of effort (the best kind of outfit!). 

O.P.I  Hawaiian Orchid (£11.50) 

In keeping with the neutral Spring theme this shade is definitely the one. It's a pastel but it's bright enough to stand out. Often when we buy pink nail varnish it looks lovely in the bottle, and then goes sort of 'see through' when it's applied. This one makes a statement, but is light enough for Spring and pairing with those bold statement tops. 

We know we're daydreamers, but if we had everything we wanted then what on earth would we have to moan about!? 

Red Nose Day - Malteaser Tray Bake

With Red Nose Day coming up and Malteasers giving a donation when you buy a pack, I wanted my baking this week to be with this in mind. When you Google what to make with Malteasers the famous tray bake is what always seems to come up, and I realised that I have never actually made it. 

Now this recipe is what I like to call Kirsti proof. Let me explain... Kirst can't bake. She's one of those people that chucks everything in and hopes for the best, and don't even get me started on her artistic skills. In other words when it comes to baking (and most other crafty things) she resembles a 5 year old, so this ones perfect for the kids (that includes you Kirst). 

It really couldn't be simpler, and the chances are you won't even have to leave the house to make it (who doesn't have Malteasers constantly on hand!?). All you will need is butter, syrup, chocolate, digestives (I only ever seem to have Fox's as they are my fave so mine was slightly different) and of course Malteasers. 

In terms of actually how much of all that the ingredients are: 

• 100 grams butter
• 200 grams milk chocolate
• 3 tablespoons golden syrup
• 225 grams digestive biscuits (finely crushed)
• 225 grams maltesers

So that's the ingredients checked off as being easy, and luckily how to make it is even easier than that (not even Kirst could mess it up). You simply melt the butter, sugar and syrup in a bowl. 

Then get a whole pack of Malteasers and crush up some digestives. You are supposed to really crush them but I wanted big biscuity chunks (it doesn't look as good, but the taste is woooow). 

Then once everything is melted, chuck everything together (no really, I mean it when I say this recipe can't be neat). This to me looks like Kirsti baking in a bowl - absolutely no structure and looks like it's going to taste awful! 

I know I know, for someone with baking OCD it really doesn't look impressive at all. Pop the messy goo into a dish on top of grease-proof paper, and place it in the fridge. In terms of how long to wait, it's basically how long you can bare. I mean I had a nibble before it even went in, and then mum saw it in the fridge and couldn't resist it so stole some (it was a wonder it even made it to being chopped up). Just try and leave it for about an hour, or at least until it's hard. 

I honestly can't believe I've made something that looks to awful. My baking creations normally take me hours and i've even been known to use a ruler to make sure they can literally be described as perfection. I've basically been Kirst for a day, and as much as I hate to admit it, baking like this is actually pretty fun. 

They really are so delicious, and lasted approx 5 seconds in my house. It also feels good to know that while you are stuffing your face with sugary goodness, you are doing your bit for charity. If baking really isn't for you, there is no excuse not to make this, it couldn't be easier and despite me usually taking forever in the kitchen slaving away, my family have actually said this is one of the best things i've made (not sure if that's a compliment or not?). 

Emma x 

Kitch - Delicious & Fresh - A Canterbury Favourite

This week we are back in our home towns for reading week, however this didn't stop Em from visiting just for one day! As previously discussed, we've banned ourselves from our typical, mainstream restaurants and are only allowed to try new (mostly independent) places to eat!

Kirst lives in Canterbury, Kent which is full of mainstream restaurants, from your ASK to Nandos - you'll find it here. But it is also crammed with independent coffee shops and cafe's, you just have to search for them. Recently, we read a post on BuzzFeed called 21 Delicious Things To Eat In Canterbury and at #2 was Kitch! So on Tuesday, Em drove to Canterbury and we finally took our Kitch virginity.

It's situated towards the bottom of Canterbury High Street (#2 St Peters Street if you would like to be exact) and is intriguing from the outset. With a cute grey theme and big windows it's certainly inviting. We were welcomed by two lovely ladies and invited to sit down and take a look at the menu's. Firstly, the menu isn't exactly large. BUT this doesn't mean there isn't much to choose from. Although the food menu isn't 7 pages long, the wide range of variety from each dish to another is just right. We would safely say there is something for everyone!

Now, what really interested us about Kitch is that it is one of the only places around that source all of their food locally, make it right there as you order & use natural, wholegrain ingredients free from refined sugars, flours and artificial flavours. Delicious and good for you!

We ordered drinks (Chai Latte and a Green Tea - predictable from us). Despite typically ordering our usual, we are quite fussy with them. Whenever Kirst orders a Chai Latte she usually ask how it is made, as she's not so keen when it is made with powder and especially when it's not mixed properly. However, Kitch's was lovely!

Next up was the food. We arrived at Kitch at 11.30am so just in time for breakfast! We both went for the Full English (originally at £8.00) however being the fussy eaters that we are, Kirst switched bacon for another sausage and Em switched sausage for avocado. Typically when we ask to change items (especially on breakfasts) we are met with a grumpy look and a reluctant "ok". This was not the case at Kitch - the waitress was happy to change whatever and showed no signs of grumpyness- yay!

The food was amazing! When ordering the breakfast you have a choice of fried, poached or scrambled egg, it's so refreshing to be offered such an option. The baked beans are made fresh by Kitch and the sour-dough bread was indescribable - simply delicious. Something so simple but so enjoyable was the actual butter! It was so nice to not receive margarine. The sausages were gorgeous and the mushrooms were insanely good. We even asked what it was that they had done to them because they were that good! 

We absolutely love a good fry up, and have had many in our time, but one thing we cannot stand is the feeling that you get after. You know when your mouth literally tastes of oil all day, and you feel sick and uncomfortably full? Well not with this one. Of course we were full, but we were full of energy (not the usual sluggishness you normally feel), and felt completely refreshed and ready for the day. 

The cake selection was far too impressive for our liking, how could we possibly choose!? It felt so nice to be able to look at cakes and know that the ingredients are wholesome, with nothing artificial (who knew cakes could come without the guilt!?), but not compromised at all on taste. 

We absolutely loved our trip and will definitely be coming back to try the whole of the menu. Not only did it taste incredible, but it was lovely to know that the food we were eating was real, and that everything was either homemade or locally sourced. Not to mention the lovely atmosphere, and friendly owner who made us feel so welcome throughout the whole time we were there. 

Budget vs High End - Who's The Winner?

As students we are always looking to swap expensive goods for cheaper versions that are just as good, if not better. Often we find winners, and end up saving some pennies (yay for one less thing to moan about), but other times we find ourselves feeling it necessary to splash an extra bit of cash.

We've rounded up some products to compare, to find out where budget buys are best, and when a bit of money is needed.

First up...

Johnson's Baby Shampoo (£3) Vs Wilko's Own Baby Shampoo (£1)

Using baby shampoo in itself is the cheaper option when cleaning Make Up brushes, but it can be made as cheap as £1. There is absolutely no difference between these products, but if you pay the brand you pay triple the price! 

Winner - Budget

Sleek Brow Kit (£8.50) Vs Benefit Brow Zings (£24.50)

Ok ok we know what the caption says, Benefit wins 'best selling' but is it really the best? Maybe if you have the money to spare but when you are watching the pennies it's not necessary. The Sleek kit comes with the same tools, and does exactly the same job for way under half the price!

Winner - Budget

Olay Essentials Complete Care Day Cream (£5) Vs Liz Earle Skin Repair Moisturiser (£20) 

Now this one depends on how much your skin relies on being moisturised, but as much as we want to tell you to put your purse away Liz Earle really doesn't compare. If you've read our blog post () you'll know how much we adore this product, and through being users of both these products, while the budget will do, it doesn't live up to the big bucks. 

Winner - High End

Talcum Powder (99p) Vs Batiste Dry Shampoo (£2.99)

Talcum powder has been used as a cheaper alternative to greasy hair for years, to the point where many other brands (such as Lush) have offered dry shampoos based on the same texture. It works for getting rid of grease, but you really do have to be careful with going out looking like a witch with white hair. If like many of us the problem with not washing your hair is not just grease, but also flat, limp hair that won't be styled you might need something more. Yes it's triple the price, but Batiste works at eliminating grease, and giving your hair some extra oomph that usually only comes from a good wash. 

Winner - High End

Rimmel London Kate Lipstick (£5.99) Vs Mac Lipstick (£15.50) 

Mac lipsticks are the absolute in-trend in the beauty world, and have been for quite some time. Our problem? We are in-decisive and can't commit to spending £15 on a lipstick that we will probably change our mind on after a few uses. The Kate Moss collection eliminates this problem, and allows us to buy three shades for the price of one Mac colour. In terms of the lipstick themselves the quality of Mac's do not justify the price, so you really don't need to pay for the brand. A girl can never have too many lipsticks, so buy Rimmel and have more for less. 

Winner - Budget

Primark Heeled Chelsea Boot (£15) Vs River Island Heeled Chelsea Boot (£50) 

One thing to bare in mind when budget shopping is not which is nicer. Obviously if you gave us a choice we would pick the River Island boots, but a) are they worth the price? b) will the Primark ones do? And the answers are a) no b) yes. There's the assumption with Primark that the quality is not as good, but this is not true at all. We both have Primark boots that have lasted far longer than our pricier alternatives, and even if they don't last for £15 you cannot really complain. Price doesn't always equate to quality, and so often we forget this when we are shopping. 

Winner - Budget 

We wish we could tell you that budget products are always best, but then what would we have to moan about? It's a case of picking and choosing when products are worth the spend, and swallowing your pride when they are not. 

It's OK To Drift Apart From Friends

Before coming to uni I was completely convinced that your best friends were the ones that you had been friends with the longest. I was under the illusion that they had known you the longest, and therefore knew you the best. 

Then I met Kirst, and within a week of knowing her I realised that she already knew me better than people I had known my whole life (probably because we are basically the same person, but still), and I started to understand that the strength of a friendship is reliant on the quality of the time you have spent together. 

When we are at school we form cliques, and from a young age get stuck with a group that we convince ourselves, are the perfect people for us. We get comfortable, and the thought of ever not being friends with these people is impossible. We just assume that the only way the friendship will end is if we have a huge fall out, otherwise we will remain friends forever. 

Unfortunately as you grow up, and your circles widen, you realise that this assumption couldn't be more wrong. You soon start to realise that when you don't have school, or living in the same area forcing you to see each other all the time, the friendships do not remain the same. 

When these friendships are tested, true colours start to show and instead of the big fall out you imagined, the friendship just simply fades, and that's ok. 

You'll find that people become less interested in your life, and that when communication is no longer easy, people put less effort into doing so. You'll realise that there were so many things that you would just put up with  (when you shouldn't have), and it will cause you to view your 'friends' in a whole new light. You'll meet people that you are far more compatible with, and come to the realisation that you and your old friends don't really have that much in common. 

The point is that when we are younger we are far more programmed than we will ever realise. We stick to what's familiar, and often find ourselves in circles that are safe, but not necessarily where we fit in best. As your life starts to change, so will your interests and expectations, and it's completely ok if your old friendships begin to drift as a result. 

Change is good, and as you grow as a person it's natural for you to grow apart from people that were very much a part of the old you. 

This doesn't mean to say that you never talk to them again, but instead you accept that your friendship is no longer the same. Spending days together turns into the odd cuppa and catch up, telling them your life story turns into 'i'm good thanks, how are you?' and thinking you will be best friends forever turns into being thankful for the friendship that you once had... and that's OK. 

Emma x

February Favourites

After the stress of January we were hoping for a nice quiet February (occasionally we are optimistic), but within the first week we knew this wasn't going to happen. We were set into an instant panic with assignment briefings and placement interviews, and as control freaks our minds instantly went into overdrive.

Although we could easily come up with plenty of moans regarding the month, we thought it might be slightly more enjoyable for you to read our favourites instead.

So...

Favourite Discovery:

Vimto is the best mixer! With all the stress we've needed a drink (or five) and after becoming completely bored of all other mixers we've discovered one that makes our drinks half bearable. 

Favourite Food: 

Even looking at this picture again we are dribbling. 7 Bone (in Bournemouth & Southampton) officially sells the best burgers on the South Coast. One beef, one chicken, chips, mac & cheese bites (seriously, deep fried cheese and pasta, does it get much better?) plus a side of mac & cheese (we may be petite, but boy can we eat). We didn't want the last mouthful to end, and have no doubts that this will be our go to place when the burger cravings strike. 

Favourite Quote: 

Our reasoning behind this is in our post It's OK To Never Feel At Home. Living in a house this year (halls doesn't count, it's basically a year long holiday) has made us think about what having a 'home' actually means, and why we don't feel like we have one. 

Favourite Film: 

Not only is this a February favourite, but one of the best films we've seen in a long time. We went to the cinema to see this and at the end of the film, every single person in the cinema was silent. A must watch!

Favourite Book: 

Dave Trott's 'Predatory Thinking' is great for getting your brain waves working and for a bit of inspiration, whether that be at uni, work or just home life. The book is described as 'a masterclass in out-thinking the competition' and inspires different ways of thinking. You can get it for just £2.35 on Amazon (plus postage) and is definitely worth a read!

Favourite Bake:

Caramac Cookies! Em has been obsessed with Caramacs since she was little (seriously she keeps them everywhere, her desk/cupboard/car/bag), so these are pretty much perfection. They are so easy to make, and probably the most sickly things you will ever eat (in a good way). You can find the recipe here.

Favourite Polish: 

Ok this isn't actually new to February so it's a favourite re-discovery. With Spring just around the corner it's ta-ta to the dark shades and hello to the fresh, bright neutrals. Essie Fiji is has a slight pink tone, creating a clean fresh look (perfect for the brighter weather). 

So there you go - Our 7 February favourites. Do you share any of these? Or have some of your own? Let us know!