No Filter Project

How many of us have looked at a celebrity magazine and thought "I would love to have flawless skin like her" or "I wish I was that thin"? I would say the majority. As a teenager I always wanted to have perfect skin and be the perfect size, but as I got older I realised something, those things don't really exist!

If you ask my husband he will tell you I am usually quick to say "I wish my chest was smaller" "I wish my skin wasn't so sensitive" or my most moaned about body part "I wish my tummy was flatter and didn't have this loose skin".

Many publications Photoshop or airbrush the pictures to give the illusion of perfect. I often wonder is this the main reason we have body hang ups?

Too many young girls, and some boys, look at these images and think this is how they need to be. They try all sorts of diets, most dangerous, to get that perfect thin frame, anorexia and bulimia are a major threat when these diets take hold. It worries me greatly and having a daughter myself she will be educated on the dangers of fad diets and she will also be told the pictures in these magazines etc are not what they seem.

Recently I was on Facebook and I came across the amazing No Filter Project. The project was founded by Emma and Donna and they have one simple goal, to show us how beautiful we really are.  They want to help promote a healthy and positive body image, helping us to be happy with how we look, who we are and to really feel comfortable in our own skin.

One photo album we should all look at on  https://www.facebook.com/nofilterrevolution is #NoFilter Photoshoot.  We are all different shapes and sizes. Wouldn't it be boring if we were all the same? Look at how happy the women are in that album. That was the first thing I noticed.

To give you an idea of the difference between a real and untrue picture I have made changes to a picture of me just to show you how much a few adjustments can really make you think I'm "flawless"

As you can see I made myself look thinner, my skin looks flawless, my teeth perfectly white and my lips a glowing red. Now look at the before picture.  I think I look better in the before picture than I do in the after shot. Why? It's simple. I prefer the real me.  Yes I may have wrinkles, a double chin, my teeth might not be perfect white and my skin looks blotchy. That's me. I am 34 and have 2 children so why do people expect me to look perfect? I also have mummy tummy, yes I don't like it much BUT my tummy was home to my babies as they grew it protected them so as far as I'm concerned I earned my stripes (stretch marks). Yes I have a scar from my C sections but that scar just proves I would do anything to make sure my children arrived safely.

I AM ME.

I want to tell all my readers that you are perfect the way you are. NEVER let anyone tell you otherwise. Never change for anyone.

Please head over to No Filters Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/nofilterrevolution/timeline

Twitter = https://twitter.com/nofilterproject

Christmas Travel Tips

I am sure many of us know that travelling can be stressful. When travelling at Christmas it is busier and to someone with anxiety it is a massive fear being in an enclosed crowded space feeling like you have no control.  Short journeys are fine but when we want to travel further to see loved ones the thought worries us.

I asked some people about their experiences of travelling at Christmas and during winter to bring you Angela's top tips for Travel.  If you follow these hints and tips you won't need to worry again.

Bad Weather

"If you want a chance to get on your train it is wise to stay on the platform!"

We know how awful the weather is in Britain and how unpredictable it can be! When travelling during the cold months wear layers. Yes you may be about to sit on a train for a few hours but before getting on the cosy warm  train you are going to be standing on a wet and windy platform. If the platform is busy, as no doubt it will be, please stand back from the edge and take extra care on wet platforms. It may sound basic but safety first at all times.

Christmas Eve

"The worst thing about travelling on Christmas trains is the luggage! Everyone seems to have a suitcase. This means a free for all with luggage left in the doorways and aisles."

I have seen this many times before, people coming on with 3 bags for just one person! My suggestion is travel lightly if possible. I understand you may have loads of presents for family and friends but try and get everything in one large case rather than a few smaller ones.

Store all luggage safely and securely. If any doubt about how much luggage you can take, ask your local train provider for advice.

Snow on the tracks

"people would be a lot less disgruntled if the train companies didn't give us false hopes.  We are much happier when we expect the trains to be delayed and they are."

Delays and cancellations happen.  In bad weather only travel if 100% necessary and always check the operators website before leaving the house.  If I was travelling with TransPennine Express for example I would go to: www.tpexpress.co.uk/travel-information/ and check if my journey was running on time, delayed or cancelled.

Packed Trains

"I was travelling last week and the train was packed.  People were crammed into the aisles. The conductor didn't even attempt to walk through the carriages.  It wasn't until we got to a staffed station that they stopped people from getting on."

If you are at an unstaffed station please check to see how full the carriages are before attempting to board.  If it is clearly too busy wait until the next service arrives.  If on a long journey book your seats. With TransPennine Express you can book your seats online and can even select which type of seat you want.

Travelling with children

•  Book seat where possible
•  Prams and buggies must be foldable and stored safely
•  Ensure children do not run up and down the aisles. Yes I have witnessed this.
•  Bring entertainment, travel games, colouring books etc.
•  Pack a lunch. The kids will have a blast having a picnic on the train. TransPennine Express offer an at seat refreshment trolley service if you would like a nice hot cup of tea or coffee or a sandwich or snack.

Existing medical conditions

For those with existing conditions such as anxiety here are some extra tips for you.

• Take all medication with you. This includes ordering and collecting your repeat prescriptions before travelling. Doctor surgeries and pharmacies are closed during Christmas period
• If you need something to help travelling less stressful book an appointment with your GP if travelling in advance.
• If you suffer travel sickness, like me, you can get anti sickness medication over the counter or from your doctor.
• If you need assisted travel please contact the train provider who will help arrange this.

If you follow the tips above I am sure the stress of travelling will melt away!

To anyone travelling from Glasgow or Edinburgh to Manchester, Newcastle to York or Manchester to Cleethorpes why don't you check out TransPennine Express!  They offer you bookable seating, great fares, amazing service, comfort, assistance and most importantly stress free travel.

For more information visit: http://www.tpexpress.co.uk/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FirstTranspennineExpress?fref=ts
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TPExpressTrains

Counselling

A week ago today I had my first counselling session.  I have never been so relieved!!

I was nervous and excited about the appointment, a little anxious too.  As I approached the room I felt the usual symptoms start, thumping heart, sweating and feeling sick but I continued. My counsellor obviously noticed how I was feeling and asked me to sit down and take deep breaths as she told me about what would happen this session.

Right away I started to relax! It was an unusual feeling the anxiety disappearing that quick.  I think it was due to me knowing I would not be judged and that she totally understood how I was feeling.

I was told by a family member that I would feel drained after my appointment but I didn't really think I would be.  She was right but it was a nice feeling of tiredness as I had accomplished something just from telling the counsellor everything that was upsetting me.  Yes I did cry at one point but I think that was from the utter relief of getting it all out.

As I left I couldn't help but smile and the weight off my shoulders was incredible. For the first time in a long long time I actually felt properly relaxed!

I can't wait for my next appointment on Thursday.

Life As A Footballer

Darren and myself in his Aberdeen days. (2009)

Darren Mackie started playing professionally for Aberdeen FC in 1998. Over the next 14 years He faced some tough opponents, Celtic, Rangers, Dnipro, Bayern Munich and many more.  His time at Aberdeen came to an end in 2012 and Darren moved across the ocean to play for Phoenix FC before moving back to Scotland to play for Turriff United.

I had the chance to ask Darren some questions about life as a player and what really goes on.

1. How do you prepare mentally for a game?

Nothing special, just try to stay relaxed as possible and focus on my opponents.

2. If your team lose an important game how do you deal with that?

Try and forget it as quick as possible! The good thing with football is the next game is never far away and you have to concentrate on it rather than one you can’t do anything about.

3. When you were playing at Aberdeen how did you prepare for the European games?

European games had an extra buzz so there was always a bit of nervous excitement, but I tried to just relax during the day and maybe have a couple hrs sleep in the afternoon before having a pre match meal, then as a team we would have a meeting before the game, find out who was starting and then identify any weakness in our opponents we could try to exploit
4. Injury is part of the game and obviously can have quite an affect how do you personally deal with this?

It’s part of the game, the small injuries that keep you out for a few days to a couple weeks are easy to deal with and don’t really effect you much it is more frustrating than anything. Serious long term injuries can be hard to deal as it can get quite depressing not being able to take part in training and games, but it is important to have a positive outlook, I always got really bored if I got injured and would end up playing pranks and messing about as it kept me in high spirits.

5. You went over to America, how did things differ there compared to over here?

America was a great experience with a few differences, mainly the weather especially in Phoenix, training and playing in 40-50 degrees C took a bit of getting use to. However it was also a much more relaxed environment as there wasn’t the same expectations as being at Aberdeen. Travel was another, as away games were normally 4-6 hrs flights or drives through the night.

6. What would you say is the best moment in your career so far?

Scoring the goal in Europe against Dnipro and also getting the chance to play against Bayern Munich in the last 32 of the UEFA cup

7. When you moved to Turriff United how did you feel being the new guy?

It was ok, i’m confident with meeting new people so was never an issue.

8. What would you say is the best thing about playing football?

The excitement it brings to yourself and others. It is also great exercise. Plus getting paid to do something you enjoy is a huge privilege.

I would like to thanks Darren for taking time to answer my questions, I am very grateful and wish him all the best for the future.

The most stressful time of the year!?

With Christmas just round the corner (already!!) many of us will have started the fun and games that is Christmas shopping.

There was a time I enjoyed shopping for others presents, enjoying the atmosphere in the shops and excited to see their reactions when they opened their gifts,  Since becoming a parent I have actually seen the other side of Christmas shopping.....the stress!

Is this the right one? Do they have this already? Did we get them enough? Did we get them too much? Do they have the same amount of presents each? ARRGGGHHH.  Add to that, having to take the youngest with us whilst trying to hide what we are buying at the same time! To the computer I go.

Oh yes you read that correct.  I would say that 95% of the shopping at this time of year is done online.  Better prices, delivered straight to the door and best of all LESS STRESS.  Of course there will still be the same questions but it doesn't seem as bad when you are on your sofa with a cup of tea.

This year I will go the the shopping centre to pick up a few things that way the kids can see the lights and Christmas displays.  When they are distracted by that I can stand with them and send James in to the shop to collect the gifts.

Degustabox November 2014

I received my second Degustabox yesterday and yet again I was like a child at Christmas!!

The box is £12.99 per month (via subscription) and there is no contract or obligation so you can cancel at any time.  I think this adds to the appeal as I know some people don't like to commit to such services. The products in the box are worth more than the £12.99 fee.

Here is what I got in the box this month.

COOL DAWN RECOVERY

This is a herbal detox drink that is formulated
to prevent and cure hangovers. Perfect for the party
season!
£1.49 each


http://www.cooldawn.com/

HOLY COW

I haven't tried these yet but will soon. They are authentic
Indian curries which are made from natural ingredients.
They are also gluten free, suitable for vegetarians and coeliacs.
£1.69 each.

http://holycowfc1.jimdo.com/

KENT'S KITCHEN

I used one of these little beauties last night. I love fajitas and these
flavour pots are perfect. Small yet packed full of flavour. I 100% recommend these!!
£1.85 for 4

http://www.kentskitchen.co.uk/

BRANSTON CHUTNEY

This was used in my fajitas last night. The Mediterranean tomato goes amazingly well with chicken. This added that something extra to my meal. Yummy.
£1.50

http://www.bringoutthebranston.co.uk/

KETTLE CHIPS

My husband pinched these! I had to hide them so he didn't finish them all. These ones are Salsa & Mesquite flavour.
£2.19

http://www.kettlefoods.co.uk/

PIP ORGANIC

Cloudy Apply. I love love love this product. So refreshing and no yuck stuff added. 100% perfect. The kids loved it too. Let's just say there was a fight to get some.
£1.50 each

http://www.piporganic.com/

LINDT

My favourite chocolates! You can imagine my face when I found these
little pieces of heaven in the box! Melting moments indeed! A snowflake filled with melted Lindor milk chocolate. Bliss
£0.65 each

http://www.lindt.co.uk/

MONTANO

Italian Cider.  This is delicious. Crisp and dry yet incredibly smooth.
Different to what I normally have but I can see this being a favourite.
£2.79

http://www.sidromontano.com/

DRINK ME CHAI

A beautiful spiced tea from India. Exotic spices, milk and sweetened tea.
Absolutely delicious.

http://www.drinkmechai.co.uk/







I love this months box it is awesome.  Can't wait for next months.  I have a discount code for my lovely readers 6MI2S - £3.00 discount.

It was a success

Well I hosted the coffee morning yesterday and.....IT WAS A MASSIVE SUCCESS!

I had a target of £75 and I managed to raise £150!!

Everyone who attended had a wonderful time. £3 entry got them as much tea, sandwiches and cake as they could handle! You would be lucky to get cake for that in most cafes! I also sold some cakes my awesome sister Claire made for 50p a cake!

I also held a raffle for a beautiful hamper that Jacqui made for me! This was £2 a strip (you can see why)

I held a raffle for other awesome goodies too at £1 a strip.

Here are some more picture from yesterday.

I want to say thanks to the following people: Mum, Dad, Claire, Dave, Aunt Margaret, Jacqui, Emma, Marie & Lisa for all their donations and cake making!!  Douwe Egberts, Tetley & Yorkshire Tea for sending me tea and coffee for my event.

I also want to thank everyone who kindly donated money.