Liebster Award | Q & A

I have been nominated for a Liebster Award by Tiffany from Red Wine and Blue Mom!! It is such an honor to be nominated for something as sweet and kind as this and what a fun way to connect and develop friendships within the blogging community!

The Liebster Award was created by The Global Aussie and 'is an award given to bloggers by other bloggers. In German, Liebster means sweetest, kindest, nicest, dearest, beloved, lovely, kind, pleasant, valued, cute, endearing and welcome.' It was created to connect and support the blogging community.

Firstly I would like to thank the lovely Tiffany from Red Wine and Blue Mom for kindly nominating me! Her blog is all about motherhood, cooking, inspirational posts and everything in between. On top of all this she is an exceptional blogger and writer! Don't just take my word for it, click here to find out for yourself!

The way the Liebster Award works is:

• Another blogger nominates you.
• They answer questions posted to them by their nominator and at the end of their post they ask you a series of questions to answer.
• You then nominate 5-11 blogs that you feel deserves the award.
• Thank the person who nominated you, and put a link to their blog on your blog.
• Head over the The Global Aussie for more rules and don't forget to post your blog in the comments for others to read!

Let's get to the questions!!!

1. What inspired you to start your blog?

I started my blog in early 2016 and previous to that I had never been much of a writer - in fact English was my worst subject in school! I had just moved to London from a small town in New Zealand, and wanted to keep my friends and family up to date with our adventures on the other side of the world. I fell in love with blogging early on and even spent the little time I had on my evenings and weekends writing and taking photos. I found out quickly that it is very time consuming and almost a full time job, so the blog got put on the back burner for a bit. Since moving back to New Zealand, I have had the time to invest into making this website the best it can be (I still have a long way to go!) and have rediscovered my love for blogging again!

2. What has been your proudest blog moment so far?

To be honest, my blog is pretty small and doesn't get a lot of traffic, which is fine because it is a hobby and not a job - but I have to say being nominated for a Liebster Award is pretty exciting! To think someone thought of me and has visited my blog makes me very happy!

3. Where do you go when you need a little material inspiration?

I go to other blogs, pinterest, instagram, youtube etc for inspiration. There are so many talented bloggers out there who create beautiful content, and I find that is the best place to get inspiration. Plus its important to support each other as it is such a tough business to break in to. I also love going to YouTube for inspiration. Even though I am too shy to post videos, I love to be able to incorporate those ideas into my blog posts.

4. Do you have a routine you have to do before or during your writing time?

Not really. I usually write the blog post first and then sort out the photography later. I love having loads of photos on the blog because that is what I like seeing on others.

5. What do you hope to accomplish by the end of the year?

Personally, I would like to become less dependant on other people's approval and accomplish some of my fitness and health goals.
In my blog, I would love to grow my audience, get better at blog photography and stick to a schedule of posting throughout the year. We will see how that goes!

6. Which blogger would you love to colab with?

This is a tough question as I don't know too many. I would say Niomi Smart would be one of the bigger YouTuber/Bloggers I have always admired and I love her content. I also love InTheFrow and her fashion posts. She is killing the game!! To be fair I would be open to colabing with anyone who shares the same interests - travel, fashion, beauty, fitness or God. Hit me up if you would like!

7. What do you love to do when you aren't busy blogging?

I love to travel and explore new places. That is something I always hope to do. I like fitness and enjoy running (OK maybe 'enjoy' is too strong of a word...). I have also found a new love of cooking recently so creating new dishes is something else I love to do!

8. Post 10 random facts about me (from The Global Aussie)

• I am a Christian
• I have travelled to 22 different countries (some more than once)
• My nickname is Bam 
• My favourite movie is The Holiday
• I have 2 tattoos and 5 piercings
• I am terrified of the ocean and I find beaches in no way relaxing
• I do not like coffee or tea
• My personality type is INFJ
• I LOVE sleeping
• My favourite TV show is Friends

9. What makes you passionate about blog posting? (question from The Global Aussie)

Blogging has created an environment for me to share my experiences, be creative, and write about the things I love. I hope to use this platform to inspire others and I pray that whoever reads my posts can walk away with a smile and a bit of encouragement. The world can be a negative place - especially with social media - and the blogging community is such a positive and supportive place to share and discover new products, travel stories, find inspiration and everything in between.

My nominations are:
1. candidlykristina.com
2. pricelesslifememories.wordpress.com
3. phillipdeanblog.wordpress.com
4. lazygirl.us
5. moretoexplore.co
6. todaytomorrowforeverella.wordpress.com
7. thetustingirl.com
8. forevermotivated.blog

My questions are:
1. What or who inspired you to start your blog?
2. Where is your dream travel destination and why?
3. Do you have goals for your blog? If so, what are they?
4. What is the last compliment you got?
5. What are your hobbies outside of blogging?
6. If you could live anywhere in the world (fiction or not), where would it be?
7. What is something that most people don't know about you?
8. Do you have pets? If so, post a photo of them here!

I hope you enjoyed reading this and thank you again to Tiffany for my nomination!! I can't wait to read your responses! Leave your blog links in the comments - I would love to support you!
Don't forget to be kind and lift each other up!

Thanks for reading!

God Bless,
Amber x

New Years Resolutions | LIFESTYLE

It is the last day of 2017 and the New Year’s resolutions are about to be in full swing! The 1st of January is the perfect excuse for a new start and clean slate which is why I believe so many of us love the New Year. Making goals and sticking to them is incredibly satisfying although I am definitely NOT one of the 8% google says actually keep them. For 2018 I have tried to keep them short, achievable and write them down so I am accountable.

Drink More Water

I don’t know about you but this is the last thing on my mind during my busy day at work! Last year I found myself drinking less and doing a lot more which lead to a lot of burning out at the end of the week. Every blogger and health guru seems to tell me that drinking more water is the first step to a healthier lifestyle which is what I am striving for in 2018.

Healthier Lifestyle

I know this is so cliché but it needs to be said! Before I left for London in 2015 having a healthy lifestyle was a huge part of my life. While living there I had found it a lot harder to eat healthier and to find the time to go to the gym due to the commute and the everyday lifestyle of a big busy city. This year I hope to be more organised and put my body first to not only look healthier but feel healthier too! My goal is to complete another run, whether that be a 6k, 10k or half marathon.

Be More Organised

Generally I am a very clean and organised person… until it comes to my bedroom! I need a clean space to think clearly and keeping things in order really helps. This year I hope to keep my work and home space a clean and relaxing environment.

Write on my Blog More

Seeing as each blog I post is getting further and farther in between, I think that means I have some work to do on this little blog of mine! Unfortunately it takes a lot of time and due to living in London for the past 2 years, I didn't seem to have as much time as I would like to dedicate to this. Now that I am back in New Zealand I have found I have a lot more free time and would like to focus more on writing and creating better content on here. Ideas are always welcome!

Decide on a Career Path

Even though I am 25 years old I still have no idea what I want to do for a job! Why is it so hard?! Since leaving high school in 2010 I focused my life on travelling. Even though years have passed I still am not sure what I want to do. This year I want to make a decision and begin the journey towards a career. 

Learn to Cook

This year I have decided that it is time for me to actually use those cookbooks I buy but never use and become the next masterchef (OK that may be a bit too adventurous!). I love cooking and trying to make new dishes so spending a bit more time in the kitchen rather than on the couch will be the first step in achieving this goal. Lets hope this will help with the healthy eating as well! 

What are some of your New Year's Resolutions?! I would love to hear them!
I hope 2018 brings you and your family health, happiness and new adventures. Remember to be kind and step out of your comfort zone. This year will be great!!

Happy New Year!

Thanks for reading!

God Bless,

Amber x

Two Years Since Moving to London | LIFESTYLE

I am sure you have all heard the saying, ‘Time flies when you’re having fun’?! Well in this case that statement is absolutely TRUE! I can’t quite believe it has been 2 years already since leaving the land of the long white cloud and moving to the land of... well... more cloud and rain!

On November the 14^th 2015 our adventure began when we touched down in LA for a month of sun, snow, burgers and Buffalo wings. From living the high life in LA and New York to watching the sunset over the Grand Canyon I couldn’t think of a better way to start a new chapter in our lives.

After travelling around London a few years previous, I had my hopes set on living in one of the beautiful white terraced buildings overlooking Hyde Park. Reality quickly set in when I saw the monthly rent was about the same as my YEARLY salary. Even though we did not live in a mansion in Kensington (one day when I win the lottery!), we did live in a lovely house in Chiswick with amazing flatmates. Who you live with makes a huge difference!

I didn’t know what to expect when moving to the other side of the world, away from the life that I was very comfortable with BUT it has turned out to be the best decision we have ever made.

I was extremely lucky in finding a job early on where I have made some of the most incredible friends. It is important to surround yourself, in any stage of your life, with good people around you. This is especially true when you far away from your family and friends.

Some of my favourite days were spend biking around on Boris bikes, exploring new parts of the city, having picnics in some of the many parks, drinking in pubs along the river with my friends and walking and exploring the little side streets that you wouldn't think to look down.

My life before London was (and I'll admit) quite boring and predicable. One thing that I have learnt from my 2 years abroad is to say YES to any opportunity. If I hadn't stepped out of my comfort zone I wouldn't have gone to all the beauty and fashion events where I met inspirational influencers from all types of social media platforms, I wouldn't have gone to a movie premiere in Leicester Square, I wouldn't have rowed boats in Hyde Park, I wouldn't have ended up in the audience of a television show, I wouldn't have seen my first concert, I wouldn't have got up at 4am to do yoga and watch the sun rise from the Sky Garden but most importantly, I wouldn't have the incredible friends I have now without saying YES to opportunities.

As 2017 drawers closer to the end, I can reflect on 2016 and 2017, 2 years full of new experiences, great friends, laughter and some of the best memories that I will never forget.

To those who have the opportunity to travel or even move overseas I would 100% recommend it! 2016 and 2017 were both challenging but exciting years and I cannot wait to see what 2018 has in-store.

Thanks for reading!

God Bless,
Amber x

Liz Earle Skincare Haul | BEAUTY

Liz Earle is a brand that I have only recently been introduced to since moving to the UK. My skin can be very sensitive which means I am very careful with what I put on my face. I have never been one for massive breakouts which I feel is because I am conscious about what I use on my skin. I try to be as organic and animal friendly as I possibly can but it can be hard to find a brand that is not harsh on the skin and has these values. Liz Earle is a proud organic and cruelty free brand which is something I will always support whether or not the products work for me.

As I am living in London and on a pretty tight budget it can be hard for me to purchase new products but I also realise there is no price tag when it comes to looking after your skin. I have recently purchased a small haul of Liz Earle products to try and as the seasons are changing this is when my skin is most vulnerable.

Cleanse and Polish – Hot Cloth Cleanser

I don’t use a cleanser often as I find that the water on my face makes a huge difference. If I do, I will use the Liz Earle Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser. I discovered this product a few months ago and fell in love with it! The combination of the cleanser removes the days make up and the hot cloth leaves my skin feeling and looking clean, radiant and soft. After reading all the great reviews and trying the product myself I would 100% recommend this!

Super Skin Moisturiser with Natural Neroli

My skin tends to be very dry but even more especially in the winter and the changing of seasons. Due to this, my skincare routine must always include a rich moisturiser. I use this at the beginning of my day and as it has a very rich formula, I leave this to sink in for a few minutes before applying my foundation. I have found that this moisturiser is perfect for my skin and leaves my face feeling smooth and hydrated for the majority of the day.

Super Skin Eye Cream

Your eyes and the skin around your eyes are extremely delicate and should be treated with care. I have been on the market for a good eye cream for some time now and I came across this. As I am a contact lens wearer I have been looking for a product that is gentle enough to use on a daily basis. I use this morning and night for optimum effect. The Paracress extract lifts and firms the eye area and since using this I have noticed that my dark circles have lessened and the puffiness has been reduced. I am obsessed!

Eyebright Soothing Eye Lotion

The eyebright soothing eye lotion is a great way to wake up tired eyes if you have a few extra minutes in your morning routine. I apply a small about to 2 cotton pads and place them on my eyes when I wake up. Depending on how much time I have in the morning I will leave the cotton pads over my eyes for a few minutes. I instantly feel refreshed and more awake than I usually would be at 6am (if that is even possible!)! It is gentle enough for contact lens wearers as well.

Super Skin Concentrate for Night

This night time oil is a beautiful way to end your day! It is a bit more on the pricey side but it goes a long way. I apply a small amount onto my face just before I go to bed and my skin feels nourished from the moment I wake up. The gorgeous smell of lavender and chamomile essential oils helps me to enjoy a restful and relaxing sleep.

Thank you for reading.

God Bless,

Amber x

Stress Free Weekend | LIFESTYLE

What is the first thing that you think about when you hear ‘Stress Free Weekend’? I don’t know about you but my brain goes straight to relaxing on a beautiful island somewhere far away from my work and personal life. Although most of the time that isn’t quite realistic! Over the last few weeks I have found myself in need for a few stress free weekends. 
Here are my ways that I like to unwind and relax after a busy week.

Don’t Make Plans

I will be honest here – weekends without plans are my favourite! Going out every weekend can become draining on your body, your mind and your health. If you are a busy bee on the weekends it can sometimes be hard to not make plans, so why not choose a weekend where it is raining? Sit inside in some comfy PJs and enjoy your ME TIME.

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Bath

For those who are lucky enough to have access to a bath, this is an incredible way to wind down and create a stress free environment. Dim the lights, light some candles, put in a bath bomb and relax. The warm water and aroma have a way of relaxing your muscles and easing a tired mind.

Candles

Nothing says a peaceful night like the dim light of a candle! Fill your room with delicious aromatic scents to relax your mind and enhance your mood. Drift off into utter bliss as you listen to music or read a book.

Pamper

Give your body a treat! Have a day where you look after you! Get your nails done, have a facial, have a massage (if I could have one every day I would!) or enjoy a spa day. End the weekend feeling refreshed and revitalised and you will be ready to start the week ahead stress free and relaxed.

Me Time

As cliché as this sounds, it totally works! Take some time away from your friends and do something that makes YOU happy. Whether that is going for a walk, cooking, reading or watching YouTube or a movie. Find a way which works best for you and RELAX and do something that you enjoy.

Staycation

I had heard this term A LOT but I have only recently discovered what it actually means. A staycation is a holiday spent in your home country rather than travelling overseas. It could be spent at home doing day trips to local attractions, or staying at a hotel for the weekend. It is the perfect way to take a break without breaking the bank! Hire a cottage in the country and enjoy some time to yourself away from the city or plan a day trip with a friend. The opportunities are endless!

Life can become stressful at times but we must learn to look after ourselves. 

Make yourself a priority once in a while. It’s not selfish. It’s necessary.

Thank you for reading.

God Bless,

Amber x