A 2014 overview!

Last year was pretty amazing overall. There were obviously some ups and downs as there always are but the good definitely outweighed the bad. 

This year I...

- I passed my driving test (March)

- I turned 18 (March)

- Met Lewis Watson (July)

- I passed my exams (August)

- I got into University (August) 

- Saw Medea in the theatre (August)

- I got my first job (September)

- I got a boyfriend who is completely amazing (November)

I hope this year goes just as well because I already have some amazing things lined up! 

Jess xx

New Beginnings.

Topic 16 of the Blogger Challenge was to write about new beginnings. As I'm moving to University in 13 days (eek!) and I started my first job yesterday, it's a perfect topic!

I've been wanting a job pretty much since I started A levels 2 years ago but could never find anywhere to hire me as I had no experience and wasn't 18. During A2 exam time, I applied for a few jobs for over the summer and heard back from Marks and Spencer and Waitrose. The Marks and Spencer job didn't work out (luckily as it wasn't particularly nice in that one!) but I got an interview and job offer from Waitrose which I was really surprised about! I did my first shift there yesterday and really enjoyed it, I love getting to talk to the friendlier customers! My co-workers are also really friendly so I know I'm going to love it there!

I've started talking to a few people from my course and everyone is so lovely - it's making me really excited to start at Reading! I was a bit hesitant originally as it's so close to home but the more I think of the pros vs cons, the only con is the distance so it's an overall winner really! The course is fantastic, the campus is gorgeous, the people are amazing and the lecturers are enthusiastic about their subjects so I can live with not moving away from somewhere I know.

I'll keep you guys updated with my Uni stuff as it happens - not long now!
Jess xx

I have a job?!

Over exam time, I thought it would be a good idea to procrastinate and apply for jobs, just incase my exams didn't turn out as I'd hoped and I needed to work instead of go to Uni. 

I had an interview with Marks and Spencer the day before my last exam but didn't get that job because I apparently wasn't right for it and I was given an interview by Waitrose a little bit after exams. I didn't hear from waitrose for about 3 weeks but when I was at Silchester a couple of weeks ago, I was contacted by a member of the waitrose team and was offered a different job but I couldn't accept until I had my results as I didn't know where I was going to be. Today I got sent an email to accept the offer so it's official - I have a job for university! It apparently finishes in December so it's only a short contract, but I'm happy that I'm going to have extra money available if I need it. 

I start at the beginning of September so I'm super excited, I've never had a job before so it's going to be good having a new start for Uni and a job - I feel like I'm actually growing up!

Jess xx

Skincare routine!

I've been wanting to do a post on skincare for a while but I've always had loads of other ideas that have taken priority so when Gaby came up with this as the topic for the second 2014 Blogger Challenge post, I was so happy! 

I don't actually do much for skincare but what I do seems to work so I stick to it!
I'm usually quite busy so I don't really have a set routine for when I do any skincare which is probably quite bad! However, when I actually do it, I use Neutrogena visibly clear 2 in 1 wash and mask and Neutrogena visibly clear oil free moisturiser. I use the wash/mask when I'm in the shower but never really outside of then because I don't usually have time. I then put on the moisturiser morning, evening and after a shower.
I have quite bad red patches by my nose which is also where the most dry skin is (and my forehead) and this seems to make the red patches better and make my skin less dry. Most other creams and lotions have just made it worse so I'm quite glad that I found a system that actually works pretty well!

When I have extra time at the weekend, it's also nice to treat myself a bit and I use the mask aspect of the wash/mask which is left on for a bit longer. This also helps my skin and makes it so much softer and smoother - I love it! I also like to use Waitrose's own brand rice, honey and tamanu shower milk by Umi (in store brand) at the weekend as it smells amazing and leaves my skin feeling super soft which I love!

I don't really do much skincare stuff and don't eat anything specifically to make my skin better, but I drink lots during the day and always make sure I take off all of my make up which probably helps!

Jess xx

Read my first Blogger Challenge post here.

P.S. I also reached 60 followers on GFC and 300 on Twitter! Thank you guys so much!! xx