A Late Happy New Year And A Little Blogging And Life Update*

Hi Guys x I know it's a little bit late but since this is my first post of 2021, I guess I can still say an albeit snowy,  Happy New Year x Like most people I couldn't wait to see the back of 2020 but with another lockdown in place here in the 2021 hasn't started out the way that most people wanted, but without putting a jinx on it, surely it can only get better from here on in!?

2020 was a fail on so many counts but on a personal level I don't think I've had such an unproductive year. After a viral infection at the start of the year that didn't seem to want to go away, I struggled with my physical health for most of the year, which is bad enough, but the combination of illness, and lockdowns meant that my mental health reached rock bottom. My personal relationships suffered, I felt my self worth diminishing, and my enthusiasm for life pretty much disappeared. I spent a lot of 2020 trying to put on a happy face and pretending that I was coping, after all being at home for the majority of the time wasn't that strange to me, but in truth like so many people I was struggling.

It's no surprise therefore that yet again my blog suffered, my 2020 content when I did manage to post anything was pretty samey. I'm fighting the urge to apologise for that but at least I tried to keep posting and keep a sense of normality, which was a huge plus point, when you consider that deleting the whole thing crossed my mind more than once.

As I've said before my blog has always been my safe place, but at times last year, it made me feel anxious as though I could and should have done more, I became hypercritical of everything that I did manage to write, and I felt as though the whole thing was just a massive disaster, and a complete waste of time.

Looking back with clearer eyes, I don't think anything that I wrote or product was that bad, it was just symptomatic of the negative mindset that seemed to overtake so many of us in 2020.

Despite hitting over 1,500,000 all time page views last year, I still think 2021 is going to be a make or break year for me when it comes to the blog, even before Covid, I've struggled to maintain my niche and fell out of love with blogging, so hopefully this will be the year when I get my mojo back.

So what are my plans for LouLouLand in 2021, will first up I'm going to catch up, I have loads of  backdated Glossybox unboxings, and Glossybox advent calendar reviews for you, that I'm still planning on writing, as well as lots of new beauty reviews, hopefully some more fashion and lifestyle posts, as well as the return of some old favourites like empties posts and maybe the odd foodie Friday post.

I can't promise that I won't disappear again, after all my physical and mental health, and the health and wellbeing of those I love comes first but no matter what 2021 throws at us, I'm still going to be here x So thank you for sticking with me, I hope you're all doing as well as can be expected (don't forget about the helpline numbers in my previous post if you need someone to talk to), and I hope that 2021 is a better year for all of us xx 

*This Post Contains An Added Affiliate Link

Collaborative / Partnered Post - Winter Fashion Staples*

Although by UK standards, the weather is pretty mild at the moment, we all know that it won't last, and that winter is almost certainly on its way. Whether you’re heading out to work, hitting the last of the sales, or meeting your friends, more often than not at the moment, you're probably thinking that staying indoors in your onesie is a better option than heading out into cold. Alas life doesn't stop in the winter months and nesting indoors isn't an option for most people, so think about your wardrobe, your outfits and your accessories, and with a little bit of thought you can not only still feel warm and cosy, but you can also look stylish, and put together. even when you don't feel it

So if you're one of those people who likes to hibernate when the mercury plummets, here are a few fashion staples, that will help you face whatever the winter has to throw at you.

Footwear

Footwear can make or break an outfit in more ways one, and whilst letting your beautiful summer shoes spend the season in your wardrobe can be painful, pretty wedges, and sandals, just don't cut the mustard when it comes to everyday winter fashion. Whilst I own a gorgeous pair from Emilio Pucci, let's be honest, wellies are rarely a fashion statement, and whilst they are super practical for the ice and snow, chunky walking boots don't exactly scream style either but if you need them you need them - keep them for the extreme days, and for the days when you want to stay safe and warm, but you don't want to look as though you want to trek up Everest, then boots are your best friend. I love boots and there are so many different types on the market to suit any purpose and any occasion from funky snow boots, to knee highs, and the classic Chelsea boot, to Uggs, Emu's and sheepskin boots, that are perfect for cold, dry days. You can never have too many pairs of shoes, and in my opinion the same applies to boots - the more the merrier.

Jumpers

I think I've mentioned it before but I'm very much an Autumn / Winter girl when it comes to fashion, and one of the reasons why is that I love knitwear. Let’s be honest here, who doesn't love a woolly jumper, especially in the winter months. As much as I love my Christmas jumpers though, it's time to say goodbye for another year and it’s time to embrace something a little more conventional as January comes around. To look and feel great, check out some women’s knitwear that keeps you warm and can fight away the chill of those winter days. Again there are so many different styles to choose from from huge chunky knits, to finer, fitted pieces for layering, embellished pieces for occasion wear, and of course the must have, over sized, boyfriend knit. Jumpers don't have to be dowdy and boring, keeping warm, and looking smart, and put together, can go hand in hand.

Scarves

A winter spent without a warm, fluffy scarf is a miserable (and cold) one, and there’s still time to get your hands on some fashionable neck wear if you’re struggling to get through those winter days. I love all different types of scarves, from fine, to chunky and they are something that I wear all year round, but when it comes to winter scarves, the rule is the thicker and comfier the better, so shop around to find something that you love and something that will work for you. Once you find something that is just right, you won’t want to take it off, even inside the house!

Hats

OK, so most of us are pretty divided about hats. You may put one on and think wow, this is definitely not a look for me. I have to say I'm not a hat person but like red lipstick I do believe that there is a hat out there for everyone, and that if you look hard enough you will find a winter hat that looks perfect, and keeps your ears warm as you head out for some January fun. Woolly hats come in many different shapes and sizes, and you’re sure to find something that suits your needs and the shape of your face perfectly, so don’t give up, and don't be afraid to try something new, be it a beret, a hat that looks like a pandas face, or even a giant bobble hat, your perfect winter hat is out there somewhere.

Coats

It goes without saying that you’re not going to head out into the winter air without a perfect coat to keep you warm - if you don't have a decent coat then you may as well stay indoors. As any coat fanatic will know, there are plenty of different styles out there, from puffer coats to their wool counterparts. If you live in a rainy area, aka the UK, then waterproof coats are probably the way to go. A good coat can often be an investment purchase, so think about when you're going to wear it, and the type of weather that you going to wear it in. I personally love a waterproof storm coat, you can get a waterproof outer with a hood, and usually inside you have either a zip off, shorter padded jacket or a fleece jacket that can be worn separately, they are usually a little bit more expensive but with so many ways to wear them depending on the conditions they are well worth the extra investment.

So, if you’re looking for some winter wardrobe staples, then keep these things in mind. Fashion doesn’t have to be compromised in the name of warmth, so shop around, buy wisely, and you'll have some classic pieces that you can bring out winter after winter. What are your winter fashion staples and must haves? Let me know in the comments and make sure your following me on Instagram in the next few weeks to see some of my own personal winter fashion staples x

*Collaborative / Partnered Post

The Beast From The East And Lypsyl Giveaway Winner Revealed*

Hey Guys x I hope you're all well, and that you're all keeping warm and cosy, and staying out of the wind and snow. The "beast from the east" has slammed into my little corner of Co Durham today with heavy snow falling for most of the day and freezing temperatures, and supposedly there is more to come!

I know we deal with bad weather incredibly badly in the UK compared to some countries but the snow and the cold can be deadly. I've tweeted a few links today from Centrepoint and Shelter on how to help homeless people in this weather so please take a look if you can but in the meantime take care of yourselves! Please, please don't go out if you don't need to, and if you do go out make sure to wrap up warm, and if you're taking the car make sure to take a shovel, some food and drink and a blanket in case you get stuck. it's better to be safe than sorry, so take notice of all of the local travel and weather reports and take care! 

On a slightly less serious note please don't forget to look after your skin in the bad weather, no matter how well you wrap up there will always be a bit of your skin exposed so make sure you use plenty of moisturiser, and don't forget the lip balm!

Speaking of lip balm (see what I did there ;) it's now time to announce the winner of my Valentines Day giveaway, and to find out which one of my lucky followers has won a Lypsyl Revitalising Cherry And Almond Lip Balm Stick*. Thanks to all of you for following and of course for entering unfortunately there can only be one winner, and the winner picked at random via Rafflecopter is.....

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Margaret G.

Congratulations Margaret! I'll be sending you an email shortly to ask for your details. If you weren't lucky enough to win this time don't worry I have several more giveaways planned (cough, cough Tarte anyone ;) that you won't want to miss, so stay following, and keep your eyes peeled x

*Press Sample

My Day In Pictures

A different type of post for you today - I planned to film a Vlog for my You Tube but my camera batteries were on their last legs so I took a few pictures of my day for you  - I've just noticed that a lot of these pics are food related eek well tis the season to get fat ;)

The Temperature This Morning - eek

Doesn't It Look Pretty Though

Ah That's Better

The Purpose Of The Trip - Yum

Look What I Found In TK Maxx

A Chocolate Treat

I hope you enjoyed this slice of my life in Co Durham and Tyne and Wear this morning I have a few more posts planned this week - I am definitely going to fit at least one review in, and my Christmas Decorations post as well as my giveaway draw so don't forget to keep checking back during the last minute rush xx

Walk Out To Winter

More snow for you x

Ta Ta To Snovember

Well November certainly ended with a bang here nearly 2 feet of snow and super strong winds for the last few days have made me think good riddance to it, alas December seems to be starting the same way with blizzards and thunder nearly all morning :(
Never mind how did November go well trimming my stash first - it was never going to be as successful as last month I knew that from the start but I still managed 9 items including my first project 10 pan item :)

Lovea Bio L'Argan Regenerating Body Polish 150ml
Avon Naturals Strawberry and Guava Shower Gel 200ml
Herbal Essences Rainforest Flowers Dazzling Shine Conditioner 200ml
Laura Geller Balance & Brighten - Regular - 9g
Soap & Glory The Righteous Butter 50ml
The Body Shop Sweet Lemon Shower Gel 250ml
OPI Avoplex Oil 15ml
Avon Perceive Perfumed Body Spray 75ml
Lush Tea Tree Water 250g

I have a couple on there way out so all is looking positive for December :)
Right my spending diet that didn't go quite so well during November but I can still take a lot of positives from it

Forever 21 Flower Necklace - £3.80
Sex In The City Lust EDP - £5.00
Triple Star Necklace - Dainty Dollymix - £6.00
ELF Goodies - £3.00
MAC The Faerie Glen Lipstick - £12.50
Sir Teddy - £12.50
NYC Natural Matte Foundation 001 Ivory - £2.79
No7 Radiance Boosting Hot Cloth Cleanser - £4.00
Total - £49.59

I had lots and lots of online temptations this month so I am pretty pleased with that. I am going to keep going for December which will be tough if I ever do make it to Newcastle or the Metro Centre but not so bad if it keeps snowing :) Every cloud as they say x Any questions as per usual leave me a comment x Your support really does help xx

Happiness Is A Pair Of Warm Socks

Yet more rubbishy weather today so I stayed indoors tweeted and did a bit of online Christmas shopping. I've cancelled the appointment I had for tomorrow and we have some shopping hopefully coming on Thursday so I can stay indoors for the next few days and catch up on blogging and hopefully a bit of You Tube. My Christmas giveaway may be up a bit later than I intended a few bits haven't came yet so I'll wait until they do before I launch it x Till then I leave you with a picture of something that made my happy today a pair of `cozy zebra slipper socks .

Stay safe and cozy xx

Snovember

Hey my loves I've put this on my You Tube channel but I thought you might be interested in a little vlog I recorded over the last couple of days - moi in the snow, and lots of it x Enjoy x

One Month To Go Till Santa Comes

Well the scene outside my bedroom window today certainly looks Christmassy doesn't it but there is still one month to go. You wouldn't think it though would you VH1 has started it annual back to back Christmas tunes, and I put Now That's What I Call Xmas on my iPod last night lol Never mind Christmas always makes me feel happy so why not encourage it a bit when I'm feeling a bit down. I haven't done a Goods and Bads this week because to be honest I'm not feeling that great or that cheerful - ho hum maybe singing along to the Pogues and Kirsty McColl, and my mum homemade fruit cake will lift my spirits even if it doesn't warm my cold toes lol I promise normal non weather related posts will resume tomorrow with a product rave for you xxx

Welcome To Winter

Well the first snow of the season arrived today after showers on and off for most of the day it's starting to lie now with temperatures below freezing and more snow predicted for tonight - welcome to winter indeed x

Goods and Bads

I haven't done one of these for ages but I think it's about time I did one on a regular basis

Goods

* I lost 3lbs - it was my first proper week of dieting last week and I managed to lose 3lbs so happy hopefully my new medication will mean its easier for me to lose weight
* Got an email from QVC telling me that 2 Lauren Luke palettes have been dispatched to be honest I forgot about these - I ordered them on advanced order when Lauren made her debut on QVC before Christmas - obviously they have already been paid for so they don't count as part of my spending diet
* My skin is actually pretty clear at the moment - Lush Cupcake and Tea Tree Water, and Liz Earle goodies seem to have done the trick
* I have a pile of library books to read including the Trueblood series, and Liz Earle Skin Secrets which I can't wait to read
* You lot - I have had so many lovely messages both here and on my you tube channel I really appreciate your support and your input - thank you x

Bads

* My mum is going for her operation hopefully on 6th March - argh am understandably a bit stressed at the mo - she has her first lot of pre op tests this week
* I am starting my new ME /CFS pacing / graded activity - rest regime this week - it's not as easy as it looks - life sometimes gets in the way :(
* My desktop - I got a new monitor yesterday as my old one had just about had it and when I started my PC up my Internet explorer just won't work - the page is just blank - it says its connecting but nothing happens -strangely enough MSN messenger, and my email is working perfectly but not my IE - I have emailed Orange help but they say you can wait up to 5 days for a response - thank goodness my netbook is working
* It's snowing again

Look Familiar

Look what I woke up to this morning need I say more :(

More Snow Pics

Sorry if your getting bored of these but its looks pretty - temperature fell to -12 the other night brrr and yes it's still snowing - on the plus side we did get post today no parcels though just bills boooooo

My MAC Goodies Beat The Blizzards + A Rant

Hey all - If you follow me on twitter you'll know that I have been monitoring my MAC parcel for the last few days - after several days of coming up as "Undeliverable Due To Adverse Weather" - my parcel was eventually delivered this afternoon. I am not saying that conditions have improved outside because they 100% haven't in face the poor woman that bring a lot of my deliveries had to dig herself out of drifts twice whilst doing her route- would you believe it she couldn't make her bosses at DHL understand quite how bad some of the minor roads are in my area -it really is getting ridiculous the council no longer have enough grit to do any roads bar the A and main B routes let alone the pavements. A few of my neighbours have being trying to dig sections of the street out but to be honest they are fighting a losing battle, every night they are getting more snow and a thick layer of ice over the top of what they've cleared :( We really feel a bit marooned public transport is hitty missy, only priority mail is coming through i.e. none! , and I still have parcels stuck at various delivery depots. I feel sorry for the poor delivery people the council really shouldn't have let it get in this state in the first place - I know its the worst snow and weather for a long time but god knows what we would do in a real crisis!
Anyways happier things poor Angela (my DHL woman) got my lovely MAC parcel to me this afternoon (I did make sure she knew how grateful I was). If you follow me on twitter you'll know that I was a really good girl and only ordered two items from my wishlist (although several items tempted me :)
So what did I get - no surprise with the first one By Candlelight MSF - OMG I love this - I didn't discover the wonder of MSF's till last year and this one truly is a beaut - I won't swatch it because there are loads of those around in blogland but its a gorgeous peachy, gold colour - my new fave MSF

I also ordered the Tinted Lip Conditioner in Feelin' Good - a true nude shade a little bit sheerer than I originally though but its lovely and moisturising - quite fancied the other one too but this one will have to do :)


So there you go a tiny MAC haul - any questions please ask x

Some More Snow Pics

Yup as you can see we still have snow and with weather conditions set to deteriorate as the week goes on it seems as though we have some more to look forward too - argh (note super cute Pucci wellies)


Still I managed to place my MAC Warm and Cozy order this afternoon so that has lifted my spirits a bit :) especially since I was super good and only ordered the two items from my wishlist :) Can't wait till they arrive :)

It's Snow Joke :)

Just thought I'd show you a You Tube video that I filmed yesterday - lovely eh!

Happy Snow Year

Just thought I'd show you a few pics of how 2010 started in my little part of Co Durham - that's right another 4 inches of snow overnight and it's still snowing - lovely....

Pretty Snow

Doesn't it look so clean and pretty with the snow :) I know it's not pretty for some though :( I went out this afternoon to try and clean the snow off the car and I managed to get the top layer off but the underneath was frozen solid. It hasn't snowed so far today but the temperature never moved above freezing all day brrrr bring on the extra quilt or two or more kitty cats to sleep on my bed tonight - they beat any hot water bottle xx

It's Snowing !!!

We have had snow for about 4 days in Co Durham now but tonight it has got much worse - it's a total whiteout and I can't seen the end of the street argh!!! I managed to get out for an hour or so this morning to post some ebays, and pick up a few bits (more to come later on that ;) ) but the weather has gone really down hill since then - argh I still have pressies and cards to deliver this week - hope it clears up a bit !

Whoops A Daisy

Why is it that I always make my doctors appointments for possibly the coldest of wettest days ever.
Thankfully I got a lift along to the doctors yesterday which was just as well due to the sheer amount of snow and ice - nevertheless it was decided that I would walk home after my appointment. I knew that this was a bad idea almost as soon as I left the surgery to collect my prescriptions and get a few magazines. The path was like an ice rink - the only way people were walking about was to walk alongside the walls where the majority of snow and ice had melted!!!
I managed to get my bits with only a bit of sliding around but when I was 3/4 of the way home over I went - slap bang onto the ground!!! I hurriedly got up and skidded / hobbled away whilst trying not to die of embarrassment because of course there were loads of people around.
Not only was my pride damaged but I have a huge bruise on my knee and I feel like I have been kicked everywhere (well even more so than usual!).
Note to self don't go out in the ice Note to Durham and Derwentside Councils -SALT YOUR PAVEMENTS!!!!!!