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Things I Wish I Knew When I Learned to Drive
29 May 2017
Bingley, UK
I started learning to drive in June 2016 and passed in
November 2016 – so basically it took me four months to drive. I’ll admit I hated it at first. Truly, I didn’t
understand why it was a privilege and didn’t appreciate the opportunity at
first. After every lesson I wanted to give up. Now that I’m an independent and fully
licenced driver, (who passed first time with one minor may I add) I look back
and realise there’s a couple of tips I wish I had, before I got into the driver
seat.
Keep calm!
Panic is an understatement when it comes to an error when
driving. I remember the first time I stalled, oh my goodness I basically had a breakdown. It’s difficult to
encourage yourself to keep cool, calm and collected, but really helps. It’s
really easy to allow nerves to take over. There’s this little thing called
clutch foot, which is a result of nerves taking over the body. It’s definitely
terrifying when it comes to getting in a car for the first time, 10mph feels
like 500 – but freaking out is not the answer. Take a few deep breathes when
the pressure gets too much, roll down a window to cool down or request silence
to help concentrate!
Be honest!
Let me tell you a little story: I needed the toilet while on
one of my two-hour driving lessons. I hid it from my instructor for most the
hour, but then told him I was bursting (I really was – the nerves got to me)
and pulled (unsafely) into a random street. Because I was so desperate, I
managed to accidentally mount the rather high pavement, and basically got out
the car and ran. I knocked on the friendliest looking house and asked to use
the toilet. The lovely woman (shoutout to Linda) allowed me to use the
bathroom. Once I returned to the car, my instructor said: “maybe next time we
just stop at a supermarket when you need the loo, huh?” I was so embarrassed.
So quick tip: be honest with your instructor about how you’re feeling
emotionally… and physically.
Do research!
Before even learning to drive, it’s good to know you’re a
really good company. I really like Pass ‘N’
Go, mainly because they offer such a wide range of courses and have their
own online blog. Driving instructors can be expensive, and not all are well
trained, so going with a well-known company is useful. Plus, Pass ‘N’ Go have their own shop, when you
can purchase study packs for theory and motorway courses. I did hours upon
hours of revision for my theory test and that’s what help me pass first time! I
managed to get majority of the test answers right, and got only two hazard perception
clips wrong – but it still counts as a pass! If I didn’t revise before, there’s
no way I would have known the answer to half the questions so doing the right
research is very important. Then you
don’t have to pay for a whole new theory test!
Cars are expensive!
As a child, I was always saying: “So basically when I’m 18 I’ll
but my Range Rover Sport in matte black with hot pink rims and chrome accents.”
Yeah… that didn’t happen. I didn’t even know insurance, break down cover and
road tax existed back that and I still struggle to accept it now. Trust me,
when I bought my adorable little Vauxhall Corsa in January, I had tears in my
eyes. Partially from happiness, but also from the paid of paying for insurance
and having to live the next twelve months with a black box. Anyone relate? Yup,
black boxes suck. Even when I began driving lessons I assumed I would just be
able to buy a car the day I passed. I’m not super rich, so sadly that didn’t
happen.
Traffic is the new hell!
Before I knew how a car even operated, traffic didn’t bother
me! I will never forget being with my mum or dad, who would yell and huff and
puff in frustration of stand-still cars, and I never understood it. Now…now, I
understand it. My goodness, it has got to be one of the worst things in the
world – how do people in capital cities live?! Oh and I hate traffic lights
too, they’re nobody’s friend. Before I got my licence, I thought things like
getting MOT checks and have to park would be the bane of my life. Nope! Driving
at peak times is.
This post is in collaboration with Pass ‘N’ Go.
Summer Technology Wishlist
17 May 2017
Leeds, UK
I can be a little bit of a tech geek when it comes to
stylish gadgets and cool must-haves. I like to have the latest of most gadgets,
especially if it’s going to make life a little easier. Let’s just say, I rely
on Siri and assisted parking a lot.
iPhone
7 Plus (in rose gold, obviously)
I currently have the iPhone 7, and as much as I adore
this phone, I would love the 7 Plus! It’s bigger, which makes tasks like
blogging on the go a little easier, but the thing I love the most has got to be
the camera. Pretty much everything about the 7 Plus is the same as the 7
regarding its operating system and effectiveness, and the camera is magnificent
and would mean less time packing up a DSLR and having fun with the 7 Plus’s
dual camera lenses and portrait mode.
This camera has got to be one of the most famous vlogging
cameras ever. And although I’m not a vlogger quite yet, if I was to purchase a
camera just for this hobby, it would totally be this one. This pocket-sized gem
basically has the power of some of the greatest DSLRs at half the weight. You
could create a full HD film with this camera alone, and it’s ideal for
travelling and working on the go. With built-in Wi-Fi, 1080p quality videos and
its own pop-up flash, this Canon is perfect for me.
I’ve had my current television for about seven years.
Don’t worry, it’s a flat screen but a very chunky one. Unfortunately the
quality is not as good as it used to be, despite the efforts of my Sky+ HD box.
I’m the type of person that gets excited when I can watch a YouTube video in 4K
on my desktop, so imagine having it on your TV! This television has a
cinema-like display and it’s own Firefox operative system which means it’s
perfect for catching up on my subscriptions as well as my Netflix shows! Plus,
it’s less than a third of the weight of my current TV.
It’s like someone created my dream laptop. I first saw
the YouTube advertisement
online and was immediately sold. I’ve never had a MacBook, so I’m very used to
the Microsoft Windows operating system and feel perfectly happy using it. I was
elated to find out Microsoft had created a powerful laptop, that would be ideal
for blogging and creating online content. The design feature is stunning and I
love the idea of a detachable keyboard that also works with the Surface Pen.
I currently have the Bose Soundlink
Mini II and I absolutely adore it.
But it’s not great for a raging house party or hooking up to my TV. On the
other hand, the Sonos Playbar has 9 amplified speakers and can be connected to
just about anything, including the latest TV. It’s super sleek and stylish, so
it would love wonderful in my minimalistic living room, or even in the bedroom.
It doesn’t come with Bluetooth, but the built-in Wi-Fi is ideal for me.
Is a car under the technology category? Well it is now. I
looked up a YouTube
review of this car after spotting it on the street and immediately fell in
love with it. I only bought my first car a couple of months ago, but I like to
be ambitious. Any Mercedes is a classy car, and this one has just about
everything I need. Perfect from every angle, and awesome built-in technology –
I think this is definitely the next car for me.
*Paid
promotion
The Magic of the Konjac Sponge
20 June 2016
Bingley, West Yorkshire, UK
The Konjac sponge* is a multi-ward winning product made from
the Amorphophallus Konjac plant root, which is often used as a healthy food source
or for medical purposes in Asia. The plant is loaded with fibre and filled with
an enormous amount of nutrients such as vitamins A, E, D, B1, B2 and C as well
as amino acids and minerals like potassium and zinc. Kojac is naturally an
alkaline, so it helps in balancing the pH of the skin – incredibly useful in
battling acne. I’ve had the opportunity to try out the Konjac sponge, and love
it so far!
How I Used the Sponge
I have used quite a few different exfoliating sponges and
products, and the most important thing I’ve learned is that the sponge needs to
be rinsed before. I prefer to use warm water, and thoroughly rinse the sponge
to make sure it’s clean. With the Konjac sponge, fully hydrating it is the best
way to get a good use from its properties, before massaging it into the skin in
a circular motion. You can add cleanser to either the sponge or the skin, and
then focus on problem areas such as breakout spots or pores. After each cycle
of exfoliating my face, I like to rinse the sponge again and squeeze out any
dirt and excess oil it has collected. One of the great things about the sponge
is that is has a string hooked through, which doesn’t come loose or get lost,
so once I’m doing washing my face I hang the sponge to dry, usually in a room
that will dry it quickly and never somewhere wet or damp like the shower. I
learned that harshly rubbing the skin isn’t necessary either!
Why I Love the Sponge
When I received the sponge, the first thing I noticed was
how rock solid it was. My immediate thought was “How on earth is this thing
going to work on my face?” With previous products, a rocky texture can make
acne and breakouts a lot worse and leave my skin feeling like a layer has been
torn off and extremely sensitive. As soon as the sponge hit water, it started
to soften and my mind was blown. It is a lot smoother than a flannel, and more
effective than my hands. I assumed the holes in the sponge would be sharp
against my face but were also soft too. Using the sponge has helped me to keep
my breakouts under control, especially as I have recently conquered acne!
I can use the sponge with or without a cleanser or soap, and
still get that freshly massaged feeling. There’s simply nothing I hate more
than washing my face and getting that dry and tight sensation that can come
immediately after I have finished a cleanse, the Konjac sponge leaves my face
feeling renewed and clean! The bamboo charcoal in my sponge is naturally antibacterial
and antifungal, which is ideal for my skin as it can become quite oily. I was
also amazed at how the sponge returned to the original size and texture when
dry. It’s amazing for removing make up and easy to clean afterwards as water
flows through it so quickly and easily.
The price of the sponges are between £5 and 15, and have a
life span of around three months, which is a good time to be changing the
product used to clean your skin.
I would definitely recommend this product to anyone who’s
looking for a new sponge to exfoliate their skin without tearing layers away.
There’s a wide range for different skin types and well as travel kits – I used
the Bamboo
Charcoal sponge, specifically for teen, oily or spot-prone skin!
Have you ever used a Konjac sponge? Did you like
it?
Spring Ambition
21 April 2016
Ilkley, West Yorkshire, UK
I need to get on top of my blog posts. Although I try to post three times a week, it can be a real struggle and I usually complete a post the night before. Not that different to school really. But fortunately, I don’t see blogging as a burden and not having any post ideas or scheduled drafts stresses me out to another level and it can be quite discouraging. One of my biggest blogging goals is to not only have at least on pre-written post a week, but also to write more personal posts. Not that the words I type aren’t genuine, but I tend to slip into my English essay tendencies. You know, the whole point, evidence, explanation routine like I’m an A Level robot. That kind of writing is ideal for formal posts and blogging jobs, but not as much for Anika May.
My new camera arrives soon, and I can’t wait. There will 100% be a blogpost on its features and a real review. It’s a Pentax camera, so it will be nice to get to know a new brand. I’ve always been a Canon girl so buying a brand new style that’s a little higher range should help improve the quality of my photographs. Improving my blog has been on my to-do list for as long as I can remember and is still something I strive to do. Whether it’s my journalistic skills, or even the topics I talk about. I think it’s good to keep a little ambition.
Before summer arrives, I certainly need to sort out my iPhone. Not that it’s falling apart or anything, in fact I’ve managed to keep it without smashing the screen… although I have gone through a few screen protectors! I have a small obsession with phone cases, and I think I’m going to try and get a new phone case every so often to inspire me as I like change. The phone case I’m using today is a spring-themed one, with a bright blossom image (my favourite)! The case is my custom made by me which makes it all the more better, and kindly provided to me by CaseApp*. To get 20% off your own custom phone case or laptop skin, use the code ‘ANIKA20CA’ and get started! My phone apps also need organising, they’re all over the place and I’m just too lazy to deal with it. But that’s what spring is for right? Cleaning up and sorting out.
Finally, I’m learning to drive! It’s a long time coming, and most people are shocked to learn that I’m almost twenty years old and have no idea how to move a car, but that's about to change. Sadly, I didn't receive a Range Rover Sport for my 17th birthday like a few of my schoolmates did. However, driving is something I have always wanted to do. It would allow so much more freedom, especially in blogging in different locations around Yorkshire.
So, with April almost over and summer hitting the UK soon, I have plenty to do and even more to blog about. Stay tuned!
This post is in collaboration with CaseApp.
My New Phone + Giveaway!
20 November 2015
The Perfect Movie Night
25 October 2015
There's nothing greater that to stay in and get cosy during Autumn. It's the perfect season to storm through your Netflix list or catch up on your favourite DVDs. An intimate night in is the perfect weekend idea and the best way to get together with friends and family for light-hearted fun. There are are a few essentials needed to make a movie night perfect:
The perfect TV
For a film night to be complete, you need something to watch the films on! The Panasonic Viera has recently caught my eye, mainly for the amazing 4K quality. I'm not as tech-savvy as I like to think, but when finding out about this 4K television, I knew it had the be included in my essentials. 4K resolution is a much higher quality than the standard HD most people settle with; plus, the idea of my future husband (Chris Evans) on a bigger and better screen is a win-win situation!
Snacks, snacks and more snacks
I couldn't imagine a movie night without a gallon of popcorn and a never-ending supply of sweets. Hot food is also a bonus for a great night in, the unhealthier the better. Pizzas and takeaways are the cheapest and quickest way to go without making too much of a mess. Autumn is the season for hot chocolate, and hundreds of mini marshmallows!
Little lights
As it gets a lot darker during this time of year, I always like to add a little splash of light the lift the mood during a film night. Fairy lights are ideal as they won't take away from the picture shown on the screen and will still create a great vibe and ambience in the room. I also adore candles (they're all I ever seem to talk about), so whenever I get an opportunity to light some Yankee Candles around the home, I jump at the chance. They'll also hide the greasy pizza scent that usually films the room.
Blankets and cosy cushions
For a cosy night in, the more blankets the better - bring a duvet if necessary. While the crazy cold breeze continues outside, a movie evening brings in the best warmth and any excuse to cuddle up in some faux fur. I love using massive cushions or beanbags to melt into and snuggle up in. They help to create a great atmosphere which is fundamental for a marathon of movies.
Plenty of options
Sometimes it can be really difficult to find one film to watch that will satisfy everyone, that's why I always have a few alternatives up my sleeve or go for the all-out movie marathon. My little sister and I often plan ahead for what we'll watch. For a super girly night in, the classics are essential. However, no one ever says no to a little Disney all-nighter. Or if no one can decide, I'm perfectly happy to watch every Chris Evans film for the night.
Sunday evening is one of the best times to have a movie night before the big week of work ahead - let me know if you try it out at @itsanikamay!
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| This post is in collaboration with Panasonic. |
Why I Want to Travel the World
19 October 2015
There's just so much to see.
Every step of a journey is one I enjoy. From packing, to the ride to the airport - it's all extremely exiting. In 2013, I went to Paris on the Eurostar and would love to do it again before the end of the year. Paris is one of the greatest cities in the world and like New York City, manages to satisfy all my interests. They're fashion filled and contain plenty of amazing sites. Paris and New York are easily two of the most photogenic cities in the world, alongside Sydney, Marrakesh, Tokyo and Florence.
The list of places I wish to visit endless, and putting together a list of importance seems impossible. However, the reason I want to explore remains the same: to learn and to experience. Working in a busy city five days each week means I see the same scenes all the time. To look at something new or live in a different way, even for a short while, is stimulating and always impressive.
Fashion has always been on of my biggest interests, so another reason to visit a new area is to take in the different kinds of street and designer style around the world. I love the idea of a new piece to my wardrobe, from a different culture or country to store as a cherished memory. A new favourite of mine is this Tokyo inspired Spiral rucksack*, kindly sent to me buy stylefruits.co.uk after I won their Insider's Tip competition back in September. The graphic print mimics the bright lights of Tokyo - one of the cities towards the top of my list. It's bright and colourful and makes the perfect carry-on.
There are hauls of items and accessories I couldn't live without while travelling; from my iPad (and Spotify) to my growing collection of notebooks and diaries. Bringing in another reason I want to travel the world: I get to buy stuff. Shopping is the best friend that never says no and I love shopping around in unfamiliar cities.
My plans to travel are in motion, which means saving every ounce of my wage and adding plenty to my Pinterest boards and Tumblr blog. What do you love about travelling?
My plans to travel are in motion, which means saving every ounce of my wage and adding plenty to my Pinterest boards and Tumblr blog. What do you love about travelling?
The Effortlessly Original Accessory
8 June 2015
The Dutchess* is my favourite piece from their Spring/Summer 2015 line and can easily been worn throughout the year. The best thing about this brand is that it doesn't give in to the pressure of becoming mainstream and has maintain it's boldness and brilliance in every piece, promoting individuality and a little rebellion. All the collections are handcrafted in Toronto, Canada and made of mixed metal and natural stones. My favourite thing about the pieces at Wattney Kay is the edgy bohemian quality each piece has. They're unique and bring out the greatness in each outfit. I use Duchess to spice up my simple outfits during the day and even add a touch of rock 'n' roll to my evening looks, the eye-catching piece is stunning and extremely striking.
You can take a look at Duchess here, and take a look at Wattney Kay's SS15 line here.
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