tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28192670044101983462024-03-13T10:58:18.691+00:00BeautySwotWhere beauty and afternoon tea sit together.
Skincare and Make-up reviews and news. Afternoon Tea reviews and lots more!Bettina@BeautySwothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10083610184683690471noreply@blogger.comBlogger1406125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2819267004410198346.post-11795068838784675872021-04-02T18:49:00.002+01:002021-04-02T22:56:06.349+01:00My New Book! REVEALED<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_ebw5U7nGyo/YGdOvgb4N0I/AAAAAAAARUg/Cl7D9kXCFQQdUw8h_fQk4u52ej4CH0aVQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1080/HHOTB%2BInstagram.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_ebw5U7nGyo/YGdOvgb4N0I/AAAAAAAARUg/Cl7D9kXCFQQdUw8h_fQk4u52ej4CH0aVQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/HHOTB%2BInstagram.png" /></a></div><br /> <p></p><p>Greetings lovelies, I have exciting book news! :) </p><p>My new novel - <b>High Heels on the Beach </b>is out on the 26th April but is available to pre-order now! </p><p>So if you enjoy reading a fun packed, lighthearted romantic comedy this is for you ... </p><p><b>Blurb </b></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Decision shy Becca is used to her best friend making
decisions for her, but after a disastrous 30<sup>th</sup> birthday, London
living Becca realises she needs to stop relying on others and take control of
her own destiny. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12pt;">With her life
plans in tatters, she’s forced to return home to the quiet seaside town of
Sunny Bay and the family’s B&B, where the bedrooms are covered in chintz
and her mother is still serving up culinary delights from the 1970s. Adamant
that she’s not staying, Becca embarks on a soul-searching trip to Europe.<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">She’s barely stepped foot abroad before a family crisis
sees her back in Sunny Bay and in charge of the B&B. Coming face to face
with old flames and adversaries, Becca’s reminded why she left and is
determined to get back to her old life in London. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">But when the mysterious Madame DoTell, fortune teller
to the stars, insists that home is where the heart is, Becca begins to wonder
if she should listen... <o:p></o:p></span></p><p>
</p><p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">If home is where the heart is, where is
home? <o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">High Heels on the Beach is only 99p and available by clicking this link - Paperback version will follow soon. </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="http://mybook.to/HighHeelsontheBeach" target="_blank">High Heels on the Beach </a></span></b></p><p>Bettina x </p>Bettina@BeautySwothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10083610184683690471noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2819267004410198346.post-3621650040395636272020-12-22T21:52:00.008+00:002020-12-28T19:38:11.453+00:00Coronavirus - What's it like - What are the symptoms ?<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Of2l8UVHbmc/X-Jb7AU2p5I/AAAAAAAAROc/O1GIRTTgjEM4fpEQMv4nYYXuk1sz5M0QQCLcBGAsYHQ/s598/Coronaviruspositive.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="203" data-original-width="598" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Of2l8UVHbmc/X-Jb7AU2p5I/AAAAAAAAROc/O1GIRTTgjEM4fpEQMv4nYYXuk1sz5M0QQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Coronaviruspositive.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">A day by day diary account of my Coronavirus symptoms </span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2020 has been quite a year. I don't think anyone in the world could have imagined or predicted how our lives would literally be turned upside in just a few short months. The consequences have been catastrophic and the effects felt worldwide. Many lives have been lost, jobs have disappeared and the economy taken a battering. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">At the time of writing this (December 2020) we are currently experiencing another wave of the CoronaVirus and this time they are saying there is a new strain that's sweeping through the UK and indeed has been detected around the world.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We've already experienced lockdowns and despite a slight loosening of the reins for a few months, it's time to batten down the hatches and lockdown once again. The advice is always the same STAY HOME, SAVE LIVES. One of the slogans has been Hands. Face. Space - Wash hands, cover your face with a mask, leave space. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I did all of these things that were asked of me. I followed the rules, I followed the law and yet in mid November I caught Coronavirus. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">What follows below is my experience of Coronavirus - please keep in mind your experience may very well be different. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I believe the source was my 12 year old son who was going to school. He literally only went outside to catch the bus to school and went to school and back.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My son takes a Covid Test on Monday evening. On the Tuesday we get confirmation he's tested positive. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Government literature states </div><p></p><h2 class="app-c-header-notice__heading govuk-heading-m" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; border: none; color: #0b0c0c; font-family: nta, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 24px; line-height: 1.25; margin: 0px 0px 20px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">If you have any coronavirus symptoms:</h2><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><ul class="app-c-header-notice__list govuk-list govuk-list--bullet" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; border: none; color: #0b0c0c; font-family: nta, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 19px; line-height: 1.31579; list-style-image: inherit; list-style-position: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 25px; padding: 0px 0px 0px 20px;"><li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 0px;">a high temperature</li><li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 0px;">a new, continuous cough</li><li style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 0px;">a loss of, or change to, your sense of smell or taste</li></ul><p class="app-c-header-notice__call-to-action" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; border: none; color: #0b0c0c; font-family: nta, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 19px; font-weight: 700; line-height: 1.31579; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><a class="app-c-header-notice__call-to-action-link govuk-link" href="https://www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.3); border: none; color: #4c2c92; line-height: 1.31579; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Get a test</a> and stay at home</p></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Monday 16th November 2020 </b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Through the night I keep swallowing with the feeling that there is a lump in my throat.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Tuesday 17th November 2020 </b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I wake up with the feeling I have a head cold. I have a headache and sore throat. I have pain in my eyes. I also suffer with aches and pains in my body. I have hot and cold spells. I check my temperature. It is slightly raised but not to the 38 degrees that was mentioned at various points. I don't sleep. I have an anxious stomach and experience night sweats. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Wednesday 18th November 2020</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I'm tired today. I keep falling asleep. I feel hot and cold all day. I have a headache. As we have someone in the house that's tested positive I am able to book a Covid 19 test. I go at lunchtime. I feel quite unwell. Late in the evening I become aware I've lost my sense of smell. I have night sweats. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Thursday 19th November 2020</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I have all the same symptoms as yesterday but in addition I have a slightly blocked nose. I have absolutely no sense of smell. My taste buds have gone funny - sweet things taste bitter. Things I like do not taste how I remember them. I have night sweats. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Friday 20th November 2020 </b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I wake up to an email telling me that I've tested positive for Covid. I have all the same symptoms still but today I have a very slight cough. I take in the news I have the virus that has been taking people's lives and strangely I don't feel too worried. I share my news with twitter and am slightly alarmed when people reply with 'I hope you recover.' I am 43 years old. I exercise daily. I eat reasonably well and I've been taking a Vitamin D supplement which some studies have said could be beneficial in the fight against Coronavirus. I sweat overnight. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Saturday 21st November 2020</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">On waking I feel brighter. I feel like I am on the road to recovery. I still feel tired and need to sleep on and off throughout the day. It's very obvious that I am not better as I feel exhausted if I exert myself. I have absolutely no smell - I spray a very strong perfume as a test. Nothing. I have a headache still and the eye pain is still there but not as severe. My cough has gone. I am still having night sweats.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Sunday 22nd November 2020</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I feel even stronger today, I almost bound down the stairs first thing and manage to sit through a lovely Christmas film by Dolly Parton - Christmas on the Square. I'm still feeling tired however I manage not to succumb to a nap. No headache. No aches and pains. No eye pain. Hurrah! But still no sense of smell and taste. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Monday 23rd November 2020</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">No night sweats. One afternoon nap. Still no sense of smell and food just tastes bland or really salty! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Tuesday 24th November 2020</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I think the night sweats have finally departed. I feel a little tired in the morning but that's probably because my sleep was disturbed by my husband having a night sweat! Good news... About 5% of my smell has returned. I seem to also be able to taste a bit of my food and the normal flavour of it. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Wednesday 25th November 2020</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Same as Tuesday...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Thursday 26th November 2020 </b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Very slight cough. Slightly more taste returning and I can smell the perfume when I first spray it but it's very feint and disappears quickly. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Friday 27th November 2020</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My sense of smell is stronger than yesterday. I can officially and legally leave the house! And I do. A leisurely walk to the shop to pick up some supplies. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Saturday 28th November 2020 </b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My taste buds have almost completely recovered. Smell is not quite there yet.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Sunday 29th November 2020 </b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My taste is back! Smell is not fully returned but I can smell some things :) My energy levels are good but I'm not sure I can walk 10,000 steps like I did pre getting Coronavirus. I go to the shops and back for some fresh air and exercise, on the way back my breathing becomes laboured. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Also ... today I achieve my goal - I finish writing 50,000 words of a new novel in November for NanoWrimo. I'd pledged to take part not knowing what the month was going to bring me. I don't know how I did it with Covid, but I did. Go me! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Monday 30th November 2020</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">A rest day. It's been exhausting getting to this point. I've had Covid. My son's had Covid. My 4 year old has been isolating with us. My H has been working througout. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Tuesday 1st December 2020</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Back to school for the littlest. I manage 9,000 steps. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Wednesday 2nd December 2020 </b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I walk 10,000 steps </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Thursday 3rd December 2020</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Although my sense of smell hasn't fully returned, i'm guessing I've got about 70% back... I am feeling fine otherwise. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I stop keeping a diary of how I am feeling. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Final thoughts</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I'm one of the lucky ones, I've had it relatively mild. I never really got the classic symptoms of Covid and if it hadn't had been for my son and his positive test I might very well have thought it something else. I do lose my sense of smell when I have sinus problems ... </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">At the time of writing we've just been told by scientists and Boris Johnson that there is a new strain. I wonder if this is what I have had? Apparently It's been sweeping through Kent, Essex and London. Before we got ill we could count on our fingers how many people we actually knew who had had it. A couple of weeks after we had our bout of Covid I'm hearing of so many people who are testing positive. It's taking hold in schools, with whole classes and year groups having to isolate. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I don't know what 2021 holds but with vaccines emerging and indeed already beginning to be administered, we as a world are hopeful we can put this nightmare behind us and go back to our old normal way of life. </div><p></p>Bettina@BeautySwothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10083610184683690471noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2819267004410198346.post-12783879812965241072019-08-02T12:10:00.003+01:002019-08-02T12:18:21.153+01:00IT Cosmetics CC Cream Review It's hard to believe that there may be a product waiting in the wings to snatch the crown from Estée Lauder's iconic Doublewear Foundation... but I think I might just have found it... In all honesty I don't think I will ever feel comfortable not to have a bottle of DW on my makeup shelf, reaching for it for those special occasions BUT <b>Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream with SPF 50+ </b>is the product I've been reaching for this Summer and is now my must have base.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6Es5fQWuYcQ/XUQZeGo4wlI/AAAAAAAAQ6A/jIyzXs91ZwE0Rrxz1DGHHYuSQ0l07OBugCLcBGAs/s1600/ITCosmeticsCCCream.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6Es5fQWuYcQ/XUQZeGo4wlI/AAAAAAAAQ6A/jIyzXs91ZwE0Rrxz1DGHHYuSQ0l07OBugCLcBGAs/s640/ITCosmeticsCCCream.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<b>What IT Cosmetics say </b><br />
<b><br /></b>
Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream with SPF 50 is our #1 best-selling, colour-correcting cream that delivers 7 benefits all in one! This multi-tasking hero could possibly be everything your skin needs in one easy step: full coverage foundation and anti-ageing with SPF50 that brightens and hydrates while camouflaging skin imperfections. Our skin-loving CC+ Cream diffuses the look of wrinkles, minimises the appearance of pores and gives you a beautiful-looking complexion. Ideal if you’re looking for full coverage makeup, hydration and younger-looking skin. Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream is available in original, illumination and oil-free matte finishes.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IE34ROouvOI/XUQZuyrKZnI/AAAAAAAAQ6M/5lDGmIYOzb0A5xz2ATE5C9DXYmdA2HFPQCLcBGAs/s1600/ITCosmeticsCCCreampump.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IE34ROouvOI/XUQZuyrKZnI/AAAAAAAAQ6M/5lDGmIYOzb0A5xz2ATE5C9DXYmdA2HFPQCLcBGAs/s640/ITCosmeticsCCCreampump.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br />
<br />
<b>My thoughts </b><br />
<b><br /></b>
I use the original version in shade Light. My skin type is normal/combination and I am yellow toned, usually wearing one up from the lightest shade. This shade is perfect for me.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u1HwwTXAasQ/XUQZvKyTfzI/AAAAAAAAQ6I/CNWy12fl2TQmycmDp8nBrz5-JGCrR1UXgCEwYBhgL/s1600/ITCosmeticsCCCreamLightSwatch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u1HwwTXAasQ/XUQZvKyTfzI/AAAAAAAAQ6I/CNWy12fl2TQmycmDp8nBrz5-JGCrR1UXgCEwYBhgL/s640/ITCosmeticsCCCreamLightSwatch.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><br /></b>
This does everything that it promises. From the useful design of the tube with an easy pump dispenser, one small pump and you get enough to give perfect coverage. The texture of the cream is serum like and blends beautifully and seamlessly into the skin so it looks just like your skin but better. For those who have a keen sense of smell, this CC Cream has a very light herbal scent. Full coverage, it covers blemishes, redness and imperfections. It feels hydrating on the skin, skin looks smooth and the foundation makes skin have a healthy and luminous glow without looking greasy. I love it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u5koc2b1Ju4/XUQaAknUluI/AAAAAAAAQ6c/VtO0KjkosSMVQLxhXY-SDw4CwuBK5b9EgCLcBGAs/s1600/WearingITCosmeticsCCCreamLight1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1278" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u5koc2b1Ju4/XUQaAknUluI/AAAAAAAAQ6c/VtO0KjkosSMVQLxhXY-SDw4CwuBK5b9EgCLcBGAs/s640/WearingITCosmeticsCCCreamLight1.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4mUlRlKFbeI/XUQaAQCEF2I/AAAAAAAAQ6Y/6bpzqpMFOwogWqqaUm-q4yq8VqryusfvQCLcBGAs/s1600/WearingITCosmeticsCCCreamLight.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="476" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4mUlRlKFbeI/XUQaAQCEF2I/AAAAAAAAQ6Y/6bpzqpMFOwogWqqaUm-q4yq8VqryusfvQCLcBGAs/s640/WearingITCosmeticsCCCreamLight.jpg" width="316" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
A blindingly brilliant 10/10 I can't think of a single fault with this product. Have you tried it yet?<br />
<br />
<b>Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream with SPF 50+ costs £31 </b></div>
Bettina@BeautySwothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10083610184683690471noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2819267004410198346.post-38258390510403545002019-08-01T15:03:00.000+01:002019-08-01T16:54:40.526+01:00Marc Jacobs Beauty Velvet Noir Major Volume Mascara When you find a good mascara you know. It is immediately apparent, this isn't something that grows on you. Instant results and instant impact. I recently returned to using one of my all time favourites and it dawned on me, I have never blogged about it! So here it is... my review of <b>Marc Jacobs Beauty Velvet Noir Major Volume Mascara in shade Noir (black)</b><br />
<div>
<b><br /></b></div>
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--6FuxpC2wiQ/XULsQvu9ohI/AAAAAAAAQ5o/GiIoG8Nxl1cahONBe8hKeyrMtCrH5rc2wCLcBGAs/s1600/MarcJacobsVelvetNoirMascara.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--6FuxpC2wiQ/XULsQvu9ohI/AAAAAAAAQ5o/GiIoG8Nxl1cahONBe8hKeyrMtCrH5rc2wCLcBGAs/s640/MarcJacobsVelvetNoirMascara.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Marc Jacobs Velvet Noir Major Volume Mascara</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>What Marc Jacobs Beauty say </b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Major drama. Over-sized lashes. Velvet-like look.<br />
<br />
Experience ultimate volume and the look of thick, false lashes with Marc Jacobs' Velvet Noir Major Volume Mascara. The lash-maximizing, curvy brush places the most volume at the hard-to-reach centre lash line, and the defining tip styles lashes for major drama. <br />
<br />
The super-concentrated black pigment delivers the greatest visual impact, and the Flash Volume Complex™ creates instant, smudge-proof length and volume in three strokes or less. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oJSDiqTMd6o/XUGzuT9KSrI/AAAAAAAAQ5I/lSGYhSHuL-YDBjgUaBXTh3EN9alZJCPhwCLcBGAs/s1600/MarcJacobsBeautyVelvetNoirMajorVolumeMascara.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oJSDiqTMd6o/XUGzuT9KSrI/AAAAAAAAQ5I/lSGYhSHuL-YDBjgUaBXTh3EN9alZJCPhwCLcBGAs/s640/MarcJacobsBeautyVelvetNoirMajorVolumeMascara.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wearing Marc Jacobs Velvet Noir Major Volume Mascara</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div>
<b>My thoughts </b></div>
</div>
</div>
<div>
<b><br /></b></div>
<div>
I absolutely love this mascara. The brush style wand picks up every single lash, lifts and defines them , coating them in a rich, black shade giving a sexy, fluttery look to the lashes. No smudging or flaking, this mascara lasts the day.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
I give this mascara a mega 10/10 </div>
<div>
<b><br /></b></div>
<div>
<b>Marc Jacobs Beauty Velvet Noir Major Volume Mascara costs £22 </b></div>
<div>
<b><br /></b></div>
<div>
<b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">*Gifted</span> </b></div>
Bettina@BeautySwothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10083610184683690471noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2819267004410198346.post-12894452404458553192019-07-31T15:54:00.001+01:002019-08-01T14:37:53.668+01:00Estée Lauder Bronze Goddess Illuminating Powder Gelee Review If there is one product that I think is a Summer essential, it's the highlighter and if you only buy one this Summer, make it the <b>Illuminating Powder Gelee</b> from the limited edition Bronze Goddess collection from Estée Lauder ...<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MG0snM5GS6s/XUGpz7q8k8I/AAAAAAAAQ4o/7PTZOMSUtPU2SJPO1UWmpwyJun6XTNK5QCLcBGAs/s1600/EsteeLauderIlluminatingGeleeHeatwave.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="500" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MG0snM5GS6s/XUGpz7q8k8I/AAAAAAAAQ4o/7PTZOMSUtPU2SJPO1UWmpwyJun6XTNK5QCLcBGAs/s640/EsteeLauderIlluminatingGeleeHeatwave.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Estée Lauder Bronze Goddess Illuminating Powder Gelee in Heatwave</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6qmRvScdFGU/XUGqPCsAvVI/AAAAAAAAQ4w/bU3JsQ7DNnU5TzykwfGgPkEhOBR6CQdSQCLcBGAs/s1600/EsteeLauderIlluminatingPowderGeleeHeatwave.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="500" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6qmRvScdFGU/XUGqPCsAvVI/AAAAAAAAQ4w/bU3JsQ7DNnU5TzykwfGgPkEhOBR6CQdSQCLcBGAs/s640/EsteeLauderIlluminatingPowderGeleeHeatwave.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<b>Estée Lauder says </b><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "akzidenzgrotesk";"><span style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.75px;">Turn up the heat. Give yourself a heavenly glow with this super-luxurious bronzer. This seductive all-over bronzer is endless summer. Smooths on as a soft sheen. Builds to a luminous pearl highlight. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "akzidenzgrotesk";"><span style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.75px;"><br /></span></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lv_-4qIMbp0/XULquKdp9ZI/AAAAAAAAQ5c/JIReg6RCCnMMaW1q6x647KvcsanF1gibwCLcBGAs/s1600/EsteeLauderIlluminatingPowderGeleeHeatwaveSwatch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lv_-4qIMbp0/XULquKdp9ZI/AAAAAAAAQ5c/JIReg6RCCnMMaW1q6x647KvcsanF1gibwCLcBGAs/s640/EsteeLauderIlluminatingPowderGeleeHeatwaveSwatch.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Estee Lauder Bronze Goddess Illuminating Powder Gelee in Heatwave</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "akzidenzgrotesk";"><span style="font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.75px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "akzidenzgrotesk"; font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.75px;"><br /></span>
<b>My thoughts </b><br />
<div>
<b><br /></b></div>
<div>
The second I applied this highlighter to my skin, I was smitten. It has a beautifully soft formula that literally glides over the skin, applying evenly and lighting up the skin with a wonderful, lit from within appearance. Providing that all important healthy glow this warm toned bronzer screams Summer. This is one makeup item that I am using every day. An utterly gorgeous must have. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s--140c8vbI/XUGrZuRbBcI/AAAAAAAAQ48/A_CuYgtJc6UGRHA2m6H08_D-gmJ4VEMzQCLcBGAs/s1600/EsteeLauderIlluminatingPowderGeleeHeatwaveBeautySwot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s--140c8vbI/XUGrZuRbBcI/AAAAAAAAQ48/A_CuYgtJc6UGRHA2m6H08_D-gmJ4VEMzQCLcBGAs/s640/EsteeLauderIlluminatingPowderGeleeHeatwaveBeautySwot.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wearing EL Bronze Goddess Illuminating Powder Gelee in Heatwave</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
A mega 10/10 </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Estée Lauder Bronze Goddess Illuminating Powder Gelee costs £38<br /><br />*Gifted by Boots Lakeside </b><span style="font-family: "akzidenzgrotesk"; font-size: 15px; letter-spacing: 0.75px;"><br /></span></div>
Bettina@BeautySwothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10083610184683690471noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2819267004410198346.post-36128637941323864642019-05-16T11:01:00.004+01:002021-05-17T13:13:58.965+01:00Without a Hitch on Honeymoon! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dRaWTGyGVSE/XN0vR5qJMVI/AAAAAAAAQ1w/7cWnSMBN1GsfjhNsPr1RqjEFSY6ebXguwCLcBGAs/s1600/WithoutAHitchOnHoneymoonCover.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dRaWTGyGVSE/XN0vR5qJMVI/AAAAAAAAQ1w/7cWnSMBN1GsfjhNsPr1RqjEFSY6ebXguwCLcBGAs/s320/WithoutAHitchOnHoneymoonCover.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Tomorrow marks the release of my third book - <b>Without a Hitch on Honeymoon </b>- It's the novella (short story) sequel to <b>Without a Hitch </b>- the wedding themed romantic comedy which is still only 99p!<br />
<br />
<i>Blurb </i>-<br />
<br />
Come on, the honeymoon was never going to go without a hitch!<br />
<br />
Agnes, Sienna & Bryony are back!<br />
Making memories one beach at the time...<br />
<br />
Misunderstandings, coincidences, sunshine, sea & plenty of cocktails. A lot can happen in two weeks but one thing's for sure, life's about to change forever...<br />
<br />
Click here to buy - 99p or FREE to read with kindle unlimited<br />
<br />
<b><a href="mybook.to/WAHOH " rel="nofollow" target="_blank">mybook.to/WAHOH </a></b><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Without a Hitch </b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ie1ZvfMG7-M/XN0wMlu9e8I/AAAAAAAAQ14/z-mTe0cUETAbSyXI5x7C4E4CNkQ3oV_CQCLcBGAs/s1600/WithoutAHitchKindleCover.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ie1ZvfMG7-M/XN0wMlu9e8I/AAAAAAAAQ14/z-mTe0cUETAbSyXI5x7C4E4CNkQ3oV_CQCLcBGAs/s320/WithoutAHitchKindleCover.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<i>Blurb</i><br />
<br />
<div>
<span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14px;">‘The path of true love never runs smooth, the path to the perfect wedding, even bumpier.’</span></div>
<div>
<b style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><br /></b>
<b style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Three brides-to-be</b><br />
<b style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Nine months to plan the dream wedding<br />What could possibly go wrong?</b><br />
<br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14px;">They have been dreaming of this day for as long as they can remember, but what happens when fate intervenes…</span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14px;">Sienna is determined not to become a bridezilla but planning a wedding is proving much harder than she thought. With obstacles flying from every direction, can she take back control without upsetting those closest to her?</span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14px;">Bryony is the bride on a budget dreaming of a big white wedding. A family full of secrets threaten to ruin her big day, can she find it in her heart to forgive and forget?</span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14px;">Agnes is the career woman who appears to have finally found Mr Right, but will her scheming boss come between her and her new-found love?</span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" />
<b style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">One date, three brides-to-be, united in their quest for the ‘perfect’ wedding.</b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
A heartwarming, contemporary romantic comedy.</div>
<div>
<br />
To buy -<br />
<br />
UK readers click <a href="http://amzn.eu/e3tZwtf">here </a><br />
US readers click <a href="http://a.co/awZrVAe">here </a><br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Bettina@BeautySwothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10083610184683690471noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2819267004410198346.post-38387047795250741412018-12-12T14:27:00.001+00:002018-12-12T14:27:27.091+00:00The Sanderson Mad Hatters Afternoon Tea Review Just off of London's Oxford Street is Berner's Street and it is here that you will find <b>The Sanderson</b> <b>Hotel</b>. Step inside and you are instantly transported into a fun oasis, home of the famous Lips Couch and serving up the famously themed <b>Mad Hatters Afternoon Tea. </b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z0Mo5n0G7rA/XBEZ07ZSjBI/AAAAAAAAQwQ/XoJVmZ0vA0cBY0WvoaTpey8Hp-s82ghgQCLcBGAs/s1600/SandersonHotelLips.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z0Mo5n0G7rA/XBEZ07ZSjBI/AAAAAAAAQwQ/XoJVmZ0vA0cBY0WvoaTpey8Hp-s82ghgQCLcBGAs/s640/SandersonHotelLips.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<b><br /></b>
<div>
<b><br /></b></div>
<div>
<div>
I did my homework before I made my booking, I looked at the reviews and a few people mentioned that if you are seated in <b>The Courtyard</b> it can be a little cold. Blankets are provided but, as we were going in December and my mum had recently undergone a major (life saving) operation and felt the cold more than most people, I called to make my booking. At the other end of the line was the really lovely Mikey and he promised that we could sit in The Restaurant so I went ahead and booked. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
On the day I was mightily glad that I had made that phone call as the wind was whipping up a treat, it was bitterly cold and snow was on its way, literally, it arrived that evening!! We were shown to a fabulous and private booth and it made us very feel special, which was a lovely touch as this was a very, very special occasion for us. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The staff were utterly fantastic, friendly, attentive and helpful to the extreme... one of them was always happy, offering to take pictures of us as he went past which gave us a good laugh :)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The afternoon tea is fun, quirky and most importantly absolutely delicious. Our package came with a free cocktail included in the price and this was a lovely touch too.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AIfFjqnfH7I/XBEaCLBMj_I/AAAAAAAAQwU/hlYMNqllUqcDhz_dClXNHhaPNdyMG5YFQCLcBGAs/s1600/MadHatterAfternoonTeaSandersonHotel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1408" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AIfFjqnfH7I/XBEaCLBMj_I/AAAAAAAAQwU/hlYMNqllUqcDhz_dClXNHhaPNdyMG5YFQCLcBGAs/s640/MadHatterAfternoonTeaSandersonHotel.jpg" width="562" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The menu</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Savoury</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Smoked salmon Scotch quails egg with caviar and cream cheese </b></div>
<div>
<b>Stack of King of Hearts ham and Parmesan croque-monsieur</b></div>
<div>
<b>Cornish crab brioche roll with spiced avocado and coriander </b></div>
<div>
<b>White Rabbit cucumber and cream cheese sandwich
on pesto bread </b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Sweet</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Queen of Hearts rose and strawberry Jammy Dodger </b></div>
<div>
<b>Mocha chessboard gateau </b></div>
<div>
<b>Tweedle Dee lemon curd financier </b></div>
<div>
<b>Mad March Hare vanilla pocket watch macaroon </b></div>
<div>
<b>Chocolate and pistachio Blue Caterpillar </b></div>
<div>
<b>Wonderland marshmallow magic mushrooms </b></div>
<div>
<b>Mad Hatters lost carrot and fennel meringue </b></div>
<div>
<b>Alice’s exotic fruits 'Drink Me' Potion'</b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Warm scones served with Cornish clotted cream and fruit preserve.</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-scehpm0qHww/XBEaNBsjKzI/AAAAAAAAQwk/GaqpT6Iuylg1YNL0Odsv-LWsa_-ZjVIoQCLcBGAs/s1600/ChoosingourTeaSandersonHotel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-scehpm0qHww/XBEaNBsjKzI/AAAAAAAAQwk/GaqpT6Iuylg1YNL0Odsv-LWsa_-ZjVIoQCLcBGAs/s640/ChoosingourTeaSandersonHotel.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-433zDTFPP8Y/XBEaM6Q28_I/AAAAAAAAQwc/w55S2BREmKkX9C5JpkIgeiTSwu7zsVWPwCLcBGAs/s1600/MadHatterTeaPicksSandersonHotel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-433zDTFPP8Y/XBEaM6Q28_I/AAAAAAAAQwc/w55S2BREmKkX9C5JpkIgeiTSwu7zsVWPwCLcBGAs/s640/MadHatterTeaPicksSandersonHotel.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hfWYlVO-_D0/XBEaNFGrQRI/AAAAAAAAQwg/MF00JMMhe2EUSUYIfnml2kXGHe0ngQ27wCLcBGAs/s1600/QueenTeaPot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hfWYlVO-_D0/XBEaNFGrQRI/AAAAAAAAQwg/MF00JMMhe2EUSUYIfnml2kXGHe0ngQ27wCLcBGAs/s640/QueenTeaPot.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<b><br /></b>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vSOafHTmICs/XBEajGLQ61I/AAAAAAAAQw0/XNY0O5S5QEAc62IstLUvcOgfUrSFXn_WQCLcBGAs/s1600/DrinkMe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vSOafHTmICs/XBEajGLQ61I/AAAAAAAAQw0/XNY0O5S5QEAc62IstLUvcOgfUrSFXn_WQCLcBGAs/s640/DrinkMe.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xf56RuP7cus/XBEabEohbjI/AAAAAAAAQwo/Wz-NdA9-8SIpuEe00bWJmKxoBqKGjOARQCLcBGAs/s1600/SandersonHotelMadHattersTea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xf56RuP7cus/XBEabEohbjI/AAAAAAAAQwo/Wz-NdA9-8SIpuEe00bWJmKxoBqKGjOARQCLcBGAs/s640/SandersonHotelMadHattersTea.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br />
A nice mix of savory offerings, I loved the crab brioche roll in particular. The sweet treats were a genuine real treat, with the fun and magical theme carried through and thought out brilliantly. You cannot but help having a smile on your face as you sit down to devour each and every one. This was a faultless afternoon tea and with all the little touches, like the quirky teapots and mini bottles, it was just utterly delightful. The afternoon passed almost too quickly! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I give it a <b>A Mad Hatters 10/10 </b><br />
<br />
<b>The Sanderson Mad Hatters Afternoon Tea costs from £48 a person </b></div>
</div>
Bettina@BeautySwothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10083610184683690471noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2819267004410198346.post-25510049062387808192018-12-11T14:19:00.000+00:002018-12-11T14:19:23.659+00:00West Lodge Park Hotel Afternoon Tea Review Who doesn't love an impromptu <b>Afternoon Tea</b>?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ebYvzqztTRE/XA_ECvXL_cI/AAAAAAAAQvY/vofIM1yL324kP7n-xQsA7teOUYOnV8BXACLcBGAs/s1600/WestLodgeParkAfternoonTea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ebYvzqztTRE/XA_ECvXL_cI/AAAAAAAAQvY/vofIM1yL324kP7n-xQsA7teOUYOnV8BXACLcBGAs/s640/WestLodgeParkAfternoonTea.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I had planned to spend a day with my sister, baby niece and mum, not wishing to travel too far we made our way to <b>West Lodge Park Hotel in Cockfosters,</b> North London.<br />
<br />
West Lodge Park Hotel is a <b>Country House Hotel</b> set in vast and stunning grounds in Hertfordshire. It plays host to weddings and functions but is equally welcoming to those dining out or wishing to enjoy the grounds and Sun Terrace.<br />
<br />
Originally we had planned to have lunch but on a whim, changed our minds and decided to experience Afternoon Tea instead. As the sitting was from 3pm we had a little time to wait and were invited to take a seat in the bar. Although we just turned up and this may be okay to do during weekdays, I would personally prebook to avoid disappointment.<br />
<br />
Afternoon Tea is served in The <b>Mary Beale Restaurant</b> and the walls are adorned with fabulous historical Art. The windows are floor to ceiling so the room is bright and airy and made for a lovely, relaxed environment to take tea.<br />
<br />
A standard afternoon tea costs a very reasonable <b>£23.50 per person</b> and includes the following<br />
<br />
<b>Four finger sandwiches served on a variety of
artisan breads </b><br />
<b>Chef’s choice savoury item </b><br />
<b>Two warm scones with
Devonshire clotted cream and Tiptree jam </b><br />
<b>Selection of three homemade seasonal
cakes and pastries </b><br />
<b>Café du Monde coffee or
Newby of London tea</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J0-vgPICPws/XA_GBNQbAxI/AAAAAAAAQvk/OsSpHSUdLR8yvpf-4fbrA__bEEtv6r2UACLcBGAs/s1600/3generationsatWestLodgePark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J0-vgPICPws/XA_GBNQbAxI/AAAAAAAAQvk/OsSpHSUdLR8yvpf-4fbrA__bEEtv6r2UACLcBGAs/s640/3generationsatWestLodgePark.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
If you fancy an alcoholic tipple there are options of Prosecco or Champagne for an additional charge. Dietary requirements are also catered for.<br />
<br />
Our only little niggle was that we didn't want the salmon sandwiches and would have liked an option from the vegetarian sandwich selection but were only allowed to order a replacement sandwich from the menu we were having which was a little disappointing.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bpKIxgFGLqU/XA_HL-LFBOI/AAAAAAAAQwA/Dqz0wEUXOF4gPtb4Z2s-qIFFsKTMJbaZQCLcBGAs/s1600/AfternoonTeaWestLodgeParkHotelView.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="909" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bpKIxgFGLqU/XA_HL-LFBOI/AAAAAAAAQwA/Dqz0wEUXOF4gPtb4Z2s-qIFFsKTMJbaZQCLcBGAs/s640/AfternoonTeaWestLodgeParkHotelView.jpg" width="540" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Nevertheless the sandwiches were tasty and fresh. I loved the addition of a bitesize quiche.The scones were cooked to perfection and had just the right amount of crumble so as not to fall apart the minute you apply the cream and jam. The cakes were a good size and very nice, especially the fruit tart. A slight grumble would be that the macaron was more biscuit like than chewy and soft in the centre as I was expecting. All in all we had a great time, the afternoon tea was enjoyable, the setting lovely and the service friendly and pleasant.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yADTAaiFB6I/XA_GYlJP_kI/AAAAAAAAQvs/4cn_udszxVISm_oi9m88rDL1ZdgPtm1gwCLcBGAs/s1600/AfternoonTeaWestLodgeParkHotel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yADTAaiFB6I/XA_GYlJP_kI/AAAAAAAAQvs/4cn_udszxVISm_oi9m88rDL1ZdgPtm1gwCLcBGAs/s640/AfternoonTeaWestLodgeParkHotel.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9JKkgBQvQqY/XA_G3vko-aI/AAAAAAAAQv0/zMWGOlt_QL4rls8bM21qwYqg8WEZUmMDwCLcBGAs/s1600/SconeswithCreamandJam.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9JKkgBQvQqY/XA_G3vko-aI/AAAAAAAAQv0/zMWGOlt_QL4rls8bM21qwYqg8WEZUmMDwCLcBGAs/s640/SconeswithCreamandJam.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
If you don't want to head off to London to enjoy an afternoon tea, then I highly recommend making a trip to West Lodge Park Hotel.<br />
<br />
<b>I give West Lodge Park Hotel 9/10 </b><br />
<br />Bettina@BeautySwothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10083610184683690471noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2819267004410198346.post-14061111510650000212018-12-10T14:07:00.000+00:002018-12-11T10:58:29.334+00:00Bob Bob Ricard Restaurant Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yxMQckRPn3E/XA5lqBj6YwI/AAAAAAAAQt0/AzmNmXbbCkcZy_pYwshYFG22zaJ6rSKWACLcBGAs/s1600/BobBobRicardDoors.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yxMQckRPn3E/XA5lqBj6YwI/AAAAAAAAQt0/AzmNmXbbCkcZy_pYwshYFG22zaJ6rSKWACLcBGAs/s640/BobBobRicardDoors.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The day after I booked a table for two at <b>Bob Bob Ricard</b>, an email dropped into my inbox from <b>CNTraveller.com </b>billing it as one of the <b>12 most romantic restaurants in London</b>. I had been wanting to go to BBR for years so it seemed apt that I used the excuse of our wedding anniversary as the occasion to go! Although, you most definitely don't need an occasion to visit, just go is my recommendation..<br />
<br />
Bob Bob Ricard is the iconic Art Deco Soho restaurant serving a luxury English and Russian menu in London's most glamorous all-booth dining room. Famous for its 'Press for Champagne' button at every table, the restaurant boasts the accolade of pouring more Champagne than any other restaurant in the UK!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dgsW78R6QgQ/XA5mOZLh4JI/AAAAAAAAQuA/KjKBjd87Z6IK6TmXfB09bqqMYdU5R7PwQCLcBGAs/s1600/PressForChampagne.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dgsW78R6QgQ/XA5mOZLh4JI/AAAAAAAAQuA/KjKBjd87Z6IK6TmXfB09bqqMYdU5R7PwQCLcBGAs/s640/PressForChampagne.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Despite it being famous for its Champagne, neither my husband or I had any. I know! The tall blonde one had a glass of red wine and I opted for an Espresso Martini. We also skipped the sub zero Vodka shots but we will have them next time we go!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sD4JFbrwNcA/XA5oZxEV0aI/AAAAAAAAQuM/4RHgUwAALEk2KQwxwxdWLxfPJiqKRfzjgCLcBGAs/s1600/EspressoMartiniBobBobRicard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="610" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sD4JFbrwNcA/XA5oZxEV0aI/AAAAAAAAQuM/4RHgUwAALEk2KQwxwxdWLxfPJiqKRfzjgCLcBGAs/s640/EspressoMartiniBobBobRicard.jpg" width="380" /></a></div>
<br />
The Espresso Martini was an ideal accompaniment to my meal, smooth froth with the perfect amount of alcoholic content.<br />
<br />
Bob Bob Ricard's decor is plush and decadent and the booths offer privacy and comfort. Perfect indeed.<br />
<br />
Service was faultless. Friendly and attentive. The atmosphere in the restaurant was buzzy for a Saturday afternoon and everyone seemed to be having a good time.<br />
<br />
The tall blonde one had a starter which he very kindly let me share ... it was absolutely delicious and was demolished in seconds. Creamy avocado, soft, tasty crab and refreshing salad, with a dressing to die for. One of the best starters we have ever eaten.<br />
<br />
<b>Crab with Chilli & Avocado</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UfIHLE6c718/XA5pqgQqzEI/AAAAAAAAQuY/Lg9RWagazXYeTnnswP824hug0922avG0ACLcBGAs/s1600/CrabAvocadoChilli.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="865" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UfIHLE6c718/XA5pqgQqzEI/AAAAAAAAQuY/Lg9RWagazXYeTnnswP824hug0922avG0ACLcBGAs/s640/CrabAvocadoChilli.jpg" width="568" /></a></div>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
For mains I couldn't resist ordering the <b>Chicken Kiev</b> served with creamed corn. As the tall blonde is dairy free it's a rare treat to have something like this and it didn't disappoint. Moist chicken filled with buttery moreishness and sweet creamed corn.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OXpIdodF4Aw/XA5qvu5fl_I/AAAAAAAAQug/0HXYT4OY4bcpYG2Z1VD-GXXBJebl3cj0QCLcBGAs/s1600/ChickenKievCreamedCorn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OXpIdodF4Aw/XA5qvu5fl_I/AAAAAAAAQug/0HXYT4OY4bcpYG2Z1VD-GXXBJebl3cj0QCLcBGAs/s640/ChickenKievCreamedCorn.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
The tall blonde one opted for the<b> Pavé steak with Peppercorn & Brandy Sauce</b> and we ordered a side order of Fries to share.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TIEW_5aPXCE/XA5seiG1tFI/AAAAAAAAQus/7uGCeZOu2bYjPeueGYfElr3P1klQRBASACLcBGAs/s1600/PaveSteak.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TIEW_5aPXCE/XA5seiG1tFI/AAAAAAAAQus/7uGCeZOu2bYjPeueGYfElr3P1klQRBASACLcBGAs/s640/PaveSteak.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qZ793uvxDdU/XA5vGmXcrPI/AAAAAAAAQu4/RTI31swQEPAIhvVDK81VLM7NhCPVuS2sgCLcBGAs/s1600/DinneratBobBobRicard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1011" height="486" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qZ793uvxDdU/XA5vGmXcrPI/AAAAAAAAQu4/RTI31swQEPAIhvVDK81VLM7NhCPVuS2sgCLcBGAs/s640/DinneratBobBobRicard.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Of course I could squeeze in one of their famous desserts...<br />
<br />
The tall blonde one chose <b>Le Colonel - </b>Lemon sorbet with Russian Standard Platinum Vodka<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-evvRewcpH9k/XA5wB4NyOlI/AAAAAAAAQvA/w4YHaZxL0CI3DvX0msOiVCWCaT6eLr-1gCLcBGAs/s1600/LeColonelLemonSorbet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-evvRewcpH9k/XA5wB4NyOlI/AAAAAAAAQvA/w4YHaZxL0CI3DvX0msOiVCWCaT6eLr-1gCLcBGAs/s640/LeColonelLemonSorbet.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
While I ummed and aahed over whether to have the <b>BBR Signature Chocolate Glory</b> or the <b>Flaming Crème Brûlée - </b>The<b> Crème Brûlée</b> won :) thus now I need to return to try my other choice - ha ha .<br />
<br />
Now remember I mentioned how fab the service was .... well a waiter brought my flaming dessert to the table but the flame went out almost immediately... our original waiter saw the disappointment on my face and relit it so I could video it and share it on my insta stories - now that's what I call service ;-)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxfO7xbusUGTDiPtS6DHhfbZo1UMf-YMv6aUa74v9DxJvGnZuakzJB4KRCqYL0Z_3leSXNSe48up3fZ-_PImw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-T50TWnYMXDw/XA5xvJsB6jI/AAAAAAAAQvM/C3466lv89mwMmABp-P9leUWvO73ZbKk9QCLcBGAs/s1600/BobBobRicardReception.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-T50TWnYMXDw/XA5xvJsB6jI/AAAAAAAAQvM/C3466lv89mwMmABp-P9leUWvO73ZbKk9QCLcBGAs/s640/BobBobRicardReception.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
My long awaited visit to Bob Bob Ricard lived up to its expectations and more - we fully intend to make another visit and enjoy some of the rest of the menu... Personally, I cannot wait!<br />
<br />
<b>Bob Bob Ricard gets a 10/10</b>Bettina@BeautySwothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10083610184683690471noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2819267004410198346.post-53365420455199077262018-12-05T13:11:00.001+00:002018-12-06T09:44:30.114+00:00Underneath the Mistletoe - A Christmas Short Story<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zH_JNPmkt5I/XAesbweZD9I/AAAAAAAAQtY/FnfpsE8F6LoBmGbYi6QN8AKUhHFy1tbjACLcBGAs/s1600/Mistletoe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zH_JNPmkt5I/XAesbweZD9I/AAAAAAAAQtY/FnfpsE8F6LoBmGbYi6QN8AKUhHFy1tbjACLcBGAs/s640/Mistletoe.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Underneath the Mistletoe</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sixteen-year-old Amy’s stomach was
in knots, flipping over and over in anticipation of the school’s Christmas
Disco that evening. All week, Scott, the object of her affections, had been throwing
hints that she would be his date for the night but with just hours to go, she
was disappointed to have not heard anything from him. Perhaps the phone had
been engaged when he had tried to call. She could throttle Sammy, her younger
sister, for hogging the phone all the time and ruining her love life. ‘Get off
the phone Sammy!’ she yelled as she threw a cuddly toy from her bed at the gossiping
teenager. But still no call came. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b> </b>At seven, Sarah, her best
friend knocked for her and together, dressed in their best party frocks, they made
their way to school. It was only a short walk which Amy, wearing the highest
heels she could bear, was grateful for. Her dress was a striking bright blue
and her hair had been crimped, showing off the blonde streaks that Sun In had
created. Sarah was wearing a dark green crushed velvet dress and with her rich,
wavy chestnut hair and emerald green eyes, Amy was really quite envious at how effortlessly
beautiful she was. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
‘Where
are you meeting Scott?’ Sarah asked as they walked. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
‘I don’t
know, I haven’t heard from him.’ Amy replied sadly, the air was crisp and her
breath was blowing out wisps of cold air, as if she was smoking. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The
teacher’s greeted the girls at the door before they entered a hall transformed
into a festive party venue, filled with sparkly balloons and coloured ribbons,
Christmas music was playing and already a few girls had taken to the dance
floor. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Amy searched
the crowds, was Scott already there? A small group of boys were huddled in one
corner and it was there that she saw him, his blonde floppy hair covering one
eye, the other boys in awe of the coolest kid in school. He looked over and
winked at her, causing Amy to blush and excitement tingle through her body. He
still liked her then, so she was baffled when he didn’t automatically walk over
to join her. Must be playing it cool she thought, the night had only just
begun. Sarah dragged Amy onto the dance floor and for a few songs she managed to
forget about Scott and the games he was playing. With all the dancing they did,
the two girls had worked up an appetite and headed to the buffet table. Out the
corner of her eye she spied Scott on the other side of the room, in his hand a
sprig of mistletoe. Their eyes locked and he grinned at her, shaking the
mistletoe in her direction. He wanted to kiss her, the mistletoe the perfect excuse.
She had to go over to him. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
‘Erm, Sarah,
I am going to give the buffet a miss for now.’ Sarah watched as her friend
walked away. She shook her head, guys like Scott always spelt trouble from her
experience. Too cocky for their own good. But she couldn’t say anything, Amy
was hopelessly love struck. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Scott
was waiting for Amy, he closed his eyes, holding the mistletoe above his head.
Amy was walking faster now, eager to get to him and feel his lips on hers. Almost
there, she watched in horror as Claire swooped in and pressed her lips against Scott’s
instead. To her disgust she noted that Scott didn’t open his eyes or even stop
to come up for air. The pair of them embraced long enough for Amy to feel the
tears slipping down her cheek. Scott placed his arm around Claire’s as he took
her to a dark corner, Amy’s public humiliation was complete.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
With the party spirit well and
truly over, she wasn’t going to hang around any longer, kicking off her heels
she raced out of the door. Sarah ran after her distraught best friend, rejection
hurt and she was ready to console Amy and her broken heart.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
***<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 36.0pt;">
Now forty, Amy opened the
envelope with intrigue, no one sent post these days, events were all handled on
Facebook. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 36.0pt;">
‘You are invited to a school
reunion. Carswell High seeks your presence at The Christmas Ball of the Year! Connect
with long lost friends and party the night away. Relive your sweet sixteen!’<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 36.0pt;">
Amy shuddered as she read the leaflet.
She couldn’t think of anything worse. She had absolutely no intention of
reliving those days. She took a deep breath, the humiliation she had felt that night
had never left her but Scott and Claire were a distant memory and she was keen
to keep it that way. She tossed the letter into the bin and gave it no more
thought. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 36.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center; text-indent: 36pt;">
***</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 36.0pt;">
A week before Christmas her company
were enjoying their Christmas dinner and party at a local Country hotel. Having just
finished their rich, dense pudding with cream, they were invited to head into
the hall where the DJ was playing Christmas favourites. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 36.0pt;">
The venue was hosting
parties for a few other companies that evening and so Amy found herself on the
dance floor with people she didn’t recognise. After a couple of glasses of wine,
she didn’t really care and happily danced the night away. At midnight the DJ’s tunes
had turned to slower, more romantic numbers and with no one to dance with, Amy decided
to head home. As she walked out of the door, a tall dark and handsome stranger prevented
her from leaving. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 36.0pt;">
‘Amy?’ He spoke, surprised. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
She blinked
a few times as she tried to place the guy who appeared to know her. She felt
his hand on the top of her arm but she didn’t resist.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 36.0pt;">
‘Wow! You are looking great.’ <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 36.0pt;">
She stared into his warm brown eyes
and then it suddenly dawned on her, it was Robert, Scott’s best friend!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 36.0pt;">
She vaguely remembered him, he
had been tall and skinny back then with his dark hair brushed forward, rarely
smiled, moody looking. Now, standing before her with the most devilish smile, she
had to admit that there was a spark, an instant attraction that she had never
felt before, with anyone.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 36.0pt;">
‘Thank you’ she responded, nervously
laughing as she did so. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 36.0pt;">
Rob glanced upwards, in the
doorway someone had hung some mistletoe. His face was mischievous now… ‘I think I know what the answer is going to be but… a kiss underneath the mistletoe? It is Christmas after all…’ </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 36.0pt;">
<span style="text-indent: 36pt;">Scott
had been an asshole, they had long fallen out over how he had treated girls. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 36.0pt;">
<span style="text-indent: 36pt;">Amy’s first response, when she saw the mistletoe, was to take
flight once more. But she had to let the past live in the past.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 36.0pt;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 36.0pt;">
A mix of emotions filled Amy as
she closed her eyes but most of all she wanted to know what she had missed out
on that fateful day. This wasn’t Scott but she didn’t want it to be. Rob closed
his eyes too, pulling her close. She took in his scent, a strong and heady aftershave that
made her legs wobble. Their lips locked, the party continued around them. As
their kiss became more passionate, she was surprised at how tender his touch
was and how soft his lips were. She couldn't quite believe how her heart was fizzing with delirium, overwhelmed, she was taken aback by her feelings for Rob.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 36.0pt;">
For Rob, the kiss was everything he had
imagined it to be. Amy had never known the way he had felt about her, he had fancied her from the very first day he had met her. Now, he felt her rosebud lips on his and they were full and sweet tasting, drawing him in further. His arms held her tight
as they embraced, melting in new found desire for each other.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 36.0pt;">
Conscious of where they were, Rob
reluctantly pulled away ‘I have been wanting to do this for almost 25 years,
Merry Christmas beautiful!’ <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 36.0pt;">
Amy whispered back ‘My mother
always said magic happens underneath the mistletoe, now I know what she meant.’
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 36.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 36.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 36.0pt;">
Merry Christmas x <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 36.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 36.0pt;">
<br /></div>
Loved this story? You may want to read the two novels I have written. Both are available to buy from Amazon.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>A Tempting Trio - </b><br />
<b><br /></b></div>
<div>
UK- <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B011ZEUQZI">http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B011ZEUQZI</a> or US <a href="http://a.co/3zowyAQ">http://a.co/3zowyA</a><br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Without A Hitch</b> -<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
UK - <a href="http://amzn.eu/hE5nR44">http://amzn.eu/hE5nR44</a> or US <a href="http://a.co/7G39CD4">http://a.co/7G39CD4</a></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
</div>
Bettina@BeautySwothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10083610184683690471noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2819267004410198346.post-22015008596991572882018-10-17T13:03:00.004+01:002018-10-17T13:04:55.882+01:00Falling - Flash Fiction This week's 100 word story based on the following picture prompt<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xCWLXnDNVaA/W8cbkh0ONqI/AAAAAAAAQrQ/W-jYaGV9phYIZzxEk50JqHktDDcGH28ZACLcBGAs/s1600/jill-f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="577" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xCWLXnDNVaA/W8cbkh0ONqI/AAAAAAAAQrQ/W-jYaGV9phYIZzxEk50JqHktDDcGH28ZACLcBGAs/s640/jill-f.jpg" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">PHOTO PROMPT © Jilly Funell</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "trebuchet" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Falling</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div class="MsoNormal">
Laura froze, she had been here before. This building was the
image of the one she saw every time she closed her eyes. She turned to leave
but Ben was standing behind her. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
'Great idea for a first date huh?’ Pleased, he flashed her tickets
for afternoon tea at the Sky Restaurant. ‘The highest vantage point in Europe.’
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Panic set in, she clutched her throat, her breath
quickening, face draining of colour. Chatting to Ben online she had fallen in
love, but the nightly premonitions of her falling to her death could not be
ignored. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
‘No, I can’t.’ she gasped.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I hope you enjoyed my latest story </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Bettina x</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
</div>
* With thanks to Rochelle for the picture prompt. If you wish to read more stories based on the prompt click <a href="http://www.inlinkz.com/new/view.php?id=800996">here</a>Bettina@BeautySwothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10083610184683690471noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2819267004410198346.post-19027223307651711122018-09-27T11:31:00.000+01:002018-09-27T11:32:58.814+01:00Training - Flash Fiction This week's 100 word story based on the following picture prompt<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0AJdbjHatTY/W6ysvIGD-MI/AAAAAAAAQqY/IgNVx2kJ08s8CNiINSsBf275zIz_mV6ugCLcBGAs/s1600/dinner-table-prior.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="600" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0AJdbjHatTY/W6ysvIGD-MI/AAAAAAAAQqY/IgNVx2kJ08s8CNiINSsBf275zIz_mV6ugCLcBGAs/s640/dinner-table-prior.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">PHOTO PROMPT © Yvette Prior</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Training Room<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The delegates filled the room, name badges in place, chatter
ringing through the air. With one eye on the person they were talking to, the
other on the centre table, they were eager to down a coffee and devour a mini
pastry or two. Despite it being free, no one dared be the first however, but as
soon as someone made their move, they would all follow, swooping in like birds of prey.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Betty had no such qualms, she boldly approached the table
and filled her plate. Perhaps today’s training on Confidence was superfluous to
her needs. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Bettina x</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
* With thanks to Rochelle for the picture prompt. If you wish to read more stories based on the prompt click <a href="http://www.inlinkz.com/new/view.php?id=797664">here </a></div>
<br />Bettina@BeautySwothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10083610184683690471noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2819267004410198346.post-72476180679644522922018-09-12T13:42:00.004+01:002018-09-12T13:44:58.825+01:00The Gift - Flash Fiction This week's 100 word story based on the following picture prompt<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n-hJfd4UESA/W5jo4QAWQ6I/AAAAAAAAQpo/8aYVV0V8VsMIc5atTKhkmgfLFbgJSb74QCLcBGAs/s1600/jhc-clock.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="471" data-original-width="348" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n-hJfd4UESA/W5jo4QAWQ6I/AAAAAAAAQpo/8aYVV0V8VsMIc5atTKhkmgfLFbgJSb74QCLcBGAs/s640/jhc-clock.jpg" width="472" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">PHOTO PROMPT © J Hardy Carroll</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>The Gift </b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
It took all of my strength to smile and thank her graciously
as two men carried it inside. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; orphans: 2; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
Gwen’s moving in gift. Apparently,
Tom had always wanted this clock... so here we were. This gothic monstrosity
had no place in my modern, minimalist living space. I offered her a drink as
she made herself at home. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
‘Now you have no excuse dear.’ <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A dig at my timekeeping. The knife kept turning. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
‘Never late for Matt though, are you?’ Her eyes scanned my
face, searching for guilt.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
‘Time to go Gwen.’ <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Asphyxiation by clock. Terrible way to die. Slow and
painful. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
*Thank you to Rochelle for this week's picture prompt. If you wish to read more stories based on this prompt - click<a href="http://www.inlinkz.com/new/view.php?id=795740"> here</a>Bettina@BeautySwothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10083610184683690471noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2819267004410198346.post-69592818777352805092018-09-07T12:12:00.001+01:002018-09-07T12:15:46.800+01:00On A Night Like This - Flash Fiction A new 100 word story based on the following picture prompt<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QLR8V8Sr0bM/W5JQ_nEltII/AAAAAAAAQpY/pGGANzzcYacLPacZEFY1RT2wprThVHwvgCLcBGAs/s1600/gah_window.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QLR8V8Sr0bM/W5JQ_nEltII/AAAAAAAAQpY/pGGANzzcYacLPacZEFY1RT2wprThVHwvgCLcBGAs/s640/gah_window.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">PHOTO PROMPT © Gah Learner </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>On A Night Like This </b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I push back the
curtain and smile, the sky is cloudless and the bright light keeping me awake, a
glistening full moon. I glance at my watch, in just a few hours Andrew will be home,
back from his stint in the army. I wrap the duvet around me, it won’t be long
before I feel his arms around me keeping me warm and safe. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Hours later Andrew
isn’t by my side, he never made it back. Car accident, they said. I struggle to
understand. How can you lose control of your car when the driving conditions
are just perfect?<b><o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
*Thank you to Rochelle for this week's picture prompt. If you wish to read more stories based on this prompt - click <a href="http://www.inlinkz.com/new/view.php?id=793545">here </a></div>
<b></b>Bettina@BeautySwothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10083610184683690471noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2819267004410198346.post-53929901795361652512018-09-03T12:41:00.001+01:002018-09-03T14:11:05.362+01:00Who's That Girl? - Flash Fiction A 100 word story based on the following picture prompt<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-752KpDuTrcs/W40UiLbUbPI/AAAAAAAAQo4/G4L_lRKMUMgcH7kAJXkeCgxkwMUu1R_rACLcBGAs/s1600/nathan-sowers-dawn-millers-friend.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="540" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-752KpDuTrcs/W40UiLbUbPI/AAAAAAAAQo4/G4L_lRKMUMgcH7kAJXkeCgxkwMUu1R_rACLcBGAs/s640/nathan-sowers-dawn-millers-friend.jpg" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Copyright Dawn M. Miller</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Who's That Girl ?</b></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
The door creaks open, long overdue an oiling. Snarling, he pushes
me towards the mirror. ‘There you go, take a look at yourself.’ <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
It was the same routine every day, my captor permitting me
five precious minutes to stand and gaze at my reflection. As the blindfold comes
off I wince as the light smacks against my lids. My face gently comes into
focus. My face. My glorious hair now matted and excessively long, drawing my
face downwards. My sparkly blue eyes, hollow, almost dead. Old skin, creased and bruised.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A mask conceals his face, the lips smile back. ‘Beautiful!’ <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
* Written as part of the Friday Fictioneers challenge hosted by Rochelle Wisoff-Fields (more details <a href="https://rochellewisofffields.wordpress.com/">HERE</a>).<br />
To read stories of 100 words based on this week’s prompt, visit <a href="http://www.inlinkz.com/new/view.php?id=791299">HERE.</a></div>
<br />
<br />Bettina@BeautySwothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10083610184683690471noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2819267004410198346.post-33784154455836758872018-08-30T11:22:00.002+01:002018-08-30T11:22:15.366+01:00L'Occitane Aqua Réotier Ultra Thirst-quenching Cream<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y8fYvFEhS98/W4UnNH8NqSI/AAAAAAAAQog/JirxH1mBm40CkiJ_qQQ7yaMT_1Bd2tXUwCLcBGAs/s1600/L%2527Occitane%2BAQUA%2BR%25C3%2589OTIER%2BULTRA%2BTHIRST-QUENCHING%2BCREAM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y8fYvFEhS98/W4UnNH8NqSI/AAAAAAAAQog/JirxH1mBm40CkiJ_qQQ7yaMT_1Bd2tXUwCLcBGAs/s640/L%2527Occitane%2BAQUA%2BR%25C3%2589OTIER%2BULTRA%2BTHIRST-QUENCHING%2BCREAM.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
At the beginning of Spring I was lucky enough to be sent two pots of this gorgeous hydrating facial moisturiser from L'Occitane and I have only just opened the second pot!<br />
<br />
If a scent sums up Spring/Summer it is this one. Aqua Réotier Ultra Thirst-quenching Cream smells fabulously fresh, the cream is light and almost water like in texture, sinking into the skin without leaving a trace of sticky residue. Wonderfully hydrating it, I think it is the perfect choice for post holiday parched skin.<br />
<br />
The claims -<br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #001022; font-family: Raleway, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: italic; text-align: center;">Enriched with hydrating hyaluronic acid and calcium rich Réotier water known for its properties to help skin maintain its hydration barrier and retain moisture, this melting fresh cream hydrates the skin while comforting it.</span><br style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #001022; font-family: Raleway, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: italic; text-align: center;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #001022; font-family: Raleway, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: italic; text-align: center;">Its velvety, light texture combines the refreshing thirst-quenching benefits of a gel with the softening and smoothing properties of a cream. Its formula act like a magnet to hold-in moisture and drench the skin all day long. Skin’s natural hydration is improved; it is immediately recharged with water. Replenished and radiant, skin is visibly plumped. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #001022; font-family: Raleway, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: italic; text-align: center;"><br /></span>
<br />My thoughts - <div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Does exactly what it promises. My skin feels and looks great, a perfect base for foundation. Thumbs up from me. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Have you tried it? </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>L'Occitane Aqua Réotier Ultra Thirst-quenching Cream 50ml £28 </b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">*PR Sample</span></div>
Bettina@BeautySwothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10083610184683690471noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2819267004410198346.post-27155720640934618242018-06-29T11:55:00.002+01:002018-06-29T15:57:55.791+01:00Elizabeth Arden White Tea EDT Spray Review<b>White Tea by Elizabeth Arden</b> is my new everyday scent and I could, and would, quite happily wear it forever. A signature scent? quite possibly!<br>
<div>
<br></div>
<div>
Seeing it advertised I knew I had to try it, as soon as I did, I loved it and bought it. </div>
<div>
<br></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wRRkb6QnMQo/WzYI8gt4hZI/AAAAAAAAQlI/O77_E3X617Yv6Pic8oafHSNO76otRD9ZwCLcBGAs/s1600/ElizabethArdenWhiteTea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wRRkb6QnMQo/WzYI8gt4hZI/AAAAAAAAQlI/O77_E3X617Yv6Pic8oafHSNO76otRD9ZwCLcBGAs/s640/ElizabethArdenWhiteTea.jpg" width="640"></a></div>
<div>
<br></div>
<div>
<br></div>
<div>
<b>What Elizabeth Arden say </b></div>
<div>
<b><br></b></div>
Elizabeth Arden White Tea is inspired by the simple pleasure that accompanies the first sip of tea. Exquisitely uncomplicated, this new fragrance invites you to revel in the moment.<br>
<br>
A musky-woody floral, it preludes with sparkling Italian Mandarin and sensual Sea Breeze Accord. Its Zen-like heart of White Tea Extract and Mate Absolute Paraguay steeps in graceful femininity while Madras Wood, Ambrette Seed Absolute and a Trio of Tranquility Musks lead to a harmonious finale. For the woman who wants to immerse herself in the moment.<br>
<br>
White Tea is a crisp, blissful new addition to the Elizabeth Arden fragrance portfolio. The perfect escape for your senses, it is an invitation to indulge in warm memories and delight in the white tea vapors, blue skies and cotton-like clouds.<br>
<div>
<br></div>
<div>
Top notes - <b>Mandarin Orange, Clary Sage, Fern, Sea Notes</b></div>
<div>
<br></div>
<div>
Heart notes - <b>White Tea, Mate, White Iris</b></div>
<div>
<br></div>
<div>
Base notes -<b> Tonka Bean, Amber, Exotic Woods, Ambrette (Musk Mallow)</b><br>
<br>
<div>
<b>My thoughts </b></div>
<div>
<b><br></b></div>
<div>
This is a beautiful, mood lifting, light fragrance. It is clean, crisp and green on initial spray. As it dries down,it softens and blurs to reveal a creamier and powdery layer of loveliness whilst still maintaining the clean, fresh and uncomplicated scent it promised. I adore it and revel in its simplicity. </div>
<div>
<br></div>
</div>
<div>
Have you tried it? </div>
<div>
<br></div>
<div>
<b>Elizabeth Arden White Tea EDT Spray is available in 50 and 100ml. </b></div>
Bettina@BeautySwothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10083610184683690471noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2819267004410198346.post-18796198772976030612018-06-28T08:46:00.001+01:002018-06-28T08:48:14.628+01:00Music To My EarsThis week's 100 word story based on the following picture prompt<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r7k9n45V39w/WzSR6CEn1II/AAAAAAAAQk4/FVQ3PhOLyokW7IMX11UMvYS6hlhY7_kVQCLcBGAs/s1600/music-room.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="759" data-original-width="600" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r7k9n45V39w/WzSR6CEn1II/AAAAAAAAQk4/FVQ3PhOLyokW7IMX11UMvYS6hlhY7_kVQCLcBGAs/s640/music-room.jpg" width="504" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Music To My Ears </b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
‘What does your son do? Apart from play loud music.’ The neighbour
asked, with a healthy tinge of rudeness I thought, as we sat opposite each other
on the train. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Billy was a musician, and if he wasn’t playing gigs he was
practising in his room.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The same neighbour knocked on the door a few weeks later ‘I see
Billy has taken to using headphones after our little chat.’ I watched as she
walked smugly away. Tears formed in the corner of my eyes.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Billy wasn’t using headphones, he had died in a motorbike
accident. I will miss the noise. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<br />
Bettina x<br />
<br />
With thanks to Rochelle as ever for the great picture prompt. If you wish to read more stories, click <a href="http://inlinkz.com/new/view.php?id=784177">here</a><br />
<br />
<br />Bettina@BeautySwothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10083610184683690471noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2819267004410198346.post-80227288365521484802018-06-25T17:57:00.004+01:002018-06-25T18:05:51.808+01:00Time Of Your Life (TOYL) Beauty Subscription Box Launches Time Of Your Life (TOYL) is a new beauty, lifestyle and content subscription box aimed at the over 40's woman. As soon as the press release hit my inbox I knew I had to find out more...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kFRnv1pPURc/WzEVTHYgkoI/AAAAAAAAQkk/2EfMdFFihY8V3AYyvLPnDgBud-_l3aouwCLcBGAs/s1600/TimeOfYourLifeBeautyBox.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="803" height="612" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kFRnv1pPURc/WzEVTHYgkoI/AAAAAAAAQkk/2EfMdFFihY8V3AYyvLPnDgBud-_l3aouwCLcBGAs/s640/TimeOfYourLifeBeautyBox.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I was sent the June box and what a box it is!<br />
<br />
What I love about this box is that it isn't just your bog standard beauty box that throws in random garish eye shadows in shades you will never use, or a glitter polish that is ok for the odd night out but will probably then remain in a box until it gets chucked out in the annual clear out. Real thought has been put into the contents, I was delighted with what was included in the first box. Not only that... subscribing to the box means that you have access to podcasts in all manner of subjects.<br />
<br />
As an example ,the June podcasts are<br />
<br />
<b>Beauty Guru Liz Earle on the Menopause</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Dr Marilyn Glenville on Nutrition after 40 </b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Make Up Over 40 with A-List make up artist Lee Pycroft. </b><br />
<br />
The links get emailed directly to you to listen to at your convenience.<br />
<br />
Inside the box, the contents total an incredible £90 -<br />
<br />
<b>Meno Multi Support Nutritional Supplement for Women - 60 tablets, One Month Supply rrp </b><br />
<b>£25.78 </b><br />
<b><br /></b>
Dr Glenville has recreated a special multivitamin and mineral supplement tailored to help you through the menopause and support strong, healthy bones.<br />
<br />
<b>Nurture Replenish Collagen Boosting Serum 30ml rrp £17.99</b> (full size)<br />
<br />
This is a creamy serum, it smells absolutely gorgeous and I cannot wait to try it out. As I have hit 40 I have noticed that my skin is crying out for more intense care and this promises to help replenish levels of oestrogen and collagen essential for a healthy and youthful appearance.<br />
<br />
<b>Dr Hauschka Lemon Lemongrass Vitalising Essence 100ml rrp £17 </b>(full size)<br />
<br />
A wonderfully zesty bath essence that promises to moisturise and tone. A refreshing pamper experience.<br />
<br />
<b>The Organic Pharmacy Marigold & Comfrey Handcream 30ml £13.17 </b>(travel size)<br />
<br />
They call it travel size, I call it handbag size. I don't think you can have enough handcreams, I am always using mine! This one from The Organic Pharmacy is light and absorbs instantly leaving hands silky to the touch. It has a nice zesty scent too.<br />
<br />
<b>Bellapiere Waterproof Gel Eyeliner in Charcoal rrp £16.99 </b>(full size)<br />
<br />
I absolutely love this eyeliner, coming in charcoal it is less harsh than black and is incredibly flattering against my green eyes. It glides on the skin for precise application and remains all day. Best of all it is formulated with pure minerals and natural waxes. Hypoallergenic.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Surprise!</b><br />
<br />
That's not all, as if you haven't been spoilt enough, each month a little something extra is popped into the box to make you go oooh!<br />
<br />
To my delight, this month the box contained a small bar of chocolate from <b>Willie's Cacao. </b>The <b>Venezuelan 72 dark chocolate blend </b>was too good to keep for too long. I had good intentions (honest!) of just eating a single square a day... but who was I kidding, it was so so tasty, I devoured it all in one go! What a treat, a delicious bar of intensely dark but not too bitter chocolate, who could resist?<br />
<br />
If you want to find out more... head to www.toyl.co.uk and if you are tempted to sign up, and quite frankly, who wouldn't be, I have a special offer code for you to use.<br />
<br />
Use <b>JUNE18 </b>and receive 50% off your first month's box when you take out a year's subscription<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">*PR Sample </span><br />
<br />
<br />Bettina@BeautySwothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10083610184683690471noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2819267004410198346.post-19411741332150910892018-06-14T13:38:00.001+01:002018-06-14T13:44:44.507+01:00MB Pour Homme Michael Bublé - Father's Day Gift Inspiration! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z077VahYSco/WyJc3Wj-HaI/AAAAAAAAQkE/pShL_pfULyw8v1NzHxEn6UHeoqA6h4JEACLcBGAs/s1600/MB%2BPour%2BHomme%2BMichael%2BBuble.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z077VahYSco/WyJc3Wj-HaI/AAAAAAAAQkE/pShL_pfULyw8v1NzHxEn6UHeoqA6h4JEACLcBGAs/s640/MB%2BPour%2BHomme%2BMichael%2BBuble.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My husband has been lucky enough to have had a sneaky peek of the new signature male fragrance by Michael Bublé and we think that it is the perfect Father's Day gift. But you have to hurry because last orders to guarantee delivery in time for Father's Day is today...!! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>MB Pour Homme</b> is described as a rich signature scent for the sophisticated modern gentleman. Starting with fresh and clean top notes of grapefruit and bergamot that mingle with spicy notes of pink pepper and ginger. With heart notes of soft and sensual facets of neroli and cashmeran. All wrapped together with a depth and intense warm base of sandalwood, patchouli and musk. Creating an elegant woody aromatic fougere fragrance, leaving him feeling fresh and energised.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Top Notes - </b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Grapefruit </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Bergamot</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Pink Pepper </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Ginger </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Heart Notes - </b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Neroli </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Cashmeran</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Base Notes - </b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Sandalwood</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Patchouli</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Musk </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Thoughts</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I have to mention the eye catching bottle that has instant shelf appeal. It's a gorgeous deep and timeless blue shade with strong, clean lines, the result is a chunky masculine bottle that is sure to take pride of place on the bathroom shelf. The inspiration for the sharp, and well defined lines etched into the bottle design is taken from a microphone and the choice of blue to represent the blue suit that every man possesses in his wardrobe and a signature of Michael Bublé himself.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The aftershave is absolutely gorgeous, seamlessly transitioning from day to evening. Fresh and bursting with citrus notes, this is modern and timeless. Blended with a hint of alluring spice it is a fragrance that is sure to appeal to men of all ages. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Available exclusively from <a href="http://michaelbubleperfume.com/">michaelbubleperfume.com</a> 120ml EDP costs £55 </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
Bettina@BeautySwothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10083610184683690471noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2819267004410198346.post-3120673632541747922018-06-14T12:59:00.002+01:002018-06-14T23:06:13.537+01:00Flash Fiction - Captive<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
This week's 100 word story based on the following picture prompt<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6TdNuNEUNeo/WyJOtl2qmLI/AAAAAAAAQj4/_39W7EXhTb4jMc4q7h2rPdBpos_KLaqHwCEwYBhgL/s1600/meep-by-the-window.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="338" data-original-width="600" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6TdNuNEUNeo/WyJOtl2qmLI/AAAAAAAAQj4/_39W7EXhTb4jMc4q7h2rPdBpos_KLaqHwCEwYBhgL/s640/meep-by-the-window.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">PHOTO PROMPT © Jean L. Hays</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Captive</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Watching intensely, they followed the silhouette as it paced
backwards and forwards, strutting upright and proud. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
‘What is it?’ Sophie spoke in hushed tones. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
‘Hard to tell. Wearing a metal helmet, probably got a gun. Some
kind of soldier I should think.’ <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sophie gasped ‘A gun.’ And then sobbed. ‘We will never get out
of here alive.’ <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Accepting their fate, they disappeared back under the sheets.
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The door burst open. Francis pressed his finger against Sophie's lips, ‘Shhh, the captors are here.’ <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
‘Sophie, Francis. Dinner!’ <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The children giggled, pretend play was so much fun. The
chicken, carried on as usual. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I hope you enjoyed this piece.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Bettina x </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
*Thank you as ever to Rochelle for providing the inspiration for these week's story, if you would like to read more stories based on this prompt, click <a href="http://www.inlinkz.com/new/view.php?id=782094">here</a></div>
<b></b>Bettina@BeautySwothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10083610184683690471noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2819267004410198346.post-51301732014761333732018-05-30T13:05:00.004+01:002018-05-31T17:17:54.283+01:00Flash Fiction - Barren LandThis week's 100 word story based on the following picture prompt.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I4IVku08eT4/Ww6KjeZB-zI/AAAAAAAAQjM/TDuhh0UqZyMIgY-dtuiu_M1hMgsb8MGigCEwYBhgL/s1600/russell.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="625" data-original-width="469" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I4IVku08eT4/Ww6KjeZB-zI/AAAAAAAAQjM/TDuhh0UqZyMIgY-dtuiu_M1hMgsb8MGigCEwYBhgL/s640/russell.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><br />
© Connie Gayer<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b>Barren Land</b></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Karla wailed into her tissue, the pain too much to keep inside, she had long stopped holding back her true feelings. She had done everything to the letter, everything the so-called experts had advised her to do. She didn’t drink, had never taken drugs, never smoked. Changed her diet, made sure she took her multivitamins, reduced her stress with Pilates and even tried acupuncture. The prescribed drugs had failed, except send her over the edge and place her marriage on the brink. Too late now, her womb barren land, her body beaten, yearning for what was not meant to be. <o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Bettina x</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
* Thank you to Rochelle for this week's picture prompt, if you would like to read more stories based on this picture, click <a href="http://www.inlinkz.com/new/view.php?id=781166">here </a></div>
Bettina@BeautySwothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10083610184683690471noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2819267004410198346.post-41648105993588879592018-05-23T13:08:00.003+01:002018-05-23T13:10:59.100+01:00Flash Fiction - About Last NightThis week's 100 word story based on the following picture prompt.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F-BRNHLVmkk/WwVNNyEILgI/AAAAAAAAQig/K9NL1_R2G3EY3OE-xGjsuDuSHnIZkRD_QCLcBGAs/s1600/bowl-and-leaves.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="661" data-original-width="600" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F-BRNHLVmkk/WwVNNyEILgI/AAAAAAAAQig/K9NL1_R2G3EY3OE-xGjsuDuSHnIZkRD_QCLcBGAs/s640/bowl-and-leaves.jpg" width="580" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>About Last Night </b></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">I gently push open the door and tentatively enter. I need to see this
for myself. The house, my sanctuary, has been turned upside down. Absolutely
nothing has been left untouched. I feel sick as I make my way to the kitchen. The
mouth-wateringly expensive, stunning crystal bowl, a precious wedding gift that
takes pride of place on the dining table, is cracked. A strange sticky residue lines
the edges. My favourite plant, mutilated, leaves carelessly tossed aside. Devastated
at the damage, I take a deep, angry, breath before calling upstairs. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman", serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">‘Chloe, what the hell happened in here last night?’</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Bettina x </span></div>
<br />
<br />
*Many thanks to Rochelle for this week's prompt. If you would like to read more stories based on this picture - click <a href="http://www.inlinkz.com/new/view.php?id=780197">here</a><br />
Enjoyed this story? Why not check out my new novel 'Without A Hitch' which is available to buy now - <br />
<br />
<br />
UK - <a href="http://amzn.eu/fUEJ9Sk">http://amzn.eu/fUEJ9Sk</a><br />
US - <a href="http://a.co/digzFXy">http://a.co/digzFXy</a>Bettina@BeautySwothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10083610184683690471noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2819267004410198346.post-42497717159134204222018-05-16T17:52:00.002+01:002018-05-16T18:11:08.128+01:00Flash Fiction - GoodbyeThis week's 100 word story based on the following picture prompt -<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wWAlEfJ-6S4/WvwmaLqKq-I/AAAAAAAAQh4/EMOilv3-WW4R5texUDKzEV5pK1iDhfKGwCLcBGAs/s1600/dadsshoes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="600" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wWAlEfJ-6S4/WvwmaLqKq-I/AAAAAAAAQh4/EMOilv3-WW4R5texUDKzEV5pK1iDhfKGwCLcBGAs/s640/dadsshoes.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption">PHOTO PROMPT submitted by Courtney Wright. © Photographer prefers to remain anonymous.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Goodbye </b></div>
<br />
<br />
Jess glanced over at the old boots, and felt the tears slipping down her cheeks. She remembered how she had nagged him over and over again to buy new ones. Whatever the occasion, whatever they were doing, he would wear them, much to her intense embarrassment. <br />
<br />
‘I like them Jess, they are comfortable.’ He would insist, before tying the laces with gusto. <br />
<br />
‘But they are tatty and horrid. How much longer can you keep taping them up?’ Jess retorted, spitting out the words venomously. <br />
<br />
Nate did replace the boots, once the holes became too big to bear. He also replaced Jess.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
Bettina x<br />
<br />
<br />
*Many thanks to Rochelle for this week's prompt. If you want to read more stories based on this picture - click <a href="http://www.inlinkz.com/new/view.php?id=779073">here</a><br />
<br />
Enjoyed this story? Why not check out my new novel 'Without A Hitch' which is available to buy now - <br />
<br />
<br />
UK - <a href="http://amzn.eu/fUEJ9Sk">http://amzn.eu/fUEJ9Sk</a><br />
US - <a href="http://a.co/digzFXy">http://a.co/digzFXy</a> Bettina@BeautySwothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10083610184683690471noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2819267004410198346.post-66080663251784294952018-05-11T16:34:00.001+01:002018-05-14T18:48:09.398+01:00Dior Diorskin Forever Undercover Foundation Review <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kujkgOXmhPw/WvWUMaqMODI/AAAAAAAAQhA/YfsEwM_7ZT8Cwq0dNjI3Ib3yGxjD27BGwCLcBGAs/s1600/DiorskinForeverUnderCover020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="768" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kujkgOXmhPw/WvWUMaqMODI/AAAAAAAAQhA/YfsEwM_7ZT8Cwq0dNjI3Ib3yGxjD27BGwCLcBGAs/s640/DiorskinForeverUnderCover020.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Oh I do love it when a new foundation is released and so was delighted when I was able to obtain a small sample to test it out... I picked up a sample of the new Dior Diorskin Forever Undercover Foundation in shade 020 (I was matched at the Dior Counter)<br />
<br />
<b>Dior say</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
EXTREME CAMOUFLAGE. FRESH SECOND-SKIN FINISH.<br />
<br />
<div>
Full coverage</div>
<div>
24-hour* wear<br />
Second-skin matte finish</div>
<div>
<br />
<div class="column one-half column-no-margin" style="border: 0px; display: inline-block; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top; width: 560.266px;">
<div class="block-fp block-fp--text" style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 39.7656px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<div style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: 24px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
This fluid, 24-hour* full coverage foundation combines maximum complexion control with a natural matte finish for a result that is "Kiss-Proof. Touch-Proof. Life-Proof. All Night. All Day."<br />
<br />
Peter Philips, Creative and Image Director for Dior Makeup, describes his view of this neo-camouflage: “Incorporated in a very fluid texture, the high concentration of pigments ensures perfect blemish correction. What’s new for such a high-coverage product is how you don’t feel or see it. The finish is fresh, and matte enough that you<br />
don’t need powder.”<br />
<br />
* Instrumental test. N = 20 women. <br />
<br /></div>
<div style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: 24px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<b>Application tip by Peter Philips - </b></div>
<div class="block-fp block-fp--text" style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 39.7656px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<br />
"This incredibly glide-on texture doesn’t set immediately and can be blended with the fingertips. Start by patting onto the areas that need correction, then smooth to blend in. If you’re looking for totally even coverage for the whole face, you can use a foundation brush. 24-hour wear means you never need to touch up."</div>
<div class="block-fp block-fp--text" style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 39.7656px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<b>My thoughts </b></div>
<div class="block-fp block-fp--text" style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 39.7656px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
I am wearing shade <b>020 Light Beige</b> which is my perfect shade. The foundation has a delicate and pleasant perfume scent. I applied the foundation with my fingers. The foundation consists of a light fluid texture but the finish is velvety and matte. However, as you can see from my photos below, matte does not equal dull. I didn't use and I don't use a primer under the foundation and you can see that it covers the pores, smoothing the appearance of the skin completely. It also covers blemishes and red bits/ I have slight rosacea but you wouldn't be able to see once I have applied this foundation. I think my skin looks pretty damn amazing and flawless. I cannot fault this foundation and it is right up there with my favourites. </div>
<div class="block-fp block-fp--text" style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px 0px 39.7656px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<b>After one hour </b>of application and pretty much fresh on ...</div>
</div>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-au-DyEV91D0/WvWXwU8LYsI/AAAAAAAAQhQ/fcOcs7-C6lQ-8NkMw67exWsDIILVa3qPACLcBGAs/s1600/WearingDiorForeverUndercover0201hour.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1023" data-original-width="614" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-au-DyEV91D0/WvWXwU8LYsI/AAAAAAAAQhQ/fcOcs7-C6lQ-8NkMw67exWsDIILVa3qPACLcBGAs/s640/WearingDiorForeverUndercover0201hour.jpg" width="384" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<b>After 7 hours of wear</b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fnT9FP_IQfI/WvWX_z2PX2I/AAAAAAAAQhU/Ewp8JeX5lrMOmsH3cF39-OFWGTXfbl-wwCLcBGAs/s1600/7hoursWearingDiorForeverUndercoverFoundation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="929" data-original-width="574" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fnT9FP_IQfI/WvWX_z2PX2I/AAAAAAAAQhU/Ewp8JeX5lrMOmsH3cF39-OFWGTXfbl-wwCLcBGAs/s640/7hoursWearingDiorForeverUndercoverFoundation.jpg" width="394" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I am extremely impressed with how well this foundation bears up to daily wear. After seven hours I think it still looks exceptionally good and keeps the rest of the makeup in place too. The only thing I would say is that the pores on my nose are slightly more visible but still pretty well concealed.<br />
<br />
Obviously I cannot comment on the fact that it is supposed to last 24 hours but .... I would definitely purchase this foundation.<br />
<br />
DiorSkin Forever Undercover has complete and flawless coverage, feels light on the skin and lasts.<br />
<br />
10/10<br />
<br />
<b>Dior DiorSkin Forever Undercover Foundation costs £34 </b><br />
<b><br /></b>
</div>
Bettina@BeautySwothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10083610184683690471noreply@blogger.com0