Coffee Shop Catch Up: The February Edition

A wise person once said; '...if your dreams don't scare you, they're not big enough.'

I think I speak on behalf of both myself and Shanice when I say that this quote applies more to us now, that it ever has in our lives and most likely ever will. College students working on Alevels. Looking at universities and planning a trip back packing around Europe, all the whilst balancing all those demands with a job, studying and in my case learning to drive -

-to say that there are moments when it all gets way too much would be true. A breakdown a week in my case is no exaggeration. Whether that be bursting into tears because I can't find my concealer, or having a go at someone because they made a joke and I wasn't in the mood. 

When you've got all this going on, a blog kind of falls to the bottom of the pile. So to anyone who has actually stuck with us and is reading this post I scincerely apologise. Anyway, we are back!

Any of you who have been reading out blog for a while will know that we generally give you a catch up on our lives after every period of a sense. Well, this is just that, only, it's called 'Coffee Shop Catch Up' and this is the February edition. 

So, what is new with Shabs as a duo?

Well, planning of Europe is well underway. We are practically working our way through every single travel blog out there to try and find the best things to do in all the cities we are off to. So suggestions are more than welcomed! 

We are both heavily preoccupied by out eighteenth birthdays. Neither of us can wait - even if it is just for the excuse to meet up. Abby's is in April and Shanice's is in May. So you can prepare yourselves for a post on each. 

The sad news is that we haven't seen each other since before Christmas (see above for the longggggg reason) meaning we haven't had a moan, a fan girl, and Abby hasn't got her Christmas present yet. Yet, as of the 13th we have a week off from college when you can bet your lucky socks that we will be meeting up. That meet up will no doubt also be filled to the brim with Europe talk. 

What about in Abby's life?

Erm... Way too much work is filling my life right about now. I've got essays coming out of my ears, differentiation in my dreams and I'm eating cases for breakfast. Ask me a question an I will probably tell you the law behind what you ask. 

I'm going on applicant days to universities - which are so exciting! I mean I came home from one yesterday and 24 hours later I still haven't shut up about it! What else? Well on Tuesday I am going to a lecture put on by David Crystal - an English language theorist. 

Other than that, my highly emotional state causes a little less fun than usual. 

What about in Shanice's life?

Ok,so our readers are probably sick to death of hearing about my love life, but I'm going to update you all again. I love this boy, and I'm telling the blog before I've told him. I'm either a super dedicated blogger or a huge coward. I'll let you decide which. He is SO uncomplicated, it's just so easy and I'm loving it. I am incredibly happy.
I'm also drowning in essays, laws (only business ones though), and cases (psychology, not law in my  case). Abby has already explained how stressful all this is so I wont repeat it.
Other than that I've been going to the gym at least twice a week. It destresses me so much, and I love that I'm making time just for myself. My health and fitness are both improving and I am enjoying it so much.

What are we currently loving?

I think number one definitely has to be travel blogs. For both of us. There is barely a night that goes by when we are not sending another links to posts about how to pack, or what to do in a country. It's become a fundamental part of our lives. So on a link to this, we are also loving bloglovin' for all their awesome blog suggestions. 

Pinterest - this is purely an Abby thing. I was forced to download it a couple of years ago no, and really never bothered much with it. However the number of pictures of where we are going on there made me fall in love with it all over again. I mean it, my boards now have super cute names, and they're filled to the brim with gorgeous pins!

Our pets - I feel they deserve special recognition. In time of stress they give us unconditional love and always manage to put a smile on our face! So Scrappy (Abby), Staffy, Lexi, Missy and Bubbles (Shanice) We love you lots.

The coffee has finished, the cake has been eaten and now we have to return to reality...

Shabs x

Study tips

A lot of people are going to have the resolution of working harder at school or college this year, and that is one of out aims too. Shabs have dealt with the pressure of school, the change as you go to sixth form and college, and as we are both in our second year so we are well and truly accustomed to the stress. So, we thought that we would share a few of our top tips when it comes to managing the load as exams near. 

Tip #1- have an organised calendar or diary

This is a must for me (Abby). I honestly do not know what I would do without my calendar, which this year just so happens to be a Nashville one - so highly attractive! Literally everything is on it, everyone's birthday and all that stuff you're expected to remember, but also I have everything else. From my work hours as soon as they are online, term dates, results day, and exams. Now one thing I do is write my exam name, seat number, and location on my calendar as soon as it is released. This is good because I see it more, and hence remember it. But also, when I have that mad panic and ring my mum to ask her what seat I'm in, she can see it really quickly and easily. 

Tip #2- revise early

I (Abby) have to admit that until this year I never really did this. I would start in May and that would be it. Buy honest to god, if there was one thing and one thing only I could tell you it would be this. START NOW. I've been writing my notes up since September, and it just makes everything so much easier. It is like having my own revision guide with everything I need in it. I rewrite what I have written in class, and highlight all the key points before putting them in a folder. I'm now starting to make case cards for law too. Basically, rewrite, rewrite, rewrite if you're like me and learn that way. 

Tip #3- be organised

This is kind of linked with the whole calendar thing, but organisation makes everything so much easier. Have a folder per subject, even go as far as Abby and have a highlighter colour per subject. Keep everything in one place. It makes finding stuff so much easier, and your room looks tidy - meaning no moaning from parents (BONUS!). 

Tip #4- destress

Take me-time at least for a good half hour before you go to bed. Otherwise, you just lie awake and have everything running around your head. Make sure you get enough sleep and find the best way to manage your thoughts and worries. Try yoga, or even just breathing excersizes. Sit with your earphones in and take a deep breath. Don't overload with revision in one go, take a break, have a snack and a drink, then return to it. 

Tip #5- eat and drink well 

Drink plenty, try to avoid sugary fizzy drinks that don't hydrate you and opt for water. Or, it you prefer something with a flavour then go for cordial (is also tastes just as nice even when your water isn't icy). Try to eat plenty of fruit and veg, but make sure you have a healthy portion of chocolate evey now and again too. It is good for motivation. (Abby: when I did French I despised revision, so I used to sit with a bar of chocolate and tell myself for every sentence I remembered correctly I could have a piece. I was motivated!)

Tip #6- surround yourself with people

Sometimes revision can seem a lonely thing. Sat in your room alone with a textbook. So try to sit with people if you can. Meet up with friends, whether they do the same subject or not, you can help one another. Asking questions and testing each other always helps. Plus, you'll have a few laughs while you're revising. 

Do you have any advice for us when it comes to revision?

If you study either English language or tort law at A-level then why not check out Abby's revision blogs? Head in a law book, and Head in an English book. 

Shabs, the 2015 version

It seams like wherever you go - Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr - everyone is talking about 'new year new me'. Now this is a few days late, but seeming as everyone is posting their New Years resolutions I thought we best write something.

I (Abby) am not making New Years resolutions though, because I always break them. I'll go a couple of days and they be like, this was a stupid idea. In fact, the longest I've ever lasted was about six weeks, and that was a miracle. So this year, I have decided that I will make aims. Basically, instead of a resolution which seems to be broad, I will aim to do specific things.  Hopefully, this will suit me better, but I guess we will have to see just how that fairs up. 

1) pass my driving test

2) work my backside off and get my grades!

3) take time to do breathing exercises at least four times a week 

4) drink more water 

5) never take anyone or anything for granted

Additionally, I'm trying to be a nicer person, trying to smile and not hold petty grudges. Basically give everyone a clean slate and let Abby mark 2015 judge what mess they make. I'm trying not to stress out as I so commonly do, and take my time. Relish the moment! Thank the friends that are there for me, and just leave those who aren't, behind. 

Shanice:

I am also refusing to make resolutions this year. I dislike the word and the fact that you're supposed to stick to them for a year and make new ones.So I'm making a few adjustments, and aims to make me feel better, and be better person for good. Not just a year.

1) Start appreciating the small things, I've been doing this lately and its making me feel so good, so I'm going to keep it up!
2) I also need to work my backside off and get my grades (hahaha I'll need a miracle.)
3) Improve my self esteem. I will conquer my negative self image, Im absolutely determined.
4) Lose weight and get fitter. Because if you're not happy with something, and you have the opportunity to change it, why not?
5) BLOG MORE. This is somewhere that I am very honest and I love that. I lovelovelove this.
6) Carry on being blunt and upfront, kind, gentle and honest. because I love that aspect of me. I am true to who I am and what I think and I make my feelings very clear. I treat people how they treat me, whether that be kind or unkind and I'm glad I now have the balls to do so.

Are you making New years resolutions this year? Let us know what they are, and your thoughts on ours!
Shabs x 

Have a Very Merry Christmas, And a Happy New Year

I think it is safe to say, on behalf of both Shanice and I, that 2014 has not been an easy year for either of us. Many of you who follow our blog will know about the problems that Shanice has faced in reguards to relationships, and Abby has faced her own ones. But as i sit here now, writing this post, despite my life not been perfect, i know 2015 is going to have some amazing moments.

It will be a year of change for both of us, we will be setting off to Europe, and standing on our own two feet, knuckling down at college, and then Abby is off to Uni. However, despite 2014 not being easy, there have been some awesome moments. Shabs haven't really seen one another as much as we would like, and maybe that is something we can change next year. But we started this blog, we have planned an amzing holidays, and we have had many laughs.

Every cloud has a silver lining, that is what thy say. And despite the rocky road our lives have taken, i think our friendship has definitely become stronger. I know for a fact taht Shanice is always there for me, silently stalking my twitter in case she sees something that indicates i am not okay. I'm the same with her.

She thanked me for being a good friend back in her post 'Dedicated Friends', now i feel i should thank her too. Shanice puts up with my ramblings, rantings, and general annoyingness, and never once moans. And despite her (frequently attrociously) late replies, (she is getting better) i know she is always there for me. No matter what.

So thank you Shanice.

And as for you, our wonderful followers, readers, and silent onlookers, Christmas is just around the corner, and let's make it a great one. Wherever you are, hot or cold, near or far, make sure you eat more than is healthy and relish in some good ole' you time.

So Happy Christmas from Shabs, and let us all make 2015 our year.

Christmas-ey goodness!!

Mistletoe and wine...

It's Christmas!

The advent calendars are out, the Christmas adverts are playing and Slade, Maria Carey and Wizard are once more remembered for their contributions to the music industry. Snow has yet to fall here in England, and the chance of a white Christmas is not at all very likely. Christmas lights are everywhere, twinkling and flashing, adding magic to the most boring of scenes. 

It's a wonderful time of year, where we all feel like children, giddy with excitement as she we wait for Santa. Each family have their own traditions, waking up early, staying in your pyjamas, dressing up, opening your presents early, waiting to open your stocking until after dinner. Everyone is different. So we thought, that we would write a little post about a few of our favourite Christmas things. 

First up we have Christmas Dinner - because what is Christmas without dinner? Roast Turkey and all the trimmings. Roast potatoes, cranberry sauce, stuffing, parsnips, carrots, peas, gravy... Christmas cake - homemade in Abby's house, cheesecake shop bought in Shanice's house(we're far less traditional). Mince pies - also home made in Abby's house (on Christmas Eve before we venture down to our local pub for tea!) (none in Shanice's house. We all despise them) . Chocolates left out in baskets all over the house, taunting your waistline for the weeks that the decorations are out. All the time whilst the fire is lit, warming your toes after your return home from a long day. 

The next thing I love about Christmas is family. It's a time of year when we get to see those we love. For Abby that means leaving college and work at the door, and sitting with my family in the lounge, whilst the fire is roaring and we sit there watching Midsummer Murders (that Christmas episode in the Manor House where the man is killed in his study). It doesn't matter what you do, it's just the fact that you are together.

For Shanice this means an extreme amount of time playing monopoly with my siblings, and forever bickering over who's cheating, and at least one of us pulling out before the game ends because its taking too long (always my brother). One of my favourite traditions we have is that we always sleep in the same room on christmas eve. As we're all getting older this is proving much harder every year, but we HAVE to, so we're currently discussing our sleeping options as I'm writing this post!

Christmas is also awesome because of the Doctor who Christmas Special. Yeye! Eek! Sense Abby FANGIRLING right now!!

For Shanice this time of year always brings me a sense of sadness over lost TV shows. I'm referring to Wild At Heart which was always on at this time of year as I was growing up! The day I own the box set to watch it to my hearts content will be the best day of my life. Why do they cancel all the best shows :( My little heart is breaking all over again!

Obviously, there are all the other shows that do Christmas specials, and there is the Queen's speech which everyone has to have on, even if they're not watching it! (Shanice) Although I do watch it avidly every year because I LOVE the Queen!  That is the Christmas tv we love.

The last and Shanice's most favourite thing about christmas is giving gifts! The feeling I get when I see something and instantly think of someone is the best feeling ever. Nothing compares. It shows that you know the person and their little quirks so well that you see them in everywhere you go. Giving a gift to someone and them knowing how much thought you put into it is my favourite thing ever. Always guaranteed to make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside! Abby does the most incredibly thoughtful gifts. She is much better at it than I, and I lovelovelove the fact that she is so great at gifts!

Let the days be counted...

ExcusesExcusesExcuses.

Now we could give a million and one excuses to why we've been away from blogging but the truth is everything got in the way and we didn't prioritise the blog. Which I can assure you makes both of us very sad, as the blog is something that gives us a slice of happiness that is easy to obtain. I feel so much better now than I have in a while purely because I'm sitting here writing this post.

So, do you fancy a bit of a catch-up on our lives? 

Shanice- The last 6 months of my life has been insane, I know it hasn't been that long since we posted, but to be fair I can't remember what I've updated you all on and what I haven't. So, I went through a breakup (which you all knew about) and Abby is amazing. (refer to dedicated friends post), I'm now currently in a very new relationship. Oh and I got a job! (Superdrug incase anyone was wondering) I adore it. So thats the basics. I have changed so much over that period of time that sometimes its scary to think about.

Currently I'm feeling overwhelmed. Growing up is scary as hell. The thought of Abby moving so far away petrifies me! I can't imagine how she's feeling. Everyone is growing up and changing. Change is brilliant but oh lord it is scary, it's scary to think how easy it is that people grow apart, I can't imagine my life without the people in it.
With the down side of me currently out of the way, I can tell you all that I also feel incredible. I have never been more grateful for life as I am now. I am so thankful for everyone who stands by me and puts up with me. I wish they all knew half of how I feel towards them all. I am utterly in love with life!

Abby- I'm in a stage of my life where I'm having to make some serious decisions. And I'm telling you now; I'm one of the most indecisive people so this is proving quite a challenge. After sitting on my bedroom floor with a million and one University prospectuses splayed out around me, I finally decided on my five Unis. As I write this now, I can tell you that my UCAS application has been sent off and I have already received two offers - eek!
Shanice has already said how freaky it is for her, and I can say it is just as bad for me. However, I relish in change. I adore it. However, I am terrified that I won't get the grades to get in. But I just have to work my lil' butt off! Which I am doing.
My dad sat down and told me the other day that 'what will be, will be'. That is something I'm currently trying to accept.
Other than Uni? Well my friendships and family relationships are currently being tested, and I'm the one who is being supported and needing that support. (Shanice is being fab - just saying).
What else? Well, my friend raised £130 for a children's hospice, I've made awesome headway in making everyone's Christmas present and I returned home to find a fence had been built at the weekend.

The honest truth is that between work, college work, and our own issues (like Abby's dreary, non-existant love life) the blog has been put on the back burner. But we are back, and with Christmas well on it's way you can expect more than a couple of festive themed posts.

So, with our deepest apologies,

Shabs x

(Can I (shanice) add a how proud I am of Zoe Sugg with her book Girl Online! The girl deserves everything she is getting, she has worked so hard and has such a positive influence on the online world. Congrats girl!) 

Vivacious Vienna

Oh, how excited Shanice is for Vienna...

(*cough* so is Abby)

The capital of Austria. A former Imperial Capital. A current historical city. It is also a city which is social on an international level, it is the third largest German speaking city and home to the United Nations - does that mean we might bump into Connie Britton?! - and OPEC. All of this means it will be a city that is one of a kind. 

Flea markets;  now these are literally gold mines on our opinions. Bargains, vintage, rare one off finds. Give us a market and we will be occupied for hours. The best bit about the markets In Vienna is the fact that they are not just items for sale, but food too! The smells are no doubt going to tempt us to no end! And we are most likely going to spend the whole day there... 

We are hopefully going to head to the most eclectic of all the markets, the Naschmarkt. For the best deals you have to get there early, so we will be getting dragged out of our pits at the crack of dawn - or so we say. 

Vienna is a city all about music and culture. It's about embracing what sets it apart from the rest. So we want to do that. In this city we want to go and visit the parks with their hands of buskers. We want to see the street art in all it's fabulous form.

Food.

Music.

Markets.

Bliss. 

Bewitched by Budapest

Budapest, not only the George Ezra song that inspired the entirety of this trip, but also the next city on our journey.

This city is one which Shanice is especially looking forward to. Budapest is actually made up of two parts, Buda and Pest. Yep, I'm not joking. These two parts are joined by the Chain Bridge, which is in no other words stunning. It's architecture is magnificent and at night it looks amazing. So Abby is here by requesting that we walk across it at night. 

I mean how stunning is this?!

Budapest is also know for its thermal baths. These places are like castles file with water and this is no exaggeration. They are stunning, you can swim inside or outside in the summer, have treatments or just relax. Honestly, it's like this massive spa. They're reasonable priced considering how big they are as they only cost £12 at a weekend. I don't think we can visit and not go to one of these places if I'm honest. They are going to be worth a visit just for the architecture, but the baths are brilliant for you. They are said to help with aches and pains, so maybe our feet won't ache so much from the walking and our backs from the backpacks? 

The City of Healing Waters

Budapest is also a place of supreme history. If you walk along the banks of the Danube river then you will most likely comes across one of the most incredible things. In 2005 a film director called Can Togay erected a monument in memory of the Jewish people that were brutally killed in Budapest during World War Two. It is tonnes of metal shoes placed on the bank. To say it is thought provoking is an understatement. The metaphors laced within it is stunning. This is one of the places on our trip that we are both looking forward to most.

Shabs x

Crispy leaves and tea.

It's the most beautiful season of all; autumn. 

The mornings are brisk and the evenings dark meaning snuggling up in bed is all the more wonderful. The leaves are at that beautiful stage when they are a mixture of gold, red and orange dotted with the odd great on clinging on to summer. Then in a gust of wind that bites at your skin they fall to the ground. Even at seventeen we still believe there is not much that is more satisfying that jumping in a pile of leaves and hearing that 'crunch'. Having said that, when the leaves are all soggy and stuck to the ground they are just as beautiful. A confetti carpet. 

(Abby) The other day I had my break at work in the morning. Leaving the kitchen, I pulled on my sweatshirt and raincoat, grabbed my bagel, tea and blueberry muffin and went to sit outside. I work near a main road, but it was still beautiful. For me, there is something about escaping into a brisk autumn morning and just taking it all in. Whilst hugging my tea to keep me warm.
(Shanice) For me, this is the first year I am truly appreciating Autumn. I am a summer baby and usually hate it when the warmth of summer leaves, but this year I am embracing it with everything I have. I have no idea how I've missed out on the outstanding beauty of Autumn for so long. 

We love everything about autumn. From soup and crusty bread in front of the fire, to the first frost and tea. Ginger sponge on bonfire night, watching the fireworks from your bedroom window when you're meant to be asleep, everything Halloween related and children in need. But for us, there are a few essentials that you need to get you through autumn. So, here are what we think you need...

Firstly, you need coats, wooly jumpers, scarves and leggings, and I am being deadly serious. With ankle boots, black boots, brown boots, leather or suede - basically this is your survival. Especially when bonfire night comes around and it is freezing cold as you're stood in the garden looking up at the sky. 

We love scarves and if anyone out there is wondering what to get Abby for Christmas? Scarves! Chunky cardigans are just as brilliant, and if you want a lovely one then our advice is - as with anything clothes related - get yourself to H&M. 

Vaseline. It's literally Abby's saving grace at the moment. Working in a boiling hot environment then stepping out into the cold is playing havoc with my lips, and this stuff is the only thing stopping the, bleeding. Up until this year I never really used lip balm or anything. Instead I just used lipstick - which is you use a decent brand will work just as well, I always opted for Avon. However, my mum let me have a brand new pot of hers and it has transformed me. I love the way it makes my lips look super glossy and glamorous but doesn't feel greasy or anything. 

Good food. There is nothing better at this time of year than coming home to a good hearty hot meal. In the colder months our bodies burn more calories, which for us is great because we can have that second helping of soup or maybe even cake!

In autumn and winter the weather changes can also cause bad skin in people, as well as make them feel down in themselves. The right food and right care of yourself can help sort this right out!

This time of year for me (Shanice) causes me to reflect on the previous few months since the year began. I, as Carrie Fletcher put it in her 'Letters to Autumn' videos, use this time to reflect on who I have lost in this period of time and who I have gained, how I have changed and how I have stayed the same.

In my reflection I always become far more aware of myself and others around me. How I am feeling and wondering how others are feeling too. I always feel people mellow during this time of the year, right before the stress of christmas hits and I want to appreciate that.

I am a far different person this year than I was last, and I'm glad that with the changes I have come to love and appreciate Autumn because it is incredibly beautiful. 

Do you love Autumn as much as we both do? 

Shabs x

Wandering Warsaw.

Hey you beautiful people!

The third and final city in Poland that Shabs (accompanied by Zac) will be visiting is Warsaw. This is probably one of the more well known Polish cities. However, we all have such bad geography that we had never heard of it. That probably is a scary thought when you consider we are to be going all over Europe - alone! 

Warsaw is the capital city of Poland, and is -in the clichéd travel blog words - an up and coming city. It's dealt with it's fair share of pain and fire, it has risen from the flames, and more recently dusted off the ashes to reveal the bright colours beneath. 

Once more, Warsaw is a place that we are more than a little excited about visiting. In actually fact we are probably most excited about visiting Poland as a whole country because it is so unknown to us. So what are we going to do when we visit this city? 

Well, as you can tell there is going to be a lot of sight seeing on this trip. All that walking will hopefully allow us to burn off enough calories to go and bury ourselves in the local cuisine without putting too much weight on! 

Lazienki park is the largest park in the city, and when I say it is large, I mean it. It is massive. Set in the beautifully landscaped and designed park is Lazienki palace, also known as 'the palace on the isle' in reference to the fact at it overlooks the lake. What absolutely made us fall in love with this place is the fact that the building is only accessible via footbridges - how cute!

Warsaw has seen so much pain, and that is something that would be so easy to forget. But it is that pain which has helped to make it the city it is today, and Shabs are firm believers in embracing that. So we are also looking at heading to the Warsaw Ghetto Memorial. This is built exactly where the Warsaw Ghetto used to be, a place that was destroyed in the 1940's. Those who lived their were either killed, or sent to a concentration camp. So this memorial was built, to re bed the lives that were lost, but also, to remember those who fought against the Nazi's.

It seems as though it would be a humbling place. 

There are so many places in Warsaw we would love to visit, and even more museums. I have a feeling that we will leave this city wanting more! 

When in Warsaw, there will be plenty of wandering, especially around the Old Town. There will also be tonnes of Instagram moments! 

Have you been to Warsaw?

-Shabs

A little thought.

I (Shanice) was babysitting a neighbors little girl recently and I asked what the little girl what she wanted to be when she grew up, she replied with a huge grin on her face saying a fairy princess.
She then proceeded to ask me what I wanted to be, but told me I was too old to be a fairy princess too.

It got me thinking about the future, about what I really wanted. Now this is something I've never really known; until she asked me. It was the weirdest feeling, like a brick wall of clarity (I know that doesn't make any sense but lets just pretend it does.)
I made all of my life decisions in about 3 seconds, but then realised that even though thats what I want to do, this wasn't the most important thing to me.

When I'm old all I want is to be able to say I have some incredible memories and that the people I have those memories with still in my life. It inspired me. I'm now trying to be far more spontaneous, a better friend and create memories that I will never forget.

I hope everyone gets a little burst of clarity like I did, it feels great!
I love having a blog, there's no other way I can get little things like this off of my chest.

Shabs x

(Bucket list update, Shanice got a job! (Same place as Abby, so Shabs have an actual possibility of seeing each other in person!)

Gorgeous Gdansk.

Gdansk is a Polish city on the Baltic coast. It is another city that we will be visiting that is seaped in history, and yet another city that we had never heard of prior to this trip. The incredible thing about this city is the fact that during the Second World War the whole core of the city was practically destroyed. What you see today is actually one of the most amazing pieces of architecture restoration to date. 

Gdansk is said to be one of Poland's principal seaports and we are so excited to explore this beautiful city! Of course, it being a port, means that it is by the sea, meaning there is a beach, and seafood and that amazing salty sea air! Abby is from a seaside town, so for her it is a reminder of her childhood. For Shanice, well, it is what she wanted at least once on this holiday. 

We would love to do real tourist-y things here. Going on the Gdansk City Tour and visiting St Mary's church. There is something important about knowing even just a little about the city that you are staying in. Learning about the history, and the events that made it what it is today. A tour is one of the best ways to do this. You are not relying on sketching internet data, or simply suspicions. You are hearing pure facts from the people who know the place the best. 

St Mary's is a Roman Catholic church in gdansk. St Mary's is currently one of the largest European Brick Gothic churches, and is currently the largest brick church in the world. Its construction began in 1379.I (shanice) am fascinated by the architecture of this building. Both the interior and the exterior. It is a must see on my list and will be very disappointed if I don't get to visit this beautiful place.

 When it comes to architecture, Golden House is probably the richest facade that the city has to offer. It is decorated with busts of famous historical figures, including two of Polands Kings. The four figures that you can see waving from the top of the building are Cleopatra, Oedipus, Achilles, and Antigone.

When it comes to this city, however, one of the things we are most looking forward to is walking around it at dusk, walking around the port and the little streets at dusk. Seeing the sunset, the sky turn a spectrum of colours all behind the ancient skyline. 

It really does look stunning. 

Have you ever been to Poland? What food should we try?

-Shabs

Picture Perfect Poznan

Now for the second stop of our European city adventure...

Poznan. We're going to guess that ninety percent of you don't know where it is, and to be honest until we started planning this trip neither did we. It is a city that was recommended to us by a friend of Abby, who is Polish.

Truth be told out attraction to this city is purely based on it's looks. Tiny winding streets where you can go walking and find hidden coffee shops and little boutiques. Of course, we won't be rich, so we most likely won't buy much. But I don't think we will mind too much. 

When it comes to Poznan, however, our excitement is mainly centred around the stunning hostel we will be staying it. Honestly, it is by far the nicest accommodation we will have on this whole trip, and when the majority of our stays will be in plain dingy rooms you have to understand that this is incredibly exciting! It's a converted old building, and all the rooms are painted in white, pink and purple, the beds are white... 

Can you feel our excitement yet?!

The whole point of this trip is discovering places that we would never think to visit at any other point in our lives. So none of us want a rigid timetable of places we will go but we do want to sit and plan the places we would like the chance to visit, but at this moment in time, none of us mind. Even if we end up just wandering around and taking photos, it will be perfect. 

When it comes to Poznan, I think we will be mostly enjoying taking in all of the beautiful sights and culture that Poznan has to offer. 

Beckoned to Berlin

Hello!

We are aware it has been a while since we last posted, between work, family and planning for Europe time seems to have walked away from us. College is around the corner and with that in mind we thought we'd begin a series of posts talking about just what we plan on doing when we visit these inspiring cities next year. 

So, as a little escapism from college it is about time we wrapped ourselves up in the history of these places and got on with some serious planning. Now the hostels are reserved and the ferry is booked, so just where are we going to visit?

First up is Berlin. 

This is a city which has seen an awful lot of pain, and destruction over the years. but it is also a city which plays host to some of the most stunning architecture. With large domes, old buildings, and pavements which could transport you into another time, it really does look stunning. 

When most of us think of Berlin, however, we think of the Berlin wall. It is iconic. So, we have decided that we cannot visit the city without taking a walk to go and see it. In particular a walk along the East Side Gallery. It is the longest remaining stretch of the Berlin wall and it sits along the Spree River. After the wall was declassified well over 100 artists from everywhere around the world made their mark on it. It is now an open air gallery which features declarations of peace, politically minded murals and graffiti. 

We are staying in Berlin for two nights, and so want to make sure we walk around the city. One piece of architecture we definitely want to see it Museum Island. It is at the top of Spree Island and is home to five museums. Whether we get to go in or not, it would be a fantastic place to see!

Other than that? Well, as long as we visit a few coffee shops, eat some local food and get to walk around the winding city streets I think we will be happy. Then we will be heading on a train to Poznan I think!

Where do you recommend in Berlin?

Shabs x

Dedicated friends.

Now this post is a little out of our ordinary (and a wordy one at that, I do apologise.), but I (Shanice) feel that it needs to be said, and read, to remind us that friends are incredibly important and can make our lives so much happier.

I recently went through a breakup of a relationship, I was and still am totally in love with the boy but I accept we're young and I'm not what he wants anymore. That being said it doesn't make it any less painful or upsetting.

Abby, the other half of Shabs, has made it her mission to keep me smiling and make me feel better. She is talking to me constantly, offering me support and her wise words and sending me little pictures or quotes to make me feel better about myself and smile. I can not thank her enough as I can't imagine how I would be feeling right now without her.

I love the quote 'Friends are the family we choose for ourselves'.  I believe wholeheartedly in this as my family aren't the best but my friends are incredible. 

People often take their friends for granted as they see them as easily 'replaceable'. If one of your friends treats you badly constantly for a long period of time and there is nothing you can do to salvage any sort of friendship then cut that person loose without a second thought!
but, and it's a big but if your friend is just having a bad day, or week allow them that. We are all only human and we need compassion and patience from each other.

The basis of any friendship is understanding, and thats not something that always comes easy. A friendship also takes dedication and effort and I feel that a lot of people forget this sometimes. Myself included!

So really the point of all that was make sure you appreciate the people in your life. Abby's kindness has reminded me that I should be doing more to remind the people around me how much I love and care for them and it's something I intend to do!

Shanice x

On our travels.

Sunny summer - or at least, that's what it's supposed to be!

Seaming as the summer holidays are well and truly underway here in England, it's the time of year that most people pack their suitcases and head off to some place else for a week or two. Shabs are no different. The end of July and the beginning of August saw Shanice pack up and head to the Isle of Wight for a week, and Abby pack up and catch the ferry to Normandy. 

So, seaming as we have been out of the country and supposedly sunning ourselves, we decided to give you a little insight into just what we did for the week, and what we saw. So, whilst you reading this, we are dealing with the aftermath of AS Level results day!! ARG! 

Abby:

So, my holiday.

Destination: Normandy, France. 

In typical Sod's law fashion, we arrived on Saturday in a complete and utter downpour. I wish I was joking, but whilst it was sunny for most of the journey, half an hour before we arrived the heavens opened to the degree that you could barely even see the road in front of you. But, my family is from Yorkshire, and a little bit of rain never hurt anyone. 

Our Gîte was in the grounds of a stunning, Classic, French manor house just outside of Saint-Saëns. We even had a little turret! It was so cute! Thankfully - the weather even spared us a little and gave us the sun for a few afternoons and evenings. This meant I was free to read in the shade - I burn at a stupidly easy rate.

See! A turret!

Cheese. I ate so much damned cheese it was unbelievable; but it was very nice cheese! Neufchâtel, Brie and Goats Cheese. I'm fact, if I'm honest I spent the majority of my holiday eating; pain au chocolat, croissants, pain au raisin, chocolate twists, cakes, Madeleine's . . . It was so good! But the aftermath is that I need to diet!

We did, however, also did a bit of culture too! (We ate crepes in Rouen!) The cathedrals in the city were stunning, there must have been about 5 of them in a mile radius, each one had a different style, some were highly gothic whilst others were more simplistic. For me, however, the most incredible building was the 'Palais de Justice' which is essentially the court house. It houses all of the courts for that area, from the Magistrate's all the way up to the Court of Appeal. When you look at the architecture - intricate decoration and perfect arches - you would never believe it was almost destroyed in the Second World War! In fact it was almost completely destroyed because of the bombings.

One of the Cathedrals that we sat, this was
actually one of the smaller ones in the city
of  Rouen.

This is one side of the Palias de Justice,
unfortunately I couldn't get one of the front.

This is in Rouen, and it think it sums up
just how much of a beautiful city it is. 

Typical of my family, we also hit the cider and cheese shops! But we also took just over a 2 hour drive past Caen to go to Omaha Beach which was one the five beaches that the allied forces landed on, on D-Day.Omaha, Utah, Juno, Gold and Sword. It was such a humbling experience, especially as my great grandfather landed on Gold beach as a medic on D-Day, and was later asked to help out the American troops on Omaha because of the number of casualties. Seeing the place where he fought, and going around the museum was such an emotional experience. It's hard to believe when you see the place that just 70 years ago it was a place nicknamed 'bloody Omaha', where so much death and destruction occurred. It's especially moving when you find out just how close D-Day came to being a complete failure. It made me even more proud of my great grandad. 

Omaha Beach

Docs on the beach

Me and my family also had the honour of eating a traditional Normandy meal with a lovely family we met over there. The conversation was a little out of the ordinary as everything was translated from English to French and vice versa so that everyone present could understand. It was an incredible experience in the fact that there were two women - sister in laws - present who had lived in Normandy when the Germans had invaded. They told us stories that were almost unbelievable. 

I told you it wasn't all food!

So there we are, we got the channel tunnel back (i hated it) and now i'm on home turf!

Shanice:

I was a lot less exotic than Abby and stayed much closer to home. I visited the beautiful island, the Isle of Wight.

The gorgeous view while walking down to ventnor beach!

 I visited the little town of Ventnor. I went to the island to visit family as I hadn't seen them in well over 6 years, it was so nice to see everyone and catch up!
The island is so cute, and everyone there is so friendly. For example there is an arcade on ventnor beach  that my cousins and sister were at all the time, the owner of this place gave them over 300 tickets (nope I have no idea either) for absolutely nothing! When I asked him about it he said the best part of his job was seeing the kids and their families happy. I melted from his pure kindness and wanted to refuse to ever come back home.

The view from outside the arcade.

 The photo was supposed to show the beach, but I didn't realise until I left the island that the beach huts obscured the entire thing! I still think it's beautiful though.
 This trip couldn't have come at a better time for me. It reminded me of what is important in my life and helped me get my priorities straight before I started the next educational year. Being on the island gave me tons of inspiration and I think it was the first time I'd felt truly relaxed in years.

I highly recommend a visit to the island, any of it, but for me I love ventnor most. it's great for a long weekend, or even a few weeks. With sea front restaurants, arcades, walking trails and even mini golf it's just idyllic. 

I can't end this post without some family business promotion can I?! So, If you are interested in staying in ventnor I know a great little family run B&B that is perfectly located. MANSER B&B!
You walk out of the back garden gate and down a hill and you are in steep cove, AND it has a hot tub! What more can you ask for? 

That was us, but what did you do this summer? Go anywhere exotic?

-Shabs

P.S. Bucket List Update - Abby achieved the first thing - she got a job!

Baking Powder, Buttercream and Brownies!

Hello to all of you reading this, wherever and whenever you are in the world. So, on this awfully warm day in England, when Thunder Bugs are literally everywhere and driving me insane, I have decided to snatch back the blog for a post. So-

Hey it's Abby! I am still alive!!

As you may have figured out from the title, this post is going to be food orientated - or more specifically baking orientated. Both Shanice and I love food, and especially baking, but it plays a slightly bigger part in my life. Baking is something I enjoy immensely, and have ever since I was a little girl, stood on a chair in the kitchen, wearing a tiger apron and baking gingerbread men with my mum. Now I am a 17 year old girl, and although my lion apron has been replaced by a slightly larger teddy bear one, and I don't need the chair, I still will often be found in the kitchen.  

And if I'm not baking then my mum is. In fact it is well known amongst my friends that Wednesday, in my house, is baking day - so you come on that day and scavenge food!
 (As one of her friends, I can confirm that is we go to Abby's house it will always be on a wednesday or thursday! She's just so darn good.)

Anyway, I'm rambling. For today's post I decided to post a few of my favourite recipes that I have found online. Don't get me wrong, I love an old worn cookery book, but that is more my mums forte.
I prefer to experiment with new recipes as I have the time to do so. 

So, here goes nothing...

studentrecipes.com - This is a site that was recommended to me by one of my close friends who also loves baking. The URL gives it all away really, they're just cheap, easy and quick recipes. The ingredients are generally things you have in your cupboard, and the best thing about it is that the website is so easy to navigate. You can write reviews and tell people how they turned out, or you can post your own recipes. That - if I'm honest - is one of the most important things for me. I believe that recipes should be shared, adapted, twisted and personalised. They should be passed down through generations of children until the recipe is completely perfected. 

My favourite recipe: Brownies (the recipe by 'Tim'), gooey, chocolate-y, yummy perfection 

bakingmad.com - This is probably one of the most well known baking blogs. They are well run, always providing new recipes which are really reliable, and their blog is well designed and easy to use. That is really important to me as I have spent a lot of my life looking at design. This website is one I found whilst hiking through the mass of baking blogs on the internet. 

My favourite recipes (because I couldn't choose!): Peanut Butter and Jelly Cupcakes, a peanut butter flavoured cake filled with 'Jelly' (or Jam to us Brits) and covered in butter cream!
Sticky Toffee Cupcakes, these taste like mini sticky toffee pudding, they are gorgeous. I didn't, however, put the of toffee sauce on the top as I didn't have any. So please try them and tell me what they are like with it!

bakerella.com - First may we all take a moment to just admire the beauty of this URL? I love it, and in actual fact it was the reason I clicked on the link to her blog in the first place. Now this blog doesn't quite have the substantial content that the other two I have mentioned do. She has a decent amount on there, and is slowly increasing the amount, but the variety of what she has by far makes up for it. 

My favourite recipe - Mom Approved Lemony Lemonies, or in other words lemon brownies topped with lemon icing; tangy, sweet and simply special. 

Finally, this is my favourite cookie recipe. I haven't yet tried any of her other recipes, so I can't vouch for them. 

laureneasmith.blogspot.com - Just a simple baking blog!

My favourite recipe - Millies Cookie Recipe, I find cookies can often be a little time consuming and faffy to make, but these are so quick and easy - plus the mixture actually tastes like the cookie dough in Ben and Jerry's!! 

There are tonnes of other recipes that I love, Chocolate Slab Cake, Dried Fruit Loaf, Triple Chocolate Cookies, Bakewell Cake, Bakewell Buns... But these are some of my online favourite - and I am sure that Shanice will vouch for any she has tried ('Shanice' I do). I am now, however, about to find her on my doorstep forcing me to bake them all so she can try them...

What are your favourite recipes? I'm always on the lookout for some new ones to bake and Shanice to try, so drop us a comment and let us know.

-Shabs 

 

Travelling Europe.

Beautiful Budapest. 

As you gorgeous people know shabs are no longer going stateside. We decided to stay closer to home and travel Europe instead! As we promised will keep you updated on any major advances in our plans. I'd say a completed travel plan in a pretty big advance? So here's as far as we've got!

Where:
Places we're visiting: Hook Of Holland (NL), Berlin (DK), Poznan (PL), Gdansk (PL), Warsaw (PL), Prague (CZ), Vienna (AT), Budapest (HU), Zagreb (HR), Munich (DK), Brussels (BE), Amsterdam (NL)and back to the Hook of Holland for our ferry home.
Sound like fun to you? It definitely does to us!

When:
We are hoping to go next July because by then all our exams will be over, and we will have enough time to travel before needing to be back for the dreaded results day. The weather then should hopefully be great too! Which means we can all get a great tan. Apart from Abby.. HA. Because Abby is an English Rose :)

With:
Well obviously Shabs are going, otherwise there wouldn't be a blog post about it! A friend of ours from school Zac is also definitely coming and possibly a few others. I (shanice) believe that friendships formed in school are very strong, because if you can stay friends with someone after spending 5 days a week with them for years and not hate each other you're on to something strong!

How:
We're going to be travelling for 22 days, and travelling Europe by train, we are doing this because its the cheapest form of transport and it allows us to cover the maximum area of Europe.

Price:
We currently have a rough idea of how much this will cost overall excluding food, £495! If that doesn't wow you then nothing ever will. A normal 2 week holiday in one place will cost that much, and we get to go to 12 different places! Lots of people put off travelling because of the price but at this price I don't think you can fault it!

Have any of you been travelling? If you have any tips will be great!

Summers little helpers.

First of all, I'd like to apologise for the lack of posts recently, between the sunshine, work, families, and planning Europe (which I would like to announce is FULLY organised thanks to the amazing Abby) we have been super busy! Although we are back on track now!

Todays post will be our summer recommendations, because the sun has come out with all its force and I love reading any tips, so I hope you do too!

Feeling good in summer starts from the inside out. Everyone will agree. Your water intake needs to be much higher in summer than it does in winter as you lose water much quicker. It's important to replace the fluid we lose when we breathe, sweat or urinate (ew I know) The recommended daily intake is around 2 litres of water a day.

Love water, it loves you!

Next up, sunscreen and moisturisers!
Dermatologists everywhere are in disagreement over which should come first. Some think sunscreen should go first, to be closest to your skin, for maximum protection, absorption and ensures a uniform layer. Others recommend putting sunscreen last so that the moisturiser doesn't reduce the sunscreen protection. which ever way it goes, here's some of our favourites!

Roche-Posay Anthelios sunscreen is very pricy but one of the VERY few sunscreens that protect you from both UVA and UVB sun rays. There are so many that you can chose from and can create the perfect whole body sun care routine for you.

Myself and abby have very different options for moisturisers/body lotions.
Abby prefers to use Marks and Spencer's Florentyna body lotion.
It is my latest find, in fact I didn't even buy it so I can't take any credit. My nan - whom also buys me any pricey makeup I own - bought me this for my Birthday back in April. But I've only just started to use it. It smells incredible; 'Gardenia blended with a harmony of Jasmine, Lily of the Valley, Orange Blossom and subtle musk undertones' - also known as everything that smells nice. I know, however, there are plenty of other body lotions out there. But what makes this one so good is that it stays smelling great for over a whole day - I've proven it. If you buy this you basically don't need perfume.  

Where as I prefer to use Lush's King Of Skin body butter. I love anything from lush as it's nothing but good for you. It contains only natural ingredients and the company is completely against using animals for testing, how GREAT! This product is by far the best moisturiser I have ever used, and it smells great! It works and smells good, how much better can a product get?!

Nailvarnish is a must for us in summer, it just makes us feel so much better!

Abby's favourite: nail varnish that dries in a minute. For some one like me, who wants everything to happen instantly this is simply perfect. New York Colour is a brand I rest all my faith in. Their products are cheep, but they also work so well! Their nail varnish is all I wear, and I love their concealer and mascara too. 
This particular colour is called 'sky blue' and as soon as you apply it your nails look fake! However, go and check out their other shades too. I recommend; East Village, Spring Street, Power of Elements  and Raindrop. 

Shanice's favourite: Tanya Burr. The woman is amazing, not only is she gorgeous she is great at her job. I'm in love with her youtube videos and her lipgloss and nail varnish line! My summer favourites from her nail varnish line are Little Duck, Bright and Early, Mini Marshmallows, Peaches and cream and  Be Bright Be Happy Be You. My favourite lip gloss by far is picnic in the park. Please please go pick one of these lip glosses up! I've never used one like it, an amazing colour pay off and stays on for so long!

Any summer products that you love and think we should check out? Let us know!

Shabs x

Catching Up

June was a stressful month, so here's a post to catch up with our hectic lives!

So, July has just hit us (Happy Independence Day to any of you in the USA), and we have officially finished our first year at college! No more exams for a while, no more homework, no more assignment (well...) and no more deadlines, meaning there is a lot more time for us to update, or at least, in theory there is. Currently, we're both busy applying for jobs left right and centre. But, we're going to try our hardest!

On a little side note, today marks exactly a year since it was our prom! A day when, we must admit, the weather was an awful lot nicer than it is today. 

Here we are looking all fancy and glamorous at the Golf Club!
July 4th 2013.

So, yesterday Shabs met up, and it was made official that summer 2015 will not be when Shabs go stateside. Unfortunately, as we both have exams before we leave, and college and University when we come back, it will not logistically work. 

But, don't get too upset because there is a super awesome replacement in the works. How many countries are there is Europe? over 30. How many have we visited? Very few. So, it's about time we set that right. We can't quite manage, nor afford, to visit them all, but how about 1 month, and 10 countries. Setting sail from England, and hitting Paris, then going on one long train journey, stopping along the way, until we set sail back home from Amsterdam. 

So, as we work this out, and spend hours researching ferries, hostels and places to go, get ready to hear plenty about it! 

Where do you recommend that we visit?

Shabs