Pumpkin Post ...

Sharing the pumpkin love with a selection of a few of my faves xXx

Images Credit to WeheartIt

Perfect Keepsakes For Your Little Cherubs xXx

I have yet to become a mum myself but I have the rather fabulous and privileged title of ‘God Mother’ to a little girlie that puts a smile on my face every time I see her.  Being the proud owner of this title means I get to enjoy the fun times, avoid the sleepless nights,  and then make  a dash for the exit before the “terrible twos” tantrums  kick in.

I guess you could say it’s a pre run for when motherhood comes knocking at my own door!

Over the past 2 and a bit years that my little GD ( god-daughter) has been pirouetting and prancing round for, one thing that has astonished me is how fast she has gone from being a tiddley baby to a toddler you can actually have a full blown conversation with!!

It is no secret that as you get older the time seems to go even quicker and before our eyes times whizzes by-Seeing the changes in my GD  has given me a greater understanding as to why  parents constantly say that their children grow up too fast!!

It literally feels a million years ago since I held her for the first time and it leaves me baffled to try and remember how she fitted in the incy wincy baby gros she was first dressed in.

Sooo I could talk about my GD all day as she feels my life with such joy but for now I will crack on - As  most know, when a little one enters the world it is likely they are turned into a little fashionista by being gifted lots of fabulous baby- gros and cutesy little outfits. BUT …… What to do with these baby clothes when your little ones cannot even be squeezed into them any more?

This is where I would like to introduce you to the wonderful world of Button Bears- Each hand-lovingly crafted in the historic town of Dorchester they are the brain child of one of my fabulous best friends.

My GD's Gorgeous Bears xXx 

Each bear is made from baby clothing that you just cant bare to part with or give away as a hand- me-down. They are then turned into a beautiful keepsake that will last forever.

Through careful planning, stitching and the edition of two buttons for its eyes each bear comes to life with special detailing picked out from your favourite item of clothing. Cute aye????

To me I don’t think you need an excuse to have one of these made for your little cherub but if you are stuck for Christening, Christmas or even first birthday ideas these are perfect and provide that something a little bit different.

What better way to celebrate and remember their first Christmas. 

I have provided the Facebook link for you here to check out more of the gorgeous bears.  

Love Liv xXx

Your Bear Can Be Personalised Just For You x 

Cute Little Detailing Is Used - Love it x

Family Of Button Bears 

Motivating Myself...

So, in my current role within my network marketing business, a large proportion of what I do is provide motivation and positivity to my clients and team members.
Compassion has always been quite a strong personality trait of mine so this helpfulness comes naturally, and is something I really enjoy providing for people.
This really has to be one of the most rewarding parts of what I do, as the gratitude  I gain back is the best feeling in the world.

Just recently however, I have noticed this motivation and positivity has been gladly past to others but has stopped at myself!
I have been so caught up in helping others I have let my own goals slip; for someone who has always had so much ambition this kind of scared me, and made me realise I need to crack back on and walk the walk of motivation.
So this morning I have sat down and done what I tell all my clients to do - Create a Dream Board. This is something can be added to constantly, even daily, and creates a visual aid of all the things you wish to achieve. In doing so this constant reminder is imbedded into your subconscious making you much more likely to achieve them.


My Dream Board - 

My overall dream board is a lot larger then this but these are the things I want to focus on over the next 6 months.
Growing my business is at the forefront of my dream board as in doing so will enable me to be able to complete everything else.

It may appear very monetary focused but it is also about the value of time; the time to travel and spend with those closest to me and enjoy every single day.


I have also begun planning lots of exciting things that will keep me motivated over the next year or so ( I will be blogging about this soon so keep an eye out).
I feel it is really important to have a  focus and like and not to get too caught up in carrying on with everyday life but actually taking a step back now and again and reflecting if you are getting the things in life you want.

Has there ever been a time you have been so caught up in doing something for others that you stopped doing it for yourself?
What is on your dream board ?

Love Liv xXx

Perfect Time of Year ....

Going for a little walk today inspired me to take a few photographs of one of the most iconic Autumn visions for me, and that is the ever changing colour of the leaves in the trees.
From olive green to burnt oranges there is nothing better then feeling the crunch of leaves beneath your feet.

This image below had to be my favourite where the tree is literally clinging hold of its last few leaves...

Since When Did Shops Turn Into Nightclubs??

"Welcome to Hollister , would you like a gas mask, earplugs, or a flashlight? "

I found this quote on twitter this morning, not only did it put a smile on my face but it just about sums up how I feel about this chain of retail stores that shares it "atmospheric" surroundings with sister company Abercrombie and Fitch.

For those who have never stepped foot into one of their stores I can put it very simply for you; 
Imagine going on a night out in a nighclub that also sells clothes. This maybe the perfect combination for many people, but for me entering the doors of the store instantly gives me a headache from hell with its low level lighting ( not sure what their trying to hide) its over powering signature after shave smell and ear drum bursting music..... Is this branding going too far ?

Sexy topless men aside this is really not the shopping experience I want when I hit the shops, as called me old fashion but I rather enjoy actually seeing what i'm purchasing before I hand over my money!

In contrast to this only a few shopping steps away is one of my favourite stores Victoria's Secret... It may be its feminine touches and sparkling ambience that makes me a fan, but its open and inviting layout make it much more appealing and so much easier to shop in. 

What are your views on Hollister's store designs and what are your favourite stores and why .
Would love to hear from you .. 
Lots of Love Liv xXx 

Get Crafty On Your Hen Party ....

I am always on the look out for new and fabulous things to blog about and my love for crafting made this an easy choice for a blog post.

Over the last couple years I feel there has been a significant increase in brides to be wanting to create a memorable celebration when it comes to their hen party. Long gone are the days of learner plates and little  recollection of the night before, not to mention the headache.

Dorset born ‘Crafts and Giggles’ can provide that special celebration …

 Creator Katie Rand, has set up these fabulous workshops which Brides to be and their nearest and dearests can get their hands stuck into a crafting project in a tailored made Craft Hen Party.

Not only do these workshop provide a fabulous day out in which you can have fun, natter and enjoy the company of your friends and female relatives you can also bring a your unique creation home, creating the perfect memento from your special day.

The workshops are between 2-3 hours providing you plenty of time to create your very own masterpiece. The workshops include garter or fascinator making, cupcake making and ceramic painting and include all of the equipment and materials that you need!

If you are looking for a more personal touch to your big day, then you can also choose the favour or bunting  making workshop to help dress your wedding day.

Crafts and Giggles  does not just stop there…

They also have workshops designed for children’s parties with fabulous themes such as pirates and fairy parties for your little ones, and to get you in the festive spirit be sure to check out there Christmas workshops to make the perfect gift this December.  

Sharing its crafting magic with the South, Crafts and Giggles  travels to Dorset,Somerset,Hampshire,Devon,Wilshire and London to provide you with something a little bit different. 

For more details on prices and to book one of these fabulous workshops be sure to contact Katie on …

07824 396645 or send an email to Katie@craftsandgiggles.com

Choosing your forever career!!! Or come with me to Neverland

A conversation with a dear friend recently sparked the debate of what do we want to be when we grow up, and more importantly do we ever actually have to?

Despite turning 25 in less then 2 months ( eekk) I still feel I have a little more of an excuse to hang on to my youth as long as possible ( or at least until I find my first grey hair).
My friend on the other hand has recently celebrated her 25th birthday for the second time and still admits to not knowing what her chosen career is when she grows up!
I guess I took real comfort from this conversation as speaking to many people my age, many are in this career predicament of never really knowing what to do with their lives.
I grabbed an opportunity recently and seized it with both hands; whilst this had risks attached ( like quitting my full time job) I can honestly say it was the best decision EVER and for the foreseeable future this is what I want to be when I group up.

And quite frankly if it is not then who cares as I have had a blast whilst doing it.... Careers don't have to be forever jobs anymore and what I have learnt from my wonderful and wise friend is the beauty of the generation we live in that we can have several "careers in our lifetime.

If you are not happy where you are now ----- Change it!
If you fancy trying something new ------------- Try it!
Challenge yourself to bridge the gap between reality and your dreams. If going to work doesn't excite you, what ever age you are, strive for something that does. We spend such a long proportion of our lives working why do something you despise everyday?

So I am continuing my life right now like Peter Pan and living in Neverland. ..... refusing to get bogged down with hunting for a forever grown up job but embracing every exciting opportunity that is presented to me. I hope this post encourages you to do the same... life really is for living so embrace it everyday.

Books Vs Kindle

Those who know me well will know I am bit old fashioned when its comes to my view on books etc so I sent the publishing company Random House  a little message just to express my feelings .
In a world that is becoming so obsessed with all things technological I am still  happy to opt for an actual book and enjoy reading it with a nice cup of tea.


I would love to find out your views on my books vs Kindle debate ...

Here is the message I sent to Random House ...

From being a little girl and being told my first fairy tale to searching through textbooks for my university degree books have always been a big part of my life .

In the wake of such technological advances and the introduction of dare I say the word "The Kindle" books are seemingly becoming less and less popular .

The shutting down of libraries and the well known fact of the amount of books going to landfill is an issue that struck me recently. With so many environmental activists and the addition of book replacements made me wonder why publishing companies are not moving forward as well .

I guess what I am trying to say is why do companies like yourselves not produce new books from recycled paper or create new novels from old books ... Keeping the art of having a physical book to read alive? Not only would this reduce the amount of paper going to landfill but allow yourselves to contribute to your social corporate responsibility .
I am sure I am not the only person out there that doesn't want to see the day when electronic books take over and feel this is an effective way to keep up with todays society so we to can live happily ever after .

What do you think ??

Love Liv - A modern day book worm that would much rather enjoy the art work of a book then try and read something on a 2d screen

The Most Inspiring Bond I Have Ever Come Across x

For a long time now I have always wanted to make a difference in this world and have an impact on those around me, and have  always been inspired with powerful and influential figures.

There is one particular story that I knew I had to post , and that is the story of Dick and Rick Hoyt. Collectively known as TEAM HOYT this truly inspiring father and son compete in marathons and triathlons all around the country. 
Their story instantly captured my heart as they are no normal sporting team, Rick was diagnosed with cerebral palsy at birth and participates in these sports events via  specialised wheelchairs bicycles and a boat for the swimming part of triathlons alongside his father. 
Their sheer dedication has seen them participate in numerous events and the video below really is one of the most inspiring things I have ever seen. 

Next time I complain about going out for a short run in the cold I will be thinking of Rick as motivation to know that nothing can hold you back. 

For more information about this fabulous story or to make a donation please visit their website... Team Hoyt

My 16 Year Old Self

My 16 Year Old Self ......

I recently found a box full of old birthday cards, photographs and magazine clippings all of which I hope to one day finally put into a scrapbook. Among all these treasures was a feature from Glamour magazine written by Dannii Minogue titled ' My 16 year old self ', it was a letter written as if she was talking to herself at the age of 16 and all the things that had happened since, it really inspired me to write my own mini version .

So here goes .

Dear My 16 year old self ....

First of all enjoy your last few years at school, as these really are the best days of your life and ones you will never get back ... Also trust me they are the easiest, although I am sure you will put up a good argument against this one !
 That guy you went on that date with on that cold november afternoon will still be your boyfriend 7 years later, although there will be up and downs it will end up for the best and you will become the greatest partnership out there.

As always you have to do things differently to everyone else so you will end up doing 4 years of A levels to get to where you want to be but everything happens for a reason right ?

Oh and don't let your nursing work experience get to you to much as you will end up going to University and to study Events Management soon to discover your love and passion for Public Relations; so far cry from the medical world.

During your time at university your strength and determination will be truly tested as your dad will be diagnosed with cancer, and for the first 2 years of your degree he will be being made better . You know him though, his upbeat attitude and positive approach to the world will keep you both strong and ever strengthen your unbreakable bond. So if there is one thing I can ask you is ensure you work your bum off to make him proud and use his inspiration as motivation to always know that nothing can get in your way or hold you back .

The company you applied for work experience with that turned you down will accept you onto a 6 week work experience placement in your second year of uni and subsequently offer you a job ... what did i tell you ... hard work does pay off .

Your dreams will also come true when you take part in a three month work placement in Disney World and you will meet people that will change your life forever .

Never being one to keep your thoughts to yourself ... seeing your mum finish the London Marathon with have you blurt out that you want to do it , and for being one to keep your word you will cross the finish line the following year ( although not quite as fast as your mum ) .

Whilst everyone around you is having babies and getting married you will become a fairy godmother to a very special little lady who even has the same name as you  ( destined to be fabulous :) ).

You will also go against all your old school beliefs that all your dreams and inspirations are to be wrote in a book as you will  actually start an online blog ... who would have ever thought !!

Always treasure each moment and always say the things you want to say to people whilst you get the chance as you never know when they wont be around anymore...

Oh and keep up the exercise as you will get fat haha
But until the next time thats all for now :)

Lots of Love

Me xXx


Ps Your love for sparkly things will never change xXx

Daily Dose of Glitter