Weekly Update!

Festive Festivities, Leamington & Curry!

This was the first of two weeks off, and contained Christmas, so was a pretty good week! On Monday my new sofas were delivered, which look really cool, and on Tuesday I dragged myself to the gym for a final spinning class before time off for the festive period, and then dyed my hair nice and red. In the evening after a tasty buffet tea with the family, Mo and I went to James and Kelly's for some predrinks and nibbles, and then we met everyone that was home in Piccolino's for some celebratory drinks, followed by Hogans before going home to sleep ready for the big day!

Christmas day was lovely (I won't witter on as the previous post is all about it!) and on Boxing Day we drove through to Yorkshire for a couple of days at my Grandparents house. All the family were there, and we had a massive buffet and opened all our presents, then Mo, Jas and I went to a little pub called The Rose & Crown in nearby Hornsea and got very drunk! It was packed and had a dancefloor and was playing some tunes - a great end to the day.

The following day I felt a bit ropey, but after some food perked up, and drove home at 3pm. We literally repacked bags and then drove to Leamington for a night with friends there. We played Articulate and drank again, and then had sausage sandwiches before leaving the next morning.

Yesterday it took us 3 1/2 hours to get home, so when we did we lounged around at Mo's for most of the rest of the day, and then went for a really good curry at the Shere Khan in Rusholme. I had a king prawn handi which had huge prawns in, and got a chapatti to dip in it. After so much English food, it was nice to have something a bit more cultured. We started watcing Breaking Bad afterwards, so good, I'm hooked already!

Today has been spent being lazy again, catching up on stuff that was neglected over Christmas (like blogging!) and we watched Don Jon which was a good view, as well as lots of Breaking Bad. An early night and detox is definitely required after so much gluttony!

Christmas!

Timperley

Yesterday was, of course, Christmas Day, and what a great one it was this year! For the first time in forever, we all had the whole day off, and Mo spent the day with us as well. Jasmine and I had been out on Christmas Eve, so weren't too fresh in the morning, but we still managed to wake up at 9am, and open our presents on the end of Mum and Dad's bed (never too old for tradition!). Mo joined us afterwards so managed to score a lie in, and we had eggs Benedict and Bucks Fizz for breakfast.

After we had got changed into some nice clothes, we opened a present each as we were a bit pushed for time, and then went for a walk to The Old Hall in Timperley for a drink and to see some family friends. We stayed for an hour and then walked back, ready to open the rest of our presents. I got some lovely things, including a Vivienne Westwood watch, a gorgeous White Company candle and some John Lewis vouchers from my employers, makeup, money, chocolates and lots of stuff for the flat - I felt like a very lucky girl! I also got a 50s style dress apron and some silver hammered rings from Mo, and he liked his presents from me, so it was a good day all round.

After the presents we all sat down for a full Christmas dinner, this year we had gone for a four bird roast, and it was amazing! We had Christmas pudding for dessert, and then spent the evening getting drunk and playing games which were so much fun with everyone there. As we are travelling to my grandparents today we didn't stay up too late, and we were asleep by midnight. It was genuinely one of my best Christmases yet!

Flat Part 1!

Progress

After feeling helpless all last week, having the keys to my flat at my disposal yet not having flooring etc to put down, this week has been great in terms of progress, and the place is finally starting to feel like a real home. Over the weekend the carpets were all fitted, turning cold, unwelcoming rooms into liveable spaces, and yesterday my sofas arrived, which I am absolutely thrilled with, they are a great feature to the room as they are a bold colour, yet don't look too OTT.

Despite the lack of furniture, I still put up a Christmas tree to get into the spirit of things, but I am very much looking forward to a proper effort next year when I am actually living in it. 

Both bathrooms floors have been tiled, and are just waiting to be grouted, so I have been able to start moving some of my stuff into the flat so it is done in stages and not one mammoth haul.

After Christmas I am expecting my fridge, and will be ordering wardrobes, a TV, and putting my bed together, as well as painting my bedroom and wallpapering the hallway. I can't wait to get on with it all in my two weeks off!

Weekly Update!

Bailey's & Back to Basics!

This week has been another busy one, as I had Uma to entertain again. Luckily on Monday she wasn't due to be picked up until 3pm, so I had chance to get my bed delivered as planned. I stayed at Mo's in the evening and on Tuesday I babysat and it was Aum's nativity play (see previous post). 

On Wednesday after work Dad, Jas and I went to Manchester's Christmas Markets, which were brilliant as ever. We had raspberry mulled wine, bratwurst, and these amazing things that were a brandy snap basket containing a moulded chocolate cup of Bailey's covered in whipped cream with a wafer in - delicious! Afterwards we went for a cocktail in Alchemist as a treat from Dad; I had one that tasted of parma violets and had foam on top, Jasmine's was served in conical flasks and changed colour when you mixed the two, and Dad's had a mini stove to pop popcorn on, which was then added to the top of his drink!

On Thursday Aum finished school at 12pm, so we had cake from Cake Gallery (carrot cake for me) and then went to see Frozen at Parrs Wood (see previous post). Friday was my last day at work before two weeks off, and in the evening all the girls came to the flat for a sleepover, complete with nibbles, Secret Santa and Christmas music. We had a few glasses of prosecco, chatted and had a giggle - was really nice to get everyone together for what we worked out was the first time in a year. Luckily just in time the living room floor was fitted, so we didn't quite have to sleep on concrete, but it was very basic, with wrapping paper as curtains, and no furniture except air beds!

On Saturday I spent the day organising things and then went to see Mo for a couple of hours before going out in Manchester with the girls. We all dressed up and had predrinks at Tasha's new house, then got a taxi into town where we went to Manchester House (a very swanky bar atop a tower block with amazing views of the city) and Neighbourhood. Today I have been very lazy - with no work tomorrow motivation is very low, so I had takeout pizza for lunch and stayed in pyjamas at Mo's all day!

Winter Views...

Frozen - 4 stars ****

On Thursday, I took Aum and his cousin Uma to see Frozen at the cinema. I have taken him to see quite a lot of films whilst being his nanny, and though a few have been really good (Brave, Happy Feet 2), there is also a lot of utter crap that kids watch (Planes)! I had heard good things about Frozen though, so went in with an open mind.

The first thing I noticed was how it was like the more old school Disney films - lots of songs, princesses in a castle, a bit of comedy - the one main difference is the ending, but I'll save that until later. The story is about two sisters, Elsa and Anna. Anna was born with the power to create snow and ice, and as the doting younger sister, Elsa is fascinated by her talent. However, she is not in complete control of her magic, and a mishap whilst they are playing results in an accident, leaving Elsa nearly dead when an ice spell goes through her head. She is saved by magic goblin creatures, but her parents vow that Anna's powers must be hidden to keep her safe, so have all Elsa's memory wiped, except those of her childhood memories of playing with her sister. Anna is then locked away and forbidden from seeing her, much to the confusion of Elsa, who has no idea what she has done to deserve such hostility from the sister she loves so much.

Years pass, and the girl's parents die tragically, leaving Elsa more lonely than ever. She counts down the days until her sister is of age and can be crowned queen, in the hope that they will be reunited. The day arrives, and finally the pair reconcile their differences; until Elsa meets Prince Hans that she 'falls in love' with, and rashly decides to marry. Her immaturity riles Anna, and causes her to reveal her power to the kingdom by accident in her anger, creating chaos when the townsfolk think she is an evil witch. Scared, she runs away to the mountains and creates an ice castle, where she hides, knowing that she cannot hurt anyone there (This part was my favourite, the visuals when she creates the castle are amazing, and accompanied by a brilliant power ballad!).

Elsa then goes on a quest to find Anna and return her to the throne, joined by Sven the reindeer, Kristoff, a trader of ice, and Olaf, a very amusing snowman that the girls made as children who has come to life. They are beset by various trials along the way, including Elsa being struck through the heart with an ice spell, which proves fatal if not met by an act of true love. Kristoff has since fallen in love with Elsa, but it is unrequited as she is still besotted with Hans. Worried, they race back to him, and Kristoff and Sven leave for home, only for the audience to find out that he has tricked them all and only wants the throne for himself. He chains up Anna, and eventually Elsa turns to a statue of ice. 

This is where the difference is. In normal Disney films, this would be where Kristoff rocks up, kisses her and they both live happily ever after. However, this time, it is the tears of Anna crying over the death of her sister that bring her back to life - an act of true love. As an older sister myself, I couldn't cope with this, and was bawling like a baby, which had to be swiftly covered up in front of the two kids I was with! 

I would really recommend this as an all round family film, it has a love story, comedy characters, good songs, amazing cinamatography, a fiesty heroine, and an absolute babe in the form of Anna, who is my favourite Disney princess EVER. Go see!

Winter Performances...

Aum's Nativity!

Last night was Aum's nativity play at school. It was held at Wythenshawe Forum, where it takes place every year due to the high number of parents and family that turn up. The school are split up into two groups - the infants (aged 4-7) and juniors (aged 7-11). 

Traditionally, the infants do a play based around the normal Christmas story, whilst the junior branch out into musical theatre - last year they performed Les Miserables, after the success of the film released that year.

This year, Aum took centre stage as Joseph (although he still complained as he only had 4 lines!) and it told the tale of an angel who only had little wings, so couldn't keep up with the rest of the party travelling to see the birth of Jesus. Following three acts of kindness, she was given big wings by the head angel, and flew to Bethlehem to see the new king.

The juniors performed a piece where two enemy tribes lived on opposite sides of a river, and they were forced to join forces when a TV crew descended upon their land to make a documentary. It had performances from some very talented individuals, in particular 11 year old Amy Waterson was magnificent, singing a solo piece in front of what must have been at least 200 people.

I always love watching the kids from school have fun on stage, and it is great near Christmas to get a bit of festive spirit going with all the parents and staff supporting them. A thoroughly  enjoyable night out! 

Weekly Update!

Moose, Giraffe & Blackdog! 

This week was supposed to start with a meeting at the new flat, but as usual it is still running behind time, so I went for a coffee with Abi instead. I got to finish work a little early, so went to Mo's as he'd had the day off work. We had moussaka for tea and watched Alpha Papa, the latest Steve Coogan film, which was really good. For the whole of this week I have had Aum's cousin Uma to look after as she has finished for Christmas already, which though it has stopped me getting jobs done and going to the gym, it has been quite nice having another girl around. 

On Tuesday I took her for lunch at the Cake Gallery, where we both had tomato and basil soup with bread, and I got a slice of lemon drizzle cake for dessert. In the evening we went to the Country Club for a swim whilst Aum had his lesson, then ate there as usual. They have just introduced a new menu (prices have gone up a little, but then it was very cheap to begin with!) so I tried the Black Dragon sushi roll (Tempura crab, snow crab delight, cucumber, avocado and eel), which was up to the usual high standard, and it is great that they have new dishes just as I was starting to exhaust them!

On Wednesday I went to the new bar in Hale, Moose, with the girls (see previous post) and on Thursday I braved the Trafford Centre with Uma for some Christmas shopping. We had lunch in Giraffe, I chose the chicken nacho burger which was really good value and a great portion size for a bite at lunch. Friday was an exciting day as I finally got the keys to my flat - expect constant updates now! - and in the evening I babysat until 1.30am as it was Mo and Anjali's Christmas party.  

On Saturday I was up bright and early to have my tiles fitted in my bathrooms, it took all day but they look awesome and were worth being stuck in a flat with no entertainment for a few hours (the rest of the time was spent at IKEA with Mum). In the evening I went to Mo's for a house party his flatmate was throwing for Christmas, and we went out to Blackdog Ballroom afterwards, not that I can remember! Sunday was spent recovering with Rusholme takeaway and Iceland party nibbles!

Candid Article 43

Hako Winter Sale

For my latest piece on Ukrainian online store Hako, click here:

http://candidonline.com/store-focus-hako/

Nights Out...

Moose, Hale

Last night I went out with the girls to a new bar that has opened in Hale. It is a town we go out in quite a lot, so it is always nice to see new places open up, we are always up for sampling a new venue!

It is a wine bar like many of the other bars in the area, but it has a cosy, homely feel, with a log fire and comfy armchairs downstairs, and leather booths opposite the bar upstairs. It does food, and has taken an interesting direction by serving only cold pies - we were given a sample of a pork and black pudding one, which was nice, but nothing special. We didn't actually order any food though, sticking just to wine. There were five of us so we got two bottles of Chardonnay, the second to cheapest on the menu. It was a good bottle, and reasonably priced at £17 apiece. 

It is alpine themed inside, as well as the log fire, there are moose heads on the walls, and a mountain scene as you walk down the stairs, very Sound of Music-esque. The stairs and doors are raw unvarnished wood, and floors left bare and covered with rugs, in a style very similar to that inside a traditional a ski chalet. 

It was fairly quiet on the night we were there, but I can imagine it getting pretty crowded on a weekend, as especially upstairs it is a very small area. They have live music on a Friday and Saturday night, so I look forward to sampling a bit of 'apres-ski' again soon!

Weekly Update!

Brunch, Bags & Babysitting!

Monday started with a yoga class, which was really relaxing and chilled me out ready to get on with my week. I met Abi for brunch at the Country Club on Tuesday after doing a spinning class - I had waffles with maple syrup and summer berries, which was a lovely reward after a workout... and when I got home my new Diane Von Furstenburg handbag had arrived; officially in love!

I ate there in the evening with Aum as well, I had pan fried sea bass with a sunblush tomato and chorizo chutney and crisp basil. I didn't really know what to expect from the basil, but it was literally like hard crisps on top of the dish, pretty unusual! The sea bass was perfectly cooked and went really well with the chutney, not something I would have thought to put together.

On Wednesday I had my hair cut (see previous post) and then met Mo for a coffee, as well as staying at his in the evening. Thursday and Friday were spent babysitting, and then on Saturday after a chilled out day dying my hair, I drove to Leeds for Jasmines 21st. We predrank at hers and then went out to Control, which was lots of fun from what I can remember!

Today I have been pretty hungover, but this afternoon Mum and Dad came to meet us in Leeds and we went for a meal at Cafe Rouge (see previous post). I have just had to drive home to Mo's, which was much more of a chore when very tired! Cup of tea and an early night for me I think.

New Tastes...

Cafe Rouge Take 2!

Today I went to Cafe Rouge in Leeds with Mum, Dad and Jasmine to celebrate Jas' 21st. We had £80 worth of Tesco vouchers to spend on food, so had a great feast of treats!

We started with some drinks, I got the citron presse which looks quite scientific when it arrives - it has one bottle of cloudy lemon concentrate, and another with a silver nozzle that is spring water, and you mix the two together in your glass to taste. Jasmine just got a coke, and Mum and Dad shared a bottle of house red wine.

For starter we got the sharing platter that Mo and I shared last time,  which is a mixed selection of meats, cheeses, olives and bread with dips, as well as breaded mini camembert and chilli king prawns. It was gone in a matter of minutes as we were all really hungry, the prawns had quite a kick and the cranberry syrup that came with the cheese was delicious.

Next came our mains, I got poulet Breton, which is chicken breast in a creamy mushroom, white wine and garlic sauce with courgette and leeks, served on buttery mashed potato. It was really good and hearty, just what I wanted on the hangover I had. For pudding we shared a trio of mini desserts, chocolate fondant, tarte au citron and tarte tatin. I went for the latter, which was tasty; caramelised apple in a sweet pastry base. I accompanied it with a cup of earl grey tea - lovely Sunday meal!

Makeover Week!

Hair & Nails

Unintentionally all this week, I have undergone three changes - a hair cut, a hair dye, and my nails done. The first occurred on Wednesday, and I finally bit the bullet and had about 1.5 inches lopped off. It feels really short, but is also much healthier now, the ends are no longer straggly and split, but feel bulbous and bouncy. 

I had my nails done on Thursday morning, and opted for a lovely glittery dark purple. I don't normally like the sparkly shades, but this one is quite subtle and gives a bit of Christmas cheer! I dyed my hair red again this morning, and probably thanks to the haircut, it has gone the shade I initially intended back in September, it has lost the translucency of previous attempts, and now looks lovely and glossy. Since my summer tan has definitely disappeared now, it is a great hue to compliment my uber pale winter skin tone, and I am looking forward to showing it off over the festive period!

Weekly Update!

Steam Sessions & A Night In!

This week started with me taking Mum to the airport to go to Spain - pretty jealous! It was with work though, so she didn't actually get much chance to enjoy herself unfortunately. Typical that on the first day she was away we had a fault with the freezer, resulting in it defrosting, so Mo and I had a feast that night for tea!

The following day I ate at the country club, and had pan fried duck and tempura king prawns with udon noodles in a soy and sesame dressing. The duck is always fabulous there, I don't know what they do with it, because I don't even normally like duck! After work I went back and had a relaxing swim/steam session with Abi, so nice to have another friend who's a member there now.

Wednesday and Thursday were quite quiet, gymmed both days and babysat on Weds as well as getting paid. On Friday I went to Warehouse Project with a few friends (see previous post) which was a really fun night. On Saturday after a lazy hungover day at Mo's, we went to James and Kelly's house for a night in, which was really fun and definitely something I want to do more of in the future. We got a lovely Chinese takeaway, and watched Pacific Rim on their new 3D television which was awesome. Had a few drinks but nothing too heavy after the previous evening!

On Sunday we decided last minute to go out for lunch at The Moss Trooper which was really good, and then after greeting Mum back from her trip, in the evening I went back to Mo's to stay and we had toad in the hole - delish!

New Tastes...

The Moss Trooper, Timperley

Today I went to the Moss Trooper in Timperley for lunch with Mo, Kelly and James. It has been renovated many times and is currently very trendy, with leather chesterfield style sofas, wood panelling and open fires. It was a last minute decision to go but is a firm favourite with us all so was an easy choice.

There is a new menu since the last time I visited, and with so many amazing sounding dishes, it took us a while to decide! I eventually opted for the foot long hotdog, topped with pulled pork in a mustard mayonnaise sauce, onion rings and fries. It turned up and was an absolute beast! I had to skip the bun, but somehow managed to finish it all - the pulled pork was my favourite, so flavoursome and juicy. Mo and James both had gammon with egg (a safe bet but tasty nonetheless) and Kelly had beef brisket in a flat bread with salad and chips.

It is slightly more expensive than a typical local pub (food averages about £10 a meal) but the quality is much better than the microwaved rubbish you get at chain owned pubs, yet has a more relaxed vibe than going all out at a restaurant. Due to us venturing out on a day when both Mancunian teams were playing at home, it was fairly quiet, but usually the place is very popular with locals, and has lots of events on to entertain including two types of quizzes, Sunday roasts and a Curry Night. Worth a visit for fellow Cheshire residents.

Nights Out...

Warehouse Project (Take 2!)

Last night I went to my second Warehouse Project, this time with two old uni mates and Mo, and at the last minute, two of our friends, James and Kelly. We had pizza and drinks at Mo's beforehand, and got into the actual building at 10.45pm after queuing in the freezing cold for 45 minutes!

S.P.Y were on when we got into the front room, and after purchasing a bottle of wine just for me (!) we headed towards the front. We had issues throughout the night with losing people and waiting around to find them, which was a bit of a pain, but still managed to see Camo & Krooked, High Contrast and half of Netsky, before Mo and I called it a day and went home at around 2am. 

At one point my phone seemed to have died and I couldn't find anyone, which sent me into a bit of a panic, but eventually I bumped into Mo so it was all OK in the end. Two bottles of wine takes it toll after a while! It was a really good night, probably better than last week's purely as I stayed longer and can remember more. I have no more tickets for events this year, but will definitely be buying at least one for a Warehouse Project next year after having so much fun at these two!

Weekly Update!

Metafit, Kangaroo & Laser Quest!

This week has been pretty jam packed. On Tuesday I tried a new gym class called Metafit, which was similar to circuits in that it involved a series of exercises in timed routines. It was fun but quite difficult; I would do it again though. That evening I ate at the country club as usual -  I had Thai fishcakes with soy-chilli edamame beans, while Aum had pork and prawn fire sticks. Mine was delicious, I'm glad they got rid of the coriander that was in the previous recipe.

On Wednesday I went shopping in Manchester. I met Mo for lunch at a place in the Northern Quarter called Pie & Ale, which had some amazing pies including the one I had which had kangaroo and black pudding in. Mo opted for a rabbit and black pudding one which was similarly yummy, although I would have felt bad eating it with Saffy at home! They also did variations with camel, horse and chicken with chorizo; definitely tempted to return to try one of those. The pastry was incredible and service very fast, I would recommend it to anyone in the area after a hearty meal. On Thursday I met Abi for coffee in Costa,  and then had my nails done a bright teal colour.

On Friday after a few drinks in Font Bar, I went to see Editors with Amanda at Manchester Academy (see previous post). They were amazing and played a solid 90 minute set. I stayed at Mo's and spent Saturday lounging around at mine before going to Warehouse Project, where I got very drunk and came home at 1.30am (see previous post!).  Today was Aum's party at Laser Quest in the Trafford Centre followed by Pizza Express nd an awesome Mario cake, and now I'm at Mo's having a lovely pork casserole for tea. Wasn't the nicest party when I felt so hungover, but was nice to enjoy the day with him!

Nights Out...

Warehouse Project

Last night I went to Victoria Warehouse in Salford Quays for my first ever Warehouse Project. Considering they have been going a good few years I really should have made it to one before now, and upon seeing the lineups this year I was determined to go. Last night's was headlined by Nero, who I have never seen but have heard good things about, and he was supported amongst others by Redlight and Jack Beats, both of whom I have seen before and loved. 

They strictly shut the doors at half past, so we didn't have much time beforehand to get the drinks pouring and get there to beat the queues! We managed to get in on time though, and after hitting the bar, went through to the main room, where Jack Beats were already on the decks. The crowd were starting to warm up for the main event, and the atmosphere was electric, with the bass pumping, people couldn't help but dance!

Unfortunately lack of any dinner and downing copious amounts of gin and wine in a rush took its toll, and by 1.30am I was hammered! I somehow managed to leave and get a taxi back to mos in the state I was in, but it meant that I missed most of Redlight's set, and couldn't remember Nero's! (It also is the reason why there aren't any photos from the night!) I am at another WHP next Friday, so at least I know to pace myself this time,and from what I can remember, I had a great night! 

Candid Article 42

Editors at Manchester Academy

Last night, I went to see Editors at Manchester Academy. Read my review of the gig for Candid Magazine here:

http://candidonline.com/live-review-editors/

Weekly Update!

Hull, Leeds & Chilling Out!

This week I've been fairly busy, I babysat on a couple of nights, dyed my hair, gymmed a lot and had one packed weekend! On Tuesday at the Country Club I had beef and mushroom katsu roll with sesame dressing, which was really unusual, sort of a meat sushi roll covered in breadcrumbs. The dressing I wasn't a huge fan of, as it was very spicy and quite sweet, but I'm glad I tried it at least.

On Friday I took Aum to Pontefract, and so as I was halfway there I continued on to Hull to see my grandparents for dinner, and then stayed at Lydia's afterwards. We went out to a Caribbean place called Roots where we had cocktails, before moving onto another bar, and ending up in Sugarmill. It was a very messy night, I am covered in bruises from falling over multiple times, and had a stonking headache on Saturday! It was helped by a KFC for lunch, and then I drove to Leeds to see Jasmine for the evening. 

As I had to leave fairly early this morning, I didn't drink much last night, and came home at 2am with one of Jasmine's flatmates. It was still a fun night though, we went to Propaganda, and despite it being pretty dead inside, the music was good so we all had a sing-a-long. Today I have been at the Country Club with Emily, as I promised to take her as a birthday present way back in June. We went in the gym for a bit (tried a couple of new machines, the powerplate and the treadmaster - a treadmill with two tracks that moves up and down like stairs!), and then swam and went in the jacuzzi/ steam rooms. Was really nice and relaxing, and good to catch up with Emily. I have just finished a big roast dinner, and am off to Mo's for the night shortly, busy busy!

Autumn Reads...

Man and Boy by Tony Parsons - 2 stars **

This book has been sat on my shelf for a while, as I wasn't massively bothered about reading it based on the blurb. It sounded decent, but a little typical, and I like reading novels with a bit of depth. Not one to judge a book by its cover though, I eventually got around to reading it, and actually enjoyed it, finishing it in less than a week (the joys of short, simple books!).

It is about a man in his early thirties, who, bored by his mundane life, cheats on his wife, who subsequently packs off for a new job in Japan, leaving him to look after their four year old son, Paddy. It is a pretty stock story - he has to learn to be a father, deal with the guilt of having ruined his family life, and get back onto the dating scene, but it has some comedic moments, and the lead character Harry is believable and honest with the reader.

There are some issues I have with Man and Boy though. It contains lots of overt cliches - the ex wife gets with a new hot shot businessman, Harry loses his job as soon as he has been dumped, babysitters are gum-chewing chavs with piercings, gays are pink-wearing snakehipped dancers... you get the idea. Towards the end it also got quite preachy and OTT, throwing comments around about learning from mistakes, and saying that children are the most beautiful things on Earth, and that we have to learn to let go. Basically, it is a story to be taken with a pinch of salt, and though I won't be rushing out to buy the latest Tony Parsons instalment, it was a pleasant read that made me chuckle.

Autumn Views...

Gravity - 4 stars ****

I actually ended up seeing this on the day it came out, completely by chance, as the girls and me fancied a trip to the cinema and happened to notice this was playing. Although I'd seen the trailer a few times, it didn't quite register whilst I was buying the tickets, so I bypassed the 3D showing in favour of the cheaper 2D version, and then realised my mistake! We decided to see it anyway, and though I must admit it would have been a much better experience in 3D, it was still a great film.

It doesn't have a very complicated storyline, as the main focus is on the special effects, the 3D element and the massive build up of suspense throughout, which it creates very well - it was probably my most stressful and traumatic film experience! It takes place in space, where medical engineer Ryan Stone (Sandra Bullock) and astronaut Matt Kowalski (George Clooney) are stationed on a mission, when some debris hits them, killing their fellow crew member and separating them from their base, and each other. The next 75 minutes is the aftermath - every jaw dropping, heart pounding, adrenaline rushing minute of it.

Bullock steals the show as Ryan, who has to face her demons and push herself to the limits in order to survive, and Clooney is a loveable rogue providing some light comic relief from the catastrophe that ensues around him. I would urge anyone thinking of watching this movie to see it, and definitely opt for the 3D variation. There are so many moments when it could have turned something picturesque into something beautiful, and a quick intake of breath into a ' jump out of your seat' scene that it is worth the extra £2.50!

Weekly Update!

Fireworks, Amazing Cakes & Styal

This week it was back to school for Aum, which meant back to normal for me! On Monday I chilled out and made the most of having the days free again, watched a bit of TV and read my book. Tuesday was bonfire night, so after we had eaten at the country club (I had sesame crusted lemon sole with avocado and cucumber) I took Aum to Wythenshawe park, where we met Emily, Smeed, and Mo. Aum got a bit scared of the fireworks as they made him jump, so I had to spend the evening carrying him - not an easy feat when he's now nearly 7!

On Wednesday I babysat, and on Thursday I went to see Gravity with the girls (see next week's post) before staying at Mo's afterwards. On Friday we stayed in and got a takeaway and watched The Wolverine, which was average! 

On Saturday I got ready and met Jasmine in Manchester. She got some piercings, and then we went to Home Sweet Home for lunch. We got a Cookie Monster milkshake, and Eggs Cali to share (eggs benedict with avocado and red peppers) and then had a cake each. The eggs were done to perfection, with gorgeous gooey centres, and the avocado really went well with it. I had a strawberry sponge with cream soda flavoured icing, that had teddy bear shaped ice cream cones stuck in the top, and glittery sweets all over it. Jasmine got a ginger cake with latte frosting and waffles on top. 

They were both really tasty, although we had to take the remainder home as they were massive slices. There were also cakes flavoured with Sailor Jerry's and ginger, Japanese plants and fortune cookies, banana and chocolate, and chocolate and maple, as well as loads of biscuits and cupcakes -love the place! 

The weather was horrific, so we dashed between shops for a while (I got some amazing biker style leather look trousers from Zara!) before calling it a day and going home. That evening I put on a new outfit and went into Hale with Abi and Tasha to Hogan's and Suburbia, it's ages since I've been in there! Had a really fun night dancing, and it was helped by a few free drinks from a friend who works there.

Today I had a lie in, and then went for a lovely walk around Styal with Jasmine and Mum, luckily the weather has perked up today. We are just about to sit down to a roast dinner with apple crumble made by Jasmine - it's good to have her home!

Candid Article 41

ARTPOP by Lady Gaga

For my most recent article, a review of Gaga's latest album, click here: 

http://candidonline.com/review-artpop-2/

Autumn Views...

Thor : The Dark World - 4 stars ****

On Thursday I went to see Thor: The Dark World at Parrs Wood cinema with Mo. We weren't too bothered about it being in 3D, so opted for the 9pm showing to avoid it (and the expensive tickets!). I haven't seen the original Thor film, or The Avengers, so was a little dubious as to whether I would be missing out on some vital information to enjoy the film, but this was not the case. Though some things were a bit over my head, having only seen a few comic book based films, and read no original books, I understood the majority of the action and storyline, and would recommend it to others whether they are fans of Marvel or not.

This instalment (said because the ending of the film suggests there will be a third film) copes with the build up to what is known as the Convergence, where once every 5000 years all nine realms of Asgard (including Earth) align, creating portals between them. Jane Foster (love interest Natalie Portman) discovers one of these portals, and is sucked into it, and given exposure to a dark substance called Aether, hidden for thousands of years. An evil elf called Malekith (Christopher Eccleston in very good makeup!) senses the find, and awakes in order to capture the Aether to destroy Asgard. Thor (Chris Hemsworth) has to join forces with his shady war criminal of a brother Loki (Tom Hiddleston) to defeat Malekith and restore peace to the nine realms.

One of the things I can commend Thor: The Dark World for, is the depth of plotline despite the brilliant special effects, as in previous films of this type I have seen, one takes a focus to the detriment of the other. I could have coped with it being a bit longer actually, as there were certain aspects that I felt could have been expanded upon, though these may have been explained in the first film.

There is quite a lot of comedy in this film too, which helped to lighten the scenes that were pretty heavygoing and fantasy based. It doesn't take itself too seriously, which is refreshing from a film of this genre. Worth a watch.

Weekly Update!

Zombies, Mexican & Retail Therapy!

This week has been half term, so whilst there has been a distinct lack of gymming, it has been pretty fun filled. On Monday we had a lazy day, and then on Tuesday I took Aum and his two friends to see Turbo (see previous post). On Wednesday we went to The Manchester Museum as they have recently reopened The Vivarium, which is full of my favourites - frogs! We had lunch there (a very tasty pea and mint soup with homemade bread) and then came home in the afternoon. That evening I went to Mo's  just to chill out, as the full days of the holiday were getting the better of me!

On Thursday it was Halloween, so Aum went out for tea at Pizza Express dressed as a zombie followed by trick or treating, which made my day easier! After work Mo and I went to the cinema to see Thor, which I really enjoyed (see next week's post), and I ordered my sofas which got me quite excited about moving in... whenever that may be!

Friday was a quiet one, I just stayed in and chilled out with Mum, but on Saturday I went into Manchester with Mo for a bit of shopping and we went to the Northern Quarter for some lunch. I have a long list of places to try there, but we were feeling hungry so opted for Luck Lust Liquor & Burn, a Mexican that is currently playing host to Manchester's finest burger joint, Almost Famous, since it burnt down a couple of months ago. I had a shredded beef burrito with king prawns which was amazing, if a little spicy! Mo had an Almost Famous burger called the Killer Bacon Cheese, which had three burgers, bacon, cheese, chilli, chipotle sauce and baconnaise in, accompanied by their speciality bacon bacon fries. I would definitely recommend going there if you have a big appetite and  like your American food!

That evening I went for a few drinks in Altrincham with the girls. We started at the Belgian bar, then moved onto Bloom, where I bumped into some of my sisters friends so stayed out with them. Today I felt especially ropey, but forced myself out shopping with Mum. We went to a retail park near Denton which was really good and had lots of shops without the hassle of going to the Trafford Centre or Manchester.

I got quite a few things in the sales - a striped blouse, a vest top with a rib skeleton on it and a pair of partially shiny black jeans from H&M, and a multicoloured geometric print dress and turquoise leopard print pencil skirt from USC. All of it came to less than £60, so pretty good. Then we drove home and Mo joined us for a massive roast dinner with waffles and ice cream for dessert, and I am currently food comatosed in front of the TV!

Autumn Views...

Turbo - 3 stars ***

Yesterday I took Aum with two of his friends to watch Turbo in Altrincham. It is the latest offering from Dreamworks, the makers of one of Aum's favourite films, Madagascar. It tells the story of Theo (Ryan Reynolds), a dissatisfied snail working as all snails do at The Plant, which to the average human, is a large greenhouse in someone's garden.

Every night, he sneaks into the human's shed, and watches Formula One racing on a TV, wishing for adventure and to escape and fulfil his dreams of competing in a race. His brother, Chet (Paul Giamatti), a health and safety officer, is less than impressed with his brother's crazy risk-taking attitude and frequently chastises him for having his head in the clouds.

One night, Theo goes to watch the cars driving on the motorway, when he gets sucked into the engine of a drag racer, and his DNA becomes fused with nitrous oxide. The following morning, he finds that he has the characteristics of a car, from his eyes being headlights, to reverse beeping, and even having a radio! His new powers get him into trouble at work however, causing him and his brother to be fired from The Plant. Whilst they are arguing, his brother is snatched by a bird, and Theo uses his super speed to chase it, and save Chet from death. 

Just as they think they are safe, they are captured by Tito, a man working at a taco shop owned by his brother. Similarly to Theo, he has dreams of greatness, cooking up a variety of schemes to try and get their shop on the map and make his cynical older brother proud. Thinking they are doomed to death, Chet and Theo are surprised to learn he wants to use them as racing snails, and they meet a gang of other snails led by Whiplash (Samuel L Jackson), who Theo (now known as Turbo) really associates with. 

Astonished by Theo (now known as Turbo) and his powers, Tito and his friends travel to Indiana to enter him into the Indiana 500 - a world famous car racing event (and coincidentally the race that Theo used to watch on the TV back at home). Here they encounter various set backs and Turbo's belief in himself is tested to the max as he tries to defy Mother Nature and gain the approval of his big brother.

This was a good kids film that I enjoyed myself as well. It had some really funny bits that were clearly aimed at adults, yet all the kids I took said they loved it. The scenes where Turbo falls into the car engine were especially effective as they merged the technical aspects of engineering with bright colours and special effects to make little ones interested. The only qualm I had was that the whole brotherly disapproval seemed a little overdone, to the point where at times Chet seemed really mean! That and the unrealistic aspects (does snail racing actually take place? Would a snail really be allowed to compete in a car race?) but I suppose that is the beauty of a children's film - anything goes!