When in Paris| Day 3&4

Day 3| Eiffel Tower & Louvre 

After an amazing two days in Paris I was excited on Wednesday, once again we woke up bright an early, greeted by a selection of plain croissants and chocolate one's from the local super market. Alongside it was jam, orange juice and peppermint tea. Despite the weather being rather cold it was sunny which is always good when walking outside and taking pictures of famous landmarks in Paris!

The first stop we went to was the Eiffel Tower, it is HUGE! If you have seen it before you will realise why it is such an iconic sight, it's amazingly structured! 

We were lucky enough to skip the hour long queue's to go up the Eiffel Tower by pre booking our tickets months in advance, so we ended up only waiting for 10 minutes! At the top of the Tower you can see over the whole of Paris and it's cute little Parisian streets, the sunlight truly makes the pictures seem extra special.

 Once again the Louvre is stunning, the whole building is massive which incredible design's and layouts alongside the famous glass triangle in the centre. Inside were masses of art and sculptures from around the globe at various decades. I was lucky enough to see the Mona Lisa!

That night we walked back along the streets leading up to the Eiffel Tower and popped into a nearby restaurant where we all indulged in a huge burger and chips. As it was our final night in Paris we took a quick stroll to the base of the Eiffel Tower to see it lit up at night once more before it glittered at 10 pm!

Day 4| Patisserie & home

After packing for home we went once again for a stroll to the nearby cafe that sold us the most amazing croissants and tea! We timed the weather well as it was raining heavily throughout the morning which made me the excuse to venture in some of the local shops. I brought my first ever macaroons from a Hotel shop and they even made it through the flight home with no breakages! When the weather had cleared we walked towards the Eiffel Tower again and stopped in a patisserie shop which had a selection of pretty treats including Easter cakes! I chose a raspberry and chocolate mousse cake which I ate at the base of the Tower under a little shelter to stop me getting soaked by the rain!

Afterwards it was time for home with a final goodbye of the Eiffel Tower and the scary ride around the Arc De Triumph which is seriously so life threatening! 

Overall it was a splendid trip after such a tough start to the year. 

When in Paris

Day 1| Travelling

On Monday morning we mainly spent the day travelling from Cheshire to Paris on the plane, we got our first glimpse of the amazing apartment we were staying in. It was decorated beautifully with views of the Eiffel Tower from the living room and kitchen alongside numerous French doors with pretty Juliet balconies. For the remainder of the day we went on a nice stroll around the Eiffel Tower which was only a 5 minute walk away before searching for something to eat.

 We found a little Italian Restaurant near the arc de triomph where we all indulged in pizza! Afterwards we did take another walk up the main road to see the arc de triompth lit up at night. My goodness it was stunning! The detail of the arch was crazy and everywhere was lit up making the scene more magical than in the day! After a walk around the arch we walked back to our apartment which was a good 30 minute walk away and was taken away by a glittering Eiffel Tower! You may be like me and not know that the Eiffel Tower glittered with thousands of lights on each hour for 5 minutes from 8pm- 12pm, it feel's like Christmas and truly magical! 

Day 2| Religious Day

We woke up bright and early to have a stroll down a market street 5 minutes from where we were staying, we came across a cute little Cafe which sold typical French breakfast including Croissant, Jam, Bread rolls, orange juice and tea/ coffee. It was delicious as the pastries were fresh and warm from across the road and we were greeted by regulars drinking their morning coffee! Afterwards we risked the tube which is like the London Underground, we took a short journey to the Sacre- Coeur, which is a breathtaking cathedral placed on top of a hill giving you great views of Paris.

 Inside it's white exterior was silence, everyone was quiet as you walked around the Cathedral taking in the amazing stain glassed windows. I lit a candle for more granddad who passed away last month and prayed for his peace. Outside was windy and rather cold so we took a departure to find some food, we found a tiny hole in the wall,a walk from the Cathedral which sold the biggest baguettes ever and sat in a nearby bench.

After we then got back on the tube and went to the Notre Dame, which again was a breath taking cathedral, however so different in comparison to the Sacre- Coer, it was a Medieval style Church which appeared very dark inside. I loved how the stain glass windows shone even more through the darkness and the carved stone work on the outside was impressive. 

Haute Couture | Elie Saab

Elie Saab

Elie Saab otherwise known as ES is a famous fashion Designer. He is known best for creating beautiful, glamorous dresses which have featured many catwalks, including the Haute Couture this SS/ collection. I personally love how each dress has significant details, patterned and a very natural colour. I also love how the models were styled, with flowing hair in loose curls and a dramatic eye make-up. What was your favourite dress? Mine is the third one you will see below, I love the pale grey with pretty jewels attached. 

My Battle| Panic Attacks

Today's blog post is going to be completely different from my usual, happy and positive thinking one's, because it is about Anxiety. Anxiety, I feel, has been a huge topic over the past few years, people are becoming more aware of what it is and how it can be helped. More celebrities are opening up about their experiences with anxiety, for instance, the popular YouTuber, Zoella, has highlighted her Anxiety story for years through blog posts, Youtube and now her book. This has only made me more eager to share my story. Everyone has a different story and I hope this can help at least one of you lovely people reading learn how to cope with panic attacks. 

My Story

It started when I was in school, during GCSE Mocks in year 10, I was just turning 15 years old when I had my first known panic attack in form time. I say 'known', because I knew I have had many other attacks before hand, however just brushed them off as a sickness bug, because I never fully understood what 'Anxiety' and 'Panic Attacks' were back then. But this day it hit me bad, I felt like I was dying, literally, I had all the teachers running around after me with cups of water and tissues, with my mum on the phone instantly. 

After that day things did change, my school was so supportive of me, including my friends and family. I had a weekly Councillor which helped me break down this barrier of emotion I put between myself and others, I was finally opening up about how I felt. Things gradually got better and with time I learnt how to deal with my attacks, which happened mostly at school due to stress of exams. But I made it. 

This time last year however I took a turn for the worst, with actual GCSE exams in the loom my stress and anxiety was rising. I started having panic attacks nearly every day, I skived school to get away from it all and had endless nights of crying. I started my exam period in a nervous state,which soon turned to me zoning out. But again I made it, and so can you. 

Here are some tips and tricks I have learnt for panic attacks:

1. Breathe.

Whatever you do, remember to breathe, Not short breathes, but long deep ones where you can feel air sinking into your ribs and out again. A breath should last a good 3 seconds before you ex hail, honestly after doing this for a few minutes you will feel calmer as your blood will be circulating properly. 

2. Position yourself

If you are sitting down, straighten your back, relax your shoulders and have your arms and hands resting on your knees, facing up wards. It's a form of meditation, slowly relax your fingers and hands, you can do this with or without your eyes closed, whatever suits you best.

3. Take yourself to your happy place

A technique which always works for me is, when your are in the correct position, with slow deep breathes, take your mind else where. Think of a past event that made you happy, it may be a festival, a holiday or a walk in the park. Think of that place. Picture yourself being there. For me it was always the beach, I imagine the sound of the crashing waves, the salty sea breeze through my hair and the sand in-between my toes. Picture it. 

4. The rainbow after the storm

It could take 10 or 30 minutes, but hopefully this technique will help prevent a panic attack when it strikes you. You will still feel tired and maybe even sick after that Anxiety storm, however it's better than the actual thing, right?

I hope this strategy helps at least one of you in a time of need, just remember you are not alone, many people suffer from panic attacks for so many reasons, be the rainbow, not the cloud. 

The Paris Guide

In a few months I am heading to the beautiful city of Paris. Popular for the famous, fashion, food and sights, here's a selection of things to visit, if you're planning a trip to the vintage city. 

The Louvre 

The Lourve is one of the most popular destinations in central Paris, being one of the worlds largest museum, it holds the famous painting the 'Mona Lisa'. However many other beautiful artefacts and paintings are held there, from vintage to modern day, a real taste of art. Book a tour or walk around by yourself, capturing the true beauty. You will see a handful of different cultures from Morocco too African, it's your choice what you see. 

Mona Lisa

Notre Dame

The Notre Dame Cathedral is also one of the most popular tourist destinations in Paris, the authentic building looks just as beautiful on the inside than the out, with impressive arches and beautiful stain glass windows. Whether you are a catholic or not, the cathedral is a must. It is nicknamed 'our lady' which refers to the virgin Mary.

Inside the Notre Dame

Eiffel Tower

Of course this would not be a complete Paris post without the iconic Eiffel Tower, the landscape mark of Paris. The structure is positioned in the centre of Paris, giving you a full 360 degrees view of the surrounding area, advice to go on a clear sky day to avoid the clouds blocking your view! Why not walk up it?  

Traditional Parisian Cafe

Cafe De La Paix

Whether it's a random one on the street or one of the most popular ones like, Le Select, you can not beat a Paris cafe. From pastries like croissants and cakes to delicacies like macaroons, washed down with tea or coffee, would be the ideal afternoon treat before hitting the next hot spot! Cafe De Le Paix ranked the best cafe in Paris for it's mosaic tiled flooring, list of celebrity visits and history since 1975. 

Inside Cafe De La Paix

As always

Amy

2015 Bucket List

As 2014 draws to an end this Thursday, 2015 opens up new windows and opportunities for a re-start. 2014 has been one of the most challenging years in my 16 years on this earth, from GCSE's, starting college, working life and battling my darkest demons of anxiety and grief, however I feel personally I have accomplished much more than I beckoned for this time last year. I have grown within myself, my ambition's have increased and I now seize the chance to do whatever comes my way. 

I have learnt the value of friendship and family as well as accepting that 'shit happens', I hope you all have learnt something valuable this year whether it's how to cook your favourite meal or something deeper. Roll on 2015!

1. Firstly I want to join a sports club. Growing up I always was included in sports whether it was dance, swimming or netball and now I feel it's time I stepped out of the house, away from my laptop for a few hours a week and start netball again! 

2. Learn and instrument. In my house we have a concoction of musical instruments which are collecting dust, piano, drum kit,guitar, violin and ukulele. So why not learn to play one? For Christmas my brother very kindly took upon my future hobby and brought me a ukulele starter book with strings and a tuner so there are no excuses for me not to start now! 

3. Meet old school friends every month. It's hard when you are so used to seeing your close friends daily at school and as soon as you leave college, things change. However me and my friends have remained our close friendship as we have met up monthly ever since we left school back in June. Whether it's a film night too shopping or a meal out, we all have promised to carry on our efforts in the new year. 

4. Eat healthier. Over the past few months my food source has mainly been chips, coke and chocolate, the three c's I like too call them. At college I will no longer have chips and chilli crisps every day but instead choose a healthier option whilst eating more fruit. I will drink more water as it helps your skin also, let's hope it works!

5. Finally I will keep a 1 year diary. I did this a few year's back and it's sooo interesting to see what I got up too in my early teen years and the comparison in writing now. I feel a diary is a great way of expressing how you feel when things get too much, which in college, can happen a lot. 

Hope everyone has a great New Years Eve and good luck for another year! 

Stay positive, focused and grateful for the little things in life! 

Love Amy x

What makes winter, winter

As the skies are turning darker in the day and the leaves have fully vanished from the tree's, it's starting to feel like winter. Winter is my favourite season, Christmas, new years eve and generally I tend to see more family and friends throughout these months. I'm about to share with you some of what makes winter, winter, n my eyes. 

1. The weather

Often I hear people complaining about the cold UK weather, the high winds, rains and cloudy days, however I LOVE it. It's something about a damp and blustery day that makes me feel cosier and more relaxed than having the sun blaring in! I am however ' dreaming of a white Christmas', which is highly unlikely as snow only appears when the Christmas cheer has ended in January. 

2. The fashion

Okay, as much as I like wearing cute little dresses and skirts, I much prefer wrapping up in big scarves, coats and hats, especially wooly jumpers, too feel that extra bit more comfortable. I love the fashion at the moment, the over sized clothing to the tartan blanket scarves and I have seen lots of glittery dresses ready to be brought the NYE.

3. The food

Obviously food had to make an appearance in my blog post! From costa hot chocolates too thick stews in the evening, really does make me feel winter is on it's way. Of course I can not forget the Christmas dinner, lots of gravy with turkey and all the trimmings is a firm favourite throughout my house hold! 

4. Day/ Nights out

I feel winter becomes a more sociable time for me, because there just seems a lot more things to do around Cheshire than in summer! Going for Christmas meals, markets, shopping and even just chilling at home with a typical rom com with my girls. I am planning on going to the Manchester Markets this year for Christmas in December as I have heard there are lots of cute dainty stalls, perfect for presents. 

5. Boxing Day

As much as I love Christmas and spending the day with my family, eating good food and watching Home Alone, I do love boxing day. On boxing day it feels relaxed and chilled, just lazing around with new gifts, eating the Christmas left overs and seeing more family. 

What makes winter, winter for you?