Sunday 24 February 2019

THIS HAPPENS TO US ALL

I sat down with my laptop, opened a new word document and typed out my thoughts. I read them back and decided to share them with you in the hope they have you feel positively encouraged with any difficulty you might be facing. 

Around this time last year I was quietly miserable; hiding behind a self-imposed 'busy' schedule which kept me from confronting what had me feeling so sad because, I just didn't want to deal with yet another change in my circumstances which was having a very negative impact on me, real talk.

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However, when a friend had to cancel our date, I was left with no option but to face said 'thing' and just deal with it. Essentially, the happy bunny being portrayed on the outside wasn't true of how I felt inside. It would inevitably be the very same friend to cancel on me whom I would later confide in and thereafter begin working on getting better, as it were, with their support.

Far from wanting to bore you with the details of that particular time, I just want you to be reminded that it's okay to have moments of despair, to feel alone, lost, fragile, to lack confidence about your future, etc. But, you have got to remember that you are NOT alone.
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Friends, family, your partner, perhaps a trusted colleague, your GP, or health advisor, a community group, or social enterprise can and will support you. They must first be told that you require some help and that must come from you. Once you open up and are honest about your struggle (s), things will definitely get better. It isn't easy, I know, but, it IS possible.

Everything happens for a reason, we know that... Here's the thing though: the reason (s) will only become clear once you overcome the hardship so, reach out, stay hopeful, remain transparent, be fiercely determined to battle through and be comforted by the fact that having such moments are normal. Your imperfections are uniquely wonderful, embrace them and they'll be some of your best teachers! Happiness is a must. Get yours and do everything you can, within reason, to keep it!!
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A song titled 'Holy' by Jamila Woods which features in the Netflix movie 'Nappily Ever After' starring Sanaa Lathan is one of the most positively encouraging songs I have come across in recent months. I listen to it almost daily and, each time, I feel uplifted and empowered. Check it out here.

As I've told you in previous posts, you're worthy of greatness. Remember that.

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PREVIOUS POSTMY CLAYTON HOTEL ROMANCE

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Sunday 17 February 2019

MY CLAYTON HOTEL ROMANCE

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I was invited to the newly established Clayton Hotel in London's Aldgate East which opened in January this year. This particular part of the city has undergone a striking makeover in recent years [still under development] which has attracted both new business and a new batch of clientele. Personally, I am really liking the look of Aldgate now, especially since venturing into photography as there are many great locations for taking pictures.

Prior to the introduction, I had not heard of Clayton Hotels and so, I was really keen to learn more and to also see what they have to offer that sets them apart from their competitors.

On Friday 15th February 2019, deliberately not Valentine's Day [of course, lol], I walked into Clayton Hotel ready to be impressed and I wasn't disappointed. Greeted by the beaming smiles of the reception team, I waited a few minutes before being joined by Andrew Mitchell - the Sales and Marketing Coordinator - who gave me a very grand and insightful tour of the modern vintage, chic, homely, feel-good hotel which has surprising features! I think I instantly fell 'in-love'! Not with Andrew, with the hotel. Although Andrew is a lovely chap.
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CopyrightCharleyJai
It is stunning! With a uniquely calming and warm vibe that just consumes you as you walk inside, the decor [artsy, elegant, stylish, bold, inviting, cheerful, cosy, instagrammable] is gorgeous! The hotel boasts a fitness suite [a real one], bar and restaurant with 24 hour dining, has 212 luxury bedrooms including executive suites with selfie mirrors [yes, you did read that correctly], plus the option to book as a family and have 2 separate rooms albeit entered through one main door. Essentially a mini apartment, or so it feels! It truly is remarkable!! 
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The staff are on point with their superb customer service, providing each visitor/guest with a welcoming and attentive greeting which is, sadly, rare these days, so, it makes a huge difference to the overall experience of each customer.
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BOOK TODAY! www.claytonhotelcityoflondon.com | 10 New Drum Street, London E1 7AT.

Until 30th April 2019 there's up to 20% off their best available rate so, if you're in London and are looking for a beautiful luxury hotel that will provide you with exceptional service and comfort, overlooking the City of London, try Clayton Hotel and embrace all that this 4 star deluxe hotel has to offer you!

Special thanks to Lizzy Rodger - Director of Sales - who organised my visit/tour and gift bag with treats and generous discounts. Head over to my Instagram page for more pics!

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PREVIOUS POSTMY VALENTINE

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Sunday 10 February 2019

MY VALENTINE

Valentine's Day - the celebration of love and affection.

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Look, here's the thing: I think the best expression of love is one that isn't declared on the 14th of February! Lol. Seriously though, in the conventional sense, I am still very anti this so-called international 'holiday'; a day set aside for EVERYONE, everywhere in the world to tell, or show somebody how much they love them by giving them red themed gifts, booking an expensive restaurant, or giving chocolates, planning a 'romantic' weekend away, etc., etc. Ugh!

♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥

If you're about the hoo-ha of what Valentine's Day typically represents, good for you, knock yourself out and enjoy! If not, especially if you are in the Singles Club, then how about a bit of SELF love?
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I have learned to love myself entirely [don't go thinking frisky thoughts, let's keep it clean], whereby I fully respect who I am, I appreciate my life experiences to date, am happy with all that I have achieved and am proud of the woman I have become. I'm excited about my prospects and believe that the work I put in will eventually pay off. I feel good within and also like what I see in the mirror [which wasn't always the case]. So, if I was about Valentine's Day [whether happily partnered or not] I'd celebrate self love. Maybe you should do the same. I see no shame in that at all. In fact, I admire those who practise self appreciation. I mean, why not?

For those delightfully coupled [or, who take part in Galantines, or whatever other 'something-tines' there is] and are all about Valentine's Day, but have yet to organise some romance, check out Prezzy Box here for gift ideas!

♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥

To all my single peeps, go spoil your solo self and don't necessarily wait until the Valentine's weekend to do so! Duh! Ha-ha... Perhaps have a change of scenery and get involved with an activity. Or, attend an event for singletons [you could end up meeting your life partner]. Should you not want to step outside on the 'day of love', simply chill at home and indulge in some pampering, a hearty meal and a strong cuppa [making sure you avoid all social media, for obvious reasons!] Just spend some time appreciating yourself, you are SO deserving of that! x

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BEAT THE NEW YEAR BLUE'S

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Sunday 3 February 2019

BEAT THE NEW YEAR BLUE'S...

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The first couple of months of a new year can have you feeling a bit “ugh” and somewhat done with the world. Personally, whenever that happens, I set aside a few hours, or so, to focus on gratitude as well as having some down time.

You might remember that I have a Gratitude Jar which I go through at the end of each year. I fill it with everything I am thankful for, or that makes me happy so, it is never empty. That way, it's a go-to when I need a positive boost.

As we all know, it is so important to keep around you the things [and people] who are good for you. Doing so is likely to have you feel great almost 24/7!

From your favourite book, a piece of music that always puts you in a great mood, an aroma that keeps you relaxed, a cherished one who makes you laugh, carrying a sketch book [if that's your thing], or the one place where you can 'breathe', if, where possible, you make sure these are within reach, can do absolute wonders for your overall well-being.

You're an imperfect human; you won't be happy every single second of each day, but, you can put certain things in place to help bring you back to a positive state of mind whenever you start to feel down about your circumstances, or certain things going on around you.
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I always carry a book to read [one that is inspiring, or motivational]. I also keep with me a notebook and pen so I can write down the opposite of my thoughts when they become a tad gloomy. This works really well for me. Find what works for you. Have 2019 be a year to remember for [more of] the right reasons. So you choose, so it will be...


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GET RID OF BAD SKIN WITH THIS!!

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