Ally Aldridge Beauty, Makeup, Skincare, Uncategorized

Naturismo box

The Healing makeup discover box (worth £70)

Every so often Naturismo does a box with a selection of products at a steal of the price. This box was £17.95. That’s about £2.50 per item!

It a great opportunity to try new products. It’s also worth signing up to their news letter to be aware of all their offers as they constantly have a range of deals going.

Naturismo don’t have a minimum spend and shipping is always free. Plus they have a huge selection of samples. It’s one of my favourite online beauty stores.

Here’s what I got:

Dr Hauschka: Lip Gloss (raspberry)

On the brush it looks very vibrant but it’s actually a very neutral colour and give lips a glossy sheen of pink. It does feel lovely on, not tacky but sadly doesn’t last long.

Bellapierre Cosmetics: Blush (Autumn Glow)

This brand has made it to my basket many times but never the checkout, so I was really pleased to finally try it.

The blusher is very pigmented and this coral pink is too orange for my lily white skin and looks like bronzer on me. I’d describe the colour as ginger because it matches my naturally red hair.

Despite the fact the colour is not for me, the brand has lived up to my expectations. I always thought they have strong pigmented colours and saw them as the Barry M of the organic world.

Inika Organic: Certified Organic Lip Tint (Candy)

I have been looking at this brand recently and considering their face powders. It was nice to try this lip product.

I wouldn’t describe it as a tint. It’s highly hydrating and gives your lips a subtle nude look (your lips but better).

It is nice but I doubt I’ll re-buy as it is a lot like my Axicology lipstick which I prefer.

RMS Beauty: “Un” Powder

I’m already a fan of RMS products and haven’t tried this powder yet.

I was planning on buying a new face powder and was contemplating trying Jane Iredale’s SPF powder or repurchasing Lily Lolo’s setting powder.

This powder is very light. I like how the little pot came with a little sponge pouf for application. My skin feels soft and it is helping keep the shine away.

Odacite: Black Mint Cleanser

This cleanser is good for all sorts of skin complaints. I haven’t tried it as I’ve put this cute travel size cleanser in my hospital bag.

Pacifica Beauty: Stellar Gaze mascara (black)

This mascara is designed to lengthen and strengthen lashes. I really don’t notice much difference between mascaras. I do prefer black and I love Pacifica mascaras as they don’t irritate my eyes. I usually buy the waterproof one so it is nice to try a different formula from their brand.

My makeup draw now has a good selection of Pacifica products. I am a fan and will buy more of their products.

REN Skincare: Flash Defence Anti- Pollution Mist

I have been looking for a facial spray to cool me down on hot summer days and I remember how in November the labour ward was hotter than hell, so I think I need this considering I’m going to be heavily pregnant this summer and on that ward this August.

I’ve used it a few times and found it incredibly refreshing. I’m being reserved with it as I’m concerned the little bottle will get used up too quickly.

I am so happy with this product. It makes me feel good.

Estelle & Thild: Sample sachets

I’m least bothered about trying these out as I doubt their ’light’ will be light enough. However, I plan to do a review on pale foundations and will test these out and report back on where it’s light enough for the pale skinned girl.

I do love the soft colours on their packaging and this it is ever so pretty.

Verdict

I am very pleased with what I got. There all things I have been curious to try and otherwise would never have got around to it and I think the price is outstanding.

Head over to Naturismo to see their current offers on a wide range of organic brands.

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Ally Aldridge Beauty, Body Care, Skin Organics Box, Skincare, Uncategorized

Review: Skin Organics Beauty Box (May)

What is it?

Skin Organics Clean Beauty is a subscription box with a selection of non-toxic, cruelty-free, organic and natural products.  These may be skincare, body care or beauty products.  Their aim is to help you discover clean, green and cruelty-free products and brands.  They dispatch on 20th of the month.

Cost:  £19.00 (+£3.95 P&P) subscription, UK

What was in my box?

Beauty Balm

This months theme is Beauty Balm. Inside the box were seven products.

The card has details about all the products and discount codes if you decide to buy.

A.S Apothecary:  Wild Beauty Balm (website lists price at £42 for 30mls & sheet lists price as £21.00)

AS Apothecary Beauty Balm

This is an everything balm.  The brand hand make all their products using natural ingredients.  They think of the way they do this as an artistic or meditative process.  They even create bespoke products for individuals as one of their services.

Just Be Botanicals:  Loved Aromatherapy Chocolate (website & sheet lists price as £2.75)

Just Be chocolate

I’m not really a fan of dark chocolate. I think I’ll pop round to see my mum and share it with her. I’ll try a tiny piece to check if I’m missing out but I think it will be more her thing than mine.

I checked their website and they do different chocolate like milk or white (more me) and a ton of other beauty products, tea and home-ware.  They appear to be pretty big – I’m surprised I’ve never come across them.

Isla Apothecary:  Neroli Body oil (website lists price as £32 for 100mls & sheet lists price as £4.50)

Isla neroli body oil

This body oil was the winner of the Beauty Shortlist Awards 2018 for best Body Oil.  It sounds very promising and I look forward to using this as specially as one of the benefits is preventing stretch marks which is great as I am in my third trimester of pregnancy and need to improve on remembering to use a body oil.

Bodhi & Birch:  Desert Rose Facial Oil (website lists price as £38 for 15mls and sheet lists price as £9.95)

Bodhi and birch facial oil

This facial oil also won the Beauty Shortlist Awards 2018.  I do love the scent of rose so perhaps this face oil will be a winner with me too.  This oil is designed to even skin tone, boost cellular regeneration and diminish age blemishes.

Lucky Cloud:  Nourishing Cleansing Balm (website and sheet lists price as £8.00)

Lucky Cloud Cleansing Balm

This certainly looks like the sort of cleaner that I love.  I do have a few cleansers on the go at the moment so I am not sure I’ll get a chance to use it this month but I’ll try to give it a try just so I can let you know my thoughts at the end of the month.

Roques O’Neil:  Himalayan Detox Bath Salts (website and sheet lists price as £10.00 travel size)

Roques Oneil detox salts

There is a warning on website to say that this product is not safe to use during pregnancy – perhaps because it is designed to make you sleepy and pregnant women are already struggling to stay away.

However, I’ve read that a salt bath is very healing after birth so I’ll use it when I return from hospital as a little pamper.

Botany Blend:  Meru Facial (sheet lists price as £2.50 sample size)

This facial oil was the winner of the Beauty Shortlist Awards 2018 for Editors Choice.  Another award winner and appears to be suitable for all skin types for reducing aging.  I hope the sample will be enough to get a good idea of what I think of the product.

Would I recommend?

Once again this is another great box, introducing the sort of brands I want to know and use. Everything feels like good quality and was beautifully wrapped.

All the products meet the promise of clean, green and cruelty-free – so if that’s something you desire, this is a great box for you. 

All May

Reflect on previous box

I’ve had a month to use the products I received and share my thoughts.

This is how I got on using the products from my April box:

Sadly, I have been a bit stressed at work and returning home too exhausted to even pamper myself which has resulted in some products not getting used as expected.  In addition, the past two weekends my little boy has been ill which steals my time and energy.  Hopefully, June will be a better month and I’ll find a little bit of ‘me’ time.  

Wild Source:  Radiance Mask (website RRP £24.00 & sheet lists price as £15.00)

I’ve not had a chance to use this.  Mixing up a face mask whilst my little boy was being sick didn’t seem like a good idea. I feel like I’ve constantly been doing laundry this month and I forgot face masks even exist.  

Mono Naturoils: Rose & Cucumber Cleansing Oil (website & sheet lists price as £20.00)

I have used this oil almost everyday and love it.  It is a bit rich on a hot day but my skin has been less problematic when I have used it.  My skin is definitely more hydrated by this product.  

Mono Naturoils:   Facial Steam (This trial size is a gift from the founder of Mono. No price is given.)

I still haven’t had a chance to use this.  I have been a little stressed at work this month and it has resulted in me being too tired to even pamper myself.  I really want to use it and I got as far as taking it to the kettle.

Naissance:  Certified Organic Rosehip Oil (website & sheet list price as £8.99)

I haven’t used it.  I don’t feel I need it at the moment so it is just sitting in my bathroom cabinet until I do.

Green People:  Quinoa & Calendula Shower Gel  (website RRP £9.99 (100ml), £4.00 on the sheet for sample size)

I have used this every time I’ve had a shower.  I can’t decide if I like the smell or not but it is friendly to my skin.  I’d definitely try other Green People products but doubt I’ll replace this one when it is used up.  

Anita Grant:  Vanilla Cocoa Body Butter Sample (website & sheet RRP £3.45 for 15g sample size)

I can’t use this.  It smells too edible and makes me hungry.  I really like the brand, it has a very luxurious feel to the products and I am keen to check out more they have to offer.

Anita Grant:  Coconut Rosewood Dry Oil (website & sheet RRP £2.99 for 15ml)

Maybe this product is the reason my skin is looking so good.  Every time my skin looks a little stressed I’ve dabbed a little of this oil on.  It feels lovely on my skin.  I wasn’t sure I’d have a need for this but I really love it and would buy again.  Did I mention how good it smells?  Mmm….

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Ally Aldridge Beauty, Body Care, Makeup, Pip Box, Uncategorized

Review: The Pip Box (May)

What is The Pip Box?

It’s a cruelty free beauty subscription box and contains a selection of five products – skincare, body care, makeup and occasionally a sweet treat too.  Plus, a 50p donation from the sale of each box goes to an animal friendly charity (Animal Free Research).    In addition, you earn loyalty points for each purchase which can then be used for money off future boxes.

Cost:  £13.50 (+£3.95 P&P) subscription, UK

Refer a friend scheme:  Every time you refer three friends, you get a free The Pip Box.  If you’d like to sign up, use my friend link:  https://www.thepipbox.co.uk/refer/Aliso-SJFXKEDD

The Pip Box - The Spring Edit

What was in my box?

The box came with an information card to tell me all about the products inside and their value.

Conscious Skincare: Shampoo (sheet lists price as £3.99)

Conscious Skincare: Conditioner (sheet lists price as £3.99)

Conscious Skincare - Shampoo and conditioner

I can’t find either the shampoo or the conditioner on their website so I am assuming that they are new products (there are other scents available though).

The product clearly states that if you are pregnant you should consult your doctor before use!  This is a bit alarming but at least they are clear about this rather that hide the information away.  As I am currently pregnant, I won’t be trying this product this month. Instead, I plan to put it in my hospital bag to use after delivery as they are both a handy travel size.

MoYou: Nail Plate, Stamp & Scraper (sheet lists price as £9.99)

MoYou - Kaleidoscopic Stamping Nail Art Plate collection

I am really excited to give this a go.  I feel need to buy another colour polish like white or gold to be the print as all my current polishes are very ‘samey’.  After pay day, I guess I’ll have to treat myself to a new nail polish.

Bloomtown: Roll on infused oil (sheet lists price as £4.80)

IMG_8893

I already have a few products by this brand. They donate 10% of their profits to environmental and social causes.  The brand is from Cornwall, UK and started in 2016 and already winning awards for their products.

I had quick sniff and it smells lovely.  It reminds me of my favourite Rose perfume by Acorelle (I don’t recommend them for their sun-care products).  I love how affordable Bloomtown make their products and how ethical the brand is.  I can’t wait to start using this product.

 

Glo By Glory:  Semi Matte Liquid Lipstick (website & sheet lists price as £16.99)

img_8894.jpg

The brand is from America and all the prices are in dollars.  One of the first things they say is ‘We are feminine’ but they also say their products are for men.  They are vegan and cruelty the free.

The lipstick is available in 4 shades, the shade I have is Sugar Dumpling (described as a dusty rose nude).  I’ve tried it on and it is a very dark brown against my pale skin and a bit messy and unforgiving. I’ll keep trying it to see if I get better with practice and looks better with a full face of makeup.  I’ll also test how well it stays on.

 

Reflect on previous box

This is how I got on using the products from my April box:

The Konjac Sponge Co:  Body Sponge (website RRP £29.00, Sheet lists price as £11.99)

I never would have though to buy a sponge or that I would love it so much but this is the best sponge I have ever used.  Even my 4 year old could tell the quality and insist on using this in the shower over his fun character flannels.  I plan on buying the whole family one each.

Weleda: Evening Primrose Body Oil (website RRP £24.95 full size, Sheet lists price as £3.99 sample size)

I haven’t used it.  I have do have a lot of body oils on the go at the moment and really appreciate the travel size of this sample.  I am putting it in my maternity bag for use after my shower in hospital.

FRUU: Colour Balm in Strawberry (website & sheet lists price as £4.99)

I’ve been using this almost every day.  It is moisturising and fun to have a pop of colour. The pink-coral shade is a little bright for me but the colour doesn’t last long.  I will use it up but if I rebuy, I will try a different shade (there is 8 to choose from).

Balade En Provence: Apple Hand Cream (website & sheet lists price as £9.99)

This smells so good.  I haven’t used it much as I neglect caring for my hands.  I’m sure that once the baby is here and I’m cleaning my hands after nappy changes, this will be in regular use.  I also love the cute apple design of the pot and decided that it would make a lovely gift for my sons key workers at nursery as he graduates this summer and my little boy will start school in September.

Peony Cosmetics: Pink Glow Luminizing Stick (website RRP $22.00, sheet lists price as £16.99)

This product is fine but I have really pale skin and the colour just doesn’t show up on me.  I’ve had this problem with other highlighters.  I’ve used it a few times as it has a very subtle shimmer on my skin but isn’t light enough to highlight for me.  It is friendly to my skin – no irritation or doing weird stuff like flaking – so I think if you have darker skin then this could be great for you.

 

Would I recommend?

I continue to subscribe to The Pip Box and really like the reward scheme, supporting a charity and discovering more cruelty free brands.

I am disappointed that I cannot use the shampoo and conditioner because I am pregnant but I’ll stick them in my hospital bag as they are a good travel size.  I’m most excited this month about trying trying the nail art as I never give my hands any attention – I’ll try to take some pics on how I get on.

The Pip Box

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Ally Aldridge Books, Review, Uncategorized

My Top 5 Board Books

TOP 5 BOARD BOOKS.png

This review is based on board books I bought for my son. I have borrowed similar books from the library but these are my own.

Board books have thick cardboard pages throughout making them very hardy.  Don’t give them to a teething baby because they can turn the cardboard to pulp! These books are great to enable your little one to build confidence in books and turning the pages.

Guess How Much I Love You

Author:  Sam McBratney

Illustrator:  Anita Jeram

This story is a classic and an excellent bedtime read. Little hare is coming up with ways to express how much he/she loves big hare. Big hare keeps coming up with something bigger. It’s where the saying ”I love you to the moon… And back” comes from.

No Matter What

Author:  Debi Gliori

If you’ve had a tough day with your little one, this is a great story about how ’no matter what’ you always love them. It’s also ideal for parents that can’t always be with their child as the last page has a beautiful message about wherever you are, you still love them.

Peace At Last

Author:  Jill Murphy

This story follows Mr Bear trying to get to sleep but everywhere is noisy. My son loved the different sounds in the story and joined in with the repetitive ”Oh no, I can’t stand THIS!”

The Snail and the Whale/Room on the Broom (box set)

Author:  Julia Donaldson

Illustrator:  Axel Scheffler

This set contains two Julia Donaldson books and would make a great gift for a child.  Her stories have a great rhyme which children enjoy hearing and a good story.

This book follows a snail that tours the world with a whale.  There are some beautiful images illustrating how vast the world is and the different climates of different countries.  When the whale gets beached, the snail saves the day – teaching that no matter how small you are, you can make a difference.

This story follows a witch that keeps dropping her things from her broom.  As she hunts for her belongings she makes new friends who join her on the broom. These friends save her when she gets into trouble with a dragon who’d like to eat her with chips. She then makes a truly magnificent broom to accommodate them all.

*****

Have you read any of these?  Is there a board book that you think I need to add to my collection – I’d love to hear your recommendations.

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Ally Aldridge Beauty, Body Care, Makeup, Pip Box, Uncategorized

Review: The Pip Box (April)

What is The Pip Box?

It is a beauty subscription box with a selection of cruelty free products.  The box contains a selection of five products – skincare, body care, makeup and occasionally a sweet treat too.A donation from the cost of the box goes to an animal friendly charity (This month is Animal Free Research).    In addition, you earn loyalty points for each purchase which can then be used for money off future boxes.

Cost:  £13.50 (+£3.95 P&P) subscription, UK

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April’s The Pip Box unboxing ?

A post shared by Author Ally Aldridge (@redfae) on

What was in my box?

The box came with an information card to tell me all about the products inside and their value.

The Konjac Sponge Co:  Body Sponge (website RRP £29.00, Sheet lists price as £11.99)

This wasn’t an easy product to photograph. It’s also a product you would not expect to have won so many awards but this sponge has!

It 100% natural, biodegradable and despite being gentle it is able to deliver a deep cleanse and boost circulation.

This sounds amazing and I’m putting it in my shower right away.

Weleda: Evening Primrose Body Oil (website RRP £24.95 full size, Sheet lists price as £3.99 sample size)

I really like this brand as they’ve been creating natural products for a long time now.

It’s described as being ideal for dry/mature skin. I’m hoping that it’s going to prove beneficial for a growing pregnant tummy. I don’t suffer with stretch marks but I am living oils at the moment as a precaution.

FRUU: Colour Balm in Strawberry (website & sheet lists price as £4.99)

Wow, I wasn’t expecting the balm to be so pigmented. It’s like a lipstick but really soothing, nourishing and smells delicious.

I love the colour but saw there are more shades to try on their site! This is a brand I’ve not heard of before and pleased to discover.

Balade En Provence: Apple Hand Cream (website & sheet lists price as £9.99)

This is another new brand to me. That produce vegan skincare with natural ingredients. I think they are relatively new as there is currently only two products.

I love the cute ’apple’ shaped jar the hand cream comes in. The other product they do is a pear hand cream in a pear jar. I’m excited to try this product to see if it is as good as not looks and I want to leave it out somewhere so I can show it off to guests.

Peony Cosmetics: Pink Glow Luminizing Stick (website RRP $22.00, sheet lists price as £16.99)

It uses natural ingredients (92%), gluten free, paraben free and cruelty free.

The product had fallen out the tube when I first got it out the box. I pushed it back in the shaft and it fixed it. *phew*

The only highlighter I currently have is my RMS one and it’s almost run out. This will be a useful addition to my makeup. I’ll let you know how I get on.

Reflect on previous box

This is how I got on using the products from my March box:

Dr Botanicals:  Tropical Invigorating Cream (website RRP £29.00, Sheet lists price as £44.00)

This really light moisturizer has been a joy to use on those really hot days.  I do find I have to be ever so careful squeezing the tube as the gentlest touch will release a generous amount – either that or I am very heavy handed.  I still can’t get over how beautiful it is. I love seeing this tube in bathroom cabinet.

Saturated Colour:  Make Me Matt (website and sheet RRP £8.00) and Moisturising Lipstick – Naked Pink (website and sheet RRP £7.00)

I’ve found the ‘Make Me Matt’ quite dry so I haven’t really used it much. It is a useful product to hang onto for any occasion when I need to make a lipstick have a matt lip. However, I have been wearing the lipstick on its own, most days.  I really like the colour. It is a strong pink and very pretty.

Okko Skincare:  ‘Try me’ Natural foot balm stick (£21.00 RRP for 50g on the website, £3 on the sheet for 4.5g ‘try me’ size)

I don’t really suffer with cracked heels so I haven’t felt the need to use this product much but it was a lovely treat.  I still think I have another use left in the ‘try me’ size, I will use it again.

Raw-Ganic:  Refreshing Aloe and Green Tea Facial Wipes (£2.99 on the sheet and website)

I was planning to save these for my maternity bag but I really like it.  Especially, when I am tired at the long day and can’t be bothered to spend ages in the bathroom – I just want to go to bed. These are so quick and easy and have a nice gentle smell.  I will be buying this product again.

Would I recommend?

I am a regular subscriber to The Pip Box and never been disappointed by the contents.  I really like the new reward scheme, supporting a charity and discovering more cruelty free brands.

The hand cream looks really cute. I’ve tried the highlighter and lip balm and they are beautiful universal colours that would suit most people. I can see myself using all these products. I am really happy with what I got.

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Ally Aldridge Beauty, Body Care, Skin Organics Box, Skincare, Uncategorized

Review: Skin Organics Beauty Box

What is it?

Skin Organics Clean Beauty is a subscription box with a selection of non-toxic, cruelty-free, organic and natural products.  These may be skincare, body care or beauty products.  Their aim is to help you discover clean, green and cruelty-free products and brands.  They dispatch on 20th of the month.

Cost:  £19.00 (+£3.95 P&P) subscription, UK

This is my second subscription to this box.

I have created a video to go with this post but it’s my first attempt and I think it needs a little edit before putting on YouTube. My plan is to figure out ‘how’ this weekend and update my post then. Sorry for the delay. Here is my written first impressions:

What was in my box?

Radiance

This months theme is Radiance. Inside the box was seven products!

The card has details about all the products and discount codes if you decide to buy.

Mono Naturoils

There were two products by this brand. Their products are cruelty free, vegan, zero waste, and the purest ingredients from the earth. The ingredients are botanical and infused with energy from crystals. For customers they have a loyalty program and free shipping.

Rose & Cucumber Cleansing Oil (website & sheet lists price as £20.00)

I’ve always wanted to try a cleansing oil as I’ve heard that contrary to logic that it can be good for acne prone skin. However, I’ve never got around to putting the theory to the test.

Since receiving the oil I’ve switched to give it a try and so far I like it.

Facial Steam (This trial size is a gift from the founder of Mono. No price is given.)

I haven’t tried this yet but I do get clogged skin so I think a steam will be really good for my face. I’m looking forward to giving this a go soon.

Wildsource Apothecary

Built on an understanding of aromatherapy, these botanical products use natural ingredients. The website hosted a number of interesting looking products that are very tempting.

Radiance Mask (website RRP £24.00 & sheet lists price as £15.00)

I almost tried this after my bath but I must confess, I am not great at mixing my own masks. I tend to get inpatient with adding water and then make them too runny. I will try and do it this month and share my thoughts.

Naissance

This brand provides ingredients to make your own organic beauty products (and sets to get your started). These oils come with a card with three uses and one is a serum recipe.

Certified Organic Rosehip Oil (website & sheet list price as £8.99)

I already have an Oil by this brand and found it to be of good quality. It smells just like an oil so I think they honestly don’t add anything to it – you really are getting what you pay for.

Green People

For a long time I’ve wanted to try this brand but never got around to buying it. They are all organic and worked with soil association to create a recognised standard for other brands to aspire to. They are ethical and support charities. Cruelty free.

Quinoa & Calendula Shower Gel  (website RRP £9.99 (100ml), 4.00 on the sheet for sample size)

I haven’t yet used this as I wanted to get some nice pics before jumping in the shower with it. It is SLS free (as are all their products), paraben free and a whole list of free from synthetic ingredients. The natural ingredients are all added for a reason such as Quinoa to lock in moisture.

Anita Grant

There were two generous sample size products in this box. The brand is….

Vanilla Cocoa Body Butter Sample (website & sheet RRP £3.45 for 15g sample size)

This body butter is sensitive enough to use on babies and suitable for pregnant women to treat stretch marks.

It has a very strong rich chocolate smell. The body butter is very moisturising and becomes oil like when it warms up. I really liked the texture but found the smell a little much for me. I’d be interested in trying it again with another scent.

Coconut Rosewood Dry Oil (website & sheet RRP £2.99 for 15ml)

The dried rose floating inside makes it feel special and pretty. This is suitable for combination and dry skin. It also can be used on your hair. I really like the smell. It’s early days but so far I’m very fond of this product and have been using it on my face to treat problem areas.

Would I recommend?

Once again this is another great box, introducing the sort of brands I want to know and use. Everything feels like good quality and was beautifully wrapped.

All the products meet the promise of clean, green and cruelty-free – so if that’s something you desire, this is a great box for you. 

Reflect on previous box

I’m going to include a new part to my article where I look back at the previous months box to see how I got on with the contents. I hope you find it useful.

This is how I got on using the products from my March box:

Apothaka:  Rejuvenating face oil – normal/combination skin (website RRP £19.50, Sheet lists price as £19.95)

I haven’t used this as much as I though I would.  It’s been so hot, I’ve wanted something lighter than an oil.

NKnaturals London:  Delicate – Healing Cleansing Balm (website RRP £25.00 for 60ml, Sheet lists price as £15.00 for 30ml)

This was being used every day and my skin loves it. I only stopped when it got so hot and I desired a lighter cleanser (a gel one). I am still using it to remove eye makeup as it is so gentle on my skin. I like the strong honey and lemon smell.

The Salt Parlour:  Calm – Salt and Sulphur Scrub (Rose and Shea Butter) (£15.00 RRP for 200g on the website, £5.90 on the sheet for 60g tin)

I keep forgetting I have this but when I did use it I was really impressed. I don’t usually like scrubs but this is the best one I’ve ever used.

North-burN:  Revive – Luxury Bathing Salts (Orange, Lavender and Palmarosa (£4.00 on the sheet)

I still have not used this product as I am saving it for after I have my baby (in August) as salt baths are a great way of healing after labour.

Beauty Kubes – Organic shampoo for normal to dry hair  (£1.00 on the sheet)

They now have a video on their website showing you how to use these kubes.  I think they are a really affordable and eco-friendly way of shampooing your hair and will think about repurchasing them in future.

Ally plus text

Ally Aldridge Uncategorized

Day 6 – Motherhood

Today is my day off

But I won’t get to relax

I’m up early with my son

Arguing with him

Until he’s clothed and fed

We need to dash out the door

But he won’t cooperate

won’t put on his shoes

Won’t put on his coat

He won’t do a damn thing I want

We begin a battle of wills

To the post office to collect a parcel

He tries to run into the road and around the car park

I strap him into his car seat

And sigh with relief

He wasn’t interested in the farm

Took him there to have some fun

We try making slime together but he throws it at me and sometimes I wonder..

Why do I

even bother?

He argues with me whilst I drive

Says I’m going the wrong way

We’re going home – I snap at him

He screams he wants to visit his nan

I turn the radio up

He throws his stuff on the floor

Before I’ve even closed the door

We’re home

I’m shattered

But still can’t rest

I said no sweets but he’s found some

I said no crisps but he’s got them too

You’ll spoil you lunch – I confiscate

He tells me he won’t eat

He doesn’t want a healthy plate

We fight defining healthy meals

And snacks are not allowed

He thinks I’m being mean

He’s not talking to me now

I cry

I know it’s silly

But I try so hard to be a good mum

I make his lunch

Relief as he eats

I eat too

There’s so much still to be done

I start to tidy up the rooms

Tomorrow we’re having a party

I’ve also got food to prepare

I’m getting

nowhere

As quickly as I put away

He’s getting it all back out

I try to negotiate

If you help me by being tidy

You can have it all back

Sweets

Crisps

Kindle

iPad

Reluctantly he helps

Even putting things away in draws

I’m too tired to make food

I’m going to buy ready made

Still need to get out to the shops

But I’m shattered

I need to

Stop

Day 6 – Challenge

Today’s challenge for Day 6 “Today, we’d like to challenge you to write a poem that stretches your comfort zone with line breaks. That could be a poem with very long lines, or very short lines. Or a poem that blends the two. You might break to emphasize (or de-emphasize) sounds or rhymes, or to create a moment of hesitation in the middle of a thought.”

I really didn’t like this challenge. It might be because I’m too busy to give it the thought needed. I hope you forgive my attempt.

So busy…

I tried to give the challenge a go despite having a chaotic day and a little boy that doesn’t want to comply. He’s very strong willed and he doesn’t understand why I ask him to do things he doesn’t want to do like eat cereal or brush his teeth. I try to get him out the house otherwise he would spend all day on the kindle or iPad (or asking for them). I promise he’s not a bad boy. We did enjoy making slime together despite him throwing it at me.

As I’m so busy today I could only focus on one thing at a time and that is getting everything sorted for the party. I hope it goes well tomorrow and that you are having a happy stress-free weekend.

back to party prep…

Ally Aldridge Uncategorized

Day 3 – Romance Title

Pintrest - Poem April 3.pngForbidden love

Opposites attract

Fire and ice

The kissing app

 

Secret desires

The millionaire

Rose and thorns

Chuck and Blair

 

Passionate encounter

Hot summer nights

An unlikely pair

A lovers plight

 

Two become one

Secrets of the manor

A promise made

Bad boys banter

 

Alpha promised

Pirates bounty

Bewitched master

Across the county

 

Day 3’s challenge

For Day 3 the challenge was to write a poem using band names or book titles (you can make them up).

I wasn’t sure what to make of today’s theme but as a fan of a good romance novel, I thought maybe I could come up with something decent to do with their titles…

I’ve not had much time today so glad I managed to get this post done on time.

Romance writers connect

Here’s the pic from Instagram I am trying figure out how to ‘Regram’ without loosing the rules:

View this post on Instagram

Repost @the_design_series This is such a great idea! Looking forward to connecting #amwriting Romance junkies, let's connect and support each other! Let's grow our platforms, inspire one another, and cheer each other on as we work toward our dreams. Are you writing any kind of romance? Then this is for you! Let's be friends. ….. 1. Tap #romancewritersconnect and follow everyone who has shared this image! 2. Comment ❤️ under their photo. If you do not comment, we do not follow back. 3. Tag @thevelynlux and/or a writer you love! @authorkayblake 4. Repost to keep the follow fun going! Follow for follow. Unfollowing means you get unfollowed. Plus, we're trying to make REAL writer friends here! Allow 24 hours for a follow back. ….. Inspiration for this loop: #writersfollowwriters by @stephmignon ❤️ ….. #romancewritersconnect #followromancewriters #followloop #followme #followforfollow #amwriting #amwritingromance #writersofig #instawriter #followtrain #writersofinstagram #worktogether

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Ally Aldridge Beauty, Body Care, Uncategorized

Spring clean, Going green

I didn’t grow up with makeup and, traditionally, I would only wear mascara and tinted lip balm at the weekend. At college, I started experimenting with colours and wearing the palest foundation I could afford, but was still a tad orange for me.

A love of make up

I was twenty and in my second job when I visited a Lancome counter for the first time.  The woman did my make-up and I was amazed at the transformation.  I promptly bought as much as I could and vowed to return. Their foundation was the closest match to pale skin and their skincare felt amazing; plus, they had deals giving away free stuff with purchases or big discounts.

For years, Lancome was my counter of choice and occasionally I would try other brands like Estee Lauder, Bobbi Brown or YSL.

Changing thoughts

I read an article about an ingredient in lipstick that causes cancer. I checked my tubes of Lancome and discovered it was present. I searched for reassurance that in small amounts it would cause no harm – this was the start of me questioning my products.

The next occasion was a girl at work who was very vocal on raising awareness of animal cruelty. She’d share horrific pictures and stories of what the beauty industry and meat industry does to animals. I started paying attention to whether brands I bought were cruelty-free and discovered many leading brands sell in China – they have a law enforcing products must be tested on animals. Sadly, many of my favourite brands were trading in China and I realized they must have allowed this to happen in order to sell there.

The final change was when I discovered my toddler sitting among a cracked pallet of eyeshadow by Pixi Beauty, finger holes in my Bobbi Brown foundation and a red-smeared face covered in Benefit’s Benetint (I suspect he had tried eating it). I was in a blind panic that he could be poisoned by my make up. I cleaned him up and realised it was time to clean up my beauty choices.

Hanging onto the baddies

Changing to clean beauty products wasn’t going to be an overnight transformation. On maternity pay (then returning to work on part-time hours), I didn’t have the funds to overhaul my makeup or skincare in one go. It was a slow gradual process.

To start, I held onto all my products. There was some trial and error in finding what worked for me as many brands are online so ordering them was a gamble. More brands are now offering affordable samples making it more cost effective to experiment. With my successes, my old brands started to get replace and the old products relocated to a box for emergencies – I was still scared to throw them out.

https://instagram.com/p/BfBWXfDhRNs/

https://instagram.com/p/BfDaJPyBayK/

Fresh start

We recently got our bathroom refitted. I had to clear everything out for the workmen to rip out our old suite and put in our new bathroom.

This finally gave me the push to say goodbye to my baddies that we’re gathering dust and out of date. I only put back the products I use that are cruelty-free and most are chemical free too.

Now, I open my bathroom cabinet and smile…

https://instagram.com/p/Bgj2bnrjP5s/