If I Stay: film review

I first read If I Stay before I knew it was becoming a film, which I'm so glad because I had no pre-expectations and I didn't picture the characters as anything other than from my own imagination. When I saw the trailer I actually was really surprised- I never pictured Mia as blonde!

When my friends suggested a trip the cinema I begged them to come with me to see If I Stay. They agreed, and it was only released in the UK on the 29th (the day I'm writing this review) so I know not many people will have seen it yet.

I actually really enjoyed this. It was pretty true to the book and I'm so glad they kept the ending and events the same (this probably had something to do with the fact that Gayle Forman was a producer) and I liked the casting. I feel like Teddy had a smaller role than in the book and Adam had a much, much bigger one.

I will say that the film was much more centred around Adam and Mia as opposed to Mia and her family. Ah I suppose that's Hollywood tho right? I also think because the book is relatively short, there was a few additions which avid fans of the book may not like.

Having said all this it was a beautiful film which really tugged on the heart strings. Fans of the books won't be disappointed and I also have to mention the soundtrack- I will definitely be downloading it from iTunes!

Rating- 4/5

Have you seen If I Stay? What do you think? 

xxx 

Matilda

I love musical theatre. Like, ridiculous amounts. I have more iPod playlists dedicated to musicals than anything else.

My exams finished on the 19th, and so on the 20th of June my Mum and I set off for the Cambridge theatre. I had heard a few songs from Matilda and heard amazing reviews so I was so so excited. The entire theatre is so beautiful, with the entire interior dedicated to building the atmosphere of a school and childhood.

It wasn't until we got to the door that my Mum revealed we were in a box. I was so excited- I've never been in one before and it made the evening even more special. Before we sat down, the usher told us that during the first act, actors would come into the box. I literally nearly had a heart attack when I heard that!

Our view was really good, we were slightly to the side but I wouldn't say it made much of a difference. The set is so beautiful with tiles of letters everywhere.

The songs in this musical are amazing, the child actors are so so talented it's unreal, and the plot itself is really good. However, I think my favourite thing is how interactive it is, with the actors running in the aisles frequently. Without giving too much away, the actors came into our box, and it was totally amazing to be that close to them and to really feel like part of the show.

 If you do get a chance to go, I would recommend the stalls and the box seats. I think you will have a much more enjoyable experience. I can't wait to go again!

Beautiful Blush Palette

I have a naturally pale complexion, so blush is a must for me in order to add some colour to my face. However, I'm pretty boring when it comes to blush and I tend to stick to quite dull colours such as pale pink. 

I was recently browsing instagram when I saw this blush palette, and so I looked it up on ebay (it's only sold on ebay btw before you judge me and think I'm some tramp). The blush doesn't have a brand, but it's honestly amazing :)

I was amazed at how good quality this is considering it's less than a fiver, and the blusher's are so pigmented! I also love the range of colours. I'm quite dull when it comes to blusher, so having the more reddy/orangey/coral tones should encourage me to experiment more. 

The link is here- blush palette 

xxx

Author Profile: Mitch Albom

I first read "The Five People You Meet in Heaven" and absolutely loved it, and since then Mitch Albom has become one of my favourite writers.

Of his books, I have read "The Five People You Meet in Heaven" "The Timekeeper" (which was incredible) and "For One More Day". I have "Have A Little Faith" on my bookshelf so I will be reading that soon!

I study Philosophy and Ethics and Mitch Albom's books study topics which I find really interesting, such as the concept of time, religious faith and the afterlife. I also love that he doesn't try to force beliefs on people, and his attitude just seems to be "this is what I think, give it a read!"

I just think his books are really unique and always make me think, as well as teaching important values about family and friendship. They're always really easy to read and I find that I get through them really quickly, which I much prefer than slogging through a long book for weeks on end.


For more of me talking/clicking about books check out my goodreads- https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/17677006-alexandra

Benefit

Every month my Mum get's sent a box of freebies, and often I'm lucky enough to get the things she doesn't like! This month she got some things from Benefit, and I was desperate to get my hands on some of their products. Benefit is a tad too pricey for my budget, so the chance of free items to sample was incredibly exciting.


First, the "They're Real" mascara. This is in shops for around £20 so although I'm dying to try it, I haven't been able to afford it. I highly rate this mascara, it makes my lashes really long and look so thick. It also is easily removed with my regular make up remover wipes and stays on for a very long time without smudging. I know it's pricey, but if you're willing to splash the cash this is definitely worth it!


Secondly, the "It's Potent" eye cream. This is to help get rid of dark circles under your eyes (of which I have many, cheers A Levels). I apply this morning and evening, and I have already seen results! My dark circles are already fading, and when my tiny pot runs out I think I'll have to splurge on the full sized item. If you have dark circles and want them gone, try this. It's working for me!

Lovely lips

(I apologize for my carpet)

So if there's anything I hate, it's dry, cracked lips. Therefore I spent quite a lot of time (and money) searching out the best lip products to make my lips smooth and in top top condition!

From left to right- Lush Lip Scrub (Bubblegum), EOS (Strawberry), Fresh Sugar Lip Tint (Rose), Cath Kidston Lipbalm (Bluebell)

Lush Lip Scrub- This is absolutely perfect for getting rid of dry skin on your lips. Once used, apply your favourite lipbalm. It also tastes so sweet and delicious that I have to stop myself from eating it! Also, it's only about £5 a pot, and lasts forever. Seriously, I've had mine about five months, and I used regularly, and I've only made a dent in my pot. Definitely a must have in my make up bag

EOS- I was curious about these, as I have only heard good things. I got two, the Strawberry and Blueberry and I adore them both. I can't leave the house without one, and they are essential for anyone who wants smooth, moisturised lips! My friends are always stealing them, so I'll have to buy some more soon!

Sugar Tint- This not only smells and makes your lips super soft, but it is great at giving some colour. I use this as my regular "lipstick" as it is perfect at making my lips a soft pink, that's great for an everyday look.

Cath Kidston- I was a little sceptical about this at first, but oh my gosh it is probably one of the best lipbalms I've used. It makes your lips sooo soft it's unbelievable. It is such a handy size, and lasts a really long time.

So those are my highly recommended lip products. What are your favourites?