Wednesday 30 May 2012


The worst blogger award goes to.... drum roll please. 
Tanja Aden. 

I am so sorry. Literally every night last week I was in bed by 830 and asleep by 9. I have been so worn out it's not even funny. I've wanted to blog everyday when I got home and made note to actually do it and then I'd get home and my bed just looked so comfy. 

Nothing that exciting has been happening in Tanja world but here are few Instagrams to catch you up. 



I've been eating alot of Salmon. A friend K* commented on my instagram and asked if I could be her cook. Y'all this is so simple.

Pre-heat the oven to about 200C Start with a sheet of aluminum foil. Place the fresh salmon in the middle of the aluminum. Sprinkle with your preffered spice. I used a curry spice with a bit of paprika.

Wrap the salmon in like a parcel place in the oven on the rack for about 10-12 minutes.

For the roasted vegetables (above I used Carrots, Parsnip and Zucchini).

Peeled and cut into small pieces. Steamed the veg so they were just remotely soft then drizzled olive oil over them and then placed them in a glass baking dish with some sea salt into the oven to roast.

Viola. You can also pre cook and then use the next day as seen above with butterbeans, olives and beetroot for my lunch.


 Suns out which equals running outside, bare legged dresses, snails and ofcourse summery berries.


Went out with some friends on Saturday. Here's a snippet from before we went out. I have such a good little husband. Since he arrives home 2 hours before I do he does the dishes and laundry and tidies everything. It's so lovely coming home to such a clean house. Spoiled.com


Right lunch break is over. Fingers crossed I can do another blog post tonight that I had planned. Have a lovely day!

Monday 28 May 2012

Music Mondays

Good afternoon everybody. It's Hannah again...
Wow this weather is pretty special right now in England. Turning frowns upside down, likewise I hope to bring you some super nice music as per usual.

First up, the wonderful Marques Toliver - White Sails














Former Brooklyn soul busker is used to gracing the streets of New York with his enormity of talent, however just a few years ago, Toliver was sleeping on sofas, determined to make something of a music career.

A turn of luck came his way when he was spotted busking by Kyp Malone from TV on the Radio. This led to Toliver's first session and now, sharing the stage with Lianne La Havas and championed by the likes of Adele, I see a bright future ahead. Infact, Adele has referred to him as her new favourite artist, declaring she's obsessed already and to tell you the truth, I couldn't agree more.

Toliver's roots are mainly classical with his trusty violin forming his main instrument, accompanied by his rich and soulful vocals. However, it's rather hard to label his sound, with elements of bluesy folk and hints of a gospel background. Since his appearance on Jools Holland in 2010, Marques has gained quite a following and will be making his rounds on the festival circuit this Summer.

The dreamy, melancholy sounds of  'White Sails' form the title track to Marques Toliver's demo, released in October 2010.



2. Emily & The Woods - Steal His Heart
















Hailing from West London, Emily is the eldest daughter of an art therapist mother and musician father. Having grown up listening to an array of folk, jazz, blues and soul, her influences range from the likes of Tracy Chapman, Bill Withers and Fionn Regan.

At the young age of 20, Emily recorded her first demos along with Laura Marling, half way through her current studies at University. Since, Emily has supported the likes of Ben Howard, Ed Sheeran, Lucy Rose and The Staves and has gained quite the following and accreditation her music so rightly deserves.

Lending her mesmeric vocals to Bombay Bicycle Club tracks the haunting, yet delicate sounds of Emily & The Woods continue to gain airplay on BBC 6 Music and many other stations. Having played Glastonbury, Blissfields and many more, Emily will be soon gracing stages across the Summer festival season.  The latest EP is produced by Patrick Wood and featuring Ted Dwane of Mumford & Sons is available now on iTunes.


3. Rae Morris - Don't Go

















Rae Morris is an exceptional young singer-songwriter from Blackpool. Having learnt piano from a young age, Rae stumbled across a voice, she never knew she had. Expressing maturity way beyond her years.

Having finished her A levels, the nineteen year old has since been writing and playing gigs, mainly around Preston and Manchester. With music so raw and fresh with a talent so strong, Rae Morris continues to grow from strength to strength. Having landed the support for Michael Kiwanuka at Bush Hall, London last year I expect this is a name you'll be hearing a lot more of. Remember, you heard it here first!!!


4. Willis Earl Beal - Evening's Kiss






















Born and raised in Chicago, Beal joined the US Army in his early twenties however, was medically discharged due to intestinal problems. Following a five month hospital stay he returned to Chicago, to work at Sears Towers. In 2007, Beal moved to New Mexico and found himself homeless, working several low level jobs. It was during this time that Beal began to record music, leaving self-illustrated flyers and CD-R's around town.

This year, Beal signed a recording contract with independent record label, XL Recordings. Evening's Kiss was released on February 17 and is Beal's first single for the label. Full of soul and poetric dramas,  this rough recording, was recorded via. cassette and kareoke machine.


5. Alex Clare - Too Close (Unplugged)















Now while I am a sucker for all things folk, as I am sure you're aware... there's nothing I love more however, than winding down the windows, sun shining, music blaring, to a funky high temp beat.

Step aside Alex Clare. Sensational British singer songwriter. Born and raised in London, Clare grew up on a foundation of jazz and was drawn to the likes of Stevie Wonder and Donny Hathaway's blues and soul sounds. Having taken up both the trumpet and drums as a youngster, Clare began an interest in drum and bass and UK garage, before eventually lending his talents to guitar and songwriting. 

His debut album, The Lateness of the Hour, was released in July 2011, produced by Mike Spencer and Major Lazer. Having intially experienced a flop in his debut release, Clare was dropped from Universal  Island. However, his recent success comes fresh of the back of his song, 'Too Close' featuring in an Internet Explorer 9 commercial. 

This has spiralled Clare into new found fame and following the commercial airing, the song debuted at no.68 on the US Billboard Hot 100. On May 16, the song peaked at no. 4 in the UK Singles Chart.  Pioneered by the likes of Reggie Yates and Fearne Cotton, Clare continues to gain success and his album is definitely one to listen to this summer. 

His acoustic version of current single, 'Too Close' is my last pick for this post and can be viewed on the following link... 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OuvdzBt64RQ


That's all for now. Have a great week. 
Hannah 

[edit]

Tuesday 22 May 2012

Music Mondays

Happy Monday!
Hope the sun is shining wherever you are, I aim to bring you a little more brightness on a mundane Monday with some new songs... here goes. Hope you enjoy.

First up, the magnificent Josh Osho - Redemption Days.




















This young singer songwriter had his debut TV appearance here in the UK last Friday and it's safe to say had me reeled in, hook, line and sinker! At just 20 years of age, Josh Osho hailing from South London has life experiences twice his age. At the start of 18, Josh won an online talent competition and since, has taken part in TV series, 'The Debutantes'. All of which have seen Osho gain and develop his endless musical abilities. Reminiscent of Ben Harper and John Mayer, Osho came to the attention of Island Records in 2011, the name behind late Amy Winehouse and Frankmusik. His debut single 'Redemption Days' was performed on the prestigious spot on Later With Jools Holland last week and is due for release on 25 July 2011.

Described as an 'unplugged Seal', the hip-hop Beatles esque, husky vocals are not ones to miss.
Having already toured with Emeli Sande and Rizzle Kicks I am fairly certain we will be hearing a lot of this young artist in the upcoming years and frankly, I cannot wait. PS. His cover of Kanye West, 'Jesus Walks' is utterly sublime, be sure to check it out.



2. The Secret Sisters - 'Tennessee Me'

















Alabama siblings, Laura and Lydia Rogers are a traditional country duo, with idyllic harmonies and acapella interludes reminisicent of the likes of The Staves and First Aid Kit. The sisters never dreamt of singing in a duo as a career, with Laura pursuing a degree in business and Lydia, considered the "real singer" within the family. However, it was when Lydia travelled to Nashville, Tennessee for an impromptu audition that the sisters received the recognition they so rightly deserve. Shortly after they were flown to LA to record in the studio for the first time, with record companies responding and within weeks they were signed to Universal Republic.

Their self titled album is available now and consists of originals and cover songs such as Sinatra's "Somethin Stupid" and "My Heart Skips A Beat". The entire album as recorded in just two weeks, incorporating steel guitar and piano. In addition, the use of vintage microphones and classic recording techniques, give The Secret Sisters a unique retro style. Their latest release, "Tomorrow Will Be Kinder", inspired by the Alabama tornado outbreak of 2011, is featured on the wonderful Hunger Games soundtrack alongside the likes of The Civil Wars and Taylor Swift.


3. Beth Jeans Houghton - 'Golden'
















Where to start with my latest gem, Beth Jeans Houghton. Now, this is one I want to scream from the rooftops, if I could offer you one word of advice right now it would be to listen to this artist.
This exciting English singer songwriter, hailing from Newcastle upon Tyne has already developed quite a following, having supported the likes of Bon Iver, Mumford & Sons and Imogen Heap.

The sound of sweet and gentle folk seems to come effortlessly to the young singer songwriter who effectively mixes angelic vocals and the ever favourite, acoustic guitar. Having first started writing songs in her teens, her debut EP was released back in 2008 on Bird Records. Following this, Houghton was signed to Static Caravan Records, earning acclaim from UK followers with the releases of EP 'Hot Toast' and beautiful single, 'Golden'.

Having relocated to LA, in 2011 Houghton signed for Mute Records and released the album, 'Yours Truly, Cellophane Nose', by Beth Jeans Houghton

It's easy to compare the sound of Beth Jeans Hougton to the likes of Laura Marling, however, the mix of glamrock, psychedelic pop elements and humour displayed in Houghtons sounds are enough to set them apart. I urge you to listen, you will not regret it!

 
4. Ed Tullett - 'Never Joy'




















As you have probabally guessed by now, I love stumbling across new music and this was simply magnificent find. Suggested by a friend I took a listen and weeks on, I find myself with the album on repeat. With melancholy vocals displaying talents way beyond his years, I predict Ed Tullett is a name you'll be hearing a lot of in the next few years.

With noticeable influences to the fantastic Justin Vernon and James Vincent McMorrow, Tullett has released his debut EP via bandcamp, available for immediate download and whats more it's free.

All music, production and lyrics featured on this album were recorded in one room by Ed Tullett, a real breathe of fresh air in the music industry, displaying the endless talents of such a young artist. Currently unsigned, Ed displays abilities to rival many acoustic singer songwriters gracing our airwaves. I am especially excited by this artist, so much so, I have arranged for an interview and will be letting you in on everything Ed Tullett in a few weeks. Acoustic banjo, rhythmic, poetic folk and idyllic harmonies. What more would you want. Amen.


5. Polica -  'Dark Star'















Taking a bit of a twist from the normal gentle folk vibes of Daisy Digital recommends, I bring to you the captivating sounds of Polica. This time last year however, the band didn't exist, yet having played at SXSW, it's fair to say, the relatively unknown band had everyone talking. With subtle hints of R&B, post dubstep laying the backing tracks for sensual vocals of Channy Leaneagh, these sounds are perfect for the summer sun. Already boasting a celebrity fan, rumour has it, they're Jay-Z's favourite indie band, that's enough to sell them to you right?  Whatsmore, in the words of Bon Iver's very own Justin Vernon, "They're the best band I've ever heard'.

Their debut album, 'Give You The Ghost' is available now, with dreamy, distorted vocals floating between gunshot drum beats and mesmerizing undertones. Making use of auto-tune usually makes my blood boil however, the unlikely tool on a folk album only allows for experimentation within this fantastic album. For that, I give praise.


That's all for now. I hope you take a listen, let me know what you think!
A pleasure as always, thanks Tanja!

Hannah


Sunday 20 May 2012

Anticipating

As you probably have gathered, I am going home in June. I am anticipating;

Seeing my mothers face as I come around the corner at the airport.
Jim's Barbecues.Eating in the back yard. Minus the mosquito bites.
Shopping with my mom and oma.
Meeting Easton and seeing how big Braxton has gotten. Seeing the whole Delude Family.
S'mores with Brandy.
Hopefully making it out to the lake one day.
Sitting on the porch swing just talking the night away.
Sno Cones. Slushies.Sonic Happy Hour.
Runs in the park with the rents new puppy Shadow.
Having my clothes come out of the dryer nice and soft not stiff and itchy.
Seeing friends whom I miss more than they know.
Shopping at Kaitlyn's store Stitch.
Target. Forever 21. Tulsa. Springfield. Dallas.
Chik fil a. Panera. La Huerta. Marble Slab. Papas Pizza.
Rednecks. Yes I actually said it.
Driving with the windows down.
Driving period.
Coffee Dates. Common Grounds. Sweetbay.
Sound of pure nature.
Baking with mom.
Playing interior decorator for mom. (which btw I have been playing with some color schemes for your new bathroom. looking forward to putting in action :)
Going from pale to tan.

Juuuuuust to name a few. So what are your summer plans? Going anywhere nice? What are YOU anticipating?





Friday 18 May 2012

Currently

Listening:  to John Mayer lately. I forgot how much my ears loved hearing his voice. I go through phases though were I will listen to him non-stop for a few weeks then I get sick of how much I've listened to him. healthy doses. healthy doses.

Pinning: Lots of lovely recipes healthy and not so healthy.

Photographing: Everything and anything lately. Oh how I really really missed instagram. 

Eating: Oatmeal and vegetables.


Cracking up over:  Last night I came home from work and laid on the bed just literally thinking I would be there five minutes. David came into the room and was playing with my hair and telling me about his day and I literally fell asleep mid him talking and woke up at about 9:15 pm. Whhoops, I knew I was tired but didn't realize HOW tired I was.

Working on:   Getting back in shape. I've been going on runs in the morning and the evening. I'm actually quite proud of myself because I really didn't think I could run in the cold. Mind you I have been wearing a long sleeve shirt, a turtle neck a hoodie, my husbands wind jacket and a scarf to keep my upper area near my neck warm. I haven't had any bad asthma and have actually ran farther and longer than I ever imagined I could. It's just the first step thats the hardest once I start running I am quite alright. Sometimes I'm totes not motivated though.


Anticipating: the weekend, payday, going home end of June, one year wedding anniversary,


Wearing:  Blazer, skirt, shirt, necklace and cowboy boots. What can I say you can take the girl from the south but you can't take the south out of the girl.

Monday 14 May 2012

Music Mondays

Well then, I guess it's time for another Music Monday!

I get pretty excited for these each week, I also love reading comments from people thanking me for introducing them to new music so here goes, here's to hoping this week I can bring your Itunes a few nice additions.


1. Lucy Rose - 'Red Face'














Firstly, let me introduce you to an exceptional English singer/songwriter from Warwickshire who goes by the name of Lucy Rose. Having previously lent her vocal talents to Bombay Bicycle Club hits and toured with the likes of Noah and The Whale, it’s safe to say, Lucy Rose has definitely found her forte. Lucy currently has three singles out: 'Middle of the Bed', 'Red Face' and 'Scar', with Vogue magazine stating she is “one of indie music’s breakout stars of 2012”.With enchanting, echoey vocals, this song is sure to leave you feel relaxed and dreamy, enjoy.


2. Benjamin Francis Leftwich - 'Atlas Hands'













From an early age, this young singer songwriter hailing from York was sporting a guitar, with musical inspiration from the likes of Nina Simone, Bob Dylan and The Rolling Stones. Benjamin Francis Leftwich majestic debut album was released in July 2011, titled ‘Last Smoke Before The Snowstorm.’ Receiving support from the likes of Fearne Cotton, his whispered, delicate vocals and soft acoustic guitar chords are reminiscent of the likes of Bon Iver and Fleet Foxes.

3. Ryan Keen - 'Focus'














Hailing from South Devon this talented singer songwriter is an artist not to be missed. Ryan Keen has an incredibly unique talent, combining emotional lyrics, hearty vocals and exceptional rhythmic guitar abilities.
Having received support from BBC Radio1s Zane Lowe, it's clear to see the future is looking positively bright for Ryan. Having toured with Ed Sheeran and following the release of two EP's, there iscertainly a hype surrounding this new talent.


4. Jamie Woon - 'Waterfront'















English born singer songwriter and producer signed to the Universal Music Group, Polydor. Having attended the prestigious Brit School, Woon landed the dream support slot for late Amy Winehouse. Following this, in 2007 he independently released his exceptional EP, ‘Wayfaring Stranger’.

However it was the release of his single ‘Night Air’ in 2010, to which Woon received widespread recognition and acclaim. His debut album, ‘Mirrorwriting’ was released in April 2011 via. Polydor Records and  is one I highly recommend. His soul infected vocals and use of backing samplers, guitar and programming are nothing short of genius.

5. The Civil Wars - 'Billie Jean' (Cover)













And saving the best 'til last. The Civil Wars: consisting of John Paul White & Joy Williams, it's hard to believe the pair only met during a Nashville songwriting camp in 2008. Being in a duo was never something Williams set out to do, that's until she met John Paul.

For whatever reason, the sublime duo explain, when their voices come together it becomes something they could not do alone, something much bigger than that. Every song, every lyric, every chord. It's quite clear to see they are each others opposites in everyway resulting in a magical outcome when they share the stage.
"It's much more than 1 + 1 = 2; It's simply meant to be"

Hope you've enjoyed!
Hannah

Sunday 13 May 2012

Happy Mothers Day





 Happy Mothers Day Cordelia!
Also to all the amazing mothers out there. 


Almost 25 years ago I came and changed your world. I took up your time, I made you clean my poop, I also decorated the walls in poo, you no longer were able to do the things you wanted because here I was needing your every minute. You sacrificed lots of your years and time to give me the life I have. You from as far as I can remember always were honest with me. (Except that time you told me my blanket was lost when in fact it was in your closet and I found it after snooping one day after school. Tsk tsk. Do you know how many sleepless nights I had with out my bankie? ;) )  You were the mother I could come to when I had questions, you were there to wipe my tears, we can laugh at blonde jokes and we can cry at how much we miss each other. You've had such a tough year and your strength to overcome something so scary. I am so glad that everything is fine now. My world would literally fall apart without you. You are my foundation to life. You molded me to be the woman that will some day be a mother(not any time soon don't get too excited).  You've taught me not to sweat the small stuff. That there is always someone who has it worse. To look at the bright side of things. You've always had the ability to make me smile when all I want to do is scream. Although I now have a husband who does make me smile and knows how to tame my attitude problem. Sometimes I just need my momma. I love the fact that for a good share of your life you stayed with someone and put up with a lot of tough shit just to give me a normal life ( well as normal as OUR life could be) You didn't keep things black and white for me. As much as times were hard and sometimes all we really wanted to do was cry the fact that it made us stronger and form the relationship that we have today I wouldn't change anything. You will always be my best friend no matter what. You've always been that perfect medium of being a mother and best friend. You've never let a day go by without me feeling loved beyond belief. I just hope to return the favour til my very last breathe.

Some of my favourite mom daughter moments:

-The day you walked me down the aisle. I wouldn't have wanted it any other way. It's always been the two of us. You and me. Always by my side it, I couldn't have handled the nerves without you. You were so beautiful and I just loved taking each step to my husband with you. Always be your little girl.
-This one is a given. My third Christmas when I woke up in the night and opened my presents to find that you got me the book " to grandmothers house we go" (how I remember that I have NO idea). Shoving it under the couch thinking you would never find out. A few days go by and you decide to vacuum behind the couch to find that a present had been opened. Thankfully I was there to explain to you that a squirrel woke me up in the night and I saw he stole my present so I beat him up until he gave me my present back although it somehow opened in the middle of our fight. Pretty good imagination for a 3 year old if I do say so myself.
-I don't know if you would completely call this a memory but just simply laughing with you. National Lampoon Christmas Vacation, each Christmas. Literally in tears every time we watch it.  Your laugh is so contagious and I can't wait to be in the house and just hear it again.
-Getting picked up from school in Kindergarten with you and your friends Sabine, Jutta, Tina and going to local lake and swimming endless hours in the day. I'll always be a water rat.
-Being grounded by my father to have you watch television shows that you in no way wanted to watch but you felt bad that I was grounded so you tried to make punishment less unbearable.
- Your blonde moments in general. There are way too many to even begin to start naming them. I don't understand how someone so mathematically smart can also be so ditsy sometimes. It's too cute.
- You, Me and Oma. Three generations of friendships. All the years spent sat around playing cards, laughing, being the three musketeers.
-Having lazy days just laying on the couch or in bed watching stupid television.
-Shopping. Especially when it's your treat. :p

Just to name a few.... as you know I could go on and on and the minute I push publish, I'll remember even loads more that I'll have wanted to share.

I love you so much. Like it literally brings me to tears thinking of how much I love you. How lucky I am. You were not only a mother but also when need be a father. (Minus the sex change, just hypothetically speaking.. duh)You didn't change your name when you and dad got divorced just so we wouldn't have different last names. I can't begin to say how thankful I am that Jim came into our lives. The years of pain you put up with for me because we probably wouldn't have made it very well on our own. I feel mostly responsible but ever grateful. The happiness that comes from Jim's love for you makes me feel it was all meant to be. I know the years and tears cannot be erased but I hope that every day since then are filled with the joy and blissfulness that you deserve.

Everything that I am and hope to ever be I owe to you. ( I can't even really take credit for that I am pretty sure I have read that somewhere. Hallmark card maybe? Either or it's true...)


Monday 7 May 2012

Hello. Hannah here, hope you're all having a nice day. 
I guess this is the first May Music Monday so without further ado, here goes.
Since, last week was for the girls out there - I ought to do something a little more for the men that maybe reading this. Alternatively, I pretty much have a girl crush on every one of the following ladies, there's nothing cooler than a girl with a guitar right? 

First up, the wonderful Laura Marling.

1. Laura Marling - 'Sophia'
Born in Hampshire, Marling was initially introduced to the folk scene by her father, a music teacher and learned guitar at an early age. At the young age of 16, Marling moved to London to pursue her musical career and became part of the original line-up of folk band Noah and the Whale. 
Things rapidly materialised and Marling was later invited to tour with Jamie T after he attended her second-ever solo gig. Her debut album, 'Alas, I cannot Swim' was released in 2008 and was later nominated for the 2008 Mercury Prize. In 2011 Laura Marling snatched the prestigious Brit Award for Best British Female, surprising many by beating the likes of Ellie Goulding and Paloma Faith however Marling displays talent way beyond her years with heavenly soft vocals throughout. Her current album, 'A Creature I Don't Know' was released in September 2011 and features the beautiful song, 'Sophia'.


2. First Aid Kit - 'New Year's Eve'
Yet another sublime sibling combination in the form of Swedish folk duo, First Aid Kit. Reminiscent of a personal favourite of mine, 'The Staves'. Their exceptional woodsy vocal harmonies have gained them a selection of famous followers including Fleet Foxes, Lykke Li and Patti Smith. Their second album, 'The Lion's Roar' is available to purchase now featuring 'New Year's Eve'.


3. Ren Harvieu - 'Through The Night'
Typically my kinda girl, Ren broke her back last year, jumping over hedges in a field at 4am, however it seems nothing can stop her. With an album out this year, Ren has managed to gain a string of followers, writing with Glasvegas and The Zutons. Such collaborations led to an invitation from BBC Introducing to play Glastonbury, to which unfortunately due to her freak accident did not materialize. Although, fear not, at just 21 years old, Ren looks likely to become one of the most talked about singing voices of the next few years. I have a sneaky suspicion she may also be featuring on an upcoming Later With Jools Holland show so be sure to keep your eyes peeled. 'Through the Night' is the self titled retro soul song, from her debut album, available next week.


4. Lykke Li - 'Little Bit'
Hailing from Sweden, this singer songwriter is best known for her blends of pop, indie rock and electronic beats. Her debut album was released in 2008 and led to her debut UK TV performance on Later... With Jools Holland shortly after, performing the chosen track, 'Little Bit'. Though not a new release, I never tire of this song. Lykke Li means 'happy' in Swedish and her music certainly succeeds in delivering happiness. Not only has she sung vocals for Kanye West, recorded tracks for the Twilight Saga and Knocked Up, Lykke Li also finds time to model, becoming the face of Levi's Curve ID collection. Is there anything this woman can't do? The song 'Little Bit' really launched Lykke Li into the music industry and has since found itself sampled on Drake's mixtape, 'So Far Gone'. Her mesmerizing, sensual and metronomic sounds are not ones to be missed.


5. Lianne La Havas - 'Empty'
Well, what can I say about Lianne La Havas. I struggle to describe a talent so rich and pure as La Havas' in a mere few sentences. La Havas was born to a Greek father and Jamaican mother, citing her parent's diverse musical tastes as having the biggest influence on her music. Having provided backing vocals for the likes of Paloma Faith and Everything Everything, Lianne was spotted following the release of her own material by Black Cab Sessions and French website, La Blogotheque. However, it was her appearance on Jools Holland in October that saw the young singer burst into the spotlight and rightly so, won La Havas the highly acclaimed and prestigious support slot, touring with Bon Iver.
With a vocal  ability coming second to Adele, Lianne La Havas knows exactly what works and has perfected her smoky soul vocals and icy guitar abilities to a t. In particular, her new single, 'Empty' which is a true display of the talent La Havas oozes. The addition of bass and a cajon, impeccably slapped, create a unique backing to the beautiful and emotional song. In my eyes, utterly sublime.

That's all for now folks! Happy Monday!

Twenties



Don't sweat the small stuff. 

When life hands you limes do not turn to tequilla. 

 No one is guaranteed tomorrow therefore make today the best it can be. Even if you don't feel up to it. 

There will people who want to be in your life for all the right reasons and those who don't aren't worth the hassle. You will know at your darkest hour the difference between the two. 

Take chances. Big chances. They may not always work out but at the end of life it will be better to have lived then to have sat on the fence saying shoulda coulda woulda. Just do. 

Be true to yourself. 

Sometimes you just have to open up. Let people knowing whats going on in that little head of yours. Keeping things in, won't make problems go away. You might feel vulnerable but more than likely you have nothing to worry about. 

Talking behind other peoples backs is not good for anyone. 

Listen to loud music and dance. 

Always be nice to others. You never know how bad someone elses day is. 

If you don't like the way things are going change it. Do something different. If you haven't got a job, don't complain about not having one, go and get one. You probably haven't tried hard enough.

Stop comparing yourself with others. 

You'll feel better for having gone for that run then not. Even if you don't run as much or as far just doing it will feel good. 

Eat less sugar. More fresh vegetables and fruit. You're body will thank you for that. 

Taking loads of drunken pictures and uploading them onto facebook doesn't make you cool. 

Also updating your facebook status about everything is also not cool. 

I actually don't hate cats. I love them. 

Distance may seem impossible but nothing is impossible unless you let it be. 

Leggings, nike running shorts, uggs and a white tee is not acceptable. I don't know why I ever thought it was. 

Time goes by really fast so sometimes it's nice to just step back and slow things down a bit. Obviously we can't ACTUALLY slow down time but we can try not to get stuck in routine like robots and just sink in this beautiful life. 

Family doesn't have to mean blood relative. 

Writing in a journal is a great idea. I love going back and reading things from just a year ago that I noted down. It doesn't even have to be full paragraph or detailed entries. Just even a few key words to describe something you don't want to forget. 

Love will find you in the most unexpected of places. Somehow someway things work out in your favour. Don't fight it. I can't imagine my life without David. 

Your mother is always right. 

I still have many years to go through my twenties but I thought it would be fun to part take in this. I can't wait to learn many new things and see what else life has in store for me.