I've Moved!

Hello, gorgeous! Didn't you hear? I've hopped on over to a new domain!

You can still read all about me and my adventures at my new and improved blog, it's all going on over at www.misswestendgirl.com - you're gonna love it.

Can't  wait to see you there,

Miss West End Girl x

Let's See Other People

Dear Blogspot,

There was a time when I never thought I'd say this, and there is no gentle way for me to say it but...

I'm leaving you.

Don't look at me like that. You must have seen this coming. It's not you, it's me. You see, I've outgrown you. We've outgrown each other, don't you think? It was fun when we first got together, things felt fresh and new and you made me happy. Things seemed so much more simple back then...I wasn't looking for anything complicated and you were so charming.

But now I need more for me and my blog. Something that can give me exactly what I'm looking for. Something that will grow and change with me. I've met someone else, and I think we're going to be really great together. I hope you understand.

I will be moving out gradually, to my new domain with Wordpress. After that, you won't see me anymore but I will leave a forwarding address in case any visitors are looking for me. 

You can keep the plants and the sofa but I'm taking the record collection.

With much moving and shaking,

Miss West End Girl x

Cure for the Mid-week Blues #9

Wednesdays. The mid-week hump. Where the weekend seems like a happy memory and you've still got the rest of the week to go. Some people are saying that Wednesdays are the toughest day of the week to stay feeling energised and it's easy to see why. But I'm all about staying positive, so in my Cure for the Mid-week Blues mini-series, I'll be dishing out my top tips to keep those warm and fuzzy feelings going all week long...

I can't believe I'm at my ninth cure for the Hump Day hangover. I don't know how long I will keep doing these posts but I'm really enjoying them so far! This week, I'm recommending something that always helps give me a little bit of get-up-and-go, and it comes in MANY shapes and sizes...

The great thing about inspiration is, it can come from anywhere and be about anything, really. Some people like a quiet afternoon in the art gallery, soaking up some great pieces and making a pact with themselves to be more creative.  Others like to do a little window shopping and be inspired to put together a gorgeous new outfit! The burst of energy and enthusiasm that comes from inspiration can feel so uplifting, and encourage us to try something new which can lead to even more excitement!

This week, I will be finding my own inspiration back in Shoreditch and in the company of my fellow Blogcademy classmates. Being in a creative and positive atmosphere with so many like-minded and talented ladies is a sure-fire way for me to feel inspired and I can't wait to get brainstorming and giggling with them all! Plus, regular readers of my blog will remember that on my last trip to London I fell head-over-heels with Shoreditch, which is itself a wonderful area that celebrates the unique. I can't wait!

Have a fantastic week, and tell me: what inspires YOU?

August Round Up

As I write this, it's the first day of September and already things are starting to look a lot more Autumnal around here! It's windy outside, the leaves are starting to fall from the trees and I'm beginning to crave big hearty bowls of soup! The Autumn/ Winter collections are hitting the shops and I'm already dreaming up outfits for the chilly months ahead (hint: it involves oodles of fluffy black wool, studs  and tartan).

But before we dive head first into Autumn, lets take a moment to remember the last month of Summer and what a blast it was! For me, August was a whirlwind of good times, including my birthday, trips to the theatre and the zoo, and loads of laughs spent with friends. I also found out I won a Scholarship place at The Blogcademy (you can see my scholarship application post here) - so much excitement!

Here are a few snapshots of my month of August...

1. Finally getting my paws on V Magazine with Prince on the cover  2. Gelato-a-go-go!
3. Birthday trip to Edinburgh Zoo  4. At the late night double feature picture show...
5. Kick-ass 30 Rock pencils from the lovely Sarah  6. Pastries to die for at Little Birds Market

7. A steak dinner at Angels  - totally unlike me but so tasty!  8. The Boy really spoiled me this year
9. All dolled up for afternoon tea at Blytheswood Square  10. Home made red velvet cupcakes
11. A yummy dinner at Munro's with some great pals  12. New Tatty Devine speech bubble necklace

13. Sunday night cinema date with this guy (swoon!)  14. Hitting the Hard Rock Couture exhibition
15. Late night soft taco action at Pinto ("Baby I Like It")  16. Bathroom selfie just 'cause
17. Penguins Rock at Edinburgh Zoo (aww)  18. Lunch at Martha's (the first of many I think!)


So that was my August, I hope you had an awesome one too! Most of these pictures have come from my Twitter and Instagram posts (@misswestendgirl) -  feel free to come say hi if you are on there!

How was your August? What did you get up to? Have you started stalking the Autumn looks yet?

Thanks for reading!

Cure for the Mid-week Blues #7

Wednesdays. The mid-week hump. Where the weekend seems like a happy memory and you've still got the rest of the week to go. Some people are saying that Wednesdays are the toughest day of the week to stay feeling energised and it's easy to see why. But I'm all about staying positive, so in my Cure for the Mid-week Blues mini-series, I'll be dishing out my top tips to keep those warm and fuzzy feelings going all week long...

Each week when I come to write this feature, I consider what makes me feel happy, inspired , relaxed or motivated. Some of the activities I write about involve taking the time to do something with a positive payoff at the end, and others are virtually effortless. Some of them involve other people, and some of them are a solitary exercise. I have suggested things that can take place outdoors and others that you can do at home. This week, I'm going to suggest something that you can do alone, with others, indoors, outdoors and (BONUS) it's one of the most simple tips yet...

 I love to laugh. Not much makes me feel happier or more like myself than having a good old giggle until my sides hurt and tears are welling in my eyes. They say laughter is the best medicine and I don't know if it was a qualified doctor that coined that phrase, but whoever it may have been was one smart cookie. This week I am encouraging laughter in all forms, so have a think about what has you in stitches. Is it that cleverly written article you just haven't had the heart to throw out? An episode of your favourite comedy series that you've seen a million times but still has you screeching with laughter? Maybe it's that awful joke that you shouldn't laugh at but you still do. Take the time this week to do whatever it is that tickles you.

Spending time with good friends and laughing about all the daft things you used to get up to when you were younger (or maybe just stuff that happened last week!) is one of the things that makes me happiest. I did it this week and I felt totally content. I think laughing is good for the soul (maaan) and I try to do it as often as possible. I have also found that laughing can help me on paticularly chaotic days as a minute or two of humour can have a surprisingly soothing effect!

So this week, make sure you go get your giggle on. It can be as quick or time-consuming as you like and no matter how much of a mid-week slump you're feeling, I can almost guarantee you'll feel amazing after letting out the laughs.

Have a fantastic week and let the LOLs out!

Cure for the Mid-week Blues #6

Wednesdays. The mid-week hump. Where the weekend seems like a happy memory and you've still got the rest of the week to go. Some people are saying that Wednesdays are the toughest day of the week to stay feeling energised and it's easy to see why. But I'm all about staying positive, so in my Cure for the Mid-week Blues mini-series, I'll be dishing out my top tips to keep those warm and fuzzy feelings going all week long...

 At the weekend I watched For A Good Time, Call... , a sassy comedy about two girls that decide to set up a chatline together. Now, don't jump the gun - I'm not suggesting that you cheer yourself up this Wednesday by going into the phone sex business (although it does involve using the telephone)! Something that really stood out to me when watching the film was the friendship between the two girls and their phone conversation towards the end of the film is hilarious, touching and just a little bit gross! It got me to thinking about this week's cure for the mid-week blues, so my tip to you this week is...

I'm sure, like most people, you speak to your best friend every day. Maybe barely an hour passes without a jokey email, an "I seen this and thought of you" Instagram post or an emoji-filled (if you're anything like me) text. You guys are in touch all the time, right? But I'm not talking about texts, tweets or emails. I mean call her (or him!). When was the last time you sprawled out ontop of your bed/ couch/ floor and talked about everything and nothing on the phone? It's totally different to typing, trust me! Don't get me wrong, I'm all about using social media - it's so quick and easy and you can write a message to anyone in seconds. But taking half an hour out of your day to catch up on the phone takes minimum effort and feels AH-MAZING!

So this week, give this a go. Your bestie might be halfway across the world, or just in the same city as you. You might have a heart-to-heart, a gossip-fest or just giggle endlessly for the entire call. Either way, I bet they'll get as big a kick out of an old-school (and it's a shame that we call a phone call old-school now, but I digress...) phone conversation as you!

Have a smashing week, and get dialing! 

Weekend Wear: Peach Kitty

After the jam-packed week I'd had, I was super glad to have a quiet weekend with The Boy and take it easy. We decided to go out for a walk on Saturday and it was the perfect excuse to wear this cat print dress that I had bought from H&M recently. As well as the tres adorable print, I also love the fit and cut of the dress - it's a bit like a skater dress-meets kid's party dress!

The monochrome colourway of the dress means that I can accessorise it with whatever colour pop takes my fancy. On Saturday I decided to pair it with some peach tights (also from H&M) and a little black cardigan by Betsey Johnson. The cardigan doesn't look too exciting from the front, but then I turn round and POW! A massive bunch of cherries stitched on the back. Oh, Betsey...

My hair is getting really long, but it can still be comfortably put into a bun/ topknot so I wore it up on Saturday with a black and white printed Topshop bow (I think Saturday was my third or fourth day wearing that bow, I love it!). I wore some studded ballet flats from Primark which were perfect for mooching around for the afternoon.

On Saturday (or should that be CATURDAY?) I also managed to (FINALLY) track down the latest copy of V Magazine with Prince on the cover! I was so happy to find it at as you can imagine I carried it around preciously for the rest of the day. We went for dinner at Zizzi on Cresswell Lane and quite conveniently we were offered a table with 4 seats, which meant Prince even got his own seat at the table! Dinner was delicious and a highlight of our visit was Kitty's gelato - wow! I tried the dark chocolate, mint choc chip and (my favourite) pistachio. All of them were amazing and I can't wait to go back and try them again!

It was lovely to have a lazy day and just do whatever we wanted without rushing around. And considering that the day took us for a long walk, a Prince discovery and gelato-fest; I'd say lazy Saturdays might be just as good as planned weekends!

How was your weekend? What did you wear? What is your favourite flavour of gelato?

Thanks for reading!

July Round Up

July, you've been and gone like a flash of sunlight! Here in Glasgow we've seen some of the warmest days in a very long time and despite the odd grumble I suspect many people have been making the most of it! For me, this month has seen some excellent times spent with The Boy, family and friends. Barbecues, feel good music, long walks in the sun and slapping on the SPF - it sure feels like a Scottish summer. This month has also seen some awesome events - not least the Vintage Festival  in Merchant City, and I even found myself being a tour guide in my own neighbourhood for a day (quite happily I add).

Here's my July round up (in photos of course):

1. "an ocean of violets in bloom"  at the Botanic Gardens   2. Donut day at the office  (DROOL)

3. Family barbecue day   4. An exciting find in the record section while shopping

5. Mandatory police car posin' at TriBeCa   6. Skin Guru spritz in the heat has been a SAVIOUR!

7. Clever girl...dino spotting at Kelvingrove   8. A visit to Burger Meats Bun on opening day

9. Blogcademy giggles (full post here)  10. Starbucks Refresha (my new summertime beverage)

11. Dinner with The Boy at The Lansdowne  12. Beautiful building-spotting in Dundee

13. Another glorious day at the Botanics   14. Photobooth action at the Somewhereto_  launch 

15. Rainbow cake - truly a feast for your eyes!   16. Shopping for my beardy Boy at Beardcraft's stall

17. At Vintage Festival (more on which very soon)   18. Enjoying my annual McFlurry! 

I hope you had a marvellous month of July! I'm looking forward to seeing what this next month brings.

How was your month? What did you get up to? What is your favourite Summertime treat?

Thanks for reading!

Cure for the Mid-week Blues #5

Wednesdays. The mid-week hump. Where the weekend seems like a happy memory and you've still got the rest of the week to go. Some people are saying that Wednesdays are the toughest day of the week to stay feeling energised and it's easy to see why. But I'm all about staying positive, so in my Cure for the Mid-week Blues mini-series, I'll be dishing out my top tips to keep those warm and fuzzy feelings going all week long...

This week's blues-buster is about music. When I'm in a funk, putting on some of my favourite tunes will snap me out of it quicker than you can say "Wanna Be Starting Something". I'm sure I'm not the only one, so this week my tip for a wonderful Wednesday is...

Did you ever make mix tapes? I adored making mix tapes of my favourite songs and some of you reading this might even remember the magic of making a mix tape for someone else, or better yet - the excitement of getting one made by someone else for you! There's definitely a certain happy nostalgia when I think of mixtapes and making one to jam to (yes, JAM) come the mid-week is sure to keep you smiling.

So maybe that double tape deck bit the dust a long time ago, but that's OK. There are lots of websites that you can use to put together a motivational mix tape masterpiece for free! For example, 8tracks not only lets you create your own playlist but you can also listen to other people's themed mix tapes too. You can even search by keywords to find something that suits your mood. Making your own mix is always fun and even choosing which songs to include can lift your spirits. You might decide that you need a dose of Walking on Sunshine cranked up to 11, or maybe something from your favourite musical so you can belt it out too! Or perhaps there's that one cheesy pop song that reminds you of your school discos (Backstreet's Back, anyone?) and always makes you laugh. Whatever it may be, make sure you include it in your midweek mix.

As for me, I've just been reminded by The Boy that Prince songs from different albums jumbled up is NOT a real mix tape. He may be right on that one. My ideal mix tape would still include lots of Prince, but with some groove-tastic 80s tunes, classic rock and a few wild cards thrown in too for good measure.

Have an awesome week - and turn it up LOUD!

Rock n' Roll Blog School

This blog post is a little different from my usual posts for two reasons: Firstly, it's my first ever blog video (but more on that in a moment)! And most importantly, this post is my scholarship application for The Blogcademy in London!

SAY WHAT?! Let me explain. The Blogcademy is a two-day blogging masterclass, devised and run by blogging royalty: Kat Williams of Rock n' Roll Bride, Shauna Haider of Nubby Twiglet and Gala Darling. I have followed their World Tour via their blog with much admiration, ever since their first New York session last year, reading about their classes as they take their smarts, sass and sequins to bloggers in cities worldwide. The 3 headmistresses offer personal advice, blogging wisdom and bucketloads of encouragement to their classes; drawing on their collective knowledge and experience. This class is designed for those who want to take their blog to the next level and keep on building - which is exactly what I'm looking for. I've started making a few small changes in the right direction but I really need the guidance to help me make the full journey.

When I first started this blog, I had the intention of writing solely about fashion. While I love clothes (and you know I do!), I started kicking myself about pigeonholing into such a specific category. If I went to an awesome restaurant (for example) or seen a fantastic film, I wanted to be able to write about it. And, I'm utterly in love with my little patch of Glasgow so I try to feature it as much as I can too! So in March this year, with a new layout and a new outlook, I revamped the blog a little. After all, it's my blog!

I feel like I've just taken the first step. I'd love to attend the Blogcademy to build my blogging mojo, help my blog progress further and help it meet its full potential. On a sunny Sunday morning, The Boy and I filmed this video on my iPhone to sum up my application in a way that I feel says what I want to say, and in a way that is still 'me'. I hope you like it:

As a huge music fan, I took inspiration from Bob Dylan's iconic video for Subterranean Homesick Blues when deciding how to put together an entry. When we were watching the footage back afterwards, it seemed like the natural choice of song would be The Ramones' Rock n' Roll High School - after all, I'm hoping to get SCHOOLED! I had a blast filming it, yes it's a little bit silly (like me) but I'm really proud of my first video (also big props to The Boy for his filming magic). A year ago, I wouldn't even put pictures of myself on my blog - I just wasn't confident enough. If you'd told me then that I'd be putting a video in a post, I wouldn't have believed you! I still can't quite believe it right now. I'm starting to get myself out of my comfort zone a bit, one step at a time!

When I read that The Blogcademy Tour was coming back to the UK, I just knew that I needed to grab this opportunity to apply for their Scholarship programme. One lucky blogger will win the chance to attend their London workshop in September (a Scholarship is offered for every city) and learn how to transform their blogging brand in an environment filled with likeminded, passionate peers.

I hope that the Blogcademy babes like my video - and even better still, think it's good enough to win the Scholarship!

Keep your fingers crossed for me (toes too!).

Love,

WestEndGirl x

Cure for the Mid-week Blues #4

Wednesdays. The mid-week hump. Where the weekend seems like a happy memory and you've still got the rest of the week to go. Some people are saying that Wednesdays are the toughest day of the week to stay feeling energised and it's easy to see why. But I'm all about staying positive, so in my Cure for the Mid-week Blues mini-series, I'll be dishing out my top tips to keep those warm and fuzzy feelings going all week long...

This week's cure for the Hump Day hangover is best enjoyed on a sunny day but can really be appreciated anytime...

When we are going about our daily business, especially in the city, we usually focus on what we need to do next, where we need to go and how to go about getting there. You've probably heard the expression 'stop and smell the roses', and my tip this week is kind of like that. If you're rushing around and feeling like you have a never-ending to-do list, stop. Just for 30 seconds. Stop. And look up. The first time I noticed the beautiful buildings (particularly the rooftops) in my city and took a few seconds to look at them, it was inspiring. So many intricate carvings, massive windows, winding church towers and balconies. I'd been so busy going in them, I hadn't bothered taking in what they looked like.

Glasgow (and OK, call me biased) has such an eclectic range of buildings, with the very old and historic right next door to contemporary masterpieces. It's the same in so many towns and cities, so try having a look up next time you're out and about. You might even feel a sense of calm like I did after doing something as simple as looking up (make sure you stop walking first though, I don't want anyone walking into walls!).

Have a fantastic week and enjoy the view!

Cure for the Mid-week Blues #3

Wednesdays. The mid-week hump. Where the weekend seems like a happy memory and you've still got the rest of the week to go. Some people are saying that Wednesdays are the toughest day of the week to stay feeling energised and it's easy to see why. But I'm all about staying positive, so in my Cure for the Mid-week Blues mini-series, I'll be dishing out my top tips to keep those warm and fuzzy feelings going all week long...

This week, I have a Wednesday winner that is not only totally FREE, but it will also make you, and other people, feel good at the same time (consider it a two-for-one deal)...

That's right. Spread the love this week and pay someone a compliment! I read that compliments are like verbal sunshine, they brighten up everyone's day whether you are the one giving OR receiving. Think about the last time you got an unexpected compliment - I bet you felt like a rock star and had a little sass in your step for the rest of the day. So how awesome would it be to let someone else feel like that too? It's easy to fall into a bitchy subculture, especially in a world full of gossip and (often imaginary) points-scoring. But who has the time (and energy) to be so negative? Not me! Plus, when you see the reaction of the person receiving your compliment it'll make you feel great too (and that's where your Hump Day pick-me-up comes in).

It might be that girl that gets on the subway at the same time as you everyday with the wicked eyebrows, or your work colleague that has gone for an adventurous new haircut. Maybe that guy in front at the queue at Starbucks with the hat (and he could be secretly thinking, "can I rock a hat?") or a loved one that has just cooked you an epic dinner. One tip though - be sincere! Whether you know the person like the back of your hand or not, if you're thinking something nice, tell them! It'll make their day, and yours too.

Enjoy your week, and enjoy the sunshine (verbal or otherwise)!

Cure for the Mid-week Blues #2

Wednesdays. The mid-week hump. Where the weekend seems like a happy memory and you've still got the rest of the week to go. Some people are saying that Wednesdays are the toughest day of the week to stay feeling energised and it's easy to see why. But I'm all about staying positive, so in my Cure for the Mid-week Blues mini-series, I'll be dishing out my top tips to keep those warm and fuzzy feelings going all week long...

This week, my advice to help keep the spring in your step on Hump Day is:

 This is actually something I believe in doing every day, but it can be particularly uplifting during the midweek slump. Now, I know that it may not be possible to rock up to work in your frilliest party dress and killer heels but to me dressing like it's your birthday is a state of mind. What I'm getting at is wear something that makes you happy. When an entire outfit isn't possible (especially if you have a dress code to adhere to), wear something small that will make you smile. For example, a vintage brooch that reminds you of that time you and your best bud went thrift shopping, or that new nail polish you've been dying to try out. It could be a new pair of shoes or your favourite sauciest underwear. However big or small, throw your chosen item(s) into the mix on a Wednesday and you might just feel like the birthday girl (or boy!) every week of the year.

Enjoy your week, and keep on celebrating! 

June Round Up

I can't believe I'm posting a photo summary for June already! This year is flying in, I swear it only feels like I've started these posts and now I'm onto June! I hope you've had a fabulous June full of sunshine and laughter (or if you are in Glasgow, enjoyed those couple of bursts of sunshine when we had them...). This month for me was full of excitement: an awesome anniversary trip to London, seeing Bruce Springsteen at Hampden, catching up with old friends and making new ones, celebrating two of my besties turning 30 and some epic cinema dates.

Here's a quick recap in pictures of my month of June...

1. Snapping Edinburgh Castle like a tourist (it is magical-looking though...)  2. Pretty lights in Hummingbird's Posh Room  3. Another lunch at SmOAK @ Sanctuary  4. 12 years with this guy

5. Because we just can't resist a vintage photo booth  6. Do More of What Makes You Happy

7. The Hoxton restrooms were MADE for selfies  8. The Breakfast Club (best brunch ever)

9. Wise words from Pure Evil Gallery  10. Busting out the Lanvin x H&M bag for a birthday party

11. SQUEAK! New shoes  12. "It's almost Boss Time" excitement at Hampden Stadium

13. Serious vogue-ing on Buchanan Street  14. New JuJu shoes & art underfoot

15. French sweeties & a new hair bow  16. Sushi platter lunch at Ichiban

17. Just doing the E-Street Shuffle...  18. This month's SMAC selection - 4 Cheese 'til I die!

Most of these pictures were posted to my Instagram and Twitter accounts - @misswestendgirl - please do come on over and say hello!

The end of June (I'm sure you're heard) also marks the end of Google Friend Connect/ Google Reader. Just when I was getting the hang of it! Anyway, like so many others I have migrated over to Bloglovin and would love it if you could follow me there. Let's not lose touch, baby! You can find my blog over at: http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/2531729/westendgirl

How has YOUR June been? What have you been up to? Ever had the urge to vogue in the street?

Thanks for reading!

WestEndGirl x

Painted Lady

I have been deciding whether or not to write a blog post about my own tattoos for a little while now. They are something that strangers ask me about a LOT and are a big part of my life, look and personality. Some of them have meaning and some of them I got simply because I like the way they look. Well, I like the way all of them look - but you know what I mean!

Take my first tattoo. I didn't so much dip my toe in as much as throw both legs in as I got two stocking seams topped with bows (of course) etched on the backs of my legs. While my peers were getting minuscule stars tattooed on easy-to-conceal parts of their bodies in an experiment to see if they liked getting tattooed and/or cheese off their parents a little bit, I knew that my first tattoo would need to be something I really wanted, and wouldn't regret later. I adore retro fashion, 1950s pin-up culture and burlesque style so stocking seams were the perfect choice for me.

It hurt like a mothereffer, but that was to be expected. I'd never been tattooed before and was having my Achilles heel and backs of my knees tattooed! I was pleased as punch with the end result (still am...) and even though it hurt, it was worth it. Plus - my seams are always straight now! I know some people who say they enjoy the feeling of getting tattooed, 14 tattoos later I don't think I can say I am one of those people but it certainly did hurt a bit less as time went on and it's is definitely bearable now. Since then, I've enjoyed decorating my body with lots of bright and feminine pieces, such as sweets, animals, a Russian nesting doll, lipstick and an antique perfume bottle. I know that there will be many more to come which is always exciting to think about!

Tattoos are certainly not for everyone, and even though I have a fair amount (I wouldn't describe myself as heavily tattooed...yet. But I'm on my way there) of them, I always give each idea plenty of thought (normally at least 6 months) before booking the next appointment. I've never got a tattoo on a whim (I might one day but for now research and planning is my motto!) despite what people might think. I am no authority on tattoos, but sometimes people do ask me for advice and I always say to people to think about what they want to get. Simple advice but oh-so-true.

I was inspired to write this post and particularly explain my first tattoo (seeing as it gets the most comments) after being introduced to Things & Ink magazine a few months ago. Things & Ink is a magazine that celebrates women and tattoo culture and if it was possible to have a crush on a wad of paper, Things and Ink would be my new sweetheart. In a world full of tattoo publications that seem to be mainly aimed at males, it was wonderful to come across this little gem. It's smart, beautifully written and printed on high quality paper. And did I mention the flawless photoshoots?

Another thing I love about this magazine is that it is the first time in ages that I've read a magazine and felt like I could relate the content. Some of the contributors (whether writers, tattoo artists or clients) are even people that I recognised and admired before reading their articles in Things & Ink. As well as content about tattoos and getting tattooed, Things & Ink also feature beauty, homewares, music and art. For me, it's a brilliant balance and it's rare to find a magazine that ticks so many boxes. Each issue so far has had a theme  - my favourite has been issue 3, The Love Issue. This issue celebrates love, in all shapes and forms, and the tattoos that can be created from love. A real joy to read!

Things & Ink is published every quarter and costs £10. A tenner for a magazine that delivers so much high quality content really isn't asking that much nowadays - a copy of Vogue will set you back four bucks now and that's published each month! I would recommend picking up a copy, it's refreshing to see tattoos depicted as beautiful and feminine and unique - everything I see them as myself.

Have you read Things & Ink? Do you have any tattoos yourself? Who is your magazine sweetheart?

Thanks for reading!

May Round Up

Hello! This has been a very exciting and busy month for me, how about you? At the start of the month I celebrated The Boy's birthday, and then we went on holiday for a few weeks. Time sure does fly when you're having fun! Here is a little summary - in pictures - of how my May has been...

1. Birthday cupcakes  2. Matching Star Tours tees like the geeks that we are!  3. Coffee and a catch-up  4. At Street Food Cartel  5. Packing the holiday essentials  6. PEACE TEA! 

7. Because every girl needs heart shaped sunglasses  8. Breakfast, US style  9. Pre-Disney selfie       10. Fiesta Hoy  11. Chinese Dragon made out of flowers in Epcot  12. "MINE!!!"

13. Spirit home  14. Shady lady  15. Feels like Summer when you're wearing your 'vacation shirt'           16. Reunited with Dunkin' Donuts  17. Minnie and me  18. In Blues we Trust

19. Happy hippo underwater  20. Out at dinner  21. Super-glittery shoes  22. Showing off my first tattoo from many years ago, still my favourite  23. Roll in, rock out  24. Preferred mode of transport

Most of these pictures were posted to my Instagram and Twitter accounts - @misswestendgirl - feel free to come and say hello! My Instagram account is set to private but that's only to keep the spammers and robots at bay (and while we are on that subject, is it just me or are there LOADS of spammers on Instagram right now??). 

Now we are in June and there is lots to look forward to this month - a trip to London, two of my favourite people's 30th birthdays and the Bruce Springsteen gig to name a few things! 

How has your May been? What have you been up to? What is YOUR preferred mode of transport? 

Thanks for reading! 

April Round Up

Hello! I quite enjoyed looking back what I had been up to at the end of March and putting together my March Round Up photo post last month - I think I may make it a monthly feature!  I hope you all had a great month - mine was a blast. I'm getting closer and closer to going on holiday too, excitement is definitely setting in - sparkly mouse ears at the ready!

So here is a little visual summary of what I've been up to in April...

1 - Sprinkles the Unicorn, a shaker for cupcake sprinkles!   2 - A photo from my 'Parklife' WIWT 

3 - Cocktail (actually, mocktail) and Burger Fridays   4 - Turning up to meet each other in the same blue tights. Great minds...  5 - Burger Queen   6 - Bedtime reading

7 - Midweek treats from Urban Outfitters & Boots   8 - Shoes in the trees at Kelvingrove Park

9 - My new Abandon Ship Apparel kitten dress (obsessed!)  10 - SmOAK at Sanctuary's beer garden

11 - DIY Nails at the Speed Beauty event   12 - In the park with The Boy

13 - The Boy rocking shades for the first time this year   14 - Spoiled for choice with Gumbo's menu

15 & 16 - some snaps from the Scottish Hair & Beauty Awards bloggers event (full post to follow...)

17 - Kitchen inspiration   18 -  Cracking up at my alter ego Kenneth on 30 Rock

Most of these pictures were posted to my Instagram and Twitter accounts - @misswestendgirl - feel free to come and say hello! My Instagram account is set to private but that's only to keep the spammers and robots at bay.

How has your April been? What have you been up to? Do you have a TV alter ego?

 

Thanks for reading! 

March Round Up

Hello! It's the first of April already - although it still feels like December weather-wise (*shakes fist at the sky and buttons up 16th layer of clothing*). I've had a wonderful Easter weekend with my nearest and dearest and spent the last few hours of March on the dancefloor laughing and throwing some (bad) shapes to some incredibly cheesy 90s pop music. I hope your Easter weekend was fun too!

Here is a little summary - mostly in pictures - of what I've been up to over the last month...

 1 - Pizza Express deliciousness. 2 - Rocking the Princess Leia buns at my Mum's birthday.

3 -  In the park on a rare sunny afternoon (and how cool is this graffiti?). 4 - Chocolate crispy cakes for Easter. 5 - Ghost at the O2 Academy (brilliant). 6 - Cheeky cheap n' cheerful make-up purchase.

 

 

 

7 - Cat ears and pink lips. 8 - New Forever 21 store at Buchanan Quarter.

9 - Steak & Guinness pie, oh my! 10 - The Gaslight Anthem (also at O2 Academy).

11 - SMAC-down. 12 - Posing by the horse paintings in my favourite dress.

 

13 - Channelling our inner Magentas to go see Rocky Horror Show. 14 - SMOAK (so tasty).

15 & 16 - Roller Disco (one of my new favourite ways to spend a Friday night)!

17 - At King Tuts to see Cancer Bats (freezing but fun). 18 - Nail art tribute to Macaroni.

Most of these pictures were posted to my Instagram account - @misswestendgirl - come say hi! My account is set to private but that's only to keep the spammers out ("make $$$ and get a zillion followers"...you know the kind). It's been a busy but very enjoyable month.

How has your March been? What have you been up to? What's your favourite terrible pop song? 

Thanks for reading!

Me By Numbers

As part of getting back into blogging I thought I should be a little more personal in some of my blog posts. After all, all of the blogs we read have a person behind them! I never used to post pictures of myself on this blog but I'm taking baby steps to start to incorporate myself into it more and more. Some of the personal posts that I read on other blogs have a theme behind them. I just wanted to put a few bits and pieces about me in this post so I have decided to do a 'numbers' theme - ironic because I usually don't like numbers. I was never good at maths beyond my Sesame Street days (I'm exaggerating...kinda) and the idea of doing Sudoku for fun makes me want to take a long nap.

Anyway, numbers seemed to be a good fit for this post so here is a little bit about me with the help of some numbers:

27...years on this planet. I still get ID'd frequently on account of my chubby cheeks though and there is a newsagent on Sauchiehall Street that still won't sell me a lottery ticket. I'm convinced that I will suddenly age overnight like a piece of fruit.

2...years in my current flat. I ironically moved around the corner from my old flat because I was really reluctant to leave the area but needed a bigger space. My boyfriend was and still is a saint for staying patient during the great flathunt of 2011. Which brings us nicely onto...

12...years with The Boy (well, it will be in June). I won't say a lot here other than he is my best friend and it is true love.

1...University degree. I completed a Media degree which sounds like a vague title but it covered quite a lot of different areas such as cinema, television & radio broadcasting and photography. Even though I had to travel a fair distance every day for three years (and sometimes turn up to class at the end of my journey only to find that the class was cancelled because the tutor was upset that some wrestler from the WWE had died...true story) and haven't used my degree too much professionally I still loved my course and don't regret it one bit.

14...tattoos and counting. I've been getting tattooed for several years now and will still add more to my collection in years to come. My first tattoo was my stocking seams which run up the back of my legs which I got when I was 19 (yes, it was sore - the backs of the knees especially). Some of them have meaning to me and some of them do not. I don't really have many small tattoos and my tattoos are a huge part of who I am. All of them are custom drawn and tattooed by Kev Younger who currently runs Lucky Cat Tattoo on Great Western Road. I have lots of tattoos but only currently have my ears pierced (I used to have my nipples pierced but after getting ye olde pneumonia and getting my chest X-rayed in hospital they had to come out).

3...times seeing my hero (PRINCE!) live. The 21 Nights in London residency was the best summer I've ever had and I'll always remember being so excited and feeling like I was in the opening scene from Purple Rain. Just. Wow. I hope that I will one day see him in concert again.

5...trips to Florida (with the 6th trip mere weeks away). My favourite holiday destination. I love everything about visiting Florida - the shopping, the food, the people, the weather and of course DISNEYWORLD (it really is the happiest place on earth)!! I hope to visit more parts of America over the years but Florida always has a special place in my heart.

 30...Rock. Just a little note on my favourite TV shows! I love comedies and currently my favourite things to watch are 30 Rock (now on it's last season, boo hiss), The Big Bang Theory and New Girl. I like both British and American comedies and also enjoy watching dramas like Sopranos & Sons of Anarchy, documentaries (especially music and crime), horror shows (American Horror Story is genius and I can't wait for the next series) and a lot of trashy nonsense like anything shown on E! and the Style network. Sometimes the best way to spend a wet weekend (in my opinion) is having a pyjama day in front of the telly.

So that is a little bit about me! I didn't even mind the numbers too much this time.

What are some random facts about you? Do you watch any of those shows? Can you teach me long division?

Thanks for reading!

Back in the saddle

Well hello there! As promised I've come back to the bloggerverse with almost a year of absence. I don't expect there to be many of you lovely people left here waiting for me but a big hi-five and thank you to those of you that are still here! 

Now that the distractions that were taking up my attention are over I can return to this blog with the energy and ideas that it deserves. As you can see, I have been doing a little spring cleaning - out with the old and in with the new. New layout, new design and - most importantly - new content. 

In my absence from blogging I have been sporadically reading blogs I admire and taking the odd mental note here and there to help me when I eventually retuned. This new blog isn't perfect but it's on it's way to being what I want it to be. I had previously been making do with what had been immediately available instead of thinking outside the box and making more of an effort (ironically something I always encourage in others but had stopped doing myself). Things like picture quality, using social media and networking with other bloggers had taken a total backseat and I feel like I have a lot of catching up to do. Bloglovin', Pintrest and #bbloggers chat over on Twitter are things that I have been aware of but haven't had the time or (sometimes) know-how to get involved in. So, one step at a time I will get involved instead of silently standing at the side of the playground. If you have any tips or handy hints to help me along the way or can think of anything else I might like please get in touch by emailing me at misswestendgirl@hotmail.co.uk , tweet me @misswestendgirl or feel free to leave a comment below!

Any thoughts are welcome and appreciated! 

I have updated my 'about' section of the blog so you can see what kinds of things that I will be blogging about. Not too much has changed in that respect since i was last here but as this blog has evolved over the last few years I feel that it is important to say what I am all about and the blog too. I don't want to pigeonhole myself into 'just fashion' or 'just beauty' (etc) because I like too many things and want to blog about all of them. I guess 'lifestyle blog' has a wider spectrum of what to expect content-wise so until I think of a better description we can stick with it for now. I have also updated it to reveal a little more about me personally too - I think it is nice to know a little about the person behind the blog and most of the other blogs I read have that quality so it is one of the main changes content-wise that will start to show. 

I'd also like to (in the future) look at maybe organising giveaways and things like that but that is something that will come later, once I have the rest figured out! 

I'm looking forward to getting back into the swing of things and hope you'll stick around with me to see how it goes. 

Thanks for reading!