Penny's Top Ten Tips #8 Surviving the Gym

Welcome to Penny's Top Ten Tips, its the 8th one! Sorry there has been a bit of a delay with the T.T.T, but lets not hesitate with this one. Lets begin... 

1. Wear something comfortable-
While exercising its best to wear some comfortable shoes, comfort top and trousers, etc. Oh, and a good sports bra really is helpful. No one wants to see your jubblies bouncing around while on the treadmill.

2. Avoid wearing make-up-
Your going to be sweating... do you really want to have a melty make-up face? No. Avoid the slap and go au natural...make-up wise... 

3. Stay hydrated-
Its common sense really. Stay hydrated between exercise.

4. In your gym bag...-
Water, towel, deodorant, a small towel and a mp3, if your a podcast/music lover.

5. Don't be intimidated-
People aren't looking at you or judging you. Get that in your mind. Everyone is at the gym for the same reason-to exercise and improve their health. The best thing to do is to do the step below...

6. Focus on your exercise-
Ignore the other people around you and focus on what your doing. Not what you look like or what your listening to your mp3 player, just on your exercise.

7. Speak to the trainers-
Some gym trainers can be really intimidating. I've been to a gym that has been really supportive, helped me with the machines and gave me some general advice about fitness and so made going to the gym less of a chore. I had to transfer to another gym because I moved, I was given a 5 minute tour and sent on my way... I did not receive another interaction and was given a guest pass to use because I my pass... "was delayed/at the printers/are you sure you've signed up to THIS gym?" I swiftly ended my membership. If you don't feel comfortable chatting to the trainers at the gym or are treated badly? Leave. Its not worth the money.

8. Push yourself (to an extent)-
You'll hear people pushing themselves to get the best out of their exercise and I do agree, to some extent. I do believe in pushing yourself, but if you have a medical problem or back problems then the only one who will suffer is you at the end of the workout.

9. Make a little goal -
Rather than focusing on the end goal, focus on the little goals like beating the number of miles you do while on the bike. If you train yourself to focus on little goals, it will make the gym less tedious and draw attention away from the clock.  

10. Reward yourself-
After you've been to the gym, you will have a mixture of feelings: tired, elated, relieved and proud and maybe some others. My point is, if the gym session was very tiring reward yourself with something a relaxing bath or shower, a face mask or reading a good book. Try and avoid something food related because that can reverse the work you've done at the gym!


Do you gym it? Is it a chore or a pleasure going to the gym?

Penny's Top Ten Tips #8 Living with the Other Half

Its that time of week again. TOP TIP TIME! Since me and Rob have finally moved in and we've settled down, it makes sense that we should do some hints on living with the other half.

1. There will be surprises-
Good and bad surprises that is. You'll learn that you both have odd habits, that you may be grossed out by, but fear not there will be good surprises too. I learnt that Rob can really cook an amazing pasta bake, which surprised me because I thought he couldn't cook (Sorry darling! I know you can :3)  

2. Bottling up is never a good idea-
We've both learnt that bottling up any comments or feelings is not a good idea. In any situation, just say what you feel, even if it upsets the other person. Its better in the long run to say how you feel rather then bottle it up and snap later.

3. Make date night important-
One day or one evening, just for the two of you. I know its a cliché, but setting aside one day for both of you to escape everyday life and to keep the romance alive.

4. Cherish each moment together-
Rob and I don't spend masses of time together, its not because we can't be bothered but we both work really hard. Its difficult even to work in our date nights. When we eat dinner or just watch TV we really make little moments we spend together count.

5. Learn how to communicate clearly-
If you have something to ask say it in a clear and effective manner to avoid arguments. Example: Rob: "Do you want the last cupcake?"
(I do want the last cupcake) Penny: "Erm... I don't mind..."
Rob: "Ok I eat it *nom*"
Penny: "Ahh!! I wanted that!!"
Rob: "But you didn't say..."

6. Help each other-
Whether its housework or cooking, its a team effort. You really  need to help each other out by not letting one person carry the weight.

7. Be extremely patient-
I'm sure that you and your partner have different personalities. You must have some idea of what their like already (hopefully if you've been dating for a while). Its getting used to seeing them, all the time, 24 hours a day, without a break. It will take time and patience when you move in. Even when the kitchen is left in a state... your partner may not feel that keeping the place tidy is important. You need to calmly say that its not acceptable to left the kitchen in a messy state and it would mean a lot if it was left clean. Rather then blew up over it, be patient and clear.

8. Personal Space-
Just because you live together doesn't mean that have to spend every moment together. You'll need your own time, to do your own thing-to keep you sane! For example, I blog and I bake a lot on my own. Meanwhile, Rob plays video games for some 'me time' (at the moment he's playing Shadow of Mordor, which looks like a pretty epic game). The message is that you'll enjoy each others company more, when you spend time apart. You know the old saying: "Absence makes the heart grow fonder".

9. Get a Hobby!-
While me and Rob do our own thing. When we have an hour to spend together we go to the cinema or we watch a TV series together (Its the Walking Dead at the moment). We've found a hobby together which we means we spend more time together and as a bonus we do something fun together!

10. Leave the frustration outside the front door-
When you leave work, mentally leave it. After a hard day at university, leave it at university and don't bring the frustrations home with you as that frustration can be taken out on your partner.

Penny's Top Ten Tips #7 Convention Going!

Since I'm off to the Cake and Bake show this weekend. I'm doing a Top Ten Tips on Convention Going (If your around on Saturday feel free to say hi if you see me!)

1. Outfit ready yet?-
If its a costume or special outfit make sure you have all the elements to it (including accessories) and that its ready to go on the day. I would advise that your outfit be comfortable since you'll be lining up for stuff and walking around.

2. Get cash out before you go-
Many stalls do offer card payment but I will be that one stall that you want to buy something from will not take card. Get some cash out before you start and it will save the inconvenience.

3. Set a budget-
In saying the above point, set an amount you want to spend. On my first ever convention, I spent over £100 which left me and my bank account reeling for weeks!

4. Grab freebies-
Don't feel guilty, there freebies you take them. Don't feel obliged to buy product if you do not want to.

5. Pick up business cards-
It sounds a little odd but in picking up business cards, you remember a shop or a certain person to contact at a later date. Or if you have a sieve like memory (like me).

6. Go hands free-
The worst thing is when you're at a convention is a massive bag, that's going to become more of a nuisance then a help. Keep your tickets, purse, travel cards and mobile in a small bag around your shoulder to keep you hands free for eating, drinking or fangirling.

7. Travel documents-
My travel card ran out before the Cake and Bake show (2014), so double check that you've got all the travel cards and tickets ready and checked.  

8. Pick up a timetable-
Conventions often give out free timetables to show you what time certain events are. I highly suggest you pick one up, so you don't miss any of the shows.

9. Network-
Conventions are a great way to network with people with similar interests. I always carry little business cards with details of the blog and how to contact me. It saves pen and paper. I must stress that don't give details like your mobile number or address and if you feel uncomfortable giving your details to someone. Then don't. Your gut feeling is often the right one.

10. Approach when appropriate-
There are often celebrities, or (baking) stars (in this case Mich Turner and more!!) and they may have hoards of people following them or maybe they are incognito. Only approach them if they are free, available to talk  and want to chat. Most will love to chat but be aware that there are hundreds of others wanting to get their attention, being considerate doesn't cost anything.

Penny's Top Ten Tips #6 Moving In

Nearly the weekend is upon us. Its within grasp but for now it's only Thursday and that means Penny's Top Ten Tips. This one is close to my heart.

I left home when I was 16 but I stayed with my grandparents to study hospitality and cookery at college. I then moved away for university as a fresher! I enjoyed the experience of meeting people and introducing myself to the uni scene. However, my fun experience was cut short as a family member ended up in hospital and it was looking grim... It turned out fine and the family member made a full recovery. It was an eye opening miracle and I wasn't ready to fly the nest after that, so I moved back with my grandparents until graduation. Its only in my early twenties, that I've decided to take the plunge with Rob (the boyfriend) and move in together. I'm a total fresher* when it comes to really looking after myself, but lucky for me, I've got a very patient and supportive boyfriend. So here is my list on moving into your first rented house...
(*Doesn't mean I'm totally incompetent at looking after myself.)

1. The move won't get done in a day-
Don't be under the illusion that you will be all done with the unpacking in an afternoon. It will be a slow and gruelling process finding where your stuff is going to live and what stuff you forgot to pack... Trust me on this, don't rush the unpacking process it will take a little time, depending on how much you have, set aside a couple of hours a day to unpack a little at a time. 


2. Bring some cleaning materials-
When moving in, I cleaned the place from top to bottom. It was more like a mass sterilisation of the place. But the previous tenants left the place in a state, so we didn't have much choice. Here's the list (within the list) of cleaning products that I recommend that you take (just in case):

• Mop and mop bucket
• Indoor brush
• (outdoor brush if needed)
• White clothes
• Washing up bowls
• Washing up liquid
• Bleach
• Bleach spray
• Window cleaner
• Cleansing Surface Wipes
• Scrub brush
• Green scrub cloths
• Toilet brush
• Bathroom cleaner
• Paper towels

3. Take pictures-
Make sure you take any pictures of any damages, the gas and electric meters. This is to avoid any shocking bills that you may be send, if and when you move out (This will also get your deposit back if you live student accommodation).

4. Get to know your landlord/lady-
Be polite, get their number and get to know them a little, without being a stalker. Unless its a real emergency, treat them like you would an office, call from 9-5pm Monday-Friday. Why? Because no one wants a call at 8pm at night asking how to switch the oven on. When you have an issue its alot more easier to deal with a landlord that likes you. 

5. Family Help-
If your lucky enough to have parents to help you move in, let them. Moving into a place is not the easy and taking advantage of all the help you can will save you lots of time and effort in the long run. Also they may have some knowledge about certain electrical items or how the boiler works perhaps? Its harder to explain that over the phone. 

6. Sort out the bills and suppliers-
The faster you get bills sorted, the better. No-one wants a threatening letter from the water company about that unpaid bill that you got...about 6 months ago...

7. Scope the area-
Does your area have a convenience store? A near-by doctors surgery? Its a good idea to look around your new area to see what is near you. If you haven't got much near you, get to know where the nearest public transport is. 

8. Get to know the neighbours-
I think this is quite important because if you blank your neighbours, they will blank you. What will happen if your missing post and its going next door? But you have no clue about it because you weren't nice enough to introduce yourself to your neighbours in the first place, so they can't return your letters to you! Just exchange pleasantries and see where it takes you. You may find yourself a good friend in the process.  

9. Don't forget your friends-
Once you've moved in tell your friends where you've gone by sending them a change of address cards. It might be worth throwing a house party to show off your new house and to invite your friends to party!

10. Make it your own-
Photo frames of loved ones, pillows, flowers will make your new home more, you. The more little touches you add to your house, the more it will feel like a comfortable place to live. It will take a little time for your new place to feel comfy and homey. 

How did you feel when you first moved? Do you have any tips for moving in?

Penny's Top Ten Tips #5 Blogger Block

Can you believe its already week 5 into top ten tips? Wow!!
Its been a been great so far. We've had Graduation Week Tips, Planning the Perfect Picnic, Party Prep for Grad Balls, and How to write a Restaurant Review. This week I'm giving you my top ten tips on Blogger Block. Its like writers blog but for bloggers. You get the gist, not lets get to the list!

1. Read, read, read-
When I say this, I'm not limiting this to blogs. Magazines, newspapers, books and web articles can not only expand your views and keep you informed of the latest news, but it may provide you with some blogging ideas.

2. Join social networks-
My personal favourites are Pinterest and Bloglovin. I am so glad (and grateful) that I found these websites. Bloglovin is a great way to read all your favourite blogs in one place. Not only does it get your name out in blogosphere,  you get a reading list of all the latest posts of your favourite blogs, which provides you with some good reading and inspiration. You can also save your favourites for future reading. This applies to Pinterest, you can save recipes for further reading or just gorge on food porn for inspiration.

3. Do something outside of the comfort zone-
I'm a food blogger and its highly unusual that I do anything but blog about food. Sometimes there are exceptions, such as this top ten list, like this one! But why not do a beauty post? How about fitness? A crafty post about that awesome papermache mask that your kid did? Its your blog and you can post whatever you like.

4. I think I'd like to phone a friend Penny-
You never know a friend or family member that may have a good idea to blog about. They may even want to write a post for the blog, if they fancy a go.

5. Lists never fail-
Top ten lists (again like this) can be a blogging life saver. If you are stuck and haven't got a clue what to write about then go with a list. Favourite product list, best playlist for jogging etc. You get the gist.

6. Take a walk-
Sitting at a computer and hoping for something to pop in your head... well it can happen but often it doesn't. Switch off the computer and go for a walk. No-where special, maybe just down to the shops just to clear your head. You may find that walk will do you a world of good and it may turn out to be a eureka moment.

7. Quality not Quantity-
No matter how much writer blockage you have (is that a thing?), I think consistency is very important when running a blog. But I also think publishing something for the sake of  publishing can result in a poor quality post. Time management is the key here. Write a good decent post about something your passionate about as people can see through something that's fake or just been posted to meet a deadline.

8. Write it down-
If you have a single vague idea, don't let it escape you. Write it down somewhere your going to see it, and not on a post-it. They will go missing.

9. Pictures speak louder then words-
Looking at old photos of you and your family may spark an idea. When I came up with Two Toned Icing Cupcakes, it was really an excuse to celebrate my friend Naomi leaving the UK for an amazing job opportunity but it was by looking at old pictures of me and my friend that the idea came about. (Luckily, Naomi is back!! So yay!!!)

10. Teamwork-
Maybe its worth writing with someone else. That is rather then you or someone else write the post by yourself, you work as a team instead.

I hope you've enjoyed this weeks Penny's Top Ten Tips.
What do you do when dreaded blogger block hits?

Penny's Top Ten Tips #4 How to Write a Restaurant Review

Its Thursday! You know what that means? Its time for Penny's Top Ten Tips! This week its: How to write a restaurant review! 

1. Know a little about the place your eating at-
You most likely do this already but check out and research your restaurant before you go. Do they have an interesting back story? What is the chefs inspirational story? (because all chefs have stories like that..) Keep a note of all of these things when writing up the review.

2. Book a window seat to maximise light-
Unless its really cold that is. By sitting near the window you'll be able to fully use natural light to your advantage when taking a picture with your smartphone or camera. By the way, turn the flash off. There's nothing more frustrating when you've got a snap happy dinner guest taking pictures using a flash. I want to see my food not little bright spots in my face.

3.Keep the palate arranging to a minimum-
Don't mess with the chefs work. Leave the plate as it is. Whether its picture perfect or otherwise, just leave the plate alone if you want an honest representation of your dish.

4. Take a notebook, pen and camera-
Obviously, so you can make some tasting notes...

5. Make notes as you go-
I'm not joking with this one. I've eaten a 3-course meal and stuffed it so fast I didn't put pen to paper and didn't make a single note. I wanted to write up a good review and couldn't remember the names of dishes or what I enjoyed the most about the experience.  

6. Aim for independent restaurants-
Again this is a no brainer but avoid branded chain restaurants such as Loch Fyne. There are some great places to dine out that are just down the road from you, just itching to be discovered!

7. Grab a dictionary-
Everyone is guilty of this. We all use repetitive words such as yummy, delicious, scrummy etc. It may take a couple of reviews to expand your vocabulary and really get into the swing of things. 

8. Be honest- not harsh or too fluffy
When I used to write reviews I was too nice and kind. I could be smacked in the back of my head with a plate in a restaurant, without an apology [its happened], had sub-par food and flat atmosphere AND I still tipped and written a decent review because I'm a soft spot... but on the other-hand, that doesn't mean I can a totally arse-butt about it! You can't then stream out really bad stuff because your outraged about your white wine being too cold.... 
It's best to keep yourself balanced and the review will remain balanced.  

9. Try something different-
Your going out for a meal, scanning the menu and do you often find yourself leaning to something comfortable and familiar? Well push the boat out and order something you can't make at home or don't normally have. This will then give you something interesting to write and hopefully, you can find a new foodie favourite. 

10. Enjoy the experience-
Try not to get too bogged down in the reviewing process. Enjoy the meal for what it is. Its a fun food review not an essay

Have you written a restaurant review? Share in comments!

Penny'sTop Ten Tips #2 Planning the Perfect Picnic

Welcome to the second Penny's Top Ten Tips! To start with, a few weekends back was the first time I ever went on a picnic. That's right. I've never been on one! My boyfriend was down for the weekend and he thought that was so sad that we decided to go for it and plan a picnic!

In Hyde Park, London no less. We went on a sunny Saturday afternoon with a couple of bottles of cider, a cheapy mini bottle of prosecco and some foodie goodies. So learning from this wonderful experience here is my tip tops for planning the perfect picnic. 

1. Check your location-
The ideal location for your picnic should have a lot of room for your group to eat and maybe play some games. Locations such as a park, beach or a really big back garden near your house.

2.Check the weather-
There's nothing worst then getting to your picnic spot and its just about to pour down with rain. Not fun. Once you've confirmed your ideal, check the weather and keep yourself updated. If the weather is terrible for your chosen day you may need to, -dare I say it-, take a rain-check!

3. Have a 'basics' list-
I do love lists. In fact this will end up being a list within a list. That's how much I love lists. This one is my personal picnic list, that is a fail safe. Your basic picnic list should be remembered or written down on some cute stationary and add any extra items accordingly:
           *Blanket
           *Bottle opener
           *Plastic cups
           *Disposable cutlery and plates
           *Napkins
           *Straws
           *A spare plastic bag to get rid of rubbish
           *Cool bags/Ice Box
           *Camera

4. Keep in mind how many people are you catering for. I say this as very often many picnic goers pack too much food and much of this is thrown away and wasted. I don't know about you but I can't stand wasting food. To avoid this pack only what you need. For hungry two people for example, 2 sandwiches each, 2 drinks, 2 water bottles, 4 cookies each, 1 cake slice, 1/4 quiche slice and 2 packets of crisps. I mean its up to you what you bring as its your picnic. My ideal picnic foods are Pissaladiere, Chocolate Chunky Chocolate Chip Cookies, Cheese and Tomato Quiche, Chocolate Cola Cake and sandwiches made with my Assessment Bread

5. Food needs cooling-Cool bags are your friend!
 If your location is on public transport taking a massive cool box may not be visible. If your taking a car, then by all means go for it. If your having a small picnic that requires some travel then cool bags are a life saver. You can turn any back-pack into a portable-fridge with enough these cool bags! They will keep the food as fresh as possible while traveling.

6.Pack only what you need-
 I suppose I've made this point once already in step 4 but I'm talking about the extra stuff. I'm talking about the Ipad, the miniature stereo, the extra pair of flip-flop shoes, the other blanket, and a kitchen sink because you never know. This is a bit exaggerated of course but don't over-pack with stuff that you will not use.

7.Protect yourself!-
Sitting in bright, warm weather is a simple pleasure in life. Moments like that can be ruined by sunburn. Sunblock, sun-glasses and hats if the weather is scorching hot. I know you've heard this all before but sunburn pain is not worth it. You'll thank me for it later.

8. Live in the moment-
Enjoy the day for what it is and try not to live on your phone. Its a hard habit to break not to keep updating your facebook status  or posting an awesome picture of your picnic food every five minutes (both which I'm guilty of). Don't get me wrong take some pictures, and actually enjoy the picnic-Right there and then- rather than in cyberspace. You can always upload pictures when you go home.

9. Stay hydrated- Always bring a bottle of water with you on a hot day. Keep your water levels up to avoid de-hydration. Common sense really.

10. Have some games planned-
Frisbee, volleyball, football, rugby, the possibilities are endless. Some other games including my personal favourite which my friends Sofia and Farah introduced me to is: Snog, Marry or Throw off a Cliff. Sofia and I played this game whilst in Disneyland Paris to pass the time while waiting for the Disney Dreams Firework Show. It requires nothing but the imagination. You can play with as many people as you like as well.
How it goes is someone picks a theme such as Disney Villains.
The other players must decide on 3 people for the first player to either kiss/snog, marry or throw of a cliff. The first player has to come up with an answer and a reason why they would pick that person and then is moved on to the other players. If a player refuses to answer then they are out of the game. There are no winners or losers but its so funny to play.

Example: Disney Villains
Other Players: Who would Snog, Marry or Throw off the Cliff... Javar? Captain Hook? or Doctor Facilier, AKA"The Shadow Man"?

First Player: Seriously? Fine.... I'd marry Captain Hook cause he has a boat... Snog Doctor Facilier cause he's... kinda hot? And I'm throwing Javar off the cliff because he's a moron. ..

Its always such a laugh to play this, mix it up by adding real celebrities, Harry Potter characters, anyone that you feel is cringy enough to make people squirm.

This is the last unofficial point in the post, remember to leave the place as you found it. Pick up any bits of rubbish and pack up everything so your perfect picnic spot is ready for the next person to enjoy.

What's been your favourite picnic location?

Penny Top Ten Tips #1 Graduation Week Tips

Welcome to week 1 of Penny's Top Ten Tips. What to focus on this week? As it's graduation season, I thought I would put up some advice from someone who has got through the university process. Its also a kind of wrap up of the last 4 years of balancing work, socialising and studying. The only way to describe it is like finishing a chapter of a book and moving onto the next one.

So that was uni. Also just like to point out I graduated with a 2:1, I know-I'm just so amazing (ha! Don't lie Penny).

So follow these tips on how to deal with leaving university and your graduation.

1. Attend your graduation-

My class had a lot of international students. From Hong Kong to Romania, they all made the effort to come together and celebrate as a class. I really recommend going as its a good opportunity to celebrate with family, friends and classmates. Also you get to dress up like a super hero and wear a cheeseboard on your head... very pretty.

2. Attend your graduation ball (or another night out with classmates)-
I can't describe how much fun my graduation ball was. I got my arms done all with snowflakes, I got to see a snake, I saw a lion dance- and had a little too much to drink. Wild night. It was such an enjoyable night. If in the unlikely event that your university doesn't do a grad ball then organise a night out for you and your classmates yourself!

3. Stay calm-
Its very easy to get stressed out with graduation ball and your graduation. Make sure that your super organised and that everyone knows what they are doing. I had to organise 4 people who were arriving at different times to get to one venue. Its not easy but it can be done especially if everyone knows what the plan is. Also, don't get upset when one of your party forgets the plans. No matter how many times you explain the plan, you will have to explain it one more time.

4.Get emotional-
University is a massive part of a students life. It eats up 3 to 4 years of your life and all of a sudden its not there anymore. Its completely normal to cry or go a bit crazy with excitement because, (unless you're doing a post graduate degree), you only get to do graduate once.

5 Enjoy your moment-
Your graduation should be a selfish moment. You've worked so hard, so yes, you deserve it.

6 Don't lose touch-

Keep in contact with classmates, friends, tutors, and even the university. Most universities have a alumni, which is when you finish you will always be part of the university and can still offer career services. Send the odd email or even better send a letter. People love getting post :)

7 Enjoy that last student summer...-
This is the only summer you may get as a student, so really enjoy it. Go on holiday, see as many friends as you can and live in the moment. You get this opportunity to really enjoy yourself before the full-time job sets in.

8...But don't forget to look for a job-
While your enjoying your summer, put aside one hour dedicated to career-time. This can be updating your LinkedIn profile, organising your CV,general job searching and networking. It will save you the panic, when you're asked: "So have you got a job yet?"

9 Arrange a meet-up in a year-
Its sort of like a university reunion, send out a message hinting to meet up with everyone at a suitable location. (Maybe at the university students union?) It will be nice to see everyone in a year to see what you have all been up too!

10. It will be a mixture of a feelings...it totally normal-
You may feel overwhelmed, excited, or down because its all over. The journey you did a few years ago has finished. Its the end of an era. Its been such a big part of your life that its hard to let go of it. You may find yourself walking away from the graduation and thinking: "Was that it? Its over?" Its sad but there is so much to look forward to. Holidays, a new career, moving out of your parents house, and well, moving out into the big wide world!

Congratulations and thank-you to all of my classmates, tutors and friends for making my years at university and graduation special. Do you have any tips for planning a graduation?

New Weekly Feature(s)

Now that I've got some more time, I'm going to be posting a lot more. I'm hoping twice weekly but as my job is quite demanding and with me going on holiday soon AND starting another patisserie course, it may be once a week. But hey, I'm well organised so at least once a week should be do-able. 

This is the introduction post to two brand new weekly features: Penny's Top Ten! and Fat Fridays! (Aren't you that excited? What do you mean 'no'?! GO SIT IN THE CORNER!)

Lets start out with Fat Fridays. I'm giving full credit to one of my work colleagues, Lucy Madz, for coming up with the name. (She calls it Fat F**k Fridays but since I've got a varied age range of readers, I'm keeping it clean) Once a week I'll be posting a recipe of something indulgent, yummy, and just, for one day, if you follow a healthy diet, tossing it out of the window. Here is week 1, week 2, and week 3 Fat Friday so far. Which features Raspberry Roulade, Doughnuts and French Toast. 

The second feature I'd like to introduce to you which will be making a weekly appearance is Penny's Top Ten! To break up the masses of recipes on here, this weekly feature will be a list of 10 points on any subject. I'm thinking for the first week maybe something related to a graduation since I've fully graduated like ohhh 3 weeks ago? Still haven't done a round up of it yet. But that's the joys of working full time, you don't get tons of time to blog!

Stay tuned for more in the coming weeks

10 Bits of Advice to Think About During Revison

I'm smack right in the middle of revising for my final ever exams and it sucks. 

I (hopefully), will never have to take an nail biting, sleep depriving and nerve racking exam again. Or at least I don't plan too after these final university exams! I was doodling on my revision book I was studying extremely hard, when I got to a point when I thought: 

"Sod it. I can't take in anymore rubbish about critiquing a 'Blue Ocean Strategy'. 

That's where the inspiration for this post popped up. Revision sucks. We all know it. It bloody well sucks! It can cause the most calmest to freak out, but sadly, it has to be done. In fact this post is dedicated to all those people who are revising and studying hard (or at least pretending to) with my own tips to getting through this stupidly hard and annoying time. 

1. Don't waste your time with revision timetables. You'll waste time making them and you'll feel bad for not following it. Don't waste precious study time on what you should be studying on Monday between 11am-1pm. Just get studying!

2. Eat and stay hydrated! I can't tell you how many times I've been in the 'study zone' and haven't had a drink for about 4 hours. DONT LET THIS HAPPEN! You need to eat. You need to drink. Your brain can't work if its not fuelled. So fuel it when needed.

3. Distractions will find you. Oh I've got to clean my room before I can start revision... I can't work without my highlighters being a straight line. We all have an excuse not to revise but try to push past it.

4. Worrying will not get you anywhere. It won't get you high marks, so try and stay calm and focused. 

5. Have a support network. If you've got friends who are willing to do a study session or revise together then use this opportunity. Your weaknesses in a subject might be a friends strength and visa versa. 

6. Give yourself a break. If your brain has stop taking information in then you are allowed a break. Might I suggest baking these amazing Salted Caramel Brownies for ideal snack during revision?

7. Set a stop time. Whether its after you've finished a topic or at a certain time make an agreement with yourself to stop. 

8. Make a check-list for exam day and pack the night before. So that you don't forget anything- That means your stationary, student I.D etc. With details where you need to be on the day and at the right time. Nothing worse then turning up on the wrong day. This will also put your mind at rest the night before.  

9. Don't bother comparing with others. You can only do the best you can do. When you start comparing with friends and classmates, it will add to the pressure of the exam and who needs that when your trying to figure out the difference between Discourse Lens and Experience Lens in that first exam you've got?

10. Aim for that goal. Having something to look forward to after the exam period is done and over-with. Whether it's a holiday or a meal with friends. 

I hope that this has helped dealing with exams. If this hasn't helped then just think in a month this will all be over and done with!

and remember:

Good luck to everyone doing exams! (including myself yikes!)