jeezlouisexo: December 2016

Friday 30 December 2016

What I Got For Christmas 2016

Hey everyone, I hope you all had a lovely Christmas! I was umm-ing and ahh-ing about whether to do this post but I've seen quite a few people post one so I thought I'd join in.












Saturday 17 December 2016

Blogmas Day 17 | Top Movies of 2016

This year has been filled with some amazing movies, and today I'm going to talk you through some of my favourites of 2016. I can already tell you most of them will be superhero films, but a few are probably ones aimed more for kids than 22 year olds haha!


Captain America: Civil War
Despite not seeing the previous Captain America films, I thoroughly enjoyed Civil War! I found it hard to follow the story at first 'cause I didn't know half the characters but I soon got the jist of it all! It features all the Avengers, including an appearance from the new Spiderman (which I can't wait for!) and was an absolutely great film!

Finding Dory
13 years after Finding Nemo, I felt a little too old to be going to see Finding Dory, yet there I was sat in the cinema surrounded by adults. Obviously we all had the same idea and didn't want to miss out on Ellen DeGeneres absolutely nail the performance as Dory. Although this is a kids film, I enjoyed it very much and would recommend it to anyone that loved Finding Nemo.

Suicide Squad
Definitely the most hyped up movie of the year, and a well deserved one at that! I was a little disappointed at how little screen time the Joker got, but was impressed with Jared Leto's portrayal of him. The first half of the film was great, but then the second half was a bit strange as if Michael Bay had turned up halfway through to direct it and decided to blow everything up. Besides the pacing issues in the last few scenes of the film, I'd definitely watch it again and can't wait to see more of Margot Robbie as Harley Quinn!

The Secret Life of Pets
OMG this film was hilarious! It's made by the same company that brought us Minions, and admittedly I felt there was no need for there to be a Minions short at the beginning of the film. Nevertheless, it was a great story and if I had to compare it, I'd say it was basically all three Toy Story films in one but with animals instead of toys.

Doctor Strange
Probably one of my favourite films this year, purely for Benedict Cumberbatch! I didn't know anything about Doctor Strange before Ross dragged me to see it but I really enjoyed it. It was a little trippy at times and I felt like I'd had my drink spiked with LSD haha. Mads Mikkelsen (Le Chiffre from Casino Royale) was also great as the baddie and gave me the heebie jeebies a little!

Deadpool
When I saw that Marvel were bringing out an R-rated Deadpool movie, I was so excited. The character is so sarcastic and so much sass it's unreal and I think Ryan Reynolds was born for the role. The film definitely lived up to everyone's expectations and will probably be one of my favourites for a long time yet!

So that's a few of my favourite movies from 2016, what are some of yours?

Friday 16 December 2016

Blogmas Day 16 | Birchbox December 2016


Hello and welcome to day 16 of Blogmas. We're now into a single figure countdown to Christmas and I'm getting more and more excited just thinking about it! 
Today's post is going to be an unboxing and my thoughts on this month's Birchbox so let's get straight into it.


Firstly, can we just talk about how cute this box is?! It's their cutest design yet, and I'll definitely be using this for storage! Included in every box is a little booklet to tell you what you've received and this month there's also a gift envelope if you decide to give someone the gift of a subscription for Christmas.


The first item I pulled out of the box is a pack of Starskin Eye Catcher masks. These are for the under eye area and are designed to reduce puffiness and smooth out the skin. They're infused with coconut juice and licorice root extract to help brighten under your eyes. I will definitely be using these because I suffer from the worst eye bags ever!


Up next is something I am super excited about and that is Benefit Porefessional Matte Rescue. This product has been raved about so much ever since Benefit released their new range of Porefessional products. It's a clear mattifying gel, which is perfect for me since I have quite oily skin. It's designed to mattify the skin and leave it looking poreless.




The next product is one that I have wanted for so long and it's the Fierce Flicks Eyeliner from Ciaté. This has been on my makeup wishlist for as long as I can remember! It's a felt tip liner and it's super black, like the blackest liner you will probably ever find! It's perfect for winged liner 'cause the tip is really thin too!


I've never been one to use any sort of masks or fancy products on my hair so when I saw this Percy & Reed Wonder Balm, I was slightly sceptical. I'm one of those girls that just uses shampoo and conditioner, purely because my hair isn't in a really bad condition and because I'm just too lazy to faff about. This is a leave-in treatment balm which preps your hair for any styling products you might throw at it (not literally I hope)



The last item is one that enticed me quite a little and it's an Eyelighter by Laqa & Co. I assume by the name it's a highlighter designed mainly for your brow bone and inner corner of your eye but I guess you could use it anywhere. All the highlighters in my collection are powder so it'll be nice to try out this stick. The shade is a really lovely pink champagne colour, it has a really creamy texture and blends so well!

So that's everything in this month's Birchbox! I hope you enjoyed reading my thoughts, if you'd like to subscribe click here.


Thursday 15 December 2016

Blogmas Day 15 | December Playlist


This isn't a Christmas themed post but today, I thought I'd talk you through some songs I've been loving this month! I've been listening to a variety of genres in December, I like to think I have a very eclectic taste in music!

Little Mix - Shout Out To My Ex
Mowbeck - Talkabout 
Justin Bieber - Let Me Love You
Louis Tomlinson - Just Hold On 
DNCE - Toothbrush
Ariana Grande - Side to Side
Gnash - i hate u, i love u
Twenty One Pilots - Heathens
You Me at Six - Give
The 1975 - Somebody Else
The Weeknd - Starboy
Shawn Mendez - Mercy
Drake ft Rihanna - Too Good
Martin Garrix ft Bebe Rexha - In The Name Of Love
Sigala - Give Me Your Love

That's just a few of the song I've been loving this month, I do keep trying to update my Spotify and I might even do a post like this every month. Let me know what you think! What are some of your favourites this month?


Wednesday 14 December 2016

Blogmas Day 14 | The Winterlicious Tag


Hello again! Yes, I know I'm doing another tag! I absolutely love reading these and this one is a little bit different to the Christmas Tag so hopefully you enjoy!

Favourite winter nail polish?
I can't wear extravagant nail polish because I work in retail but I'm currently wearing Naked Truth by Avon. It's a lovely brown toned nude and goes with everything!

Favourite winter lip product? 
Winter = chapped lips so I carry a Carmex with me everywhere! But I absolutely love Rimmel 107, it's the perfect wine shade for any winter makeup look.

Most worn winter clothing piece? 
I'd probably have to say my pyjamas to be perfectly honest. As soon as I'm home from work, they're straight on!
Most worn winter accessory? 
I would have to say my scarf, sometimes I'll even wear it inside if I'm feeling a bit chilly!
Favourite winter scent/candle?
 I've been loving Angel's Wings and Cinnamon Stick, both from Yankee Candle. They're both so festive and get me right in the Christmas mood!
Favourite winter beverage? 
It obviously has to be hot chocolate, duh!
All time favourite Christmas/holiday movie?
This is quite a tough question 'cause I love so many but I'd probably have to say The Grinch.
Favourite Christmas/holiday song? 
I don't really think I could name one favourite song, I have so many! You can read here about my top 5 though!
Favourite holiday food/treat? 
This is such a tricky question because I just love food so much haha! Either mince pies or pigs in blankets but it's a close fight!
What is your favourite Christmas decoration this year? 
I have the same Christmas decorations every year and they're just the generic red, gold and green so I can't say I have a favourite.
What’s at the top of your wish list? 
I'd probably have to say an iMac but I doubt I'll get one, which I don't mind as I'm trying to save up for one anyway. 
What are your plans for the holidays this year? 
I'm spending Christmas Day at my parents' house with Dexter while Ross goes to see his family. I'm not sure why but I'm super excited for Christmas this year and I can't wait to spend the day with my family!

I hope you enjoyed reading, I tag anyone that wants to take part. What are your plans for Christmas this year?


Tuesday 13 December 2016

Blogmas Day 13 | A Look Back At 2016


Welcome to day 13 of Blogmas. I can't believe there's less than 2 weeks to Christmas! 

While 2016 hasn't been a busy year for me personally, I feel like a lot has happened in the world. There's been so many celebrity deaths, and I know everyone has to die eventually, but it's so heartbreaking seeing so many of your favourite actors/singers pass. If that wasn't bad enough, there's been a lot of drama between some countries.

Politics seems to have gone mad this year, what with the UK leaving the EU, and Donald Trump as President of the US. I don't know much about politics but I know that will never end well! I voted Leave in the UK referendum and I know it'll probably be a few years before anything actually comes of it, I still stick by my decision. 

For the second year, Ross and I went to Leeds Festival. The shuttle bus service was organised so badly and I might have had to travel home on the first day because we forgot half our stuff, but I had an absolute whale of a time. We got to see Biffy Clyro, Fall Out Boy, Twenty One Pilots, Red Hot Chilli Peppers and so many others. Every band we saw were amazing and I would definitely go see all of them again!

This year, I moved into a house with Ross. It might have been extremely stressful at the time but I'm very happy with the cosy home we have now. We decided to take our relationship to the next level and adopted our dog Dexter! I can't tell you enough how much love we have for him, and how much our house feels like a home now that we have him! Ross and I also celebrated our 4 year anniversary, and while we didn't go overboard with celebrating and gifts, it was nice to just spend a few days off work with him watching our favourite movies and just enjoying each others' company.

In October I decided to start blogging. I had blogged for a few months this time last year but wasn't in a good place mentally so I went on hiatus. I decided to revamp my whole blog and start afresh, which was a great decision. I've enjoyed blogging so much so far and am already part of a blogger Whatsapp group chat! 

I'm going to be posting my hopes and aspirations for 2017 soon, hopefully it's a good year!


Monday 12 December 2016

Blogmas Day 12 | Furry Friend Tag


Before I get started with today's post, I'd like to apologise for my absence over the last 2 days. Ross and I were visiting his family over the weekend and I completely forgot to schedule any posts like an absolute nitwit. Anyway, today I'm doing the Furry Friend Tag, I didn't get tagged by anyone but I'm gonna do it anyway 'cause I'm obsessed with my not so little fur baby!

What is your pets name?
Dexter

What kind of pet is it and what breed?
He's a dog, and he's a Lurcher

How long have you had your pet friend?
We've had him for 3 months

How did you get your pet?
We adopted him from Jerry Greens Dog Rescue

How old is your pet?
He's 3 years old

What are some quirky things about your pets personality?
Sometimes he gets in a crazy mood and spins round on the spot around 10 times then runs away haha!

What does your relationship with your pet mean to you?
When Ross and I moved into our house, we both said we wanted a dog and it didn't feel like our home without one. Now we have Dexter, I wouldn't be without him!

What are some of your favourite past times with your pet?
We love to go on long walks (how romantic) but most of the time we just nap together and cuddle.

What are nicknames that you call your pet?
Usually Dex, Dexie Doo or Doggo, he answers to neither of them though haha!

If you'd like to keep up to date with Dexter's daily antics, I made him an Instagram account just so I didn't fill my own feed up with his photos. You can find him here!



Friday 9 December 2016

Blogmas Day 9 | Top 5 Christmas Songs


It's day 9 of Blogmas! Today I'm talking you through my top 5 fave Christmas songs. These are in no particular order, just my absolute favourites that get me in the Christmas spirit.


Band Aid // Do They Know It's Christmas - This song has such a lovely meaning behind it, with it being a charity song organised by Bob Geldof to raise awareness of the famine in third world countries. I'm not that much of a fan of the newer versions, but the original is just amazing! So many great artists feature on the song, and it really makes you think about the bigger picture.

Justin Bieber // Mistletoe - Okay I'll admit this is a definite guilty pleasure and I'm probably a secret Belieber, but this song is sooo good! I've always been a fan of JB, and I was over the moon when he released a Christmas album. This song is great for any Christmas party, because it's more of a modern song, I'm sure everyone secretly loves it.

Wham! // Last Christmas - This is probably on everyone's Christmas party playlist, it's one of the most played songs at this time of year and one of my favourites! I wouldn't consider myself a fan of the band, but I do quite like George Michael. This song reminds us of old loves and new flames, and makes me think of sharing Christmas with the ones I love most.

Idina Menzel & Michael Buble // Baby, It's Cold Outside - Michael Buble is known for coming out of his cave when December arrives, and he usually releases some absolute bangers! His rendition of Baby, It's Cold Outside with Idina Menzel (Elsa from Frozen) is my fave. I quite like the Tom Jones version, but this one is miles better purely for Michael Buble. The music video is also the CUTEST thing I've ever seen so if you haven't watched it, go check it out!

Mariah Carey // All I Want For Christmas Is You - The last song on my list is a classic from the diva queen herself. As soon as I hear this, I'm bursting into song trying (and failing) to hit all the high notes. I sometimes forget that this song is as old as me (22!) because it gets played to death at Christmas time. I always get straight into the festive spirit whenever I hear this and it will always be one of my all time favourites!

That's my top 5 Christmas songs, what are some of your favourites?



Thursday 8 December 2016

Blogmas Day 8 | Top 5 Winter Lipsticks


Welcome to day 8 of Blogmas! Christmas wouldn't be right without every girl rocking a bold lip, so today I'm going to share my top 5 winter lippies!

A dark lip is a staple for any winter makeup look, and I have featured a variety of brands, some a lot cheaper than others, to accommodate for everyone's budget.






Makeup Revolution / Private Members Club - This lipstick, believe it or not, is only £3! It's part of the Rose Gold range, which includes 5 shades from nude to vamp, and has this gorgeous rose gold packaging. The shade is a vampy purple which is perfect for winter time, I even wore it on Halloween! It has a slight glossy finish, but stays on for hours. The only problem I've found is that application is a bit patchy so you need to apply a few layers to get a really opaque look but for the price, I can't really complain! 
ModelCo / Smitten - I received this lipstick in a Birchbox last year, and it is one of my most reached for lippies! It is such a gorgeous dark red and it has a really creamy consistency which makes application so smooth. It has amazing staying power, I applied one coat before I went out for a meal and when I got home, it was still perfect! The finish is slightly glossy but it doesn't have a sticky texture and I would definitely recommend this to anyone looking for a new lipstick!
Mac / Hot Tahiti - OMG this shade! There are no words to describe how much I love this lipstick! Because it's a glaze finish, it isn't as bold as the others but I find it's perfect for daytime or if you're someone that wants a more subtle dark lip. Along with any other Mac lippies, it applies amazingly and lasts all day!
Rimmel Kate Moss / 107 - Every girl probably has this in her collection, and admittedly I only bought this because I saw Zoella had it. I'm so glad I bought this as it's such a lovely wine red. It's a matte finish and does dry my lips a little bit but that's nothing a bit of lip balm can't fix! This is definitely a staple product in anyone's makeup collection!
Avon / Superb Wine - As the name suggests, this is a perfect dark wine shade. The reason I actually bought this is because the advert claimed that it's more matte than Mac, so obviously I wanted to test it. I've only got a couple of matte lippies by Mac, Velvet Teddy and Lady Danger, and I've found they're both quite drying on my lips whereas the Avon lipstick doesn't dry out my lips at all! I don't think it lasts as long as a Mac lippie but it applies well and looks great with a glittery eye look!



These are my favourite winter lipsticks, what are some of yours?



Wednesday 7 December 2016

Blogmas Day 7 | My Favourite Christmas Jumpers


Hello and welcome to day 7, I hope you're enjoying Blogmas so far!

Today I'm sharing with you my favourite Christmas jumpers, I know some people will probably run and hide at the sight of festive fashion but I love it! There's usually something for everyone for over-the-top sparkles to subtle prints, so let's get straight into it!


WOMEN


Boohoo.com £15
 Notonthehighstreet.com £36

MEN
 Asos.com £35
 George at Asda £12
Debenhams £16

KIDS

 Boohoo.com £10
 Primark £8

These are some of my favourite festive jumpers this year, and I'll definitely be wearing one on Christmas Day!