Shingles, ways to ease your suffering

Shingles

Been there suffered it, here's what helped me.

Disclaimer: this isn't doctor's advice just what worked for me, try at your own risk we do not take responsibility for your outcome.

First up, doctor! Get a confirmation diagnosis and there is a course of tablets that they may put you on too. This depends on other medications and health background so not guaranteed.

Hydrocolloid plasters. These are different to blister plasters, usually a bit bigger. I found they helped heal and ease the blister pain, unfortunately they don't touch the nerve pain but any help is a relief.

Germolene, the topical anaesthetic is a god send! 

Pain meds, I used anadin. It's all I had to hand.

And finally if your very unlucky like me you need some thin disposable underwear. Let's face it if your affected were I was you need them. Maybe not immediately but you will. Sorry about that.

Ok so now you have your shingles saviour kit you should be ready to concentrate.  

So some of you poor souls have got what I refer to as the shingles thong. All one side of your intimate space is on fire, angry and will have begun developing blisters. So remove the hair yes it's going to be uncomfortable but get it gone. 

  Clean up and dry off. If your lucky and have the torso shingles then skip that.

Slap your hydrocolloid plasters on those blisters and breathe. For the ladies keep them external, don't go onto the labia/ vulva. 

Here you can add germolene on any surrounding pain areas to soothe additional painful space. Where plasters won't go to.  And those disposable underwear? Dont worry I'm not saying you lose control, as the blisters leak and weap and dry it will be yanked off with every move. The disposable pants don't stick to the blisters therefore limiting that repeatedly painful feel of waxing. 

Take painkillers as needed but be careful and follow the medication advice.

I'm sure your here after reading up on shingles and tried everything else so the last thing you need to know is we are not endorsed by any of the above brands or companies it's just what I used and found helpful. 

We do not r

Depression, my experience and struggle

As some will know I struggle with depression. I said a while back I'd go through how it affects me but shortly after found myself in a very delicate position.
I'm still having a hard time but coping better.
For me I start to feel trapped. It's like everything is my problem and that I don't do enough, despite being physically and financially unable to it's still there. It's still my huge burden.
This never leaves but intensifies. It's exhausting.

The next emotion that strikes is anger. When I'm in control my clumbsiness doesn't get to me too much but when I'm struggling it hits hard. I truly wind my self up which leads to me snapping at everyone that crosses my path. I drop something, trip over the dogs or bounce off the walls i find myself feeling so very angry. When it's so very unreasonable it then turns into frustration. The only outlet is tears.
At this point the nasty little voice crawls in repeating 'useless', 'pointless' and other more negative thoughts over and over it pushes me to the brink.

I have many times got to the point that I researched the quickest way to stop it. I tell myself it's just out if curiosity but deep down I know. I know I'm seriously considering 'It'. Looking into a way that if I feel committed to an end that no intervention can stop me.

Things that really get to me are comments such as ' your just being dramatic' or 'you just want attention'. Truth is it's far from the truth, I want to disappear just blend in and go unnoticed.

How do I gain control?
The way I stay on top of the issue is with medication.
I know right, such a dirty word for those using medication to squash the thoughts and vulgar emotions, I so often get told I should go for a walk in nature or try sleeping more. I've even been told that I'd be much better just eating better. 

Hearing those things makes me furious. No amount of staring at trees or chewing on lettuce will correct a chemical imbalance. That's what depression is. It's something just not quite on the right levels internally so next time someone tries to shame you I'll let you know what my response is.
I simply reply 'take your opinion and return once you've done your research or experienced real depression. I'm going to take my tablets, my MEDICATION and keep going with a method that works for Me.'

And if I'm infuriated I simply reply 'shove your tree up your backside' then walk away. Not the most mature way, I know, but it gives me a little relief.

In short I live with depression and for now medication is what works so I shall continue with that because that's what allows me to keep going.

Appeal for help

Let me start by saying this is a post created at my discretion and posts of appeals will not take over we just really need your help.

As I previously discussed I have mental health issues and this amazing charity that needs help is local to me. They are where some of my precious pets joined me from.
I love this rescue and they've been amazing to allow me to foster for them too. 

Sadly recently they have been hit with a huge amount of vet bills. So far it stands at over £1000 and continues to rise this month. Lately this rescue have done their usual neuter, microchip and vaccinated as well as the standard health check. 
That's not the cause of their vet bills this time though. This month this fantastic rescue have had 3 serious illnesses strike their residents. As you can imagine any emergency intake costs an absolute fortune.

Battle one was for the gorgeous kitty Mabel.

Mabel appeared healthy at first but soon took a turn for the worse and appeared quite poorly. She was unable to keep food down so was rushed to the vets.
After multiple investigations it was discovered she had multiple masses and the best thing to do was help her cross the rainbow bridge peacefully.

Battle two was with young handsome Ice.

This battle started after Ice was found extremely lathargic. Initially his foster thought he'd passed away. Off ton the emergency vets they went. Again after multiple investigations Ice was found to be extremely poorly and had severe kidney damage. Basically he was a mess internally and again under vet advisement the heartbreaking dissension was to help Ice cross over.

Battle three brings us to little Ron

This sweet bunny is a foster of mine. Initially his eye began to appear sore so we popped him to the vet and were  told he has a blocked tear duct. Nothing too scary so we've been treating it as prescribed. Unfortunately when the tear ducts became unblocked the mucus began filling his airways causing a different blockage which left him gasping for air and having to choose to breathe over eating. He's currently undergoing treatment and is very touch and go. He needs an oxygen tent so is staying with the vets and possibly facing surgery.


With all this going on and Ron needing ongoing treatment the rescue is facing humongous bills. The largest ever yet.
 This is why I am putting out this appeal for help. They do everything possible to help and are donations based. No grants given so are understandably desperate funds.

I'm not asking a miracle just £1 if you can afford it. Of course any donation we receive we will be absolutely greatful for as it helps the rescue continue helping.

If you can help please donate through PayPal to  fureverloved@outlook.com

if you want to check out the amazing work they do you can visit their facebook page at :

https://m.facebook.com/fureverlovedsmallanimalrescue/?__tn__=C-R

Please head over and show them your support

we're back!

hey guys,
as you may know we've taken a break. 

Unfortunately due to illness I had to take myself off on a break to help my health both physical and mentally.

I think I'm ready to delve into some of those things so I'm going to share a few of the things I'm battling with day in day out.
just a note as I know some family members browse my posts it's brutally honest and I wouldn't recommend you read it unless your seriously prepared.

So first I'll start with my mental health. 
As many people will know mental health is not something that's frequently discussed and I believe it's time to change that.

Personally to me in my case it is severe anxiety coupled with severe depression. 

The anxiety manifests itself in multiple ways the most common being panicking when faced with the possibility of large crowds and encountering those makes me feel like I can't breath and suffocating. In my head I chant it's not really just breath your not dying your not in danger. 
Despite doing this it keeps on pushing forward. 
I can also find myself affected by my anxiety in a different way, with Anger.
It's explained to me as being part of the fight or flight instinct triggered by the severe anxiety. 
Can you imagine that? facing a crowd and feeling that bubble in you. Your chest tightening knowing that an attack is coming at you. 
Can you imagine just wanting to carry out an average task and having to retreat to sob and panic or fearing that angry beast may take over and you could lash out. 
And that's only one portion of my many issues.

I'll leave you to imagine that and return soon to dig through and discuss my depression. 

on a final note I just want to say I'm glad to be back and in a place where I can express and discuss what I'm dealing with. 
I've previously felt ashamed but recently realised I have no reason to be ashamed I have various illnesses but I'm fighting through. 

graphgan basics

First we'll cover what exactly a graphgan is for those who have no idea.

graphgan is a blanket or throw with an image or text worked into it using different coloured yarns by following a graph. it can be used working stitch for stitch or block for block when working a corner to corner (c2c), or  by using solid squares depending on size your trying to achieve.
To avoid having to attach and reattach yarns at every colour change its best to make several miniature balls or use bobbins wound with the appropriate colours for your piece. The more colour changes done the more dreaded ends to sew in.
The best way to make a graph is using square paper, apps or an exel type computer programme. You can make almost any photo or image into a graphgan using apps to convert for cross stitch,  alternatively if the image isnt a personal photo but of a well known character a quick type in a search engine will often bring up ready made graphs. 
Keywords to search for are beading patterns, graph ptterns or cross stitch patterns.

If any of you have any tips when making a graphgan get in touch here or on our Facebook page and we'll add any new useful ideas.

Subscriptions for pups

Before I begin let me make this clear. I have not been paid or given offers or in any way coerced into my overall opinion. I have bought both products with my own cash and this review is my genuine opinion.

First up is the more expensive of the two.
The pawsome box
Costing just under £20

This arrives in a relatively large box and comes every month until you turn off the subscription. (Rolling subscription) you can cancel anytime.
Every month you get a mix of treats, toys and occasionally cleaning products.  We've received things like grooming mitts and eye cleanser for white fur dogs that get tear stained.

Pros: All the products are good quality and our 4 hooligans loved all the treats. Even the toys were well loved. Donations have been made to charities.

Cons: it's quite pricey for those on a low budget. The toys are not suitable for large chewers. If a labrador sized dog wanted to chew their new toy to shreds they could do it in under 5 minutes.
I found after 4 boxes our toy box was overflowing and the toys from the last box were being ignored, we began to be overrun by toys.

Overall opinion : not bad as a one off once or twice a year but monthly was too often in our household even with four very different dogs to keep busy.

The second subscription we tried
Top collar
Priced at £5.99
This box has two options, you can have your box delivered either every two weeks or every month.
Depending on how frequently you choose your delivery you get your pup a packet of yummy fresh healthy treats. They have a range of flavours from salmon and eggs to pork pie.

Pros: treats made entirely of the good stuff, gluten free flour etc. Our pups loved every bite. Box customised with your pooches photo. Absolutely no junk in the treats. Options for regular treats or if you have a chubby pooch that loves their treats you can select healthy boxes only. Customisable to yourself. Ideal price for those a tad tight on their budget.

Cons: because the treats are so fresh they don't last more than a month. (Doesn't matter in our house, they're gone in a week when shared between 4 greedy pooches). The odd treat is a tad too crunchy for my pomchis dinky jaws, a little dip in water and she does fine though. The other three ranging in size between jack Russell and lab have no issues.

Overall opinion: I love this one the price, it's customisable, human flavours made pup friendly by the genius doggy chef behind top collar and the chance to get free boxes.

The may promo from top collar was simply send a photo via Facebook receive a free box. The June promo (just ended) was a chance to win a months subscription again by sending a photo. And you do get the box (I got my first box that way). I now subscribe. I recommend giving their Top collar facebook page a like so you don't miss future offers and competitions.  Pawsome also had a chance to win on their page, their was a small game at the bottom of their Web page I gave it a shot and got £5 off my next box. Its also worth giving Pawsome box facebook page a like but more for the fun pet videos than anything else.



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Crochet Scottish thistle

This pattern is best for intermediate level experience as it's a little tricky. And as always do not reproduce, copy or steal this pattern. End result can be sold on for charity only. Do not use for profit. If your unsure about intended permissions in regard to your intended use just ask.


Start pattern using green. Hook and yarn size don't matter just remember were working as we would for amigurami. Hook size 2 2 whole sizes smaller than recommended. We are also working in a spiral.

Create a magic circle or chain 3 and slip stitch back into 3rd chain from hook.
Row 1: 6 double crochet in the circle (6sts)
Row 2: 2 double crochet into each stitch. (12sts)
Row 3-9: double crochet into each stitch around (12sts)
Row 10: double crochet 2 together six times (6sts)
Stuff the green and stitch the end closed.
Switch to purple yarn. Working from where you stitched the end closed out to the next row loop strands into every second stitch as you would for dolls hair. Once you have enough thistle petals rejoin your green onto row 9. Double crochet around into each stitch for 2 rows. Tie off and weave ends in.

How to remove black mould easily

We found it! 1 product, no scrubbing.

It was an accident too. Whilst browsing in our local bargain store ma moose grabbed a bottle that promised professional levels of mould removal. The instructions were to spray, leave, wipe. That's it.

So we did and it worked. Legit. It even does that icky corner stuff that is always black and ridiculously impossible to remove. And it cost less than £2 gbp.

So its ok bragging about a product bit no body would believe that corner stuff comes off. I have proof here's the corner of my frame, don't judge it was that bad when we moved in last may.

 This is the icky before.

And to the right is 5 minutes later, it came up even brighter after half hour but I'd lost too much light by then.

And this is the miracle spray. As you can see there's smudging on the window caused by the spray. A quick clean of your windows and it's gone no scratches or marks remaining.


Remember if you like this don't forget to follow us so you don't miss out on any products that we find in the future. We will only ever tell you about products that we try and love. We will also tell you about products to avoid. If it doesn't work we will say. No matter how we come about a product we won't lie about results. Ever.

How to remove food dye from hands

Hands up who was baking this weekend and have now got food dye stains all over their hands?

Can't have you going to work/ school looking like that can we.

All you need is baking soda and white or malt vinegar.
Yesterday I found my hands very, very blue.

I mixed 10ml of vinegar with a teaspoon of baking soda and when it started to fizz rubbed it into my hands. At first I didn't think it was doing anything and was just about ready to quit so I washed it off with ordinary soap and water, that's when I could see what it really did. It's not until you rinse that you can tell it's working.

I had to repeat 4 times, my hands were royal blue though, each time it took rinsing the soda vinegar mix to get the colour off.
My skin is back to its pasty white self, although I did enjoy my brief time as an avatar.

I only wish I'd taken photos of before and after. Just to show you how each stage works. But I promise it really does work.

Free crochet patterns

Today I woke up and decided that I should change some prices in my ravelry store so as of today you can pick up the super cute toast accessory pattern for free to remember it can be used as a brooch added to a head band and more.

Super cute toast

I have also updated my hanging egg basket with pockets so you all can pick it up for free too, remember it's not limited to eggs it also works to hold make up, brushes, odds and ends etc.

Hanging egg basket

Best part is its going to stay free, no rush and as always we'd love to see your take on the pattern, how your colour choices look. 

You can send them to our Facebook page, it's new so please help us brighten it up with your take on our designs

https://m.facebook.com/Littleboxofnothing/

Link opens in a new window 

Crochet lite hooks review

Recently during a sad I decided to treat myself to a new set of posh hooks because the only thing I know to cheer myself up is a present from the postman.

It took around a month for my new hooks to be delivered here in the uk. I ordered mine from amazon because their was a sale on and I got the full set for just over £30 without the sale the set of 9 would cost twice that and I just can't justify paying that much, I was wounded paying 30. And most of that cost was shipping due to the fact that they contain batteries.

Ok so on to the hook themselves. Brand new they are crazy bright, they easily outshine my torch which I picked up cheap but for a tiny hook I did not expect such a massive glow. The crazy bright lasts about 4 hours but even when it dulls down its still bright enough to crochet black yarn by and for me to see to write my patterns as I go. Love this because my best work is done at 12am.
The handle is a little strange compared to my other chunky grip hooks as it's a little more flat. After 10 minutes the flat grip seemed to be better for my hands during a big bout of pain courtesy of my chronic illness. (Pain won't stop me crafting!)
The hook section is made of plastic so needs working in a little, when it's new it sort of sticks a little, my yarn didn't glide too well but after a short period of time the resistance was gone and my yarn was gliding the way it does on my other hooks.

I honestly am so glad I bought these. At first I wasn't sure but now I never leave without my pencil case of glowing hooks. If you can't don't want to jump in headfirst like I did you could always buy the one in your favourite size, if you don't like it sell it on. But I'm pretty sure if you give it chance it'll become a valued part of your excessive number of hooks. It's ok, we all have a couple duplicate sizes or sets.

Have you tried them already? Feel free to leave your opinion, help your fellow hooks out.

Why you should try washing your hair in reverse

I get it sounds stupid and like it wouldn't make a difference but it truly does.
My thinking was that shampoo and conditioner come in the order they do because it's better for your hair. Then I thought why the heck do I think this no one has said so. There's nothing beneficial about it. Come to think of it there's actually nowt that stops you from mixing it up.

   All this thinking made my brain hurt and all because I messed up and put my conditioner on first. My gosh am I glad I did.
Since doing it this way round my hair has behaved better, it's lighter which I'm soo glad of because I was blessed with ridiculously thick hair. As if that wasn't enough my hair looks shinier and is more manageable. It feels the way it does right after a trim.

I believe it to be due to the way conditioner works I could be wrong. On the days you don't condition hair feels dry and scruffy on the ends. My thinking is conditioner provides a coating that makes hair appear tamed and softer but with that coating comes a heavy residue. By shampooing last the excess coat is washed off. You still get smooth tame hair without the weight.


The only thing left to say is try it for a couple weeks and judge for yourself.

Keep your red hair looking vibrant cheap

Before i continue i want to make you aware i am not endorsed in any way by any of the below companies/brands mentioned this is based on my own experiences.
 If you've dyed your hair red you'll know what I mean by fade out.
I love having red hair but hate how quickly it fades back to brown or in some cases an orange tone. There's nothing wrong with these colours but if you died your hair red chances are you wanted it to stay red. I recently decided to go back to red/burgundy from boring brown and didn't want to re dye my hair every week I just don't have the energy. I initially coloured my hair using live xxl in a bold dark red shade.  I chose not to repeat a heavy permanent dye weekly, instead I got myself a cheap bottle of conditioner and a tub of semi permanent dye as pictured below.

 This particular bottle is rubine (the dark red shade I use) directions. The conditioner is an argan oil deep conditioner I got for 99p. I dollop about a table spoon of the red into my tub of conditioner, where gloves it gets messy and takes to skin real quickly. Give it a real thorough mix and your good to go.

Once every 7-9 days I will refresh my colour by popping the colour conditioner mix on and leaving it while I do my shower stuff. If you have long hair clip it up or you may find your back thoroughly stained. Once I'm done I'll rinse it out shampoo my hair and go about my day. I'll only be applying a permanent dye again when my roots grow out quite badly.

If you found this post useful or have any other tips you'd like us to feature get in touch. If you want to know why I shampoo after conditioning keep an eye out i will explain why in my next post.

If your worried you'll miss it then follow us using the buttons on the home page of little box and you'll be notified. Alternatively were on blogspot sign up and follow us there.

Free daffodil pattern

Ok here it is. I was gawping out back at the mass of land and noticed one very lonely daffodil sat proudly among the blackberry bushes. The light hit it just right and was enough for me to get the inspiration I needed to get my crojo back.

It led to this new pattern and I want to make it available to all.

I must insist that you do not take this pattern and sell it, if you want to share it provide a link do not make copies of this pattern.

If you want to make a donation, please send any donations into Marie cure.
Do not sell the finished product on.

Ok daff pattern
Make  5 petals
Chain 11, 1dc in second chain from hook, 1 dc, 1tr x5, 1dc x3, turn piece and work opposite side of the chain, ch2, 1dc x3, 1tr x5, 1dc X2,  Ch1,  1 hdc x3, 2tr x6, 1hdc X2,  2hdc in Ch3 space, 1hdc X2,  2tr x6, 1hdc, 1dc, 1slst. Tie off, make 5 petals per flower.

Sew petals together 1/4 to 1/3 of the way up.

Create centre of flower.
Work this part in a spiral.
Leaving a long tail make a 3 chain, 9tr in 3rd chain from hook.
Round 2. *2tr, 1tr*    repeat *x 5
Round 3. 1tr around
Round 4. 1tr around, 1 hdc 1 slSt.  Tie off. Sew on to petal ring.
Dada all finished
Enjoy and honest feedback welcome as always.

Crutch comfies free pattern

As you may know I have a chronic illness.
Sometimes this illness prevents me leaving the house other days I walk like the average able bodied person. Unfortunately I spend a lot of time walking with an aid. My crutch (cane to some of you) tends to leave me with a ton of pain in my hand. It also leaves me with bruises on occasion, talk about insult to injuries.

To combat this I've adapted my own stick with easily removable crutch comfies, they work up fast and actually help my pain. I've decided to share this pattern with you for free.

This pattern is free to use but not to be used to make items for sale. You may use it to give finished item as a gift but not for profit. Items can be made and given to charity. Do not take the pattern and claim it as your own, that's just rude.

I always line the handle with a foam pipe cover, I pick up a pack of two from the pound shop and cut them down to size 1 pipe makes approximately 5 to 6 covers.

My crutches are standard size issued from hospital or bought online for £20 per pair

CRUTCH COMFIES.
I used 1 strand of seriously chunky and 1 of dk together at the same time dk is optional for the cuff.
    CANE CUFF seriously chunk and dk, 8mm hook
Row 1, magic circle, ch2, 9hdc in circle. Place stitch marker.(10sts)
Row2, (1dc, 2hdc) repeat to end of row. (16sts)
Row3-9, 1hdc in each stitch around.
Row 10, 1 hdc around up to 1 stitch from end, 1sc. Tie off and weave in ends.

BUTTON FASTENING STRAP. 3mm hook, dk wool
Row 1 Chain 27, hdc in 3rd chain from hook, 1dc in each stitch to end, ch2 and turn
Row 2, 1 hdc every stitch to end, ch2 turn
Row 3, 1 hdc for 3 stitches, chain 4 skip 2 stitches, 1 hdc in each stitch to end, ch2 turn
Row 4, 1dc to chain space, 3 hdc in chain space, 1hdc in every stitch to end, ch2 turn
Row 5, 1 hdc across Ch2 turn
Repeat row 2-5 again to create second button hole
Tie off leaving a long tail, sew to cane cuff at end WITHOUT BUTTON HOLES. Weave in ends

BUTTON STRAP. 3mm hook dk wool
Row 1, Ch12, hdc in 3rd chain from hook, hdc in each stitch to end, chain2 turn
Row 2-10, 1hdc to end, ch2 turn

Leaving a long tail sew to opposite side of cuff.
Sew 2 buttons to this piece.

Slip on to cane and button around the stick.



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New crochet patterns, you decide

As of now I'm creating a new load of patterns some paid some free. At the moment the only patterns I have are various sized shark slippers, the ones not yet done are because of a wool shortage. Unfortunately I can't get out to replenish my stash so they're on hold. While they're on hold I need something to make. I have a bad case of itchy fingers.

I have pattern block, no idea as what to make yet though.
I have decided to throw it out there.
What do you want to see? Want to make something but can't find a pattern? Found a pattern but its tiny and you want a bigger version? Get in touch either through our new Facebook page or leave a comment through google+. I'll pick from your requests and make the pattern available to everyone who hits the follow button as soon as it's complete.
Quick guys ill no longer take suggestions from the end of February 2016.  I'll try and do as many as I can not everyone's suggestions will make the cut. I'll make as many as I can though. So guys what are you waiting for get sending suggestions.

Wool winders: worth buying?

Lately among the crochet community I've seen lots of talk about wool winders. Mainly two questions come up "what's it do?" And "what's the point?"  Many people gave the same answers so I bought one and put it to the test. The average price for a manual crank is around £10gbp not overly cheap for many.

Wool winder in red and cream

First were gonna hit the "what's it do?"
The usual answers I've seen have been along the lines of it making yarn cakes.

Next question is "what's the point?"
Now I've seen a few answers to this. According to the crochet community it saves space because yarn cakes are more compact than balls. This isn't really true. A skein is bigger yes but a ball isn't. What you consider a ball may differ from country to country so I believe the people referring to them being smaller than a ball I believe are using what the uk refer to as a skein. See photo for reference

ball of wool

Skein of wool

Some claims are that it's easier than winding a ball. This is true-ish . It takes me 20 mins to wind a dk 100g ball by hand however it took me 2 minutes (yes I timed myself) to create a yarn cake from a skein, less from a ball. But. There's always a but. It's a pain, I had to use one hand to turn the crank that winds the wool but I also had to hold the arm which holds your strand because it kept trying to pack itself away.

Yarn barf for those wondering 

The other claim is its easier to crochet from. My gosh is this true, usually I find myself fighting yarn barf which takes up so much time that I could be using to complete my wips. The centre pull mean your yarn sits pretty while you work. No more running round the floor after an escapee ball or yanking it's all smooth sailing.

I personally pop an empty toilet roll tube on my winder and make my cake around it so I can now use a free standing toilet roll holder to crochet from, I never lose my centre and my cake doesn't unravel itself. I even slide my label inside each tube so I always know what I have in my stash.

Personally I'm glad I bought one but ill leave you to decide now that your clued in.

Jerome Alexander: magic minerals honest review

I love my magic minerals! These minerals have little coloured pigments which work with the base colour to help hide even the reddest of skin. 

Let me just be clear. It does work for real, not only that but one shade works for the palest of the pale (me) to the most tanned (ma moose) to the deep olive skin (nan). So I really did test this stuff pushed to its limit. Unfortunately I don't know anyone with really dark skin so olive skin is the darkest I could test on. (If anyone does know please get in touch for us to update.)

    In order to get the best coverage I use the sponge on my red skin. Sometimes it takes a couple swipes to cover the really angry spots. For the rest of my skin to provide an even coverage and more matte appearance than my usual sheen. I no longer use concealer or foundation before powder so I'm not spending as much on make up. Here in the uk I'd total £15 restocking my base. These minerals cost just £9.99. So I save a nice chunk. Who doesn't like saving money? I've had my minerals since December. We're now on the 13th January soaround a month after purchase and I haven't noticed a difference yet. My skin is no worse with breakouts. I believe this may even cover a birthmark with a couple of repeats, but I don't think you should hide birthmarks it's just an example to show the power of the minerals.

   One more thing, I don't avoid my eyebrows. Normal make up you touch them brows they go bright orange. Never a good look when your brows are supposed to be brown! These minerals don't mess with my brows. Time shaved off my routine.

I would highly recommend these. Five stars from me.

Please note I was not paid to write this. It is my genuine experience and in no way influenced by the manufacturer.

The good the bad and the painful

I've not been around for a while because unfortunately I've been having a hard month.  OK,  so more than usual.  Incase you  haven't guessed already I have severe depression and anxiety. This diagnosis is from a doctor not myself. This month is a tough one not because of the Christmas period I don't find any pressure from that, it's just a big reminder of what I can't do has come along and smacked be off my feet.
To add to that exactly 2 weeks from christmas I received another diagnosis. Previously I was stuck calling my collection of symptoms 'the thing'. It's been this way for two years and two months but whose counting? Well on Friday the 11th I got my good news,'the thing' is a semi common illness made up of three intermingling conditions the first you may have heard of. Fibromyalgia, a sucky condition that decides to flare up often and usually knocks me out of commission for days/weeks at a time. The second is CPS short for chronic pain syndrome, works very much like fibro but symptoms start very quickly after any activity. The final portion is CFS short for chronic fatigue syndrome, pretty self explanatory. Now I know some of you may be thinking yea everyone gets tired, I'll give you a change in perspective. Imagine this, it's morning you wake feeling unrefreshed (again) and smell so you need a shower. You drag yourself across the hall hip screaming at you for daring to move. After heaving you get yourself into the shower. Now that is exhausting.
Wait! You've only just got in you still need to scrub but your exhausted. On you go scrubbing getting more and more tired as you do. Now the harder part getting back out and going to get dressed. Ok so skip to the part that that's all done. You need a nap. Go ahead imagine settling back into bed to rest up. Don't think your going to sleep. Oh no my friend. It is the morning you are clean, you are exhausted but you ain't going to sleep. That would be too easy.
That's just a taster of what I have to deal with so although its nice to have a namethe knowledge that its not likely to go away certainly makes being positive very hard. In future posts I will share more of my delightful (she says through gritted teeth) condition in hope that anyone else with this can give tips to cope better or I can give tips on what I've found to ease the suffering.
Sorry this is such a dark post tonight, remember this is my life and staying positive is all I have at times so here's some positivity for you.
2 more sleeps and it's Christmas day.
Also after christmas there will be more posts for diy improvements and patterns.

MOCK crab

Back again with a little something different.
So that time of year is back, the one with the fat bloke in the red suit.  Along with that comes one of my favourite things. Comfort food!
I love it all. Ok most but that's not the point. Every year one thing we can count on seeing is nans Mock crab. Emphasis on the mock part as it is in fact 100% vegetarian friendly. Sorry vegans but that's life. After a little bugging I am proud to say nan has given permission to share the family recipe, lucky you lot.
I'm not entirely sure just how many generations have used this but I am certain at minimum it's seen it's way through 4 so it can't be too bad.
Wip up a batch give it a try.

NANS MAGIC MOCK CRAB
Here's what you'll need:
1 x 400g tin of tomatoes, chopped and mushed
4 oz cheddar cheese, grated
1 medium onion, mince/chopped
1 large egg
2 slices of white bread, crumbed
Salt & pepper
Small blob of butter

How to: cook onions, tomatoes and butter on hob until onions are tender. Mix cheese and bread together with the egg then add the onion and tomatoes and return to heat. Season to taste. Mix well and bring to the boil. Remove panfrom hob and let cool.
Done, da da
This recipe often finds itself filling voulevent cases, topping sandwiches and toast and sometimes when nans not looking eaten by the sneaky spoonful, but that's just between us right?
Anyway enjoy your new recipe.