tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39362036980208994132024-03-19T10:48:17.424+00:00TheNorthernGirlAll things fashion,fitness & lifestyle.
Including sneakers, streetwear and homewarethenortherngirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01465212440942725679noreply@blogger.comBlogger972125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3936203698020899413.post-75291294347626593742024-03-11T09:45:00.001+00:002024-03-11T09:45:09.769+00:00Operation get fit for the new season is a go...<p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhLnb9k7s-4ZPTmMIs-72SpRm-JVRNMKYVL7bJuvk1QuXqzNN4D-iYc0Kb2cFdsnPNt1CY78sROpJDFJMPgCoonWGujQF5N8zt1bL_e6K2JlS2hdTGIE2-v-EmqPRwBDs3LFy64ep52Htomr7zEtxSs03vaJWpU0O_WLg4NwH0h_TqCsn75l5YjQRu/s2048/20180523_170913.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhLnb9k7s-4ZPTmMIs-72SpRm-JVRNMKYVL7bJuvk1QuXqzNN4D-iYc0Kb2cFdsnPNt1CY78sROpJDFJMPgCoonWGujQF5N8zt1bL_e6K2JlS2hdTGIE2-v-EmqPRwBDs3LFy64ep52Htomr7zEtxSs03vaJWpU0O_WLg4NwH0h_TqCsn75l5YjQRu/s320/20180523_170913.jpg" width="240" /></span></a></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">At the end of last year I left a football team and had a bit of a break from the game but now I am back with a new team and although we are not in a league yet we are currently playing friendlies which have helped me come up with today's post which are all the goals I am setting myself in anticipation for the new season. </span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I want my first competitive season with my new team to be my best in a long time, I want to go into it confident in my body by being in much better shape than I am currently in. I also want to see a huge improvement within myself fitness wise as currently that is really slowing me down at the moment and I struggle quite early on in the game. I also want to be better within the technical aspect so my on the ball skill is better, I have more chance of scoring and more chance of assisting whilst overall being able to play for longer which is the big aim. </span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">At the moment we are currently playing friendlies when we can and I am using these games and the training sessions to set myself some benchmarks for where I am currently at fitness wise and where I would like to get to by the time the real competitive season rolls around. I am really hoping that I am going to start seeing progress towards these goals as we head into the real preseason & the start of the league later in the year. </span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">So here are some of the goals I have set myself...</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Lose 15 kg</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Improve my fitness</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Improve my strength</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Improve my touch on the ball and accuracy</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">As you can see there is going to be a lot of hard work involved in achieving these goals but here is the plan to help me work towards each goal and really see the benefits... </span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Sort my nutrition out</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">It is about time I started eating properly and that starts now. Gone are the days of eating out as often as possible and those takeaways for convenience that soon start to add up and aren't filling or giving me the nutrition I require. I will be meal planning weekly and meal prepping at every given chance to make sure I am eating the food that fuels my body. I will also be sticking to a high water intake daily and starting the day with some vitamins (more on those in a post another day). </span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">2 Full body sessions a week</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">If I manage to stick to 2 of these sessions a week then I should not only see the weight drop off me but also see my strength on the rise. The full body sessions are a nice mix of workouts that will help me work on plenty of areas of my body, it will be interesting to see how the weights in these exercises change over time if I stick to all these scheduled sessions.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Complete the couch to 5K </span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Now this one I am looking forward to as it is something I have wanted to do for a long time. I am determined that by the time the season starts I can run a solid 5k and to do this I need to complete the couch to 5K. The running side of things will definitely help me in terms of fitness levels improving so I am looking forward to seeing how I get on with this one.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Weight lifting once a week where possible</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I am really enjoying my lifting sessions even if my body aches for days after. I know they are benefiting my journey really well too and are aiding my weight loss and fitness journey as I am certainly getting stronger. I want to be hitting every session possible in the run up to the new season, the only way I will be missing them is if I am ill or the session is not on. No more picking trips out over the sessions it is full steam ahead.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Football training</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The plan is to hit every training session possible in the run up to the season starting too however, I know there are a few sessions that I will be unable to attend due to family members birthdays or Bradford City games but in the grand scheme of things there are a lot of sessions I can 100% make it to and with the opportunity for 2 sessions a week I am sure most weeks I will be at the minimum of 1 session.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Play in friendlies</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Up until the start of the new season we are going to be playing friendlies to make sure we are getting game time, previously I played in as little friendlies as possible however, this time around is going to be different as I am planning on hopefully playing in as many as I can. I am hoping that there aren't many that clash with any time away and let's hope those silly little injuries stay away too.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Train alone in the garden</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The plan is to get the side garden all cut and ready for the lighter nights as this space is going to be my very own football training area. I have an agility ladder, cones, re-bounder and some goals for this area and it is somewhere I can take myself out to for 30 mins or even an hour and just work on some basics alone which I am actually quite looking forward to. </span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Recover right</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">To make sure I am hitting the goals and being able to carry out all the bits above I need to make sure I am recovering properly to keep those little niggles away. The plan is to make sure I am stretching properly before every exercise I do plus stretching after to reduce the injury risk. I am sure the massage gun is also going to be my best friend, especially after the weight lifting sessions. The plan is also to get the ice bath set up ready to aid the recovery and also help with the mental side of things.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I am really looking forward to seeing just what difference there is in myself by the time the new season comes around, if I really stick to all the above there should be a big difference however, I guess only time will tell. I will be doing weekly updates on here every Monday with the sort of workouts I have done in that previous week and how the weight is looking, I am really looking forward to doing these updates too as it will show me the progress and what does or doesn't work for me.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The start weight today is 100.9 kg and the goal is to reach 85 kg by the time the new season begins in September / October (we will aim for September though as this is when we should be kicking off) so let's push on and see how much of a difference we can make...</span></p>thenortherngirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01465212440942725679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3936203698020899413.post-78739775935584556652024-03-05T09:15:00.005+00:002024-03-05T09:15:38.813+00:00March 2024 Goals<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"> </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxT0hMZ-T7j0l-NpE9UL_W5tNxI5MjpZQ-2JYGuGyK4hlTmGFlvqCycuRNhZqUTCDq_8pgnv_gWfXYvPmMZ46qHo8ETbTB5D5A0kGqo3y3lFU8oxT4gafYEbQglE8zNSL2nvYy32lcidUPprKSTa0REqyH5EvacoFZx_BmUzTZfYZrhn64Bd7mBbVP/s200/thenortherngirlbutton.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="200" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxT0hMZ-T7j0l-NpE9UL_W5tNxI5MjpZQ-2JYGuGyK4hlTmGFlvqCycuRNhZqUTCDq_8pgnv_gWfXYvPmMZ46qHo8ETbTB5D5A0kGqo3y3lFU8oxT4gafYEbQglE8zNSL2nvYy32lcidUPprKSTa0REqyH5EvacoFZx_BmUzTZfYZrhn64Bd7mBbVP/s1600/thenortherngirlbutton.jpg" width="200" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">How are we already in March? Every year seems to fly by quicker and quicker, I guess that is just a part of getting older though. February was a pretty good month however, I am determined to make March even better. I am determined that March is going to be the month where at least 90% of these goals are ticked off and things are finally sorted around the house rather than putting things off like I have been doing. So here are those goals I am setting myself for the month ahead...</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Fashion</b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Empty the wash baskets at long last</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Once these wash baskets are empty the last of the clothing will have been decluttered and I will know all of the items I have and what needs replacing. I also think it will give me a sense of accomplishment as it is a task that has been needed for a long time but has just been put off. I am so ready for a fresh start when it comes to clothing and this is a good place to start.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Accessorize outfits a lot better</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Now the wardrobe are redone I have a lot of my accessories out and easily accessible so there really is no need for me not to be adding these to my outfits. I want to put some time to one side each morning to piece the right jewellery with the outfits I am wearing and the right fragrance rather than just rushing around like I currently do. This is such an easy way to level up an outfit so I need to start putting it to the test.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Sort out my Spring footwear rotation</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Spring is right around the corner even if the weather isn't starting to reflect that just yet. This means I need to sit and go through my footwear to pick out those perfect pieces for the Spring season. I am determined that I will be mixing up what I wear so by selecting a clear rotation should really help me get wear out of different styles of footwear that work well with the different outfits I am piecing together for the season.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Go on a shopping trip to pick up the basics</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">As I mentioned earlier I am looking for those gaps in my wardrobe now that it has been decluttered and I am determined that in March I will be going on a shopping trip to fill in those gaps with some nice basics and Spring pieces. I am going away at the end of March too so I need to get a few of these bits for my holiday and maybe a few accessories for me to take too but we shall see on that last part. </span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Get the wardrobe Spring ready</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">This is almost done and I guess if all the goals above go to plan it will be successfully completed. I want to make sure everything is good to go ready for the change of the season as I am sick of buying items out of season then not being able to wear them for a long time. I want to get everything and be able to wear it all straight away.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Life</b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Get out on the nightly dog walks</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I usually just leave all these to Liam especially when I have had the dog all day. I really want to start going out on these walks with Liam and the dog though as I think it will do me the world of good and it will be nice to spend that little more time together as that time has dramatically reduced lately.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Finish the bedroom</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">There was a lot of progress on the bedroom in February so in March we only actually have a few finishing touches to do. There is the new skirting that needs to go on, decor to be added and a few touch ups needed on the paint along with a few bits of furniture needing to be built but all in all these jobs shouldn't take too long and the room will finally be done.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Start on the next job</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Now this is where things get tricky as after seeing the progress in the bedroom and finally getting those long over due renovations done I want to keep the momentum going and make a start on another job in March. There is talks of the gym work finally starting and this is going to be a big job in the grand scheme of things however, we are relying on other people for that so there is a chance it may not get done in March. I would also love to make a start on the spare room/office as there isn't actually that much cost involved in the room and we can do it without relying on others really so we need to sit and work out which is the next project and then hit the ground running with it.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Sort the bathroom shelves</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">The bathroom shelves are absolutely over run at the moment and it is about time they were sorted once and for all. There are empty products, out of date products and items we are just never going to use so the plan is to remove everything and sort through it only putting back what we are going to use. This should make finding this so much easier especially if we go ahead and organise the shelves properly.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Learn to balance my time better</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">This is actually a big downfall for me and I know I could achieve so much more if I just balanced my time better. I need to learn to say no to going out all the team and actually spend time at home, I also need to learn to switch off and spend more time with Liam and the dog as I feel like I have been neglecting them. The goal for March is to spend more time with them and less time on my phone but also make sure the time is balanced so I can be productive on the websites and get things done around the house but we shall see how that goes.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Content</b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Post daily on the Edge of the Area Tik Tok </b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I am determined to see this account grow and I know that with a bit of consistency this should take place. I have plenty of ideas for the content I want to create on here so it is just a case of actually filming the pieces, editing them and posting them. I posted quite a bit in February so lets hope more can be done in March. </span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Post twice a week on the TNG Tik Tok </b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Again I really want to try grow this Tik Tok account so to make sure I am not overdoing it for myself I am planning to start off in March with a few posts each week just to see what content works and doesn't work. We will see how this one goes especially with me doing so much for Edge of the Area however, I am quite hopeful I can get it done.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Start filming reels for TNG Fitness account</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Now this is something I have wanted to do for a while however, my confidence just hasn't been there for it. Throughout March though I want to push myself and post 1 reel a week on the account, it could be a mixture of topics and I haven't settled on a set group of ideas yet but we will see how this one plays out as I am hopeful this is something I can complete.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Start looking for a new tripod & camera bag</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">If I am starting to film more content I want to make sure the gear I am using is suitable for what I require. My current tripod and bag are very cheap and if they are heading outdoors for periods of time I don't think they will be able to withstand the elements. There is also the fact I have a trip coming up this month where I want to take my camera so I need a better way of transporting it to keep it safe.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Start saving for a new camera</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">The final goal of the month is something I have wanted to do for ages now but have kept putting off for various reasons aka I have been wasting my money instead. I am determined though that in March I will finally put some money to one side to start saving up for a camera that is much better suited to my needs. I want something that is better quality for video so whilst I am shopping around for the perfect camera I may as well start saving for it. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">So there you have it those are my goals for March, I am really hoping it is going to be a super productive month where the majority of these goals will be ticked off however, I guess only time will tell for that so make sure to check back at the start of April to see just how I did get on. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">What are some of your goals for March?</span></p>thenortherngirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01465212440942725679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3936203698020899413.post-84314028734477973142024-02-29T09:24:00.000+00:002024-02-29T09:24:06.971+00:00February 2024 goals wrap up<p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga0wylVDaNgGyjeaYoOfABgvWSiXCxhLb9LJk8zPrSFGLEn_gonsTFq8sC8DwtHkOE7Kf5STk6g6bzOudd7lALnHMcOnwv27geGuA-VwhLeWAHempYbMzDpteuTj9BS77ry54ed8okU2kEKBxEHO4urwz4_BPf-xFoQeWescWZxqiV_JMcThuWn9xG/s800/thenorthernGirl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="160" data-original-width="800" height="64" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga0wylVDaNgGyjeaYoOfABgvWSiXCxhLb9LJk8zPrSFGLEn_gonsTFq8sC8DwtHkOE7Kf5STk6g6bzOudd7lALnHMcOnwv27geGuA-VwhLeWAHempYbMzDpteuTj9BS77ry54ed8okU2kEKBxEHO4urwz4_BPf-xFoQeWescWZxqiV_JMcThuWn9xG/s320/thenorthernGirl.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><span><br /></span></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Well February was a pretty good month in some aspects whilst being not so good in other ways however, it is done now and we are looking ahead to a new month which will hopefully see even more goals ticked off the list which will be coming in a post tomorrow. For now though it is time to take a look and see how many of the goals I set myself for February played out...</span></p><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Fully declutter the wardrobe</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">We really cut it fine with this one however, we managed to get it ticked off as a completed and I am so glad we did. The wardrobe has needed decluttering for a long time now and it has been a job we have been putting off. Seen as we had to remove everything to do the bedroom we have had the perfect opportunity to get everything out and go through everything which is exactly what we did. We managed to get rid of a lot of old clothing that was well worn or didn't fit and the wardrobes are looking better than ever now. This got done just before the end of the month and it is a huge relief now the wardrobe is much better.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Upgrade key pieces whilst filling the wardrobe and drawers</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I was really looking forward to doing this however, I have actually been good for a change and haven't been shopping. I am definitely needing to upgrade some pieces but I am taking my time with this one and shopping around for the items rather than buying them cheap for the sake of it. The key pieces will definitely be being purchased before my first trip away of the year though so keep an eye out to see what I do pick up.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">No wearing my Adidas Forums daily</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Unfortunately this one didn't play out as well as I had hoped either. I still can't access the majority of my footwear and the Forums are still very comfortable although they definitely need to be retired now as they are worse for wear. I did a few days with different footwear but it is certainly something I need to work on.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Sort my footwear out</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">As I said in regards to the Forums unfortunately things footwear wise didn't go to plan in February. The shoe area is still well and truly blocked off along with the rest of the hallway. I really need to get the house back in some form of order now the bedroom is basically done and once the hallway has space in it I will be sitting and making sure all the footwear is decluttered once and for all.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Sort out all my football shirts</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I think I am about 75% of the way through doing this and I can't wait for it to be done. All I have done really is tidy up where I store the shirts which was much needed. When it comes to sorting the spare room out though I will be sorting these out much better and finding correct homes for each piece.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Life</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Switch off and enjoy my spa day</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"> Now this goal I managed to fully complete and I am so glad I did. The day was great as I left my phone in my bag and indulged in a new book whilst enjoying a back massage and facial & lounging around the pool before finishing with a lovely meal. The switch off was certainly needed and honestly I think days like this may need to be a bit more of a regular occurrence.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Fully complete the bedroom</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">We fell just short of this goal however, it is safe to say a lot of progress was made in here. We just have some cutting in to finish and the new skirting to go on and the room is done at long last. Although a few more accessories may need to be added too as B&M have some brilliant pieces in at the moment. I am so happy with how this room looks now and can't wait to get started on the next job.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Sort the football box out </span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Some more bits have been added to this however, it is not as organised as I would like it to be so I guess you could say there is still more work to be done here. It is certainly nice having a space to store all my football things in though as it means finding things on game day or for training is much easier. Getting this sorted is going to take place once and for all though so everything has a home at long last.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Deep clean and declutter bathroom</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The bathroom has been cleaned however, the deep clean is still to take place and that is due to the bathroom being full of bits from the bedroom as we needed the storage space. The declutter also needs to take place as at the moment the room is overflowing with products we will never use and it stops us being able to access things we would like to use.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">One long walk a week</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Unfortunately this one hasn't gone to plan as the weekends have just turned chaotic. The plan was to go out on Saturday's or Sunday's for a longer walk but the weather & housework put a stop to that. I really do need to get back into the habit of doing these though as I know it will be super beneficial for me all round to just get out and enjoy the fresh air. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Content</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Post daily on TNG Fitness </span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I started off so well with this one however, I fell off track a little bit in the middle of the month and just couldn't get the habit back. I did notice a bit of progress when posting daily though so it is a habit I really need to get back into. I wonder how many times I could post in March?</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Make sure I am clicking publish on blog posts</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Again I started off so well with this one however, fell off track when things got a little busier. The days when I did hit post though I saw some great traffic coming to the site so I just need to get in the habit of publishing the posts as soon as I am up and ready in a morning. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Post daily on the Edge of the Area Tik Tok </span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Oh look there is a theme to the content goals, I got started on them and fell off track. This is another one where I started and things were going really well but then one day off led to a week off and the consistency dropped. The numbers were great when I was posting so I need to get back to it.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Start filming reels & Tik Tok's for TNG</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I managed to get a fair few bits filmed in February which I am quite proud of. I now just need to get them edited so that I can get them posted but honestly I find that the worst task. I am hoping though this means the filming bug is back and I can get into posting reels and Tik Tok's more so I can see the growth on my accounts.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Stay consistent</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">As you can tell by the past few goals the consistency was there to begin with but then dropped right off. When the consistency was there things were going brilliant so I know if I can just get back to that then life would be so much easier so we shall try again in March and see how things go. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />So there you have it that is how my goals for February went, it was definitely a mixture of getting things done and not so let's hope March is much better and we can tick almost everything off as I am determined to make it a super productive month with plenty of improvement all round. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Check back tomorrow to see what goals I am setting myself for March... </span></div>thenortherngirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01465212440942725679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3936203698020899413.post-55237717869645215402024-02-27T08:32:00.001+00:002024-02-27T08:32:43.839+00:00February 2024 Favourites <p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRQ18vzfCxyc7b20zm2HUof-Mj8ukPboRdxKP9pKiltQm__maaNe2Lg6VarnJAa64AMpI5BeK_0OTyEYL8GKfXWFLtpwJYSYNP9idZT5A42KTKQ3PPRr6ABnvg8YuakieMwXlREouAsUiMB287aBFMrnhRU5WVPuSZYg51UIEmCss4qWZYC6TKCIKx/s200/thenortherngirlbutton.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="200" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRQ18vzfCxyc7b20zm2HUof-Mj8ukPboRdxKP9pKiltQm__maaNe2Lg6VarnJAa64AMpI5BeK_0OTyEYL8GKfXWFLtpwJYSYNP9idZT5A42KTKQ3PPRr6ABnvg8YuakieMwXlREouAsUiMB287aBFMrnhRU5WVPuSZYg51UIEmCss4qWZYC6TKCIKx/s1600/thenortherngirlbutton.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">That is the shortest month of the year over and done with but it has been a busy month filled with plenty of fun filled activities. It looked like it would be a quiet month to begin with however, things really started to pick up and things got busier than I ever expected. Thanks to it being busy though I have discovered a fair few new favourites whilst also rediscovering old ones, so here is what made the cut for February's favourites...</span></p><div style="text-align: center;"> <b><span style="font-family: arial;">Fashion</span></b></div><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; text-align: left;"><b>Seeing what I own </b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Thanks to redoing the bedroom I have finally had to sort out the dreaded wardrobe. I am so glad that I have had to do this though as it has helped me find clothing items that were long forgotten about and that would be beneficial for the style I am hoping to achieve from now on. This has meant that I don't actually need to buy as much as I first anticipated which I am pleased with as it will save me a fair bit of money until I need a restock due to sizes.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Sneakers</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Adidas Forums</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I said that I wouldn't be wearing these sneakers everyday however, I have worn them most days still as I am absolutely loving them. They are so comfortable and the velcro strap adds a little extra to the outfits. I am definitely needing to move away from these soon though as they don't really go with the style I am opting for once I put a bit more effort into outfits plus they are now starting to look worse for wear and need an upgrade if they are going to be worn as much as they currently are.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Fitness</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; text-align: left;"><b>Back on the football pitch</b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; text-align: left;">After a bit of a break from the game I am finally back playing but for a new team this time. We are only training and playing friendlies at the moment but it is so good to be back on the pitch finally enjoying the game once more. Being back on the pitch has led to me enjoying creating football content too so everything is finally falling into place at long last and I am loving it. Now to start performing better on the pitch again as I am a bit rusty. </span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Lifestyle</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; text-align: left;"><b>Getting through jobs</b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">After what felt like the most unproductive year in 2023 I am so glad that we are making good progress in 2024. February's favourite is definitely getting through the jobs that got put off last year as there is no need to delay things any longer. The bedroom just needs a few finishing touches and the gym planning is already underway. We have also started making plans for the spare room so we can jump straight into the next jobs once the previous is done. We have even started putting together a list of other jobs that we want to get done in between the bigger jobs so we can make as much progress as we can.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Book</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; text-align: left;"><b>Fangirl</b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I have put Alex Scott's book to one side for a little bit to give myself a break as I fancied reading something a little different. I have had Fangirl sat on my bookshelf for so long now so when it came to picking a book to take to the spa there was no other option for me. I haven't got too far in the book just yet due to me now juggling two books however, I am actually enjoying what I have read so far and can't wait to spend more time with this book. </span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Podcast </span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; text-align: left;"><b>What's Good Games</b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">What's Good Games had been on a break for a while however, it has finally returned thanks to a recent PlayStation State of Play. I had really been missing listening to the podcast so to have those regular episodes back is fantastic and I am back to looking forward to catching up on latest episodes on weekends after their Friday release. Let's hope there are no more extended breaks from the podcast any time soon.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Overall highlight of the month </span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Mentality</b></span></span><span style="font-family: arial; text-align: left;"><b> changing</b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">February has been another month where I have noticed an improvement in my mentality. I am not letting things get to me if they aren't going to plan anymore and I am keeping a positive attitude even when I am being tested which to be honest isn't as much as it previously has been. The mentality change is definitely helping in many aspects of my life and I am really hoping that it is here to stay and can only get better.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Favourite thing I have learned</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; text-align: left;"><b>Slow and steady wins the race</b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Previously when doing jobs around the house I have wanted everything done as soon as possible however, with the bedroom work I have realised that slow and steady wins the race. By breaking the jobs down and taking them nice and steady things are getting done properly and with a better finish. Even taking time to pick out the accessories is making the room come together better as we are looking at details rather than buying for the sake of it. Let's hope I can keep reminding myself of this as other jobs take place in the house.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">It is safe to say February was a short month that was packed with plenty of fun things to make it another great month. I am really impressed with how the year is going so far as it is certainly 10 times better than 2023 was. Now let's see what March has in store for me...</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">What were your favourite things from February?</span></p>thenortherngirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01465212440942725679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3936203698020899413.post-55171819830908141532024-02-16T08:09:00.001+00:002024-02-16T08:09:08.399+00:00it is time to start thinking about the spare room upgrades...<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKWuV5xBZyNt7cZgW5U8WsUo84zDyiXAQ3TngfVPiyBb-IJv75AEJ1dV9pxlsXNU62E8_Wgr8J3XfrYa-ucC56KiZuLL0htcgVTQwktxB7iWPpS1-5p5LOIiU-X2HX6f1OVCo-EbXSNCh7_mNCteBZhfLVxbGt_gyBaPxyXvjZ1Mb-PXRF5alTKP2q/s2048/IMG-8043.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKWuV5xBZyNt7cZgW5U8WsUo84zDyiXAQ3TngfVPiyBb-IJv75AEJ1dV9pxlsXNU62E8_Wgr8J3XfrYa-ucC56KiZuLL0htcgVTQwktxB7iWPpS1-5p5LOIiU-X2HX6f1OVCo-EbXSNCh7_mNCteBZhfLVxbGt_gyBaPxyXvjZ1Mb-PXRF5alTKP2q/s320/IMG-8043.jpg" width="240" /></a><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">We are slowly but surely making our way around the house redoing all the rooms we rushed to get done when we originally moved in nearly 6 years ago now. The spare room is basically the box room of the house however, it has become one of my most used areas in the house as this is where I keep all of my football things and where I create all my content whether it is for social media or the blog. With this area being multi use I really want to maximize it's potential and I will be more or less splitting the room in half. One side will be for content creating, blogging and everything football whilst the other side is going to be more of a dressing room vibe, I will do another post in the future detailing the plans and how things are progressing but for now today's post is going to be all the things I would love to add to the room. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">It is all about making this room a nice space to be in and making it easy to create content in whilst still making it easy to keep clean & tidy. So here are the items I would love to add...</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Longer floating shelves</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">At the moment the shelves in this room are tiny and you can barely fit anything on them. The plan though is to get some much longer ones that run across the smaller wall in the room, if I could fit 4 in here that would be great as I can have a few for Lego displays and maybe a few for football things however, until they are up and the room is decluttered the only guaranteed shelves are those Lego ones.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Longer clothing rail</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">For the dressing area of the room I want a clothing rail mounted to the wall that is a bit longer than my current one. I want somewhere where I can hang my clothing for the week and any bits I need to shoot content for, it can also be for hanging in those new in bits that I need to take pics of so I know exactly where they are.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Somewhere for my hats</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I have a lot of baseball caps and it is about time I found somewhere to store them properly so I am thinking of maybe having a few hooks on the wall to cover these. I am not sure whether to just keep my favourites hung up or current rotation with the excess going into a storage box ready to be easily accessed. I am just fed up of these getting ruined as some have cost a fair bit of money. </span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Shoe rack</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Now this one will only be small and will go under the clothing rail and up against the Alex drawers. I won't be filling this though as it will be reserved for the footwear that makes up the current rotation at the time. Hopefully this will also mean I rotate the footwear I wear rather than wearing the same pair day in day out like I do currently. </span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Storage baskets</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I have a Kallax unit that holds all my football shirts but the plan is to condense how many sections I use for this so I can add some more of the storage baskets in here. These baskets will hold some football memorabilia and so blogging accessories such as notebooks or paper work. It just means everything will be in one spot rather than being all over the place. I am also going to keep one for all my football training things such as shin pads and bag fillers which I use every game day alongside my training clothing. I am also thinking a nice basket for under my desk where I can put in all those new in bits I need to take pictures of so that everything is again in one place.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Frames for the football shirts</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">This one I already have the frames for however, I haven't sorted them yet as I wanted to wait until the room was redone so I weren't having too many holes in the wall. I have 4 or 5 frames so this should cover the football side of the room well without it being too crowded and will house all my special shirts. Over the years I have picked up a fair few signed shirts and it is about time I displayed them so they were looked after too.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">IKEA pegboard</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Every time I go to IKEA I get drawn over to the pegboards and have the ideas going round in my head for what I want to include on the board if I did get it. The plan for this is to get a board and have it for all the little tech bits that I constantly lose such as the adapters for my Macbook and cables. I am really hoping I can get one to fit in the room as it would be very beneficial. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I am determined that this room is going to be a nice mix that isn't just football like it currently is and fingers crossed it flows nicely throughout. There are so many more plans to make for this room but it is 100% guaranteed to be completed in the first half of this year which means the jobs in the house are well and truly going to plan. I am sure there will be plenty of posts about this room as things progress but for now I need to get the bedroom finished before moving onto project number 2.</span></p>thenortherngirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01465212440942725679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3936203698020899413.post-35055681975674881992024-02-02T09:31:00.003+00:002024-02-02T09:31:28.779+00:00The January weight loss wrap up<p style="text-align: center;"> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf5EHbH4h7rDrbkteSqOpjCDBhwkV6QSg0KIPunidHipSVepiTAdBl8z-ZrKSrvAh6DtBZm1WpEywqQ9eOC6RJT4ER8Th54-1SIXLqOU-Lk7o0x2lyi7pC7muYV2W0OuEMZCbbQ8CnNyMKzPhHQQE5fRZ_X8RpwanFJO-OWIucqYr1GT1y64J66cDj/s1200/first%20week%20of%20blog%20post%20graphics.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="800" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf5EHbH4h7rDrbkteSqOpjCDBhwkV6QSg0KIPunidHipSVepiTAdBl8z-ZrKSrvAh6DtBZm1WpEywqQ9eOC6RJT4ER8Th54-1SIXLqOU-Lk7o0x2lyi7pC7muYV2W0OuEMZCbbQ8CnNyMKzPhHQQE5fRZ_X8RpwanFJO-OWIucqYr1GT1y64J66cDj/s320/first%20week%20of%20blog%20post%20graphics.png" width="213" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">2024 is the year where the biggest day to day focus is going to be on my fitness and weight loss journey. I am determined to absolutely smash my goals in this category and see myself heading towards that end weight I set myself way back when. January was always going to be the month of building a new routine and working out what actually works for me and doesn't. I went into the new year with a much better attitude than I had in the whole of 2023 and let's just say that new attitude paid off and I have had the best start to the year. So here is January's journey wrap up </span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Start weight : 104.5 kg</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">End weight : 101.3 kg </span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Total lost : 3.2 kg</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I can honestly say that I did not expect to see myself recording a 3.2 kg loss in the first month, I thought I would be lucky to get to 1 kg at one point as the scales have been very inconsistent. Stepping on the scales on the 31st and seeing that final number though was just absolutely fantastic and shows that it all works out in the end and it left me entering February on a high ready to keep up with the habits to hopefully see another great change by the end of the month.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Gym sessions attended : 2</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I had two great gym sessions in January however, I really do wish I had got to more but for a variety of reasons this didn't take place. At some points in the month I wasn't well so the last thing I wanted to do was go to the gym around other people. Then there were also some sneaky last minute changes that led to plans changing last minute and me not being able to attend. </span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Football sessions : 4</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">This number is also not as high as I would have liked it to have been but this is due to a number of reasons again. One big reason was the weather, a few times it was called off duty to snow and ice which is typical around January time. There was also the illness factor again which spoilt a few sessions for me. </span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Weight lifting sessions : 0</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Unfortunately the first few weeks classes weren't running and then I fell ill so I didn't manage to hit any of the sessions I had hoped to. I am really hoping to get back to these classes asap though as I am missing them and I know they will really benefit me on my journey. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I have really been working on my nutrition in January too and the meals out have been massively reduced meaning I have spent more time in the kitchen for a change which is something I am really not used to. One of my favourite things to make has definitely been a simple dish of turkey bacon, egg, spinach & mushrooms. This meals keeps me feeling full for ages and even though it takes so simple it is really nice. Plus it is super quite to make so within 10 minutes you have a lovely filling meal ready to go. I have also stopped myself from ordering McDonald's breakfasts far too often and instead I have been making my own take on a sausage McMuffin. Again this is really quick to make and is not greasy like a McDonald's so I consider this a healthier alternative.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Throughout the month there have been so many high points and I am really pleased with how many I have actually had. So here are the two biggest high points...</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Seeing the scale drop</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Obviously this was the biggest thing I was hoping to see in January and I saw it drop more than I could have ever imagined. I was worried that things weren't going to move at one point but I kept on pushing and the results started to roll in. It just goes to show for me a bit of patience goes a long way and the results will soon roll in. I don't think any other months will have such a high drop but we shall see.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Learning not to let the negative thoughts in</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">A big reason I believe I ruined my progress in 2023 is by letting the negative thoughts in and letting them bring me down meaning that I didn't want to do anything and just binge ate instead. Throughout January I have been working on not letting those thoughts creep back in and instead I have been working on adopting a more positive attitude which has really helped me achieve that drop. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Of course as with any journey there have been some low points too but I am happy to report that those haven't been too low and have actually been out of my control. So here are two of the low points from January...</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Getting ill</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Unfortunately around the middle of the month things started to go down hill and I spent a few days in bed unwell however, thanks to me learning though about those negative thoughts I allowed myself some proper rest and recovery and in the end I was ill for a lot less time than usual. So it may be a low point but it wasn't too low.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">The weather</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I am putting it down to the weather for why I got ill in the first place however, it also caused a fair bit of disruption. It meant football was cancelled a few times and in some cases it also meant that I was unable to get to the gym meaning a few sessions were missed. I can't help the weather though so we go again and just plan better next time around.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">After the success of January though it is time to set myself some goals for February, another month which I am hoping to smash and see some brilliant progress on my journey. Fingers crossed that I can start picking up some of the rewards I have set myself soon too as the progress is going that well. So here are the goals I am setting myself for February...</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Get under the 100 kg mark </span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I have 1.3 kg to go until I hit the 100 kg mark but I think with a good push I can get myself into the 99 kg bracket by the 29th of February. This would help keep me heading in the right direction for the end of the year goal but will also give me a bit of a confidence boost I think. The 99 mark is a more realistic goal however, 98 kg I believe would mean I am 1 stone down so I would be over the moon if I achieved that.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Limited the eating out</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I did really well in January when it came to eating out and I am determined to keep the momentum going in February. I have a few things coming up in the month however, I want to try to just stick to these events for the eating out rather than constantly adding more days out to the list. If I want to see that progress I can't be reverting back to old habits. </span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Gym twice a week</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I have two full body sessions per week that I need to head to the gym for so I need to make sure I am getting there twice a week no excuses. By going twice a week I should be able to get into a nice routine without neglecting other aspects of my life too which is a win, win situation.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Football 6 times</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Before February started I had chance to sit down and work out realistically just how many football training sessions I could get to and the answer was 6 so we are going straight in and aiming to hit every session possible within the month. These sessions will definitely help me on my journey but also get me back into the game I love and I really can't wait to attend the sessions.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Smash my first reward goal</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">My first reward goal is at half a stone down and I am hoping to smash that in February so I can go buy myself some new shin pads but I also want to be well on my way towards the 1 stone mark which will really push me towards the 3 stone by 30 goal. </span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Feel great going into my first friendly</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">My first game with my new team is on the 18th so I really want to work towards feeling good about myself by then. I want to feel confident heading back onto the pitch as I have had a long time out and put a lot of weight on since the last time. I know that if I feel good heading into it I am more likely to perform better on the pitch so fingers crossed.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">So those are my goals and now onto the things I am wanting to change going into the new month to help me push on even further. First up I want to be more organised, I know that more organisation will lead to me hitting more sessions as I won't be double booking or burning myself out. I am also hoping that cutting out the late starts on a weekend will also help me along, by getting up a few hours earlier I will have more time to get on with my day and that extra hour could determine if I work out or not. Finally I plan on making sure I am hitting those full body sessions, there is no need to keep putting them off and I know I will see a big change in my body if I get them done.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Overall I feel absolutely brilliant with how my progress is going and I have surprised myself with how well I have done in month 1 I didn't think I would be capable of a 3 kg lost in just one month but I guess that self doubt can disappear now. The progress in January has definitely more determined to keep going in February so let's see what the month holds for me...</span></p>thenortherngirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01465212440942725679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3936203698020899413.post-26205412664323156952024-02-01T07:50:00.000+00:002024-02-01T07:50:36.077+00:00February 2024 goals<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-i_8YD9LRkwcAxjXjo0BySKa4oRMGteZHmT78mRJDnu_FZ5O3-kS4ybOMdhbrcwc9iGa1Z95WCgTPa17yAICE-Um6lW4zloc7JGx10GuIOiKad9PqtRMb8P5WQg_Qt6aXcFDvD93DqwfruF8mB-n3crdoiZFrzZBm7wPtX_GLTPiMQOV-k2qesCrC/s1200/13.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="800" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-i_8YD9LRkwcAxjXjo0BySKa4oRMGteZHmT78mRJDnu_FZ5O3-kS4ybOMdhbrcwc9iGa1Z95WCgTPa17yAICE-Um6lW4zloc7JGx10GuIOiKad9PqtRMb8P5WQg_Qt6aXcFDvD93DqwfruF8mB-n3crdoiZFrzZBm7wPtX_GLTPiMQOV-k2qesCrC/s320/13.png" width="213" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Here we go time for a new month and time to see the goals out for the month. January might have been a month of not every goal being ticked off however, it was a very good month overall and has helped me hit the ground running in 2024. I am really hoping to keep momentum up in February and have another fantastic month with even more of the goals ticked off. So here are the goals that I have set myself for February...</div></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Fashion</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Fully declutter the wardrobe</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The new wardrobe will be being built and fit in February which gives me the perfect chance to go through all my clothes whilst I am filling those wardrobes and drawers up. I want to make sure I am only putting back the pieces that I am going to wear and those pieces that will fit the style I am aiming for currently and into the future. Anything that doesn't fit that style or is looking worse for wear is going I am not holding onto things for the sake of it anymore.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Upgrade key pieces whilst filling the wardrobe and drawers</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Now this is a bit of a random one really however, I am determined that I am not putting ruined clothing back into the wardrobe so those key pieces I will be restocking and putting the new in whilst getting rid of the old. This includes those white socks that are no longer white & those plain t-shirts that are well and truly faded. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">No wearing my Adidas Forums daily</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I mentioned in my January wrap up post that the Forums are now looking worse for wear and I have noticed the glue is coming apart in some places so it is about time they were retired to dog walking duties. I am determined that February is the month where these are retired and I start wearing something different each day. I will be going through and picking out some key pairs I want to wear in February and will be holding myself to wearing those.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Sort my footwear out</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">This was on the goal list for January however, due to the mess from the bedroom work it just never took place. If all goes to plan though the bedroom will be done mid February meaning that some space will be freed up and I will be able to sit and get rid of all those destroyed pairs and see just what I have got once again. This job really needs to take place ASAP so lets hope that at the end of the month I will be reporting it as achieved.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Sort out all my football shirts</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The spare room is a mess at the moment and my football shirts are a big reason why, they are once again all over the place even though they have their own home in the Kallax unit. I want to set aside a few hours in February to just tidy this area up and actually start getting it ready for when the spare room gets decorated even though it wont be for a while. I just want easy access for those that I wear and a safe space for those that are more collectible. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Life</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Switch off and enjoy my spa day</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Something from my 30 before 30 list (more on that another day) is to have a spa day and we are actually going for one for my sisters birthday in February. I am really looking forward to this and I am going to make sure I make the most of the time there by fully switching off. This will mean no phone and taking a book with me to read, that day will be a full day of relaxation. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Fully complete the bedroom</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The plasterer is coming on the second of February so if all goes to plan we are hoping that the bedroom will be fully completed by the 20th however, if we got it done sooner that would be even better. We are determined though that this room will be complete and put back together in February so we can have the house back and work towards our next project which is still to be decided.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Sort the football box out </span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I am officially a part of a new team now and lets just say I can't wait to get started. My first friendly with them is on the 18th of February so before then I want to get my football box in order with everything I need for the friendlies and training sessions. I am sick of losing everything so if this is in order it will make getting ready for games and training so much easier. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Deep clean and declutter bathroom</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Once the bedroom is done or whilst the plaster is drying the plan is to tackle the bathroom. We are wanting to clear the shelves and only keep what is in date or what we use as at the moment the shelves are carnage. The plan is then to give it a deep clean as although this room is cleaned daily it still needs a deeper clean. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">One long walk a week</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">This started so well in January but we fell off track so the plan is to get back to one day on the weekend being dedicated to a longer walk. There is no excuse for us not to get up and start the day on the right foot so lets see if we can get it to go to plan. Even with a few busy weekends coming up we should still be able to do them. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Content</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Post daily on TNG Fitness </span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">My fitness & weight loss journey is going really well at the moment and I really want to keep on top of it so the plan is to keep myself accountable to keep the progress rolling in. A daily post should really help with keeping me consistent on my journey and help me hopefully progress and drop even more weight in February. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Make sure I am clicking publish on blog posts</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I have been terrible lately with having blog posts ready to post but then forgetting to press publish when the day rolls around. It leads to me messing up my schedule and double posting far too often so I am going to be making sure I am hitting publish and getting those posts out on time in February. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Post daily on the Edge of the Area Tik Tok </span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I have more than enough content ready to go for the Edge of the Area Tik Tok if I just sat and got organised this would run so smoothly. I have plans for sticker openings, card openings and plenty of other fun football related content so let's hope this is smashed in February. I have seen a bit of growth on the platform in January so a bit of consistency could help me see even more.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Start filming reels & Tik Tok's for TNG</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">There are so many ideas floating around in my mind for this however, I just keep delaying filming them so I am setting myself the goal to do this in February. I want to have enough for a reel a week and a Tik Tok 3 times a week so we will see how things go. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Stay consistent</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The final goal of the month is simply to stay consistent with my content, I want to be overall posting more content that is better than it has been across all platforms and I am also hoping to be posting on here & the gaming blog 5 times a week so a post every Monday to Friday. For the football one I will be planning on posting 3 times a week to start with that consistency I am looking for. A bit of consistency should do me the world of good. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">So there you go those are my goals for the month of February, you may have noticed that there are no fitness goals on here this time around but that is because I am going to be moving those over to a specific monthly post for my weight loss and fitness journey. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Now let's see how much we can tick off from these February goals...</span></div>thenortherngirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01465212440942725679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3936203698020899413.post-33681041164674134052024-01-31T08:17:00.000+00:002024-01-31T08:17:07.106+00:00January 2024 Goal Wrap Up <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ8lKYUzsLlSYMv5myCIeKzJv6XM4x_STGRUXxko22A-CMTEI0CfQJYYIYciS3m6AlCPF0K0k1e7obEpF8WpgjhnTqcmPCGK805SogefAdHPq2vghanzF-m_nK936X_kTxe6Hm4dgq-8RJ-T-GyjRwqEJld1Fd0nadAfbVBEwY44MsfKmsv__3F5Ag/s1200/12.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="800" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ8lKYUzsLlSYMv5myCIeKzJv6XM4x_STGRUXxko22A-CMTEI0CfQJYYIYciS3m6AlCPF0K0k1e7obEpF8WpgjhnTqcmPCGK805SogefAdHPq2vghanzF-m_nK936X_kTxe6Hm4dgq-8RJ-T-GyjRwqEJld1Fd0nadAfbVBEwY44MsfKmsv__3F5Ag/s320/12.png" width="213" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><span><div style="text-align: center;">Well that is January done and dusted, you will see in this post that a fair few of the goals I set for myself in January didn't go quite as expected. This hasn't stopped it from being a good month though and I feel more accomplished than I did in the whole of 2023 and I am hoping that keeps moving in that direction. So here is how January's goals went...</div></span></span><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Fashion</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Declutter the wardrobe</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The wardrobe has been emptied ready for the bedroom work being started however, I have only partially decluttered the wardrobe as the shear amount of clothes I own was a bit overwhelming. I am slowly but surely working through this and it will be done before putting everything back into the new wardrobe as the space will be drastically reduced.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Reduce the amount of clothes I buy in the sales</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I 100% managed this as in previous years I would have gone well overboard in the January sales and would have pushed my wardrobe to breaking point with new additions however, this time around as you will see in my new in post I managed to limit the amount I bought and clothing wise I only made a few purchases. I have to admit that I am quite proud of myself for managing this one.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Sort out all the footwear I own</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Unfortunately time got away from me with this one and I didn't get around to it. Plus with all the work being done in the house it is actually hard to get to my shoes at the moment so that was also a factor stopping this goal from happening. I do have a lot of pairs in mind that I will be getting rid of so when I do get around to doing it the task should be pretty simple.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Smarten up my outfit choices</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Well this one really hasn't gone to plan and it is once again due to the bedroom work starting. Due to the plasterer pushing the date forward a lot of things changed and in the end we have just piled all the clothes sky high in the games room and it is a struggle to find pieces. This will definitely take place when the wardrobe has been put back together again which I am hoping is sooner rather than later.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Mix up the footwear I wear</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Oh look another one that I struggled with thanks to the house been such a mess. I had every intention of wearing plenty of other pairs however, they ended up behind a wall of mess from the bedroom work so I didn't get around to wearing them. I definitely need to start changing it up now though as the Forums are starting to look worse for wear.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Life </span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Make a good start on the bedroom decorating</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">This one has been well and truly smashed as we now have an empty shell of a room ready for the plasterer coming at the start of February. This has definitely been a lot of hard work but it is all going to be worth it in the end when the room is finally done.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">One long walk a week</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">We started off well on this one with the first two weeks having nice long walks included. However, as the month progressed other things changed and things ended up constantly being rearranged. I really want to get back into these though as it was great just to have some time exploring with Liam and the dog.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Keep on top of the washing</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Again this is another one that started so well but then dropped right off. To be honest this is again due to the bedroom work. You currently can't move in the games room due to the amount of clothes so it has been hard to keep adding to it as time has gone on. There is a big plan towards the start of February to get all this done though so I have everything ready to go when the new wardrobe is built, although a lot won't be going back in.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Cut back on the shopping trips</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I think in January I went shopping a grand total of twice which is a huge win as I didn't go overboard with buying on either of these trips. I basically just got what I needed and moved along, something which I don't usually tend to do. I am loving these reduced trips though and I am hoping something similar happens in February.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Kick off the years savings in a good way</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">This is another goal I am happy to say I have achieved especially when it comes to the home savings, I have managed to save more than enough to get the bedroom done which includes all the accessories too which I am super proud of plus I have managed to not dip into the savings throughout the month like I normally would. </span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Fitness</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Go to the gym 3 times a week</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Again due to last minute changes this didn't happen however, I did finally take the step to get back in the gym and I have been a few times now in January. I am actually finding it a little easier than I thought I would to get back into the environment and thanks to having a gym buddy when I do go I am pushing myself.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Weight lifting 3 times</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Unfortunately this one didn't go to plan either due to classes either not being on or me being ill. I am really looking forward to getting back to these classes now though so keep an eye on social media to see how many sessions I smash in February. </span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Stick to my Gymshark 66 for the first month</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">This is the longest I have ever stuck to the Gymshark 66 and I think it is because I made the habits a lot more realistic this time around. I am nearly done with course number 1 on Open University as part of my starting something new, I am also sticking to my calories really well and moving my body a whole lot more.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Build a sustainable morning routine</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Now this goal was always going to be a work in progress however, I am slowly but surely starting to get my new routine together. It will be even better when the house is put back together but for now I am happy with how things are going. </span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Reduce the amount of times I eat out or order takeaways</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">This one was massively reduced and multiple takeaways a week turned into 1 throughout the month. I did eat out a fair few times though but again this was massively reduced from previous months. I am quite pleased with how this went and with a few events in February coming up I am hopeful that I wont add on any extra eating out days. </span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Content </span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Post daily to the TNG Instagram account</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I started well with this one but then I just forgot to keep posting and the consistency really dropped off and after 2 weeks we were lucky if I was still posting at all. I definitely fell of pace with this and I am a bit disappointed with this as I had big plans but one bad month doesn't rule out the year.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Be at least one week ahead on all 3 websites</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I have been really good with this one from this website however, with the gaming and football ones it has been terrible and I have still barely posted on them which is definitely not how I wanted January to go. I am definitely planning on being on track with this one in February though as it is time to take those big plans and put them into action.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Post 3 times a week on the Edge of the Area Instagram</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I think I posted once on here and then forgot about it which again I am disappointed in myself for as those big plans I had in place have now been pushed back a month. I need to be a lot more organised in February though as I want to make sure I am hitting this target.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Post on Tik Tok twice a week</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Oh look another content one failed as I managed to post a grand total of once on the TNG Tik Tok account. I only got 2 videos filmed and 1 posted in the end the other is currently sat in the edits waiting to be finished off. This is definitely going to be a focus for February though.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Have February's content mapped out</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Finally a content goal that has been accomplished. I have all the post ideas ready to go for all the websites and Instagram accounts and I have made notes or starting sorting images for them ready to go. I am looking forward to seeing what February has in store for the sites and social media. </span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">January was a really good month even though I didn't manage to hit all the goals in this post. I am pleased with the progress I have made in the first month of the year. I am slowly starting to learn you don't need to tick everything off to have a good month even a few is better than nothing. Now it is time to start thinking of February's goals so keep an eye out for a post full of those soon and let's see how the shortest month of the year plays out...</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Did you hit all your goals for January? </span></p><p></p>thenortherngirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01465212440942725679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3936203698020899413.post-69353017009421794252024-01-29T07:44:00.003+00:002024-01-29T07:44:24.326+00:00January 2024 favourites<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA64la1EXJuARktv9edrfu8UXjL-bf3bQZanxjbsiiTI6od3nZVQrVEYzCwKwht_kiuk2sMVno3951BlAwToZE1R0gVsBHZotOEkVwjWCAQA1QJ1GQWID0I5O_0_nLV8ky5v-YKJ0wGCvK1ToIaRMWrgcD9RJ8emEnA103ysoeipfBrDyVPtIjL1M6/s1200/10.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="800" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA64la1EXJuARktv9edrfu8UXjL-bf3bQZanxjbsiiTI6od3nZVQrVEYzCwKwht_kiuk2sMVno3951BlAwToZE1R0gVsBHZotOEkVwjWCAQA1QJ1GQWID0I5O_0_nLV8ky5v-YKJ0wGCvK1ToIaRMWrgcD9RJ8emEnA103ysoeipfBrDyVPtIjL1M6/s320/10.png" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Well that is the first month of the year done and dusted and I have to admit I think it is the best start to a year I have had in a very long time. I don't want to jinx it but I feel like the tide is turning and things are going to go my way this year and be a damn site better than 2023 was. The year has set off to a flying start and plenty has taken place throughout the month so here are my favourites for month one of 2024...</span></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"> <b><span style="font-family: arial;">Fashion</span></b></div><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Cutting back on the amount of clothing bought</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">It is about time I started to cut back on buying clothes for the sake of it. I am taking my weight loss and savings journey much more in 2024 and the first month has helped me so much to get a head start on these goals. I have used January to start being a bit more mindful with my spending and it has helped me out so much with the amount of clothing I have added to the wardrobe even with the January sales in full force. I have also emptied the wardrobe for the bedroom work and realised just how much clothing I own which has really opened my eyes to just how much I waste on clothing.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Sneakers</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Ralph Lauren Polo Courts</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I might not have worn these sneakers yet but I absolutely love them. They are quite a bit different to other pairs of sneakers I own so I think that might also be why they have gone straight onto my favourites. These are a lot smarter than I am used to although they cost me a lot less than normal. I have been saving these for the perfect occasion and that will finally be here in February so I can't wait to get wearing them.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Fitness</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Getting into the gym</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I might not have been to the gym as much as I would have liked to in January however, it has made it onto the list as when I have been I have really enjoyed myself. It had been a long time since I stepped foot in a gym and to be honest a lot of that was down to my confidence so to be able to say I am back there is brilliant as it just goes to show pushing myself actually works.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Lifestyle</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Getting work on the bedroom started </b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">After planning taking place since the back end of 2023 January finally saw us make a start on the bedroom renovations. There are so many different things that are finally taking shape and January saw us finally clearing this room out and getting it ready for a fresh start which has been much needed. Granted the work doesn't fully start until February so who knows it might make it on back to back favourite lists.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Book</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Alex Scott - How not to be strong</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Finally I am making very good progress through Alex Scott's book and to be honest I have actually nearly completed it in January which has come as a bit of a surprise to me. I am really glad to have read this book though as it has just made Alex go up in my expectations and it has been great learning more about one of those players I grew up watching. I don't know what I will do when I have finished this though as I am spoilt for choice with reading options.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Podcast </span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Grace Beverley - Working Hard, Hardly Working : Lydia Millen</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Lydia Millen is one of the very few YouTuber's I have consistently watched for years, with others I have dipped in and out where as Lydia Millen has been a constant. When I found out she would be appearing on Grace Beverley's podcast I knew I had to have a listen and to be honest it has opened my eyes to a lot and I honestly think I could listen to it a few more times and pick up on tings I might not have noticed the first time around. I haven't liked a podcast episode as much as this in a very long time.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Overall highlight of the month </span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Getting back to football </span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">January was time to get back to my Wednesday sessions post Christmas and after a few weeks missing due to the weather and illness I am really enjoying being back though and the love is slowly returning for the game. I have even started to train with a new team and I am already counting down for the new season starting.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Favourite thing I have learned</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Taking time to recover speeds up the process</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I have been ill for a little bit of January and I actually slowed down a lot more than I usually would. This slowing down and taking time to recover actually sped up the healing process and what may have taken me a week to recover from only took me a few days which was super helpful. I need to remember this if it happens again though, just take steps to slow down and recover properly.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">So there you go those are my favourite things from the first month of the year, it has definitely been a good first month of the year so I am really hoping that the momentum keeps on going and the rest of the months will be just as good.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">What were your favourite things from January?</span></p><p></p>thenortherngirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01465212440942725679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3936203698020899413.post-16513727809623669812024-01-26T08:10:00.002+00:002024-01-26T08:10:22.998+00:002024 is the year that the watch collection grows...<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf9umDi9-wcgY7Xy4IBCeVAeuJVE-hExXJqgj33bpU9JpCL-bJ4m7sp_RBP7E3cT8G8UEqOhWjjqQx5BjpjSPAf5rTv4xaRvR7DcTWlW2hF1mQC3cO7jL0daiD8VDyGPBtPlOYpx53lWx7r-1nvauL6JzkeLcn9PESG42YCm8AbvH0OgdQvjXGtLDe/s1200/8.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="800" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf9umDi9-wcgY7Xy4IBCeVAeuJVE-hExXJqgj33bpU9JpCL-bJ4m7sp_RBP7E3cT8G8UEqOhWjjqQx5BjpjSPAf5rTv4xaRvR7DcTWlW2hF1mQC3cO7jL0daiD8VDyGPBtPlOYpx53lWx7r-1nvauL6JzkeLcn9PESG42YCm8AbvH0OgdQvjXGtLDe/s320/8.png" width="213" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />From a very young age I have wanted to get into the world of watches however, I have never really put the money aside to get my journey going plus I constantly wear my Apple watch these days it is more or less glued to my wrist as I am pushing on with my fitness and weight loss journey. Don't get me wrong I do have a few watches at the moment but the collection is nowhere near where I would like it to me, a few of the watches are cheap ones I have picked up from abroad or high street stores however, I do have a few special ones in there like an Adidas one from my 16th birthday and a Michael Kors one from my 18th. I am determined though that 2024 will be the year where I finally start to add to my collection though and here are the watches I have been looking at so far...</span><div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgskg3wzHw_BEdjv_Cl_ZQ3QPn1hZyKKcVJEpgLtLQZcMmiUPo9AxFuSVjh3KxCQMJkElA50zvRUIAiZBrHrxGwZ-qUf_iUjcebBtUpnh98eAnK-qmX_JXhO2zDz8YAinMVMGYK-7M1x1Z_MzOYxgBdkUE1lZzjaYdzxOjWb21sQKi62C_MT2L-O-Ly/s225/download%20-%202024-01-25T205031.787.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="225" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgskg3wzHw_BEdjv_Cl_ZQ3QPn1hZyKKcVJEpgLtLQZcMmiUPo9AxFuSVjh3KxCQMJkElA50zvRUIAiZBrHrxGwZ-qUf_iUjcebBtUpnh98eAnK-qmX_JXhO2zDz8YAinMVMGYK-7M1x1Z_MzOYxgBdkUE1lZzjaYdzxOjWb21sQKi62C_MT2L-O-Ly/s1600/download%20-%202024-01-25T205031.787.jpeg" width="225" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;"> </span><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Casio MTP-1302PD-2A2VEF</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">This watch has been a standout to me after seeing it on social media so often. This is by far the cheapest watch on this list but it doesn't look cheap. It looks fantastic and a lot more expensive than it actually is, as at under £50 it is an absolute bargain. The colour of the watch face is what has sold it for me though and if I did get this I could see it being worn a lot especially in the spring and summer time.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjunfYlFw8RMCwsglkheKKv2m_JpFkIEP_D59_yHoHPgNHx4WfugaVV9Z8745QoDgdZXCep5lSVge0IIZHnuJ4KPNN2LqBnnzzCXZf0cv9vDvZGLiEk2jo7SWTy4RuiGPMcP8qcXnlWuu_AA3G5SuxDJ4Aq2Fl88BMC3XNVtHufSgZPIiDLLD6vsZcn/s251/download%20-%202024-01-25T205101.565.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="251" data-original-width="201" height="251" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjunfYlFw8RMCwsglkheKKv2m_JpFkIEP_D59_yHoHPgNHx4WfugaVV9Z8745QoDgdZXCep5lSVge0IIZHnuJ4KPNN2LqBnnzzCXZf0cv9vDvZGLiEk2jo7SWTy4RuiGPMcP8qcXnlWuu_AA3G5SuxDJ4Aq2Fl88BMC3XNVtHufSgZPIiDLLD6vsZcn/s1600/download%20-%202024-01-25T205101.565.jpeg" width="201" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">TAG Heuer Formula 1 </span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Now this watch has been on the wish list for a very long time however, it is expensive. I have been dropping hints for one of these for my 30th this year so I guess only time will tell if it gets added to the collection or not however, when it comes to picking which one I would like I am spoilt for choice with colours etc. This would be a dream addition to the collection for me though so I best get saving up.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik8V1D-FtAMb3fSR0OVxW19skTH-qYBSqxX4O8xq0YI8_S7RlSGH70DScwq4rgaeZwqcbEQZjr_pqqGp7P_8aWDqExE8s-tlxxdJLOgiRh9Yn82Dpdq2WxIUc2cAzgQVOxvChwbin9kqcS_gfGopPUyb-s6CBvYQT4mDYxh1M3svBfdEu2Ys_yJ9sx/s224/download%20-%202024-01-25T205227.314.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="224" data-original-width="224" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik8V1D-FtAMb3fSR0OVxW19skTH-qYBSqxX4O8xq0YI8_S7RlSGH70DScwq4rgaeZwqcbEQZjr_pqqGp7P_8aWDqExE8s-tlxxdJLOgiRh9Yn82Dpdq2WxIUc2cAzgQVOxvChwbin9kqcS_gfGopPUyb-s6CBvYQT4mDYxh1M3svBfdEu2Ys_yJ9sx/s1600/download%20-%202024-01-25T205227.314.jpeg" width="224" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Seiko King Black Dial</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">This watch looks a bit more classic and subtle than the others on the list and the price frame is also a lot more realistic for me to pick one up. This watch is over £1,500 however, it definitely looks like it is worth it and like it would be a nice addition to the watch collection overall. If I did pick this up I can easily say that it would become a go to for work especially when my style does go in the smarter direction. </span></p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxzlSHs-MA1CmRvOH8p3sy379tokvYmaKlvSSuxLFhSr1AxL6y0wJwtTs2K64lY6QqTcTVEJnBmE4gqtQUyVPkK05QPxy5F6rlwvveiapJF0tXPh8pQjVpJ7d6MBLkJAqxVK54FqMFD2vWDbblqSMeqY1_81DvFV1XcJGf93xa_aoo27EyuUQyN7__/s225/download%20-%202024-01-25T205253.063.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="225" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxzlSHs-MA1CmRvOH8p3sy379tokvYmaKlvSSuxLFhSr1AxL6y0wJwtTs2K64lY6QqTcTVEJnBmE4gqtQUyVPkK05QPxy5F6rlwvveiapJF0tXPh8pQjVpJ7d6MBLkJAqxVK54FqMFD2vWDbblqSMeqY1_81DvFV1XcJGf93xa_aoo27EyuUQyN7__/s1600/download%20-%202024-01-25T205253.063.jpeg" width="225" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Tissot PRX 40mm Classic Green</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">The darker green dial on this is what has sold me on it as it is another nice and classic looking colour that will add a bit of something different to any outfit it is paired with. The classic green just adds a bit of elegance to the watch and works really well with the colour of the wrist strap. It is another metal strap but at under £500 it would be a brilliant addition to the collection and is in a bit more of a realistic price range for me. </span></p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdO3FNHao2jQyIJ6-QUAK_O5Nbhzd-GjeYmzRX8phCWnhCnFpbK0VTC_sQWgQbmKxb7-ruqlxEQyD2CpraevURZoHQ-s5MSVp2O_1WJtZONG1s_eAxXownzyjRDpl4NbzYURDNHNybJHgnbv8xTNIXc7HJRxqdX84qOZZ_G3S0h2Yk4wXoUT9pTgEP/s225/download%20-%202024-01-25T205330.637.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="225" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdO3FNHao2jQyIJ6-QUAK_O5Nbhzd-GjeYmzRX8phCWnhCnFpbK0VTC_sQWgQbmKxb7-ruqlxEQyD2CpraevURZoHQ-s5MSVp2O_1WJtZONG1s_eAxXownzyjRDpl4NbzYURDNHNybJHgnbv8xTNIXc7HJRxqdX84qOZZ_G3S0h2Yk4wXoUT9pTgEP/s1600/download%20-%202024-01-25T205330.637.jpeg" width="225" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Tudor 1926</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">The Tudor 1926 is a little different as the wrist strap is a bit smaller on this watch but it is another classic looking watch. This watch is a bit more on the expensive side with it being over £1,500 currently however, it just adds another option to the watch collection rather than the bigger & bulkier straps of the other watches on this list. There are a few different versions of this watch so if it came to buying it I would definitely have to sit and pick the perfect version for myself.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgonY_HaRNFDiXT3y6exinJYR7DCUeKsLQfC55Xdt5n-6tIyzy0kbNoXLNPG6pr3_R1Z4Ijz4B2QBlpQOF7P59BeMcx2OJoV5CvdfUseH3J_q2T4T_sEkODiMv2JRBfS3uVT5AYoAXLU2PMadCQzJcDzD3709jn1CtbHUikl0njl7H74U6A14P95E6U/s224/download%20-%202024-01-25T205404.172.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="224" data-original-width="224" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgonY_HaRNFDiXT3y6exinJYR7DCUeKsLQfC55Xdt5n-6tIyzy0kbNoXLNPG6pr3_R1Z4Ijz4B2QBlpQOF7P59BeMcx2OJoV5CvdfUseH3J_q2T4T_sEkODiMv2JRBfS3uVT5AYoAXLU2PMadCQzJcDzD3709jn1CtbHUikl0njl7H74U6A14P95E6U/s1600/download%20-%202024-01-25T205404.172.jpeg" width="224" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Cartier Tank Must</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Now this one is totally different to the others on the list and is also much more expensive which I think is more due to the name than anything else. This definitely looks very elegant and like a timeless piece and I am already dreaming of the outfits I could wear this with if I ever got my hands on one. This would be an absolute dream addition so if I ever want to get my hands on it I will definite need to start the saving up now but in the mean time I will keep on day dreaming. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">So there you have it those are the watches I would to have in my collection as time goes on but I know that I will just have to keep dreaming for a while. I am determined though that gone are the days of wearing the Apple Watch daily and the wrist wear is getting an upgrade and will start to match my outfits a little better than they currently do with the Apple Watch. For know though it is time to knuckle down and get those savings growing ready to purchase my first watch for the collection. </span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Which of this list would you purchase first?</span></p></div></div></div>thenortherngirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01465212440942725679noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3936203698020899413.post-61864641273415225662024-01-25T08:20:00.002+00:002024-01-25T08:20:45.646+00:00How I am planning to be more organised to hit my goals...<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnERjdRk8MeVyCudCWAj8Ytcel7KehKODvg9tFS4vVMVLTxJVxMFGyQfeNuPhv_71lqcXX4fhk2Iii8XhBlg-Zu0bNkTyEsyHn5Arpz8LzCpnbln8_dnpMDIEr8Umc8Nw8Mt_6Sb1WFganX76xXF_OU4b7vyCdYh0pLo3KDTQ1YWRCnrKiqiFGrmwt/s1200/4.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="800" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnERjdRk8MeVyCudCWAj8Ytcel7KehKODvg9tFS4vVMVLTxJVxMFGyQfeNuPhv_71lqcXX4fhk2Iii8XhBlg-Zu0bNkTyEsyHn5Arpz8LzCpnbln8_dnpMDIEr8Umc8Nw8Mt_6Sb1WFganX76xXF_OU4b7vyCdYh0pLo3KDTQ1YWRCnrKiqiFGrmwt/s320/4.png" width="213" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />For someone who makes a lot of lists I have come to realise that organisation and planning is actually an issue for me. I might think I am good at this but upon reflection I am really not, I put things off constantly and let things pile up. I don't stick to a plan at all either, I would rather change plans all the time and then complain when things don't get done like I would have hoped even though I know that it is my fault why it is like that. The lack of planning and organisation has also meant that I haven't been able to grow my websites as I would like to as I forget to have posts written, forget to click publish and forget to add images yet I know if I was organised and planned ahead I could get way ahead of myself and have content going up consistently which I have wanted to happen for so long, this is the same for social media too, I just forget about it due to the lack of organisation. All this does have a negative effect on me in the end too as it gets me down and fed up so 2024 is the year of change... I am going to be so much more organised and planning is going to be a big part of the year.</span><p><span style="font-family: arial;">The first big change is going to be that a block of my Sunday's will now be filled with a few hours of planning. This will mean either after the football or before depending on kick off time I will be shutting myself in the home office area and just planning out the week ahead so I know where I will be each day and what I need to be working on. Here are the sort of things I will be planning in this time...</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Blog posts</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">This will be a case of planning out where pictures need adding etc for the week ahead and what posts require writing for the future so that I am always a step ahead of myself rather than being behind like I usually am. This will tie up any lose ends for the upcoming week but I will also add to my to do list what needs writing, what images are needed and just the progress of where I am at with them. This will be done in my notebook and on my spreadsheet so the reference is always available. I will also use this time to put in my Google Calendar what site I need to focus on each day so that I am not getting overwhelmed like I previously have. </span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Fitness classes/ sessions</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">With my weight loss journey being a big part of 2024 I will be ensuring that I am planning in all my gym sessions & weight lifting classes so that I know where I am already booked so I am not agreeing to a trip to the shops etc like I used to. I need to make sure these are all planned in so that I am not skipping them for the sake of it, I need to be hitting these sessions to progress on my journey so these are some of the most important things I will be planning.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Football matches & training sessions</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">If you have read this site for a while you will know just how big of a part of my life football is. With multiple matches for Bradford City most weeks now due to Tuesday evening games and the usual Saturday's I need to make sure these are all planned in so I know exactly where I am meant to be, this is the same for Manchester United Women too so I can see where a dog sitter may be required. I am also starting to play for a new team so I need to add in their training sessions and match days so I can make sure there aren't too many clashes with Bradford City and Man Utd Women, it also means I can tell the team when I am and aren't available which will be a big help for them too. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">As I say these are the two big things that need planning and I will make sure they are added to my Google Calendar as well as my paper diary which will be coming everywhere with me in 2024. I will also add my blog things to a to do list notebook I have so I can track the progress I am making. The blog things will also be added to my blog content calendar on Google so that I can do some more in depth tracking and ensure everything is getting done, I also have a similar calendar for Instagram which I will be sure to check every Sunday and make any plans and adjustments needed.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Once the two more important bits are filled in I will be moving on to planning out my meals, these will be planned around the activities I am doing to ensure that I am fueling my body correctly for a change to make sure I am making the most out of all the exercise I am doing rather than doing the hard work at the gym and spoiling it with a poor diet. This meal plan is going to be a key piece for staying on track and cutting out the takeaways that have started to creep back in.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">After the meal plan is done and dusted I will be moving onto getting all my outfits pieced together for the week ahead. I will be getting my clothes out and put together to make sure I am not spending longer than I need to in a morning getting ready and the hassle is taken away. It also means that all my workout clothes will be out and ready so I can't use it as an excuse for not doing my session as everything is going to be out and ready for me. I am also hoping this will help me be able to put more effort into my outfits too as it means I will have more time to see what goes together and looks good rather than just throwing anything on. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">The final parts of the planning and organising session will be scheduling in what I can for the blog and Instagram, this just means there will something going up on each day rather than me rushing around last minute trying to find what to post, especially with Instagram. All these steps should just hold me that bit more accountable and help me keep on track with the things I am aiming for throughout the year. I will also be posting daily plans of actions over on Instagram so that I can be doubly accountable and see the progress I am making day to day and seeing where I fall off track. It should also help me avoid burnout too as I will only be planning what I am capable of and those last minute rushes will be disappearing meaning the chance of burnout will hopefully be reduced.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Let's hope this new form of planning and organisation finally gets me that consistency that I have been striving for and growth across my websites and Instagram at long last. Hopefully it helps me get closer to that end weight loss goal too if I stop skipping sessions at long last.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Now let's see if I can stick to this...</span></p>thenortherngirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01465212440942725679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3936203698020899413.post-27850178604141089592024-01-17T09:46:00.002+00:002024-01-17T09:46:56.679+00:00Let's sort this morning routine out at last...<p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjwHHy86OoyciGpmF78kMbfR7W1tzibeX2EaVKzNB4nR5r2uDViC5OHPt14WrKiCuDzRnQOeN07ykvzStnULMxvVqljNQLEdvs8r3UZrjtMOKmwdw9Y7Km01ABS0DU3xboI4quupOa3ZHmMRAMuhuj_9VUmwW46OytWmCVWBfpygXQka8k0OIVTypM/s1200/3.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="800" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjwHHy86OoyciGpmF78kMbfR7W1tzibeX2EaVKzNB4nR5r2uDViC5OHPt14WrKiCuDzRnQOeN07ykvzStnULMxvVqljNQLEdvs8r3UZrjtMOKmwdw9Y7Km01ABS0DU3xboI4quupOa3ZHmMRAMuhuj_9VUmwW46OytWmCVWBfpygXQka8k0OIVTypM/s320/3.png" width="213" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br />I definitely underestimated just how much things would change by getting a dog. Before getting him last March I had a routine nailed however, since he has come along that has gone out of the window and mornings are now rushed so breakfast is missed and it is more or less straight up and out of the door every weekday rather than having time just to wake up like I used to. I am no longer wanting mornings to be rushed, instead I want to start my days nice and relaxed, having time to do things before work and being able to wake up properly before taking the dog out. Luckily the dog has really settled down no so our mornings are getting much better and I can start putting a new routine in place that suits both me and Odin alongside Liam who is always up and out early. So here is what I am hoping becomes my new weekday morning routine...</span><p></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Wake up between 5.30 am and 6 am</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I am not going to stick to a set time of 5.30 am as a wake up as I know some nights will be late ones due to football and I will definitely benefit for an extra half hours sleep. As long as I am up and moving by 6 am I will consider this to be a successful start to the day as it means I have a lot more time than I am used to for setting up my day.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Cold water plunge</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Now this one wont happen until I get the ice bath set up when the garden has been tidied up a bit. However, once it is up and running as soon as I am up I will be heading outside to jump in the ice bath and start my day with some cold water therapy which I am really looking forward to as I should see a huge difference mentally by doing this daily.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Get showered</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Once my time in the ice bath is done I will be heading straight back in to jump in the shower just to get ready for the day whilst also warming myself back up a little although this won't be too hot as I don't want to lose the benefits of the cold water plunge. </span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Skincare routine</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Once I am out of the shower I will be implementing my new skincare routine and making sure I am not skipping any days for this as I know now I really need to start taking care of my skin so much more. This routine wont be over the top but it should help sort out my terrible skin. I have some products I am currently using up for this but keep an eye on here and Instagram as the more I get into this habit I will start to buy some much better items to add into the routine.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Hair routine</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Once the skincare is done it is time to move onto the biggest task of the morning... sorting my hair out. This used to be so easy when my hair was short as I would just towel dry it, run a brush through and be done. My hair is so much longer now though and I need to blow dry it and then style it to make me somewhat presentable for the day. Hopefully the more I get into doing this the quicker it will become.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Take my vitamins</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">This is something I have done every morning since the start of the year and it is something I am going to make sure I kept up to so it is going straight into the start of my morning routine so it doesn't get forgotten about. I keep all these in the spare room aka my office/dressing room and they are near all my hair stuff so it just makes a bit more sense taking them before anything else.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Get dressed</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Once all the above is done it is time to get dressed and luckily if all goes to plan all my clothing will be ready and waiting for me so I don't need to be hunting around for what to wear. The only things that wont be out will be the accessories but a quick trip back to the bedroom will allow me to pick what goes best with the outfit when it is being worn. Having everything ready to go will just mean a much more efficient time where I am not left rushing the rest of my morning routine.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Wake the dog up</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Once the dog is asleep that is it so none of the above steps will have woken him up. So once I am ready it is a case of heading downstairs to wake him up and get the day properly started also known as let the chaos begin. Liam may do this step a few times if he is up and about before me however, I quite enjoy waking Odin up and just having a bit of time the two of us. By the time I am at this stage though Liam may already be on his way to work so we shall see as the routine takes shape just who wakes the dog up each morning.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Feed Odin</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Once Odin is awake it is food time so before doing anything else after opening his crate I will be heading to the kitchen to refill his food and water. This should keep him quiet and out of the way for a bit too but no doubt once the next step in the routine takes place he will have forgotten his food and be glued to my side once again.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Make my own breakfast</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I am sick of skipping breakfast so the plan is to make sure I have time to eat a proper breakfast each day, I don't want a fiber bar or a bowl of cereal every morning, I want to make sure I am eating properly to help me along with my weight loss goals so my breakfasts will be leveling up to the likes of eggs, turkey bacon and chicken sausages. A little time in the kitchen will definitely help me out a lot with my overall goals in 2024. I will also use this time to pack any lunch that I wasn't able to do the night before.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Eat breakfast and plan out the day ahead </span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Once my breakfast is done I will be sitting to the table away from the TV and eating this whilst planning my to do list for the day. This will include planning anything I have to get done at work, any blog or social media things that need sorting as well as what I need to get done after work such as fitness classes, football or anything else that might be taking place that day. This just gives me time to think about the plan of action and not losing track or double booking myself.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Check social media</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Once breakfast is done it is time to sit and relax for 10 minutes or so with the dog before we head out. This time will be designated to checking my social media, making any last minute scheduled posts, replying to comments or messages and just scrolling. Having a time limit for this before work should help me consume less social media and also keep me on top of things for once.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Walk the dog to work</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Once all the above is done it is time to head out the house and get Odin a nice walk in before heading to the office. I like to make sure we do a longer route these days as it tires him out a little bit more and he settles much easier when we get to work. No matter the weather these longer walks get done although it is so much nicer when it is dry and cool rather than wet and freezing.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">So there you go that is going to be my weekday morning routine going forward however, on those days where Liam has the dog I will definitely be adding more chill time into the mix and going at a much slower pace. In an attempt to be even more efficient I will also be making sure my work bag gets sorted on an evening and all outfits are planned the day before. All this is just going to make mornings much more enjoyable and help get the day off to a great start.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Keep checking on social media to see how this routine ends up working out and keep checking back here as once I get settled into an evening routine I will be sure to write about that too.</span></p>thenortherngirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01465212440942725679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3936203698020899413.post-78303912779805776812024-01-15T08:45:00.003+00:002024-01-15T08:45:19.100+00:00Items that will be going straight into my new wardrobe (when I can buy clothes again) <p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9xs14IBFbZLEF8ZNM7m_hnPwif64k75FIOlMmU8CRn-fScEzJqJPmPtR0J_RNukcJXVvL3WvExZLLMbc8iu0leV8vO2vDBxSAN-3t-bQB0MsiaSnui7TTimKZ3RKXf3m2SurIwWysUDN6PCmRyoLY55X7PzCKs653vBAWFO8zDL5ecEDr1vN7cEA3/s1200/1.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="800" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9xs14IBFbZLEF8ZNM7m_hnPwif64k75FIOlMmU8CRn-fScEzJqJPmPtR0J_RNukcJXVvL3WvExZLLMbc8iu0leV8vO2vDBxSAN-3t-bQB0MsiaSnui7TTimKZ3RKXf3m2SurIwWysUDN6PCmRyoLY55X7PzCKs653vBAWFO8zDL5ecEDr1vN7cEA3/s320/1.png" width="213" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /> <span style="text-align: left;">The plan when it comes to my goal shop is to rebuild my wardrobe with timeless pieces where the quality of the items are going to have a big impact, there will be no buying for the sake of it and there will be no buying cheap and having to buy twice, those days are gone.</span></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Whilst I am losing the weight to head towards being able to do that goal shop I am putting myself on a clothes buying ban so I can save my money and put it towards the goal shop, in fact I will only actually be buying clothing when I really need to such as if a pair of jeans look ridiculous due to the weight loss. I have finally realised there is no point me spending a fortune on clothing now as I hopefully wont be in those pieces too long as my size changes. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Today's post is all about those classic pieces I am going to be bringing straight into my wardrobe once I am at my goal. These won't be getting added before then as they are on the more expensive side of things plus they will also probably suit me a lot more once that size has been hit. Plus with them being expensive I guess that is the whole reason that I started the goal shop in the first place... to treat myself after all my hard work. My style is certainly changing as I get older too so there are actually some items on here that a few years back I wouldn't have even considered but due to the changes they are now high on the priority list. As I say a lot of these are also more expensive too due to me opting for the quality in future purchases however, I am definitely on the side of thinking that investment will be worth it these days. So here are those clothing pieces that will definitely be being added into my wardrobe once the big rebuild happens...</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Holland Cooper Stamford Country Coat</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">This 2 in 1 coat and gilet would tick two boxes in one purchase for me as the coat would be perfect for the dog walks and the detachable gilet has been on my radar for a while as it fits the kind of style I want to aim for perfectly. At £349 this is definitely on the expensive side of things but I need to remind myself you get 2 products in 1 really and they should easily last me a long time. It really does have autumn and winter dog walks written all over it</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Holland Cooper Fleece</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">At £129 this fleece is more expensive than any others I have previously looked at however, again the quality looks absolutely fantastic. The details on the elbows sell it for me and the branding which is noticeable without being too in your face like some other brands. Again this is an item with dog walks in mind especially on those crisp days that don't quite require a coat, this would be the perfect option.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Ralph Lauren Shirts</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I have never been able to comfortably fit into the regular fit Ralph Lauren shirts that I have been after for so long. I am hopeful though that once I do hit that goal I will be comfortably into these shirts as I am planning on bringing at least 3 into my wardrobe if that is the case. I am hoping to add a variety of colours of these once I do the big rebuild so I have a much smarter work wardrobe on its way.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Ralph Lauren Jumpers</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">There are actually a fair few styles of jumpers that I want to pick up from Ralph Lauren to add into my wardrobe for day to day wear alongside them being for work. I will definitely be opting for a few different styles to mix up the outfit types I can create however, I may just stick to the basic colours when purchasing these to ensure I will get my wear out of them.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Lily Silk Cashmere Jumpers</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">The more I see these jumpers on social media the more I get an urge to just order one there and then but I am going to be good and wait until I am at my goal size so that I am not spending more than usual on a jumper for it not to fit me in a few months time. I want to make the purchase when I am at a size I will be at for a much longer period of time though so that I know it is going to last me and is probably going to fit me much better.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Barbour Jacket</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I know I have already said that I want to add the Holland Cooper coat to my wardrobe but I will also be adding a Barbour jacket. My current jacket game is terrible so this is where a big upgrade is needed so this item is top of the list. I am spending so much time outdoors these days and walking the dog in all weather so a quality jacket like a Barbour one really is a must have.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Schoffel Country Fleece</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">These fleeces are all over my Instagram feed these days and the more I see them the more I fall in love with them as they are super simple but look so comfortable. Again this is a purchase with those cooler dog walks in mind as it should keep me nice and warm whilst adding a bit of a smarter element to my outfit. </span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">POSH Harrogate 1/4 Zips</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I keep getting drawn into buying every colour 1/4 zip that POSH Harrogate sell however, I keep telling myself that these are not being purchased until I hit that goal, again as I want to make sure they all fit me for longer than a few months. These look absolutely brilliant and the colours they sell are all a bit different to what I would usually pick up. Who knows just how many options there will be from the company by the time I finally hit my goal.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Nice Trousers</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">As part of my total wardrobe rebuild and me smartening up my style I am planning on bringing in some good quality smarter looking trousers into my wardrobe. These will be mainly for my work outfits but I am looking forward to going and finding the perfect pairs. On the list are definitely a grey, black and navy pair but as for other colours we shall see what I find, I will certainly be shopping around for these.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Ralph Lauren Belt</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I am absolutely loving these reversible Ralph Lauren belts and the plan is to invest in some good quality statement belts so these will be a good starting point. Again I have been so tempted to get these already however, for the price I may as well just buy some cheap belts for now and wait until my size levels out. I may be looking forward to getting this most off the list. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I am sure that a lot more items will be added before I finally get around to the full wardrobe rebuild especially as I am taking a lot of inspiration from Instagram these days. All I know though is I am really looking forward to building up my new wardrobe when I finally hit that goal and who knows a whole new Lucy may be incoming.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">This post is all about the clothing that I am wanting to purchase however, I haven't forgot about the footwear side of this website. I am not on a footwear buying ban so those pieces will be coming in throughout the year although you may see a change on the styles I end up purchasing. Keep an eye on the site though as I have a full footwear piece coming up before the end of the month.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">For now though let's stop buying those clothes and work towards having the money available to purchase these items...</span></p>thenortherngirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01465212440942725679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3936203698020899413.post-2601712184893781682024-01-12T08:43:00.006+00:002024-01-12T08:43:56.794+00:00I will be doing a low spend year to sort my life out<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTaq0p3vkFpbu0kfNai5REqVytJnL8nBWoCNA9ZXKwnnM3UCniVBGIGdxR-EqtfG-LaFugXYt0AhnXA0rQWyQH-k-Z_B8vFCk5rZvV8GDmWMXTC56zPpsymxndA46_cgKgGdL9m_nCl2XeQlQYFU0pUpqs1b8JC6dBZNMWuN8ze2EsbCIxUr1dFJyG/s1200/5.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="800" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTaq0p3vkFpbu0kfNai5REqVytJnL8nBWoCNA9ZXKwnnM3UCniVBGIGdxR-EqtfG-LaFugXYt0AhnXA0rQWyQH-k-Z_B8vFCk5rZvV8GDmWMXTC56zPpsymxndA46_cgKgGdL9m_nCl2XeQlQYFU0pUpqs1b8JC6dBZNMWuN8ze2EsbCIxUr1dFJyG/s320/5.png" width="213" /></span></a></div><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">2024 is going to be the year where I really start to focus on getting my finances in order, as currently I am not in the right place with them. I am still in the habit of spending money for the sake of it and I am realising now just how much I am wasting and how the money could be saved and put towards something much more worthwhile like getting a room in the house redecorated. </span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I am challenging myself to having a low spend year in 2024 and I am determined to really stick to this not just for the financial benefit but also as I am hoping that 2024 is the year that the house has a whole declutter transformation. As it stands all the surfaces & cupboards are over run with unnecessary things and products which just need using up rather than having duplicates taking up even more space. I am really hoping that having a low buy year will help me massively reduce the clutter as I will be bringing in the bare minimum to the house and instead using up everything I already own. </span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">As I go around decluttering room by room I will be sure to take note of what I do need but I wont rush out to get it straight away. This should help me stick to the low spend year and also get me really thinking about it the purchase is really going to be worth it or not, something I need to learn to do in most areas as I spend just so I don't come home empty handed.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">As I have mentioned a fair few times on here already this year, my big focus is on building up those savings and finally getting the house how we want it by redecorating all the rooms we can and if I do manage to do a low spend year I am more likely to get all the jobs I want to do this year done but there is even the possibility of getting more done if them savings really start to take shape.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">January is all about taking stock of what I have got to ensure I am well prepared for what sort of things I need to keep an eye out for and allow space for in the budget, it will also help me work out what I really don't need to consider repurchasing again for a long time, if ever again at all. In terms of main focus areas I will be taking stock of what we have food wise in the cupboards as currently I know we have far too many packets of pasta and I can stop buying that for a long time. I will also be taking stock of all the clothing I have, I realised lately that I have 3 pairs of the same jeans which is no needed and lets not get started on how many of the same t-shirts I have. There will also be a focus on bathroom items as there are so many things I could use up before buying more however, I get sucked in by offers in stores and things end up going to waste, again something I am trying to stop doing. </span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The big rule for this low spend challenge is that I can not re-buy something until I am completely out of what I already own, so say I see a shower gel I want but I have 4 bottles at home I have to use those 4 up before buying new. As for clothing the same applies, if I want new jeans I will remind myself of what I already have and if those still fit me then I don't need new ones. </span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Granted with clothing I may need to re-buy a few bits as I head towards my weight loss goal especially as the seasons change. However, the plan is to limit the shopping trips and clothing purchases to four big shops during the course of the year. I will save up for these shopping trips so I go with a budget in mind and will make a list of things I actually need before heading out so I am not buying things for the sake of it. I will be doing the 4 trips as this should have me covered for every season. This should save me a lot of money in the long run by cutting back and going armed with a list. I will also be saving towards any concert merchandise within this too so again I can't go overboard.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Of course the big plan for the year is to get the jobs around the house done so within the low buy year I will be having to buy a lot of paint, furniture and accessories however, these are all budgeted for already so it will all be within the rules of the low buy plus when it comes to the accessories I won't be going overboard and buy loads of pieces like I have in the past, I will put a limit on them. I will also be budgeting for holidays however, again I will not be being silly and spending every penny whilst away like I usually do.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">To keep track of all this I am going to have a notes page and a bullet journal page where I mark down what I am allowed to buy ie. things to help with jobs, odd treats that all fit within my budget, what I really need to pick up as essentials. I am also going to put down what I really wanted to buy but didn't so I can see any repeat offenders and just how much I am saving by sticking to this. It is going to be fun to see how this develops over the year and to see just how my spending habits change.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I am really hoping that this low spend year is going to help our savings massively grow even with us doing the jobs around the house which will eat into the savings a fair bit. Those jobs really are a priority though so any extra money towards getting them finally done is really going to help and will put us in a better place for getting the rest of the house sorted. I am really looking forward to seeing how the year doing this goes and seeing how my spending habits change over the next 12 months...</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">For now though let's go start the declutter and make January's pay day allowed to buy list.</span></p>thenortherngirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01465212440942725679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3936203698020899413.post-44224548772274779802024-01-11T07:34:00.000+00:002024-01-11T07:34:42.654+00:00There is plenty for me to look forward to in 2024<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"> </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYxvZVihcrEAO9IivioEruFfh8I2rybmywDLkmsUZAQx4JUY5TlQHl5eSXRSYAUOzexu-rUT8X7rh4Fh4U08rwrUevu0Mqs1xfeDmITdzTDCmJGE0cwxbXOhv6jynhNKDvbnqiGFYVxVf_JmZRSavAhoHga2PiYoEPLjq44BTYh6Ro2W60oM6B2c57/s1200/3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="800" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYxvZVihcrEAO9IivioEruFfh8I2rybmywDLkmsUZAQx4JUY5TlQHl5eSXRSYAUOzexu-rUT8X7rh4Fh4U08rwrUevu0Mqs1xfeDmITdzTDCmJGE0cwxbXOhv6jynhNKDvbnqiGFYVxVf_JmZRSavAhoHga2PiYoEPLjq44BTYh6Ro2W60oM6B2c57/s320/3.png" width="213" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">2024 is a year of change as I have mentioned on here a fair few times and it isn't just fashion wise where things will be changing. I am planning on spending money on memories rather than items this year. I would rather go out and experience something rather than buying something to never use it and see it gathering dust. Plus I can share the experiences with family members which makes it even better especially if it means making memories with my nephew or Liam. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Already at the start of the year my diary is starting to fill up and events are taking place which I am on countdown to. We have concerts, days out and so much more that are going to make days super special and months are going to be a nice mixture of things. So here is what we have booked already...</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Hot Wheels : Glow Live</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">We all got tickets to take my nephew to this as he absolutely loves Monster Trucks and we have wanted to take him for a while now so whilst it is on our doorstep we might as well give it a go. I am really looking forward to this as it looks like it is a great show so lets see if it lives up to expectations.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Sooty</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">We have had this one booked for what feels like forever now and honestly I think I might be a bit more excited for this than my nephew is. Growing up I absolutely loved just sitting and watching Sooty so this is basically going to be me reliving my childhood and I am on countdown for it. We went to Sooty Land back in August so I think that helped me get ready for it too.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Bluey</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">This is another one that we are all going to with my nephew and I have to admit again I am really looking forward to this one even if it is aimed more towards little kids. I am not sure what it is about Bluey but we see on social media the show has drawn a lot of people in and a lot of adults actually don't mind sitting and watching it, to be honest even our dog is hooked and will sit and watch a full episode. This show should be great and a nice little pre-birthday treat for the nephew.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Jonas Brothers</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">2024 seems to be the year of reliving my childhood and I am really not complaining. The second I got the notification that the Jonas Brother's were coming to Manchester I was making plans to get there. Luckily thanks to being a Co-Op member I got the tickets pretty easily and the countdown soon begun. I got my sister a ticket to join me as her Christmas present seen as our time growing up was spent listening to them so it is going to be nice to relive our childhoods together, plus there is no way Liam would have gone with me.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Pink</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Pink is someone I have wanted to see for far too long, you watch the videos of her show online and realise it is more than a concert you are attending plus all her songs are absolutely brilliant. When she announced her tour me and a few friends set up a group chat and luckily one of us managed to get all the tickets we needed so in July I will be heading to Anfield (wish it was any other stadium) to finally see Pink live with a great group of friends.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Total Warrior</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Do you ever look back at something and think why did I sign up for that? Well that is the question I ask myself every time I remember I am doing the Total Warrior course. This is a 12k track with some pretty brutal obstacles in the way. I am definitely working out a lot more in 2024 to get myself ready for this so I guess it should really help me power through my weight loss & fitness goals too plus if I do finish this it is going to be something to be very proud of. </span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Family holiday</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">We have a full family holiday booked for 2024 and the countdown is on. We tend to do these once a year where we all go including my grandparents which makes the trip that bit more special. The dog is also going with us for this one and where we are going couldn't be any more suited to going on a lot of adventures. No doubt we will have plenty more holidays booked throughout the year with some of the family so I can't wait to see where we end up.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Hairspray</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">We are back to the theatre with this one. Hairspray is up there in my top 3 musicals so when my dad said he was getting my mum a ticket for Christmas I asked if I could join her. This isn't until November however, I really can't wait to go see this once more. I don't think this will be one of the only musicals I go to in 2024 either as I am determined to head to as many shows as I can as there are plenty coming on tour locally that I have been waiting to see.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">So there we go those are all the things that I have booked that I am really looking forward to in 2024, throw in the football schedule and we are sure in for a busy year as no doubt even more things will be getting booked as the year progresses. As I have mentioned before 2024 is all about making memories and going on adventures so I can't wait to see where the year takes us. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I will be posting little round ups of the shows we have attended & the adventures we have been on to the blog once they have taken place so keep an eye out for those, also keep an eye out on Instagram to see just what we get up to on those adventure days.</span></p>thenortherngirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01465212440942725679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3936203698020899413.post-58023264208052396472024-01-10T08:12:00.003+00:002024-01-10T08:12:17.132+00:00I am doing the Gymshark 66 once again...<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHZWk2KwLxnPRrVOdozkZ5CRsbi52OYgA1eJyC3b7YY3cO11gZJbEYH1zK-DtyUlk8UNcs2b9A28O6ohhPJTaiC8qNJ1e0G-mnjv9Ef9s5ZAfqjuB-m1NaT4UpAxd-x7RIMWmfpRxqWVtprw12Wtbk8cmlsKEWb5gqjTYQKxl7E9-toQoibWrIDVCo/s1200/4.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="800" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHZWk2KwLxnPRrVOdozkZ5CRsbi52OYgA1eJyC3b7YY3cO11gZJbEYH1zK-DtyUlk8UNcs2b9A28O6ohhPJTaiC8qNJ1e0G-mnjv9Ef9s5ZAfqjuB-m1NaT4UpAxd-x7RIMWmfpRxqWVtprw12Wtbk8cmlsKEWb5gqjTYQKxl7E9-toQoibWrIDVCo/s320/4.png" width="213" /></a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">The start of the year always means one thing... the return of Gymshark 66, this is a 66 day challenge that I always start on January 1st however, I have never completed it. 2024 is going to be different though as I am 100% determined that at some point after day 66 is March I will be writing a full wrap up post on here saying how I managed to complete all 66 days and how I feel so much better for it. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I gave up previously for the silliest of reasons and I put too much pressure on myself but this year I won't be making that mistake, the goals I set myself before were just too unrealistic so I have really toned it down whilst also making sure what I pick is going to help me achieve those goals I set myself for the year. This years 66 is all in app which is going to make keeping up super easy, plus the app will show me my progress meaning I am more likely to stick to it. To take part this year all you had to do was pick 3 habits to tick off daily, there was plenty of choices across 3 categories: </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Mind</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Nutrition</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Fitness</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">The fact these were the categories just seemed to reel me in to giving the 66 another try as these are 3 areas where habits being built would be really beneficial for me. My big goal for 2024 is self growth so the 3 habits I picked for this would help me on my way to achieving that in the long run. After some careful consideration I ended up opting for a habit from each category and here is what I chose & why...</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Stay in my calorie target</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Over eating was a big issue for me in 2023 and is one of the many reasons why my weight loss journey went backwards rather than making the progress I had hoped to. I am hoping that by having stick to my calories as a habit for the first 66 days I will just naturally fall into continuing this when the challenge is over. I know that with my lifestyle as it is now if I can stick to this and get my nutrition under control I will soon start to see the benefits.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Learn something new </span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">This is another one I couldn't resist when I saw it. A big goal of mine is to finish 4 Open University free courses to help me out in various aspects of life so when I saw this I knew I had to have this one as part of my Gymshark 66. In the 66 days of the challenge I should be able to complete a few of these courses and hopefully it will inspire me to push on for the rest of the year and complete even more than the 4 I set out to complete.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Daily workout / exercise </span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I really need to get my body moving again as I really slacked off in 2023 and you can tell. Daily workouts & exercise are something I am striving for as I know it will do my knee some good and help me on my weight loss journey. I know that it will also help me mentally as I know when I am consistent in working out my mental health is so much better. This doesn't need to be high intensity every day either some days might simply be going on a longer dog walk but I know each day will be different to keep me going.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I am 100% sure that if I stick to these habits for those 66 days I am going to end up carrying them on beyond that and really seeing the progress I want to see in 2024 so let's hope it all goes to plan unlike in previous years. I really want 2024 to be a much better year so let's hope completing these 66 days sets me off on a good start.</span></p>thenortherngirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01465212440942725679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3936203698020899413.post-56007676726753111832024-01-10T08:11:00.001+00:002024-01-10T08:11:11.550+00:00The jobs we want to get done in 2024<p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGne9MhxOVefNMzfVh_G7AJc0oOJ_wARZhAo0ODHZRATQ9PwGZuBqpmG7tf43lSzzSE6GGOu03Rz9OYjhE4LUasYKbxdm2ulHN6_k40TsxBSJ2GjmK9OuE1_keTqMMvFoYcULzkU59BdOLqRFO_hImZUd4NiJJ_sA0vhjs-UXU29YaKBdj73nuSiHs/s1200/1.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="800" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGne9MhxOVefNMzfVh_G7AJc0oOJ_wARZhAo0ODHZRATQ9PwGZuBqpmG7tf43lSzzSE6GGOu03Rz9OYjhE4LUasYKbxdm2ulHN6_k40TsxBSJ2GjmK9OuE1_keTqMMvFoYcULzkU59BdOLqRFO_hImZUd4NiJJ_sA0vhjs-UXU29YaKBdj73nuSiHs/s320/1.png" width="213" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /> <span style="text-align: left;">I know I am repeating myself again with the start of this post however, just like with everything else in 2023 things didn't go to plan when it came to getting things done around the house and we actually got nothing done throughout the year which in all honesty is pretty annoying. We are certainly hoping that things go a lot differently in 2024 though and we have a nice long list of jobs around the house that we would like to get done and thanks to us going into the year with our heads well and truly screwed on, knowing what we want to achieve, we should be able to really make a dent in these jobs and end 2024 with a fair bit of the house completed. </span></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">We have said down and worked out exactly where our priorities lie this year and we know that a big aim for the year is to get as much of the jobs around the house done as we can, we can probably get all the upstairs done and a lot of the outdoors space if we keep our goals in mind and keep our heads screwed on. If we can get the upstairs done then 2025 can be focused on the expensive jobs downstairs and if we focus on the outdoor space in 2024 we can spend our summers relaxing at home rather than going out spending for the sake of it, a nice garden space for us to sit in whilst the dog charges around would be ideal for 2024. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Financially we are in a much better place too which puts us in a much better position to get things done over the next 12 months and with a bit of time & effort we could fly through this list, so here are the jobs we are hoping to get done in 2024...</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Our bedroom</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">This job is already booked in and will be underway in the first month of the year which is a big step in ensuring we get this full list ticked off this year. By getting our bedroom done early on we are getting a more expensive job done early on to be able to get saving for other jobs for the remainder of the year. I have a post coming up about the plans for this job so I won't go into it too much but lets just say it is going to be a complete change and we both can't wait for it.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Office/dressing room</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">The office, dressing room is our spare room and it is only a small room therefore it shouldn't cost us too much to do up. This room is just going to be a case of plastering the walls and painting them whilst rearranging the furniture we have in there. With it being a relatively low cost job I am hoping that we can do this early on in the year but I guess we will see. The aim here though is to make the space more practical and more appealing to be sat in whilst I am working on content etc. A good declutter will also take place in here and only those essential items will be going back in whilst being tidied up as the state of the room currently stresses me out and does nothing for my productivity.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Home gym</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I guess you could say we started this in 2023 as we got the old garage structure pulled down however, that is all we got done. The aim is to have the new structure built and in use by my birthday in September, this will free up space in the house and will also just give me that easier workout option as the year progresses. Even if it is a case of just doing bits as and when the funds are available to have it done in 2024 will be a huge weight lifted as we are sick of the sight of gym equipment in the house. It also means I can save more money by cancelling my gym membership. This really would be the perfect addition to the house and has been a long time coming so let's hope by mid-year I can report that things are well underway.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Back garden</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">The back garden is something we wanted to get done in 2023 but time and weather wasn't on our side so we never got around to completing it. We are hoping though that by the time summer rolls around the back garden is fully complete. The aim for the back garden is a case of having a general tidy up, paint the decking and fencing, turn the planters into seats and just making the window area look nicer. Once all that is done we will also be rearranging the furniture & accessories whilst adding new just to make this space perfect for those long evenings. Hopefully we will get this done and be able to have people round for BBQ's this summer which would be perfect as the dog would be able to enjoy it too. This should be another low cost job but will require a fair bit of hard work so let's see if we can get it done.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Front garden</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">The front garden is another low cost job but it is another that is going to require a fair bit of hard work. The window and door area here is going to require some freshening up which will be a simple job however, the trees need sorting out as they are overgrown and old plants need ripping out as there is no life left in them. The plan then is to dig out the old border and add some plants just to brighten the area up as at the moment it is all just overgrown grass and the curb appeal is none existent. A little fence also needs to go up between ours and our neighbors just to make it more secure for the dog. One nice weekend should just allow for this to be completed and I can't wait for it.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Side garden</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Now the side garden shouldn't cost too much as it is just a case of getting rid of the old flowerbed (which should be done at the same time as the gym build) and the old BBQ we are never going to use. Once those are removed its just a case of tidying the area up and getting it ready to use for kicking the football around in. The only cost for this area may be getting some fencing of some sort just to secure it for the dog but we need to sit and have a think about that as it comes to sorting the area out.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Hallway</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">The hallway is definitely going to be the most expensive job on this list other than the home gym. It needs plastering and due to how it is we may get someone in to paint it for us but we will decide that nearer the time and budget for it just in case. We are also going to need to sort the floorboards out here and sort out new flooring for the upstairs, stairs and the downstairs which will be costly plus the flooring is going to need to be bought in bulk for downstairs as we will want to run this all throughout the downstairs areas when it comes to redoing those rooms. We also need a joiner to come fit some cupboards for us in the hallway too which we know won't be cheap. The hallway is an aim for the year however, even if we have to wait until early 2025 due to the cost I don't think we will mind... let's aim big for 2024 though so we throw excess money into the savings.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">So there you go those are the jobs we are hoping to get done in 2024, both me and Liam are determined to save up to get all these done on the list so it is going to be interesting to see just how much we can get done. We will also be trying to do as much as we can on our own to cut down on costs which will be a challenge but I am sure we are both more than capable. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I am looking forward to seeing just how much we can get done this year and I am hopeful that by the check in post around June I will be reporting that a chunk of these jobs will be completed rather than being saying I am way behind like I was in 2023. Now it is time to get planning this bedroom as it isn't long until it gets underway.</span></p>thenortherngirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01465212440942725679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3936203698020899413.post-13990608982486414482024-01-08T08:38:00.003+00:002024-01-08T08:38:52.904+00:00The weight loss rewards when I finally hit those targets<p style="text-align: center;"> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfmWfgxFhLj6OD35exhMB8h8vzAB3xqw1uNG9wuFLiZonilsJeaxfS_Y0IR492yJd8rN8q90Tw4Hs38el_rhQPjelbeKkvU48TlaVyDM8nBZyOn93jV6DGz06Dhrn564FXzj3Y0Qb9VhWcsJxVP1MOjUGja6EQMDVml0C5rbpJru36nIiQDGIw6vlL/s1200/2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="800" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfmWfgxFhLj6OD35exhMB8h8vzAB3xqw1uNG9wuFLiZonilsJeaxfS_Y0IR492yJd8rN8q90Tw4Hs38el_rhQPjelbeKkvU48TlaVyDM8nBZyOn93jV6DGz06Dhrn564FXzj3Y0Qb9VhWcsJxVP1MOjUGja6EQMDVml0C5rbpJru36nIiQDGIw6vlL/s320/2.png" width="213" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I promise I will stop banging on about this soon however, if you have been reading the blog this year you will have read by now that I am making my fitness and weight loss journey a main priority throughout 2024 as I am unhappy with where I am at with it currently. The plan is to go bigger & better in 2024 with plenty of workouts, a better diet and just generally pushing on to hit those goals sooner rather than later as I am really determined to see this weight gone for good rather than it creeping back on like it did over the course of 2023. The scales and size are going to be in a downward spiral in 2024 I am sure of it as my determination is higher than ever and I have those steps in place to make sure I am working towards my goals in a successful way.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">With 2023 really not going to plan for 2024 I am going to be throwing some incentives into the mix. I know that a little reward every now and then will really help motivate me to keep going as I know that those little milestones will be celebrated for all the right reasons. The plan is to reward myself every 7 lbs which means every time I lose half a stone I will be picking up a little treat however, once a stone milestone is achieved I will be picking up a big of a bigger reward. I have tried to make the rewards items that are going to be used throughout my journey to keep me going and there is definitely nice mixture of things on the list, all that are going to be super fun to work towards. I am really hoping to get to at least the 3 stone reward mark in 2024 however, as I am trying to have a big push towards this I have made the rewards go up to the 5 stone mark just in case and let;s just say if I get to this I won't be far off my end goal either which will make the year even better for me as it will mean I am able to start going on that big wardrobe restock trip. So here are those rewards I am going to be picking up on those milestones in my journey throughout 2024...</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">7 lbs - New shin pads</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">The first rewards is going to be something I really need to ensure a big push towards the first target... I have been needing new shin pads for a while now as mine are a mess, stink and I have actually lost the sleeves that are meant to hold them in place. As I know that I really need this item I am hoping that it keeps me pushing to hit the 7 lbs lost goal as soon as possible and get the year off to a good start.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">14 lbs (1 stone) - New football shirt</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Once I hit 1 stone lost I will finally be treating myself to a new football shirt hopefully in a size below what I am currently in, as that increased again in 2023. I will be saving for this shirt as I am working towards that goal and hopefully by the time I hit it I will have enough to treat myself. I haven't bought half as many shirts as I would like this season so hopefully knowing a new shirt is on the cards will push me to drop that stone and give me that extra motivation.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">21 lbs (1 & 1/2 stone) - New earphones for the gym</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">With me being back in the gym and being in the process of working out more my current earphones just aren't cutting it and could do with upgrading. Rather than just going out and buying a pair like I usually would the plan is to save up the money for a better pair whilst I am losing the weight and have a shiny new pair as a reward for pushing on with my journey. I am definitely going for a more expensive pair this time around so with me needing to drop 21 lbs before purchasing I should hopefully have given myself plenty of time to get the money together however, with all this motivation who knows how long it is actually going to take for me to get to this point.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">28 lbs (2 stone) - New Gymshark outfit</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">By the time I am 2 stone down I have a feeling some of my clothing will need replacing and I feel like I might need a nice new workout outfit for hitting the gym in to throw a bit of confidence into the mix. I love Gymshark clothing however, I haven't had anything new from them for a while as I have found them to be a bit on the expensive side plus I haven't really been in workout clothing as much as I would have liked. I am really looking forward to hitting this 2 stone lost mark though as I have seen so many items I would love to own so at least I have time to narrow it down to just the one outfit to treat myself to, keep an eye on the site though as I might be posting about another way I can treat myself to a Gymshark order in an upcoming post...</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">35 lbs (2 & 1/2 stone) - Supplement haul</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Now of course I am going to be placing orders to keep vitamins & protein bits stocked up throughout the year however, they will just be small occasional orders from MyProtein every time no doubt. Once I hit that 2 & 1/2 stone lost mark though I will be placing a bigger order than usual with some items I might have been previously holding off from, this order will also be from brands I haven't yet tried like Soccer Supplement so will open the door for different products I hope. I might even pick up something from Pure Sport as part of this order but we shall see when the time comes.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">42 lbs (3 stone) - New workout outfits & football shirt</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">My aim for the year is to be 3 stone down by my 30th birthday in September so my reward for this milestone is going to be a bit of a bigger one but it will only be this big if I hit it in September, if not I will only get half of this reward which I guess gives me a bit more motivation to hit that 3 stone mark sooner rather than later. 2 new workout outfits will be purchased from Gymshark once I hit this goal as my size will definitely have changed by then and my workout clothing will definitely be needing an upgrade to fit me much better, I will also be trying to pick seasonal outfits as no doubt the weather will have changed a fair bit by the time I hit this one. If I hit this by September I will also be rewarding myself with a new football shirt ready for the new season, I have plenty of time to scout out my options for this one too so let's see which I end up with, if any at all. </span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">49 lbs (3 & 1/2 stone) - New base layers</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">If I do manage to hit this milestone in 2024 it will definitely be as the weather takes a turn towards the end of the year so my reward for reaching that milestone will reflect that. It might be a bit silly but my reward for hitting this is actually going to be some new base layers for football. Granted I might pick up some cheap Sondico ones as the year progresses just to make sure I am not wearing ones too big however, once I hit 3 & 1/2 stone I will finally be treating myself to some Nike Pro layers as a bit more of a treat.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">56 lbs (4 stone) - New football boots for training</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I am really thinking it would be a miracle if I hit this milestone in 2024 however, I am really going to push for it and see what happens. I will definitely be treating myself to some more expensive boots for training if I hit this milestone. At the moment I am in some £28 Adidas that cripple my feet so I will be getting a new cheaper Nike pair soon however, I will be putting money to one side to treat myself to a more expensive pair once that 4 stone is gone as a bit of a treat. I know I will get my wear out of them too as I have a training pair & match day pair but let's see if I can reach that 4 stone mark in 2024 first.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">63 lbs (4 & 1/2 stone) - Sports massage</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">By the time I hit this milestone (if I hit it) my body will definitely have been put through its paces so to try relax a bit and loosen up the plan is to have the reward for hitting this goal as a sports massage. This will just give me a chance to have an hour getting rid of any niggles in my body and allow me to reset ready for pushing on with the final stretch of my journey and the rest of my football season as no doubt this will be achieved half way through my football season if I do achieve it in 2024. It could be the start of me getting regular sports massages too but we shall see.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">70 lbs (5 stone) - Start the new wardrobe shopping trip</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">If I hit this milestone in 2024 it really will be a miracle however, it is on here just in case and as a bit of added motivation to really push on to achieve as much as possible over the course of the 12 months. If I do manage to hit the 5 stone mark I won't be too far off my overall target so I will be allowing myself to finally dip into the goal shop money to purchase some items that have been on my wish list to rebuild my wardrobe in clothing that fits correctly. I don't thinking sizing wise my body will change too much between the 5 stone lost and the end goal so why not start treating myself it will be deserved after putting a lot of hard work into the year. This will involve shopping for work, day to day and workout clothes as a lot of items will hopefully need replacing from the start of the year. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Even if I only manage to get to the 3 stone lost mark in 2024 I will be happy as it will be a lot more progress that I made in 2023. With all this motivation and making the journey a priority though who knows just how much I will manage to lose in the long run, all I can say is I am really looking forward to keeping track of how much progress I can make in the year and just how many of these rewards I can pick up.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Now less of the planning and let's get to work on seeing those pounds drop off. 2024 I am coming for you... </span></p>thenortherngirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01465212440942725679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3936203698020899413.post-19995391462236870412024-01-04T08:01:00.002+00:002024-01-04T08:01:39.874+00:00The more personal goals of 2024<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"> </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_jnFkXxlVn9dIWmto-JZredyiy0sAp_sNz5s2dQfGGg7aqBDI4kOE0jkvC9AQxd-WxrfPdv7io_MWKV71eT8TRAH96P1W_P8vonlvxn3LG4gZAfBHg-WpLZDZxwwhmXZ-ogcQNGZTlT9sRW2h5fxAU9Vbqf-TxA08uoX1u4PTZtKl_WhzT54S1cXG/s1200/first%20week%20of%20blog%20post%20graphics.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="800" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_jnFkXxlVn9dIWmto-JZredyiy0sAp_sNz5s2dQfGGg7aqBDI4kOE0jkvC9AQxd-WxrfPdv7io_MWKV71eT8TRAH96P1W_P8vonlvxn3LG4gZAfBHg-WpLZDZxwwhmXZ-ogcQNGZTlT9sRW2h5fxAU9Vbqf-TxA08uoX1u4PTZtKl_WhzT54S1cXG/s320/first%20week%20of%20blog%20post%20graphics.png" width="213" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">So recently we had my 2024 fitness and weight loss goals in a post which you can read <a href="https://www.thenortherngirl.co.uk/2024/01/2024-fitness-and-weight-loss-goals.html">here</a>, and I mentioned in that post that my fitness & weight loss journey was going to play a big part in my 2024 however, that doesn't mean I am not going to be setting myself goals for other aspects of my life too. I mentioned in the other goals post 2023 really didn't go to plan therefore I am determined to have a much better 2024 all round. The aim is to come out of 2024 the best version of myself with improvements having taken place in plenty of aspects of my life, I want to enter my 30's in September in a better place but I want to end December even better. I want to be able to see the self growth and also be in a better place financially so these goals are all going to be ones that help me work towards that. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">The goals in this post are what I am calling my main goals, there are also others on a different list that I haven't posted on here however, they are equally as important so although they haven't made it onto this post they will still be celebrated on social media if I do achieve them so make sure you are following to see what goals didn't quite make this post. So here are those main goals I am hoping to achieve in 2024...</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Read 10 books</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I have really slacked off with reading in recent years however, I am trying to add more down time into my routine for 2024 so the plan is to try finish 10 books, they can be fiction or self development, I just want to have 10 books done with by the end of the year. This will hopefully help me reduce the screen time on an evening too as it will mean reading rather than looking through the Instagram feed like I usually do, so this goal should help various aspects of my life and hopefully improve my sleep.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Complete 4 of the free courses on Open University</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I never knew that the Open University offered some free courses through their site however, after stumbling across them at the end of 2023 I have added some to my saved list and I am determined to get through 4 of them throughout 2024. There is a huge selection of free courses available and my saved list includes plenty that will help me grow and develop knowledge in a variety of areas that can help me in my work life and personal life. I am actually looking forward to sitting down and completing these so who knows at the end of the year I might be reporting on more than 4 being completed.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Work in a coffee shop once a month</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Now this is something I have wanted to do for a while but due to my confidence I haven't fancied going and sitting alone with my laptop in a coffee shop. That is going to change in 2024 though as I am working on putting myself in situations I wouldn't previously have put myself in, whether it is just going to a coffee shop in the village or heading into town for a few hours the change of environment could do me some good plus I won't be distracted by the dog every two minutes.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Complete a low spend year </span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I have wanted to do this one for a while but have never really been properly organised for it however, in 2024 I am ready. The aim is to absolutely smash a low spend year where only essentials or items that align with our goals are purchased. Again I wont go into this goal too much as I am going to do a separate post in regards to this goal but all I will say now is I am really ready to smash this and see the clutter brought into the house reduced whilst our savings grow.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Stick to cash stuffing</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I gave cash stuffing a go in 2023 however, didn't fully stick to it with me doing it some months and then neglecting it for months. The plan for 2024 though is to fully commit to this as it shows me exactly how much I have left to spend on each category and will teach me that once that money is gone it is gone, something I struggled with in 2023 as I would just get the debit card out and be well over budget. If I stick to doing this monthly I should certainly see my savings grow so let's hope I can do.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Buy less clothing</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I am determined to be saving money this year as I have mentioned a fair few times and I know that if I stopped buying so many items of clothing I would see my savings grow and it will mean money is no longer being wasted. The fact a big focus is on my weight loss and fitness journey also means there is no point going out buying loads of clothing as I am hoping my size changes a fair bit this year so if I do buy loads of clothes then lose the weight I will have wasted money that could have saved to spend elsewhere. My wardrobe is far too cluttered too so I really don't need much more added anytime soon that is why in 2024 I will only be picking up the essentials.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Treat myself to 1 big present for my 30th</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I am 30 in September and I have said to myself for a while now that I want to treat myself to a big present when the birthday does roll around. This present is definitely on the more expensive side of things but it is going to be a treat to myself for entering my 30's. I have a list of ideas from clothing to footwear to watches so let's see what I am after the most by September who knows I might even be good enough with my savings to be able to get a few presents for myself.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Start saving for those bigger jobs</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I have a post going up soon about all the jobs I am wanting to get done in 2024 however, I also want to use the year to start saving towards those bigger jobs that I want to get done. I know that the work in the house is going to cost a fortune once we get to doing the downstairs as it will mean changing layouts etc so I want to use 2024 as a chance to build up the savings so that we can get on with these jobs sooner rather than later. A lot of money is going to be spent on getting the upstairs done however, I am determined to balance this out by saving for future jobs too, it gives that saving a bit of an added incentive really as it will mean getting the house done a lot quicker... something I can't wait to be complete, I have even started putting little mood boards together for those bigger jobs that's how excited I am.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Pay off car insurance in a lump sum</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Alongside saving up for jobs around the house I also want to make sure that I am not neglecting the car savings, I want to have enough saved to be able to pay my insurance in one lump sum like I usually do and I would also like to make sure I have money building up to cover my MOT and car tax as well towards the end of the year. If I really do stick to my savings this should all happen with no issue at all so lets see if things go to plan shall we.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">End the year with £2,000 in the goal shop pot</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">The final goal on this is list is to increase my goal shop pot to £2,000. I am already half way there but if all goes to plan over the course of the year I could smash this target which would put me in a brilliant position for when I do head out on that big shop. The goal shop pot is for a whole new wardrobe when I have hit my target weight/size so I don't think it will take place in 2024 however, if I can use the year to build up to that big shop it will mean I have plenty of money ready for when it does take place who knows I might end up with more than £2,000 but I guess only time will tell. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">So there you have it those are my personal goals for the year and don't forget you can go back and read my fitness & weight loss ones here. I definitely have big plans for 2024 so I am looking forward to seeing how the year shapes up. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">There will be plenty more posts coming on the website too throughout 2024 so make sure you keep checking back every weekday for a new post. Let's make 2024 the best one yet...</span></p>thenortherngirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01465212440942725679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3936203698020899413.post-57229367065606714932024-01-03T07:55:00.000+00:002024-01-03T07:55:03.356+00:00What I got for Christmas 2023<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">That is it 2023 has been and gone and it is safe to say once again I was well and truly spoiled for Christmas. We opted for the more practical gifts this year with a few funny novelty items thrown in the mix and as always I am super grateful for what I received. I love doing these posts as it gives me the chance to see how my taste etc has developed over the years and the post is in no way a bragging one, it is more for me to look back on in years to come. So here is what I received for Christmas 2023, spoiler it is a nice mix of items...</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">First up I received a very generous amount of money for Christmas and rather than rushing out and wasting it like I always do this time around I was clever and opened up a savings account for it. I will be dipping into this money if there is an item I really want however, the plan is to save the majority of it for my goal shop when I hit that weight loss goal at long last.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"> </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBDSMZX61Xj_9b95EcILCT-_XcgFiLJJjJtaGTp_QVQv3j_w9Cz64LhYJpIX9ETJQ5dDz619HxQ4nqM_p_fhCZ9n0YiOORSZG20ubjaft3DSTyBjkqMaaktkry5fWYsptHwGxwdfYey5BbdZ6UbRdPpE7dYBHMs0HZq1PHRfn5U7BQxYvc-ZHI_RT2/s5184/IMG_1142.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBDSMZX61Xj_9b95EcILCT-_XcgFiLJJjJtaGTp_QVQv3j_w9Cz64LhYJpIX9ETJQ5dDz619HxQ4nqM_p_fhCZ9n0YiOORSZG20ubjaft3DSTyBjkqMaaktkry5fWYsptHwGxwdfYey5BbdZ6UbRdPpE7dYBHMs0HZq1PHRfn5U7BQxYvc-ZHI_RT2/s320/IMG_1142.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Tony's is by far my favourite chocolate however, during the year I tend to stay away from it as it is just so pricey for what it actually is. My sister got me two bags of the little bits which to be honest won't last two minutes as these are gorgeous. My parents also got me this set of mini bars, the aim is to not eat them all in one go though.</span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-cslSTTyZWuNxzcWcxPL99P-JC_cGCdZKbUtMSIdkbAlAola9exSVjOJDfkFxoaTg5cSXnnasC4LEkIc4e8RwsF9VNNtkl0nme3MlwVNP_OCZ45eeMu2Jb7B40vOucnhpe_tTGWADqm-aBLDYVE57hEiEllFSonINN9dXPRkCFX7I9s0ML9eJH8kx/s5184/IMG_1143.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-cslSTTyZWuNxzcWcxPL99P-JC_cGCdZKbUtMSIdkbAlAola9exSVjOJDfkFxoaTg5cSXnnasC4LEkIc4e8RwsF9VNNtkl0nme3MlwVNP_OCZ45eeMu2Jb7B40vOucnhpe_tTGWADqm-aBLDYVE57hEiEllFSonINN9dXPRkCFX7I9s0ML9eJH8kx/s320/IMG_1143.JPG" width="213" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">My auntie & uncle got me a gorgeous little gin set however, I am sticking to my no drinking until 30 rule so this is going to have to wait before I give it a try. My sister & nephew got me a lovely bottle of alcohol free Merlot which I have tasted in store before and loved, this should give me a feeling of having a nice drink without touching alcohol. At the total opposite end of the scale my parents got me this colour changing Harry Potter hot chocolate which will be saved for when I am sat watching the film.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXOu0eB65ZwpmqpH-ECiiX_hPQv6TOjLwFvNOD_K1LltXFS-dsqjvm1KzR-mLjfP1RlqucWkKxHAx_R32t8g11lm1cbEEdZIoumDvehqIOd3ol9oCRPuOOnoqDvwUJFpbb7g80cUt2Mo0Zsfhc_ZwkZsaWtCStAK76a4N_e8FCybuC8Eykz36T1V4c/s5184/IMG_1171.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXOu0eB65ZwpmqpH-ECiiX_hPQv6TOjLwFvNOD_K1LltXFS-dsqjvm1KzR-mLjfP1RlqucWkKxHAx_R32t8g11lm1cbEEdZIoumDvehqIOd3ol9oCRPuOOnoqDvwUJFpbb7g80cUt2Mo0Zsfhc_ZwkZsaWtCStAK76a4N_e8FCybuC8Eykz36T1V4c/s320/IMG_1171.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I think Liam really did get sick of me stealing his giant blanket we have downstairs as he got me my own which is actually a little bigger than his too. I love these blankets as they are so warm and cosy and with plans in place meaning we will be spending more time at home at least there will be no arguing over who gets the best blanket anymore.</span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjirTaz6vLVN3RJTBb1kcFCDBgjsKI2emqX-GawiWgLKtI8X9QvygrcWJK4-ydM65yEqxDzEyoxHJpRq-31r-Jcx71qab7C_sLLTLHv0NBlmUdVrMMZRqPnh-I6SvJz9r9rA5J6gJ1D6UeKB5hIgSK26Y2B0xuRYPc-g-3rHJNnQnPkewwNcKagAysi/s5184/IMG_1144.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjirTaz6vLVN3RJTBb1kcFCDBgjsKI2emqX-GawiWgLKtI8X9QvygrcWJK4-ydM65yEqxDzEyoxHJpRq-31r-Jcx71qab7C_sLLTLHv0NBlmUdVrMMZRqPnh-I6SvJz9r9rA5J6gJ1D6UeKB5hIgSK26Y2B0xuRYPc-g-3rHJNnQnPkewwNcKagAysi/s320/IMG_1144.JPG" width="213" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">There are of course some random novelty gifts thrown in at Christmas and me, my sister & nephew all opened up Tamagotchi style games on Christmas day, let's hope I don't get as addicted with this as I did with mine as a kid. I also received this Powerpuff Girls card holder which is probably going to come in super handy. My parents are also clearly sick of me and my sister complaining about paper straws as we both got a pack of these funky glitter straws.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj43O2V3eC37cu_dRgANfO0SYco7xWX_oDuAum4vZPKyu32OQHttBXPy3Xm1aIwXCZHSVwVwM9Q9pb3XTMYYtM_wHhj-tFFCJxlTnopfsIJYmLierqItYgcRs8Vu3PRDfJmFn-BhJAWrR9md4SFeM7VXkXBaLTytlkTLCNyTehyc2XPLmZ-FJeg4FO8/s5184/IMG_1148.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj43O2V3eC37cu_dRgANfO0SYco7xWX_oDuAum4vZPKyu32OQHttBXPy3Xm1aIwXCZHSVwVwM9Q9pb3XTMYYtM_wHhj-tFFCJxlTnopfsIJYmLierqItYgcRs8Vu3PRDfJmFn-BhJAWrR9md4SFeM7VXkXBaLTytlkTLCNyTehyc2XPLmZ-FJeg4FO8/s320/IMG_1148.JPG" width="213" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">My auntie & uncle also got me this very random but very cute Coca Cola tiger which is now on the shelf in my office. I just love how happy it looks and it looks right in place on the shelf.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOd5UhAz7BHkCVmSggtOKKqEikD75d0JPYbbmDrhasu1-PsaRwTPdAqd_b55zXnvNSM6NQE3eB8B-LlN5vWAuRg7zXjc7pcVBRE0DdXfQk3YcQAp46LQwQzsJCP_irN8kD8L_PVBBo7Bh0_f6LQNOm1V6dfhfWZlgDes56R_7HEH5OgsFozQFWPInt/s5184/IMG_1149.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOd5UhAz7BHkCVmSggtOKKqEikD75d0JPYbbmDrhasu1-PsaRwTPdAqd_b55zXnvNSM6NQE3eB8B-LlN5vWAuRg7zXjc7pcVBRE0DdXfQk3YcQAp46LQwQzsJCP_irN8kD8L_PVBBo7Bh0_f6LQNOm1V6dfhfWZlgDes56R_7HEH5OgsFozQFWPInt/s320/IMG_1149.JPG" width="213" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">This little boiled egg is absolutely adorable and again is the perfect addition to my office area. My parents got me this seen as they always joke about the amount of boiled eggs I eat, I buy the little packs as part of my meal deal so I go through a lot. This might even make it to my games room desk when I get around to giving that a makeover, although that could be in 2025 at this rate.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEEClEDQUXxlVRSdzXZ1qCJomhxF5-cC_5Uz2r1oNLQLOo0L4OVqZ4nFoexs3ri9TI7otPFM2yCUBCy-moD8E24thGEfzCUCWrrTh0lD0iGb6Zl61VynADMv32NA_cPS_HLW3Z-eWdBz3KhshK1DUsF4I2tGjL6G3PkjraNw0oksY30pcmdi06Nwkk/s5184/IMG_1150.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEEClEDQUXxlVRSdzXZ1qCJomhxF5-cC_5Uz2r1oNLQLOo0L4OVqZ4nFoexs3ri9TI7otPFM2yCUBCy-moD8E24thGEfzCUCWrrTh0lD0iGb6Zl61VynADMv32NA_cPS_HLW3Z-eWdBz3KhshK1DUsF4I2tGjL6G3PkjraNw0oksY30pcmdi06Nwkk/s320/IMG_1150.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I just mentioned giving my games room desk a makeover and although that might not take place for a long time this PlayStation desk mat that my parents got me will keep me going in the meantime. I absolutely love the simplicity of this mat and it just changes my desk up a little bit.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwTeTeIkAKHCEdzwv2KdjCK3Zy-5mVAXbij4uNps9pFtwtgIJRh7ATTY_Bm_eJ6YuVi5NNDv2oRlyAEgsJfuHYara544X_1uRq-m4hOIniIL_PG5kqTbddBRE4lex5QwLbImo0QWb_uMpGZoABsQSGQXVcfMU_ljICNSmuoMmOx_7kt6sdqFWD0b1L/s5184/IMG_1151.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwTeTeIkAKHCEdzwv2KdjCK3Zy-5mVAXbij4uNps9pFtwtgIJRh7ATTY_Bm_eJ6YuVi5NNDv2oRlyAEgsJfuHYara544X_1uRq-m4hOIniIL_PG5kqTbddBRE4lex5QwLbImo0QWb_uMpGZoABsQSGQXVcfMU_ljICNSmuoMmOx_7kt6sdqFWD0b1L/s320/IMG_1151.JPG" width="213" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Lego is going to be a big part of 2024 which you will see more of on social media and my sets are slowly building up. My parents added this adorable Groot set which I can't wait to get building. Once done this will be out in the games room pride of place so I need to get a move on with it but with a goal of less screen time I should fly through the sets I have got.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDLFEmHWZjY4tpgWkMf1rYCfrXyCmdQF6sodbjIk5B-TREPEhqPDaCbN3iZa0sveyKwjZ73g28rG4rYe3ST3oDGMrJavweBnJ5g5-2q89CMC-kgEQfTFD4XmHDib-CjVF9UfRGV7GbmTIYu4cwFr3AJUYuq0Za-fv4uo04MIz6k_9PjtBfIaQyo_mx/s5184/IMG_1161.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDLFEmHWZjY4tpgWkMf1rYCfrXyCmdQF6sodbjIk5B-TREPEhqPDaCbN3iZa0sveyKwjZ73g28rG4rYe3ST3oDGMrJavweBnJ5g5-2q89CMC-kgEQfTFD4XmHDib-CjVF9UfRGV7GbmTIYu4cwFr3AJUYuq0Za-fv4uo04MIz6k_9PjtBfIaQyo_mx/s320/IMG_1161.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">There were just a few books received at Christmas and this Sarina Wiegman one from my grandparents has gone straight to the top of my to be read pile, I can't wait to read this as Sarina is honestly the greatest manager in the world in my opinion. My grandparents also got me this Lego Harry Potter book which I am going to go through with the nephew as it is about time he learnt all about my favourite franchise. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqAzV5bApRlYocgNixTe_rbBrbEMK9e57LnpUZfJSALSw8QAyZUHTRKSqb5d-2uRu9uUj2gWUpIF1GXHrl559RiP-zjf4wvoBPH4ynOSmeY8E_HwHFL7A8dxWm-7EeXnQqaeiwOpC2wwApS35fPNzcajtHg__TDlqfWN9HWYKzFLKn6h7YJh-W3UzV/s5184/IMG_1146.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqAzV5bApRlYocgNixTe_rbBrbEMK9e57LnpUZfJSALSw8QAyZUHTRKSqb5d-2uRu9uUj2gWUpIF1GXHrl559RiP-zjf4wvoBPH4ynOSmeY8E_HwHFL7A8dxWm-7EeXnQqaeiwOpC2wwApS35fPNzcajtHg__TDlqfWN9HWYKzFLKn6h7YJh-W3UzV/s320/IMG_1146.JPG" width="213" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilJwn8NdHYWgxoy74nellKHx84rnukswvxzX2nVYmnz4H7yLR8C_NQvR2PPxu4_94gP8w-s2tCmVagXsVbpnKZK4kP8vC4pRzAeWd6aOOGZ-eVVUYxh946-013XFrSullZlJN2fd6NcX5U9oPk3IrU_5qw2d7yBBFdxD2icX_rYHhTt78EY36n740U/s5184/IMG_1147.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilJwn8NdHYWgxoy74nellKHx84rnukswvxzX2nVYmnz4H7yLR8C_NQvR2PPxu4_94gP8w-s2tCmVagXsVbpnKZK4kP8vC4pRzAeWd6aOOGZ-eVVUYxh946-013XFrSullZlJN2fd6NcX5U9oPk3IrU_5qw2d7yBBFdxD2icX_rYHhTt78EY36n740U/s320/IMG_1147.JPG" width="213" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">My parents got me this jar of matches which my mum made a little more unique thanks to the customization. I have been looking at these jars for a while now and had been putting off buying them. These are going to be the perfect addition to our new bedroom when it is done in a month or so plus the sayings on them just make me laugh every time I see them.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVTrNnH_xPrGIFP4eK_ITm7NfJu6ZKn5Lb5_RwlgJQxfN6W7zk9-gTH_6BnUcMFOIqHQW1AUIVLYu9-2GVDulZVgqVrS2wx5kcpPUJb9KKLmfPBBhc_C5BCGSl1rdZMmKKgCnP43SxT8xWQOMJix8evGKja7f5IvP8AvYzSG90aICEqecEi7r_7s8h/s5184/IMG_1145.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVTrNnH_xPrGIFP4eK_ITm7NfJu6ZKn5Lb5_RwlgJQxfN6W7zk9-gTH_6BnUcMFOIqHQW1AUIVLYu9-2GVDulZVgqVrS2wx5kcpPUJb9KKLmfPBBhc_C5BCGSl1rdZMmKKgCnP43SxT8xWQOMJix8evGKja7f5IvP8AvYzSG90aICEqecEi7r_7s8h/s320/IMG_1145.JPG" width="213" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">My auntie & uncle got me this very cute dog figure as Odin became a big part of all our lives in 2023. The quote on the box has that bit of extra special meaning too with me being a Bradford City fan so this is going to be in my office so it is nearby me all the time.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfzVJoAlgCPvtO__d8xnuOsapqFpanB8uMqwaaTIFFKm-rZeEIhDzvgcUffJaiK-l3bolQFqJUZk2tWlEzR6m-UIa40ICr1Wzt3aNPBwdzYv8z3cn-MCu8lDYSTP4LnDCtAi5A0EmVJ43IJceUdW4Lw2SjqX4yAggWNZrF4UIsywGI1D8QE1Ol7hbQ/s5184/IMG_1153.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfzVJoAlgCPvtO__d8xnuOsapqFpanB8uMqwaaTIFFKm-rZeEIhDzvgcUffJaiK-l3bolQFqJUZk2tWlEzR6m-UIa40ICr1Wzt3aNPBwdzYv8z3cn-MCu8lDYSTP4LnDCtAi5A0EmVJ43IJceUdW4Lw2SjqX4yAggWNZrF4UIsywGI1D8QE1Ol7hbQ/s320/IMG_1153.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">My grandparents got me 3 more bath bombs and let's just say they are strong in fragrance but I love treating myself to one of these in a bath every now and then as it makes a nice change from the bath salts. They also got me this Harry Potter toiletries bag with a few goodies in it which is going to be perfect if things go to plan and I do get away a bit more. My parents also got me this Nightmare before Christmas scalp massager which I am looking forward to trying.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT4JgnimkwVVlgyy9XKc2unNXzKJb8fTooMNnrEISrfzoBzQ6h24uCl07TuYqk5DyEf1MqVfBmwNsTUTuy2X0bZOUJS9RFKC_f9C_2QYpxoNryueJRCGxUUbN_UKP34XldxOXfP4TCHiHW2LcadRthz-bh21khh-qcOchk7NF3fLzAH48uxQ8r49mO/s5184/IMG_1160.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT4JgnimkwVVlgyy9XKc2unNXzKJb8fTooMNnrEISrfzoBzQ6h24uCl07TuYqk5DyEf1MqVfBmwNsTUTuy2X0bZOUJS9RFKC_f9C_2QYpxoNryueJRCGxUUbN_UKP34XldxOXfP4TCHiHW2LcadRthz-bh21khh-qcOchk7NF3fLzAH48uxQ8r49mO/s320/IMG_1160.JPG" width="213" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">My auntie and uncle also got me a few fragrances the sea salt one is from M&S, I have had this one before and know I love it so I am glad to have it back in my rotation. This Lacura one though I have never tried before so I am looking forward to seeing what this one is like.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEcL62LtZ-3Cr9PNaanzTMoc_E1u56f_L7PFHEz0hm4G1RkTqytyIuNIg8wEy19nhMAuThtRN6Y3AtSy8JxVW198W0XLJ_bS06vTQ6z_sCGH8jpMijYS8X9rQ73kFt8zGlpWxRFUkBHLV2O36XdgoCZVNOoRm2ub0QjnoEDgTl6_-GTAMO2pSvOVQA/s5184/IMG_1157.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEcL62LtZ-3Cr9PNaanzTMoc_E1u56f_L7PFHEz0hm4G1RkTqytyIuNIg8wEy19nhMAuThtRN6Y3AtSy8JxVW198W0XLJ_bS06vTQ6z_sCGH8jpMijYS8X9rQ73kFt8zGlpWxRFUkBHLV2O36XdgoCZVNOoRm2ub0QjnoEDgTl6_-GTAMO2pSvOVQA/s320/IMG_1157.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">My sister and nephew got me some straighteners which I am super grateful for as my hair is getting out of control now it is growing. My old straighteners were much more suited to my old shorter hair so these are a very welcome addition. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhZZA-B9PdiUGXJLM9pI0CL5RJOG1TmC-MBInm0DDMDZrJcsdmxHAkPleKv3mGsWRmLr_TTDq6-bG7zkQyWnP_TMxrpL0LQ5CMqGRxWLEk-n9QwFHOdyxGzE_QzCgaKGFxG38wB8CooqjWe8tnp4Wawxf13kzuWdDdRa7mZUb0di1w0iN4an6WlC8w/s5184/IMG_1154.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhZZA-B9PdiUGXJLM9pI0CL5RJOG1TmC-MBInm0DDMDZrJcsdmxHAkPleKv3mGsWRmLr_TTDq6-bG7zkQyWnP_TMxrpL0LQ5CMqGRxWLEk-n9QwFHOdyxGzE_QzCgaKGFxG38wB8CooqjWe8tnp4Wawxf13kzuWdDdRa7mZUb0di1w0iN4an6WlC8w/s320/IMG_1154.JPG" width="213" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The essentials were definitely restocked this Christmas and I am glad as I had just run out of hairspray before the festive break. My parents got me 2 cans of my favourite hairspray and my sister got me some heat protector for with those new straighteners. Now let's see how long they last me shall we.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgScYFzgcJhCc_zWaf_b7dxaASUvBYkWeYU6DIfnQ8APam7B1Sgqt_rmY2CGl_eu_2lkcEF-p_V39ZxDWpALfJKzbTeE-mVzswmgc2g9BBSyAPHv03CyS-lxYG4A9rD2Zd2zMKA8uMF36kmm6tCJx7TJxkPpxwIIh5qchpJWEulYJ-10S0Fu2-9YZ81/s5184/IMG_1163.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgScYFzgcJhCc_zWaf_b7dxaASUvBYkWeYU6DIfnQ8APam7B1Sgqt_rmY2CGl_eu_2lkcEF-p_V39ZxDWpALfJKzbTeE-mVzswmgc2g9BBSyAPHv03CyS-lxYG4A9rD2Zd2zMKA8uMF36kmm6tCJx7TJxkPpxwIIh5qchpJWEulYJ-10S0Fu2-9YZ81/s320/IMG_1163.JPG" width="213" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">My parents came through with the goods too... a 2 Kg bag of my favourite bath salts which are great for aiding my recovery post workout. I am constantly using these so to be honest a 2 Kg bag never lasts me too long plus with me now increasing my workout frequency they might last even less time than before. The parents know though that these are an essential these days.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirvi5Nodb2PrwUyfKMZGct3TD-A2QEF9YX6bQHEXeUGkDZTG2AFftS8VAx9Y5ugQNPeulL9mT84766uPDJFJkhbdr93tHEinPy7ZD2RNvrE2ZsJq3SmJ5utEEtDhXrXUv2F2rxm57lowCv0yAn-AhW9SvUTvsQDGSWI_gqVHCFLeJmVrmbTCJpWY_v/s5184/IMG_1162.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirvi5Nodb2PrwUyfKMZGct3TD-A2QEF9YX6bQHEXeUGkDZTG2AFftS8VAx9Y5ugQNPeulL9mT84766uPDJFJkhbdr93tHEinPy7ZD2RNvrE2ZsJq3SmJ5utEEtDhXrXUv2F2rxm57lowCv0yAn-AhW9SvUTvsQDGSWI_gqVHCFLeJmVrmbTCJpWY_v/s320/IMG_1162.JPG" width="213" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">They also got me this giant cup which I can't wait to get using. I have seen these all over social media but never really considered one however, it makes a very nice alternative to my old 2 litre water bottle which was becoming worn out. This is going to really help me with my water intake, I wonder how many I can get through in a day?</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjLWJcLHE51CBMHTtL-f30qfo-2MqTxnDaIUNVxvuIF1Y4ViTsFzTEm9l_yjwcVFL5Uxmgk44RE6Sh27xF3UVyqlyOsEc5l38UYFhYPk1apPidJddyTQTi7YN7PGiJeqcEEcsKpHaYPmRzj4nmS3FL67lm0RGjpvFwoDTZTC4uQc0f1CxmpjcoLmKa/s5184/IMG_1167.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjLWJcLHE51CBMHTtL-f30qfo-2MqTxnDaIUNVxvuIF1Y4ViTsFzTEm9l_yjwcVFL5Uxmgk44RE6Sh27xF3UVyqlyOsEc5l38UYFhYPk1apPidJddyTQTi7YN7PGiJeqcEEcsKpHaYPmRzj4nmS3FL67lm0RGjpvFwoDTZTC4uQc0f1CxmpjcoLmKa/s320/IMG_1167.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">My auntie and uncle got me this gorgeous necklace which is a mixture of gold and silver with some saying on one of the rings. They also spin which is a nice little addition. I wanted to add more jewellery to my rotation in 2024 and this is a great addition which will go with a lot of outfits I have in mind.</span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_ZrGJpPwyjP0wvS-z76Sf0CQxbBaHlcZ2gLCaNiC1h4F9R0aB1rYGxN1SxG2qow9VjKz6x8ecJDcikQO7SblxwMAvpM6417Cwjo9Gqnj3MHi4jr8xv3VWajGitZp6oPiMhIICse3K-Fp0M1oqZ-RyY2G4OURgbTe87oBS0V4pWTk4VqZ4mTrvhNUE/s5184/IMG_1166.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_ZrGJpPwyjP0wvS-z76Sf0CQxbBaHlcZ2gLCaNiC1h4F9R0aB1rYGxN1SxG2qow9VjKz6x8ecJDcikQO7SblxwMAvpM6417Cwjo9Gqnj3MHi4jr8xv3VWajGitZp6oPiMhIICse3K-Fp0M1oqZ-RyY2G4OURgbTe87oBS0V4pWTk4VqZ4mTrvhNUE/s320/IMG_1166.JPG" width="213" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Oh look another essential for the parents and one that comes in handy year after year. These wipes are great for bringing your trainers back to life and with me buying more white ones these are an essential to have on hand at all times so those white trainers stay white for longer. I definitely need to get an every day bag that is big enough to fit these in.</span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhFfJpi6gdmxZ8dXz_VVpSmhNsVT05iOMZYW9P9OudFoif270wQlceVnv63ePheilBbCjEeJaYqbfaRIEPHpIoM2zkwtr_3_ggqJJ3AwcVzY-s0HKGr3hlFc-upnLSglSnTK9iGo2pGVh6QHTJlcUL06poKQwxntYMtm3X5UdwNRMbLCRFjs3Cdjqj/s5184/IMG_1165.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhFfJpi6gdmxZ8dXz_VVpSmhNsVT05iOMZYW9P9OudFoif270wQlceVnv63ePheilBbCjEeJaYqbfaRIEPHpIoM2zkwtr_3_ggqJJ3AwcVzY-s0HKGr3hlFc-upnLSglSnTK9iGo2pGVh6QHTJlcUL06poKQwxntYMtm3X5UdwNRMbLCRFjs3Cdjqj/s320/IMG_1165.JPG" width="213" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">These socks might have been a joke gift from my auntie & uncle but I will definitely be getting my wear out of these. They are certainly a novelty pair and won't be being with shorts but they are white socks at the end of the day and I am starting to realise you can never have too many pairs of white socks.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeJr_XO7r-Fyb9xOdrDQ5irVz4MPTM2B8HOz3g7KzPMmAwfY6PmxHATsK96kD8rOD37qoPYa1cLuvc9a9tIdM17k1z0AVvz40iShwd4x904kqNrhu-jHB1khwYHXBHWx7x2sLLolDJGynKLJ-DzFKHaqS7AeQNyZ5SxHwJVHLSxvNZ-JFrpP2ntdR1/s5184/IMG_1152.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeJr_XO7r-Fyb9xOdrDQ5irVz4MPTM2B8HOz3g7KzPMmAwfY6PmxHATsK96kD8rOD37qoPYa1cLuvc9a9tIdM17k1z0AVvz40iShwd4x904kqNrhu-jHB1khwYHXBHWx7x2sLLolDJGynKLJ-DzFKHaqS7AeQNyZ5SxHwJVHLSxvNZ-JFrpP2ntdR1/s320/IMG_1152.JPG" width="213" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Now I am walking the dog more often and going on adventures where I am having to wear my wellies I realised I didn't really have suitable socks for this as all my current pairs were a bit too thin. I told my mum this in passing and on Christmas day I opened 4 pairs of thicker socks that are going to be much more suitable for the adventures we have planned in 2024. These are so soft too which is always an added bonus.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz8tBpr56JYzSmXIbMbnCabrL4hMIpeK5qJN2b5ln_WWA3ouZwDxNrXMKBDhjljLO154zKFB4f7PNB461ssFp5XHeNWbUw8U1-5mtt9maNTzdURw4B0Wo6JSjRrbV8JJeC4zC90q-VIBcR07-1330regYNdWvmSK43cMCC9XveM-vTQXKnQwElHGlw/s5184/IMG_1155.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz8tBpr56JYzSmXIbMbnCabrL4hMIpeK5qJN2b5ln_WWA3ouZwDxNrXMKBDhjljLO154zKFB4f7PNB461ssFp5XHeNWbUw8U1-5mtt9maNTzdURw4B0Wo6JSjRrbV8JJeC4zC90q-VIBcR07-1330regYNdWvmSK43cMCC9XveM-vTQXKnQwElHGlw/s320/IMG_1155.JPG" width="213" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Now these are a bit of a novelty compared to the pj's coming up later in the post but when I was shopping with my mum and she said I needed a pair of pj's for Christmas I couldn't resist them. Spongebob has long been a favourite of mine and these are super soft so tick all the boxes. These will be perfect for lounging around & gaming in throughout 2024.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrF_4P6Nzbvpk4nujTEgDECpUIwoJQYtUzZG8S9nE37d6vDHFLk4fWUnll6-URTbourbBtMtooPfM4_FVNznkDL3-5ucjxXF2KHn78ET7eJWZln0YDkIDPU02TCd7lm0x3xKzIM5wedDp1Pc9As9e3MbY44Mh8BPmNVcMMLuSiul8QvIW42DP3AdQM/s5184/IMG_1156.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrF_4P6Nzbvpk4nujTEgDECpUIwoJQYtUzZG8S9nE37d6vDHFLk4fWUnll6-URTbourbBtMtooPfM4_FVNznkDL3-5ucjxXF2KHn78ET7eJWZln0YDkIDPU02TCd7lm0x3xKzIM5wedDp1Pc9As9e3MbY44Mh8BPmNVcMMLuSiul8QvIW42DP3AdQM/s320/IMG_1156.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">My old slippers had well and truly worn away so I suggested a new pair to my parents and then I came across these in Primark, a cheaper alternative to the Uggs I had been wanting. As I couldn't justify the price of Uggs for myself I ended up asking for these to see if I liked the style or not and let's just say if I do end up falling in love with these and wearing them until they fall apart then a pair of Uggs are definitely on the cards.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqt7Eupshcl87PolpxwRngzdazx_O0u_TXeOL1_Zehkl7kaeEMpuXhk7gjwiq9D-c97PbYlMdY3cUUXoPssgNVtiQqiUs-mi7w0eZ86XtQl14H46naPrwrt31_t-GlhBXYydGslA7fZc5VOMrqf1-942sac0Bx185rtfxpzJbvB2rg3A2T_gw1nvtd/s5184/IMG_1164.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqt7Eupshcl87PolpxwRngzdazx_O0u_TXeOL1_Zehkl7kaeEMpuXhk7gjwiq9D-c97PbYlMdY3cUUXoPssgNVtiQqiUs-mi7w0eZ86XtQl14H46naPrwrt31_t-GlhBXYydGslA7fZc5VOMrqf1-942sac0Bx185rtfxpzJbvB2rg3A2T_gw1nvtd/s320/IMG_1164.JPG" width="213" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Towards the end of 2023 I got myself some corduroy trousers and fell in love with them instantly. I paid full price for them in M&S however, on a visit to our local outlet I found the same ones in a variety of colours for just £15. With how much I loved my black ones I asked my grandparents if they minded getting me some for Christmas and in the end I settled on a subtle brown colour. I am really looking forward to styling these. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTD-lMLYDaWgw91f6vZecUbyRY-z1_8Tw4ijzZf8CJyUtmz0VIeFTNIIa5DTHel9WODpdVEOrjw_1x85wYbRIzY5zzr2CUcUW2XwDKENBco4TJwwTb7yUvRDv9bQH5ykt4l2UR5PITw-zVF_OthUyyPkJ7DodnH0J_5SBMLxz_Ll_zTkiJXdJ0mRwl/s5184/IMG_1168.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTD-lMLYDaWgw91f6vZecUbyRY-z1_8Tw4ijzZf8CJyUtmz0VIeFTNIIa5DTHel9WODpdVEOrjw_1x85wYbRIzY5zzr2CUcUW2XwDKENBco4TJwwTb7yUvRDv9bQH5ykt4l2UR5PITw-zVF_OthUyyPkJ7DodnH0J_5SBMLxz_Ll_zTkiJXdJ0mRwl/s320/IMG_1168.JPG" width="213" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">My parents added a new workout top to my rotation too which I am grateful for as I need more in my rotation due to increasing the amount of times I work out.I absolutely love the colour on this one so I can see it been worn a lot. It is a size smaller than my usual too so even if I lose the weight it should still fit me for a while.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ4IF2W1tPvxsS5OIQPjpoy4H8hcpy9AlNssq-Tccwq8kUUP82gVyxVT2qlxfrHxqwB0i-oReZxJ743cy9h59Ca-wRbz8j1uSqCTTA_kCejcwyMjBekpBNe1Xg2t6uTHMepjbhYYgHklr3ET7XDB7Z2Yd6SJ7Y9OqII33WkhLBQZyL2_TVJbzvVBcn/s5184/IMG_1169.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ4IF2W1tPvxsS5OIQPjpoy4H8hcpy9AlNssq-Tccwq8kUUP82gVyxVT2qlxfrHxqwB0i-oReZxJ743cy9h59Ca-wRbz8j1uSqCTTA_kCejcwyMjBekpBNe1Xg2t6uTHMepjbhYYgHklr3ET7XDB7Z2Yd6SJ7Y9OqII33WkhLBQZyL2_TVJbzvVBcn/s320/IMG_1169.JPG" width="213" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdR0funcEh-AVvby0xXnfvQly2fPYtINvbpIUtntz1h1kQKUg1quBsW_WwHYQNCsj40nLh6MYTEcQvw62FYNOplJniefKS2B-EF4l4CwnTQhNfEXpLNcRSG-RdTOKBH8q4k5M9tmDo_jxu3Xz0PSg8Go5QApn-ggDoTHCMu3UPl2hsF-2oZNNpjF5V/s5184/IMG_1170.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdR0funcEh-AVvby0xXnfvQly2fPYtINvbpIUtntz1h1kQKUg1quBsW_WwHYQNCsj40nLh6MYTEcQvw62FYNOplJniefKS2B-EF4l4CwnTQhNfEXpLNcRSG-RdTOKBH8q4k5M9tmDo_jxu3Xz0PSg8Go5QApn-ggDoTHCMu3UPl2hsF-2oZNNpjF5V/s320/IMG_1170.JPG" width="213" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">My parents also got me this TMNT t-shirt which again I picked out for myself a long time ago. You just can't beat the turtles and although I am moving away from graphic t-shirts this will come in handy for lounging around in whilst I am working away at home or having a nice long gaming session.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2gPYCXjWHzm-H2xEFyJL9bcgEenBmzxBwPxKMaBY-lMTixt7_-Gssq_ZNTQNW4HBuMgFTFEcqvOqLGgJQ7OhyphenhyphenSi3ceOofM1RtAYlLf178AkLiHxsXcb3PCcOkQeUP6i9Gev2G7eapIZJArgB4O0w4oomnxc2N4Kp14iPlGldedimJphtpcs4BOQvQ/s5184/IMG_1172.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5184" data-original-width="3456" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2gPYCXjWHzm-H2xEFyJL9bcgEenBmzxBwPxKMaBY-lMTixt7_-Gssq_ZNTQNW4HBuMgFTFEcqvOqLGgJQ7OhyphenhyphenSi3ceOofM1RtAYlLf178AkLiHxsXcb3PCcOkQeUP6i9Gev2G7eapIZJArgB4O0w4oomnxc2N4Kp14iPlGldedimJphtpcs4BOQvQ/s320/IMG_1172.JPG" width="213" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The theme with Liam was glow up and growth to align with my 2024 goals so he signed me back up to an online coach and lets just say I can't wait to get started with them to see how much progress I can make weight loss wise in 2024. He also got me this gorgeous silver bracelet as he knew that I was wanting to improve my jewellery collection. This is a lot smarter than a lot of other jewellery I own and will be perfect for a lot of outfits I have in mind.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifzkwtc35y8TfbOz_2vcLHbJhlXjd05Lr6Tuqa4QJgpyEQDw5bT5flF2_yEvvWLlc-X8QUHbW40K9WcyfqGeT9SmQvCkynKR9geoQB-pW8U-t9FdvzJOrY5Vu3Y6ZvTpH5Bq7mCIZPeB2-b3OzQ8vA9grhA4z8s3d3K3XZF9HIxMpdGWCkqYMbeAw1/s5184/IMG_1174.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="5184" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifzkwtc35y8TfbOz_2vcLHbJhlXjd05Lr6Tuqa4QJgpyEQDw5bT5flF2_yEvvWLlc-X8QUHbW40K9WcyfqGeT9SmQvCkynKR9geoQB-pW8U-t9FdvzJOrY5Vu3Y6ZvTpH5Bq7mCIZPeB2-b3OzQ8vA9grhA4z8s3d3K3XZF9HIxMpdGWCkqYMbeAw1/s320/IMG_1174.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">He also got me these super comfortable, smart looking pj's. I had seen these on Lydia Millen's blog and fell in love with them so opening them on Christmas day was certainly a treat. The colour on these are gorgeous and I can see myself getting a lot of wear out of them, I just hope even with the weight loss they last me quite a while but no doubt they will be an instant repurchase as I love them that much.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">So there you have it I was well and truly spoiled for Christmas 2023 and I am really looking forward to using all the items in this post. 2024 is the year of growth and glowing up, the majority of these items will certainly help with that. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">What did you get for Christmas 2023?</span></div><p></p>thenortherngirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01465212440942725679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3936203698020899413.post-69935576466923435732024-01-02T07:59:00.002+00:002024-01-02T07:59:18.659+00:002024 fitness and weight loss goals<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhra9iU_9UnekO9syRd0Wnw9YwZ_i4-c1qMQ57GRlDJIEUiGybKQnMeHUX_W_H8ZTyTGZLy01tNLpn-pxh2dYI-0mdcMHgKyZVBcspGxs9K853zZKjZbsLi-1bTvSmWWNhyphenhyphen-aXqWvtzhrCjjTusutmx3YguexR0BXML4t5GdYM_Rl_V2-o-ESdWn8Uj/s1200/2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="800" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhra9iU_9UnekO9syRd0Wnw9YwZ_i4-c1qMQ57GRlDJIEUiGybKQnMeHUX_W_H8ZTyTGZLy01tNLpn-pxh2dYI-0mdcMHgKyZVBcspGxs9K853zZKjZbsLi-1bTvSmWWNhyphenhyphen-aXqWvtzhrCjjTusutmx3YguexR0BXML4t5GdYM_Rl_V2-o-ESdWn8Uj/s320/2.png" width="213" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Here we are a new year, a fresh start and I am super grateful for this fresh start. 2023 really didn't go to plan with a lot of things derailing my progress when it came to my fitness and weight loss journey however, I have got big plans for 2024. I am starting the year with my head screwed on and fingers crossed it stays that way for the full year as I am determined that 2024 is going to be the year where a big focus is going to be on the weight loss & fitness aspects of my life to make me the healthiest I have been in a long time, self growth is going to be a big part of the year too and it all kind of ties in together. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">2023 was spent with me losing the confidence I had previously gained whilst also getting really down & fed up with my size and how things weren't going the right way. I am determined that 2024 is not going to be the same way though I am determined that the confidence is going to come back, I am going to be happier and my 2024 will be ending with me at my lowest weight in a long time rather than ending with me having gained weight like 2023 did.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">So here are some of the main goals I am setting myself for 2024, I haven't included every goal I have set myself or we will be here all day however, I have included the big ones I am working towards that I want to have ticked off by December 31st. </span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Lose 3 Stone by 30</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I actually started this goal back in September 2023, I started at 16 st 4 lbs and I have challenged myself to lose 3 stone by my 30th birthday on the 9th of September. This is definitely a big challenge however, it is one I am up for. If I manage to hit this goal I will be starting my 30's at my lowest weight in a long time and will set me on track for hitting my end goal in the not so distant future. I am sure if I really put my mind to this one and nail daily habits I will be on track to achieving this but I guess only time will tell.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Get as close to 12 stone </span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Now if I do hit the 3 stone by 30 goal this one should follow nicely as I wouldn't be too far off it. I am determined to have 2024 hold some big changes on the scales as they are much needed and I know that the number isn't everything to go by however, it will benefit me massively if I stop seeing those gains that I did in 2023. Is 4 stone a lot to lose over the course of a year? Yes it definitely is but I know if I am consistent and stick to a routine I have a good shot at achieving this.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Go into 2025 lowest weight in a long time</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">If I manage to achieve the two goals above then I also get to tick this one off. The lowest weight I have been in recent years was 14 stone 10 lbs however, that was after being really ill so I don't really count that one. Anything under 14 stone 10 lbs though would have me at the lowest weight in a long time, so I will take any number under that, I would prefer to be close to that 12 stone mark though.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Smash Total Warrior </span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">The more I think about this one the more I am questioning why I signed up for it... 12k course with a variety of obstacles thrown in the mix, my body definitely isn't ready for this currently however, I am hoping that by the time June comes around I will be in much better shape ready to take on the course. This is definitely going to be the biggest challenge of the year by a long shot however, I am determined to complete it no matter how long it actually takes me. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Run 5k without stopping</b> </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">This one has been on my goals list for a while now but here I am saying that 2024 is going to be the year where it is finally going to get ticked off. I am aiming to complete the couch to 5k in 2024 so I guess you could say that is a goal inside a goal however once I have completed that and moved on to running alone I should easily be able to complete a full 5k without stopping. This should help me on the football pitch too as I shouldn't have to keep stopping to catch my breath like I currently have to.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Fit in size 14 jeans comfortably</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">If the other goals go to plan I should definitely be on track to achieve this one but I also have a pair of jeans in my wardrobe already that I am going to use to gauge progress. I know clothing sizes aren't always the same from store to store but I will definitely be happy if I can comfortably wear a pair of size 14 jeans by the end of 2024.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Stretch daily</b> </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Everyday in 2024 I am going to put aside 10 minutes to get my body stretched and moving before I properly start my days. Stretching is certainly something I need to add as it is going to benefit me in so many ways, it will help me when it comes to football and it will definitely help when it comes to day to day life too as I hoping it means I don't ache half as much as I have done in previous years.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Meal prep & plan</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">My nutrition has always let me down I could do all the workouts in the world but then overrule any progress with my terrible diet. That is why the goal is to meal prep and plan every week throughout 2024. This is going to help me stay consistent with food which is needed and it will also stop me going out on my lunch to buy junk. It should also help me save money in the long run which is an added bonus.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Improve overall fitness</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Now if everything goes to plan, I stick to the nutrition & workouts and tick all the above goals off the list then this one should just fall into place with them. I will be able to measure this through my performance in workouts but the main way I will be measuring this is by my performance in football. If my fitness levels are improving I will be able to run around the pitch a lot longer than I currently can.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Increase Strength </span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">This is something else that should just fall into place if I am consistent in what I do. If I am hitting that protein and those weekly strength sessions I should find myself gaining muscle throughout 2024, if I do stick to those sessions too I should see the weights I can lift increase by a fair bit. I have got my benchmark for the start of the year and I am coming up with the numbers I would like to hit so lets see if that will happen.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Take monthly progress pics</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Now I know the first few goals are scale focused however, I don't want to solely focus on the scales as I know that isn't the only way to track progress. I am determined to get back into the habit of taking monthly progress pictures so that I can see the difference as the year goes on and I can really gauge any progress that I am making and hopefully come December I will be able to see a massive difference in a side by side comparison.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">As I say these aren't all my fitness & weight loss goals, some I will be keeping to myself unless I hit them so keep an eye on social media to see which of these goals I hit and any hidden extras. Let's hope by the end of the year we have plenty of goals ticked off ready for the wrap up post, for now though let's get working towards them as there is plenty of hard work needed to achieve these goals. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Keep checking back on the blog as I will be posting a few more yearly goal posts in the next few days, one will be personal/life goals whilst the other is the jobs around the house goals. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Now let's tart working towards making 2024 the best year in a long time.</span><br /></p>thenortherngirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01465212440942725679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3936203698020899413.post-31704201417385212024-01-01T18:45:00.001+00:002024-01-01T18:45:41.154+00:00January 2024 goals<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4nWMv1Z1lg4JU5U6M1ss4EZiHtoW4yQVKS4UHrmSFV-42_x791kzQ99NvM08OHCCd91VFSVD23RguYvTSqaDPk1jmLpzdKmVnOzABnzKqlSRk_EPRdy9F1kD_C9GimpbzqbEhHkBXazLVU8Cl-hcdpLyQOv7_b6EsUvBVGjz0gJ6DxXg-i9FJVAn-/s1200/1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="800" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4nWMv1Z1lg4JU5U6M1ss4EZiHtoW4yQVKS4UHrmSFV-42_x791kzQ99NvM08OHCCd91VFSVD23RguYvTSqaDPk1jmLpzdKmVnOzABnzKqlSRk_EPRdy9F1kD_C9GimpbzqbEhHkBXazLVU8Cl-hcdpLyQOv7_b6EsUvBVGjz0gJ6DxXg-i9FJVAn-/s320/1.png" width="213" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"> </span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">So here we go the first post of 2024 so why not kick the year off with my January 2024 goals. I am hoping that January is going to be a good gauge of how the year ahead is going to go and if I manage to hit these goals I think it is safe to say we will have made some good ground work and 2024 will already be better than 2023 was. January is all about hitting the ground running for me as I work on various aspects of my life so here are the goals I have set myself in the hope of setting 2024 off in the right direction...</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Fashion</span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Declutter the wardrobe</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">This goal has been hanging around since 2023 however, we are getting the bedroom redone and our current wardrobe is getting ripped out. This means all our clothing is going to have to be pulled out and placed out of the way so I guess there is no better time than in January to get this done. If the clothing is going to have to be pulled out I might as well sort through it as I do this to save time when filling the new wardrobes. I have realised a lot of clothing I own doesn't fit or doesn't suit the style I am opting for so this should be a really big clear out where a full day is needed for the task at hand.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Reduce the amount of clothes I buy in the sales</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">It is safe to say I am one of these people who get drawn into the sales even if the discount is huge I will get sucked in and spend for the sake of it. I really don't need anything however, I will be looking at possibly some new white sneakers & a workout outfit but that is it. I really don't need anything and could do with kick starting the savings for the year so there really is no point in me getting things for the sake of it, something I need to keep reminding myself.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Sort out all the footwear I own</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">A big thing in 2024 is decluttering, I will be working through the whole house throughout the course of the year but one place I want to start is the shoe storage. There are so many pairs that are falling apart and I am no longer holding on to things for the sake of it so those shoes have got to go. There are also a lot of pairs that don't fit right or wont go with the style I am aiming for so I need to sort that out too. I am hoping to really reduce the amount of footwear I own and then gradually rebuild with better pieces.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Smarten up my outfit choices</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Now this one may be a little difficult as with no wardrobe means a lot of clothing items will be stored away however, I am determined to keep enough pieces out to ensure that my outfits look a bit smarter than they did in 2023. I am hoping that if I start making more of an effort with my outfits in January then the habit will follow nicely into the rest of the year but I guess we shall see on that one.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Mix up the footwear I wear</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Once the footwear is all sorted out I am hoping that my options are limited in certain areas in the hopes that it inspires me to mix up what I wear rather than the same Adidas day in day out. If I am smartening up my outfits I need the footwear to match those outfits so the sneakers daily wont cut it and other pairs will have to make an appearance. With the weather how it is too I think I should start making the most of the boots I own.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Life </span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Make a good start on the bedroom decorating</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">We are scheduled in for the plasterer at the end of January so we really need to make sure this goal gets ticked off. We need to declutter the room as we are emptying it then strip the walls and ceiling whilst also removing the old wardrobe. Luckily knowing the plasterer is due at the end of the month should really spur us on to get this done in plenty of time and get it done properly, no clinging on to things for the sake of it. As long as the room is empty and plastered by the end of the month I will call it a win.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">One long walk a week</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">The plan for 2024 is to get outdoors more without spending a fortune. Throughout January I am hoping that we can go on a long walk each weekend with the dog. Whether it is a Saturday or a Sunday a nice few hours in the outdoors will be fantastic and will stop me from going out and spending money I don't need to spend. The walks will nicely break up the work on the bedroom for us too and just give us a little bit of an escape.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Keep on top of the washing</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">2024 is going to be a fresh slate and I am going into it with every intention of keeping up on jobs around the house. 2023 was a year where we let standards slip and the mess was causing a fair bit of stress so I am determined to cut that out. January will be the building blocks of the foundations here and I will be keeping on top of the jobs as much as possible however, the big one is the washing, I am determined to have empty wash baskets every week as that was a big nightmare in 2023. </span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Cut back on the shopping trips</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I really don't need to be shopping as much as I have done in previous years and I am learning that a lot now. The plan for January is to not get sucked into the sales and cut back on the amount of shopping trips I go on. Usually I can do 5 or 6 trips in a month so the aim in January is to have just the 1 trip out however, if I can stick to none I will also be happy. 1 really is the limit though so let's see if I can resist the temptation.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Kick off the years savings in a good way</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">2023 really wasn't a good year for saving money however, heading into 2024 I will be in a better place financially so the plan is to have a good year of savings. I am determined to be able to put a big chunk of money into my savings at the end of January to really kick start the year saving wise. Money will be in and out of the account due to jobs going on all year round so a good chunk in January will get us off to a great start.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Fitness</span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Go to the gym 3 times a week</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">New year new me and all that rubbish that comes along with it... I know the gym is going to be chaos throughout January however, I am determined that no matter what I will be in the gym 3 times a week working towards those big fitness & weight loss goals I have set myself for the year. January really is a chance to hit the ground running on this and I am going to take every opportunity to push towards that end goal. </span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Weight lifting 3 times</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">There are 3 sessions that I can attend in January and I am determined to get to all 3. I love these sessions and I know that going to them will help me towards the goals for the rest of the year. I really have no excuse for not going to them unless I am ill so the plan is to schedule them in so I know that I can't plan anything else those nights as I will be at the lifting session. I missed these in the run up to Christmas so I am really looking forward to getting back to them. </span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Stick to my Gymshark 66 for the first month</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I am once again doing the Gymshark 66 where you set yourself 3 habits to hit daily for those 66 days. This year I have made the habits a bit more realistic but they really align with how I want 2024 to go so let's hope I can stick to these 66 days and check each habit off consecutively. If I do these 3 habits for 66 days it should help me continue throughout the rest of the year and help me towards those end goals. </span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Build a sustainable morning routine</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Since getting the dog my morning routine has been none existent and every morning has been a rush. The goal for January though is to start to build a consistent routine that will set my day off on the right foot and also help me work towards my goals. I wont go into this in too much detail though as I have a whole separate post on this topic coming later in the month. I will be really happy if I can come back at the end of the month and say I have completed this one.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Reduce the amount of times I eat out or order takeaways</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">The laziness really crept back in throughout 2023 and I am wanting to get rid of that as soon as possible in 2024 so the plan is during January I want to get in the kitchen a whole lot more and cook my own meals rather than relying on greasy takeaways and meals out. I know that I can work towards the weight loss goal a lot better if I cook my own meals as I can control what goes into them plus there wont be as much grease in those meals.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Content </span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Post daily to the TNG Instagram account</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I have said it in the past however, I have never stuck to it. The big plan for 2024 is to be consistently uploading to Instagram so I am hoping I can start the year strong by posting everyday in January. I already have the month mapped out on my content planner so let's hope I can stick to it and have a new post go up everyday. There should be a nice mix of content going up for this too so lets hope it all goes to plan.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Be at least one week ahead on all 3 websites</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I am entering 2024 way ahead on written content, in fact I am already half way through January's content for this site and a week ahead on the gaming one so the plan is to keep the momentum going. Throughout January I want to always be at least a week ahead on my content rather than be typing posts the same day and never getting them up as planned. Life will be so much easier in January if I can keep to being 1 week ahead on the sites so let's hope by the end of the month I am saying I have completed this. </span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Post 3 times a week on the Edge of the Area Instagram</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Consistency on the football site has been none existent on the football site for various reasons since the season started in October however, I am hoping that in January I can start to work on the site a bit more and produce better content. The plan to start off with is to have 3 posts a week going live on the Instagram account to try get the engagement going once more. There are plenty of plans in place so let's hope it goes to plan.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Post on Tik Tok twice a week</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I am determined that 2024 is going to be the year where I am more existent on Tik Tok alongside other social media platforms. There is the potential to reach a wider audience on Tik Tok so I am hoping by posting a few times a week I see a bit of engagement whilst also getting more familiar with the app and hopefully finding the motivation to post even more on there. I have a few accounts to go along with the sites so twice a week seems like a realistic goal whilst I get into the habit of editing and posting.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Have February's content mapped out</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I want to have a day or so in January where I can sit and map out the content for here and the gaming website for the month of February. This just means no last minute thinking to post for the sake of it and I can also use this to get ahead a bit more with what I am posting. If I can have the content for the 2 sites mapped out and a schedule drawn up that is a win but if I actually make a start on writing February's content well that is even better.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">So there you go those are my goals for the first month of the year, let's hope everything goes to plan and I am writing about plenty of wins when it comes to my wrap up post at the end of January. I am determined to make 2024 a great year so let's hope January gets us going in the right direction.</span></p>thenortherngirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01465212440942725679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3936203698020899413.post-5192766481424659292023-12-05T08:37:00.003+00:002023-12-05T08:37:54.430+00:00December 2023 goals<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"> </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Qihtt-mXNOoUONgOoUsfdxWL-TM9aHm9Cey-G8k68D9nJ8eNQlBmaoMtvZSzMH02DelKWIk4V4G3sP_KMyhDa0SHml3-MueOtiZnHAV-b3JGSSEgJjloCqftkHFLItf3kyEEGkmnA_N8FFysdbQULuLMdSEThVJqQobd2vfQ5TjCRH6h1tfxIsJK/s800/thenorthernGirl.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="160" data-original-width="800" height="64" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Qihtt-mXNOoUONgOoUsfdxWL-TM9aHm9Cey-G8k68D9nJ8eNQlBmaoMtvZSzMH02DelKWIk4V4G3sP_KMyhDa0SHml3-MueOtiZnHAV-b3JGSSEgJjloCqftkHFLItf3kyEEGkmnA_N8FFysdbQULuLMdSEThVJqQobd2vfQ5TjCRH6h1tfxIsJK/s320/thenorthernGirl.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Here we are at the end of the year already, the final month that is going to be full of festivities and no doubt it will also mean less time just lounging around. I already have a few things booked in for the month which I am looking forward to as they are bound to make the final month a bit different to previous months. It might be a busy month for a number of reasons however, I am also hoping that it is a productive month so that I can head into the year a bit more relaxed than I have been throughout the whole of 2023. The goals for the month are hopefully a bit more realistic than they previously have been but here is what I am hoping to achieve throughout December...</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Fashion</span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Get the wash baskets emptied</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Right this one has been failed so many times with bigger items lingering at the bottom of the wash basket as I know they will take forever to dry however, I am 100% determined that this is going to change in December and by New Years Eve these baskets will be completely empty and I will be heading into the new year not having to worry about being caught up on washing and with a new mentality of finally keeping on top of it throughout 2024.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Wear 1 Christmas jumper each week</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I am definitely soaking up the festivities this year and after a look through my wardrobe I have realised that I can very easily wear 1 Christmas jumper a week without having to repeat any of them. I can definitely have fun doing this with a mixture of themes on the jumpers I own. The Grinch is not making an appearance this year, in fact I am soaking it all up as I am in the mood to celebrate the season more than ever, even if I am not too sure why. </span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">No wearing sneakers daily</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">The habit of just opting for a pair of sneakers everyday is slowly creeping back in my day to day routine and this December I want to get out of that habit as I try to smarten myself up and create habits going into the new year. I have plenty of nice pieces of footwear to rotate between so it is about time I start to mix things up and make use of that smarter footwear, plus I need to start doing this to justify some future purchase I want to make but more on that another day.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Go up into the loft to find old gems</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">A while back I put some clothing up in the loft for safe storage and due to the fact it wasn't really the style I was going for anymore however, I think I am ready to go back there and get these pieces back out as it is definitely the sort of style I am aiming for currently. If I do find these pieces and they fit me right I know I am going to have some brilliant nearly new additions in my wardrobe to carry me through to the new year and they are much smarter options to what I currently have on offer.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Plan my outfits out in advance and get them out ready</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I have done quite well with planning outfits out lately however, it is back on the goals list as it is a habit I want to continue with. Planning my outfits out in advance has helped me out so much as I know what I want to wear on those specific days and I have even gone as far as planning out workout outfits when it has come to going to those sessions. The plan now though is to build on this and actually start getting the outfits out and lined up will help reduce the guess work on a morning of 'where did I leave that item', the time getting ready each day will massively be cut back and will free up more time to get into a real morning routine to start the day on the right foot.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Life</span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Enjoy the festive period</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">In previous posts I have mentioned how the festive period didn't go to plan for me last year which I think is why I am so determined to have a much better time this year. I want to get out to Christmas markets, enjoy cozy days with Liam and the dog and just soak up the magically time of the year. This December is going to be the most festive one yet I am determined of it so keep an eye on social media to see what I get up to.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Get all the gifts wrapped early in the month</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">In previous years I have left all the gift wrapping until last minute which has resulted in a lot of stress on Christmas eve and that inevitable bad back from trying to wrap everything in one go. This time around though thanks to being more prepared I am hoping that I can have all the gifts wrapped before the second weekend of the month just giving me more free time and so that I am much more organised. I managed to finish the shopping early so let's hope the wrapping follows suit.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">One long walk a week</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Throughout the month of December as things quieten down on a weekend the plan is to have a long walk with the dog on either a Saturday or Sunday every week. Just a few hours in the fresh air whilst enjoying the time in the outdoors together. We all love these walks so we need to make the most of the quieter weekends and get as many walks in as we can no matter how cold it is. No doubt as we have time off over Christmas and new year we will cram even more walks into that space and make the most of our time off.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Book in the plasterer</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">We are determined to get more jobs done around the house in 2024 as 2023 really didn't go to plan. The plan is though to really hit the ground running in 2024 and make a start on the jobs we want to do straight away rather than delaying them over and over. We have been saving for getting the bedroom done so the plan is that we get the plasterer booked in for January so we can start the prep work and have an all new bedroom in the first few months of the year.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Plan out the bedroom work</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">As I just mentioned once the plasterer is booked in all systems are a go for the new bedroom so we need to sit down together and make a plan of action for getting the room ready for plastering, what colour we are painting the room and what furniture will fit and needs buying. I am looking forward to this planning part much more than Liam is however, we do both realise it is going to be worth it in the end when we have a much nicer looking room.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Fitness</span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Don't go overboard on festive food</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I know I said a goal is to enjoy the festive period however, I also need to remember that I don't need to go overboard when it comes to the food I consume. I am a nightmare for just saying 'ah it's Christmas after all' and going on to eat everything in sight so this year I want to try reign it in and not eat for the sake of it. The annual how many pigs in blankets can I eat will still be taking place as I am determined to beat last years total. </span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Gym two times a week</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I recently signed up for a new gym that has opened up so the aim to get it into my routine is to head there twice a week to start with. I think this is a more realistic goal than saying I will go 4 times a week as with the 2 times I can be flexible with the days due to festive events but at the same I can use it to build the habit and make it just a normal part of my routine whilst I get back into working out regularly.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Lose 3lb</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I think if I did everything else on these fitness goals I could easily drop 3lb this month however, it is all going to depend on that festive food one though I think. If I can reign it in and control the portion sizes and mix in the workouts I think 3lb is a very realistic goal for the final month of the year but I guess time will only tell if I can reach this or not. Let's hope we do see a loss for the end of the year though.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Weight lifting at least once</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">With it being the final month of the year I expect it to be a busy one so the plan is not to make huge goals in this area and rather than trying to hit every week when I might have stuff on I am going to be much more realistic with it and aim for just the one session as I know I can definitely get there one week so any extras will be an added bonus. I am loving these sessions so I am really hoping I can get to more than one session to end the year on a high.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Meal prep and plan</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I am determined to get this habit worked on in the final month of the year as I am hopeful that if I can get into the habit of doing this in December I am more likely to carry it on into the new year. It is really going to help me out as I won't be trying to think of what to have at lunch time and spending a fortune on meal deals like I currently do. By planning and prepping I am definitely going to be heading in the right direction with my weight loss goals.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Content</span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Daily post on TNG</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">My content on Instagram is going to be changing in the new year however, I want to try build on the habit of posting before the change comes into play. I have really struggled with posting throughout 2023 due to a mixture of lack of ideas and my confidence in front of the camera disappearing. I am really hoping if I can post continuously throughout December I can carry this on into the new year.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Set up the printer</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Thanks to a lack of time and effort I still haven't got around to setting up my printer in the spare room/office. I am hoping that December has plenty of more relaxed days which will mean one day will be spent getting this sorted out along with all the other jobs I have been delaying. This really needs to be done if I want to hit the ground running with new things in 2024 so lets hope a few free hours crop up so I can sort this and everything else out.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Print off 3 products ready to launch </span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">My little project is going to be properly launching in January and I want to be prepared for it so the plan is to print off the 3 items I think will sell the most and get them ready to be sold rather than rushing around leaving things until last minute like I have done all through 2023. This is something I really want to work on and build upon in the new year so fingers crossed I can get ahead of myself before the start of 2024.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Get January's content sorted for all sites</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">This is also a step towards being a lot more organised for 2024... I want to make sure I am starting the year with a full blog content plan for the month of January for all 3 sites, I want notes made on at least half the posts however, if I could actually have at least the first 2 weeks typed and ready to go that would be even better as it means I can try be consistently ahead of myself. I am determined to see growth on the sites in the new year and by planning ahead I put myself in a much better position than I have been in 2023 to achieve this.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Get January's Instagram content sorted</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I also want to make sure I have a piece of content planned for each Instagram account so I can be posting on those consistently and again I am hoping I can get more of these sorted and scheduled ready to go up daily and have content done in advance rather than forgetting to sort it and neglecting the platform as I have been doing. 2024 will be the year of growth on Instagram at long last, I wonder just how much we can grow over the course of the year.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">So there you go those are my final goals for 2023, I am determined to finish the year much better than the rest of it has been going so I am looking forward to seeing how many of these goals actually get ticked off and help me start the new year much better than I started 2023. It is time to hit the ground running.</span></p>thenortherngirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01465212440942725679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3936203698020899413.post-34226470442287504022023-11-30T08:47:00.001+00:002023-11-30T08:47:12.892+00:00November 2023 goals wrap up...<p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbtfCChP7XS0_UEpfCAE0h-JVRqoSGKCVgYCAqeq2BoPu234ie7F23aeR6vOeih1OUi3rxreaR8xpnlySX0Cl5HxZEUVik-WuSKzWB6oNTcmRCThyphenhyphenHspCnams_KKIRc8GVs-5WqS35o4lY0wEFalubB0X85B67VRGb78Pb2cmhPDctuxpp2BVHYuA9/s1200/november%202023%20goals%20wrap%20up.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="800" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbtfCChP7XS0_UEpfCAE0h-JVRqoSGKCVgYCAqeq2BoPu234ie7F23aeR6vOeih1OUi3rxreaR8xpnlySX0Cl5HxZEUVik-WuSKzWB6oNTcmRCThyphenhyphenHspCnams_KKIRc8GVs-5WqS35o4lY0wEFalubB0X85B67VRGb78Pb2cmhPDctuxpp2BVHYuA9/s320/november%202023%20goals%20wrap%20up.png" width="213" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Somehow we are already at the end of November and we are fast approaching the end of 2023 which to be honest I will be glad to see the back of. I had huge intentions for November however, it hasn't gone to plan and I have used any downtime just to relax before things go a little crazy over the festive period. I had set out some big goals for the month and as you will see from this post I have barely achieved any of them but I am not mad as I know that I needed to relax more than anything and that break has helped me realign for the new year and plenty of planning has actually taken place. So here is a look at how my goals for November went...</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Fashion</span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Keep the wash baskets empty</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">This one has been a massive fail as the effort to be up and down with the wash basket just hasn't been there. I made a good dent in the washing but just not as much as I would have hoped, I guess with this one I just need to stop being so lazy and just have one weekend where I do as much as I can as within a couple of days I do think this issue could be resolved and we could be having a fresh start when it comes to how full those wash baskets are.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Buy no new clothes</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Oh look another one that was a fail however, I did only buying clothing I actually needed. My wardrobe is now well stocked for the cold weather and I shouldn't need to buy anything new for a while now. I didn't spend a fortune on the clothing either as I stuck to Primark and they had everything I needed to fill my winter wardrobe whilst also making it look a little smarter. I shouldn't need anything else for a while now luckily.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Plan outfits weekly</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I mean this one is half done half not. I had the outfits for each week in mind however, I just didn't actually get them laid out each day like I intended to. It was so much easier knowing each day what I intended to wear however, it would have been even easier if I actually got those items out and in sight rather than having to rummage around for them each morning. Having the outfits in mind worked so the next step is just to be more organised and get them out ready before each morning rolls around.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Wear my Dr Marten's more often</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I had every intention of doing this one however, I will be honest I didn't go anywhere to actually wear them. The only places I went to throughout November weren't really suitable for them so I stuck to my Adidas. With the festive period approaching though I should have plenty of times to wear them coming up before the end of the year.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Accessorize outfits</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I actually managed to do this one a fair few times throughout the month however, I do wish I had done it more often as I loved the way the outfits looked with just a bit of jewellery thrown into the mix. I definitely want to keep up to adding accessories to my outfits as I have plenty of jewellery for all occasions so as the festive season approaches I might as well put it all to good use.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Life</span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Get 90% of my Christmas shopping done</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Oh look one of the goals that I have managed to get done. I am actually surprised that I managed to get this done but I am so glad I did as it has meant I can have a much more relaxed festive period and not have to worry about needing to head to the shops when they are chaotic. It also means I can get everything wrapped up with plenty of time to spare rather than rushing around wrapping items on Christmas eve like I usually do.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">One long walk a week</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">We managed this once throughout November and to be honest even though we got soaked and it was freezing we actually enjoyed ourselves and the dog loved it too. Now I am having a break from football for a bit it would be nice to make every Sunday a long dog walk day as we can see new places and just enjoy our time together. Who knew I would end up falling in love with walking after saying I hate it for so many years.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Bake once a week</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Due to laziness this is another goal I haven't achieved. I have different goodies ready to be made however, the lack of effort means the kits are still sat in the cupboard waiting to be made. I really did have every intention of doing this but maybe I will aim to do this before the year is over as cozy days in baking in the cold weather sound perfect to me.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Declutter all the kitchen</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">This is another goal that hasn't taken place due to laziness however, both me and Liam agreed we would wait until a bit closer to Christmas to get this done. The declutter will just mean more space for the Christmas food shop and allow us a fresh start as we head into the new year. The cupboards definitely need sorting out so I am looking forward to spending half a day getting them sorted.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Start saving up for the bedroom work</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">We are well underway with the saving for the bedroom and we are actually looking at getting the works booked in very soon which we certainly can't wait for as this project has been a long time coming. The bedroom was done in a hurry when we first moved in and it is now time to get it done exactly how want it and let's just say it is going to be totally different to how it is now.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Fitness</span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Lose 6 lbs</span></b></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Well this one didn't go to plan and to be honest I have stayed away from the scales for a while as mentally my head has not been in the right place. This year hasn't gone to plan and November is no different and I am tempted to not get on the scales now until the new year and have a fresh start but we will see what December has in store and if I am in the right mindset or not.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Meal prep & plan</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">This was another fail and again it was down to laziness, I just didn't have the right mindset to head out to do a proper food shop and then stand making those meals. It is a time consuming task in all honesty however, I know it is a task I need to get used to carrying out as those long term goals wont be reached without it.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Go to a weight lifting class 5 times</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I guess you could say I half completed this goal as I actually went 3 times over the course of the month and lets just say weight lifting is now one of my favourite things to do. I really didn't think I would enjoy the sessions as much as I do but I am so glad I gave them a try as I now currently countdown to the sessions on a Thursday evening.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Boxing at least twice a week</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Unfortunately this is another fail as time just didn't allow me to get to sessions. Wednesday's are now out of the window as I have started attending a new football session and the only other day is a Saturday however, I take my nephew to football training most Saturday's. I really need to try set up a routine where I can get back to these sessions though as I am definitely missing them. </span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Set the ice bath up </span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Oh look another goal I set and never got around to sorting. I really need to get this set up so I can start adding it into my routine however, I really need to sort the back garden out before doing this and I just haven't got around to doing this yet due to the weather and poor time organisation. This will be getting done ASAP though as I can't wait to get using it.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Content</span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Post daily on the TNG Instagram</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">It started off well with 3 posts in a row and then due to a lack of organisation I totally fell behind and posted absolutely nothing. I really want to get into a routine of posting more and producing better quality content so I am going to re-evaluate this one and plan much better going forward so that I can be more present on social media. I might have failed this one in November but it is time to up the game in December and into the new year.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Post some reels on the fitness Instagram</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">There have been no reels posted on this account as my confidence has been at an all time low so I haven't wanted to be on camera and especially not on a video. In fact I have barely posted on the fitness page at all due to my thoughts with the journey. I will be trying to do the reels again at some point however, at the moment it is not a priority and I will re-evaluate it in the new year.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Update iMovie</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I finally managed to get around to updating iMovie at the start of the month however, no doubt I will need to update it again by now. I updated it with every intention of using it to create better content on Instagram however, as I have mentioned earlier that didn't go to plan either. Maybe 2024 will be the time where I actually do try using iMovie although I am now looking at CapCut so we will see.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Plan fitness Christmas content</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">This is one that I managed to complete too as I spent a few hours working on my fitness advent calendar so I have a story post challenge ready to go live from the 1st to the 24th of December. I am really looking forward to posting these little challenges and a few followers have also said they are looking forward to seeing the posts so let's see how the month plays out with that content.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Start mapping out 2024 content</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I am really proud of this on as for here and the TNG I have more or less all of January's content mapped out and some blog bits also have notes made so they are ready to type. I have even managed to get some bits planned for the gaming and football sites too and I think after a few productive December evenings I could actually have a lot of the gaming and football Instagram content created and scheduled so lets see how that plays out, fingers crossed I can really get ahead of myself as I am hoping as it would make January go a lot smoother.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">So there you have it the month was nowhere near as productive as I would have hoped but I think a bit of a lazy month is just what I needed as we run up to the festive period and I am now ready to hit the ground running in December whilst also making a bit of a head start ready for the new year which I can not wait for as there are plenty of big plans for that but more on those another day. For now though let's see what December has in store...</span></p>thenortherngirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01465212440942725679noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3936203698020899413.post-46964479197266268332023-11-30T08:39:00.004+00:002023-11-30T08:39:44.100+00:00November 2023 favourites<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"> </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo_-hGPHcoqeq212qtcgZDK6BeBnePgzbToTwdrSWdOkMwy1z7dvFumxfdx9qHwA8r791_J8YrYdOGZ9WqV0IDdM1nxfM7DXx-LZ1XW4PThBo5MHfwG5C8h3e4rPGhMqMq3B5leSYqXw9DcFjzOM2MkQsoH5qPsc2sjYP74JcbisOV61jUYaMHTBG8/s200/thenortherngirlbutton.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="200" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo_-hGPHcoqeq212qtcgZDK6BeBnePgzbToTwdrSWdOkMwy1z7dvFumxfdx9qHwA8r791_J8YrYdOGZ9WqV0IDdM1nxfM7DXx-LZ1XW4PThBo5MHfwG5C8h3e4rPGhMqMq3B5leSYqXw9DcFjzOM2MkQsoH5qPsc2sjYP74JcbisOV61jUYaMHTBG8/s1600/thenortherngirlbutton.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Here we go somehow November is almost wrapped up and we are heading into the final month of 2023, I am not sure how though as I feel as though it was just two minutes ago 2023 was actually beginning. The year has certainly flown by and with how it has gone I will be glad to see the back of it, saying that though November has been a good month and things have started to change in the right direction at long last. November has been a busy but very productive month with plenty of changes taking place which were much needed, it has also been a month of discovering new favourites whilst also rediscovering old ones. So here are my favourite things from the month of November...</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Fashion</span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Putting effort into outfits again</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Now I haven't put as much effort in as I would have liked however, I have been putting more effort in than I have for the rest of 2023 and that is why it is on this months favourites list. The month has been a month of working out different outfit combinations whilst also reaching for pieces I haven't worn in a long time due to them looking smarter than usual. It has been nice rediscovering old favourite clothing items but the plan for December is to make even more effort when it comes to getting ready on a morning.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Sneakers</span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Adidas Forums</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">The Air Force are officially retired and I guess you could say it is about time as they were well and truly falling apart. I was planning on rotating the footwear I wore as a replacement however, I seem to have stuck with my Adidas Forums throughout November. These have been super comfortable and somehow have stayed in pretty good condition even after all these wears which is always an added bonus. These have been perfect for the outfits I have worn this month but that may change next month.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Ugg Dupes</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I have had these Ugg dupes from Primark for about 4 years now and they are still going strong. These have been great as an alternative for sneakers are are actually really comfortable however, I will admit I don't go very far in these but I am absolutely loving them for those quick trips. Maybe I need to invest in some of those mini Ugg's when these are no good.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Fitness</span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Trying weight lifting</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">November is the month where I stepped out of my comfort zone and tried a new fitness class and I am so glad I did as it has been so much fun and is benefiting me loads. I never expected me to enjoy weight lifting but it is actually really fun and I am learning plenty of new things as I attend more and more sessions. This is certainly going to be something that I keep going to for as long as possible and I think it is going to help with the weight loss over time too. </span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Signing up for the gym again</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">November also saw me take the step of joining the gym for the first time in a long time. This is only temporary however, as I will be cancelling this once the home gym is up and running. By signing up to the gym now though I can get a head start on my 2024 goals and also keep pushing myself on that weight loss and fitness journey which I am really hoping is coming to an end this time next year. I am glad I made the jump and signed up for the gym and I can't wait to see what progress I make from it.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Lifestyle</span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Family time</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">In November I took the decision to step away from football for a little bit and to be honest I am quite glad I made that decision as I have a whole lot more time to spend with Liam and the dog without having to rush back for games etc. It has been really nice having more time with them as it has included time at home or long walks which is a nice change of pace which was actually much needed. </span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Working on plans for the house</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">2023 hasn't gone to plan in regards, to getting jobs around the house done, in fact we have got nothing done at all in the grand scheme of things which has been a bit of a nightmare. We have actually spent a lot of November planning out the jobs we want to get done in 2024 though and what order we want them done in. It has been a month of planning and we are slowly making progress with the plans and know exactly what our first job is going to be.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Book</span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Alex Scott - How not to be strong</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Ok so this book is now on back to back favourites as I have not made reading a priority so I am still working my way through this book. I will be honest though I am glad I am taking my time with this as it is such a good read and I am learning so much about one of my all time favourite players. You really do learn a lot about Alex's life on and off the pitch and I am loving every second of reading this book.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Podcast </span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">What's Good Games</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Another back to back favourite is the What's Good Games podcast, I just can't get enough of it and their content is really helping me stay in the loop when it comes to gaming which I haven't been doing as much as I previously have. This really has kept me in the loop though and I look forward to the new episodes being released weekly. I do need to start listening to other podcasts to so maybe that can be my aim for the new year... find new podcasts to listen to.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Overall highlight of the month </span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Getting things ready for the festive season</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I mentioned in a previous post that last years festive period was chaotic and a lot of aspects were rushed however, I can honestly say the big highlight of my November is being on top of everything and actually having all the gifts purchased and ready to wrap, I am way ahead of myself for once and it means I am going to have more time to just relax this year and enjoy everything festive with no worries and minimal stress.</span></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Favourite thing I have learned</span></b></p><p><b><span style="font-family: arial;">It is actually easier to be alcohol free than you think</span></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I went alcohol free in September with the aim of not drinking until my 30th birthday and I will be honest I thought that it would be a struggle however, it is actually a lot easier than I realised. There are plenty of alcohol free options when out and about although so far I haven't actually thought about having a drink in a long time and I feel great for cutting it out.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">So there you have it those were my favourites from the month of November, I have to say a final favourite is definitely this new format of the post too as it is actually helping narrow down those real favourites. Now though let's see what the final month of the year has in store...</span></p>thenortherngirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01465212440942725679noreply@blogger.com0