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By now, most organised people  have already got their Christmas presents purchased, wrapped and placed perfectly under their tree, ready to give them to the special person. On the other hand,  there's people like me, who this year, has left things a little too late and still has over half a Christmas list of people to buy for. There are so many affordable gifts available to suit almost everyone, and a Burt's Bees gift set is the perfect place to start.
Burt's Bees always have great offers, and not only is their packaging reusable, but all their products are completely natural and are a true reflection of the Burt's Bees vision. So whether you're looking for a Secret Santa gift, have a family member or close friend to buy for - or even fancy treating yourself to some pretty products, then Burt's Bees has got you covered. 

What better gift to give this winter than a luxurious lip balm and hand care pamper duo, in some beautiful festive packaging. Burt's Bees Naturally Nourishing Beeswax Gift Set (£9.99*) contains a ultimate care hand cream which is like a treatment in a bottle for your hands, and a natural beeswax lip balm, which is perfect to keep your lips soft and hydrated this winter. The beeswax is a neutral scent so it's diverse, but this set is also available with a selection of lip balm scents, there really is a choice for everyone. 

The Burt's Bees Nature's Kiss Gift Set (£9.99*) is a beautiful little duo to give a hint of colour and a boost of moisture. Combined with Beeswax, Shea Butter, Kendi Oil and Jojoba Oil,  this lip care set will instantly hydrate your lips. Including a Lip Crayon in Sedona Sands which is a subtle mauve, and a Lip Shimmer in Peony which gives a gentle sparkle - both perfect shades for this season. 

Which Burt's Bees gift sets will you be picking up this Christmas?







* The products in this post were provided for the purpose of this review although as always, all opinions and thoughts remain my own. For more information, see my Disclaimer 


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I'm currently sat snuggled on my sofa writing this post, wearing the most beautiful personalised bracelet, thinking about how Christmas is a time of giving, and making memories. I often believe that Christmas has turned into somewhat of a competition - who has the best decorated tree, who has the most luxurious gifts or who has spent the most money. When in fact, making memories, and giving gifts with thought has much more of an impact. 

Lilly Alexandra Handmade Silver is a gorgeous little business that makes bespoke, hand crafted jewellery out of sterling silver and fine silver, that can be personalised - which makes it so much more personal. Which is why I chose the personalised sterling silver bangle (£40.00*). It's dainty, elegant and it can be stamped with  any name or message you wish. I really wanted a piece of jewellery to be something that I'd wear all the time and to be sentimental, so I chose to have both my husband and I's name, along with our pug (because yes, I'm a crazy pug lady). 

The quality of the bracelet is fantastic, and doesn't feel too heavy like other bangles I own. I love how unique each piece of  jewellery is unique. I'd highly recommend Lilly Alexandra, as I love that you can customise a piece of jewellery to you, or for a special someone, and will definitely be using them again. Remember to check them out on Facebook, here and on Etsy, here. 






* The product in this post was provided for the purpose of this review although as always, all opinions and thoughts remain my own. For more information, see my Disclaimer 



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Often, people associate any pain that a woman has, as being "that time of the month". When in fact, to have normal cramps would be a blessing to anyone who suffers from Endometriosis. Unless you suffer from Endometriosis, it's hard to explain the excruciating pain you'll encounter quite often. So if you say to me "oh , so you get bad periods then", don't take it personally when I pull a "really, did you just say that" face.
For those of you who aren't aware, Endometriosis is not a period, nor is it just cramps. In fact it isn't close to even being really bad cramps. It's a chronic pain caused by internal bleeding and inflammation of tissue (that should normally line inside your uterus). It's most commonly appears in or on your ovaries, bowel, and pelvis; but can spread to almost anywhere - the Endometriosis Institute has reported cases of Endometriosis of the bladder, bowel, liver, lungs, arms, thighs and even brain.
The endometrial tissue will continue to thicken, break down and bleed with your "normal cycle", but because this tissue has formed outside of your uterus, it has no where to go and develops into adhesions (abnormal tissue that binds organs together) and scar tissue.
Symptoms often include (but are not limited to) pain before, during, or after menstruation, during ovulation, when going to the toilet, in the lower back, or during sex. Where endometrial tissue has formed on your bowel or abdomen, you may notice regular diarrhoea or constipation, heavy bleeding or irregular periods (mine can be as minimal as two a year), tiredness and fatigue, and severe abdominal bloating - on a flare up day, my tummy can look like a baby has been growing in there for 5 months.


Image result for endometriosis quotes

Diagnosis takes a lot longer than it should. I first went to the Doctor at my GP in 2010, as I had been suffering from extremely painful, but irregular periods ever since I was taken off the pill (due to a blood condition, I'm unable to take any form of contraceptive). However, before being given a diagnosis, the GP made me undergo countless blood tests, ultrasounds, examinations, a variety of different medications, and gave me multiple potential diagnoses including possible early menopause, IBS, PCOS, and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). 

I was diagnosed with PCOS following ultrasounds - which explains the reason why I also don't have periods, as PCOS affects your ovulation. Rather than the egg forming and travelling down the Fallopian tube, it stays in your ovaries and forms a cyst. PCOS shouldn't be painful, but can lead to further health problems. However, this diagnosis meant nothing to me, it didn't explain the pain I often had. 

So after continuously nagging, the GP referred me to a gynaecologist, and following some uncomfortable examinations and a laparoscopy, in June 2015, I was finally diagnosed with Stage 3 Endometriosis. This meant I had both Ovarian Endometriosis - of both ovaries and Fallopian tubes; and Deep Infiltrating Endometriosis - of the peritoneum (membrane that lines the abdeomen), uteroscaral ligaments, bowel, uterus and kidneys. Yes I know that sounds like complete jargon, so I hope the below image helps - my diagnosis is between Stage 3 and 4.

https://www.asrm.org/BOOKLET_Endometriosis/

Following the diagnostic laparoscopy in 2015, I was booked in for a follow up surgery to hopefully treat Endometriosis, and remove any adhesions.  This happened has recently happened in November 2016, so because of the length of time that had passed, my surgeon told me that the Endometriosis and adhesions on my left ovary, kidney, peritoneum and bowel had worsened, meaning most of the surgery was spent on these delicate areas.

Sadly, there is no known cure for Endometriosis. Although, apparently having a baby helps reduce endometrial tissue and symptoms. But on the contrary, Endometriosis has an extremely high risk of infertility - bit of a kick in the teeth really, the only thing that will cause a massive reduction, if not complete reduction in my pain, is a baby. A baby that I possible can't have (and most definitely can't have naturally), as the stupid disease has taken over my ovaries, pelvis and most of the other important lady organs I'd need. 

There are always a variety options that consultants can discuss to help ease symptoms, although repeat surgery is usually the most common option, she also briefly mentioned hormone replacement therapy (HRT) which will help both my Endometriosis and PCOS, but that is just something that will be discussed for now. I'm due to have a review with my consultant in April to go through the next steps, so I'll be sure to share the results with you as I'm hoping to share my journey, and to help anyone else suffering with Endometriosis. 






*Photos sourced from Pinterest. Clickable link on each image. 

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With Christmas around the corner, Jack Frost is slowly making his way into our lives. And that can only mean one thing for folk like me - dry skin. There are many  products that I've tried over the years, to keep my skin soft and supple, and hydrated. But L'Occitane's Almond Collection - particularly their Discovery Collection*, is just the thing you need to get you through this winter - and it makes the perfect gift. 
The almond scent is by far, my ultimate favourite. It's so delicate, luxurious, yet nourishing and completely irresistible. One problem, once you've tried this for yourself, you probably won't want to give this to someone (so many sure you buy a spare!).
L'Occitane Almond Cleansing and Softening Shower Oil | Full Size £18.00, 250ml 

The Cleansing and Softening Shower Oil is one of my favourite products, as when in contact with water, it develops into a luxurious foam which gently cleanses your skin, while thoroughly removing dirt and excess oil. The shower oil has a delicate blend of grape seed, rosemary, bergamot, and sunflower, that leaves a satin-softness all over your body. 

L'Occitane Almond Milk Concentrate | Full Size £38.00, 200ml 
The Almond Milk Concentrate, is a gentle milky moisturiser that compliments the shower oil. The formula is enriched with almond extracts, walnut seed extract and pure almond oil; and easily melts into the skin to help your skin look firmer and smoother, and super hydrated. Your skin will instantly feel nourished, and softer, all while improving your skins natural elasticity and stimulating cell regrowth.

L'Occitane Supple Skin Oil | Full Size £34.00, 200ml 
The almond supple skin oil is a beautifully delicate, fine oil that helps your skin feel firmer and smoother. With key ingredients of almond oil, camelina oil and omegas 3 and 6, you only need a small amount of this powerful little oil, and your skin will feel nourished and more supple. The full size bottle comes with a spray applicator, which allows the oil to evenly melt into your skin, leaving a delicious satin-smooth finish.  
L'Occitane Almond Delicious Soap | Full Size £4.00, 50g

The almond delicious soap is a right treat for your skin. Enriched with sweet almond oil from Provence to gently nourish your skin, and ground almond shells to gently scrub away dead skin cells, leaving your skin clean. Especially at winter time, this is perfect for treating those rough areas - particularly elbows, knees and feet, leaving them smooth and soft. 
L'Occitane Almond Delicious Hands | Full Size £8.00, 30ml

Enriched with almond milk and almond oil, the silky cream, non-greasy formula helps nourish and soften your hands, while releasing gentle burst of a sweet, fresh almond scent. This hand cream is the perfect for on the go, as can easily fit in your handbag or pocket, to keep your hands hydrated throughout the day. 

Although the collection featured here is no longer available (as yes, I've been sitting on these photos for a long time) their Discovery Collection contains all of these products, albeit slight difference in sizes, for an amazing £20.00. Or if you're wanting to spend a little more, you can get the Delicious Almond collection for around £45.00. 






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BareMinerals is a brand with a forever growing collection. No matter your skin type, age, preference or style, you're bound to find the perfect product for you. But now, they've created the Blemish Remedy range, perfect for those with acne-prone skin, like myself. 
This collection really has taken me by surprise. Being someone who is self conscious about their skin and appearance, I usually find myself wearing a foundation with a medium-high coverage, which has a long-lasting matte finish. Yet, this range features a variety of build-able products, which all have key ingredients of Aspen Bark and Tea Tree Oil, to create a natural, yet full coverage finish, while working to improve the natural appearance of the skin. 
Blemish Remedy Mineral-Powder Foundation (£26.50) has a similar texture to their classic Mineral Powder, but with a sleeker, more secure lid which prevents the powder spilling out, and also doubles up as a mirror. Unlike the classic Mineral Powder, the Blemish Remedy powder is filtered through a delicate mesh, which is best applied with a buffing brush, to leave your skin looking natural and radiant. However, you're still able to build up the product to your desired look.  
Blemish Remedy Mattifying Prep Gel (£22.00) is the primer of all primers. Forget any of the silicone based primers that you've currently got in your collection, as the Blemish Remedy Mattifying Prep Gel is the only one you'll ever need. This cooling, tea tree scented primer is the perfect base to apply your make-up. The lightweight gel glides on effortlessly, and although it has a wet-liquid texture, once applied, the gel immediately dries to an invisible matte finish. Like other Blemish Remedy products, the main ingredients are Aspen Bark and Tea Tree Oil, yet this gel also includes a Peptide Complex which helps promote clear, healthy looking skin, while absorbing excess oil, leaving your skin looking flawless.
Blemish Remedy Concealer (£22.00) is the product out of this range which has completely taken me by surprise. With a creamy texture, this concealer instantly reduces redness and hides blemishes, and the and a twist style pencil applicator with a built in sharpener, allows application to be super easy. Formulated with the same Aspen Bark, Tea Tree Oil and Peptide Complex, this blendable concealer also features Kaolin Clay Minerals which help reduce shine and absorbs excess oil. Personally, I prefer using the product with a flat edge rather than a pointed edge like the sharpener gives, but either way, it leaves you with such a beautiful coverage, and hides those unwanted blemishes. 

I seriously LOVE this collection, and surprisingly, is something I'd repurchase again, and again. The Blemish Remedy collection is available online from BareMinerals directly, or other online stockists. Or at any BareMinerals counter in your local drug-store or department store. 



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There's never a right time to ask someone when they're going to have a baby, or if they're already parents, when they plan to have more children. Yet it's a question that has popped up at least every week, since the moment I got married. Whether it be from family members who are just wanting us to take the next step, or friends who are just wondering when we're going to be starting the next chapter in our life. But it's a question that makes a conversation uncomfortable. It's a question that is hard to respond to. It's a question that you shouldn't have to answer. I mean, how do you answer it? And do you even have an answer?
Although, the question may be asked in complete innocence, or by people who are just a little curious. The bottom line is that whether you're unable to have children naturally, or you're not ready to have children, or even if you've already made the decision not to have children at all, it isn't anyone else's business, nor is it a question you should feel pressured into answering. 


You don't owe anyone an explanation.

Albeit, some may see it more as a personal question, than one which would lead to feelings of upset. But, realistically, you're never going to know whether someone is struggling with infertility problems, or is grieving a miscarriage. Having a baby naturally, or even at all, isn't always on the cards for some - myself included. Whether you're a woman in her 30's, a newly wed couple, or been married a while, it's none of anyone else's business when, or if, you decide to have a baby.

It's impossible to know the thoughts running through someone's mind, when they're asked such a personal question. Take myself for example, if I were to be completely honest with someone, it would just make the conversation completely uncomfortable. And that isn't a position I'd want to put someone else in. Yet, on the contrary, the question asked will in fact put me in an awkward position. If it's someone close, then of course, I wouldn't mind explaining the truth, that I just don't know if it's possible yet, and even if I can. But, for those who I'm not too close with, I'm left faking a smile, pretending that I'm okay, and that I'm just not there yet. 


A baby? I already have one, my husband.


No matter what answer I give, it doesn't make it any less harder to explain. Because being honest, whenever I get asked the question, it makes me wonder about whether I'll actually be able to have children. Or whether it will be a lengthy process, that will just prove disappointing in the end. And is that a position I want to put myself in? Being told at the age of 25, that you have a high risk of preeclampsia, miscarrying or still birth, and that you have extreme difficulties being able to conceive naturally and will need IVF, or that you may experience problems carrying a baby to term, is heartbreaking. It's a decision that is potentially being taken away from you, without being able to control a single element of it. 

Although I've told myself in the past that I didn't want children, I suppose it's because I thought it would be easier to process. To make myself believe that it's just not for me, rather than being left upset and disappointed. But, that would be selfish of me. To take a decision like that away from my husband, and myself. Because, if you don't give it a go, then you'll just never know. And life's to short to think about what if's. Medicine has developed so much over the years, that there are so many alternative options for couples wanting a baby. And even though it isn't a simple process, it's something I'm prepared to try. 

I know, in reality, these options aren't always available for everyone. Sometimes, sadly, there just isn't anything you or anyone else can do. Bottom line is, if someone wants to share their personal plans, then they'll tell you. If you're curious, then just sit back and wait until they decide to tell you themselves, should that be their decision. 






*This post was not sponsored or in collaboration. But was written as part of Endometriosis, PCOS, and Infertility week.
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Contouring. The beauty trend that made a dramatic entrance into the beauty world, and doesn't plan to leave anytime soon. Although over-the-top contouring has slowly fizzled out, natural contouring is here to stay. I mean, who doesn't want to shadow their face to make it appear thinner and more defined? When it's done properly, it can change the appearance of your face and enhance your natural features - and give you show stopping cheekbones and jawline. 

Anastasia Beverly Hills really have knocked all other contour palettes off the shelves with their Powder Contour Kit. With three shade options - light to medium, medium to tan, and tan deep, so there really is a contour and highlight shade to suit every single one of you. 

I picked up the contour kit in light to medium, as I have pale to fair skin, and this palette is just perfect as it has soft warm shades, as well as gentle taupe-grey shade to create natural shadows. The contour kit retails at just short of £40.00, which includes all 6 shades. The palette is magnetic and the shades are replaceable when you run out, or in case you don't get on with a particular shade, so you really can create a contour palette full of your favourite shades. I have had this palette for nearly a year and I've only just recently needed to replace some shades, so it really is excellent value for money. 




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Usually, it's not my 'thing' to write foody relating posts. But I thought, what the heck, let's mix it up a little. And, besides, after stumbling across this quaint family-run Italian, in the heart of Covent Garden, I just could resist sharing the details with you. Upon arrival, I admit the restaurant isn't as extravagant as other Italian's, as it has more of a bistro-esque, but don't let that phase you, as the food is absolutely incredible. 

After a long day of walking approximately 9 miles around the sights London, we were in need of food. And I mean proper food, not a grab-on-the-go salad from Pret. So, while we were strolling through Covent Garden, taking in all the wonderful, creative vibes, we stumbled across Prima Sapori D'Italia. 

They offer seating both inside and out, but because of the typical British Autumn weather, we decided to sit inside, where we were served our drinks. Whenever I go to an Italian, I like to have a proper lemonade - as it's just so much better than your glass of sprite, and my mum decided to have a glass of their freshly squeezed orange juice. FYI, my mum said it was the best fresh-juice she'd ever had, just thought I'd share.

Feeling a little full after a big slab of cake, my mum decided to have the chicken, mozzarella and avocado salad - which I wish I had, as it looked absolutely incredible. Considering we were at an Italian (have I said that already?), I thought it would be rude not to eat Pasta, so I opted for the ham and parmesan ravioli, which was surprisingly light, yet delicious. And my god-mum chose a classic carbonara with pasta instead of spaghetti. 

All the food is freshly made, right in front of your eyes. And not only can you eat in, but they also do a takeaway option of pastas, light bites and paninis. One thing I must say, is the service is top-notch. The staff are super friendly, and you can tell they take pride in their work. We all found the service and food delightful, and we will most certainly return, the next time we visit Covent Garden.


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Looking after your skin is the most important part of any beauty routine. It really is all about the base and when you get that right, the rest will look after itself. Although there are myths within the beauty world that say spending hundreds of pounds a month on beauty products, you'll eventually look like a celebrity, but we all know that isn't true. As long as you have a set skincare routine, and a good range of products, that's all you need.

If there is one skin care product that you need in your life, it's Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm. This luxurious balm is designed to remove make-up, dirt and grime, while absorbing excess oil and removing impurities. Like most Elemis products, it has a unique cocktail of fragrant oils, including geranium, lavender, chamomile, eucalyptus, ho wood, orange, methol and clove, blended with wheat germ and oat, starflower and elderberry oils, and rose wax, which has a spa-esque feel and indulges your senses.

Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm can be used as a daily cleanser over your face, neck and décolleté, giving your skin a deep cleanse, before removing excess product with a warm cleansing cloth (which you get for free with the 105g size). Or, it can be used as a deep cleansing mask - this is my personal favourite. Especially when you grab a glass of wine, and have a nice soak in a hot bubble bath. Just massage a layer of the cleansing balm over your face and leave for around 10 minutes. Or until the water starts to go cold, like I do. 

I use this religiously everyday as the cleanser in my skin care routine, and I can honestly say my skin has felt so much cleaner, more refreshed and more hydrated. And, when I feel my skin needs an extra boost, I'll step in the bath and just relax, with a super luxurious face mask. 

Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm retails at £40.00, which is on the higher price in comparison to most cleansers, but it's completely worth is as it lasts almost 6 months. Hand on heart, this is my favourite beauty product, and this is my new go-to product.





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Wistow Cafe Bistro is located within the delightful retreat that is Wistow Rural Centre, in Leicestershire. A perfect spot to take a break from the beautiful boutique shops and garden centre, to have a light lunch, or indulge in afternoon tea. Offering seating inside the beautiful country-esque bistro, or outside under a soft, cosy terrace. 

Upon arrival, I admit the first impressions didn't have the wow factor, but having seen many photos shared of other peoples visits, I knew there was more than what meets the eye. I'd arranged for me and my mum to have Afternoon Tea (£15pp), - which needs pre-booking and pre-paying at least 24 hours before. But they do offer a range of hot and cold drinks, freshly made cakes and savoury snacks, breakfasts, and light lunch options, which you can order on the day. 

When our Afternoon Tea arrived, we couldn't believe how beautifully presented everything was. From fresh fruit to decorate, and edible flowers on the cakes, everything was just delightful - and yes, I uploaded a photo straight away on Instagram and SnapChat, obviously. Our Afternoon Tea included a very generous; large pot of fresh tea, accompanied by a selection of sweet treats (fruit scones with clotted cream and jam, two slices of fruit loaf, two homemade brownies, two mini vanilla sponge cupcakes, two mini chocolate ganache cups, two mini lemon torts), sandwiches (two tuna and cucumber sandwiches, two ham salad sandwiches, two cheese mix sandwiches, two egg and cress sandwiches), a bowl of crisps, mini cocktail sausage sticks, mini cheese and onion pastry bites, a fresh mixed salad and a sprinkle of fresh berries. Woah now you can breathe.

Now for the most important thing, the taste test. I'm proud to say it all tasted as good as it looked. And it was all so filling that we couldn't finish it all, but don't worry, nothing was wasted as they kindly boxed up anything we had left over, so we could snack on it later on that day. When comparing value to money, and quality of food, I can certainly say Wistow Cafe Bistro is on my recommendations list. 


Have you ever visited Wistow Garden Centre for Afternoon Tea?






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About Me



Charlotte Elizabeth

Charlotte Elizabeth is an online blog, bringing you a dose of luxury beauty and style, life and everything in between.

For all enquiries, please email charlotteelizabethblog@outlook.com – we’d love to hear from you!

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