Thursday 24 October 2013

Bastille Gig Manchester Academy

Support Acts: Swiss Lips and Chloe Howl.

Merch picked up: Bastille Tour T-shirt and Limited Edition signed lithograph from Swiss Lips merch stand.

First up on stage was Swiss Lips. Now I had heard good things about this band, however, I hadn't had chance to listen to their stuff. Nevertheless I soon got into their catchy tunes. They had fab stage presence so much so I couldn't take my eyes off them! The set was fab considering I didn't know any songs. I am considering buying tickets for one of their shows. If you want a band that offer cheap tickets but are worth every penny then I can assure you that this band is worth checking out!

There was quite a long wait between changing of the acts. Chloe Howl came on around 8.15. They didn't introduce themselves I had to go and find her on Twitter! I am pleased I found out who she was as I thought her voice was amazing and so original. I would also recommend checking out her music and buying tickets for any upcoming shows she has as she is an act worth seeing! Her dancing was pretty groovy as well.

Now the wait after Chloe Howl was excruciatingly long! Bastille came on FINALLY around 9.20. They opened with Bad Blood. The crowd was fab they weren't rowdy they were all there to appreciate the music rather than mosh pit and acting like 5 year old pushing eachother around! Bastille had the projector showing videos and clips behind them which I thought was really effective and added drama to the show. Dan's dancing was fab as well. I think I've labelled it 'Dorky Dancing' cause it was so cute and it was fun to watch him having fun on stage.

When 'Flaws' began Dan had put his hoodie on and his hood up and jumped into the crowd leaving the rest of the band members on stage. He made his way quite easily through the crowd still managing to make every note sound effortless! He climbed up on a raised stage part by the sound section and sung to us all (starting to think Dan has a thing for climbing).

When they played 'Of the Night' Dan kept gesturing for us all to crouch on the floor and when the chorus kicked in jump up and go mad. That's probably why half the pictures aren't as good as they could've been!

The encore featured Icarus and Pompeii (from what I can remember) I have to admit I soon forgot what order things came in due to the excitement and my phone dying so I couldn't record the songs when they were performed! Nevertheless that was the second time I have seen Bastille and I have to say they seem to just get better everytime! I hope I get to attend one of their shows again soon as I will never tire of seeing them live!

If you get the chance to go to a gig I would highly recommend them as they don't disappoint! I'll leave you with a few pictures!

"The rest is still unwritten"

Megan


Swiss Lips (quite hard to take photos from my angle due to choice of lighting!) 


Chloe Howl


Monday 21 October 2013

Dating Advert: Hollie Willie Boobie

Hello lovely readers,

Today's post is going to be a comical one about my good friend Hollie (Holl). I am currently skyping with her and she wanted a blog written about her so I'm doing just that. Writing a blog about her but in the style of a dating advert.

Name: Hollie Willie Boobie

Age: 18

Location: Staffordshire University

Studying: Music journalism and broadcasting

Interested in: Males (with nice shoulders)

Interests: music, gigs, festivals, friends, Sambuca, nights out, vodka, shots and any other form of alcohol.

Advantages: makes a mean carbonara, can talk for hours (literally), has amazing taste in music, is nice to the weirdo's (me), has awesome drunk dancing, talks to everyone and anyone, makes friends easily, professional slut dropper, has a nice rack (seriously they're so comfy to lie on), awesome sense of humour, does a great irish jig to c'est la vie and is a good rapper to 'Nigga's in Paris' quote; "that's my jam gurl".

Disadvantages: she won't accept how much I love her and how great we would be as a couple (like seriously), she doesn't realise how amazing she is.

MUSIC TASTE:
kasabian, oasis, TDCC, Lissie, Foster The People, Bastille, Arctic Monkeys, Swim Deep, The Pigeon Detectives, Little Comets, tribes, jay z, eminem, mac miller, nghfb, abba, jake bugg, the enemy, olly murs, miles kane, dizzee rascal, shannon saunders, frank hamilton, the other tribe, shania twain, maroon5 , lana del rey, chase n status, maximo park,rizzle kicks, mikill pane, the beautiful south, bon jovi, lucy spraggan, lovable rogues, reggae, jamie t, rhcp, the courteeners, pixie lott, ocean colour scene

If you love her just as much as I do you will be able to talk to her as soon as I have vetted you and checked that you're good!

This is me and my Wigga 


"The rest is still unwritten"

Megan


Media giving us a bad name?

I think this has always been a topic of discussion for all teenagers. It's hard to understand why society regards us as 'naive' individuals. One thing that I think doesn't help our image is the media.

Media attention about teenagers always seems to be bad. After all bad teenagers antics makes good TV entertainment right? Yes I understand how funny it must be to watch the teens on 'Magaluf Weekender' passing out in their beds and snogging everything that moves, but in the long term it has drastic effects on the wide majority. It seems unfair that these 'fun times' to us are publicised in a bad way. I'm not saying I agree with the behaviour of every individual on these shows, but isn't that all part of growing up? We're supposed to be allowed to make mistakes so that we can learn from them. I can assure you that our parents and grandparents all made mistakes, some may have been worse than our own, but they aren't criticised as they were publicised on TV as they are today.

In my opinion I believe that most of us teenagers have improved in our behaviour on a day to day basis. When I came to University I feel that most of the teenagers seem to have grown up, when a few months ago in sixth form they acted rather childish. It's nice to think that there is some hope for the youth of today.

One thing I will mention is that when I went to ASDA with my friends in my PJs, we had become a sideshow by some 15 year old girls. I mean if I want to wear my PJs I will! I'd rather be different than look like them, who had the same matching hairstyle and clips, same trainers. Ugh boring and tiresome. I don't know what it is but it's the 12-16 year old category that really annoys me in terms of behaviour. They seem to have this idea that they need to grow up faster and look the same. In all honesty they look ridiculous and I for one would not let my children out looking like that. Being different should be seen as a good thing. When will people realise this?

Anyway I shall stop this ramble before I bore you all!

"The rest is still unwritten"

Megan

Ramble

Hello everyone!

Apologies for the lack of posts lately. I have been unwell and the last thing I felt like doing was to sit in front of the laptop staring at a screen. Another reason is that I really couldn't think of what to write!

I was supposed to be in seminars at University today, but I've been so ill this morning throwing up (which happened of Friday) I thought it wouldn't be a good idea to venture out when I felt like this. However, I'm gutted because I absolutely loved learning about how to teach dance in my P.E lessons. I'm also supposed to be seeing Bastille tomorrow, but I'll have to see how I feel tomorrow since I already get Tuesdays off.

Another thing I have been working on is editing some videos which has entertained me for the past week. Although what I have realised from doing this is that I worry...I am such a worrier it's unreal! I second guess myself all the time. I mean I filmed this video ages ago and yet I have just sat there staring at the file for a week now. I think if I put one video up and saw how it went I might feel better about it!

One thing I am dying to do is some online shopping! However I know I don't have the money for that so that probably isn't a good idea!

One thing I am loving at the minute is the new series of Homeland. As I'm writing this blog I am watching the latest episode on 4OD. I loved the series right from the first episode and I am so glad they brought it back for another season!

Whilst on the subject of TV shows, I think my favourite thing to watch has to be Smash. Now I'm currently on the second season and when I read the Wikipedia profile about it I couldn't believe they had cancelled it. I mean I absolutely love the show and know a lot of others who do as well. It seems strange that shows like Glee have run for so many seasons. I have to admit Glee seems to have gone downhill for me as a show. I loved it when it first began but it seems to have become spoiled and 'overplayed'. Sometimes you end up ruining a show when it carries on too long (that's my opinion anyway).

So what shows are you enjoying currently? All suggestions welcome!

"The rest is still unwritten"

Megan

Wednesday 16 October 2013

Motivation

Today's blog post will be about motivation. I though this would be quite accurate since I have been quiet on writing blogs recently. I do apologise for this as I just am going through a patch of writers block. I knew it would happen at some point especially since I'm trying to post daily blogs! However, this will not deter me! I have a few things to talk about right now.

I think motivating myself to do work becomes an extra task. So in trying to get myself to work my way through the tasks I have to do I feel I end up with more tasks...if that makes any sense! I have just joined the gym at my Uni which I'm feeling excited about. Although I have tried gyms before I am determined to make this work! I have just had my induction tonight and I literally can't wait for my first gym session. I better get a playlist sorted out on my iPod...my playlist might be put in my next blog post.

I think I find it hard to motivate myself because I'm afraid of failing. I start blogs and then I can't finish them simply because I'm afraid that they'll be rubbish. I have to admit recently I was motivated to write them because I was getting some encouraging comments. I cannot tell you how distressing it is to get writers block when I really really want to write my blogs!

Regardless of my lack of motivation with certain things I feel that today (Wednesday) has been a really productive day! Yesterday I made spaghetti carbonara which I adored! Tonight I made turkey breast, new potatoes and a caesar salad. Then I made eton mess for pudding. Then I think why the hell did I join a gym when I'm sat eating all these calories?! Buuuuuut I am having friends round tomorrow for movie and pizza night so I won't be watching the calories then either! Gym starts Friday (maybe)!

Last night was also fun because I found out I'm seeing Bastille on Tuesday night! I'm so excited to see them live again! So I will thank my Dad! Then I am seeing the wonderful and beautiful Nina Nesbitt on Sunday. SO EXCITED!

Do any of you struggle with motivating yourself? If you do how do you attempt to overcome this? Let me know in the comments below because any suggestions would be helpful!

That's all for today!

"The rest is still unwritten"

Megan

Sunday 13 October 2013

King Charles

I realised the other day that I didn't mention him in my 'must listen' to list. I can honestly say that he is one of my favourite artists. So far I've seen him 3 times and I've met him every time I have seen him. Unfortunately I only have one picture with him just because it was difficult when fighting through crowds and when I was in my Meet and Greet with him I genuinely forgot to ask! However, he has signed my moustache phone case, signed 2 posters and taken a photo with me. Also we've had a nice twitter friendship so that's pretty cool.

The reason I am suggesting that you go and check him out is because he is set to bring out his second album soon. Now this is really exciting because it seems like Loveblood has only just been released. Every time I listen to one of the tracks it's like the first time I have listened to it.

Loveblood Deluxe Version Tracklist

1. Loveblood
2. Mississippi Isabel
3. Bam Bam
4. Love Lust
5. Polar Bear
6. Lady Percy
7. Ivory Road
8. The Brightest Lights (feat. Mumford and Sons)
9. Beating Hearts
10. Coco Chitty
11. Wilde Love
12. Mr Flick
13. St. Peter's Gate
14. Love is the Cure

Personally I love when Mr Flick is played live. I literally scream the lyrics from excitement and most of the people around me turn and stare at my weirdness. Everyone goes mad for Bam Bam and Lady Percy (I mean why wouldn't you?) they are so good live, especially when the crowd gets going and everyone's jumping around. Ivory Road is also a crowd favourite and I think it's one of those songs that I want played at my wedding. I would love it if it was my first dance with my husband. However, I am not the only one as I have heard many fans have had Ivory Road as their first dance song. When you listen to the lyrics you'll understand! King Charles also sings his version of 'We Didn't Start The Fire' and I have to say it may be my favourite part of the gig. When I saw him in Leeds everyone got up on stage and started jumping and singing along with him. It was the craziest but coolest thing I had ever seen. KC also brought his support acts to come on stage and sing with him. That's the sing I love. The fact that everyone can get involved and party together.

What I can also thank KC for is my love for We Were Evergreen. I absolutely LOVE this band now. However, I will talk about them more in my next blog!

I hope you are still enjoying my blog!

"The rest is still unwritten"

Megan


Friday 11 October 2013

YouTube Part 1

My friend Abz is once again trying to get me to post a video on YouTube. For some reason she seems to think I'd be good at it. I guess I could be good talking to a camera...but it scares me that people may not watch videos. I am so happy that people view my blog and that took me a lot of courage to write to begin with. However, I seem to have given in as when I finish this blog I am going to go upstairs and try and film a video.

I am curious to know if any of you would be interested in my videos? Also it would be SO helpful if you gave me any suggestions that I could do for videos!

YouTube has always been something that has interested me. I enjoy watching Joey Graceffa, Tyler Oakley, Zoella, Joe Sugg, Sprinkle of Glitter, Shane Dawson, Danisnotonfire, Amazing Phil, Jack and Finn, Jim, Marcus, Alfie, Tanya, Connor Franta. The list is endless! I'm subscribed to so many YouTubers! I would love to go to Vidcon, Summer in the city or Playlist one year! I think it would be so cool. Sadly these things all cost and as I'm a student who is jobless it is kinda hard to save money I haven't got! Maybe one day I'll get to see these Youtubers and that will be the fab-iest day ever!

Anyhoo before I end up boring you I shall end this blog and go make a video...or something. Also something new! You can find me on a new site called 'glipho' here's my link:

http://glipho.com/megsiemaysmiles

so go check me out there if you want! I'll keep updating both so don't worry you won't miss anything!!

"The rest is still unwritten"

Megan

Thursday 10 October 2013

Megan's 'must listen to' list volume 1

New music is always hard to find. However, I have a few artists that I spend my days listening to and I thought even if you've heard of these bands you may not have listened to them. I believe that everyone loves to hear new music so I thought I'd share some of my favourites with you.

Number One- Two Door Cinema Club
- Yes I am aware that I 'witter' on about this band A LOT. However this is with good reason. TDCC have two albums (Tourist History and Beacon) and they have just released their new EP. I would recommend this band to anyone who wants a new sound to get into. When you listen to their albums from beginning to present you can see how their sound has developed. I cannot explain my love for them anymore than I have already. When/if you listen to this band you will understand my love for them!

Number Two Of Monsters and Men
- I'm sure you will all have heard 'Little Talks' but since that song was played on the radio this band seems to have been forgotten about. However their album 'My Head Is An Animal' is still one of my favourites and most played on my iPod. We haven't seen the last of this band and I can't wait to see what they release next.

Number Three Shannon Saunders
- Shannon has been around on YouTube for 4 years now and started posting covers of songs. Now she's writing her own stuff I cannot be more excited about this artist. Before Shannon was showcasing her amazing voice and when she came onto the scene with her original songs I loved her even more as an artist. Now as I unfortunately don't live in London I wasn't able to see her live. Although this year I was lucky enough to see her when she was on tour with Lewis Watson. It was such a cute intimate gig and I was lucky enough to meet her afterwards! If you get a chance to see her live or buy one of her songs don't miss that opportunity because you won't regret it!

Number Four Tyler Ward
- Another YouTube star who has released his first album and has been touring over Europe and America. I was lucky enough to see him 2 years ago in Manchester and he is FINALLY returning. I love the way he acts on stage. He seems so natural and happy when he chats to us while he's performing. I love seeing him live because the gigs are so much more intimate. After his show last time I got my poster signed and met him. It was the best day ever and I couldn't of been more happy. He is such a lovely guy! His voice is amazing and one of my favourite songs to hear live is 'Falling'. When he sings his part and then gets the audience to sing it is so amazing to hear. Thinking about it now I can't stop smiling. I can't wait to see him again I just need to book tickets now. If you are able to get tickets for his tour please don't miss your opportunity because you will NOT be disappointed.

Number Six Frank Hamilton
- Frank has just finished his tour (this evening I believe) and I hear good things about it! Now I have seen him live when he was on tour with Lewis Watson. However, I wasn't able to see him live on his tour this time round due to uni commitments. What I can say is that his album is amazing. His songs are so witty and interesting as well as having an amazing looking album. I'm lucky enough to have had it signed by Frank and I hope I will be able to see him again soon! If any of you get to see him live you will not be disappointed as he give you an intimate experience that makes it seem like it is personal to you and you're the only one there! I can assure you this isn't the last we've heard of Frank I know one day he'll be big.

Film Review: 'How I Live Now'

Apologies for this late post! To make up for it I'm writing two posts today.

Last night I went to the cinema with my good friend Zoe and we went to see 'How I Live Now'. Firstly I'll start by reminding everyone if you are wanting to go and check out a film I recommend using your Orange Wednesdays (only if you're on Orange of course)! That's what Zoe and I did and the film ticket worked out at £3.60, which is really good especially if you're a student!

The film was top of my 'must see' list simply because I think Saoirse Ronan is such a good actress. She's been in a lot of the movies I've watched. To name a few; The Lovely Bones, Hanna, The Host and City of Ember. It's hard to believe she's only 19.

I want to give a good film review without giving away too much. I think with this film it's really important that you don't read any spoilers. Trust me for this film it will ruin the effect! Be warned this film is jumpy. If you're wondering if it's scary I absolutely hate horror films, so I'm pretty sure you won't find this too scary! It's just creepy and eerie at times. It has to be said I am not a massive fan of 'World War 3' films simply because they are too unbelievable. However, I have to say this was so believable it was almost scary. The film is based on the 2004 novel of the same name by Meg Rosoff. Now I haven't read the novel so I can't say if this film was a good adaption or not.

Nevertheless the film left me feeling shocked and I'll be honest it was a bit emotional but I didn't cry honest! I am glad I went to see this film because it has a range of different genres within it. It has the constant romance running throughout the film and scenes of violence and action. I must say it is one of the best future films I have seen for a while and Saoirse Ronan is once again a fabulous lead actress.

"The rest is still unwritten"

Megan

Tuesday 8 October 2013

Can you understand my obsession?

Two Door Cinema Club. Now I understand that I talk about them a lot...but I have good reason to! Quite frankly they are perfection and I don't think there is one song by them that I don't like or rather LOVE. Now some may think that I'm not that obsessed but I will let you in on a little secret. Well it's not really a secret as I've told almost everyone! On the 13th December TDCC are playing the O2 Arena and every Two Door fan will most probably be there (who live in the UK of course). it will be the first arena they will play on their tour so it's a HUGE deal. Anyway the point is I'm unfortunately still at Uni that day so I won't finish till 4! Now "how will I get to the concert you say?" well here's how!

4pm I will run like mad to my taxi that I will have ordered to Horsforth Train Station. I will then hop on the train to Leeds Train Station.

Upon my arrival at Leeds Train Station I will meet my best friend Rais and we will catch the 5.15pm train to London Kings Cross (1st class oooo aren't we posh).

We will arrive around 7.30 (yes we are aware the concert starts around 6.30) HOWEVER I do not mind missing the first act I am here for TDCC only.

Meeting my dad and handing him my bag and then catching the tube to the O2 arena. I hope to arrive by 8pm.

Now I have been in close contact with the Two Door fans and we all agree that I will most likely get there in time so I will be ok!

IF YOU'RE READING THIS TWO DOOR (I wish) FEEL FREE TO GIVE ME A SHOUT FOR VIP PASSES FOR MY EFFORT TO SEE YOU!

But seriously if I met them I think I'd have a fangirl moment. I mean I might have a slight crush on Alex Trimble (no big deal).

Moving on! One of the other things I love about TDCC is their superb fanbase. I have made a lot of friends because of this band and they are all lovely people. I am hoping I run into a few when I'm down in London because I'd love to meet them!

Their new EP is outstanding in my personal opinion. It has been on repeat in my car when I drive to my flat, when I drive home and when I drive to Uni. It really puts me in a good mood and consequently excited for their upcoming show! If I could go to the Blackpool show as well believe me I would because I'd see them anytime I could!

So I know that everyone will most likely have an obsession! If you do you aren't alone I mean it's perfectly normal to have something that you care a lot about or have a hobby you love doing. Mine just happens to be going to gigs. Speaking of gigs next week I'm seeing Nina Nesbitt at the Cockpit which I'm dead excited about! Then I'm seeing Imagine Dragons in November and TDCC in December so a gig a month is alright. I mean there are many other gigs that I'm dying to go to but Dad's making sure I'm starting to save money since y'know "I'm a student". Just waiting to find a job that fits around my Uni course as at the minute it's really hard to find one that offers the hours I could work. However, I stay hopeful that I will find one that I will enjoy and can balance with Uni work.

"The rest is still unwritten"

Megan

Monday 7 October 2013

Perks of being a fresher

Taken inspiration from a film title there!

Anyway for all of you who have just begun University you may not be aware of all the money saving deals there are out there! McDonalds are ok if you're planning to buy a meal and then want some added FREE extras. If you have your student ID card on you, you can get a free cheeseburger, hamburger or mcflurry. However if you have your NUS card on you, you can get a free portion of fries. If you have both these cards you could get a cheeseburger and free fries!

As I am a fresher I have signed up to a lot of student sites. Student beans is a good site for jobs and offers. I have signed up to them for email alerts and they've sent me some great offers. As well as alerting you of the offers you're able to get, they also show you the funny student cooking disasters (some of which are unbelievable), as well as fun recipes (this week vodka jelly)! As with many emails not everything was useful, however sometimes it has saved me money.

Another advantage the NUS card gives you is 10% off your shopping at the Co-op! Now at first look this may not seem like a lot, however every penny you save adds up! I guarantee you that the money you save will most likely pay for a drink on a night out (within reason of course)!

Something that you all should take charge of are the Student Lock In's. I went to the one at Meadowhall in Sheffield. I'd never been before and I can honestly say it was so much fun! It was hectic but exciting as well. We got given a lot of free stuff, my friend won free nandos and I got a lot of good deals on clothes!

Now if you happen to miss these student lock in's never fear! Although the discount may not be as good and there won't be many freebies you will get a student discount if you have your NUS card on you. Now what is this NUS and is it worth investing in? Your NUS is useful if you're a shopper at heart! If you enjoy going out to the cinema etc I think sometimes it can be used to get you deals on things like cinema tickets as well. I think I paid £11 for mine which lasts me for a year. However, if you want to save money you can buy this for £32 (I think!) which lasts you for 3 years. Obviously this is an investment that eventually pays for itself!

So as you can see there are many ways for you to save money as a student as well as having many perks! These are a few simple ways there are obviously more!

Also a TOP TIP! Should you need books for your course shop around before buying! I bought all mine off amazon for £166. It was easier buying them there because the amount I saved on the other site ended up being spent on postage. At amazon the delivery was free.

I hope these few money saving tips have helped and that you're all enjoying university!

"The rest is still unwritten"

Megan

Sunday 6 October 2013

University Part 1

Currently I am at Leeds Trinity studying Primary Education Early Years. Obviously I want to become a Primary School teacher. That has been my dream job since I was very young. I think the thing that makes me want to be a teacher is the idea that one day I will be able to go into a primary school and make a difference. I'd love to be able to have children in my class that turn around and say that I helped them. I think that would be the greatest achievement for me.

I have to say that my course is enjoyable. Tomorrow I have P.E 10-1 and then I have TLA (Teaching Learning Assessment) 2-4. To say I'm not really an active person it wasn't as bad as I thought it was. I'm a little unsure of TLA actually is because last week we looked through what the module would teach us. What I did learn was that it was telling us how we can be a good teacher. I think as the weeks go by I'll learn a lot more so I can be the best teacher I can be. I am lucky enough to get Tuesdays off. I haven't decided whether I'm going to come home Monday night or if I'm going to stay over at my flat and do some reading for Uni and baking. Wednesdays are my favourite day! Even though I have to be up early I loved the lesson! Since I'm only in 9-11 it gives me a free day to do whatever I want! Sometimes that can be a good thing if I have a lot to do! Last week it rained and I ended up baking a cake. Thursdays are a quiet day. I'm only in 2-4 for Children and their Needs. However by week 6 I'll be in 10-4. Fridays I'm in 11-1 for Curriculum and Pedagogy. After that I usually go home for the weekend so that I miss rush hour before I hit traffic. This is what happened this weekend. I always enjoy coming home after a week on my own. I think it makes me appreciate things more e.g my mum's sunday dinners!

One thing I want to do next week is on Wednesday me and the girls are planning to go to the cinema to watch 'How I live now'. That should fill my Wednesday night nicely since I will have been sat on my own the majority of the day! Thursday night I plan to come home for the Student Lock in in Halifax. It's a lot smaller than Meadowhall but I could do with a nice pair of winter boots and if I can get them a bit cheaper for being a student that would be ideal!

I'm gonna cut this short as I don't want to bore you all!

"The rest is still unwritten"

Megan

Friday 4 October 2013

What to do when a guy likes you?

Haha don't ask me! Despite the title it doesn't mean I know what to do in this situation. When I think about it I never really know what to do when a guy likes me. I feel awkward not in a bad way just in a giggly, giddy, childish way (not that I'm sure that's any better)! I've liked a lot of guys recently because since moving to University I've found some genuinely nice guys who are worth my time.

In all honesty my luck with guys has been...non existent? I fall way to fast in love and due to my soft, marshmallow interior I get hurt easily. I've been told that this is a bad thing, and for a long time I hated myself for being this way. However, I feel that this is a strength. Nobody will understand how it feels for me when I fall in love quickly...I feel when I'm with the person that I have known them forever. I give trust too easily, but I forgive quickly.

Anyway! When a guy likes me I tell everyone I possibly can so I can prolong the giddiness. I am usually permanently red from blushing constantly and I often stay up texting the person until they fall asleep. To be honest I'm rubbish at playing hard to get. Now that is something I wish I could be better at! I'm so uncool.

My advice to you all is whatever I do probably do the opposite because I'm not one of those girls that gets 'all the guys'. I do believe if you want something you should go for it and don't stop until you achieve what you want. I applied for the student ambassador's job...unfortunately I was unsuccessful. Nevertheless it wouldn't deter me from re-applying!

*I understand that the title of this blog seems totally different to what this blog is actually about! I apologise for this ramble...a flaw of mine!*

While I'm writing I would also like to take the time to thank all of you who are currently reading this. No matter who you are I am so thankful that you have taken the time to read my blog. It took a lot of confidence for me to write these posts (some of which have made me cry whilst typing). Although it seems the tears and heartache has been worth it because some of you are reading this and obviously liking what I write. It doesn't matter why you're here reading this...but I want you to know that whatever that reason thank you!

So my beautiful readers. It's the weekend, now is the time for that confidence boost! If there's something on your mind that you've wanted to say...SAY IT! If there's a guy you like...tell him. The worst he could do is laugh and if he did that then you're better off without him if he's childish. Have self confidence and love yourself. It may sound strange but how can you expect people to love you back when you don't love yourself? If you've done something that you're proud of and stepped out of the box let me know in the comments or if you want to email me in private please feel free! I'd love to reply to some of you! No matter what the email is about I'm always open for a chat and if you haven't guessed I love to chat and meet new people!

Email me at: Megsiemaysmiles@gmail.com

"The rest is still unwritten."

Megan

Reflection

I've decided to change a lot of what I originally set out to do. Firstly I've made some changes to my blog. My friends had said they loved that I put "The rest is still unwritten" at the end of my blogs, so I've decided to rename the blog after that. Secondly, I've decided it's best for me to leave YouTube and work on my blog. I thought long and hard about this but after posting my first vlog and having problems with it I was just overall unhappy. I think if I work on my blog and establish it better then I'll think about going back to trying YouTube. On the positive side I know that I can put that time into writing more blogs. I love to write it's so enjoyable for me and I'm so glad that Abz told me to start blogging. I don't mind what people think, at the end of the day it's what I'm happy with!

That leads me on to today's blog. Reflection. When I'm alone or lost in a daydream (it happens I can't help it) I often look back on the choices I made or over-analyse myself harshly. I used to be really tough on myself, especially during Sixth Form. This was most likely because I was angry at myself for not getting the grades I wanted in my head, also because I was overall just unhappy. No amount of pep talks or 'good days' could change the way I felt about Sixth Form. As soon as my exams were done I have never felt so relaxed. I could breathe a sigh of relief that I only had to go back on results day. In all honesty I wasn't nervous for results day, only excited. This was mostly down to my parents. I am lucky enough to have such supportive parents who back me in everything I do. My dad said no matter what happened on results day I would always have somewhere to sleep and even if I didn't get into University we would find someway of getting me to my ultimate goal of being a teacher. Now I may not thank my parents everyday (sorry guys), but I really am grateful for everything they do!

Anyway, over-analysing! It happens to all of us and it happens because of triggers (in my opinion). This can be for a number of reasons; unhappiness, peer pressure, surroundings etc. The list is endless. Peer pressure can be the cause of over-analysing yourself or being critical of yourself. I don't mean peer pressure as in "you should be like this" I am referring to the way people around you are acting. I guess with that explanation it is like how children act in terms of modelling behaviour. We want to be like everyone else.

*Ok I will apologise now for being so 'intense' blogs are meant to be fun and this is heavy stuff. The reason I'm like this is because we've done some bits of psychology in some of the seminars.*

The thing you must remember is that the grass isn't always greener on the other side. You should be happy with yourself. Just because someone appears 'perfect' (whatever perfect is) on the outside doesn't meant that their lives are better than yours. I used to want to be like everyone else thinking that their lives were so much easier than my own. However, I don't know what happened but I gained some confidence from somewhere! It's a good thing though, without that confidence boost I never would have tried to write a blog, I could never have applied for a student ambassador job, I probably would have given up on University when I had lots of obstacles in my way. I wasn't like that whenever an obstacle got in my way (poor exam result) I fought through it and tried until I got it right. I was told I was never going to get a B in History because it was unrealistic with my current E. Nevertheless I retook exams and studied so hard and in January retook them and got an E and a C. I decided to resit the E and I finally got an A in that exam and in my Year 13 History exam I got a B. I proved that I could get that B overall and I couldn't tell you how happy I was to see that grade. I didn't care about the others! Just that I had proved everyone wrong and given myself a massive boost in confidence.

Well what should you take from this blog? Never give up! To succeed in life you need to be happy with yourself and confident. You don't want to be like the girl/boy next door or like the girl/boy who every guy/girl wants or the girl/boy who knows every answer in class. You are the best person you could be and you wouldn't want to change that! The world is there for the taking so live life to the full and have no regrets.

"The rest is still unwritten."

Megan





Thursday 3 October 2013

Keeping the bond

Life always has it's ups and downs and everyone knows that when times get rough it's the support around you that helps you get through it. The sad thing is that we go through life and the people around us change all the time. I think it's bad that when we become closer to people we seem to forget the people we were close to previously. It's ok to make new relationships and friendships, but why would you want to completely forget the people who used to mean everything to you?

One of my regrets in life is that over the years I have lost some of my closest friends because of loss of contact and because it was difficult to keep in contact. If I spoke to them now some wouldn't even remember me and others wouldn't know how to hold a conversation with me. In short these people have become strangers to us. We don't know everything about them like we once used to and the trust that was previously there is now just a scar of what was before.

Why write a blog about this? Well since moving to university I have realised how important it is to make new friends as well as appreciating the existing friendships I already have. The more friends you have, the more support you receive when times are hard. My friends have moved to different parts of the UK and although I don't see them I still text them. Some are easier to keep in contact with like Abz because we have so much in common and because before she left we were so close. In all honesty I think I miss Abz the most. I miss going into sixth form and plugging in my iPod listening to 'Now That's What I Call Disney'. I also miss having our late night snapchat sessions whilst watching our favourite YouTubers. We called last night and tried to FaceTime, but it is difficult with her internet at University.

One friend who I wasn't as close to before University was Hannah. We were childhood best friends and she lives about an hour and a half from me now. However distance is no longer the obstacle, it is my timetable and funds! I think this is the worst I have felt. The feeling I get when I know I could see her but that I can't get there is the worst!

One thing I want to advise to people who are already at University or maybe thinking of moving to University or even people who are moving around or have friends moving, make sure you keep in touch with your current friends. It is nice to think that when you return home for the holidays you can be reunited with your old friends and have a good catch up! I think we take people for granted this time and once you lose a friend it is really hard to remake the bond you once had. Don't have any regrets with friendships or relationships you have lost. Life is too short for regrets.

"The rest is still unwritten"

Megan

Middle of the week!

Today I had my first music lesson. This isn't where I learn to play an instrument, but this is where I learn how to teach music in primary schools. So far this has been my favourite lesson! I feel that music might be a strength of mine once I learn everything! Although I had the early morning I was glad that I finished at 11am. I decided to take a trip to the Asda that was 15mins from Uni in the car.

*car music*
Currently my car music is listening to Two Door Cinema Club's new EP. Changing of the Seasons is my favourite track, however overall I think this is an EP you should all be buying!

Anyway back to Asda, I bought a few things and drove back home to bake a cake in my new oven! I may have burnt it a bit but overall I'm happy with the end product.

I feel today I've been a bit productive! I also went for a walk further into Horsforth and looked around the charity shops. I would recommend that you should always take a look if you have time! It's so good what you can find! I bought two DVD's Atonement and the old version of Fame. I think it's rained all day but I managed to catch a few dry hours on my walk!

Came back made dinner (chicken wrapped in bacon with potato waffles and salad) and watched some recorded TV. Then my friend Abz and I tried to FaceTime and call eachother but I think she's pretty busy with Uni. Plus her Uni Wi-Fi isn't as good as the internet we would use at home!

My question of the day is;

Do you play an instrument? If you do what is it and how long have you played for? Maybe there's an instrument you'd wished you had learnt! Let me know in the comments below!

I wish I'd learnt to play the guitar. If anyone wants to teach me feel free!

"The rest is still unwritten"
Megan

Tuesday 1 October 2013

Busy, Busy, Busy!

Hello my lovely readers!

Firstly, I would like to apologise for being quiet and not updating my blog. A lot has happened and well, things have got on top of me! Last week was Freshers week and I must say I was underwhelmed. However, I have made some firm friends who I hope I will become even closer to over the next three years.

Freshers

I was excited for Freshers! I have to admit I was a bit shocked that the wristband to get you into all the events was £70! However, upon arriving at the University and finding out that I couldn't get on the events that I wanted I decided not to pay the £70 and instead I was going to pay £35 just for the Freshers ball. On Monday 23rd September I went bowling with the rest of the Freshers group. I was in a team with 7 other girls, who are all really lovely! To say I had just met these girls that day you'd have thought we'd known eachother for years! Sadly I didn't win the first game and instead I came last! However, in the second game I did get 3 spares one of which was from a really difficult split! I felt like a pro! Overall, bowling was pretty fun and a great start to the week.

Wednesday was the Freshers Festival and that was such a cool day as we got loads of free stuff! I signed up for a lot of groups as well. I've also applied to be a student ambassador as well! I have an interview for the position on Thursday which I'm excited about! I just hope that I am feeling a little better by then! 






Thursday was probably one of the more exciting days! I went to the student lock in at Meadowhall with my new friend Megan. She might as well be my twin the amount of things we have in common! This was my first lock in and I have to say the experience was so much fun! It was crazy how many students were there! There were discounts on so many stores I was shocked at how cheap stuff was. We headed to Levi's first. I really wanted to try on a pair of jeans as there was 30% off in store! As excited as I was I couldn't buy a pair of jeans for over £60 when they didn't fit nice. What we did get from Levi's was a wristband that entitled us to two free beers. I don't really know why I drank it because I actually hate beer! Next we wandered out of the store and queued up to try free shots and win Nandos. I was unlucky with the Nandos wheel, but Megan won the best card! A whole chicken or a free meal! We continued to look round the shops at the bargains and I bought a pair of jeans, a new dress and a tshirt from Topman for my brother. It was a fab day! There will be a vlog of this day up on my YouTube channel soon.

Friday night we went to the 90s night at the student union bar. Myself and three other girls (Liv, Megan and Zoe) went as Beanie Babies! We looked so good together! Everyone thought our costumes were fab! It was such a good night and I didn't spend as much money as I thought I would which is always good since I'm now a student! 










Saturday night was the ball (the event I'd forked out £35 for)! I have to say I thought it was a waste of money. I wasn't impressed with the food and the atmosphere seemed dead. Luckily I wasn't the only one as the rest of the students seemed to be leaving and everyone on my table wanted to leave as well. We all got taxis at 10pm. Talk about calling it an early night! 

I wore this to the ball- my hair has grown so much I am dead happy! Future Rapunzel!



Sunday was better. I made my way to my parents home for 10.20am. I watched my brother play rugby and then had dinner with the family. I got my new laptop which I am in love with and I'm currently writing my blog on now (whilst watching Pitch Perfect-again).

This week

So after Freshers week (which included intro lectures) the real lessons and work was beginning. It was Monday morning and I had P.E 10am-1pm. It was actually pretty good! I had made it out to be this horrible thing. It's only because I'm not sporty and I've never been good at sports! Although after yesterday's session it was actually really good!

The bad thing about this week is that I've come down with flu...or something. I have a really bad cough and a cold, my ears are killing as well. Although, I'm back at home now with my mum looking after me.

So a lot has gone on hence why my blog posts have been sparse! I do believe it has made this blog more interesting as a result.

So that's all for now! Hopefully, my next blog will be up soon!

"The rest is still unwritten"

Megan