XX Commonwealth Games.

We are currently right in the middle of the 20th Commonwealth Games, hosted in Glasgow, Scotland. I love watching any sporting major but this one was particularly special for the Farrell Family Household! Early in the summer my brother, Tom Farrell, was selected to run for England in the 5000m race on the 27th July, so we have been eagerly awaiting the Commonwealth Games!

Many of you will know that we are quite a sporty family, with my Dad being a 3.44.78 1500m runner and my Mum a 1.86m high jumper. I'm currently playing hockey in America for the University of Massachusetts and hope to continue my hockey career after university and maybe one day achieve an international selection.

Flashback!

In 1986 my Mum was selected to compete for England and travelled up to sunny Scotland to jump at the Edinburgh Commonwealth Games, now, 28 years later my brother also found himself travelling up north to Scotland for his first Commonwealth Games too! Back in '86 my Mum, Jenn Farrell, placed 8th in the high jump, a very successful performance. Therefore, the ongoing joke was that Tom had to try and beat Mum's position of 8th place...

Tom has had a summer of successful races leading up to the Games including the British Championships and the Oslo and Glasgow Diamond Leagues. He also spent the majority of his time training up at altitude in various places such as Utah, Kenya and Font Romeau, in order to maximise his training. Tom flew back from altitude a few days before his race in Glasgow and was then dropped off at the athletes village to prepare for his race on Sunday.

The night before Tom's race felt like Christmas Eve. We were all filled with excitement, nerves and anticipation! My parents, Gran and I left home at 7am on Sunday as we had tickets for the morning hockey session. The hockey was great, despite a bit of drizzly rain! We watched Australia beat Scotland 9-0 and then England beat Maylasia 5-0. Even though the hockey was world class, I couldn't help thinking about Tom's race later on in the day.

When we reached the athletics stadium at Hampden Park, we were greeted with lots of family and friends who had made the journey up to Glasgow to support Tom. Thank you to everyone who bought tickets, it was great to share the experience with family and friends in the stadium! We were all equipped with loud voices, England flags and 'TOM FARRELL" t-shirts, looking like the ultimate fan club! I can't decided whether I was more nervous or excited, but either way it was an overwhelming experience. I can't imagine how Tom felt stepping out on to the track in front of 45,000 people. The atmosphere was electric from start to finish.

Tom ran an amazing race, finishing 7th and running the 3rd fastest time of his career, 13.23.96 for 5k. Tom stayed with the leading pack for the race and executed a great championship run. After following injury disappointment before the London 2012 Olympics, this was Tom's first senior Championships and his experience was extremely successful. Most importantly, he managed to beat Mum's Commonwealth achievement of 8th place! However, there's no time to celebrate yet because he has jetted off back up to France to get some more altitude training in before the Europeans in Zurich.

Our time at the Commonwealth's was short but sweet, but truly unforgettable! Glasgow has done a fantastic job at hosting the games so far, apart from large crowds making transport very busy, our experience was great. The officials at both the hockey and the athletics were extremely friendly and helpful. Let's hope the success continues for Team England!

That's all from me, time to get my hands on some England kit! Thanks bro!

Here our some pictures from our time at the Commonwealth Games.

 Ciao,

   Hannah x

Be Happy. Stay Healthy.

"Do more of what makes you happy."

Wherever you are, whoever you are and whatever you do, there is nothing more important than being happy. Personally, the little things in life make me happier each day, such as having a good nights sleep or tasting something new for the first time. I love having extra time on my hands in the summer because I can try new things and allocate more personal pampering time. I'm well aware that the luxury of long student holidays won't last forever, so I'm enjoying them whilst I can. Even if you work full time and lead a very busy life there is still time to put yourself first. Here is some advice and tips to help you lead a happy, but healthy lifestyle!

Beneficial Breakfast

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Fact. So why not start your day off with something healthy, tasty and fun! I need to listen to my own advice here because I'm a sucker for a bowl of Coco-Pops in the morning, but I can't deny that when I make a more beneficial and nutritious breakfast I feel happier, fresher and healthier. I feel much better about myself when I chop up some bananas and strawberries, throw them in a bowl of yogurt and sprinkle some nuts all over, rather than simply pouring a sugary bowl of cereal.

Check out some more lovely breakfast ideas here -

http://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/collection/healthy-breakfast

Appreciate Alfresco

Get outdoors! This is the easiest thing to do in order to have a healthy lifestyle and you'll reap the benefits instantly. There are no excuses to stay indoors during summer, especially as the weather is beautiful in Britain this year! Ideally, aim to get 30 minutes of outdoor exercise per day such as a walk, run, bike ride, yoga, tennis or go for a swim. There has been a huge increase of outdoor/park gyms in England, that are a great way to get an outdoor workout in, so find the nearest one to you. Even if exercise isn't your thing, there are huge benefits of just getting outside. Just by spending more time outdoors you will improve your Vitamin D levels, your body will learn to heal faster, have higher concentration levels and overall, be happier. So go and embrace Alfresco living!

                                 
   

H20 Hydration

Drink more water! This is something I've been trying really hard to do lately, especially when it's hot. My room is very hot at nights and sometimes I feel very dehydrated. Therefore, I always try and have a couple of ice-cold glasses of water each day. Drinking a cold glass of water in the morning helps to increase your metabolism, which will help decrease the rate of your weight gain. If you are wanting to lose a couple of pounds, try and drink more water throughout the day and especially before meals so you feel fuller. I've been drinking water when I need a boost of energy and I also put a small pinch of salt in my glass to help hydration. Most importantly, water dramatically increases the condition of your skin as it keeps it hydrated and reduces pimples and helps your face to look clear and glowing. 8 glasses a day will keep the Doctor away!

Significant Sleep

There is no doubt that everyone feels better after a good nights sleep. Studies have shown that getting more sleep reduces chances of health problems and risk of injury. Half an hour before going to sleep, turn off you television, phone or laptop and relax, read or write. Let your body wind down properly! Recently, I downloaded and app called 'Sleep Time' which calculates how much sleep you need, wakes you up with a progressive alarm and sends you to sleep with sounds of running water. I love going to sleep to the sound of water and it's much nicer waking up slowly rather to the loud ringing of an alarm.

Fun Fulfilling

Have some fun! Play a game, get crafty, do what you love to do! For example, I started up this blog again purely because I love writing and enjoy being creative. Obviously I would love to have a huge audience reading my blog, but if 50 people are enjoying my posts then that makes it more worthwhile for me. Whether you want to paint a picture, start a blog, write a book, design a product or set up a YouTube channel...just do it! The other day, me and my best friend decided to find our inner child and get artsy again. We designed a small jewellery boxes and a hanging heart decorations for a bit of fun and a good laugh! Try something different instead of sitting in front of the TV every night, get out a board game, get crafty or play outside. I promise that it will make you fell that little bit happier. You don't have to be a child to do what you really enjoy!

My jewellery box and decoration :)

Check out this bracelet website and get creative and maybe make your own -

http://www.evelynselegance.com/

Here are some homemade bracelets that you could make too!

Enjoy the weather and most importantly...be happy and have fun!

"Happiness is not something ready made. It comes from your own actions." - Dalai Lama

Ciao,

Hannah x

July Favourites!

Every month I will be publishing a blog about my current favourite things of the month. There will be a large range of things included in my monthly 'favourites' post, from beauty products to television shows, food, music or fashion trends. 

Here are this months favourites..

• Duck Egg Blue, Limited Edition Nail Polish - No7

I don't paint my nails religiously but in the summer months and when I love a particular colour, I do like to paint them every so often. My Mum was given this nail varnish when shopping at Boots as a free No7 promotion. The colour is called 'Duck Egg Blue' and is Limited Edition. I absolutely love the colour because it's so fresh and summery! It has been my 'go to' colour all summer and I just can't stop  using it! I've experimented matching different colours with the No7 and my personal favourite is the bright pink OPI called 'Kiss Me on the Tulips', painted on my 4th finger with the rest 'Duck Egg Blue'.

• Dot, Body Lotion - Marc Jacobs

Ever since I returned home after a week in the Spanish sunshine my skin has been really dry and patchy! I have never experienced this before because I never usually peel after being in the sun. However, I normally follow up sunbathing with plenty of aftersun, but this time I didn't and my shoulders and back began to peel. The second I saw signs of peeling I had to grab the nearest moisturiser! Fortunately my Marc Jacobs Body Lotion was closest to hand. I absolutely love the polka-dot packaging, so it has been acting as pretty decoration since I was given it as a gift. I'm so glad I finally opened it as it is gorgeous. When I use it people always comment on the beautiful scent and ask what perfume I'm wearing!  Also it has acted as a brilliant moisturiser and I can't stop using it! Mmm!

• X Liberty London Roshe Runs - Nike

I didn't jump into the Roshe Run hype straight away but eventually I had to see what the big deal was all about. Browsing the shelves I wasn't intending on buying yet another pair of shoes but when I saw the 'X Liberty London' design I literally couldn't resist. I adore the design of the shoes, especially the brown string laces. The second I tried the shoes on I knew I had to have them, it felt like walking on clouds. Legit foot heaven. I would nearly go as far as saying it was the most worthwhile money I've ever spent on shoes! I can't express how comfortable they are! One issue is that I may have to replace the string as it's wearing down a bit haha...even so, a pair of Roshe Run's is a footwear essential for all!

• Cookies and Cream - Kit Kat

Our goodie box at home has some staple products in it such as, McVities Chocolate Digestive, Caramel Wafer, Time Outs and Kit Kats. Recently I was surprised to see a new type of Kit Kat appear in the goodie box. I was intrigued by the brand new blue packing, labelled 'Cookies & Cream.' Life Complete. If I'm honest, I was a bit hesitant at first, especially when I opened the wrapper to discover a half white/half milk chocolate Kit Kat. It's safe to say this new flavour is absolutely delicious and I've given my Mum strict instructions to stock up in case it's a limited edition and gets removed from the stores!

• French Connection Eye Shadow Collection

This eye shadow pallet has 15 versatile colours, 2 applicators and a perfect large mirror inside. I'm loving this set of eye shadows as it has a colour for every occasion, weekday, weekend or night out. The packaging is slim and very practical so it's perfect for travelling. I've been taking this pallet everywhere as it suits my needs for many different outfits and looks. There are subtle neutral colours as well as bold, bright tones and even dark shimmering options. The eye shadow itself is great quality and lasts all day and into the night! You won't need anything else!

I hope you liked this blog and have a great rest of the week! Enjoy this beautiful summer sunshine whilst it lasts!

Ciao,

Hannah x

My Summer Reads...

The only time of the year that I get to sit down and read a book is in the summer. This obviously excludes all the wonderful textbooks I read sooooo much of at university...hmm. Anyway, regardless of whether I actually read my college books or not, I do look forward to picking a selection of books every summer.

"Never trust anyone who has not brought a book with them." - Lemony Snicket

Reading is one thing that I really enjoy and I wish I had time to do it more often. If I pick up a book when I'm at university I end up feeling guilty because there is always something else I should be doing! For this reason I really look forward to buying new books every summer.

"The person, be it gentleman or lady, who has not pleasure in a good novel, must be intolerably stupid." - Jane Austen

Just a pre-warning for any book lovers out there. I enjoy a variety of books but when I'm relaxing on holiday I personally prefer a simple, light-hearted read. So, here are some short reviews of each book I have read over the summer :)

1. Being Binky by Alexandra Felstead

For anyone who knows me well they can confirm that I am a self-confessed 'Made In Chelsea' addict! If you're not familiar with 'Made In Chelsea' it's a reality TV show which follows the lives of the young, wealthy and good looking Chelsea stars. Binky has always been one of my favourite characters on the show and I couldn't resist buying her book. It was a very fun, easy read with lots of exclusive gossip and stories! The book also opened up to more difficult times in Binky's life, such as bullying and her parents divorce. Overall it was an enjoyable and interesting read!

Rated 3 stars.

2. The Fault in Our Stars by John Green

Not many people are aware of the YouTube community, but for 3 years now I've been following numerous internet sensations. Therefore, John Green's book was a must read as he's also a hugely successful YouTuber. I loved every page of this book and I read it in a couple of days. The way in which Green approaches the difficult topic of teenagers with cancer is sensitive yet cleverly devised. He tells the story truly from a teenagers perspective and creates a story of love, happiness and adventure out of such a sad, heart-breaking reality. Even though I shed many tears reading this book, I would definitely read it again. Highly recommended for all ages, as it's a story I think everyone can relate to.

Rated 4 stars.

3. Confessions of a Wild Child by Jackie Collins.

Some say you should never judge a book by its cover but I have to admit, in this case, that's exactly what I did. The combination of the 'Wild Child' title and the summer scene of poolside tanning with a cocktail in hand, urged me to buy it. I thoroughly enjoyed this book as it included family dramas, spontaneous adventures and the wild sex lives of the teenagers! The main character, Lucky Santangelo, is sent to an all girls boarding school and I could really relate to her experiences there as I went to boarding school too. This was a fantastic book and I can't wait to read the other books on Lucky's love life, family fortune and misbehaviour!

Rated 4 stars.

4. Finding Harmony by Sally Hyder

'Finding Harmony' is a true story about Sally Hyder who was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. The day that Sally met a golden Labrador named Harmony, her life changed for the better. The book follows Sally and her family's day to day routine and how one dog changed her outlook on life. I did like this book as I'm a huge animal lover. However, the book had quite a long, slow lead up to when Sally gets her dog. I was beginning to lose interest in the book as I was more intrigued to read about the training of her dog than her background story. Either way, the book is an emotional roller coaster but in the end one dog transforms it into a heart warming story.

Rated 2 stars.

5. Daddy's Little Princess by Cathy Glass

Now, I haven't actually read this book yet but it's sitting on my bedside table waiting to be opened. I regularly read material by Cathy Glass I wanted to include it this review as I absolute love her work. Cathy Glass is an inspirational woman who has fostered children for years, all ages, short or long term. All of the children she fosters have shocking life stories which she individually publishes into books. I have already read 8 of Cathy's books and each one offered an insight into a life you can't even imagine, full of sexual and physical abuse, drugs and poverty. As heart wrenching and saddening the stories are, I do like to read them as it puts life into perspective and reminds me how lucky I am. I encourage you to read any of Cathy's books as they show the sacrifices she has made to foster such challenging children but she perseveres in order to transform their lives for the better.

Seeing as I haven't read this particular book yet, I'll rate Cathy Glass as an author. 

Rated (Cathy Glass) 5 stars.

Hope you enjoyed this post!

"If one cannot enjoy reading a book over and over again, there is no use in reading it at all" - Oscar Wilde

Ciao,

Hannah x

A Fresh Start.

Ok, so here goes.

A fresh start.

Here I am over 10 months later finally writing another blog. I can't promise when my next blog will be, all I know is that I want to start writing again. I really would love to build up my blog, so I guess it's time to start putting some effort, consistency and persistence in place! 

“If you want to live a happy life, tie it to a goal, not to people or things.” - Albert Einstein

Over the past few months there have been a number of events that have put life into perspective for me. Certain things have made me realise that life is way too short to sacrifice your happiness. Therefore, I've made the conscious decision to do more of what makes me happy. I strongly encourage you to do the same.

"Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever." - Mahatma Gandhi

I am feeling very refreshed after returning from a week in Spain with family and friends. We were fortunate enough to stay in a beautiful villa in Puerto Banus, near Marbella. The weather was flawless, we were blessed with wall to wall sunshine all day long. There were so many cafés, restaurants, bars and beach clubs to visit that I am already planning to return next year!

"If you do what you love, it is the best way to relax." - Christian Louboutin

In the forthcoming weeks I plan to spend some quality time with my family and friends before heading back to America. I'm looking forward to the upcoming weeks as there are some exciting things in the pipeline!

"The most important thing is to enjoy your life – to be happy  - it’s all that matters." - Audrey Hepburn

So now I've made the promise to myself to keep up this blog. From now on, I plan to vary the content of my blog posts by exploring new topics and publishing more opinionated discussions. I also want to delve into broader subjects, such as writing about lifestyle, motivation, favourite products, popular trends, celebrities or even animals! 

Who knows!?

Ciao for now,

Hannah