Procrastination

I am guilty when it comes to procrastination. It has reached the point where I convince myself that my essay or assignment is due a few days before the actual due date, and I do everything the night before then. And when I hand it in and realise that I actually got the due date wrong, I'm like "but..."
So basically, the lead up to doing my work involves a lot of denial until last minute.

This post is for anyone who can relate with me about procrastination, so I'm just going to tell you my progress of doing work that I did the other day:

-Writing the title
-Start exploring iTunes and buy a song
-Start writing

5 MINUTES LATER...

-Making tea
-Go back to readings

5 MINUTES LATER...

-Listening to new music
-My thoughts: "I should study..." start writing blog post
-Return to study but can't find the right pen
-Looking for the pen, because all the other pens are useless for study for reasons I can't explain

15 MINUTES LATER...

-Found the pen but have no tea
-Make tea
-Send friend a youtube link I found that I can really relate to:

...AND THE DAY HAS GONE

So that pretty much was me the other day, and today is no better: so far I have made tea, started reading Vampire Academy (which I haven't read before and I'm really enjoying it) and I haven't even thought about all my homework that is due soon... wait, I have homework?

Ice-cream and I

I just found this picture and I thought it was really relevant to my last post: this is me when it comes to ice-cream 

And that is pretty much all I can say on the matter... 

Good customer service

This is a really short post, but I just want to share an example of good customer service, which is sometimes rare to come across. So, on the weekend I went to a chocolatier shop in the country, and despite it being 16 degrees and raining, I went straight to their homemade ice-cream.

The guy who was serving the ice-cream and I had a great chat about chocolate and ice-cream, he was very polite and we joked for a bit. He then let me try every ice-cream flavour: mixed berry, french vanilla, sticky date, mango and peach, bubblegum... all the flavours were incredible, but I finally decided on honey comb, which was absolutely delicious! It had chunks of honey comb within it, honey sauce running through it, and the ice-cream itself was so smooth and creamy! (As you can probably tell, I really love ice-cream) But what made my day, was that despite buying the small one scoop cup worth of ice-cream, he gave me extra scoops for free! So I basically had a mountain of ice-cream!

And that is what I call good customer service.

No filter

I am the most blunt and honest person ever! When everyone is born, they are born with a filtering system, but for some reason, I was born devoid of that. Apparently people think before they speak, and I never knew that- when do they have the time to do that? If I did that, I would constantly have pauses between each word and would never end up saying anything. Maybe that is a good thing?

My friends find it funny when I say something and it accidentally comes out as a double meaning, or it isn't the most socially acceptable thing to say for a certain scenario, and to be honest, it is quite funny. And I guess that makes me also a really trustworthy person, however, I am blunt and honest to a mighty fault. Sometimes I say or do something that I really shouldn't have said or done and it only results to me feeling stupid and another person feeling uncomfortable. And that is when I realise how bad this particular character trait actually is, and realise that my bluntness is seriously my downfall.

I said something that was too honest recently, and I ended up stressing and really feeling like a total idiot, which isn't the best feeling in the world. This is when my life can relate to Bridget Jones's Diaries:

So I felt really apologetic and regretful, to the point that today instead of wearing my favourite perfume that I wear every day, I am wearing this other perfume that I am trying to finish and only wear on rubbish feeling days. But thanks to all of my wonderful friends who put up with me!

Chocolate Cake

As today is Easter, I thought I'll share a chocolate cake recipe that my dad and I have used since I was really little- and that recipe has not let us down yet. The brilliant thing about this recipe is that it is so easy (because to be honest, it originally came from a kids cookbook), but the result is so delicious!
So enjoy this Chocolate Sandwich Cake!

Ingredients (for cake):

115 grams butter
2 eggs
115 grams caster sugar
100 grams self-raising flour
2-3 drops vanilla essence
1 teaspoon baking powder
30 grams cocoa powder

Ingredients (for icing)

115 grams of plain chocolate
2 tablespoons sour cream

Method:

1. Set the oven to 170 degrees celsius. 
2. Put all the ingredients for the cake in the mixing bowl
3. Mix all the ingredients together until mixture is smooth
4. Divide the mixture between two greased and lined cake tins and smooth it level
5. Bake the cakes for approximately 30 minutes until firm

Method for icing:

1. Break the chocolate up into a small bowl and pour in the sour cream
2. Heat a saucepan of water over a low heat
3. Stand the bowl over the saucepan of water and stir the chocolate and cream together until the chocolate has melted
4. When the cakes are cool, turn one upside down and spread half of the icing on it
5. Put the other cake on top of icing, then spread the rest of the icing smoothly on top of the cake.

Life on repeat

A while ago, for over a week, I had the same three songs on repeat on my iPod.
The simple question many people would ask is: why? And my simple answer is: these three songs are pretty much about different points in my life.
All of these songs are by Tori Kelly, who is incredible at writing relatable songs, hence why I am like "oh my god! She is singing about me!" which I'm sure many others would feel too. The selection here are probably her most popular songs, two of which are from her second album "Foreword"and the other from her other album "Homemade songs by Tori Kelly:"

Dear No One

"Sometimes I just want somebody to hold

Someone to give me their jacket when it's cold

Got that young love even when we're old.

Sometimes I want someone to grab my had

Pick me up, pull me close, be my man

I will love you 'til the end."

Okay- I'm going to be really honest, I'm not holding back when I say: THIS IS MY LIFE!!!! My friend recommended this song to me, and I can't believe how spot on these lyrics are. Sad, but true, these lyrics resonate out to me and to so many others out there, and this is what makes Tori Kelly's music so popular. It is one thing to be an incredible singer, but it is something even more spectacular when you can captivate an audience with such human emotions that you can all experience together within those chords, those words and those beats.  

Paper Hearts
Everyone who has ever had a breakup would be able to relate with the emotions that are expressed in this melodic piece of music. When a relationship ends, one goes through a roller coaster of emotions during the different stages. You begin with confusion and wonder what you have done wrong, which leads to the time of 'mourning,' then you become angry, but then you go confused again. And that confusion is constantly at the back of your mind while you have dips of sadness and then great heights where you feel fantastic: "yeah! I'm feeling great! I am better off without him/her!" And then you go up and down... and so on. This song is set in the stage when you come to accept what has happened, and you realise that what you once had is gone, but you know you will never forget, because when you love someone, they will always be remembered. This is the 'gracious' stage, and this song is that: gracious. The peaceful instrumentals and sweet voice is devoid of bitterness and  shows the pain of losing something precious.

"Pictures I'm living through for now

Trying to remember all the goods times

Our life was cutting through so loud

Memories are playing in my dull mind

I hate this part, paper hearts

And I'll hold a piece of yours

Don't think that I'll just forget about it

Hoping that you won't forget about it" 

All in My Head
This is for anyone who has ever liked someone and thought that they liked you back, but it turns out that it was "All in your head." Despite

"Every little glance my way

Every time you wanted to hang

You seemed so interested..."

you end up seeing that person with someone else. And that just crushes you inside, because you truly thought that you two could have been something. And you question whatever happened to all those moments you were with him/her and you felt something. When you had a shared moment that gave you that small flicker of hope that made your insides feel all fluttery, but in a good way. Together, you have the best of times; laughing, talking, just enjoying each other's company... but at the end, all that lead to nothing. 

****

To anyone who has ever experienced any of these emotions or moments in your life, I highly recommend these songs, because it is always an amazing moment when you discover a song that sums up your feelings (or in my case, life) perfectly. 

VIVA Festival 2014

I know this is a few weeks ago, but on the 23rd of March I volunteered at Melbourne's VIVA Festival, which was so much fun! Basically, it was a multicultural festival held at Federation Square (and for those who aren't aware what that is, it is pretty much the city centre in terms of events) that had different performances on multiple stages. Thousands of people walked through and participated in the day's activities, either watching the music and dancing, doing some craft activities or even just eating the food.

Now, the food just needs a paragraph to itself, because the variety of dishes was astronomical! Stalls were set up along the river of all types of nationalities. My job of the day was to hand out programs, which I did with my friend, and our "territory" was up and down this food lane-way.

And I can't describe how hungry I became just walking up and down these stalls and smelling these exotic and delicious meals being cooked! During our shifts, we would plan out which foods we would buy when our break would come. We ended up having Argentinian spiced chicken wings (yum!) on our first break, then the Philippine pork belly banana ketchup kebab, which sounds really strange, but it was one of the most scrumptious things ever! I'm beginning to salivate just thinking about it! I know that sounds gross, but I can't emphasis enough about how fantastic the food was! And this isn't even including the hundreds of other choices that were there, from all continents (except Antarctica, but that really can go unsaid) that I unfortunately didn't have the opportunity to taste.

It was such a lively and colourful day, and I'm so glad I was part of it. I'm really looking forward to next years festival, because it was an event that I would recommend everyone to go to. It is a day that celebrates everyone around the world, and allows for everyone to share cultures together- the music, food, the whole atmosphere was incredible!

Favourite Films

On request by one of my fabulous friends, I shall be writing about some of my favourite films that can hopefully give you ideas of what to watch when you have no idea which movie to pick. It's always really hard to think of a favourite movie, as there are so many, but I would have to say that these following 10 films would definitely be near the top of my list (in no particular order):

Bridget Jones's Diary
I'm going to warn readers now, I like romantic comedies, so if you don't like that sort of genre, I'm really sorry. Bridget Jones is a character that you can't help but love, and possibly you can see aspects of her in you (like singing 'All by myself' and doing air drums, look around the room and realise that you are recreating the first scene in the movie- or is that just me?). The realistic soliloquy of Bridget Jones's internal thoughts are fantastic and you can really empathise with her; it is such a funny movie that I love watching.


Love Actually

With an all star British cast, this is a romantic comedy that can't go wrong. It has multiple stories that you follow, each being unique and not all of them have happy endings. The lucky ones that do have a 'happily ever after' are so cute and make you smile, and, as Hugh Grant's character says at the beginning of the film, "you do realise that LOVE ACTUALLY is all around."

He's just not that into you
Continuing with the theme of a romantic comedy with multiple story lines, this is one of the American movies that has been given mixed reviews. I've heard that many people thought this film shallow and lacking a complexity of characters, but this is a light hearted movie that I can watch over and over again. Following who I consider to be the main character, Gigi, I personally feel that this movie can actually teach you a life lesson (probably because I'm slightly pathetic and thought that 'Monsters University' has a great life lesson in it too- by the way, that is an excellent movie as well).

She's the man
I like this movie not just because Channing Tatum looks amazing. I really enjoy the story line, which is based on the play 'Twelfth Night' by Shakespeare. When I first watched it, I actually was performing in my theatre classes production of 'Twelfth Night,' so I was so excited when I picked up on all of the Shakespearean references. And like Shakespeare's play, the movie is so funny! The relationship between Viola (who takes on the role of her twin brother, Sebastian, in order to try out for the boys soccer team) and Duke is really sweet. It's sad that Amanda Bynes has become a bit... let's just say, not the perfect role model, but her portrayal of Viola impersonating Sebastian is hilarious.

The Boat that Rocked
I'm mainly mentioning this movie because I absolutely love the soundtrack and could watch it solely for the music, mind you, the movie is fantastic, with an extremely talented British cast. Set in the 1960's, this is a film about a pirate radio station that plays rock music, and they broadcast on a boat- hence the title. This story line is entertaining and it really makes me want to live in the sixties, because they had such colourful and amazing music!

Ghost

Moving away from the comedic films now, the 1990 film 'Ghost' would be my absolute favourite movie! Actually, it does have elements of comedy, coming from Whoopi Goldberg. Starring Patrick Swayze and Demi Moore, the love that their characters have for each other, even in death, is so beautiful. I cry every single time I watch this movie- and I'm not embarrassed to declare that, because it is that beautiful! This is a timeless classic that will never be forgotten and will always be loved.

Beastly
Okay, please don't judge me, but I actually really like this movie. Most people I know who have seen it said it was a bad movie, but I'm sure that there must be someone else out there (besides me) who actually likes this film. It is a modern adaptation of 'Beauty and the Beast' which is based on the book by Alex Flinn. I do have to admit though, I actually haven't read the book, so I'm really sorry about that. I just love the premise of 'Beauty and the Beast' (which is my favourite Disney movie), so I really love this movie, and I don't care what people say; nothing will change my mind.

Les Choristes
This is a French film that I have been obsessed with since I started high school in 2008. My mum at one point even banned me from watching it whenever she was home, because she had watched it so many times. I can never tire of this exquisite film. It is about a failed composer who is sent to teach at a school for delinquent boys, and while he is there, he starts a choir. I make it sound so simplistic, but it is far from that; it tackles the concept of people being told they are failures- being at the "bottom of the pond" which is the name of the school 'Fond de l'Etang,' but proves that anyone can be incredible.

The Mummy

Completely changing genre again, 'The Mummy' is action, comedy, and brilliant. I have always been fascinated with Ancient Egypt- and don't get me wrong, I do realise that this movie is completely fictional- 'The Mummy' literally brings the mummies to life. I actually sound mad, I do want to clarify that I know that none of this can actually happen, but when watching the movie, you can believe that the curse of the mummy (Imhotep) is true. The movie takes you on a journey to stop the apocalypse, and you are convinced the entire way.

****

I'm struggling to think of a 10th! There are so many amazing films to choose from! Okay... this is seriously taking a long time to think of one... if you only knew how much time I'm taking to think of one, it's like I've forgotten every single movie I've ever watched! Um... let's go with:

Toy Story trilogy
I know that is cheating, as that is three films, but I just think these are some of the best animated movies ever made! I have grown up with Toy Story, with the first one coming out the year I was born. And because I've grown up with these genius films, when the last one came out and we see Andy all grown up and going to college, it is like someone has electrocuted you- it is that much of a shock. You are like "but Andy can't have grown up!" and it's so upsetting! The last movie, I do have to say, I cry. Doesn't matter how many times I've watched it, I still cry. I sound like such a cry-baby, but I just don't understand how you can't cry in this film. When it came out at the cinema, I went to see it with my younger cousin (ten years younger) and he didn't cry, and I was like "how? what is wrong with you!" If, by any chance, you have never seen any of the Toy Story films, or don't know what it is about- which I really can't believe, because let's face it: it's Toy Story- please see it! Just watch it please, and don't think you are 'too old' to be watching a 'kids' movie, because you are never too old for Toy Story.

And there you go. I hope that you have a few ideas with what to watch, and once again, I'm sorry if none of these films are your style. I'm one of those fussy people when it comes to watching movies so I don't have a wide range of genres; I don't like many movies, but the ones I do like, I can watch over and over...

Flattered or Offended

The other day it was really hot; the sun was burning and the breeze wasn't one of those really nice refreshing cool breeze that sometimes relieves you from that furnace. It was the type of day that you don't want to go outside because the heat makes you so sleeping and you have the chance of falling asleep in the bus, if the bus wasn't as pungent. Anyway, on that day, I decided to wear a dress to university... While I was walking to the bus stop, a car slowed down, and the male driver tooted his horn and gave me the thumbs up. I ended up catching the bus feeling self-conscious and worried if my outfit was too revealing.

When talking to some female friends of mine, I discovered that they have experienced similar scenarios. And I don't know if we should feel flattered that someone thinks we look good in a particular outfit, or if we should feel offended that we have been objectified in such a manner. It is really a question I began pondering on, and then I remembered how this guy's actions made me feel (quoting myself from before) "feeling self-conscious and worried if my outfit was too revealing." I shouldn't have to feel any of that; on a hot day and I decide to wear a dress, I shouldn't have to stress about the fact that some guy is going to make me feel like a a library book.

 I'm not going to rant for too long about how women shouldn't have to deal with this degradation put upon us by a minority of guys out there, but I just want to say: I personally don't think it is okay for a random guy to slow down his car, toot their horn and give thumbs up at a random girl on the street. I'm not saying you can't admire someone, but be a bit more respectful... And my rant is done.

Friend Request

One of my friends the other day was telling me what I could write about in some of my future posts. These ideas went along the lines of: "favourite movies, favourite songs, favourite books, how amazing we (my friends) are." I know she was joking about the last one, but I'm going to be embarrassing her and dedicating this post to these two friends!
As I like being anonymous, these amazing people are going to remain anonymous too, but you know who you are! You requested this (granted, it was as a joke) so here it is!

How do you know when someone is a true friend:

-They share songs with you that they are listening to, and by chance, that song that they recommend is the song that pretty much sums up your life, so you have it on repeat for days. (And is still on repeat right now)

-They introduce you to the funniest youtubers ever and you can laugh and relate to those videos together

-Even when you are in a bad mood, they automatically make you feel so much better and you love them to bits for it

-You can easily decide which ice-cream flavour to share. And you can enjoy eating that whole tub together, wearing masks and being so prepared for the ice-cream, you all brought your own spoon from home

-Even though you only have known each other for a short time, it feels like you have always been friends and can tell them anything

-Being with them is better than watching an episode of 'Friends'

So, to everyone out there- be good to your friends, because they are the best part of you!

Can't get to asleep?

I haven't written in a while, as I've been overloaded with university stuff- I really need to work on my time management skills. But to make up for the weeks of complete silence from me, I decided I'm going to write short, random topics as often as I can. Today's post is dedicated to sleep... I find it hard to get to sleep at night, but music has always helped me. And strangely enough, the music that makes me fall asleep every time is Linkin Park. I don't know how that works, as they aren't the first band you would think of to be a lullaby, but I'm just weird like that. 

But sometimes I just look at different songs on youtube and listen to songs that friends recommend to me. As I love discovering new songs, I thought I might share with you some of the songs that I've recently heard and have fallen in love with. They are fantastic songs when you can't sleep as they are the sweetest songs to hear when you begin to drift into the dream-like state:

All of Me- John Legend

Fill A Heart- Tori Kelly

Almost is never enough- Ariana Grande and Nathan Sykes

Say Something- A Great Big World and Christina Aguilera 

My favourite number is four (for no particular reason), so instead of giving an overload of songs, I will just stick to these four. So, if you can't get to sleep, this selection are melodic and extremely beautiful. Enjoy!