Wonderlander

Like Violence, You Had Me

2011-11-27T21:27:00.001Z

Soooooooooooo, I've been up to quite a lot... Had one of the most exciting nights of my life at the Incubus concert- they were mindblowingly awesome- bought myself a t-shirt as a little memento!

I finally fot round to making the Christmas cake with my Mum- it smelt so good when it came out of the oven- just need to feed it with brandy for a few weeks now!

I've done my part for charity this week, and bought two of Topshop's charity bracelets (£2 each with £1 going to Centrepoint)

I've been for a walk and a yummy slice of vanilla fudge cake with my good friend Amy,

I've re-lilac'd my hair!

I've tried out my first set of Violent Lips temporary lip tattoos (EEER-MAZING)

And I bought some super cool metallic pink jeans- they make me feel like a bonafide rock-chick!

I had a lovely day up in London this weekend, and I'm going to go up again this week to see the Grayson Perry exhibition. I'm on a bit of a high- life is good right now.

Wonderlander x

I'm so excited!

2011-11-03T21:37:00.000Z

I've been working, working, working and I'm really enjoying my job! I've been busy on my days off too!Here's a little low-down:

Found some Christmas cake (from last christmas!) in the larder and it was still good!

Day-of-the-Deadified myself for a Hallowe'eny night out on Saturday...

Went to London last Sunday to see my lovely Richard- we had lunch at Leon (yum!)

He bought me a little wolf earring...

And we had tea and cake in Patisserie Valerie (this seems to be becoming a tradition)

I re-mermaided my hair! It goes from purple at the top through to green at the bottom, but it just shows up green in my photos! (You can see the faded out effect in my Hallowe'en picture)

I went up to London again a couple of days after seeing Richard. My Mum and I went to the Postmodernism: Style and Subversion exhibition at the V&A (didn't rate it that much) then went for sushi at Kulu Kulu and then popped along to the Wildlife Photography of the Year exhibition at the Natural History Museum (it was AMAZING). We had a cheeky macaron from Laduree while we got a bus over to Soho, then had some dinner and went home. Lovely day!

I bought some jazzy shoes from Topshop in the sale...

And have been munching on special raspberry pop tarts for the new American sweet shop in town!

Tomorrow, I have a short day at work, and then I'M SEEING FREAKING INCUBUS IN CONCERT in the evening. You can't understand how excited I am.I only found out that I was going on Sunday night, so I've been counting down the days this week and I CANNOT WAIT! Not sure if I'll take any photos or not- will probably be to busy rocking out!

Wonderlander x

Glitter Like Diamonds

2011-10-10T21:58:00.000+01:00

Work is going so well! I'm going to be doing to more days of nail painting at the end of the week, so I'll have some fun with that! Topshop's big theme for their current Unique collection is Dalmations! So maybe some black and white spots?I won a bag of sweets at work on Saturday- they make my face crinkle up! Yum.

I'm sad that raspberry season is over. They are my favourite thing! But my Mum bought one last punnet of really big ones- I put them on my fingers like Amelie.

I went for a lovely walk on Sunday, as I had the day off work. I found a few fungi, but they were all a little past their best, so I didn't take any home. This one is a penny bun.

And I'm debating whether or not to re-purplify my hair...It's gone a light grey-lilac candy colour now, and I quite like it. Hmm decisions!

I didn't win the Rizzle Kicks poster competition (see last post) but thank you to anyone who 'liked' the photo!

Also, I'd like to give a little shout out to Nicola of Inside the Cabinet of Wonder and Hattie of Inside the Mind of a Disco Ball . They have fab blogs and always leave me lovely long comments that make me feel like I know them!

Wonderlander x

When I Was A Youngster

2011-10-09T21:48:00.000+01:00

Hello! I have a huge favour to ask of you lovely folks! Would you please click HERE and 'like' this photo of my brother and I when we were youngsters! It's for a Rizzle Kicks competition and I'm through to the finalists list, but I need your help to win!

Thank you a squillion million

Wonderlander x

My Heart is Blue For You.

2011-10-03T23:21:00.001+01:00

I love Topshop. I love it. Everybody's really nice and I've already been put up to full time! I think I'll be pretty knackered by the end of this week, but I can't complain! I've been up to so much in my spare time too!
I dyed my hair a purply-blue colour (it looks blue in the pic, but it's more purple in the flesh)

I've bought lapis earrings at the monthly market in Farnham,

I've been taking the dog for lots of walks and finding wild raspberries in the hedgerows,

Enjoying the sunny weather...

Enjoying a naughty treat from Waitrose (ooh la la)

Making crumble with apples from the neighbour's garden,

Getting arty with my nails (I then did a day of nail painting at Topshop!)

Going for a Wagamama with my Dad,

Getting glammed up for the Topshop boat party (woo!)

And sailing down the Thames having a good time!

(I've also been messing around with multiple photo apps. on my iPhone...)

It's been a brilliant couple of weeks! What have you all been up to and did you get the chance to enjoy the sunshine?

Wonderlander x

It's Not Who You Were, It's Who You Are

2011-09-09T16:16:00.001+01:00

Well, It's been a VERY good week. I had several interviews and two job offers, and can happily say I will soon be working for Topshop!Life certainly proved to me that nothing is ever straightforward though, and that good things never come easy.
It's also been a good week just based on the little things. I took the dog for a lovely walk and snapped these roses in the hedgerow,

The new Incubus album arrived and has been on repeat ever since!

I went to a little market on Saturday and found some vintage plates,

Got my undercut re-trimmed for free (not that you can see it!) and dyed my hair a lovely grey-blue-lilac colour,

Went for lunch in town with my Brother (who's gone off to Bestival- the jammy git) and found this tough looking necklace in Primark for £3 (barg!)

And my friend Anna came round for tea and a good catch-up.

All I need to do now is some singing! I feel like part of me is missing when I'm away from the mic for too long! And I miss singing in London with Gronk and the Body Doubles- those guys are class. Hopefully I'll get to do some soon. In the mean time I have plenty to keep me occupied.

Wonderlander x

It's Been A Long Time But I'm Back In Town

2011-08-29T22:11:00.000+01:00

It's not you, It's me...
I have been away on holiday (photos will follow eventually- my camera only went and died on the last day didn't it?!), I have been job hunting (had a couple of interviews!) and catching up with a few of my school chums.

I got some new badass loafers to wear to interviews, so at least my feet look smart...

My mum bought me some Chavtastic earrings...

And here's a picture of the ridiculously superbad Jeffrey Campbell shoes I bought in NYC!

I'm going to try to update this blog more regularly than I have been lately so watch this space and thank you so much for sticking with me.

Wonderlander x

Always Look On The Bright Side Of Life

2011-07-21T21:04:00.000+01:00

Let me introduce myself...I'm Anna Harvey Williams, BA Hons! I did it! I am a graduate! I am back home for the time being while I hunt for a job, but first I'm off to New York for a few weeks! I am so unbelievably excited! There will be a HUGE photo spam when I'm back!
While I'm away why not follow me on Instagram? My username is wonderlander! Here are some of the photographs I've taken over the last couple of weeks-

I've been buying glittery green lipstick (it doesn't look green on your lips- just really sparkly!) and making scones for my Mum to sell at school...(had to make sure they weren't poisonous...)

I've been up to London to see my friends and go to the Science Museum. I then missed the last train home and got stuck on my own, so had to find a 24 hour cafe to sit in 'til 5am!

I've had my hair chopped off, whitened and a little undercut done on one side...

Given the dog a bath!

Seen in the summer with my friends in the park...

Been getting my 5 a day (at least!)

And I went up to London with my Mum a couple of weekends ago to see the Tracey Emin exhibition at The Hayward- it was really interesting! We also walked along the Southbank in the sun, had some yummy food from a market and a nice cold drink in Gabriel's Wharf- lovely!

It's been a good couple of weeks! Now bring on NYC!!

Wonderlander x

Everything's Changing

2011-06-20T00:09:00.000+01:00

I've had some super-funtimes in the couple of weeks since I finished University. I've had cups of tea (and Snapple! Shlurp!), slices of scrumptious strawberry cheesecake and long natters with friends in Lee Rosy's, dressed up as a cat (Bopp is a fantastic club night at Pandora's Box in Nottingham) and a Native American-Indian on nights out and celebrated the end of an era with a couple of close friends from my course with a few cocktails (French Martini thankyouplease).

It's scary to think it's all over. Three years has gone so fast! Before the job hunt begins in earnest, I'm going on hoilday to New York and having a bit of time to take it all in and think about my future and what I really want from it.

Wonderlander x

Sometimes You Gotta Work Hard For It

2011-06-11T22:23:00.000+01:00

So that's it. I am officially done with University- everything has been handed in and been on display at the degree show for the last week, and I can breathe a sigh of relief! As promised, here are some pages from my final project, which was the expansion of Christopher Kane into the homeware and interiors market...

Alongside dveloping and designing the products, I had to come up with marketing strategies and promotional ideas. As part of this I designed how a Twitter page could look for Christopher Kane.

It's been tough getting to the end of my degree, but I feel so proud to have finished it. I get my results in the next couple of weeks, and I have plenty to think about now that I'm done...

On to the next chapter!

Wonderlander x

To Quote Gordon Ramsey: DONE

2011-05-26T20:59:00.000+01:00

The months and weeks of hard work and worries have finally come to an end. I'm DONE. Printed, bound, sorted! Hand-in is tomorrow by 12pm, and then I get my life back! The first (and most important) thing I'm going to do is go to the pub with my coursemates for a drink! Then I'm going to sleep, as I haven't had much of that in the last week...

I've ket myself amused whilst working in this final week by going blonde (apparently we do have more fun)

On a brief venture outside I bought two very pretty vintage bowls for £1.50 each

On the same venture I managed to purchase these absolutely fandango shorts (whoops)

And then to fuel my photoshopping and report typing strawberry French Fancies were the answer!

On Saturday I went out for my friend Sarah's 20th Birthday- the theme was O.A.P's. It was a really fun night and thankfully none of us got Raptured...

AND FINALLY...
Here it is! My Christopher Kane report that has been consuming my attention for the last leg of my degree!

I'm going to do a full post showing my report in a few days, once my degree show starts.

I feel a little bit lost and dazed now it's all done. That's it- time to get a real job. Time to be a proper adult...

Good luck to any of you who have exams or who are completing coursework at the moment- let's hope it will all be worth it!

Wonderlander x

It's Not Over Yet

2011-05-12T14:38:00.000+01:00

So, apparently I've been somewhat distracted by my degree and have neglected my blog and my lovely followers for a few weeks...enormous apologies for that. As you can see, I have found time to purchase a pretty teacup when I see it (it was £3.50- how could I NOT?)

I've been focusing on my work- I've got two weeks left of being a student and then I'll be done! I am currently fuelled by Kinder Happy Hippos (which really do make me happy) copious amounts of tea (no change there then...) and the odd night out with friends to hold on to my sanity.

I went to Phlebas at Bar 11 on Tuesday and painted my nails with my new Barry M effects varnish. And yes, I did my hands the opposite of each other...

Last Saturday my friend bought me a rose when we were in town- so sweet of her! (A lady was selling them and I said I'd never been bought a rose off of someone in the street before, so before I knew it, Kayleigh had got me one (and I quote) 'to shut me up'- how romantic...ahem) It's gone a bit crinkly now, but I've put it in an old Jagermeister bottle to dry out.

The nights out are starting to show on my poor old gold shoes...

To wind down before I go to sleep, I often doodle or write a bit. I've just finished my 'I Like...' book that I've been doodling for the last year- here are a few pages from it. I need to scan them really but it gives you an idea!

So yeah, just been a bit busy really, and I expect the same will be true of the next two weeks to be honest. I can't wait to finish though! It will be such a relief.

Wonderlander x

Dirty Shoes, You Served Me Well

2011-04-20T17:27:00.000+01:00

Got Picasa working again! (Yaaaaaaay!) It seems I have to uninstall and then re-install it every time it has a little hissy fit. At least it means I can finally upload my photos from my Easter break! I didn't take many photos when I went to Brighton with my Mum, but I did remember to take one of our yummy fish and chips! (It would have been rude not to have traditional seaside nosh!) and I took a few on the pier, but it was very sunny and a bit bright for a decent picture!

Back in Nottingham, the first thing I did was run out and buy Crazy Colour in 'Cyclamen' and give my hair a little spring make-over. The parts that had been purple had gone white and I fancied something bright, but that would work well on the parts of my hair that weren't bleached! I've been told my hair is like a rainbow three times tis week! (Albeit a rather plummy rainbow...)

My Mum sent me back to Notts with an Easter egg, which I was going to save 'til Sunday, but I couldn't resist and cracked it open a day ago...

When we were in Brighton, we saw this beautiful Vivienne Westwood hankerchief. My mum bought it for me as a little extra Easter present which was so kind of her! It's so me! Bright colours! Macaroons! Stripes! I love it! It's never going near my nose mind, so I'll have to think what I want to do with it!

And finally, as spring is upon us, I decided it was time to splash out on some new plimsols, as my old ones are, quite frankly, buggered...

I wonder how long I can keep my new ones clean...

Wonderlander x

Bat Your Eyes Girl, Be Other-Worldly

2011-04-08T23:08:00.000+01:00

My computer has reverted back to not letting me upload photos without crashing, so...I'm going to post a few pictures/ things that have been inspiring me lately.

First off, these amazing Jeremy Scott for Adidas shoes. They've been around for a while but every time I see a photo of a pair my heart flutters.

The print on this cushion! I love anatomy, I love natural forms, I LOVE juxtaposition- this sprouting anatomical heart is just perfect.

Brandon Boyd always. Incubus are just my favourite band ever.

This hair. Meadham Kirchhoff s/s 2011. It's a weave, but I'm sure someone could re-create this for me properly?! Might start painting on giant eyelashes too...

My Christopher Kane project that's currently driving me insane. Only have 7 weeks left though and then I'm done with Uni forever!!

I'm going back up to Nottingham on Sunday (for the beginning of the end) but before I head back, my Mum and I are having a day out in Brighton! Fish and chips, a stroll on the beach and round The Lanes, and I'm hoping to go for tea and something sticky in The Mock Turtle Cafe!

Wonderlander x

Ch-Ch-Ch-Changes

2011-04-06T23:45:00.000+01:00

A short but explanitory post- The look of my blog is going to change a bit! Not a huge change, but I want to take the look from being ever so slightly twee, to being a bit darker and more striking.

I think it will better reflct my 'Wonderland', but the themes and content of the blog will stay the same! (Florence, tea, music etc...) This is my new header design- what do you think? I wanted something more graphic than my previous headers, but that still tells you about me and my loves. The square ties in with the design of my Tumblr blog, as I wanted more coherence across all of my online endeavours!

A change is as good as the next thing ey- isn't that what they say?!

Wonderlander x

I Said I'd Rather Be With Your Friends Mate, Cos They Are Much Fitter

2011-03-30T19:24:00.000+01:00

It's been a little while ey? My excuses include: my computer being on the fritz, so every time I open Picasa everything freezes (grrrrr); my Uni internet not co-operating; and my distinct lack of photo-taking lately (partly due to the fact I can't upload pictures without my laptop dying on me)

HOWEVER...

What I have done recently (and manage to upload photos of successfully!) is only go and meet Kate Nash! My friend Kellie and I went to see her at The Rescue Rooms in Nottingham last week and we stayed for the club night after the gig and got to meet the wonderful lady herself! She even stayed and DJ'd! We met her band too- who all come from where I live- so we had some banter about that! It was the most perfectly cool night I could have had!

That is a 'cat' on her head. I really wanted it!

She signed our tickets!

Kellie and I with the Bassist, Emma- who was so lovely. We had a good dance to Nashy's DJing!

The rest of the week was a fantastic blur of friends, nights out and big realisations. The closer I get to the end of my degree, the more I want to be involved in the music industry. Kate Nash, her band and the support band- Brigitte Aphrodite- were all so positive and encouraging when I talked to them about my musical ambitions. They left me feeling really sure about it.

This week, I'm back home for the Easter holidays (but I go back to Uni way before Easter Sunday- go figure...) Time to work, relax, and make some decisions before the last few weeks of being a student are upon me.

How is everybody? I'll try not to leave weeks and weeks between now and the next post!

Wonderlander x

If Anything Could Ever Be This Good Again

2011-03-08T23:21:00.001Z

I am so very knackered. I really struggled to drag my bones out of bed this morning. I've had an absolutely fantastic week, filled with nights out and funtimes, that ended with Carnage on Sunday night (which certainly did what it said on the tin!)

Time to knuckle down. Gameface on. Nose to the grindstone etc. etc.

My new tattoo has healed nicely- here's a photo my Dad took of it when we went to London a couple of weeks ago. And one of me being a right poser...(the posters were for Wonderland magazine, so I figured...)

I always look in the Men's section of Primark for t-shirts- they always have ones with really neat prints on that womenswear just doesn't seem to manage. Here's what I've found in good ol' Primark recently...(with the exception of the Black Adder Red Nose Day tee!)

Here are some little mittens I found for £3- it's been so cold lately! But optimistically, I've also snapped up these retro sunglasses (again from Primark!)

And last but not least...here's a picture of my new nose piercing! I got it done on Friday. The starting ring is quite big, but once it's healed I'll put a smaller one in! My brother asked me if I was having a belated teenage rebellion when he found out...

I don't plan on having any other piercings and it will be a while before my next tattoo.

Life's fun when you live it.

Wonderlander x

I've Been Here Before A Few Times, And I'm Quite Aware We're Dying

2011-02-25T20:51:00.000Z

I had a wonderful time with my Mum when she came to stay with me in Nottingham last weekend. So wonderful infact, that I hopped in the car with her on Tuesday and came back down south for the rest of the week. Certain situations being as they are, home is a very good place to be right now. Whilst in Notts, we ate fish and chips at Slug & Lettuce, enjoyed yummy cocktails (and equally yummy barstaff) at Coco Tang, walked the dog in the Arboretum as well as seeing True Grit at the cinema and indulging in a slice of carrot cake and a pot of Earl Grey Blue Flowers tea in Lee Rosy's.

I am so glad I came home with her though. It meant I went to London with my Dad on Wednesday- we wandered all over taking photos (although, I didn't take many!), and in the evening we went to The Wilmington Arms on Rosebury Ave. to see Gronk & the Body Doubles perform a truly rock and roll set. This is the band I normally sing backing vocals with, but due to Uni pressures I hadn't seen them in over a year! It was so great to have a catch up with the boys. I miss it so much. Once I've got my degree behind me, it'll be straight back into it!

This is just a photo i took in London. I loved her bright red hair and the wiggly bench.

And these were in one of the entrances to Liberty's- they make me think of spring!

And just a picture of a necklace that I bought the other day. I like the morbidity of it.

I'll be back up in Notts on Monday, and to say I'm looking forward to it wouldn't be totally honest of me. It's kind of funny- I seem to be going through one of those phases where I have so many questions about life. Why do some people do the things they do? Why does time and place matter so much? Why isn't anything ever straight-forward? And so on...

If you know the answer to any of these (somewhat cryptic) questions, send me a postcard.

Wonderlander x

No Pain, No Gain

2011-02-18T01:50:00.000Z

It's 1:30am. Why am I still up? Who knows?

The last week has been a blur of deadlines, nights out to celebrate completed deadlines, and then straight into the second semester of my final year of Uni. To be honest I think I'm still awake at this time og night because my body clock is somewhat buggered at the moment (isn't this the case for all students at some point?!).

The events of the past week are as follows (in not very much detail at all I'm afraid):

I received an 'Unbirthday' card to follow on from my birthday card by the wonderfully brilliant Andrew Lee. How perfect for me could these cards be?!

And I got my 5th (and biggest to date) tattoo on Saturday. The design is called 'Soft Anatomy' and is by a very talented girl called Rebecca Ladds (these photos are just after having it done- fresh, fresh, fresh)

The tattoo has gone all crusty and gross - as tattoos do - and I'm doing my best not to scratch it! It should be all healed in a few days time.

My Mum is coming to stay for a few days on Saturday. We'll have a few belated birthday drinks and have a wander round Notts I expect. It will be lovely.

Wonderlander x

I'm a Free B*tch Baby!

2011-02-11T14:59:00.000Z

I am a technology whizz. FACT. Well, I got my Picasa going again (after it kept freezing then crashing my laptop) and I have FINALLY been able to upload my photos from a few weeks ago (and more importantly my birthday snaps!!). The first thing on my camera was this scrummy Welsh Rarebit. I had it for brunch with my Mum when I went home for a few days (when ze boiler broke)...

I bought my lucky charm necklace back to Notts with me - I felt I might need it in the run up to my project deadline (which was today!) I made it up from charms that I've bought over the years.

At last I can show you all my purple hair! This is proper purple- the last 'purple' was rubbish and washed out really quickly!

Onto birthday funtimes! I managed to super glue four of my fingers together and inhale too many fumes in the process, but I made my GaGa glasses and crown and they looked fantastic (even if I say so myself). I lost a few crystals off the glasses in Rock City, but the crown stayed intact!

This is the card I made for my friend Anna - it was her birthday too, so we had a joint party.

My GaGa make-up (inspired by the Telephone video)

I'm pulling dippy faces in ALL of the pictures from the night out - but this one is ok! Slash and Amy Winehouse are in the background. I felt like a celebrity in Rock City! So many random people asked me for photos - I made a very good GaGa!

I had such a good night and a lovely (albeit slightly hungover) day the next day (my actual birthday). I'm so pleased to have handed all my work in too! Although there's no rest for the wicked - the next stage of our course starts on Monday.

How is everyone? Got plans for Valentines day? Or going to spend the evening watching films with your gay flatmate and overdosing on cheesecake like me?!

Wonderlander x

Just Want My Cigarette and Hush

2011-02-05T01:33:00.000Z

They say bad things happen in 3's. So far today, I've had 2 out of 3. My ipod wiped itself clean today and my computer has decided it hates Picasa and won't let me upload/look at /sort anything also causing it to freeze then crash my laptop. I'm almost surprised that I managed to cook my tea without burning it or dropping it on the floor! I stuck most of my songs back on my ipod (some I have lost forever- grrr) and I have manually switched my laptop off and on 4 times now. I think good things must come in 3's too- I've been given the Stylish Blogger Award for a second time (!) by the lovely Olivia Grace and so I am required to tell you seven things about myself.

1. I have made my own GaGa crown (and bejewelled glasses) for my birthday night out on Saturday evening. I have taken some pictures of it, so when my uploading issue is sorted I'll do a GaGa post!

2. I have booked my next tattoo. I'm getting it done in a few weeks time. I think it's beautiful. I find it funny when people say 'Oh but what about when you're 70?' My attitude is it's just skin and if I have to live with Diabetes for the rest of my life I reckon I can live with a few other marks on my skin. (Just FYI, I do already have 4!)

3. The dyed strips in my hair have gone dark purple (again, I would post a photo...) It's quite dramatic and will last much longer than the lilac colour I had done recently, which faded to grey in a matter of days.

4. I have no idea what I would realistically like for my birthday, but if I was allowed to pick my fantasy company for the day it would be this cutie, Jamie Campbell Bower...

5. It a tough job for a film to make me cry. I watched Nowhere Boy the other day. Everybody said I'd cry at The Notebook- nothing. Everybody said I'd blub at Marley and Me- Nadda. John Lennon's tough early years made me well up (there was almost an actual tear)

6. I had Spaghetti Hoops on toast a few days ago. I haven't had Spaghetti Hoops in ages, and as a Mighty Boosh fans will understand, I've had the phrase 'Do you like Spaghetti 'oops? Yeah they is good in't they' stuck in my head ever since I bought them.

7. My 3 most played songs at the moment are End Credits by Chase & Status ft. Plan B, Wonderman by Tinie Tempah ft. Ellie Goulding and Alejandro by Lady GaGa (good god I love that song!)

I'm so excited for my birthday!

Wonderlander x

Let's Have a Ball and a Biscuit Sugar

2011-01-26T22:37:00.000Z

I've been given this 'Stylish blogger Award' by the lovely Peacock's Hat! It requires me to tell you seven things about myself- it's been a while since I've had to think up things like this! 'Interesting' is so subjective- I hope these cut it!

1. I really want to shave a little bit of my head- a la Ellie Goulding, Alice Dellal and the This Is England '86 girls- but I don't know if I'll actually ever go through with it!

2. I'm not a girly girl. Don't get me wrong- I love florals, pink, frills and glitter, but I'm a huge fan of black, tattoos, skulls and studs.

3. I have a list of songs that I would have as the soundtrack to the movie of my life. They include: Venice Queen by Red Hot Chilli Peppers, Ball and a Biscuit by The White Stripes, Drive by Incubus and Everlong (Acoustic) by Foo Fighters.

4. The best thing someone can do is make me laugh.

5. Cotton Candy is my favourite Baskin Robbins flavour ice-cream.

6. One day, I WILL be on the mainstage at Glastonbury. (I can dream ey?)

7. My absolute favourite film is Back to the Future (pt. 1)- I know it word for word. Love love LOVE it.

There!

In other news, I've come back down south for a few days, as my flat's heating and hotwater troubles aren't being sorted until the weekend. I got completely fed up with layering up and having to hug a hotwater bottle 24/7 (not to mention the cold showers!)

So hopefully a spell at home, in the warm, will do me good and I'll be able to get on with the mountain of work I've got on at the moment.

Post me an interesting fact about yourself in my comments!

Wonderlander x

Speak To Me Gently, Tell Me What I Want To Hear

2011-01-21T23:27:00.000Z

I am sitting in at my desk, shivering with cold because our goddamn boiler has broken. My hot water bottle is stuffed under my covers, warming my bed, ready for me to jump in there, stick my head under the duvet and try to warm up! There is frost on the ground in Nottingham. Bad timing or what?! Brrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr.

It's been another odd week. I've mostly been putting the finishing touches to my dissertation. Inbetween doing that, I broke my favourite glass (made me weep a little to tell you the truth); tried white chocolate oreos (so sweet!); had an excellent couple of nights out (one of them I was accidentally dressed like Pebbles from The Flintstones); have become a little addicted to mango flavour Emmi Swiss yogurt (Waitrose is a deathtrap for yummy things) and had a night in with my lovely flatmate Richard (we had a Disney-fest!)

It's my 22nd birthday on the 6th of February and the night before I having a 'Famous Musicians' themed bash. I'm going to be Lady Gaga! I've decided on my outfit but haven't made it yet, but when I was in London recently these inspired me!

I've also become a little obsessed with Tumblr (I know I keep going on about it) I like having another forum through which I can express myself. It's quite different to this blog though. (This one's my heart and soul!) Here are a couple of the...erm...'word photos' (?) I've made for my Tumblr. Words over vague photos seem to be a big hit on there...
The two bits of text come from a song I wrote called 'Speak To Me Gently'

It's sad for me to say, but my musical companion and I have drifted apart. I'm still writing songs (and have something exciting lined up in the next couple of months!) and I hope to focus more on my singing once I've finished my degree and move back down south.

Wonderlander x

Nice to Know You. Goodbye.

2011-01-13T21:49:00.000Z

This week has had its ups and downs. That's a major understatment. Let me think of a better way to put it...This week has had some real high points and it has also left me with headaches, clenched fists and a minefield of emotions. Suffice to say, it really sucks when someone proves you right in the worst way possible. The realisation that they are a completely different person to who you (and many others) thought they were is just plain crap. The high points were sky high though! I went for Christmas 2.0 on Sunday at my friends house- we had veggie sausages (they're all veggie) yorkshire pudding, stuffing, carrots, the lot! It was delicious! Then we played a few games and had a good catch up. I got my hair done on Monday- I was bored of the pink slice, so I've now got a lovely blue/grey/violet colour worked all through my dark brown curls- it doesn't show up very well in the photo, but it looks ace!

I got my dissertation draft back on Tuesday- haven't done too badly at all! Just need to get the final thing done and dusted now- thank you to everyone who helped out with my survey for that! Then last night I had friends over to my flat for drinks and then we headed off on a bar crawl- it was such good fun! We ended up in a kareoke bar! I sang Sex on Fire (someone had to!) and Torn.

It's been busy busy. So I haven't really taken any photographs in the last few days, but I have made these 'lyric pictures' (primarily for my Tumblr blog) The first one is taken from a song that I wrote, called 'Glitter'

This is from 'Black Heart Inertia' by Incubus. The lyrics should read: 'sick of all this inertia, oh won't you mend me?' but I always sing 'I want to human be'. I like my adaptation.

And this is 'Drive' by Incubus- it's one of the covers I sing and I love singing it. I can always find an Incubus lyric to relate to. Brandon Boyd is a lyrical mastermind.

Here's a snippet of purply hair- when I manage to take a better photo I'll stick it up!

Are there some lyrics that strike a chord with you?

Wonderlander x

Is a Constellation Just a Constellation?

2011-01-07T17:38:00.000Z

So, I've been glued to Tumblr for the last few days and I've come to the conclusion that nebulas, triangles, crystal pendants and short shorts are most definitly in at the moment. I've got to admit, I don't entirely get why the young girls on Tumblr seem so obsessed with these things, but hey, we're all obsessed with something. It did prompt me to make a little picture though-

I'm currently a little obsessed with dip dyed hair- like Abby Lee Kershaw's in this picture. I reckon it's the next logical step from my strip of pink (which has gone strawberry blonde) What are you currently a little bit too in love with?

I've not been up to anything really the last few days- mostly packing to go back up to Notts tomorrow, so I thought I'd show you some pictures that a guy I knew at secondary school- Calum James- took. They're just photos of his uni life, but I think they are so effective and beautiful. What do you think?

I've put these pics on my Tumblr too- don't worry, I'm not about to abandon blogger! I use the two quite differently- go have a look!

Let's hope term two brings plenty of good adventures.

Wonderlander x

You've Got To Be OK To Sink

2011-01-04T22:19:00.000Z

So far so good. The New Year brings leopard print ponyskin boots, a trip to London with my Mum and Laduree macarons in sunset colours, slouching around in the Batman sweater that I got for Christmas. Oh, and a major blog revamp- what do you think of the new look? I'm still tweaking bits here and there, but it's pretty much done.

My Mum and I had a little look in Selfridges whilst we were in London- they had Baba Papa toys- she used to read Baba Papa stories to me and my Brother when we were little, so I have quite a soft spot for their smiley faces...

The macarons were delicious- last time I had them was almost a year ago in Paris!

I'm back to Uni in a few days time. I think that's when the resolutions will properly begin...

Wonderlander x

Just Cos You Think It, Don't Make It So

2010-12-30T19:31:00.004Z

It's almost here- 2011. The end of the year. The end of a decade. Time to make resolutions that are inevitably going to get broken faster than you can say 'post-Christmas diet'. Speaking of which, did you all have a wonderful time? Did you get the presents you wanted? Did you stuff yourself silly and go back for seconds? (Won't lie- that's exactly what I did) Here's a little snapshot of my December 25th...

This photo of me was actually taken on Boxing day- I wore HUGE false eyelashes on C-day, but was so busy sipping fizz and ripping through wrapping that I forgot to take a picture...Then here we have my little dog Bertie, curled up in wrapping paper on my Mum's bed...

Some lovely bits and bobs I got in my stocking (yes I still get a stocking at 21...)

See the Alice badge?!

The main event- ooh it was 'mazin'

A few things from under the Christmas tree...

This little ring sits on my left index finger in place of the 'love' ring that broke in November...

This necklace was from my Dad, as were the socks and some lovely clothes from Whistles...

This issue of i-D is inspired by my favourite film ever- Back to the Future! My Aunt gave me the Cath Kidston hand cream- it smells so good!

And just to round of the festivities- here are some mince pies we made...

For the new year I'm going to do a couple of special posts just to introduce myself/ re-introduce myself to my lovely readers. There's also going to be a fairly radical blog makeover- new year, new look y'know? Might let you know my resolutions too (and then I might stick to some of them...)

In the mean time, have a totally fantastic New Year's Eve and catch you on the flip side!

Wonderlander x

I Wish It Was Christmas Today

2010-12-24T00:34:00.002Z

Dear Father Christmas- I would like life to be uncomplicated. I would like my real friends to know how much I love them, and I would like more glitter to put on my (slightly manic looking) face. That would be grand. The picture below was from a couple of weeks ago when I dressed up as a bauble (not much different to my normal get-up) for a house party. I think it's safe to say I'm not very good at taking photos of my own face.

Since my last post, I've come home for the hols, decorated the Christmas cake, eaten mince pies, had mulled wine and gotten thoroughly bored of the snow...

My mum decorated the tree way before I finished Uni- she couldn't help herself!

And now I'm ready to tuck myself up and enjoy two more dream filled sleeps until C-day. Can't wait for Family (9 of us this year and two dogs!) presents, bubbly, turkey, chestnut stuffing, sprouts, parsnips roast potatoes...oohhh! Then plenty more booze and changing out of my fancy christams day outfit into my jimjams by about 4pm. Marvellous.

I wish each and every one of you a wonderful Christmas and a fantastic New Year!

Wonderlander x

Overexposed is the Word

2010-12-07T11:23:00.004Z

Burlesque night was brilliant. I did have more bum cheek on display than I had planned, but it worked! I'm in the middle of writing my dissertation- the draft is due in on Friday, so apologies for the short post on that basis! Christmas holidays start on Friday too, and I can't wait!

Wonderlander x

Oh The Weather Outside is Frightful

2010-11-28T22:27:00.002Z

Snow!!! I got woken up by a text saying 'Snowman anyone?' on Saturday morning so I jumped out of bed and sure enough Nottingham was under a powdery blanket of cold whiteness. First thing to do was dress up in lots of layers and warm, not-gonna-make-me-fall-on-my-face-shoes, and go out for a wander! Eventually my hands got rather chilly from taking photos (mittens don't really allow for decent-photo-taking)

After I was happy with my camera action, I went down into town with my friend Shane and we had a little look at the Christmas Market that has just started in Notts, and we had some yummy paella for lunch. Warmed our cockles it did. Then we did what all good students do and went for a pint with our friend Kayleigh, before going back to their flat and watching some films. It was a really chilled (pun definitely intended) day.

I will take some pictures of the Market at some point but it's nowhere near as wonderful as the one last year. Also, on Wednesday, it's my friend Christina's 21st birthday party and the theme is BURLESQUE (gawd I hope it doesn't snow that night!!) So I'll make sure I get a pic of my outfit (if I'm not too embarassed by it considering that it's essentially underwear...)

Show me some comment loving guys- what are you up to this week? Has it snowed where you are?

Wonderlander x

Let's Make This Happen Girl

2010-11-21T23:23:00.003Z

I've had a lovely weekend back home in Guildford. I decided quite suddenly that I needed to come home for a few days- sort a few things out, see my family, give the dog a cuddle- that kind of thing, and I'm glad I did. It's just what I needed. My Mum and I made the Christmas cake while I was back- it made the house smell so delicious and fruity!

We had a little wander round town too- I found these brogues in the sales (love the colour!)

And my Mum gave me a little tea cup that she was going to give me for Christmas, but decided to give it to me a bit early- it's 119 years old!

We also went to see Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (pt 1) at the cinema- I really enjoyed it! I can't wait for the second part- but I'll be sad for it to all be over- like so many of us, I really have grown up with Harry, Ron and Hermione.

Has anyone else seen the film yet? What did you think?

Wonderlander x

I've Got A Family And I Drink Cups Of Tea

2010-11-15T00:01:00.005Z

Captain Cor Blimey I've had a lovely weekend. On Friday, I went to The Walk for a cup of tea and a slice of cake with my friend Sarah- we enjoyed the yummy Victoria Sponge and had a good natter while it got dark outside. Later on Friday night, we went to the pub for a drink- there's a cider festival on at the moment, so I tried some really yummy mixed berries cider.

My Dad came up to see me on Saturday. We had a really nice day out- we had lunch in a little sandwich shop that served really big sandwiches...

We had a cup of tea in a little tearoom called 'The White Rabbit' (not Wonderlandery enough by far unfortunately, but the salt and pepper shakers were cute)

We had a wander round the shops and my Dad bought me a couple of little things- yes, this superb hat was one of those things...

as was this adorable 'Snowy' dog (I'm not usually one for cuddly toys but...Aww look!)

And he bought me this scrabble mug. I love the letter 'A' and luckily it's the first letter of my name too.

I bought myself this little bag in TKMaxx- It's my new 'going out' bag I think...

I worked hard all day today (oh, and then nipped down Tesco in my tartan jimjams, parka and new monkey hat...) I researched loads of things for my various uni projects- please do my 2 surveys that I've linked in my previous post- that would really be a great help.

Looks like it's going to be a busy week this week too. Funtimes.

Wonderlander x

Help!

2010-11-12T14:18:00.004Z

Hello hello! Calling ANYONE AND EVERYONE who reads/follows this blog!! I need you to do me a solid favour and take both of these surveys for me! Please click on the links and help me out!

Tribalism Survey

and...

Festival Fashion Survey

Thank you so so much! Don't let me down!

Wonderlander x

Every Fire Is A Lesson Learned

2010-11-09T20:40:00.003Z

Went to the long-awaited Paramore gig last night. Not quite what I hoped it would be. Don't get me wrong- Paramore were fantastic, but after being pulled under the crowd during the second song, panicking, being lifted out of the crush and missing practically the entire performance, I didn't exactly enjoy myself as much as I thought I would. It's a shame, but hey- what can you do?

General phafferties have gone on this week. My friend Amy came to stay and we had some delish cocktails at Coco Tang...

I got given a flyer with a love heart sellotaped to it, which made for a good ten minutes photography-based entertainment...

My 'Love' ring broke. It's now my 'ove' ring. Badtimes...

I made a card for my Mum's friend Andrew- a skull seemed appropriate...

And that's about it really. I've applied for some exciting work experience- I'm really hoping I get to do it. Don't want to jinx it though!

Wonderlander x

Hello There, The Angel From My Nightmare

2010-11-01T15:27:00.003Z

I don't mean to scare anybody with this photograph, but I thought I should show you what I looked like on Saturday for the gig that I did with the hilarious (again- I don't mean to offend...) Arse Full of Chips. Mikie and I covered ourselves in fake blood, got scissor-happy on some cheap white shirts (I holeyfied a cheap tube skirt) accidentally inhaled burnt polyester fumes from singeing our tattered shirts, rubbed white stage paint all over our arms and faces and generally got our zombie on. It took us a good half an hour and countless swear words to get the blimmin' white contact lenses in- but they were worth it in the end. We were the scariest zombies I saw all weekend!

Last night (actual Hallowe'en) we dressed up as Goths for a friend's house party- I looked like a mash up between Smell from This is England '86 and David Bowie in Labyrinth (really loved my eye make-up but I didn't manage to get a decent photo!)

Did any of you dress up? Hope you had as good a Hallowe'en as I did!

Wonderlander x

I Wish We Could See If We Could Be Something

2010-10-28T00:58:00.003+01:00

I had a really wonderful long weekend with my Mum. We had a bit of retail therapy, ate out and enjoyed some yummy food and saw 'The Social Network' at the Cinema (TOTALLY brilliant by the way)

Naturally I bought some lace bunny ears (for general everyday wear) as well as a pretty aqua coloured bow to sit in my pink hair...

I bought some tights with black hearts on them and my Mum bought me this Alessi heart shaped spoon...

Raspberry pink frilly socks (obvs) and a canvas bag with a big A on it...

The biggest surprise/ knock-out excitement came from my Mum's friend Andrew, who sent my belated 21st birthday present up to Notts with my Mum. And I'm sorry, but this deserves capitals and a large font size- he gave me:

AN ALEXANDER McQUEEN SKULL SCARF!!!

I stood there saying 'Ohmygod. Ohmygod. Ohmygod' for quite some time.

I am, of course, a little terrified to wear it (google it and you'll see why) but a little terror never held me back before! (Seriously though- eek)

Thank you Andrew so very, very much x

Wonderlander x

Pink It Was Love At First Sight, Yeah Pink When I Turn Off The Light

2010-10-21T19:30:00.002+01:00

I was optimistic on the presentation front, to say the very least. My ideas were not quite to the tutors liking. In the immortal words of Hugh Grant in Four Weddings & A Funeral;
Bugger! Bugger! Bugger, bugger, bugger, bugger!

Life in general is a little weird at the moment to be honest. They say bad things come in threes- and I've had my three in the last week, so at least some good is due my way! I've done a few really nice things in the last week too- my Dad came up to Notts on Saturday and we had a good day out; I've been for tea and cake at The Walk with my chums; I've dressed up and been for yummy cocktails...

Oh yeah- and I dyed my blond (formerly pale pink) strip of hair bright pink! I LOVE it!

I feel dead rock chick with it so bright! But it works really well with my dark hair and penchant for outlandish clothes...Whaddya think?

Wonderlander x

Some Day You'll See Things My Way

2010-10-15T10:53:00.002+01:00

In just over an hour I have to do a presentation to my course Tutors, pitching three ideas for my 3rd year final project. They will then help me decide which one out of those three I should do. I have spent ages putting the powerpoint together and I'm really pleased with it, but who knows what they'll think. Luckily for me, I don't really suffer with nerves (I'd never be able to sing onstage if I did!) I'm sure it'll be fine.

I've not done much else this week other than preparing myself for the presentation. My Dad's coming to see me this weekend and Mikie & I have learn a few new covers- Rude Boy, Decode, My Way (Limp Bizkit- hells yeah!) and Love's Not a Competition amongst them.

Who's done something much more interesting than me this week? Go on- make me jealous!

Wonderlander x

Cats and Rabbits Would Reside in Fancy Little Houses

2010-10-11T16:33:00.003+01:00

"Is there anybody there?" said the Traveller, knocking on the moonlit door. And his horse in the silence champed the grasses. Of the forest's ferny floor...

'ello.

I've not had the best, most fresh start back at Uni. What was meant to be my first week back was mostly spent in hospital with a rather nasty sickness bug, hooked up to drips and being monitored (those of you that are new to my blog may not know I'm Diabetic). Not the most fun as you might imagine...

So today was my first day back and there's no rest for the wicked. In at the deep end as it were, but it's quite exciting in a strange 'Oh Em Gee-Whizz this is gonna be a lot of work' kind of way.

Alongside my Uni work, I'll be gigging (as ever) and keeping up with blogging- in fact, I'm going to have a go at doing a little 'wardrobe blog' if you like. It's called Wonderlander Through The Looking Glass. Have a peek- the first picture's up today.

I went for a little walk in The Arboretum with my Flatmate Richard- he took the photo of me.
Beautiful flowers- they make me think of the flowers in Alice in Wonderland, all singing and bowing their heads.

And my bedroom in my new flat is finally (nearly almost) sorted. My magpie tendancies mean I've laid out my jewellery on vintage plates I picked up at a fair.

My wardrobe doors are covered in pictures and postcards from degree shows.

And my trusty post-it pads are on my desk, ready to note down lectures

I think I'll get back into the swing of things nicely. Last night I went to the last night of the Goose Fair in Nottingham with a few of my friends- only two of us went on a couple of the rides but they were so much fun! And I love love loved the bright lights and smell of sugared nuts and candy floss! We bought a little bag of warm doughnuts between us to eat when we got home.

Enough chat for now- I've got a powerpoint to finish!

Wonderlander x

Let's Have Some Fun, This Beat Is Sick...

2010-09-20T21:05:00.003+01:00

Turns out I'm going back up to Nottingham four days earlier than I had planned- but this is a good thing and it gives me that little bit longer to settle into my new flat and catch up with my friends before the hard work starts. I've not got much more to pack up- just a few clothes and bits of jewellery really. My summer at Cath Kidston has been short but sweet and I'll be back at Christmas for sure! (Not forgetting Whistles!)

I couldn't resist this little cross-stitch brooch- I'm going to pin it on my old tweed bazer for some Grandma chic.

I also felt it was appropriate to buy some magnectic letters for the fridge at Uni! (£1.50 a pack- how could I not?!)

Ok, last of the big spenders here- this £3 men's tee shirt from good ol' Primark really appealed to my inner child and it looks like one of my own doodles- I'll do what I always do and alter the neckline to make it more feminine.

And finally...in preparation for going back to Uni, I did another thing that I always do, and covered my diary with pictures that I'd cut from magazines. Just a few of my favourite things- Ellie Goulding, Scrabble tiles, Dymo and skulls (and yes, the Dymo does read: I wanna take a ride on your disco stick...My explanation? I was trying out a new reel of tape and was listening to Gaga at the time. I then thought 'where the hell am I going to stick this?' Lucky coincedence that it fitted along the spine...)

Whatch'all up to? Is there anything that you always do to certain things?

Wonderlander x

Bit Parky Out Ey?

2010-09-15T20:14:00.002+01:00

It's so windy at the moment! And getting chilly too! The winter winds are starting to set in already I fear, but a good remedy is a refreshing cup of Orange Jaipur Tea (that my mum brought back from France because that seems to be the only place you can buy it!) and a slice or two of Ginger Parkin. Yummy. Before you know it we'll be sitting round the fire and listening to Christmas carols...

She Said She Likes To Dance All By Herself Cos She's A Party Girl

2010-09-13T19:17:00.004+01:00

Definitly looking forward to going back to Uni now. Mikie and I have already got some gigs lined up for the new term and I can't wait to get back on the Nottingham music scene- I've written a few songs over the summer that I want to try out infront of an audience. One of these new songs was inspired by some writing I saw on the side of a lorry when I took some stuff up to Nottingham a couple of weeks ago. I've also thought of some covers that I want to learn and make our own- Rude Boy by Rihanna is one of them!

I'm surounded by bags and boxes at home- I'm packing my things up slowly but surely, and my brother is off to Uni this weekend (scary stuff) so he's got pots 'n' pans 'n' shiz all over the house. I can't wait to get to my new flat and put up my posters and fairy lights (which I am going to hang jauntily over my mirror) I want to unfold forgotten winter clothes that have been scrunched up in suitcases all summer and I want to dress up in whatever clothes I want to wear anytime I feel like wearing them!

I am ready to go back. I am, I am.

Wonderlander x

I Will Never Get To Say You're Mine

2010-09-06T10:51:00.005+01:00

Ello! It's been a busy week! Moving bits and bobs up to Nottingham ready for my 3rd year, work and life in general. The high point of my week was an influx of vintage teacups, plates and saucers into my ever-growing collection...

I want to big up my friend Sofie and her band Nightlight a bit too- they have a wonderful mellow sound and they've made a video to their song 'Move On' check it out. They've done so well.

I've got so much to do in the next few weeks! The holidays are drawing to an end, I'm going to Ikea today to get a mirror and some other essentials for my flat in Notts, I've got more packing to do and project planning a-plenty.

Are you all keeping busy?

Wonderlander x

Like Trying To Catch Paper Butterflies In A Hurricane

2010-08-27T21:29:00.004+01:00

I had the most wonderful day yesterday, in London, with my Mum. It was the perfect mix of art, food and sweet treats. First we went to the National Gallery to see the 'Fakes Mistakes and Discoveries' exhibition which was really interesting and there were some beautiful paintings and fascinating pieces of information. Next we headed over to Covent Garden to our favourite sushi bar- Kulu Kulu Sushi, just off Neal Street. Yum.

We had a little wander anlong Long Acre and then headed down Regents Street to have a lok in Anthropologie's magical store displays and lovely collection of things. We then hopped on the tube down to Marble Arch and found our way to Connaught Street off of Edgware Road and to Cocomaya for a cup of tea and a yummy slice of cake. It's a beautiful patisserie, joined to a chocolaterie. The owner very kindly let my Mum and I sit in the chocolaterie side with our tea and cake, so that we could sit and look at the beautiful painted wall that features a large Pelican, butterflies and leaves and admire the exquisit looking chocolates that sit on an assortment of delightful vintage cake stands.

My Mum had a plum Clafoutis

I had a really moist carrot cake

We shared a pot of (actually a little too strong) Earl Grey

Even the jug of tap water looked beautiful! And tasted all fruity!

After we'd gobbled up our cake and sat out of the pouring rain for a bit, we headed back towards Soho- to Maison Bertaux on Greek Street, to have a gander at Noel Fielding's summer art show called Bryan Ferry vs. The Jellyfox. Oh I just love Noel Fielding!

(the above photo was taken for/ by the Guardian)

There were paintings crammed all over the cafe and Noel himself had annotated and doodled all over any spare wall space. It was brilliant. One of my favourite pictures was this one, entitled 'Gay Robot'

We then walked through China Town to St Martins Lane (picking up a brown paper bag of Vimto Bon Bons from The Olde Sweet Shoppe on the way) where we had a couple of fabulous, fruity, refreshing cocktails, before we jumped back on the tube to Waterloo, then home! It was the most wonderful day!

Wonderlander x

You Might As Well Face It You're Addicted To Love

2010-08-24T21:19:00.004+01:00

I went off on my vintage-teacup hunts last Thursday, in Oxfordshire, with my Mum. On our way to the little village where we were staying we stopped in Chipping Norton for a cup of tea and a slice of cake and a quick peek in the charity shops.

I found this pretty little cup for £1.50 (unfortunately it had lost it's saucer) then we headed on to Charlbury (where we were staying)

On Friday we got croissants, strwberries and orange juice from the Co-Op to munch for breakfast, before heading off to Oxford for the day.

We stopped in Woodstock on our way (to check the charity shops, natch) and I got these two pretty plates for 50p each!

We had a lovely day in Oxford- we wandered around the covered market, we had a look in a few shops- my Mum bought me this adorable bracelet from a shop called Aspire.It's made by a label called And Mary and she bought me these two gorgeous plates from a shop in the covered market

On Saturday we went to Bicester Village before going home- I'd never been before and it was on the way, so we thought why not? I bought these pineapple earrings from Accessorize for £1.50- I think they're fun!

In other news...I got a job at Cath Kidston! I'm so happy! I started today and have my first full day on Friday! It's my kind of heaven being surounded by all the florals and quilts and tea cups! And I have to wear a little red half pinny with white polka dots on - how cute?!

Wonderlander x

I Wanna Have Control, I Want a Perfect Body, I Want a Perfect Soul

2010-08-17T18:38:00.002+01:00

I had a really lovely day in London with Richard on Saturday- we met in Camden and had a good wander round and some yummy Chinese food for lunch, then in the afternoon we headed over to Soho. It rained quite a lot in the afternoon, so we took cover in Patisserie Valerie and had a cup of tea and a Tart au Framboise...

I bought a big Nirvana tee in Camden- I'm going to cut the neckline and wear it as a rock 'n' roll dress with my holographic leggings.

I also bought this parrot earring (just the one) in Camden in an awesome little vintage shop called Berty & Gerty, where I bought some white vintage cowboy boots when I went to Camden with Shane last month.

My Brother's going off to Uni in September (fingers crossed he gets the grades he needs) so we've been getting all the bits and bobs that he'll need to have a jolly old time. This means we've done Ikea and we went to a big Tesco to get mugs and pillows and all that jazz today. We stopped off at a huge TK Maxx on the way to this Tesco just to have a little nose and I found these boots on the clearance table for £13! Leather, cowboy style, Dove grey, stars on them- meant to be I reckon. They're probably going to be my most worn item this autumn!

What do you think of the new-look blog? New header, (slightly) new colour scheme, new songs and new pictures down the side -------------->

I just felt like a change. I'm a bit like that- a change is as good as the next thing- y'know? Also, I now have a BigCartel store, so if you want to buy my Zine 'Snap Crackle', now you can!

Exciting eh?

Wonderlander x

I Drowned Out All My Sense With The Sound Of It's Beating

2010-08-13T21:38:00.004+01:00

My Mum brought me back a lovely cold from France, so I am in extra need of tea, duvet and plenty of tissues at the moment. On the upside, she also bought these pretty macarons for us to have. I also have lots of other things to look forward to in the next few days- tomorrow I'm going up to London to see one of my best friends in the world- Richard, and we're going to do Camden AND Portobello if we have the energy! Next week I'm off for a little holiday to Charlbury (in Oxfordshire) with the Mothership and then before you know it, I'll be taking a few bits and bobs back up to Nottingham.

I'm also looking forward to something that I'm doing with Shane in November...seeing Paramore in concert! The tickets came today!!! I'm so very excited- and I hope he is (it's his birthday present after all)

I bought a little necklace on tuesday- I shouldn't have bought it, but even my Mum agreed that it's very me...

And I've had Paramore on repeat for the last couple of days- I think Decode is my favourite song, but I'm not 100% sure...

How is everyone? Anything exciting going down in your lives? And HELLO to any new followers! Thank you for reading my blog- it means the world to me and don't be shy to comment- comments make my day.

Wonderlander x

Don't Need Money, Don't Need Fame

2010-08-06T16:11:00.003+01:00

I did it! I've got a pink bit of hair! Check it out...
What do you think? I love it and can't stop playing with it! It's most similar to Marie Antoinette's haircolour in the picture in my last post I think.

I want to hunt down a nice pink lipstick to really compliment it- the one I'm wearing in the photo is M.A.C's Lady Gaga lipstick (I just tried it out in the shop) I think that might be a winner. When I got home from the hairdressers, I made some little biscuits. I had quite a pink day- pink hair, pink fruit, pink biscuits and I couldn't resist getting some of my favourite pink sweets while I was in town...

I might go totally overboard and paint my nails pink too!

Wonderlander x

I Hear The Sound Of The Tickng Of Clocks

2010-08-03T20:27:00.007+01:00

Just a quick but excited post- on Thursday I'm getting a slice of my hair dyed a pale purply-pink colour! I've never dyed my hair or done anything really different with it- I can't wait!! I've just got a bit bored of dark, dark, dark- so this will just come as a welcome change! Here are some of the pictures that have inspired me...

(all images found on weheartit.com)

I'll post a picture once it's done! I want it to look really blue-rinse!

Wonderlander x

I Was Sitting, Waiting, Wishing

2010-08-01T19:13:00.003+01:00

My Mum text me from France yesterday saying that she was looking up at all the Swallows against the blue Charente sky and thinking of me. Funny, isn't it, that I got my swallow tattoo as a reminder of her and now it's working the other way round...

The sun had his hat on constantly a few weeks ago, but now he's hidden his face. I want to lie out in the garden on my stripey blanket. I want to wear my bright, floral, flimsy cotton skirts and gladiator sandals. I want to pile multicolour bangles up my arms and wear flowers in my hair and trinkets round my neck. I want the sun to last all day and sink down into the horizon at the end of the day, turning the sky a deep peach-pink around it. I want it to be warm enough so that I don't feel silly eating a solero.

I know they say 'I want doesn't get' but I'm keeping my fingers crossed.

Wonderlander x

I Could Really Use A Wish Right Now

2010-07-26T14:38:00.003+01:00

I am missing people. I am missing hugs and laughter and company. I am missing singing in a scruffy pub every week and I am missing the hustle bustle of Uni life. I feel like I'm holding my breath, waiting for something. But I don't know what I'm waiting for. I am working and thinking about projects for my final year and writing songs and going for walks and trips to the cinema (Inception- WOW) and meals out and seeing friends from school, but I am so aware of what I miss.

I'll pass the time.

Maybe drink some tea,

and everything will be fine with me.

Is there ever anything that you really miss?

Wonderlander x

D'You Want To Go To The Seaside?

2010-07-18T18:36:00.006+01:00

I've done it again haven't I...Well, to make up for it, here is a distinctly non-wordy post to show you what I got up to with Shane when he came to stay last week. It includes Borough Market, Brighton, London, Guildford and cakes (naturally)...Enjoy

Wonderlander x

When You Look At Them And You See That They're Beautiful, Yeah That's How I Feel About You

2010-07-05T12:07:00.006+01:00

Summer is in full flow! Nights out and BBQ's to be had, Boyfriend coming to stay, warm afternoons spent lazing in the garden...

Here are a few pictures from my recent trip to Birdworld...

The free Yankee candles making my bedroom smell delicious- midnight jasmine reminds me of humid nights in Sardinia...

I've been sorting my room and my wardrobe out massively and found all these badges on a jacket that I'd hidden away...I love finding forgotten treasures

And the nights out have already started...I went to Heaven with my friends Christina and Haych the other night for G-A-Y and we stayed out all night and had a wicked time- I was SO tired when I got home the next day. I wore my floral onesie and bright turquoise eye makeup.

What have you all been up to so far this summer? Hope you're all having fun whatever you're doing!

Wonderlander x

Summer Summer Summer Time

2010-06-24T22:15:00.002+01:00

It's hard to believe that I had my last holiday abroad two years ago. I went to La Charente Maritime, to a little hamlet called Le Perou, with my Mum to see our friends Pat (92!) and her son Andrew. It's really near Cognac- we used to go out to see them every year since I was about half a year old and I loved it. I have so many memories- I can still smell the smells- oregano grew in amongst the grass and I used to bake treacle tarts with Pat. I can hear the crickets chirrping, the bamboo rustling and the Hoopoo 'hoo-pooing' (the Hoopoo is a beautiful bird- google it!)

This photo was taken when my mum and I went back there two years ago. We hadn't been for a couple of years since my parents had got divorced and I really wanted to go out there again. My mum and I- on our last day (I think)- went to the Boulangerie to get the baguette for lunch and decided to have a cheeky patisserie. She had a Tart au Citron and I had this raspberry cream bagatelle. I remember sitting on the grass opposite the Boulangerie and eating them in the sun and giggling a lot. Funny little moments like that will stick with me forever.

I am really hoping that I have plenty of those moments this summer. I'm sure I will. I've already been to Birdworld near where I live and tickled a Cockatoo (it loved it!) and in the next couple of weeks my Boyfriend is coming to stay and I've got plenty of adventures planned- Wonderlander style.

I would give anything to go back to Le Perou one more time and laze in the hammock under the trees or wander round the streets of Cognac again. It may happen- I just have to hope...

Wonderlander x

I'm Kinda Busy. Stop Calling. Stop Calling.

2010-06-09T21:51:00.006+01:00

YO! How is everyone? The end of my second year of Uni + deadlines aplenty + total lack of internet at my flat (again) = an unfortunate amount of blog neglect over the past few weeks. Massive apologies to all. It really has been manic in the last couple of weeks though- my final project involved so much work, but it was fun and worth it in the end. It was a zine project...the first photo was a cover idea very early on...

This is a photo from one of our shoots called 'Sweet Child of Mine'- this shot didn't make the final cut...

This is the finished product!! Snap Crackle Zine! I do have about 20 for sale- they are £5 each- leave a comment if you are interested and I'm going to try and figure out how to set up a paypal account or something...

Inbetween working hard, I have been playing hard(ish). A couple of trips to The Walk tea rooms in Nottingham, trips to the cinema to see Kick Ass, Hot Tub Time Machine (HILARIOUS) Prince of Persia (Jake Gyllenhaal om nom) and last weekend Sex and the City 2, as well as a few sneaky pub visits here and there...

Then when I'd had my final hand in, my Mum came to stay for 3 nights- we had some yummy meals out, including a delicious sandwich and salad at Atlas in Notts. We were a bit naughty and had a little shop- mostly Primark finds, but I got some awesome feather-print hareems from Warehouse, which I wore to my gig at The Central in the evening.

I'm going home for the summer on Saturday. It's a bit dull just hanging around here at the moment- most of my mates have got exams, so they've been revising fairly solidly (sneaky pub visits here and there...) but they'll all be finished by Friday, so at least we get one little hoo-ray before we all split. Once I'm home, I will not only have the internet, but I will have the time to go out, adventure, photograph, work a bit, and see old school chums and blog to my little 'arts content. Canee wait.

Wonderlander x

Why Don't You Just Have Another Beer Then?

2010-05-12T17:04:00.003+01:00

I haven't blogged in what feels like an age! I haven't been near my camera to document any adventures I've had, so I decided to do some doodles of what I've been up to recently...
I went to visit my boyfriend at the weekend (he's gone home to revise for his exams) and met his lovely parents...we cooked paella on Friday night- it was delicious

We then went to the pub to meet a couple of our friends, and we sang kareoke (I sang Kate Nash) and played pool (which I was surprisingly good at)

On Saturday, we went to the beach and ate scrummy fish and chips from a place called 'The Almighty Cod' and then we walked it off along the beach. It was freezing cold but lovely!

When we got back from the beach, Shane's mum made tiramisu (which we were going to make on Friday night but we didn't realise it needed 4 hours in the fridge to set!) It was my kind of dessert- creamy and alcoholic! We sat and watched Night at the Museum whilst we ate it.

We had a gorgeous roast lunch on Sunday, with lamb, potatoes, peas, carrots and gravy- and we finished off the tiramisu afterwards...

I got the train back to Nottingham in the afternoon and went on 'Carnage' (a big bar crawl night) with my friends in the evening. I had such a lovely weekend- I didn't want to leave. Now I'm back I've got to crack on with my Uni work and I've got quite a few gigs on too, so I'm being kept busy. It will be the summer holidays before I know it- and I know that they are going to be great this year.

What have you all been up to?

Wonderlander x

For A Minute I Lost Myself

2010-04-21T21:12:00.003+01:00

I've thrown myself into my third and final term of my second year of Uni head first. Our project this term? To design and publish a zine (a little, indie-type magazine) My team mate and I are already steaming along with ours and have a photoshoot to do on Monday. I'll tell you more about it as we progress...

In the mean time (and as I haven't really had time to take photos), here is the cake I made over the Easter holiday for my friend Anna when she came for tea. Start to finish. Om nom.

Aaah this is making me hungry and I've only got carrots or yoghurt in my fridge...hmmm...

Wonderlander x

I'm Trying To Focus But My Eyes Deceive Me

2010-04-09T23:04:00.005+01:00

Oh. My. GoodGod. The best day ever yesterday (?) It's a strong contender...
It was my 21st birthday on 6th February and I stayed in Nottingham to celebrate with my wonderful friends, but it meant I didn't see my parents and (until yesterday) didn't get my birthday presents. But it was worth the wait! I just want to share my childlike giddy-ness with you (I'm sure you all understand!)

The day started with a trip into town with my Mum- we went to Cafe Rouge to book a table for the evening, then nipped into a little sweet shop (how could I resist?)...

We then went to House of Fraser, where I bought these shoes in the sale (love)...and then my Mum bought me my present...a Mulberry Bayswater (love to the power of infinity)...

I then left my Mum and met up with my Dad (my parents are separated) and he bought me an iPhone for my birthday!! Can you see why I'm quite so excited?? I hadn't expected both presents on one day for one thing...

The dinner in Cafe Rouge was delicious ( I had Confit de Canard) then we had Maison Blanc yummy things and a glass or two of fizzy when we got home and watched Mouln Rouge. It was such a lovely day that even though it was over two months after my actual birthday, it completely made up for it.

Today I relaxed in the glorious sunshine and baked a cake for my friend who's coming for a cup of tea tomorrow (I shall put up a picture of the jam & creamed article tomorrow)

What would be your ultimate indulgent birthday present? Something that would make you feel like a fat kid with cake?

Wonderlander x

Lazy Sunday Afternoon

2010-04-04T16:46:00.004+01:00

Happy Easter everyone!! I woke up late, had soft boiled eggs and soldiers...

Turned my eggshells into Vince Noir and Howard Moon...

Got a bit teaspoon happy and bashed their heads in...

and went for a walk in the woods with my Mum, Brother and Dog...

and now I'm going to have Easter roast lamb, parsnips, and yorkshire puddings. Om nom nom.

Wonderlander x

Tell Me Now Where Was My Fault In Loving You With My Whole Heart?

2010-04-03T17:15:00.005+01:00

I am in need of an adventure. I'm back home for Easter and so far I've been a bit under the weather, which isn't much fun. All I've done is sleep, take painkillers and drink tea. Things could be worse though. I think it's my body's way of dealing with the ridiculously stressful end of term that I just had. My mum knew that a couple of pretty teacups would cheer me up...

Our Easter decorations...

My Robot Tom...

The postcard on my bedroom door that looks like my hair in the morning...

I don't think it will be sunny enough for an easter egg hunt tomorrow, but you never know...Hope you all have a lovely day- I'm looking forward to drawing faces on my hard-boiled eggs then bashing their heads in.

Wonderlander x

Sun In The Sky, You Know How I Feel

2010-03-21T16:13:00.002Z

Today I am powered (rather unhealthily) by Wotsits, Haribo, Tango, Orange Juice (at least that's healthy!) and Jamaica Ginger cake. Om nom nommmity nom. I'm sure some of you are the same- you need a bit of junk when you're trying to stay focused on work. I'll just have salad for the next few days to cancel it all out...and I know a couple of boys who are more than happy to help out with the Wotsits and sweets...

I had a weird 'oh-my-god-that-makes-me-feel-slightly-famous' moment last night. I was at Rock City with a few friends and a random guy came up to me and yelled 'RECKLESS ABANDON!!' at me. Then he told me he was very upset that I hadn't been at a pub gig he'd been to and that he loved the band! Gave me a natural little high.

I am positive that this week issues are going to be resolved that need resolving and I shall go home for Easter at the end of the week not having pulled all my hair out.

Wonderlander x

p.s Hello to my newest followers! Welcome welcome welcome- I love reading comments so please don't be scared to leave me one! x

I Wish You Were A Stranger I Could Disengage

2010-03-19T02:01:00.003Z

It's been a stressful week- heck, stressful isn't even the word. It was the kind of week that called for chocolate buttons. I have had the nagging question; why when one part of your life is going so well, does another part screw it up? Reckless Abandon (that's the little band I'm in) are slowly, but surely making a tiny indentation on the Nottingham music scene (woo!) and we are on the hunt for some proper gigs to play...that part of my life is dandy... but I found out that I'd failed one of my Uni modules which threw a spanner in my less than perfect works.

Things happen for a reason though right? And I get to resubmit the piece of work (halle-freaking-lujah) though I only have a week to do it. I am VERY much looking forward to the Easter holidays.

On a trivial yay-for-me-note, I bought a floral skirt (£4!!) and an awesome-sauce onesie from Primark this week too- and a little retro camera necklace from Topshop (I'll take a photo for my next post)

Hope you're all having a better week.

Wonderlander x

You Look At Me, It's Like You Hit Me With Lightning

2010-03-06T23:29:00.002Z

Mikie and I went into town today so that he could buy a new guitar after the horrible discovery that his had somehow got broken (the result of tuesday's messy antics) We found the one he wanted, and with renewed enthusiasm, we popped into a few pubs and bars to promote ourselves and find out where we can perform in Nottingham. When we got home we thought we might as well make a demo disc to hand out ( a bit like a musical business card) It's a bit of a rough mix, but it's better than a poke in the eye with a sharp stick...then we went a distributed a few of them in the evening. I got a bit Dymo happy, but I think the discs looked quite cool in the end. Just got to wait for the phone to ring now...

I also mucked about with Doug (who is replacing my Boyfriend- he's back home this weekend) for a bit. I'm sure I've featured him on my blog before- I got him in New York last January. Do any of you have a cuddly...erm...toy/creature/thing? To be honest poor Doug usually ends up on the floor or hidden under a pillow.

I can't stop listening to Ellie Goulding's 'Starry Eyed' at the moment. I really love the line 'Next thing we're touching. You look at me, it's like you hit me with lightning'. Mikie and I have been thinking up some new songs to cover too. We had a go at 'I Wanna Hold Your Hand' by The Beatles, 'What I've Done' by Linkin Park, 'Talk' by Coldplay and '3am' by Busted. We like to mix it up...any suggestions? We're also going to write more original songs, but it all takes time.

Wonderlander x

If I Didn't Say It, Well I'd Still Have Felt It. Where's The Sense In That?

2010-03-05T22:33:00.002Z

O frabjous day! Callooh! Callay! Tim Burton's Alice In Wonderland came out at the cinema today and so, as promised for my birthday, Richard took me to see it straight away. You can imagine how excited I was to see this film (erm...the clue is in my name...) and I completely adore Tim Burton and Johnny Depp (need I say more). Someone lovely has even given me The Mad Hatter Poster that's now hanging in my bedroom at Uni...he knows who he is.

It's a damn shame that the movie was a big disappointment. It was too 'Disney' and not nearly Tim Burton enough. Wonderland was neither stunningly beautiful or nightmarish, and not even all that wonderful. The Red Queen was not terrifying, Tweedles Dum and Dee were not quite right, and The Mad Hatter (despite Depp giving an excellent performance) could have been...well, more mad to be honest. The film ended leaving me with that disappointed shrug-of-the-shoulders 'could've been better' feeling. I think it would have worked well if it had a more classic Tim Burton feel to it- slightly darker and characters with a more menacing presence. Overall, the film felt a little too light and comedic, and the manipulation of the actor's appearances (for example, The Red Queen's enlarged head) didn't add anything particularly.

My best friend from back home came to stay on Thursday night. We had a brilliant night out in Coco Tang and Rock City and we ate strawberry cheesecake when we got in at 3am. She had bought me a '21' charm for my birthday, to go on the bracelet that she gave me for my 18th.

In other news: It was the last ever Speak Easy open mic night on Tuesday (Sp.Easy is closing-badtimes) and Mikie and I played a cracking set (if I say so myself) that included 'It's All Over' by The Broken Family Band, 'White Flag' by Dido and 'You've Got The Love'. It was a brilliant night and after we'd performed a few of us went to The Rescue Rooms and had a few Teapots of Shots- mmmm. Mikie ended up a little worse for wear...

Things are good. I like it that way.

Wonderlander x

I'll Do Graffiti If You Sing To Me In French

2010-02-23T00:07:00.005Z

Alors..... I've been back in good old Angleterre for a week now- and it's been such a wonderful week at that. Here are a few of my favourite photos that I took whilst in Paris. I miss the macaroons (om nom) and the beautiful buildings but I don't miss the freezing cold snow whipping round my little ears.......

I'd love to go back with just one other person who'd really like to go there and really see the sights, smell the smells and hear the sounds. Who knows when I'll get to go there again though- so I'll just have to make do with some adventures here in Notts for the while. I'm sure there are plenty to be had....

Wonderlander x

R.I.P- You Will Always Be My Hero.

2010-02-12T18:25:00.002Z

In loving memory and honour- Alexander McQueen 16th March 1969- 11th February 2010. You will always be my hero. Rest in peace.

For What It's Worth, It Was Worth All The While

2010-02-09T16:30:00.007Z

It was my 21st Birthday on Saturday 6th- and I couldn't have had a better time. I love my friends. I really do.

On friday 5th, my friend Shane took me into Nottingham to buy me a Birthday present (He got me the Mumford & Sons album- I love them) and we went for a cup of tea and had a wander round. Later in the evening I went over to his flat with Mikie for a 'Guys Night'. The boys were all dressed in formal wear, so my friend Christina (Shane's flatmate) and I dressed up like men too (she even wore a fake moustache!) We played some games and played Rock Band into the night. When it got to midnight we all went upstairs into Christina's flat, where she had laid out cupcakes spelling out 'HAPPY 21st BIRTHDAY ANNA! XX' on the kitchen counter- such a lovely surprise! She'd also bought me some pink Champagne and pink Champagne truffles-I stayed the night, so we drank the fizzy for Birthday breakfast!

On my actual Birthday, after leaving Christina's flat, I went to The Walk tea shop with my friends Cameron and Emma for a tasty little lunch and slice of cake (unfortunately I didn't have my camera with me). Then I went back to Cameron's house for a while, before heading home to get ready for the evening.

Mikie helped me set up my flat for a little pre-Rock City party. We blew up balloons and strung them up around the sitting room. My lovely flatmates had bought me a giant cupcake Birthday cake as a surprise (see 2nd photo!) and they also bought me 'The Naughty Book for Girls'. Left-right in the photo below: Laurie (see her tee?!) Me, Natalie.

After some fun pre-drinks we all headed to Rock City for Hey Hey Hey! and danced our shoes off (literally!) until 3am. Here's my friend Talitha and I....(at the start of the night)

And left to right: Mikie, Bacon, Shane, Me and Jamie all pulling our best rock moves.

It really was the most excellent way to celebrate my 21st- they all made me feel really special and they should know how much I care about them.

With that said, I'm currently in Paris with my Uni course. It snowed today. Brrrr. If you want to see more of my trip (I have to do a Paris blog for Uni) visit Wonderlander en Paris to see my photos and petit diary!

Wonderlander x

Full Stops and Exclamation Marks

2010-01-30T17:25:00.004Z

Wowzers what a week it's been! Manic, stressful and fun all at the same time! University coursework deadline was on Friday, and I've never done so much work in my life as I have done this week. YIKES. I don't know about you, but when I've got lots of work to do, I find that I just want to snack the whole time I'm working- so on my thursday (night before deadline) all-night-workathon I had to make sure I had some vital supplies! Rowntree's Random anyone?

This is rather...erm....lively carpet in my flat in Notts....

The bananas got neglected in favour of sugary things...

Richard gave me my birthday present early (I'll be 21 next Saturday!) The Primrose Bakery cupcake book- it's got some yummy recipies and such pretty pictures!

Tuesday night was one of THE BEST open mic nights that Mikie and I have ever done! I covered my face in glitter (a la Florence) and it was a really hot crowd. Mikie has started his own blog by the way. It's called My Marvellous Events.

After printing, cutting, sticking and handing in all my coursework, Mikie and I went into town because he wanted to buy card etc to make a Valentine's for his girlfriend. I bought sparkly things to stick on my face.

We sat in my flat and made collages and cards (you would've thought I'd be stick of cutting and glueing!) then we cooked a stir-fry and watched Watchmen (I fell asleep- partly do do with all-night-work tiredness, partly to do with the large glass of red wine!)

I made a birthday card for my mum (she has the same birthday as me) and this little Valentine's card. I don't have anyone to give it to, but anything could happen in two weeks right?!

Phew. Now it's time for some de-stressing just in time for my birthday. What have you done this week?

Wonderlander x

The Sun Came Up. The Stars Fell Down, And I Find That I'm Wake

2010-01-25T07:05:00.002Z

It is close to 7:20am. I am still awake. I have not slept- not even for a moment. If I were wearing socks, they would surely have been worked off by now. But still there is more to do. I can hear birds singing their early morning songs. I can hear the gargles in the pipes as the heating comes back on, and above all I can hear the monotonous tap-tap-tapping of my own fingers on my keyboard. Deadlines are looming.

A girly night in (which consisted of two girls and 3 boys in total) preceded this all night work-a-thon.....it was marvellous. That is NOT my mug.

I have a sinking feeling that the dark circles forming under my eyes are going to be hanging around for the next week.

Ah well. I have a gig with Gronk and Co at The Underbelly in Hoxton next saturday, by which point I will have handed in most of my work (yay) and I'm really looking forward to that!

Think I'd better have some breakfast. Crikey.

Wonderlander x

On and On, Reckless Abandon

2010-01-19T00:04:00.003Z

Finally, I'm back in Nottingham- and straight back into the hustle and bustle. Today I worked, had a cuppa and a good amount of laughs round a friends house, practised some songs with Mikie and wrote a couple of new ones....it was productive.

I was on whatkatiewore.com last monday! Yaaaay! I love that blog. They're now extending it and doing 'what you wore' - so I sent in my outfit from today...I was working the 'box of crayons' look....

(two little sugar mice and some jazzies from over christmas- if I'm being honest- I don't like sugar mice OR jazzies- so I didn't eat them- but I did keep the stripey paper bags!)

And a preliminary bit of artwork for Reckless Abandon- what do you think? Any ideas would be greatly appreciated!

Mikie and I have got our first open mic night since 'smas tomorrow- really looking forward to it! If you feel inclined, we've got a facebook fan page- just search 'Reckless Abandon' on groups! We'll get some of our songs up on myspace before long....

Oh, and one more thing (!) You can now ask me anything....just click here!

Wonderlander x

Smells Like Teen Spirit

2010-01-12T22:56:00.005Z

Thank you to Jess of As Said by Little Red for this Haute Mess Award! With this award I have to tell you seven things about myself. These get harder to do every time! I enlisted the help of my friend Shane to give me some things to say- and he came up with a few good ideas......then told me I smell. Charming.......

1. I love the smell of Stella by Stella McCartney-mmmm roses.

2. I think Back to the Future (pt. 1) is the best film EVER.

3. When I open my tea tin, I like to breathe in the tea smell.

4. I like having the soles of my feet held (odd, I know- and I don't know why I like it!)

5. I hate the idea of someone watching me sleep. Ceeerreeepy.

6. My Nottingham Bandmate Mikie and I have come up with a name- Reckless Abandon (myspace in progress)

7. My mum used to call me Flossy when I was little- and still uses it from time to time- which I love.

Okay- Shane's been facepesting (rather than facebooking!) while I've been writing this- so I hope it keeps him happy now I'm done!

I'd like to pass the award on to Milky Rose and So Darkness I Became

Wonderlander x

I Am All That You See And All That You Don't

2010-01-10T20:45:00.006Z

I am who I am- confident and unexpectedly tattooed

I keep telling myself it will all work out in the end

I wish I could fast forward sometimes

I love the people that matter

I dance with my arms in the air

I sing loud and proud

I think music, love and laughter are the most important things in life

I really love a good cuddle

I need a cup of tea!

I should have learnt my lesson by now

I can sing- that's one thing I'm sure of

I like the people I shouldn't like

I make people laugh

I always look like Edward Scissorhands in the morning hair-wise!)

I was inspired by a post of Raspberry Muffins' and thought that as it's still snowing and I can't get out futher than the field behind my house, I would finish the sentences! (the pictures were all stored in my pictures folder- not sure where I got them)

Wonderlander x

You Just Want Somebody Listening To What You Say

2010-01-07T17:42:00.003Z

The sun on the snow glittered like Edward Cullen's skin and the sky was a crisp, clear blue- it was still finger-tinglingly cold though. It made for beautiful photos though.

I thought I'd show you some of the things I got for Christmas too...

This is a glass from Anthropologie- it's so pretty!

My Mum found these spoons in Portobello Market- they are the same as the spoons in The Walk in Nottingham!

And I put some of my Christmas money towards this handbag from Whistles- metallic blue and rose gold caught my magpie eye!

I also got some sparkly leggings and yummy chocolates from my Dad, and Tim Walker 'Pictures' book and an itunes voucher from my Mum. Did you get anything nice?

It's my 21st Birthday in a month! (It's also my Mum's birthday on the same day!) I've got a few ideas of what I would like and what I'd like to do on the day, but I've got a little bit of time to think still!

Wonderlander x

In The Night We'll Wish This Never Ends

2010-01-06T20:05:00.004Z

I love that muffled silence that a thick blanket of snow forces upon the landscape. The lilac tinted sky stayed a heavy looking all day- laden with the promise of more snow to come. Snow on snow on snow. We all ventured out for a bit today- My brother Freddie (below- looking like a right flapjack) went and built and igloo with his mates on the North Downs and my Mum and I took the little dog for a wade through the knee-deep frosty powder.

We expected Mr. Tumnus to dart out from behind a tree at every turn...

Bertie loved the snow, but wore himself out pretty quickly jumping about in it.

Oh yes- and wore the most ridiculous hat I could find (it's not often I get to wear it!!)

And we couldn't resist making snow angels! I was sooo layered up! I had two pairs of trackie bottoms on! It was nice to get back indoors and swap my snowy clothes for jimjams that had been on the radiator and have a good old cup of tea.

I think it might be more of the same tomorrow!

Wonderlander x

The Stars, The Moon, They Have All Been Blown Up

2010-01-05T22:44:00.002Z

Wooooooooooooooooooooooooooooohooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!!!!!!! SNOW!!!! Oh I'm like a kid at, erm, Christmas! It only started snowing here a couple of hours ago, but already it's a good 6 inches thick! I couldn't resist popping my head out of the back door to take a couple of photos as it's coming down- it's so magical! I have a field out the back of my house and I can't WAIT to stomp around on that crisp white snow and make snow angels and throw snowballs and wander round the Arboretum pretending I'm lost in Narnia!

Is it snowing where you are? I shall take many, many more photos tomorrow!

Wonderlander x

Out With The Old...

2010-01-04T22:20:00.006Z

2010 oh my! Time for a shiney new header then! And a little colour tweak here and there. I've got a few New Years resolutions- the usual sorts of things, as well as some 2010 aims/ goals, but I'm sure if I say them out loud they'll never happen! The Christmas holidays are almost over and the idea of going back to Uni fills me with both joy and dread- I hope this term is better than the last one was.

I thought I'd start the year (my second blogging year!) with some questions that I came across on Kisses and Cross Stitches:

Who are you? The Wonderlander
What is your name? Anna Harvey Williams
Where do you live? Between Guildford (home) and Nottingham (Uni)
Who do you live with? My Mum, Brother and Dog/ My two flatmates
What is your favourite colour? Sparkly
Name three songs which you could not live without? Times Like These- Foo Fighters, Hurricane Drunk- Florence and the Machine, Wake Up- Arcade Fire
Name one person that you could not live without? I couldn't pick one- several important people are what hold me together.
What is on your walls? A big Tim Walker poster, Johnny Depp poster and my own collages.
What is the most treasured item in your wardrobe? My pink Luella coat!
What are your favourite books? Tim Walker- Pictures, The Book Theif, The God of Small Things
Your favourite films? Pan's Labyrinth, 10 Things I Hate About You, Back To The Future
Who is your idol? Alexander McQueen- no question
Who is your style icon?Florence Welch of Florence and the Machine
Which blogs are your favourites? Inside The Cabinet of Wonder and The Tea Drinking English Rose (they both went to my Uni- and help inspire me!)
Winter or summer? Winter
Bare legs or tights? Tights! In a plethora of colours!
Long hair or short? Long
Heels of flats? Flats mostly, but I do live in my tatty, white Cuban heeled Chelsea boots...
Favourite drink? TEA!!! (Earl Grey specifically)
Favourite food? Apples and cupcakes
Your dream/goal? I'm not so sure these days...
Your hobby? Photography, blogging
Your fear? Failing, disappointing others and Baked Beans
Where were you last night? At home watching the Half Blood Prince
Something you say all the time? 'aah bollocks'- I blame my Mother for this
Wishlist item? ANYTHING by Christopher Kane
What are you wearing? Blue tee-shirt, pink tartan jimjam trews and stripey socks.
Pets? Bertie the Dog
Favourite shop? All Saints, Topshop, American Apparel

Pictures a-plenty to come this year- and magic and wonder too with any luck!

Wonderlander x

2010 Oh Yeah!

2010-01-01T15:04:00.002Z

I wish each and every darling one of you a VERY HAPPY NEW YEAR! Many 2010 bring you everything you want and more- here's to the next 12 months and beyond!

Wonderlander x

Visions of Sugar Plums Danced in Their Heads

2009-12-24T20:14:00.003Z

I wish everyone a very merry Christmas- I hope you get lovely presents, drink plenty, eat wonderful Christmas dinner, play games and have a magic day in general!

This year's Christmas cake (not as splendid as last years Boosh effort, but I was told not to make it 'silly' this year!)

Our glittering tree....

The little story that we read before we tuck ourselves up for the night, ready for Christmas Day.

In the words of Tiny Tim (Muppet Christmas Carol obvs)- God bless us, every one!

Wonderlander x

I'm The Voice Inside Your Head You Refuse To Hear

2009-12-18T20:13:00.003Z

What if I say I'm not like the others?
What if I say I'm not just another one of your plays?
You're the Pretender.
What if I say I will never surrender?
(Foo Fighters- The Pretender)

Huge outloud sigh. Home soon. Evenings by Christmas Tree light.

Wonderlander x

A Falling Star Fell From Your Heart

2009-12-15T18:19:00.003Z

Richard really made me happy yesterday- he always makes me happy. He came over to my flat and cooked me bolognese and gave me my christmas present- this lovely little star pin! It's so very me (remember my tattoos?)

He also bought cookies n cream muffins for us to have for pudding. We wolfed them down whilst watching The Snowman. What a sweet way to spend the evening.

Tomorrow I'm getting my two new star tattoos touched up, just to make them a bit darker really. I'll be home in three days and I just can't wait!!! What do you want for Christmas?

Lyrics in my head today: 'a butterfly under the glass- you are beautiful, but you're not going anywhere' Incubus- Beware! Criminal.

Wonderlander x

Somehow Everything's Gonna Fall Right Into Place

2009-12-14T16:53:00.004Z

I've been thinking. Dangerous, I know. Thoughts are swirling about in my head like a thick and creamy mind-soup. Things I like, things I don't. All sorts of things.

A few months ago I started a book of illustrations. It's called 'I Like...' and as it says, it's full of the things that I like and love (you can faintly see my drawing of a teacup through the page!)

I can't wait to go home for Christmas now. I want to drink mulled wine, eat mince pies, cuddle my dog, see my family and friends, stare at the twinkling lights on the tree, relax, watch 'The Snowman', read 'The Night Before Christmas' and be happy. I'm fed up with being fed up. It was Leo Tolstoy who said "If you want to be happy, be". You know what? I reckon he was right.

My battered Converse make me happy. Actually, any dirty shoes usually make me happy- they remind me of good times. Dirty shoes= a good night out!

The song lyrics in my soupy head? 'It's all false love and affection, you don't like me you just want the attention' La Roux-I'm Not Your Toy.

Wonderlander x

I Never Felt So Alive and So Dead

2009-12-12T15:04:00.004Z

I went to see 'Where The Wild Things Are' at the cinema yesterday with Richard. It was so lovely- we both found ourselves welling up at various points- what a pathetic pair we are. I gave my very own 'Wild Thing', Doug, a good hug last night- it's so unbelievably cold in the flat I'm wearing cardigans and socks in bed!!
Last weekend I went to the Clothes Show Live in Beeeerrrrmingmmm. I picked up these badges for £1 each...

And this (slightly creepy) necklace (mega-love it!). The show was fantastic as ever- got goosebumps when they played Cosmic Love by Florence & the Machine!

In other news: Got dangerously drunk last week and ended up in a&e after cutting my face open- oops. I'm still battered and bruised this week and I've really learnt my lesson. I've also been putting together a CD of some of my favourite songs/artists for Rocksoc. What do you think of my cover art?

And......two weeks ago I got another tattoo (that's four now!) I didn't want to post a picture until now, because it was all scabby and gross. It's healing nicely now though, and has been done really well! I'm not going to get any more for a little while now- think I should get used to the four I've got before I add to them!

Oh- and the lyrics going round in my head at the moment are 'It's complicated, it always is, it's just the way love goes. Feel like I've waited so long for this, I wonder if it shows'- David Guetta ft. Kelly Rowland,When Love Takes Over. That's definately an improvement on the last ones!

Wonderlander x

Happiness Hit Her Like A Bullet In The Back

2009-12-09T22:40:00.003Z

I'm meant to be writing an essay. An essay on happiness. 939 words in and I'm stuck. Have hit a brick wall. Can't. write. any. more. There are many things that make me happy- this essay is not one of them. How horribly ironic.

I can hear the rain beating on the window of our sitting room. I can hear one of the boys in the flat next door playing Zombie Nation too loudly and all I want to do is curl up in a little ball of warmth in my bed and drift off without a care in my head. Alexander McQueen was in my dream last night- I was dancing about in one of his wonderful creations, surrounded by skeletons and roses. Maybe he'll be there again tonight with a new gown for me? Hmm...

Thank you to Linda of Linda- Lost in Switzerland for this award too! It's very kind of you my dear x

I'd like to pass it to:
Inside the Cabinet of Wonder

I'm going to force this essay out of my head if it kills me. Then I'll have time for some real happiness!

Wonderlander x

Something Filled Up My Heart With Nothing

2009-12-04T14:34:00.003Z

Most rubbish week of all time? It's a serious contender.......You know when every song lyric you hear seems to sum up how you feel? I'm feeling like that right now. And it's always the angry/sad songs that get me most. There is no noise or abreiviation to convey how this feels. I don't much like it though.

Last Saturday was really good (thankfully). I had a gig with Gronk and co at Tommy Flynn's in Camden in the evening, so I came up to London early so that I could have a wander and do a few things. The Liberty's windows were amazing! And the flowers they sell!

And there was a funfair going on in Leicester Square- I really wanted to go for a ride on the merry-go-round, but didn't because I was on my own.

The lyric that got me thinking about all other lyrics that sound like my thoughts was this:

'Come break me down. Bury me. bury me. I am finished with you'- 30 Seconds to Mars.

Is there one going round in your head?

Wonderlander x

p.s 101 followers! Ohmygoodnessgracious! Thank you all so much- you make the lyrics happy ones! x

Eeny Weeny Blog-Shouteeny

2009-11-23T23:34:00.002Z

Just thought I'd draw your sparkling attention to the news that you can now follow me with Bloglovin! Just need to work out what it is/ does now....

Larvally.

Wonderlander x

Won't You Come For Tea With Me?

2009-11-21T18:11:00.005Z

I went for lunch at The Walk today with my friends Alex, Talitha and Alice. We decided we wanted to be greedy and have proper food as well as a cheeky piece of cake! I had mushrooms on toast (ate them too quickly to take a photo!) a huge pot of Earl Grey, and a slice of Victoria sponge- scrummy. We all had little food babies afterwards!

Alice and Alex sip their tea...

Talitha's ploughman's...

Alex's brownie....

Alice's cupcake AND Victoria sponge! (and Alex having a bit of the frosting!)

My cake! Then we had a little wander round. What a splendid day!

I popped back into the tattoo parlour today too- the larger of the two stars isn't quite perfect- one of the lines doesn't quite have as much ink in it as the rest of it, so I asked what they could do. I have to let it heal and go back in 2-3 weeks and they'll correct it for free. Bit of a nuisance, but if it's going to be there for life I want it done right! Has got me thinking about the other tattoos I want done. It's definitely true what they say about once you've had one, you want more!

Going to a little flat party tonight at Alex's- should be funtimes. I'm having a pretty chilled weekend really- readying myself for another hectic week of Uni!

Any of you doing anything nice?

Wonderlander x

Who Says You Can't Buy The Stars?

2009-11-19T22:22:00.008Z

I had the strangest and yet one of the best afternoons of my life tonight. I met up with Richard (you remember him...) after my seminar and we went to have a gander at the German Christmas Market that has taken up residence in Nottingham's Market Square for the next month or so. We had a look at the sweet delights and wooden craft objects and stared at the huge tree for a while..............

Then I decided I wanted to get a new tattoo....so.....two stars later.....!

The ones that look a little icky are the new ones (I had literally just taken the bandage off when I took this pic) I love them!! Impulsive, I know, but for some reason, I think I needed to do something like this. Richard and I then went for dinner at Tamatanga (like an Indian version of Wagamama) and then, later still, went for a hot chocolate at Malt Cross. It was such a delightful evening wandering round in the cold, linked arms, just feeling happy.

Any of you done anything like this- so without warning?

Wonderlander x

If I Had To Sing For My Supper, I'd Feast Like A King

2009-11-18T14:44:00.003Z

I feel like I'm being held in a floating state of mind at the moment. I'm not loving my course as much as I did, I feel uninspired by most of the work we're being set, and I'm wishing I as doing something creative in a more tactile sense. The last couple of weeks have been excellent thought, none-the-less, and with a Gronk gig looming on the 28th, I couldn't have more wonderful things to look forward to.

Last night Mikie and I performed at our 3rd open mic night- to our biggest (and most captive) audience yet. I had a blast. I then stayed up with housemates playing singstar, and having a jam on the guitar and a sing-song til 3 in the morning. Goodtimes.

But still I feel stuck. I'm not drowning, but I'm not swimming either.

This is the book I'm perusing at the moment- 'The Goddess Experience' by Gisele Scanlon- Oh it's so meee! It's a lovely, quirky read. And my new phone (the old one just didn't want to live anymore)

I did have a lovely Sunday with my friend Emma. She came to my flat for a cup of tea and a natter, then we went and had lunch in a little Cafe/bar in Notts called Fade, then we wandered round town for a while and bought some sweeties before we went our separate ways.

I think I just need to knuckle down and get on with my work, have as much fun as I possibly can (which I do seem to be rather good at) and see what comes my way. I would very much like to stop treading water.

Wonderlander x

Ding Dongle

2009-11-14T20:03:00.003Z

Thank you so much to Katie-Jane for this award! And guess what??!! I bought myself a dongle, so I have some internet at the flat! Yaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay! Phew. I say 'some', because it's neither the faster or most convenient form of internet, but it is SOMETHING!

What have I been up to since I got back from my weeks rest? Well...I did an excellent open mic night (if I say so myself) with my friend Mikie on Tuesday (we're going to do it again this coming week!) had the most brilliant night out on Thursday at Rock City in Nottingham, and got absolutely SOAKED walking home last night after another night out. And I mean DRENCHED. Squelchy shoe syndrome and everything.

In other news (sorry- this isn't a very illustrated post) as part of one of my course modules, I have been chosen to wear a pair of Kickers! We have to document when, where etc I wear them, and try to track any trends that evolve- cool ey? I got to pick the colour- I have of course, in true magpie style, gone for patent gold kick-hi's. Want to follow my progress and comment on my outfits? Go to www.kickerscommunity.blogspot.com -I'd really appreciate it! I should recieve the shoes next week...

I'd like to say another thank you to all of you who read, comment and follow. You make my day every time. Have lovely chilled Sundays...

Wonderlander x

A is for Award

2009-11-07T20:33:00.003Z

Thank you to Rebecca of R is for Rebecca for this award! I have to list seven 'interesting' things about myself and pass this on to 7 other bloggers. Here goes (while I have t'internet!)

1. I wear a stering silver ring on my left hand that looks like a belt buckle- my mum bought it for me when I was 14 and we were on holiday in The New Forest. It was £3.50. I've had it on for the last 6 years and I can't get it off my finger.
2. I want to learn Burlesque.
3. I don't know why, but if I can, I pull my food apart as I eat it- rather than just bite into it. I'm not a fussy eater, so I'm really not sure why I do it!
4. I LOVE slouching around in brightly coloured, brushed cotton pyjama bottoms (and a tee shirt bien sur!)
5. Some of my favourite words are 'spoon', 'crumpet', 'pamplemoose' and 'shazzam' but I rarely get to use 'pamplemoose'. Shame really.
6. David Attenborough was my childhood hero.
7. I have a line of three freckles on my left arm that for as long as I can remember I've called my Orion's Belt, because it looks like the constellation, and I love the stars.

Oh my- that took me a while to think up! I'd like to pass this to....

Inside the Cabinet of Wonder
The Tea Drinking English Rose
Silver Paper, Pink Bows
My Paper Heart
I Am A Vampiree
Quenchant of the Curious
and last but not least...
Raindrops and Rosepetals

Wonderlander x