In conclusion: October

• "Hello" to any new readers/friends! I'm always surprised when someone decides to click "join this site" on my blog, and even more surprised at how happy it makes me feel?! I love reading all of your comments and replying to them. I guess I just like a good old chat.

One thing I love about blogging is the sharing of essential information (read: stuff to buy, wear, bake and eat) and the "community spirit!" I think it's lovely how you can make friends and support each other through blogs and Twitter, without ever even meeting in the "real" world.

Source

• October has flown by so quickly. I didn't manage to get half of the things done on my "absolutely must do this month" list. (Yes. I do actually write that at the top of my list along with "Yeah. Right!" underneath.

I try not to put too many things on my list at any one time otherwise I just find it overwhelming.  I have been known to write things down that I've already done just to have the satisfaction of ticking them off!

Notebooks from Waterstones, Etsy, Homesense and Paperchase.  I have an unhealthy addiction to notebooks!

• I've not "discovered" any new music for a while so I keep digging out old favourites. India Arie and 

KT Tunstall have been keeping me company in October. Any recommendations? What are you listening to?

• I've been trying to spend plenty of time outdoors this month, when it's not raining. I love fresh air and I'm enjoying the Autumn colours. The only thing is, this time of year starts to play havoc with my skin, making it feel really dry and sensitive, so I bought some Aveeno lotion. It's unfragranced and contains oats which are known to soothe irritated skin. It's really hydrating and absorbs quickly. I don't know if you're supposed to put it on your face as well as your body, but, well, I have. So far so good.

Aveeno lotion from Boots

• Staying on the subject of shopping I picked up some MAC make up this month. Nothing too exciting, just everyday type colours. MAC is a brand that I go back to time and time again, although I use loads of other brands too.
If you're interested in MAC lipstick swatches, Adriennes blog: The Sunday Girl has a great section on this, as well as posts on the latest beauty products. Her pictures are huge and really clear too!

L-R  •Mineralize Blush in Warm Soul  • Satin lipstick in Brave  • Eyeshadow in Electra 

• On my nails for most of October I've been wearing Revlon "Facets of Fuschia" polish. It's an amazing deep plum/purple colour with glittery flecks of pink. Perfect for Autumn. My photo doesn't do it justice at all but if you google it, there are lots of pictures where people have managed to capture the colour beautifully.

• The highlight of October was my birthday. I had a very indulgent day indeed! I was incredibly spoilt and feel very lucky. One of the gifts I received was Coco Chanel Parfum. I love this perfume and will go so far as to say it is my signature scent, as I always go back to it after trying out other perfumes. I have worn this perfume every day. Yes. Even if I've been staying at home. Well, one needs to smell nice for....the dog?!! :D xx

 * a rosie outlook * kate louise * loveaudrey * heart and soul * Blanche and Lola *

 * dress junkie * It seems pretty obvious * 

* Only half dressed * Sailboat *

I hope October was a good month for you, and November will be happy also. Almost Christmas (there I said it!) which means lots to do and lots to look forward to!