Goodbye!

 

As you can see I haven't posted on here for a very long time! I've spent the summer in New York and what a great time I had. I've also done something that I said I'd never do and that's return back to studying. I've found my passion in life...relationships. I'm embarking on a Counselling Degree and have launched a new blog. Check it out here http://thereal-talk.blogspot.com/

Week 39 Of My Journey Getting To New York.

I've got 3 weeks to go. I can't believe how the time has flown by. I find my self wishing it would slow down as I've still got so much to do. I still need to acquire a large suit case as I refuse to pay £32 each way for extra luggage. I need to book my travel insurance and try to raise at least £700 for spending money hmmm.

I will complete my show reel tomorrow. I just need to try and find a music bed to put underneath and smooth out the finishes. I'll continue to cold call producers and radio stations. The more I do it the easier it has become. I no longer feel the nerves when hearing the over seas dial tone wondering what I'm going to say. If they say no, it's onto the next one. I always said that I wanted to be pushed out of my comfort zone (be careful what you ask for) and it seems this trip is going to do just that. I'm going to have to try and set up some meetings whilst out there and drop off my CV to as many media outlets possible. The thought alone daunts me but it has to be done. I don't have much choice as I still haven't found any concrete work. It will be good experience for me to be honest. I'm also going to try and get on to some chat shows the Maury Povich show, Steve Harvey show etc. It's all research for my upcoming blog and counselling degree which starts in October.

What do I want from my time away? A good experience which I know I will gain, to meet new people, to socialise more, for my confidence to grow to name a few. I know this is going to be one of the best summers of my life.

Week 38 Of My Journey Getting To New York.

I'm still yet to secure a work placement. I've been speaking to some family members and they seem to think that something will turn up whilst I'm out there. I've continued to put the calls in as e-mail can be a bit too long winded. At least with a phone call you'll get an immediate response. It's sometimes tricky trying to fit in phone calls around and after work. Especially with the whole time difference etc.

Am I excited....yeah I'm getting there. I'm a little apprehensive with no proper work to do as of yet. I pray this changes before the end of July. My heart is still set at doing a few days at Hot 97 (maybe this is the problem). I guess it's because I had so much planned. By this stage I'd expected to have a few work placements secured. A lot more money put aside etc. It just goes to show that no matter how much you try sometimes things don't always go to plan.

4 weeks to go.......

Week 37 Of My Journey Getting To New York.

This week I've pulled my socks up and started to call people/companies. It's a life long dream of mine to work at Hot 97 as well as meet Diddy. If I met trust me I'd probably faint!

So I've started to stalk the folks over in New York. I've been calling several different urban radio networks. The problem is I can't seem to get no one. I know who I need to talk to they just never seem to answer their phone. I know persistence is key and I will eventually get them.

I can't believe I've got 5 weeks left to go, where has the time gone? I've still got to book my travel insurance, buy a large suit case, finish my show reel, amened my CV, continue researching entertainment stories, try to put aside as much spending money as possible. Oh the list continues and my head is beginning to hurt. I must confess I haven't used my time as wisely as I should. Although it's not too late and it all depends on how constructively I use my time from now on.

Week 36 of My Journey Getting To New York.

I've been researching all the events, places I want to go too this week. As well as all the things I can cover whilst doing my entertainment slot whist in the states. I'm actually really looking forward to it! Whilst this is supposed to be a working trip, i still want to get to enjoy the city.

I just need to pay another £100 towards my rent and everything will be paid for. I still need to buy a suitcase, but the way my finances are looking I may have to borrow one. I need to get my travel insurance and put aside some survival money. This trip is not about shopping not one bit. The way things are looking I'll be eating pizza slices every day.

I really need to get back to searching hard for a placement and as time is ticking I'm going to have to change my approach.....clearly! I KNOW I will secure one. It may not be in the form or the kind of placement that I endeavour but I will get one.

Week 35 Of My Journey Getting To New York.

This week I finally booked my flight, hallelujah. My friend kindly gave me some of his air miles, so I get to fly with Virgin. I'll probably be broke for the remainder of the month, but my flight had to be booked. Plus it's one less thing to worry about financially.

I've also been given the opportunity to do a weekly entertainment slot from New York to London. This will be fun and exciting and will also push me out of my comfort zone. Although I don't enjoy the process this is what I definitely need whilst in America. I'm still determined to find a placement but in the mean time I'm going to see what work I can do for outlets her in the UK whilst away. Not only does it build up my confidence and skills but also my CV.

Again this week has been productive in light of advice and friendly pointers that will most definitely help my time away be more productive. If there's one thing that I'm praying for is that my trip is not wasted and that I don't come back with any regrets.

Week 34 Of My Journey Getting To New York.

This week has been so busy, I didn't complete half the tasks I was supposed too, story of my life! I still can't believe I haven't secured a work placement. Not good...not good at all. I can't help but compare how easy it was to get a placement last time. All I can is step my game up and trust in the Lord.

I must confess my finances aren't looking to great at the moment. It looks as though I'll be eating pizza slices and bagels during my stay in New York. Who knows I may even loose some weight the rate things are going.

There is still so much for me to do, book my flight, sort out my insurance, buy a suitcase, FIND A WORK PLACEMENT, do a whole heap of research. Time is well and truly ticking but I seem to work better under pressure. Then again I'm going to have too as  really don't have much choice.

Week 33 Of My Journey Getting To New York.

This week was a real eye- opener and a bit of lesson learnt. I was given the opportunity to go and intern at ITN in Washington for 3 months this summer. Whilst I know this is a once in a life time opportunity, I really don't have the money to go. I'm still trying to sort things out for New York and after much deliberation I missed the boat.

The key factor for me was money as I have to pay rent on my flat here as well as accommodation in Washington. This would have probably resulted in me getting a loan/credit card......my worst fear. However my friend informed me that if used wisely it would have been a good investment. I'm not sweating it because if it is God's will then I will get to go and work out there. I'm going to New York for 5 weeks which in itself is a great opportunity and I've made a great contact with the producer from ITN. I'm aiming to go out to Washington for the day and have a meeting with him.

This slight diversion has reminded me that I need to stay focused and sort out this New York trip. It's also enforced that I am more than capable to provide a good service and has given me a confidence boost. I'm really glad for life's lessons as they give you the knowledge, experience and confidence for next time.

Week 32 Of My Journey Getting To New York.

This week has been good for my confidence and a reminder that God is working on my situation. There have been little specks of light here and there to remind me that God is in control.

I continued to e-mail companies and I received some good responses, not necessarily yes's but enough to remind me that I'm more than capable of providing a good service whilst out there. I will tell all next week as then it will all make sense, plus I would have made some decisions. A friend kindly advised me that I can offer up my services and do some broadcasting, interviews whilst out there and send them back for work. I must confess this idea never crossed my mind. I really struggle to think outside of the box sometimes.

I put a little bit of money aside as I really need to book my flight. It just goes to show that no matter how much we try, things don't always go to plan. I know my flight will be booked soon and I just pray that I have enough money to get few the 5 weeks whilst out there.

Week 31 Of My Journey Getting To New York.

This week I've continued to e-mail/ call companies to make them aware I'll be in America during the summer and can I come and get some work experience. You'd like to think that me offering my services for FREE would cause a stampede and that people would be fighting over me lol. Well it's just not the case!

I had put my hopes on doing a couple of weeks at The BBC in Washington and after chasing/stalking/e-mailing the producer for weeks on end. I got a response this week saying there are no openings oh well another one bites the dust. I will be contacting him closer to the time to give it one last shot. It's not about putting all my eggs in one basket. I just would have loved the chance to see Washington and experience working out there for a week. My main focus for the next couple of months is to lock down a placement....YES I CAN!!!!!

Week 30 Of My Journey Getting To New York.

Can you believe I only have 11 weeks to go before I fly off too...concrete jungle where dreams are made of....there's nothing you can't do- whoo! New York I'm coming baby lol.

This week I sat down and made a 11 week plan/checklist as there is still a lot that needs to be done. The most important is to find a work placement, set up as many meetings as possible, book my flight, sort out my insurance to name a few.

However I managed to put down a substantial amount of money this week- thank God. This has allowed me to pay off my rent on the apartment in New York, thankfully that is now out the way and one less thing to worry about. Booking my flight has been delayed as the apartment was more of a priority. It's always nice to get the most expensive thing out the way first- right?!?!?. Plus I'm still hoping that they'll be some miraculous deal where flights are £400 (side-eye)

It's so funny how you can save money when you have a goal in mind. I really need to get my savings in check on my return form as this trip has proved I can save when pushed too. I won't lie the next few months will be extremely tight and I'll probably have to eat beans on toast but it'll all be worth it in the end. At least I can say I did something big for 2010.

Week 29 Of My Journey Getting To New York.

My bad I forgot to do my post until mid week, so I've sneakily uploaded it now. This week i started my Psychology course...what has this got to do with my trip to New York?!?!? I don't know but I wanted to drop it in lol. Plus I'm sure that studying the human mind, sciences and emotions will only help further me in my career, increase my confidence and help me within some aspects of my trip abroad.

I've been fretting quite a bit over the last few weeks and I don't know why? I've found myself comparing this trip to my time away two year ago. At this stage my work placement was secured with such ease. I got a flight for £300. Accommodation was confirmed, it was central and provided breakfast and dinner. Things just seemed that much easier last time round and so much more cheaper. No doubt this trip will be just as good if not better but in different ways. I am hoping to book my flight next week as prices are slowly creeping up.

Week 28 Of My Journey Getting To New York.

I managed to put some money aside this week- whooh hooh! No doubt I won't see any of it, as my flight will be booked within the next two weeks. It still feels good to be able to put a little some thing away regardless of the amount. I really need to earn some more money and have started job hunting again. Lord help me puhlease!!!!!!

This week I've been reflecting on what it is I'm trying to achieve whilst in New York. It's all good me saying I want to go out there to work, but what is my goal? I need to sit down one evening in silence and do some brain storming hmmmm. I know I want to be pushed out of my comfort zone, after being stagnant for way too long now. Not only is it boring but also very frustrating. I want a challenge and I want to work in a new area other than the media. I guess the thing I want the most is to go out there and give it my best shot. After that there's nothing more I really can do. I don't want to come back with regrets like last time. Shoulda, woulda, coulda can be left to the likes of Beverly Knight- thank you!

Week 27 Of My Journey Getting To New York.

I haven't done as much as I'd wanted to this week apart from e-mail a few more contacts. I don't feel guilty either to be honest. I've been so consumed with life in general, ideas for my new blog, devising ways to make extra money etc, stressing about life that NYC preparations have fell to the way side a little.

That's how life goes sometimes and I just can't be bothered to beat myself up about it. Been there done that way too often and as we know it doesn't help! I'm still yet to book my flight and it seems there is no way of me avoiding paying up to £600. (Note to self don't go to New York peak time again). My finances aren't looking to great at the moment but again I can't be getting stressed about it as it's not going to help the present situation. I have to remind myself that this whole experience is taking me out of my comfort zone and the ride is not going to be easy or comfortable.

Hopefully this week will be a bit more productive and I'll have more to report back next Sunday.x

I'm Leaving.

As you can see my blog posts have become less frequent. This blog will be no more as of the end of April. Fear not though, I'll be launching a new blog during the 1st week of May. I'll still keep you updated with my journey getting to New York other than you won't be hearing much from me until the launch date. I'll keep you posted!

Week 26 Of My Journey Getting to New York.

This week I've been so consumed with a new project that I'm working on EVERYTHING else has kinda been neglected. I've continued to contact companies and I've pulled my finger out and started to make more phone calls. It's not that bad really although some managers are hard to find but persistence is the key. What's the worst they can say apart from NO!

People have been so responsive it's quite encouraging and one company may look promising as they haven't said no to my request but they want to know a bit more about what I do, where I'm staying etc. If they can't give me work I want to at least secure a meeting.

I'm starting to get a little excited now, especially with the arrival of spring. Lord knows how hot it's gonna be in NYC.

I'm Now Reading.

I must confess I really enjoyed 'Twighlight'. So much so that I brought the sequel 'New Moon'. No doubt I'll be buy 'Eclipse' too when I get a chance.

Next on my hit list is 'The Kite Runner'. After reading 'A Thousand Splendid Suns' I fell in love with the authors style of writing and the issues he tackles in his books.

This challenge has been really good for me as it's pushed me to read/buy more books. I doubt I'll read 25 books this year, which I must admit was a little unrealistic. As I don't complete books that quickly regardless of how engrossing they are. However I'm definitely reading a lot more than I used too and there's nothing better than reading a book you just can't put down.

Week 25 Of My Journey Getting To New York

Week 25 already- phew! I received my new passport yesterday whoody whoo! On a side note I really want to start travelling a lot more and Brazil is next on my list for 2011. I've been talking about going there for way too long now. 

This week I've continued to e-mail companies and people have been so nice with their responses. They've advised me on the best person to contact and to keep them updated with my progress.(Note to self I must keep in touch and maybe meet up with them whilst in New York). I still haven't received the three important words yet.....yes, but i know I'm putting myself out there so it will pay off eventually.

I hold my hands up I didn't finish my show reel but I did start it. The reason being I don't like the material I have or maybe I'm just making excuses lol. Maybe I'm being too picky but I know the standard I want it to be. I'm going to sit down again this week with a clear head and try again.

This month I must book my flight and I need to put a few hundred pounds away. As I need to pay the remainder of the rent on the apartment by the end of next month. Let the games begin!!!!!!!!!!!

Wish List

Ankle Boots £75  £35 (Office)

 

Seamed Button Sweat Dress £20 (Warehouse)

I tried this on and it looked so nice on but I'm on a budget sniff!

Lace Button Back Top £15 (Warehouse)

Oversized Neck Poncho £17 (Warehouse)

Oversized Shirt Dress £20 (Warehouse)

Double Button Crop £15 (Topshop)

Maddox Woven Buckle Shoes £30 (Topshop)

Cargo Pocket Leggings £22 (Topshop)

Multi Stud Pyramid Clutch Bag £30 (Topshop)

Week 24 Of My Journey Getting To New York.

This week I will finish off my show reel as it's been pushed to the side a little. It's been a hectic week and juggling everything has been a challenge.

I've more or less ticked everything off my February check list. My passport's been sent off for renewal that's one less thing to fret about. I haven't saved as much money as I intended but I haven't got time to stress about that, there's bigger fish to fry.

I've consistently e-mailed companies and am finally getting responses (persistence pays off) not necessarily what I want to hear, but a response is better than silence. Some have said I need to be a student to work for their company that's a very common thing in the states. I think they get merits or something *shrug*. Others have stated that I've missed the date to work/intern or that it's a bit early to secure a date at this point and they'll get back to me. I still need to broaden my search which I will start to do next month.

I've also started to look at flights as that has definitely got to be booked by the end of April. My gosh flights are soooo expensive but what do I expect I am travelling peak season. The cheapest flight is about £530 that's a lot considering I could go in September for £300 never mind. A friend has offered to give me some of their air miles enabling me to fly with Virgin (we all know Virgin is best) so I'll save just over £100. I'm still open to fly with a cheaper air line and if I see a good offer I'll jump on it .

I feel there is so much to do and time is flying. However I know it will be worth the tears, prayers, sacrifice, the fear of not knowing what will happen when I get out there and what awaits for me when I return. It's a challenge and an adventure I won't forget, plus it'll probably be one of my best memories for 2010.

Reflection Eternal Welcome Back!

I for one am happy this duo is working together again. I'm not the biggest fan of their work individually but I think their real creativity comes out when they collaborate. I don't own any of Talib Kweli's albums apart from Reflection Eternal. I do however own two of Hi-Teks albums simply because I thought they'd be as good as Reflection Eternal considering he's the producer. They were alright, but then how many artists have more than one really good album these days? 

 I'm not expecting this album to be a continuation of Train of Thought, but my initial thoughts after hearing this track was these guys are trying to bring hip-hop back or at least try and revive it. It sounds real old school and the beats are just.....simple hip-hop.  It’ll be interesting to see what the rest of the album sounds like.

Pyschology Here I Come.

I’ve always been interested in this subject and regretted not studying it at college. I've been umming and arghing about what to do after feeling a bit bored. I enjoyed participating in the Drama and Vocal Training Course and wanted a new challenge. So I enrolled on a 10 week beginner’s course on Monday which will commence on April the 29th.

I want to understand people’s social, emotional and mental behaviour better, although I don't love sciences as such. However I’m willing to learn an element of it in relation to Psychology. This course will benefit me on so many levels, I really can't wait. It will help me to understand and maybe sympathise when people act a certain way and I’m sure it will help me grow as a person, build my confidence and more importantly help me on my quest to do more public speaking. I love a challenge and although it doesn’t feel good at the time, being pushed out of my comfort zone always benefits me.

I'm Now Reading...

I've actually got about three books on the go at the moment. I was reading Beyond Ugly but I just couldn't get into it, not that I tried that hard! I've decided that if I don't like a book I'm not going to force myself to cpmplete it. So Beyond ugly has returned to the book case and I've given Twighlight a whirl.

I'm not really into the whole vampire, dark eeerie storyline but intrigue got the better of me. I started it yesterday and I can't put it down. It seems everyone and their mother has read this book or watched the movie. So I decided to jump on the band wagon.

Week 23 Of My Journey Getting To New York.

Another week has flown past and what have I done? I've finally sent my passport off for renewal, what a palaver. At least that's out the way and I should get it back within the next month or so.

I also started my show reel which I will complete this week. My aim is to hand this out whilst in New York. You just never know what doors it will open for me, even if it's ten years from now. It will consist of packages, adverts, voice overs and snippets of  entertainment slots I've done. This will all have to be condensed down to no more than 3 minutes.

It was really interesting to hear myself back and to critique my performances. I usually hate hearing the sound of my voice but it was necessary if I want to get better. I have learnt so much since doing my Drama and Vocal Training Course and as a friend of mine said you only get better with practice. I'm looking forward to my next stint of Entertainment News (I'll fill you in with that later).

This week I will continue to call/e-mail companies and think of ways to earn some extra income.

Loving The New Adidas Commercial

Adidas do it again with yet another cool, fun and cameo filled commercial. I want to feature in the next one (side-eye) yeah right!

Carbs Not Good!

These damn carbohydrates are becoming the bane for me! For the last couple of weeks my stomach has been feeling extremely bloated and I couldn’t figure out why. It wasn’t an unbearable feeling just a little uncomfortable from time to time. I now know it’s down to the carbs and unfortunately my age. Long are the days when I could just yam anything and not worry about my shape/ weight altering? Not any more I tell ya I’m 29 this year and my metabolism has well and truly s-l-o-w-e-d down. I can feel the middle aged spread slowing trying to grab me lol. I used to laugh it off when people would say you’re lucky, you’re at the age you can eat what you want, not any more yo.

All jokes aside I’m an avid fitness bunny and go to the gym at least 3 times a week plus throw in a game of squash. So I’m quite fortunate to have a decent physique at the same time I want this shape within the next 5 years. I need to now start watching what I eat and resist the Jaffa Cakes, Doritos, Haribo you name it. I’m a sucker for all things that aren’t good for me. I’ve got such a sweet tooth, but this bloated feeling is just not worth it. So I’ve decided to not eat carbohydrates so late at night any more (cut off is 7pm) and be more disciplined with my diet. I really want my washboard stomach this summer and the gym alone is not cutting it.

**PS I’m going to a free boot camp session next Monday so that should be interesting and no where near FUN at all!

Whatcha Say?!?!

I said I'm not too sure about Jason Derulo. First and foremost I didn't know that my boy used to rock a cornrow?!?!? No comment! Back to present, so I have to give him some props as he dabbles in song writing. Other than that I just don't love this guy. I guess there’s a gap in the market for a young male artist at the moment but still.

Yes his new single 'In my Head' is currently number one here in the UK but that don't mean nardah to me! When he first debuted with 'Whatcha Say' I thought yeah the song's not too bad, I was more disappointed with the video...it was just… dry! Which brings me to his latest video and I just don’t love it. It’s similar to Justin Timberlake’s 'Like I Love You' and it just doesn't seem his style. He comes across contrived and forced to me; the dance routines are just cringe worthy. I just find there’s something not authentic here. I know I may sound harsh but I don't know what it is? I can't quite put my finger on it but he just comes across as cheesy! Yes I may end up eating my words if he becomes the next big thing but I just can't see the vision. Then again who cares what I think as he clearly has a strong fan base accumulating.

Bargain Of The Month!

I picked up these shoe/boots in Primark Marble Arch. I didn't intend to buy anything and was actually looking for a replacement pair of brogues. Then I spotted these bad boys in the reduced section, I picked them up and noticed they'd gone down from £15  to £3. Is that not a joke £3 for a pair of shoes? I tried them on and wasn't convinced as they're a bit baggy round the calf. Plus I thought they looked a bit cheap as the zip detail on the side had a pleather ribbon on (which I quickly removed). After trying them on at home and little deliberation I was hooked. The outfits I can wear them with this summer are endless, shorts, leggings, dresses, skirts you name it. Plus the heels not too high so my feet shouldn't start burning any time soon. If push comes to shove I can wear them now with a nice dress and a thick pair of tights.

As you can see they look a lot better on....

I couldn't be bothered to put an outfit together plus my hair needs a perm so there is no way I'm providing a full length shot.

Week 22 Of My Journey Getting To New York.

What have I done this week.....nadah! Just playing I have continued to e-mail and call media companies. It's been a mixed bag of record companies, Television and radio stations. I still haven't received the three magic words YES as of yet. I'll continue to put in the calls next week so hopefully something positive will come out of that. I also have to broaden my search a bit more.

I've had a slight set back financially as my February pay wasn't what I expected, so I was unable to put any money aside for New York. I wanted to put away at least £300 but it just wasn't feasible. I felt a little frustrated and annoyed and started to question whether I'd have enough money over all. That was my moment of weakness but I've got to stay focused and trust in God as he always comes through for me.

My feelings have waivered quite a bit this past week and I think it's because I still have my flight, rent and survival money to sort out as well as find a work placement. I just feel slightly uneasy and unsettled but as we all know things can seem rubbish one day and then it's a totally different situation the next. I'll keep you posted with how things get on! x

Just Wright.

I spotted this trailer on Necole Bitchies website and I so want to watch this movie. It's released in May stateside and I have a feeling we're not going to get it here in the UK boo hoo.  Check out the trailer below...

I Would Like....

I have been going on and on about orange lipstick for at least a year now. I WILL be buying one within the next few months. I really like the look of the M'Orange Lipstick by M.A.C in the picture. I'm still not sure if it's going to look okay hence why I'll have to pay a visit to M.A.C. So that they can help me find the right shade. This is going to be my staple lipstick for the whole of the summer I can feel it tangerine lips here I come!

M.A.C Vegas Volt

Coral lippie is another colour I want to rock this summer. Just two lipsticks will do me fine.....I'm not asking for too much am I??? My friends cousin gets a discount so I'm going to have give her a nudge in my direction.

I'm Now Reading.....

I think I was being a bit ambitious when I set myself the challenge of reading 25 books this year. It’s not impossible but I simply don't have time to complete such a task. Plus some of the books I've got lined up are thicker than an encyclopaedia and it will take me at least a month to finish them.

I've just completed ‘A Thousand Splendid Suns’ and what a brilliant book it was. It was so emotive and helped me to see what life in Afghanistan is like particularly for women. Most importantly it showed me how real domestic violence is…not good!

I’m now on my third book ‘Beyond Ugly’ the sequel to ‘Ugly’. It’s been on my book shelf for at least a year now and I’ve finally decided to read it. I can’t say ‘Ugly’ was one of my favourite books but I’m going to complete it so that I can go onto my next read ‘The Kite Runner’.

Hemp Is The Way To Go.

These two items have really been my saviour against the cold wintery weather. Thank you Body Shop Hemps range. My friend first told me about Hemp Foot Foot protector early last year and I thought okay I'll check it out until I saw the price tag... £10. I can be so cheap some times it's not good!

I used to use Palmers Cocoa Butter on my feet as they have a tendency to get dry but I can honestly say Hemp is very good. You only need a small amount and the jar should last you at least 6 months. I have been using this products religiously morning and night for the past 2 weeks and I've noticed the difference. Both products leave your skin well moisturised and my feet and hands are left looking well nourished all day long. At least my feet will be ready to slip into my sandals this summer- hoorah!

If you don't fance paying £10 then wait until The Body Shop has a 3 for 2 offer.

Summer Buys?!?!?

Zip Front Strappy Platform Shoe £18 Matalan

These are so nice and summery, from the cream colour to the style...oh so lush! Yes I habitually post shoes that I drool over but they are the one item that will transform your look in second. I may have to pop down to Matalan this week to scoop these. Do you know how hot these would look with a nice floral play suit. Or some khaki trouser and a white vest or just simply a fitted dress.

Orange Zip Detail Mid Heel Shoe £14 Matalan

I love the burnt orange colour of these shoes...I don't own an orange pair of shoes yet (side-eye). I'm still a sucker for zip detailing and I can see myself trotting around the streets of New York in these babies this summer. I'd team them up with a pair of grey feminine tracky bottoms and a body suit or crop top. Harem pants and a nice lace boob tube (don't worry I'd wear something underneath). Or even a blue jumpsuit would look nice, something  similar to the one below.

Chambray Jumpsuit £45 American Apparel

Week 21 Of My Journey Getting To New York.

It's week 21 of my journey getting to New York and I have 21 weeks left until I depart. I find that I'm pushed to work harder as time is ticking. You know how it goes some people work better under pressure.

This week has just been about contacts, contacts and more contacts. I took the plunge and started to call up media companies. Time is flying and I can't rely on e-mails alone. I must confess the 1st company I called in the states I left the phone ring a couple of times and then put it down. Yes I hold my hands up I left fear get the better of me for a split second and then I took the plunge and started to make those all important phone calls. Surprise surprise it wasn't all that bad! Obviously the more companies I call the easier it gets. I was hoping that the companies I contacted would be like yeah sure of course you can and come and work for us. However the general response was to follow up with an e-mail or to contact some one else. I must remember to be patient and that most things don't happen instantly. Just because there's a delay doesn't mean it won't happen! Most importantly I must trust in the Lord.

Just as strong muscles are built by lifting heavier and heavier weights, confidence is built by taking on bigger and bigger challenges (Ralph Marshton). I find this is so the case as my confidence grew when I went to New York two years ago and I'm pretty sure it will grow even more this time round.

I LOVE Nia Long!

I love Nia Long always have, always will. Ever since she played the role of Will's girlfriend Lisa in 'The Fresh Prince of Bel Air' I was hooked. She looks absolutely stunning here in a silver and gold dress and cream shoes at the Essence Black Women In Hollywood Luncheon. Her hair looks on point as always...I'm so glad she's gone back to short. I'm itching to cut my hair shorter as it's grown a bit and this style may just be the one.

 Nia keep doing your thing girl!

My Finances

This year I've taken the decision to be more disciplined with my money. Whilst I can be frugal when I have a challenge e.g my trip to New york, I tend to just spend ALL I have. Thank God I don't have any debts apart from my student loan. I've cleared my overdraft, arrears in council tax etc.

This month i've taken it that step further by really making my banks work for me. I'm in love with online banking ( I'm so late) it makes the process of transferring money so much simplier. Plus I can keep a watchful eye on my statements. My main bank account was currently were my wages got paid into and were all my direct debits came out of. This weekend I transferred all my direct debits to come out of my secondary account. Each month I will transfer the bulk sum of my wages enough to cover my rent. monthly travel and utility bills and then my direct debits will come out of this account solely.

My main account will leave me with the remainder of my wages. This way i won't get any sudden surprises when the TV licence comes out. i know I'm not the only one that goes to the cash point to think i have a certain amount and lo and behold a direct debit that i've forgotten about has come out- arrggh.

I think this way of banking is going to work so much better for me it will force me to be even more disciplined and at least I can see whatv I've got left to play with.

Wish List

Cream Flat Brogues (Dorothy Perkins) £32

Boyfriend Blazer (New Look) £18

Snow Wash Skinny Jeans (Warehouse Outlet) £10

Premium Silk Playsuit (Topshop) £60  £15 (This has sold out online but I'm determined to find it in store)

Metallic Gladiator Sandal (New Look) £12

Silk Zip Dress (Topshop) £55 £25

Blue Print Tapered Trousers Miss Selfridge £29 £7