13 Reasons Why – Netflix’s Newest Mystery Series with a Twist

I have a lot of admiration for 13 Reasons why, Netflix’s recent adaptation of Jay Asher’s bestselling novel. I finished watching the series yesterday and I haven’t been able to stop thinking about it since. Any story that can capture an audience whilst bringing hard issues such as bullying and suicide to light deserves a lot of praise in my book! For those of you haven’t read the book or watched the series, the basic plot follows Hannah Baker, a 17 year old high school student who makes the tragic decision to end her own life. Hannah leaves behind 13 tapes outlining 13 reasons why she decided suicide was her only option. The series was a tough watch and I experienced a roller coaster of emotions whilst watching it. However, I believe the series impacted me in a positive way.

 I think one of the main reasons why I was utterly gripped by this series was because the characters are so relatable. Hannah Baker is a very normal teenager - as are the other characters featured in the 13 episodes. I think, regardless of who you are or your background – you will relate to at least one of the characters at some point. 

 The series also deals with a lot of difficult themes, which we are perhaps not always used to seeing on screen. As well as suicide and bulling we also see themes of rape, drug abuse, peer pressure and homosexuality. These themes grip the audience and make Hannah’s story feel very real. 

After watching I was reminded how important it is to show kindness to others. It seems so simple but I think it’s something we can often forget. We can get so caught up in our own lives and issues that we can forget to look out for others. I think Netflix have done a very good job of highlighting metal health issues among adolescents through the series. Do you agree? I’d love to hear your opinion in the comments.

The Loveliest Surprise

I am currently writing this post with the biggest smile on my face because, as of yesterday, I am engaged! It still hasn’t completely sunk in yet, but I have been on a high all weekend and I could not be happier. It started off just like any other rainy/miserable Saturday. It was half snowing, half raining, yet Scott insisted on trekking up East Lomond  (a hill in Fife, Scotland). I did think this was incredibly bizarre considering the murky weather but, he kept going on about wanting to be healthy and get fit so I went along with it, none the wiser.

Disaster did strike half way up the road leading to the visitor car park. Snow on the road meant my little 1.2 Corsa wasn’t having it and refused to drive, getting stuck on a windy dirt track road. I started to panic (anyone who knows me, knows driving is not my forte!) and had to get Scott to reverse back down the hill for me. I was still none the wiser when Scott suggested we walk round a local loch instead. So off I drove, still slightly confused at this sudden desire to go out walking despite our earlier hiccup!

By the time we got to the loch the rain had subsided so it was just the cold we had to contend with as we made our way round the foggy loch. On the way back to the car Scott asked if I could take his photo. This did confuse the hell out of me because there was nothing to really take a photo of as it was so dark and misty. Puzzled, I pulled my phone out and clicked the camera icon but as I looked up I noticed he had his back to me. ‘What?! You want me to take a photo of your back?’ I exclaimed. I was utterly confused. It was at this point he turned around and produced the most beautiful ring.

I honestly don’t think I’ve ever been so shocked. I’m sure I looked ridiculous as I’m pretty sure my jaw was on the floor. He even got down on one knee. And so, I’ve been in a complete state of bliss ever since…who knew he could be so romantic?

Apologies in advance for the wedding/house posts that will no doubt dominate the blog over the next little while as I start to plan. Hopefully you will enjoy reading these. Of course I will still post about beauty, travel, lifestyle etc.

Top Tips for Newbie Business Travelers

This year I embarked on my first experience of business travel – a six week secondment just outside London for some training. As this was my first experience of business travel – I really didn’t have a clue what to expect! But now, two weeks in I am ready to share what I have learnt so far…

Take some home comforts with you – a blanket, hot water bottle or your favorite mug. 

If you are away for any length of time it may bring you comfort to have your favorite throw or blanket with you for cuddling up and watching TV. It’s the little things that can often bring you comfort and minimize the risk of feeling homesick. I realized after my first week that I wish I had packed some extra crap home comforts.

Hotel restaurants are brilliant

Providing that there is enough to keep you satisfied on the menu, hotel restaurants can be the perfect alibi for a weary business traveler. You can often get heather meals than you would from a fast food joint and there are often other business travelers eating alone to minimize the feeling awkwardness. Many hotels also offer room service if this still fills you with dread (providing you can afford this as part of your meal policy).

Think about your essentials 

Are you a gym buddy who can’t cope with the idea of not working out? Or, does the idea of having to get a new WIFI code each evening scare you to death? Think about the things that really matter to you. For example, a Holiday Inn may have a good central location with lots to do but lack a gym or pool. Again, after week one I realized that I should have thought about staying in a hotel with a gym. Luckily I am staying in a different hotel next week!

Location, location, location

If you are away for a week or more think about your location. As an example, if you know you will get fed up of the hotel restaurant, make sure you have other options for food close by. Alternatively, if you think you will be bored in the evening choose a hotel in the city centre where you can access shops, cinema or even a gym (pure gym doesn’t require a membership so you can join up for a short period of time). 

Keep a note of key phone numbers and names

Being alone on business travel can be nerve wracking when you are in a brand new city or town. Keep a note of key numbers such as your travel insurance, home office, taxi / rental car etc. Having these scribbled close by can keep you at ease.

Claiming expenses can be time consuming so do it earlier rather than later 

Make sure you can clear an hour out of you diary to sort through expenses as this can take a while. I have actually got into the habit of doing this at the weekend so I have my week to concentrate on actual work rather than bloody expenses. Also, check to see if there is an app you can use for uploading your receipts as this will save time scanning P.S. Keep receipts for everything – and I mean everything! 

Hopefully these tips will be of use for anyone new to the business travel game!

❤