These Grey Days: Firmoo Glasses Review

Now that the nights are getting longer and the weather outside is drizzly, it's a lot easier to stay indoors and get my work done.

Saturday and Sunday were both spent with noses in books, comfy jumpers on and the radio crooning in the background. Nick had no excuses not to get on with his course, thanks to his new pair of glasses.

My friends at Firmoo sent him a lovely pair of new glasses. I've previously used their service, check out the review of it here. So this time I knew what to expect in regards to the quality of the product and the speediness of the delivery, even though they have a long way to come, all the way from across the pond. Never fear, they do have a UK site with lots of great glasses at prices so cheap that you'll want to check your eye sight again.

Having a new pair of specs has opened Nick's eyes to lots of new things, he's started taking driving classes (again) and can watch films with subtitles, we watched The Lives of Others the other day, which was really great.

The glasses themselves are very simple but stylish. Nick went for an understated brown frame with a small symbol on the side. They came in the antique map style glasses box that I love, and the additional benefit of the tiny screw driver.

Again, the service we received was really great. Firmoo make it really easy to browse, enter your prescription details and order.

Let's hope that he doesn't sit on, stand on, leave them behind or let some back street Korean Optician fiddle with them!

Thanks Firmoo!




I was asked by Firmoo to review their service and products in return for a pair of new glasses. As I was in the market for some, I jumped at the chance and put their business under the magnifying glass.



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Back in England Goals 3/5 and my new obsession

I finally tackled the mammoth task of clearing out my wardrobe this weekend. It was long over due! I've half heartedly been doing it for a while, throwing out a top here, donating a pair of shoes there, but soon I'm going to have to be sharing a wardrobe with Nick, so it only seemed fair that I reduced the amount of clothes I had. Despite him having only a few pieces of clothing, I still need to give him some wardrobe space!

It was helped by the fact that Katie and Becky have introduced me to a website I haven't tried before, Vinted. On the site you upload the clothes you don't want anymore, and can decide if you want to sell them or swap them for something else another user has. It's a really good place to encourage you to recycle clothes rather than buy brand new things all the time.

There's been a lot of bad press recently around the conditions of the people who make our clothes in other countries. It really has made me try and be a bit more conscious about the quantity of clothes I have and how much I really need. Does anyone else feel the same?

If you're interested in what I have to offer, check out my Vinted profile here!

So there's one more heart achieved on my list, two more to go. 4 days until I leave Sheffield...I wonder if I can achieve the others before I go? I have my doubts!


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What you Really Need to Pack for 6 Months Travelling

I’m going to take a break from sharing our trip around South America today and look at how successful(or not) my packing skills were.

Before I left here’s what I packed, I have crossed out the things that I got rid of almost immediately. They either didn’t make it to the airport, were thrown away, or were posted back within a month. In bold are some things that I bought along the way that I felt like I needed, or were a bit of a naughty splurge.

Shoes
Hiking Boots
Gladiator Sandals
Toms
Flip Flops

Bags and Accessories
Backpack
Rucksack
Tote Bag
Small, leather night time bag
Belt
Hat
Gloves
Scarf/Sarong

Electronics
Ipad and charger
Ipod and charger
Earphones
Splitter
Camera and charger
Small device to upload photos to Ipad
USB
Travel Hairdryer
Straighteners
Travel Adapters

Toiletries
Lush Shampoo Bar
Lush Conditioner Bar
Deodorant
Dry Shampoo
Tooth Brush
Tooth Paste
Moisturiser
Face Wipes
Hair Brush
Bobbles
Hair Grips
1 Big hair Clip
Head Band
Coral Nail Varnish
Perfume Stick
Tweezers
Nail Clippers
Mentol Chino

Make Up
Foundation
Blusher
Blusher Brush
Lip Balm
Lipstick
Mascara
Eye liner
Eye Liner Pencil Sharpener

Medicine
Painkillers
Inhalers
Savlon
Plasters
Anti Allergy tablets
Mosquito Spray

Underwear
12 pairs of pants
3 bras
1 sports bra
2 thermal socks
3 trainer socks

Clothes
Water Proof Coat
Windproof Under Jacket
Thermal Leggings and Vest
Jeans
Shorts x 2
Skirt
Day Dresses x 3
Night Dress
Smart Dress
Maxi Dress
Bikini
Hoody
Jumper
Cardigan
Long Sleeved Shirt
Long Sleeved T-Shirt
Vest tops x 2
T shirts x 5
Leggings
Tights
Pajamas

Extras
Sewing Kit
Online Banking Gadget
Big Bike Lock for our bags
Small Wire Lock
Folder for Documents
Note Book
Pen
Pencil
Spanish Dictionary
2 x Zip Lock Bags
Small, lightweight laundry bag
2 plastic bags
1 book


Additions
I purposefully tried not to buy too much as I would have to carry it around on my back, and I needed to keep a little room for gifts that I wanted to bring home. I did however buy a couple of things. I replaced my flip flops as they got worn out very quickly from all of the walking. I also bought a jumper from Bolivia, mainly because I liked it so much. I didn’t really need another hoody, but it was good to have a spare one for washing days etc. I also treated myself to a long blue maxi dress in Argentina. This was perfect as the weaher in Buenos Aires was over 40 degrees and I found that a lot of my clothes didn’t really suit this weather. Finally, I bought some Mentol Chino when I was in Ecuador. This is kind of like Tiger Balm, and proved to be great for mozzy bites.

Subtractions
The gladiator sandals were on their last legs and eventually it was time to leave them behind. I had a nice pair of Havaianas that I could use as dressier sandals for the evening. Again, an evening bag wasn’t necessary, I either used my Tote bag, or didn’t take anything out with me. The Ipod and the little gadget for my Ipad gave up the ghost in the first month, so they were sent home along with the charger. Nor did we use the USB. If you read my review of the Lush products here, you can see why these were binned. Face wipes weren’t replaced once I finished them as soap and water sufficed. Because of the sticky weather foundation and lipstick weren’t practical. Tights and my smart dress weren’t ever used. Finally, the extras weren’t really necessary, but if the situation came up they could have come in handy.

What you really need
If I were to go again, I would definitely pack:
- Lightweight clothes which are easy to layer and match with other pieces that I'm taking.
- My lap top as blogging was very difficult without it.
- I really loved my light weight, down, wind proof coat which could roll into a small pocket. I used it when it was cold, and as a blanket or pillow on the bus .
- Scarf was perfect to use as a sarong, cover my shoulders, and as something to sit on.
-Taking plenty of underwear definitely helps if there are long periods between washing days, but also they’re easy enough to wash in a sink if you are desperate.

What you don’t need
-You can buy most toiletries in shops and markets throughout South America. This is the same for make up too.
- Gloves and hats can be bought when you get to chilly places.
- You don’t need any clothes that are too formal or dressy, as most travelers keep casual, and sometimes it’s far too hot and sticky to dress up.

Most of all, just remember to take things that you are really comfortable in. For South America you have to prepare for all types of weather, but most things are available to buy in the shops. You could support local business by leaving a few things at home to pick up later, and if there are things you don't need, you can also donate them to people that need them.

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Trash, Treat or Stash: Firmoo Eyewear edition

Here is a special edition of Trash, Treat or Stash, my review series. I was asked by Firmoo to review their service and products in return for a pair of new glasses. As I was in the market for some, I jumped at the chance and put their business under the magnifying glass. Here's how they did!
I misplaced my glasses when we were in Argentina. This meant many hours squinting while trying to read my book, I knew it must be bad when Nick stopped asking me to read the signs in the distance as I couldn’t read them until my nose was virtually touching them. And he always used to be the blind one between us.

So when I got home I was faced with the task of finding a replacement pair.That was why I was so curious when Firmoo asked if I would be interested in writing a review of their services.

I had been reading a few articles recently pointing out that online shops like Firmoo are able to offer a much better deal on frames and lenses than those on the high street. Yet I had avoided using the online shops as I like try on the frames to see if they’ll actually suit me.

Choice: Using Firmoo's website turned out to unexpectedly simple. It took me a long time to look through their online catalogue as there was so much choice. They have so many styles and a wide variety of colours.
Ordering: When I'd decided on the pair that I wanted it was time to start ordering. The order form was clear, easy to complete and had lots of information for the tricky little bits like filling in your prescription details and sizing.
Waiting: I remember laying on the grass having a picnic when I received a text to say a parcel was on its way. I was a little confused as I wasn’t expecting my glasses to arrive so quickly, but the next day, there they were waiting for me.
Prettiness: First impressions were great. I loved the old map case that the glasses came in and a tiny screwdriver on a key ring so if I ever have any spectacle SOS moments I should be able to fix them straight away. As soon as I opened the case I knew I’d made the right choice. I picked these tortoise shell frames as I loved the shape and wanted to try something different other than the thick black ones I'd had in the past.
Usability: Well, I'm not squinting at the screen as I write this which is always a good sign. I spent yesterday afternoon recovering after a busy weekend, curled up on the sofa reading a new book with my new glasses and I fell even more in love with them! The only negative comment I would say is that I find the lenses difficult to keep clean and find that they keep steaming up!

Overall: All in all I had a really positive experience shopping with Firmoo, I loved their range, found the service was simple and quick, and all of the frames are at an amazing price. My hang ups about ordering online rather than going to the shop is that you don't actually get to try on the glasses before you buy them. I got around this by using their online visualiser tool which lets you upload a photo of yourself and then dress yourself up in the glasses. I also went into another opticians to try on a few styles that were similar so I was pretty clear in my mind that they would be right for me.

If you want to check out their service, Firmoo offer a 'First Pair Free' program, so why not try it out here?






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Long Night Bus Rides

I'm starting to get used to these long bus rides through the night and have a few things I always make sure are available in my bag.

1. I always take a big bag on the bus to make sure I have everything to hand. I also never put any valuables in my backpack which is stored below the bus, as we've had proof that people do take a peek at what's inside. I loved this black and White one

2. It's really important to be comfy, and that's pretty hard on a bus, especially when you can't afford to buy the fancy seats. Lots of bending and flexing is always involved for me before I can fall asleep, so leggingsare important! And the same for tshirts

3. The buses never seem to be able to get it right with the temperature, it's either always boiling hot or freezing cold, so I like to use lots of layers. I would love this Harry Potter jumperto pull on whenever the air con gets a little icy.

4. A scarf can be used as a blanket to keep warm, or balled up into a pillow, and always comes in handy.

5. Avoid cold toes by always packing a pair of socks.

6. Shoes that are easy to slip on and off are always helpful when the bus pulls over for a break and you have to make a dash to the toilets! I love the colour of these.

7. I'd be lost without things to entertain me on our long trips. I always pack my ipad, headphones, pen, a notebook and my book. The tablet has come in really handy for watching films and writing blog entries.

There are a couple of other things that I also like to pack that I would have been lost without, earplugs, a travel pillow and lots of snacks make the journey a little more bearable!

Birthday Tea party

My 27th Birthday is creeping up on me. This year will be a little strange, as it's the day after we arrive in Buenos Aires, so I feel like we might be too jet lagged to really celebrate much. I've told everyone not to bother buying things, as I won't be able to carry them around with me. Although I have been treated to a few things already, like my maqaroon necklace.

But, with all this tea and cake that's been happening over the last few days, I was thinking it would be really nice to throw a Birthday Tea Party. Here's what I would treat myself to...

Birthday Tea party by maddielamb featuring Del Toro

Pink Cupcake Dress // Sweetie Earrings // I'm A Star Nail Polish// Birthday Balloon Shoes // Party Hat Necklace // Mushroom Tea Set // Cupcake All Over Colour Cream // Marshmallow Cupcake Cocktails

Bad Banana

Today the kids at school, being charming as ever, gave me the nickname of Bad Banana. Now they mention it...

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My Beijing haggling bargains and Kuala Lumpur F21 Splurge

I couldn't resist some of the things I saw in the markets in Beijing, particularly the Silk Market where the stall holders were happy to haggle with you. It was my first time haggling and it was so much fun.

I wanted to buy the pink sparkly candy bag but the lady told me it was going to be 600 yuen, which is about £60. I told her that I only had £15 so that was all I was willing to pay. I loved that she acted all indignant and started saying 'are you crazy?!' before I walked off, then it was only a step or two before she started chasing me saying 'ok, ok, how about £20?' She sulked and huffed and puffed while I stood my ground and eventually she agreed to the price that I originally said.  This happened in every shop.

For anyone that's going to go there I would recommend staying strong and sticking with your original price as long as it's reasonable, they'll eventually give in as they hate to see you walk away empty handed, or even worse, to buy it from the stall next door.

On one occasion I got her down to my agreed price, but when I looked in my purse, I only had half of what I'd said I had. She was NOT a happy bunny, but still gave it to me!

I also couldn't resist the pencil chopsticks, big hair bows and hair chalks from Nanluoguxiang shopping street.











Then once I got to Kuala Lumpur, I noticed that there was a Forever 21 in the shopping centre next to Grace's apartment building, so I treated myself to this strawberry shirt and polka dot print dress. I love F21 but they don't have one in Busan or in my town at home, so I always end up buying a lot more than I should!






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I love lists...

I started this post a long, long time ago, when I'd first arrived in Korea. It was about the vast amount of lists I had for films that I wanted to watch, books I wanted to read, places in Korea that I wanted to see, and things I wanted to do, but recently a whole new species of lists has been developed with my imminent trip to England. I love lists, they really do make me feel like I'm getting things done, even if it is partly indulging the side of me that likes to procrastinate.

Having been in Korea for a year, I've been deprived of several things that used to be pretty important to me, here are the lists I've made for my visit home.


Warm scones with raspberry jam with seeds and lots of fresh cream, served with hot tea made in a teapot and served in a china cup. Yorkshire puddings, mash potato and real sausages covered in gravy (my Northern side coming out!). Thick hummous and big juicy olives. Not to mention fish and chips. Yum.


The largest lady's size in Korea is a UK size 6, and that's considered big. Cue a man shouting 'Hey big ladies' at us when we walk into a shoe shop. I can't wait to walk into a shop and have my choice of any shoes. Ballet pumps, flats, trainers, sandals, boots, I'll try them all. At the moment I'm torn about these shoes.


Most shops in Korea do 'One Size' so nothing seems to fit quite right, it's usually horrifically baggy or torturously tight. I can't wait to be reunited with my faithful friends, Primark, New Look, Top Shop and Ark.


Every other song played is Gangnam Style, this is interspersed with awful techno music. I can't wait to dance with my friends to songs that I feel slightly mediocre about, never mind the ones that I love.

I think I'm going to be a whirlwind around the shops back in the UK. I've already pillaged the online sales and hope that there's lots of bounty waiting for me when I get home.

If you're a fan of lists, here's a list of 9 lists that it's recommended everyone should have.

Goodbye Old Purse, Hello Sparkly New Hello Kitty Purse

After my purse went missing the other month and was discovered in the boys toilets at school two weeks later, I decided rather than carry that one around which had probably been peed on, that I'd buy myself a new purse...

Our Weekend: Walk the Plank

A good weekend was definitely in order on Friday when we had finished our first week of Summer Camp. It's been incredibly tough, teaching more lessons than usual packed into just a few hours, and it's also been my first time teaching children who are under the age of 10. They have alot shorter attention span and obviously a lower ability of English so it's been a massive challenge. But on the bright side there's only a week and a bit left to go! And on the plus side we're working half days so get the afternoon free to do as we please!

So last Friday afternoon I was ready for a bit of peace and quiet, so headed to Hwamyeong on a bike ride down the river. I love it there as it makes me feel 100 miles away from the pushy ajummas and the honking of taxi horns. It also seems as though it's going to be the perfect spot for skating so I can't wait to take my skates down there soon.

After the ride we headed to PNU to watch Dan perform his stand up act which he does once a month. He was really funny, and it was nice to catch up with everyone after we'd all done our own thing that week due to Summer holidays.

Saturday we all got together to celebrate Katie and Alex's birthday on a pirate ship. There's an old fashioned sail boat that does a trip between two points in Busan, so we all donned our eye patches and grabbed our swords for a pirate themed party. It was so much fun being surrounded by good friends and new people,  good atmosphere and the amazing scenery. This was followed by the first, and best house party that I've been to since being in Korea. I still have apartment envy of Katie's new flat.

Sunday I went to see what the new H&M had to offer at Shinsegae,  where I bought a few new tops and a skirt. This was followed by an amazing curry at Namaste in Dongbaek, delicious! The weekend was rounded off when we all went to sit on the beach and chat, I was very jealous of all the people whose vacations had just started and spent most of the night there on the beach.

Summer Vacation

It's already our second day back at school and our vacation seems like it was months ago already. I had a really great time though filled with sunshine, friends and music.

I loved being in Seoul and getting away from Busan for a few days. I loved the feeling of some of the areas of Seoul, especially Edae and Hongdae. I can't wait to go back when it's a little cooler and we have more time to explore the nightlife.

We fitted alot in, Gyeongbukgong Palace, we saw the fountain on Banpo bridge, did some shopping at Forever 21 and H&M, visited the Hello Kitty Cafe, Seoul Tower where I loved the promise locks that friends and couples leave on the railings up there, Namdaemun market and ate some good Mexican and Italian food. It will be even better if Clare moves there, giving me the excuse to visit even more.

I always thought that Busan was relatively big but never expected Seoul to be quite as big as it was. 2 days was not enough to explore, rather have a whistle stop run around all of the well known places before I headed to Jisan Festival.

Just so I don't leave everyone to interpret the pics on their own, let me add captions...

 Exploring the grounds of Gyeongbukgong Palace//  Cocktails in a rooftop bar in Itaewon// 

Banpo Bridge// Hello Kitty Cafe at Night// Mexican food and drinks at Hongdae//

Breakfast at the coffee shop// Hello Kitty Cafe// Shopping in Seoul// Seoul Tower Sights