Getting back on track, cakes, life updates and sorts

Hello everyone!

So I definitely haven't blogged for about a month. Which is quite unforgivable really. The only excuse I have is that I had such a busy July! I've also been quite down and not felt up to writing some days, but I feel a bit better now. 

Apologies if you're not in the UK, I'm sure you've been reading it everywhere, but WOW has it been hot! I am a sun LOVER, so have definitely been in my element in this heat! I blogged about our first BBQ of the year a few weeks ago, before the sunny weather had really picked up, and since then, I've lost count of how many BBQ's I've eaten. I just love sitting out on the swing chair, cider in hand, with the food flaming away nicely! That was until the bbq caught fire. We haven't had one since. You can imagine my devastation I'm sure. Haha.

I've attended a friends leaving party (off to work at Universal Singapore for 13 months!) my best friends 21st birthday, getting my cakes back on track, work work work, gym gym gym, and sorting out somewhere to live for when I move away for work in October! I just don't know where July went. 

I've taken a ton of photos this month but as they'd be highly out of context now, I don't feel like posting a backlog of pictures, but I thought I'd share with you some examples of the cake pops I've been baking. They are too yummy, (if I do say so myself!) I need to update my cake page on fb, which you can find at the link above if you're interested. 

So, I'm back, and I'm setting myself a challenge to post a picture of something every day. I am yet to decide on the theme....I've got a few hours yet...hmmm....any ideas would be good! 

Ooh, and check back in a few minutes because I HAVE to share with you the amazing sandals I treated myself to! 

Over and out for now, 

Sammy xo

Fit Man of Steel! Wow..

Hello everybody! 

Now, for those of you who don't know who Henry Cavill is, go to the cinema and see Man of Steel right now. You get to stare at this face (and body, do not forget the body) for a whole two hours. 

Now, don't get me wrong, I love Rob and everything, but if I ever met Henry, I would definitely blush, go very unnecessarily giggly, and/or weak at the knees. Maybe try and throw myself at him...Don't try and tell me you wouldn't, because I definitely wouldn't believe you. 

It's a good film (if you can drag your eyes away from Henry whenever he's on screen). A lot of action and fight scenes. Maybe too many in my opinion, but obviously, the above makes up for that...

I don't remember the original Superman, or know masses about it, so I thought the storyline was great, and I quite enjoyed it, but Rob -who knows a lot more about Superman than me- felt that there were certain elements missing. But if you want to see a good sci-fi action film, (with some serious eye-candy) then this is a good one to see. 

I can't stop scrolling up to have another look at the picture, oh my, get a grip Sammy!

In other news, it's Wednesday evening, which means we're closer to Friday than we were this morning. Yay! I've had a bit of the mid-week blues today. Both of my best friends are working away for 4 months, so I'm pretty lonely, and it hit me a bit more than normal today. But I've got a busy weekend ahead, so I'm looking forward to that. Unlike most people, my weekdays are pretty empty, but my weekends are extra busy!

Cheer me up, tell me who your celebrity crushes are! (Other than Henry 'fittest man of steel' Cavill of course!) ;) 

Sammy xo

Happy 2nd July! // Minnie Mouse Nails

Afternoon all!
As you may have noticed, I've changed the url of my blog, and the header. When I started my blog, I didn't really know what I wanted to name it, so everything I had to name was something different. I'm not sure what made me choose Just Freckles either, (apart from the fact that I have a lot of freckles :]) but I think I'm happy with it! So re-welcome to my blog, Just Freckles!
Also, pinch punch, flick and a kick and all of that for the 1st of July. I am aware that it was yesterday, but I missed it. So, a belated, yay it's July! Bring on summer! To you all.
I attempted some sort of fancy nail art today, Minnie Mouse inspired. I have shaky hands for some reason, and can't seem to do my nails neatly, especially when I'm trying to do my right hand with my left! But I gave it my best shot.

There we go! I used a Nude Barry M nail varnish for the base colour, a no. 17 Red for the tips (which took me a long time to get straight. Anyone have any hints on how to make that easier?) and some nail art pens for the bows and polka dots, that I bought from eBay. They've got a thin brush, and a nib top for more precise detail. They are pretty adventurous for me but I'm pleased with them! The only other thing I can do is leopard print. I attempted some zebra-like stripes the other day, but it just looked like I'd had an accident with the black pen...

Does anyone else like to experiment with their nails? If anyone has any tips and tricks for me to try, I'd love to hear!

Sammy xo



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Sunny Sunday! Time to relax.

Hello again lovely readers!

It was a hot and sunny sunday yesterday which could mean only one thing - BBQ!

Nobody can be unhappy when its warm. Even the dogs were smiling - look at Bailey. :) It was just such a laidback day; my family and Rob just relaxing in the sun, drinks in hand, music playing, the bbq...bbq-ing...everything you want a summer afternoon to be. We also made a start on Robs best man speech for his friends wedding in October. They are really hard to write! Especially to make them funny. But I think we're off to a good start. 

I'm going to post a link to the recipe for the Mars Bar dip we had last night in place of a standard chocolate fondue. I have to say that it's not looking as good as it tastes in that photo! There are still chunks of un-melted Mars bar, but seriously, the taste is lushhhh. Strawberries were definitely the favourite to dip, too.

I hope you all had a wonderful weekend. Did anyone else waste away their sunday in the garden like me?

Sammy xo

Mid week posting madness, family birthdays!

Happy hobbit!

Stars and Stripes knickerbocker glory - vanilla and strawberry ice cream, marshmallows, smarties and chocolate sauce. If you're not a fan of sugar, this may not be the ideal choice for you...

Hello everyone! 

I'm sorry, I'm so behind this week. Yesterday was my nans 70th birthday, so my mum and I surprised her with a visit from my aunt (her eldest daughter) in a restaurant. It was brilliant; she really had no idea, it looked like she'd seen a ghost, and had to have a glass of wine. (Big deal because she doesn't drink - bless!) I guess birthday surprises are a good idea! We took her to a restaurant in Southend, called Tomassi's. It's really well known for its desserts - special pancakes, waffles, and these enormous knickerbocker glorys. There are so many flavours; Stars and Stripes, Italian black magic, vanilla macaroon, Eton mess, you name it, and they've probably got it. They're amazing! I love desserts. I just love food in general. Sometimes I go to sleep thinking about what I'm going to have for breakfast... Is that wrong? Surely other people must do that too... Sorry, off in my own world there.

I uploaded a photo of my outfit yesterday. I wore my aquamarine chiffon waterfall-style skirt, from a boutique in Leigh Broadway, the cropped white top I bought from Primark last week, vintage gold chain necklace, River Island drop-cross earrings, and my favourite Topshop black chain waist belt, which I wear with everything! I teamed this with my white low-cut converse, just to keep it casual. Do you have a wardrobe staple you love to wear with everything? My belt is mine, it goes with all my outfits - or at least I make sure it does.

It was lovely weather yesterday, I was relieved to finally be able to wear a skirt without tights! Hopefully it's here to stay, it would be nice to wear some of the summer items I haven't be able to resist buying...

I was so pleased to celebrate with my nan yesterday; she said it was the best of all her birthdays, and I took some lovely family photos to remember it by. I really want to invest in a good camera when I can; my iphone is great for quick snaps, but they're not great quality! 

Over and out for now, I might have done another spot of shopping in the h&m sale.....so watch this space! 

Sammy xo

It's show time!

So yesterday was fun! What incredible show, and for such a fantastic cause.

I really wanted to take a photo from backstage but you are 100% not allowed your phones or cameras back there, so it wasn't possible. 

There is something so wonderful about being involved in a show. The fun of rehearsals, getting to the theatre and doing sound checks, tech-ing, run throughs, the make up, the costumes, the nerves before the curtain goes up, the excitement when the music starts, and then when it's all over, wishing you could do it all over again. That really doesn't sum up what the atmosphere is really like, but I don't know how to put it into words. There's just nothing like it. It's electric. 

The audience were incredible. The show finished with 'Do you hear the people sing?' from Les Mis, and as the song hit its peak, they stood, and waved their flags in time with the song. It was just, amazing. 

After the show, I went to the after party - good fun, more dancing! Somehow I never managed to get a photo of my outfit. Fail. But my little blue primark dress went down a treat! Nude heels, gold accessories, and bold lipstick to accompany it. :) 

This morning (after getting to bed at around 3.30) I had some new headshots taken. (Luckily I woke up looking fresh and alert after 5 hours sleep; in hindsight probably not the best idea I've ever had...) For those of you who don't know, your headshot is what gets you anywhere in this industry. If your headshot is wrong, you won't get seen for jobs, however right you may be for the role! Mine was so out-dated (I still had a pixie cut in it, woops) so clearly I wasn't doing myself any favours. I'm so excited to get them, new hairstyle and all. :)

Well, I hope you all had a lovely weekend, and a good start to the week today. I've got family visiting this week, so that will be fun. We're surprising my little Nan tomorrow - it's her 70th birthday this week and she's been trying to pretend it's not happening. Sorry Nan, we all know, you're not letting it slide! ;)

I'm sorry that this has been quite a stagey post! But I hope it gives you some sort of insight into what I do. If you're interested, here's a review of last nights show - 'West End Heroes Review' - I'm one of the 42nd sSt performers.

Is anyone else a performer? I'd love to know if you are. 

Over and out for now!

Sammy xo

Friday Night Photos! Chilled out Saturday

Afternoon everyone :)

Just wanted to post some photos of my evening last night. I really want to invest in a good camera, as I take a lot of pictures! But I do like capturing moments with my trusty iPhone. 

Me and Rob went to a TGI Fridays; we love the food there, and settled on the same meal, which was gooood. I always challenge myself to see if I can finish my whole plate, (man v food styley) but I've actually only managed it once, and that was after a whole day walking around at the zoo! Rob also chose the manliest cocktail he could find, a nice purple number which basically tasted like alcoholic Ribena! The barman gave him a wink after establishing that I had ordered a nice bright purple drink for my man, haha. I had a prosecco cocktail mixed with orange sherbet; it was pretty good! 

We did go to the cinema afterwards, and saw the new Brad Pitt film, World War Z. If you like intense movies, this is definitely one for you! The only calm moments are the first 5 minutes, literally, after that you are absolutely on the edge of your seat! I highly recommend it.

I took that last photo on our way home. We just came up from an underpass and the street lights looked almost like fireworks; I was glad I caught it in a picture!

Anyone up to anything exciting this weekend? I'm having a chilled out day today as I know that tomorrow is going to be a long, but exciting day! I'm really hoping to get a photo with The Overtones, who are performing after me. 

Have a great Saturday everyone! 

Sammy xo

Fabulous Friday!

It's Friday! Fabulous Friday! I've had a busy one so far, but have finally found a minute to sit down and catch up with some of my favourite bloggers, and write a little something myself before this evening!

I can't function in the morning without a cup of tea, (how British) so I started off my day with an appropriately captioned mug-full, and two chocolate chip brioche rolls from Mark and Sparks. If you've never tried them, I suggest you do! They're sooo good. My mouth is watering now just thinking about them. I know there's one more downstairs but 3 in a day definitely qualifies as greedy, really. Unless you all agree that it doesn't? In which case I'll go and eat it before anyone else does...

I then did my sister a huuuuge favour, she owes me now! Basically, she has her college end of year show next week, and needs a white, floor length, evening dress for the finale. We ordered her one off ebay almost 4 weeks ago, but unfortunately, ebay really let us down this time, and it never arrived! So I went trawling around Prom/Bridal shops this morning in the hope of finding something, which I finally did. She's only little too, 5" and a size 6, which made it more problematic, so I had to get her out of college to try one on. Luckily it was a perfect fit - clearly meant to be! - so that put an end to a big stress! I honestly thought we were going to have to get a wedding dress at one point, just as well not, I may never have left the boutique if I started looking. I could see them looking at me, calling me over. (I should add that I am in NO position to even be thinking about weddings, but how could any girl not get caught up in a slight daydream whilst surrounded by these beautiful dresses?! Just me? Oh.)

After that I've went to the gym - standard - and got ready to go out once Rob finishes work. He's taking me out for dinner tonight, and I think we might go to the cinema too. I've been so much recently; there's so many good films out that I want to see. I'll let you know if and what we see!

I've posted a picture of Bailey and Billy from when I got home; they were SO excited to see me, (although they're generally overexcited at the sight of anyone) just look at Baileys face! When he gets excited he does these funny little yaps, which he can only do with his head facing the ceiling. So when he finishes yapping he then faces you again with this mahoosive grin. I've caught him mid-way between the two, haha, bless him. And Fatbill is just waddling headlong towards my lap for a nice cuddle. Please don't be offended that we call him Fatbill, but he IS over double the size of Bailey, which is funny because they are brothers from the same litter. It's beyond me how he's managed to get so enormous! He's super cuddly, and he loves being carried around like a baby. :)

I might make some brownies before Rob gets here...hmm...I've got that Friday Feeling. Where I like to eat loads of food. Haha. 

I hope you all have a Fabulous Friday! Any plans? Anyone else going to the cinema tonight? 

Speak soon!

Sammy xo

Primark haul! Mid week shop.

Hello world! 

I've been itching to get back on here to write, but have had two full on days rehearsing for West End Heroes which is playing at the Dominion Theatre this Sunday, in aid of Help For Heroes. It's going to be a wonderful event; there are so many amazing people giving up their time for a great cause. I'm really looking forward to it! 

After the show, there is going to be an after party, which is definitely going to be a 'dress to impress' sort of evening! Normally I always stick to a tried and trusted LBD, (can't go wrong!) but I really want to start introducing more colour into my wardrobe. It was so hard avoiding dresses with black on them, but I've succeeded! (Kind of..) I decided on trusty old Primark as they've got a great selection of dresses at the moment, at really great prices. 

I absolutely love the fit of this dress! I saw the black one and loved the fabric, style, length, everything about it, and then next to it was the bright blue one! Total win-win, I got myself a lovely new LBD, and a bright coloured dress which I can wear on Sunday! As I know the style is great for my body shape, when a black dress may be more appropriate, I won't be wishing that the blue one was black! And, they are only £10.00 each, barrrrrgain! They are also great quality, (considering the source!); the fabric stretches, but doesn't appear see-through, and isn't a thin, lightweight fabric. It feels very durable, and thicker than a normal Primark bodycon. I'm so excited to wear the blue one!  

Above is a picture of a ring I got for £1.50 too. The zip on the dress is gold, but looks a bit silvery in the picture, so I'm planning to wear it on Sunday too. I will of course post a picture of the whole outfit! Definitely need to choose some shoes....that's another whole can of worms; why do I continue to only buy black heels?! If anyone has any ideas as to what colour shoes would be a good investment pair, please let me know! If you've seen some, tell me! I'm thinking something tan/nude would be pretty versatile?

Seeing as how I've titled this post a 'haul', I should probably show you it! Cue photo:

(Apologies for the quality of the first picture, I don't know what was going on with the light in my room!) 

I'm obsessed with these lovely high neck crops at the moment, this black one was about £3.50 I think! And I think the white cap sleeved one was the same price. They're so easy to dress up, or wear whenever, maybe with high waisted jeans or something. I couldn't really say no, I love stocking up on basics! Heel shields, very handy, especially with a night out on the horizon ;) And finally, these two necklaces were reduced to a £1 each! A black rope chain with a silver cross, and a tan strap with a gold cross. I liked how the cross' were only knotted on, so I can change them about depending on my outfit that day. I wear a lot of black and gold so I think that'll be a popular combination. 

Anyone else picked up some good Primark bargains recently? The Topshop sale started today; I didn't have a chance to stop in, but I bet some lucky ladies got some great steals there today!

Sammy xo