Pages

Wednesday 29 July 2015

Under the Sea...


As the summer holidays draw to a close, thoughts often turn to new stationary. I may not be going back to school but with a new year of university drawing ever closer it was high time I purchased some new notebooks; and aren't these lovely.



The past year I have been very strict about not buying any new notebooks, I had piles laying around the house half used and it needed to stop. So far the ban has been a success and the pile has dwindled into nothing (Ok, I lie say 3, a girl needs options right? Right?) However when I spotted these beauties at The Range store I knew they had to come home with me.

At the moment I've been going through what I like to call the "Ocean Phase". Everything I'm buying whether it be plates or clothing has some sort of ocean inspiration behind it. Why I'm not sure; I find the sea calming and just now I'm loving all things aquatics big time.



For the price, these notebooks are top notch. The quality of the paper is as what you would find in a more expensive notebook, not the paper thin. You receive 60 sheets per notebook which is more than ample for some quick uni note taking. The books are thread bound which I prefer over gummed adding a nice little touch to the overall style. They are so lovely I probably would have paid double for them if they were in the stationary section of TKMaxx.




I can't find these on The Range website so it would probably be best to pop in if you fancy getting them yourself. Prices start from £1.50. The Range has a wide ranging stationary section and you are bound to find something exciting whenever you go in, I know I always do.

So have you purchased any new stationary recently?
Let us know in the comments below we love hearing from you!

Mish x


Disclaimer: Photographs copyright of Mish at Jute, Jam and Joy
I have no affiliation with The Range store, all views my own.

Sunday 28 June 2015

MUSIC TO OUR EARS

Man its been a while hasn't it... We haven't done a Music to our Ears post in forever so why not start with a beat that will get you moving and shaking on the dance floor.


Walk the Moon ~ Shut Up and Dance









Disclaimer: Video link
Jute, Jam and Joy claim no rights.

Thursday 7 May 2015

General Election 2015




We don't normally discuss politics on the blog and we do not care who you vote for.

What we will say is how important it is to use your vote! 
Go to your polling stations which are open from 7am to 10pm and let your voice be heard!
Whats the point in having one if your not going to use it?

Once that's done sit back, relax and remember the good old days of the Swingometer.

Yes they had to paint on extra numbers during the 1970's result show. There was just so much swinging going on...
Tori & Mish 


Disclaimer: 1st photo source: Link
2nd photo source: Link

Monday 4 May 2015

Superdrugs Vitamin E Moisture Mask






For the past few months my skin has been drier than normal. Over winter I noticed my usual face creams where not cutting the mustard when it came to combating my dry patches; I needed something more potent. Whilst trying to use up my pre-paid parking I wandered into Superdrug to pick up their Vitamin E Moisture Mask which I had heard lots about. For £2.59 you receive 75ml of mask in a sqeezey bottle, making application cleaner and more effective than applying from a tub.

I use the mask at night after cleansing; I apply a medium - thick layer over my face and just let it sink in. The packaging says to dab a way excess after 10-15 mins with a tissue but I prefer to just massage it into my skin (waist not want not and all that).




When morning comes I notice my skin is brighter and plumper, dry patches although not completely gone are severely diminished, and I feel with more regular use, as the packaging suggests, the mask would get rid of them completely.  I know people use this as a face cream in the morning before applying foundation however I feel my skin is still to slippy once its initially sunk in for it to work, but for those with extremely dry skin this could be the answer to your dry patchy foundation problems.

Vitamin E is the key ingredient here. Growing up my family was never big on skin care but it was drilled into me as a child that you don't need fancy face products just something containing vitamin E, both my parents since their teenage years moisturized their faces with some form of vitamin E cream and you can tell. Their skin is supple and bright with very few deep set wrinkles. Something I wish to emulate.


Add caption


I have been suffering from flu this past week and the skin around my nose and lips has become cracked and raw. It was with trepidation that I applied a thin layer to these parts to try and soothe them preparing myself for the inevitable sting. Guess what...Nothing happened bar a slight tickle, I nearly cried with happiness while bowing down to its greatness. This would be a good option for those whose medication dries their skin out.


Superdrugs Vitamin E Hydrating Face Mask does exactly what I want it to do. It leaves my skin looking brighter and more moisturized after one use. One thing that struck me is how good it would be for teenagers starting up a basic skincare routine. It's inexpensive, suitable for sensitive skin and would be an excellent option for boys who maybe don't feel comfortable admitting to using skin care as it can be used at night time. One things for sure I will be purchasing another when I go back to Superdrug.

 Have you tried any new face masks recently? 
Leave a comment below we love hearing from you.

Mish xx




Disclaimer: All photos Copyrght of Mish at Jute, Jam and Joy.
I have no affiliation with Superdrug.

Monday 30 March 2015

Nails on Monday: NCLA I Only Fly Private Review




Every so often a nail polish comes into your life that is so perfect for that moment in time it adorns your nails as soon as possible. NCLA's I only Fly Private is that polish. The day it arrived the first sun of spring had broken through the clouds and all was good in life. NCLA was a new brand to me before this bottle came with March's Glossybox, and here is what the brand has to say for themselves.

"We're a proudly "5 Free" luxury nail lacquer, meaning we are not only 100% free of DBP, toulene, and formaldehyde, but also of camphor and animal testing. Because we love our furry friends and toxins aren't fashionable."

Could it be any more perfect?



I Only Fly Private is described by NCLA as a bold, no apologies Bright Orange. Although the colour is bright, I wouldn't say it was in your face unlike my Pop Orange polish reviewed here: Link.

The colour is bright with a pastel tone to it, a creamy peachy/orange if you would. It stands out but isn't in your face; perfect for people who wish for a splash of colour.




The bottle itself is a lovely square design which is comfortable to hold during application, and the handle is smooth allowing a secure grip. Inside is a medium length brush where the bristles fan out towards the end. After two coats you are left with a glossy, nearly opaque base, however, three thin coats would be best, as I could see some nail base peeping through near my cuticle after two coats.  The polish did take longer to dry than other formulas which I'm putting down to the fact it doesn't contain any quick drying chemicals. As always I apply a top coat just for that extra protection.


Now I managed to smudge my nails once I painted them so after one one day, minimal chipping did appear which disheartened me a little, however, after four days my nails still looked acceptable; a quick application of top coat would tidy your nails up nicely if you were in a rush.

The nails after 1 coat. My camera battery died before I could take a shot once I painted the second coat but I like to see the initial colour when I'm looking at nail swatches.

To conclude I Only Fly Private is becoming a staple in my collection, something to fall back on when I can't decide what to do with my nails. The formula is lovely, the application is easy, the colour is fantastic, and the polish lasts on the nails. Now if only I could find a way to fly Private all the time...


 Have you heard of NCLA before?
Discovered any new nail polish brands you think we should hear about?

Leave us a comment below we love hearing from you!

 Mish x



Disclaimer: All photographs copyright of Mish at Jute, Jam and Joy.
I have no affiliation with any brands mentioned in this post.


Wednesday 11 March 2015

Comic Relief 2015


This Friday 13th sees the return of Comic Reliefs Red Nose Day. Comic Relief is a British Charity which aims to help the most vulnerable here in the U.K and in Africa.
Every 2 years the streets of Britain become filled with red noses and people doing silly things for charity, but if jumping in a bath filled with baked beans is too much for you here is a few simpler ways to show your support.


Buy a Red Nose. 
They cost £1 with at least 60p going to Comic Relief.
I got mine in Sainsbury's and there are 9 different characters to collect, I have Nosebot.
Isn't he a cutie!
They also have some lovely umbrellas and Lulu Guinness designed Jute Bags, and as a certain blog around these parts knows, Jute bags are always the best ;)



Decorate your nails.
At my school on Red Nose day we were allowed to paint our nails red. This year Comic Relief have brought out nail stickers for you to enjoy. They cost £2 with at least £1 going to Comic Relief. In the packet is a set of 2 designs, a sheet of full length nail stickers and on the back miniature Red Noses. Check out our Twitter page on Friday in order to see them in action. 

Now if you really want to go all out here is some other items you can purchase to show your support. 

Rimmel Limited Edition Red Nose Lipstick by Kate Moss - A traditional Red Lipstick to see you from Day to Night: Link


T.K.Maxx are selling T-Shirts designed by some of fashion biggest designers, alongside tea towels, aprons and bags: Link

Most Supermarkets are selling special Comic Relief edition packs of items such as teabags, chocolate and cereal. Just keep an eye out for the Red Nose.

Are you doing anything for Comic Relief, if so let us know. 
And remember wear you Red Nose with pride on Friday as down to your generosity you are helping someone who desperately needs it. 
Thank You.
Mish xx


Disclaimer: All photos property of Mish at Jute, Jam and Joy.
I have no connection to Comic Relief, all view are my own.

Sunday 15 February 2015

Glossybox February 2015 Review




As Valentine's Day is this month Glossybox have given February's box a "LOVE" theme. In this month's box we have 3 full sized products and 2 test size and a mini packet of love hearts where a nice touch. I will review some products in more detail later on in the month, as this post is just a review of the overall box I received.

Yes I ate the Love Hearts before I took the photos. woops


Wilkinson Sword Hydro Silk

I'm not the biggest fan of razors with built in shaving cream bars, they become so messy after a couple of uses and I need to change the cartridge. Saying that in a previous Glossybox I received a Wilkinson Sword Intuition Plus Hydra Razor and loved it, due to the fact I could get more decent applications from it. Razor's not the most exciting thing in the world but always handy to have a few spare. This was a full sized product.

MARSK Mineral Eyeshadow

Sticking with the "ahem" Love theme we have MARSK eyeshadow "Fifty Shades" and what you recieve is a small amount of grey shimmery eyeshadow surprising me as this was classed as being fulled sized. Nevertheless what I enjoy about Glossybox is receiving products from companies I have never heard of and Marsk joins the club. MARSK is based in Sydney and England and aims to create natural and organic products. The product is talc, paraben, fragrance and GM free and they don't test on animals. Win, win. Will be intrigued to see how it wears.

Royal Apothic Tinties

Firstly the box is a little cutey and the liptint container is a throwback to the old Apothecary days to which the brand have based their products on. I received the colour Coral which is bright in the jar but mellows once applied. I have heard of Royal Apothic before and was keen to try their products, first impressions is that the Tinties seem lovely and light creating a nice, even tint across the lips. This was a full sized product.

So Susan - Rose Quartet Lip & Cheek Palette in Warm Rose

I am aiming to use more palettes this year and this lip and cheek cream one ticks the boxes. Another brand I haven't heard of but another gorgeous box.  The actually packaging of the palette is horrible cheap plastic and rather oddly contains no mirror even though there appears to be a space for one. The four colours are a good mixture and appear to apply well to the skin. I think this would really do well on a night out instead of lugging about your lipsticks.

got2be - All Star 10 in 1 styling

This product promises to create (deep breath) shine, fullness, strength, thickness smoothness, suppleness, protection, anti-frizz, anti-humidity and shape to your hair. A big promise, but I am keen to try it as I am a sucker for multiple treatments in one easy to use product. Time will tell if this actually works. I will say this does smell like peaches which frankly makes the item shine in my eyes.


So February's Love themed Glossybox is a hit with me, as all products will definitely get used within the coming weeks, however I did feel the Tinties and So Suan Lip & Cheek cream where too similar. Maybe Love themed nail stickers would have been better instead? February's box was a nice mixture between practicality and a little sweetness in time for Valentine's Day. What more could you ask for?


From L to R:
got2be, Wilkinson Sword,
Royal Apothic Tinties, So Susan Lip & Cheek Palatte, Marsk eyeshadow


Do you subscribe to a beauty box?
 Have you tried Glossybox?
Leave us a comment below we love hearing from you!
Mish xx





Disclaimer; Photographs copyright Mish at Jute, Jam and Joy.
I have no connection to Glossybox, the box was my own purchase.

Saturday 14 February 2015

Music to Our Valentine's Day Ears




Happy Valentine's Day, or as we like to call it hear at Jute, Jam and Joy "Tomorrow 1/2 price Chocolate Day". 
Ha, no whatever you are doing we hope you have a lovely day and remember you don't need to be loved up to celebrate! 
For today's special edition on of Music to Our Ears we bring you a classic from Fiction Factory who incidentally originate from just up the road in Perth.


Fiction Factory ~ (Feels Like) Heaven


All together now "FEELS LIKE HEAVEN!"







Disclaimer: Video Source: Link
Photo Source: Link  
Jute, Jam and Joy claim no right to either. 

Monday 2 February 2015

Burt's Bees Replenishing Lip Balm Review

I like to give products a thorough testing before I review them on the blog. This lip balm actually came with a gift set I bought myself (ahem) on Christmas Eve and I haven't put it down since. So let's get down to the nitty gritty shall we?



This is what the Burt's Bees website has to say about their Replenishing lip balm with Pomegranate Oil.

"This replenishing and hydrating natural lip balm is infused with the antioxidant goodness of pomegranate oil. It replenishes moisture to reveal smooth, healthy lips, while it coats them with a hint of color for an even-toned appearance."

100% natural, this lip balm does exactly what it says on the tin. As soon as I applied the product my lips felt extremely nourished, hydrated and soft. Burt has nailed the right mix between a waxy and balmy consistency, with the product leaving a luxurious, light feeling on my lips whenever I apply it. There is no danger of this dragging across your lips or chunks of balm coming off which you have to then rub in with your finger. Just swipe and go; perfect.



There are various "flavours" within the Burt's Bees range and I now understand why people collect lip balms; they all look delicious. After application you can taste the pomegranate alongside the standard Burt's Bees scent; slightly medical but not overpowering and both flavours work well together.  As it says in the blurb you do get a slight colour pay off on your lips, and you're left with a nice shine, creating a perfect lip option if I was wearing a smoky eye. I have the mother of all colds just now so sorry for no action shots of the product on my lips.

With weather like this my lips have been needing all the protection they can get.
The lasting time of this balm is what I really admire, two hours after application I can still feel the balm nourishing my lips. With this freezing weather we have been getting this has been my go to lip balm, even knocking of my all-time favourite Cherry Chapstick from the top spot.

Dare I say this, but Burt's Bee has created probably one of the best lip balms on the market just now. I can find no fault with this product and would highly recommend it to anybody looking for a good quality lip balm. It's a 10/10 from me.

Also check out the Burt's Bees Website as they have a 3 for 2 deal on lip balms, Hurrah!


Have you tried any products from Burt Bee's recently?
 Do you have a favourite lip balm you go to come winter time? 
Let me know in the comments below, we love hearing from you!

Mish xx




Disclaimer: Photographs copyright of Mish at Jute, Jam and Joy.
All views are my own and I have no association with Burt's Bees.

Thursday 29 January 2015

2015 Resolutions




Well the festive period has finally passed for another year. January is quickly rumbling along and I have just seen Mother's Day cards in Marks and Spencer. It's another New Year and I am certain they go quicker as I grow ever older :( 

New Year resolutions are not normally my thing but I have decided to try this year by keeping it simple and realistic; there is nothing worse than having to console someone in the bleak days of February when their resolutions have gone up in flames. I hope to document my resolutions over the year, hopefully putting them out here on the blog will give me that extra boost of will power.

1: Become stronger

I've always wanted this. Not Schwarzenegger strong but strong enough that a heavy box isn't going to defeat me. Most of my strength is in my legs and I really want to work on my upper body. I bought a Power Spin last year and aiming to do it more often. I can honestly say its one of the best £20 I have ever spent. 
Sport England have created "This Girl Can" campaign which and I quote "seeks to get more women and girls active in response to research which shows millions are afraid to exercise because of fear of judgement." I personally couldn't give two figs about what people think of me when I undertake a sporting activity but I know many people struggle with this idea. Anything that is being done to help people get active and unafraid of other people's opinions will always have my undying support. The advert is total kick-ass too.

For some reason the ad won't load on the blog so here is the link

2. Tidy house, Tidy mind

In short I need to tidy and keep tidying more. I'm going in stages around the house and slowly but surely things are getting sorted.

3. Blog More

I love the process of blogging. Write your bit, take a photo and post it. So simple but yet brings so much joy to people. It's nice becoming part of the blogging community and there is always something that catches my imagination online. Blogging has fallen wayside the past months due to so many technically difficulties. My laptop died on the 27th December. The worst possible time when money is already tight and options are limited. I finally bought a new laptop and can start doing what I love again and Tori now no longer has to hear me say "but it lights up like the dashboard of a car..." Yes this was actually used as a marketing tool by a laptop company.

4. Take/Create more adventures

Life is one big adventure so they say and I intend to make full advantage of this. As I reach a milestone in birthdays this year I have come to the realization I ain't a kid anymore and life is what you make of it. Don't worry I'm going to stop with the motto's now. I aim to create my own adventures this year and people are more than welcome to come along for the ride. Here's to 2015!



So this is just a few ideas I have for 2015. I will probably add a few more when the time comes but these four are enough for now. 
So have you made any New Year resolutions? Do you stick at them? 
Leave us a comment below we love hearing from you!

Mish xx


Disclaimer: January photography copyright of Mish at Jute, Jam and Joy
This Girl Can photography source: Link

Saturday 3 January 2015

Happy New Year!




We both would like to say a very Happy New Year to all our followers and readers and wish you all the best for the future. Stay tuned for lots more exciting blog posts this coming year, including new beauty reviews, recipes, and of course more about our city Dundee!
Love Tori & Mish