How I'm preparing for 6th form/college / Meandmyheadphones

Hello lovelies,
Today I am going to be sharing with you the bits and bobs I've bought in preparation for starting year 12. Everything I talk about in this post I will include links to them (at the end) so you can buy them for yourself if you wish.

First is of course notebooks. As I'm studying 4 A-levels, to begin with, I bought a notebook for each subject to keep them separate and organised. They have got 4 holes so you can put them into any folder which is very useful. I think that Pukka pad seem to be the best quality but if you buy them from somewhere like WHSmiths, you could end up paying £5 for just one. I bought all four for just over £6 in ASDA so I would recommend checking your local supermarket for their back-to-school deals.

Next is pens and highlighters. As a student you really can never ever have too many pens, especially if you lose them left, right and centre like me. I usually write in black biro so always have tonnes of them about but I also love coloured pens, especially for revision notes. Again, I bought all my pens from supermarkets as they had good deals rather than spending stupid money in an actual stationery shop.

Now, I'll be honest with you, if you're looking for someone who will buy a pencil case that looks good even though it can fit about two pens in it... that's not me. These days I am all about practicality so my pencil case may be boring but it fits EVERYTHING in it which is perfect. It's also see-through which means I don't need to use a separate one during my exams. I have the usual bits and bobs like a ruler, pencils, scissors and lots and LOTS of glue! If the history A-Level is anything like the GCSE course I studied then I'll need all the glue I can get. 

To organise my folders I bought some dividers and heavy duty plastic wallets which will be perfect for small books or paper I don't want to hole punch. I found similar ones in WHSmiths but you got two for £2 whereas in TESCO I got five for £2.... crazy.

In an attempt to scheduele both my in-school and out of school life I have bought a weekly planner with a matching small notebook which is super cute!! Believe it or not I actually bought them from POUNDLAND!!!! Who knew?!?! Love me a bitta marble! I also have my diary which I SWEAR BY, I write everything I'm doing in this! If I don't write it in there... I will forget :/

Flashcards are a MUST for my revision. They are just so handy, you can chuck them in your handbag and take them on the go! I buy the different coloured ones so I can separate the subjects. These particular ones I actually bought at a Dollar Tree in Orlando but I will find the closest ones to these for you.

When looking at the subject specifications they often tell you which books you will be studying. I found this was the case for English so I made sure I bought them over the summer to be prepared as soon as I got back. Mine are all from ebay as buying books, especially if they're classics, can be expensive. As long as you ensure they are good quality, second hand books are the way to go.

As a treat after passing all my GCSEs my parents bought me my own laptop for school work. Its a Lenovo Yoga 14" 2-in-1 laptop (which means it can flip and be a tablet). This is going to be super helpful as I'm doing 4 essay based subjects which will KILL MEEEE! Plus I can use my free periods to research and type up work without having to rush for a computer. I also bought a 32GB memory stick.

Finally, probably THE most essential.... joking but I do need them! My portable charger and headphones. A portable charger is an absolute godsend for my phone at school and I'm sure you all know I don't go anywhere without my headphones. They're the Beats Solo 2 Luxe Edition. I'll definitely be using them on the bus in the mornings... most likely listening to the Mamma Mia Here We Go Again soundtrack because I have been obsessed recently.

If you're going back to school soon, I wish you the best of luck 💗

See you all soon!

Ella

www.instagram.com/meandmyheadphones

www.facebook.com/meandmyheadphones

So there you have it! That's all the bits and bobs I have to prepare myself for 6th form.

as promised here are the links to most, if not all, the bits I've mentioned.

• Notebooks: https://groceries.asda.com/product/notebooks/oxford-campus-note-book/910001623568
• 4 coloured pens: https://www.tesco.com/groceries/en-GB/products/287247038
• Black biros: https://www.tesco.com/groceries/en-GB/products/277129919
• Highlighters: https://www.tesco.com/groceries/en-GB/products/260119366
• Pencil case: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Helix-Oxford-inch-Clear-Pencil/dp/B01EFV8QVE
• Glue 3 pack: https://www.tesco.com/groceries/en-GB/products/278395993
• Pencils: https://www.paperchase.com/en_gb/stationery/writing/pencils/fa-slogan-hb-pencils-set-of-6.html
• Plastic popper wallets: https://www.tesco.com/groceries/en-GB/products/287380017
• Folder dividers: https://www.tesco.com/groceries/en-GB/products/262704452
• Weekly planner: http://www.poundland.co.uk/metallic-weekly-planner
• Revision flashcards: https://www.tesco.com/groceries/en-GB/products/282319964
• Laptop: https://www.currys.co.uk/gbuk/computing/laptops/laptops/lenovo-yoga-520-14-intel-core-i5-2-in-1-128-gb-ssd-grey-10174149-pdt.html
• Memory stick: https://www.currys.co.uk/gbuk/computing-accessories/data-storage/usb-flash-drives/sandisk-cruzer-blade-usb-2-0-memory-stick-32-gb-green-10174636-pdt.html
• Powerbank: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Juice-Squash-XL-5600maH-Portable-Aqua/dp/B017WIMWCG/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1535996067&sr=8-3&keywords=juice+squash+power+bank+xl
• Headphones: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Beats-Solo2-Ear-Headphones-Luxe-Black/dp/B0179XTEPM/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1535996157&sr=8-1&keywords=beats+solo+2+luxe+edition

Update! Where have I been? / Meandmyheadphones

Hello lovelies,
... its been a while...

If you follow me on social media you probably wouldn't have noticed my absence as I do still post regularly. However, if you are primarily a reader of my blog then it may have seemed as if I fell off the face of the Earth! 
Quite a lot has happened since we last spoke. I went on a 2 week holiday to Florida (Disney World of course :)) with my family, which was unbelievably fun and incredibly magical. When we returned home the stress of waiting for my GCSE results kicked in! I, along with thousands of 16 year olds all over the country, picked up my results on the 23rd of August. Luckily, all my hard work and revision payed off and I did well enough to enroll to start my A-Levels... which I start next week... AGH!

Although I haven't posted here in forever, I want you all to know I haven't forgotten about you!! In fact I am working on some things that are hopefully gonna change my blog for the better... starting with regular uploads! I am gonna start working even harder to pre-write and schedule new posts for you, so that you can (hopefully) enjoy new content more regularly. I have a few ideas in mind but I would love to create more of the content YOU would like to read so feel free to let me know your ideas.

Before I end this quick little update post I wanna let you all know that I now have a discount code for www.lovemebeauty.com so if you use the code ELLA03560658 you will get £10 off your first order!! They have gorgeous lipsticks (matte and gloss) and their eye-shadow shades are TO DIE FOR!! If you decide to use my code to buy yourself some goodies make sure to let me know what you bought! Tag me on Instagram if you post the products of if you create looks using them, I would LOVE that!

That being said, I will end the post here.
Thank you, as always, for taking the time to read my content!
I shall see you all very soon!
Byeeeeee💗

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Top 9 Movies // Meandmyheadphones

Hello lovelies, hope you are all well!
Today I am going to be sharing 9 of my favourite movies with you. I am sure you are all aware by now, if you follow my social media, that I am very into my Disney films. However, this post won't include any Disney (including Star Wars) movies because that would make it extremely difficult for me to keep this to top 9 only. I will make a separate post talking about my top Disney films another time, please let me know if that would be something you would like to read.
Disclaimer: As I love SO many films I find it difficult to put them 'worst to best', so this list is in no particular order; other than the fact they are some of my favourites.
Now that's out of the way, lets get into it!

Number 1 is The Theory Of Everything.
I knew as soon as I heard about this film I would fall in love with it.
Its an emotional rollercoaster to say the least but it is such a heart-warming film about Stephen Hawking growing up. I definitely shed a tear or two while watching. It won multiple awards including 2 Golden Globes, 3 BAFTAs and an Academy award. Eddie Redmayne did an AMAZING job portraying Stephen Hawking, a very believable performance which he won multiple 'Best Actor' awards for it. Overall, I would recommend this film for those of you who want to find more about Stephen Hawking in a cinematic portrayal.

Number 2 is It.
This is the 2017 version as I prefer it to the 1990 version.
I am sure you're aware of the story but if not- it is about a supernatural being who takes the form of Pennywise the dancing clown and kills the children of Maine. However, there are a group of kids, The Losers Club, who are determined to kill Pennywise. I actually HATE clowns! However, for me the clowns that are more scary are the ones that look like normal clowns that you'd see at kid's parties... not demonic ones like Pennywise... controversial? Maybe! I really enjoyed this film, although parts of it were disturbing there were plenty of comedic scenes that made it an enjoyable watch. For me, the best character is Richie Tozier (Portrayed by Finn Wolfhard), as he made me laugh SO hard!! Bill Skarsgård plays an incredible Pennywise and succeeded in creeping me out!! Overall, I enjoy this film because of its horror and comedic elements... and remember... YOU'LL FLOAT TOO!!!

Number 3 is The Wizard Of OZ.
Of course this film is an absolute classic with its transition from black and white to technicolour, catchy songs and THE cutest dog :) The Wizard Of OZ holds a very special place in my heart as it was the film that introduced me to musicals when I was a very small girl. I was even lucky enough to see the stage production! I can never see a brick path without singing 'Follow The Yellow Brick Road' and have dressed up as Dorothy on many occasions! I believe that it is one of those family friendly, pick-me-up films that you can chuck on whenever. For its time it is incredibly made and Judy Garland has an easily recognisable, beautiful voice. Overall, The Wizard Of OZ is a pick-me-up film with catchy songs and loveable characters!!

Number 4 is Me Before You.

Another tear jerker!! This film is based on the book by Jojo Moyes, which I ADORE, and I must say that the film portrays the book very well! I first watched it in the cinema and loved it so much I bought the DVD as soon as it came out! I admit that I sob every time I watch it as it does tackle difficult subjects like euthanasia which could be triggering for some viewers. It is a beautiful and saddening story which Emilia Clarke and Sam Claflin portray incredibly well. It won a People's Choice Award for Favourite Dramatic Movie which was very well deserved! Overall, this film is one of my favourites because of the way it tackles difficult subjects in such beautiful ways. Make sure you have plenty of tissues on hand when you watch.

Number 5 is The Maze Runner.
The Maze Runner trilogy is hands down my favourite book series I have read so far (bold statement I know!!) so I was OVER THE MOON when I found out it was being turned into a film series! As I enjoyed the books so much I was a little worried of whether they'd portray it well enough or ruin the books. I am glad to say that they did definitely portray the book onto screen incredibly well. The main character, Thomas, is played by Dylan O'Brien who does an AMAZING job! My favourite character in the books was always Newt, I was ecstatic to find out that Thomas Brodie-Sangster (AKA the love of my life ;)) was going to play him! I cannot see anyone else portraying Newt as well as Thomas does. Even if you haven't read the books, though I recommend you do) the film is equally enjoyable. Neither my parents or my sister had read any of the books before watching the film and they really enjoyed it. It is full of action, adventure, friendship and LOTS of running!!

Number 6 is Wonder Woman.
Although I am a Marvel girl myself, I saw the trailer for this film and fell in love with her character and was desperate to watch it. Wonder Woman always used to be sexualised as a superhero which always drove me insane, so I was very happy to see a feminist side to this hero which has promoted so much girl power!! The film itself shows Wonder Woman through her childhood to her growing up and discovering who she really is. it is jam packed with action, comedic elements, a little bit of romance and a tonne of GIRL POWER!!! If you are a fan of superhero films whether you're male, female or anyone in-between, you will LOVE it.

Number 7 is Guardians Of The Galaxy.
When I first saw this film advertised I knew it was gonna be awesome, but I never saw it affecting me as much as it did. Being a Marvel film that didn't include any of the avengers I was intrigued as to how it would be set out. The main character being played by Chris Pratt, one of my favourite actors, excited me even more. I was NOT disappointed! It is an action-packed story full of comedy with some extremely heart-warming scenes. The soundtrack is incredibly cheesy in all the right ways! Of course my favourite character is Groot, a hilarious tree-like creature who only says three words "I am Groot". There are some emotional scenes too which add to the storylines that each character individually has. I would definitely recommend both this film and vol 2 to all Marvel fans.

 Number 8 is The Matrix.
If you've never heard of The Matrix... have you been living under a rock?!?! The Matrix is a classic! The concept is sorta terrifying where Thomas learns that he, like most people, is a victim of a massive artificial intelligence system that has tapped into people's minds and created the illusion of a real world, while using their bodies for energy. It is very well made and must be one of the most quotable films of all time!

Number 9 is The Goonies.
Best till last for sure!! The Goonies is my all time favourite film, I have seen it more times than I can count on my hands and I quote it in almost all situations. It is an absolute 80s classic movie in which a group of kids follow a treasure map and go on an adventure together. It made me wish I had found a real treasure map that I could follow with my friends too! The main character Mikey is played by Sean Astin recently played Bob in the Netflix show Stranger Things! if you are a fan of shows like Stranger Things then you would love The Goonies!!

I hope you enjoyed hearing about my top 9 movies! If you agree or disagree with any of these films then let me know down below! Thank you for reading!
Remember to follow my social media:
Instagram: @meandmyheadphones
Facebook: Meandmyheadphones
Snapchat: Meandmyhedphnes

See you all soon!

Ella xox

147 Things by Jim Chapman book review // Meandmyheadphones

Hello lovelies!

I am VERY excited to share with you my review of Jim Chapman’s book “147 Things”! I absolutely loved it and I’m sure you will too!

“I wanted to write a book about how exceptional, fascinating and bloody strange this thing we call life is. That turned out to be exactly 147 Things. Some are deep and important, others are ridiculous and seem inconsequential, but they all have their place in my life and wouldn’t surprise me if they find a place in yours too. Of course, I’m a complete over-sharer so there are lots of stories about my life in here, because these are things that have either helped me not to die, or have made existing just that little bit more manageable. This wonderful world can be pretty overwhelming at times- these are the 147 Things that keep me afloat.”

The concept of this book captured my attention straight away! The fact that it’s not an exact autobiography but actually incorporates elements that everyone can relate to which makes it so enjoyable to read. I have actually learnt so much from reading this book and it felt like a wonderful journey through parts of everyone’s lives together. 

My personal favourite of the 147 Things is Thing 38 “Puberty is a mess, it just is”. As a girl of 15 it is something I can obviously relate to; I loved reading about his experience and the letter he wrote to his younger self. I found it very interesting and something to take into consideration on a personal level too. 

I have been a fan of Jim for a good few years now and actually met his wife (Tanya Burr) at HER book signing about 2 years ago; I’m glad to see Jim has done the same! I totally recommend this book to all of you! Whether you’re a fan of Jim or not; it’s definitely one to look out for!

147 Things is out NOW!!!

Jim Chapman’s channel https://www.youtube.com/user/j1mmyb0bba

Link to purchase the book

https://www.amazon.co.uk/147-Things-users-universe-buttons/dp/1509854150/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1506953243&sr=8-1&keywords=jim+chapman

Link to audio book with exclusive Q&A with Jim https://soundcloud.com/pan-macmillan/147-things-by-jim-chapman

*I was kindly sent this book but all opinions are my own*

The Music Tag // Meandmyheadphones

Hello lovelies,
As so many of you loved my last post I decided to do another tag for you all, hope you enjoy :)

1) Which bands/artists do you own the most albums by?
All Time Low or One Direction, I love them both and own equal amounts of albums too.

2) What was the last song you listened to?
Antivist by Bring Me The Horizon.

3) What's in your CD player right now?
On My One by Jake Bugg. I've been listening to all of his albums before his new one comes out in September. Which I am VERY excited for!!!

4) What was the last show you attended?
Olly Murs with my family.

5) What was the greatest show you've ever been to?
All Time Low at the O2 on their Back To Future Hearts Tour. They are my favourite band by far but two incredible bands opened for them; Against The Current and Good Charlotte. The atmosphere was insaaaaane! I went with my dad (who isn't much of a fan of All Time Low's music) and he agrees it was an amazing gig.

6) What was the worst show you've ever been to? 
I haven't been to many shows but probably the worst, looking back on it now, even though I enjoyed it at the time (as I was 9 years old) was a festival sorta thing that was put up in Alton Towers (yes, the theme park!!). At the time I was OBSESSED with a boyband called JLS; who were one of the bands playing there, as well as McFly, The Saturdays and Eliza Doolittle. It was my first ever live music experience so I was very excited- however JLS weren't as good as I had anticipated. Mcfly were tonnes better than them. It wasn't awwwwful but it was the worst show I've been to so far.

7) What show are you looking forward to?
Jake Bugg is going on an acoustic tour soon which I am hoping to be able to go to.

8) What is your favourite band shirt?
My All Time Low baseball tee.

9) What musician would you like to hang out with for a day?
Either Jake Bugg or Gerard Way, two completely different artists but both have inspired me in one way or another.

10) Who is one musician/band would you wish would make a comeback?
Gonna be a stereotypical teenage girl buuuut.... One Direction. Although I am digging most of their solo material- it's just not the same.

11) Who is one band/artist you'd like to see live? 
George Ezra definitely! He is so talented and I've watched many clips of him playing live and the crowd look as if they're having a blast! Looks AWESOME!!!

12) Name four or more flawless albums.
Jake Bugg by Jake Bugg
Wanted On Voyage by George Ezra
25 by Adele
MTV Unplugged by All Time Low
and of course any Disney Compilation ;)

13) How many concerts have you been to?
Five.

14) What is your favourite movie soundtrack?
It changes all the time but at the moment it's probably Moana. My ALL TIME favourite musical is Les Miserables.

15) What is your "guilty pleasure" that you hate admitting?
My guilty pleasure used to be Bastille because their music wasn't very popular and none of my friends liked them but when I met my boyfriend, who loves them too, I decided to stop hiding and just admit that I loved them. I get judged badly for listening to movie soundtracks too, especially Disney. People, mostly those older than me, would roll their eyes or completely patronise me. It's ridiculous. Music means something different to everyone; we should all be able to listen to anything we love. I have now learnt to ignore those who judge me and instead of hiding my passions- embrace them.

Make sure you keep up to date with all my social media;

Instagram: @meandmyheadphones

Snapchat. @Meandmyhedphnes

Facebook. Meandmyheadphones

See y'all soon ❤

TMI Tag// Meandmyheadphones

Hello Lovelies! Today I thought I'd do a tag so that you can all learn a bit more about me! So, lets get into it.
1. What are you currently wearing? A skirt from topshop and top from new look.
2. Have you ever been in love? Yeaaah!
3. Did you ever had a terrible breakup? Urgh of course.
4. How old are you? I am 15.
5. How tall are you? 5ft 1" lol short.
6. How much do you weigh? Haha no.
7. Do you have any piercings? Yes I have my ears pierced.
8. Do you have any tattoos? Not yet ;)
9. What’s your favorite drink? Coffee or Dr Pepper.
10. What’s your favorite song? Oh wow erm at the moment it's Liability by Lorde.
11. What’s your Zodiac sign? Aries.
12. How long does it take you to shower?Anywhere from 10-30 minutes oops.
13. What’s favorite show? The Lodge, Doctor Who or Geordie Shore :)
14. What’s your favorite band? All Time Low!
15. Something you really miss? Innocence... deep woah.
16. Where do you go when you’re sad? My room usually or maybe for a walk to take some time to reflect on things.
17. How long does it take you to get ready in the morning? Hmm on a school day about 10/15 minutes but at a weekend more like 30 minutes.
18. Have you ever been in a physical fight? Nope and I don't intend on doing so.
19. What turns you on? Honesty
20. What turns you off? Lies
21. Quality you look for in a partner? Someone who makes me laugh XD
22. What’s your favorite color? Light green or coral.
23. Loud music or soft? Depends on my mood but normally loud music.
24. Favorite Quote? "This is just part of growing up. A little adventure, a little rebellion." Which is a quote from Disney's Tangled.
25. Favorite actor? Eddie Redmayne :)
26. The reason you joined Blogspot? Because I wanted to start a YouTube channel but am far too awkward to do that quite yet so decided to do this instead :)
27. Do you have any fears? What they are? Clowns... but not purposely scary looking ones; the normal looking ones that are at kids parties... you can't trust them. Urgh. Also hate small spaces and most social interactions hahaha.
28. What’s the last thing that made you cry? A song I listened to today. Whoops.
29. Meaning behind your YouTube Name? I chose meandmyheadphones because of my love of music :).
30. Last time you said you loved someone? A few minutes ago.
31. Last book you read? Sherlock Holmes.
32. The book you’re currently reading? Me After You.
33. Last show you watched? Doctor Who.
34. Last place you were? At home :)
35. Last sport you played? Rounders at school the other day haha.
36. Who’s the last person you talked to? My dad.
37. Last song you sang? Part of that world from the little mermaid.
38. Favorite chat up line? Is your name google? Coz you have everything I'm searching for....
39. Have you ever used it?  Lol no!!
40. Do you have a crush? Always ;)
41. The relationship between you and the person you last texted? My boyfriend.
42. Favorite food? CHEESE :)
43. Place you want to visit? Tokyo.
44. When was the last time you kissed someone? Last week :(
45. Last time you were insulted? Always haha.
46. Favorite flavor of sweet? Anything sour... especially apple.
47. What instruments do you play?? Guitar and Ukulele.
48. Favorite piece of jewellry? Hmm I'm not really a jewellery person but I am partial to a choker or rings.
49. Last time you hung out with anyone?Urgh ages ago
50. Who should answer these questions next? ALL OF YOU!!!

I hope you've all learnt something new about me today haha, make sure you keep up to date with all my social media;

Instagram: @meandmyheadphones

Snapchat. @Meandmyhedphnes

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See y'all soon ❤

New music recommendations May 2017// Meandmyheadphones

Hello lovelies!
I have recently discovered some new music bits and bobs so I thought I'd let you know what I'm listening to right now.

First is Zara Larsson's album 'So Good'. I have been absolutely LOVING this album at the moment. It's mainly upbeat songs with some slower songs with beautiful lyrics. It's been doing very well in the charts recently and I'm not surprised as I can see it appealing to those who enjoy pop music. My favourite songs are 'Don't let me be yours', Ain't my fault' and 'Only you'. I watched her play at Radio 1s Big Weekend and I must admit that she is very very good live- amazing atmosphere and the choreography was incredible! ((You can catch-up with this performance on the BBC iPlayer.))

Another album I have been listening to practically daily is 'Memories... do not open' by The Chainsmokers. I never ever thought I'd enjoy their type of music as I'm not really into the sort of dance/dj music. However when my boyfriend ((shoutout to Joseph heyyyy)) told me to listen to it- I did and to my surprise it is very very decent. Although it is very electronic which isn't my style; the lyrics and beats make up for that completely. I am sure you have ALL heard the song 'Closer' that they did with Halsey which was topping the charts for weeks on end. I actually believe that songs like 'Young' and 'Bloodstream' from this album should definitely be released as singles and top the charts as they're two of the best pop songs out there at the moment, in my opinion.

Finally, as I'm sure y'all know- I myself am I fan of One Direction (rip). All 4 members have released their own solo material now; I was interested to see what each of the members' music would sound like and whether it would sound like One Direction at all. My favourite of the four is Niall Horan as I am LOVING his new single 'Slow Hands' right now. However Harry Styles' album has surprised me as to how different it is- although my favourite song of his is 'Sweet Creature' which people have told me is the closest to One Direction sounding music. I am looking forward to more music from Niall in particular.

Next month my favourite band, All Time Low are releasing their new album 'Last Young Renegade' which I am SOOO excited for. I will definitely be reviewing that as soon as I get it.

All the music I have mentioned I recommend you give a listen and let me know what you think. Also let me know if there is any music that you think I'll enjoy in the comments below.

Thanks for reading. Remember to keep up to date with my whereabouts on my social medias:
Instagram- @meandmyheadphones
Snapchat- @meandmyhedphnes
Facebook- meandmyheadphones
And if you're a brand wanting to get in touch you can email me at
Meandmyheadphones123@gmail.com