Cousins by blood, sisters at heart, friends by choice. Because why not start off our blog with a cheesy quote. Don’t worry it wont be all cheese; unless you’re thinking of the kind that comes on a platter with a bottle of wine and a side of olives. There will be plenty of that.
Firstly I would like to welcome you to our blog and thank you for taking time to have a read or a SKIM. We are Charlene and Bianca two cousins who have lived together for the last 3 years. And let me just say it has been the most crazy and unexpected journey. There has been lots of highs (sometimes illegal ones) and unfortunately a fair share of lows, but somehow we always come stumbling out the other end like two strippers after a busy weekend; with an intoxicated smile and a slight limp.
Between us we have lots of talents and have our fingers in many pies most of which you’ll find out about as you accompany us on this blogging journey as we talk about experiences we’ve had (and ones we never want to have again), what mischief we get up to currently in our lives and what we have planned for our very successful futures (fingers, toes and maybe not legs crossed).
Octavia Spencer wows in her role as Madam C.J. Walker
Looking for something uplifting and inspirational in this current weird time we’re living in? Look no further that this new Netflix original mini series, based on the life of Madam C.J. Walker an African American; entrepreneur, philanthropist, social and political activist and also the first recorded female self-made millionaire. Four episodes long (just under an hour each) this is perfect for those boring quarantine hours at home; forget self isolation and try self made. This series really packs a punch along with the all star cast this amazing story leaves a lasting affect.
An amazing ensemble of actors.
What’s good: Madam C.J. Walker’s journey was a highly interesting one and as a woman trying to pave her way in life it really still holds a lot of relevance today. Octavia Spencer portrays the strong and relentless Walker so well and really breathes life into this historical role model for women. Also Tiffany Haddish as A’leila Walker is what I didn’t know I needed in my life.
Tiffany Haddish; really impressed by this portrayal.
What’s not so good: Was not a big fan of the soundtrack. There was nothing wrong with the music it was just that they had modern songs which I feel clashed with the fact it was set in then 1880’s, it was obviously intentional and I can see that they tried to make it current by using this technique which has worked well in other films i.e. Tarantino’s, ‘Django Unchained’ but personally I found it quite distracting. Also it is an adaptation so it has been tweaked for entertainment purposes so if your looking for complete historical accuracy I would do some further research.
Madam C.J. Walker and Octavia Spencer respectively.
Overall: As well as being a really great watch. It made me feel very humbled that as a women we have people such as this legend, who paved the way for women in business and what she did for black people as a whole was admirable. I feel like as a woman its important to watch things like this as I feel we take a lot of things for granted and can have a lot of our energy taken up with social media or often worrying about a man. Madam C.J. Walker battled against all adversity faced in the form of racism, sexism and classism and still came out swinging. If she can do what she did back in a time where even educating yourself as a woman or not being married by a certain age would have been frowned upon; imagine what you can achieve with the opportunities that are available today.
If you’ve already been watching you’ll know that sadly Netflix’s ‘The Good Place’ came to an end yesterday. With the last episode of the fourth and final season airing. If you haven’t been watching I defo recommended it for a bit of comic relief. It’s so well written and have you chuckling at it’s witty one liners and array of hilarious, ‘out there’ yet relatable characters.
What’s good: The concept; it focuses on main character Eleanor Shellstrop who wakes up in the afterlife to be told that she has been selected to live in ‘The Good Place’ a “heaven like” utopia, as she has been such a good humanitarian on earth. Which all sounds great except Eleanor knows that the person that is being described is certainly not her as she was far from perfect whilst on earth. Eleanor has to learn about ethics enlisting the help of Chidi (her chosen “soulmate” who everyone in the good place is allocated on arrival as well as their dream house) all so she can stay and is not sent to The Bad Place’.
What’s not so good: Personally I love it but for those who are a little more sensitive when it comes to religion etc may find it a tad controversial but it’s all in good humour.
Overall: It’s a fun and smart comedy and the 22 minute episodes are great for that quick comedic kick that’s well needed. Binge watch all four seasons on Netflix now or if you already have go cry over the last episode aired yesterday.
Happy New Year! Had a little break over the holidays which included a lot of drinking, eating and of course Netflix. Whilst on my using scroll of the latest releases I came across ‘Kevin Hart Don’t F**k This Up’ I thought it was another of his stand up specials at first but it actually turned out to be a 6 part documentary series; following his life. Okay so not the stand up I was originally looking for but actually was really interesting.
What’s Good: He’s work ethic is amazing and its very honest and quite controversial at times which actually makes it an engrossing watch. I’m not ashamed to say I sat and watched it all in one sitting.
What’s not so good: Like I said controversial at times and his attitude towards some of the subjects that come up at times comes across as stubborn, but ultimately you can’t knock his hustle.
Overall: Whether you’re a fan or not, I would highly recommend this for a New Year watch. His story is an amazing one. Where he came from to where he is now is really motivating and puts you in a focused mindset for the year ahead.
If your anything like me you’ve left your Christmas shopping to last minute.com and you’re in panic mode to get them stockings filled before the 25th. Below are some of my suggested places to shop when your running out time to grab that perfect gift for your loved ones/people your obligated to buy for this season.
1.Flying TigeR
Great for: That secret Santa gift that you have a £10 budget for.
“Stocking Fillers Galore”
The is gotta be one of the best shops for Christmas shopping. It has something for everyone especially if you want something quirky but that doesn’t break the bank. You can also get really creative with your wrapping as they have some lovely gift boxes and wrapping paper.
“Games for a the family”
Keep your eye out: These little games that are great to draw the kids away from social media for a bit and have a cheeky game with them. After all whats Christmas without getting a bit too competitive and starting an argument with the fam.
Great for: Everything! Especially if your trying avoid queues of people.
“Gotta love a little online shop”
This website goes without saying, but i’m saying it anyway. You can’t go wrong with Amazon. It works whether your going for something a bit pricey or just some cute extras. I would fully recommend investing in Amazon Prime you get free next day/same day delivery on majority of their products; which is so handy if you need something last minute.
“Alexa…Find me a gift”
Keep your eye out: They’re selling Alexa echo dots for £24.99 which is a great gift for that technology lover in your life.
Great for: Fun gifts for the person who has everything.
“My Typ o shop”
I love this shop its so fun to have a browse in. They have loads of humorous products that are definitely going to put a smile on peoples face. Its great for people that have particular interests like Harry Potter (cough, cough. Me) or Disney (cough, cough also me) etc.
“Gifting myself one of these this year”
Keep your eye out: Their water bottles are great Christmas gifts, especially going into “Gym January”.
Great for: Novelty gifts, but also have some great gift experiences.
“Something for everyone on here”
This is a great site I only came across this year that literally sells a bit of everything, some of which you couldn’t even imagine. For example beard baubles and mugs that insult the receiver. So if your looking for something thats is a lighthearted but sure to receive a few laughs this site is for you.
“This will totally inspire you to travel more”
Look out for: This scratch map that is great for the traveller in your life.
Wowcher is the place to go this Christmas if you want to get a present that has a bit more meaning (also you don’t have to wrap a Wowcher). Its great for couples, friends or if you wanna surprise your mum with a day out.
“It’s needed after the stress of Xmas”
Look out for: Luxury Spa deals for 2 that are hella cheap.
Not on the high street has been one of my favourite websites for quite a few years now. They are sometimes a bit pricey but I really like that you can get some really great alternative gifts, that come across as very thoughtful.
“Every needs a diary to start the year off right”
Look out for: These personalised 2020 diaries, because who doesn’t love something with their name on?
If a stranger happened to listen to my Youtube playlist they wouldn’t be able to guess my age or anything else about me for that matter; my playlist ranges from rap to rock n roll to smooth jazz and more than just a smidgen of Abba. My taste is varied and for me I think that definitely comes down to my love of film and the variety of music, you don’t even realise that your exposed to when you sit down to enjoy the latest blockbuster. Over the years I’ve come to love a soundtrack as much as the film and find myself googling mid movie to find out if its available online. So here it is my top 25 movie soundtracks, it’s been a hard job whittling it down to just 25 but watch this space because I’ll probably have another post soon containing the other 100 soundtracks that didn’t make the cut this time.
25. A Clockwork Orange (1971)
Graphic violence all mixed in with the symphonies of Beethoven just makes it all the more dramatic somehow. It’s not for everyone but it’s definitely one of my fav’s.
Best song: I can never listen to ‘Singing in the rain’ the same way again.
24. Shottas (2002)
Just the right amount of Reggae and Bashment for me. I’m not really big on the ganster movie genre unless the story is told well and this one is. Bob Marleys son; Kymani defo lives up to his dads talents and the sound track hits the right spots.
Best song: Ky-Enie’s track ‘Rain’ right at the end when *spoiler alert* some of the key characters die; gets me every time.
23. 8 Mile (2002)
Lose yourself in the music, the moment you own it you better never let it go. Admit it you sang that right? I remember going cinema to see this back in 2002 at the grand old age of 12 and coming out thinking about a rap career. Like it or lump it the music in this film really psych’s you up.
Best song: Eminem has some bangers but in this film the rap battle at the end is my favourite.
22. Brown Sugar (2002)
Think ‘When Harry Met Sally’ but a Hip Hop version.
Best song: Common’s ‘I used to love her’ really sums up the films storyline well as well as paying homage to Hip Hop music, which runs through the soundtrack.
21. Juno ( 2007)
Little bit of a wild card here, I know its not a movie that is especially well known for its soundtrack but I love it. It has kind of indie/country/easy listening tracks and makes it such a sweet film to watch.
Best Song: ‘Tire swing’ it’s such a cute song a really works with the film. The main characters duet is also a great song.
20. Bridget Jones Diary (2001)
I love the music because it literally goes with whatever is going on in the film at the time; *spoiler alert* i.e. when Bridget’s running to get Mark back you’ve got ‘Aint no Mountain High Enough’ blaring. It’s so convenient yet so effective.
Best Song: ‘All by my self’ can’t help but sing this at the top of my lungs, Bridget Jones definitely resonates with every single girl out there swimming in the shallow dating pool.
19. Pretty Woman (1990)
As soon as I think about the title of this film the main theme song plays in my head. This film is up there with the greats.
Best Song: I just love the ending ‘It must have been love but its over now’ Im a sucker for a love song (but don’t tell anyone).
18. My Best Friends Wedding (1997)
While were on the subject of Julia Roberts. One of the best Rom Coms of its time many have tried and failed to mimic its greatness but defo one of the best things about it is the choice of music.
Best song: Predictable I know but the cast singing ‘I say a little prayer for you’ is still one of my favourite movie moments.
17. The Runaways (2010)
Forget ‘Twilight’ this is Kristen Stewart and Dakota Fanning playing hardcore Rock n Roll stars Joan Jett and Cherie Currie, portraying one of the first successful female Rock bands in ‘The Runaways’.
Best song: It’s a close call but Joan Jett’s ‘Bad Reputation’ juts tips it for me. It really puts you in a ‘no fucks given’ kinda mood.
16. Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975)
One of the most bizarre movies I’ve seen but a cult classic. Step into the world of Transexual Transylvania. I love Susan Sarandon and seeing her in this role in her green days is great.
Best song: ‘Science Fiction/Double Feature’ is defo a favourite of mine (I love the references) but ‘Touch-A, Touch-A, Touch Me’ just tips it for me, its just so naughty right up my street.
15. Notting Hill (1999)
Okay so just a slight Julia Roberts obsession. I’ve literally just noticed when writing this post that she seems to be in films with soundtracks that are on point. (And maybe I just seem to binge JR’s films)
Best song: I know, I know hella cliche but ‘When you say nothing at all’ just melts my cold dead heart.
14. The Breakfast Club (1985)
One of the more predictable ones on my list but still one of the greats.
Best song: Keeping in the theme of predictability; ‘Don’t you (Forget about me)’ Honestly when I hear it I can’t get the image of Judd Nelson throwing his fist in the air out of my mind.
13. Girl Interrupted (1999)
I love this movie and I’ve lost count of the amount of times I’ve watched It and it just never gets old. Set in the 60’s so the music is from that decade which is one of my favourites. Angelina Jolie never fails to amaze.
Best song: Petula Clark’s ‘Downtown’ the part where the characters are singing it is just a really special moment in the film. Theres also a part when a character hangs herself and they have ‘The end of the world’ playing on repeat which gives me chills every time I watch it.
12. Les Miserables 2012
Set against the backdrop of 19th century France following this array of characters on their journeys with some beautiful music.
Best song: I have about 10 favourites but ‘On my own’ is so easy to relate to whether your about to take part in a revolution for the man you love or whether you’re sitting somewhere in London lusting over that guy who can’t see that you’re actually perfect for each other.
11. Waiting to Exhale (1995)
Honestly found this movies soundtrack before actually watching the film. It has all the classics from these strong, independent, no nonsense soul sisters which embodies what this films about (aka not taking shit from a man).
Best song: Mary J. Blige’s ‘Not Gon Cry’ Come on it’s the ultimate wronged women anthem.
10. Goodfellas (1990)
One of the of the best gangster movies ever (dare tell me different) and the soundtrack makes it all the more effective. That era of music just makes you feel like you’re sitting in like a smoky bar about to partake in one epic drug deal.
Best song: Tony Bennett’s ‘From Rags to Riches’ really sets the tone of the film and just makes it feel so authentic.
9. Dirty Dancing (1987)
Nobody puts this movie in the corner or not on this list. Proof that bumping and grinding is not a concept this is a true classic.
Best song: I remember trying to teach my dog to run and jump into my hands so I could pick her up like Johnny does Baby in the ‘(I’ve had) The time of my life’ sequence. But I also particularly love ‘Hungry Eyes’.
8. Kill Bill Vol 1&2 (2003 & 2004)
I watched a hell of a lot of movies to get to this point. I watched and I listened (to the soundtrack) and I got bloody satisfaction. Tarantino always pays a lot of attention to the music used in his films and the Kill Bill films are no exception. Every song used has so much thought put in especially the music over the duel that happens between Uma Thurman and Lucy Liu in volume 1. Interesting story; Quentin Tarantino was shopping in Tokyo and heard the music of a Japanese Rock girlband called the 5,6,7,8s he asked the sales assistant if the CD playing was for sale to which she said no as it was her own personal copy, long story short she ended up selling it to him for double the price and he was impressed by the album so much that he asked the group to be in the film. You’ll see them performing in volume 1 in the ‘House of Blue Leaves’.
Best Song: Nancy Sinatra’s ‘Bang Bang (My baby shot me down)’ not only works with the storyline and the theme but also gives me the chills every time I hear it.
7. Death Proof ( 2007)
Tarantino strikes again. Not one of his more popular films but I really like it and the soundtracks a good one. I actually downloaded it, yes (shock horror) I paid for it even in these days of YouTube.
Best song: ‘Down in Mexico’ I love this song and I love the how its used in this scene, it just works with the theme of this movie in general.
6. Mamma Mia (2008)
I know, I know cheese on a stick but I’m an Abba fan and the soundtracks full of their songs everyone needs that type of positivity in their life.
Best song: This is hard as it means choosing my favourite Abba song. ‘The Winner takes it all’ sung by Meryl Streep is a personal fav.
5. Beauty and The Beast ( 1991)
I’d be fool not to throw a couple of Disney films in this list as most of the songs are the soundtrack to my childhood and probably for majority of my adulthood if I’m honest. I have a whole playlist of Disney songs that I use to cheer up an otherwise dreary day at the office. Beauty and the beast is one of my favourites I was one years old when it came out so was most probably one of my first (certainly not my last) experiences of Disney.
Best Song: ‘Belle’ resonates with me growing up as I was and still am a book worm and I always had my head in the clouds. I also love ‘Beauty and the Beast’ just because who doesn’t? And its performed by Angela Lansbury which makes me happy.
4. Beaches (1988)
One of my favourite films. This is my go to tearjerker film. A story of friendship defying all odds, the actresses are amazing in these roles. Just raw acting and a killer soundtrack by Bette Midler whom I love. This movie is literally ‘The Wind Beneath My Wings’. See what I did there?
Best Song: ‘Glory of Love’ I love the way its used in this film it really touches your heart when you hear ‘Bette Midler’ perform it at the end of the film. I won’t spoil it and say why, just watch it if you have already watch it again for the millionth time like me.
3. Lion King (1994)
Yep another Disney. At the tender age of 4 I sat down to witness the tragedy of Mufasa’s death and haven’t been the same since. Lion King is that one movie that everyone has in common because its just amazing. It touches every emotion and If you’re anything like me you’ve lifted up your Dog/Cat/Baby Brother/enter any name of anyone you can physically lift here……….just like Simba was lifted in the above photo; whilst belting out that beginning part of ‘Circle of life’. Bet you’re singing it in your head right now.
Best Song: ‘Hakuna Matata’ It’s a great quote to live by and just singing it makes you feel worry free for that moment in time.
2. Chicago (2002)
Murder, Sex, Jazz and Liquor all on deathrow. This is like the tagline say’s ‘The one movie that has it all’. This is one of them films that makes you wanna be back in that era performing in a downtown nightclub with all eyes on you; the head showgirl. Little tip try working out to this soundtrack in the gym some of the songs are a little down tempo but in your mind you feel like a hella sexy showgirl on that running machine even though from the outside looking in its more like; Who’s that woman doing jazz hands on the treadmill? This musical is a classic and screams girl power and even better when you catch it live on stage.
Best song: ‘Cell Block Tango’ 6 murderess’s singing about why they killed their partners; its just a great performance that has you rooting them on almost makes you agree with murder.
1. The Bodyguard (1992)
Because Whitney Houston songs give me life, growing up she made me feel emotions I didn’t even know I had. I was singing about break ups before I’d even had my first kiss because of this woman. The stories a good one and Kevin Costner as a hot bodyguard you can’t go wrong. And did I mention Whitney Houston?
Best Song: Dolly Parton’s ‘I Will Always Love You’ performed and made hella famous by Whitney in this film was and always will be my ultimate sing into the hairbrush anthem. I will always love this film and the soundtrack and Whitney. The end.
I love cucumbers they’re so refreshing, apples aswell; YUM.
As for kale I found out it’s not only green, you can get purple and black varieties; although the purple is more intense than green or black kale. You learn a new thing every day aye! I have opted for the green for this juice, so it’s not too overpowering.
My son has decided to try out a plant based diet over this week and my juices are a great place to start as they contain a lot of protein and vitamins needed for a vegan diet.
I’ve been reading up a lot about plant based diets and the health benefits that come with it. My son also recommend a documentary on Netflix called ‘The Game Changers’ you have to give it watch!! It will change your whole outlook on food. For those that love and want a healthy lifestyle especially if you’re a sports person; like my son, it’s essential to put good things into your body. So get introduced to the plant based diet and how it can help you feel energised. Even if you don’t want to make a complete change in your diet, just introducing some vegan meals in will have great benefits, at the end of the day it’s all about finding a balance.
Ingredients
2 Apples
2 Handfuls Kale
2 Handfuls Parsley
1 Cucumber
This cold press juice without a doubt doesn’t come much cleaner than this Super Green drink. Jam-packed with healthy greens, you can’t top this drinks detoxing abilities; so surrender…and let Mother Nature give you the once over.
Benefits:
~Vegan-friendly
~Plant-based
~ Made using locally sourced fruit and vegetables
~Cold-pressed to retain the nutrients
~Quick, simple and easy to follow
~Dairy-free & Gluten-free
Check out the trailer for ‘The Game Changers’ below:
Pumpkins are a huge part of Halloween and I can’t even look at one without associating it with this time of year.
Along with turnips, they were used as lanterns back in the day. There’s an old Irish folk tale about a man named Jack who wasn’t allowed into heaven or hell so roamed the earth with one of these makeshift lanterns (hence the other name for a pumpkin ‘Jack o Lantern’) this was quickly associated with Halloween as a means to light the way for the souls of the dead to find their way back to the spirit world after they supposedly roamed on ‘All Hallows Eve’.
People thus began to carve scary or funny faces into them and this would become the tradition for years to come.
Where do pumpkins live? ‘In the seedy part of town”
These days people have become super creative with their carving skills and there is loads of Instagram worthy pumpkins around. Check out my creation below.
October is my excuse for pumpkin everything.
This is just a normal nacho recipe with cheese sauce, guacamole, salsa and spicy chicken dip; but you can really get creative with the sauces on the pumpkin. This would make a great centre piece for a Halloween themed dinner party.
“When black cats prowl and pumpkins gleam, may luck be yours on Halloween”
I love Halloween it brings back so many great memories. I remember getting dressed up with my brother and cousins and eating our weight in sweets. Getting dressed up meant throwing on a bin bag (i mean if your mum didn’t make you a costume out of a bin bag is she even your mum?); pair this with a witches hat (if you’re lucky), some “spooky” makeup, hella fake blood and your good to go and disturb the neighbours.
Anyway enough of memory lane, my trick or treating days are long gone but that doesn’t mean Halloween is totally forgotten about in our household. I have replaced my bin bag with an apron and cooked up some terribly tasty Halloween themed recipes. Heres a couple of ideas below:
‘Get Stuffed’ Petrified Peppers
Serve on some spinach leaves for a spooky looking display.
For Mince Filling:
Feeds 4
250g Lamb Mince
Half Pack of Spaghetti
1 Tin Chopped Tomatoes
Tomato Puree
1 Medium Red Onion
1 Clove of Garlic
4 Bell Peppers
1 Maggi seasoning cube
Cheddar Cheese for sprinkling on top
Add some water to a saucepan and bring to boil (this is to cook spaghetti)
Chop onion and garlic and brown in a pan for a few minutes until soft.
Pop spaghetti into saucepan to cook.
Add mince season lightly (I used salt, pepper, dried parsley and some all purpose seasoning) and cook until brown.
Add tin tomatoes, tomato puree and the Maggi cube then leave to simmer on a low heat.
When spaghetti is ready drain and mix together with mince.
For Chicken Filling:
500g Chicken
Jalapeno’s (Optional)
Sweetcorn (I used the one with peppers)
4 Bell Peppers
Sriracha Sauce
Cheddar Cheese for sprinkling on top
Brown chicken and Jalapeno’s in a pan with your chosen seasoning. I used salt, pepper, garlic powder and chicken seasoning.
Top tip: Use browning to give the chicken some colour.
Stir in some sriracha sauce cover and allow to cook for around 5 mins.
I went for a spicy flavour but for non spice eaters you can replace sriracha for sweet and sour sauce and not add jalapenos.
Add the sweetcorn, stir, cover and turn off heat whilst preparing peppers.
Preparing Peppers:
Pre heat oven
Cut a thin slice off the bottom of the peppers in order for them to stand.
Cut off the top of the pepper and keep them as a lid for after stuffed.
Remove seeds from inside pepper.
Don’t worry if they’re not perfect, its all part of the fun.
Use a small sharp knife to give your pepper a face (get as creative as you like but I thought I would keep it simple)
Put your peppers onto and baking tray and stuff with your pre made filling.
Top with a sprinkle of cheese and put top of pepper back on.
Put in oven and bake for around 20 mins
To soften the peppers quicker you can cover with foil for first 10 mins of cooking the remove for further 10 mins.
Remove and serve with salad.
A little message on side of plate using sriracha is a great touch.
‘Blood is Thicker Than Lettuce’ Salad
What I love about this salad is that you can throw in whatever you find in the fridge and make it look fancy with different shapes.
For the salad you can use pretty much any ingredient you fancy. I decided to jazz up an otherwise average salad of:
Cucumber
Lettuce
Beetroot (Use the ones packaged with juice in as it’s needed for dressing)
Chop ingredients up. Chop cucumber into circle shapes and using a knife cut little faces into them. Put other ingredients into bowl and place cucumber faces on top.
For Dressing:
Juice of 2 Lemons
2 Tablespoons of English Mustard
2 Tablespoons of Honey
Excess juice from Beetroot
Syringes (You can get them on Amazon or Ebay)
Mix all ingredients together and then suction dressing into syringes and place them into the salad.
Serve and enjoy with your meal, because who knows it may be your last. YOU FORGOT TO LOCK THE BACK DOOR!
This juice combines carrot, ginger and apple for a delicious, nutritious and immune boosting drink.
Due to their slightly sweet flavor, carrots are a perfect choice for juicing. They’re low in calories and rich in vitamin A, biotin, and potassium. They’re also high in carotenoids, which may be linked to a lower risk of eye disease, heart disease, and certain types of cancer. They combine well with other commonly juiced vegetables and fruits, such as citrus fruits, ginger, and beets.
I decided to use purple and yellow carrots; I find they are used slightly less than orange but still contain as much powerful antioxidants known to fight inflammation and benefit certain health conditions. Purple carrots provide unique health benefits specific to purple fruits and vegetables whilst yellow carrots have a firm and crunchy texture and an earthy sweet flavour with notes of celery and parsley. They are also both especially eye-catching.
Now for a bit of spice, in the form of the amazing flowering plant that is Ginger. Ginger contains Gingerol, a substance with powerful medicinal properties. It can treat many forms of nausea, especially morning sickness although if pregnant it is not recommended to consume more than 1 gram of Ginger per day. Ginger is said to reduce muscle pain and soreness and its anti-inflammatory effects can help with Osteoarthritis. Doctors recommend consuming a maximum of 3–4 grams of ginger extract per day but do not recommend for children under the age of 2.
Speaking of doctors, how about an apple a day to keep them at bay? Apples are extremely rich in important antioxidants, flavonoids, and dietary fibre. Apples may help reduce the risk of hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease.
I also added the juice of the oranges as they are full of Vitamin C; great for treating colds which is well needed this time of year.
Couldn’t help but have a glass before I took the picture.
Get creative with your leftovers!
Top Tip: To avoid lots of waste when using your cold press machine why not bake a healthy cake with the leftover ingredients. Check out what I made from the remains of this juice:
Put leftover fruit and veg in bowl and add:
A little orange zest to give it a citrus kick.
2 Cups Self Raising Flour
1 tsp Baking Soda
1 Large Egg
4 Tablespoons of Honey (Add more or Less depending on preference)
Sweet as you like!
Serve and enjoy with custard or some yogurt for a healthier option.
Chelsea Handler is an American comedian, writer, television host, producer and activist. Up until this point I knew her only really for her stand up and her late-night talk show on E! ‘Chelsea Lately’. I enjoy her dry humour and sarcasm when it comes to interviewing her guests which makes for a fun watch.
Recently whilst having my daily browse of Netflix I came across her new documentary . Released this year ‘Hello, Privilege. It’s me, Chelsea.’ Explores white privilege in America from Chelsea’s point of view; as a white American female. It’s a really interesting watch as she faces up to some truths about the advantages she had over minorities whilst coming up in the entertainment industry.
What’s good: She has some real raw and truthful discussions. A stand out part is where she talks about her relationship as a teen with her ex boyfriend; a black man, the trouble they used to get into and how she would get out of it whilst he was reprimanded, unknowingly for her at the time because of his skin colour.
She also speaks to Kevin Hart and Tiffany Haddish about their experience as comediennes compared to hers.
What’s not so good: Unfortunately it will take a lot more like minded people to make a change to racism and create an equal footing for everyone especially in the American media industry.
Overall: She makes a really good point that its not black peoples problem it is white peoples problem so they also need to be talking about ‘White Privilege’ and ‘Black Lives Matter’ and help make a change (a change that, let’s be honest should have happened in 1865 when slavery was abolished). Its only an 1h 4m long and worth the watch even just to get different perspective on things.
Crystal Clear Cousins 