Blogger to Wordpress

Hi guys!

I have changed my blog to WordPress!

Click here or here is the link justagirlwithablog504.wordpress.com. 

I have copied all the posts I have on here to my new blog. I can't thank you enough for everything already and I hope you continue to follow me on WordPress. Thanks so much for your support!

Sam x

#iProtectTigers

This advert honestly is my favourite this Christmas. Whilst everyone else talks about Buster the Boxer from John Lewis and the carrot from Aldi, I can't help but feel this is the most important message out of all of them.

I'm not ashamed to say when I watched the WWF Christmas 2016 advert I cried. You place any animal advert in front of me I'll cry but this one was different. It really has stood out for me and I can't begin to explain why but it's something I knew I had to share.

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My Christmas present for my sister this year is sponsoring an elephant. I know it's something she will love, and will probably cry when she opens it but I am so proud to say i've done this.

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When you are thinking of a gift for someone, don't be afraid to think outside the box.

Like always feel free to comment or contact me on Twitter. I'd love to hear from you guys!

Sam x

YouTube and Christmas

When it comes to YouTube, I watch it honestly all day and every day. Even if I'm in the middle of an assignment and it's 2AM and the deadline is at 9AM, I'll still be watching YouTube. Even now as I write this post I'm watching millions of YouTube videos, but I'm sure I can't be the only one who does this.

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It has always crossed my mind if maybe I could become a YouTuber, as I love video editing and being creative but the thought of putting my face on screen is something I'm not sure I'll do just yet.

Like everyone I have my favourite YouTubers, Christmas time is the most wonderful time of the year! YouTube goes crazy and my subscriptions go insane everyday (I'm really not complaining) but I love the fact they build up the anticipation for Christmas especially Zoella.

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Like absolutely everyone I am so excited for 24 Days of Zoella. The amount of work and effort that goes into organising something like that is incredible and it is something I can only admire.

Another YouTuber I really like or YouTubers I should say is The Sidemen. They have achieved so much with the Wembley cup last year, the Southampton charity match and of course the Sidemen book!



The minute you want to watch is 1:59:32 ... just saying. Fair play Simon for that insane goal!

Honestly I don't understand how some YouTubers manage to upload three videos a day, whether it's two on their gaming channel and one on their official or even vlogs too. It just amazes me the dedication that YouTubers have, where I struggle to even post once a week!

Like everyone I'm sure I'm not alone when I say Christmas is one of my favourite times on YouTube and I wish everyone the best of luck if you have any exams or assignments before or even during this Christmas period. Hope you all have a fantastic Christmas.


Dare I even ask who is your favourite YouTuber and why? Comment below, I'd love to hear from you!

Sam x

University Advice #2 - Nights Out

As a university student I have been on many nights out but I can't help but think why? Every week in the same place, with the same people, what is the point?

Now I'm not saying this isn't the way to have fun because for some people it is. For me personally, it's the social aspect that makes me go out every week to talk to people away from lectures and the boring discussion of assignments.

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It's ok to say no to a night out even if your friends will be going and they beg you to go. It's ok to miss out, something I probably have only just learnt to do.

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Even though I'm from London and there are a million and one things I can do to have fun, as a third year student I just don't have the time anymore.

If you are in your first year, my main advice to you is don't miss any opportunities. Maybe set yourself goals in what you want to do during your first year because honestly when you reach your third year you migt not have the time (unless you are incredibly organised, unlike me).

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When it comes to alcohol too, don't be afraid to go out and have a one drink or even non-alocholic. The student stereotype is 'we' go out and get drunk, you don't need to be like that. It's ok to say no to more than one drink, even if your friends think that means you are a bore.

I can speak from personal experience that it is alright to sit there, have one drink and just talk to people. Obviously this depends on what sort of person you are and if you love drinking then seriously go for it! However I know how tiring and the effort that comes with going out,  having to get dressed up, even predrinks and travel. Expensive and is now a massive decision and dedication to go out.

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I feel like I am now a boring third year student but my main point is don't be afraid to say no to a night out. Whether you feel like you'll miss out on something or even the pressure from friends, ultimately it's your decision. If you like nights out and the whole club vibe then go for it but sometimes it's nice to have a break and a nice night in.

Sam x

University Advice #1 - Local Area

Hi guys! Sorry it's been a while, I've been busy researching for my dissertation and my schedule is fully booked with assignments and work! I live an exciting life ha, but anyway on with the post.

I have decided to start posting separate posts on advice for university students, from experience I know that it can be overwhelming going to university. New areas and new friends can bring along amazing new experiences for you to get involved in whilst you study. Though it also brings new amounts of pressure from the workload and anxiety, but it honestly will be the best years of your life.

Wembley Stadium - Taken from Wembley Park Tube Station

My first advice for anyone starting university and too any first years out there is don't be afraid to explore your new local area. As you can see from my images I took earlier today, my local area is Wembley.

Most iconic which you should recognise is Wembley Stadium, along with Wembley Arena. Student life can get crazy on match and event days as all the local pubs and bars are full but for some people maybe this makes it better or some choose to stay inside and watch Netflix. 

Wembley Stadium

Wembley Arena

Right next to the stadium, is the London Designer Outlet which includes restaurants and designer shops. Where in my first year, age 19, I experienced my first ever Nando's and Subway!  

London Designer Outlet

If you get to know your local surroundings during your first year it will help you by firstly, being about to meet friends in new places and secondly, it may make you feel more comfort and reassurance. This isn't to say you have to do this but if you are like me and worry a little too much than you should about the smallest things, it just bring comfort just by knowing where you are. 

If you are a student going to university or maybe a student already please comment below any questions or ideas you have that I can include as 'University Advice #2'.

Like always thanks so much for reading! Stay strong and positive!

Love Sam x

Something Worth Sharing

Please take a few minutes to watch this fantastic short film.




After watching this video for the 5th time in a row I knew it was something I definitely wanted to share.

This video is so heartwarming and creates so many emotions!

I just wondered if you guys have already seen this and what do you think?

Comment below let me know or find me on twitter: @girlwithablog16.

Having a Pet

As you may already know I have a dog called Tilly and 3 cats called Crunchie, Roxy and Lily. We have recently got a tortoise and she is still waiting for a name. Before Tilly I got a puppy for my 7th birthday called Alaska (read about it here). She passed away when she was 12 years old in her sleep. Before the cats we have now we also had Chloe and Thomas.

Thomas has only recently passed away age 13, unfortunately towards the end of his life Tom wasn't very well and as a family we had to make the decision to put him to sleep. He had an amazing life and everyone in our area loved him! They loved him so much, so much that they would let him in their house and he would go to sleep on their sofa.

Alaska

Thomas

Now pet wise our family has experienced almost every pet possible from goldfish to tortoises to rabbits to guinea- pigs and many hamsters. I am obsessed with animals, I'm that friend who tags people in every animal video possible because it's either funny or cute!

There are many benefits when it comes to owning a pet. Some are really random but here they are so if you are trying to convince your parents to get you a pet here is the way to do it.

• Children who have pets are less likely to have days off school due to illness. This is because growing up with pets can strengthen your immune system and may reduce allergies.  
• Increases your physical activity. This is with dogs especially as they are more 'high maintenance' than cats. Having a dog means you get to go outside more as they need walking, which means you can get more regular exercise.
• Having a pet can create social skills. By having a pet you have a automatic conversation starter and hopefully then the conversation will flow, with this skill you may find it easier to socialise and create new friends.
• If you are home alone having a pet there gives you some comfort. If you are upset or unwell they can make you feel safer and when you go out keep an eye on the house. If you have or want a dog it's always interesting to come home and see what they might have been up to whilst you were gone. 

So if you are trying to convince your parents to get a pet just say it will make you go to school more as you are unlikely to get unwell, however if you do become unwell you then have someone to comfort you when your parents are out at work. Also it will help you make friends by developing communication skills and also helps you keep fit by getting more regular exercise. 

Tilly

Now even though having a pet(s) is honestly the best thing ever it also begins some challenges. Pets can be expensive and take a lot of care and attention so it's unfair if you know you aren't home often enough to give them the care and attention that they need and deserve. 

Hope you found post this helpful! Let me know if you have any pets or would like a pet below. Thanks so much for reading.

Sam x

Wembley Cup 2016

So as you may or may not know I work at Wembley Stadium, so I was able to work the Wembley Cup Final 2016! Where Spencer FC beat Weller Wanderers 7-4.

Kick off was 7:30 but turnstiles opened at 5:30. I obviously had to arrive early to be ready for the 18,911 fans who attended the event. I had to travel on the train and then the underground to get there as I'm traveling back to university for my third year on Sunday so I'm currently at home.

Worst picture ever! - Bakers Street

The atmosphere for this event was incredible. As a fan of some of the players this event I was so looking forward too!  Fan favourite has to be Joe Weller, I remember when he came over to warm up with his team and the screaming was insane! Also congratulations to Theo Baker for being EE Wembley Cup Player of the Match! Congratulations also to Spencer FC.

Wembley Stadium

Also streamed live you can watch it if you haven't or watch it all over again!





What YouTubers do you guys like? I seriously could spend all day everyday watching videos and never get bored!

Sam x

A Trip To Selhurst Park

As a early birthday present for my dad I brought him tickets to see Crystal Palace vs Blackpool where Crystal Palace won 2-0 in the EFL Cup second round.

So we made the journey to Selhurst Park, traditionally parking the car and walking 10 minutes to the stadium, we arrived in time to buy burgers and chip before taking our seats. 

Now if I could go to every Palace game I would. Unfortunately being a student and change of circumstances means I can't afford a season ticket and can only get home tickets, when and if I can for my dad's birthday or my own.

I wish I could have got better pictures but my sister is obsessed with one player called Yohan Cabaye  and I gave her my phone to take some pictures for me as she was in a better position. So of course she decided it was best she just take pictures of him.

I love going to football games! I had a season ticket when I was younger with my dad and sister so I have so many childhood memories there. One of my life goals when I'm earning enough money will be to buy seasons tickets for me and my dad!

Do you guys like any sports or support a club? Comment below I'd love to know about them. Find me on Twitter: @girlwithablog16.

Sam x

A Stressful Day

So this is a random post and it has took me a while to think of how to write it but here it is.

I had a weekend of shifts, i'm guessing now around 12 till 10 o' clock as I work at a stadium it was an event day. Now for some reason I was just not looking forward to it and was in such a bad mood. However even though I felt like this I still tried to stay positive and sure that my day hopefully could get only better.

I was based outside the stadium at the 'here to help' sign, helping people who didn't know where their entrance were or where the nearest place was to get food. As the atmosphere was 'buzzing' due to the event being a concert it helped me become a little happier than I was at the beginning of the day.

As the concert started we were allowed to go on break where I had my sandwich and crisps. I couldn't help but feel stressed knowing I had to do the same tomorrow. When the concert was almost at an end we all got into our positions. This is when we help assist people in wheelchairs out of the stadium or even to their cars.

Trying to move the wheelchair around the crowd full of people was stressful as some people just don't feel the need to move out the way. I had finally reached the entrance of the stadium and taken the family to their car when the woman I was taking in the wheelchair handed me a £5 note.

After insisting that I can't take her money she told me I had to take it, so eventually I did. I had never got a tip before so I was almost in shock at someones kindness. After the day I had and the way I was feeling I couldn't believe it.

To get home I had to take two stops on the tube, but with everyone leaving the stadium and police stopping and starting the crowds to avoid any problems. It took about 30 minutes just to walk the 5 minute walk to the train station. You can probably guess by now I just wanted to be home as soon as possible and sleep knowing I have to do it all again tomorrow.

Now the point of my story is this, like always when it was late a woman sits outside the train station at the other end of my journey. She would sit there and ask for any spare change and every single time I'd say "no sorry" as I never had any on me. Tonight was different, I had the £5 note.

Some people would say I was stupid to give her that money... she could spend it on anything like drugs or alcohol. But for every time I walked past her this past year and said "no sorry" like everybody else, £5 wasn't probably even enough.

Sometimes it's the little things that matter more to someone that you can ever imagine.

Bank Holiday Monday

I hope you are all having a fantastic summer and enjoying the weather. Yesterday for bank holiday Monday I went with my sister and dad to Littlehampton. It was a fantastic day but I wish the weather would have been a tad better but that's England for you! 

As it was a traditional beach trip for my family we went for a walk on the sand. This is the beach as children me and my sister would go with our nan on weekends when we would visit her in the summer. 

With stomachs full of ice cream we went into the town, 5 minutes from the beach, as my sister wanted to get money out to buy food. We then saw a pet shop which had reptiles and amphibians, which naturally we had to go in and have a look. So in a nut shell we now have a new addition to the family!

Welcome to the family!

As it's my dads birthday tomorrow my sister and me brought him a tortoise. He always has wanted another one so we took the opportunity. I was unable to get a better picture because I didn't want to unsettle her. She is almost a year old and doesn't have a name yet but I will keep you up to date in my page Pet Antics (click here), if you have any name ideas comment below.

So that was my bank holiday Monday, we went to the beach and ended up getting a new family member! 

I also along with the tortoise have a dog and 3 cats, let me know if you have any pets in the comments below. I'd love to hear about them.

As always you can contact me on twitter @girlwithablog16. 

Sam x 

Tips for Creating a Blog

Before I started my blog I looked up a lot of different things to ensure I was doing the best thing possible to make my blog the best it can be. Now this doesn't mean this is a guide to having a perfect blog and you'll get millions of views, it's just a few things I found when it comes to creating and writing your blog. 

So I will begin with the first thing I looked up when I started taking my blog more seriously. I found a news article 'Want to become a star blogger?' and of course they included a picture of Zoella (Zoe Sugg) who is absolutely incredible and amazing! But that's enough fangirling from me... 

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Growing an audience

• It's important to tailor social media platforms to your audience. It makes it easier by identifying which platform your readers are using to be able to connect and communicate with them.
• Use a platform that you feel suits your needs as a blogger like Blogger or Wordpress.
• Engage with other blogs by commenting on blogs you admire, this way you might receive more yourself.
• Growing your views isn't easy but it can be rewarding spending time updating social platforms and creating new content you enjoy writing. 
• To grow audience I found many websites that say ideally upload 3 times a week.

There are two reasons why people create blogs:

1. Personal Project: Writing about whatever you can, this way people who can relate to your posts will maybe comment and share their own experiences with you.
2. Career: Focusing on one topic like fashion for example and hoping readers are interested in that and will want to follow. 

This isn't to say these are strict rules and you MUST do these, it's just want I've found but I wouldn't say I have a theme, I just write about random topics. You could if you enjoy two topic try and connect them or even have two separate blogs for each but you wouldn't want to neglect one blog more than the other.

Start as a hobby was the most important advice I found as most bloggers don't earn a full time living. Just see where you end up, blog witting can give you many other skills towards a job you probably never even realised like digital communication or editorial journalism. 

Post ideas

• Write what you love - Make sure it's 'you'. 
• Be different - Try and set yourself apart.
• Write like you talk - your personality can shine through, again just be 'you'. 
• Good content is key - write content that you as a reader would want to read.
• Photography skills - the more professional your pictures look, the more professional your blog seems. This is something I struggle with but I'd love to get a really good camera one day to improve my photography skills which is why for now I use getty images to avoid any copyright issues.
• Research - make your blog bigger by studying others. Don't copy, pick your favourite things from different blogs, come up with new ideas and learn new things. Remember blogging isn't a competition but a fun way to express yourself. 
• Do good - promote what you love instead of bashing what you hate.
• Friends - Most importantly when it comes to your blog posts don't forget to reply to comments and engage with your readers. 

I could go on and on about what I found when researching about blog creating but these points mentioned I feel are the most important and helpful. I also went and looked at the blogs that I love to read for inspiration for my own blog. Once again be careful not to copy but sometimes just by looking at a blog by someone who inspires you can give you the motivation you need to carry on. 

I hope you find this post helpful.

Like always you can contact me on Twitter @girlwithablog16 or via email agirlwithablog16@gmail.com. 

Sam x 

Living with Joint Hypermobility

The amount of times I have had people say to me there is nothing wrong, there is no such thing as Joint Hypermobility Syndrome. Now I'm not saying this is something that everybody says but it is something I regularly hear. Now there is already a post about disabilities  I have written which includes facts and statistics regarding disabilities and how 52% of people in England believe disabilities are physical.

Like I've said before just because you can't see a disability, doesn't mean it's not there.

Towards the end of 2012 I started getting pain in my hands, which I regularly went to the doctors for until they finally sent me to a Rheumatologist at my local hospital. I was studying my A-Level's it became very painful, studying Art and Sociology was especially difficult as I struggled holding a pencil or pen for more than 10 minute due to the pain. My thumb is the tricky one. When I write unfortunately it doesn't really know what it's doing and bends too much! So in February 2013 I had my first appointment for the pain in my hand joints like my fingers and wrists.

So I learnt in my first appointment that Joint Hypermobility is based on the Beighton score as you can see by the image below.

Taken from the Hypermobility website

It is a point for each of these that you can do left and right, meaning the Beighton score is out of 9. I am 9 out of 9 on this scale which means I am hyper-mobile in every joint. I still always say I am lucky so far that my joints haven't begun to dislocate yet, but unfortunately will in the future. I don't see any point worrying about something that hasn't happened yet.

Some symptoms for Joint Hypermobility includes pain and stiffness in muscles, clicking joints, back and neck pain, fatigue (tiredness), lack of coordination and reoccurring injuries like dislocations or sprains.

Over the last four years I have had many other appointments with different hospital departments that have gone from a 6 month basis to now yearly. During the first year of my first appointment I also had sessions with a occupational therapist. They created hyper-extension blocks which are for my fingers when typing and writing. I especially found the thumb block helpful which stopped my thumb extending when I was writing. I was advised to think about and purchase basic lycra garments to support my joints, which I have done and can wear underneath normal clothes.

During the first year also I had to have physiotherapy sessions, as my shoulder is the joint that causes me the most pain on a daily basis. I have also had a ultrasound scan on my shoulders and also a MRI scan but thankfully everything for now is intact and normal. So all the pain I am experiencing is because of my Joint Hypermobility. Now in 2016, I recently had my yearly Rheumatologist appointment and will be having physio again on the same shoulder.

So this is it really, I would say I am one of the lucky ones as I haven't dislocated yet and all my pain at the moment is because of 'disability'. But I wouldn't say there are many times it has held me back, but here are a few,

• Jobs - When I was taking my A-Level's I wanted to go to university and become a paramedic. Unfortunately after me and my teacher did some research on the job having Hypermobility meant I couldn't have this career. 
• Work - I work at a stadium where I have to sometimes push people in wheelchairs to their seats and this is something I have realised I don't feel comfortable doing. With my lack of coordination and the pain in my right shoulder I had to tell my area supervisor I don't feel comfortable doing this.
• Food - Something as simple as peeling a potato really hurts my thumb.. Really random. Does this happen to anyone else? 
• University - University is something I thought I would really struggle with, especially with the new workload. Thankfully DSA (Disability Students Allowance) has really supported me so far at university providing me with brilliant equipment such a printer, scanner and laptop to support me during my studies. 

If you have any questions about Joint Hypermobility please feel free to comment and I'll answer the best I can. Also as always you can contact me on agirlwithablog16@gmail.com or on twitter @girlwithablog16.

Thank you so much for reading!

Sam x

Dating Someone With Anxiety

After my post about social anxiety it seems only right to write this post. As I struggle in every social situation possible I can't help but think want it would be like for someone to date me. So I've found an article (click here) which explains the 20 struggles you go through when dating someone with anxiety. It makes you think of everything they struggle with and how this might affect your partner once you are dating.

So I've gone through and looked at some of the main points made in the article. So firstly is understanding that someone with anxiety needs a list of every day activities that must be completed. The only way to reach peace is if and when everything is completed on the list. Which connects to another point made in the article about relaxing. Relaxing feels like a waste of time, when you know you can do something more important and productive. There is no such thing as relaxing which is why a plan of the day is so important.

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The article also explains that you need to be able to read your partner, to understand when they are freaking out and to whether you need to either leave them alone or if they need to be comforted. Feelings will vary but it's good to understand when you are needed and when you aren't.

Another point explains that even the smallest things are the end of the world. Someone with anxiety will struggle with even the smallest things like even a simple work project and getting it done on time. To them it's the end of the world and will make their heart race. When you may think it's silly, understand to them it's important and is stressing them out.

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You will always have a drinking buddy. For someone with anxiety alcohol can provoke it or you may enjoy the night out but the next morning feel sick with worry. For me, it's the over thinking if I said something (which I know I haven't) but then over analysing everything that happened to what people thought of me or what I said.

You also may find your partner overwhelming. When they become very anxious they can talk too fast and have scattered thoughts. It's important to listen the best you can and remain the calm one in the difficult situations in order to support them the best you can.

It has taken me about three days to write this post because I didn't know what to write at the end. But I guess you could read through this post find it helpful or maybe you won't, but I guess the main thing to take from dating someone with anxiety is, it is important to stay patient with your partner. He or she doesn't do it intentionally.

If you want to contact me you can via email agirlwithablog@gmail.com or on Twitter.

Thanks so much for reading!

Sam x

What To Do In London

I hope you are all enjoying the start of the summer holidays. I must say in London we definitely have had the best weather to start off the holidays. As I'm from London I have decided to write a post with anything and everything you can do during your holidays if you decide to visit for a family holiday, or even if you are close to the area and decide just to visit for a day.

There is plenty of things to do during a visit to London. You could visit Sky Gardens, the London Eye, London Dungeon, London Sea Life Aquarium, Madame Tussauds London or the famous Tower Bridge and also visit the many museums depending in what you are interested in. 

London Eye

Tower Bridge

The London Eye, London Dungeon and Sea Life Aquarium are all close to each other, along with the Houses of Parliament. If you click here you can get London Attraction tickets for the London Eye with another 3 London Attractions with the more you visit the more you save. If you look online you can find many other offers to visit the London Attractions.

View from the Sky Gardens

Another London Attraction I have recently visited for the first time is the Sky Gardens which I mentioned above. The view inside the Sky Gardens is sensational! I have never seen anything like it, I love London and hopefully will be going again very soon. Did I forget to mention it's free? All you have to do is book your time slot and turn up on time.

View from the Sky Gardens

So here are some of the attractions I definitely recommend visiting if you can! Giving you the best views in London or living through the history at the London Dungeon. This post will be a part 1 to another which will be based on the night life and other things you can do during a visit to London.

Hope you enjoyed this post! All pictures are my own. Please feel free to comment any questions or email me on agirlwithablog16@gmail.com.

Don't be a stranger I love hearing from you guys!

Sam x

Back-To-School Pressures

I'm not ashamed to say I struggled at school academically and socially. During my first year of secondary school I spent most of the time crying and wanting to go home as I didn't like the change between primary to secondary school.

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So this is why I came up with the idea for this post and also as it is close or for some already the summer holidays. Some of you may be worried about returning or starting at school so if you believe you may struggle with this change hopefully this post will be some help to you.

I found a website that created a survey which 600 people took about their worries on returning to school.

32% said they worry about school work issues the most. This is only a natural feeling as you are now going to be studying at a higher level than you are used too but this doesn't necessarily mean you will find it difficult. Ensure you manage your time efficiently in order to make progress, stressing about it won't make a difference unless you act upon it. To avoid any trouble always start projects the day you get them so you are not trying to complete them last minute.

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3% of people who took the survey were worried about extracurricular activities. This worry means you'll have to manage your time. However, if you are more worried about the social aspect of extracurricular activities there is no need to worry! From my own experiences school extracurricular activities is were you can make friends as they share your interest in that particular activity.

Another high percentage was 30% where people said they worry about social issues. You are not alone if this is where you believe you'll struggle, everyone will be put in the same situation as you. Whether you want to belong to a smaller or larger group of people, make sure you feel comfortable with the people you surround yourself with. The people you surround yourself with will be the people who support you through the ups and downs of school.

25% of people said they worry about appearance issues at school . This is also closely linked to social issues by needing to fit in and be accepted. Never try to hard to fit in, be yourself. In a school full of many people be yourself and not everybody else. The remaining 10% said they weren't worried about anything (lucky).

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Everybody will experience back-to-school anxiety but I can speak from experience that it is never as back as you think. Don't over analyse, everyday will be different and take everyday as it comes.

Hopefully you found this post beneficial. Don't be a stranger, comment below if you have any opinions on back-to-school pressures. Thanks so much for reading!

Like always you can contact me on agirlwithablog16@gmail.com.

Sam x

Tips for Social Anxiety

Social anxiety is persistent and a overwhelming fear of social situations and is also one of the most common anxiety disorders. In young people research showed that 1 in 6 will experience a anxiety condition at one point in their lives, that could mean 1 in 5 people in your class may be living with anxiety. Another statistic that I personally found interesting was that 20% of students experience mental health difficulties while studying at university.

Some symptoms for social anxiety are:

• dreading daily activities - like meeting strangers, talking in groups, speaking on the phone, eating or drinking in company or even shopping. 
• have low self-esteem and feeling insecure in relationships 
• fear of being criticised
• avoiding eye contact
• misuse of drugs and alcohol which aims to reduce anxiety

- Found on the NHS website

Social anxiety is something I always thought I had but it wasn't until I took this test I realised it was worse than I actually thought. You can take the test by click here .

Here were my results from the test:

Now it all makes sense even from a young age, when I was about 4 or 5 years old during my first year at school I was afraid of the lunch hall. Sounds stupid I know but I feared the loud sounds and large amount of people so much I would hide under the tables in the classroom and end my lunch there. 

Even now at university I have to admit it still affects me whether it's on nights out with friends, in lectures and even the complicated topic of boys. I find that if you have the right friends in these situations it makes it a lot easier but sometimes it's still difficult. Having the right support system is really beneficial.

So if you are like me and have social anxiety here are some tips:

1. Challenge negative thoughts 
2. Focus on others and not yourself
3. Learn to control your breath
4. Face your fears
5. Build better relationships
6. Change your lifestyle
7. Remember anxiety is less visible than you imagine
8. If people notice you are anxious that doesn't mean you will negatively be thought 

I hope you find this helpful or at least informative. Don't let your anxiety hold you back the most important tip out of the 8 I can honestly say is face your fears, you may just surprise yourself!

Let me know if you took the test or click here  to take it. Let me know your opinions on anxiety either by commenting, email on agirlwithablog16@gmail.com or on Twitter @girlwithablog16.

Also I found my research for this post on NHS website on social anxiety disorder (social phobia) and anxiety UK . 

Talking about Disabilities

If You Can't See It, It Doesn't Mean It's Not There!

I have no shame in coming out and saying that I have a disability. My disability is Joint Hypermobility Syndrome. This basically means my joints move beyond the normal range of movement (basically severely double jointed). Some symptoms that come with Joint Hypermobility is pain on a daily basis, clumsiness and my joints can dislocate but thankfully this hasn't happened yet! (click here to see my post about living with Joint Hypermobility)

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Unfortunately for me, all my hospital appointments and scans started when I was in year 12 whilst taking my A-levels. I was studying Media, Sociology, Art and Design Technology which became a struggle as I was doing a lot of writing for sociology and drawing and 'DIY' for both Art and Design Technology. So as you can imagine some teachers thought I would struggle and I proved them wrong and made it to university studying Football Business and Media.

This isn't a post that'll just be me going on and on about myself, but here is the reason for sharing my story.

Firstly, I will start by saying if you have a disability you can't let it hold you back. Don't let your disability be the reason for not trying new things and sounds cheesy but following your dreams. I was afraid I wouldn't make it to university due to my disability but I just had to change a few things to get there like the course I was doing and it's been the best decision of my life. Don't let your disability control you, control it instead.

Statistics I found show that in England, there are 9.4 million disabled population which is 18% of the population. 17% of people are born with their disabilities along with 1 in 20 children and 1 in 5 working adults.

Whereas some other statistics I found which disappoint and anger me are:

• 38% of people believe disabled people are a burden on society
• 27% of people believe disabled people are treated differently and this is because lack of knowledge around the topic of disabilities
• 180 disability hate crimes are committed everyday which results in victims losing their confidence

Most importantly 52% of people believe disabilities are physical. This statistic really shocked me, which makes me question what if somebody's disability isn't obvious to you? Like disabilities you cannot see which is why I used mine as an example.

It's important to recognise that just because you can't see someone's disability doesn't mean it isn't there.

If you'd like to share your story please comment below or email me on agirlwithablog16@gmail.com I would love to hear from everyone and anyone! Thanks so much for reading.

Sam x

Moving House Top 10 Tips

By August me and my family will be in a new house! So this has inspired this new post about moving home and hopefully you find it helpful.

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When I was 10 years old we moved into the house we are in now which we have lived in for 11 years. Memories like secondary school (some good and some bad), new pets, important birthday's like 18 and 21 and lastly university.

Obviously when I was 10 I didn't understand the stress that comes with moving house but now aged 21 I realise how stressful it can be. When I moved into my university accommodation it was time to be more independent, for me my aim was to bring or buy anything that reminded me of home.

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Living by yourself isn't as easy as it seems, having to worry about paying rent, bills and remembering to buy yourself food. But it builds character and teaches you responsibility.

Anyway back to my point, moving house in August is going to be stressful but I also have to within that same month move out of my student house ready to move back into student accommodation in September (stressful times).

I've decided to do some research in order for everyone to find the main tips for moving house, in order to make moving house a little easier.

So here are my top 10 tips for anyone moving house:

1. When viewing houses remember to go knowing the exact questions you want to ask, maybe even write some down so you don't forget.
2. Research around to ensure you get the best removal companies to help you. Or even family members or friends might offer to help during moving day.
3. If it is beneficial for you, make a list of everything you need to do. It'll help you become more organised and help you make sure you have done everything you need to do.
4. Make sure you have the right supplies for packing like boxes, tape, bubble wrapper or use newspaper, markers or labels.
5. Labelling boxes makes it easier when unpacking, but remember when carrying heavy boxes or objects ensure you do it safely, even if this means getting someone to help you. Packing bolts and screws for furniture in plastic wallets or sandwich bags so you don't lose them. Along with, light bulbs in your new home so you are not moving in in the dark.
6. As a dog and 3 cats are part of our household we need to take them into consideration too. When moving with pets it can be important to let them explore when you are packing which can defuse some fear for them and them becoming overwhelmed by what is happening.
7. Pack early and do not expect to get everything done in one day. This is even the same for unpacking, once you are moved in have a break and start the next day.
8. From my research I found sites called Freecycle and Freegle which gives household items away for free like sofas, beds, televisions and even fridges etc.
9. Cleaning whilst you unpack can be essential as little bits of dust can be left behind.
10. Most importantly, have fun! Moving house is the start of a brand new experience for everybody so try and enjoy it the best you can.

Think when it's done get family and friends over to celebrate the new house!

#YOULOOKDISGUSTING

After watching this video I knew it was something I wanted to share with you guys. This video which is of Em Ford or also known as My Pale Skin on YouTube is about comments she has received on social media platforms after posting photos of herself without make up on.





In my personal opinion this video highlights important issues that exist today in social media and issues surrounding body image. I have already written about body image here back in September 2015 but not in relation to make up. The You Look Disgusting film shows on a personal level comments received, some of the comments are very horrible to read and in my opinion completely ridiculous and uncalled for.

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Negative comments on a post or even behind our backs is unfortunately something we all have to face in our lives. No matter how many times it happens, it doesn't make it any easier. Sometimes we need to look at how we treat people, in order to make sure we don't hurt other people's feelings.

The strength of Em Ford to post a video like this is incredible, I know it's strength that I know, right now I don't personally have. It's so important we have young people like Em Ford with strength like this to prove to everyone the issues surrounding social media within the comment sections.

You can brush off comments during the time but it doesn't stop you thinking about them a few hours later. We live in a society where everyone needs to have the perfect body, perfect hair and perfect skin to feel pretty or beautiful. Though we all know everyone is different and nobody should feel ashamed in the way they look.


This video shows her reacting to teens who are reacting to her film You Look Disgusting.


Everyone is different. And that's a good thing always be yourself and nobody else.

Let me know your opinions below in the comments! I'd love to hear from you also so email me at
agirlwithablog16@gmail.com if you ever want to chat.

Sam x

Pro's and Con's of University

If you had asked my teachers in secondary school if I would make it to university they would have probably laughed in your face and said "You need to get a C in English and Maths first". Education was always a struggle for me but I managed to make it to university. Moving into my third year and I am still yet to decide at the age of 21 what to actually do with my life.

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I've had friends who went to university and some who haven't and honestly we have all ended up the same apart from those of us who went to university have money to pay back. This post is based on the pro's and con's of going to university, you need to remember that university isn't for everyone and it's perfectly fine to go down another path if you know university isn't for you.

Pro's:

1. University can give you independence and helps you develop life skills to prepare for the real world if you are living away from home for the first time. Even if you go to university and decide to stay at home traveling in everyday this allows you to gain these skills as traveling can develop skills to organise your time wisely between traveling, assignments and revision.
2. Once you have your degree it is believed that qualified employees are paid more than non qualified colleagues. Now this doesn't mean you have to go to university just to earn more money, I have a few friends who have done perfectly fine without university and are now managers or have had a few promotions in their careers so this one is just up to your opinion whether you think university is for you.
3. In my personal opinion, the main reason people do not go to university is because of the amount it costs. The truth is you only begin to pay back your student loans when you are earning over a certain amount which is £21,000. Student Finance helps towards all student payments which is based on your parents income and what you may be entitled to receive from them.
4. University and the social life is what you make it out to be, not everyone is a drinker but this shouldn't be one of the reason not to go to university. If you aren't much of a drinker that's fine but if you are then university is definitely for you. You make plenty of friends at university and they are the ones you are likely to keep for a life time.

Con's:

1. Some people can choose the wrong degree. Unfortunately it does happen. You could start your degree and later decide that you are no longer interested in a career in that field. There would be no point wasting 3 years of your life doing a degree that you are uninterested in and don't see a future.
2. Another issue could be a decline in the careers available in the topic you are interested in, this is obviously something you will not be aware of when you start.
3. The hidden costs that go with university like technology (buying a printer, ink or even a laptop if you don't have one), stationary (notepads, pens or even sticky notes), books for your course for research and revision, travel and even household bills if you live in a student house.
4. University is difficult and very different compared to doing A-Levels so some people may find the new workload tricky to maintain but that doesn't mean it isn't rewarding or 'fun' to research and learn new things about the topic you are most interested in.
5. And finally the last negative is home sickness. Some students I know struggle with the distance apart from their families. But I feel this is part of developing independence and establishing who you want to be.

It is said that university can be the most stressful but fun years of your life. I hope these pro's and con's help you to make this important decision on whether university is for you.

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If you do decide to go to university or not, either way you have a lot to look forward too! These years give you the chance to try new things, follow your dreams and prepare for a lifetime.

Feel free to ask any questions in the comments I will answer them all and share this if you'd like.

Thank you so much for reading, you can contact me also via email: agirlwithablog16@gmail.com.

Sam x