Film Review: The Hunger Games: Mockingjay - Part 1

Guess who's back? Just me, don't get too excited...
Anti-climax...
Um, anyway.
Hey guys!

Last week, some friends and I went to see the third Hunger Games movie, which we've been excited about pretty much all year! So, I thought it was only appropriate to give you all a review and tell you what I thought of it!

So, for those of you who aren't familiar with the story, or haven't read/seen the first two, I'll give you a quick summary of what's gone on. The story basically follows Katniss Everdeen on her journey through the Hunger Games, a brutal and unfair competition set up by a corrupt government in order to, supposedly, serve justice for the uprising of the citizens of Panem against the Capitol that happened many years before. Without going into too much detail, the Hunger Games aren't exactly the nicest of tournaments, with only one of the twenty four tributes surviving.

In Mockingjay, however, Katniss (played by Jennifer Lawrence) faces her biggest battle yet. After President Snow (played by Donald Sutherland), the sinister and controlling leader of the Capitol and creator of the Hunger Games, destroys Katniss' district, leaving it in complete ruins, she must lead the rest of the districts on the route to freedom against the corrupt government that is swiftly on the rise. However, this is not her only battle. Katniss must also tackle her past, and recover from the twisted, provocative events of the Hunger Games which haunt her to this day. And, as if things weren't complicated enough, Peeta Mellark (played by Josh Hutcherson), her companion through the games and 'star-crossed lover', is in the hands of the enemy, leaving Katniss the responsibility of rescuing him, which could potentially lead her into the hands of the Capitol. Pretty crazy, right?

The thing I love about the this movie is how it's one of the rare films that actually live up to the book. The entire cast do a fantastic job of playing such complex characters, portraying them in a way that completely reflects the book. Also, there are some amazing classic moments from Effie Trinket (played by Elizabeth Banks) that honestly had me laughing so hard! This film was just such a great combination of action, romance, comedy and suspense; a must-see, for sure!

Well, there you go! Let me know what you think of the movie!

Five Top Tips for Revision

Hey there, crazy people of the internet. You made it again!
It's always this time of the year when mock exams are beginning, and it seems like EVERYONE's talking about exams! So, I thought I'd give you all my five top tips for revision, which will hopefully help you out!

1) Start early
I know what it's like to put off revision to a point where it's just too late...trust me! So, make sure you start early to avoid rushed, last-minute revision!

2) Make a revision timetable
This is so helpful to get you on track of what you're revising and when. Allocate yourself time in the week to sit down and, well...revise! How long you spend revising is up to you.
You can make your timetable as bright and colourful as you want; it's part of the fun! Although, it's easy to just write yourself a timetable but not really stick to it (trust me, I know...). So, make sure you commit to your timetable. Perhaps set yourself a reminder on your phone, or ask someone you know, like your parents, to remind you so that you can't get out of it!

3) Have an allocated revision place
This will help you to get in the mind set of revision, so that your brain knows that it's time to revise. Where it is is up to you; it could be as peaceful and quiet or loud and busy as you want- whatever helps you revise best! It's different for everyone, for example I prefer a relaxed atmosphere, maybe with music in the background, so coffee shops are ideal for me (and plus it's a great excuse to drink coffee!). However, for some people it could be a library, in the garden (although that's probably not the best shout in winter), or just a desk in your bedroom. Wherever it is, try and make sure you always revise in the same place, so that your brain knows that it's time to get down and revise.

4) Find a revision method that's right for you
There are so many revision methods, but it's worth trying out different things so that you find one that's right for you and that you can stick with.
You could try out some of these:

• Flashcards- they're easy to make and super useful.
• Making up a song/rhyme- this could help you to remember equations, definitions and key facts. You could even try recording it and listening back to it.
• Around-the-house revision- try sticking up questions around your house, on things like doors and cupboards, and try and answer them before opening the door/cupboard. If you can't, go and find out the answer on the internet or in a textbook, and then come back.
• Highlighting and note taking- this is a great way to remind yourself of definitions and key facts.
• Mind maps- a fab visual revision method. Go colour crazy!
• Get together with friends- try testing each other, or maybe even organise a quiz night!

5) Make time to have fun
It's important not to overwork yourself. Revision should be a priority, but your wellbeing is even more important. Make sure you give yourself time to relax, and do things to take your mind off of revision!

I hope this helped. Happy revising!

How To Choose a Camera that's Right for You

Yes, it's Wednesday! We all know what that means, and no, not just one step closer to the weekend...a new blog post! So, as a lot of you might know, I'm a huge photography fanatic, and I love, love, love talking about anything photography! Today, I thought I'd go through the different types of cameras that are out there so that you can find one that's right for you. You don't have to be an avid photographer to get something out of this post; even if you're not that into photography, hopefully this post will still be helpful for you!

Compact Digital Cameras
These cameras are light, easy to use and perfect for everyday use. They're generally fully automatic, which means you don't have to worry about manual settings such as aperture and shutter speed. However, this does mean that these cameras are better for capturing everyday memories and informative photographs rather than going ultra creative. However, a lot of digital compact cameras have settings such as 'action' and 'portrait', which gives you a way to get the best photograph possible. Generally, they have a decent zoom and, depending on the camera you choose, a reasonable number of megapixels.
If you're looking for a simple, everyday camera, compact digital cameras are perfect for you.

Bridge Cameras
These are slightly more complex than compact digital cameras, and produce better quality photos. However, they're still easy to use once you find your way around them! Bridge cameras have the ability to shoot on aperture priority, shutter speed priority, manual and automatic mode. This gives you much more freedom when taking photos, and lets you get a little more creative. However, a disadvantage is that, like compact digital cameras, you can't change your lens. This limits you slightly in the way of close-ups and macro photography, but gives you the benefit of not having to carry round extra lenses. Also, most bridge cameras have a fairly decent zoom anyway, and can also record videos, though not always at a fantastic quality.
If you're looking for a camera that allows you to shoot manually, but is still easy to use, a bridge camera would be great for you!

Digital Single-Lens Reflex Cameras (DSLRs)
DSLRs are the most expensive type of camera, but definitely the most professional and top quality. There are loads of models to choose from, ranging from amateur to professional, which means you can find one that's right for you. The main advantage of DSLRs is the fact that you can change your lens when desired, which means that you can take some fantastic photos. As well as this, the settings are very complex, which means you have even more freedom in your photography. As well as this, most DSLRs can film great quality videos, what is a huge advantage. However, they're pretty heavy!
If you're looking to take your photography to the next level, I'd definitely recommend a DSLR!

I hope this was useful for you all! Have a fab week!

A Weekend of Fun at Center Parcs, Woburn

Hey, guys!

I thought I'd start by saying a huge thanks to you all! On Monday I reached 500 page views, which I'm really excited about! Thanks so much to you guys who have been reading my posts; I hope you enjoy reading them as much as I enjoy writing them! Really though, it means so much, so a huge thanks to you all!
 

Last weekend, my family and I went away to Center Parcs in Woburn, which opened earlier on this year. We've been away to a few of the others before, but Woburn Forest definitely had to be our favourite out of them all!

 The forest is just so, so beautiful, especially in the Autumn! From the serene lake to the wonderful wildlife, there's plenty to photograph! Plus, this time of the year, the leaves are such a gorgeous colour; take some photos while they're still there!

Center Parcs offers tons of fab activities to suite absolutely everyone! There's such a huge variety, from intense, action-packed challenges like water sports and the high ropes, to more relaxed options such as crafts and a trip to the spa. My family and I did Indoor Climbing, Pottery, Table Tennis and Laser Combat, which was super fun!

There's also a HUGE swimming pool with tons of crazy slides; I could pretty much spend all day there! There're also more chilled out options at the pool, like the Lazy River, or just hanging out in a cabana which are available to hire.

The village square is packed with loads of shops and restaurants, and is really easy to get to. I just loved the relaxed atmosphere and quirky layout that gave the square so much character!

They have pretty much all you need in the way of restaurants, from tasty American diners to classy Italian food. It's all so, so yummy, and plus there are coffee shops everywhere, which of course is a bonus...

 The best way to get around has to be by bike. Everything is easily within cycling distance, and there are bike racks pretty much everywhere! You can bring your own bike, or just hire one there.

The lake is just gorgeous! It's surrounded by forest, and there's a path by the side of it leading to the Pancake House (which is AMAZING, might I add...).

Be sure to take a camera everywhere; there's so much to photograph! The whole park has so much character, and I just loved every bit of it!

Anyway, it's time for me to leaf now...see what I did there...never mind...
I Hope you guys enjoyed seeing some of my holiday snaps! Have a fab week!



The Disney Tag

Hey, guys!
This week's post is an exciting one, for me at least! By the looks of it, a lot of you enjoyed the Harry Potter Tag I uploaded a few weeks ago, so I thought it was about time I wrote another. This time...wait for it...it's The Disney Tag! Of course, Disney is another of my many random obsessions, so I thought I'd do this tag to show you guys some of my fave things about Disney! Here it goes!

What's your favourite Disney movie?
Wow, this is going to be harder than I thought!
I think it'd have to be Lady and the Tramp. It's such a lovely story about two dogs from very different backgrounds, who fall in love and must learn to embrace their differences. Filled with both hilarious and heart-breaking moments, it'll be sure to have you close to tears. Although, in all honesty, I've had this weird fear of those two singing Siamese cats since I was younger, and I'm still absolutely petrified of them...but hey, great movie, and such a classic!

Who's you're favourite Disney character?
I think it'd have to be a tie between Olaf (Frozen) and Dory (Finding Nemo). They're both just so funny, and have so many classic one-liners that literally have me laughing for so long!

Who's your favourite Disney princess and prince?
Definitely Pocahontas and John Smith! It's such a shame that Disney's Pocahontas happens to be one of those forgotten Disney movies that barely anyone's seen! Both characters are so determined and strong-willed, and are constantly risking their lives for those they love. Although, a word of advice- if you're a big fan of the PocaJontas love story, like I am, then make sure you're prepared for Pocahontas 2; your heart will probably break twice over...

What's your favourite Disney song?
I guess it'd probably have to be 'For the First Time in Forever' from Frozen. I absolutely that movie; the characters, the story, the songs, all of it!

Disneyland (Paris) or Walt Disney World (Florida)?
After our family visit to Walt Disney World, Florida, a few
years ago, I don't think Disneyland Paris would be quite the same. By no means do I have anything against it; I've heard amazing things about it, and besides, I've never been there. But, Disney World was just  the most wonderfully magical place I've ever been. The atmosphere, the people, and just the overall experience is just so overwhelmingly amazing! Even just the little things make the adventure even more memorable, which is exactly what it is! You can just tell that all the people who work on the resort are genuinely there because they're passionate and enthusiastic about what they do, which is enough to put a smile on anyone's face!



What would be your dream job at Disney World?
Well, I think it's safe to say that quite a large amount of girls dream of being a princess, especially after growing up watching Disney movies! Who wouldn't want to be a Disney Princess?!
However...more realistically, I'd love to do a Photography internship with Disney World Florida (yes, it's a real thing!). That would literally be a combination of two of my favourite things- Disney and photography!

What's your favourite Disney setting?
I just love New Orleans, Louisiana, where The Princess and the Frog is set. I adore the combination of both crowded, bustling streets, and the breathtakingly serene atmosphere of the forest where the frog lives. It's just such a beautiful place! Although, I've got to admit, Toy Story's Pizza Planet literally seems like one of the coolest place on Earth. Or not on Earth. You know what I mean!

Are you ever too old for Disney?
No, no, no, no, no! Oh, and no.







I hope you guys enjoyed reading this week's post! Remember, you're never, ever too old for Disney!

Five Spectacular Books That You Totally Need to Read!

 

Happy Wednesday, guys! I thought this week I'd make a list of some of my favourite books for you guys to check out. I love, love, LOVE books (as you've probably guessed), so I thought I'd tell you some of my faves in case you want to check them out!
So, here it goes...

1) To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

Okay, so I know what you're thinking...'What is this, English GCSE?!'... but seriously, this is one of the most wonderfully moving and beautifully written books I've ever read in my whole entire life. Set in the 1930s, a time of segregation in the US, this book tells the story of Scout as she watches her father act as a defence lawyer in an intense and thought-provoking court case. As well as this, Scout lives near an ancient, eerie house supposedly inhabited by Boo Radley, a phantom-like character who practically feeds off the fear of those living near him. This is possibly my favourite novel on earth; check it out!
Warning- you'll need tissues...

2) The Harry Potter Series by JK Rowling
So, this is kind of cheating seeing as there are seven books in the series, but I can't exactly pick just one! The books follow Harry Potter, a young wizard growing up at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. As well as hearing of all the craziness he gets up to, we follow him on his journey to end the rise of Voldemort, a powerful wizard trying to take over. Oh, and  there's Dumbledore, never forget Dumbledore...

3) The Hobbit by JRR Tolkien

I loved this book; it's funny, clever and generally such a fab story! The book follows Bilbo Baggins on his journey with Gandalf (the second coolest wizard of all time- after Dumbledore, of course) and a group of dwarves, to defeat Smaug the dragon and retrieve the dwarves' treasure. They encounter tons of crazy obstacles, involving getting captured by goblins- scary stuff, if you ask me...










4) War Horse by Michael Morpurgo

War Horse is such a moving
story about a boy who is separated from his horse during the war and is determined to be reunited with him. The book tells the powerful account of his journey through war, with the goal of finding his companion. This is such a wonderfully written book by an incredibly talented author, and all of his books are complete genius. I definitely recommend them all!

5) The Digital Photography Book by Scott Kelby

Last but not least, this is a really helpful book that guides you around your camera and gives you handy tips for taking amazing photographs! Whether you're a beginner or a professional photographer, this book will almost certainly teach you something new, whether that be how to hold a camera, or how to work your way around aperture, shutter speed and other things which really aren't as daunting as they seem! Be sure to check it out! 

I hope you guys enjoy them!

Cute DIY Autumn Candle Holders!

It's been getting pretty chilly lately, which means warm drinks, comfy jumpers and of course pretty candles lighting up the house! So, after taking literally ages to think of what DIY to do for you guys, I though I'd settle with some cute autumnal candle holders! But first (of course), I should probably warn you that candles mean fire, and fire can be dangerous, so make sure you're super responsible and don't do anything crazy!


You will need:
-Glass jar
-Tea light candles
-PVA glue
-Decorations! I've used
seashells, white correction fluid, newspaper, ribbon and leaves. Feel free to mix and match with some of your own ideas!







 

Glass Jar Candle Holders

1) Start by making sure your glass jars are super clean!
2) Get decorating! Try some of my designs, or come up with your own.
3) Pop in a candle, carefully light it and enjoy!









Seashell Candle Holders-note
Just be mega careful if you're making these, especially when melting the wax into the shell.

Well, that's today's post, guys! Have a fab week!