20 Things About Me

I'm taking a cue from The Bottom of the Ironing Basket today and answering a quiz about me!

1. One beauty product or routine that you would recommend or can't live without.

Toner.  I can't live without toner.  Nothing makes my skin feel cleaner and fresher than toner.  I never use soap or cleanser on my face, never ever ever, the only thing I use is toner.  But in saying that, I would probably have some kind of "first world" problem meltdown if I didn't have mascara, liquid eyeliner and lip gloss!

2. One book you would recommend to anyone or that you love and often return to

Somme Mud by E.P.F. Lynch.  This is a seriously good book.  It's an autobiographical account of an Australian soldier in World War 1 and really gives you an idea of what trench warfare in France was really like.  After you read this book you will have a much greater appreciation of those who have come and gone before us.

3. One item that you would take to desert island (no people allowed!)

A knife - you could attach it to a stick to go spear fishing, cut down poles to make a house, use it to eat with, kill wild pigs before they killed you....(oh hang on, this is a desert island, isn't it?)

4. One life changing moment

One of my best friends was killed in a motorbike accident at 22.  At that moment I realised we are not invincible.  You can get up, have your breakfast, and go out about your normal day without ever realising you have 3 hours left to live on this earth.....

5. One movie that makes you cry every time

"Lady Jane".  Its kind of an arthouse film from 1986 and tells of the story of Jane Grey who was Queen of England for 9 days (between Edward and Mary). Helena Bonham Carter and Cary Ewles played the main characters.  After I saw it, I cried, nay sobbed, for 3 days.  DEPRESSING!  And even sadder because its a true story.

6. Who would play the handsome hero in the movie of your life

Oh dear, I think my life has been remarkably bereft of handsome hero types so far.  Well, if there ever was to be one in my life I would pick James McAvoy to play him - but only if I get to play the lead and we have a kissing scene haha!  Drool.... Can't. Stop. Staring.

7. How long have you known your oldest friend

Since before kindergarten.  So, maybe 3 years old?  We will be 40 pretty soon so thats 37 years, gulp!

8. Karaoke, first to sing, last to sing, or no way not ever!

Not first, but I will definitely get up there and embarrass myself (I did win a six pack once!)

9. Pedicure, manicure or massage

Manicure probably, but actually I'd prefer a facial.

10. French chic or Italian sex appeal

French chic. They just do everything with that little bit of extra pizzazz - and for the most part it seems to be completely natural - how do they do it???

11. London, New York, Tokyo or Sydney

London.  Without a doubt.

12. Your favourite book, movie and song

1. Pride and Prejudice (yes, I know, its completely obvious)
2. Room with a View
3. O Mio Babbina Caro by Puccini

13. Three dream cities you have yet to visit

Marrakesh, Vienna, Cairo

14. Three things still on your bucket list

1. To finish my book  
2. Take the kids on a motorhome holiday 
3. To ride my bicycle down a country lane somewhere in Provence 

15. School days, happy or sad, good or bad memories

Happy and good.  Friends for life (even if we are spread out all over the country and don't get to see each other very often these days).

16. Who or what makes you feel better on challenging days

1. Coffee

2. Ridiculously trashy TV

3. A bath

17. Recommend a blog

Kate Says Stuff, coz Kate is awesome, positive, grateful, thankful and she's been my friend for 8 years!

18. Are you happier now than you were at 20...honestly?

Way, wayyyyyyy happier.  Like on a whole different planet happier.

19. Describe yourself in one word only

Arty

20. What is one thing you know for sure

In the end, the only person you can rely on is yourself, you are responsible for your hopes, your dreams, your actions, your choices, your mistakes, your happiness and your life!

Now its your turn to tell me 20 things about you! (coz I'm a nosy bitch haha)