A Wonderful World

                                                     'A POWERFUL TALE OF A MOTHER'S SURVIVAL' Netflix have returned with another hit series ‘ Maid ’, which follows young mother Alex as she fights to care for her daughter Maddie while experiencing abuse, lack of support and income. Although it’s extremely hard hitting, covers some sensitive topics and has some very raw moments, it’s a beautiful and very honest portrayal of the reality of the circumstances for many and provides light and hope for those who may have been affected by similar situations.   It’s inspired by Stephanie Land’s 2019 Memoir, Maid: Hard Work, Low Pay, and a Mother's Will to Survive , in which she shares about working as a maid while raising her daughter. It’s ‘inspired’ by rather than ‘based’ on, as many of the characters, happenings and storylines have been created for t...

SOME NEWLY RELEASED ENTERTAINMENT NEWS IN THE WORLD OF TELEVISION, FILM AND THEATRE.                                                     NETFLIX'S 'WEDNESDAY: Tim Burton is set to make his TV directing debut with a new series for Netflix, titled 'Wednesday.'  B ased on the iconic gothic   Addams Family   character, the dark comedy spin-off series will run for a total of 8 episodes.  Each episode has an expected run time of approximately 60 minutes. Known for his quirky and slightly gothic films including ' Edward Scissorhands', 'Sweeney Todd', 'Alice In Wonderland' and ' Corpse Bride', it's likely he will bring his unique style to the upcoming television series. In a recent announcement, Netflix described the series as a “sleuthing, supernaturally infused mystery charting Wednesday Addams’ years as a student at nevermore academy.” The char...

This month we celebrated International Women’s Day, within the same week we heard from a woman who faced suicidal thoughts as a consequence of being targeted by the media and press, victimised, accused of lying and admitted to feeling trapped in a system. Simultaneously, a young woman was reported missing, investigations soon revealed that she was sexually assaulted and murdered by a man when walking home. Allegations were made that it was her fault for walking home alone late after drinking, and a police officer whose responsibility is to protect has been arrested for her murder. Despite the progressions we’ve made on the treatment towards women throughout the 20 th and 21 st Century, there are still major changes yet to occur. But it shouldn’t take a tragedy in order to acknowledge them. There are many behaviours that have become the norm for women through both fear of safety and what’s taught growing up, whether it be taking the longer route home, holding keys between her finger...

                                                          HUGE HIT FOR FREELANCERS AND SELF EMPLOYED It’s no secret that the current pandemic has initiated dramatic and sudden shifts to all lives, despite the differences we may face when it comes down to personal circumstances. Throughout both the pandemic as a whole and amidst our third lockdown, our work lives have had to be considered and thousands have been majorly affected. Some businesses may have thrived, lots have struggled. Many employees have been furloughed under the ‘Furlough Scheme’ and others have shifted to ‘working from home’. One particular circle of occupations that have taken a huge hit are those who come under the definition of either ‘Self Employed’ or a ‘Freelancer.’ Those who run their own business, carry out multiple jobs for various organisations, and perhaps aren’t con...

       'A Valentines from home can still remain a Valentines of love' Valentines Day, celebrated annually on the 14th February, is a day of expressing affection and celebrating love. It may not be the same this year whilst locked down and unable to have events or surprises booked, but it can still be a day of acknowledging and appreciating those you love. Whether you are in a relationship, single or happen to be spending this Valentines day alone, it can still be celebrated within your four walls. It doesn't just have to be a day of romantic love, but friendship and family love to. Particularly during this ongoing pandemic, a day like Valentines is a useful reminder to tell those you love that you do, to check in on those you care about and to take time to appreciate those that also care about you. A day to spread a little joy.  FOR THOSE IN A RELATIONSHIP: If you're spending this Valentines with a Valentine and you're able to see each other, there are still thi...

                                                   'Taking a minute to reflect on how you're getting on, can help you cope when getting through.' Amidst the news, current affairs and global pandemic, despite being stuck in our homes it can often feel we're stuck on a hamster wheel. Whether that's physically or not, it can certainly have an effect on us mentally. With a lot of unknown regarding when lockdown will end and specifics surrounding definite deadlines, vaccinations and transmission rates, our minds may be finding it difficult to switch off. Whilst it's helpful to take a minute to stay updated, it's just as important to take a minute for yourself. Just you. No kids, no news, no work, no social media or external distraction. Allowing yourself to just be with you and you thoughts to really tune into how you're feeling. With an inability to meet up with ...

'It's important to hold onto our passions throughout this challenging time.' As we continue through our third lockdown, we're faced with our own hurdles. Whilst it's important to stay updated, safe and follow government guidelines, it's also acceptable to have time away from the constant hold of Coronavirus and tune into what makes you feel good within the premises of what you can take part in from home. Aspects of the situation we're in can become overwhelming, so it's vital to find your own coping mechanisms that aren't a detriment to your wellbeing. Your own release, way to relax, feel good, shift emotions and tune out of the unnecessary noise for a while.  Although the circumstances at home will be different for everyone, we're all able to ensure we take some time for ourselves to unwind and take part in what we enjoy. It may be learning something new, it may not, there is no pressure attached, just freedom and enjoyment. Explore, experiment ...

   Along with the challenges of Lockdown, there could perhaps be the time to explore ones interests and new beginnings, support small businesses, experiment, and step outside our comfort zones. Lockdown has brought its fair share of hurdles, we're all facing our own difficulties whether it be income, working from home, looking after children, loneliness, anxiety, boredom or simply feeling both frustrated and exhausted by the situation. But a silver lining of some time with ourselves or families is that we're able to experiment with new things, engage with activities to look after our mental and physical well-being. It could be a walk, getting some fresh air and appreciating nature. Perhaps you joined in on the viral banana bread making. Having a relaxing bath, watching a new series, trying out some yoga, starting to learn a language, reading a book or completing a puzzle. Of course, this is a demanding time for all of us, our emotions and state of mind will change and go throu...

              Perhaps we should reframe the phrase 'New Year, New Me'. Every year as we get closer to New Years Eve on the 31st of December, considering our 'New Year's Resolutions' becomes a common tradition, thinking about what we would like the New Year to bring us, or perhaps certain behaviours or habits we would like to alter or work on. Personally, I have always found a certain pressure comes with this outlook, and instead of being something to question optimistically, it can often become stressful and slightly anxiety inducing as our minds can focus on what we may view as negatives regarding ourselves and set certain goals for the New Year to change ourselves as if we are magic or superhuman, setting our standards too high. Sometimes, with this mentality comes the term 'New Year, New Me', the idea that we are going to become someone new as one year ends and another starts, someone better or perhaps closer to the 'ideal, perfect human'. However...