Moonlight Mel

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40 Nostalgic Movies and TV Shows to watch

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I don’t know about you guys but one of my favourite things to do in my free time is to watch programmes from yesteryear. Life can be super stressful at times so watching movies from our childhood can be so comforting and bring back some wonderful nostalgic memories.

Growing up, I watched a variety of movies and tv shows. A mix of action, tearjerkers and comedies. Many of them are still my favourites to this very day. So let’s open up the popcorn, bring out the snacks and enjoy some throwbacks!

Check out my 40 nostalgic movies and tv shows to watch to bring back some feel good, old school vibes!

person in black and white striped socks lying on bed
Photo by Taryn Elliott on Pexels.com

40 Nostalgic Movies and TV Shows to watch

20 TV Shows

Courage the Cowardly Dog (1996-2002) This programme was really scary when I was a kid but I love it now! It sure has creepy vibes! It’s about a dog called Courage, abandoned as a pup, he was found by Muriel who lives in the middle of nowhere with her husband Eustace…If you know, you know haha! Weird things always happen to Courage and he has to save the day!

The Powerpuff Girls (1998-2005) I absolutely loved this programme, it was one of my favourites; especially that evil character, HIM! Blossom, Bubbles and Buttercup have to save the town from evil villains.

Recess ( 1997-2001) The theme song to this was brilliant, always made me and my sister watch!

Spongebob Squarepants ( 1999-Present) I have loved this programme since forever! As I have got older I think I am more like Squidward LOL!

Dexters Laboratory (1995-2003) Another classic! I really enjoyed watching this and would rewatch this again with my kids. It’s about a boy who has a lab, his sister Dee Dee usually destroys his experiments.

Sabrina the Teenage Witch (1996-2003) What can I say to do this programme justice? I love it so much that I called my cat Salem.

Keenan & Kel (1996-2000) This programme is just full of laughs, worth the watch.

Dragonball Z ( 1996-2003) Another one of my sister and myself favourites! My parents weren’t too pleased though aha, they thought it had too much fighting. A classic!

Gladiators (1992-2000) I loved the American adaption of Gladiators, when I was younger I wanted to grow up to be a Gladiator.

Blind Date (1985-2003) I wish they would bring this back, it was brilliant. Cilla Black was the perfect host.

Continued…

The Crystal Maze (1990-2020) The original series was by far my favourite, it had so much character. Its a game show where contestants when in as a group to do tasks to get time in the crystal maze for prizes.

Keeping up Appearances (1990-1995) I have been in tears of laughter many times watching this! Hyacinth Bucket is a character for sure!

Art Attack (1990-2007) An art show which I always wanted to follow along with but never had the supplies lol!

The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air (1990-1996) A show that needs no introduction, legendary!

Ricki Lake (1993-2004) I really enjoyed watching this show, it had a vast amount of subjects.

The Vicar of Dibley (1994-2007) I recently rewatched this during Ramadan last year, wonderful watch.

Mr Bean (1990-1995) A man of few words but so many laughs! I could watch Mr Bean every so often.

Drake & Josh (2004-2007) They are step brothers with opposite personality, learning to live under one roof while at the same

Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997-2003) I have always loved Vampire themed programmes/films, this gave me chills watching before but love to watch now.

Unsolved Mysteries ( 1987-2010) Before all the documentaries they were ‘Unsolved mysteries. This programme was a programme I watched with my mum.

Top 20 Nostalgic Films

Harry Potter film series (2001-2011) I am sure we have all seen the Harry Potter movies but if not I recommend them. I grew up watching these movies so makes it great to look back onto.

Pirates of the Caribbean film Series (2003-2017) These were my favourite films when I was a teen, Jack Sparrow and Will Turner were epic in these films.

Edward Scissorhands ( 1990) I watch this film every Christmas, it brings happy tears to my eyes. It a man created and he’s left unfinished with scissors as hands when his creator unexpectedly dies.

Happy Gilmore (1996) Happy learns his gran is going to lose her house so he ends up entering a golf tournament. The thing is he wanted to be a hockey player…

The Bodyguard ( 1992) Rachel is a singer/actor and she gets death threats from an obsessive stalker, she hires a bodyguard and falls for him. Love this film, Whitney Houston played the part perfectly.

The Mummy and The Mummy Returns (1999-2001) I am a huge fan of ancient Egypt so these films have been watched many times! i know its not historically correct but still, its wonderful.

Blade series ( 1998-2004) I love these so much that I have them on DVD. Blade is half human and half vampire, who hunts vampires.

Jurassic Park series (1993-2001) Based on the book, this science fiction film series is a must for anyone wanting nostalgia.

Men in Black ( 1997) K & J, (the men in black) are agents fighting against intergalactic events. Everyone thinks the song is catchy right? ‘Here come the men in black…the galaxy defenders, na na naa…’

Of Mice and Men ( 1992) I am not the only one who learnt about this book/film in English class right? It made me cry that’s for sure.

Continued…

The Mask (1994) Stanley has a simple life as a bank employee till he finds a mask created by Loki(God of Mischief). When he wears the mask becomes an eccentric/fun and somewhat powerful character.

Interview with the vampire (1994) I first watched this in my teens, it has so many amazing actors in it, which reminds me, I need to rewatch this.

Sleepy Hollow (1999) Ichabod Crane is a police detective called to a village to find out whos behind a series of murders. He soon finds out its a headless horseman with a curse.

The Addams Family Series ( 1991) A supernatural black comedy film created by cartoonist Charles Addams. This gothic family is different from many but very family-based. I love the relationship between Gomez and Morticia.

Hook (1991) Peter Pan (Robin Williams) has grown up but needs to return to Neverland to save his children from the dastardly captain hook.

The Witches (1990) A film il never tire from! This is based on Roald Dahl’s novel. A boy uncovers a witches convention and tries to stop them but gets turned into a mouse. He has to stop them from turning all kids into mice.

Death Becomes Her ( 1992) A writer and an actress have hated each other for years. They want the same man and it leads to them taking a miracle cure to stop the ageing process, thing is that it has effects, oh dear!

10 Things I Hate About You ( 1999) If you haven’t seen this then I recommend it!

Beyond the mat (2000) a documentary film worth watching if you are an old school wrestling fan like me.

The Truman Show (1998) I love this film, it has to be my favourite of all time. Truman is an insurance salesman when he slowly discovers people around him are actors and he’s in a tv show. 100% recommend.

What are your thoughts?

I hope you enjoyed my top 40 picks! They are many I have missed I am sure but let’s be honest, looking back they have been some brilliant films and programmes!

Comment down below and tell me your favourite nostalgic movies/tv programmes

until next time

Mel x

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Simple at-home UTI testing with TestCard

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Simple at-home UTI testing with TestCard
You get two tests in the pack, which makes it more value for money.

*Sponsored post, products sent. All my thoughts on the product are my own and unbiased*

Simple at-home UTI testing with TestCard

Over the years my blog has constantly changed and with that change, I would say it’s grown with me as a person. So that’s why I can open up more with everyone as I feel like it’s ok and at the end of the day, life is for living and you never know you might share life experiences with others.

So with that being said, that brings me to today’s blog post. UTIs! I know it’s not really spoken about freely but I thought it would be great to be open with you all and share the subject. I have tried TestCard (UTI) Urinary Tract Infection self-testing strips and used their app.

Common symptoms of UTIs are as follows

  • An intense burning while urinating
  • Unusual smelling urine
  • Pain in the lower back

I have had  UTIs previously, and it definitely wasn’t pleasant! I used to be so embarrassed to get treatment. We need to get past the embarrassment because UTIs are incredibly common, even if you’re not sexually active.

Getting tested can be a right pain at times because getting an appointment can sometimes take longer and going right now is a bit harder because of Covid-19. Finding out about TestCard has been wonderful as they are a great way to get instant results at home for an affordable price.

TestCard unrine self test kit
Testcard comes in an envelope that can easily fit a letterbox.

When it comes to UTIs (Urinary Tract Infection) I have heard so many myths about how they happen and remedies.

One myth I have heard is that drinking cranberry juice can reduce getting UTIs but the fact is that it’s only a placebo effect and it’s simply not true. I got told this and I’m glad I know this now because cranberry juice is so damn sour for me LOL!

Another thing is that UTIs can happen for a multitude of reasons and it’s not always intercourse that causes it even though it can be a contributing factor. For some people, they can be recurrent and sometimes they have no symptoms at all.

Myths and Facts

  • Fact: Some people are just prone to recurring UTIs, men can also get them!
  • Fact: Symptoms can vary, some people have no symptoms at all, however, common symptoms include pain when urinating or/and burning.
  • Myth: They are not caused by poor hygiene, sometimes they are just unavoidable.
  • Myth: Cranberry juice will reduce chances is a total myth, I was shocked by this as I was advised by a lot of older family members.
testcard app
The simple to use app can be downloaded at the apple store or android.

Anyway, onto the TestCard.

TestCard is a self testing kit in which you order online

They send you an envelope with two self-testing strips. Inside the envelope, it tells you the instructions on where to download the app. I used the Apple store to download the free app.

How to use

(First Step) Before you get started make sure you have a clean container to collect urine. Then simply tear open a sachet and hold the strip by the top and scan the QR code so the app knows which test you are using.

(Second Step ) To take the test simply dip the test in the urine to the max wet sign briefly.

(Third Step) While holding the testing strip simply scan the QR code to match up with the blue guidelines on the screen.

(Fourth Step) It takes about a minute to get your results on the screen. Depending on your result you can share results with a health professional.

testcard test strip
The testcard strip. Simply hold at the hold here and dip till the max wet sign.

My final thoughts on TestCard is that they are bloody brilliant! I have never taken a test at the comfort of my own home before but wow what a difference. It was more relaxing for me to take the test and I wasn’t rushing around.

The test is very simple to use and the app is perfect and easy to use. Getting the results almost instantly brought a huge relief to me. I will 100% use them again if I ever feel like I may have a UTI.

Of course, consult with your health professional if you feel the need because at the end of the day, only you know your body.

TestCard (UTI) Urinary Tract Infections Test strips cost a super affordable £12 and even have FREE delivery.

Check out their website below 

https://testcard.com/products/utitest

Use my code MEL10 to get 10% off of your first order

Trying out ‘Huel’ Ready-to-Drink – An affordable meal in a bottle

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Before I start this post I would like to state I am not on a liquid diet. I just like trying out vegetarian/vegan protein drinks to make sure I get the most out of what I eat in a day, especially when time is not on your side haha! Huel Ready-to-drink is part of my balanced diet.

I have seen Huel nutrition floating around social media for a while now but it’s only recently that I decided to give one of their products a try. I went shopping the other day in Sainsbury’s for vegetarian goodies when I noticed this drink near the milk aisle. Huel ready-to-drink complete meals, containing 26 essential vitamins and minerals, carbohydrates, protein, fat, fibre and phytonutrients.

If you have read my blog or followed my social media then you would have seen that I have lost 40lb in Lockdown. All of this done without restricting my diet and keeping myself active. Very simple. Check out my post on how to keep fit during lockdown.

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I’ve Lost 40lbs in Lockdown

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I lost 40lb in lockdown - no diets

A 5 Year journey

For the past 5 years, I have been on and off ‘fad’ diets and the result?… I failed! I used to get random bursts of ‘let’s eat better and get the fitness journey started, but for whatever reason, I would end up giving up within a week as everything i have tried in the past has been to constrictive.

In August I turned 30 and I knew I had to improve my lifestyle. I was eating whenever i wanted and I wasn’t even hungry, only because I was bored, upset or just used to the routine. Lockdown didn’t help either.

I promised myself to start a healthier lifestyle a day after my birthday as I was tired of continually gaining weight and eating for no reason so before starting anything, I did a little homework on what would work for me and the first thing I did was download a calorie counting app. The one thing I knew I couldn’t do was give up my chocolate and crisps as this girl has a sweet tooth LOL!

nutracheck weightloss app

How it started and my journey

In my early twenties, I was between size 8-12, including two pregnancies with my daughters when I was 21 and 22. When I got to the age of 25 I got comfort eating because I felt insecure in myself because of very personal relationship circumstances that really affected my self-esteem and confidence. From then onwards my weight spiralled out of control and I’ll be honest, I never even noticed it much because I bought larger clothes and it wasn’t until they got tight that reality sunk in and stepping on the scales was another reality check.

I changed my mindset. I knew I couldn’t continue on that route because it was damaging for me physically and more importantly, mentally. It was slowly getting painful for me so I decided to get fitter and healthier not just for myself but for my kids too.

10 things that helped me lose weight

  • Food scales – These have been the most helpful thing in my kitchen! I measure most things I eat with this. Using scales helps me know how much I am eating because with eye measurement you don’t know unless you have been using scales for a long time.
  • Avoiding Liquid Calories – Now i can’t say I completely got rid of sugary drinks, I like to have them on occasion, like a weekend. Other times I prefer to have sugar free drinks or flavoured water.
  • Using NutraCheck or MyFitnessPal – My absolute favourite thing ever! It has kept me motivated and shown me all the food calories and nutrients I eat, love it!
  • Wearing a step counter – I like to keep my steps to 10,000 and having a counter whether it be a phone or watch helps keep me motivated.
  • Enjoying the foods you eat – Now I love to eat and I like to make sure I eat what I like. I fit foods I like into my calorie deficit.
  • Eating plenty of protein – Protein has been a big help on the journey so far as it helped keep me fuller for longer. Eggs, yoghurts and tofu are my favs!
  • Taking progress photos/Measurements – I know it sounds daft but I never noticed the loss until I took photos. My clothes used to be tight but now they are loose haha!
  • Try out new recipes – I bought a couple of cookbooks to help me learn to make healthier alternatives. My fav at the moment is pinch n nom.
  • Treating myself to something every 10lb lost – I like treating myself to something for saying girl, you go this! I have previously got makeup, a house plant and books.
  • Finding the extra motivation Occassionly when needed – Sometimes I need a kick up the bum for motivation so I like to read books on confidence, anxiety and positivity. This could vary for everyone but for me, it helps. Feel-good films also help me.
weight loss journey 40lb lost in lockdown
On the left is July 2020 looking fabulous and on the right is me a few days ago in March 2021!

I am here for the long haul

I don’t have a goal weight in mind but I will see what happens when I go back to the gym and when society is back to normal. One thing I am excited about is to start weightlifting again. It also shows you that it’s mostly calories/nutrition compared to going to a gym. But the gym does help polish up everything and the atmosphere is awesome!

I know weight loss isn’t for everyone and that is fine. We are all unique and we all know what we want for ourselves and me, this is what I want and I love the journey i have been on and continue. Loving yourself is important.

The journey to lose 40lb has taken me since August. It hasn’t always been plain sailing as some weeks I wouldn’t lose and other weeks I would stay the same, its a journey and I am enjoying flowing with it rather racing ahead.

Anyways I am happy with how I have improved in terms of mind and soul. I know it might be a slow journey but this girl is enjoying it, no matter how long it takes, I am here for the long haul.

Until next time

Mel x

Check out my other recent fitness posts

How to Keep Fit in Lockdown

How to keep fit during Lockdown

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So we are well into the swing of the third lockdown now. During the first lockdown, I was at a loss about what to do food & fitness-wise. So I decided to research and trial and error what works for me.

It took me till August 2020 to find out what worked for me. I have been doing that routine ever since. Here are a few things that have helped me lose nearly 40lbs since I started my journey.

concept of sports training
Photo by cottonbro on Pexels.com
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My Favourite Beauty Products of 2020

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Following on from My Favoruite Skincare products of 2020 post, I thought it would be the right time to share my favourite beauty products.

I’ll have to be 100% honest with you all here… I didn’t wear makeup a lot during 2020. Most days were joggers, a little bit of skincare and more trips to the fridge than usual. On the days I did wear makeup it was vibrant as I wanted to dress up, even if it was just going to Tesco.

Anyways onto the post, lets see my 2020 beauty favourites…

My Favourite Beauty Products of 2020

Urban Decay Wired Pressed Pigment Palette

I bought this Urban Decay Wired at the start of lockdown as I wanted to add some bright eyeshadows to my eyeshadow collection. When I first bought it I wasn’t completely sure I liked it but the more I used it the more I started enjoying using it. I like using these solo.

Wet N Wild Colour Icon Bronzer SPF 15 ‘Ticket to Brazil’

Home Bargains have been one of my favourite shops during lockdown because you never know what you will find. I have never tried Wet N Wild before so I was excited to try this bronzer. I have seen mixed review online but I find it works well giving me a soft-sculpted cheek without looking too harsh.

Makeup Revolution Conceal & Hydrate Concealer

I have trusted Makeup Revolution products for a few years now. Most of their products are wonderful and this concealer is one of them. This concealer is perfect for concealer dark circles, created a base for eyeshadows or even defining the brows. With more than 25 shades to choose from its easy to find which works for you.

XX Revolution FleeXX Brow Pomade ‘Black’

Eyebrow pomades are my favourite way of styling my eyebrows. It’s so much easier defining brows with pomade and a brush. I love this XX Revolution pomade as it’s easy to use and lasts all day without budging.

Makeup Revolution Renaissance Flick Eyeliner

I have tried many eyeliners over the years but this one is one I come back too because it works perfectly for me. I love cat eyeliner and this works well every time. It doesn’t smudge over the day which is a plus.

Urban Decay Stay Naked Foundation

Another product which I didn’t like to start with but grew on me. The finish is matte and you can customise it by applying less or more. I love wearing this on days when I don’t want full coverage.

Fenty Beauty- Killawatt Freestyle Highlighter / Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer in Fu$$y and Stunna Lip Paint Longwear Liquid Colour in Uncensored

I just LOVE Fenty Beauty products, everything I have tried so far has been fabulous. I defiantly think it’s worth the higher-end price tag.

The highlighter is a lovely silverly sparkly shimmer that adds glow to any makeup look I create. Now the lipgloss is just divine, I never used lipgloss since I was a teen but I have fallen in love with it again because this one is nonsticky and adds gorgeous gloss to the lips. Lasty I love their longwear liquid lipsticks, they apply effortlesy, have a lovely selection of photos and last all day.

Pixi Lash Booster Mascara

I really love this mascara as it adds so much curl and definition to my lashes. It has a huge wand brush which applies the perfect amount of product.

What are your thoughts on my beauty favourites; Which Beauty Products did you love in 2020?

Until next time

Mel x

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