Audiobook Review: Everything you’ll Ever Need (you can find within yourself) By Charlotte Freeman

Blurb: Everything You’ll Ever Need (You Can Find Within Yourself) is Charlotte Freeman’s first book and was written from the most vulnerable places of the heart. This book is open and honest, written to resonate with those who need it the most.

Full of messages we all sometimes need, that often come at just the right time, this book is your reminder that everything you’ll ever need, you can find within yourself.

Review: This is a short audiobook with short, sharp and to the point chapters that will inspire and give you a much needed boost.

In the time I’ve had this via the Libby library I have listened to it a number of times. On my last listen I penned some notes so that I could do my review justice. I can definitely see me downloading and listening to this again in the future.

Self love can save you – that sentence alone makes me smile and makes me thoughtful. To say my self esteem is up and down is most definitely an understatement, at the moment I’m in a pretty good place. Charlotte’s words hit home and made me feel seen and heard.

There is a lot of emphasis on worth, capability and how it comes from within. Be unapologetically yourself – this definitely made me smile as that’s a slogan that the legend that is Mary Earps uses, and one I can wholeheartedly get on board with.

Stop overthinking in terms of life and also in convincing yourself that no one will listen to the madness in your head. Wow! Now this definitely made me feel seen. In some aspects I’m getting better in others not so much.

A self-help book that you can get on board with as I said I felt seen on a number of aspects. It’s not preachy and it’s written so you can emphasise and I guess feel seen. Charlottes words resonated with me on a number of things and I’m feeling empowered from listening to this. As I say I’ve listened to these words a few times and I dare say I’ll do so again someday.

Weekly Update #63

I contemplated not writing a weekly update this week as it feels like a bit of a cop out.

Last week I had content on the blog every single day and lots to share this week I’ve been quite simply exhausted before and after my birthday ha, and the blog has been extremely light. It definitely goes to show that when I have drafts I’m much more productive.

So apologies for the lack of content but I’m extremely happy with the blog tour post for Fanny Blake’s The Daughter in Law that I shared on Sunday and you can read that here. My other post came on Friday which if you’re a regular here you will know that Friday is more often than not the day that gets missed somehow. I was feeling inspired by Miranda Dickinson and I shared that here. I’m still not entirely sure what to do with that empowerment but it feels good.

I’ve also realised some of my old posts are still being viewed. I reread Heartbreak never gets easier and I found this post means just as much reading it back. Sometimes when I write straight from the heart it means so much more and this is a prime example of that. This short story review of Peter James also seems to get a lot of traction and you can read it here.

Thursday 23rd February was my birthday and I decided to have a bit of a pamper. The birthdays before and after covid saw films or theatre and for the first time since lockdown I had no plans with my bestie. This is absolutely fine as it just means I’ll extend my celebrations. On the day itself I had a needed hair cut and got my nails gelled two things that made me smile. Before heading to meet with some current and ex work mates I also had cake with my nieces and nephew. It’s not a birthday to them if cake isn’t involved.

Initially we had planned to do pub quiz with drinks but it wasn’t on due to the football which was fine. We had a laugh and I always feel less stressed when it’s not my team playing. I decided that I wanted to mark my 39th birthday in a way I never did for my 30th. So I took my instax camera to make some fun memories.

Little did I realise that I made a rookie error in leaving my phone on the table as this lot got me before. Granted they are always fun to find.

I mean there are soooo many including a few that are actually videos. But in the whole I had a lovely birthday. Simple pleasures granted I was rather tired for my shift yday.

Last week I mentioned more blog tours for March this is one of the beauties I received that will feature in my March TBR which will be coming soon.

Weekly Update #62

Happy Saturday beauties I’m so sorry this is coming rather late in the day. Was on a late shift and to say I’m exhausted is an understatement.

It’s been quite a week although in saying that there aren’t loads of photos from the week, but it’s been enlightening to say the least. I’ve managed to post every single day of this week and I’m super chuffed at that. So lots of posts to share I’ve also had some gorgeous book post although I haven’t taken pics of them all and I’m already out the house. I’ve been added to a few March blog tours and I’m extremely excited about that.

This is the truly gorgeous thank you pack that SJ from Simon & Schuster sent me for taking part in the Valentines #RespectRomFic post that I will be sharing again in this post.

The audio reading hasn’t been as productive since the lack of headphones but I have started listening to.

Very early stages but as ever she has had me laughing out loud. I will dedicate some time to this in the next coming week.

So what’s been on the blog this week?

On Sunday I took part in another fabulous Six for Sunday post and you can read that here. I love looking at these stacks although almost always I haven’t read all of them.

On Monday I shared my thoughts on Prince Harry’s Spare this has been quite a popular one this week and you can read it here.

Tuesday was Valentine’s Day and I was pleased to take part in the #RespectRomFic movement. I also managed to finish reading The Daughter in Law the review of that one will be up tomorrow. You can read my Valentine’s post here.

On Wednesday I shared a different post about poetry with an extract from a book. You can read that here.

Thursday’s seem to be for Throwbacks and you can read my latest one here.

Friday saw me actually post although I confused myself as I had written it and hadn’t realised I hadn’t actually posted it until later in the day. It was my review on the collection of poems and A Heart Lighter Than a Feather here.

That’s pretty much it…ooooh actually I lie. On Monday I got out and ran it wasn’t pretty but it was a start..

I also managed to spend some much needed time with the girls…that completes my week as I’m onward to work once again. Until next time…

Throwback Thursday – Dryathlon with a twist. Life really is a rollercoaster…

Today I’m taking you back to a rollercoaster time in my life.

My heart is well and truly on my sleeve in this post. Following the trolling I suffered so badly on Hayleyslilworld I came back with this blog that originally started as a place to talk about my love for volunteering which then changed to my working for Cancer Research UK.

Back to the time I gave up tea and coffee for 30 days in aid of Cancer Research in memory of those I had lost. This post is a special one and I’ve barred my soul a bit. You can read that here. And I am also sharing with you my post having completed the 30 days with no tea and coffee and you can read that here.

That concludes another Throwback Thursday… until next time.

Weekly Update #54

Happy Saturday all…I don’t know about you but it’s been a cold one. I didn’t want to move this morning. I was warm in my bed but my head was throbbing and not the kind of throb from a hangover an under the weather throb. Thankfully I’m feeling a bit better well the headache has passed over, well enough to enjoy listening to something without pain.

I haven’t managed any reading today but I have finished listening to Breathe a musical by Jodi Picoult & Timothy Allen McDonald.

This is the second thing about lockdown that I’ve enjoyed the first was Love in Lockdown which is an ebook that I read during lockdown and you can read that here.

So it’s been a week since England crashed out of the World Cup as much as it’s saddened me it’s been too busy a week to think on it too much. As you’ll see from my posts I have shared my thoughts on it. On Monday after work I met up with my bestie and her family to watch Mary Poppins for the second time in the West End it was so lovely to see Charlie Stemp back he’s an absolute dream as Bert alongside Zizi Strallen as Mary.

After the show I decided to brave the cold conditions and visit my most favourite Christmas tree. It never disappoints me, last year I wasn’t alone but I was able to smile at the memories and to appreciate its beauty once again. During covid times I was so sad to have missed it.

I just love how gorgeous it is. I really loved the brisk walk in the cold to admire this. It gave me so many feels then I got myself a coffee and realised trains were awful, but the smile never left my face.

So what’s been on the blog….

Last Sunday I shared the post I never wanted to write whilst I moped around and didn’t do too much with my day. You can read that one here.

On Tuesday I finally shared my thoughts on Lindsey Kelk’s festive offering in The Christmas Wish and you can read that here.

You were also treated to a second post on Tuesday as I wanted to take part in Top Ten Tuesday and you can read that here.

On Thursday I shared a Throwback Thursday post I’ve really enjoyed these. Would love to know if you would like any specific posts on this one. You can read my last one here.

On Friday I had hoped to share a personal post as that’s what my Twitter poll suggested but I woke up feeling cruddy and had a lot to do before I started work at 2pm. In mentioning a personal post it had me thinking of what to share and how open to be. There’s a number of things that have been on my mind of late that could have sprung to mind. In saying that reading Seven Exes had me thinking of Marcus who can only be described as the one who got away. I mean I can’t even tell you his surname I believe I was what around 16 when I last saw him. But hey that’s another day altogether….

What I will end with is be kinder to yourself this time of year is hard enough without us doubting ourselves. I’m saying that for me as well as to you all, I already know I’m my own worst enemy at times. I’ll be starting the late late shift shortly…let me know on the comments whether you would like a Six For Sunday or something else tomorrow. Although once I’m awake I have a fair bit to do tomorrow…

Being in the moment…

This time of year can be extremely triggering for many, so reach out whenever and wherever you can. More often than not those with the biggest smiles are the ones you should truly worry about. The pain behind the kind eyes and beautiful smiles. I’m not saying this because I’m in pain as I’m mostly in a very good place. Although I can fully acknowledge that certain aspects of this festive season can be triggering. I guess we are all only human – it’s easy to compare and to ponder on our own situations.

My Twitter poll suggested I share a personal post – I’ve had a hectic yet fun few days between work Westlife and seeing one of my most favourite shows at the theatre after a bit of a hiatus. More often than not during a busy and or fun time when you stop it makes you appreciate what’s been and what could be.

What I want to share with you today is about simply being in the moment. I don’t do this as much as I would like to but when I do just smile and laugh and accept that whatever is happening there and then as it is. It’s probably some of my most favourite moments. I’ve had a few of them lately and I’ve loved them. It’s easy to overthink and obsess but what does that do in the grand scheme of things.

This is something that’s come up a few times for me. I was once told that when I’m in a bad mood it puts others in that state. I honestly didn’t realise I could have that impact. Of late a few of my colleagues have been worrying that I’m too happy I mean is that even a thing. I think the few things that have helped me just be in the moment have given me a new lease of life. Im still very much a work in progress but I’m getting better at not letting it get me down.

As always I’m open to hearing from you as to what else you would like me to share here on my little place on the internet. I have a few overdue book reviews to write. This morning I read the final pages of #SevenExes the book I honestly never knew I needed. This beauty is a 2023 book and you need to read it watch this space.

Weekly Update #32

Just like that the first week of February is nearing it’s close. We’re at Saturday…..So how has your week been? Well now I’m kind of regretting some of my choices this week.

On Monday I headed out on a run and I had said to myself I wanted to run at least 10k which is fine and completely within my capabilities. However, as I was approaching miles 3 and 6 I got stubborn and wanted to break personal bests so I sped up which isn’t an issue per Se but those 7 miles to kick start February are the only ones I ran this week 😦

Since Wednesday I’ve been doing a Yoga for feet stretch and it’s helping. Although had some shopping to do yesterday it’s safe to say I will be sat a lot this weekend. Which is fine I have books and blog stuff to be doing. I am annoyed with myself as I’ve been pretty good at listening to my body and my stubbornness to start well means I’m now missing out on running time. On another note I’ve had both on and off scale victories this week which has left me in such a positive mood. I came back from a worse setback I will bounce back but with not much routine and now also no running – I’m not a happy bunny. But I have faith I will be back out before the birthday and before my favourite month closes.

This week I have read:

Not a bad start for February – we will be starting our second Christina Lauren book on Monday.

What’s been on the blog this week:

On Sunday I shared my Six for Sunday thoughts this weeks prompt was bookish hates and you can read it here.

On Monday I shared my wrap up of my January reading and you can read that post here.

On Tuesday I was pleased to be a part of a gorgeous cover reveal for Kim Nash and you can see that post here.

On Wednesday I had two posts to share a cover reveal for Being which you can see here and a blog blitz for What the World Needs Now- Bees you can read that post here.

On Thursday I was able to share my review got Married at First Swipe by Claire Frost which was publication day for the gorgeous read that I devoured in January – you can read it here.

On Friday I shared two posts with you one for our Christina Lauren read-along that you can read here and I also shared my review of Nick & Norah’s Infinite Playlist and you can read that here.

I’ve just started reading:

And I’m listening to:

Two very different yet gorgeous debuts.

Let’s see what the next week of my most favourite month brings. I cannot wait to be back running but I’m also loving my book time. It’s also Saturday and we’re nearing the final few weeks of the Mask Singer

Monday Motivation and smiles. #1

It’s been a while since I’ve been compelled to pen one of these posts. The last one I done was back in November and you can read it here. I was intent on posting a novella review today you never know I may post a double post or it may come tomorrow.

It’s funny in having a brief look at that previous post a few things are still the same. Today just like that Monday I had stepped on the scales and not been too happy with the answer. In saying that when I looked at the numbers this morning I was like ok you got this…I haven’t properly been on the scales since Christmas and New Year and obviously during that time I wasn’t exactly caring what I ate. The past week was a right off for a number of reasons and best part of that was just being a bit lazy. As it stands I’ve got up had a decent breakfast and been on a cheeky 10k run – following a week away I will wholeheartedly take that.

It means back to the drawing board where I write down all my food I mean with a pandemic still very much around sometimes it’s hard to obtain certain things but I’m ready to make better choices.

Last night I started reading

I didn’t get as far along as I would like but today I plan to make a decent progress with this beauty. What I’ve read has had me on the edge of my seat and I’m not that far along.

What are you doing for you today? Well I got the run in and I never expected to pull out a cheeky 10k. I’ve just had a much needed bath. As mentioned I hope to get a decent chunk of The Island read it’s out on 21st and I plan to post my review on publication day. I’m also hoping to paint my nails even if I just get my toe nails done it will give me a bit of a boost after last weeks anxiousness.

I would love to know how your Monday is going and what your blogging intentions are for the week. I’m also hoping to make time to finish my audiobook before delving into another blog tour read. Get ready for a lot of Thrillers coming up on Hayley Reviews.

Self Care Sunday *2

I believe the Self Care Sunday post has been chosen in a Twitter poll twice recently. I woke up again with a headache so I will most definitely have to retire to bed earlier tonight especially as I’m off to Sainsbury’s in the morning. It’s been a while since I’ve had to be up and out at a specific task rather than just relying on my body clock plus my family to get me up and moving.

I started today taking some paracetamol having a decent breakfast and a coffee followed by water and some household chores and getting my audiobook review finished and posted.

I must admit I’m itching to get back to This Time Next Year – I should in actual fact finish reading it today but as it stands my head is still a little on the sore side. I’m hoping it continues to ease and I can dive back in to Minnie & Quinn’s Story. I’ve loved every single second of getting to know them and it’s been a joy to message Catriona with my thoughts here and there – I haven’t heard from her as yet today but she’s in Denver so we’re always on time difference. I believe I’m ahead as it stands unless she finished and read past me I don’t know as yet.

Because of the headache I decided to have a good bath and listen to an audiobook – I chose Patricia Scanlan’s Coming Home For Christmas which I will get back to later.

I’m now feeling much better because of it and following a hearty meal of steak, egg, potatoes and mushrooms I’m now sat with Minnie and Quinn and a coffee. In saying that the football will start soon so I’ll be watching that it’s a big London Derby today.

So following my rambling self Care is taking time for you. Yesterday as I said I ran again which gave me all the feels and some and I got to read, done a face mask and loved my Yog Nog bath.

Whatever you do on this Sunday steal some time for you. Whether that’s making a cuppa with a book, listening to music watching TV or films or even going for a run or a walk. Embrace your you time, until next time.

Self Care Sunday *1

How are you looking after yourself this Sunday? Self Care is extremely important and it’s something that I need to do more of myself. This last week has been a hard one for me but onwards and upwards.

That first cup of coffee in the morning sure is the greatest feeling isn’t it?

This is how my day started…although I haven’t finished my read yet. I had hoped to have but then I was watching Love Your Weekend too which had my fave Mr Ronan Keating and our family fave David Jason. It was a nice way to start the day.

Following that I’ve had some family time plus had to pop out for a few things. Although in saying that I did finally set up and use my coffee machine. It was definitely money well spent although I should have bought a few more pods. Today I had an Irish cream hot chocolate and a latte.

Thanks to my bro I managed to watch the Chelsea V Tottenham game not the most exciting game to have ever been, but my boys did go back to top of the league.

Sorry for the delay in this post I know there were two posts that won for today but I’m only going to share this one today. Here’s to a good and productive week. I’ve a bit of a headache at the moment but I’m hoping to get back to my book as soon as it passes.