President Barack Obama

My grandfather always used to tell me, "Never tell people how much you earn, or who you vote for", and he was very committed to that. With the American Presidential Election taking place tomorrow, and the British media currently reporting that the candidates are 'neck and neck' ,as an American citizen (I have dual nationality, British-American) I feel it is important to pledge my support publicly, to the current President Barack Obama.

I support Obama because - under President Obama:

There has been 32 straight months of job growth, creating just under 5.5 million private sector jobs

Obamacare has helped 5.6 million senior citizens and people with disabilities to better afford prescription drugs, and children with pre-existing conditions will no longer be denied coverage

President Obama recognises that women's healthcare choices are personal decisions, to be made with her doctor, without interference from employers or politicians

Funding for Pell Grants was doubled and Obama established a college tax credit which helped 9 million students and families save money for tuition in the past year

President Obama has signed 18 tax cuts for small businesses

The American auto industry was rescued from the brink of collapse, saving 1 million jobs

President Obama signed the Lily Ledbetter Fair Pay Act, to help women fight against pay discrimination

Don't Ask Don't Tell was repealed, and he supports marriage equality (although I'd like him to go the whole hog and make it legal...)

And finally... First Lady Michelle Obama is in my opinion the most fabulous first lady ever.

The thought of Mitt Romney winning America's vote genuinely terrifies me.

Vanilla Candles

Today I popped to Ikea with Mama Smith for what was supposed to be a quick visit to pick up a tin opener and corkscrew. What we didnt know was that today seems to be a day of celebration at Ikea, I believe they're celebrating their 25th anniversary!

It was PACKED there, and strewn everywhere was festive Ikea bunting, people giving out balloons, craft workshops, photo booths, and in the middle of the shop girls from Heart radio station were giving away red heart balloons, and free cupcakes which gave you a chance to win a £50 Ikea voucher! Having just been in the gym for 2 hours (oh yes) I should have said no... but didnt. I am truly my own worst enemy!!

Anyway, the point of this post is to inform the world (aka my FIVE followers - hi!) about the gorgeousness that is Ikea Vanilla scented candles.

 

 

These are the yummiest things ever - so scented and sweet! Vanilla might not be everyones cup of tea but it certainly is mine - most days instead of perfume I rock Boots Natural Collection Vanilla spray I love it that much, and it has often been commeted by a curious boy that "you smell of chocolate buttons?"

These are seriously the nicest most atmospheric candles I've ever used, and so, so cheap. If you take a trip to Ikea I definitely recommend leaving with these!

Designer Pudsey Collection - Children In Need

In the UK, we all recognise Pudsey, the huggable yellow bear with a poorly eye covered by his signature dotty scarf.

But for this years Children In Need, 30 super luxury labels (including Alexander McQueen, Tom Ford, Victoria Beckham and Prada) have all designed and made a 24 inch original Pudsey Bear, to be auctioned off on November 15th at Christie's.

All 30 bears will be showcased at Selfridge's in London and Manchester until November 14th.

Check out some of the fab designs!

Burberry Pudsey

 

Katie Hillier Pudsey

 

Anya Hindmarch Pudsey

 



Rumple's Wiggin'

Now, I'm not proud of this, but...

 

It is a cold, rainy evening and I am a bit coldy and sniffly so am under a blanket with the fire on, watching rubbish TV. So I was just idly flicking channels when I came across an episode of Keeping Up With the Kardashians and tuned in for a bit, in an attempt to see what on earth the fuss is about. (That was the bit I'm not proud of.)

 

All I heard was drama drama drama cigarettes botox and I was just about to change the channel when I saw IT - the most amazing vibrant lilac nail varnish I have ever seen!

 

It was adorning the nails of Khloe Kardashian (my favourite one I think!) and after a swift Google, I discovered that it is... OPI Rumple's Wiggin'.

 

I NEED!

 

This gorgeous creme shade is part of the Shrek 'Shrek Forever After' collection.

 

It is now my mission to purchase this and try it out!

No Tricks, Just Treats!

To celebrate Halloween, and their gorgeously dark, glam range of clothes on sale at the moment, Motel Rocks are offering 30% off at Motel Rocks until the 31st October!

Run, don't walk!!

For 30% off until the 31st October, use code ' livlouise ' at the checkout! If you use my code let me know what you buy!!

Here are some of my faves for celebrating Halloween in style...

 

From left - right

Motel Zoe Bodycon Dress in Black and White Stripe

Motel Gabby Sequin Plunge Dress in Iridescent Green

Motel Alexa Maxi Dress with Black Sequin Bat