As I enter the final year of my 30s, I thought I s As I enter the final year of my 30s, I thought I share with you some pictures of mine at 9 months, 9 years, 19 years, 29 years  to today 39 years old of age. Looking back at each decade, I feel both ‘older’ and ‘younger’, I see the change in my features, the change in my way of life, the change in my personality and the experience itched on my face. I am grateful for the life I have lived thus far and excited for the life I am yet to live. 
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2026 - 39, (Home, England), I am ready for this final year before my 40s but also ready for this next decade. 
2016 - 29, (Oslo, Norway), this decade was about self discovery and building the life I dreamt about. The life that I am super proud of and truly grateful to be living. This decade, I built my financial life and in later years choose to heal from the trauma gained in the last decade and now I feel well equipped for the future. 
2006 - 19, (Glasgow, Scotland), I thought I was grown (look at the cheekbones 🤣🤣) and ready for the world, chiiiild was I wrong, let’s just say, I am still resolving the trauma the decade brought me but I am grateful because I met my best friends and made decisions for the future I wanted to have. (Spoiler alert - I did better than I dreamed). 
1996 - 9, (Home, Zambia) this was my birthday but my little sister insisted she had to be the one in the middle. The only way we knew whose birthday it was, was by standing in the middle but this year I remember baby sister crying her eyes out and refusing 🤨
1988 - 9 months, (Chililabombwe, Zambia) although my mother looks tired and traumatised😟, I know I was loved and happy. 
#happybirthday #happybirthday❤️ #newera #39
Attended #ascotraces for the second year running a Attended #ascotraces for the second year running and I am glad to have experienced the ‘Village enclosure’ this year, whilst I loved ‘Windsor enclosure’ last year, it’s not for me. Next year, I want Queen Anne’s enclosure. 💕 #girlsdayout #girlslikeus #ascotfashion
How I missed you my love 🥰🥰🥰 #hertripsabroad #bla How I missed you my love 🥰🥰🥰

#hertripsabroad #blackgirlstraveltoo #maldives #neverstopexploring #welltravelled
Tried being a #touristforaday and we chose #london Tried being a #touristforaday and we chose #london because why not. My feet still hurt from the thought of how much walking we did, the fact that we walked from #bigben to #buckinghampalace is still fresh on my mind. 

#neverstopexploring
🖤🖤MARCH PHOTO/VIDEO DUMP🖤🖤 So much happened and 🖤🖤MARCH PHOTO/VIDEO DUMP🖤🖤 

So much happened and yet I can’t find the words.
It has been an amazing week here, definitely recom It has been an amazing week here, definitely recommend @iberostar in Agadir. 
#neverstopexploring #wanderlust #welltravelled #lifeofadventure #hertripsabroad
I spent a week in #dohaqatar and had the most rela I spent a week in #dohaqatar and had the most relaxing and fulfilling time of my life. Sometimes taking it slow and living in the moment is what the soul needs. 🥰🥰🥰
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 #hertripsabroad #solotravel #solotravelingisfun 
#blackgirlstraveltoo
I had such an amazing week in Doha, Qatar after no I had such an amazing week in Doha, Qatar after not visiting for almost 8years. 📍

#qatar #doha #qatarphotoinstagram  #solo travel #travelbug bestvacations igtravel travelpic travelblog beautifuldestinations tlpicks instatravel roamtheplanet traveldeeper travelgram travelinspo wanderlust instapassport exploretheworld travelpics travelmore passionpassport travelawesome lonelyplanet travelblogger travelphotography traveltheworld worldtraveler
Happy New Year, happy 2026 #firstpicture of the ye Happy New Year, happy 2026 #firstpicture of the year.
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A July Dreamer

A Travel & Lifestyle Blog

Must Have · July 13, 2016

July Must Haves 

Summer has finally started to show its face in most parts of the UK (with occasional bouts of rain) and I am in shock that it’s already time to be sharing my July must haves. Of the four seasons that we experience in the UK, summer is my most favourite except for the occasional heat rush I get due to being subjected to so much cold my body rejects the sun for a couple of days then it remembers I was born in a really warm climate during the summer. Another thing that leaves a lot to be desired is how much effort and care we need to put into looking after our bodies during the summer.

July must haves

For the July must haves, I aim to share some of the products I am using this summer to keep my body inside and out protected from the elements. I am interested to hear what you’re using to protect your body inside and outside.

July Must Haves the Inside items

Staying hydrated

Those who know me, know how much I struggle to drink water. I don’t know why but it started over 15 years ago when we moved to the UK. I think prior to this I was happily drinking water especially since our winter was 20-25 degrees on any given day and summer was a lot worse than that. Fast forward to the present, I still can’t drink unflavored water. I feel like I need to down it and force myself so I always have flavoured water around, but now I don’t have to stick to just flavoured normal water anymore.

I was recently sent a pack of Vita Coco water to try out this summer. Most of this coconut water will be used for cocktails but the ones have tried so much has made me realise I can still stay hydrated whilst consuming these natural drinks which is a huge plus for me and don’t have to worry about not drinking enough water everyday.

The Vita natural coconut water (flavoured or original) is never made from concentrate, is a great source of potassium, no fat and is goodness filled. It doesn’t get any better than this, well, except when in a cocktail. The drink is gluten-free, dairy free and suitable for vegetarians.

Vitamins

One thing I am quite bad at is remembering to take my vitamins. During summer you’re getting your vitamin D from the sun but at the same time losing some through sweat and dehydrating as well as environmental damage to the outer layer of your body – the skin. It doesn’t hurt to top up your immune system with some natural pills of your choice. (Always check with doctor before taking some vitamins).

July Must Haves the outside list

As I have mentioned above, the sun shining is always a good thing (except for those sensitive to the heat) and you get to boost your Vit. D deficiencies. As much as I love rocking my sunnies and wearing fewer clothes, I know I am endangering my skin so something has to give.

Face Mask

Due to the sun rays which can cause direct damage to your skin, it is important to ensure your face is well protected. This could be using products with spf in them or wearing sunscreen before every exposure but you don’t have to stop there. I know I don’t as my step forward is catching a few minutes a couple of times a week to wear a face mask.

I was sent two face masks from When® and I am very impressed with how wonderful and moisturizing they were. My face felt soft, refreshed and alive to conquer it all. I was sent two types of masks: Snow magic – helps your skin find its radiance and charm with key Ingredients: Niacinamide (Vit. B3), Aloe Vera Leaf Extract. The last choice – helps moisturise your skin with key Ingredients: SaccharideIsomerate

From the makers.

★What mask sheets are we using?
When® face masks are created by using advanced bio-cellulose technology. The all-natural, coconut-derived bio-cellulose sheet is gentle enough to treat burn patients, and are super hydrating as it can hold fluids up to 100 times its dry weight (which is 10 times more than your average fabric sheet masks). Also, the bio-cellulose sheet’s superfine, 3-dimensional fibers allow exceptional dermal contact enabling perfect fit, preventing evaporation and wastage of the serum, locking moisture and effectively delivering the serum’s nutrients to the skin.

★What serum are we using?
Each When® mask sheet is infused with intensely hydrating, yet gentle, lightweight serum containing sodium hyaluronate (fine hyaluronic acid), ginseng extracts, and top quality effective ingredients and plant extracts to help keep your skin happy, healthy and glowing. All masks are Parabens and Benzophenone free.

The When®  masks are easy to wear, cleanse your face and dry. Remove the mask sheet from its pouch then place it on your face as is shown on the pack. Leave on for 30 minutes then remove and no need to rinse just massage the excess into the skin.

Garnier Face Wipes

Most people when they think of face wipes they think they are only makeup removers but they have come a long way since. Now there is face wipes for everything from makeup remover to cleansing. Now that I go to the gym (sometimes twice in one day) I seem to wash my face too often which is not always the best. For my early morning gym sessions, I get dressed at home so I have to wash my face at home. I then have the gym class and after I shower and cleanse my face. If I have another class that’s another cleanse then when I get home I do the same. You can see the pattern so I decided to reduce my face washing to once a day and use the wipes for the remainder of the day.

The inside outside

I have mentioned I attend the gym now, it’s been almost two months since I started and I am loving it. Working out has really changed my overall outlook on life, I look after myself by eating a bit better and not junking all the time but I am not restrictive either. It’s such a great feeling to be able to go to the gym and sweat it out all the junk and burn off the excess fat.

And there you have it, my July Must Haves list. What do you have on your list this July?

Disclaimer: I was sent the products in exchange for an honest review, all opinions expressed are my own.

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Comments

  1. Jemma @ Celery and Cupcakes says

    July 18, 2016 at 6:53 am

    I love stocking up on Vita Coco, so refreshing in this heat!

    Reply
    • Miranda says

      July 18, 2016 at 8:20 am

      I will be stocking up on this soon

  2. Kira C says

    July 17, 2016 at 7:53 pm

    I love coconut water but I’ve never actually tried he vita coco water before. I keep seeing it around and really need to buy some!

    Reply
    • Miranda says

      July 17, 2016 at 8:25 pm

      You should try it the flavours make it even more special

  3. Jess says

    July 16, 2016 at 10:14 am

    Hydration is so important, I wish I liked coconut water! The When masks sound lovely 🙂

    Reply
    • Miranda says

      July 16, 2016 at 10:20 am

      Hydration is very important and yes I am loving the When masks

  4. Jessica says

    July 16, 2016 at 6:44 am

    I become addicted to Face masks after my trip to Seoul and realised how it enhanced my skin. So I also consider it as one of my must haves.

    Reply
    • Miranda says

      July 16, 2016 at 6:55 am

      I came to the same conclusion and addiction and now I can’t get enough of their face masks

  5. Charlotte Burt says

    July 15, 2016 at 9:38 am

    A BIG ole YES to coconut water. 100% a must-have for staying hydrated in the heat!

    Reply
    • Miranda says

      July 15, 2016 at 9:44 am

      So true, I am loving my coconut flavoured water

  6. Rachel says

    July 14, 2016 at 9:41 pm

    I adore the Chocolate cococnut water, it is just so so nice and so refreshing x

    Reply
    • Miranda says

      July 15, 2016 at 6:10 am

      I am yet to finish trying that one but can’t wait

  7. Sarah Ella (Mumx3x) says

    July 14, 2016 at 9:19 pm

    The coconut water sounds awesome! I don’t drink enough water either, the coconut water would be perfect for me! YUM! Great selection of goodies! I love a good face mask too 😀 xx

    Reply
    • Miranda says

      July 15, 2016 at 6:09 am

      You and me both, I like wearing them at least one a week

  8. Jessica McDonnell says

    July 14, 2016 at 8:20 pm

    I really need to try those Vita Coco drinks, I’m always dehydrated. I’m not a fan of coconut water, but I think I would probably like the flavoured ones.

    Reply
    • Miranda says

      July 15, 2016 at 6:09 am

      I never used to be a fun but surprised myself now

  9. Georgina Ingham | Culinary Travels says

    July 14, 2016 at 8:05 pm

    I love coconut oil and coconut water – it’s so healthy, delicious and versatile.

    Reply
    • Miranda says

      July 15, 2016 at 6:09 am

      So true

  10. Clairejustine says

    July 14, 2016 at 7:18 pm

    These coconut waters look great. They have a great variety of flavours 🙂

    Reply
    • Miranda says

      July 15, 2016 at 6:08 am

      They sure do and I love it

  11. Bethany Naismith says

    July 14, 2016 at 5:35 pm

    I love coconut water but never tried this brand! I need to check them out!

    Reply
    • Miranda says

      July 15, 2016 at 6:08 am

      You should they are awesome

  12. Elizabeth says

    July 14, 2016 at 1:15 pm

    Some super suggestions here, especially the coconut water. Now, if only that sun would come to where I live!

    Reply
    • Miranda says

      July 15, 2016 at 6:06 am

      I know right, the sun is playing hide and seek (well more hide really)

  13. Hannah says

    July 14, 2016 at 12:55 pm

    I love the sound of those wipes – I will have to give them a try!

    Reply
    • Miranda says

      July 15, 2016 at 6:05 am

      You should they are awesome

  14. Dannii @ Hungry Healthy Happy says

    July 14, 2016 at 11:59 am

    I am drinking so much coconut water at the moment and it goes really well in smoothies.

    Reply
    • Miranda says

      July 14, 2016 at 12:26 pm

      I have not tried it in smoothies so thanks for the tip

  15. nicol says

    July 14, 2016 at 10:55 am

    vita coco does mocha??? I’m trying to imagine the taste but can’t. very intrigued that i need to try it out

    Reply
    • Miranda says

      July 14, 2016 at 12:25 pm

      Apparently so, I am loving it

  16. Liz Mays says

    July 14, 2016 at 2:31 am

    Those coconut waters sound great! I’ve never tried Vita Coco. Trying those When face masks must have been so nice!

    Reply
    • Miranda says

      July 14, 2016 at 12:23 pm

      First time trying both the coconut water and the masks and I loved them both

  17. Camilla Hawkins says

    July 13, 2016 at 11:00 pm

    I hadn’t realised that Vita Coco did a Cafe Latte verson, I bet my daughter would be interested in this. I do like experimenting with their waters in cooking and smoothies!

    Reply
    • Miranda says

      July 14, 2016 at 12:22 pm

      I didn’t either until they sent it through

  18. Karen Gough says

    July 13, 2016 at 10:56 pm

    What a great post! what is coconut water like I’ve always wanted to try it and is there any cheap sheet face masks you would recommend?

    Reply
    • Miranda says

      July 14, 2016 at 12:21 pm

      Most drug stores have 99p face masks and they are not bad either. Coconut water is exactly that, water from a coconut lol

  19. Ickle Pickle says

    July 13, 2016 at 10:45 pm

    Great selection of products – we still don’t have much sunshine here though. Kaz x

    Reply
    • Miranda says

      July 14, 2016 at 12:21 pm

      Here we getting enough for the legs and arms lol

  20. samantha rickelton says

    July 13, 2016 at 8:55 pm

    I am loving the sound of a snow face mask – very soothing!

    Reply
    • Miranda says

      July 14, 2016 at 12:20 pm

      It sure is

  21. Natasha Mairs says

    July 13, 2016 at 8:55 pm

    I have tried the plain vito coco coconut water, nut not over keen on it. My 5 year old son loves it though. I wouldn’t mind trying the chocolate one out

    Reply
    • Miranda says

      July 14, 2016 at 12:20 pm

      I have surprised myself because I actually like them, usually I am fussy

  22. Danielle says

    July 13, 2016 at 8:33 pm

    I’m the exact same with water I definitely don’t drink enough I so wish I could like coconut water xxx

    Reply
    • Miranda says

      July 14, 2016 at 12:19 pm

      I am glad to have coconut water as a substitute

  23. Claire says

    July 13, 2016 at 6:52 pm

    I love the coffee Vita Cocos – such a lovely treat!

    Reply
    • Miranda says

      July 13, 2016 at 7:54 pm

      I know right

  24. tp keane says

    July 13, 2016 at 4:53 pm

    This all sounds so fantastic. I’ve heard a lot about coconut water, never tried it. Maybe I’ll pick up a pack today.

    Reply
    • Miranda says

      July 13, 2016 at 5:56 pm

      You should as this coconut water is awesome and comes in different flavours

  25. StressedMum says

    July 13, 2016 at 3:16 pm

    I always have a bottle of water to hand in the hotter weather, I have tried coconut water and was not keen, but not tried the flavoured ones that sound lovely

    Reply
    • Miranda says

      July 13, 2016 at 5:53 pm

      I was keen on coconut water back in the day but surprised I actually like the vita coco water

  26. LaaLaa says

    July 13, 2016 at 2:44 pm

    Staying hydrated is always at the top of my list. I’m a water addict. Not that keen on coconut water although I love a coconut scent lol x

    Reply
    • Miranda says

      July 13, 2016 at 5:53 pm

      I am opposite, love the coconut water more than water itself

  27. joanna says

    July 13, 2016 at 2:40 pm

    I’ve been wanting to try Vita coco coconut water but never got round to it. I do like their coconut oil though.

    Reply
    • Miranda says

      July 13, 2016 at 5:52 pm

      I am yet to try their coconut oil but their coconut water is simply amazing

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I'm Miranda. Travel-Addict. Blogger. Moscato Addict. Weekend Escapist. Homebody. Countryside dweller residng in Oxfordshire.

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