Celebrating a journey

✯ Hello Shiny Stars! ✯

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„We do not remember days, we remember moments.”

(Cesare Pavese)

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I recently saw a post about a blog birthday that immediately rang a bell, and I realised that my blog is also celebrating its anniversary in a few days. That day has now come, and today marks exactly 13 years since I started writing this blog. It's incredible to even write that down. It has already reached the age of a teenager. 😃

Source: Vecteezy.com

I still remember the excitement and how I started writing first just for myself, then also for my dear Readers.

This blog has seen so much. I've written posts from different locations, in different languages, I've grown both in my personal life and in my career during this time, and it's also changed who was by my side while working on them. There was a time for DIYs, for sharing my favorite celebrity outfits, but also for participating in blogger events and writing about deeper topics. The blog also received some blogger awards back when these were in vogue.

The world has changed, too. Years ago, blogs were so popular that we had a huge community. Then it slowly shifted to other platforms, but there are some bloggers who stayed and still enjoy the beauty of this platform. Now we've even entered a chapter in which many published texts are written by non-humans, but I remain true to my blog and my values. There is, namely, one thing that has not changed in me during this time: my love of writing and being creative. Even though I don't have as much time for this blog as I did years ago, it will always remain my favorite corner of the internet.

Here's to the past 13 years and I hope for many more. 🥂 Happy birthday to P&P style. 🎂

Lots of love,

E

The impact of pets on our happiness

✯ Hello Shiny Stars! ✯

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„A house is not a home without a pet”

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Dogs have long been known as man's best friend, but their influence goes far beyond being just companions. It's not only dogs, though, other pets such as cats, rabbits, hamsters and birds also enrich our lives in a unique way and provide a source of happiness. This positive impact on our emotional and mental well-being has been increasingly recognised by science as well. A recent study by two British researchers entitled „The Value of Pets” even investigated the impact of owning a pet on life satisfaction. They found that having a pet has the same positive effect on life satisfaction as meeting friends or relatives.

Source: Freepik

Pets give us unconditional love, which can be particularly comforting in difficult times as it provides a source of emotional support. Interacting with pets also reduces stress and therefore has a calming effect that lifts our mood. Just think of therapy animals, especially dogs, but also cats, horses or rabbits, they are well trained and provide professional comfort and emotional support for patients and even staff.

Source: Freepik

Pets, especially dogs, are also a great incentive for physical activity as they need regular exercise, which is known to release endorphins. Pets can also help to create social interactions. Dog owners, for instance, often meet other dog owners on walks, but pets can also encourage conversation and create bonds between people with common interests, thus providing a sense of community. 

Source: Freepik

Having pets of course require a lot of time and responsible attention, but they seem to have a remarkable ability to bring joy and laughter into our lives. Their playful nature encourages us to engage in fun activities and reminds us to enjoy the simple things in life. Playing with pets can bring moments of pure joy and laughter, and these interactions contribute significantly to our overall happiness, making our lives richer and more fulfilling. So cherish every moment with your pet, as it may even be the key to more happiness and emotional stability in your life.

🠊 Share in the comments what pets you have or if you don't have any, what your favourite pet is. I look forward to reading your pawesome comments.  🐶🐱🐰🐴🐹🦜

Lots of love,

E

All about shapewear

✯ Hello Shiny Stars! ✯

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"Confidence is the best outfit."

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In today's fashion landscape, shapewear has become a wardrobe essential for many, including celebrities. Whether preparing for a night out, a special event or simply aiming for an elegant look, the right shapewear pieces can enhance the natural silhouette and boost confidence at important moments.

Shapellx is a shapewear brand that specialises in providing women with high quality, stylish and comfortable shapewear solutions. Shapellx has designs that accommodate different body types as well as sizes and offers a comprehensive range of sizes from XS to 6XL to ensure that every woman can find the perfect fit for her body and lifestyle. Their collection includes a wide range of products, from bodysuits and waist trainers to shorts and leggings.

Let's dive into the world of shapewear and explore the different types, including shapewear shorts on the market.

Shapewear is a type of undergarment designed to smooth and shape the body. It is usually made from a blend of lightweight, stretchy fabrics, elasticated and breathable materials and is available in different styles such as bodysuits, shorts and camisoles. In this way, they cater for different body shapes and clothing styles.

One popular option among shapewear enthusiasts are shapewear shorts. These pieces help to shape the waist and thighs and are available in different lengths and styles. As a result, everyone can find a pair that fits seamlessly under their outfit.

Alternatively, there are butt shorts that are specifically tailored to lift and tone the booty while providing support and smoothing to the thighs. These shorts contain strategic panelling that highlights the natural curves. This way, the coveted hourglass figure is created.

When it comes to tummy control, the best shapewear for tummy can make all the difference. Items that offer firm compression around the midsection include high-waisted briefs and bodysuits. These garments help to flatten the tummy area while providing protection and support.

 

To summarise, shapewear can be a valuable addition to the wardrobe, but always ensure that comfort comes before compression. Choosing the right size is crucial for the perfect fit. The best shapewear should feel snug without being constricting so you can move freely and confidently throughout the day. Choosing a size that is too small can lead to discomfort and even cause health problems over time. That's why it's important to listen to your body and be mindful. The aim of wearing shapewear should be to make you feel confident and comfortable, not to make you feel uncomfortable. To find the right size, use the size chart on the website, and if in doubt, better ask the experts and seek advice from their helpdesk.

All images in this post are from the Shapellx website and more designs and stlyes can be found on their website.

Lots of love,

E

Microwave mug cake - a perfect summer treat without the oven heat

✯ Hello Shiny Stars! ✯

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"Don't be sad. Just eat some cake."

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A few years ago, I experimented with making a cake using only the microwave. The mug cake recipe, which became my favorite, found its way also onto my blog and I made it a lot.

Then life changed and I didn't make it for a while, but today, when the craving for a sweet treat came together with the summer heat and it didn't seem like a good idea to turn on the oven, I remembered my trusty mug cake recipe.

In just a few minutes and with minimal effort, a delicious cake was ready and waiting to be enjoyed. The simplicity and flavor of this recipe make it a must-try.

As it is made with plant-based milk, this recipe is also suitable for people who cannot consume dairy products, and looking at the ingredients, it is also vegan.

🠟 🠟 🠟 🠟 🠟

✨ 🎂 Chocolate-cinnamon cake in a mug 🎂 ✨

Ingredients:

💛 2 tablespoons flour

💛 1 tablespoon fine oat flakes (if you don't have any, use flour instead)

💛 3 tablespoons powdered sugar (or granulated sugar)

💛 a little cinnamon (to your taste)

💛 some baking soda or baking powder

💛 1 pinch of salt

💛 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

💛 3 tablespoons of plant milk (or water, juice, whatever you like)

💛 some chocolate chips (optional)

Preparation:

💙 Take a microwave-safe mug and put all the dry ingredients in it.

💙 Whisk them together with a spoon or fork.

💙 Add all the wet ingredients to the mug and mix well.

💙 Add some chocolate chips.

💙 Place the mug in the microwave and let it "bake" for 1.5 minutes (I microwaved mine on medium, but please note that all microwaves are different, so you may need to microwave yours for 2 minutes).

💙 Let it sit for a minute, then carefully remove or eat straight from the mug.

💙 Serve the cake with powdered sugar, ice cream or whatever you fancy.

If you decide to try this recipe, I hope you enjoy making this quick cake and bon appétit.  😊

Lots of love,

E

Breaking my silence on Blogger Day

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"Everyone thinks they have the best dog. And none of them are wrong."

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Today is Blogger Day, which is held every year on 5 August. This day celebrates one of the most popular platforms in the world: "Blogger", with its original subdomain blogspot.com. Blogger was founded in 1999, an incredible 25 years ago, and was acquired by Google in 2003.

I've been quiet here for a while, but today felt like the perfect occasion to break this silence. This time, however, it wasn't because of writer's block or because I didn't have enough time. In fact, I have many posts in my drafts, but since they were made for a specific day, which I always ended up being late for, they won't see the light anytime soon, maybe next year.

The reason for my absence this time is different. I have been spending my free time with the newest addition to my home, an adorable furry friend. She inspired my dog-inspired wishlist in this post. 🐶

Source: Fressnapf (Trixie)

Source: Fressnapf (Kong)

Source: H&M

Source: Fressnapf (TrendPet)

Source: H&M

On Blogger Day, I don't think there's a better way to celebrate than reading a few blog posts and leaving comments. So grab your tea or coffee and enjoy some content today too.

🠊 And the question regarding today's post: Are you a dog or a cat person, maybe even both? Let me know in the comments section below. Also feel free to share your favourites from the wishlist above. I look forward to reading your answers.  😊

Lots of love,

E

Earth Day 2024

✯ Hello Shiny Stars! ✯

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"The earth has music for those who listen."

(William Shakespeare)

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ENGLISH

On the occasion of Earth Day, I'm linking to one of my previous posts here with some green tips on saving energy, avoiding waste and upcycling ideas.

If you have any other tips or advice, perhaps a clever DIY upcycling project, please feel free to leave them in the comments section below.

GERMAN

Anlässlich des Tages der Erde verlinke ich hier einen meiner früheren Beiträge, in dem es einige grüne Tipps zum Energiesparen, zur Abfallvermeidung und zu Upcycling-Ideen gibt.

Wenn du weitere Tipps oder Ratschläge hast, vielleicht ein cleveres DIY-Upcycling-Projekt, kannst du diese gerne im Kommentarbereich unten hinterlassen.

🠊 Click on the image to read my post with the green tips 🠈

Lots of love,

E

The power of music

✯ Hello Shiny Stars! ✯

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"Music can change the world."

(Ludwig van Beethoven)

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Music is considered a cultural universal, even though its definition can vary from culture to culture and its origins are still unclear.

For most people, music is part of everyday life. It not only serves as entertainment, but usually also plays an important role in activities such as celebrations, cultural activities and religious rituals. Music is also used in advertising to promote brand recognition and create positive associations with products. The music played in stores can also affect our buying habits, and because of this emotional connection, music is also used in movies and TV shows.

Music can do more than just confirm our current emotional state, it can also influence our emotional destination. However, music and emotions are personal, cultural and linked to past experiences. A song does not trigger the same feeling in everyone, and it may even be that a song awakens different feelings in us as we grow older.

It depends on our mood and feelings what kind of music we want to listen to. Sometimes it's something classical, sometimes an energetic rock song, other times a catchy pop song or some hip-hop. There's also an old saying: when you're happy, you listen to the music, when you're sad, you listen to the lyrics.

For many people, music is also a form of personal expression. The music we listen to can be a reflection of our personality and our values. It can therefore also be a way to connect with others who have the same taste in music.

👉 Share your favorite song released so far in 2024 in the comments below. Whether it's a hit from the charts or a local gem, I'd love to hear about it. 😊

I will also leave here one of my favorite songs from this year to date, which is "Dance Alone" by Sia and Kylie Minogue.

Have a lovely day,

E

Happy Easter

✯ Hello Shiny Stars! ✯

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🐰 Happy Easter, enjoy the holidays. 😊

🐰 Frohe Ostern und schöne Feiertage. 😊

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With best wishes,

E

The secrets of the color green

✯ Hello Shiny Stars! ✯

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"In nature you don't get lost, you find yourself."

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Thinking of the color green probably brings to mind some natural elements, such as grass, trees or plants. This is no wonder, because according to color psychology, green stands for nature, growth, harmony, but also for wealth and health. It can as well symbolize life and renewal, and the color is seen as positive in most cultures. Green is also known for its calming effect.

Green is a color that is present throughout nature and is also often used in design and decoration, creating a sense of freshness and connection to the natural world.

Today is Saint Patrick's Day, which is closely associated with this color. This day is celebrated on March 17th every year and honors Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland. On this day, many people there wear green clothing or use green shamrocks for decoration.

This occasion inspired today's post, and below you will find some inspiration with this color, featuring items from Sinsay.

 

Source of items: Sinsay

🠊 Do you like the color green? What's the first thing that comes to your mind when you hear this color?

With best wishes,

E

Super Mario, the mascot of Nintendo

✯ Hello Shiny Stars! ✯

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"I think that inside every adult is the heart of a child. We just gradually convince ourselves that we have to act more like adults."

(Shigeru Miyamoto)

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Yesterday, March 10, marked National Mario Day.

Super Mario is a beloved, timeless and iconic video game character and was created by Nintendo in 1985. He is a plumber from the Mushroom Kingdom, known for his iconic red cap, blue overalls and moustache. Mario is often accompanied by his brother Luigi, and together they go on various adventures to save Princess Peach from the villain Bowser.

The Super Mario series has evolved over the decades, setting the standard for 2D and 3D platform games and is one of the most successful and enduring franchises in video game history. These games have entertained generations of gamers worldwide.

Nintendo Entertainment System (Source: Lego)

Super Mario has also had a significant impact on fashion over the years. His iconic look has inspired countless clothing designs, accessories and even collaborations with high-end fashion brands. There was even a movie about him in 2023.

The following items are just a little inspiration on this occasion. 

Super Mario Graphic Hoodie (Source: Primark)

Super Mario Ankle Socks (Source: Primark)

Super Mario Board Shorts (Source: Primark)

🠊 Have you ever played the game, seen the movie or had any clothing or accessories with Super Mario on them?

Wishing you a great week,

E

A lesson in prioritizing mental health

✯ Hello Shiny Stars! ✯

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"Talk to yourself like you would to someone you love."

(Brené Brown)

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At the beginning of this year I decided to write a post every week if possible because I really enjoy it. It wasn't planned as mandatory, yet, last week, as the days passed and Sunday evening approached, the pressure grew as I hadn't written a post that week. The guilt set in, and then I realized I was being too hard on myself.

The expectations we often place on ourselves create unnecessary stress and affect our mental wellbeing. We need to self-reflect and understand that we need to allow ourselves some flexibility.

We tend to place high demands on ourselves, be it in our professional endeavors, our fitness goals or our personal projects. While ambition and dedication are admirable qualities, it's important to recognize the importance of self-compassion. Life is full of unexpected twists and turns, and we must learn to adapt and change our plans accordingly. And when we do, we shouldn't feel guilty or the need to constantly apologize.

Missing our own deadline for a post or skipping a training session shouldn't be a reason to berate ourselves. It's important to listen to our bodies and our minds and understand when we need to take a break or readjust our priorities.

Putting extra pressure on ourselves will only affect our mental health and overall wellbeing. Instead, we should strive to maintain a healthy balance, be kind to ourselves and treat ourselves with the same compassion and understanding we would show a friend in a similar situation. - You wouldn't talk to your best friend the way you talk to yourself in such circumstances, would you?

So if you find yourself in a similar situation and feel guilty about missing your personal deadline or skipping a workout, be gentle with yourself. Life is a journey with ups and downs, and it's okay to stumble along the way. Be flexible, prioritize your mental health, and remember that self-compassion is the key to a fulfilling and balanced life.

With this being said, I wish you a lovely Sunday,

E

Spring is in the air: 5 activities to shake off the winter blues

✯ Hello Shiny Stars! ✯

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"No winter lasts forever; no spring skips its turn."

(Hal Borland)

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As we approach the end of the winter season, I am already looking forward to the arrival of spring. The temperature is rising, the daylight is getting longer, nature is awakening.

The change of seasons also provides a great opportunity to shift our routines. Here are 5 activities that will help you to make the most of the changing weather and welcome the new season with its blooming flowers.

🌼🌷🌼 Spring cleaning - For most of us, cleaning is probably not our favorite activity, but decluttering and organizing can help us freshen up our homes and create a clean environment for the new season. Trust me, you'll feel better afterwards, and it's kind of worth an exercise too.

🌼🌷🌼 Spring decor - It's time to replace all the wintry decoration and bring a touch of spring into your home by updating your decor with fresh flowers and some vernal decor.

🌼🌷🌼 Outdoor activities - It's getting light outside for longer and the temperatures are milder, allowing us to enjoy more outdoor activities. There will no longer be an excuse that it's already dark outside after work, which is something I'm really looking forward to. Whether hiking, biking or simply going for a walk, enjoy the fresh air, the sun and the beauty of nature.

🌼🌷🌼 Spring getaway - Whether it's a day trip or a whole weekend, exploring a new place or visiting an old one, embrace the adventure and switch off your mind during this time.

🌼🌷🌼 Practice mindfulness - Don't forget to take the time to slow down too. Pay attention to the sights, sounds and sensations around you. Enjoy the awakening nature, the beauty of the flowers. I personally can't wait for this, and also to listen to the birds and bees. It's so calming.

As we prepare to say goodbye to winter and welcome spring, there are endless opportunities to enjoy the changing landscape and reconnect with nature. From spring cleaning to outdoor adventures, there are countless activities to help you make the most of the transition and celebrate the arrival of this new season filled with growth, renewal and blossoming possibilities.

What activities are you looking forward to with the end of the winter season? Share your favorite ways to welcome spring in the comments below.

With best wishes,

E

Finding joy in the little things: Valentine's Day inspiration

✯ Hello Shiny Stars! ✯

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"Love isn't something you find. Love is something that finds you."

(Loretta Young)

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Valentine's Day is celebrated every year on February 14. Over the centuries, the holiday has evolved into a celebration of love, whereby the exchange of cards, flowers and gifts is a common tradition. In recent years, Valentine's Day has also evolved into a commercial holiday, offering businesses the opportunity to profit from it, which has naturally led to numerous discussions about this special day.

In my opinion, you shouldn't limit your love to a specific day, but show it all year round. Regardless, a little extra gift on Valentine's Day can't hurt, of course. But remember that love is best shown through consistent actions that show care, support and appreciation every day, not just on a specific holiday.

You can show your love through small acts of kindness, such as leaving a love note, giving a warm hug or cooking a favorite meal, but also with small but thoughtful gifts. Remember that the price tag doesn't define the sentiment behind the gift. What matters most is the thought, love, effort and time someone puts into choosing a gift. This can be anything from a handmade card, to a personalized photo frame, a box of chocolates or a bouquet of flowers. Other options include experiences such as a dinner out together, a movie night or cooking lunch together.

🠊 Are you celebrating Valentine's Day? If so, how do you celebrate it?

💖 "You can search throughout the entire universe for someone who is more deserving of your love and affection than you are yourself, and that person is not to be found anywhere. You yourself, as much as anybody in the entire universe deserve your love and affection."

(Buddha)

💖 "Spread love everywhere you go. Let no one ever come to you without leaving happier."

(Mother Teresa)

💖 "Love is composed of a single soul inhabiting two bodies."

(Aristotle)

💖 "Love is being stupid together."

(Paul Valery)

💖 "You can't blame gravity for falling in love."

(Albert Einstein)

💖 "There are never enough I Love You's."

(Lenny Bruce)

💖 "The best thing to hold onto in life is each other."

(Audrey Hepburn)

With best wishes,

E