Endometriosis surgery update 2

Hello Everyone!

A couple of days ago I posted saying that I was in hospital. I am happy to say now that I am home again. After alot of tests it was found that I had a collection of fluid around my right ovary, although they were unable to tell if it was blood or anything else.They did question alot of things such as urinary & kidney infections & other things so I was on an antibiotic drip as a precaution.

They weren't too happy about letting me go home but I felt that there was nothing they could do there that I couldn't do at home. I was discharged with lots of morphine & other painkillers, with strict orders to come back if there was no improvement or things got worse.

Although I am in serious pain I'm happier at home- my fiance is looking after me & I'm in my own bed which is more comfy! This weekend was the worst time for me to be in hospital as it was mine & my fiance's 2 year anniversary & he'd planned a surprise meal (I cried my eyes out when he left after visiting me that evening!) But he has planned a surprise for when I am better so I have that to look forward to!

Hopefuly over the next few days things will start to improve & I will post an update soon!

Thanks for reading :)
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For questions, suggestions, opinions & comments, email me at:
dollytrolley1994@gmail.com

Endometriosis surgery update

Hello everyone,

Very quick update on my progress after the surgery- I'm back in hospital :( I've been having bad tummy pain since last night that keeps getting worse & after seeing the out-of-hours GP this afternoon I was admitted to hospital with concerns of another infection.

I've had blood tests & swabs with talks of scans in the morning. In the meantime I am being kept in for monitoring & they are starting me on an antibiotic drip tonight. Hopefully they will find the cause of the problem by tomorrow & not have to be kept in too long.

I'll update tomorrow to let you know what is happening . Thanks for reading :)

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For questions, suggestions, opinions & comments, email me at:
dollytrolley1994@gmail.com

Respecting boundaries & approaching difficult subjects

Hello everyone!

Todays post is on respecting boundaries & approaching sensitive subjects. There are always going to be situations in life where things have the potential to go very wrong if not handled carefully (the types of situations I am referring to are things like relationship & communications between families, couples & friends). We are all guilty of handling things badly occasionaly, & as a result certain issues can go unresolved & even get worse.

Life isn't perfect. We're all at some stage going to have arguments with those around us. Whether it's family or friends not respecting your privacy, someone who wants everything their own way, your friends, family or partner not respecting your choices- you get the idea. I will be the first to admit that I don't take kindly to people pushing me about. After years of being bullied I have learnt to stand up for myself & how to approach situations, & I want to share some tips on how to avoid nasty confrontations & dealing with problems.

- Don't lose your temper. It sounds stupid but shouting & swearing doesn't fix a problem. If someone has upset you then think about what you want to say to them, don't just go in all guns blazing. Look them in the eye & tell them as calmly as you can that you don't like what they have said/done & tell them how it has made you feel.

- Be honest. If someone thinks they are doing something for your own good but you don't want them to then politely tell them you appreciate the gesture but you wish to do it your way.

- Think before you act. If someone is doing something in a way you think isn't right then don't just go in & take over or start telling them how to do it. Alot of the time what suits one person may not suit another & just because it's not the way you would do it doesn't mean it is wrong. In the event where what that person is doing could be harmful or detrimental to them or others then gently approach the subject & tell them your concerns- they may have no idea what they were doing was bad or wrong.

- Take a look at yourself before criticising others. We all have faults & being hypocritical is common- someone will happily criticize someone else whilst they themselves are also at fault or doing something wrong.

- Respect someones privacy. If they have asked you not to become involved then don't get offended- this is their problem/ issue/ decision & by involving yourself against their wishes or without asking them has the potential to cause problems. Equally, if someone is getting involved in things of yours that don't concern or affect them then politely but firmly tell them to please stay out & not get involved. If they continue then be firm (not rude) & tell them straight- "This is none of your business, please stay out of it".

- Be careful on bringing personal subjects up. If someone is doing something or behaving in an inappropriate way then they may not realise they are doing it. Examples of this could be embarrassing or inappropriate behaviour, offensive actions or behaviour, poor attitude, disrespectful or rude behaviour, poor personal hygeine or scruffy appearence that is detrimental to themselves and offensive to those around them, or things that they are doing that have the potential to cause them harm or get them bullied. Sit the person down on their own & tell them that you have concerns & ask them if they knew that there was a problem. Give them some friendly pointers on how to rectify the problem.

- Set boundaries. If someone is getting too close for comfort, trying to control things or generally not respecting your privacy or wishes then tell them honestly that you're uncomfortable with this & you would appreciate it if they just stepped back.

- Compromise. You can't always have your own way & equally you shouldn't just give in all of the time. Everyone is entitled to an opinion & you have to allow someone to put their opinions forward as well as having your say.

- Don't 'gang up' on someone or involve others. Two or more people against one person isn't fair & that person can feel outspoken or afraid to speak if people are ganging up on them.

- Speak for yourself. If someone has overstepped the mark then tell them how you feel yourself. Asking others to 'have a word' can make things worse & the truth can get twisted.

- Be honest. Lying or playing things down/up can make things worse. Equally, don't be nasty with the facts as this can really hurt the other person.

- Are they worth it? If someone repeatedly does things to upset, hurt or annoy you then it may be time to consider disassociating yourself from them or asking them to keep their distance. Tell them firmly that you don't want to be hurt anymore & if they won't stop then you don't want to be around them. If this isn't an option then you may have to involve someone who can stop that person from doing what they are doing.

So there we have it. This may not work for everyone but I hope this was useful. Thanks for reading :)
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For questions, suggestions, comments & opinions email me at:
dollytrolley1994@gmail.com

Smiling through it

Hello everyone!

Last week I did a post telling you I'd had surgery. Since the surgery I've been rather sore & a bit grumpy (a bit of infection didn't exactly help either). But we have also had some smiles this week which cheered me up. So I just wanted to give you a quick list of stuff that might make you (or someone you know) smile when things aren't so peachy.

1. A bit of TLC goes a long way. My other half has been amazing this week- helping me to do stuff, looking after me & making sure everything else gets done. But he's also been there to give me hugs, make me laugh & make sure things were as comfortable as possible. Sometimes, just having someone to cheer you up, listen to you or comfort you can make a world of difference.

2. Laughter is the best medicine. Whether it's something funny on TV, a joke or a funny picture, cracking a smile can make you feel alot better.

3. Treat yourself. We all need a pick-me up occasionally. It doesn't have to be a massive splurge- sometimes it can be something as simple as getting your favourite foods in or a relaxed night with your favourite film & a hot chocolate.

4. Find something to take your mind off of it. This obviously doesn't solve the problem but sometimes a distraction can take your mind off of whatever it is- leaving you more relaxed & less stressed.

So there you have it! Thanks for reading & I hope this helped :)

Keep smiling :) :) :)
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For questions, suggestions, comments & opinions, email me at:
dollytrolley1994@gmail.com

What to have in your handbag

Hi everyone!

Todays blog is on what to put in your handbag (or rucksack or whatever you carry your stuff in). It might sound stupid but believe it or not it's a commonly asked question. I'm the person who people usually come to if they need something as alot of the time I'll have it in my bag. I'm not one of these crazy bag ladies or a super paranoid 'prepared for every occasion' types. No. I just carry some essentials with me that 9 times out of 10 I will end up needing.

1. Tissues. Probably the most important item. Whether it's a snotty nose, sticky fingers or makeup disaster either you or someone else will always need a tissue handy. Keep a small packet in your bag and that way you'll have plenty handy. If you wanted to you could even carry a small pack of wetwipes.

2. Hairbrush. This is a no-brainer- especially on long days out. If you're someone who has to have imacculate hair at all times you can even get travel sized hair spray & dry shampoo cans (these are great for festivals & long journeys too)

3. Makeup. Just have a few small essentials like eyeliner, mascara, a small eyeshadow pallette & some lipstick or lipgloss. That way you can keep your makeup fresh or put some on if needed (example- last minute restaurant dinners)

4. Money. Obviously have your wallet/purse with all of your cards ect in it but think about keeping a small coin purse with some change & spare cash incase of emergencies. Even think about keeping this in your pocket (securely) in the event your bag gets stolen or lost.

5. Compact mirror. Always handy.

6. Headphones. I listen to music all of the time- in the car, on the bus, waiting for hospital appointments. It passes the time if you're on your own- better than just being sat there twiddling your thumbs. If music isn't your thing then maybe a book (although this can take up alot of space).

7. Keys. Locksmiths are expensive & if you live in a built up area then having a hidden spare key is sometimes a bit risky. You could even keep a spare house key in your coin purse (number 4).

8. Pen & paper. We live in an age now where most people have a phone or smartphone. But a pen & paper always comes in handy for taking phone numbers or jotting down details. A slightly different way could also be having a paper copy of emergency contacts- if you lose your phone or suddenly take ill ect these come in handy.

9. Small can of deodorant. Great for long days (or if it's warm). No-one wants to smell sweaty & this keeps you fresh as a daisy. Mints or gum are also good for breath.

10. Medications. This is an important one for me (& for anyone who has an illness). I'm on several prescriptions & always keep some with me when I'm out (I also have a list of the dosages & what they are used for incase I am taken into hospital) this includes things like inhalers, pens, tablets & patches. If you have medication you take at a certain time & for whatever reason you can't get home to take it then this is really important.

11. Sanitary items. Aunt Flo seems to enjoy catching us women out when we're unprepared. But not anymore. Just make sure you keep your sanitary items in a pouch or the small zipper compartment in your bag to keep them clean (& away from veiw).

So there you have it- my handbag essentials. Like I said before, these are all things which I usually end up needing when I am out & I hope you found this helpful! I will also be doing a blog soon on travel essentials (as requested by a friend) so watch this space!

Thanks for reading xx
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For comments, opinions, questions or suggestions feel free to email me at:
dollytrolley1994@gmail.com

Things to do when you're ill

Hello everyone!

Today I'm going to share with you some ways I occupy myself when I'm poorly & resting. In my last post I told you I'd had surgery & that I am in alot of pain. I'm on doctors orders to take it easy & get plenty of rest. Having been ill for a long time I know that sometimes it gets so boring not being able to get up & do stuff, but these are some great ways to occupy your time.

1. Learn a new skill. This can be anything you want (although if you've been told to rest maybe now isn't the best time to learn how to ride a unicycle). It might be something like taking an online course, learning to sew or knit, learn to touch type, learn a language... the list is endless.

2. Set yourself a project. This could be a craft project like origami, or maybe designing ideas for your dream house.

3. Get yourself some good DVD's & box sets. Got loads of programmes recorded on your sky+ box that you never had chance to watch? Watch them now! Any films or TV series you like or have wanted to see? Get the dvd's or find them on the likes of Netflix.

4. Read. Find a good book and lose yourself in it. It could be a novel, thriller, mystery or even a car manual! Whatever floats your boat.

5. Finish tasks that you never got round to. Respond to those unanswered emails, do that unfinished paperwork. Get round to making those calls. Whatever it is just get it done (obviously if you're on bed rest then maybe leave painting the spare bedroom or putting up the new fence) you'll feel a sense of freedom after getting them done.

6. Make plans. Plan a day out or a treat for when you feel better. If someone has been looking after you then arrange a surprise to say thankyou. Even write a bucket list of things you have always wanted to do.

7. Write. Start a blog, write a book. Write your own life story or about your experiences. Write a song or some poetry

8. Talk to people on the phone or online. Ring up your family & friends & have a good natter- invite them over for a cup of tea. You could re-kindle an old friendship or get a pen pal.

So there you have it. Hope you enjoyed this blog & hope it gave you some good ideas. Thanks for reading :)
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For questions, comments, opinions & suggestions email me at:

dollytrolley1994@gmail.com

Laparoscopy for endometriosis

Hi!

Todays post is going to be advice for people who are underogoing surgery for endometriosis. A couple of days ago I had to have an operation called a laparoscopy to remove endometriosis tissue on my womb, and I hope this article helps anyone who might be having the same thing.

For a few years since my mid teens I have suffered from endometriosis, and also PCOS (Polycystic ovary syndrome). Endometriosis is a long-term condition where the tissue that usually lines your womb every month before your period grows outside of your womb. Commonly, endometriosis grows on the womb, ovaries and fallopian tubes although it can also grow anywhere in the abdomen. It can cause alot of problems such as painful, heavy and irregular periods, severe pain and fertility problems. Unlike the lining in the womb that sheds during a period, the endometriosis has nowhere to go so it builds up and can become serious if not treated.

The only way for endometriosis to be officially diagnosed is with a laparoscopy, as unfortunately a scan may not always pick it up. A laparoscopic investigation is performed under a general anaesthetic. The surgeon makes a small cut in your belly button then fills your abdominal cavity with co2 gas to separate your organs so they can get a better veiw. Then they insert a small camera called a laparoscope to look for the cause of the problem. If you do have endometriosis, then as long as there isn't a huge amount or it isn't too risky to remove then often the doctor will remove it there and then by using a small device to burn it off.

Now for my personal experience-

After being admitted to the day surgery ward at 7am I was shown to a cubicle by a lovely nurse who helped me change into a gown and handed me a very stylish pair or disposable surgical knickers (horrid things that look a bit like white fishnet boxers lol). I was then shown to the surgical waiting lounge where there were other ladies waiting. After being called into the office many times (I have a complicated medical history so they had to be extra thorough with the questions) I had my obs done, urine test, paracetamol and was given some surgical stockings (they had to have a good look in the supply closet as I needed extra small ones). Then after a good natter with the aneasthatist and the theatre nurses as they did their final checks, we walked down to the operating theatres.

In the preparation room I laid down and two nurses chatted to me whilst a cannula was put in my hand. I was hooked up to a heart monitor and oxygen then given anti sickness and something to steady my heart rate (high blood pressure is not fun). Then I was given the anaesthetic and drifted off.

Waking up was horrid. I was so cold and shivering and the pain was pretty bad. The recovery nurse told me that they were going to put an elecric blanket on me to warm me up.  She then gave me a nice dose of morphine. I had to keep the oxygen on for a couple of hours after as my blood oxygen levels were too low. They did my obs every 10 minutes and kept having to check that I wasn't bleeding 'down there'. The recovery nurse told me that I had gone into surgery at half 8 and didn't get out until half 10 (they told me I would only need to be in for 45 minutes). Apparently there were some complications- the doctor had to make 3 incisions and could only remove a tiny bit of endometriosis from my uterus for biopsy- I had alot on my bowels & in my abdominal cavity that was too dangerous to remove and would need specialist surgery for.

After coughing up alot of blood I was told the tube had caught the inside of my throat so it would be sore for a few days. At around 12 I was taken back to the ward, still on the oxygen. I had a nap then the nurse bought me some more morphine and a cup of tea and biscuits. When the doctor came to see me she explained that if they had of tried to remove the endometriosis on my bowels I could have bled to death and would need a major op called a laparotomy to remove it and this would be discussed at the follow up.

A couple of hours later I was discharged with painkillers. When I got home my fiancee helped me to bed as I was so tired and sore. I slept for the rest of the day, waking up to have drinks and go to the loo. I had alot of shoulder pain from the gas and it was agony to move. That night I slept but woke up in alot of pain.

Yesterday I woke up very sore and cranky. I slept most of the day and my throat was sore. By evening I had become worried as I was having some bad smelling yellow discharge and my wounds were a bit weepy. After speaking to the GP he ordered me an emergency prescription of antibiotics and told me if it got worse to dial 999. Luckily by this morning things hadn't got worse. Today I was still very sore and tired, and it still hurts very much to move but hopefully tomorrow things may start to improve.

I'll post some updates in a few days time. In the meantime I hope this helped for anyone who might be having a laparoscopy in terms of what to expect, and if you have any questions then let me know. Thanks for reading! X
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For questions, comments, suggestions or opinions email me at:
dollytrolley1994@gmail.com

Brocolli & stilton soup recepie :)

Hi everyone!
Today I thought I would share with you one of my favourite recepies for brocolli and stilton soup. This recepie is so easy to make. It's great as a starter, a snack or on cold winter days served with thick crusty bread. One pot makes five good sized bowls

You will need:
1 large brocolli
A small onion, finely diced
A large piece of stilton (about 300g)
2 pints of milk (either whole or semi skimmed)
100ml of double cream
A large tablespoon of creme fraiche (optional)
Juice & zest of half a lemon
1/2 a teaspoon of sea salt
1 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper

To serve (optional)
Thick crusty bread with butter
A dollop of creme fraiche
Parmesan shavings

Step one:
Boil or steam the brocolli until it is soft and tender, then drain. Cook the onions until they are soft (but not brown or fried).

Step 2:
Bring milk to a light simmer (do not boil). Cut stilton into small cubes & stir into the milk until melted. Take the cheese and milk mixture off the heat.

Step 3:
There are three ways you can do this step
A) Add the cooked brocolli & onions to the cheese & milk mixture then puree with a hand blender until it is a thick consistency & all of the brocolli is broken up
B) If you do not have a hand blender then put the brocolli and onions into a food processor, blend to a puree then mix into the cheese & milk until all of the ingredients are incorporated.
C) If you do not have a hand blender or a food processor then use a potato masher to mash the brocolli & onions to a puree then add to the cheese & milk mixture & stir well (if using this methood then cook brocolli until very soft for easier mashing).

Step 4: Add lemon juice & zest, cream, creme fraiche (if using) sea salt & black pepper. Mix well then simply heat & serve. Simple :)
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I hope you enjoy this recepie- if you did then let me know!
More recepies will be coming soon & if you have any questions, suggestions, comments or opions then email me:

dollytrolley1994@gmail.com

Thanks for reading! :)

My top 10 favourite hair & beauty products

Hi!
In my first post I said that one of the things I was going to be doing was some beauty & hair blogs. So today I thought I would start by giving a run down of my top 10 favourite products. These are things I use on a day-to-day basis and I have found them to be the best so hopefully you too might want to try them out :) (sorry for the lack of pictures- will upload as soon as I can)

1. Organix Argan oil of Morocco penetrating hair oil (£4.99 Superdrug)- I was a little bit iffy about this at first- there was all of this hype about the latest 'miracle hair product' and I thought as it was oil that it would make my hair greasy. But I was wrong.

My friend told me to try it as it is great for people who use alot of heat styling and stops your hair drying out. So after towel drying my hair I combed it through then rubbed a small amount into the mid-lengths and ends, then sprayed with heat protector. I dried and styled my hair as normal and I was amazed- it was so soft and shiny and it smelled great! And a bottle lasts for ages as you only need a tiny amount.

2. Bodyshop Shimmer Cubes palette (£16 each Bodyshop)- I love Bodyshop products. Not just because they aren't tested on animals but also because they aren't as harsh on your skin as the other brands. For £16 you get a quad of four different shades of eyshadow- some people might think that's expensive but it really is worth it!

The four different shades in each can be blended for a sophisticated look or used individually for a hint of colour or to make your eyes stand out. They have a lovely soft texture (easy to blend) and a nice shimmer too.

3. Shwarzkopf got2b Guardian Angel heat protecting spray up to 220ºc (£3.00 Boots) This stuff is fab for those who use alot of heat on their hair. Towel dry hair and use in combination with Argan Oil and blow dry and style as normal.

It's great because I have noticed since using it my hair doesnt get as dry and damaged. Also this is a must if, like me, you dye your hair often (I've gone for blonde this time so as you can imagine the bleach took its toll on my hair and I need this stuff) it helps protect your hair against further damage.

4. Johnsons holiday skin- fair to medium (£5.10 Boots) I love this stuff- its great when you want to get a natural-looking tan without the nasty fake tan smell or ending up looking like you have been tangoed. I'm not naturally pale but I've been ill alot which means I wasn't able to get a tan last summer and this gave me a lovely natural looking colour (great for winter too to keep you looking good).

It has a kind of suncream smell to it and a thick creamy consistency. It's easy to apply and within a few days you will have a lovely colour built up. A bonus is that you don't get any streaky lines either. Only thing I will say though is don't put this on your face- use the facial version as this can be harsh on very sensitive skin. Other than that it's great.

5. AR2 borage oil cream (£4.85 Holland & Barret) this stuff is a fantastic facial cream. It's a mixture of herb extracts and oils in a cream that has so many uses! It helps reduce the appearance of blemishes, moisturises, can be used on sensitive skin and even makes a great primer!

The pot seems small but a little goes a long way and it's great on acne-prone skin with a drop of tea tree oil mixed into it. It leaves skin so soft and smooth with no horrid oily residues. It absorbs easily and protects it from drying out. Worth every penny!

6. Bodyshop moisture foundation (£13 Bodyshop)- this is the best foundation I have come across. It comes in a range of shades so you can find the one that is right for you and it really is great for giving your skin a healthy, smooth and dewy looking base.

It comes in a pump action bottle (no messy drips ) and its very liquidy which makes it easy to apply and you only need a small amount. There's alot of debate on how to apply foundation- some use a brush, others use makeup sponges and some just use their hands. I find it easiest to use a small wedge sponge as it gets it into all of the creases and helps it blend easier. This foundation is great for all skin types as it's non greasy, moisturises and doesnt block pores. Finish off with a light dusting of transluscent powder and you have a gorgeously flawless finish.

7. Eyelure naturalites false eyelashes (Around £5.49 available in Boots, Superdrug and large supermarkets) As false eyelashes go these are the best to buy if you want enhanced but still natural looking lashes. Until I found these I didn't really like false lashes- they were often uncomfortable and wouldnt stick properly and generally looked very fake (looking like you had dead spiders on your eyelids- not attractive).

I bought the glamour (no 116) lashes and for the price I was so impressed- they're so light you can't feel them once they are on, they stay on great, and they really do look so natural! They can be re-used over and over and they are just great for the price.

8. Maybelline Volum' express turbo boost mascara in very black (£6.19 Superdrug) this mascara is great if you want big, volumous lashes. It makes lashes look really long and thick, great for enhancing your eyes.

As long as you wipe off the excess from the brush before applying it doesnt make your eyelashes look horrible and clumpy. It stays on great with no smudges and is easy to remove. Looks great for dark, smokey eye looks too.

9. Barry M glitter nail paint in Yellow Topaz (£2.99 Superdrug & Boots) fantastic for adding a touch of glitz and glamour to any look. It can be applied as a single coat over a coloured nail polish to add just a touch of glitter (also doubles up as a top coat) or can be applied in seveal coats for sparkly, glamourous nails.

I like to use this on top of base colours such as red or dark blue for a touch of glam, and it also looks great for a festive look or for a big night out. It's pretty chip resistant and lasts for ages but is also easy to remove.

10. nspa jojoba and rosehip oil lipgloss (Asda- not sure of price) my lovely fiancee got me this as part of a gift set that had a body wash and body polish in it and unfortunately I haven't seen it since as it was a christmas gift. They all have a lovely floral/rose smell to them and are a nice little luxury.

The lipgloss is gorgeous- a kind of mid to dark pink colour with a shimmer to it. It has a gorgeous smell and a smooth, non sticky texture. It lasts for hours without needing to be re-applied. It moisturises and gives you nice soft lips too.


So there you have it (sorry it was so long)- my top 10 favourite products. I hope you enjoyed reading and let me know if you found this helpful!
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Any questions, comments, opinions or suggestions I would love to hear them! Email me at:
dollytrolley1994@gmail.com

Introduction

Hi!
So this is my first ever post as I am new to blogging (please excuse any spelling errors and nervous rambling lol). My blog is going to be about loads of different things: food & recipies, makeup and beauty product reveiws, fashion (look out for my hauls that I am going to be doing), hair and makeup tips, TV, and music and film related reveiws. Also I want to cover things like money saving and good ways to save cash

I am also going to be discussing some more serious topics. I am disabled and have lived with illnesses for a number of years. I am going to be giving advice on for people who suffer with the same things; as well as tips on coping and how to still lead a good life.

Other serious subjects I may cover are things like bullying, abuse and stress. All of these things I have experienced and I want to be able to help others who may be going through the same.

Anyway, on a less morbid note I really hope that this can be a success and that people will read, enjoy, laugh and gain something from this. There are several successful youtubers and well-known bloggers who I have gained inspiration from to be able to do this. I am always happy to answer questions and suggestions, and if all goes well I will be doing some vlogs on youtube so let me know.

Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoy :)

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For suggestions, questions and general feedback, email me at:

dollytrolley1994@gmail.com