What's Really Up With the Music Industry...

Yesterday, I volunteered at my local, council-run music venue, which attracts some pretty big bands, including Wheatus, and Puddle of Mudd... Old bands, but good bands. 

Anyway, the event that I was working was a Bars & Melody gig. The band, for those of you that don't know, were on Britain's Got Talent, and they made quite a splash. Personally, I've not listened to them, but the gig yesterday really hammered something home for me - the music industry really exploits people. 

I'll say that again for those of you who didn't hear. 

The music industry really exploits people.

I'm not just talking the general public here, but bands and artists as well. The boys in Bars & Melody are around sixteen years old, and they're out there in the world, playing shows to screaming fans. They're signed to Syco Music, which is basically run by Sony Music. They're making money for a big, big label, and they're sixteen. Don't they deserve to just do this for fun?!

What's more is that their fans are so young. I saw some really young people there last night, and I just cannot comprehend it. These young people got their parents to fork out so much money for tickets, and most of them purchased a meet and greet ticket, which cost around £65 each. That's a lot of money for a poster, lanyard, and photo, right?! This crazy, crazy fan culture doesn't even stop to think that they're paying to meet another human.They're being exploited, and this isn't right. 

I completely understand that this is an industry, and money needs to be made because hey, money makes the world go 'round, right?! But there are much better ways of generating income than getting young, impressionable children to part with their pocket money. I used to be a part of this excitable, impressionable audience; I went to so many gigs, always spent around £20 to £30 on t-shirts, wristbands, and CDs... I realise now that this is a waste. You don't need to buy clothes to support an artist. You only need to buy something if you really, genuinely want it. Bands understand that we don't all have the cash to just throw away.
I point-black refuse to buy meet and greet tickets. I saw a blog post by Rou Reynolds of Enter Shikari, where he basically explained exactly why it's so wrong of people to charge for meet and greets. You can read more on that by clicking here, and read someone else's opinion on the subject here. 

The point is, we let ourselves be exploited, by queuing outside in the freezing cold for ten hours, or buying that new album the day it's out in stores. 

And bands and artists? Well, some need to be exploited, because otherwise, they'll never get anywhere... Others, well they take a stand. And we can stand with them. Be independent, think for yourself. Just stop and think about what you're spending your hard-earned cash on, and if it's really, 100% worth it.Chances are, that VIP photo isn't, and that band member isn't going to fall in love with you. Sorry. 

- Dottie x

Why Are Periods Gross?!?

Many people (females included!!) feel the need to comment on the fact that periods are "gross". Why? What makes something so normal so gross? It's estimated that around half of the world's population menstruates, and yet we are still taught to keep quiet about it, keep it hidden, keep it secret. Why?
I, personally, feel perfectly comfortable talking about periods, especially my own, and especially since I purchased and started using my menstrual cup, which by the way, really isn't as disgusting as tampons and pads. So ha. 

What I fail to understand is why so many people are repulsed by something that is both completely normal, and completely natural. I know that sometimes, the concept of it is a little bit 'ew', because the lining of an internal organ falls out, and there's blood, cramps, etc. but this happens to your stomach; the cells of the internal walls of the stomach are constantly being shed and replaced. It's a normal process, which isn't seen as disgusting. 

I was trying to convince my boyfriend the other day that period blood is perfectly normal, and that it's the same as other blood. This isn't something that should be convinced, because it is a very true fact. It's not repulsive, it doesn't smell gross, it's perfectly good blood... (can blood even be 'good'?!) 

The period itself is not gross. It is not disgusting. It's not something that anyone should be repulsed by, least of all those who actually do menstruate! 

I can tell you a few things that are disgusting about menstruation, though. 

Firstly, in third world countries such as Uganda, girls would much rather miss approximately a week at school (when they're on their period), than go to school, due to not having the correct sanitary protection and understanding peers. This is not good, at all. I cannot even begin to stress just how important education is, and how damaging discrimination against those who menstruate is. Education should be a right, not a privilege.

Secondly, tampons are (or, were depending on laws and legislation passed) classed as a luxury item. This makes no sense. Again, tampons and other sanitary products are not a privilege, they are something that are necessary. We do not choose to bleed, yet we are forced to pay more for an item that is apparently a "luxury". That is disgusting. 

And this leads me on to my final point, which is just how vile tampons can be. This is all from a medical/physical point of view, as I have never actually used a tampon in my life, but it's still all true and correct. 

Tampons are absorbent, that's true. They are also incredibly great for periods BUT they are too absorbent: basically, there are fluids there are needed in the vagina (yup, I'm going there...), and when you use a tampon, it isn't just the blood that is absorbed, it's everything, which can cause all sorts of problems and irritations down there. They are also a pretty good breeding ground for the bacteria that causes toxic shock syndrome, or TSS. This bacteria already lives in the vagina, but wearing a tampon too long creates the correct environment for it to breed and can make you incredibly ill. 

Think about how many pads and tampons are in landfill sites, or end up washed up on beaches or whatever. That's pretty disgusting, and sanitary protection is also incredibly expensive, especially in the long-term.

Also, there's just a tonne of blood that literally gets absorbed. I don't find that nice. 

Instead, there are healthier options, such as menstrual cups, which are better for your body, your wallet, and your world. It's win-win-win. 

I didn't write this post to scare anyone, so I am going to conclude by letting you know that tampons are still perfectly safe to use, as long as you change them every four to six hours (or when needed!), and you take breaks from using them when on your period. 

I'd also like to invite you all to talk about periods, break the stigma, and if you'd like me to write a menstrual cup review, please let me know, because I actually really want to! 

I hope this was interesting and informative. 

Until next time,

- Dottie x

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time REVIEW

Hello!!

I mentioned in my book haul post (which you can read by clicking here) that I had purchased and was reading The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon.
I have to start off this review by saying that I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book; it's written in a similar 'voice' to that of The Perks of Being a Wallflower (Stephen Chbosky, which is one of my favourite books. So, obviously, it correlates that a book that reads similarly is going to be something that I enjoy. 

The main character and narrator is fifteen-year-old Christopher Boone, who is taking A Level Maths, and has Asperger's, which is a form of autism. This book isn't a coming of age story, it's a mystery novel with a twist, which I must tell you, I really wasn't expecting.
The way that the story is written shows that the author has a really great understanding of those who see things differently, and it is incredibly insightful to read this. 

The Curious Incident is written in such a way that you cannot put it down, each chapter ends in a way that leaves you wanting to know more, and more of the story. Furthermore, it's what I would call an 'easy read', which means that there's no complex character backstories, and only one story line to follow, so it's perfect to read whilst relaxing. 

I would recommend this book to anyone that enjoyed The Perks of Being a Wallflower, Paper Towns, Looking For Alaska, or We Are All Completely Beside Ourselves. It's definitely more of a young adult/teen fiction story, but I believe it has been studied in schools for GCSEs, so make of that what you will. 

I think the story is well-written and enjoyable, and it is definitely entertaining. Some parts are funny, some are sad, and some are a tad strange, but that all adds to the charm of it. 

It is a must-read!!

Thank you for taking the time to read this review, I hope you enjoyed it!
Let me know if I should write more of these!

- Dottie x

I've Come a Long Way in a Year...

Today is my first day of my second year at college, studying music technology, and I decided that it's time for a little reminisce. See, this time last year, I'd already started my first year as a shy, skinny teenager with a big fringe and even bigger t-shirts. I carried around much too much for my course (especially as everything is done on computers...), and was too scared to speak to anyone. 

Now, however, I'm still just as shy, but I feel like I'm definitely getting there on the talking to people front. Other things have definitely changed though, and I'd like to think about those today. 

Firstly, my body confidence has shot skywards! I would never have even dreamed of wearing a crop top, or anything remotely tight-fitting or figure-hugging to college.. Now? Well, I love wearing crop tops and super-skinny jeans, short shorts and skirts, and tight tank tops, even on days when my belly is bloated and feels icky! It just feels like me, and I don't feel the need to hide away from that anymore. While some of this confidence has come from having a boyfriend, a lot of it was because I suddenly started seeing myself as I really am, instead of a few sizes bigger... Those band shirts are now pyjamas! 

And, oh yeah! I have a boyfriend, what?!? This wasn't really something that I was expecting to come from college, I thought the people in my class were cool and all, but I guess surprises are a good thing, right? I'm so happy, and wouldn't change him for the world. 

I can talk to the tutors at college now, and it's pretty great. This is a sign that, yes, my confidence has improved. Another thing that has changed is that I don't get so stressed out about my work anymore, because I know that I am able to complete everything to a high standard, even when I miss lessons, or don't quite understand something. I even managed to skive an afternoon of lessons without getting too upset about it. You should be proud of me! (and not skip lessons!!) 

As well as giving me useful knowledge of the music industry, recording studios, live sound, and much, much more that is going to help my future in the music business, college has helped me so much in general life skills, which I am incredibly grateful for. I was able to work a scary job with complete strangers for an entire summer, which I never thought possible. I am starting to see myself as I am, and I have never been happier. 

I love being able to look back to last year, and compare myself then to myself now, and see the growth. It's a really wonderful thing to realise that you're on your way to becoming a better person. 

Wish me luck back at college today! 

Bye for now,
- Dottie x

Five Favourite ASMR Videos...

I think I've mentioned ASMR on this blog before, but if I haven't, or you're new here, I shall briefly explain what it is. 

ASMR is Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response, and is the tingling feeling that you have when someone plays with your hair, or gives you a massage. This feeling can be triggered by sounds such as paper scrunching, or tapping on objects, or can be caused by gentle whispering and tongue-clicking noises. The trend for ASMR videos has increased rapidly on YouTube, and today I am going to share five of my favourites. 

In order to find these videos, click the link that is the title. 

1. Take a Moment || ASMR - DoddleVloggle 

Dodie was the YouTuber who introduced me to ASMR, and I really love this video; it's perfect for relaxing, and the structure of it is lovely. It's very comforting, and had to be here amongst my favourites. 

2. Tissue Paper Crinkle, Crumple, Crush - ASMR Vids

I really like this paper crumpling video, all of the sounds are so soothing, and really helps me to relax. There are no whispers in this one, but it's brilliant nonetheless. 

3. Binaural ASMR Ear Attention - Springbok ASMR

This is an incredible ASMR video, the tingles start almost immediately. The only thing I need to be careful of (and the reason I can't listen to binaural videos) is that it can make me incredibly dizzy, and sometimes even pass out. I don't understand it, but it happens. 

4. Once Upon A Time || ASMR - DoddleVloggle

Dodie's bedtime story ASMR is really cool, because she layers three vocal tracks on top of each other, so it is more of a relaxing noise, than a story that you can follow. It's a very clever concept. 

5. 10 Triggers to Help You Sleep - Taylor Darling ASMR

Finally, this video of triggers to help you sleep is incredibly relaxing, with lots of sounds and whispering to gently guide you into a deep sleep. Lovely!

So, let me know what you think of ASMR, as it's not for everybody, and if you liked any of these videos.

Thank you!

- Dottie x

Book Haul!

Hello guys!! Today, I am going to share with you the collection of books I have recently purchased, as I'm really starting to get back into the whole reading and shopping for books thing, it's fun!! 

I am aware that one of my most recent posts is also about books, and features some of the same books, but this is slightly different, and much more recent, so enjoy!!

SO, I have two books by Jonas Jonasson - The Hundred Year Old Man Who Climbed Out of the Window and Disappeared (thank you Emma!!), and Hitman Anders and the Meaning of It All... First impressions - this author likes long titles. I was curious about these because I saw someone I follow on Instagram post one, and it looked interesting. Since then, I've been wanting to read them. And now I can. Read the synopsis of Hitman Anders here, and The Hundred Year Old Man here. 

When I was book shopping after an interview, I came across The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time (author - Mark Haddon), which I am currently reading. The synopsis is here, and I strongly recommend it to fans of The Perks of Being a Wallflower, and Looking For Alaska. 

What's A Girl Gotta Do by Holly Bourne is another recent purchase, and I have to say, it's mighty good! I didn't realise that it's actually the third in a series, as it works so well as a stand-alone book. It's all about feminism, growing up, and coping with the stress of school and college life. (Full synopsis here). I flew through this book, and really enjoyed it, I loved that it touched on some pretty interesting feminism issues, and it's definitely worth checking out, especially if you enjoyed Paper Towns or Catlin Moran's How to Be a Woman/How to Build a Girl. 

A bit of a stab-in-the-dark book for me is The Rest of Us Just Live Here, by Patrick Ness. It sparked my interest, and as it was buy one, get one half price in Waterstones, I couldn't say no!! Read the synopsis by clicking here. 

One of the new books that I've had for a while is Inferno, by Dan Brown. With extracts of Dante's Inferno, this is the fourth book following Professor Robert Langdon, as he solves crimes and investigates various murders, etc. I've read quite a few Dan Brown books, and while they are a bit tricky to follow sometimes, they are really good, so I couldn't not buy this one! You can read what it's about here. 

Finally, my last new book is the script edition of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. All I can say is wow. The story was incredible, so interesting and fast-paced, I really loved it! I can definitely recommend it for any Harry Potter fan. It's what we've all been waiting for!! Synopsis here... Not that you need it if you're a Harry Potter fan!! 

And that concludes my book haul, I hope you enjoyed it!

Bye!

- Dottie x

Peaceful Moments and Perfect Days...

I don't know if you've ever had such a lovely, carefree day that you go to sleep feeling so relaxing, and completely at peace with yourself, and you wake up the next day feeling oh so happy... But those days happen every so often for me. It's usually when I get out of the house, and spend time with people that matter. Those people could be my parents, my boyfriend, my sisters, or my best friends, it doesn't matter. What matters is the time that I'm spending with them, and how happy they make me. 

A few times now, I've gone for walks with my boyfriend, and it's so lovely to walk along in the beautiful sunshine (because going outside in the rain is gross), and to know that this wonderful human exists, and he's mine, and I'm his, and we love each other... I love those days... And then there's being able to mess around and laugh until I cry with my amazing best friends... Those people know how to cheer me up, even if no one else does! 

Yesterday, I went for a walk with my parents, and we took the dogs. We ended up at the most beautiful place, bathed in evening sunlight and surrounded by beautiful green trees... We saw a few wild boar, and hear birds and insects. The dogs were running around, and they looked so happy. It was so lovely, blissful and serene. We walked up a huge hill, and at the top, there were some big rocks that overlooked a quarry. Of course, I had to climb on them to get a photo! (see above!)

Then we were walking back to the car, and I was just taking photos of the sky, and the sunset, and it was so lovely. I felt genuinely happy, and at peace, and that's a beautiful feeling. Then, when we got home, we made mugs of tea, got snuggly sweaters, and sat outside around a fire, watching the stars. My older sister, her boyfriend, and my younger sister joined us, and we were all sat outside, stargazing, and talking. I cannot explain why moments like these mean so much to me, but I really, truly appreciate them. 
I feel like the world shows me these beautiful moments to remind me that it's not all bad. 

I hope you're all having a nice day/evening/night/whatever, and that peaceful, serene moments find you soon. 

Dottie x