This is just a little post to say Happy New Year! We won't be posting anything else this weekend, but we'll be back with lots of posts on January's self-improvement theme next weekend.
Even though we probably won't be nursing massive hangovers, because we're pretty sensible, y'know? We're going to take the weekend off from publishing any posts, to give ourselves a little break, so we can come back all refreshed and full of shiny new ideas for January. We've also got a new little idea in the pipeline, which we're very excited about - All will be revealed soon!
We've had a great couple of months sharing all of our recipes with you, our life tips, and even some speed dating disasters. Another little highlight was our trip up to the lovely Scarthin Books.
Thank you for supporting us, and reading our posts for the past couple of months - It keeps us going to see your kind comments! Here's to 2017 being full of exciting new content!
Love,
Katie, Lou & Amy.
P.S. As we're entering a new year, we'd be delighted to welcome some new writers on board. If you think you'd like to join us, click here!
Even though we probably won't be nursing massive hangovers, because we're pretty sensible, y'know? We're going to take the weekend off from publishing any posts, to give ourselves a little break, so we can come back all refreshed and full of shiny new ideas for January. We've also got a new little idea in the pipeline, which we're very excited about - All will be revealed soon!
We've had a great couple of months sharing all of our recipes with you, our life tips, and even some speed dating disasters. Another little highlight was our trip up to the lovely Scarthin Books.
Thank you for supporting us, and reading our posts for the past couple of months - It keeps us going to see your kind comments! Here's to 2017 being full of exciting new content!
Happy new year!
Love,
Katie, Lou & Amy.
P.S. As we're entering a new year, we'd be delighted to welcome some new writers on board. If you think you'd like to join us, click here!
Looking for something to make with your leftover vegetables from Christmas dinner? We've got your back with this tasty parsnip soup recipe by Katie's Dad.
Merry Christmas from all of us at The Weekend Edition!
We hope you have a wonderful day! And we'd just like to take this opportunity to thank you for reading over the past few weeks. It wouldn't be worth doing without your support.
Things are going to be slightly different this weekend, as I'm sure you'll understand. So, instead of popping another post up tomorrow, we'll be back on Monday instead.
See you on Boxing Day with a little recipe that you can make with your leftovers! (So, make sure you don't eat everything!)
Merry Christmas lovely readers! Have a good one!
Katie, Lou and Amy
x
We hope you have a wonderful day! And we'd just like to take this opportunity to thank you for reading over the past few weeks. It wouldn't be worth doing without your support.
Things are going to be slightly different this weekend, as I'm sure you'll understand. So, instead of popping another post up tomorrow, we'll be back on Monday instead.
See you on Boxing Day with a little recipe that you can make with your leftovers! (So, make sure you don't eat everything!)
Merry Christmas lovely readers! Have a good one!
Katie, Lou and Amy
x
Ahh books. They're not cool, are they? At school, if you liked them, enjoyed reading and, heaven forbid, took occasional trips to the school library at lunchtime, you were a square. Pure and simple. Nowadays, it's not as unfairly tarnished with negative connotations. You're not a square for sticking your nose in a book. You're socially accepted, even if you do like reading. (Thank. Goodness.)
Now, we've got a winter theme going on over The Weekend Edition this month, and curling up with a good book is one of our favourite pastimes on those chilly winter nights. So, we thought we'd share some of our favourite reads with you! Read on to find out what they are.
Reasons To Stay Alive isn't laid out like a traditional book, as it's got really short, snappy chapters that are only a few pages each. (Which makes it great if you've got a short attention span, or if don't have a lot of time to read.) The book truly offers hope to those who've been in the same situation, and offers enlightenment for those who haven't. If you don't already own a copy, I'd definitely recommend picking one up!
Anyway, I'm sure you don't need me to recap the plot of this popular book, do you? To me, the first book's the best out of the three. Despite the fact it was written in the nineties, some aspects are still pretty relevant to women today. Again, if you haven't read it, or have only seen the film, treat yourself to a copy!
This book's definitely worth buying, whether you're a fellow makeup maven, or if you're a novice looking to gain more knowledge. Buy it, you won't regret it!
(I won't give you any more spoilers though. Promise.)
I didn't read this children's book until I was 15, but it quickly became one of my most beloved books. The book follows the story of Sophie Hatter, a girl born the eldest of three in the magical world of Ingary. Sophie believes that because she was born eldest of three, she's destined to fail first and worst in life. As a result, she has poor self-esteem and resigns herself to the fate of inheriting her father's hat shop. All this changes one day when she meets the Witch of the Waste who curses Sophie.
Determined to make the best of her situation, Sophie decides to seek the help of the Wizard Howl.
Now, we've got a winter theme going on over The Weekend Edition this month, and curling up with a good book is one of our favourite pastimes on those chilly winter nights. So, we thought we'd share some of our favourite reads with you! Read on to find out what they are.
Katie's Favourite Books:
Reasons To Stay Alive by Matt Haig
This is probably my favourite ever book. I've read it several times in a pretty short duration, as it was only released last year. Haig's from the East Midlands, like us, and this book details his struggle with depression and anxiety. It completely documents his journey back to better mental health, and beyond.Reasons To Stay Alive isn't laid out like a traditional book, as it's got really short, snappy chapters that are only a few pages each. (Which makes it great if you've got a short attention span, or if don't have a lot of time to read.) The book truly offers hope to those who've been in the same situation, and offers enlightenment for those who haven't. If you don't already own a copy, I'd definitely recommend picking one up!
Charlie and The Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl
A firm favourite from my from childhood, I remember reading Charlie and The Chocolate Factory and re-reading it countless times. It seemed utterly magic to my 6-year-old self. A few months ago, I stumbled across the original copy I had as a child, and couldn't resist flicking through it again. It brought back so many memories! I'm sure I'm not the only one who was enthralled by Dahl's works as a child. (If so, let us know in the comments what your favourite Roald Dahl book is!)Bridget Jones's Diary by Helen Fielding
An oldie, but a goodie! I've read this book several times, which is all about a thirty-something in London who's torn between the slightly pompous lawyer Mark Darcy or her smarmy boss Daniel Cleaver (I'm on #TeamDarcy in case you were wondering.)Anyway, I'm sure you don't need me to recap the plot of this popular book, do you? To me, the first book's the best out of the three. Despite the fact it was written in the nineties, some aspects are still pretty relevant to women today. Again, if you haven't read it, or have only seen the film, treat yourself to a copy!
Pretty Honest by Sali Hughes
I only read this gem at the start of the year. It's quite niche, for beauty lovers only. Pretty Honest is full of so much fantastic advice and information about skincare, makeup, and beauty in general. I take every thing that Sali Hughes has to say about beauty as gospel, because she really knows what she's talking about! Her most recent book, Pretty Iconic, is one that's currently on my to-read pile!This book's definitely worth buying, whether you're a fellow makeup maven, or if you're a novice looking to gain more knowledge. Buy it, you won't regret it!
One Day by David Nicholls
I can't be the only one who loves this book, surely? One Day follows Emma and Dexter for 20 years on every St. Swithuns Day after they meet at their graduation. It's certainly relatable content for recent graduates when both their lives don't turn out how they expected over the course of the book. You might need some tissues towards the end though, that's all I'm saying. Just after they finally realise that they should be together, a horrible twist tears them apart. Oh, that twist - it's heartbreaking.(I won't give you any more spoilers though. Promise.)
Amy's Favourites:
Howl's Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones
I didn't read this children's book until I was 15, but it quickly became one of my most beloved books. The book follows the story of Sophie Hatter, a girl born the eldest of three in the magical world of Ingary. Sophie believes that because she was born eldest of three, she's destined to fail first and worst in life. As a result, she has poor self-esteem and resigns herself to the fate of inheriting her father's hat shop. All this changes one day when she meets the Witch of the Waste who curses Sophie.
Determined to make the best of her situation, Sophie decides to seek the help of the Wizard Howl.
Watership Down by Richard Adams
We all know this one, don't we? This is the tale of a small group of rabbits who leave their warren due to the visions of death beheld by their smallest member. Watership Down follows them through their trials and tribulations to find and protect their new home. The story of their companionship and bravery is one I love to read over and over again!Mossflower by Brian Jacques
One of my favourite childhood book series is the Redwall series by Jacques. This series follows the anthropomorphized animals living in the titular Redwall Abbey. In this series Mossflower is my favourite, which tells the story of how the Abbey came to be. It follows the heroic mouse, Martin the Warrior, as he helps the animals over throw the evil wildcat warlord, Tsarina.The Lord of the Rings: Fellowship of the Ring by JRR Tolkien
One of the first high fantasy books I ever read, and part of a favourite series for many fantasy readers. With the popularity of the films and books I'm sure I don't need to tell you what it is about! I've read and enjoyed the entire trilogy, but my firm favourite is definitely the first book.Blind Beauty by KM Peyton
When I was a pre-teen, I was obsessed with horses, so mum brought me a lot of horse-themed books. Out of all those books the one I still enjoy reading is the story of an abused girl and her love for an 'ugly' horse. Set with the back drop of the horse racing scene this book is an emotional and at times bitter-sweet story that shows how love for an animal can save a person emotionally.
What are your favourites?
You can't beat a good old soup to warm you up on a cold day, can you? Through December, we promised to show you some of our very favourite winter warmer recipes, and here's my fave! Behold, because this is pretty much what I consider my signature dish.
Wonderfully cheesy and filled with crisp tasty bacon pieces, what's not to love about this simple pasta recipe? If you love cheese and bacon then carbonara's a must-try meal for you. This is one of my favourite pasta dishes!
In the colder weather carbonara is definitely my go-to meal when I've had a really bad day. It's easy and simple to make with plenty of room for inventive extras. You could add mushrooms like they do in Italian restaurants or add other vegetables. I personally enjoy adding some spinach to the meal occasionally. If you love cheese then I am sure you will enjoy this carbonara recipe. Read on to find out how to make it!
In the colder weather carbonara is definitely my go-to meal when I've had a really bad day. It's easy and simple to make with plenty of room for inventive extras. You could add mushrooms like they do in Italian restaurants or add other vegetables. I personally enjoy adding some spinach to the meal occasionally. If you love cheese then I am sure you will enjoy this carbonara recipe. Read on to find out how to make it!
Hands up, who loves chocolate chip muffins? This recipe for muffins is a creation that I stumbled across by accident. (My chocolate chips were out of date so I desperately had to improvise.)
Continue reading to find out what I used instead!
Continue reading to find out what I used instead!
Happy Friday! Here at The Weekend Edition we've decided to focus all our posts throughout December on the theme of Christmas and Winter! So expect to see lots of winter warmer recipes and things to see and do this month!
For starters, coming up this weekend, we've got comfort food for you with two lovely recipes! We're really going all out with lot of these over the next month! So, expect to see seasonal winter warmer food, Christmassy places to explore and visit - like several Christmas Market posts - and even things we're loving and want to share with you all this Christmas.
In January, we're going to be focussing on self-improvement, so let us know if there's anything in particular you'd like to see us cover!
Love,
The Weekend Edition
For starters, coming up this weekend, we've got comfort food for you with two lovely recipes! We're really going all out with lot of these over the next month! So, expect to see seasonal winter warmer food, Christmassy places to explore and visit - like several Christmas Market posts - and even things we're loving and want to share with you all this Christmas.
To Summarise, Here's What To Expect This Month:
- Festive recipes,
- Winter warmer recipes,
- Christmas Market posts,
- What's inspiring us this December!
In January, we're going to be focussing on self-improvement, so let us know if there's anything in particular you'd like to see us cover!
Love,
The Weekend Edition
Scarthin Books is a wonderful little independent bookshop based in the Derbyshire Dales village of Cromford. Well-loved and locally famous, it's a perfect place for book lovers to visit. Situated just off Cromford Market Place, there's free parking nearby and with a good public transport network in the area too, it's easy to get to.
The Books On Offer At Scarthin Books
The shop has an impressive collection of new and second-hand books. You can find books of all descriptions among the old, sturdy bookcases. From top to bottom every single nook and cranny is filled with books. In terms of variety, I've always felt that their collection beats many high street bookshops. You can't beat the old book smell that flows through the shop!
Some subjects have their own specialised room such as the children's books and the art books. The art room is filled with art, crafts, fashion, poetry, TV & film and adult colouring books. There are two armchairs by the window which make it a cozy room to sit down in and flick through some novels. The door even has a lovely 3D map of the local area pinned to it! As for the children's room, it's bright, colourful and crammed full of books for every age! Near the picture books are a cute pair of tiny seats for children to sit on. We're sure that they'd happily spend a lifetime in there with the array of books on offer!
About the Scarthin Books Bookshop
The loyalty of its customers is best shown by the crowd funding event in March last year. Parts of the building were in need of structural repair. The staff hoped to raise £2,500 towards repair costs. They were met with overwhelming support from customers and fans from all over the world. In the end they managed to raise £20,000!
Scarthin Books has an artist in residence this year too, which just adds to its charm. The current incumbent is Liz Wellby who's a local Derbyshire artist. This is just one of the many aspects of the shop that makes it all the more unique and lovable.
Scarthin Books Vegetarian Cafe
On the second floor there's the lovely vegetarian cafe where customers can stop for a break. The cafe has a range of drinks available, including an impressive variety of herbal teas and freshly ground coffee. Katie and I visited earlier this week and stopped off here halfway through our visit to have a hot drink*. The food on offer is mostly vegetarian but they do have several vegan and gluten-free options as well. It's all homemade and includes a variety of both savoury and sweet dishes.
If you fancy a light lunch you could treat yourself to one of their soups or wraps. And for those of us with a sweet tooth, they have a variety of homemade baked goods including some delicious cakes. They even have scones with jam and cream for fans of English cream tea! What's not to love?
After enjoying our delicious drinks, Katie and I enjoyed looking at some books for ourselves. I found a few Christmas presents for a few of my book-loving family members, while Katie found a pretty little illustrated book all about Coco Chanel. I'm sure it won't be long before we're both back there, and if you fancy knowing more about Scarthin Books, click here!
Written by Amy. Editing and photography by Katie.
*Drinks were very kindly gifted by Scarthin Books, but this in no way effects our opinion.
Happy Friday! We've got some exciting book-related posts coming up over the weekend, but to kick things off, I thought I'd write a little list some of the things that life is too short for.
We are over half way through November now so it's getting colder and darker. Why not cheer yourself up with some tasty delicious homemade tomato soup?
(This recipe is easy to make and will warm you up in no time!)
(This recipe is easy to make and will warm you up in no time!)
Sometimes, as a perfectionist, life can get a bit overwhelming as you try to do it all. If you asked my closest friends (Amy, in particular) she'd tell you how much of a perfectionist I am. For starters, this blog is a product of that perfectionism! Personally, it makes me a more difficult person to live with, and it saps the fun out of everything, including my beloved hobbies. Pushing life to be as perfect as possible, and trying to do everything to the highest possible standard, can have a negative impact on you. Here's some advice:
You don't have to get it all done today. Be less harsh on yourself (I know - easier said than done!) because you'll get nowhere if you're pushing yourself too hard.
I read somewhere recently that you should treat yourself as you'd treat your best friend. It stuck in my mind, because I'm often nowhere near that nice to myself. Are you? It goes without saying that if you're consistently being harsh on yourself, you're going to end up running out of steam and self-confidence. Nothing is worth being self-loathing over. You're worthy of kindness from everyone, including yourself.
Leave whatever's stressing you out and come back to it tomorrow. Or even in a few days or weeks. It'll do you the world of good to take a step back and return with a fresh, clearer mind.
Sometimes, your friends might be able to help you out. Your family might be able to get stuck in. Don't try and do everything on your own.
Get rid of anything from your to-do list that can be done another day. I'm pretty terrible for giving myself a daily to-do list that's longer than my arm. And guess what? By the end of the day, when I've obviously failed to achieve it all, it leaves me beating myself up. Just do what you can today, and the rest can be done another day.
It's not the end of the world if you: don't get a blog post out when you were planning to, don't drink enough water for one day, don't quite meet your daily 10K step allowance (even though your Fitbit tells you off a little); I could go on. You can't achieve great things every single day, because you're only human, and you're entitled to give yourself a break.
It's okay to leave things until tomorrow.
Be kind to yourself.
I read somewhere recently that you should treat yourself as you'd treat your best friend. It stuck in my mind, because I'm often nowhere near that nice to myself. Are you? It goes without saying that if you're consistently being harsh on yourself, you're going to end up running out of steam and self-confidence. Nothing is worth being self-loathing over. You're worthy of kindness from everyone, including yourself.
When you're overwhelmed - just step away.
Leave whatever's stressing you out and come back to it tomorrow. Or even in a few days or weeks. It'll do you the world of good to take a step back and return with a fresh, clearer mind.
Reach out to others.
Sometimes, your friends might be able to help you out. Your family might be able to get stuck in. Don't try and do everything on your own.
Break tasks down.
Get rid of anything from your to-do list that can be done another day. I'm pretty terrible for giving myself a daily to-do list that's longer than my arm. And guess what? By the end of the day, when I've obviously failed to achieve it all, it leaves me beating myself up. Just do what you can today, and the rest can be done another day.
Your life isn't over if you don't get things done right now.
Do you have any advice? Let us know in the comments or find us on Twitter here.
It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas! So, join Lou on the joys of Christmas card making and giving something 'extra'...
"Bah humbug; now that's too strong! 'Cause it is my favourite holiday..." Oh yes, it's that time of year again, when you are just waiting for the Coca-Cola Truck to appear on the old box to announce it's officially CHRISTMAS! But, until that moment, it's time to pop in "Now, what I call Christmas" CD in the player and begin to MAKE Christmas cards!
"Bah humbug; now that's too strong! 'Cause it is my favourite holiday..." Oh yes, it's that time of year again, when you are just waiting for the Coca-Cola Truck to appear on the old box to announce it's officially CHRISTMAS! But, until that moment, it's time to pop in "Now, what I call Christmas" CD in the player and begin to MAKE Christmas cards!
Hands up - Who doesn't love chocolate cake?
We all know that winter can get a little depressing at times. Here, Katie talks you through some of the ways that she beats those pesky winter blues.
Not all of us deal with autumn and winter that well. The cold and the dark as we head to the tail-end of the year can leave some people feeling down. Personally, I find that the older I get, the harder it gets to deal with the colder seasons. So, here are some of my tried and tested methods for beating the blues:
Getting out
So, it might be horribly cold outside, but getting out can make a real difference to the way you feel. You don't need to hide inside all season, just wrap up warm and go and explore! One thing I absolutely love to do is grab my camera and go and take photos of nature. It gives you a reason for getting out, and you've got something to show for it when you get home.Try Hygge
The Danish tradition of Hygge is taking the world by storm right now. There's no direct translation for the word into English, but it basically involves: getting together with your friends, lighting candles, creating a cosy atmosphere, switching your phones off, consuming delicious food & drink, and having a good old natter! Sounds like bliss, doesn't it? There's a reason that the Danes are consistently voted the happiest nation on the planet!
Delicious food
Winter's the perfect time to crack out the recipe book and try all of those gorgeous winter warmer recipes! We'll be popping plenty of our own winter warmer recipes up over the next few months, so keep your eyes peeled for those! (My personal fave is a gorgeous broccoli and potato soup - recipe coming soon!)
Fake the light
This time of year is horribly dark, isn't it? If that depresses you, products like Lumie Light alarm clocks can help. I've had one for about eighteen months, and I genuinely don't think I could live without it now! If you're not familiar with them, they emit light that tricks your brain into thinking it's sunlight, for half an hour before your alarm goes off. Basically, it really helps you to wake up more easily. Before bed, you switch it on for half an hour, and it gradually gets darker to simulate sunset; helping you sleep more easily. It definitely makes those dark mornings a little more bearable!
Invest time in a new hobby
A cosy evening is a great time to try a new hobby! For example, some things I've been wanting to try for ages are scrapbooking and sewing. (Two hobbies that are perfect for cosy evenings in!) I prefer to keep busy and tend to beat myself up if I sit down all evening just watching TV. This way, you'll have something to show for those nights in. You don't have to follow in my footsteps either, you can try anything that takes your fancy.
How do you cope with winter? Does it leave you feeling a little crestfallen, or do you love the cold and cosiness? Do you have any tips? Let us know in the comments or on Twitter!
(Please note: If you're really struggling, and think you may have Seasonal Affective Disorder, please consult your doctor. You don't have to suffer in silence!)
The last weekend in October can only mean one thing: Belper Fair!
Amy's got a fabulous recipe for you today!
When you say you enjoy soaps to people, they sometimes turn their noses up at you. But, really, let’s focus on the good things that continuing dramas offer.
Unless you were living in a cave last week, or aren’t interested in soaps in the slightest (in which case, why are you reading this?!) you’ll have noticed that the ‘Northern soaps’ i.e. Emmerdale and Coronation Street, both had exciting action-packed weeks.
Seriously, if you’re yet to watch Emmerdale’s #NoReturn week, then go to ITV Hub and have a gander now! It’s nothing short of spectacular!
The stunts looked like something out of a Hollywood movie. The writing was brilliant, the acting was fantastic, and the directing from Duncan Foster was simply beautiful. Last week’s Emmerdale disaster was also branded the most-expensive soap stunt ever. So, kudos to them for showing the rest of the world how it’s done. A 19 car pile-up can’t have been easy to orchestrate, and I’ve heard it only took them 8 or 9 days to film. Last week wasn’t all about Emmerdale though. Here’s a little bit of goss…
The Explosion
Coronation Street had a special stunt week themselves, with David Platt going off the rails while seeking revenge for his wife’s stabbing.
I was lucky enough witness the explosion being filmed about six weeks ago. Purely randomly though. By chance, I was walking along Salford Quays, on my way to a work placement. I was renting an apartment there which overlooked the set. It was about half 9 in the morning, I was minding my own business and then ‘Bang!‘ Needless to say, it really made me jump, but all I could see was a cloud of black smoke emerging from the set and floating up into the sky.
The explosion that just went off at the Coronation Street set as I walked past didn’t half make me jump! 😂 pic.twitter.com/KHSnNu7Vzc
— Katie Brown (@katiee_brown) August 25, 2016
At the time, that’s all I knew. I didn’t even know which particular characters were involved until people got in touch on Twitter to let me know it was David Platt. Until last night’s transmission, I’d no idea that half the cast were present at the time and that the explosion I’d seen took place right outside the Rovers. Or even that Poor Anna Windass was on fire.
So, why do I think soaps are great? Here are a handful of reasons:
Tackling Important Issues
Soaps discuss and confront issues that often go unnoticed by drama series. Let’s look at Ashley’s dementia storyline in Emmerdale. It’s being incredibly well-written, and well-acted by the wonderful John Middleton. The episode that focussed on him on Thursday was nothing short of tragic to watch. It is incredibly sad to watch a much-loved character slowly fade away, and the character’s visible frustration with his condition only adds to the audience’s sadness. Dementia is something that unfortunately affects are large swathe of the population, so it’s only right that soaps highlight such issues. Soaps don’t generally tend to glamourise certain health conditions either, which is incredibly important for an accurate portrayal.
Humour Alongside Pathos
Realism, with a Touch of Surrealism
So why do some people shun soaps? It is a class thing? Is it a gender-specific thing? Some people don’t see them as a valuable form of escapism or entertainment, and that’s fine. You can’t please all of the people all of the time; but I hope you know how much you missed out last week.
Do you love soaps too? Or can’t you stand them? Let us know in the comments, or on Twitter!
By Katie
Lou explains this weekend why getting away from it all, and leaving technology well alone, is sometimes the best medicine; here she talks about her recent trip to Somerset.
During the summer (yes, I know...what summer?), I visited and stayed in Somerset. This was part of my summer job which involved going to an outdoor pursuit centre. You read it right - an outdoor pursuit centre. Now, I'm a city girl, my version of 'outdoor pursuits' consists of: petrol fumes, crowds and decrepit 1960s buildings, not fresh air, nature and rock-climbing.
I'm not going to write about how many bruises I got (unfortunately, I wasn't the winner of Sexy Legs of 2016) or about how bl**dy terrified I was of caving - but ended up loving it - or even how I was spoilt with delicious, home-cooked meals (the diet starts next year....) What I am going to write about what I saw.
Now, have you ever been to a place where the view is so spectacular that you just feel absolute peace? Have you ever been to a place where you want to take the view home to show everyone the beauty of it all? I wish I could have taken a photograph of the view but I fear even the latest camera technology could not capture that feeling of absolute awe.
"Sometimes, these views can only be captured by our own eyes."
I mentioned that I'm not going to write about what I did there but I do feel that I need to explain how I got to this view in the first place. I was on the way back from an expedition - I do love a bit of walking, it's good for the soul - it was lunch time which was quite a relief as my feet were beginning to ache. After making our way through the forest, we reached a grassy area, just as the sun began to rise through the rain and drizzle.
Luckily enough, this grass was on a steep hill, as I sat and rested - there was this view. The view of Bristol, Clifton Suspension Bridge and Wales...to me that was a view. You could see the view of life - people in cars driving along to their jobs, to their families, you could see houses and factories, where people are working, loving, being; you could see life...the world was turning.
Unless you are lucky to live in a 'beauty spot', views like this only exist on travel programmes, or Escape to the Country or even on Poldark.
I don't know exactly where I was when I saw this view. All I know I was in Somerset, that's all. Sometimes, these views can only be captured by our own eyes. They can only be special when we don't know where we are.
By Lou
Where's your favourite view?
Let us know by Tweeting us, or tagging us in a pic of it on Instagram!
Amy’s first post on the blog features this healthy, hearty lentil bolognese recipe; perfect for Vegetarians and meat eaters alike!
(It’s really easy to make too!)
This bolognese is just as satisfying as its meaty counterpart, and quick and easy to prepare too! I enjoy tasty one pan dishes like this in the autumn, there’s nothing better than coming home and making a simple hearty dish to warm myself up. Chopping up the vegetables can be very therapeutic after a long hard day’s work as well. If you want to you could try adding green, yellow and/or orange peppers into the mix to add some colour to an otherwise very red bolognese.
This recipe is possible on a student budget if you buy your vegetables loose, a single tin of lentils would be more than enough and can be brought quite cheaply.
Servings: 2
INGREDIENTS:
- 400g lentils (If you’re planning making this dish for one, you just need to halve the amount of lentils.)
- 1/2 red onion
- 1/2 red pepper
- 8 cherry tomatoes
- 5 mushrooms (chestnut or common)
- 1 clove of garlic
- 100ml water
- 1 stock cube (I used vegetable stock)
- 1 tsp tomato puree
- 2 tsp oregano
- 1 tbsp sunflower oil
- Seasoning
METHOD:
- Rinse the lentils and put to one side.
- Chop the vegetables and garlic.
- Boil 100ml of water.
- Saute the onion, garlic and pepper for 5 minutes.
- Add the tomatoes and mushrooms and saute for a further 10 minutes.
- Add the water, puree, oregano and stock cube.
- Bring to the boil and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Add the lentils and stir thoroughly, seasoning to taste.
- Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Serve the bolognese with pasta of your choice. (I chose Spaghetti.)
- Enjoy!
I hope you enjoy this recipe. Let us know if you make it by tweeting us or tagging us in a pic on Instagram.
Last weekend it was speed dating, this weekend it's swimming! Join Lou on her adventures of learning how to swim and prizing her fingers from those floats.
I let go off the balls and hands recently. You may be thinking “What on earth is she on about? And do I want to know?” Too right I say….but it is all innocent, don’t you worry. For the past…ahem…two years I have been learning on how to swim. Every Tuesday, I attend an adult class where two very (and I mean, very) patient and wonderful instructors teach/coach adults to swim – either better or from the beginning.
It was only as an adult, I wanted to learn to swim. School swimming lessons was an opportunity to not to do any “proper” work and besides, the class was too big. So, I decided as my 2015 new year’s resolution to take the plunge, literally, and sign up for swimming classes. Off I went up and down the pool swimming with floats, learning to breathe, kicking my feet…I thought I would be independent (without floats) within the matter of weeks. Have you ever seen that advert in the cinema where ‘apparently’ it takes an average person (who is this average person?) around 20 lessons to learn to swim? Pffttt...
Well, as I said, roll on nearly two years and I’ve only just learnt to be independent around two months ago. Believe me, my instructors and myself tried everything to prize my fingers from those floats…noodles…a metal pole at some point….and various other equipment. But, it turned out that my fingers were tightly or rather glued on to these things, like a magnet to a fridge...
I – and we – even tried to diagnose my “problem” to this attachment problem. Am I afraid of water? Nope…I love water. Seriously, I do. I was that child, in those school swimming lessons, that was leaping into water even though I couldn’t swim. Am I afraid of drowning? Well, yes…but isn’t everybody?? Am I afraid of what may happen if I let go? Probably. Isn’t everybody?
As adults, we lose that wanderlust that we seem to have as a child where we are not afraid of the consequences; not afraid of the…ifs, buts and maybes. I don’t know how or when we lose that innocence, at some point, we learn to control ourselves and think of the consequences.
We know that if we let go, something bad may happen, which may harm ourselves or others. But, what we forget is…if we do let go, something good may happen. If I let go of the objects…then, I may float…and start to actually swim. This change of attitude came around after getting frustrated with myself – I started to compare my progress with those who were new to swimming but by the end of the lesson, started to swim like Ariel…
One should not compare with others; the rate of learning differs from person to person…but that comparison can be a good motivator to improve. I was sick of my lack of progress. I wanted to be like Ariel, so I began to focus, I stared at the wall, leapt up and let go. A huge step and gosh, it felt good!!! I survived. It was only a couple of metres but that to me was real progress. I’ve been building on that experience ever since; just little steps such as swimming more of a distance, and trying to get the arms working. It will come in time, I know, but I'm just so glad that I have finally made that leap...
What age did you learn to swim?
By Lou
Twitter | Bloglovin' | Instagram
I let go off the balls and hands recently. You may be thinking “What on earth is she on about? And do I want to know?” Too right I say….but it is all innocent, don’t you worry. For the past…ahem…two years I have been learning on how to swim. Every Tuesday, I attend an adult class where two very (and I mean, very) patient and wonderful instructors teach/coach adults to swim – either better or from the beginning.
It was only as an adult, I wanted to learn to swim. School swimming lessons was an opportunity to not to do any “proper” work and besides, the class was too big. So, I decided as my 2015 new year’s resolution to take the plunge, literally, and sign up for swimming classes. Off I went up and down the pool swimming with floats, learning to breathe, kicking my feet…I thought I would be independent (without floats) within the matter of weeks. Have you ever seen that advert in the cinema where ‘apparently’ it takes an average person (who is this average person?) around 20 lessons to learn to swim? Pffttt...
Well, as I said, roll on nearly two years and I’ve only just learnt to be independent around two months ago. Believe me, my instructors and myself tried everything to prize my fingers from those floats…noodles…a metal pole at some point….and various other equipment. But, it turned out that my fingers were tightly or rather glued on to these things, like a magnet to a fridge...
I – and we – even tried to diagnose my “problem” to this attachment problem. Am I afraid of water? Nope…I love water. Seriously, I do. I was that child, in those school swimming lessons, that was leaping into water even though I couldn’t swim. Am I afraid of drowning? Well, yes…but isn’t everybody?? Am I afraid of what may happen if I let go? Probably. Isn’t everybody?
As adults, we lose that wanderlust that we seem to have as a child where we are not afraid of the consequences; not afraid of the…ifs, buts and maybes. I don’t know how or when we lose that innocence, at some point, we learn to control ourselves and think of the consequences.
We know that if we let go, something bad may happen, which may harm ourselves or others. But, what we forget is…if we do let go, something good may happen. If I let go of the objects…then, I may float…and start to actually swim. This change of attitude came around after getting frustrated with myself – I started to compare my progress with those who were new to swimming but by the end of the lesson, started to swim like Ariel…
One should not compare with others; the rate of learning differs from person to person…but that comparison can be a good motivator to improve. I was sick of my lack of progress. I wanted to be like Ariel, so I began to focus, I stared at the wall, leapt up and let go. A huge step and gosh, it felt good!!! I survived. It was only a couple of metres but that to me was real progress. I’ve been building on that experience ever since; just little steps such as swimming more of a distance, and trying to get the arms working. It will come in time, I know, but I'm just so glad that I have finally made that leap...
What age did you learn to swim?
By Lou
Twitter | Bloglovin' | Instagram
Ahh Autumn. You're here already. Which means the nights are drawing in, it's getting colder, and winter's hurtling towards us faster than we'd perhaps like; but let's focus on the positives of autumn instead, shall we?
For the first time ever, I've felt pretty down about the fact that we're heading into Autumn. I normally embrace it entirely, but this year's left me feeling a little miserable about it. Perhaps it's something to do with the fact that we've not really had much of a proper summer in Britain, or that I'm just not ready to let summer go.
Let's look on the bright side though, there are so many things to love about this season. From the colours on the trees, to the crisp, bright mornings, and even to the cosy evenings in. In fact, here's a short list of all the things I'm embracing about this season.
by Katie
For the first time ever, I've felt pretty down about the fact that we're heading into Autumn. I normally embrace it entirely, but this year's left me feeling a little miserable about it. Perhaps it's something to do with the fact that we've not really had much of a proper summer in Britain, or that I'm just not ready to let summer go.
Let's look on the bright side though, there are so many things to love about this season. From the colours on the trees, to the crisp, bright mornings, and even to the cosy evenings in. In fact, here's a short list of all the things I'm embracing about this season.
Things to look forward to in Autumn:
- Crisp Autumnal days.
- The colours of the leaves!
- Comfort food.
- The gentle pitter patter of rain hitting the windows at night.
- Warm coats.
- Cracking the extensive scarf and snood collection out.
- The fact it's nearly... Christmas. (Yeah, I said it.)
- Cosy evenings in.
What do you love about Autumn? Let us know in the comments or Tweet us!
by Katie
Join Lou on her arduous journey to find her Prince Charming by embarking on several speed dating sessions.
Hands up on those who have been Speed Dating? Okay…about average….Hands up on those who have been Speed Dating a couple of times? Okay, a few down….Hands up on those who have been Speed Dating at least Five times? Nope…just me then?
For those singletons out there [which still includes me], the world of Dating and managing to capture a partner is like driving to the most beautiful place on Earth (anywhere you like, I’m flexible) and then, only to break down at the near-top of a hill in a clutch-less Ford KA. Whilst cars drive past to that place, you are waiting for an AA man to rescue you and take you to the nearest garage home. You never get to see or even visit that most beautiful place as no matter how many times you try, you cannot seem to go over that hill.
So, what can one do after years of trying? Hitch a lift? Or try to find alternative ways of transportation? After being single for a huge amount of time (to the extent, I couldn’t remember the last time a guy has taken an interest in me) I took the plunge and decided to book a place on a Speed Dating event – this was two years back....
Now, it depends on what area or city you live in, I imagine that London has exciting and unusual speed dating events there. I read about “Shhh Dating” where you date in Silence, I even read about an event where you get taught how to date at the National gallery…but in the East Midlands those events don't exist (or do they?). It seems that this is the area where tumbleweeds does not visit. Maybe, everyone in this city/region is attached; maybe we don’t want to be attached to each other...
I never thought I would find myself in this single predicament in my mid-twenties; I thought I would be at least with somebody or even, engaged. How I laugh at that thought now! I thought that Speed Dating was for sad, desperate people and that there was a reason why they were single. I had no plans to join that party…until I realised that I was on the golden invitation list. Yay!
Here I was paying my £20 to speed date with my age group and I must admit it wasn’t that bad an ordeal. I was nervous and very much alone as I attended my first, let’s call it, SD. It is true that some people attend with their friends – I can even imagine the conversation that they had over this whilst stating how “fun” it shall be. When you attending on your own, it can be quite daunting, you feel like you are billy-no-mates as you stand there at the bar drinking orange juice as you are driving. You look at your phone trying to procure the look of “I’m popular, you know” and so it begins.
You get given a sticky label with a number on it, if you are a lady, you sit at that table number and if you are a man, then you are a number that moves around. The host, in my case, the hosts explains the evening and gives out the spiel of “let’s have fun…you never know…” You get giving a mark sheet of “Date, Friend or just no” and are reminded to make sure you write your “date” names down. Now, this instruction can be complicated to fulfil as you try to make that important decision as you got to match up your decisions with their decisions in hope of getting a “match”. As I said, I have been to FIVE of them and I’m going to share a summary of what happened to me on those SD with some advice accompanying them:
SD#1 – (No Matches)
• A man explains that he cares for his Father (which is a tough job) but he is in a custody battle over his kids. Hmmm…right….Not to mention that he has a huge amount of B’O which cued four minutes of holding my breath.
• Another just TALKING to the table (yep) for FOUR minutes rather to me.
• One just writing and saying “No” in front of me….Nice…
Advice:
• Conversations exist between two or more people. I’m interested in people’s lives but if I wanted a soliloquy I would have read Shakespeare.
• Smell nice…no smell lovely…please. A good aftershave or perfume is a turn-on.
• Weren't you taught that manners cost nothing? and to have respect!
• Another just TALKING to the table (yep) for FOUR minutes rather to me.
• One just writing and saying “No” in front of me….Nice…
Advice:
• Conversations exist between two or more people. I’m interested in people’s lives but if I wanted a soliloquy I would have read Shakespeare.
• Smell nice…no smell lovely…please. A good aftershave or perfume is a turn-on.
• Weren't you taught that manners cost nothing? and to have respect!
SD#2 (No matches)
This was a disaster for me; I had to speed date whilst having a mild case of food poisoning from a dodgy tuna sandwich…hmmm....let’s skip this one.
SD#3 (Two matches with two fine young men which equalled to two dates– obviously, separate)
So, by this stage, I was becoming a bit of a regular to the extent that the hosts was asking me “What was wrong with me?” or "Am I being too fussy?" Of course, being friendly, I just laughed it off but inside, I was saying “Why does something has to be wrong with me?” and "I want a decent man that smells lovely and that IS interested in me?" – I bet, no Man ever gets this insult.
In summary:
• An early twenty-something who thought he was God’s gift to women whilst telling inappropriate sexist jokes about “fucking” and “Kid Rock”…thank god, for loud background music.
Advice:
• Don’t be a dickhead….
Advice:
• See Advice for SD #3
So, Five SD’s later and with some "nice" (notice, the word nice) dates along the way, I am still single. Yes, I did manage to get a quick peak over that hill and it was worth every eye full but what I want now is to get that full ogle and visit that damn beautiful place. But....what I don't want is to go on another let’s-go-and-sit-in-a-bar-ring-the-bell-talk-for-four-minutes speed dating event…unless…it’s something different (open to all “sensible” offers…) Though I did enjoy them and got to speak to some rather handsome, intelligent men it was the “aftermath” I did not enjoy…
The next day, you receive your match via text/email….you are riding “high” from the night before thinking that you had a good night but in fact…you find out you have no matches. Now, this only happened two out of the four SD’s events but for me...I decided that I’ve been on one too many and also, hoped too much. I was sick of selling myself 15 times over in one event to get a man to “like” me. However, what I have learnt is that I tried the world of SD, then found out that maybe four minutes can be one minute too long and one minute too short for all that important "chemistry".
In summary:
• An early twenty-something who thought he was God’s gift to women whilst telling inappropriate sexist jokes about “fucking” and “Kid Rock”…thank god, for loud background music.
Advice:
• Don’t be a dickhead….
SD#4 (One Match which lead into several rather nice dates with him)
• God’s Gift returned more gentlemanly this time but with an expression of that he is better than you…Advice:
• See Advice for SD #3
SD#5
CANCELLED due to host being sick….thank god….So, Five SD’s later and with some "nice" (notice, the word nice) dates along the way, I am still single. Yes, I did manage to get a quick peak over that hill and it was worth every eye full but what I want now is to get that full ogle and visit that damn beautiful place. But....what I don't want is to go on another let’s-go-and-sit-in-a-bar-ring-the-bell-talk-for-four-minutes speed dating event…unless…it’s something different (open to all “sensible” offers…) Though I did enjoy them and got to speak to some rather handsome, intelligent men it was the “aftermath” I did not enjoy…
The next day, you receive your match via text/email….you are riding “high” from the night before thinking that you had a good night but in fact…you find out you have no matches. Now, this only happened two out of the four SD’s events but for me...I decided that I’ve been on one too many and also, hoped too much. I was sick of selling myself 15 times over in one event to get a man to “like” me. However, what I have learnt is that I tried the world of SD, then found out that maybe four minutes can be one minute too long and one minute too short for all that important "chemistry".
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
