tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-84111749241767009342024-03-13T00:14:57.646+00:00The Wren's NestA life filled with love and light & all things bright and beautiful. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10513328968113414913noreply@blogger.comBlogger51125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8411174924176700934.post-16610166743475976482014-08-12T15:57:00.000+01:002014-08-12T15:57:07.836+01:00Summer Skincare Discoveries - Hydraluron Moisture Jelly Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6oOikM4aUFuafDjrFPrGSAxogIEqI9OMOd8gey73Dr_P_bXca0ybJany1vD1WCbQBQpwj9IbQ8RqQrI8zKhTn3Y0AcZ2Uf378uhWGVr9lYO5NotNXvHAVvaauVf9gGLHIVmz3ZjFOH27N/s1600/summerskincarediscoveries.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6oOikM4aUFuafDjrFPrGSAxogIEqI9OMOd8gey73Dr_P_bXca0ybJany1vD1WCbQBQpwj9IbQ8RqQrI8zKhTn3Y0AcZ2Uf378uhWGVr9lYO5NotNXvHAVvaauVf9gGLHIVmz3ZjFOH27N/s1600/summerskincarediscoveries.png" height="510" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Why is it that all your skincare runs out at the same time? You would think that a cleanser would get used up at a different rate to a serum, but no. In the last month I have had to replenish my cream/balm cleanser, wash-off cleanser, daytime moisturiser, anti-ageing serum, and both kinds of toner. So no spreading the cost of beauty for me - it's been one big expensive month. And of course, being the fly-by-night, promiscuous, disloyal consumer I am that means an opportunity to try some lovely new products. Here is the rundown of my latest skincare discoveries.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqPH5qgZTjwuSaGjOf0-_rXiQ2oo3aeKcsqYU50YqDYVwNT_lAcQ6SkMqQpeKAgNblXZdr1ZsJ2EKpZ0XflSonZ2VhwBKvDhHQ_PtmffH1quBZ-aBkMIpX7JFh1aXiAAc-bQrRnT4JDAPr/s1600/melvitanectar.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqPH5qgZTjwuSaGjOf0-_rXiQ2oo3aeKcsqYU50YqDYVwNT_lAcQ6SkMqQpeKAgNblXZdr1ZsJ2EKpZ0XflSonZ2VhwBKvDhHQ_PtmffH1quBZ-aBkMIpX7JFh1aXiAAc-bQrRnT4JDAPr/s1600/melvitanectar.png" height="640" width="425" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.feelunique.com/p/Melvita-Nectar-Pur-Purifying-Cleansing-Jelly-200ml" target="_blank">Melvita Nectar Pur Purifying Cleansing jelly -£16 @ Feel Unique</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
First up is a new brand for me - <b>Melvita, </b>a French, natural, 'resolutely organic' cosmetic company<b>- </b>and their <i><a href="http://www.feelunique.com/p/Melvita-Nectar-Pur-Purifying-Cleansing-Jelly-200ml" target="_blank">Purifying Cleansing Jelly</a></i>. This is lovely. It's light and refreshing so ideal for a morning cleanse, and it feels ever so gentle. But your skin feels incredibly clean after using it - brighter and fresher and radiant without any tightness. This one is a keeper. Find more Melvita at <a href="http://www.feelunique.com/brands/melvita" target="_blank">Feel Unique</a> - I'm currently coveting their Organic Rose Beauty Mist and Pulpe de Rose Plumping radiance Duo (a flower water spray & facial oil in one - you gotta love a multi-tasker!).<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAvqY3xBh4vqJ1rnp-16HWyfmxm6trxNfFm-Hqr5Wq3tr5qzMsiRC0HsWuxtQRb5MuLKOLLjf1WLg25y2QZY6eKg7EGqSrpBKNQrvwYaRJh3vTQpv6SYMBB2pG7XiR59qEY8mtAL1l92pL/s1600/IMG_1138.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAvqY3xBh4vqJ1rnp-16HWyfmxm6trxNfFm-Hqr5Wq3tr5qzMsiRC0HsWuxtQRb5MuLKOLLjf1WLg25y2QZY6eKg7EGqSrpBKNQrvwYaRJh3vTQpv6SYMBB2pG7XiR59qEY8mtAL1l92pL/s1600/IMG_1138.JPG" height="640" width="384" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.renskincare.com/p/3788?gclid=CjwKEAjw9qafBRCRiYrL4-fpuFkSJACvocQ1PO8OfgvqNw1RqMfdd0Z1tsOChnx_ZR81dZEiUKaSqBoCSbPw_wcB" target="_blank">REN Rosa Centifolia Hot Cloth Cleanser - £16</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I am becoming slightly addicted to skincare smelling of roses at the moment which is what led me to try my next newbie - <i><a href="http://www.renskincare.com/p/3788?gclid=CjwKEAjw9qafBRCRiYrL4-fpuFkSJACvocQ1PO8OfgvqNw1RqMfdd0Z1tsOChnx_ZR81dZEiUKaSqBoCSbPw_wcB" target="_blank"><b>Ren</b>'s Rosa Centifolia Hot Cloth Cleanser</a></i>. Having become a convert to cleansing with a hot flannel every evening with balm cleansers I thought I'd give a traditional Liz Earle-style hot cloth cream cleanser another go. This smells DIVINE - hypnotically heady with the scent of rose which is delightful in a bedtime cleanser. The cleanser itself is perfectly good - it does seem to remove all traces of make-up and dirt when double-cleansing as I always do at the end of the day. I could never get on with the<i> Liz Earle Cleanse and Polish </i>as I always felt it left a residue on my skin. This is better, much better and I will continue using it until it runs out. But there's something about the texture that will keep me from repurchasing it. I think I'm more of an oil/ balm cleanser kind of a girl and so next on my 'to try' list is <a href="http://www.renskincare.com/p/3230/Rosa+Centifolia%E2%84%A2+No.1+Purity+Cleansing+Balm+-+150ml#ProductReviews" target="_blank">Ren's rose balm cleanser</a>. But if you love your Liz Earle or other cream cleansers - give it a go. It costs £16 and comes with a cleansing cloth - it's worth it for the smell alone!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqZpnGtT2RXh5d9BSiYCwm9FBFOjGlNnUzQ3OcxdSU1upD_y0XFjmpVVKafxeC3jSr8HDWzVlNcmQiQXOOgQGo_3vJCKhX76LCXNXBj1bK-TNuRYD1WZgAJeTBkn3i__zMhey_H-Va0KB8/s1600/IMG_1132.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqZpnGtT2RXh5d9BSiYCwm9FBFOjGlNnUzQ3OcxdSU1upD_y0XFjmpVVKafxeC3jSr8HDWzVlNcmQiQXOOgQGo_3vJCKhX76LCXNXBj1bK-TNuRYD1WZgAJeTBkn3i__zMhey_H-Va0KB8/s1600/IMG_1132.JPG" height="425" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.feelunique.com/p/First-Aid-Beauty-Facial-Radiance-Pads-60" target="_blank">First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads - £20.50 @ Feel Unique</a>; <a href="http://www.esteelauder.co.uk/products/8241/Product-Catalog/Skincare/Collections/Advanced-Night-Repair/index.tmpl" target="_blank">Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair - £43-£82 available nationwide</a>; <a href="http://www.feelunique.com/p/Murad_Hydrating_Toner_150ml" target="_blank">Murad Hydrating Toner - £20.70 @ Feel Unique</a><br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
A quick whizz through the next three. I have given <b>Estee Lauder</b> Advanced Night Repair Synchronized Recovery Complex II (that name just trips off the tongue, doesn't it?) another go after it was recently reformulated. It's okay. Just okay. I mean it has a nice serum texture, sinks in quickly (with a little stickiness) and my skin feels nice and soft the next morning. But I'm not convinced that my skin wouldn't look just as soft and plump from wearing just my night cream. And for 40 to 80 quid a bottle I want to feel sure it's doing something. Personally, I think there are far better serums out there for the same or less money - <i>Decleor</i>'s Aromessence range, <i>Ole Henriksen</i>, <i>Perricone MD</i>, <i>Alpha H</i> - all lesser known brands that take a little more hunting down but are well worth searching for. Sometimes your local beauty counter just doesn't cut it. I shall finish the bottle, but I shan't be repurchasing.<br />
<br />
Onto the toners - <b>Murad</b>'s Resurgence Hydrating Toner is lovely. It comes in a spray bottle, smells glorious and is lightly and refreshingly hydrating. And it lasts - I've had this for nearly a month, using it morning and evening and just look at that bottle - at this rate it's going to last well into the new year. Not earth-shattering or World-changing but really blooming lovely! The<b> First Aid Beauty</b> pads are great, too. Lightly exfoliating, they are the gentlest acid toner I've tried and leave the skin radiant and ready for better absorption of the rest of your skincare routine without leaving them ravaged like some of the stronger ones. A new staple I think.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA__OcieYYmlNLm2AKsBUQjM9rzVetejJfTLsqAcNSfUC5OxcysbdJJ0SNFFgxjrD0c5AYRQYUT5mGGS5ADqHVqlY_bNEQV8qVk6OzyREzuEuM5PtyvZQHrrRGSAmuckTCe8K_QTQ_KHll/s1600/IMG_1152.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA__OcieYYmlNLm2AKsBUQjM9rzVetejJfTLsqAcNSfUC5OxcysbdJJ0SNFFgxjrD0c5AYRQYUT5mGGS5ADqHVqlY_bNEQV8qVk6OzyREzuEuM5PtyvZQHrrRGSAmuckTCe8K_QTQ_KHll/s1600/IMG_1152.JPG" height="450" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.boots.com/en/Indeed-Labs-hydraluron-moisture-jelly_1493124/" target="_blank">Indeed Laboratories Hydraluron Moisture Jelly - £24.99 (currently £16.66) @ Boots</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Finally comes my favourite - <a href="http://www.boots.com/en/Indeed-Labs-hydraluron-moisture-jelly_1493124/" target="_blank">Indeed Labs Hydraluron Moisture Jelly</a> (currently on offer in Boots for £16.66 down from £24.99). First of all, let's just talk about the packaging, shall we? My God that colour is incredible, it (very importantly) looks great on a bathroom shelf! And the clear pot is a fab idea as you can see exactly how much product you have left. The press top dispenser is an ingenious design, releasing the perfect amount for the whole face cleanly and easily. Incidentally, I have only ever seen this sort of pot used by top end £60 plus creams, so the fact that Indeed Labs have managed to manufacture this and keep the price below £25 is, indeed (sorry!), remarkable. This stuff is wonderful - packed full of hyaluronic acid (which encourages your skin to hold on to moisture) and filled with hydrators in a water-based gel. It sinks in immediately and leaves your skin smoothed and plumped without any residue or shine. Perfect for combination skin. Make-up glides over it. Love love love this moisturiser. Buy buy buy it!<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10513328968113414913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8411174924176700934.post-19209277880809253022014-08-07T08:52:00.000+01:002014-08-07T08:52:08.406+01:00A Capital Time - London Loveliness<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0W6_asvAZewCS48GY10t6iqUUu_XfK5oRivVw9kfWvi-hThsbZqfpWgmXi3oX7GnjZahJ3G9v0Oz1utgubnscaGqaz14LkG40om7Asbj0XxZQd8-UXMY38TBteg5BEi2x-ObZUj-DVEgU/s1600/familyslide.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0W6_asvAZewCS48GY10t6iqUUu_XfK5oRivVw9kfWvi-hThsbZqfpWgmXi3oX7GnjZahJ3G9v0Oz1utgubnscaGqaz14LkG40om7Asbj0XxZQd8-UXMY38TBteg5BEi2x-ObZUj-DVEgU/s1600/familyslide.png.png" height="640" width="480" /></span></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">My gorgeous family <span style="text-align: center;">spent last weekend in London. It was a fairly last minute plan - two weeks ago Mr Wren and I sat down in his office, looked at his calendar and realised that if we didn't go away that weekend we would end up not going anywhere at all this holiday. Now the Little Wrens and I are getting along fine but we all needed a change of scenery. So a hotel was found, train tickets were booked and we all had something to look forward to.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIrcqNmG1J5Jshvb2E6Rl0GjTncDiXFn3ae0GudMfrWQIQOG-nba6sv5eLjRp_2SRN01rxhGLcyMQQdwmeHNDVjUKujNleNBWzHwV4YN_OQCYJPOpUUuwWVOOChDrGNUGIG0mf2NkAbfDB/s1600/waitingfortrain.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIrcqNmG1J5Jshvb2E6Rl0GjTncDiXFn3ae0GudMfrWQIQOG-nba6sv5eLjRp_2SRN01rxhGLcyMQQdwmeHNDVjUKujNleNBWzHwV4YN_OQCYJPOpUUuwWVOOChDrGNUGIG0mf2NkAbfDB/s1600/waitingfortrain.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">My soft spot for my old adoptive city is well documented - it is where I feel most at home. But the children too just LOVE London. We have always spent time with them there - my sister in law lives there, so that always makes things easier - but there is nothing quite like staying in a hotel in the centre of a city to really give you a taste of the metropolis. </span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Master Wren would in all honesty be happy to ride around on the tube all day, but his choice of London landmark was a visit to The British Museum. Having studied the Egyptians at school last year he was very excited to see all of the ancient Egyptian relics. We saw actual mummies and tombs, the Rosetta Stone (which I was vaguely aware of but my encyclopaedic son explained "was the key to unlocking the meaning of hieroglyphics" - so there you go!) and even a preserved two thousand year old body (complete with hair and skin intact). It's a very special place, although I couldn't help wondering quite what all of those wonderful exhibits from around the World were doing in dear old Blighty. All of it presumably acquired during the grand days of the British Empire. Fabulous as it was to see it all, it does feel a bit like a very large and impressive exhibition of all that we have plundered from other nations. </span></div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHGHlRDPEV490qRhFN_qc-hx3xfBuFXv6OHz96eNFro3J39LJht58ESnFcHKq5Mk6FPhHxo0HqLMCF41uszsorehOT52DnvBgZk1k5HhFnkGdd-lRBbopAukXSOcaxeH0e2xGMsIjyKbdO/s1600/museumCollage.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHGHlRDPEV490qRhFN_qc-hx3xfBuFXv6OHz96eNFro3J39LJht58ESnFcHKq5Mk6FPhHxo0HqLMCF41uszsorehOT52DnvBgZk1k5HhFnkGdd-lRBbopAukXSOcaxeH0e2xGMsIjyKbdO/s1600/museumCollage.png.png" height="310" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Our hotel was near St James' Park, so for dinner on Saturday night we wandered out past Scotland Yard through the grounds of Westminster Abbey, crossed the road in front of Big Ben and walked alongside the Houses Of Parliament, crossing the Thames at Westminster Bridge to reach the South Bank. So pretty unremarkable really! The South Bank itself had, as it does every Summer, given itself over to The Southbank Festival which this year took the theme of 'Love'. So after stuffing ourselves silly in Canteen, the children took a spin on the carousel and we all threw ourselves down the enormous family slides they had dotted around (see photo, top), before treating ourselves to an ice cream and taking a sundown stroll back to our hotel. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeIiIFjeABr4etUIUJCJMnEFl21_xhsMhp_YCF0VcTCqwREUbtcs7GDmpEF51wvaCOAwMwbKkjWXh-jcVMbBiUjBkdLBkOags6f86A2aerRnE2YtLmZqzywlhA0CCTZVruzPLeRzLD5mRY/s1600/southbankstroll.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeIiIFjeABr4etUIUJCJMnEFl21_xhsMhp_YCF0VcTCqwREUbtcs7GDmpEF51wvaCOAwMwbKkjWXh-jcVMbBiUjBkdLBkOags6f86A2aerRnE2YtLmZqzywlhA0CCTZVruzPLeRzLD5mRY/s1600/southbankstroll.jpg.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Maxi Dress - American Vintage</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Sunday began with breakfast with a view of Buckingham Palace in St James' Park followed by a quick tube ride (oh, happy boy!) to South Kensington and a wander around Miss Wren's museum of choice, the V&A. I love this place and spent many lazy hours as a student gazing longingly at the vintage Dior and Balmain dresses on display. So beautiful. Both children were fascinated by the fashion through the ages and were hypnotised by the jewellery exhibit. The dizzying display of diamonds left me feeling slightly giddy. They really are a girl's best friend. Or would be, if she could ever get her mitts on any!! Breathtaking!</span></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">We spent our last few hours in the capital in sunny Hyde Park, before heading to Paddington on our last legs to begin our journey home. We had a wonderful family weekend. </span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">In order to have as full a weekend as possible we caught the early train to London on Saturday morning. So we were all up at 7am and out the door before 8. Breakfast needed to be eaten on the train so on Friday evening I baked some healthy and sustaining muffins for our railway picnic. They were also very delicious. Here's the recipe....</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlrsss-ZU5LWSbLAHgYidPaC9WlbDf9Km7Auypbnas7DE1h8ojkE59Zn_jj2LhRkhC5FNT8O97gUSAsSQgMhfV3DyR5ooTywYkZU7Q5IRfbuXKHT8_QhUWbFCriDNmmIIsK3ViromSI4WL/s1600/bananamuffins.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlrsss-ZU5LWSbLAHgYidPaC9WlbDf9Km7Auypbnas7DE1h8ojkE59Zn_jj2LhRkhC5FNT8O97gUSAsSQgMhfV3DyR5ooTywYkZU7Q5IRfbuXKHT8_QhUWbFCriDNmmIIsK3ViromSI4WL/s1600/bananamuffins.png.png" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><b><i>30g unsalted butter</i></b></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><b><i>60g (two heaped tablespoons) honey</i></b></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><b><i>1/2 tsp vanilla extract</i></b></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><b><i>3 tbsps crunchy peanut butter</i></b></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><b><i>2 large ripe bananas</i></b></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><b><i>150g light spelt flour</i></b></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><b><i>1 heaped teaspoon baking powder</i></b></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><b><i>1/2 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda</i></b></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><b><i>1/2 teaspoon cinnamon</i></b></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><b><i>Pinch of salt</i></b></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><b><i>Around 12 teaspoons raspberry jam.</i></b></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><b>12 hole muffin tin and cases</b></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><b>Preheat your oven to 190 degrees C/ gas mark 5</b></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><b>Put the butter, honey and vanilla in a pan on a low heat to melt, then set aside. Mash the bananas.</b></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><b>In a large bowl, measure out the flour, bicarb, baking powder, cinnamon and salt. Mix the peanut butter and bananas with the melted butter mixture and combine with the dry ingredients.</b></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><b>Line the muffin tin with the cases and fill them about half full. Dollop a scant teaspoon of jam in the centre of each, then top with the remaining batter (making sure that all jam is covered).</b></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><b>Put in the oven and bake for about 25 minutes. Eat warm ideally. Train optional.</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR53SMLpSkypREsRACrMXGBNcXsZpG6FiXyTougYNEqzqJkAxlmA0JoFcQ88sLTYFhDFBwnDG4E8rhqwgxwRGCcnQ8mPblgB5RzrCrUOS1efNimL8mY4CSSbTNvyN5XP6I2QjHj_nyOTWQ/s1600/bananamuffinclose.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR53SMLpSkypREsRACrMXGBNcXsZpG6FiXyTougYNEqzqJkAxlmA0JoFcQ88sLTYFhDFBwnDG4E8rhqwgxwRGCcnQ8mPblgB5RzrCrUOS1efNimL8mY4CSSbTNvyN5XP6I2QjHj_nyOTWQ/s1600/bananamuffinclose.png.png" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10513328968113414913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8411174924176700934.post-73164993372110686232014-07-30T11:09:00.001+01:002014-07-30T11:20:17.973+01:00Busy Doing Nothing<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7exl-DYgW-soRQPK9DTxfDI_bvNwYdx2iwABsjWP0ys_xO79iimu0fjJOl_tCRB0QnRz90cUyoi8xAZwYDUBOGhLLzd6uKKs3i29pDXcy1GiiL14qBVjKTRxcl78uJYJvlfaotFN66Dzf/s1600/IMG_2919.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7exl-DYgW-soRQPK9DTxfDI_bvNwYdx2iwABsjWP0ys_xO79iimu0fjJOl_tCRB0QnRz90cUyoi8xAZwYDUBOGhLLzd6uKKs3i29pDXcy1GiiL14qBVjKTRxcl78uJYJvlfaotFN66Dzf/s1600/IMG_2919.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">We're into week 3 of the Big School Holiday now and I am loving having my monkeys around every day. In holidays past we have had a pretty quiet time of it (and driven each other mad in the process!) But this year we are packing it in - meeting up with friends 2-3 days out of 5, working on little projects at home, day trips, visits to family, a camping trip and the odd weekend away. Plus many water fight-filled days in the garden with this incredible weather we've been having. We are BUSY! Which is wonderful - the little Wrens are having fun, I'm having fun and we're spending real quality time together. All this though, of course means that I am struggling to fit in more tawdry tasks - the ironing has piled up and the house has definitely seen cleaner, tidier days - poor Mr Wren is regularly returning home from a day at work to utter chaos! </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">It also means that I am struggling to find time for my selfish little pleasures - visits to the gym have been rare (and that makes me slightly jittery) and my tiny little corner of the internet has been sadly neglected. But now the holiday is in full swing I am hoping to get into more of a routine (both writerly and housewifely!) and I will make sure my nests (both physical and digital) are much better cared for.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">It's hard to put my finger on why, or what it is exactly, but since my last post (over a month ago - shame on me!) I have in all honesty lost a bit of oomph. I have been approaching everything at half speed, with minimum effort since it was all I could seem to muster and as a result I have been feeling really dissatisfied. That old 'put 100% in, get 100% out' adage would, I'm afraid, appear to be true. So consider a leaf turned, the rose-tinted spectacles are back on and I am going to try and approach life in my usual positive, upbeat manner. And if I'm not happy with something, well, I have the power to do something about it. And, actually when I look through my photographs from the last few weeks I can see that I have had a really lovely time and done and created some very special things. Most of them involving the two most special things of all - my babies. Seems I've been achieving a lot more than I thought. It's all about perspective. xx</span></div>
<div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5f5zrzD0oE0MU_eHGxUf5Oygcy-Ey7bN-Q9bRvRw_nJS5QnmiKp0GKFqAHG1gl_qlaySo_oHKeVD7a9lQnbe9H-y0nsOHYRlZRuZxCwpU2rvETfTNw89x-ESKxNQR8e_dptsVNwR1D3dk/s1600/blogger-image-1846877189.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5f5zrzD0oE0MU_eHGxUf5Oygcy-Ey7bN-Q9bRvRw_nJS5QnmiKp0GKFqAHG1gl_qlaySo_oHKeVD7a9lQnbe9H-y0nsOHYRlZRuZxCwpU2rvETfTNw89x-ESKxNQR8e_dptsVNwR1D3dk/s1600/blogger-image-1846877189.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2pbMsUHLhlcz-7Buqp-neLncpc5xVobtMWoyY-SmRoGBf9ES435DqEknmN9vbZbsF6Z-k999fdjhASDSqE3_DJ7mHCnG06Rxmgi37bbb5Ks_TYvkkoJXPxQsJxKexdLNajINJwBmufs39/s1600/blogger-image-74810295.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2pbMsUHLhlcz-7Buqp-neLncpc5xVobtMWoyY-SmRoGBf9ES435DqEknmN9vbZbsF6Z-k999fdjhASDSqE3_DJ7mHCnG06Rxmgi37bbb5Ks_TYvkkoJXPxQsJxKexdLNajINJwBmufs39/s1600/blogger-image-74810295.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chocolate caramel birthday cake - mmmmmm!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCkhCWYsKVrmYQJV70ywIYKxzTZrSsgembTZp4Xth5xp0KHqPTk15Wcn_bBUxk3SahIdJoGWvfP_9EX_kIpN7P488aIS770BxeMLu0aqWPXjBn0PWhvA8dutJ7KUY7QmHsyBtz7LD64eq2/s1600/blogger-image--1140820726.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCkhCWYsKVrmYQJV70ywIYKxzTZrSsgembTZp4Xth5xp0KHqPTk15Wcn_bBUxk3SahIdJoGWvfP_9EX_kIpN7P488aIS770BxeMLu0aqWPXjBn0PWhvA8dutJ7KUY7QmHsyBtz7LD64eq2/s1600/blogger-image--1140820726.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The boy's Mad Science party - blog with details to come...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb_lhTzum4V2J-veolrJPeu0tVARV-_yfxAc9mFDjzUKdpCM58PKZowNVI5iq547jqlSw9hXg1T2I-TJMo2BVwXff6wXQ44ZbawyhQiFLfzdK8yY7ocOVWmGOg-s9Kvmy7quZLeDz-zh5L/s1600/blogger-image--88832274.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb_lhTzum4V2J-veolrJPeu0tVARV-_yfxAc9mFDjzUKdpCM58PKZowNVI5iq547jqlSw9hXg1T2I-TJMo2BVwXff6wXQ44ZbawyhQiFLfzdK8yY7ocOVWmGOg-s9Kvmy7quZLeDz-zh5L/s1600/blogger-image--88832274.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I finally got my Frame Denim dungas - I promise I'll stop now!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3gLS1sYLd70Ntgld8fvPic5w7_fPFbx0v5okFm_66BxnM4IifdcKNRe7o0bKX1U3RdeXUhwAWYJxMJ60x3LtUUP8KP8-Taio4kdUwr9oTVH2jpU9CzYRU4kf3ZAH58Qk5EjFwWvbJoa6w/s1600/blogger-image-155712440.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3gLS1sYLd70Ntgld8fvPic5w7_fPFbx0v5okFm_66BxnM4IifdcKNRe7o0bKX1U3RdeXUhwAWYJxMJ60x3LtUUP8KP8-Taio4kdUwr9oTVH2jpU9CzYRU4kf3ZAH58Qk5EjFwWvbJoa6w/s1600/blogger-image-155712440.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">GP's fish tacos - incredible!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitc8j9cn2YvyoYvcR9N7ZxIFgNHYZao5X9IhhbsyJJbcUu-5zeg3RVO7GwpgZacZcU_-I98kuGXJD0PtOGZ5UT4_9J7x_hzlRo5knH0MEgJfVbFNeFsVKLwuJjpDmlOduZQ-gOaRN6FESP/s1600/blogger-image-670901935.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitc8j9cn2YvyoYvcR9N7ZxIFgNHYZao5X9IhhbsyJJbcUu-5zeg3RVO7GwpgZacZcU_-I98kuGXJD0PtOGZ5UT4_9J7x_hzlRo5knH0MEgJfVbFNeFsVKLwuJjpDmlOduZQ-gOaRN6FESP/s1600/blogger-image-670901935.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Frozen cake - made three batches of my own candy for this. That's love.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioJrs9S0Bz1Y-OWD8NC2kHfhRk6tyxx6D9EbFhgxiZx1XpoLs4JNU1vL25zzbTSwYiEontfVq-B1tO84qwdUn46UHrKig2BBmssyYiFh4GPp9WGR14DMa6xL5ckEkh1DJGkik_Q1KECs4R/s1600/blogger-image--1059324589.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioJrs9S0Bz1Y-OWD8NC2kHfhRk6tyxx6D9EbFhgxiZx1XpoLs4JNU1vL25zzbTSwYiEontfVq-B1tO84qwdUn46UHrKig2BBmssyYiFh4GPp9WGR14DMa6xL5ckEkh1DJGkik_Q1KECs4R/s1600/blogger-image--1059324589.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Even Miss Wren had had enough cake by the time her birthday came around. Birthday rocky road it is then!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglw5QwHqJzLjbTKHHpH2RtlbAFyGz64OfvO8bHIZFtnlLdwSW7k7LjJoIfQfjCe9Tbrep0CGIlYD4JEV7SeLHuOV3tsFTSWhswEbYg-2TxQlT64o137oolJme0KhOCd1H1xFJBdgoRDIz-/s1600/blogger-image-396736017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglw5QwHqJzLjbTKHHpH2RtlbAFyGz64OfvO8bHIZFtnlLdwSW7k7LjJoIfQfjCe9Tbrep0CGIlYD4JEV7SeLHuOV3tsFTSWhswEbYg-2TxQlT64o137oolJme0KhOCd1H1xFJBdgoRDIz-/s1600/blogger-image-396736017.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">National Trust membership - the saviour of many a school holiday.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGD1EeK2oWAQ3je7LGVn6JdY4ChcvlIcLbGVndv7276PaibqBTXXD46GjzbFHPdstLdAqxS4gxqp_MlAqSib-JM-B9AI75KwpjIxNQmzFtgXGrNCQun5t8XruvINwR-bmUkMlATOnt4tHs/s1600/blogger-image--660037796.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGD1EeK2oWAQ3je7LGVn6JdY4ChcvlIcLbGVndv7276PaibqBTXXD46GjzbFHPdstLdAqxS4gxqp_MlAqSib-JM-B9AI75KwpjIxNQmzFtgXGrNCQun5t8XruvINwR-bmUkMlATOnt4tHs/s1600/blogger-image--660037796.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Perfecting my Dutch braid.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6erk27eBKlcBAR1iG0_nXZL6kOM22yURtPBFEZyzOAKM-YjnW7j9u6tQj99fcUqRb8xSpGynfSSvJ2yLOE9TGYqc3zmwVe5_AXQtF15YhHKq-oESTL25FyH158IKhyqV4jFPq9UOI4fHv/s1600/blogger-image--1378224250.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6erk27eBKlcBAR1iG0_nXZL6kOM22yURtPBFEZyzOAKM-YjnW7j9u6tQj99fcUqRb8xSpGynfSSvJ2yLOE9TGYqc3zmwVe5_AXQtF15YhHKq-oESTL25FyH158IKhyqV4jFPq9UOI4fHv/s1600/blogger-image--1378224250.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Playhouse renovation using child labour. They've had so much fun planning this.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGwjPnWmdiOt-wq597kdILc65D7Q4-L3vfRaZp46Npnh_k67LItUorrGktsyS9L7FvaTBz60s0RbDpd3GsEZzYSoL6jI86jzFnSATeQj3V0ffG_UB_ha2di8ec90-fQGHf7hrCasCvCbVD/s1600/blogger-image--1573837502.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGwjPnWmdiOt-wq597kdILc65D7Q4-L3vfRaZp46Npnh_k67LItUorrGktsyS9L7FvaTBz60s0RbDpd3GsEZzYSoL6jI86jzFnSATeQj3V0ffG_UB_ha2di8ec90-fQGHf7hrCasCvCbVD/s1600/blogger-image--1573837502.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9_IzXKPbCE48kOyjM3tfAwMACYsFNqQZ_GdNQu5HRVsIZlZbYT1jWVlfDRzNB4E_yCKbWiuOeQCdKKJeeDjahWbCZmkhdzsssEfswD8TFiZ4Zzz9PwcNg3xqDFO0L1KSd8FK3rU0MWhEt/s1600/blogger-image-30137516.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9_IzXKPbCE48kOyjM3tfAwMACYsFNqQZ_GdNQu5HRVsIZlZbYT1jWVlfDRzNB4E_yCKbWiuOeQCdKKJeeDjahWbCZmkhdzsssEfswD8TFiZ4Zzz9PwcNg3xqDFO0L1KSd8FK3rU0MWhEt/s1600/blogger-image-30137516.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10513328968113414913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8411174924176700934.post-69033178881969692102014-06-26T16:53:00.000+01:002014-07-30T16:45:42.807+01:00Lazy Day Legs - The boyfriend short<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXF2uJNA4yksvegVNsbPckXCXmI9hbOyFHNVtNjZyuKVGtmNdrVkT27ydS-uxHgnsZDXR9dJVHNgU0WlNFuOCOWCzXktOXKIYjh7lS9gvQ_DXuNAHTdv3nc8wMkXM8ZkdE0RZcLKZA7kw5/s1600/captainshortstext.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXF2uJNA4yksvegVNsbPckXCXmI9hbOyFHNVtNjZyuKVGtmNdrVkT27ydS-uxHgnsZDXR9dJVHNgU0WlNFuOCOWCzXktOXKIYjh7lS9gvQ_DXuNAHTdv3nc8wMkXM8ZkdE0RZcLKZA7kw5/s1600/captainshortstext.png.png" height="425" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I always hated shorts. I've always thought they were hideously unflattering. That they were for men and female hikers only. I always thought they made my waistline look podgy, my bum doughy and my knees thick. But in the last two Summers I've changed my mind. I started to turn when I bought my first </div>
<a name='more'></a>pair of Siwy denim cut-offs. They were beautiful - the perfect amount of fraying at the leg, gorgeous studding detail and the perfect rise. I loved them. But then I realised you could see the bottom of my, well , my <i>bottom </i>and they had to go. I now own a more demure mid-thigh length rolled leg pair which are perfect for weekend slobbing about. But these leopard print babies are my absolute favourite. They are hands-down the best/ comfiest/ most flattering shorts I have owned.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqn2obm1vdNBVvvHkp1sh_nekwRjN7Bgc-f7iy_MTvWlK907WdL5FaE9gL8mPCQZUCGmslwEhVWNh5tIg5Axsj9va2TzHe74KyBpoZzcemq2Hu8z4QscK_ClM_s57tCtO7LT8o6N93qAgU/s1600/captainshorts8.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqn2obm1vdNBVvvHkp1sh_nekwRjN7Bgc-f7iy_MTvWlK907WdL5FaE9gL8mPCQZUCGmslwEhVWNh5tIg5Axsj9va2TzHe74KyBpoZzcemq2Hu8z4QscK_ClM_s57tCtO7LT8o6N93qAgU/s1600/captainshorts8.png.png" height="640" width="402" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzuLyx-acoL9tXbzSNyaU1aph4EQuxzdWVVgmQDRFIJcIBIWkaykt1G5aXnG9q3RpyBkdhctERV2dQfUddzpjStNd4zo28gfFDFycUkjVIklGUtdr0XoJVw3EHDSjsPMiRz0P2bAFplsYl/s1600/captainshorts6.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzuLyx-acoL9tXbzSNyaU1aph4EQuxzdWVVgmQDRFIJcIBIWkaykt1G5aXnG9q3RpyBkdhctERV2dQfUddzpjStNd4zo28gfFDFycUkjVIklGUtdr0XoJVw3EHDSjsPMiRz0P2bAFplsYl/s1600/captainshorts6.png.png" height="640" width="626" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQMA0x7z4U0Xm3hmJErNPPe-kjgXu6Fz9vqogl-M3kHTKNbdAjrXo4DD7VJW59shE1zKCgMsZfmxMjv10Y4PrpE5GSzPjQ4it8ywtWbXdMSBipfKATC4NpC9X_bAhw3SQd7664fsOvkFs3/s1600/captainshorts3.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQMA0x7z4U0Xm3hmJErNPPe-kjgXu6Fz9vqogl-M3kHTKNbdAjrXo4DD7VJW59shE1zKCgMsZfmxMjv10Y4PrpE5GSzPjQ4it8ywtWbXdMSBipfKATC4NpC9X_bAhw3SQd7664fsOvkFs3/s1600/captainshorts3.png.png" height="512" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjycWbUxjKJ5Nal3IYIskGnlFFL7BU7qnFp-3AY0_nJRJGcqUTRrApU9lw4Sgb27zcouXNNd2vEy05oFup-BlbkMPjhsmzG2zguPx0Oe8TgrypGtuFLpQ5O0_eCYhYdiQGxtxKCpEP1cSvX/s1600/captainshorts5.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjycWbUxjKJ5Nal3IYIskGnlFFL7BU7qnFp-3AY0_nJRJGcqUTRrApU9lw4Sgb27zcouXNNd2vEy05oFup-BlbkMPjhsmzG2zguPx0Oe8TgrypGtuFLpQ5O0_eCYhYdiQGxtxKCpEP1cSvX/s1600/captainshorts5.png.png" height="300" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAVCEbaZ8zdun1QO2QfgOcQZpeOOPpJo1gh1tIrfJtkasb8GesxSUr_Hp4sKpaCFW2oIWRyJBbSEzWhdSar4geQ2N5ADfKb52ZU-lJJoPZhlMnlX6gc6ZH2JqBoYE4a5fxpdYvrXOstoWY/s1600/captainshortsbook.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAVCEbaZ8zdun1QO2QfgOcQZpeOOPpJo1gh1tIrfJtkasb8GesxSUr_Hp4sKpaCFW2oIWRyJBbSEzWhdSar4geQ2N5ADfKb52ZU-lJJoPZhlMnlX6gc6ZH2JqBoYE4a5fxpdYvrXOstoWY/s1600/captainshortsbook.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhccliXSr2fvnFX2ka_ZivxUERdJSDXvqiz8gmmcesJftA3_W2DfSaycmoUOuloRLjgUNdsCS1pAH_WdQyMXxX6zUv7JOQzjbWFYYx-PwKoHHkxs36PDCxQsRw7G3s6gLpfqXWgmA5TKMt-/s1600/captainshorts1.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhccliXSr2fvnFX2ka_ZivxUERdJSDXvqiz8gmmcesJftA3_W2DfSaycmoUOuloRLjgUNdsCS1pAH_WdQyMXxX6zUv7JOQzjbWFYYx-PwKoHHkxs36PDCxQsRw7G3s6gLpfqXWgmA5TKMt-/s1600/captainshorts1.png.png" height="640" width="458" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Top by <a href="http://shop.mango.com/GB/p0/women/clothing/bleached-tencel-top/?id=23067536_B4&n=1&s=prendas.tops&ident=0__0_1403791036062&ts=1403791036062">Mango</a> (now appears to be sold out in charcoal, but still available in blue);<br />
Shorts by Current/Elliott; Shoes - Belle by Sigerson Morrison</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
These ones are designer - <b>Current/Elliott The Captain</b> which I picked up from trusty old <b><a href="http://www.yoox.com/">Yoox</a></b>. They seem to be pretty tricky to get your hands on, but there are loads of high street chino and boyfriend shorts around at the moment. Here's my round-up of the best.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF2KAgc14mul27hZJBIEmGFHRE_SP7lmD6OWrn_MzrH1CUGELwD1Xx0GXtgQ8DLNuvJyl0U8KTgFwq1odw2ynsDVQeIin5htK_6nKwmjYobeuhpT1lgVneK4UY5dGcvb3z4ELRWzbTgRez/s1600/jcrewchinoshort.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF2KAgc14mul27hZJBIEmGFHRE_SP7lmD6OWrn_MzrH1CUGELwD1Xx0GXtgQ8DLNuvJyl0U8KTgFwq1odw2ynsDVQeIin5htK_6nKwmjYobeuhpT1lgVneK4UY5dGcvb3z4ELRWzbTgRez/s1600/jcrewchinoshort.gif" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI911ABynlDisE6GJ_2O8veq-4VwAaN5UB4I4yJPegD_8mxoi_ndRVX4XERacQQh7juSjQtBDFuEnGd7ld6cSfEUJZfIiRbJdfPRGnWnfNgRc2w-bFH64Mifh9vnjGfXrE9rs1D4D7qVgY/s1600/netcurrentelliottshorts.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI911ABynlDisE6GJ_2O8veq-4VwAaN5UB4I4yJPegD_8mxoi_ndRVX4XERacQQh7juSjQtBDFuEnGd7ld6cSfEUJZfIiRbJdfPRGnWnfNgRc2w-bFH64Mifh9vnjGfXrE9rs1D4D7qVgY/s1600/netcurrentelliottshorts.jpg" height="640" width="425" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
These are <b><u><a href="http://www.net-a-porter.com/gb/en/product/431225">Current/Elliott's denim rolled boyfriend shorts</a></u></b> in ever-useful white denim. These are on sale on net-a-porter for £108.50. Still pricey, but beautiful and you can find cheaper versions everywhere at the minute - Zara, Mango and Gap are all doing a great range of denim shorts this season.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOqAQUWlhaOcrXzSvGwZqlkSsJV1fX5BiQBjU88k2VW9DhWE6poXXshw-rZj8gSatdKTN6WQ9cw7Qor-kme6SDMeGQ14P-icJcNcUemdUNnioVtqg9nE3KxqildTkL6GNMzI6Ry8zmJUmk/s1600/gapboyfriendshorts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOqAQUWlhaOcrXzSvGwZqlkSsJV1fX5BiQBjU88k2VW9DhWE6poXXshw-rZj8gSatdKTN6WQ9cw7Qor-kme6SDMeGQ14P-icJcNcUemdUNnioVtqg9nE3KxqildTkL6GNMzI6Ry8zmJUmk/s1600/gapboyfriendshorts.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
If you're looking for something a little softer and closer to the ones I'm wearing, then <b>Gap</b> have come up trumps with their <a href="http://www.gap.co.uk/browse/product.do?cid=57385&vid=1&pid=000331226039"><b>Boyfriend roll-up shorts</b></a>. They come in a huge range of colours - how gorgeous is this coral red shade? And they cost £24.95 - bargain!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp5U7i_YvKYXXkdBLAypcQ7vTMYLMQzXllHfkaFPXt6DaDmB4cmlYqLSf2jdFhzQ-PHdxQIVw3v9OE38HuaZYFXYjBKBzDVHfHhwHIS_c3xat6RzffQUzfnAlZz7swp8lrzaGOa7XcukQT/s1600/jcrewshort.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp5U7i_YvKYXXkdBLAypcQ7vTMYLMQzXllHfkaFPXt6DaDmB4cmlYqLSf2jdFhzQ-PHdxQIVw3v9OE38HuaZYFXYjBKBzDVHfHhwHIS_c3xat6RzffQUzfnAlZz7swp8lrzaGOa7XcukQT/s1600/jcrewshort.jpeg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And of course, you can always rely on <b>JCrew</b> to give good short. These are their <b><a href="https://www.jcrew.com/womens_category/shorts/novelty/PRDOVR~A6402/A6402.jsp">Broken-In Boyfriend Chino Shorts</a> </b>in a fab paint-splattered army green. Again these come in loads of plain colours too. These ones are £79.50, but the block coloured ones range from £35 to £49.50. These are guaranteed to be the hardest working pair of shorts you own! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Do not fear the shorts ladies, they are so flattering and so versatile. Sling them on with your Superga or Converse for a lazy day look or slip on a silk cami top and some simple heels (my <b><a href="http://www.asos.com/Shoemint/Shoemint-Kate-Heeled-Sandal/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=3867029&istCompanyId=6f061ed0-7427-4b6c-bb90-987c0bd08468&istItemId=wtwlwrrlx&istBid=tztx&affid=5571&channelref=google+shopping&gclid=CjkKEQjwia-dBRC07eeatYGe-78BEiQArZhbgJvxfeTl7w5Gt5pm1qHFTwHODriBpnbWCCFvLPH49k3w_wcB">Shoemint Kate sandals</a> </b>are perfect<b>) </b>and you have got a laid-back Summer drinks look <i>nailed. </i>Embrace the shorts, love the shorts - because believe me, they'll love you right back.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10513328968113414913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8411174924176700934.post-10092242703340278442014-06-24T21:10:00.001+01:002014-07-30T16:46:15.094+01:00Summer Fair - Name the Ted and Fresh GingerbreadI've been AWOL again, I know. I'm sorry. But this post should help explain why. Last Saturday was the school Summer Fair and Sports Day that along with the rest of the PTA committee I was in charge of organising. It was a loooooonng day. Set-up began at 9am, stalls opened from 10.30 am and we weren't packed up until 5pm. But it was such a beautiful day too. Everything looked gorgeous - from the glistening tombola prizes, to the mountain of cake donations, from my hastily created <i>Human Fruit Machine</i> to the bunting that had been lovingly hand-sewn from old school summer dresses by a very talented friend of mine. The sun gazed down on us from morning 'til night and all day I was surrounded by the faces of smiling children. It was hard work, but absolutely worth it. Here are a few pics from the day. <span style="font-size: x-small;">(Thanks to my friend, Alan for the beautiful photos)</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAxMxs66bTOUu4qPrFomEqo15J3ET4lshzR-Xm5jhdgOL-SK8z-tQ2p8rzFmdg_QMnUCLIk5QkzH2WcBHPQh4gANo4l6ONzx-JWqS2K53C25c3X1S0HbxfhxdlPVY6mEFRnSYKusBvNKk_/s1600/2gc_XhBQ-EqsG-lD7rA9gL7GXjjMQlosli4GevYkq6U.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAxMxs66bTOUu4qPrFomEqo15J3ET4lshzR-Xm5jhdgOL-SK8z-tQ2p8rzFmdg_QMnUCLIk5QkzH2WcBHPQh4gANo4l6ONzx-JWqS2K53C25c3X1S0HbxfhxdlPVY6mEFRnSYKusBvNKk_/s1600/2gc_XhBQ-EqsG-lD7rA9gL7GXjjMQlosli4GevYkq6U.jpg" height="640" width="425" /></a></div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTdYk0axso7zSjYGgkjKJa4N9b3McXaPXyDkz5EuFqKri3CNzbdV4nlkY1t-eAykNTSky7XpY5A5Xl30hMw3HODtH2gQYgFVUkDrJvENbYESQaEpBY5i6UfSE6OsEQ-xXYL3h3a-2BUkA5/s1600/bjWhxGjBbM8AybhQfqHuPNDMo8fbBTds9xRDJUxQW58.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTdYk0axso7zSjYGgkjKJa4N9b3McXaPXyDkz5EuFqKri3CNzbdV4nlkY1t-eAykNTSky7XpY5A5Xl30hMw3HODtH2gQYgFVUkDrJvENbYESQaEpBY5i6UfSE6OsEQ-xXYL3h3a-2BUkA5/s1600/bjWhxGjBbM8AybhQfqHuPNDMo8fbBTds9xRDJUxQW58.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsd92buJSxEHzkG4Gpl9PK6Oo7iFPtHb7I8rvZlbtM52RlxHCmNL9o35Z_3t_gpLE9dUy6AfoD6CWQxSVHSjB3bBGOVlbDKpMyqiqdkfyG4KSSdXmbddoPXLf_fQk1YTI8cIyi21JbsQ3k/s1600/VUkMP60P5bEih4iS_uRjoT4jjrfvz3VPBMzxKtiZcF4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsd92buJSxEHzkG4Gpl9PK6Oo7iFPtHb7I8rvZlbtM52RlxHCmNL9o35Z_3t_gpLE9dUy6AfoD6CWQxSVHSjB3bBGOVlbDKpMyqiqdkfyG4KSSdXmbddoPXLf_fQk1YTI8cIyi21JbsQ3k/s1600/VUkMP60P5bEih4iS_uRjoT4jjrfvz3VPBMzxKtiZcF4.jpg" height="425" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDlsED9KZvUw8UotRsJl_dOC49dt921ZLixoiN01X5u2v8rGaa98Q6FrZ64mrAsqwLWUQPtQAM2P4EwPMAVH4PMT-w4xWqApZ7lY6FcjU3xFj5E8xYmL6cyPfzUKl3GN9Px2PJ7m7kWFSC/s1600/wc9yfh1nAXB_GQ4KjBx-p24rH_zMCC1slJVKko_Sdmc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDlsED9KZvUw8UotRsJl_dOC49dt921ZLixoiN01X5u2v8rGaa98Q6FrZ64mrAsqwLWUQPtQAM2P4EwPMAVH4PMT-w4xWqApZ7lY6FcjU3xFj5E8xYmL6cyPfzUKl3GN9Px2PJ7m7kWFSC/s1600/wc9yfh1nAXB_GQ4KjBx-p24rH_zMCC1slJVKko_Sdmc.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFHjCLOYjAD1No6JY1a8feEBWlhDAEC6f6Pwym8JMpdyn0-0kTweAH-ZFmjfMyAc6mJemIA4YAJYnDbXt0cty26p5v8Ig02d1F3GB_h6wulnO81gzh1bOw-ivSkmGbadWArGIv48GGovX5/s1600/xGOfolAFh0o4LApp1hybG2LWEXhpcGlw5DBZvbrrmbo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFHjCLOYjAD1No6JY1a8feEBWlhDAEC6f6Pwym8JMpdyn0-0kTweAH-ZFmjfMyAc6mJemIA4YAJYnDbXt0cty26p5v8Ig02d1F3GB_h6wulnO81gzh1bOw-ivSkmGbadWArGIv48GGovX5/s1600/xGOfolAFh0o4LApp1hybG2LWEXhpcGlw5DBZvbrrmbo.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJzbcQcmfY6hbOIoBP2gZ3j6aZmHF3SmSH8WfXO-xriLQ_P38IGcyHGOza3aXVQ9KcF8-lDHC3wdh5p-hUJkqhyphenhyphenrls0tQ9chPhrS69v3mj1RFSIc2Idzm88-OoHL-VNjvAjS7YO9_u6ZYN/s1600/y65SNdZHlOyx9udB6oranZ-1--ZAJXvrnFxHn7OY0IM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJzbcQcmfY6hbOIoBP2gZ3j6aZmHF3SmSH8WfXO-xriLQ_P38IGcyHGOza3aXVQ9KcF8-lDHC3wdh5p-hUJkqhyphenhyphenrls0tQ9chPhrS69v3mj1RFSIc2Idzm88-OoHL-VNjvAjS7YO9_u6ZYN/s1600/y65SNdZHlOyx9udB6oranZ-1--ZAJXvrnFxHn7OY0IM.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLehInFf6wdBfVEjCZe93GRzs-mPolCFrUhx_1HD6t1K0iqqIwCXTpMNT_hZF-Tc8FzzlGCP8MtKl7qCPG2Mnch0g95AAXqngBlWObsVXvo4I6zqqPL_c0aNrH8sSIITMLwlmjA9wSrSxG/s1600/duckhooked.jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLehInFf6wdBfVEjCZe93GRzs-mPolCFrUhx_1HD6t1K0iqqIwCXTpMNT_hZF-Tc8FzzlGCP8MtKl7qCPG2Mnch0g95AAXqngBlWObsVXvo4I6zqqPL_c0aNrH8sSIITMLwlmjA9wSrSxG/s1600/duckhooked.jpg.jpg" height="640" width="456" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYiAPXrfyJW_Rzy8w9LMLHHSTS4B9omfqq-a8HIbRfrOZEDu7iVNzArUh2w0Vjvh5DGI7y28fFjBTTWVBKygI1G4hSzGjvsGeuNP_RVHJ89ezAk6xT7fpi5v8JlR3HZXtAcmCwo1enrqoH/s1600/MP-1w2astyuJgIBuawya-hDztEwrdLF8VKEjdSlgFMc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYiAPXrfyJW_Rzy8w9LMLHHSTS4B9omfqq-a8HIbRfrOZEDu7iVNzArUh2w0Vjvh5DGI7y28fFjBTTWVBKygI1G4hSzGjvsGeuNP_RVHJ89ezAk6xT7fpi5v8JlR3HZXtAcmCwo1enrqoH/s1600/MP-1w2astyuJgIBuawya-hDztEwrdLF8VKEjdSlgFMc.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF2moqfoQHCiUBtYPtiVtU_1Ql39kv2Mc3iQp5OzckVAOsoL7YCox8ZjNzyVC9dSMc7GxkOEGUEqGGgwuhWUvj68LgO2GRZjRA6hTc2zfGx9ieu0ESdjpBdOm7ogjFfGAy-6F1OnXWsx-X/s1600/Vo8dTnqVFjBHJsHrmW71ZolbEMIF6n3uEnGABJDDRnQ.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF2moqfoQHCiUBtYPtiVtU_1Ql39kv2Mc3iQp5OzckVAOsoL7YCox8ZjNzyVC9dSMc7GxkOEGUEqGGgwuhWUvj68LgO2GRZjRA6hTc2zfGx9ieu0ESdjpBdOm7ogjFfGAy-6F1OnXWsx-X/s1600/Vo8dTnqVFjBHJsHrmW71ZolbEMIF6n3uEnGABJDDRnQ.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0LZnIZzHEpsNX2_ydjIfacVRKdEwY5NTZ5yT_wqmskQeG6VVulYgR9fg02SLuWoBK7PHj0f0YGiLEKIJ1TkVSPvUcFNWnJjyQfnk1ZY3rQojvfal45TylmamtmptT2LF04IbSbzFw8rUk/s1600/fkCZBlXwXdnF0XDnzmT9-QHJ_QQc9I-ZTmg19fhAfho.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0LZnIZzHEpsNX2_ydjIfacVRKdEwY5NTZ5yT_wqmskQeG6VVulYgR9fg02SLuWoBK7PHj0f0YGiLEKIJ1TkVSPvUcFNWnJjyQfnk1ZY3rQojvfal45TylmamtmptT2LF04IbSbzFw8rUk/s1600/fkCZBlXwXdnF0XDnzmT9-QHJ_QQc9I-ZTmg19fhAfho.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfvdaAaRIetjQSfWsA9Dsazw5oix5DSPE8Zgk9S9Lm8doFwc7Ru8N5eS7TaUL_qCtH6pwEMwFIGBlW0vdQyWIuS1HorCf-Z7Z53pBpcaDnaE_Ayj2hS_NGjAmcjIqMygJighsl2dxIiw3n/s1600/m1tvM1F59Fn_Mzz1pDsQ-Gi83I0POzQC85ufP1Rc5NQ.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfvdaAaRIetjQSfWsA9Dsazw5oix5DSPE8Zgk9S9Lm8doFwc7Ru8N5eS7TaUL_qCtH6pwEMwFIGBlW0vdQyWIuS1HorCf-Z7Z53pBpcaDnaE_Ayj2hS_NGjAmcjIqMygJighsl2dxIiw3n/s1600/m1tvM1F59Fn_Mzz1pDsQ-Gi83I0POzQC85ufP1Rc5NQ.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzN39DAQz7zRi8uQMYephyphenhyphenn4baTsqYp4qPFvA2oYcuukBksXrKbASUVNNgj9yZVgGqfRW5Y3xbXRfrhALuSdVu1nsEEUJi05o69tnqrrVJUMsE9tq9tY89YDukl09gHgC6xia3E9bdcbas/s1600/YPg3PkXp1PphF9qd5H2-njKXt0OAa4WuGzAlDajqqJ0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzN39DAQz7zRi8uQMYephyphenhyphenn4baTsqYp4qPFvA2oYcuukBksXrKbASUVNNgj9yZVgGqfRW5Y3xbXRfrhALuSdVu1nsEEUJi05o69tnqrrVJUMsE9tq9tY89YDukl09gHgC6xia3E9bdcbas/s1600/YPg3PkXp1PphF9qd5H2-njKXt0OAa4WuGzAlDajqqJ0.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
There is something so wonderfully, quintessentially British about a Summer Fete. Where else in the world would you see a tombola being rolled, teddies being named and ducks being hooked whilst Pimms is sipped? It feels so timeless. Because of that I always feel it is nice to bake something very traditional for the school cake stall. Of course, there need to be plenty of gaudy dolly mixture-topped creations to appeal to the kiddies. But when I'm at the cake stall I want to buy something old-fashioned and homely - a slice of victoria sponge or a freshly baked scone, some chocolate tiffin or a square of fresh gingerbread....<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju-Gx4Ym0_zd79GaBuZgPQvlciDudApqEW3wJ91rjGTd-wxdCF1cIpYhPltp41dfb6s4cOOh2c1lD2AqtiBmfPB9saaIN5UAmzU_tBI8kGFUp6scMJbKxa6AmwdJDygySWuNasKFRhtj6E/s1600/gingerbreadclose.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju-Gx4Ym0_zd79GaBuZgPQvlciDudApqEW3wJ91rjGTd-wxdCF1cIpYhPltp41dfb6s4cOOh2c1lD2AqtiBmfPB9saaIN5UAmzU_tBI8kGFUp6scMJbKxa6AmwdJDygySWuNasKFRhtj6E/s1600/gingerbreadclose.png.png" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">for the gingerbread</span><br />
<b>150g unsalted butter</b><br />
<b>125g muscovado sugar</b><br />
<b>200g golden syrup</b><br />
<b>200g black treacle</b><br />
<b>2 teaspoons fresh ginger, finely grated</b><br />
<b>1 teaspoon ground cinnamon</b><br />
<b>250ml milk</b><br />
<b>2 large eggs, beaten to mix</b><br />
<b>1 tsp bicarbonate of soda, </b><br />
<b>dissolved in 2 tbsps warm water</b><br />
<b>300g plain flour</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">for the icing</span><br />
<b>1 tbsp lemon juice</b><br />
<b>175g sieved icing sugar</b><br />
<b>1 tbsp warm water</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>roasting tin, approx 30x20x5cm</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
Preheat oven to 170 degrees C/ gas mark 3. Grease and line your tin.<br />
<br />
In a saucepan, melt the butter, sugar, golden syrup and treacle along with the cinnamon and ginger.<br />
remove from the heat and add the milk, eggs and bicarb in its water.<br />
<br />
Measure the flour into a bowl and add the liquid ingredients, beating until well mixed. pour this (very liquid) batter into the tin and bake for <span style="font-size: x-small;">3/4</span> to 1<span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span>hour until risen and firm. be careful not to overcook - you want this a little sticky.<br />
<br />
While it is cooling, make the icing by whisking the lemon juice into the icing sugar, then gradually adding the water (you may not need to use all the water - you want a nice, thick, spreadable icing). Spread over the cooled gingerbread and leave to set before cutting into squares.<br />
<br />
Simple Summer Fair perfection.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtthkH5WeGLs5xFzZ140t4T1j7TpeTVHbMyBBaAjbJuiYmtDNIjw5Z-TjepMiPBV6OfdPc560IUZoFBmgYCs0ZpdBktTHgYOY7vGjvcPsdRaDwlvLhieVl7jwFfaAarrMGEcG31BWw1Eay/s1600/gingerbread.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtthkH5WeGLs5xFzZ140t4T1j7TpeTVHbMyBBaAjbJuiYmtDNIjw5Z-TjepMiPBV6OfdPc560IUZoFBmgYCs0ZpdBktTHgYOY7vGjvcPsdRaDwlvLhieVl7jwFfaAarrMGEcG31BWw1Eay/s1600/gingerbread.JPG" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
(this recipe originally appeared in <b>Nigella Lawson's How To Be A Domestic Goddess</b><br />
<b><br /></b>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10513328968113414913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8411174924176700934.post-2880488607124683372014-06-13T11:37:00.000+01:002014-06-24T21:13:21.136+01:00The blues - Chambray Dress<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiefKseCFT6FPgJnr2TO8bq6G0fBfvrB6Q5p86EgnD8XXnKV8VuNdFmWDsmHPw73raLh5c6qRiW7ETE0h9fVS0IAQ1TYJUYgl6HJk4Z3VziMCzT6SzoeC8Rb4e2TZI9QqeH4kcupVUiPXM/s1600/nextdresscover.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiefKseCFT6FPgJnr2TO8bq6G0fBfvrB6Q5p86EgnD8XXnKV8VuNdFmWDsmHPw73raLh5c6qRiW7ETE0h9fVS0IAQ1TYJUYgl6HJk4Z3VziMCzT6SzoeC8Rb4e2TZI9QqeH4kcupVUiPXM/s1600/nextdresscover.png.png" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Hooray! The sun is well and truly out! Which, of course means that so are my legs. Yesterday's sunshine-ready outfit was a new purchase. I can't remember the last time I bought anything other than for the children from <b><a href="http://www.next.co.uk/">Next</a></b>. It's womenswear just isn't normally on my radar - I don't know why. But I clocked this lovely little <b><a href="http://www.next.co.uk/g6344s7">chambray racer denim dress</a> </b>when it<i> </i>was featured in some of their press advertising. I thought it had potential. In fact, I searched for it online, but they were sold out in a size 10. Then, I was returning something in store this week and there it was, hanging near the doors and I just had to try it.<br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It's really cute! The sporty styling means that it looks just as great with a pair of plimsolls as it does with my trusty Stuart Weitzman wedges. It's exceedingly comfy too, just the right side of mini in the skirt without it looking too mutton on my mid-30s pins, the halterneck is super-flattering highlighting your shoulders <i>and </i>it only costs £32. Plus - bonus! - you might need to take a size down from your usual. I had to go down to an 8 as it's quite blousey up top otherwise. I know it's just a number and sizes vary from store to store and item to item, but psychologically it means a lot. I mean, be honest, when have you <i>ever </i>bought anything that you had to try in a size bigger? Yeah, I thought as much!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXccIAxSio2e8iSYKPu6OhNBg8hK86SmhtlNly7sQQ37q_7KsU-UZdgbEtzwr9QyShY7M40WqgSAocajIkSjXaYxVbNQiB05wv7EnxR-MYF3MBx8r9dYPKW-NqPVEGKGOin_o8lpd2JVwQ/s1600/nextdress2.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXccIAxSio2e8iSYKPu6OhNBg8hK86SmhtlNly7sQQ37q_7KsU-UZdgbEtzwr9QyShY7M40WqgSAocajIkSjXaYxVbNQiB05wv7EnxR-MYF3MBx8r9dYPKW-NqPVEGKGOin_o8lpd2JVwQ/s1600/nextdress2.png.png" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.next.co.uk/g6344s7">Next Chambray Racer Dress - £32</a>; Stuart Weitzman Wedges (old - similar <a href="http://uk.stuartweitzman.com/HOOPLA/HOOPLAWEACAM,default,pd.html?start=6&cgid=shoes-wedges">here</a>); Emporio Armani Watch - similar <a href="http://www.goldsmiths.co.uk/Emporio-Armani-AR1424-Gents-Watch/p/17870796/">here</a>.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div>
I love it. I think it's going to become a real <i>throw-it-on</i> Summer staple.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Keeping up with the blue theme, I gave myself a mini mani-pedi in the garden yesterday (<i>after</i> these outfit photos were taken. Why on earth didn't I do it before? Don't look at the nails!). I now have some seriously patriotic toes. Of course, I'm actually Welsh, but still...<br />
<div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL778AO31B0FEqQPA3ILHy22QF_Pgo04wG5N1-GqBrwNX-JV6glIBT7nzqtDMA-Aiyg4iZMpA-TACdUgqQuYgWNuzFLitmqWVTweZBYFe49LqfpUfUZK1f_aDBwnXbdGs1RD3OQwZ8EVPd/s1600/patriotictoes1.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL778AO31B0FEqQPA3ILHy22QF_Pgo04wG5N1-GqBrwNX-JV6glIBT7nzqtDMA-Aiyg4iZMpA-TACdUgqQuYgWNuzFLitmqWVTweZBYFe49LqfpUfUZK1f_aDBwnXbdGs1RD3OQwZ8EVPd/s1600/patriotictoes1.png.png" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nail colours - Russian Roulette (red) & Mesmerised (blue) both by <a href="http://www.boots.com/en/Essie/">Essie available at Boots</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10513328968113414913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8411174924176700934.post-70808173555268869102014-06-11T18:00:00.001+01:002014-06-24T21:13:34.957+01:00It's Party Time!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsWENUhsBfmL6LCwR-Azv_Iyb82tZanAEgisx-H9LxZECwz6ZBGmVltVWMr2DoJnYkoquA0DHCCmSFRIbqMYzZ_KSXivl2ipCT0UyWrIOipvVaSHYnfdctDasaCNoQnCPwfL5cyEbDioAn/s1600/partytime.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsWENUhsBfmL6LCwR-Azv_Iyb82tZanAEgisx-H9LxZECwz6ZBGmVltVWMr2DoJnYkoquA0DHCCmSFRIbqMYzZ_KSXivl2ipCT0UyWrIOipvVaSHYnfdctDasaCNoQnCPwfL5cyEbDioAn/s1600/partytime.png.png" height="425" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
God, I love a kids party! Which is a good thing really since I'm in the midst of planning three in the space of as many weeks. First up is the imminent school Summer Fair. I'm head of the Parents Association (did I mention that before? No? Probably because I'm trying to pretend it's not true myself! So stressful and did I mention thankless? Sorry. I'm at risk of going off on a rant here!) and the Fair is imminent (like next weekend imminent -aaarrgh!) so I am currently up to my eyes in bunting and raffle tickets. I am busily sorting tombola prizes and preparing rats to be splatted. I am the person who has to count those sweets into the jar so some lucky person can "guess how many" and win the lot. My husband says I should just make up a number, but really, that's not in the spirit of things, is it? It's loads of work but it makes the kids so happy, and really, I don't think I could just stand on the sidelines while someone else does all the work. I secretly love it.<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
So that's next week and every year it falls on the weekend before my big boy's birthday. The following weekend is his party (Mad Science - I'm having a field day planning this one!). And two weeks later it's little lady Wren's turn.<br />
<br />
I go <i>to town </i>when it comes to designing the children's parties. No generic shop-bought invitations or Disney-printed decorations for me. I tend to stick to a couple of colours that fit the theme and use solid colour balloons and tableware with the all-important retro paper straws to create a coherent look. I am a stickler for the detail of it, spending hours designing invites and food labels and scouring the internet sourcing quirky party bags and decorations. I want to make everything magical. I mean, to be honest, all I'm doing is making needless extra work for myself, but I have high hopes that when the children grow up and look back on their Birthday parties they will appreciate how colour coordinated and stylish their parties were. Oh, who am I kidding?<b> I </b>want to look back when the kids are grown up and think how stylish and colour coordinated they were!<br />
<br />
Last years parties were so much fun! I thought I'd share them with you while I'm lost in Partyland!<br />
<br />
<h3>
Boy's Star Wars Party</h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDPQRokzPhpCUVDT6CdE1NUviz_GWgQU-8wMhmTIZiX30ANtzlb4s1sf2wtbc8P1IFXPDl3mc3nCtKx_fep9InHhU_fdhBo7YTjZ_cFLyO9zcB6VOMurZyEStHdOt9e-29SuuObG691W88/s1600/IMG_1330.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDPQRokzPhpCUVDT6CdE1NUviz_GWgQU-8wMhmTIZiX30ANtzlb4s1sf2wtbc8P1IFXPDl3mc3nCtKx_fep9InHhU_fdhBo7YTjZ_cFLyO9zcB6VOMurZyEStHdOt9e-29SuuObG691W88/s1600/IMG_1330.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Pool noodle light sabres were used to slay helium-filled Stormtrooper balloons.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuYNq5WsU_R6dAXWfWr6NmGGTB7lP2LkwHoTXbNX_t5AaQW3aj2vPucwLM9nFAlQGTmaevOFVLo5IVkXkUxjbpLZf5q1B12r7Vui7XMpmF_850tIMbSCDWORbVYsmmjg-uuwAGnrYEUiJT/s1600/IMG_1332.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuYNq5WsU_R6dAXWfWr6NmGGTB7lP2LkwHoTXbNX_t5AaQW3aj2vPucwLM9nFAlQGTmaevOFVLo5IVkXkUxjbpLZf5q1B12r7Vui7XMpmF_850tIMbSCDWORbVYsmmjg-uuwAGnrYEUiJT/s1600/IMG_1332.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And later destroyed our Darth Vader decoration!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzcLAmABGHQHsSWbHI6u-TmuoeeQOp4Dw3RaSXv-M8GLCoKk7ww7RkDoiDH2SmrI5KPZq4jxgVCM_WX9f6T2NtiBUYHq08hTESzE6maSu8CR9nGncA2OHIIzKlFTKSzGhJf_NGqzjMpvYw/s1600/IMG_1331.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzcLAmABGHQHsSWbHI6u-TmuoeeQOp4Dw3RaSXv-M8GLCoKk7ww7RkDoiDH2SmrI5KPZq4jxgVCM_WX9f6T2NtiBUYHq08hTESzE6maSu8CR9nGncA2OHIIzKlFTKSzGhJf_NGqzjMpvYw/s1600/IMG_1331.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4NqnHtkwoI7I8kwGFcUEMOb1-4Ix3BBZtRqStOBzi1SyQ_ZGJcU8qek310X2MxIZfctZYw7eV8IjzdNLwXhFNPoK99hueAJL3SszoVmcx9QBNfX0yQ5LsU1X8JQarqdVtYSLRbozT2zPN/s1600/starwarspartyfood1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4NqnHtkwoI7I8kwGFcUEMOb1-4Ix3BBZtRqStOBzi1SyQ_ZGJcU8qek310X2MxIZfctZYw7eV8IjzdNLwXhFNPoK99hueAJL3SszoVmcx9QBNfX0yQ5LsU1X8JQarqdVtYSLRbozT2zPN/s1600/starwarspartyfood1.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Food had daft Star Wars themed names. <i>Hutt</i> Dog anyone?!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyq13XZlOTC1O2FpoA1da-GPrJehSHbwt-zwdXQKZVzT58CSqHNG0zaM8DdElVN5DOIa5S7s3K9lsJ_mNLphErg_RrXhmYN4fiFvcCrI_0SP0XAAQjOA2d82KxyUa_uO647J2ePcA7ltys/s1600/IMG_1326.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyq13XZlOTC1O2FpoA1da-GPrJehSHbwt-zwdXQKZVzT58CSqHNG0zaM8DdElVN5DOIa5S7s3K9lsJ_mNLphErg_RrXhmYN4fiFvcCrI_0SP0XAAQjOA2d82KxyUa_uO647J2ePcA7ltys/s1600/IMG_1326.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio1x0UiUjUmBsgZ6NK5YlR3o9QfAfxYG59dF08JlyyJeZbJwjKS8gmyMIqdP-GUtYgXpcEJJEQqtf4vKHJao2B5mH2S6B70Ou_Bto3_bLDW4X8bnsRyrGXEWe-EoCIavu6EYc4krLaQHET/s1600/IMG_1327.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio1x0UiUjUmBsgZ6NK5YlR3o9QfAfxYG59dF08JlyyJeZbJwjKS8gmyMIqdP-GUtYgXpcEJJEQqtf4vKHJao2B5mH2S6B70Ou_Bto3_bLDW4X8bnsRyrGXEWe-EoCIavu6EYc4krLaQHET/s1600/IMG_1327.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ-6bh_evHj5KTG7MdvYt8cxhsuHxOFPVRA3pdtwDauLueyXL9J1qAuKHsBnZBsgiKxmO32BsB2vS3DmADzpzqpJK2bb-QFR_9IsJazczPA6TSmjrfG67tPVvm_haET6gowJk-hzFexQcC/s1600/IMG_1328.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ-6bh_evHj5KTG7MdvYt8cxhsuHxOFPVRA3pdtwDauLueyXL9J1qAuKHsBnZBsgiKxmO32BsB2vS3DmADzpzqpJK2bb-QFR_9IsJazczPA6TSmjrfG67tPVvm_haET6gowJk-hzFexQcC/s1600/IMG_1328.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWZJ3PbEjWuBs77RqX_2BnRquVhzAysNg2IKkH-0tBBR0mfkfTbJeFLam7WnFPySY3fnTwR_G2WYAPNrruzVtu8QMjizCi0oCxvgBdk5rvGDK7nzc7zg8cceGPNfRfxys7jFZ_fwZQo9Kr/s1600/IMG_1329.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWZJ3PbEjWuBs77RqX_2BnRquVhzAysNg2IKkH-0tBBR0mfkfTbJeFLam7WnFPySY3fnTwR_G2WYAPNrruzVtu8QMjizCi0oCxvgBdk5rvGDK7nzc7zg8cceGPNfRfxys7jFZ_fwZQo9Kr/s1600/IMG_1329.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Other games we played were Stormtrooper skittles...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiE1evdyAv14UDl6BP7XpO0KK_3nLkyB98sWCJkPzKVSgx2P1ktqjQFyD2imz0HB6GSbmErbbx76TIKfscjtaRfcCr1T94ZmpGjbE3xyApuPBtJRQUq1XfJ6p92Orgc36rlhojwCn8llYD/s1600/IMG_1323.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiE1evdyAv14UDl6BP7XpO0KK_3nLkyB98sWCJkPzKVSgx2P1ktqjQFyD2imz0HB6GSbmErbbx76TIKfscjtaRfcCr1T94ZmpGjbE3xyApuPBtJRQUq1XfJ6p92Orgc36rlhojwCn8llYD/s1600/IMG_1323.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Dig Han Solo from frozen Carbonite...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1oo62mas9Wr1s6S2CD0oqp0CP_ZaE4uLuxygoq-dX3edoxKKx86bqqfn21YfoyG3qhyr7gq7Qp9jRZLbXIQa-NtmBRaJde_N0LUWkKpIwWpX3zGbD3alg92buLGM_n0iwxBs6oPFo8qPr/s1600/IMG_1320.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1oo62mas9Wr1s6S2CD0oqp0CP_ZaE4uLuxygoq-dX3edoxKKx86bqqfn21YfoyG3qhyr7gq7Qp9jRZLbXIQa-NtmBRaJde_N0LUWkKpIwWpX3zGbD3alg92buLGM_n0iwxBs6oPFo8qPr/s1600/IMG_1320.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And the all-important Death Star pinata. (Hand made - the bane of my life!)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9CovjvLPJpyDB_RX3DZHd-u7B_mUWB8nfeulpTKFACpyb9WpjnJGvVvhFq1_d0pZLZXUZ9VQt8LIH3FhFzB-HD4o3au1IgoWVPGiTr-JL7daAXrzURqleXTwHUac_hMYRHM3C8oMEM-kp/s1600/IMG_1322.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9CovjvLPJpyDB_RX3DZHd-u7B_mUWB8nfeulpTKFACpyb9WpjnJGvVvhFq1_d0pZLZXUZ9VQt8LIH3FhFzB-HD4o3au1IgoWVPGiTr-JL7daAXrzURqleXTwHUac_hMYRHM3C8oMEM-kp/s1600/IMG_1322.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I found Star Wars cookie cutters on eBay for the cake and the guests all had a Lego Star Wars figure keyring in their party bags. I won some serious '<i>cool Mum</i>' points with this party!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtcbLqT4yWSfRNBU_j-L0lz8pZycoUXYaKuiAzS5K_pWpAIJhsZExAvYI-gRQ7YhGMulJXDBrvr9pWwMXphmE-UGANHpLz8psdIix1mhaCGKI94Tk_c8BNnwhyphenhyphenoXKtVMeaxi7e9kmDxaP2/s1600/IMG_1321.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtcbLqT4yWSfRNBU_j-L0lz8pZycoUXYaKuiAzS5K_pWpAIJhsZExAvYI-gRQ7YhGMulJXDBrvr9pWwMXphmE-UGANHpLz8psdIix1mhaCGKI94Tk_c8BNnwhyphenhyphenoXKtVMeaxi7e9kmDxaP2/s1600/IMG_1321.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
Girl's Rainbow Party</h3>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
She wanted a rainbow cake, so we had a rainbow party. Which is fairly easy really, you just buy plates, cups, straws, balloons in all the colours of the rainbow. This makes for a really pretty party.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxUKxzlTtUI3BkrbGJ_BkJ9UWJYmFtW_8qfa5dSeSrmJfvR7SOGhyL_I1ywwsWn-sI0uIrsCZqhEYCNiTH7CbIOOxPXWbBg9yKQV7IbZ04SEQVemkc-6o8jRXrv4GF9hcFIppNXBLE4hFx/s1600/rainbowpartytable.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxUKxzlTtUI3BkrbGJ_BkJ9UWJYmFtW_8qfa5dSeSrmJfvR7SOGhyL_I1ywwsWn-sI0uIrsCZqhEYCNiTH7CbIOOxPXWbBg9yKQV7IbZ04SEQVemkc-6o8jRXrv4GF9hcFIppNXBLE4hFx/s1600/rainbowpartytable.png.png" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Gorgeous strung balloon rainbow, handmade (no, really?! banner). It was so hot that day so we partied in the garden. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3ZaiP1VCWX-9qV0pfAtkUSJoE-Xn0gyivx7OnlZ5tSJ4I7gmL-yVlxEHCX4SiIELqaW1f7KgY7hcQMbOOQpqQZ36YHepMO5g7y3uYlen9xy_F71YXK388w0S5CMv45EGI30uRMwhwWed2/s1600/rainbowpartysweets.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3ZaiP1VCWX-9qV0pfAtkUSJoE-Xn0gyivx7OnlZ5tSJ4I7gmL-yVlxEHCX4SiIELqaW1f7KgY7hcQMbOOQpqQZ36YHepMO5g7y3uYlen9xy_F71YXK388w0S5CMv45EGI30uRMwhwWed2/s1600/rainbowpartysweets.png.png" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Rainbows in jars. Love those mallows! I made rainbow-layered jelly too. And coloured meringues. Lush!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCNffySNJREen9Rw2MXTNy3K0j_WjlzvrAVsW77EjNTkA70NskkrftpzjBNVWIO72INBxCE4gbYyRmvf7W4POVwUjrxsBtAiBfTCH59CsHRQTMI-MiWRLuW0yhMhwl8_7ta5t-txfi3fYf/s1600/rainbowpartybags.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCNffySNJREen9Rw2MXTNy3K0j_WjlzvrAVsW77EjNTkA70NskkrftpzjBNVWIO72INBxCE4gbYyRmvf7W4POVwUjrxsBtAiBfTCH59CsHRQTMI-MiWRLuW0yhMhwl8_7ta5t-txfi3fYf/s1600/rainbowpartybags.png.png" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
These party bags are Little Wren originals and obviously, therefore, completely priceless! It was an all-girl party so I found an eBay seller who made them all rainbow bead bracelets with their names on. So sweet!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIvJeyrYeyPwJp8J-AQwD92OfMGVYUQ0x_Jl0OU56vlKmwrHbruday-I-MeOw5W9ND41WlwBQb7ioUN8HOpfe8Bhk7SyVLt_z65nVj-RLbqmqJsTBTOVEU5fPDQIzx7kQdnn7QDTl9jV7x/s1600/rainbowcakeafter.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIvJeyrYeyPwJp8J-AQwD92OfMGVYUQ0x_Jl0OU56vlKmwrHbruday-I-MeOw5W9ND41WlwBQb7ioUN8HOpfe8Bhk7SyVLt_z65nVj-RLbqmqJsTBTOVEU5fPDQIzx7kQdnn7QDTl9jV7x/s1600/rainbowcakeafter.png.png" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And the rainbow layer cake post-demolition. I was rather proud of my efforts! I loved this party. I'd have a rainbow theme every year if she'd let me!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
This year, I have been let off the hook with her request for a Frozen party. Since she's a July baby, short of hiring a snow machine I didn't really know what to do. So we are having a tobogganing party at the Snowdome in Tamworth. Tobogganning! In July. I literally cannot wait! That means all I have to worry about is a cool party bag for Little Miss, so I can focus all my creative efforts on the Little Man's big Birthday bash! I just have to get this Summer Fair out of the way first. Roll on that Tombola!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10513328968113414913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8411174924176700934.post-39268799720079918752014-06-09T11:12:00.000+01:002014-06-24T21:13:49.221+01:00Sunshine and Showers - Loving the Leopard<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIicvKzXYMgFsya-KwMZF8-6NiNJx9RGZ0HQLZ9swLvY9A-HPEqbvWsMbHtvo3KaAeluyYibJaDLfRe_EUZc3R-QxCN9ZUt0Hrq1WGx337ZF5qsOwmdvcQRqOZ1CxrQQ7ORjONMeIPgrsl/s1600/IMG_2847.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIicvKzXYMgFsya-KwMZF8-6NiNJx9RGZ0HQLZ9swLvY9A-HPEqbvWsMbHtvo3KaAeluyYibJaDLfRe_EUZc3R-QxCN9ZUt0Hrq1WGx337ZF5qsOwmdvcQRqOZ1CxrQQ7ORjONMeIPgrsl/s1600/IMG_2847.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="text-align: justify;">Well, what a difference a day makes! Yesterday the sun was shining and so I was out in the garden all day - weeding, planting, picnicing and playing with the children. Our garden is a small urban garden, but it is such an oasis of calm and remarkable quiet in the midst of the city. We were feeling some serious garden love yesterday.</span><br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dGBOuFfJj6w/U5V6Qrp1jII/AAAAAAAADwA/_Mt_b9stEdY/s1600/IMG_2832.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dGBOuFfJj6w/U5V6Qrp1jII/AAAAAAAADwA/_Mt_b9stEdY/s1600/IMG_2832.JPG" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Wellies and a pretty frock - the <i>perfect </i>gardening oufit from Little Miss Wren!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkd5Bt0Dhjr5uencjpI89rZg1wXuNnEOTYyEmHsiSpeZMBhCZJ9RNxcTNenRR9Q2oL2PTYsKLrtMUVX29DZHHhZ0gBso5uJDRV5-jRYHf2jQzc5cXLAkkwpPpmVMZUZPkzD4qKNZZ3ST89/s1600/IMG_2846.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkd5Bt0Dhjr5uencjpI89rZg1wXuNnEOTYyEmHsiSpeZMBhCZJ9RNxcTNenRR9Q2oL2PTYsKLrtMUVX29DZHHhZ0gBso5uJDRV5-jRYHf2jQzc5cXLAkkwpPpmVMZUZPkzD4qKNZZ3ST89/s1600/IMG_2846.JPG" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
A sea of happy herbs in one of our raised beds. Currently my favourite part of the garden. Abundant with scent and the promise of delicious meals.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TEJ2dVIl_yc/U5V6QS7cqTI/AAAAAAAADwA/WBt3110Cv8c/s1600/14+-+1" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TEJ2dVIl_yc/U5V6QS7cqTI/AAAAAAAADwA/WBt3110Cv8c/s1600/14+-+1" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Sadly, these are on their way out (assisted by some evil insect munching - see those nibbles on the petals? Grrrr) but how beautiful are<i> </i>these saucer-sized blooms on our clematis? Just joyous!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QNGsfswCYk4/U5V6QmPU30I/AAAAAAAADwA/pQsNlZIfIbk/s1600/IMG_2844.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QNGsfswCYk4/U5V6QmPU30I/AAAAAAAADwA/pQsNlZIfIbk/s1600/IMG_2844.JPG" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The Little Wren's have discovered the Loom Band craze! Actually, it's really fun to do together and keeps them quiet for ages!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NNTuHrQVtqs/U5V6QmpEiaI/AAAAAAAADwA/yRNQh1itVqQ/s1600/IMG_2852.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NNTuHrQVtqs/U5V6QmpEiaI/AAAAAAAADwA/yRNQh1itVqQ/s1600/IMG_2852.JPG" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Glorious sea pinks - happy flowers!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
And yet, here we are today in the midst of thunder and lashing rain. Vile weather. It's June people! So depressing. With this ridiculous weather seeming to be the norm, I have had to buy a new coat (or two). I have never, <i>never</i> purchased a coat post-April before and it took a lot of rain falling on (and potentially ruining) my favourite Gestuz purple leather jacket before I finally succumbed because in my head I should be wearing shorts and sundresses from May onwards. Yes, I <i>know</i> we live in England but that's not the point. I have a Summer wardrobe and it <b>will</b> get a proper wearing, even if that means I get a proper soaking! I had <i>no raincoat.</i> No coat that could withstand even a shower, let alone the drenchings we've been having lately and so I ordered a selection from <b><a href="http://www.asos.com/" target="_blank">ASOS</a></b> before finally settling on this bargainous one by <b>Brave Soul.</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkNAFgv4g6fGGzSZ5GKyuem61RV7969EREdKbaJWYMr7bETzporirkLmjNnSGly07I3FxazyHpIZ7KAp68LJvEj9AwzIihyOKyHAKFJzU2sBEhRrWo25hHmITO3GTB3rmIjZg20T68m8f1/s1600/bravesoulanorak.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkNAFgv4g6fGGzSZ5GKyuem61RV7969EREdKbaJWYMr7bETzporirkLmjNnSGly07I3FxazyHpIZ7KAp68LJvEj9AwzIihyOKyHAKFJzU2sBEhRrWo25hHmITO3GTB3rmIjZg20T68m8f1/s1600/bravesoulanorak.jpg" height="640" width="499" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.asos.com/Brave-Soul/Brave-Soul-Leopard-Print-Mac-With-Shower-Proof-Coating/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=4257878&cid=17494&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=36&sort=-1&clr=Leopard%2forange">Brave Soul Leopard Print Mac with Showerproof Coating - £30 (was £70) ASOS</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
I never thought I could feel this way about an anorak, but I do love this jacket. It is so cute on, the neon trims give it a real lift, the length is perfect to sling on over my sports kit doing the school run on the way to the gym and I AM DRY! Bonus. So that sorted out the rain issue, but it's also been bleeding freezing some days. Not cold enough to wear my winter Zara fur hooded duffle coat (do I need to say this again? - IT'S JUNE PEOPLE!!), but too cold for just a short jacket or blazer. So I am now the proud owner of a <i>Summer Coat </i>I bet you didn't know that was even a thing, did you? Neither did I, but just look at the beauty of it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWqed1BK-YNaAMu8DQ_313hZRvqpbuavXrWMxRml7J_6HArEpRsg4PcXfOhRqhf4roe2x1g43RKQx6pt-FZCwKER4DG2cqcYMbZFKt_VZPxEJokIAHcIvA_O0J_Kg3IBV7WOviA_Xygcg6/s1600/maisonscotchcoat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWqed1BK-YNaAMu8DQ_313hZRvqpbuavXrWMxRml7J_6HArEpRsg4PcXfOhRqhf4roe2x1g43RKQx6pt-FZCwKER4DG2cqcYMbZFKt_VZPxEJokIAHcIvA_O0J_Kg3IBV7WOviA_Xygcg6/s1600/maisonscotchcoat.jpg" height="640" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Maison Scotch Leopard Summer Coat - <a href="http://www.asos.com/Maison-Scotch/Maison-Scotch-Sporty-Leo-Cocoon-Jacket/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=3604861&cid=11682&Rf900=3717&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=36&sort=-1&clr=Multi" target="_blank">ASOS - £175</a>; (I got mine from <a href="http://www.coggles.com/coats-clothing/women/clothing/maison-scotch-women-s-leopard-summer-coat-a-combo-a/10899752.html?utm_source=googleprod&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=gp_clothing&affil=thggpsad&switchcurrency=GBP&&affil=thgppc&gclid=CjkKEQjwttWcBRCuhYjhouveusIBEiQAwjy8IIriwrCEXn_JL0G2wSrmT3loI0S0ohCBSpsMSrkqrCHw_wcB">Coggles.com</a> discounted to £118, but they're a bit low on sizes) <a href="http://www.atterleyroad.com/the-summer-coat-1.html">Atterley Road</a> also stock it at £170</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I know, I know, <i>double leopard</i>. But can you blame me for searching out a little glamour in all this gloom? When the weather dries up I'll post some ootd shots of me styling this up. I want to wear it all the time -I have been slightly disappointed on the few sunny days we've had that it's been too warm to wear it! This coat is incredible - it makes every outfit look like, well, <i>an outfit </i>rather than just a collection of clothes. I feel so <i>put together</i> and chic and, dare I say it, yes <i>glamorous </i>wearing it. What can I say? I am loving the leopard. Bet Lynch, eat your heart out!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10513328968113414913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8411174924176700934.post-17539207292493497182014-06-02T12:43:00.000+01:002014-06-24T21:14:02.692+01:00Lucky Me! - Rodial Instaglam Skin Tint<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeLStAg5ElnBRukv-3yee3Rsi_aLXiXHU7o1s-hXPlQD2bigA97_b6mK0r8bpaihQLm3bXKt7OTgegozGxfy3RPeOXuWEKBGR31a0kYapd3HXLMe8ONxezLYTXANjJvQEQem_PgYPjQRZC/s1600/rodialnote.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeLStAg5ElnBRukv-3yee3Rsi_aLXiXHU7o1s-hXPlQD2bigA97_b6mK0r8bpaihQLm3bXKt7OTgegozGxfy3RPeOXuWEKBGR31a0kYapd3HXLMe8ONxezLYTXANjJvQEQem_PgYPjQRZC/s1600/rodialnote.png.png" /></a></div>
<br />
Well, I went a little bit giddy when the postman arrived on Saturday because he delivered this. I was lucky enough to win a Twitter blogger giveaway competition to win one of <b><a href="http://www.rodial.co.uk/" target="_blank">Rodial</a></b>'s new <a href="http://www.rodial.co.uk/makeup/tinted-moisturiser/instaglam-skin-tint-capri-light" target="_blank"><b>instaglam</b> skin tint</a>. That's exciting enough in itself. But when the package arrived, inside was a hand-written note from the brand's founder, Mrs Rodial herself, Maria Hatzistefanis. There were a few extra goodies inside too. I may have let out an excited squeal or two.<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimLt15xKXHlDbdNcX8oQgfZicfHWCd3ecv_-mKNOUYAngw2P9tHViw2PWMU8bwfb-q3VPpOeJPXmkkrtY_ZuHxlzzk_xeleHw7Gy1Go6H71zQAsRVTPrzwmwyUT17vb2Ue8tDpQKiT_srR/s1600/rodialinstaglam.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimLt15xKXHlDbdNcX8oQgfZicfHWCd3ecv_-mKNOUYAngw2P9tHViw2PWMU8bwfb-q3VPpOeJPXmkkrtY_ZuHxlzzk_xeleHw7Gy1Go6H71zQAsRVTPrzwmwyUT17vb2Ue8tDpQKiT_srR/s1600/rodialinstaglam.png.png" /></a></div>
<br />
I have sung the praises of their <b>bbvenom</b> skin tint on the blog before (in one of my first posts - <b><a href="http://awrenandhernest.blogspot.co.uk/2014/01/15-minute-face.html" target="_blank">here</a></b>). The <b>instaglam</b> is their new formula, replacing the old <b>bbvenom</b> with SPF increased to 30 compared to the old 15 and some updated ingredients. The old bb cream has been <i>by far</i> the best I've tried (and I've tried <i>lots). </i>The photo above of a very sad looking nearly-empty tube is testament to how much I use this cream. If I hadn't won the comp I would have been looking to repurchase any day now. <i>And</i> they sent my right shade - <i>Capri 01</i>. So I am very excited to try the new and hopefully <i>improved </i>formula. A review will follow, I have no doubt.<br />
<br />
I mentioned that there were a couple of other goodies included and they were from Rodial's sister brand <b><a href="http://www.nipandfab.com/" target="_blank">NIP+FAB</a>. </b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAKTc0tiAuDr-ybC2POgQ1GYoQfnD260f6swh9WLEuGEDQwX9nw3cdjX7wZAAUvy6JCFv8oynoRaJH4yROCuAyti1vzw5_6NGJsbSmBCRHzqDbRTm4lEm_xatUmkZ7D57Nlm8D0Vxa4gCZ/s1600/nipfab.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAKTc0tiAuDr-ybC2POgQ1GYoQfnD260f6swh9WLEuGEDQwX9nw3cdjX7wZAAUvy6JCFv8oynoRaJH4yROCuAyti1vzw5_6NGJsbSmBCRHzqDbRTm4lEm_xatUmkZ7D57Nlm8D0Vxa4gCZ/s1600/nipfab.png.png" /></a></div>
<br />
The products are their <b><a href="http://www.nipandfab.com/no-needle-fix" target="_blank">No Needle Fix Serum</a> </b>and <b>V<a href="http://www.nipandfab.com/skincare/viper-venom/viper-venom-eye" target="_blank">iper Venom Eye Fix</a></b>. Both make fine line and wrinkle busting promises so are perfect for me to use on my mid-30s skin. The range is very affordable and readily available (Boots stock the brand) and I will be very interested to see how they hold up against my usual more budget-breaking anti-ageing products. If a serum that costs under £20 can perform as well as its upward of £50 cousins then I will be over the moon. I shall try them out and tightly cross my fingers.<br />
<br />
I have never won a giveaway in my entire life even though I am forever entering the things. I mean, I love Grazia for it's fashion and beauty and gossip, but if I'm really honest what finally convinced me to subscribe to the magazine was the thought of never missing one of their amazing weekly handbag competitions. I entered every week for a year of my subscription and nothing! Not a sausage. No, I am not one of life's lucky ones so Mrs Rodial and team - thank you. You made an old girl very happy. And now I've told you lot all about it I can finally open the boxes and get stuck in. Ooh, I do love a new beauty product....Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10513328968113414913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8411174924176700934.post-4301105346031200282014-05-28T10:09:00.001+01:002014-07-30T16:49:10.235+01:00Bank Holiday - Birthdays and Rainy Days<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I love a long weekend. This Bank Holiday Sunday we travelled up to Richmond to celebrate my brother-in-law's and his twin sister's 40th Birthdays (coincidentally it's on the same day! Ha!) It was also my Father-In-Law's birthday on Monday, so it was a big group celebration. As usual, cake duties fell to me. So I baked a huge batch of my <a href="http://awrenandhernest.blogspot.co.uk/2014/03/brownies-and-bling-mothers-day-treats.html" target="_blank">brownies</a> and the Birthday Boy's specially requested favourite carrot cake. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx6ClenUqSiqDJpBSHpmyx2x-89Z5Dr20PWvvakbLfe8AAnuy8NzRlnSz4wprJCcCf95aqItONHmvjvQo2D2j3rDqxOd6XIPG2ytDzYHvHQMKb0Qy3LCePBcR31M_P4Xnp6JZo3utEPIvI/s1600/insta40th.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx6ClenUqSiqDJpBSHpmyx2x-89Z5Dr20PWvvakbLfe8AAnuy8NzRlnSz4wprJCcCf95aqItONHmvjvQo2D2j3rDqxOd6XIPG2ytDzYHvHQMKb0Qy3LCePBcR31M_P4Xnp6JZo3utEPIvI/s1600/insta40th.JPG" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
It was a glorious day - a beacon of sunshine in the midst of a week of solid rain. Much Pimms and white wine and delicious food was consumed. The children ran around together all afternoon, while the grown-ups chatted and laughed until the early hours. Perfect!<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
We drove back in the rain (again) on Monday. I struggled to stay awake and couldn't keep my hands off the leftover brownies. In spite of the Wintry weather we had a very Summery tea - Melon, Cucumber and Feta Salad. Since the Little Wrens were bored and I was still mildly hungover, we made it together with my almost-8-year-old doing most of the chopping. He felt so grown up! It's a super simple salad - just a whole melon (any will do, ours was Galia, I think), a whole cucumber, a whole pack of feta, a couple of tablespoons of chopped fresh mint the juice of a lemon and a little salt all tossed together. So light and fresh and restorative. We served it with some warmed flatbreads and some Milano Salami. Delicious! Like Summertime in a bowl, even if it was like October outside.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1SahfO2zQqkjnEAdkM2LojI3P3xfUr3-eJ0s7tJVV2OBCvJPaqkDUUFanRnnkkb2tpt22E3Bb0GzM3IxYDyj6sF4t1N-Tjhyphenhyphent3gFSxtANOMcOepAlYIMAwJOxXhGr7Dj0PptuhHNWnTu3/s1600/melonsaladfeta.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1SahfO2zQqkjnEAdkM2LojI3P3xfUr3-eJ0s7tJVV2OBCvJPaqkDUUFanRnnkkb2tpt22E3Bb0GzM3IxYDyj6sF4t1N-Tjhyphenhyphent3gFSxtANOMcOepAlYIMAwJOxXhGr7Dj0PptuhHNWnTu3/s1600/melonsaladfeta.png.png" height="640" width="456" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCV_sF9pNoo_ESyEdPcEAUopCWPnrTGuSkGpk3BoiufStx2Wj0tKSZEj-Bomcb8ztVS9863PpAGzZiWXF3PMZu98hDdr1EwR2IJ2MY3fLhU_N0SBKNoIW1IDJTWTa-vQfXngmCignG9ghS/s1600/melonsaladsqueeze.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCV_sF9pNoo_ESyEdPcEAUopCWPnrTGuSkGpk3BoiufStx2Wj0tKSZEj-Bomcb8ztVS9863PpAGzZiWXF3PMZu98hDdr1EwR2IJ2MY3fLhU_N0SBKNoIW1IDJTWTa-vQfXngmCignG9ghS/s1600/melonsaladsqueeze.png.png" height="462" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5WBsBe8tHgLQBBqpgyPCcJvvpGCRmWqK4gtn2uNuVb87Y02oyhQWf3XFiCXSRrKTpXMuWQ7zh0ySSSZqF6Cf4S2KVapHqg4XQPz4azaIKhQw6-kVge_C6s7cdMZDScYPbswV4kSnVl6Jk/s1600/melonsalad2.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5WBsBe8tHgLQBBqpgyPCcJvvpGCRmWqK4gtn2uNuVb87Y02oyhQWf3XFiCXSRrKTpXMuWQ7zh0ySSSZqF6Cf4S2KVapHqg4XQPz4azaIKhQw6-kVge_C6s7cdMZDScYPbswV4kSnVl6Jk/s1600/melonsalad2.png.png" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10513328968113414913noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8411174924176700934.post-59192479963228773172014-05-23T14:02:00.001+01:002014-06-24T21:14:24.476+01:00Pure and Simple - Eucerin DermoPURIFYER Cleanser Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6slQwW8zPPw2856G_Q9V19juxsv23-6mKaQ-3fhgZ9PlewHJZKQUCUradVjs9eIdtOAehT8z1c3QyPASs432wUEt0-sUI4ZxhwMc2XaFemFc63pPMkTOGfX8713Rmid0McPVdVpM3EDe1/s1600/euceringoodybag.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6slQwW8zPPw2856G_Q9V19juxsv23-6mKaQ-3fhgZ9PlewHJZKQUCUradVjs9eIdtOAehT8z1c3QyPASs432wUEt0-sUI4ZxhwMc2XaFemFc63pPMkTOGfX8713Rmid0McPVdVpM3EDe1/s1600/euceringoodybag.png.png" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Well, this post is quite exciting for me as it is the first time I have been sent a product for review. So I am looking at this as my first legitimate blogger review! Hooray! Of course, as I haven't purchased the product myself this leads us into new territory and so, from now on if I am reviewing a PR provided sample I will mark the item with an asterisk (*). But, rest assured I will be as honest as ever. I will not blog about a product that I don't think would be of interest to you (or me, for that matter) and all opinions will be my own (good or bad) and not that of the marketing department. There - that's that little bit of housekeeping done!<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
So, I was asked to review <a href="http://www.escentual.com/eucerin/face/oily-and-blemish-prone-skin/eucerindermopurifing001/" target="_blank"><b>Eucerin DermoPURIFYER Cleanser</b></a>* by the lovely people at <a href="http://www.escentual.com/" target="_blank"><b>Escentual</b></a>. <b><a href="http://www.eucerin.co.uk/" target="_blank">Eucerin</a></b> is a German dermatological skincare brand that I had been aware of because of their brilliant Hyaluron-filler anti ageing range which is a great, easily available mid-priced anti-wrinkle range that is well worth a look - I digress. The <b>DermoPURIFYER</b> range is aimed at oily and blemish prone skin so is a great product for me to try at the moment (my spot issues have been well-documented already on this blog!). Eucerin claim it eliminates excess sebum (oil), dirt and make-up whilst also being anti-bacterial and non-comodegenic (it won't clog pores). Sounds just the ticket!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGsUr5LUXXbQXPp6fXu1TiCmZI-SZEygpnYIBWPcixPohkGvSovAP4zWRxNaM9NrCyNtWeNDFOUJIDZ8Ze74lc1XpRpLtSgd5HEQH3mBaPSAIL6XYa-D9RnOdMJ4jggkF8Nx271D-b4UYF/s1600/eucerindermobottlewide.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGsUr5LUXXbQXPp6fXu1TiCmZI-SZEygpnYIBWPcixPohkGvSovAP4zWRxNaM9NrCyNtWeNDFOUJIDZ8Ze74lc1XpRpLtSgd5HEQH3mBaPSAIL6XYa-D9RnOdMJ4jggkF8Nx271D-b4UYF/s1600/eucerindermobottlewide.png.png" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
With the brand coming from a dermatological, not a cosmetic background the products are no-frills - simply packaged, fragrance free with the emphasis being on ingredients and results not on a pampering experience. In a cleanser, that is exactly what I want. While I like my skincreams to be feel luxurious, cocooning me in velvety softness and glorious fragrances I expect my cleansers to do just that - CLEAN. I don't want it to smell of roses, I want it to smell pure and simple and clean. The <b>DermoPURIFYER</b> has no overwhelming smell or colour and has a thinnish gel consistency. I have to say, that I was concerned by the words '<i>work into a lather' </i>on the packaging as I have rather fallen out with foaming cleansers recently (too drying). But this one is soap free and emulsifies into a gentle lather, not a sea of bubbles. *<b>Scientific babble alert*</b> - the surfactant (the chemical that turns the water into foam) used here is an <i>Amphoteric tenside </i>which is a particularly mild one. So I have not found it to be drying on the skin.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhlROhQRdf3G09IkxjZsK2IiyKjQQ4IzLIl2Ki5wH-9OJiamnfzHygDxch1PxTG-tWYfzvOLykXqB73lO9ZncKGm8-DwKs4-v4SbiJO2QWR_wVGlWDn92P2hu7OAYlYyBtqC4cN9t5-_gX/s1600/eucerindermocloseup.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhlROhQRdf3G09IkxjZsK2IiyKjQQ4IzLIl2Ki5wH-9OJiamnfzHygDxch1PxTG-tWYfzvOLykXqB73lO9ZncKGm8-DwKs4-v4SbiJO2QWR_wVGlWDn92P2hu7OAYlYyBtqC4cN9t5-_gX/s1600/eucerindermocloseup.png.png" /></a></div>
<br />
I have been applying it to a dry face (even though it says to apply to damp skin on the bottle - sorry Eucerin) then massaging with wet hands as I do with all my cleansers as I find they emulsify the oil better that way. I have been using it as a freshener first thing in the morning and in the shower post-Gym. My skin really does feel super-clean, but not tight and dry and my pores are pretty clear at the moment too. I have not been using it as part of my nighttime double cleanse as I am rather fond of my current cleansing balm, followed by cream cleanser routine. The <b>Eucerin</b> cleanser is a litle too refreshing for me to use at night as I like my products to lull me into bed, but that is just personal preference.<br />
<br />
It is definitely a cleanser I am going to keep in my gym bag as it is perfect for ridding you of that post-workout <i>sweaty greasebag</i> feeling! And I have slotted it into my repertoire of cleansers that I keep on rotation as it is a lovely wake-up wash and really does give your skin a deep-cleansed feeling - ideal for those grubby days! If you are dry-skinned it is not for you, but then it doesn't claim to be. If you are oily and spot prone it is a great one to try. It retails at £9 and is available from chemists nationwide or at <b>25% off</b> this weekend (<b>23rd to 26th May</b>) from <b><a href="http://www.escentual.com/" target="_blank">Escentual</a></b> with the code <b>ESCENTUAL25</b>. That's <b>25% off</b> <i>sitewide</i>, by the way ( I feel a beauty spree coming on!) The Wren recommends!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkyRtc8Sen5l1AZUG2pIR1wKXq6kPZ-o-DLz2ed26t42zqN666Wv8-U5RnSn5pN1HMWmpeuR8KLjM0JlzO5acqSgvApZ0VQ9jAEhgR7M5GwgSjo5A5oD3ACYl_7aM4i-4pMjAooiTxdWHY/s1600/eucerindermobottlewide.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkyRtc8Sen5l1AZUG2pIR1wKXq6kPZ-o-DLz2ed26t42zqN666Wv8-U5RnSn5pN1HMWmpeuR8KLjM0JlzO5acqSgvApZ0VQ9jAEhgR7M5GwgSjo5A5oD3ACYl_7aM4i-4pMjAooiTxdWHY/s1600/eucerindermobottlewide.png.png" /></a></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10513328968113414913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8411174924176700934.post-59580934692964816452014-05-21T14:38:00.001+01:002014-05-23T14:29:22.431+01:00All Over the Overalls - The Wren Shops Dungarees<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN_Np2M6CCrwCjgerSqzSIJy0HnNckaspbdZSmje4ykGciy-RAiw3JiHQ2U5V4qDwZHlk76NvULrt_koMyGxc-smuS1Uv-LlmjrO1nwlBPB3-bsiKZ-XhoQADPq4RCG7Hf1b4G0Xc9vvQg/s1600/kyliecharlene_gallery__300x428.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN_Np2M6CCrwCjgerSqzSIJy0HnNckaspbdZSmje4ykGciy-RAiw3JiHQ2U5V4qDwZHlk76NvULrt_koMyGxc-smuS1Uv-LlmjrO1nwlBPB3-bsiKZ-XhoQADPq4RCG7Hf1b4G0Xc9vvQg/s1600/kyliecharlene_gallery__300x428.png.png" height="640" width="448" /></a></div>
<br />
Ok. Now just wait. I know what you're thinking? Dungarees? I can see the images running through your minds - Huckleberry Finn, Charlene from Neighbours, Super Mario. But wait. If you haven't seen the legions of super-cool bods who have brought the denim dungaree back, then you are missing out. Dungarees are a major Spring-Summer look and I have become slightly obsessed with finding the perfect pair.<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
I say the '<i>perfect pair</i>', but what I mean, obviously is the '<i>perfect not insanely expensive pair'. </i>Because, let me tell you, if money was no object I would have already chalked up <i>two</i> perfect pairs - <b><a href="http://frame-denim.com/" target="_blank">Frame Denim'</a></b>s Le Garcon, and <b><a href="http://www.mih-jeans.com/home/" target="_blank">MIH</a></b>'s Bib & Brace. Because they are stupendously gorgeous.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYPSWM_bz6yHNOL_khdW1mu7oMa7clRmu1PdH-QoLAwr00hiDYUvcH_46J-Wh0-4C6mJFjwNnwafJOfL_7TG2_2iAWFNDBSno2skbx5FX0zDryrfoi0AOCJuPwlh-DIyghqQiDWpHXwVAt/s1600/dungacollage1.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYPSWM_bz6yHNOL_khdW1mu7oMa7clRmu1PdH-QoLAwr00hiDYUvcH_46J-Wh0-4C6mJFjwNnwafJOfL_7TG2_2iAWFNDBSno2skbx5FX0zDryrfoi0AOCJuPwlh-DIyghqQiDWpHXwVAt/s1600/dungacollage1.png.png" height="512" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Left - <a href="http://www.mih-jeans.com/womens-jeans/the-bib-brace-kissing-wash.html" target="_blank">MIH The Bib & Brace Denim Dungarees</a> - £225;<br />
Right - <a href="http://www.net-a-porter.com/product/424483/Frame_Denim/le-garcon-stretch-denim-overalls" target="_blank">Frame Denim Le Garcon Denim Overalls</a> - £340</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
They are gorgeously cut, in beautiful denim washes, but come on. These are overalls we are talking about here and I'm looking for something a <i>little </i>cheaper<i>. </i>Under 50 quid ideally. I have already ordered and tried <a href="http://www.hm.com/gb/product/22965?article=22965-A" target="_blank"><b>H&M</b>'s version</a>, which were just cut too low and loose at the hips (I <i>am not </i>going for the TLC look here!). I am about to collect a delivery of a pair from <a href="http://www.next.co.uk/x53254s7#898197x53" target="_blank"><b>Next</b></a>, although I fear they may be a little too dark in the flesh. And so my search continues.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjneiEnDZiTRFHvFzefR0WefkXQ28BblvPbLLW_17ii_3tduEtxn8YPDsE6nl31rwM9UrkPGUEaEkcHOIBzwg7NXK4qSKZhj7PIIdTsVWtHw_tgHh8gv2Ivgiwei5bnoGziOYpnYAIec_NF/s1600/dungacollage2.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjneiEnDZiTRFHvFzefR0WefkXQ28BblvPbLLW_17ii_3tduEtxn8YPDsE6nl31rwM9UrkPGUEaEkcHOIBzwg7NXK4qSKZhj7PIIdTsVWtHw_tgHh8gv2Ivgiwei5bnoGziOYpnYAIec_NF/s1600/dungacollage2.png.png" height="640" width="412" /></a></div>
<br />
These are what I want - not too dark, but not too light. Not too slim, but not too loose. I plan to wear them with heels. I love the way they look with a crisp shirt underneath. I love them with a blazer or jacket slung over the top and they still look incredible with a breton or well cut tee underneath. My perfect pair has to do all of these things.<br />
<br />
I started with the budget low (those H&M ones are £29.99) and I will work my way up in price until I find a great pair. If these £35 Next ones are a winner then <i>high five</i>, aces, the search is over. Like I said, I suspect they may be a little too dark so I have two more on my incremental hit list. A pair from <a href="http://shop.mango.com/GB/p0/mango/dark-denim-dungarees/?id=21093578_96&n=0&ts=1396137877962" target="_blank"><b>Mango</b> for £59.99</a>, and some gorgeous classic overalls from <a href="http://www.stories.com/gb/Ready-to-wear/Trousers/Denim_overalls/582932-4393257.1" target="_blank"><b>& Other Stories</b> (£79)</a>.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhymfyHff9O-jjuMg4RUvOIl89Y9l1WLVQvkRqkzW3Z0skmmr5NsIJHHbmCEn9mXdpPzSWKcvxDZV5IC8re3I5NY8LkaJ4J1lAHBV2PCJshWkrI03QT8Yvp3hZcDEECKbONIfxRMKlk22Vh/s1600/dungacollage3.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhymfyHff9O-jjuMg4RUvOIl89Y9l1WLVQvkRqkzW3Z0skmmr5NsIJHHbmCEn9mXdpPzSWKcvxDZV5IC8re3I5NY8LkaJ4J1lAHBV2PCJshWkrI03QT8Yvp3hZcDEECKbONIfxRMKlk22Vh/s1600/dungacollage3.png.png" height="640" width="523" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Left - <a href="http://shop.mango.com/GB/p0/mango/dark-denim-dungarees/?id=21093578_96&n=0&ts=1396137877962" target="_blank">Mango Dark Denim Dungarees - £59.99;</a><br />
Right - <a href="http://www.stories.com/gb/Ready-to-wear/Trousers/Denim_overalls/582932-4393257.1" target="_blank">& Other Stories Denim Overalls - £79</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I will not rest, people, until my search is over. I must have them. Like I said, I am <i>all over</i> the overall.<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10513328968113414913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8411174924176700934.post-22210456914179196332014-05-19T14:47:00.001+01:002014-05-23T14:30:45.539+01:00Summer Breeze - sunshine, weddings & celebrationsWell, that's more like it! Summer sun all weekend and today. There's nothing like a bit of sunshine to make me feel that all is well with the world. I have had the most wonderful weekend. A beautiful Cotswolds wedding on the hottest day of the year, a world-beating first barbecue of the season and to top it all off another pretty major reason for my family to celebrate. Today's is a pic-heavy post!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD8H0MgcrLretkgUfKQFDquMBFd3NH9sJQA8Ael-veT5PkfZIPG4XID65p183KiJUG70wm5ayNeFalog6ZqJGdpeJ3AHrJ6Lt2Z3fTkTOUwa3HQpiNlNLAMNEdZrum_VTDQXsqm837S5yN/s1600/weddingoutfit.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD8H0MgcrLretkgUfKQFDquMBFd3NH9sJQA8Ael-veT5PkfZIPG4XID65p183KiJUG70wm5ayNeFalog6ZqJGdpeJ3AHrJ6Lt2Z3fTkTOUwa3HQpiNlNLAMNEdZrum_VTDQXsqm837S5yN/s1600/weddingoutfit.png.png" height="640" width="491" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dress - Diane von Furstenburg, Jacket - Rag&Bone,<br />
Bag - ASOS, Shoes - Shoemint.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
My wedding outfit was a riot of colourblock (although, in 23 degree sunshine that jacket was a bit surplus to requirements). My jacket and dress were <a href="http://www.yoox.com/" target="_blank">Yoox</a> designer bargain finds and that bag was a half price ASOS steal (still available too - link <a href="http://www.asos.com/ASOS/ASOS-Zip-Top-Clutch-Bag-With-Flower-Jewel-Detail/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=3427119&SearchQuery=jewelled%20clutch&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=36&sort=-1&clr=Black" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfzxkpNesM0c-qAr09fQczNmvC46xiLdEDULo-jNpZds9C-3ZNDN3dHjJrSY64_64N9eFZkwEeaqapqDroGbig0PvGalWzi1LZV35pqxNHbROotastXvpbb-0k77cAezgBDFYsdTFP2b6Z/s1600/weddingcollage1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfzxkpNesM0c-qAr09fQczNmvC46xiLdEDULo-jNpZds9C-3ZNDN3dHjJrSY64_64N9eFZkwEeaqapqDroGbig0PvGalWzi1LZV35pqxNHbROotastXvpbb-0k77cAezgBDFYsdTFP2b6Z/s1600/weddingcollage1.png" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
The wedding was of our dear friends Scott and Hayley at the breathtakingly beautiful <a href="http://www.kingscotebarn.co.uk/" target="_blank">Kingscote Barn </a>near Tetbury. Hayley had rallied round her talented crafty friends to design and make lots of little touches and created a gorgeously homespun feeling Vintage Tea Party theme (complete with vintage crockery and the couples own blend of tea as favours). The sun shone (on my Best Man hubbies woolen kilt-clad legs) and the day was absolutely perfect.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQsnEqURqADKbHo1o2ZUJaNlTYI2dM6NdO-v1xKqcM0er0jL17qdvgEFffP9r4JfiWeV-o0Lacj97OsAFjrti7kT0JE8iVf2BaQlQeJmYkF4_W7XDOOZ6vj2XawStjtuLy1g3rOnMGPOW2/s1600/weddingcollage2.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQsnEqURqADKbHo1o2ZUJaNlTYI2dM6NdO-v1xKqcM0er0jL17qdvgEFffP9r4JfiWeV-o0Lacj97OsAFjrti7kT0JE8iVf2BaQlQeJmYkF4_W7XDOOZ6vj2XawStjtuLy1g3rOnMGPOW2/s1600/weddingcollage2.png.png" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I got surreptitiously snapped by my super-talented photographer friend <a href="http://www.anikotowers.com/" target="_blank">Aniko</a>. Look at the beautiful evening light she's captured.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu4q6N5V17cSeqF9cdYVcXqaZsr8s8EjmTT7LpgfD1PQZ69jnfDPaF0XCDz4HGjSSsDuLh_06nUUVuj9CU3GkeJD3SaoDCu9VgiUtcaaEEVN53ujo1pk9Qw7FcDzc4jNGARf5CUc_yShqX/s1600/anikoportraitsun.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu4q6N5V17cSeqF9cdYVcXqaZsr8s8EjmTT7LpgfD1PQZ69jnfDPaF0XCDz4HGjSSsDuLh_06nUUVuj9CU3GkeJD3SaoDCu9VgiUtcaaEEVN53ujo1pk9Qw7FcDzc4jNGARf5CUc_yShqX/s1600/anikoportraitsun.jpg" height="640" width="425" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisqU3ZuS9Y4cFZSn7wtzbpKvhO014l2SPb4K4eEpDUbYsXIpUTEQ6nw1w7PphKBjvNO07RqKMX4ioTa3ibNiihzGxviifc_fPoqUwRqDZbR1Om8Gzm4Yb_VmcXXtnERsu4hxnGhaOyl2xy/s1600/anikoportraitjacket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisqU3ZuS9Y4cFZSn7wtzbpKvhO014l2SPb4K4eEpDUbYsXIpUTEQ6nw1w7PphKBjvNO07RqKMX4ioTa3ibNiihzGxviifc_fPoqUwRqDZbR1Om8Gzm4Yb_VmcXXtnERsu4hxnGhaOyl2xy/s1600/anikoportraitjacket.jpg" height="640" width="425" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
So that was Saturday. Yesterday was equally glorious, so after picking up our little Wrens from my babysitting sister's house we decided to BBQ in the garden. We made a speedy sweep of Waitrose for some ingredients and with some major improvisation and cupboard rummaging I came up with the perfect kofta recipe. Enjoy!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPIwHTMW9sqzd182LsB3EMTfXyQCZ4qhFWnO8J1gVXUdV6yTNE3xvYhbodezNQPwED2ktTHeGkw5kh5ZnOvMD61huiGkfH49GrqonpUGYH3tKPZfwzc27OrOSoUwu0BpYMExYvTix3zuFn/s1600/bbqkoftarecipe.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPIwHTMW9sqzd182LsB3EMTfXyQCZ4qhFWnO8J1gVXUdV6yTNE3xvYhbodezNQPwED2ktTHeGkw5kh5ZnOvMD61huiGkfH49GrqonpUGYH3tKPZfwzc27OrOSoUwu0BpYMExYvTix3zuFn/s1600/bbqkoftarecipe.png.png" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<h4>
Ingredients</h4>
<div>
<b><i>For the koftas:</i></b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<i><b>250g lamb mince</b></i></div>
<div>
<i><b>250g pork mince</b></i></div>
<div>
<i><b>50g crumbled feta cheese</b></i></div>
<div>
<i><b>3 tbsp chopped soft dried apricots</b></i></div>
<div>
<i><b>2 tbsp pinenuts</b></i></div>
<div>
<i><b>1 tsp cumin seed</b></i></div>
<div>
<i><b>2 tsp Bart's Baharat spice mix</b></i></div>
<div>
<i><b>1 tsp sea salt</b></i></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b><i>For the feta and mint yoghurt sauce:</i></b></div>
<div>
<b><i><br /></i></b></div>
<div>
<b><i>1/2 cup Greek yoghurt</i></b></div>
<div>
<b><i>50g crumbled feta cheese</i></b></div>
<div>
<b><i>1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil</i></b></div>
<div>
<b><i>Juice of 1/2 large lemon</i></b></div>
<div>
<b><i>1/2 tsp ground cumin</i></b></div>
<div>
<b><i>2 tsp chopped fresh mint</i></b></div>
<div>
<b><i>pinch of salt</i></b></div>
<div>
(<i>Mix the ingredients together well with a fork or whisk)</i></div>
<div>
<b><i><br /></i></b></div>
<div>
<b><i>Flatbreads and cucumber & tomato salad to serve.</i></b></div>
<div>
<b><i><br /></i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9DVx1J4SzFfBw9ChdFfQfX-7UDUT4ZPy88pO6El1Fwq8GjDCfUtoVwigyHFntkI2cFhlonSSZ9louhFSWIaBCzpK3mbeDwT-dQbBR1C9SVyA2ZSUoH9Ul9EDTbHHhQuwq9cc0mcawgVce/s1600/bbqkoftatable2.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9DVx1J4SzFfBw9ChdFfQfX-7UDUT4ZPy88pO6El1Fwq8GjDCfUtoVwigyHFntkI2cFhlonSSZ9louhFSWIaBCzpK3mbeDwT-dQbBR1C9SVyA2ZSUoH9Ul9EDTbHHhQuwq9cc0mcawgVce/s1600/bbqkoftatable2.png.png" /></a></div>
<div>
<b><i><br /></i></b></div>
<div>
<i>To make the koftas, mix all the ingredients together well in a large bowl (I used my hands - best to get stuck right in with this!). Form into sausage shapes and form each sausage around a flat bamboo skewer (you should get 10 or so). Cook for around 15 minutes on a BBQ or griddle, turning regularly until cooked through. Serve on flatbreads with a little salad, topped with the yoghurt sauce and a little chilli sauce if you like things a little spicy! Wrap and devour greedily these gorgeous little golden nugget-spiked meaty morsels.</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9-pJfZSzoFGg86dX18ZPI_eiN_A7cHzXoOVkITldfymADlHRhYczs9u7o7YEIGH2cQsnC1R_AhF1sXNMiUCgLkm9Lvti4Fiv_snWYvELYsZ6rVrY4eNRAzbS7iG_TwpewIkLzGU9DP7qD/s1600/bbqkoftasplate.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9-pJfZSzoFGg86dX18ZPI_eiN_A7cHzXoOVkITldfymADlHRhYczs9u7o7YEIGH2cQsnC1R_AhF1sXNMiUCgLkm9Lvti4Fiv_snWYvELYsZ6rVrY4eNRAzbS7iG_TwpewIkLzGU9DP7qD/s1600/bbqkoftasplate.png.png" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div>
As if a sunshiney barbecue and Aperol Spritz-filled Sunday wasn't a good enough way to end the week, the night got even better. With a prosecco in hand I watched on TV as my brilliant big brother Matthew Gravelle stepped onto the Theatre Royal Drury Lane stage to collect a BAFTA for Best Drama with the rest of the Broadchurch cast (he played Joe Miller, the killer). To say my family and I are proud, would be beyond understatement. We are beaming. Like I said, it was a <i>good</i> weekend.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZil80UHcHrchb-wCBUo9sTSKOjHWZXDVY8RXv-TiS8ICgecbmENezYls3uqKABLdZ8z-02bS0GHPA7F6q9N5e4zj2QjOQCMlDVKSETpSAciW1PYQkq6lBF-3ozp7t1vH3TnKc0nP-862R/s1600/broadchurchbaftainsta.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZil80UHcHrchb-wCBUo9sTSKOjHWZXDVY8RXv-TiS8ICgecbmENezYls3uqKABLdZ8z-02bS0GHPA7F6q9N5e4zj2QjOQCMlDVKSETpSAciW1PYQkq6lBF-3ozp7t1vH3TnKc0nP-862R/s1600/broadchurchbaftainsta.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There he is on the far left HOLDING A BAFTA!!!!!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b><i><br /></i></b></div>
<div>
<b><i><br /></i></b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10513328968113414913noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8411174924176700934.post-15908685323121828952014-05-16T14:10:00.002+01:002014-05-23T14:31:42.936+01:00Oh, the places you'll go! A plea for the bedtime story.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY5r63r-wETV4-qBYDJ8CGW-wAlKQhGPC1gtj16LWe-MbcakmUXfnmpjdfg8ah5x_i7YuzA7E2qJ1FZWbOiKUkQgdoc_2x-W8XmsK0_C7T6Ppm3uyVuD2kPFzo-W2TGWC0993rFe03EfkZ/s1600/bookshelf.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY5r63r-wETV4-qBYDJ8CGW-wAlKQhGPC1gtj16LWe-MbcakmUXfnmpjdfg8ah5x_i7YuzA7E2qJ1FZWbOiKUkQgdoc_2x-W8XmsK0_C7T6Ppm3uyVuD2kPFzo-W2TGWC0993rFe03EfkZ/s1600/bookshelf.png.png" /></a></div>
<br />
I was woken up on Tuesday morning as always by Chris Evans' breakfast show on Radio 2. After dancing out of bed to the soft rock sounds of John Parr's Man In Motion (the theme from St Elmo's Fire - classic! I had the 7"single) something he discussed stopped me in my tracks. He said that a poll had revealed that young parents are no longer reading books at bedtime to their children, that the bedtime story is dying out. And my heart sank.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Actually, the poll he was discussing looked specifically at Dads. He was referring to a survey by <a href="http://www.booktrust.org.uk/news-and-blogs/news/288/" target="_blank">Booktrust</a> which has found that only 19% of 18-24 year old fathers read stories to their children. But it's not just the Dads at fault here, because there was a similar survey in 2012 that found that less than a third of parents read regularly to their children.<br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I found this deeply saddening, but not entirely surprising. I mean, at how many points in the day are modern parents genuinely 100% engaged with our children. Without some chore, or a text message, or email or twitter feed distracting us momentarily? Or without a camera phone capturing an Instagrammed to perfection image of the moment? We have got so used to doing a dozen things at once that those precious <i>one on one</i>, <i>you and me</i> moments that are totally free from distractions are becoming rarer and rarer.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
And that is one reason why a bedtime story is such a special ritual. One that we must keep up. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Let's forget about all the anthropological reasons for why storytelling is an essential part of human nature and society, how we've been doing it since we were cavemen. Let's think about what we and our children are missing out on.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I have always believed that a child who has been brought up surrounded by books, who has heard stories since babyhood will <i>always </i>be a happy reader. I have had many conversations with other mothers who were worried about their son or daughter's reading development and I have always told them to relax. Forget about the tedious, plot-free and repetitive school phonics programme books and what level they <i>should</i> be at. Just keep reading to them. If they love to hear stories and love to share books one day they will pick one up for themselves. I'm not going to pretend that I've conducted any research on this, let's call it a <i>strong hunch </i>but I'd wager that very few of the 5.2 million 'functionally illiterate' adults in the UK were read to regularly as children. And I dread to think what the nation's literacy rates will be like if two thirds of a generation are growing up without books in their everyday lives.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLaNj1rxmSRyOZZ0BP7cHOWprhNGVAtBmFQaq2sUjrQbORUOX85wHz9xXzBg4UdP09pkLFrTcQbSh5TqCAxAZnf1ZnW2qeFiiaC0bo0vdq-qNdROfDDjMuLSop5JbRcCD86p82TYlTiWQc/s1600/the+more+that+you+read.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLaNj1rxmSRyOZZ0BP7cHOWprhNGVAtBmFQaq2sUjrQbORUOX85wHz9xXzBg4UdP09pkLFrTcQbSh5TqCAxAZnf1ZnW2qeFiiaC0bo0vdq-qNdROfDDjMuLSop5JbRcCD86p82TYlTiWQc/s1600/the+more+that+you+read.png.png" height="425" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="http://www.booktrust.org.uk/news-and-blogs/news/288/" target="_blank">Booktrust</a> state that reading every day to preschool children can put them 12 months ahead when they start school. A whole year ahead! Just from a few minutes a day sat with <b><i>The Very Hungry Caterpillar</i></b> and <i style="font-weight: bold;">The Gruffalo</i>! A love of reading translates into a love of learning. It's so simple. And the academic benefits aren't even the best bit for me.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Taking time to sit with your little munchkins and share a book sends a powerful message to them. It tells them that you love their company, it makes them feel safe and cocooned and you get to go on amazing adventures together. When they giggle uncontrollably at your silly voices, when they join in and recite their favourite bits with you, well, it makes you feel incredible. Reading kids books aloud makes you seem funnier, cleverer and cooler to your kids than you can ever be in normal life. You're SuperMum, you're IronDad.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
You just don't get that kind of adoration from your kids very often. And, while of course, some nights it's easier to just pop the telly on, or hand them an iPad, if they don't get to experience books and stories then we are limiting them hugely. Imaginations need to be flexed -films and computer games do all the work for you. You need to use your imagination to picture a story.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
And, goodness, the stories they miss out on.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDX2tA9fvKk507eLcl-F6WqwTwV39D-EvwFcCyTW0z3-XgseWTj98vIcG0emtdxvS14cH8zSOJ0hEo2HttSsQfu5qeu0ghtptqnz9wNjau3HZPLS1DrczcsbOtJNZVhMvRmmSIVSElAh0b/s1600/kidsfavebooks.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDX2tA9fvKk507eLcl-F6WqwTwV39D-EvwFcCyTW0z3-XgseWTj98vIcG0emtdxvS14cH8zSOJ0hEo2HttSsQfu5qeu0ghtptqnz9wNjau3HZPLS1DrczcsbOtJNZVhMvRmmSIVSElAh0b/s1600/kidsfavebooks.png.png" height="425" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">There are many occasions when our children have something that's bothering them, or when we parents feel there is an issue we need to discuss. But sometimes it's hard to find the right words - age appropriate and understandable. When this happens there is always a book that could say what you want to say far more eloquently, far more engagingly than you can. When a child loses a family member, for example, it can be very hard to explain to them how and why their little world has changed. It's hard for them to understand why all the 'big, strong adults' who are supposed to protect them are constantly crying. When my Mum ( Nonna to my kids) passed away suddenly it was by sharing books like Michael Rosen's<i style="font-weight: bold;"> Sad Book</i> that opened up lines of communication. How could I ever put into words what we were going through better than the brilliant Oliver Jeffers does in his beautiful book about loss <i style="font-weight: bold;">The Heart In The Bottle</i>?</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitqiGwop5Bvye1uIvveNRVe0Bvd0261Ok336-_W5rFVKB21iUvPic_Sapwx69jK49VY7ukUiYXGE5ahPl6iT_i3CTjLMZ3J6zs7HcV8ssPoEHDDw7X4-Yor49Tzp1YixJwR9I03DO_d-CQ/s1600/heartbottle.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitqiGwop5Bvye1uIvveNRVe0Bvd0261Ok336-_W5rFVKB21iUvPic_Sapwx69jK49VY7ukUiYXGE5ahPl6iT_i3CTjLMZ3J6zs7HcV8ssPoEHDDw7X4-Yor49Tzp1YixJwR9I03DO_d-CQ/s1600/heartbottle.png.png" height="640" width="464" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">If you want to teach children about the value of friendship, pick up a copy of </span><i style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: bold;">Charlotte's Web.</i><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Dr. Seuss will teach them about their responsibility to take care of the planet (via </span><i style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: bold;">The Lorax</i><span style="font-family: inherit;">) and his </span><i style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: bold;">Oh, The Places You'll Go!</i><span style="font-family: inherit;"> will help them believe that they can do anything they put their hearts and minds to:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">"You have brains in your head, you have feet in your shoes. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">You can steer yourself any direction you choose. You're on your own and you know what you know. And <i>you </i>are the one who'll decide where to go."</span></span></b><br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: inherit;">And these ideas and images will stay with them throughout adulthood in a way that no other media can, I think. I still get misty eyed when I open up the pages of certain books from my childhood. I can still recite most of the verses from AA Milne's </span><b style="font-family: inherit;"><i>When Were Were Very Young</i></b><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: inherit;">, Shirley Hughes </span><i style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Dogger</b></i><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: inherit;"> and </span><b style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Alfie</i></b><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: inherit;"> books still bring a sentimental tear to my eye. And I only have to touch a copy of Where The Wild Things Are and I am back on my Mum's knee, snuggled in wonder at the magic of Max's adventures, which in themselves are a metaphor, surely, for the wonder of the imagination. These are wonderful memories and a much-loved book can send you back to a place and time like little else. I doubt very much that a TV programme or computer game could ever be so evocative.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2jdxz5ZqFPNNz0J9vPWXZSL4pAb69a0mB1b75OFzVXGAWg6bPtexExpWjBs9RQamIGLLfqT3ZiA7ihcmZ8qJB2XcwrloNLDhi31bzoiRBUW7K_X001IRxEK4anmPmJFQLBfpLWOLn5i5P/s1600/maxsroom.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2jdxz5ZqFPNNz0J9vPWXZSL4pAb69a0mB1b75OFzVXGAWg6bPtexExpWjBs9RQamIGLLfqT3ZiA7ihcmZ8qJB2XcwrloNLDhi31bzoiRBUW7K_X001IRxEK4anmPmJFQLBfpLWOLn5i5P/s1600/maxsroom.png.png" height="257" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk13wnlf4hO0OJGSvyfAwIDDlt2LybAjnhopUZ0I3dbARNitE5c4KfTp_Ny3YzZe7F1XnEJbqGctUba08rVRSNQ9bh3FeHIKo1OodRYupnzVVo8ZlVV4pMSadQ6l2IGnkvKApgHsrXjnj7/s1600/myfavebooks.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk13wnlf4hO0OJGSvyfAwIDDlt2LybAjnhopUZ0I3dbARNitE5c4KfTp_Ny3YzZe7F1XnEJbqGctUba08rVRSNQ9bh3FeHIKo1OodRYupnzVVo8ZlVV4pMSadQ6l2IGnkvKApgHsrXjnj7/s1600/myfavebooks.png.png" height="425" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: inherit;">I know we are all busy, and stressed and run ragged. It's been a long day and the last thing you want to do is drag out bedtime any longer than you need to. But before we know it our children won't be children any more. They won't sit and listen forever. So, the dinner can wait. That longed-for glass of wine can wait. The emails and the housework - they can wait. Just take a deep breath and pick up a storybook. Cuddle up to your kids and get lost in a magical world. Make a forest grow in </span><i style="font-family: inherit;">their</i><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: inherit;"> bedroom. Or a circus, or a fairyland. I promise, whatever </span><i style="font-family: inherit;">the thing</i><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: inherit;"> was that was your reason for </span><i style="font-family: inherit;">not</i><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: inherit;"> doing it will seem a whole lot less important after. Come on. Let's keep the bedtime story alive. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvX7wPjOB-UhPIoKWKl3ZiUuLVoSTwJ8G9jmrA2-cTA01PXYV6RwbhrYBXGK9D0LbwMilHfYWRvZMGh3QnfGOwG9a8OnP-MjMDH0UHHRP8b9vVNhxhKyJsgnj0EDHr9k1DT4Xr762ochRy/s1600/charlottesweb.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvX7wPjOB-UhPIoKWKl3ZiUuLVoSTwJ8G9jmrA2-cTA01PXYV6RwbhrYBXGK9D0LbwMilHfYWRvZMGh3QnfGOwG9a8OnP-MjMDH0UHHRP8b9vVNhxhKyJsgnj0EDHr9k1DT4Xr762ochRy/s1600/charlottesweb.png.png" height="640" width="460" /></a></div>
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10513328968113414913noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8411174924176700934.post-50141990579840799272014-05-14T14:41:00.002+01:002014-05-23T14:32:15.229+01:00Base Layers - Clarins EverMatte Foundation Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdsVRlBPVvMa1acg9D3SNInwkF5VdPHoml1Ij96bGkh2FYVVEJnLJL4RTZ5tpTIxdIl00v1VW3ZBvTSQnKp2vKnnwYnpHY6PdWSXIpvXRzY7cZ0Jiw_IY3N4hzVgP1hKoH0sIIPJGOj103/s1600/evermatteproduct.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdsVRlBPVvMa1acg9D3SNInwkF5VdPHoml1Ij96bGkh2FYVVEJnLJL4RTZ5tpTIxdIl00v1VW3ZBvTSQnKp2vKnnwYnpHY6PdWSXIpvXRzY7cZ0Jiw_IY3N4hzVgP1hKoH0sIIPJGOj103/s1600/evermatteproduct.png.png" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I've fallen out of love with foundations in the last few years. Since the advent of BB and CC creams, I have tended to use those in place of a <i>regular </i>foundation. In spite of my being prone to the occasional breakout, I am not a fan of major coverage preferring to enhance and allow my skin to show through rather than cover it. I have also struggled to find the right shade and often, even when I think I have a match I have found it has oxidised and turned a bit orangey over the course of a few hours. This is especially common with us <i>oily</i> types.</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">But with my skin being so out of kilter lately, I have felt the need to cover up a <i>little</i> more. So, after </span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: inherit;">investing in a primer (Nars Pro Prime Oil Free) to help with the oil slick effect I started a bit of Google research to find the best foundation for oily skin. <a href="http://www.lisaeldridge.com/product/22122/foundation-ever-matte-oil-free/tag/2736/" target="_blank">Lisa Eldridge's brilliant website</a> had a section on just this, so after testing one or two in store and discarding them ( No.7 Beautifully Matte and Revlon Colorstay - too heavy for me) I settled on the more light to medium coverage <a href="http://www.clarins.co.uk/ever-matte-skin-balancing-foundation-spf-15/C050101010.html?start=5&dwvar_C050101010_color=103%20Ivory" target="_blank">Clarins EverMatte Skin Balancing Foundation SPF15</a>.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">After a bit of a false start with the colour matching (I was originally recommended 105 Nude - too chalky; and 107 Beige - too pink toned) I found my perfect shade - 108 Sand.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGPVCvJNivMHPTqjClzAS9exC96dUk0bvP5SyeiCUTAtSpjsrlOBxU85EPAY_cbRfS9QKUR2AL6ls2RnfwaF0BHKCRhlA85jxMC-ClO6XugJirvW4GL1m5uc8o4sFhLqW-VNiTDF6uNBZc/s1600/evermatteswatch2.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGPVCvJNivMHPTqjClzAS9exC96dUk0bvP5SyeiCUTAtSpjsrlOBxU85EPAY_cbRfS9QKUR2AL6ls2RnfwaF0BHKCRhlA85jxMC-ClO6XugJirvW4GL1m5uc8o4sFhLqW-VNiTDF6uNBZc/s1600/evermatteswatch2.png.png" height="425" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">This is a great match for</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> my skintone - seamlessly bridging the gap between my pale neck and more golden-toned face. I would say the colour remains pretty true as the day goes on with no oxidation oranginess. It has a light cream texture and blends really easily leaving a smooth finish. Applying EverMatte in thin layers you can build up the coverage where needed without it becoming heavy. I have to say, that I think the word 'matte' in the name is slightly misleading. I wouldn't describe the finish as 'matte'. Whilst the formula does control oily shine, the finish on the skin is still slightly dewy which is lovely. Your skin looks like <i>skin,</i> not like a powdery mask and that is very much what I want from a foundation.</span></div>
<div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHyG-mSV23wq6jruftkiVNABBVItovwCW0HgdphZxPCHEH3Y2oriaDTxDRM91LpDEZohe7aoSgdS0yWOGDAIR26zJfFtsn2toEU0HWR1Xv2FrjhA8WcRDGs6HEggk53sHj1W3bEioDS4EX/s1600/evermattefullface.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHyG-mSV23wq6jruftkiVNABBVItovwCW0HgdphZxPCHEH3Y2oriaDTxDRM91LpDEZohe7aoSgdS0yWOGDAIR26zJfFtsn2toEU0HWR1Xv2FrjhA8WcRDGs6HEggk53sHj1W3bEioDS4EX/s1600/evermattefullface.png.png" height="640" width="536" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">As I said, the coverage is light to medium, so if you have some heavy duty camouflage to undertake then this may not be for you. In the photos I have shown how it looks over primer but with no concealer or powder on top and you can see where my blemishes (yes, there are many this week - Saturday was a bit</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> boozy, which is a major spot trigger for me) are not amply disguised. But I really like this foundation. I would rather have a radiant looking base and add extra coverage with a little more concealer and powder where needed</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">. This lightly enhances the skin, </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">smoothing over pores and disguising light discolouration and stays shine free for a good 5 hours or so. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWt1Wh_mMOteeAFCyUxHq2gauCgxPhFDr0vbJI0014J43C3plwoOFN_ni5UfjSS6FPX-YDMU9nPpkHeA4lwuyHNyQC0U8f4X-CRFYJDjrw0xvc5lV_StZM5tvON1KNBjnb4VWM_Pcyy7Zd/s1600/evermatteprofile1.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWt1Wh_mMOteeAFCyUxHq2gauCgxPhFDr0vbJI0014J43C3plwoOFN_ni5UfjSS6FPX-YDMU9nPpkHeA4lwuyHNyQC0U8f4X-CRFYJDjrw0xvc5lV_StZM5tvON1KNBjnb4VWM_Pcyy7Zd/s1600/evermatteprofile1.png.png" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">My verdict: this is a great daytime foundation for those with oily/ combination skin who want a natural finish. It is available from the usual suspects (department stores, Boots, larger pharmacies) and retails for £27. It is also currently available on </span><a href="http://www.escentual.com/make-up/face/foundations/evermatte001/" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">Escentual</a><span style="font-family: inherit;">'s website</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> for the special price of £23.75.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
(Note the lovely blusher in these pics - Stila Convertible Color in Rose. There's a review in the pipeline).</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10513328968113414913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8411174924176700934.post-25364565054441747432014-05-13T12:51:00.000+01:002014-05-23T14:32:39.733+01:00Rainy Day Rhubarb & Custard<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Well, talk about a wet weekend! It was rainy or cloudy for most of Sunday and at the same time I was in a mildly hungover fug. These two facts combined meant that I had to spend the day eating my own weight in carbohydrates. It was fried eggs with toast and pancetta at brunch, and we had macaroni cheese for tea (is there any better hangover food than mac & cheese?). Around midday, my background headache like a pushy shopper elbowing their way to the front of the queue began forcing it's way to the foreground. I needed cake.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I found a bag of rhubarb at the bottom of the fridge that my Mother-In -Law had picked from her garden. Not quite enough for a crumble. So I googled '<i>rhubarb and custard cookies</i>'. No luck. I did however find a recipe on the <b><a href="http://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/10500/rhubarb-and-custard-cake" target="_blank">BBC Good Food Magazine</a></b> website for a <i>Rhubarb & Custard Cake. </i>Boom! And off I went.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I posted a pic to <a href="http://instagram.com/awrenandhernest" target="_blank">Instagram</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thewrensnestblog" target="_blank">Facebook</a> of the cake about to go into the oven and I've had loads of people asking me for the recipe. So here it is. It is incredible. I urge you to make it. It will make everything better.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiS0cTe6AQZiDRA5FSA0OXi52yqm5xITp3bX6CH4-p8awnYGkB48aT1NRZtyazReXraPNrihctn5Wem4nyVsN8TXpIv4okXtkM2T9PsQLNE1JCXOQQGoO0O6oJFLcpQzSi4ofk0azgTujp/s1600/rhubarbcustardcakerecipe.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiS0cTe6AQZiDRA5FSA0OXi52yqm5xITp3bX6CH4-p8awnYGkB48aT1NRZtyazReXraPNrihctn5Wem4nyVsN8TXpIv4okXtkM2T9PsQLNE1JCXOQQGoO0O6oJFLcpQzSi4ofk0azgTujp/s1600/rhubarbcustardcakerecipe.png.png" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
<h4>
Ingredients</h4>
<b>400g rhubarb - trimmed and sliced into finger sized pieces</b><br />
<b>50g caster sugar</b><br />
<b>2 tbsps orange juice </b>(my own addition)<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>250g soft unsalted butter</b><br />
<b>150g pot ready made custard </b>(I used Ambrosia)<br />
<b>250g self-raising flour</b><br />
<b>1/2 tsp baking powder</b><br />
<b>4 large eggs</b><br />
<b>1 tsp vanilla extract</b><br />
<b>250g golden caster sugar</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b><i>First roast the rhubarb, by tossing in a roasting dish with the 50g sugar and orange juice. Cover with foil & roast for 15mins at 200 degrees (180 fan). Remove foil and roast for a further 5 minutes. Drain off and reserve juices while still warm. </i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i>-Butter and line a 23cm springform cake tin. Preheat oven to 180C/ Fan 160C/ Gas 4.</i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i>Reserve 3 tbsp of the custard in a bowl. beat in the rest of the custard with the butter, sugar, flour, baking powder, eggs, vanilla and sugar until smooth and creamy.</i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i>Spoon one third of the cake batter into the tin, add a third of the rhubarb and repeat. Spoon over the remaining cake mix, scatter over your prettiest bits of rhubarb and dot the reserved custard over.</i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i>Bake for 40minutes until risen and golden, then cover with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes more or until a skewer inserted into the middle comes out clean.</i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i>Cool in the tin. </i></b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIUt6ML5mJRDVe83-4__H1JY2d6wCbXAdd183NeeUirOEjuOoowIurB4fszvYkAeIdHqnmzyBfpS8Tlmc6xPI4hPxQ6qN0BYqcETB6Ft-ihacxYRNQs8GONvONaAK4I09NXV1P6rBAytH-/s1600/rhubarbcustard1.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIUt6ML5mJRDVe83-4__H1JY2d6wCbXAdd183NeeUirOEjuOoowIurB4fszvYkAeIdHqnmzyBfpS8Tlmc6xPI4hPxQ6qN0BYqcETB6Ft-ihacxYRNQs8GONvONaAK4I09NXV1P6rBAytH-/s1600/rhubarbcustard1.png.png" height="472" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I served this with some warm custard and some of the rhubarb juices drizzled over. But I had a plain slice yesterday with a cuppa and it was still beautifully moist and the perfect balance of sharp and sweet. I also have plans to slightly adapt the quantities and make it double layered - sandwiched with custardy cream and more rhubarb and drizzled with a rhubarb syrup icing. Wouldn't that be just gorgeous for a Summer celebration? This recipe was quite the find.<br />
<br />
I told you it would make everything better - headache gone. And today the sun is back in the sky. Cake - curer of the World's ills.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy6iw_TTi5ydfMzqKjNB26kW_msenNzoNdPC-muzhGXvc2LTrlAzatint8EoZspLHuyzWS4ZUFQQ1RcWbH12ejV6rAgm2RI44BjAKfESTEO0EywtN54_aV6m7aZ4Sk1OLuYKn8OqUl2ZjF/s1600/rhubarbcustardslice.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy6iw_TTi5ydfMzqKjNB26kW_msenNzoNdPC-muzhGXvc2LTrlAzatint8EoZspLHuyzWS4ZUFQQ1RcWbH12ejV6rAgm2RI44BjAKfESTEO0EywtN54_aV6m7aZ4Sk1OLuYKn8OqUl2ZjF/s1600/rhubarbcustardslice.png.png" height="640" width="545" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<i><b><br /></b></i>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10513328968113414913noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8411174924176700934.post-50365276353113805482014-05-11T18:31:00.002+01:002014-05-23T14:33:38.208+01:00A sea of coral - outfit of the dayIs it still Spring? Someone forgot to tell the weather. Last week I managed to get one outfit from my Spring/Summer wardrobe into our weekly half hour of sunshine. And my wardrobe is currently a sea of coral coloured clothes. Ditto my make-up bag. I must have about half a dozen coral/orange/tomato toned lippies and it is my warm weather nail shade of choice too in variant hues. My favourite colour to combine it with is azure blue, or turquoise. Two new purchases have added this much needed pop of accent colour to my much-loved, oft-worn <a href="http://www.rag-bone.com/" target="_blank">Rag&Bone</a> coral skinny zipper ankle jeans. Hands down, these are my best fitting pair of skinnies - a true skinny fit, perfect mid-rise waist, ankle-grazing at exactly the right point, with just enough stretch so that you can actually sit down in them, but without them getting saggy and stretched-out after a couple of wears. They are great Summer jeans for when it finally (if ever) arrives. On Thursday, I wore them with the new Marc Jacobs handbag I got on last weekend's London trip (read about it <a href="http://awrenandhernest.blogspot.co.uk/2014/05/weekend-in-london-details-wren-falls-in.html" target="_blank">here</a>). And my beautiful new Charles Philip Shanghai slipper shoes.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBmKiZXwTOMJruxSO_WqWsxLi3BBA7xmU0r1bXgViOg7VbJv4jQZ3Y2O8BfXnjvWqkt5ZSVL-LMxKWzRmpoxk5FrR-4ld5-LFSDrz5ZAI_9CzW5aJ16Qvy50qwaFGpBRboFuivW872ql__/s1600/coralturq3.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBmKiZXwTOMJruxSO_WqWsxLi3BBA7xmU0r1bXgViOg7VbJv4jQZ3Y2O8BfXnjvWqkt5ZSVL-LMxKWzRmpoxk5FrR-4ld5-LFSDrz5ZAI_9CzW5aJ16Qvy50qwaFGpBRboFuivW872ql__/s1600/coralturq3.png.png" height="640" width="263" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaHH7mXdX09VZIgo5aWQpHLLEfhn366s9Vq09bzHugH42JR9a_OWO3rWZzW2he7Ps4RxAkE0IMjdYTgaJLSaPxULxtIrOb5_4AHVigAsKnNNQJA9sUfsEHDlttkKlb6niFqV3fh492F_C1/s1600/cpturq.png.png" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaHH7mXdX09VZIgo5aWQpHLLEfhn366s9Vq09bzHugH42JR9a_OWO3rWZzW2he7Ps4RxAkE0IMjdYTgaJLSaPxULxtIrOb5_4AHVigAsKnNNQJA9sUfsEHDlttkKlb6niFqV3fh492F_C1/s1600/cpturq.png.png" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
These <a href="http://www.charlesphilipshanghai.com/" target="_blank">Charles Philip Shanghai</a> shoes were a crazily bargainous £39 on Yoox (now sold out, of course, but they have loads of other colourways in stock). These retail at around £135 usually. They are impossibly comfortable - feeling more like slippers than shoes and it's taking a lot of willpower not to buy another pair in a stripey version, or camo, or gold, or leopard - you get the picture!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI6v54Y3af2r6h7vJV6HvP2IamXl-o3s_TBHZCvLFeucrCJbr92I8Emb1dLvbI4Rp6WFZvf9ip_BlLRvZ8ftB1Y9_XoFXtq3vxO735nR0G5LXZ4Hkii0sJgXc5LPJnF7BOuNXOFY-fOOx0/s1600/coralturq1.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI6v54Y3af2r6h7vJV6HvP2IamXl-o3s_TBHZCvLFeucrCJbr92I8Emb1dLvbI4Rp6WFZvf9ip_BlLRvZ8ftB1Y9_XoFXtq3vxO735nR0G5LXZ4Hkii0sJgXc5LPJnF7BOuNXOFY-fOOx0/s1600/coralturq1.png.png" height="640" width="238" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiuTOyWCIuRdT8EjCsLlnRUAG_SG6R7WSt-fvIMv5MRVPHSTknl5bDUXCtQLpWihyphenhyphen_OyOEhf9TWUBv-IQXBruLgdcQOTxRk_zvTW_wgHtN2qqZogJzk2cLzgb19SvXAUwrnVCEURRrIxG1/s1600/coralturq2.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiuTOyWCIuRdT8EjCsLlnRUAG_SG6R7WSt-fvIMv5MRVPHSTknl5bDUXCtQLpWihyphenhyphen_OyOEhf9TWUBv-IQXBruLgdcQOTxRk_zvTW_wgHtN2qqZogJzk2cLzgb19SvXAUwrnVCEURRrIxG1/s1600/coralturq2.png.png" height="640" width="293" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghXjVFOZwK0Osnr2j_3_apxxEahXBYllj5LhucOgpA4oqX1tRG1vASqakYV1HdZKQGxrc970nzboPwkUiwu-ZX8LBH5ZOQJgFkNZbIMdCa_xLoRf8BDa0Y1xfYO9iLTVylHCH_Xa29xP6d/s1600/coralturqbag.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghXjVFOZwK0Osnr2j_3_apxxEahXBYllj5LhucOgpA4oqX1tRG1vASqakYV1HdZKQGxrc970nzboPwkUiwu-ZX8LBH5ZOQJgFkNZbIMdCa_xLoRf8BDa0Y1xfYO9iLTVylHCH_Xa29xP6d/s1600/coralturqbag.png.png" height="400" width="355" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Jeans - <a href="http://www.rag-bone.com/" target="_blank">Rag & Bone</a><br />
Silk Top - <a href="http://www.americanvintage-store.com/en/" target="_blank">American Vintage</a><br />
Denim Shirt - <a href="http://www.topshop.com/en/tsuk/category/clothing-427/denim-897/denim-tops-2277129?geoip=noredirect" target="_blank">Topshop </a><br />
Shoes - <a href="http://www.charlesphilipshanghai.com/" target="_blank">Charles Philip Shanghai</a><br />
Bag - <a href="http://www.liberty.co.uk/accessories_bags/dept/fcp-category/categorylist?isSearchFilterSuffix=true&isSearchFilterSuffix=true&results=60&visModel=CHANNEL&visModel=CHANNEL&filters=BRAND_FILTER:Marc+by+Marc+Jacobs&page=1" target="_blank">Marc by Marc Jacobs @ Liberty</a><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">(completely unnecessary) </span>Sunglasses - <a href="http://www.shadestation.co.uk/Michael-Kors-Sunglasses.html?gclid=CMudh_6tpL4CFaYfwwodYXYA0w" target="_blank">Michael Kors</a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEoPNDQx5O9A5jI0u_DtFZkem1adrSeCmJD6z9y7QOigM5PBcqK9Gk_-YgjigVThsMwvNLTojbeVDIrZIi9i0KeqfNOnMzNm8NoBxV339KmQI_x2KIlL_VlJgXgJG5LB1L7S16rdcGfpV5/s1600/coralturqmakeup2.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEoPNDQx5O9A5jI0u_DtFZkem1adrSeCmJD6z9y7QOigM5PBcqK9Gk_-YgjigVThsMwvNLTojbeVDIrZIi9i0KeqfNOnMzNm8NoBxV339KmQI_x2KIlL_VlJgXgJG5LB1L7S16rdcGfpV5/s1600/coralturqmakeup2.png.png" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
If you're looking to add just a flash of these shades into your look, then a slick of coral on the lips, a flick of azure eyeliner, or a swipe of either colour on the nails is the easiest way to do it. My current coral and turquoise make-up faves are my new <a href="http://www.boots.com/en/DIOR-ADDICT-EXTREME-Lipstick_1257378/" target="_blank">Dior Addict Extreme Lipstick in colour 551 Aventure</a> and <a href="http://www.boots.com/en/Essie/" target="_blank">Essie</a>'s <i>incredible </i>nail colours in <a href="http://www.boots.com/en/Essie/" target="_blank">Turqoise & Caicos</a> and <a href="http://www.boots.com/en/Essie/" target="_blank">Sunday Funday</a>. They look especially gorgeous worn together. All are available from <a href="http://boots.com/">boots.com</a>.<br />
<br />
The sea's lovely, come on in!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10513328968113414913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8411174924176700934.post-11462846905642714172014-05-09T16:31:00.001+01:002014-05-23T14:33:55.199+01:00Sunshine and Strawberries - here comes the weekend<div class="p1">
Today has been a beautiful day and I was lucky enough to spend the whole morning outside in the sunshine. I have been busy assisting a very talented photographer (Aniko Towers - check out her website <a href="http://www.anikotowers.com/" target="_blank">here</a>) as she snapped the children at our school for the school calendar. They are wonderful children at a beautiful school and watching them relating to someone they don't know very well it's remarkable to see how well behaved they all are. These are <i>good kids</i>, but even so, witnessing the teachers' deft handling of them I couldn't help thinking that a career as a cat herder would be less challenging. I am exhausted. I have no idea how teachers do it calmly and patiently every day!<br />
<br />
For everyone else out there who might also be flagging this Friday I thought I'd share with you one of my baking recipes. It's for a batch of <b>Strawberry spelt muffins </b>and they are sugar free, vegan and wheat free. Don't let that put you off, though - you would never know. These are divine - light and soft and sweetly delicate. A wonderfully indulgent feeling treat ideal for winding you down to the weekend.<br />
<br />
This is the perfect recipe for when you've bought a punnet of disappointing early season or air-freighted strawberries. You know, when they are underripe and too firm and taste of nothing. Or even with the few that have gone a bit soft in the fridge. Somehow a little baking makes them more strawberry-ish. I reckon this would work pretty well with raspberries too.</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMe9HpUflAbKBZ5z-rj3ptdg0JKPG8G9VhK3ykqIf-pfV5KNP7ZulVqqbL1K1bn6HMzBBc4J5IsIXdDc783fopyMfFNXQJz1ggZRLR8BPfien-f_LopxkASSt2g__SAKFUnluUR9hq6-UH/s1600/strawberrymuffinstitle.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMe9HpUflAbKBZ5z-rj3ptdg0JKPG8G9VhK3ykqIf-pfV5KNP7ZulVqqbL1K1bn6HMzBBc4J5IsIXdDc783fopyMfFNXQJz1ggZRLR8BPfien-f_LopxkASSt2g__SAKFUnluUR9hq6-UH/s1600/strawberrymuffinstitle.png.png" height="496" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="p1">
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br /></div>
<div class="p2">
<h3>
<u><b>Ingredients</b></u></h3>
</div>
<div class="p2">
<u><b><br /></b></u></div>
<div class="p1">
<b>125ml grape seed oil</b></div>
<div class="p1">
<b>125ml almond milk</b></div>
<div class="p1">
<b>125ml maple syrup</b></div>
<div class="p1">
<b>2tbsp agave nectar or honey</b></div>
<div class="p1">
<b>100g white spelt flour</b></div>
<div class="p1">
<b>125g whole spelt flour</b></div>
<div class="p1">
<b>1/2 cup ground almonds</b></div>
<div class="p1">
<b>2tsp baking powder </b></div>
<div class="p1">
<b>1/2 tsp fine salt</b></div>
<div class="p1">
<b>Large punnet of fresh strawberries, roughly sliced</b></div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="p2" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: Times; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;">
</div>
<b><i>Preheat your oven to 190 degrees C/ gas mark 5. Line a 12 hole muffin tin with papers.</i></b><br />
<div class="p1">
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i>Mix together the wet ingredients in a large bowl or jug. Measure out the dry ingredients in another bowl and combine. Add the dry mixture to your wet bowl and stir until combined. Fold in your berries. Divide between the muffin cases. Bake until a cake tester comes out clean and they are golden brown (around 25-30minutes). </i></b><b><i>Luscious!</i></b></div>
<div class="p1">
<b><i><br /></i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="p1">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7DNPpLrcVLmQUMHUjAOhk7NxSv2zqjT7OCgKAH8FNkl0y1brM0EnMWkXn6XweM1qyb8iVWPh_VI83gG4WpFcSNYmTCVcvhwqfwK3p82mhhqwxqpFhUWghtc4QwEZnwg9A5twcpNnKmRXa/s1600/strawberrymuffins2.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7DNPpLrcVLmQUMHUjAOhk7NxSv2zqjT7OCgKAH8FNkl0y1brM0EnMWkXn6XweM1qyb8iVWPh_VI83gG4WpFcSNYmTCVcvhwqfwK3p82mhhqwxqpFhUWghtc4QwEZnwg9A5twcpNnKmRXa/s1600/strawberrymuffins2.png.png" height="468" width="640" /></a></div>
<b><i><br /></i></b></div>
<div class="p1">
These are <i>amazing</i> still warm from the oven, but are also still really good the next morning spread with a little strawberry jam for breakfast. When your weekend starts this well, it's got to be a good one, right?<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Happy weekend everyone!</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10513328968113414913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8411174924176700934.post-37931569508709102072014-05-07T13:29:00.000+01:002014-05-23T14:34:40.820+01:00Weekend in London - The Details (The Wren falls in love with The London Edition)<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>"When a man is tired of London, then he is tired of life"</b></blockquote>
Oscar Wilde<br />
<br />
What a weekend! It was at least two days too short, but our two day sojourn to the Big Smoke was a feast for the senses. It almost ended before it had begun with all trains cancelled from Worcester to Paddington (aaaaarrgh!) but a detour to Birmingham and a mad dash across New Street station to make the connection meant we arrived no later than originally planned.<br />
<br />
A black cab took us the short distance to our hotel - <a href="http://edition-hotels.marriott.com/london" target="_blank"><b>The London Edition</b></a> on Berners Street. When you walk into the lobby your jaw hits the floor. It is INCREDIBLE! The grand period features - double height ceilings, unbelievably ornate cornicing (there are angel carvings, for goodness sake!) and wrought iron balconies give the feeling of intense old-moneyed luxury whilst the furniture and fittings remaining entirely modern. Breathtakingly beautiful...<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSO45Tb0u9W_C4KnfxsrDTLob2ZDfLm99zvPDvnHK-vSIUXIcrd9VvMDH17Ul0Pf_WpfuPzAK7SZHhvbimTEC8bB-_KRSt2egs32D-UuwvA96PwUsypBQb6mmBkicozJxmtIOVh7buP6Uo/s1600/The_London_EDITION_Lobby_credit_Nikolas_Koenig.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSO45Tb0u9W_C4KnfxsrDTLob2ZDfLm99zvPDvnHK-vSIUXIcrd9VvMDH17Ul0Pf_WpfuPzAK7SZHhvbimTEC8bB-_KRSt2egs32D-UuwvA96PwUsypBQb6mmBkicozJxmtIOVh7buP6Uo/s1600/The_London_EDITION_Lobby_credit_Nikolas_Koenig.png.png" height="360" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by Nicholas Koenig</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
Our room wasn't available until later in the afternoon, but we had a table booked at <a href="http://www.polpo.co.uk/" target="_blank"><b>Polpo</b></a> on Beak Street for 1.30, so we wandered out towards Soho. We bumped into my big brother there as he was recording a voiceover for a video game nearby, which was a gorgeous surprise as was the delicious food.<br />
<br />
Polpo's website describes it as <i>"a bacaro, which is a Venetian word to describe a humble restaurant serving simple food and good, young local wines"</i>. Basically it serves unbelievably good small dishes - like Italian tapas. It was packed to the rafters (as you might expect on a Friday lunchtime), but our selection arrived swiftly. The highlight for me were the <i><b>spicy pork and fennel meatballs</b></i> and the <i><b>pizzette with cured pork shoulder and pickled pepper</b></i>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsbqqgSHh4oJGIn9qAbOiYwhk3oKSk4wlMTrMf5EjQbwzgWXSTUiTHcLD2TNPtY_cdXRe28KtqGtHIPFhS7eDNquBv1XuF8KSx9tImPzfeGH0ZzoZPlAcLoXqp82lM9jUw7XztuWJm_Q6R/s1600/IMG_2540.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsbqqgSHh4oJGIn9qAbOiYwhk3oKSk4wlMTrMf5EjQbwzgWXSTUiTHcLD2TNPtY_cdXRe28KtqGtHIPFhS7eDNquBv1XuF8KSx9tImPzfeGH0ZzoZPlAcLoXqp82lM9jUw7XztuWJm_Q6R/s1600/IMG_2540.JPG" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<i><br /></i>
<i>So</i> good - salty and spicy and just mmmmmm.<br />
<br />
After lunch, we wandered back up Regent Street via <a href="http://www.liberty.co.uk/" target="_blank"><b>Liberty</b></a> for a spot of anniversary present shopping. *<i>New bag alert</i>*<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIHzcH8WgmTSHN9wr9KctmGAdjDMUgtqWxOCE_PZ9VJ9Vb4KyCEuL00SFpW3mclr-Ik8j4q-wdXiDpQ0KuWHnFnM3TVPsKjmXhMS9CdBrt5dhSB7DUvD7lDLVBhkN1LwTyHnScpDbO2Hxl/s1600/IMG_2539.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIHzcH8WgmTSHN9wr9KctmGAdjDMUgtqWxOCE_PZ9VJ9Vb4KyCEuL00SFpW3mclr-Ik8j4q-wdXiDpQ0KuWHnFnM3TVPsKjmXhMS9CdBrt5dhSB7DUvD7lDLVBhkN1LwTyHnScpDbO2Hxl/s1600/IMG_2539.JPG" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bag - <a href="http://www.liberty.co.uk/accessories_bags/dept/fcp-category/categorylist?isSearchFilterSuffix=true&results=60&visModel=CHANNEL&filters=BRAND_FILTER:Marc+by+Marc+Jacobs&page=1" target="_blank">Marc By Marc Jacobs @ Liberty</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
When we returned to the hotel our room was ready. And it was beautiful - dark wood floors and panelling, amazing lighting, gorgeous bathroom and possibly the comfiest bed <i>ever. </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIu3yrn5eVmMCEv3tvuYrzReI9Ux7ZBa_NXcsvw3gylenFGM8ri8hKCT80e76IdC_8gR0w54it9GjPgwrxZQvPXNebCWIqjBqY6v9zm7OWsPFjXQbTUlNsQ5tx4V7My7IzRhwEq88DZfHb/s1600/IMG_2541.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIu3yrn5eVmMCEv3tvuYrzReI9Ux7ZBa_NXcsvw3gylenFGM8ri8hKCT80e76IdC_8gR0w54it9GjPgwrxZQvPXNebCWIqjBqY6v9zm7OWsPFjXQbTUlNsQ5tx4V7My7IzRhwEq88DZfHb/s1600/IMG_2541.JPG" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Mr Wren and I are totally stealing most of the design details from this room for our next bedroom redesign. It had the perfect blend of cocooning cosiness and luxury. Love love love.<br />
<br />
Dinner was booked at the restaurant downstairs, <b><a href="http://www.bernerstavern.com/" target="_blank">The Berners Tavern</a></b><i>,</i> and having read that you'd feel out of place if you didn't dress up, I dutifully donned a proper posh frock.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfe_OBSsDEJMSYIGhxTXEVxhO-43OWot9lX3tcUnPRTaMyOI5yqMV0Eij8KSS9OgptTp7mdKz39CPzmTxL7XgTlz-WCZ6yykdXlp_9OOQnoDQlJjKilvEgRk1zEiVIhTcbKnIGE_g7Arf5/s1600/wintkateamy.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfe_OBSsDEJMSYIGhxTXEVxhO-43OWot9lX3tcUnPRTaMyOI5yqMV0Eij8KSS9OgptTp7mdKz39CPzmTxL7XgTlz-WCZ6yykdXlp_9OOQnoDQlJjKilvEgRk1zEiVIhTcbKnIGE_g7Arf5/s1600/wintkateamy.png.png" height="640" width="515" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
When I walked into the restaurant, I knew exactly why I needed to be dressed up. Not because of all the fabulously dressed, beautiful people eating there (although there were many of them). It's because of the room itself. You just feel like it would be wrong to sit in such jawdroppingly beautiful surroundings looking anything but your best. I just wouldn't want to spoil the view. What a view!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3EdqM__JTuFiD8bjkXnthCBX2xj2twe_BU0DRXhLVI7C__rf2hhGxyzQJZEIjietuNkPh1c4Mfdn8956-vphM9pD87PBZ9ybOxlU2npJyw3mdPZjS9LStO5ocN7WblFAGM_wAYkK4PGk-/s1600/IMG_2553.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3EdqM__JTuFiD8bjkXnthCBX2xj2twe_BU0DRXhLVI7C__rf2hhGxyzQJZEIjietuNkPh1c4Mfdn8956-vphM9pD87PBZ9ybOxlU2npJyw3mdPZjS9LStO5ocN7WblFAGM_wAYkK4PGk-/s1600/IMG_2553.JPG" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I have never before eaten anywhere so utterly beautiful. And the service, wine and food didn't disappoint either. Mr Wren went for <i>prawn and lobster cocktail</i> (so very 70s!) followed by<i> Macaroni cheese with braised ox cheek</i> (so rich and delicious). I had the <i>ham egg and peas</i> (deep fried runny-yolked duck egg, with minted peas and crisped ham - <i>amazing) </i>followed by the <i>breast and braised leg of duck with caramel apples and plum puree </i>which was utterly wonderful. Mr Wren then declared himself too full for pudding at which point I informed him that he would be having pudding so that I could taste two. <strike>He</strike> (oh, who am I kidding?) I chose the <i>Warm cinnamon donut filled with chocolate ganache and served with almond sorbet</i>:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcZmiTTdre-tHk50pHVGpPGO65mc-4FkPgB_kPyZVgnZIXWCARX1yDgUmK3suK58pICJksgjxyhxsvQqBEgGi3NKEnAKR0kaG4bRhTtZX2EAINlQt-QcQDs_AiE1W0XoyJXOMfzBOAetDs/s1600/IMG_2551.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcZmiTTdre-tHk50pHVGpPGO65mc-4FkPgB_kPyZVgnZIXWCARX1yDgUmK3suK58pICJksgjxyhxsvQqBEgGi3NKEnAKR0kaG4bRhTtZX2EAINlQt-QcQDs_AiE1W0XoyJXOMfzBOAetDs/s1600/IMG_2551.JPG" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
which I <i>did</i> try and it was divine - particularly the almond sorbet, which was like iced marzipan and completely heavenly. My own choice was the <i>Toasted coconut creme brulee with pineapple, coconut and malibu sorbet</i>. Incredible. I didn't want to leave my seat. I mean, I could quite seriously move into this place but Mr Wren needed to stand up so that he could digest the epic proportions of cream and carbohydrates he had just consumed. So we wandered the 50 metres to the Lobby bar, where Mr Wren had what he declared to be <i>the best</i> Old Fashioned ever made for him. <br />
<br />
Then we chanced our arm and managed to get a table at the hotel's reservations only <i><b>Punch Room</b></i> which has the feel of an old manor house library or a gentleman's club with it's oak panelled walls, huge open fire and chesterfield detailed seating. We shared a jasmine tea infused punch bowl for two, ladleing glassfuls from the silver vessel placed between us which felt incredibly decadent and deceptively light and palate cleansing (forget about all the gin that went into it). This has got to be one of the best bars in the world - great music, delicious drinks, private laid back atmosphere - do whatever you can to get a reservation.<br />
<br />
And that goes for the <b>London Edition</b> as a whole. Whether you're travelling on business, romance, or even with children (we saw several very contented children around the hotel) this is a wonderful place to stay. It has a great location, a stone's throw from the hustle and bustle of Oxford Street but it feels remarkably calm. If you have a celebratory meal coming up, I can't think of many places that would feel more special than the <b>Berners Tavern</b>. If you're meeting friends or colleagues for a drink, then <i>any </i>of the bars would be a treat to prop up. Breakfast was pretty amazing too. I loved this place. I don't think I'll be able to stay anywhere else in London again. It's like a<i> home away from home. </i>If your home happens to be the most beautifully designed and catered place in the world. Oh Edition. I miss you. Let's do it again sometime.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10513328968113414913noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8411174924176700934.post-72796687334874853782014-05-01T16:55:00.001+01:002014-05-09T17:28:45.542+01:00Anniversary anticipationJust a quickie post today, because I am running around like the proverbial headless chicken getting the house, myself, husband and children organised ready for Mr and I to set off on a night away in the Big Smoke. It's our anniversary tomorrow (11 years - count 'em!) and since we were living there when we got engaged we thought it would be great to spend a bit of time in <i>our </i>city of love<i> - </i>London<i>.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
The restaurants are booked:<br />
<br />
Here for lunch<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsFSO_JOK2tVYevZ97NpHPhRcEJB56eN9XskDWziO4lk2hkUBMbD8ArGJu1YxHcUC5Xd08DfZIWrtEkwjy1k-cC9Eb36ZdOfy89JGg4qTYZLjotKlKwYoHqDf3huCtyJfMuFw8oWNMIWgk/s1600/polpo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsFSO_JOK2tVYevZ97NpHPhRcEJB56eN9XskDWziO4lk2hkUBMbD8ArGJu1YxHcUC5Xd08DfZIWrtEkwjy1k-cC9Eb36ZdOfy89JGg4qTYZLjotKlKwYoHqDf3huCtyJfMuFw8oWNMIWgk/s1600/polpo.jpg" height="261" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.polpo.co.uk/" target="_blank">Polpo</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
And here for dinner<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjp1X4FHaBoPaNV7OhzJAeB8860qBszoRAinEs7Cb3_VbliVtaFFhgvTWkLnLpt-Az7rg98JmpLrFAbskYve-R6ArCX9Z8grrRz4sx9E1V2wjyp9sWitnFbrAiTF-G7BE7MMIoMNc1_XM1/s1600/berners2.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjp1X4FHaBoPaNV7OhzJAeB8860qBszoRAinEs7Cb3_VbliVtaFFhgvTWkLnLpt-Az7rg98JmpLrFAbskYve-R6ArCX9Z8grrRz4sx9E1V2wjyp9sWitnFbrAiTF-G7BE7MMIoMNc1_XM1/s1600/berners2.png.png" height="250" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.bernerstavern.com/" target="_blank">Berners Tavern</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<a name='more'></a>I have a little shopping planned (shocker, I know!), a lot of food and drink and as much culture as we can squeeze in. I want to get along to the David Bailey exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery and I did want to see the (sold out - grrrr) Matisse exhibition at Tate Modern, but might have to make do with the glorious surroundings of the V&A instead.<br />
<br />
The dinner outfit has been chosen<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFtm23oKiL_oajQCeJmWBgfroZiyjYsjwmnDYJH7-nAGbqQrlgBC-q0Of1M7ZFuCtnf_HAHTwYj42JBWfCMyrw9zJHrbRL7mduVVqCOI_JIZTdtsUj8x4A864fiax41x8xHAmlVv_VjN6f/s1600/annioutfit.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFtm23oKiL_oajQCeJmWBgfroZiyjYsjwmnDYJH7-nAGbqQrlgBC-q0Of1M7ZFuCtnf_HAHTwYj42JBWfCMyrw9zJHrbRL7mduVVqCOI_JIZTdtsUj8x4A864fiax41x8xHAmlVv_VjN6f/s1600/annioutfit.png.png" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />
I went for my <i>beautiful </i>vintage silk <b>Winter Kate</b> maxi dress with some <i>incredible</i> <b>Jean-Michel Cazabat </b>shoes. They are impossibly high, but since the restaurant is in the hotel I barely have to walk in them - room to lift, lift to bar, bar to table, back to bar, back to lift, bed. Let's call them 'elevator shoes'. But look how beautiful...soft black suede and silvered snakeskin. Divine.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA74c8yp5axPC25B2_4D12xJDJbcovZU-zCYzXb6C7Fy-cC66f4AcAidtABcAK8qyzNaV4udutKtxLCV6z1d5lhgc9cuWizU-S2oYU1XN67HXE9EcPDbtje-YtiEbeaPYHJAzk4uWZGLjR/s1600/cazabat.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA74c8yp5axPC25B2_4D12xJDJbcovZU-zCYzXb6C7Fy-cC66f4AcAidtABcAK8qyzNaV4udutKtxLCV6z1d5lhgc9cuWizU-S2oYU1XN67HXE9EcPDbtje-YtiEbeaPYHJAzk4uWZGLjR/s1600/cazabat.png.png" height="400" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Find similar <a href="http://www.yoox.com/uk/44599436EF/item?dept=women#sts=sr_women80_m&cod10=44599436EF&sizeId=" target="_blank">here</a> and <a href="http://www.javari.co.uk/brand/Jean-Michel-Cazabat" target="_blank">here</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I'm so excited. Expect instagram food pics galore and I'll try and put together a hotel review of <a href="http://edition-hotels.marriott.com/london" target="_blank">The London Edition</a> soon too. London, I'm coming home!<br />
<br />
Oh, and a quick aside - my eyelashes are going to be fluttering wildly across that beautifully lit dinner table at my wonderful husband. Debenhams are selling Lancome's award winning Hypnose mascaras (the <i>whole</i> range, <i>full size</i>) for only £10 all day today to celebrate it's 10th birthday. £10! They usually cost £22. Typically, I bought two thereby saving nothing. But if you are quick and can hotfoot it down to a <a href="http://www.debenhams.com/" target="_blank">Debenhams </a>before closing time, or if there are any left online then you could get <i>the best</i> mascara <i>ever</i> for the price of a drugstore one. Quick! Run!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6_F4PpuhL2NlMVFjwwcPJw4PjLo_vofy6JzGCcsvPC2tpVlGAbB3ToY7d4AHDTCgSh9XEcm-XJ1vla48W3xhqz70mRQE-zxPlfpZseC97Or1mWxOceIwDNztp2tBcJPKsW1JdIF3uaS4o/s1600/lancome.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6_F4PpuhL2NlMVFjwwcPJw4PjLo_vofy6JzGCcsvPC2tpVlGAbB3ToY7d4AHDTCgSh9XEcm-XJ1vla48W3xhqz70mRQE-zxPlfpZseC97Or1mWxOceIwDNztp2tBcJPKsW1JdIF3uaS4o/s1600/lancome.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.debenhams.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Navigate?langId=-1&storeId=10701&catalogId=10001&txt=lancome+hypnose" target="_blank">Lancome Hypnose mascara at Debenhams</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<i><br /></i>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10513328968113414913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8411174924176700934.post-20861416294689588062014-04-28T15:12:00.003+01:002014-05-23T14:35:09.326+01:00Failing better.This was a surprisingly good weekend. I say 'surprising' because it was just me and the little wrens at home in the nest. We had two lazy mornings followed by two 8 year old birthday parties for Master Wren, which meant that missy and I had some girly time. On Saturday this involved some light shopping after a little lunch at Carluccio's with friends.<br />
<br />
I got these:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd_zuFZSqLam-PUgHiw1PPN29iTLeGBXpdqD0dB5qjL10Tj6gd_qIZZlVwDdJMnjeu5hnCYnAYCScCE3YmqjXmDYS4Aae0rqxWi6G3K7F3_jNmjyVWTMG0DygoTs4XczMfQb_0ZNanzcxn/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd_zuFZSqLam-PUgHiw1PPN29iTLeGBXpdqD0dB5qjL10Tj6gd_qIZZlVwDdJMnjeu5hnCYnAYCScCE3YmqjXmDYS4Aae0rqxWi6G3K7F3_jNmjyVWTMG0DygoTs4XczMfQb_0ZNanzcxn/s1600/photo.JPG" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.dior.com/beauty/en_int/fragrance-and-beauty/makeup/lips/lipsticks/pr-lipsticks-Y0028627_F002862338-radiant-colour-hold-and-shine.html" target="_blank">Dior Addict Extreme Limited Edition Lipstick (Shade 551 Aventure)</a>,<br />
<a href="http://www.dior.com/beauty/en_int/fragrance-and-beauty/makeup/face/healthy-glow-makeup/pr-sunmakeup-Y0719550-extra-matte-bronzing-powder-healthy-glow.html" target="_blank">Diorskin Nude Tan Matte (shade 003 Cinnamon Matte)</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Missy got these:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWZS3b0sNgmLflk2t0j7oONucNaduPfwWBZy5eGMBTYRGgPJTJEnw50TA5mlMocNw2aW-yYOAyqWGq5IM1Yix4HYtrsCzo6ItfrgNxAZV1zHxsHcnyxw-bsV156PHh6CS3RtaXndHEZC9M/s1600/happyshoes.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWZS3b0sNgmLflk2t0j7oONucNaduPfwWBZy5eGMBTYRGgPJTJEnw50TA5mlMocNw2aW-yYOAyqWGq5IM1Yix4HYtrsCzo6ItfrgNxAZV1zHxsHcnyxw-bsV156PHh6CS3RtaXndHEZC9M/s1600/happyshoes.JPG" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.marksandspencer.com/slip-on-giraffe-trainers/p/p22276736" target="_blank">M&S Girls Slip-On Giraffe Trainers</a><br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<a name='more'></a>At lunch with some schoolmum friends of mine the conversation got around to how we are mollycoddling our children. How we cosset them so much that we fear we may be doing them a disservice. My children are 7 and 5 years old (and only a couple of months away from their birthdays) and still when we are crossing the road, I make them hold my hand. I talk them through the process just as I did when they were toddlers "there's the green man. Okay - go!" and we wondered if they may need a little toughening up?<br />
<br />
As if to prove this point, when I later turned up at the party to collect my son he came across the room to me in tears because he "was the only one who didn't get a sweet" in any of the party games. I went through the usual spiel of "Well, people only got sweets if they won the game, didn't they? You can't always win, darling." But it didn't cut it - especially since he'd already managed to guilt a sweet out of the party entertainer with those sad little beautiful blues.<br />
<br />
We hover over our children these days so much. Driving them to school, from school to afterschool activity after afterschool activity. We're scared to let them walk to the end of the drive without us for fear of what dangers may lurk outside the safe cotton wool-like haven of the family home. We let them take so few risks for fear that they may hurt themselves. But what are we actually protecting them from? And, really when we look at the big picture are we really helping them at all?<br />
<br />
This reminded me of a Radio 4 programme I was alerted to by my lovely aunt. It was part of a series entitled <i>The Value Of Failure </i>and it talked about how, in this culture of non-competitive Sports Days, there is this tendency by modern parents of letting our children believe that they are brilliant at everything. It also said that this <i>everyone's a winner </i>mentality is actually holding our children back.<br />
<br />
<div class="p1">
This episode was a discussion with a headmistress about how she teaches the girls at her school to 'fail well'. What that means is that it is okay for your child to do badly at something - they can be rewarded for their endeavour and encouraged to try again. That we should develop in them the attitude of <i>'Okay, I didn't quite get it right this time. How can I improve next time?' </i>We need to prepare them for failures in life, because they happen (often!) and because the more we fail, the easier we find it to deal with. </div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
Young children are actually incredibly resilient and open to trying new things and risk taking is part of a baby's every day life from their first moments - just think of a toddler taking that first step across the seemingly enormous open space between two sofas. We are not born with a fear of failure but it becomes ingrained in us as we grow up. We need to tell our children that it's okay to try something and be terrible at it. We need to teach them how to approach life with an <i>"I'll give it a go!"</i> attitude, and if <i>'it'</i> doesn't go well to think about how it might go better next time. To empower them to take the risk and learn from it.</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
Children can feel very anxious about getting things wrong - they have a tendency to want things to be <i>just right</i> - and in this there is a great danger that it will stop them from being the very best that they can be. They will tend to play safe rather than take a leap and potentially fall. "The greatest barrier to success is the fear of failure" said Sven Goran Erikson and as surprising as it might be to find a quote from a football manager on this blog, I think he was right. If you are frightened to ever take a risk, frightened to ever push your own boundaries for fear of doing something wrong then you will never achieve your full potential.</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
It may feel like an alien concept in this age of helicopter-parenting to allow our children to fail at anything - modern parents protect our children so much that we hardly ever let them so much as even fall. But aren't we really just delaying the inevitable pain and disappointment of that first failure?</div>
<div class="p2">
If, as a child you have never tried anything and failed at it how are you going to cope when it happens to you as an adult? So, come on, as hard as it may be let's try to take off those kid gloves. Let's raise a generation of fearless risk-takers who will take a leap, fall, dust themselves off and leap higher and further next time. A resilient horde of world beating superheroes who can take whatever life throws at them. </div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw3H4iWw074g4L9Ca4fAnJN7gk2RfOcXSpXEqo6TLOpQbjpQ_EOZuTA-4aPvon55cPe-h_HebJKZ7Aj06pKvfqTt50cDMrPO7RCwBqah7976GTQ2Ug_aKK6nSuwqWKKjqYTW_-V8vfmNCr/s1600/failbetter.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw3H4iWw074g4L9Ca4fAnJN7gk2RfOcXSpXEqo6TLOpQbjpQ_EOZuTA-4aPvon55cPe-h_HebJKZ7Aj06pKvfqTt50cDMrPO7RCwBqah7976GTQ2Ug_aKK6nSuwqWKKjqYTW_-V8vfmNCr/s1600/failbetter.png.png" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<br /></blockquote>
</blockquote>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10513328968113414913noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8411174924176700934.post-86882952184895049572014-04-25T16:58:00.001+01:002014-04-28T21:24:20.759+01:00In Search of Breakfast...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmjdJvqBV2QYCDAwdSS9lW38XmulT9GyOjtgW0fzpWw0A3guGkbJqkWbYmzGT2QLSsN3Ts0nwqUGZb8QnlaObNHG07CkaO2Uycj2wY1vICO0ajMJ5oN9ycy6TL9_asPArTyPBirgtXIEtJ/s1600/insearchof.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmjdJvqBV2QYCDAwdSS9lW38XmulT9GyOjtgW0fzpWw0A3guGkbJqkWbYmzGT2QLSsN3Ts0nwqUGZb8QnlaObNHG07CkaO2Uycj2wY1vICO0ajMJ5oN9ycy6TL9_asPArTyPBirgtXIEtJ/s1600/insearchof.png.png" height="640" width="425" /></a></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
Hooray! It's Friday. I got there. And in a week when Mr Wren has been on a business trip (since Sunday and still not back - grrrr). And I got there without a single glass of wine and without the tiniest smidgen of sugar passing my lips. Unbelievable. Particularly the wine part.</div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
It's actually fairly easy to avoid refined sugar most of the time.<br />
<a name='more'></a> I cook most of the meals we eat from scratch and you don't generally add sugar to your savoury cooking. Even baking is easy with a some substitution. I made some little spelt strawberry muffins this week with maple syrup in place of sugar and they were utterly lovely - you would never have known. They may make an appearance on the blog soon, actually.</div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
So, generally speaking, avoiding sugar at most meal and snack times is entirely straightforward - the biggest challenge being controlling your own willpower. Except for one meal - breakfast. </div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
If you're having toast, or porridge or a fry-up, or anything else that requires a little light morning cooking then of course, it's no problem. But have you ever tried to find a ready made cereal that doesn't contain any sugar? It's near-impossible. Apart from the very plain mueslis, which (let's be honest here) bear more than a passing resemblance to hamster food. Dry, and dusty and jaw-achingly hard work to eat.</div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
Now, I love granola. And I naively imagined that there would be dozens of versions sweetened with honey or maple syrup. And there are a few. But most of those also have sugar in there (why? How sweet do our breakfasts need to be people?) and those that genuinely are sugar free cost around £4-6. For cereal. I know.</div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
The thing is that I also know how easy it is to make your own. I ate the most delicious freshly baked one every morning two Summers ago when staying at this glorious place:</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6s900OmyIyZ06V6mc6aUoHwsRIQmojYH014-YeFyYVd2vZPgLWnHkxIZWQSHrR35lHyBPHIVrtsrUYqcoFckxBjoSC2743yWSPR7tInze4E2C5QsrjKrOvKbW-wuph-6xrToplCSrjt14/s1600/bushmans.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6s900OmyIyZ06V6mc6aUoHwsRIQmojYH014-YeFyYVd2vZPgLWnHkxIZWQSHrR35lHyBPHIVrtsrUYqcoFckxBjoSC2743yWSPR7tInze4E2C5QsrjKrOvKbW-wuph-6xrToplCSrjt14/s1600/bushmans.png.png" height="640" width="476" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.bushmanskloof.co.za/" target="_blank">Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve</a>, South Africa</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p2">
I loved it so much that the wonderful chef there sent me home with the recipe. Since then, I have made it many times. But not for a while. And it is a breeze, so I don't know what's stopped me really. The hardest part is the trip to the shop, to be honest. Although, it will <i>completely</i> take over your kitchen because I am making a <i>vatful</i> here. So much that it needs two roasting tins to bake in. Or three. Though you can easily halve the quantities for a smaller household. But if I'm going to go to the effort of <b><i>making my own cereal (!) </i></b>then I am going to make <i>a lot</i>. So that I don't have to do it every week. Because that would make me insane. </div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
So here it is. A divinely indulgent feeling, uber healthy, super tasty breakfast cereal. Perfect for a lazy weekend brunch.</div>
<div class="p2">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAUBRi3LqlRgeGOF8CB_1XX8HgRqklD827jxA6aNXXjdUFWcnJcflYsb6wtIBXoLR60BASgtFWiPk80nxSex3oI-bJKL7Dhyphenhyphen94xvUqB7aDC1EIWQPEl78OISap35ZvjhzkA0bCn9nqIyfW/s1600/granolacloseuprecipesquare.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAUBRi3LqlRgeGOF8CB_1XX8HgRqklD827jxA6aNXXjdUFWcnJcflYsb6wtIBXoLR60BASgtFWiPk80nxSex3oI-bJKL7Dhyphenhyphen94xvUqB7aDC1EIWQPEl78OISap35ZvjhzkA0bCn9nqIyfW/s1600/granolacloseuprecipesquare.png.png" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<u><b>Maple Cinnamon Granola</b></u><br />
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<b>500g rolled oats</b></div>
<div class="p1">
<b>1 1/4 cups of sunflower seeds</b></div>
<div class="p1">
<b>1 1/4 cups of pumpkin seeds</b></div>
<div class="p1">
<b>1/4 cup of sesame seeds</b></div>
<div class="p1">
<b>1/4 cup of linseed</b></div>
<div class="p1">
<b>3/4 cup whole almonds</b></div>
<div class="p1">
<b>3/4 cup whole pecan nuts</b></div>
<div class="p1">
<b>1/2 tsp sea salt</b></div>
<div class="p1">
<b>1 tsp (or more to taste) ground cinnamon</b></div>
<div class="p1">
<b>3/4 cup pure Canadian maple syrup </b></div>
<div class="p1">
<b>90 ml (1/4 cup plus 2 tbsps) olive oil (not Extra Virgin)</b></div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p2">
<i><b>Preheat your oven to 150 degrees C.</b></i></div>
<div class="p2">
<i><b>Mix all the dry ingredients together in a large roasting tray. </b></i></div>
<div class="p2">
<i><b>Add the oil and syrup and mix until all is well coated.</b></i></div>
<div class="p2">
<i><b>Spread the mixture out between two to three roasting trays (This depends on the size of your trays and oven - you don't want the mixture in too thick a layer or it'll take forever to crisp and colour)</b></i></div>
<div class="p2">
<i><b>Bake until golden brown, stirring regularly and scraping the mixture from the bottom of the tins as you do.</b></i></div>
<div class="p2">
<i><b>Remove from the oven.</b></i></div>
<div class="p2">
<i><b>Leave to cool while stirring every 5 minutes to encourage it to form lovely crunchy clusters.</b></i></div>
<div class="p2">
<i><b><br /></b></i></div>
<div class="p1">
Now, at this point you've already got a delicious nutty muesli. But I like to add in lots of dried fruit at the cooling stage. Today I added in 1/2 cup raisins, 1/2 cup chopped soft dried apricots and a 100g packet of dried blueberries. You can add more or less and vary the fruit or not add anything according to your own personal foibles. Although, word to the wise - I love cranberries in granola but when I looked at the back of the packet I saw that sugar comes above cranberries in the ingredients list. That means that there is more sugar than cranberry in a dried cranberry! That's just nuts! So I left them out because I am being super strict at the mo. But if you are of a more relaxed dietary persuasion then bung 'em in!</div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCP1RTD6xliLvIprB13Dyikj_ZdD7-SRu8HUFe7J1fJnEtqDV4RoZ8SY0boe0Nvp9aaaOm73Em1pjlZrSfZ92yhqOKBOYcSYnD6bPp33xD0okv87a4dCjob4LuHZwv9W59QYzd6gHOWQhM/s1600/granolajar.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCP1RTD6xliLvIprB13Dyikj_ZdD7-SRu8HUFe7J1fJnEtqDV4RoZ8SY0boe0Nvp9aaaOm73Em1pjlZrSfZ92yhqOKBOYcSYnD6bPp33xD0okv87a4dCjob4LuHZwv9W59QYzd6gHOWQhM/s1600/granolajar.png.png" height="640" width="425" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="p2">
<br />
Serve with cold milk, fresh fruit and Greek yoghurt or just eat it by the handful whenever you're passing the kitchen cupboard (like me!). Yummy yummy healthy breakfast in my tummy!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10513328968113414913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8411174924176700934.post-63050891079615134942014-04-23T12:43:00.000+01:002014-04-24T10:09:26.284+01:00Toning up. Facial toners - the missing step<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhucyuypn8oM49LWzfeRU1TfXdfW56fRoRpn4qMvBbbFFrXyg9q7PXKY7tX-E2E9CgDsaEZIGDoY4VJk4meEcY_dixDZvjbOVNeGw2kbIZYFPZTyTBaATlLe4d57XReLsctcIvbA5sFOOzU/s1600/IMG_0481.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhucyuypn8oM49LWzfeRU1TfXdfW56fRoRpn4qMvBbbFFrXyg9q7PXKY7tX-E2E9CgDsaEZIGDoY4VJk4meEcY_dixDZvjbOVNeGw2kbIZYFPZTyTBaATlLe4d57XReLsctcIvbA5sFOOzU/s1600/IMG_0481.png.png" height="640" width="425" /></a></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
I have never really been a 'cleanse, tone, moisturise' kind of a girl. Well, not since my Clinique 3 step days as a teenager (maybe that's what put me off - what a disaster that was). I always thought that because I used a wash-off cleanser I didn't need to use a toner and I could just slap on my serum and moisturiser post cleansing. But since discovering <a href="http://www.carolinehirons.com/" target="_blank">Caroline Hirons </a>skincare-Bible-of-a-blog and reading her take on the uses of toners I decided to reinvest in some. Now, this woman knows about skin (if you haven't read her <a href="http://www.carolinehirons.com/" target="_blank">blog</a> I suggest you check it out) and she suggests a double toning routine. So, after cleansing (twice again - the first cleanse removes <br />
<a name='more'></a>any make-up and SPF, the second actually gets down into the skin) Ms Hirons suggests using an exfoliating acid toner followed by a regular toner. Don't let the 'a' word scare you - these are Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) or fruit acids to you and me and they are actually far more gentle on the skin than the traditional face scrub type exfoliant, which can aggravate delicate skin. Plus the results are in a different league. The theory is that the acid tone 'takes away' from your skin lowering the ph, sloughing away dead skin and unclogging pores thereby rebalancing any dryness or oiliness. You then use a regular toner suited to your skin type to hydrate and calm and aid in the penetration of the products that follow in your routine (your most expensive purchases usually - those serums and eye creams and miracle-in-a-jar night creams).</div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
So toners help you to get the most out of your other beauty products. Ok, I'm in. </div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
The two toners I plumped for after much internet browsing, were <a href="http://www.renskincare.com/c/facial-skincare_for-combination-skin" target="_blank">Ren's Clarifying Toning Lotion</a> (the acid toner) and <a href="http://www.darphin.co.uk/" target="_blank">Darphin's Intral Tonique</a> as the hydrating toner. The Ren is fresh smelling and gives the tiniest tingly feeling (I love that - makes me feel it's really working!) whilst it gently exfoliates and clears. The Intral smells divine and softens and calms the skin, also reducing redness. I have used them one after the other, morning and night and I have to say that the overall condition of my skin seems improved - altogether smoother and clearer and so much softer. In fact, I have been so impressed with the results that I have returned to a bit of an old favourite product of mine, the Daddy of all exfoliating toners - <a href="http://www.alpha-h.com/Products/Collections/Liquid-Gold/Liquid-Gold.aspx" target="_blank">Alpha-H Liquid Gold.</a></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-gprdbT7yHobbk8u83c6ZBk5_GfTOkaaBqWnkSxeQh_FksgLJSBpZq3jGzBkHv-pBgEBcp5-9QMWiehf2ZFz4txHsj1fTo6UEZwk73F9XUMkBAMJ7pILw0vNwaT8qj1FZ5EERaJI-lBe_/s1600/IMG_0482.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-gprdbT7yHobbk8u83c6ZBk5_GfTOkaaBqWnkSxeQh_FksgLJSBpZq3jGzBkHv-pBgEBcp5-9QMWiehf2ZFz4txHsj1fTo6UEZwk73F9XUMkBAMJ7pILw0vNwaT8qj1FZ5EERaJI-lBe_/s1600/IMG_0482.png.png" height="320" width="248" /></a></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
I had eased up on using Liquid Gold a couple of months ago, adding it in to my evening routine only once a week or so when I felt like my skin needed a boost. But having recently upped its use to twice a week I realise how much my skin has missed it. Liquid Gold is an incredible product. It is essentially a glycolic acid liquid exfoliant. You apply it every other night after cleansing, like a toner (so swept over the face with a cotton pad). You feel that satisfying tingle then...that's it. Nothing else. No serums, no oils, no creams or lotions - just the Liquid Gold. On post LG mornings, my skin is plumper and markedly smoother - I find myself studying it in the bathroom mirror in wonder at its overnight transformation. It decongests the skin and reduces the appearance of fine lines. In my experience there is nothing like it for refining the skin. If you have enlarged pores this will degunk them and make them smaller. If you are prone to oiliness this will regulate it. If you have dry patches this will deflake them. If you have pigmentation marks this will fade them. I finished the bottle last night and I am now in a mild state of panic as to when my reorder will arrive. I cannot be without it. It is quite simply a wonder product. </div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="p1">
If you are thinking of giving Alpha-H a try then <a href="http://www.salonskincare.co.uk/index.php/manufacturers_id/113" target="_blank">Salon Skincare</a> have some great offers on the whole range at the moment. I ordered my supersize Liquid Gold in a set with their Balancing Cleanser and Eye Complex, which are both lovely products, but you can get the Liquid Gold separately there too. </div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
It's time to tone up, people!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10513328968113414913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8411174924176700934.post-90444899260217581922014-04-21T14:11:00.000+01:002014-04-23T12:44:22.664+01:00Sugar rush - It's time to lock up the chocolate.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBl6scj9D5Fz7e-k9ArOkAkaKcyGY_t1B7JDy9jNQ4JsZuFoB4yX0jq4j4nXdSUqRV4Yrh3XPj7VUWSotm1WkQt-L79DLijIo40p5b5V0zkF7TO6SJXOVH3LvMtmAx98bdifHi40a5ObXB/s1600/easter+chocolate+pic.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBl6scj9D5Fz7e-k9ArOkAkaKcyGY_t1B7JDy9jNQ4JsZuFoB4yX0jq4j4nXdSUqRV4Yrh3XPj7VUWSotm1WkQt-L79DLijIo40p5b5V0zkF7TO6SJXOVH3LvMtmAx98bdifHi40a5ObXB/s1600/easter+chocolate+pic.png.png" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="p1">
</div>
<div class="p1">
This Easter holiday we have all fallen head first off the healthy eating wagon. In holiday mode, James and I have been opening or finishing a bottle of wine <strike>most</strike> every night. We have indulged in white floured crumpets and croissants for breakfasts. The children's regular cries of "can I have a snack?" have been greeted with a carefree "Help yourself!". Chocolate. So much chocolate. And we've barely scratched the surface of the Easter egg stash. </div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>"It was like having a box of chocolates shut in the bedroom drawer. Until the box was empty it occupied the mind too much." </b></span><span style="color: #ea9999; font-size: x-small;">Graham Greene, <i>The Heart of the Matter</i></span></blockquote>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p2">
I am <br />
<a name='more'></a>very much the kind of woman who cannot walk past a kitchen cupboard knowing that there is an open bar of chocolate inside. I must break off a piece at every opportunity until it is all gone. If it is there it must be eaten. And quickly, so that I can get back to having an increasingly elusive 'good day'. All this deliciousness has made me happy, so happy. But now I am beginning to feel sluggish. It's time for a change people. Back to a life of less dairy and red meat, avoiding all processed food as much as possible. I'm back on the <i>eat pure</i> wagon. Sugar be gone!</div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p2">
So on my shopping list this week is:</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
Maple syrup</div>
<div class="p1">
Porridge oats</div>
<div class="p1">
Nuts and seeds</div>
<div class="p1">
Dried Fruit</div>
<div class="p1">
Almond butter</div>
<div class="p1">
Gluten free and spelt flours </div>
<div class="p1">
Almond milk</div>
<div class="p1">
Brown rice and rice noodles</div>
<div class="p1">
Sweet white miso paste</div>
<div class="p1">
Chicken</div>
<div class="p1">
Fresh fruit and vegetables</div>
<div class="p1">
Wholewheat and rye breads</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
Tomorrow the children start back at school so after one last day of communal gorging I will pack away their remaining horde of Easter Eggs until next weekend when they can share some as a treat. But from now on, from Monday to Friday we are going to avoid sugary treats altogether. Expect some healthy recipes over the next few weeks. And maybe a few sugar-deprived tantrums....</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10513328968113414913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8411174924176700934.post-20043850622389655202014-04-14T16:24:00.001+01:002014-04-23T12:44:54.080+01:00Holiday Zen<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie3TOiOd4pBu327kPBDItagl4EctmrZCOcX9PoKMhgA1M7Jxf_j0KuMmkMrgWpJmBobXr0kRaD4KO_JUwXwD_VeZEj1DM-7uUPcUUQLD4jXwP_WNV6LN676V_55PPpeUcsfsH04yRTTjYc/s1600/IMG_0424.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie3TOiOd4pBu327kPBDItagl4EctmrZCOcX9PoKMhgA1M7Jxf_j0KuMmkMrgWpJmBobXr0kRaD4KO_JUwXwD_VeZEj1DM-7uUPcUUQLD4jXwP_WNV6LN676V_55PPpeUcsfsH04yRTTjYc/s1600/IMG_0424.png.png" height="265" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
I'm back. It's been a while, I know. We returned home last night after 10 days in a wifi free villa in the Algarve region of Portugal. The weather was utterly glorious - 23 to 25 degrees C every day. We ate well, drank well (Portuguese wine is utterly delicious - who knew) and best of all spent day after day just the four of us together, our little family, my favourite people.</div>
<div class="p2" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
It's a funny old place the Algarve. As you would probably imagine most of the towns are pretty overdeveloped with<br />
<a name='more'></a>row after row of holiday villas on every hillside. But when you venture just five minutes out you encounter lush countryside, field upon field of orange groves and breathtaking secluded beaches. </div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZZ-TKlBeEHN0N3ZYzDDgQpmBoWoLBIFkg_y0Gs9bJGVOk6OnBWl7WuYJGN4tzx6WU1FC6EL0nKK2UDhY1XSDUA5Ip3of6C1DUsPAqxABg5b3qwrVIiWmht9zm3v1OXXCey2aCi_Cp9Cnp/s1600/IMG_0379.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZZ-TKlBeEHN0N3ZYzDDgQpmBoWoLBIFkg_y0Gs9bJGVOk6OnBWl7WuYJGN4tzx6WU1FC6EL0nKK2UDhY1XSDUA5Ip3of6C1DUsPAqxABg5b3qwrVIiWmht9zm3v1OXXCey2aCi_Cp9Cnp/s1600/IMG_0379.png.png" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
Oh, the beaches...</div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinSPgHbJaZyAhlgvySIkYWOV33-36tiALJaAPXdz1HqjX2LDg1zGtgRUqTbrddqs_1RRYchoQL2OIR9Nsz3nWT_HlA0m5h2GG0MuJL42uMOVomd4N5BWgtoPl2XwZTuzGBOTV21Q88E-gA/s1600/photo-45.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinSPgHbJaZyAhlgvySIkYWOV33-36tiALJaAPXdz1HqjX2LDg1zGtgRUqTbrddqs_1RRYchoQL2OIR9Nsz3nWT_HlA0m5h2GG0MuJL42uMOVomd4N5BWgtoPl2XwZTuzGBOTV21Q88E-gA/s1600/photo-45.png.png" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="text-align: left;">So, I did a lot of lying in the sun reading (Hilary Mantel's Wolf Hall if you're wondering - incredible) whilst the children splashed in the pool. Long hazy days were followed by evenings all snuggled on the sofa watching kids films or playing board games as a family (Monopoly brings out a killer instinct in Master Wren that I never knew he had - terrifying!). This probably sounds like the height of tedium to some people, but to me it was utterly joyful.</span></div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p2" style="text-align: justify;">
As much as I enjoy indulging on holiday (and it really isn't a holiday without <i>a lot </i>of it) I hate that feeling of <i>over</i>indulgence that usually accompanies it, especially when I have to wear a bikini everyday. So to keep things in check (sort of - wine with lunch, restaurant dinners and daily visits to the ice cream parlour notwithstanding) most days, I partook of a little yoga in the sun. Now I'm no master yogi, but I'm partial to a bit of downward dog (<i>behave) </i>so I downloaded an app to my iPad. It's called <b>Yoga Studio</b> and it was great - it has routines lasting from 15 minutes to an hour for beginner, intermediate and advanced levels. I found the intermediate ones tough but achievable and I even got Mr Wren doing some of the beginner routines which were simpler but still challenging. The Wren recommends - great for when you can't get to a class or just for a little holiday zen.</div>
<div class="p2" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>My lowlight</b> </div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
A theme park called Zoomarine, which, apart from a great 30 minute dolphin show is a bit of a dump, to be honest. £50 for a family? Rip. Off. Plus it was filled with British holidaymakers walking around shirtless and beer bellied - I know you're on holiday, but put it away and save it for the beach. Miss Wren whispered to me at one point "why do all these people have no tops on?" Quite. </div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="p2" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>My highlights</b> </div>
<div class="p2" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="p2" style="text-align: justify;">
Eating fresh, crispy fried Calimares whilst overlooking the sea.</div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1" style="text-align: justify;">
I picked up a gorgeous beach bag - so useful <i>and </i>sparkly<i>. </i></div>
<div class="p1">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAL9Peg0phXH6FyGW4lFDKaurzZXaemwd3B1YPaW3jAXSy3PGAVHWKRq0TVq0VNy_CYov9PZSwDtCaO5fFQGKK09Au8fxY_cJeasX2p6DJ5k6ribmP28_B45p6EMUyLJ2oHS7IDZqDR5SK/s1600/IMG_2427.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAL9Peg0phXH6FyGW4lFDKaurzZXaemwd3B1YPaW3jAXSy3PGAVHWKRq0TVq0VNy_CYov9PZSwDtCaO5fFQGKK09Au8fxY_cJeasX2p6DJ5k6ribmP28_B45p6EMUyLJ2oHS7IDZqDR5SK/s1600/IMG_2427.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
The colours - azure blue paint on doors and windows of a pure white house, brightly splashed fishing boats abandoned on beachfronts.</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU5FlllZxfSi4NfF1BEjh-qu6yyrCHKx_KOYmcsbKNr-E41ACU4GMiHrXF0p1kveROlAuW6WF3xm2mKPrcye0uIqulStiK0ET6RJ1cY9IAwiNHARqOUApT7OtRljubYw8Tf596LPb0NTm5/s1600/IMG_2424.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU5FlllZxfSi4NfF1BEjh-qu6yyrCHKx_KOYmcsbKNr-E41ACU4GMiHrXF0p1kveROlAuW6WF3xm2mKPrcye0uIqulStiK0ET6RJ1cY9IAwiNHARqOUApT7OtRljubYw8Tf596LPb0NTm5/s1600/IMG_2424.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
The smell - walking through Carvoiero, where we stayed, the air was thick with the heady scent of orange blossom. Divine and unexpected.</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
Did I mention the beaches?</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6uEgRf8iHQzMDym8X5Vjz-_X8yZa4dYA_eoJSiW4w8T50BPV-36tRrWtqVEyQ7N5uoffryrUyi5f6tKa-eKp8RBslv_WrfetseV1xlcT-cN9TcSWFygW8O72D5LC8XkOif4Z-Bm3MhxJ5/s1600/holidayzenCollage.png.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6uEgRf8iHQzMDym8X5Vjz-_X8yZa4dYA_eoJSiW4w8T50BPV-36tRrWtqVEyQ7N5uoffryrUyi5f6tKa-eKp8RBslv_WrfetseV1xlcT-cN9TcSWFygW8O72D5LC8XkOif4Z-Bm3MhxJ5/s1600/holidayzenCollage.png.png" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
And the sun's been shining all day here today too. Bliss. Just bliss.</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
<div class="p2">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10513328968113414913noreply@blogger.com2