Stationery Update - 2022

 

Floral 2022 Diary

This diary is A5 with a floral background and rose gold type on the front. 

It’s a page a day making it perfect to write lots of notes. It’s part of The Works range.

Mindfulness 2022 Calendar

This calendar appealed to me because of the mindfulness quotes on each month. 

It’s something a bit different for me. Again, it can be found at The Works.

Bird Design Notebooks

I loved the stunning nature illustrations on the front of these, making them perfect for autumn. They feature birds and plants on the design mostly. I bought a small yellow design with lined pages as well as a bigger blue one with plain pages. They are by a brand called Roger La Borde.

Bird Design Gift Wrap

The gift wrap was my Mums idea, she said I could use it as 

a backdrop for my blog photography. I love the colours.

Are you interested in stationery too? 

Do you keep a yearly diary or calendar? :-) Xx

Tips for buying secondhand books on eBay

 

1.) Book sellers will mention the condition of the book. Have a think about how important this is to                        you. I mostly buy in ‘very good’ condition, but you may feel ‘good’ condition is okay is you                            are only reading a book once.

2.) Have a think about how many times the book might be read. You may feel like paying more or less                  depending on this.

3.) Be aware some sellers do offers if you buy more than one book together.

4.) If you want to cut down on packaging, you could purchase a number of books in bulk.

5.) Check before you buy that your library doesn’t have a copy of the title.

6.) Be patient when searching for a particular title, sometimes it’s a bit of pot luck if a book is a little                    less well known.

7.) Have an idea of the kind of reading experience you are after. Do you read lots of short books which

          are cheaply available or savour more special reads?

8.) Creating a wish list can be fun and there are a few platforms this can be done on.

9.) This might seem an obvious one but be sure to check out reviews of books you are interested in. I                    look for key words or thoughts that spark my interest.

10.) If you are a keen reader, have a seasonal or monthly budget and keep to it. If you run out of budget,

          try other ideas like using the library, reading/rereading books you already own.

Thank you for reading. 

Let me know in the comments your ideas or 

which of my tips was your favourite! :-) Xx

Kindle Book Recs - Self-Help, Minimalism & Green Living

 

I use my kindle quite a lot, and I’m always looking for new titles to read. My favourite themes are minimalism, self-help and green living but I sometimes branch out into other topics. 

I tend to support less well-known authors, and go for kindle books priced around £2.00 with a relatively short number of pages, for example 100 pages. It’s nice to have a selection of these type of books as they are great palette cleansers for more substantial reads.

I have picked out some of my very best favourites from the last year or so. I would recommend all of these and each have a reasonable price point. Feel free to do further research into them on Amazon. Some of these have pretty front covers too.

Minimalism Kindle Book Recs

Mini-missions for Simplicity: small actions for massive change by Courtney Carver

Simple Ways to be More with Less by Courtney Carver

The Minimalist Budget: A Practical Guide on How to Save Money, 

Spend Less and Live More by Simeon Lindstrom

All You Need is Less: Minimalist Living for Maximum Happiness by Vicki Vrint

Self-Help Kindle Book Recs

The Thriving Introvert: Embrace the Gift of Introversion and Live the 

Life You Were Meant to Live by Thibaut Meurisse

Introvert: A Scientific Explanation and Guide to an Introvert's Mind by Madge Falco

The Little Book of Sloth Philosophy by Jennifer McCartney

Be Free, Live Creatively: Tap Into Your Creative Skill and Live the Life You Want! by Srebrenica Lejla

How to Live Well: Simple and practical inspiration to enjoy your everyday life by Fiona Ferris

OFF. Your Digital Detox for a Better Life by Tanya Goodin

Find Your Passion and Live a Life you Love by Emma Jones

Green Living Kindle Book Recs

Save the World: There is No Planet B: Things You Can Do 

Right Now to Save Our Planet by Louise Bradford

The Little Book of Going Green: An Introduction to Climate Change 

and How We Can Reduce Our Carbon Footprint by Harriet Dyer

Say No to Waste: 101 Easy Ways to Create Less Waste by Harriet Dyer

SOS: What you can do to reduce climate change – simple actions that make a difference by Seth Wynes

In the Jumble: The joys of finding, buying and wearing second hand clothes by Victoria Lochhead

Thrifty and Thriving: 10 Simple Ways to Put Money Back In Your Pocket Today by Jennie Lodien

Do you use a kindle device? Which of these titles 

have you read or would like to read? :-) Xx

These are a few of my favourite things #11

 

Books:

Halloween by Joanne O’Sullivan

Described as a grown-up’s guide to creative costumes, devilish décor and fabulous festivities. This is a really great book and I appreciate that (unconventionally) it’s aimed at adults. I particularly liked the costumes and history of Halloween. The whole book made me smile; I would recommend it!

The Liszts by Kyo Maclear

Jen Campbell recommended this picture book on her YouTube channel. It’s a beautiful, whimsical and at times dark tale about a family who always write lists but they discover the joy of spontaneity. The book is gorgeous with striking illustrations and I loved the contemporary design very much.

The Science of Gravity by John Stinger

Absolutely loved this book. A perfect way to learn more about this topic in bite-size chunks. Educational and fascinating as well as making the mind boggle.

Slapstick Poems by Roger McGough

Fun, and varied poems. I liked how one moment could be quite solemn and the next playful. I thought the writing stood out on many occasions. This is the kind of the book that’s just my cup of tea.

Eat Happy by Melissa Hemsley

Firstly, the cover was what drew me in and I liked the idea of eating happy. The book is very stylised and beautifully presented. I enjoyed the introduction and how the author mentioned she likes zero-waste when cooking. The recipes seem to be the kind you find in trendy restaurants and things I would love to try. My only nag is the ingredients might be hard to get hold of. I would recommend this for inspiration or as a foodie gift. 

Earth and Space by Usborne

Really enjoyed this as it’s crammed with interesting information about earth and space science. It made me feel humbled to live on planet earth. The space section was my favourite bit as I learnt a lot.

A Victorian Portrait by Asa Briggs

This book is described as Victorian life and values as seen through the work of studio photographers. A fascinating insight into this time period and what people were like. The collection of photographs were remarkable. Some of the accounts were a little haunting. It’s not something I would normally pick up but my library lady recommended it and I can see why.

Audio Books:

This month I started getting into audio books, and I’m loving it so far. I’ve been using an app called borrow box which links to my local library. With borrow box, you can listen to audio books or read books and it’s completely free.

Beauty:

The Body Shop Almond Milk & Honey Hand Cream

I’ve tried a couple of products from The Body Shop almond and honey range now. This hand cream does a really good job of protecting and softening your hands. It’s designed for sensitive, dry hands and sinks into the skin beautifully. It features the cruelty free bunny logo.

Do any of my favourites interest you?

What things have you been loving this month? :-) Xx

Product Photography Tips & Ideas

 

Welcome back to a new post. Today I wanted to share some tips I’ve picked up while doing product photography for my blog. There’s no right or wrong way to do it, but I thought it would be interesting to share what I’ve learnt so far.

When I say product photography, I am mainly referring to when I photograph beauty products but I sometimes go through the same process when photographing my baking, books, and other things. So, let’s get started…

1.) Props can really elevate your blog photos. Don’t feel like you have to go out and buy new props, often there are day to day things you can use for example stationery, an attractive mug or a necklace.

2.) Use a pretty background. I always do this, and it really makes a difference to the end photos. I find myself reaching for gift wrap, scrapbooking paper or the inside of a coffee table book.

3.) Look for interesting light. This can depend on the time of year, but natural light is normally best. If it’s warm enough outside you can take your props in your garden or on a walk.

4.) If you are aiming for a small batch of photos, try including variety in each shot. For example, include some close up, far away or vary your set up.

5.) Find inspiration on blogs, Pinterest, magazines or books. Often the information you read will naturally come out in your own work. When I first started getting into lifestyle blogging, I remember finding lots of lovely blogs including props in their photos which gave me inspiration.

6.) Don’t worry about having all the best equipment, sometimes all you need is a phone camera, good light, and a bit of creativity.

7.) Take lots and lots of photos, then pick out the very best to share/keep.

8.) Photograph your passions, so if you like natural make-up, stationery, flower arranging, etc. make sure you include these as your love for the subject will come across.

I hope at least a couple of these tips have been useful!

Please feel free to include your own ideas in the comments below. :-) Xx

Jigsaw Log #7

 

Hello and welcome back to a new jigsaw log. I finished this jigsaw last month, and felt it was a really enjoyable one to do. The quality was great, and the picture was the right level of difficulty. My Dad gifted me this Christmas jigsaw last Christmas, and I finally decided to give it a go despite it being summer time.

The brand is called Corner Piece Puzzles, and The Works stock many of their designs. This particular puzzle has five hundred pieces. I thought it would be interesting to include some tips for those of you getting into this hobby.

1.) The different pictures on jigsaws will vary the difficulty of the puzzle. If you are a beginner, I would suggest going for an image with lots of variation, colour, and a medium scale so each puzzle piece looks individual.

2.) Start with separating the edge and corner pieces. Once these are placed down, separate the main themes on the picture. So, if you were doing this Christmas jigsaw you would start with the red pieces to make the postman’s van.

3.) Work out how you would like to fit jigsaws into your routine. You may prefer to set out an afternoon to do it, while listening to music, and having a cup of tea. For me, I like short, active sessions where I keep coming back and updating my progress.

Do you like to do jigsaws?

What kind of pictures do you gravitate towards? :-) Xx

These are a few of my favourite things #10

 

Books:

Greetings Cards using Digital Photos by Cheryl Owen

This book is packed with creative ideas to use digital photos in card making. I could 

see myself recreating some of the designs and generally I found tons of inspiration.

My Heart by Corinna Luyken

This was a highly anticipated read for me. The meaning of a heart that can grow 

and mend is beautiful. Quite emotional and heartfelt with stunning art work.

Carl and the Meaning of Life by Deborah Freedman

Carl the earthworm explores the question of why he is here and discovers his important 

place in the world. A beautifully told story with a special meaning. A picture book to treasure.

Urban Photography by Tim Cornbill

Extensive information on all aspects of urban photography. I learned a lot 

and gained much inspiration. The book could appeal to beginners or 

experts in photography. I can’t wait to start applying my new ideas!

The Night Sky and Other Amazing Sights in Space by Nick Hunter

A fantastic starting point if you want to learn about space. Quite 

insightful in places and interesting to read, I enjoyed it very much.

The No-Sugar Desserts & Baking Cookbook by Ysanne Spevack

A thoroughly researched no-sugar baking book. The author knows her stuff for example she includes a break-down of alternative ingredients with pros and cons. The book is beautifully presented providing lots of foodie photography inspiration. Bear in mind I haven’t tried the recipes yet but I liked the look of the healthier gingerbread men and pumpkin pie.

Lifestyle:

Paper High – A Handmade, Fair-Trade & Sustainable Brand

My Dad kindly gifted me this beautiful leather pocket notebook for my birthday. I was impressed by the information I read on the label and later did some research into the brand. Paper High share their story online, including how the fair-trade products are made. I recommend you check out the links if you are looking to buy someone or yourself sustainable gifts. I like the look of the cosy socks and rugs. The postage price is very reasonable too.

https://www.paperhigh.com/

https://www.notonthehighstreet.com/paperhigh

Olympic Games Tokyo 2020

I really enjoyed watching the Olympics as there have been some new, more unusual sports featured. Examples include skateboarding, rock climbing, etc along with the usual dressage, hockey and so on. 

Did any of my favourites interest you?

What things have you been loving lately? :-) Xx

The Body Shop Shea Butter Richly Replenishing Shampoo

 

Hope my readers are doing well. Today I have a product review to share. I’m taking a pause from buying on Superdrug to try other shops. I’ve recently been into The Body Shop as they have a lot going for them. 

I’ve been using this shea butter shampoo for a little while now and I’m so pleased with it. It has a gentle formula, targeted at dry, prone to damage hair which appealed to me because lately my hair has felt pretty dry. After using the shampoo, I found it has been in much better condition, and more so after each wash.

The shea butter has a lovely, clean fragrance which lingers on in my hair. I bought the 400ml bottle but it’s possible to buy a smaller quantity. The packaging features the cruelty-free logo and mentions it’s 100% vegan. 

After buying this item I noticed The Body Shop have changed the packaging of their haircare to recycled materials. I think this is awesome and I would recommend you take a look on their website. I have already ordered the matching conditioner.

Do you use many body shop products?

Have you got any haircare recommendations for me? :-) Xx

These are a few of my favourite things #9

 

Books:

Vintage Style by Sarah Kennedy 

This covers just about everything you would want to know about recreating vintage style from different eras. It’s not cliché in anyway, instead it’s practical and interesting. The history was fascinating and perfect for vintage enthusiasts. For each style/era information is noted on key looks, style tips, celebrity examples, history, colour palettes, and much more. I would recommend it to people who are interested in the topic, it’s a great book to have!

Creating Creatures of Fantasy and Imagination by Claudia Nice

A beautifully crafted book showing readers how to draw creatures of fantasy. Chapters are broken down into different mythical creatures such as faery folk, dragons and sea monsters, etc. The author takes us through her creative process including step by steps and photos she has used to help her. 

The art is truly stunning and her fictional stories are fascinating. This book would make a good gift for artists wanting to draw out of the box or fantasy fans looking for something different to read.

Shelf Life by Simon Parke

This is a memoir in diary format of a vicar of twenty years, Simon Parke who shares his 

experience of moving jobs and working in a supermarket stacking shelves. One of those 

books that makes you feel like a fly on the wall. Entertaining and interesting to read.

Smile! by Leigh Hodgkinson

Absolutely loved this, quirky fun picture book. It didn’t go in the obvious direction 

I was expecting. Sunny the protagonist really shone and felt believable to me as 

a girl wanting to get her smile back. The ending sealed the deal for me.

The Garden of Hope by Katie Rewse

This story of love and hope really pulls on the heart strings. Maya 

and her Dad miss Mum very much so in her memory they transform 

their garden. Beautifully told with equally lovely illustrations.

Jamela's Dress by Niki Daly

A lively, atmospheric story about Jamela who goes to buy 

some dress material with her Mother for a wedding outfit.

How to be an Astronaut and Other Space Jobs by Dr Sheila Kanani

A highly informative, fascinating book for children who want to have a job in 

the space field. The author discusses the real logistics of what it takes in a way 

that’s accessible to children. It’s also a fun read with engaging illustrations.

Fireside Feasts and Snow Day Treats by Ryland Peters & Small

An evocative cookery book for those cold but cosy autumn and winter months. 

All of the recipes look delectable. I enjoyed the photography and reading experience.

Music:

Music Played by Humans Gary Barlow

This has been a very recent love of mine. The songs on the album

 have a unique, chirpy sound that is different from Gary’s usual style.

Beauty:

Avon Face and Body Bronzing Gel in Shade Light

I thought I would give a shout out to this amazing product I’ve been using. This was the first 

Avon make-up product I have bought in years. Luckily, it’s been a big hit and I’ve been applying 

the wash off bronze gel to the legs and arms for a skin kissed glow. (Not cruelty-free/vegan)

What have you been loving lately?

Do you have any entertainment or beauty recs for me? :-) Xx

Eco-Friendly Hobby Suggestions | Part Two

 

Make Your Own Clothes

Everyone has to start somewhere, don’t be put off thinking you have to be an expert. Maybe start with mending or customizing things. If you get really keen you could join a class, read books and watch videos, or even write a blog.

Make Handmade Gifts/Cards from Recycled Materials

I’ve been making cards for years now, and it’s one of my favourite things to do. I don’t use lots of expensive materials though, people who know I craft will pass on (often recycled) materials to me such as old cards, ribbon, etc. that would just normally go to waste. I’ve started using cereal packets for the base card, this would work for many.

Start an Eco-friendly Blog and Support Others Doing the Same

Many blogs begin with a specific passion. If you want to learn more about environmental living, blogs and articles make a good starting point. Your blog can be about anything, some ideas include: natural beauty, slow living, budgeting, books, etc.

Start a Book Club

I love the idea of starting a book club but you can always start small such as buddy reading with a friend, following book blogs, watching book YouTube channels, or start a facebook/Goodreads group. You could choose books about environmental issues.

Start an Allotment

My family have had an allotment in the past, but be sure to know they require commitment. Maybe start one with a group of people or have a vegetable patch in your own garden. If you don’t have a big garden, allotments are ideal, and a nice way to meet like-minded people.

Volunteer and Help Others

There are all sorts of ways to volunteer if you look out for opportunities. My first thought would be charity shops, community events, local groups, etc. Information can be found online. You can also help people as a one off, delivering care packages, baking someone a cake, donating items, and so on. Support causes you believe in.

I hope you have enjoyed this two-part series.

Please leave in the comments any of your ideas!! :-) Xx