Whether you're exploring markets or enjoying a meal at a cosy pub in the area's timeless villages and towns – there's an undeniable charm in dressing up for the Cotswolds.
Are Serious Readers lights worth it?
(AD - this post is sponsored by Serious Readers. All opinions and thoughts are my own.) If you've been looking at investing in a reading light for your reading space, you might have come across a Serious Readers reading lamp, looked at the price, and experienced a sharp intake of breath. What sets Serious Readers … Continue reading Are Serious Readers lights worth it?
Decorating your Christmas tree like a professional
Decorating your Christmas tree can be a pretty daunting task. Here's how I make it that little less stressful and decorate my tree like a professional.
Crafting a gallery wall for your business. A detailed walk-through.
Creating a gallery wall for your business goes beyond just displaying pictures – it serves as a visual representation that has the ability to alter the ambiance of any area significantly.
Treadmill Causing Noise Complaints? Read This Article!
Treadmills are a fantastic way to stay fit, and having access to one in the comfort of your own home can be a real game changer for your workout routines. Unfortunately, their noise can be disturbing for others. This may not be an issue for some, but many of us have neighbours, housemates or live … Continue reading Treadmill Causing Noise Complaints? Read This Article!
Travelling with your dog
When it comes to travel, it might not cross your mind that you can take your four-legged friend with you and that travelling with your dog brings a whole new level of experience to your travels. Here’s why I’m adding travelling with my dog to my bucket list, and why you should too. I’ve always … Continue reading Travelling with your dog
Keeping your dog safe in new places – an adventure lover’s guide
The need to explore is part of human nature. Discovering new places and experiencing new things firsthand brings joy that can’t be matched, and what better way to do it than with your canine companion by your side?
Caravan Kitchen Must-Haves
Discover our top 5 exciting and innovative bits of kitchen kit that are sure to inject some luxury into your next caravan trip.
From Tent to Tunes: The Essential Festival Items You Should Take With You!
Festival season isn’t too far away, so it might be time to start thinking about what essential festival items you need to take with you.
5 of the best statement chairs of all time
In my opinion, no home is complete without a statement chair. This is your chance to add colour, style, and a touch of flair. If you are lucky, you can get a valuable item that has been handed down from generation to generation. If not, check out vintage markets, online auction sites and even charity shops, which are all great places to look. These are, in my opinion, 5 of the best statement chairs to look out for!
My ultimate list of Dog Walking Essentials
I love walking with my dog and there are a few dog walking essentials I make sure I have for every walk - long or short!
The Trough at Daylesford Organic
Review of an evening meal at the Trough at Daylesford Organic. The original Cotswolds farm shop destination. Complementary meal but views and opinions all my own.
What Does Having A Messy House Say About YOU?
Do you dream of living in a spotless and organised house? We all have messy houses sometimes. But what does a messy house say about you?
5 of the best crystals for abundance
5 of the best crystals for abundance. Use them as part of your meditation or manifestation rituals to bring abundance into your life.
Slow cooker Moroccan beef stew
This easy to make Moroccan beef stew uses few ingredients and can be thrown together and left to cook in a slow cooker.
Books vs E-readers: What’s More Popular in 2022?
Since the launch of kindle there has been an ongoing debate about which is more popular: books or e-readers.
How I’m establishing a skincare routine in my 30s and sticking to it!
As I rapidly approach 40 I'm now starting to think about establishing a skincare routine. Something simple I can stick to!
How to use neon decor in your home
There's no hiding the fact that neon is making a comeback. If you love neon decor, how do you use it in your home?
Choosing the Right Accountant for Your Business
The right accountant can be a guardian angel for any business. How do you choose the right accountant? This article is a sponsored post.
12 Pet Photography Tips
Getting great photos of your pet can be a challenge, but it needn't be! I've put together these pet photography tips to help!
9 essentials for bringing your puppy home
It's probably one of the most exciting things you can do. When it comes to bringing your puppy home, you want to make sure that you have all those puppy essentials for that big day. I recently welcomed Toffee home, and whilst I'd had dogs for 16 years prior and perfectly capable of coping with … Continue reading 9 essentials for bringing your puppy home
Reading nook – the perfect space to indulge in reading
I love nothing more than curling up with a good book. And whilst I’m not short on comfy spots to indulge my reading habits, I’ve always lusted after a reading nook. A quiet corner dedicated to books. Whether it is to create a space for reading, studying or as a quiet escape from the household … Continue reading Reading nook – the perfect space to indulge in reading
Declutter while you spring clean
Spring has sprung, daffodils are rearing their heads and the days are becoming warmer. There is something about the change in the season that inspires the great spring clean. A spring clean is a deep clean of your home, tackling those areas you might not get to during your regular cleaning sessions. Such as cleaning … Continue reading Declutter while you spring clean
Stamp Duty: Everything you need to know
Property purchasing processes keep changing, and if you haven’t purchased any property recently, you might have been left out a little. Recently, during the COVID-19 pandemic, there were many changes, especially on matters to do with stamp duty. For every land or property you buy in the UK, you have to pay a levy to … Continue reading Stamp Duty: Everything you need to know
Benefits of a personal GPS Tracker
In this post I consider the benefits of having a personal GPS tracker and how you might use one in your day to day life.
My experience with debt consolidation
My personal experience with debt consolidation. This was a method of financial management that suited me and why I chose it.
I’m currently – what I’m up to in 2022!
A look at the things I'm currently loving and looking forward to. Books, TV, fashion and everything else in between!
Layer necklaces like a pro!
Tips on how you can layer necklaces like a pro using meaningful pieces you might already have in your jewellery box.
Pros and cons of moving to the countryside
During the pandemic, there was a rush of people moving to the countryside. The countryside offers more space, fresh air, fewer people, and no need for the daily commute. It is no surprise that people chose to flock to the countryside. Two years on, are we seeing people regret making the decision to become country … Continue reading Pros and cons of moving to the countryside
Top Tips for Keeping Your Dog Active
Wondering how to keep your dog active and their joints in good health? Follow these top tips!
Celeriac Soup – Soup Maker Recipe
Celeriac soup is a delicious winter warming soup. This particular recipe is garnished with delicious crisp chorizo and chorizo oil croutons. This makes for a very creamy textured soup which is definitely very hearty. There are just a few simple ingredients that make this celeriac soup. Made in the soup maker, it’s incredibly easy with … Continue reading Celeriac Soup – Soup Maker Recipe
Our first campervan trip and what we learned
When I wrote my unique staycation locations post in the summer of 2020 amidst the first pandemic lockdown, I had put down going on a campervan trip as one of the unique ways to enjoy a break away. Whilst camping in a tent has never ever appealed to me, the thought of hitting the road … Continue reading Our first campervan trip and what we learned
Blogging lessons and goals!
Reflecting on the blogging lessons I've learned and my future aspirations for the blog. Turning it from hobby to business.
Make your home cosy for Christmas
I don't know about you, but I always love making my home cosy for Christmas. From extra blankets to sparkly lights and natural decorations, there is quite a lot you can do to achieve that cosy feeling in your home for the festive period. I've previously talked about how I keep warm without cranking up … Continue reading Make your home cosy for Christmas
NoLo! My pick in alcohol free alternatives
Whether you're sober, sober curious or have opted to take part in Sober October or Dry January there is an abundance of "NoLo" or alcohol free alternative drinks on the market.
Review of the Passenger Alton Watch from Trendhim
Review of the Lucleon Passenger Alton Watch from Trendhim. This was a gifted product, but all views and reviews are honest and my own.
Sustainable Home Gifts
Sustainable home gifts for the interior loving sustainably savvy people in your life. Items that fit in any home and make excellent gifts.
Sustainable Fashion Gift Ideas
Sustainable fashion gifts suitable for her. From clothing, accessories and jewellery. For Christmas, birthday, or just because!
Taking Steps in Fashion with Vinyl Flooring
Vinyl flooring is an extremely popular choice, with brands such as Karndean click vinyl flooring providing an easy installation process that does not require a professional to install
Establishing a bedtime routine
Establishing a bedtime routine can help you wind down properly at night and give you a better night's sleep. As a result, a better day ahead!
Three reasons to go big with your postponed wedding plans
Amongst all the other things it has turned on their head, the COVID-19 pandemic has not been great for romance. Dating suspended, couples forced to spend months apart - and, of course, all the disruption to weddings.
Keeping a clean house when you have pets
Whether it's dogs, cats, birds or small furries, keeping up cleaning with pets needn't be complicated. Here's how I keep on top of it.
Going sustainable with Veo.World
I’ve talked a bit about making sustainable swaps but there’s still a few areas where I can make improvements. When Veo.World reached out offering to send me a box of their home and leisure goodies to review, I was excited to see what I got. Veo.World claims it is the UK’s most sustainable online shopping … Continue reading Going sustainable with Veo.World
Blinds by Post – Review
In this post I review a Roman blind from Blinds by Post. Sent to me as a gift for the purpose of this post. All opinions my own.
ChooseWell Hand Wash Review
ChooseWell hand wash is made from naturally derived and vegan friendly ingredients and ChooseWell's mission is to help the world transition to a more sustainable future. I talked recently about making sustainable swaps in my life in an effort to be better for the environment. To choose products that were not full of chemicals or shrouded … Continue reading ChooseWell Hand Wash Review
Get your fireplace winter ready
If you're one of the approximate 1.5million homes that use wood for fuel, you may need to start thinking about getting your fireplace winter ready. Wood burning stoves and open fires have risen in popularity over recent years. I'm lucky enough to have an open fire and whilst it throws out the heat on those … Continue reading Get your fireplace winter ready
I’m Currently – Spring 2021 Edition
This is the latest in my "I'm Currently" series, the last was May last year and was titled the Lockdown Edition. Who would've guessed that a year on, that would still apply?! I quite enjoy piecing together these posts and I hope they give you some inspiration too. Perhaps to watch a show or pick … Continue reading I’m Currently – Spring 2021 Edition
My Sustainable Swaps
A recent Monday evening natter with my girlfriends got us on the topic of sustainable swaps and what we can do to be more environmentally friendly in our everyday life. Cue a sustainable swap shopping spree by me!It all started with the bag for life - but there's so much more we can do! Why … Continue reading My Sustainable Swaps
My lockdown fashion favourites
It goes without saying that our lockdown fashion choices have changed somewhat in the last year. Business suits have been swapped out with sweatpants and sparkly dresses have been swapped out for a slogan sweatshirt. I for one, have fully embraced lockdown fashion with my particular favourites being my selection of sweaters. But, as mentioned … Continue reading My lockdown fashion favourites
Best indoor houseplants for low light homes
If like me, you live in a home with limited natural light, you might well be thinking that there's no point in getting houseplants. However, there are several indoor houseplants suitable for low light conditions. I've never been massively green-fingered, but have in the past couple of years started to build up my houseplant collection, … Continue reading Best indoor houseplants for low light homes
Smellacloud Nimbus 2.0 diffuser and essential oil review
Smellacloud diffusers allow you to introduce aromatherapy into your home with its stylish selection of diffusers and wide collection of enticing essential oils. I was gifted a Smellacloud Nimbus 2.0 for this review along with two essential oils. I chose Cinnamon and Pine Tree scents and give my thoughts on those too. Smellacloud Co-founders of … Continue reading Smellacloud Nimbus 2.0 diffuser and essential oil review
Butternut Squash Soup – Soup maker recipe
A simple no fuss butternut squash soup made in a soup maker. This velvety smooth soup requires no cream so can be frozen for later.
Keeping your old dog happy
As they age its important to keep your old dog happy. They love the home comforts, they still like the odd walk but most of all, they love us! Much like we do, old dogs start to get a bit stiff, they feel the cold more and they can’t go quite as far, or fast … Continue reading Keeping your old dog happy
What I’ve learned as a beginner runner
I am very much a beginner runner. I started running shortly after joining the gym last September. Thinking that with the addition of running, it would help improve my fitness levels and help with my sessions at the gym. There are of course other ways to exercise without going to the gym and this post … Continue reading What I’ve learned as a beginner runner
7 Unique Staycation Locations in England
I've set out some of my favourite unique staycation locations in England. From shepherds huts, to lodges, boats, cabins, glamping pods and containers.
Spicy sausage and mozzarella pasta bake
A quick and simple spicy sausage and mozzarella pasta bake, not only is it delicious and easy to make but a great budget meal.
How to survive a Zoom call
Mastering the art of the Zoom call has become a new way of life. Whether they are for meetings at work, catching up with family and friends or a new way of learning.Lockdown has meant video calling has become a new norm for a lot of us. Whether it's Skype, WhatsApp video, Zoom, or Microsoft … Continue reading How to survive a Zoom call
How to keep your dog cool in hot weather
How to keep your dog cool in hot weather. This is lessons learned from my own experiences with owning a dog susceptible to the heat.
I’m Currently – The Lockdown Edition
A sneak peak at what I'm reading, watching, eating and doing during lockdown.
Life can be Toff in a lockdown
Since the UK government announced "lockdown" measures, life has changed drastically for everyone. For some, like key workers, they've never been busier keeping the rest of us safe and fed. For others it meant their jobs suddenly stopping. I've been lucky, I started working from home the Wednesday before the lockdown was announced and my … Continue reading Life can be Toff in a lockdown
Spending your free time productively
Making the most of free time, whether that is spring cleaning your home or sorting through electronic files and paperwork or learning a new craft.
Now’s the time to become an expert home cook!
At a time when we need to adapt to a life less convenient being a home cook offers some rewarding and therapeutic opportunities.
I’m Currently…The sneak peek in March 2020
A sneak peek into everything I'm currently reading, watching, listening to and eating as well as what I'm looking forward to in the coming months.
Calm Drinks CBD oil infused Coffee review
Review of CBD oil infused coffee from Calm Drinks. Calm Drinks coffee and chocolate drinks aim to uplift energy, focus your mind and help you to relax.
Cook the F1 – Take two!
A foodie challenge to cook regional dishes for each of the Formula 1 race weekends. From Australia to Abu Dhabi - 22 races, 22 countries, 1 kitchen!
The Chakra Lodge – Small Business Focus
Interview with Kate Alden, Beauty and Complementary Therapist and owner of The Chakra Lodge. Your online crystal healing resource
Wingfield Digby – Small Business Focus
An interview with Alice Wingfield Digby from luxury gifting and homewares brand Wingfield Digby. Part of the Small Business Focus series.
Benefits of the Staycation
There are many benefits to the Staycation. Going on holiday doesn't mean having to travel abroad, there are many benefits to holidaying in the UK.
A walk at Woodchester Park
Woodchester Park, set in a hidden, quiet valley in Nympsfield, Stroud is a fantastic place to escape the day to day and get some fresh air.
2020 Bucket List
I'm aiming to see more, explore more and experience more. From camper van trips to the Lake District to learning a new skill here's my 2020 bucket list.
What to pack for a break in the Cotswolds
Knowing what to pack for a country getaway. From boots to jumpers, coats and shoes, to hats and scarves, here are a few of my countryside essentials.
Gift guide for fitness fanatics
Having recently caught the fitness bug, I have put together this gift guide for fitness fanatics. Helping you with the fitness addicts in your life!
Quick and simple Mushroom Stroganoff
A quick and simple recipe for mushroom strogranoff
To Regift or not regift?
The Do's and Don'ts of regifting. When is it OK to regift something you have been given. Is it OK to regift? Explore the right and wrong of regifting.
Decorating Your rental – My bedroom makeover
If like me, you don't own your own home, decorating your rental to add your own personal touch can sometimes be difficult.
To those Unfinished Reads…
Why it's ok to put down a book, this post goes out to those of you with unfinished reads. The ones you didn't enjoy or weren't in the mood to read.
JustBe Botanicals – Small Business Focus
JustBe Botanicals are tailored to your individual needs using an aroma journey. In this interview with Gail Bryden we hear all about her and the business.
Haunted Hotels in South West England
Fancy a spooky stay at one of the haunted hotels in the South West of England? Check out my top 5 spooktacular stays in the South West.
Spicy Sweet Potato and Carrot Soup – Soup maker recipe
Sweet potato and carrot soup made in a soup maker and with a chilli kick.
Christmas lights across the Cotswolds – A Stately Christmas
Christmas lights across the Cotswolds including Blenheim Palace, Westonbirt Arboretum and Sudeley Castle
Upcycled drinks cabinet
An upcycled drinks cabinet. My DIY project using a thrifted ebay drinks cabinet, chalk paint and snazzy wallpaper - now for the next project!
Getting back to nature – how I de-stress
Spending time outside is widely reported to have its health benefits. Here's my favourite places to help me de-stress by getting back to nature.
Blog Goals Update
A look into the progress I've made with Life can be Toff since the last time I posted a blog goals update post. Includes social media progress too!
Afternoon tea at No Man’s Fort
An afternoon tea at No Man's Fort, one of the three forts from Solent Forts a series of island hotels off Portsmouth Harbour.
I’m Currently…A mid year review!
I'm currently takes a look inside what I'm reading, watching, eating and enjoying.
NATTILY: Small Business Focus
Hear more from Natalie Ryan the creator of neon gilets NATTILY. Bringing a bit of funk and style to an otherwise countryside fashion staple.
DIY Teacup Succulent Planters
A DIY guide to your very own teacup succulent planters.A couple of years ago I bought a set of really pretty teacups from a charity shop with every intention of filling them with scented wax and upcycling them as candles. I never quite got round to it and quite frankly, made such a mess blowing … Continue reading DIY Teacup Succulent Planters
Caen Hill Locks, Devizes
On a sunny bank holiday, what better way to spend our time than a sedate walk along the Caen Hill Locks canal path. Caen Hill Locks, (pronounced cane) part of the Kennet and Avon canal is a series of 29 locks which is one of the longest continuous flight of locks in the country. The … Continue reading Caen Hill Locks, Devizes
When I grow up I want to be…
I'm not one of those people, who as a child, knew the career path I would take as an adult. I don't ever recall definitely wanting to be a vet, a nurse or an astronaut. I remember my Nan wanted me to become an Air Stewardess so she could get discount flights to exotic destinations! … Continue reading When I grow up I want to be…
I’m Currently…What I’m reading, watching and loving this March!
It's been a little while since I did my last "I'm currently" and I've watched and read (and eaten) a lot since then! Perhaps I should make these a March and October thing as that seems to be the pattern emerging! Currently Reading I started 2019 off on a fairly good run, with my aim … Continue reading I’m Currently…What I’m reading, watching and loving this March!
Joining the Upcycling Revolution
What is upcycling and how am I taking part in my own way!
Rydale Helmsley Tweed Coat
Review of the Helmsley Tweed Coat from Rydale clothing. I see many years of wear in this coat both through its quality and style.
Sarah Eden Portraits: Small Business Focus
An interview with Sarah Eden Portraits, an artist from Wiltshire
Keeping warm this winter!
As summer turns to autumn and then winter, I like to make sure I’m prepared to keep warm without flicking the central heating on. With soaring energy prices, I’m even more aware of keeping costs low but still keep warm without turning the heating on. I have oil fired central heating and oil is not … Continue reading Keeping warm this winter!
How I aim to beat the January Blues!
January is an awful long month after the hype of Christmas and New Year. Here is what I'll be trying to combact the January Blues!
Read the year 2018
It's New Year's Eve and everyone is taking a look back at 2018 and what they'd like to achieve in 2019. I'm looking at my Read the Year challenge. Personally, 2018 was a mixed year for me, the year started off with me facing homelessness, but at the last minute I managed to secure my … Continue reading Read the year 2018
Trallwm Forest Cottages: Small Business Focus
Interview with Mary from Trallwm Forest Cottages in rural Mid Wales.
Pasta making at Vaughan’s Cookery School
My experience of the pasta making class, "Pasta with Peter" at Vaughan's Cookery School, Devizes, Wilts. Making both with and without a machine.
I’m Currently…What I’m reading, watching and eating this October!
The "I'm currently" series gives you a little insight into what I'm reading, watching and eating all the stuff that I'm currently enjoying in my life!
Product Review: Prestige Christmas Hamper
Yep, the C-Word. Christmas! I was once again given the opportunity to work with and be gifted a Christmas hamper from the luxury range at Prestige Hampers for the purpose of this review. This falls around a year after I did my first ever product review which was for Prestige Bouquets. I was delighted to … Continue reading Product Review: Prestige Christmas Hamper
Spotlight Stationery: Small Business Focus
Welcome to the third edition of the Small Business Focus series. This week we hear from Mary Wright and her husband Rob who together, run the stationery subscription service, Spotlight Stationery. As a stationery lover (and perhaps addict) myself the idea of having a selection of notebooks, pens, pencils and other stationery items mailed to me … Continue reading Spotlight Stationery: Small Business Focus
Travel: A day trip to London with Snap Travel
I get to travel to London, a lot, with work. However, I never really get to do the whole tourist thing. There are rumours a trip to London can be expensive, but actually there are lots of cheap or free things to do in London - including getting there. I travelled by Snap Travel. When … Continue reading Travel: A day trip to London with Snap Travel
Diamond Divas Salon: Small Business Focus
Welcome to the second in the series of my Small Business Focus (you can read the first with Hoogly Tea here). This month I have the pleasure of speaking with Penny Richman of Diamond Divas Salon in Chippenham, Wiltshire. If you were to look up the definition of "nailing it" you'd find a picture of … Continue reading Diamond Divas Salon: Small Business Focus
Frightmare: A scaring masterclass
For those of you that know me, you'll know that I love anything Zombie - iZombie and The Walking Dead up there with my favourite TV shows. Resident Evil is my guilty pleasure movie boxset. Frightmare at Over Farm So, when I heard that Frightmare was offering up the chance to take part in a … Continue reading Frightmare: A scaring masterclass
In love with: Books
My name is Kim and I'm a book addict. For years I obsessed about shoes, the desire to own the most exquisite pair of Jimmy Choos or Christian Louboutin's. At one point in my twenties, I think I owned about 120 pairs of shoes and every spare penny would be spent on a new pair … Continue reading In love with: Books
Foodie Zone: Aubergine (eggplant) Cannelloni
I'll the first to admit that I don't often have a meal that is completely meat free, but after coming across this recipe for Aubergine Cannelloni in the July/August issue of Tesco Magazine - I might just have meat free dishes more often! You can browse the magazine online for more tasty recipes, but I … Continue reading Foodie Zone: Aubergine (eggplant) Cannelloni
Hoogly Tea: Small Business Focus
I interview Tina Gloggengieser of Hoogly Tea about how the company came about and what her greatest success for the business has been.
Foodie Challenge: Cook the F1 – Summer break update
It's the summer break for the 2018 Formula 1 season,as the drivers jet off on their summer holidays to destinations sure to be luxurious, I'm back at home where it's currently raining (thank goodness right?!) and taking a look back over since the season started and how my Cook the F1 Challenge is going. The … Continue reading Foodie Challenge: Cook the F1 – Summer break update
National Trust Dyrham Park: Days out around Bath
A day out at National Trust Dyrham Park
I need to digital detox!
It's time to digital detox! Over the last couple of weeks I have monitored my phone usage using the iPhone app "Moment" (try Offtimes for Android) which gave me some alarming results! I had not realised the sheer amount I used my phone, or how much I picked it up to check it, but these … Continue reading I need to digital detox!
Cotswold Airport Revival Festival
If you're looking for something to do at the end of September, then the Cotswold Airport Revival Festival needs to be on your list of go to places! Returning on 29th and 30th September, for its second year with the promise of being twice as big. The event is run in aid of ‘The Royal … Continue reading Cotswold Airport Revival Festival
Picnic Favourites: Mini Crustless Quiche with asparagus, courgette and pesto
These miniature crustless asparagus, courgette and pesto quiches were an absolute hit when I made them for my mum's birthday picnic back in May. Using seasonal asparagus and courgette, they are a winner in the picnic hamper - and so easy to make! Pin me for later! You could swap out the asparagus and courgette … Continue reading Picnic Favourites: Mini Crustless Quiche with asparagus, courgette and pesto
Unleashing your inner creative – My Creativity Wishlist
Creativity - we all have it in us. Whether we realise it or not. There are several ways in which we can explore our creativity, it's just a case of tapping into it. It seems that being creative is the "in" thing at the moment, there are thousands upon thousands of YouTube tutorials on macrame … Continue reading Unleashing your inner creative – My Creativity Wishlist
Getting into the happy habit
It's easy for us to fall into a routine of bad habits, and I'm certainly guilty of a few! But, are these bad habits causing us to be unhappy? A few simple changes to our bad habit routine, could make us happier overall. Taking a look at my own routine of bad or even in … Continue reading Getting into the happy habit
Foodie Challenge: Cook the F1 (Formula 1)
In one of those random moments of madness, I decided last night, that I would challenge myself, and Jon, to "cook" the Formula 1. Jon is a huge fan of the F1 and I guess, in a way I am too, I sit and watch the races, get enthralled in the various team tactics and … Continue reading Foodie Challenge: Cook the F1 (Formula 1)
Spring Motivation
Last August, I set out My Blogger Goals and quickly surpassed that and provided an update, ahead of time, in September in Blog Goals update. 8 months on, and as we have entered spring - the season of newness and growth, I wanted to provide another update as well as set out some personal goals … Continue reading Spring Motivation
I’m currently…
Back in November last year, I started "I'm Currently..." which is a look into what I'm currently reading, listening to or watching, amongst other things. A few months and a house move later, I thought it would be a good time to update! I’m currently watching Since moving I've done a lot of cost saving … Continue reading I’m currently…
Being Brunel and SS Great Britain
Are you looking for something to do in Bristol? I can strongly recommend a visit to the Being Brunel museum and the SS Great Britain ocean liner. I recently had the opportunity to attend Being Brunel during its opening weekend. The new museum opened in 2018 and is made up of six galleries and 150 … Continue reading Being Brunel and SS Great Britain
Snow Day Cake
A twist on a chocolate depression cake_no eggs no milk, no butter cake
Moving on
Going from furnished to unfurnished property on a limited budget and my hunt for unique pieces of furniture!
Giving it up, for Lent!
Last year, I declared in my post "Afternoon Tea Madam? Please but no cake!" that I would be giving up cake for Lent. And I did, not only that, but I also gave up biscuits. I endured more than 40 days without eating a single cake or biscuit and most importantly of all not a … Continue reading Giving it up, for Lent!
Soup maker recipe – Leek and Potato Soup
Leek and Potato soup recipe geared for soup makers
Aims for 2018
Goodbye 2017, hello 2018! It's New Year's Eve, I'm sat on the sofa with my new "Funday" jumper on, watching American Made and thinking that I should probably do a blog post as I've not done one since the beginning of December. I don't make resolutions and haven't done for a fair few years. Whenever … Continue reading Aims for 2018
Sudeley Castle – Spectacle of Light
Last Saturday evening, with perfect weather, the sky was clear and the stars were shining bright - what shone brighter still though, was the Spectacle of Light at Sudeley Castle based on the outskirts of Winchcombe in the Cotswolds, eight miles north east of Cheltenham. As we drove down the valley we could see the … Continue reading Sudeley Castle – Spectacle of Light
A Handmade Christmas Gift Guide
It's tempting to be drawn to 3 for 2 offers at High Street stores, and as a budget Christmas shopper - I'm as guilty as a lot of people for being suckered in to run of the mill gifts off the shelf. That's why I was inspired to produce a handmade gift guide. Supporting the small … Continue reading A Handmade Christmas Gift Guide
An Interview with: Jonathan Bradley, author of Papiliones
Following the launch on Saturday 2 December of Papiliones by Jonathan Bradley, I chatted to the author asking him about his inspirations for the poetry book. Interview with...Jonathan Bradley author of Papiliones 1. Please tell us about Papiliones. Papiliones is a collection of thirty-three of my poems, and one guest poem by a poet friend, … Continue reading An Interview with: Jonathan Bradley, author of Papiliones
I’m currently…
Outside of work and chores at home, I like to take time out to enjoy reading or watching TV. Inspired by this post I read recently by The Perpetual Page-Turner I thought I'd start my own "I'm currently..." post, as they seem to be something quite popular within the blog world! I'm currently watching The … Continue reading I’m currently…
Putting down roots – My place called “home”
Over 6 years ago, I decided that I wanted to move away from Wales to somewhere with more opportunities for career advancement, closer to convenience and just generally somewhere new. I moved from rural mid Wales where all my friends lived, a place I had considered home, having lived there since a child. I was … Continue reading Putting down roots – My place called “home”
New Kings Coffee review – Coffee in a bag!
When I saw that a coffee company was seeking blogs to send out some of the New Kings Coffee for review, I had sent my details through quicker than my cup of tea could brew. I am not a huge coffee drinker, I have my Costa on the way to work and that's usually it. … Continue reading New Kings Coffee review – Coffee in a bag!
Travel Wishlist: UK Destinations
As I look at booking a mini weekend break away, a year since my last holiday, I've decided to put together a UK destination wishlist. We wanted somewhere within reasonable travel distance to home, as we're only going away for the one night, we didn't want to spend all our time travelling on a motorway … Continue reading Travel Wishlist: UK Destinations
Party time! Top florist Elitonia Ltd launches in the Cotswolds
The Elitonia Ltd Cotswold launch, my first official event as a blogger, the nerves began to set in, I almost didn't attend at the fear of being there on my own. A sudden last minute change in the outfit, discarding the one I'd spent 6 hours choosing the previous weekend, but boy, am I glad … Continue reading Party time! Top florist Elitonia Ltd launches in the Cotswolds
The Elitonia Experience – The Cotswolds Launch
It's less than a week to go before Elitonia Ltd launches its new face of Cotswold floristry at the Corinium Museum in Cirencester,and just as importantly, my first official blogging event! To say I'm a little nervous is an understatement! The event is going to be packed full of leading businessmen and women in the … Continue reading The Elitonia Experience – The Cotswolds Launch
Product Review: Prestige Flowers Haute Florist Bouquet
Product review of the Paris Bouquet from Prestige Flowers Haute Florist luxury range
Self Care September – How I keep calm despite a busy life!
e all know that we need to relax and unwind, there is plenty out there telling us that we need to do so, but sometimes, it's easier said than done.
Birthday Outings
It's been just over a week since I became yet another year closer to 40. Yet I didn't let that little factor ruin my day! Things have been quite busy since, so I've not had the chance until now to share with you what we got up to for my birthday, but it was such … Continue reading Birthday Outings
Blenheim Palace Classic and Supercar event
Last Sunday we had a super busy day planned, we had tickets to go to the International GT Open at Silverstone, we had also planned to leave a little early to get over to Blenheim Palace for the Blenheim Palace Classic and Supercar event. Aston Martin Journey We decided on style over economy, so took … Continue reading Blenheim Palace Classic and Supercar event
Blog Goals – Update
There are some exciting things happening for Life can be Toff lately that I couldn't wait until the end of September to provide an update on my Blog Goals post from the beginning of August. I'm also in discussions with a fabulous graphic design company, Mogwai Media, for a new logo. Dave and Sam are … Continue reading Blog Goals – Update
Best of the South West
My best of the South West visitor attractions
My Bucket List
My Bucket List is made up of mostly daredevil style activities that I want to do. One day, I'll get to do one or all of them, there is plenty of time to work my way through the list, and I'm sure that I'll add to the list as time goes by and as more … Continue reading My Bucket List
My Blogger Goals
On 11 October Life can be Toff will be 1 year old. Woohoo! I need to plan some sort of first birthday celebration! Not forgetting I'm heading into mid 30's territory in September myself! After a relatively shaky start, between struggling to find the time to blog and coming up with content I felt was … Continue reading My Blogger Goals
Taking the time for me, myself and I
That's it, it's Friday already and the last day of my two weeks annual leave. How fast did that go?! As I sit here, laptop open, dogs snoring peacefully beside me and a movie on the telly, I can reflect on the very much needed time I've had to do the things I want, and … Continue reading Taking the time for me, myself and I
From Sidmouth to Cirencester to Gosport to missing fingertips!
The final week in July, has kind of become a traditional week off work for me. It stems from when I lived and worked in Wales and firstly struggling to book leave due to colleagues taking "Show Week" off (The Royal Welsh Agricultural Show) and then I went and worked for the RWAS and couldn't … Continue reading From Sidmouth to Cirencester to Gosport to missing fingertips!
Broad Bean Hummus
Don't waste old broad beans, make this yummy hummus!
My bric-a-brac obsession!
I confess, I'm a shopaholic. I love shoes, handbags, clothes, food - pretty much everything. More recently though, I've become obsessed with knic-knacks, antiques and bric-a-brac. I'm not sure if it stems from my need to Instagram pretty pictures, the fact that my home and work life is surrounded by houses full of pretty antiquities … Continue reading My bric-a-brac obsession!
Snatching up a great deal with Gousto!
A short while back, Pokemon Go was a huge deal, I downloaded it, got bored after a while, deleted the app...well, move on a few months and my friend tells me about this app, similar to Pokemon Go, called Snatch, where you pick up parcels (instead of Pokemon) wait a painstakingly long 6 hours and … Continue reading Snatching up a great deal with Gousto!
Summer Car Solstice & other such fun!
As I let on in my previous post, I am always extremely busy and days off from my "home" work are rare. So, a few days after my boyfriend Jon, purchased his Aston Martin (I didn't blog I'm sorry!), and I saw that Castle Combe Circuit in association with Bristol's Queen Square Club was hosting … Continue reading Summer Car Solstice & other such fun!
There is something positive in each & every day!
At lunchtime today, as I was sat in front of the village pond near my office, watching the ducks and attempting to finish reading my latest kindle bargain book, I really felt lucky. Lucky to be able to enjoy such surroundings during my lunch break, lucky to have the time to enjoy a good book … Continue reading There is something positive in each & every day!
Eating out is treating out!
When I get the chance to, I love catching up with friends and particularly love to have a good old gossip over a good meal out. Living where I do, I'm spoiled for eateries ranging from your franchise restaurants to high quality top notch posh jobs! Last week, meeting with my good friend, we had decided … Continue reading Eating out is treating out!
Afternoon tea Madam? Please, but no cake!
I guess, first of all I need to update you following my last declaration of diet! I've lost 5lbs so far - woop woop! Mostly think this is because my scales are faulty... Having stood on them Tuesday morning, they advised me I had lost half a stone "impossible" I shout, and stand on it … Continue reading Afternoon tea Madam? Please, but no cake!
Springing in to action…!
I hang my head in shame....! I mean this is my first post in as many months and I had promised myself I wouldn't let my blogging fall behind. Honestly, it's been busy! Though that should be no excuse! When you make a promise to yourself to do something, you should do it, otherwise you're … Continue reading Springing in to action…!
Finding beauty in what you do
So, Autumn has arrived, the clocks have gone back - the dogs want their dinner an hour early and the chickens look at me in disgust for letting them out an hour late. The weather has turned proper autumnal and the trees are all shades of autumn. The past couple of weeks have been busy, … Continue reading Finding beauty in what you do
Working hard or hardly working…
This week has been a pretty busy week work wise. It started as a usual Monday morning, prepping for Committees, updating some events whilst a colleague is on holiday and prepping for the week ahead. Tuesday was a slight change - it was an early start for me and Jon, heading off to Plymouth for … Continue reading Working hard or hardly working…
Late night inspiration…
This is my very first post - enjoy!