 |
| They do quite like each other really..... |
Sunday, 14 February 2016
Saturday, 13 February 2016
The Arctic - An Often Overlooked Winter Wonderland
When we think about places we'd like to go before we kick the bucket, we don't tend to think about the Arctic.
We dream about a world cruise, or going somewhere exotic, like Easter Island.
That's all too often because we associate going on holiday with going somewhere warm. I believe that when we think like this, we're missing out.
The Arctic has always been a place that conjures up a sense of magic.
Perhaps it was all the talk of Santa and his elves working tirelessly, winter after winter, to make toys when we were children.
Or perhaps you got that sense at school, as I did, that it was one of mankind's last frontiers.
The last great challenge on Earth for heroic explorers like Roald Amundsen. It is for those reasons that the Arctic has always held a certain allure for me. Its that spirit of exploration it evokes; it's the epitome of conquest.
But exploring the arctic is no longer the preserve of the wealthy, the reckless and the brave. Anybody can now go there and see what it has to offer and, more importantly, return home safely.
There are so many unique holidays now available that we're spoiled for choice.
Imagine travelling to Alaska, one of the last true wildernesses on Earth.
You could meet local Inuit tribes and immerse yourself in their culture. You could walk for miles absorbing the beautiful ice capped peaks and deep fjords of this beautiful state. You could meet some of the most amazing land animals on Earth.
How about watching a bald eagle swoop down to catch its prey, or a brown bear swimming in a lake? What about a moose, an alpine giant, chewing on some cud?
If you prefer Europe to the States, you can now venture to the most northernmost points of the continent.
If you go in the summer, you'll have the opportunity to view something spectacular: the midnight sun.
For a couple of months in the summer, the sun never sets. You could watch it bounce along the horizon, only to tumble back up, high into the sky.
The arctic also offers a way to get around like no other: dog sledding. This one has been on my bucket list for some time.
You can now be chauffeured around the Arctic in style. Many companies now offer multi-day expeditions so you can experience life just like the natives. The dogs are well-trained, eager and friendly.
What better way to see the beautiful wildlife this region has to offer?
And finally, who could forget the majestic aurora borealis?
I know that this is one of those cliches that finds its way onto everybody's bucket list, but so few ever get to see it. And that's a real shame, because seeing it has never been easier.
As the solar wind penetrates the Earth’s magnetic sphere, charged particles are funnelled towards the poles. When conditions are just right, it's the most breathtaking light show on Earth.
We dream about a world cruise, or going somewhere exotic, like Easter Island.
That's all too often because we associate going on holiday with going somewhere warm. I believe that when we think like this, we're missing out.
The Arctic has always been a place that conjures up a sense of magic.
Perhaps it was all the talk of Santa and his elves working tirelessly, winter after winter, to make toys when we were children.
Or perhaps you got that sense at school, as I did, that it was one of mankind's last frontiers.
The last great challenge on Earth for heroic explorers like Roald Amundsen. It is for those reasons that the Arctic has always held a certain allure for me. Its that spirit of exploration it evokes; it's the epitome of conquest.
 |
| Source Image |
But exploring the arctic is no longer the preserve of the wealthy, the reckless and the brave. Anybody can now go there and see what it has to offer and, more importantly, return home safely.
There are so many unique holidays now available that we're spoiled for choice.
Imagine travelling to Alaska, one of the last true wildernesses on Earth.
You could meet local Inuit tribes and immerse yourself in their culture. You could walk for miles absorbing the beautiful ice capped peaks and deep fjords of this beautiful state. You could meet some of the most amazing land animals on Earth.
How about watching a bald eagle swoop down to catch its prey, or a brown bear swimming in a lake? What about a moose, an alpine giant, chewing on some cud?
If you prefer Europe to the States, you can now venture to the most northernmost points of the continent.
If you go in the summer, you'll have the opportunity to view something spectacular: the midnight sun.
For a couple of months in the summer, the sun never sets. You could watch it bounce along the horizon, only to tumble back up, high into the sky.
The arctic also offers a way to get around like no other: dog sledding. This one has been on my bucket list for some time.
 |
| The Husband got the chance to try dog sledding in Canada |
You can now be chauffeured around the Arctic in style. Many companies now offer multi-day expeditions so you can experience life just like the natives. The dogs are well-trained, eager and friendly.
What better way to see the beautiful wildlife this region has to offer?
And finally, who could forget the majestic aurora borealis?
I know that this is one of those cliches that finds its way onto everybody's bucket list, but so few ever get to see it. And that's a real shame, because seeing it has never been easier.
As the solar wind penetrates the Earth’s magnetic sphere, charged particles are funnelled towards the poles. When conditions are just right, it's the most breathtaking light show on Earth.
Friday, 12 February 2016
Planning Your Wedding? Here's 5 Ways To Save Money Without Sacrificing Style
Even if you’re determined to make your wedding day extra special, you might not be prepared to part with vast sums of money for the privilege.
But the fact is, if you’re not careful when planning your big day, costs can quickly spiral out of control.
From your clothing to your catering, you’ll have a host of expenses to cover.
The good news is, it’s possible to save money on your nuptial celebrations without sacrificing on style in the process.
The following five suggestions could help you keep your spending under control.
1. Select a second-hand dress
Wedding dresses don’t tend to come cheap, but there is way to bring your costs down. Instead of buying brand new, you can take your pick from the selection of second hand wedding dresses now available.
There are a host of gorgeous garments to choose from online and from specialist stores on the high street.
Whether you want a classic, embellished, lace-trimmed or vintage look, you should be able to find something that suits and that fits within your spending limit.
2. Book off peak
Another top money-saving tip is to arrange your ceremony outside of the peak wedding season.
Most people want to tie the knot in the warm spring or summer weather.
So, by planning yours between November and March (excluding Valentine’s Day), you can reduce your bill by between 20 and 30 per cent.
Also, you may be able to drive costs down further by walking down the aisle on a Friday or Sunday rather than a Saturday.
3. Have your ceremony and reception in one place
Consider having your ceremony and reception in one location too.
For example, if you do the whole thing in a hotel, you won’t have to worry about the cost of transporting guests between venues.
If you’re planning to tie the knot in a church, find out if there are any suitable places to hold your reception in nearby.
As well as saving you cash, this can cut your stress levels on the big day.
4. Get someone you know to do the photography
Your wedding day will be over before you know it, so you’ll no doubt want plenty of pictures to remind you of it.
The trouble is, professional photographers can cost a fortune.
So, if you know someone who’s skilled behind the lens and who has a good quality camera, why not ask them to take your snaps instead?
Sometimes, the pictures taken by friends and family are the best when it comes to capturing the intimacy and emotion of these romantic events.
5. Have a buffet instead of a sit-down dinner
Having a sit-down dinner might be a tempting idea, but it won’t come cheap.
An effective way to make your catering more cost-effective is to opt for a buffet instead.
You could bring your food bill down by a significant sum if you select this less formal dining style, so it’s certainly worth thinking about.
Your guests will enjoy the grub just as much, and you won’t be left with as big a hole in your pocket.
Each of these five suggestions could make you major savings, and the best thing is, they don’t require you to sacrifice on style.
But the fact is, if you’re not careful when planning your big day, costs can quickly spiral out of control.
 |
| There are plenty of beautiful second-hand and vintage bridal gowns to be had |
The good news is, it’s possible to save money on your nuptial celebrations without sacrificing on style in the process.
The following five suggestions could help you keep your spending under control.
1. Select a second-hand dress
Wedding dresses don’t tend to come cheap, but there is way to bring your costs down. Instead of buying brand new, you can take your pick from the selection of second hand wedding dresses now available.
There are a host of gorgeous garments to choose from online and from specialist stores on the high street.
Whether you want a classic, embellished, lace-trimmed or vintage look, you should be able to find something that suits and that fits within your spending limit.
2. Book off peak
Another top money-saving tip is to arrange your ceremony outside of the peak wedding season.
Most people want to tie the knot in the warm spring or summer weather.
So, by planning yours between November and March (excluding Valentine’s Day), you can reduce your bill by between 20 and 30 per cent.
Also, you may be able to drive costs down further by walking down the aisle on a Friday or Sunday rather than a Saturday.
3. Have your ceremony and reception in one place
Consider having your ceremony and reception in one location too.
For example, if you do the whole thing in a hotel, you won’t have to worry about the cost of transporting guests between venues.
 |
| Save money by holding the ceremony and reception in the same place |
As well as saving you cash, this can cut your stress levels on the big day.
4. Get someone you know to do the photography
Your wedding day will be over before you know it, so you’ll no doubt want plenty of pictures to remind you of it.
The trouble is, professional photographers can cost a fortune.
So, if you know someone who’s skilled behind the lens and who has a good quality camera, why not ask them to take your snaps instead?
Sometimes, the pictures taken by friends and family are the best when it comes to capturing the intimacy and emotion of these romantic events.
5. Have a buffet instead of a sit-down dinner
Having a sit-down dinner might be a tempting idea, but it won’t come cheap.
An effective way to make your catering more cost-effective is to opt for a buffet instead.
You could bring your food bill down by a significant sum if you select this less formal dining style, so it’s certainly worth thinking about.
Your guests will enjoy the grub just as much, and you won’t be left with as big a hole in your pocket.
Each of these five suggestions could make you major savings, and the best thing is, they don’t require you to sacrifice on style.
Thursday, 11 February 2016
Discover England's Hidden Gems
We all have our favourite holiday experiences. Building sandcastles on beaches, exploring rolling countryside and trying out exciting new things. Whether it was hang-gliding off a cliff, taking part in a spot of scuba, or just relaxing next to the pool, these are the memories we hold dear when we return to day to day life. In an ideal world, that is!
The Real Deal
The reality of low-cost travel can often involve long delays, cancellations, and all kinds of other unpleasantness. However, it doesn’t have to be this way. Imagine moving at your own pace and arriving at a time that suits you. We all know the importance of keeping down the costs but we still want to be within reach of golden sands, lush forests, and amazing attractions! All of this is possible, and a UK holiday could be just what the doctor ordered.
Try to forget about the old fashioned view of cramped, freezing tents. Modern holidays are a million miles away from all of that! In the United Kingdom we are blessed with some of the most beautiful countryside in Europe. For example, you would find that caravan holidays in Cornwall can offer everything from sunny beaches, to craggy cliffs and world famous landmarks.
Local legends
In some cases, familiarity can mean that we take things for granted. Sometimes, we need to remind ourselves of the great places that are all around us! Castles, centuries old. Sites of infamous battles, where thrones were lost and won. With a camping holiday you can be sure to have access to some pretty inspiring places, many with good transport options.
Breaks With Benefits
A long haul flight can be tiresome at best, and completely draining at worst. Once you have gathered your bags, made your connecting transfer and checked into the hotel you can feel frazzled and fried.
You don’t have any of these problems with a camping holiday in the UK. One of the best things about a camping trip is being around nature. Whether you are a seasoned tent jockey, or prefer the home comforts of a caravan, you will at some point be face to face with Mother Nature in all her glory.
This could be walking through a wooded glen, the sounds of a babbling brook murmuring gently in your ear. It could be a scenic walk on a cool clifftop, the sea air filling your lungs. Whether you are inland or on the coast, there will be invigorating paths for you to tread and this can have some great health benefits. Being out in the sun will provide you with Vitamin D, which is known for maintaining calcium levels in the blood and keeping those bones nice and strong!
Basically, the fact that you are active and walking around, even if it is only to the local tea shop, means that you are getting some physical exercise. As we all know, physical activity has a huge area of positive effects. These range from weight loss, lower blood pressure, stronger muscles and improved circulation.
So, maybe you should consider a camping trip for your next jaunt. With so much out there to see, isn’t it time you went exploring?
The Real Deal
The reality of low-cost travel can often involve long delays, cancellations, and all kinds of other unpleasantness. However, it doesn’t have to be this way. Imagine moving at your own pace and arriving at a time that suits you. We all know the importance of keeping down the costs but we still want to be within reach of golden sands, lush forests, and amazing attractions! All of this is possible, and a UK holiday could be just what the doctor ordered.
 |
| Image Source |
Try to forget about the old fashioned view of cramped, freezing tents. Modern holidays are a million miles away from all of that! In the United Kingdom we are blessed with some of the most beautiful countryside in Europe. For example, you would find that caravan holidays in Cornwall can offer everything from sunny beaches, to craggy cliffs and world famous landmarks.
Local legends
In some cases, familiarity can mean that we take things for granted. Sometimes, we need to remind ourselves of the great places that are all around us! Castles, centuries old. Sites of infamous battles, where thrones were lost and won. With a camping holiday you can be sure to have access to some pretty inspiring places, many with good transport options.
Breaks With Benefits
A long haul flight can be tiresome at best, and completely draining at worst. Once you have gathered your bags, made your connecting transfer and checked into the hotel you can feel frazzled and fried.
You don’t have any of these problems with a camping holiday in the UK. One of the best things about a camping trip is being around nature. Whether you are a seasoned tent jockey, or prefer the home comforts of a caravan, you will at some point be face to face with Mother Nature in all her glory.
 |
| Image Source |
This could be walking through a wooded glen, the sounds of a babbling brook murmuring gently in your ear. It could be a scenic walk on a cool clifftop, the sea air filling your lungs. Whether you are inland or on the coast, there will be invigorating paths for you to tread and this can have some great health benefits. Being out in the sun will provide you with Vitamin D, which is known for maintaining calcium levels in the blood and keeping those bones nice and strong!
Basically, the fact that you are active and walking around, even if it is only to the local tea shop, means that you are getting some physical exercise. As we all know, physical activity has a huge area of positive effects. These range from weight loss, lower blood pressure, stronger muscles and improved circulation.
So, maybe you should consider a camping trip for your next jaunt. With so much out there to see, isn’t it time you went exploring?
Tuesday, 9 February 2016
Interior styling mistakes you need to avoid
Styling your home isn’t always easy, and if you’re lacking in knowledge when it comes to interior design, you could be making some mistakes.
Let’s take a look at three decor blunders that you need to avoid in order to create your ideal home.
1. Skimping on the finer details
While it’s vital to ensure that your home is filled with essential pieces of furniture, it’s just as important to pay close attention to the finer details too.
For example, soft furnishings can help tie just about any room together, so you may want to focus on these home accessories first.
Whether you decide to swap your shabby looking window dressings for some stunning eyelet curtains or ditch your drab duvet cover for a luxuriously soft and stylish bed linen set, you should find that there are a whole host of high-quality accessories available that can help improve the look and feel of each room.
With so much choice available, there is no reason why you should skimp when it comes to these finishing touches.
2. Failing to think about arrangement
Regardless of whether it’s your bedroom or kitchen, failing to think about how the room is arranged could be seriously letting your home down.
Every room in your property has a different use, so it’s important to make sure that the way in which you organize each space is fit for its individual purpose.
For example, it’s likely that your living area is where you like to relax and occasionally entertain guests.
With that in mind, you could position your sofas to create a communal seating area, and perhaps place a coffee table in the center and add a couple of side tables for extra convenience.
No matter which room you are arranging, it pays to give careful thought to how you can make the space as comfortable and practical as possible.
3. Having too much on display
From vases and photo frames to ornaments and candle holders, the chances are there are a whole array of home accessories that you want to show off.
However, having too much on display could be making your home appear cluttered and chaotic, creating a disorderly and distracting vibe.
It’s important to remember that less is more when it comes to trinkets and knick-knacks. To solve this issue, you could simply remove a few items, keeping your favourite pieces in prominent and visible places.
If you’re guilty of making any of these interior design mistakes, taking this advice on board should enable you to create the stylish home you’ve always wanted.
*collaborative post
 |
| A room is a blank canvas just waiting for you to unlease your creativity |
Let’s take a look at three decor blunders that you need to avoid in order to create your ideal home.
1. Skimping on the finer details
While it’s vital to ensure that your home is filled with essential pieces of furniture, it’s just as important to pay close attention to the finer details too.
For example, soft furnishings can help tie just about any room together, so you may want to focus on these home accessories first.
 |
| You could keep the room neutral and add a splash of colour using cushions and curtains as accents |
With so much choice available, there is no reason why you should skimp when it comes to these finishing touches.
2. Failing to think about arrangement
Regardless of whether it’s your bedroom or kitchen, failing to think about how the room is arranged could be seriously letting your home down.
Every room in your property has a different use, so it’s important to make sure that the way in which you organize each space is fit for its individual purpose.
For example, it’s likely that your living area is where you like to relax and occasionally entertain guests.
 |
| Add your personality with some quirky accessories |
With that in mind, you could position your sofas to create a communal seating area, and perhaps place a coffee table in the center and add a couple of side tables for extra convenience.
No matter which room you are arranging, it pays to give careful thought to how you can make the space as comfortable and practical as possible.
3. Having too much on display
From vases and photo frames to ornaments and candle holders, the chances are there are a whole array of home accessories that you want to show off.
However, having too much on display could be making your home appear cluttered and chaotic, creating a disorderly and distracting vibe.
 |
| Too much clutter creates a discordant atmosphere |
It’s important to remember that less is more when it comes to trinkets and knick-knacks. To solve this issue, you could simply remove a few items, keeping your favourite pieces in prominent and visible places.
If you’re guilty of making any of these interior design mistakes, taking this advice on board should enable you to create the stylish home you’ve always wanted.
*collaborative post
Monday, 8 February 2016
All Alone In The World - The Husband's Off To Sales Week
So it's the company 'sales week' for the Husband and he has jetted off to Canada to discuss all things IT and look at snow.
This means I am left home alone - with the exception of Caitlin and Ieuan - to deal with any DIY disasters and to practise my cooking with the kids as guinea pigs.
I am, as Caitlin used to say as a toddler (and we've no idea why) - "I'm all alone in the world".
It is an annual ritual which I both dread and look forward to in equal measure because somehow it seems to mark the true start of the Hobbis family year.
This is, like most of the stuff I worry about, completely illogical, as the Husband is frequently away for four or five days in various parts of the year. What I think makes this week different is that it includes the weekend.
Weekends without him seem endless, not least because I'm not too good at wresting, light sabre fighting and crafting.
Currently Storm Imogen is in full force and I am listening to the wind battering our extension roof.
The Husband has been gone less than an hour and there is already some strange cable hanging off the roof which I have inspected but which doesn't seem to be live or connected to anything in particular.
The roof is also leaking in the kitchen and I can see a couple of the suspended ceiling tiles previously stained with damp getting darker where the rain is coming in.
Add to the list a boiler which likes to cut out when its pressure drops and a smoke alarm given to going off in the complete absence of any smoke, and you can see why I might be feeling a little nervy.
I also hate being without the Husband now at nights. I don't feel completely safe. The sound of creaking floorboards is magnified. In fact every sound is magnified.
And the kids frequently choose the Husband's absence to develop a new lurgy or, in Ieuan's case, to start his full blast night-time shouting.
I know it's not particularly feminist to make these sorts of admissions. Truth be told, since I gave up work Mat and I have fallen into pretty traditional parenting roles and they work for us.
I often think of those whose partners are in the Military or have to work really long stretches away. Our kids miss their dad terribly after just a few days. What must it be like after months?
I suppose you adapt.
As usual, you've just got to get on with it really, haven't you?
This means I am left home alone - with the exception of Caitlin and Ieuan - to deal with any DIY disasters and to practise my cooking with the kids as guinea pigs.
I am, as Caitlin used to say as a toddler (and we've no idea why) - "I'm all alone in the world".
It is an annual ritual which I both dread and look forward to in equal measure because somehow it seems to mark the true start of the Hobbis family year.
This is, like most of the stuff I worry about, completely illogical, as the Husband is frequently away for four or five days in various parts of the year. What I think makes this week different is that it includes the weekend.
Weekends without him seem endless, not least because I'm not too good at wresting, light sabre fighting and crafting.
Currently Storm Imogen is in full force and I am listening to the wind battering our extension roof.
The Husband has been gone less than an hour and there is already some strange cable hanging off the roof which I have inspected but which doesn't seem to be live or connected to anything in particular.
The roof is also leaking in the kitchen and I can see a couple of the suspended ceiling tiles previously stained with damp getting darker where the rain is coming in.
Add to the list a boiler which likes to cut out when its pressure drops and a smoke alarm given to going off in the complete absence of any smoke, and you can see why I might be feeling a little nervy.
I also hate being without the Husband now at nights. I don't feel completely safe. The sound of creaking floorboards is magnified. In fact every sound is magnified.
And the kids frequently choose the Husband's absence to develop a new lurgy or, in Ieuan's case, to start his full blast night-time shouting.
I know it's not particularly feminist to make these sorts of admissions. Truth be told, since I gave up work Mat and I have fallen into pretty traditional parenting roles and they work for us.
I often think of those whose partners are in the Military or have to work really long stretches away. Our kids miss their dad terribly after just a few days. What must it be like after months?
I suppose you adapt.
As usual, you've just got to get on with it really, haven't you?
Sunday, 7 February 2016
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