Welcome to the second of a series of blogs that will bring you the Best of the South West. This edit is all about where to shop for your home, the Interiors Edit. Our house is our home, our castle, the place we feel safe and special. We spend our downtime there and from tomorrow, in the UK, will be able to welcome friends and family back into our homes – oh how we’ve missed that!
With that in mind, perhaps you’re considering a little makeover or even planning on a staycation in the beautiful South West. Over the last year, we’ve all spent much more time at home and that of course, for many, involved looking at our homes and spaces with a new eye.
We apparently spent 147 percent more time gardening and improving our homes during Lockdown, according to the ONS*
(*Please note this blog is not in anyway a sponsored post but if you’ve been following me for a while, you’ll know it’s a joy for me to share and support local businesses I love and have purchased from for years)
Right, let’s get started. Hope you’re sitting comfortably and have a cuppa in hand. We’re going in!
The focus on the interiors and lifestyle stores based in the South West that I love which I really think you’ll love too.
Their doors have now re-opened and I know from chatting to each of the featured stores, they are very excited to be able to welcome you back.
“Real comfort, visual and physical, is vital to every room.” Mark Hampton
Mark Hampton
Salcombe Trading
The Salcombe Trading Company have stores both in Salcombe, Devon and Bath. I adore this store and have been a customer since they first opened over 20 years ago. They have an exceptional range of products for the house and garden, with kitchen, dining and entertaining taking centre stage. Inspiration comes from the sea and moors of Devon, and the sophistication of Bath, giving their range a distinctly New England and Scandi feel.
Salcombe Trading specialises in Scandinavian interior design and representing the best British artisans, they’ve have hand picked a stunning array of accessories for your home and garden.
You’ll find top brands such as Skagerak Denmark, Menu, Kosta Boda, seamlessly blend with Somerset blacksmiths and carpenters.
I’m particularly in love with the Jutland Collection. (above) It’s named after the Danish peninsula in the North, where you’ll find powder soft beaches and stunning Summer Houses to make you green with envy. The collection is full of warm teaks, soft mint greens, beautifully calming tones of blue and white; it’s perfect for a neutral scheme.
Their customer service is exceptional – nothing is too much trouble and they’ve been so helpful in assisting me in finding pieces for our home over the years. You’ll love visiting Salcombe Trading I’m sure.
They have very kindly given me a discount code especially for you; simply quote womanonamission10 to receive 10% discount online.
Be sure to visit when you come to Bath, or Salcombe in Devon or visit their website to take a look at their whole collection. You’ll also find them on Instagram.
“I have seen the future of food shopping and it’s not in London, Manchester or Edinburgh but on a road that runs alongside the Exe Estuary in Devon, a few miles south of Exeter”
The Times, Nick Wyke writing about Darts Farm
Darts Farm
Darts Farm is a vibrant, nationally award-winning farm shopping experience, with a working farm at its heart. Situated just off the M5 near Exeter, it’s a perfect place to stop and stretch the legs if you are driving further into the South West to reach your destination or to visit for the day. It has something for everyone; including relaxing in the Treatment Loft with a massage or enjoying a pamper from the hair stylists at the Energy Hair Salon.
Their food hall is filled with hundreds of hand-picked local and artisan suppliers; the best British Farmhouse cheeses, handmade artisan breads, pastries and pies, incredible local wines, craft beers and much more!
If you’re feeling peckish, a visit to the Restaurant is a must. The chefs use the food hall as their larder, creating delicious seasonal meals; perhaps a gourmet steak sandwich, an artisan charcuterie platter or a traditional Devonshire cream team.
I especially love the Orange Tree on the second floor. A huge space filled with fabulous gifts and inspiration for your home. Darts Farm features iconic retail specialist retailers such as Fired Earth and AGA. It’s a dream, the bathrooms, kitchens and outdoor space are designed to feel as if you are in individual rooms. It’s stunning and will give you lots of ideas and inspiration.
Darts Farm is certainly a place to factor in as part of your journey if you’re travelling to the South West this summer. Find out more on their website and on instagram
Jo and Co Home
Jo and Co home has a beautiful home and lifestyle store just off the Atlantic Highway just outside Wadebridge in Cornwall.
Based over two stories, you’ll find everything you need for your small and larger interior projects, gifts and for you too. It’s the store I always make a bee-line for whenever I’m over the border from Devon.
The store is beautifully light and airy and the second floor is where you’ll find the Jo & Co Home furniture collection, carefully curated to delight the budding interior designer.
Their designer sofas and statement armchairs are made to order and are guaranteed to provide style and comfort to your living space. You’ll spend a while here enjoying the collection and enjoying the space I’m sure!
Visit Jo & Co Home in Cornwall to see the furniture collection in person or order online. You’ll also find lots on inspiration on their instagram.
“Be faithful to your own taste, because nothing you really like is ever out of style.”
Billy Baldwin.
Nkuku Lifestyle Store
I feel very lucky that the Nkuku Home and Lifestyle Store is hidden in the beautiful Devon countryside not far from my home. They are known for working with artisans throughout the world, combining timeless design with traditional skills and natural materials.
The store is located in a courtyard of barns, in Harberton, Totnes, Devon. The barns provide the perfect backdrop to showcase their collections of stylish home accessories, lighting and furniture.
The café is currently closed for the time being, due to the restrictions. However it’s worth allowing time to stay for an artisan coffee, delicious cake or lunch when you plan your visit.
I’m excited to discover Nkuku have a brand-new furniture showroom, which is located just across the car park from the main store. There you can explore their broad selection of furniture and lighting. Nkuku’s beautifully handcrafted sofas are available to order and have delivered direct to your home.
As you can see, they have a treasure trove of unique one-off pieces, to add character to your home.
Be sure to visit when you come to Totnes, Devon or visit the website Nkuku You’ll also find Nkuku on Instagram for additional inspiration.
“A house is much more than a mere shelter – it should lift us emotionally and spiritually.”
John Saldino
Holly Keeling Interiors
I’ve known Holly for years and am delighted to share her gorgeous style with you.
Holly is not only a super talented interior designer and stylist both residential & commercial, but she also has her own store & design studio on Totnes High St, in Devon.
Holly Keeling Interiors sells the most stunning homeware, antiques, fashion & soft furnishings, including a full range of fabric books, swatches, carpet and tile samples. She is the official stockist for the following designer fabrics:
Vanessa Arbuthnott, Jane Churchill, Clarke & Clarke, Colefax & Fowler, Elanbach, Kate Forman, Pierre Frey, James Hare, Linwood, Ian Mankin, Titley & Marr, GP & J Baker, Malabar, Roger Oates, Peony & Sage, Thibaut, Lewis and Wood, Sanderson, Design Forum, Anna French, Volgar Linen, Little Greene and many more…
You will find a wide range of weaves and prints in a multitude of colours, patterns and textures to suit a vintage or contemporary interior. Holly and her talented team will help you select some truly inspirational fabrics to transform your home. They also offer a service providing custom made curtains, blinds and soft furnishings using highly experienced makers.
Other Interiors stores I love and think you will too;
Jas Interiors, Ivybridge
Escapology, Plymouth
Distinctly Living
Enjoying the space in your home doesn’t mean you need to spend big bucks. I’m a firm believer that your style is found through things you love, places you’ve visited and inspired you. I’ve always said that it’s the little things, the finer details, that make all the difference. If you love to enjoy a coffee in the morning, why not enjoy it from that special mug. Enjoy reading in the evening? Create a special reading space with your favourite armchair and throw.
“Feather your nest with designs you love.”
Jo Eldridge, Founder and Digital Creator of Jo and Co home.
As ever, I do hope you’ve enjoyed this blog, feel inspired and will have fun visiting these beautiful interiors stores, both when you visit in person or online. We really are very lucky here in this part of the world.
Do let me known your favourite place to visit in the South West, you never know, it might just feature in the forthcoming blogs; Best of the South West!
Wishing you happiest of days, wherever you are.
Be happy and healthy,
Reference:
Office for National Statistics (ONS) the report, titled Coronavirus and how People Spent Their Time Under Lockdown:
The UK is beginning to open up again after the Pandemic, hurrah! With thoughts of visiting friends and staycations in the air, this is the first of a series of blogs that will bring you the Best of the South West. I’m talking where to stay, where to eat and of course shopping! This blog is all about the food…!
Over the last year, we’ve all spent much more time at home and that of course involved more cooking and baking. (Will the poor banana bread now forever be linked to 2020 I wonder?) Having lived in South West Devon for the last 26 years, I’ve never felt more lucky to be near the coast and Dartmoor. It’s been something we as a family have always treasured, but certainly now more than ever before.
I want to share some of that with you, although I’ve been warned by close friends not to share all the top restaurants and beaches! Some things have to remain a secret to us locals right?!
The South West is really a beautiful place to live, regardless of season.
One thing you might need before continuing is to download my FREE menu planner, complete with shoping list. Having created it years ago for my clients, I would not do without it. Not only does it save me time but it saves me money too.
No more waste, just need to remind the family to check the board in the kitchen before they ask what’s for supper!
There are numerous amazing chefs, all with fabulous establishments throiughout the South West and I wish I could share them all with you here. However, I’ve selected some of my absolute favourites and I hope you enjoy them as much as I do.
Classic Fish and Chips – Nathan Outlaw, Outlaws, Port Issac, Cornwall.
I couldn’t share with you some delicious recipes from your South West chefs without sharing a classic fish and chip recipe now could I! Nathan Outlaw is one of the loveliest chaps you could ever meet and is known as perhaps Britain’s best fish and seafood chef. He’s also written several fantastic cookbooks, his latest one being “Restaurant Nathan Outlaw”
FISH 4 hake fillets, each weighing 130g
TARTARE SAUCE
1 tsp English mustard 1 tsp white wine vinegar
250ml of rapeseed oil 2 gherkins 3 egg yolks
1 tsp each of fresh tarragon, fresh chives, fresh chervil, fresh parsley, all chopped
2 tsp capers, chopped salt & pepper
BEER BATTER
350ml of ale. 230g of plain flour
15g of dried yeast. 1 tsp salt. 1 tsp sugar
CHIPS: 6 large Maris piper potatoes, salt, vegetable oil
TO PLATE: 100g of peas, boiled
Method
For the tartare sauce, start by making the mayonnaise. Whisk the egg yolk, vinegar and mustard together in a bowl until well combined. Slowly add the rapeseed oil in a steady stream while continuing to whisk until emulsified
Finely dice the gherkins and add to the mayonnaise along with the capers and chopped herbs. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as necessary. Store in the fridge until ready to serve.
For the beer batter, combine the flour, yeast, salt, sugar and beer. Whisk together to form a smooth mixture and leave in a warm place for 10 minutes to activate the yeast and develop the flavour. Move to a cooler place until ready for frying.
To start the chips, peel the potatoes, then cut into large chips. Put them in a saucepan, cover with cold water and bring to the boil. Cook until still slightly raw in the centre, strain and cool.
Heat some vegetable oil in a deep-fat fryer to 180˚C ready to cook the fish and chips. Once the fryer has come up to temperature, add the chips to the fryer basket and drop into the hot oil. Cook until golden brown, remove from the fryer and allow all the oil to drip off. Place in a bowl and season generously with salt.
To cook the fish, mix the beer batter again to ensure it is smooth. Drag each fillet of hake through the mixture to evenly coat and drop into the fryer. Cook for 6-8 minutes until golden brown. Always drop items into the fryer away from the body so the oil does not splash back.
To serve, place the fish on top of the chips and serve with peas and a healthy dollop of tartare sauce.
Aubergine and Tomato Gratin – Hugh Fearnley- Whittingstall, River Cottage.
Serve this hearty bake with a green salad on the side, or precede it with a delicious raw dish, such as fennel, melon and basil. Serves 4.
2 fairly large aubergines (about 700g in total), trimmed
4 tbsp olive oil, plus a little extra to finish
A small bunch of basil (25g), leaves picked from the stems and -roughly torn
4–5 sprigs of thyme, leaves picked from the stems
30g flaked almonds
For the tomato sauce
2 x 400g tins tomatoes, 3 garlic cloves, sliced, 75g cashew nuts, 1 tbsp olive oil, 2 bay leaves, a pinch of sugar
Method
To make the sauce (which you can do ahead), put the tomatoes into a medium saucepan. If you’re using whole plum tomatoes, crush them in your hands as you add them, removing any stalky end bits. Add the garlic, cashews, oil, bay leaves and a little salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook, uncovered, for about 20 minutes, stirring regularly.
Remove the bay leaves. Add the sugar and blitz to a purée, using a stick blender or a jug blender. Stir in about 50ml water to thin the purée to the texture of lightly whipped cream. Taste and adjust the seasoning. (If making ahead, cool then refrigerate; reheat gently before using.)
Preheat the oven to 180°C/Fan 160°C/Gas 4. Cut the aubergines lengthways into 5mm thick slices. Heat up a griddle pan (or a barbecue) or preheat your grill. Measure 4 tbsp olive oil into a small bowl and use to brush the aubergine slices on both sides. Griddle or grill the aubergine slices, in batches if necessary, for 2–3 minutes each side, until tender and marked with brown patches or grill stripes, seasoning with salt and pepper as you go.
Layer one third of the aubergine slices over the base of an oven dish (about 2 litre capacity). Scatter over one third of the basil and thyme leaves. Dollop one-third of the tomato sauce over the top and carefully spread it out over the aubergines. Repeat until you have used up all the aubergines, herbs and sauce. Scatter over the flaked almonds and add a final trickle of oil.
Bake in the oven for 30–35 minutes, until bubbling and lightly coloured on top. Let it stand for 10–15 minutes before serving.
“An awful lot of people have childhood memories of holidays in Cornwall, and the holidays are old-fashioned and hugely successful. You stick a child and a dog on one of the beaches, and they just light up; they just love it.”
Martin Clunes
Crab Linguine, Jude Kereama from Kota Collective, Porthleven, Cornwall
This recipe for crab linguine is an easy pasta dish and makes great use of white and brown crabmeat. Serve with a rocket salad and a glass of perfectly chilled white wine.
500g linguine
Extra Virgin olive oil
4 cloves garlic, sliced
1 1⁄2 red chilli, de-seeded & finely diced
100ml dry white wine
2 tbsp chopped Italian parsley
2 tbsp chopped basil
2 tbsp chopped chives
24 cherry tomatoes cut in half
300g white crab meat
100g brown crab meat
2 tbsp crème fraiche
Juice & zest of 1 lemon
Cornish sea salt & black pepper mill
Method
Cook the linguine in a pot of boiling salted water.
Mix the brown crab meat and crème fraiche until smooth. Reserve.
Add olive oil, garlic, and chilli into a saucepan. Cook until just toasted then add the white wine. Reduce white wine until the wine has reduced by around two thirds.
Add the tomatoes. Add the cooked linguine and reserve a bit of pasta water to adjust the consistency of the sauce.
Stir in both crab meats, herbs, lemon juice, lemon zest and season with salt and pepper. Add a drizzle of Extra Virgin olive oil.
Serve immediately with rocket salad dressed with Cornish sea salt, lemon juice and Extra Virgin olive oil.
The Graden Trading Company have the perfect set up for Beach BBQs.
Barbecued marinated chicken breast with lime, coriander, ginger and chilli – Michael Caine MBE, Lympstone Manor, Exmouth.
One of THE most inspirational chefs, in my opinion! Michael Caines back story is incredible, not to mention his restaurants and food.
Imagine cooking this dish on the beach with your family and friends after a long day in the surf?
Ingredients
small bunch fresh coriander, chopped
100ml/3½fl oz olive oil
2 limes, zest of one only and juice of both
20g/¾oz grated ginger
2 garlic cloves, crushed
1 fresh chilli, chopped
smoked cayenne pepper, to taste (if unavailable, substitute smoked hot paprika)
4 chicken breasts
Method
For the marinade, place the chopped coriander, olive oil, lime zest and juice, ginger, garlic and chili into a bowl.
Season, to taste, with cayenne pepper and whisk thoroughly.
Place the chicken breasts into a deep dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, covering completely. Cover the dish and leave the chicken to marinate for three hours.
Preheat the barbecue until the coals are white hot.
Place the chicken breasts on the barbecue and cook for 15-25 minutes, or until cooked all the way through, turning occasionally.
“My best holidays were in Devon and Cornwall when the children were growing up. We always used to stay on farms because our children were pretty wild, and it was great going to the beach every day. We used to go to Launceston and Salcombe and all over those two counties.”
Mary Berry
Raspberry & Almond Brownies – Chris Eden from Gidleigh Park, Chagford, Devon
If you follow me on Instagram, you’ll know I’m a lover of chocolate and brownies, so really couldn’t not include these!
Serves 12
110g dark chocolate
110g unsalted butter
150g dark brown sugar
150g caster sugar
2 eggs 125g flour 1⁄2 tsp salt 125g raspberries
50g flaked almonds
Preheat the oven to 160°c.
Melt the butter and chocolate in a bowl over hot water, being careful not to overheat.
Add the sugars and allow to sit for a moment before whisking in, off the heat.
Add in the egg followed by the flour and salt and mix well.
Pour into a lined tin and sprinkle with the raspberries and flaked almonds.
Cook in the centre of the oven for 30-45 mins depending on how you like your brownies; in our house we like them quite goey so the ‘stick coming out clean method’ doesn’t apply here!
There’s something quite magical about being on Dartmoor at sunrise, although I might have to switch the breakfast cookies for Chris Eden’s Brownies!
The Table Stylist – Sandbanks Collection
Is this setting beautiful? It’s from a new start up brand called The Table Stylist. A selection of curated boxes designed to make your table look stunning whatever the occasion. Nothing soothes the soul quite like being by the sea, but with holidays uncertain this year you can at least bring the beach to you with this seaside tablescape. Each setting includes a sea grass place mat, scalloped bamboo side plate and white cotton hemstitched napkins with twisted rope napkin ties to add some rustic, coastal charm. Perfect for your staycation don’t you think?
The Comfort Cookbook
I want to share with you this very special Cookbook that I’m totally inlove with for many reasons. The story behind how it came to be, the fabulous recipes and that something really special came out of the pandemic.
The best of the South West chefs, food and drink producers and industry insiders came together to create a truly special digital cookbook. The Comfort Cookbook is a snapshot of the unique and diverse food and drink culture that’s nurtured here in the West Country, and the rich network of chefs, producers and pioneering entrepreneurs which together make the South West a world-class gourmet destination.
Just a few of the chefs involved include Nathan Outlaw, Jude Kereama, River Cottage, Mitch Tonks, Michael Caines, Paul Ainsworth, Ben Tunnicliffe, Mark Dodson, Mick Smith, Ben Prior, Emily Scott, Elly Wentworth, Tia Tamblyn, Philleigh Way Cookery School & Daaku.
Everyone involved in this project gave their time and expertise free of charge, so that all funds will go directly to the Hospitality Action Covid19 Emergency Appeal. Rather than buying a copy, you’re invited to pledge on a ‘pay what you can afford’ basis. Why? Well, everyone involved want this book to be available to everyone in this time of financial hardship. To those that can give more, please pledge generously to support people in the industry who have lost their livelihoods. Once you have pledged, you can read your copy online or download a PDF of the book:
Wouldn’t it be amazing if we could help this incredible project raise some money?
It won’t be long before we can sit inside and dine with friends and family.
As ever, I do hope you’ve enjoyed this blog and will have fun recreating these recipes from the best of the South West chefs. We really are very lucky here in this poart of the world. Please do make sure you donate to The Comfort Cookbook Comfort Cookbook and support the Hospitality Action Covid19 Emergency Appeal in anyway you can.
For now, let me know what you’re up to this weekend. Do let me known your favourite place to visit in the South West, you never know, it might just feature in the forthcoming blogs; Best of the South West!
Wishing you happiest of Bank Holiday Weekends, wherever you are.
Welcome back to the Blog. In this edit, I’m sharing with you 5 reasons it’s vital to have a healthy breakfast which will help you maintain a happy and healthy lifestyle. I’ll be sharing my top tips and recipes so grab a cuppa and get comfy!
First things first..
What is your breakfast routine ..?
Do you wake up too bleary eyed in the morning to think about having a healthy breakfast? Or even an easy breakfast?
With lockdown here in the UK beginning to ease and the children heading back to school tomorrow, I wonder how you are feeling…?
I know for my two, a positive has certainly been enjoying a little more snooze in the mornings and wearing comfy clothes for the school day. It’ll be a little strange I’m sure putting a tie on again! I think it might be a little hectic but I have a plan!
“Breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince, and dine like a pauper!”
Old Proverb
The truth is however that most people don’t eat a substantial breakfast, or even have breakfast at all, never mind eating “like a king!”
Breakfast literally means “breaking the fast,” and it helps us to ‘restock’ or ‘refuel’ our energy stores, which have been depleting during the overnight fast, giving us energy for the day’s activities.
We live in a very hectic world today where many are focused on building a successful career, raising a happy family and often place our health on the backburner, thinking that we can exercise and eat right later on, when the “to do” list is done.
Add a global pandemic in, job stress and everything that has happened in the last year, it’s easy to procrastinate, waiting until you’re successful or have time to spare, opting instead for quick, unhealthy meals because you have no time to prepare well-balanced meals.
Does this sound familiar?
You might’ve heard the saying:
“If you don’t make time for your health, you must make time for illness.”
Making small changes to your health, drinking more water, less caffeine, adding more greens can make a huge difference to not only your long term health but how you feel..
I promise I’m not teaching you to suck eggs here, pardon the pun, but you know when you’re stuck in a rut, sometimes fresh ideas or even reminders of what you used to love, I hope, are a little helpful.
We’re told to eat when we are hungry, however this may not be when you first wake up or at traditional “breakfast” time! That’s totally OK, planning in advance a few things you might fancy so if eggs are your ” go to” breakfast – you have some ready to go!
So, what should a healthy breakfast consist of?
In an ideal world, for optimal health, you are aiming for a breakfast of eggs, meat or fish… I know it sounds crazy but it’ll fill you up more than toast ands cereals any day..
When most people think of breakfast, a small handful of choices (often the same day after day) come to mind, but it really doesn’t have to be boring at all. Mix it up!
There are heaps of easy breakfast ideas that don’t take up half your morning preparing them, but it’s really important that you have something nutritious, for a number of reasons…
5 REASONS IT’S VITAL TO HAVE A HEALTHY BREAKFAST…
To kick start your metabolism – speeding it up, and therefore burning calories rather than storing them.
It boosts our nutrient intake – breakfast eaters have a lower fat intake, a higher fibre intake, and significantly higher intakes of vitamins and minerals, especially calcium, iron and magnesium.
A healthy breakfast helps prevent binge eating – hunger will be better regulated and therefore less calories are consumed from unhealthy foods.
It improves our memory and concentration – people who eat a healthy breakfast concentrate better, are more efficient and have improved mood, in comparison to those who skip breakfast.
Weight maintenance – those who eat breakfast are more likely to maintain a healthy weight.
I know some of you have been struggling to come up with meal ideas especially for breakfast and lunch, so I thought I would give you a few ideas. I’ve shared some healthy lunch “on the go” ideas on a previous blog here.
Scrambled eggs and Smoked Salmon – I know it sounds extravagant, especially regarding your time, but scrambled eggs take seconds to make and the salmon is ready to go! (For omelette and scrambled egg recipes – use 3 or 4 eggs!)
Banana and berry Pancakes Ingredients: 1tbsp coconut oil 1 handful of fresh (or frozen berries) I love raspberries on their own but anything will do 1 tsp cinnamon ¼ cup ground almonds ½ banana 1 egg Natural yogurt
Method Melt the coconut oil on a low heat in a flat pan. Beat your egg together with the ground almonds and banana.
Add the a spoonful of egg mixture to the pan in and allow to set, flipping once. They will look a little like scotch pancakes.
Once cooked, serve with berries, natural yogurt and a dash of cinnamon – (great to settle any cravings) Be ready to make plenty more!
Omelettes – so many variations: mushroom, cheese and tomato, tomato and feta cheese – the list is endless! Quick to make and super filling and delicious.
Mashed Avocado with poached eggs on rye bread or sour dough. Simply delicious. Add chilli flakes and freshly ground black pepper for extra zing!
Reasons not to love mashed avocado and poached eggs on sour dough?
Smoothies and juices – so super easy and quick to make and they can be prepared in advance and drunk on the move! Chop the vegetables and fruit in advance and store in there fridge or freezer.
Green smoothies are a massive shortcut to excellent health & vitality. This is why I’ve written my latest book: Green Smoothie Lifestyle; my favourite collection of green smoothies. It’s a simple to use, together with a shopping list – it’s design to take away overwhelm, rather than adding to it, should you need inspiration with recipes!
Green Smoothie Lifestyle
Poached eggs with undyed, smoked haddock (bake the smoked haddock in advance or pop in the oven in tin foil whilst you shower, by the time you’re done, so will your fish!
Healthy Full English! – poached eggs, grilled tomatoes, grilled mushrooms, grilled fish (same idea as above, bake or grill the ingredients whilst you’re in the shower and poach the eggs when you’re ready..
Kedgeree (serves 2)
Ingredients
large portions or 3 smaller ones!) 450g /1lb smoked haddock fillets 3 hard boiled eggs.
75ml rice milk
2tbsp fr. Parsley 150g/5oz (raw) brown rice
2oz butter
Place fish in a large frying pan, cover with water and allow to simmer for 10-12 minutes until fish is tender. Meanwhile cooked the rice in a separate saucepan.
Drain fish, remove and discard skin and bones. Flake the flesh. Chop 2 eggs. Reserve the third to garnish. Mix together the fish, rice, chopped eggs, parsley and rice milk in a large saucepan. Cook, stirring, until heated through. Serve garnished with parsley and slices of egg.
Fruit Kebabs
A combination of anything mango, peaches, apples,”grapes, pears, strawberries, banana, literally any fruit, preferably in season. Cut up into squares and feed onto kebab sticks. Prepare the night before and keep in a container in the fridge for breakfast, mid afternoon snack or anytime!
“When you wake up in the morning, Pooh,” said Piglet at last, “what’s the first thing you say to yourself?”
“What’s for breakfast?” said Pooh. “What do you say, Piglet?”
“I say, I wonder what’s going to happen exciting today?” said Piglet.
Pooh nodded thoughtfully. “It’s the same thing,” he said.”
A.A. Milne
Imagine having breakfast here in the warm Australian sunshine! Threebirdsrenovations
I love the renovations Threebirdrenovations, three best friends based in Australia, who are focused on inspiring and empowering women, anywhere in the world, to turn THEIR renovating dreams into REALITY. I’m hooked! I’m sure breakfast here would be a dream, don’t you think?!
I’m hoping these recipes and ideas to inspire you at breakfast time this week and beyond! Let me know which is your favourite breakfast.
As always, I love to hear your thoughts and comments, I promise I read everyone.
Have a wonderful Sunday. Hope your week ahead is happy and healthy,
Top tips to boost your immune system this Christmas as we often forget the simple things that we do routinely when it gets busy. Here’s your gentle reminder..
There have been so many coughs, colds and all things horrid out there recently that may have stopped you from enjoying the run up to Christmas, maybe your fitness routine and even sleeping.
It’s all super busy at the moment and I don’t know about you but it’s tempting to start burning the candle at both ends just to stay on top of things isn’t it?
Here’s how to boost your immune system and keep strong this winter!
A healthy diet
Yup, you knew I was going to say that! It goes without saying that a healthy diet is by far the most effective way to boost your immune system.
Aim to eat plenty of fresh vegetables, fresh fruit, fresh fish and lean meat.
The best winter seasonal vegetables include broccoli, brussel sprouts, onions, peppers, apples, cranberries, clementines and spinach. Walnuts and brazil nuts are also great for the immune system.
Essential fatty acids Oily fish, sardines, mackerel, salmon and trout are all fantastic for fighting your immune system. Oily fish is a highly concentrated source of omega 3 essential fatty acids.
We can’t produce omega 3 so it is vital we get it from our diet. Aim to eat oily fish once a week at least or alternative supplement with a fish oil.
Herbs and Spices It is possible to increase your immune system with some herbal power!
Echinacea limits the duration and severity of infections by stimulating the immune system cells that are key weapons against infection. Available in capsules, tincture and extracts. Take a soon as that “cold feeling” starts as a short term remedy until any infection clears.
Ginger, used in cooking, not only adds to flavour but can help improve circulation and digestion. It can also be drunk as a herbal remedy to promote perspiration and reduce temperature from cold or flu!
Garlic has a reputation for being one of natures’ miracle cures. A great natural antibiotic, it helps boost the immune system and gives protection against colds and flu. Add to your recipes for additional seasoning but make sure you share or you could be sleeping on your own!
EtsyKeep hydrated with plenty of water and watch your caffeine levels in order to look after YOU!
Drinks
Although the body will naturally attempt to detoxify toxins through the lymphatic system, it may need a little help.
An excess of toxins can cause low energy levels, poor digestion, headaches, allergies, weight gain, skin problems and so on….. Ughhhh!
You will need to keep up fluid levels. Keeping up with the water will encourage lymphatic drainage, helping remove the unwanted toxins from the blood stream and lightening the load from the immune system.
If you do unfortunately go down that slippery slope of bugs, increase your vitamin C and D and also your greens and all being well, you’ll be fighting fit in no time.
I’ve written a Green Smoothie Book which is perfect to help you get additional greens into your diet.
Rest and sleep
Quite possibly the best medicine in the world, enough said! I know that I’ve been guilty of staying up late in order to get ahead of the Christmas wrapping or work before turning off the computer, but it really doesn’t do you any favours..
Please make sure you get plenty of good rest and if you need extra focus to stay on top of things – try a #powerofanhour or two!
“A good laugh and a long sleep are the best cures in the doctor’s book.”
Irish proverb
Exercise!
‘Tis the festive season and all that and many of us, will embrace this time to relax, flicking from film to film and tucking into the chocolates or indulging in mince pies covered in double cream!
On top of that, in normal times, we are often tempted by party after party, (remember those??) Even if we aren’t partying as we traditionally would this year, I’m sure there will be many a family zoom night! It’s not surprising that many of us tend to feel sluggish and put on weight at this time of year!
Keep up the exercise when you can. Wrap up warm and go for a brisk walk with the family, tempting as it is to stay inside, when the sluggish feeling starts creeping in, head for the big outdoors!
Head to the beach or park for a game of cricket, rounders, the rugby ball or whatever takes your fancy. Most of all, have fun!
I have a little Mission for you, I really want you to enjoy your Christmas but how about this…. 20 burpees a day throughout the season, get the children involved, make it fun!
Make the most for the local area around you. Discover new trails and walks.
“To ensure good health: eat lightly, breathe deeply, live moderately, cultivate cheerfulness, and maintain an interest in life.”
William Londen
I really hope these tips to boost your immune system this Christmas will help you have a happy and healthy season and your immune system remains well. Let me know your thoughts in the comments below and if you follow me on Instagram, you can join in the conversation there too.
Please remember if you do start to feel poorly with Covid Symptoms, please do follow the Government Guidelines.
One thing that’s magical for your mental health and that is setting boundaries. This weeks Blog discusses how to set boundaries and the benefits to your mental health and well-being.
Over time what we deem to be “OK”, gets blurred.
On occasions the we are treated or spoken to by work colleagues, friends and even our partners can cause upset, yet the need to do something about this situation may be delayed as you worry about the repercussions, regardless of how this makes you feel on a daily basis.
It’s no secret that I love Brene Brown’s work and her research on boundaries is amazing. (She’s one person I’d love to meet & have on my Dinner Party Wishlist!) Brené Brown studies human connection — our ability to empathize, belong, love. She’s funny and shares a deep insights from her research in her many books. Research that sent her on a personal quest to know herself as well as to understand humanity.
Maybe you run your own business and the boundaries around your working hours have become blurred, meaning that you’re trying to juggle work and home life, whilst going the extra mile for your clients..
Whatever your situation is, being mindful that creating boundaries of what’s OK and not OK can have such a powerful effect.
Mini Mission
Join me on a mini Mission. Grab your journal or notebook and consider a situation that is causing upset and worry to you in your life. How does that situation make you feel? Have you thought about setting clear boundaries. Read on for how to resolve the issue.
I’m not as sweet as I used to be, but I’m far more loving”
Brene Brown
They say if you want something doing, ask a busy person! Yet, how often to we feel ourselves saying yes to something when really your head is screaming “no!!”
Why?
When your default setting is to help out, It’s not easy saying no, it makes us feel guilty or judged. . Yet by saying yes, you know that it will be adding more to your plate, causing increased stress, resentment and maybe even a sleepless night or two..
So how do we fix this?
Brene Brown shared her top three tips on how to create your boundaries: (direct quotes)
Make a mantra. I need something to hold on to—literally—during those awkward moments when an ask hangs in the air. So I bought a silver ring that I spin while silently repeating, “Choose discomfort over resentment.” My mantra reminds me that I’m making a choice that’s critical for my well-being—even if it’s not easy.
Keep a resentment journal. Whenever I’m marching around muttering cuss words under my breath, I grab what I lovingly refer to as my Damn It! Diary and write down what’s going on. I’ve noticed that I’m most resentful when I’m tired and overwhelmed— i.e. not setting boundaries.
Rehearse. I’ll often say, to no one in particular, “I can’t take that on” or “My plate is full.” Like many worthwhile endeavours, boundary setting is a practice.
I find this really powerful and wonder if you do too?
Like a candle or rose petal, our wellbeing and mental health is delicate, something that should be treasured. If looked after well, it will give you years of joy and happiness. If you fail to look after the little things, setting boundaries, being kind to yourself, then they will in turn become bigger things and eventually your mental health and well being will suffer.
“Compassionate people ask for what they need. They say no when they need to, and when they say yes, they mean it. They’re compassionate because their boundaries keep them out of resentment.”
Brene Brown
I love these mantras and have over the years, integrated them into my daily life.. Not easy, it takes practice, but remember every time you say “yes’ to someone else, you are saying “no” to you.
Writing your boundaries down is really powerful, it cements the “why” and as Brene says, what’s OK and what’s not OK.
If you have 5 minutes, take a look at Brene’s famous TedTalk that I believe you’ll love..
I’d love to know your thoughts about this one thing that’s magical for your mental health. Will you be joining me in this Mission of setting boundaries? Let me know in the comments below.
Feel free to share with a friend who you think would love this Mission too. Furthermore, I’d love you to subscribe to receive my blog straight to your inbox.
I’m the creator of Woman on a Mission, a lifestyle space dedicated to helping women bring more calm, confidence and balance into everyday life. Born from my own journey to slow down and live with greater intention, it offers inspiration around wellbeing, organisation, home and mindset, one meaningful mission at a time
Jas Interiors, Ivybridge
