Monthly Mini Goals | November

Hi, We're into the eleventh month of the year, we're so close to the end of 2017 now. I've started buying Christmas presents and I really want to get out the decoration so I know what to buy to match my growing collection. Bonfire night is in just a few days and I can't wait to go to a firework display.

Goals for November

• Give my car a check before Winter hits
  
• Read, read and do more reading
• Go to a bonfire
• Continue enjoying blogging
• Start planning for Christmas
• Eat Bonfire food
• Buy an Advent Calendar
• Plan a trip away
• Go to the cinemas
• Make my home cosy for Winter

I've got a trip to the bonfire we've attended for the last few years planned but I'm also inviting my parents and sister round for some bonfire night food (Jacket potatoes, chilli and hotdogs) on the 5th. I'm really looking forward to Christmas and I feel it's allowed now. I want to get a nice advent calendar and I need to start thinking of gift ideas. We've already had a few days where I've had to defrost my car in the morning so I want to make sure my car is sorted before it gets really cold. I really need to get reading if I want to complete my goodreads challenge.

Are you going to a bonfire this year?

Sam

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Monthly Mini Goals | May

Hi, Another month, another set of goals. With today being a bank holiday I'm trying my hardest to get ahead with blogging this month (emphasis on trying). I feel this month is going to be a busy one for meeting up with people and celebrating, also an expensive one. The weather is definitely on the warmer side and I want to make the most of it, I'd love to have my first BBQ of the season.

Goals for May

• Survive a hen party
• See Guardians of the Galaxy
• Post five times this month
• Cut down on my fizzy pop intake
• Get to 200 Pokemon on PokemonGo
• Start a DIY project
• Book a trip away
• Review my cruelty free progress
• Try something new
• Work on my Pinterest boards

At the end of the month I'm going to my cousins hen party weekend, we're off to Newcastle. I'm both looking forward to it and a bit scared (it's been a long time since I've been on a night out). I've never been on a hen do and I've got those classic images of willy straws and too much alcohol. I'm sure the experience will be full of new things but I want to set out and consciously do something new this month.

I'm really looking forward to seeing Guardians of the Galaxy and need to hurry up and get my butt to the cinemas. Are you still playing PokemonGo? I'm currently at 199 Pokemon in the Pokedex, I'm so close to 200. I'd also like to cut down on how much fizzy pop I drink, it's become a really bad habit.

From the perspective of blog goals I'd like to post at least five times (more would be nice). I'd also like to work on my Pinterest boards more (for DIY and home interior ideas) and somehow work it into an interesting blog post. I also really need to look at what I still need to change in my daily routine to be more cruelty free (would you like to see how I'm doing?).

Have you got any plans for the month ahead or tips for hen party's?

Sam

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10 Fun Things To Do Offline

Hi, This post is going to be the biggest contradiction because I’m technically suggesting you stop reading blog posts to go do something that doesn’t require the internet. I’ve got a selection of ideas for fun things that you could do that require neither the internet or a screen.

10 Fun Things To Do Offline

Go For A Walk
Get outdoors and enjoy the fresh air and scenery. Use it as a reason to try that new coffee place or find a hidden wonderland in the great outdoors.

Do Some Baking
Get creative in the kitchen and you'll have something yummy to enjoy. Maybe pick a themed bake or test a new recipe.

Look Back At Photographs
It's always fun to have a look back down memory lane. Looking at your younger self is always a blast from the past.

Make A Scrap Book
Any excuse to buy all the pretty paper and decorative things to create something to show off. Use photos you've found while looking through the family albums.

Call Someone
Make some time to talk with someone and catch up on each others lives. Why not meet up face to face and turn your phone to airplane mode. 

Have A Bath
Preferably with lots of bubbles and brightly coloured water. Light some candles and create a relaxing space.

Read A Book
Multitask and read a book while in the bath or chill in your favourite reading place. Travel to a new world or get caught up in a mystery.

Colouring
There are so many colouring books that you're bound to find one you love. Reverting back to simple pleasures is one of the funnest things to do. 

Learn A New Skill
Learn an instrument or start a new hobby. Crafts are a great way to spend time offline and you can even end up with gifts or home ware when your projects are complete. 

Play A Board Game
Everyone has a favourite board game, dust it off and spend an afternoon pretending you're having a power cut.

What's your favourite thing to do offline?

Sam

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Monthly Mini Goals | March

Hi, It's march the best month of the year! Only joking it just happens to be my birthday month and the time of year that nature starts to wake up from it's winter slumber so I can't help but like it a lot. I'm looking forward to all the blossom trees flowering as it's just so pretty.

Goals for March

• Enjoy my birthday
• Eat sushi
• Do something creative
• Enjoy blogging
• Spend more time outdoors
• Sell some of my unwanted things
• Learn a new skill
• Have an internet free day
• Plan something to look forward too
• Catch a party Pikachu on Pokemon Go

It's my birthday on Monday so I will be enjoying cake and maybe a few too many drinks. I've got a little trip to York booked and I can't wait to go and visit the beautiful city again. Just hoping the weather perks up a bit and we at least get some warmer temperatures so we don't freeze while we are there. I've got Yo!Sushi planned for my birthday celebrations and will be making the most of the blue Monday menu.

I want to spend more time outdoors and for me trying to catch a party Pikachu is the perfect reason to spend some time finding new places to explore. After my big tidy up I've got a lot of clothes which I need to sell but require the motivation to set it all up, need to think about the money.

I want to create something and I'm thinking some sort of home decor would be really fun and if it works out I might even share it on here. With this I might need to learn a new skill or I will make myself learn something new. This would be the perfect distraction to keep me away from the internet for 24 hours.

Have a great month!

Sam 

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February In Review

Hi, When I sat down to write this post I thought I'd done really badly with my monthly goals turns out I didn't do too bad. Blogging on the other hand was a bit of a failure this month but I expected as much. I'm glad February is over as it means we are closer to spring time, I love that it's still light when I leave work now. I'm making the most of all the Daffodils in the shops as I've got a few vases full dotted around the house already.

Goals for February 8/10

• Watch three films
• Read three books
• Start a decor mood board for my living room
• Remember to make pancakes
• Do at least five blog posts this month
• Have a massive tidy up
• Do something nice for someone
• Try a new recipe
• Save some money
• Do something new that scares me

This month I watched Nerve (which was so different from the book), The original Westworld film which the series is based on and Allegiant the third film in the Divergent series. I've managed to start reading a third book this month so I'm going to give myself that goal, reviews will be live in a few days. I tried a new recipe and did something nice by inviting my parents round to try it.

Today is pancake day and I had pancakes for breakfast, I always have lemon juice with sugar on mine. Last weekend I finally had the massive tidy up I've been putting off and our bedroom has been reclaimed from being a dumping ground for stuff, I found lots of things I'd misplaced.

The most exciting thing I did this month and something that really did scare me was going Go Karting. I came last in every race because everyone I was with was an utter speed freak but I still had a lot of fun. I did get a fastest lap up on the leader board of the day when some of my fellow racers didn't so I didn't drive that slowly.

This month has been a blast! What are you having on your pancakes today?

Sam 

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Monthly Mini Goals | February

Hi, The beginning of February is going to be busy for me so hopefully I'll get some posts scheduled but I somewhat doubt it. I'm going to be working at a trade show with my full time job and I'm a little worried about the whole getting the train all the way there on my own but I've done it before so I'll be fine.

Goals for February

• Watch three films
• Read three books
• Start a decor mood board for my living room
• Remember to make pancakes
• Do at least five blog posts this month
• Have a massive tidy up
• Do something nice for someone
• Try a new recipe
• Save some money
• Do something new that scares me

Other than the work trip I have no real plans for this month but I'm sure things will happen that are unexpected and exciting. I want to have a tidy up of all the clothes because I just have too many. Might be a case of waiting until it warms up a little and then reviewing what I have for the new season and get rid of all the worn out things.

Seasonal goals include remembering to make pancakes on pancake day (Tuesday 28th) and to do something nice for someone to reflect that it's valentines (and it won't be the bf). I've got into watching films again and I'd like to make sure I'm watching as many films as possible this year.

Have you got any exciting plans for the month ahead?

Sam 

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January In Review

Hi, Time to look back at the goals I set back at the beginning of the month. I haven't looked back at my goals since I wrote them which honestly means I was destined to fail. How can you work on a goal you don't remember, main thing to remember for next month I guess. It's been a busy month for me for no real reason other than I've been making the most of my time or fallen into some sort of routine that just consumes it.

Goals for January 5/10

• Learn to used and love the bullet journal
• Make a step towards some home renovation
• Do something different
• Lose the Christmas weight I've gained
• Start planning for my Birthday
• Look for a challenge to take part in
• Go for a walk
• Invite my parents round for a meal
• Make sure I have at least one pamper night
• Have some screen free time

So while I might not have completed many of my goals I still got loads of things done this month which at least leaves me feeling somewhat satisfied. I think the best thing I've done this month was getting my birthday trip to York booked so I've got something to look forward to in the near future.

The bullet journal is a work in progress, I love the system and how easy it is to keep track of things but I've been so precious about it rather than just making a mess and using it to it's full potential, I'm working on it. I've also used the system at work to track my tasks and it's made a world of difference.
I've printed off an A4 with a box for everyday of the working week and a box for future tasks and a watch out for section.

Home renovation came in the form of finally getting our driveway done so we have somewhere to park the cars off road. This was something we where waiting to get done but sadly our car was broken into and burnt out so you know we wanted to take the temptation away with the new car. I can honestly say we are feeling the pitch this month as it has been a very expensive one.

I've made a real effort to give myself screen free time this month (which is partly why I haven't blogged so much). I've got loads of reading done which is good and I've had time to have a few extra relaxing baths and spend a few nights at the cinema (I've seen Passengers, Rouge One and La La Land).

I've realised that I really need to go outdoors more, I blame the cold weather. I really love going for walks but I just don't have the motivation to actually leave the house in the first place at the moment, roll on spring. I haven't really been trying to lose weight but I'm more inspired to start getting back into eating healthier meals by batch cooking.

Did you have a good month? What films do you recommend I see next?

Sam

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Why Staying In Is Better Than Going Out | #BLOGMAS Day 19

Hi, With the holiday season comes parties and to be honest I'm so past all that. Socially celebrating is fun but I much prefer the comforts of home and with this being the first Christmas in my new home I want to stay home even more.

Why Staying In Is Better Than Going Out

Comfy Clothing
It's a great feeling looking stunning in your sparkly dress but nothing beats a comfy set of loose clothing. You could chill in your pajamas but I've got a set of comfy lounge wear, an over sized hoodie and fluffy socks.

Dedicated Reading Time
I love reading so staying in with a book is a winner for me. I'll either get comfy in bed and inevitably end up having an early night (which is no bad thing) or chill out in the bath with something pretty from Lush. 

Time for Self Care
Leading on from my last point staying in gives you time to make sure you're practicing self care. I love to take baths but sometimes it's hard to find the time. With this time comes some general pampering with a face mask and a much needed nail cut.

Saving Money
It's much cheaper to stay home, even if you indulge in a takeaway chances are you'll save money versus the bar funds and taxi fee. At this time of year I'll get some mulled wine from the super market for a quick and easy festive indulgence. I love Christmas markets but you pay as much for one small cup as you do for a big bottle from the supermarket.

Slow Cooked Food
One thing I love about my slow cooker is that it does all the work for you and you've got a lovely homemade meal ready to serve after a few hours. Nothing better on a lazy evening, I love making curries and sticking some rice in the microwave when I'm ready to serve. Not only is it easy and effort free but super healthy because it's made from scratch.

You're Already Home
The worst part of a night out for me is getting home, I'm not a fan of taxis after dark and luckily in the past I've always traveled home with a friend. This means waiting around for people to also want to go home which isn't always fun when they want to grab a kebab.

Getting comfortable
All the above for me create the most comfortable setting but lighting some festive scented candles and sitting next to the fairy lights flickering on your Christmas tree is the coziest thing at this time of year. Sticking on a Christmas film and relaxing under a blanket are reason enough to stay in on a night for me.

Which do you prefer a night in or a night out?
Sam

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The Five Senses of Christmas | #BLOGMAS Day 18

Hi, Today's post is a bit random but it's an idea I haven't seen done so I wanted to write it anyway. Christmas is a very sensory time so I decided to sum up the festive period with my five senses. If I had the time I could probably have written more as there's so much going on, but I found a few cross overs and decided to keep it simple.

The Five Senses of Christmas

Taste

• Spices making everything more wintry
• Yorkshire puddings swimming in gravy
• The sweetness of indulgent treats
• Bubbles in the Christmas fizz

Smell

• Winter scented candles
• Mulled wine in the slow cooker infusing with the spices
• Fresh pine smell from the tree
• The smell of baked goods as they cool

Sight

• Fairy lights flashing and twinkling
• Prettily wrapped presents
• People wearing festive jumper or a Christmas hat
• Smiling and a shared feeling of jolliness

Touch

• Woolly hats and scarfs
• Fur trimmed Santa hats
• The spiky pines on the tree
• The cold biting at your fingers

Sound

• Carolers singing festive hymns
• Shops with Christmas songs on repeat
• Kerrang radio playing punk rock Christmas songs
• Brass bands playing we wish you a merry Christmas

 What do you think your favourite sense of the season is?

Sam

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The A-Z Of Christmas Tag | #BLOGMAS Day 16

Hi, I've been running low on ideas for Blogmas (16 days of none stop posts is hard work) and I came across this post idea by Kathryn at Chapters of Kat for the A-Z Of Christmas Tag and decided I'd give it ago.  

The A-Z Of Christmas Tag

A is for... Annual because Christmas comes but once a year every year.
  B is for... Brass Bands that make Christmas for me as I used to play the Trumpet. Carols played by brass make me feel so festive.
  C is for... Crackers, what Christmas dinner is complete without some crackers no matter how rubbish they are the fun's in the snap. My favourite cracker prize is the fortune telling fish.
  D is for... Decorations everywhere, the more the better.
  E is for... Edible goods, what the festive season is all about, so much food is turned into the shape of Christmas trees or stars and everything gets that added wow factor, glitter is more than okay.   F is for... Family which is really important at this time of year, Christmas is the perfect reason to go see family and make the time to travel.
  G is for... Giving Gifts, as much fun as it is to receive gifts I much prefer to spoil my loved ones and see their reaction to the gifts I've bought.   H is for... Harry Potter whether you indulge in one of the books or watch one of the films there's something about Harry Potter at Christmas time.
  I is for... Inspiration, this year I'm totally lacking any ideas for Christmas gifts. I've got the majority now but I just feel a little sad that it wasn't more fun picking things out this year.   J is for... Jolly, the mood of the season. No matter how much of a bar humbug you are there's got to be something that brings out your festive cheer.   K is for... kindness which I don't think should be exclusive to Christmas. It would be nice if we took a little more time to look after those around us.
  L is for... Lights everywhere which is one of my favourite parts of the festive season. They bring so much light into the darker nights of the British winter at this time of year.
  M is for... Music, What would Christmas be without a festive playlist. One of my all time favourites is last Christmas by Wham.   N is for... Night time when all I wanna do is get cozy with a book. The darker nights have done wonders for my reading.
  O is for... Ornaments from my childhood, my parents have a Santa T-light holder they bought the year I was born for my first Christmas and it's still going strong.   P is for... Pajamas, with Christmas comes a fresh new pair of pajamas to snuggle up in. It's become some what of a Christmas tradition but I don't think I'm alone with this one.
  Q is for... Queues, in Lush especially but to be honest that's the only place this year I've experienced any (online shopping yeh?).
  R is for... Robin as I couldn't think of anything else but it's so special to spot a robin checking out your bird feeder at this time of year.
  S is for... Shopping, which is what all the companies want you to think Christmas is about but you can't not go shopping can you. There's always the option of homemade gifts if you want to take a step back from the high street.
  T is for... Tree's indoors as decoration. I really want to research into when we decided to do this and why. I love the idea of bringing the outdoors in at this time of year as we lack nature and it's beauty.
  U is for... Unity as humanity to be more charitable and think about more than ourselves.
  V is for... Vacation and time to unwind. I can not wait for some time away from work to relax with the intention of going back fresh and ready to face the year ahead.
  W is for... Winter Walks because the scenery in winter can be some of the nicest especially if you're lucky enough to be going on a snowy walk.   X is for... Xmas, the big day. In recent years Christmas day hasn't really been that eventful unlike the week around the date, with all the parties and visiting.   Y is for... Yummy scents, hot drinks and Christmas cake. I've bought a big Stilton cheese wheel that I can not wait to start eating. I had my first Christmas cake of the year last night.
  Z is for... Zero degrees which it's not at the moment because it's been unseasonably warm but I'm hoping for a white Christmas this year.   This was rather hard as you can imagine some letters just don't have that many Christmas themed words associated with them (I copied a few I was that stuck). I enjoyed writing this post so much and I'm looking forward to the weekend and my blogmas post prep for the week to come.  

 Let me know if you do the tag, I'm interested to see what you pick.

Sam

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5 Ways To Stay Organised | #BLOGMAS Day 8

Hi, This is a busy time of year what with all the social gatherings and preparations for the big day, so organisation is key to staying on top of it all. I'm so bad at being organisied so I decided to have a think about ways I can improve and try to take a little pressure off myself, I've written this post with blogmas in mind but these are tips that are transitional across all Christmas preparations.

5 Ways To Stay Organised

Invest in a planner

I lose track of time really easily so having a visual reference for events and plans makes it so much easier to keep on track. I prefer a physical book so I can make notes on the go but a digital calendar would work just as well if that's more preferable. Who can say no to a good reason to buy pretty stationary?

Make Lists and Check Them

Relating back to the previous point, have a place to make notes and lists so you won't lose them. Once written make a point of checking them and ticking off what's done. You'll refresh your mind on outstanding jobs and feel good about all the checked off items.

Don't Procrastinate

Procrastination is me in one word but when you've decided to do something as big as blogmas it's your own worst enemy. Set goals and task to make sure you're motivated and have a plan of action to make the most of your time. Nothing quite beats the feeling of accomplishment once you've ticked off everything on a to do list.

Allocate Time for Jobs

With things like gift wrapping make time to sit down and get everything ready, stick on the Christmas playlist and enjoy the activity of gift wrapping (It's one of my favourite parts of Christmas). Time management is so important at this time of year, the big day will be here before we know it. So pour yourself some baileys and get the tunes playing.

Plan Ahead

Blogmas would not be happening if I hadn't planned ahead, the same applies for the festive season. I'm sure there are people still shopping on Christmas eve but planning ahead saves you the stress.

 

Do you have any organisation tips for the festive season?

Sam

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50 Blogmas Post Ideas | #BLOGMAS Day 7

Hi, I'm already struggling with Blogmas content, my main issue is the lack of daylight hours restricting what I can blog about as I need to organise photos. As a result I've had to do some mega brain storming to think of some more interesting festive blog post ideas and decided that I'd share as many Blogmas ideas with you as possible. I hope at least one of these ideas inspires you if you're also stuck this Blogmas.

50 Blogmas Post Ideas

1. A Christmas Tag
2. Festive Product Review
3. Christmas Jumpers Good/Bad
4. Your Christmas Traditions
5. A Christmas Playlist
6. What's On Your Christmas Tree
7. Your Favorite Christmas Movies
8. A Festive Baking Recipe
9. Christmas Day Makeup
10. Festive Home Ware Haul
11. Vegan/Vegetarian Christmas Dinner Recipe
12. Festive Nail Art
13. Document A Christmas Market
14. A DIY Christmas Decoration
15. Gift Guide For Him/Her
16. Christmas Gift Guide For Your Pets
17. Tips On Staying Organised
18. Christmas Shopping Tips
19. Festive Drink Recipe
20. Christmas Wish List
21. Hold A Giveaway
22. Personal Festive Goals
23. Make Your Own Wrapping Paper
24. Share A Christmas Memory
25. Document A Cosy Winter Night-In
26. Who You're Watching This Vlogmas
27. Money Saving Tips
28. Budget Christmas Ideas
29. Party Dresses For The Office Party
30. Secret Santa Gift Ideas
31. Easy Hair Styles For Christmas Day
32. The Perfect Christmas Eve
33. Share Some Small Businesses For Gift Ideas
34. Christmas Reading Recommendations
35. A Wintry Walk
36. Your Advent Calendar
37. Share Your Favourite Things About Christmas

38. Share Some Christmas Wrapping Hacks
39. Favourite Winter Scents
40. Christmas Specials You’re Looking Forward To
41. A Charitable Post
42. Healthy Festive Snacks
43. Festive Cocktails/Mocktails
44. Share Your Favourite Things About The Season
45. Review A Festive Restaurant Menu
46. Your Decoration Wish List
47. Homemade Christmas Cards
48. Your Favourite Toy As A Child 

49. Christmas Day Outfit Of The Day
50. Gratitude list

I actually found thinking of these post ideas quite easy to about 40 where I felt I started to repeating myself. There's more than enough ideas to get me through to the end of Blogmas and I'm now looking forward to it (only 17 more days to go, eek). So wish me luck, I'm going to need a brake after all this.

Do you have a favourite post idea you'd like to see?

Sam

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20 Festive Themed Goals | #Blogmas Day 2

Hi, I like lists and goals so I've put together a list of goals for the festive season. I don't like that Christmas is in the shops before Halloween these days it just seems strange and drawn out but now it's December I'm seriously in the festive spirit. I feel really uninspired for gift ideas but I'm off shopping tomorrow so hopefully I can get some inspiration and some gifts purchased. I'm looking forward to decorating my first Christmas tree in my own home and having free range as to how mad it can be, here are my goals for the month ahead.

Festive Themed Goals
1. Donate food to charity
2. Drink mulled wine
3. Make mince pies
4. Decorate my Christmas tree
5. Create a festive playlist
6. Have fairy lights everywhere
7. Get my Christmas shopping done
8. Make my own wrapping paper
9. Go to a Christmas market
10. Wear a Christmas jumper more than once
11. Bake something vegan as a present
12. Try something from the Christmas lush range
13. Read a festive book
14. Go on a day trip
15. Go for a wintry walk
16. Go ice skating
17. Do some themed crochet
18. Complete blogmas this year
19. Binge watch a new series
20. Make some DIY Christmas decorations

So there are my goals for the month ahead, writing this post has made me feel so Christmassy and I can't wait for my annual holiday from work for a bit of relaxation. My Christmas tree is sat patiently in the box to finally be put up, I want to get a few more decorations first. I'm looking forward to the fun of tree dressing, Christmas tunes and some baileys over ice. I plan to do lots of baking in the coming weeks, I have a special way of making mince pies which just beats all the shop bought ones.

Do you have any special plans for the month ahead?

Sam

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9 Things To Do For Your Blog When You Don't Feel Like Writing

Hi, We all have those days where we have time to blog but writing a post just doesn't feel like something you want to do or the words just won't form. A blog requires many elements to reach it's full potential, while your posts are what make your blog there's a lot of behind the scenes things you can do to improve your blog.

9 Things To Do For Your Blog When You Don't Feel Like Writing

Brain Storm Ideas
A reason you don't want to blog maybe a lack of ideas or a lack of clarity of how to write a certain post. Brainstorming ideas gives you the chance to step back and take note of things inspiring you at that moment. Alternatively they can help you give extra depth to an idea you already have.

Photography
One of my main issues is not having photos ready to publish a post. By getting creative with props on days when you feel like doing something else you could make yourself some stock images. You could also use you brainstorm to take photos of products you want to review at a later date.

Add Widgets
Widgets are a great way to add some personality to your blog by linking to other social media accounts. Alternatively you could add widgets that make your blog easier to navigate or link to a featured post.

Check For Broken links
Something I need to do a lot more often but a super simple fix once you use a broken link finder. Just google blog broken link checker, enter your blog url and have some fun exploring your old posts.

Add/Update Post Labels
Blog post labels are designed to help people find your post by adding keywords that sum up the content of the post. Go back over your posts and add or group labels, grouping posts means you can add a quick link on your blog to all the same themed posts.

Blog Promotion
One of the biggest things you should do once you've written a killer post is to make sure as many people as possible will see it. You can use sites like Buffer to schedule posts in advance and don't be afraid to link back to old relevant posts too.

Update Old Posts
Something you wrote last year might be just as relevant today so why not go back and update the post to your current standard and show it off.

Link Old Posts
A blog post idea for days when you don't want to write a whole post is to link back to your old favourite post and get some traffic flowing to old posts. You could do a lush review roundup for example.

Improve Your SEO
I still find SEO (search engine optimization) a little intimidating but as a blogger it's worth learning the basics so your posts are search engine friendly. Using keywords in your title and naming images to compliment the post is a good starting point.

I hope that these points are helpful and getting you thinking about any improvements you can make to your blog or help you prepare for future posts. If you're still not feeling like working on your blog don't worry about it and take the time away to be inspired.

What do you do for your blog on none writing days?

Sam

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How To Get Back In To Blogging After A Break

Hi, I wanted to write a post inspired by my lack of blogging recently and share my experience (got to find inspiration where we can right). I stopped blogging for over three months, it's flown and that's what made me want to get back to blogging more than anything. Blogs are after all a very public kind of diary and it's fun to look back at and see what I was interested in this time last year. Blogging is also a very good excuse for funding my addiction to Lush products.

How To Get Back In To Blogging After A Break

Start Slow
While it's taken me this long to get back into blogging I've been brainstorming ideas for a while. Don't feel pressured to come back until you're ready and full of the inspiration you needed. You could always create a stock pile of posts so you're always ahead.

Write For Yourself
Blogging is suppose to be a fun hobby and for most of us that's all it will ever be but that's fine. Blog for yourself first, don't feel like you need to stick to a schedule or pattern unless you want too.

Draft Write Posts
I can't just write a post and hit publish because it would be riddled with mistakes and sentences that make no scenes. Writing without the pressure of the publish button gives you freedom to play around with your writing style and post layout.

Be Social
One thing I missed while not blogging was reading blogs. Just because you don't feel like blogging doesn't mean that you have to be quiet. Take part in blogger twitter chats or link to old posts to continue to get others viewing your blog.

Don't Force It
Come back to your blog when you are ready, if that's never then that's totally fine, do what's right for you.

Re-Brand
One of your issues might be that you and your blog just don't work together anymore. If you feel it's the right move for you there's the option of re-branding and starting a totally new blog.

Photography
Having fun with props or products may inspire future posts or at least give you a back up of stock images. Take your camera with you on a day out to create a day in the life post which requires only a little writing.

Keep Being Inspired
Reading other blogs is a good way to see what's current or inspire you to write your own take on a subject or there's always a tag to do. Use everyday life as inspiration for future posts and make your blog your own.

I hope these points are helpful, I've sat and drafted a few posts which feels great. Taking a step back from blogging was difficult but I found coming back harder. Finding the confidence in myself and what I've got to say gave me the motivation to give it another go.

Have you got any tips for getting back into blogging?

Sam

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10 Tips For Hosting An Outdoor Summer Gathering

Hi, One of my favourite things about the summer months is eating and socialising in the outdoors. I've helped organise a few family BBQ's in the past so I have some helpful tips to share which will hopefully help make it a great day everyone can enjoy including the hosts.

Tips For Hosting An Outdoor Summer Gathering

Dietary Requirements
Not everyone is into the carnivore side of a summer BBQ so it's good practice to have plenty of vegetarian alternative and to ask guested about any special needs they have (these could be health based or life choices but you'll make your guess feel amazing for making sure they are catered for).

Keep it comfortable
Make sure you've got plenty of seating, weather that be picnic blankets or deck chairs. Making guests feel comfortable can only be a good thing right!

Repel the bugs
I live by a river so I know how annoying bugs get. You can set up wasp catchers with old pop bottles and something sugary. In the evening burn Citronella Candles to get rid of midges and other bugs.

Prep as much as possible
Prep food and drinks as much as you can or buy pre-made so you don't spend all day cooking and you can enjoy the party too.

Don't be afraid to ask to BYOB
Organising a gathering can get costly so it's only fair for guest to bring something to contribute to the festivities. It doesn't have to be alcohol, someone could bring their famous secret recipe sauce past down through the generations.

Be weather proof
I'm writing this post in Britain and well you can't totally rule out rain so it's a good idea to have some space that is under cover. Gazebos are great and not that expensive for a standard one, if you're a bit more flush with cash you might consider a party shed (can only dream right?).

Have alcohol replacements
Some people might be driving or others just not wanting to over do it, having a choice of soft drinks or mocktails is a great way to keep everyone happy and ultimately more healthy.

Have some entertainment
In the past we've played games and always had a backing track of the radio playing quietly in the background. Keeping guests entertained means they are going to remember your gathering as great. You could invest in an outdoor board game, twisters always fun.

Parting into the night
If you plan on parting into the small hours make sure you've got plenty of lighting to keep things safe and sociable. Fairy lights make lovely mood lighting, pick up outdoor solar powered ones and you get free energy.

Have taxi numbers at the ready
Not everyone is organised or they don't know the area, having taxi numbers ready for anyone who needs a ride home will save time trying to find one online and you'll be guest free and in bed relaxing a lot quicker.

Have you hosted a summer outdoor gathering? any tips to add?

Sam

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Monthly Mini Goals - July

Hi, It's holiday time! I should already be traveling on my way to York as this post goes live. Hopefully the sun is shining and if it really must rain it will wait until we have pitched the tent (please!). So after last month not being so great I'm all inspired by my travel plans and just the general freedom from my working life (love it but nothing beats a holiday).

Mini goals for July

• Eat an Instagram worthy ice cream
• Find a new cruelty free favourite
• Document my travels
• Read at least 5 books
• Buy a new board game
• Successfully pack hand luggage
• Plan lots of blog ideas
• Find a happy balance
• Have a cocktail
• Eat Sushi

So I couldn't help but have very summer holiday based goals and I was having to reference my 25 summer goals post so I didn't have duplicates because that's just silly. I would love to make a photo diary of my travels but that involves taking photos and I'm just the worst at that because I forget, (traveling is blog post gold right?) I must try really hard or I'll be annoyed with myself.

Time off work means more time for things I really want to do like reading, I need to get ahead with my Goodreads challenge and now's the perfect time. I also want to use my digital detox to inspire me with blog post ideas I'm excited to write. I'm starting to run out of products so I need to find cruelty free alternatives, I plan on checking out what's available in Superdrug.

It's summer so I obviously want ice cream and weirdly I really fancy a trip to Yo!Sushi. There's a really great comic book store in York which sells board games so I want to go check them out and hopefully find something to add to our growing collection.

Do you have anything planed for the summer?

Sam

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25 Summer Goals

Hi, I believe it's now officially British summer time. This weekend it finally felt like the weather wanted to get into the summer season after as unseasonably cold week. I sat in the garden trying to get some colour into my milk bottle white skin, but with no luck as I just don't tan. I've decided that to make the most of the coming months I'd set myself some summer focused goals.

25 Summer Goals

1. Eat outdoors (Picnic/BBQ)
2. Go for a walk in the countryside
3. Go Camping
4. Read a lot
5. Blow bubbles
6. Visit a park
7. Make Ice lollies
8. Watch a Sunset
9. Buy some fresh flowers
10. Wear a flower crown
11. Visit a beer garden
12. Use my Passport
13. Make time to relax
14. Go on a boat trip
15. Make cocktails
16. Visit a beach
17. Have a day out with friends
18. Attempt a creative project
19. Make a daisy chain
20. Take more photos
21. Have a technology free day
22. Keep my blog active
23. Try a smoothie recipe
24. Eat ice cream
25. Try more meat free options

I plan on having lots of fun this summer and a much needed relaxing break from work. I'll have time to travel and do lots of reading. I wanted to add a few simple things and a few gratitude goals to prompt myself to make the most of my time and the nice weather.

Do you have any summer goals?

Sam

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10 Things We Should Make Time For Everyday

Hi, This is a bit of a motivational post and a reminder to look after yourself, I hope it's useful. The idea is that day to day we over look the little things. I've put together a list of daily things we should all do no matter what. I personally fail at doing these myself so I'll be using these pointers to try and improve my attitude to my own mental and physical health.

10 Things We Should Make Time For Everyday

Visualize Your Day
Having an idea of what you want to achieve makes it easier to do. Don't put off the hard stuff, tackle that first and then everything else will seem simple by comparison.

Skin Care
You only get one face so look after it, make sure to moisturise, use SPF and to remove makeup and built up pollutants.

Exercise
It's not all about weight loss, keeping active keeps the body mobile. Keep it simple and go for a walk or do some meditation.

Eating Well
The phrase you are what you eat is pretty accurate. Try to keep high calorie processed foods to a minimum opting for home made versions and try to eat your five a day.

Drinking Water
There are a lots of health benefits from drinking plenty of water everyday. I like to add a dash of lemon juice to make it a bit more interesting.

Organization
Takes the stress out of the day by having a plan of action. Anything from planing your lunch or what you're going to wear the following day. Write lists to help keep focus and remove stress.

Contact Someone
Having a connection with the people around us is grounding and great for unwinding. Arrange to meet up with a friend or have a chat over the phone.

Take Time For Yourself
Relaxation and a chance to sit back and reflect is really important. Use this time how ever you want: escape to a new place in a book, unwind in a warming bath or have a pamper session.

Get 8 Hours Sleep
Not everyone needs it but it's the best way to make sure that you'll be refreshed and ready for the day ahead.

List Things That Make You Happy
Look for the positives in everything you do when possible. The little things are easily forgotten, make lists to remind yourself of them. Maybe even start a memory jar, the big things are welcome too.

What's in your daily routine?
Sam

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