tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4655930568319584452024-02-07T08:17:04.458+00:00Love(Om)LifeLove Health - Love Food - Love LifeLoveOmLifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13826217701116672746noreply@blogger.comBlogger15125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-465593056831958445.post-23564663705733121452015-01-05T08:48:00.000+00:002015-01-05T08:48:58.715+00:00Monday Mantra #1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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January is now upon us, and so too is that time of year where we all list the changes we plan to carry out over the next 12 months. Drink less alcohol, do more exercise, loose weight or pursue a passion...how many times do we all fall into using the same statements and yet by December 31st, how much have we ever actually changed?<br />
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So, for 2015 I have decided to tinker with my approach to new year's resolutions. Instead of rehashing last years aims, I am making little changes to my language in order to create a rather different group of intentions. My goals are now defined, with markers for success that I can check in with throughout the year. An example, I hear you ask.<br />
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Where I have previously stated 'do more yoga', I have now written 'do my own yoga nidra practice weekly for 30 minutes and do my own pranayama practice weekly for 15 minutes.' Instead of 'loose weight', I have written 'drop 18lbs to achieve a weight of 185lbs'. Finally, 'learn a language' or 'try something new' has become 'take the 6 week beginners french course at a local college'.<br />
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By giving a value to my intentions, I can look and see how successful I have been in maintaining my resolution. If I have stayed true to my goals then I know to continue with my efforts; if I have let my goals slip, then I know where I need to inject a little more consideration in order to get myself back on track.<br />
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What do you think? Could this help you follow your new year's resolutions? Have a look at what you have written and see if it could benefit from a bit more thought. It is never too late in the month to outline your plans for the year ahead. Here is how I went about it:<br />
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<li>Start by thinking about what makes you feel at your best, or what makes you most proud of yourself. It could be when you are doing a certain activity, when you fit into an article of clothing, when you help out someone in need or when you progress in your chosen career path. Be honest with yourself! Take the time to list a couple and mull them all over to see what one fits best for you now.</li>
<li>Once you have done this, ask what steps you would need to take in order to move towards that point. If there are a lot of steps between the present and your final goal then 'chunk it'; just look at the first one or two smaller steps along that path. It doesn't matter if it is something as simple as 'clear the clutter from the office desk so that there is space to work'.</li>
<li>At what point would you feel like you have achieved your goal? There may be an award or a certificate to make you aware of your achievements, but it is more likely that you will need to assess when you have been on track. Whatever your marker may be, make a note of it here.</li>
<li>You can do a final check in to see if it your plan of action is right for you by asking how it would feel to take that step. Would it feel good, healthy, liberating, energising? If so, perfect! </li>
<li>Pop your resolution(s) somewhere accessible, the more visible the better. Out of sight is, after all, out of mind. Mine are in the front of my work diary so that I see them every time I open up my book to put an appointment in. </li>
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This is it, I can feel it. The year I will set to actioning all those pesky resolutions. I won't look back in 12 months time and think sadly of what could have been. I will look back and be grateful that I took the time to listen to my heart, to my little desires for who I want to be and how I am going to get there...that I took the time to start the path to becoming a happier me.<br />
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If you were to jump to December 2015 and all of your resolutions were true, how would you feel? I'd love to know what resolutions you have all set yourselves.<br />
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Oh, and HAPPY NEW YEAR to you all!!<br />
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<br />LoveOmLifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13826217701116672746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-465593056831958445.post-57981169271843917362013-12-31T22:07:00.001+00:002013-12-31T22:07:10.538+00:00Farewell 2013<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Farewell 2013, it was fun whilst it lasted. You have played host to some of my highest and lowest moments. I look forward to what the next 12 months can bring.<br />
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Here is to 2014!LoveOmLifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13826217701116672746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-465593056831958445.post-38614382638581474672013-11-18T23:44:00.000+00:002013-11-19T00:24:07.109+00:00Weigh In No.1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The time has come to admit that M.E. has had a greater effect on my physical health then I have allowed myself to realise. Most are well aware of the fatigue as well as the digestive and mobility issues, to put it lightly, but drastic changes have also occurred to my waistline...what am I saying, it has by no means been localised to my waist line! In the last 18 months there has been a steady increase of around 3 stone. Now I am not stating that I solely judge my health and wellbeing in inches but I do feel that it is yet another reason I have trouble recognising the girl in the mirror, one more step away from the 'Anni that was', to the 'Anni that is'.<br />
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I have struggled to come to terms with putting these up, as once something is out there, there is no denying it...nonetheless, I stepped on the scales for the first time in several months and here are the stats:<br />
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Height 6ft 0.5in 72.5in Or in metric 184cm<br />
Weight 14st 2lbs 198.4lbs<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"> 89.9kg</span><br />
BMI<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"> 26.5</span><br />
Fat % 38.9<br />
Muscle % 26.0<br />
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This shows that I am now classified as overweight. My whole life I have been long and lean. When I danced I was about 138lbs and had the body fat and muscle of an athlete. Even when working, I was at the lower end of the scale at 150-155lbs. Then WHAM, scale covered in less than 2 years.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6JJzUMBjPX-R9c3TwKi5MtOIjdaaeGnWKGZ0POuhVevvg49bByghorX_6lklIFYUqoqYxxBQN6AjOsxLaOijhT2STYR-fbknQr9TmQ0j4P3tJUs8-uCghUM9BkqM2SYJwcxkQrpj9S1ZG/s1600/IMG_0423.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="586" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6JJzUMBjPX-R9c3TwKi5MtOIjdaaeGnWKGZ0POuhVevvg49bByghorX_6lklIFYUqoqYxxBQN6AjOsxLaOijhT2STYR-fbknQr9TmQ0j4P3tJUs8-uCghUM9BkqM2SYJwcxkQrpj9S1ZG/s640/IMG_0423.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Healthy me with my brother</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVbZd32Sk9Ta31vxTQwMFDQxLH66CHdglGJHZhvffT4URCl0qCqRP15nlpWAgI8r3iXoU0pvQ6kztpajcImwtYhrdgYPiWTUKm9dIH2uYEPBJNRZTb9sd_J31U_JRAxbRZpRXJ6-Op2v38/s1600/IMG_0321.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="474" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVbZd32Sk9Ta31vxTQwMFDQxLH66CHdglGJHZhvffT4URCl0qCqRP15nlpWAgI8r3iXoU0pvQ6kztpajcImwtYhrdgYPiWTUKm9dIH2uYEPBJNRZTb9sd_J31U_JRAxbRZpRXJ6-Op2v38/s640/IMG_0321.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">M.E. me, on a good day, with my brother and his girlfriend (only 1 year later)</td></tr>
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It should be no surprise. In order to be able to complete the smallest of energy expenditures, it became essential to dose up on sugar and/or caffeine. Combine that with the plethora of bulking prescription pills I was on (like steroids and antidepressants) and an inability to move much, let alone 'exercise' like I used to (body combat, spin, yoga...you name it), and it is a clear recipe for weight gain.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsrAUxfOlcmWq9Upu0s_ksegq3svKF4iIFlTUCX7aiH3kq01HVJK4v0HAGzhGWwym_pFDoJk3oioloPKkKjU-qiMdpCjKBXD34WHAj1kluIBFSjhKFfMF-Mi5BjvnrNGZmGZQabtEVvJL_/s1600/Image+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsrAUxfOlcmWq9Upu0s_ksegq3svKF4iIFlTUCX7aiH3kq01HVJK4v0HAGzhGWwym_pFDoJk3oioloPKkKjU-qiMdpCjKBXD34WHAj1kluIBFSjhKFfMF-Mi5BjvnrNGZmGZQabtEVvJL_/s640/Image+1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I see a big difference in my chubby chops. Part swollen glands, part inflammation, mostly chub</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6EMmOfqLe5qvjNWsxdc1UbzQdOtbYmV5CpNvodJHTj49Xi6HVXI9_mcGmcTeNekQYJJEXtqaHfArsm4g0L4x_5IttAk9rlGDeGeW0AzgzjnY2-gETg-ixGPRIKDhffN8wpXzaHedDRMsY/s1600/thin+face3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6EMmOfqLe5qvjNWsxdc1UbzQdOtbYmV5CpNvodJHTj49Xi6HVXI9_mcGmcTeNekQYJJEXtqaHfArsm4g0L4x_5IttAk9rlGDeGeW0AzgzjnY2-gETg-ixGPRIKDhffN8wpXzaHedDRMsY/s640/thin+face3.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My jawline used to be more defined & I would notice my smile more. Even with no make up, I prefer this healthy picture!</td></tr>
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So I see how I got into this situation...but how do I get out? I am still suffering from the constraints of fibromyalgia and I am well aware that cardio is a key component in a lot of relapse cases. How do you lose the fat self and regain the fit self when you have M.E.? That is what I shall be trying to discover! It starts here, it is as good a day as any.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_YJojWEiqT2Hl8etggDs6VzY7zLeixuqecWKuVq7e_p43b26E0ps_rYA_egE9O2N4cKZkKwYq9wLKvlZHr20gq91-s7ogY1CrsUpzIhpU_h24Oa0iL1EA0BEbN_FVlcGh4vWzS7XTvQ8l/s1600/IMG_0172.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_YJojWEiqT2Hl8etggDs6VzY7zLeixuqecWKuVq7e_p43b26E0ps_rYA_egE9O2N4cKZkKwYq9wLKvlZHr20gq91-s7ogY1CrsUpzIhpU_h24Oa0iL1EA0BEbN_FVlcGh4vWzS7XTvQ8l/s640/IMG_0172.JPG" width="512" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My aim is to feel happy, healthy and confident in this little dress again (once it fits...)</td></tr>
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I will do my best to document food and fitness plans undertaken on my journey so that any one else can follow or try but please do remember that this illness affects people in different ways. What works without repercussions for one, may not work as well for another. Judge how you feel and stop if necessary!<br />
<br />LoveOmLifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13826217701116672746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-465593056831958445.post-48894984794874196922013-11-05T10:41:00.000+00:002013-11-05T10:41:21.006+00:00Let's Get Seasonal Pt. 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i>'I cannot endure to waste anything as precious as autumn sunshine by staying in the house. So I spend almost all the daylight hours in the open air.' </i><br />
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<i>Nathaniel Hawthorne</i></div>
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Yes, it is true that I only just posted on seasonal eating last week. So why a sequel so soon? Well, I forgot to mention small ways in which we can make alterations to our physical activities in order to enjoy the changes that occur at this time of year.</div>
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I couldn't agree more with the sentiment of Mr Hawthorne. This is one of the best times of year for getting outside and there is little that I have been enjoying more than the sights, sounds and smells of Autumn...as you probably already know from my many many photos of recent walks on my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/LoveOmLife" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href="http://instagram.com/loveomlife" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. Yet as a trainee yoga teacher who needs to practice her lesson plans, and a (hopefully recovering) M.E. suffer, there are also many reasons for me to be indoors. This has led me to looking at how I can incorporate both my needs and my wishes. </div>
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Let's begin with Yoga. Our yoga practice should compliment our surroundings, our emotions as well as the context of our lives. So you can see why a seasonal shift should bring about a shift in our personal practice. Most find that the coming of Fall makes them want to carry out less active asana work and more meditation. This is quite natural and makes this season a perfect time for newbies to start. So use this time to strip back our practice in order to focus on working with the subtle energies through longer meditations, chanting (or start with singing if you find chanting a bit daunting) and pranayama (breathwork). These are all aspects of yoga that can bring about some serious health benefits, without an ashtanga jump or vinyasa flow in sight.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An image that the Om Yoga Show shared on twitter and I fell a little in love with </td></tr>
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Finding a Yoga Nidra class or video can be a wonderful way to be taken through a guided meditation. You lie on your mat in savasana (corpse pose - flat on your back with palms up and feet relaxed) whilst allowing the teachers vocal instructions to take you through your practice. It is a lovely way to relax the mind and body in order to counteract stress. If you have trouble sleeping then you may be surprised how many people drift off in savasana...they often say they have trouble sleeping too!</div>
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Now meditating doesn't have to be isolated to sitting or lying on a mat. Have you ever gone for a peaceful stroll in the country and found your mind slowly working it's way through problems that have plagued you for weeks. Well, you darling, were meditating. There is indeed such a thing as 'moving meditation' and this stilling and channeling of the mind's voice is exactly what any yogi would be hoping to achieve. Keep it up!</div>
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If you also suffer from M.E, or any health complaint, then Autumn is the perfect time to allow this to be the focus of your practice. The season is showing us that it is possible to let go of a previous existence, regardless of its perfection or beauty, safe in the knowledge that after a time new life will come again. It is not a death of something; it is a renewing. Allow the release of your past self. Like a leaf falling from a tree, it is part that's filled its purpose and is no longer needed. Immerse yourself in nature and take a leaf from it's book (I swear there was no pun intended!) </div>
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If you can't make it outside for health or weather related reasons then take a chair to a window with a view you love to look at. Crack the window open slightly so that you can have a full sensory experience; smell the crisp air, feel the slight chill to the wind and hear the leaves rustle or rain fall. Then just breathe. Long, deep, slow breaths. How long does your inhalation last, 4 counts? Can you make both inhale and exhale last 6 counts? Take a minute to give your focus entirely to breathing and see how far you can extend this. This is your introduction to simple pranayama. Who said yoga was hard!<br />
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We all know breathing is how we get our oxygen. Well by extending and deepening the breathe it makes sense that we are then getting more oxygen. Did you also realise that by slowing the breath down, like by counting to draw it out, we are using one of the simplest stress reducing techniques for our body? Oxygenating the brain and muscles is necessary for everyday use and healing. By breathing deeply we are increasing our lung capacity and filling more of the tiny little alveoli sacs further down the chest. More sacs used equals greater surface area for gaseous exchange, meaning more good stuff in and more bad stuff out. I know this is a very simplified version of the science going on, but the point I am trying to make is that pranayama is proven, scientifically, to improve our health. And all without a requirement to get bendy.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9xtKtP7P5Kxy-H2qjccdLeaq7ZzX4NRIiBuCvlyJG3PgsSGj9bwVg0vgAp-L8UYqPIjD-dk87ZvbXAVnmBBUcaGbEcgia37idn8IWPYz9rZDFacMpoUYRAyAKVPB6s8-7T-MCqvZeMiBd/s1600/IMG_1659.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9xtKtP7P5Kxy-H2qjccdLeaq7ZzX4NRIiBuCvlyJG3PgsSGj9bwVg0vgAp-L8UYqPIjD-dk87ZvbXAVnmBBUcaGbEcgia37idn8IWPYz9rZDFacMpoUYRAyAKVPB6s8-7T-MCqvZeMiBd/s640/IMG_1659.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Surrounded by scenery like this, it is hard not to breath deeply</td></tr>
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If you can take yourself outside to get moving, then do so. Walking, hiking and cycling are all brilliant choices. Since getting my puppy I have gotten into walking, big time! It is such an easy way to get the whole body moving. Mind you, I have not always wanted to get up and out. Sometimes I have not really felt up to much at all, but one look at his little face is pretty darn encouraging. Once I got outside I always achieved more than I though I could AND felt better afterwards. One happy, tired pup and one happy, tired owner, check. The only thing I ever regretted was not having a camera on me at all times to capture the scenery.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Luckily I had my camera to capture this cutie matching the Autumn colour scheme</td></tr>
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Gardening is also an easy way to test your ability out and about. There are sure to be plenty of leaves to rake and should you feel your energy depleting then you are not too far from home. If you do have enough energy then your reward can be jumping into the pile afterwards.<br />
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I truly believe you will still be getting the benefits of the great outdoors, like fresh air and vitamin D from sunlight, even if you do nothing more than find a buddy, sit out with a nice hot cuppa in your hands and enjoy the colour scheme. </div>
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Remember these pointers to protect your health whilst you focus on your fitness:</div>
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<b><u>Dress Sensibly</u></b>: Something I am sure my mother never would have expected to hear from me. This time of year is all about layering my friend. Will it be a t-shirt day? Or should I be prepared for a Russian winter? Autumn keeps you guessing so bite the bullet, look like the michelin man and be prepared for anything. A good thermal base-layer will do wonders in minimising bulk and keeping in heat, plus decent thermals are pretty easy and cheap to pick up. I got mine for £10 from M&S. No excuses! I also won't be without a chunky scarf and waterproof until about April now.<br />
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<b><u>Keep Drinking</u></b>: I don't mean the fun stuff. Sorry! Throw your mind back to a hot and balmy Summer day, think of how much water you drunk (2, maybe 3 litres). Now consider how much you have had today...is it anywhere near as much? Staying hydrated helps us feel more alert, less hungry and aids in recovery from exercise. Warm teas and other hot drinks can help out here. Nothing gets me feeling better than a big 'ol mug of hot water and manuka honey when I wake up unable to attack the day.</div>
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<b><u>Breathe Deep, Breathe Slow</u></b>: It's energising, it's powerful and it takes no effort, only thought. Just remember to inhale through the nose, it is amazing how many people incorrectly use their mouths to inhale. If you don't know where to begin when bringing your focus to your breathwork then follow these 2 simple steps. </div>
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<li class="li1">As you inhale, allow the word 'IN' to fill your mind. See if you can stretch the word to last the entire inhalation.</li>
<li class="li1">As you exhale, allow the word 'OUT' to fill your mind. Again, try to slowly stretch the word to match the length of the breath.</li>
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The one problem with Autumn, it doesn't last long enough. Soon we will be but a few leaves away from Winter, so get out there anyway you can and start enjoying it now. We will be!<br />
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LoveOmLifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13826217701116672746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-465593056831958445.post-2327736918896574252013-10-30T18:13:00.001+00:002013-11-18T19:53:38.635+00:00Foxy Lady<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Since I first took my 8 week old Shiba Inu puppy out, back in May, I have been asked if I have a fox. With his red coat, white face, black tipped tail and wild little ways it was something I could understand. Now we are a couple more months down the line, and he has grown into a slightly more dog-like body, but I still do hear children saying 'that lady has a fox mummy' or people asking if I am a vet...?! As I clearly look like the type who would take my ward out to the pub with me...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL8sXZtfKiWtVnA7NM3v-bMCzhmh3DhaOFlLc7PT1saV6K7MIOG4_hgoZ_cOd1hNecjthTl_Z8y-y-RkyTFJCLznsBNKem2Jjaij8Y-1nXBzDUFEhCnnFf2UNxSYDjWXWMTsAPmp1Sn_ii/s1600/IMG_0532.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL8sXZtfKiWtVnA7NM3v-bMCzhmh3DhaOFlLc7PT1saV6K7MIOG4_hgoZ_cOd1hNecjthTl_Z8y-y-RkyTFJCLznsBNKem2Jjaij8Y-1nXBzDUFEhCnnFf2UNxSYDjWXWMTsAPmp1Sn_ii/s640/IMG_0532.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Nonetheless, something strange has started happening. Every gift I have received in the last couple of months has had a theme. Yep, you guessed it; foxes. Weirder still, I think I am starting to like it! I am not sure if it is simply that I am now switched on to foxy paraphernalia, or if it has always been a common theme, but there sure does seem to be a foxy revolution going on right now.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjPoEw1IlTOmqUKI3N6MsZBlvoSnfvA-2WX3cqO86CptSUuC0BryN89JkUw367l7CQj_WrqL2AQjAgmaWSlB1ygMn9gxrr7D04pxID9iv1P8VTS1XZ80xdqem8woHsLKU4dSCEu90Mkg4W/s1600/IMG_0568.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjPoEw1IlTOmqUKI3N6MsZBlvoSnfvA-2WX3cqO86CptSUuC0BryN89JkUw367l7CQj_WrqL2AQjAgmaWSlB1ygMn9gxrr7D04pxID9iv1P8VTS1XZ80xdqem8woHsLKU4dSCEu90Mkg4W/s640/IMG_0568.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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First off there was my mug. I love my new mug. I had this other mug that saw me through 6 years: first day at uni, 2 flats, 2 jobs and a move home. When a family member used it and left it precariously placed on an edge, not naming names but you know who you are cheeky, it inevitably got knocked to the floor. Happy to draw a line under the past, I did not apportion any blame on the condition that a replacement was found. (I know, I know, the guilt trip isn't very yogic. I promise I would feel bad if it hadn't gotten me this beauty). My mother nipped to Emma Bridgewater and got me the '<a href="http://fave.co/1aFyP3a" target="_blank">red fox</a>' mug.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSDiPoMq5KIMoYzbRRcJQcMaEmdQti8ohkY3Y0XUEq6tgAYkta_s_iWG4f9SJC8G048sMvVG5Yrq-JVRV_oaXVSa2mAnz3z_qqZUtoDIWqjMoPJON_8vPvIwCYp_Jnm5TDh3Cfvf_5zXpm/s1600/IMG_1132.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="520" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSDiPoMq5KIMoYzbRRcJQcMaEmdQti8ohkY3Y0XUEq6tgAYkta_s_iWG4f9SJC8G048sMvVG5Yrq-JVRV_oaXVSa2mAnz3z_qqZUtoDIWqjMoPJON_8vPvIwCYp_Jnm5TDh3Cfvf_5zXpm/s640/IMG_1132.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Next my Aunt visited us from the States over the Summer and, after one of many shopping trips, she came home to present me with this foxy face <a href="http://fave.co/16MDGLn" target="_blank">scarf</a> by Hem and Edge.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMQgn6lgVVs2D1mdi9Q2grfQDhvpGud37AAyt2wPS_Uk2dtVrSuaJedk_R_bgRXO0eNsD7E2oEu7JunvBzyzVywg0TJxiWtNquNqfClnVviHCQkYe_FPrD_367LE7cAHjeUDHtp0Gg-NWE/s1600/IMG_1126.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMQgn6lgVVs2D1mdi9Q2grfQDhvpGud37AAyt2wPS_Uk2dtVrSuaJedk_R_bgRXO0eNsD7E2oEu7JunvBzyzVywg0TJxiWtNquNqfClnVviHCQkYe_FPrD_367LE7cAHjeUDHtp0Gg-NWE/s640/IMG_1126.jpg" width="430" /></a></div>
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Just perfect to go with my Barbour jacket! She saw it and thought it was of a Shiba at first, as they are so similar.<br />
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As my little man is the closest to a grandchild my mother will be getting anytime soon, it is safe to say she is smitten. This foxy bug is proving pretty darn contagious and Ms. Bridgewater yet again came up trumps with this adorable 'fox and owl' <a href="http://fave.co/1dOpkSe" target="_blank">tin tray</a>. Grandmama (as she is now affectionately known) could not resist.<br />
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Imagine my surprise when my weekly ASOS window shop also brought out many pieces to meet my foxy fix. How fun is this <a href="http://fave.co/16MJN2l" target="_blank">onesie</a>!<br />
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<a href="http://images.asos-media.com/inv/media/7/0/8/3/3153807/orangepattern/image1xl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://images.asos-media.com/inv/media/7/0/8/3/3153807/orangepattern/image1xl.jpg" width="499" /></a></div>
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If I wasn't too tall for it (at 6ft the legs never go far past my knees) I would have bought it instantly. These <a href="http://fave.co/1dO0yll" target="_blank">gloves</a> on the other hand are firmly on my Christmas wish list. Perfect little stocking filler methinks.<br />
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On a more serious note, this <a href="http://fave.co/16MKVD1" target="_blank">jumper</a> looks so like my Beau how could I not fall in love with it.<br />
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ASOS is not alone, John Lewis also hosts quite a range.<br />
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<a href="http://johnlewis.scene7.com/is/image/JohnLewis/232273969alt3?$prod_main$" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://johnlewis.scene7.com/is/image/JohnLewis/232273969alt3?$prod_main$" width="400" /></a></div>
This <a href="http://fave.co/16MLEEp" target="_blank">mug</a> instantly made me think of a photo I took of my little man in the garden.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY5UrjLMW16hWI4a2rFMqcKZAi_RKkEr1OcrGtJV7zieBZSo94x5lpriKO5g3t2yGV5ftTsGMRWZFs4UtKBNcMX_UY0iT41kT8XQIAacvZb99DY1bNfnJ01h39Bi_5TQ5-5F9YGrZ5L3Jb/s1600/IMG_1321.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY5UrjLMW16hWI4a2rFMqcKZAi_RKkEr1OcrGtJV7zieBZSo94x5lpriKO5g3t2yGV5ftTsGMRWZFs4UtKBNcMX_UY0iT41kT8XQIAacvZb99DY1bNfnJ01h39Bi_5TQ5-5F9YGrZ5L3Jb/s640/IMG_1321.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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There always seems to be an Alex Monroe necklace I would like to receive as a pressie and this <a href="http://fave.co/1dO4Wkm" target="_blank">necklace</a> is no exception.<br />
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Whilst this <a href="http://fave.co/16MP21T" target="_blank">cushion</a> from notonthehighstreet reminded me of how my puppy curls up to sleep.<br />
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<a href="http://cdn0.notonthehighstreet.com/system/product_images/images/001/329/907/normal_rusty-the-sleeping-fox-cushion.jpg?1381692006" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="620" src="http://cdn0.notonthehighstreet.com/system/product_images/images/001/329/907/normal_rusty-the-sleeping-fox-cushion.jpg?1381692006" width="640" /></a></div>
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Look at how sweet he looked whilst napping.<br />
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I actually laughed out loud when I saw this <a href="http://fave.co/16MPKfO" target="_blank">picture</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://cdn0.notonthehighstreet.com/system/product_images/images/001/113/999/normal_the-quick-brown-fox-print.jpg?1366211067" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://cdn0.notonthehighstreet.com/system/product_images/images/001/113/999/normal_the-quick-brown-fox-print.jpg?1366211067" width="640" /></a></div>
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It is like the artist watched Beau and his best friend Bella, a chocolate lab, playing. I have a video (that I will try to upload soon as I need to learn how first) showing my cheeky monkey leaping over Bella in an attempt to get her away from her tennis ball and playing too.<br />
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As a pup I can see the strong resemblance to a wild cub...but now, as I am biased in thinking he is the best looking <u>dog</u> out there, I am a little less sure of the similarity.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYvM9iOdpbzSUxd3iRp9HX5A1GxxDziz_Zg0RkE0eVQAPTfcyDmromUGqNufiST0ycddfx2Pd3yhi1lg6wm-cg2jZFYutst1OwB9rqIvgey-qC18UqosJhWLu8S6ogPLW6z076DdpFewoJ/s1600/IMG_1546.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="574" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYvM9iOdpbzSUxd3iRp9HX5A1GxxDziz_Zg0RkE0eVQAPTfcyDmromUGqNufiST0ycddfx2Pd3yhi1lg6wm-cg2jZFYutst1OwB9rqIvgey-qC18UqosJhWLu8S6ogPLW6z076DdpFewoJ/s640/IMG_1546.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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He may still have the red and white face of a little fox, but the curly tail and muscular form is closer to other spitz breeds like a Husky or Akita.<br />
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His friend however, who is a true red and not a red sesame, could still possibly be mistaken. Would you guess he is 15 years old!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR3z_B4ysN-fUS6LTLsWqX0liQTLUIW8qUOn6sBii3aZgpTLiRjX0bCdo_HoBkfZr8gtOa5XTGVFlKLMJeM8K7I6oJkkioy0KIiZ0uBf18lXF1HsQfenjG5Ec7IzVEO-K0hQZTt3zqioND/s1600/IMG_1111.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="414" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR3z_B4ysN-fUS6LTLsWqX0liQTLUIW8qUOn6sBii3aZgpTLiRjX0bCdo_HoBkfZr8gtOa5XTGVFlKLMJeM8K7I6oJkkioy0KIiZ0uBf18lXF1HsQfenjG5Ec7IzVEO-K0hQZTt3zqioND/s640/IMG_1111.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Nonetheless, the bug has bitten and I am happily converting to being a keen foxy lady shopper.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipZWL_p7CxfXfxZPBwujQ-20Vuk3oAaS-C2Nj8BR1B45QJD57Cyw_D9mGkZEXa2R4FhKu4RFwPhr29OqqxYfmvqba6rQ0ac1ubOu5CccMMveVmEtUPA0YlSWpbHEhC_03dA9giOCr4G_Oq/s1600/IMG_1031.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipZWL_p7CxfXfxZPBwujQ-20Vuk3oAaS-C2Nj8BR1B45QJD57Cyw_D9mGkZEXa2R4FhKu4RFwPhr29OqqxYfmvqba6rQ0ac1ubOu5CccMMveVmEtUPA0YlSWpbHEhC_03dA9giOCr4G_Oq/s640/IMG_1031.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beau is always happy, look at that smile.</td></tr>
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So is it just me finding these items because I am looking, or is there an exceptionally large amount of British wild life based products (like squirrels, badgers and owls too) out there at the moment? And most importantly, have I missed anything essential to add to my christmas stocking list???LoveOmLifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13826217701116672746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-465593056831958445.post-32214029491282711472013-10-27T23:59:00.001+00:002013-10-28T12:07:35.179+00:00Let's Get Seasonal<span id="goog_1989751814"></span><span id="goog_1989751815"></span><br />
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As of 2am this morning, it became official...British Summer Time is over. The clocks go back, the leaves fall and the first frost is imminent. To some this may bring dismay. Not me, for I am one of those secretly glad for the beautiful scenery going on outside my window right now, and I plan on embracing nature's changes as an active part of my optimum health, beauty and fitness plan.<br />
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Oh yes, I do adore this time of year. Berries seem to adorn every tree whilst natures palette shifts from the greens of Spring to a veritable feast of brilliant ambers and burnt oranges through to deeply regal purples and fiery reds.<br />
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The colours of the leaves are not the only changes afoot, the light itself seems more golden and the air offers up its smoky ways. Autumn is the swan-song of vitality and energy for the year, before Winter sets in, and I love it!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjD23-ncMOQEkmDhm5pZZ8Q83zXARWsX1aFnsoX7e533c27C9tZg-5kRMkn0X9UF9ZO21ns8VeTNaT032ArLX0ot-Mpa9woMkAjVdMdP0M2oMT9SRB__57JhdF51wkiFhVtz-0O5ambopY/s1600/IMG_0671.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjD23-ncMOQEkmDhm5pZZ8Q83zXARWsX1aFnsoX7e533c27C9tZg-5kRMkn0X9UF9ZO21ns8VeTNaT032ArLX0ot-Mpa9woMkAjVdMdP0M2oMT9SRB__57JhdF51wkiFhVtz-0O5ambopY/s640/IMG_0671.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>Who knew the Autumn sun could make my little treasure look even more beautiful</i></div>
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With a shift in the seasons should come a shift in what makes it onto our plates. A peak into local orchards, gardens or allotments will show apples and pears ripe for the picking, whilst the pumpkin is something we all know to look for come October time, but there is so much more on offer. So just for you I have done my research to provide a pretty comprehensive list of what is best eaten during Autumn.<br />
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First up, we have the <u><b>VEGETABLES</b></u><br />
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<ul>
<li>artichokes - both globe and jerusalem</li>
<li>aubergines - at it's best for another couple of weeks</li>
<li>beetroot</li>
<li>broccoli - coming to the end of it's peak, so go enjoy it now</li>
<li>brussel sprouts</li>
<li>cabbage - red, white and savoy</li>
<li>carrots</li>
<li>celeriac</li>
<li>celery</li>
<li>chard</li>
<li>chillies</li>
<li>endive</li>
<li>fennel</li>
<li>kale </li>
<li>kohlrabi</li>
<li>leek</li>
<li>lettuce</li>
<li>onion</li>
<li>pak choi</li>
<li>parsnip - apparently buy after the first frost for the really sweet stuff</li>
<li>peas</li>
<li>potato</li>
<li>pumpkin</li>
<li>raddichio</li>
<li>runner bean</li>
<li>salsify</li>
<li>shallots</li>
<li>spinach - yay, one of my favs!!</li>
<li>spring onion</li>
<li>squash - butternut, spagetti, gem, crown prince...the whole lot!</li>
<li>swede</li>
<li>sweet potato </li>
<li>turnip</li>
<li>wild mushrooms</li>
</ul>
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<i style="text-align: center;"> My pumpkins may still be small but having grown them from seed I couldn't be prouder</i></div>
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<u><b>FRUIT</b></u><br />
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<ul>
<li>apples - note that bramley apples come into their own a bit later, Nov/Dec time</li>
<li>blackberries - again, really good for another couple of weeks</li>
<li>clementines</li>
<li>cranberries - most other berries are good until November</li>
<li>dates - just coming into season so if you have been waiting, now is the time to pop to the shops</li>
<li>elderberries</li>
<li>fig - alas, another one to gobble sooner rather than later, but still in season this month</li>
<li>pears</li>
<li>pomegranate</li>
<li>quince</li>
<li>tomatoes </li>
</ul>
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<i>Our little tree is still too early on in it's life to taste sweet but looking sweet, that it has perfected</i></div>
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<u><b>HERBS & SUCH</b></u><br />
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<ul>
<li>bay leaves</li>
<li>chives</li>
<li>chestnuts - most other nuts are also coming into their best right now but they are likely to be imported.</li>
<li>lavender</li>
<li>oregano</li>
<li>rosemary</li>
<li>sage</li>
<li>thyme</li>
</ul>
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We must remember that it isn't just produce that comes into its own; there are also changes further up the food chain to consider. Game is well known as a popular choice around October but if you aren't a big meat eater then check out what the sea offers in abundance over the coming months<br />
<div>
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<div>
<u><b>FISH & SEAFOOD</b></u><br />
<u><b><br /></b></u></div>
<ul>
<li>clams </li>
<li>cod</li>
<li>crab</li>
<li>dover sole</li>
<li>haddock</li>
<li>hake</li>
<li>lobster</li>
<li>monkfish</li>
<li>mussels</li>
<li>plaice</li>
<li>prawns</li>
<li>sea bass</li>
<li>squid</li>
<li>winkles</li>
</ul>
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<u><b>MEAT & GAME</b></u><br />
<u><b><br /></b></u>
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<ul>
<li>chicken</li>
<li>duck</li>
<li>goose </li>
<li>grouse</li>
<li>guinea fowl</li>
<li>lamb</li>
<li>partridge</li>
<li>pheasant</li>
<li>pork</li>
<li>rabbit</li>
<li>turkey</li>
<li>venison</li>
<li>wood pigeon</li>
</ul>
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<i>I won't be eating my 3 girls any time soon, no matter what the season, their eggs are another matter...</i></div>
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I am a becoming a firm believer of eating seasonally for where you live, as it truly tastes the best. In addition to being tastier and leaving a lower carbon footprint, local food is more nutritious AND cheaper than food that has crossed continents to reach you. Lets face it, even if you were to cruise the ready made section of your supermarket, you wouldn't choose everything the day it 'goes off'. No, you pick the packs with the longest life left in them...consider that with produce. By selecting what is in season you are picking the freshest goods on natures shelf.<br />
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So I am not recommending that everyone starts growing their own, or invests in some hens (although they are brilliant little characters) but do try to be good to nature and let it serve you as it wishes to. If you let it, it may just be good back by being kinder to your health, waistline and pocket then its imported or ready made alternatives.LoveOmLifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13826217701116672746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-465593056831958445.post-24266696729302715792013-10-25T23:59:00.000+01:002013-10-28T00:38:45.008+00:00Om Yoga Show 2013<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Today has been the busiest day I have had in quite a while, as Friday the 25th of October marked the opening of the largest Yoga event in Europe, the <a href="http://www.omyogashow.com/london/home.php" target="_blank">Om Yoga Show 2013</a>. Yes, I popped my yoga show cherry! I don't think I have mentioned yet that I am in training to be a yoga teacher myself, so you can see why it was about time I hurried my derriere down there.<br />
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After ensuring that my puppy was seen to and picked up for a day of play, as well as several run throughs of my lightning process for energy, I set off for Kensington Olympia Exhibition Centre. To give an idea of how big a deal this show is in the yoga world, the centre's car parks were all full despite me getting there an hour before the place opening, the same can be said for all the local meter bays. Not the start I was hoping for, but always with a plan B at hand, it was off to Westfield to park and then train it over (I knew I could make this work for me somehow later, nudge nudge wink wink)<br />
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Luckily for little ol' me I got to waltz in upon arrival as I had won my ticket from the sweet Simi Valecha. She was one of this years exhibitors with her brand <a href="http://www.chakra-art.co.uk/" target="_blank">Chakra Art</a>.<br />
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Simi is a graphic designer and henna artist. These skills inspired the beautiful illustrations on her bespoke products, such as greetings cards, notebooks and wall art. It is her first show too so if you are planning on going this weekend be sure to pop by her stall and say hi.<br />
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Simi was not alone in her intricate henna designs. There were two ladies doing body work.<br />
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And how gorgeous are these candles...I don't think I could ever burn them!<br />
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Hanging upside down seemed to be a bit of a trend!<br />
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Swing Fitness had a stall with silk cradles and pulleys that helped you carry out inversions, minus the pressure on your neck and head.</div>
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This young lady was having a right giggle of a time in a door frame contraption by Yoga Monkeys. It also wrapped around the waist so that you could dangle upside down...it might be nice to do it as something different in the classroom but as far as daily home practice, I'm not sure it would be for me....am I alone in this one?<br />
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The organised workshops made for a much more usual view. This gentleman was taking his class through a Japa (a repetitive and meditative chant) when I arrived and the sound was just magical, as was how infrequently he needed to inhale!<br />
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There were 2 workshops (up on the balcony), 6 open classes, such as the ones in my pictures, that every hour showcased different teachers and styles of yoga as well as a lecture area and a children's area. Whichever you choose, one posture you can expect to see a lot of at any yoga show is downward dog; the sanskrit is adho mukha svanasana to those in the know. This class used it as the core asana, given that it is considered a resting pose, so all movements started with it and came back to it.<br />
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Everywhere you turn there are people displaying their flexibility through asana work, in a hope to get you near and tell you about their retreats, classes, programs or clothing etc.<br />
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Despite being called The Yoga Show, it isn't purely 'yoga class' focused. There were also many brands there that fell into the all-round health and fitness field. I particularly liked these little boxes by <a href="http://www.savioursnacks.com/" target="_blank">Saviour</a>.<br />
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As a customer, you just choose the box size, then the frequency of the delivery and wait for Mondays to come around! The Nutritionist was a lovely lady who told me she approves that everything in the box meets the 'Saviour Snack Standard' ie no hydrogenated fats, artificial colours, preservatives etc. I know what you are thinking...isn't this what Graze does? I thought this at first too but then I looked at the sample menu card. Saviour uses individual brands like bounce, kallo or clearspring. Have you ever been in the 'healthy' isle of the supermarket, wondering what actually is good for you? Well this box can do the selecting for you and help you see through the mist of bad products with good advertising to what is actually going to help you on your healthy quest. The company only started out in February so they are still shaping to peoples requirements and are happy to talk about peoples needs and expectations from their product. I can assure you they seemed like a truly super bunch on the stall.<br />
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If you like your health goods then there is a veritable feast to enjoy; everything from raw chocolate to spirinula powder concoctions. I, however, was in need of refreshment.<br />
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A favourite brand of mine, <a href="http://www.yogiproducts.com/" target="_blank">Yogi Tea</a>, have a super stall near the entrance. Their Stomach Ease tea always works for me but I hadn't yet ventured into their whole range. Here you can sample all the flavours but I highly recommend their chilled cinnamon tea with apple juice, oh my was it tasty!<br />
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Moving on from food and drink to shinier things. I have always adored the brand <a href="http://www.satyajewelry.co.uk/" target="_blank">Satya</a> from afar. There is a shop in London but as a country bumpkin I have been an internet browser and hoped that the Yoga Show might mean that I could pick something up with a bit of a discount.<br />
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The jewellery is so beautiful. Alas, cheap, it is not. I do understand that quality comes at a price but I must admit it was the ladies working the stall that deterred me more than the sterling. After being told that samples were on the left and therefore half price I was pretty much left whilst they discussed handbags and marathons. I tried asking exactly what prices were, as most didn't have price tags (a huge bugbear of mine), and what stones were what, but either it was too loud or they were too busy so I skulked off slightly saddened that yet again these pretty trinkets alluded me. However all was not lost and joy came in the form of <a href="http://www.chakrama.com/" target="_blank">Chakra Ma</a>.<br />
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The selection of chakra inspired pieces was beautiful and prices were perfect for a little gift to a friend or something for yourself. That and the ladies were super duper friendly! Everything is 925 Sterling Silver or Gold Vermeil (925 coated in 22k gold). I couldn't make a final decision on a pair of earring so I thought I would walk and consider it. It is my one regret that I didn't make it back before I had to leave and I pray they are there again next year so I can rectify my mistake of not going with my first choice.<br />
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A walk around the Mind, Body and Soul section showed me that there really isn't anything you can't do at this place.<br />
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A nice massage where you pay what you feel is right at the end.<br />
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A 'spiritual haircut'...I wonder how exactly he differs from my hairdresser?<br />
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You could also indulge in having a psychic tell you your future, have your aura photographed, palms read or buy some healing herbs. Again, this isn't what I would choose to go for myself but I did enjoy a look around.<br />
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Back downstairs, in the main exhibit, I was tempted by some pretty vests and a subscription to the Om Magazine. Each issue is priced at £3.95 but I got a year for £24.95, plus the last two issues for £1 each, PLUS a bag of goodies. I will show my haul at the end. For now it was off to dinner with my little brother and back to Westfield (see, I knew I could make parking there work for me, you didn't think I was just going to go shopping some more did ya?)<br />
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I sat down outside with some reading material, spicy nachos and a cola - AKA the perfect Friday treat.<br />
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Finally the boy arrived and we moved inside to feast. The interior of Bills really is lovely and the back of the restaurant was all booths and chandeliers.<br />
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We had some pitta and crudites with dips (humous and tzatziki) to start. I thought it was brill but typical bloke comment was that there needed to be more bread.<br />
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C then chose the burger with bacon and cheese whilst I opted for one of the specials, tortellini with buttered spinach...well it was World Pasta Day (Yes, I will use any excuse)<br />
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By this point I may have taken quite a few piccies and my brother was like 'seriously Anni, let me tuck in. I'm hungry. Put the camera down and back away slowly'. So apologies that this is the only one of our dinner.<br />
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Nicely full it was time to carry out the elder sibling duties and make sure everyone got home safe. After dropping C off at his pad I made my way back, eagerly awaiting the unpacking of the goods.<br />
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These 3 vests came from Azul Yoga & Pilates retreat, where the lovely lady gave me a deal of £45 for the lot. I love the colours and they are so cosy that I am wearing one as I type.<br />
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This grey beauty was from <a href="http://www.beloveapparel.com/" target="_blank">Be Love</a>. They also had the softest looking cropped sweatshirts and other vest prints. It was £20.<br />
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Lastly my subscription goodie bag.<br />
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All of the above came in my £26.95 package. In addition to this we were able to choose 2 books from a lot of 4. Now as one was on smoking and another on detecting and increasing some spiritual aspect of my being that I had never heard of, I knew right away which 2 were for me. I also like a bit of Christian Jessen so it's all good.<br />
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Having been to several fashion and food oriented events around London and S/E in the past, I thought I knew what to expect, but the Olympia has never seemed larger or louder. It was a little saddening that it was such a commercial affair. Most things there were quite simply out of any price range I could consider. I just did not expect quite so many stalls with malas and leggings for over £100! (and may I just say at that price I demand that they not be see through, something I was promised but a quick try showed me it was not the case). If you asked 10 people their experience, I'm sure you would get 10 very different answers, but I cannot be the only one who thought it would be a little more...I want to say, about the passion. It may not be the best word for it. At the foodie festivals I have been to there just seems to be so much passion, with everyone wanting to share their experience with you (without a whopping great price tag), you can't help to be sucked in. Maybe it is due to a recession, or maybe I didn't plan my route around the centre well enough to hit the better stalls. Either way, I felt it dampened my experience.<br />
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Next time, and there will be a next time, I will ensure I have signed up to some of the guided meditations in advance, as one or two looked superb.<br />
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The Om Yoga Show will be at the Olympia Centre for another two days, 26th & 27th October. If anyone has gone today, or plans on going this weekend, and finds something so good they just can't keep it to themselves then please let me know.<br />
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OYS 2014, I will be ready for you!<br />
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<br />LoveOmLifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13826217701116672746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-465593056831958445.post-37378769772358379722013-10-21T20:38:00.000+01:002013-10-21T20:38:26.538+01:00A Fishy Tale<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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On Friday I achieved a new 'first'; I prepared my first fish dinner...from scratch! Yes, I do mean it came fully formed, fresh from the river, and I did all the rest myself.<br />
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Can you believe that I went to pick my puppy up from his stay with the trainer, only to be asked if I wanted to take one of his latest catches home with me. Talk about a bargain; 1 happy, tired pup and dinner sorted.<br />
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It must have been my lucky day as this little beauty is what was passed to me. A gleaming rainbow trout, my favourite!<br />
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Armed with a knife and a youtube clip of what to do, I got started. Not to fret though, there are no images of what came next. Suffice to say, it is not as messy as I expected but since I am trying to showcase a fishy dinner I felt that fishy inners may not be the best route to take. So onto the next step. De-boning and filling.<br />
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I took both of the fillets off the fish and removed the scales. Now I was in familiar territory.<br />
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Once I got to this stage I could get to the fun part and start thinking flavours. I opted for a rich and salty affair with artichoke hearts, rye bread and feta cheese (sorry any die hard italian chefs but this is one instance where I do like fish and cheese together). To those who don't feel I have broken a cardinal cookery sin, I have popped a recipe at the bottom of the post for this filling. Keep scrolling down to check it out.<br />
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With the first fillet skin side down I piled the filling on, then placed the other on top with some streaky bacon rashers, and it was into the oven for 20 mins. Easy peasey don't forget the lemon squeezy.<br />
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As the fish cooked there was just enough time to boil some new potatoes and green beans as well as a couple of rounds of 'thoult shall have a fishy on a little dishy' whilst I skipped around the kitchen. Once the time was up, this is what emerged from the oven...boy did it smell good!<br />
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Not a huge skin eater, I chose to serve it like this. But each to their own.</div>
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When I think of how much I love a good bit of fish, it shames me to say that I had not learnt this skill sooner. There is still room for improvement, as 3 bones were discovered when we tucked in, but I felt jolly proud of myself for my first attempt. <br />
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Thank you Mister Trout AND Mister Trainer!<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<u>Recipe for Filling</u></div>
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1 Jar of artichoke hearts in oil - drained and chopped</div>
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1 Slice of rye bread - chopped</div>
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60g Feta - crumbled</div>
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2tbsp Olive oil</div>
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Juice of 1/2 a lemon</div>
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Pinch of garlic salt</div>
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Black pepper - to your liking</div>
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+ Mix all ingredients together in a bowl until well combined. </div>
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+ That's it!</div>
<br />LoveOmLifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13826217701116672746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-465593056831958445.post-90738630077168246902013-10-17T14:09:00.000+01:002013-10-17T14:38:34.803+01:00Polpo, Smithfield<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE4EO6ZSMLvCzhsrin1gSVLNhVUdpUSmXxniQWXunOeU5Rl4OVTC-0ZotzP9Uxa-LJVl629HmUUxElpF9M1sCngqc44ZRUiU83rF0_kPIi08-A2-ZwCeN_uZ4mSzm11IgDDIH2BRTli9NN/s1600/IMG_1412.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE4EO6ZSMLvCzhsrin1gSVLNhVUdpUSmXxniQWXunOeU5Rl4OVTC-0ZotzP9Uxa-LJVl629HmUUxElpF9M1sCngqc44ZRUiU83rF0_kPIi08-A2-ZwCeN_uZ4mSzm11IgDDIH2BRTli9NN/s640/IMG_1412.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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I have already posted about my superb night of contemporary classical artists at Fabric <a href="http://loveomlife.blogspot.co.uk/2013/10/traces-of-you-for-now-i-am-winter.html" target="_blank">here</a>, but I got a tad carried away with myself and forgot to start my tale at the beginning; as Julie Andrews sang 'it's a very good place to start'.<br />
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On Wednesday night my partner in crime and I hopped off the train in Farringdon. We were early but eager for a night of excellent music, only to realise we had a severe rumble in our tums. Having heard brilliant things about the little Venetian eaterie, Polpo, I thought it seemed only right to nip in and see if it lived up to expectations. I can confirm it did not disappoint!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnfwJrjuabc6yVHNBBjhXgOk4SLT8aHl3mamZ9WvLfRyTtoDDL4uSe3iGueK6U6pAPjeTkQlPifPKgWJZF68qdhWzSEOXhbwdAwUhhVGz6y22AVQDrLHVI0QGj5En8QQl2AXkuWu38IqtQ/s1600/IMG_1417.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnfwJrjuabc6yVHNBBjhXgOk4SLT8aHl3mamZ9WvLfRyTtoDDL4uSe3iGueK6U6pAPjeTkQlPifPKgWJZF68qdhWzSEOXhbwdAwUhhVGz6y22AVQDrLHVI0QGj5En8QQl2AXkuWu38IqtQ/s640/IMG_1417.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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To start we shared the 'goats cheese, roast grape & honey bruschetta with pine nuts', the 'potato & parmesan crocchette' and the 'ricotta, squash & sage crostini', all washed down with a glass of Montepulciano. All were lovely but if I could only have one again it would, without a doubt, be the goats cheese bruschetta. Recommended by the waitress, it was so good that we gobbled it up too quickly and only the remnants can be seen in the picture...(sorry)<br />
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Not normally big meat eaters, we both were tempted by the 'sliced flank steak & portobello mushrooms' which came with some beautifully seasoned rocket. Not knowing about the greenery, we also opted for the 'cauliflower & fontina gratin' (as I am one of the biggest cauliflower cheese lovers known to man), 'market greens' and 'roast potatoes with rosemary'. The meat was lean, just the way I like it, so there was not a speck left on the plates once we were through with them...<br />
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Spying on the other tables showed me that the 'Fritto Misto' also looked worth noting.<br />
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A world full of savouries and no sweets would be a cruel one indeed. So to restore the balance of things we went for the 'affogato al caffe' and the 'tiramisu pot' with a pot of tea and cafe latte. The tiramisu was the most wonderful thing I have had out in a long time and any desert lover going must try it! Maybe it is because, being Italian, they use the best coffee, or maybe it was the glass of wine helping..., but our deserts really were full of flavour without sitting too heavy. Perfect in case the music took us to the dance floor later.<br />
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We were allowed to sit for just under 2 hours and the place was really getting busy when we left, but we were not rushed through any of our meal. Service was wonderfully cheery without being overpowering or pushy, the whole place (bathrooms too) was super clean and the total bill for the two of us came in at just under £70 before service charge. It isn't the sort of price I would pay daily but I think to have 3 courses, with wine and coffee, makes this pretty darn good for London. I would go out of my way to try this, or either of the other 2 Polpo sites, the next time I go into town. To clarify, I was at the Smithfield site and have not yet had an opportunity to pop into the Soho or Covent Garden restaurants (so long as they have the goats cheese bruschetta and the tiramisu, I will venture in).<br />
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I do love a good tapas style feast so if anyone has recommendations of their own, for London or the SE in general, then I would love to hear them!LoveOmLifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13826217701116672746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-465593056831958445.post-52118818680935857112013-10-17T11:45:00.003+01:002013-10-17T14:29:30.220+01:00Traces of You - For Now I Am Winter<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Last night I went out for one of the most memorable of evenings at Fabric...no, before you ask, I was not getting a Wednesday night fix of D&B. Instead, Fabric was playing host to a rather novel idea from the German Club Scene called <a href="http://www.yellowlounge.co.uk/" target="_blank">Yellow Lounge.</a><br />
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Yellow Lounge is about bringing classical music up to date and to the masses in contemporary settings (forget concert halls and think underground clubs with casual dress code). I believe the previous night they did in London was in the Old Vic Tunnels, Waterloo. Anywho, last night was classical sounds from Iceland and India in the form of Olafur Analds (Broadchurch soundtrack fame) and the amazing Anoushka Shankar, who is the reason I found the event and purchased my ticket.<br />
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If you have not heard of the 2 time Grammy nominated Anoushka, well, you are not alone. Everyone I mentioned my mid week outing to responded with a quizzical look that told me they had not been fully educated in the sounds and heritage of this magical artist. So let me have a crack at it; Anoushka's father was Ravi Shankar, one of the most world renown contemporary Indian musicians, who was well known for both his sitar skills and his friendship with George Harrison (yes, the Beatles one). Anoushka also has a well recognised half-sister on this paternal side, who has collaborated with her on several albums, Norah Jones. Anoushka's latest album, Traces of You, has 3 songs with her sister's vocals and the whole thing has been produced by london based British-Indian producer Nitin Sawhney (normally known for fusing Eastern influences with electronica).<br />
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The set was everything I expected and more. I apologise for the quality of some of the pictures but I was in a club full of people and couldn't always get my camera out, so had to use my phone. The crowd near me on the second floor were nice enough to let me wiggle through and get a couple of pictures of her in action nearer the end though.<br />
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There were about 5/6 other musicians accompanying her on stage but my favourite song was her encore. Just her and her brother came back out and it was a perfect way to end the night.<br />
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I could not finish this post without a special mention to Olafur Arnauds. I had only listened to one or two youtube videos before going and his set blew me away. Every single person in the room was silent whilst he performed and there is such a haunting beauty to his music that draws you in, then leaves you to roam in a dream world. I did not watch Broadchurch but there were enough people in the queue talking about his score for it, that I can gather his music had a powerful effect in the drama. I am so peeved with myself that I was not able to get a clear picture but it was just too busy. A sneak behind the tech guys enabled me to snap this one whilst he was talking to the audience. However, the rather big bouncer reminded me to move back just as I was clicking, resulting in the blur.<br />
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If he was playing in London again anytime soon I would not hesitate to buy tickets. To think that if he had not been on first, I may not have heard him. The song that stayed with me is Old Skin. The vocals by Arnor Dan on it are just perfect and I can't believe he was there to sing live too. Anytime I hear the track I shall be transported to that moment in time.<br />
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In all, a night out, that can't easily be repeated. For £10 a ticket...<br />
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I will be eagerly awaiting the next Yellow Lounge London event.<br />
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<br />LoveOmLifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13826217701116672746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-465593056831958445.post-84087691533803230272013-10-15T15:59:00.002+01:002013-10-15T16:03:52.676+01:00Chocolate Flapplejacks<br />
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<i>Cook at 180C/Gas 4 for 25-30mins Makes 12 bars or 24 squares</i><br />
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A little birdie told me that this week is not only Chocolate Week (Oct 14th-20th) but that we are also coming up to World Apple Day (Oct 21st). This got me thinking seasonally; a glance outside shows that all about us are apple trees ripe for the picking and I'm not known for my ability to say no to a bit of chocolate, so what could I concoct that would use both of these tasty treats. Now I had never made flapjacks before but I do love a sweet, gooey, oatey chunk of the stuff from time to time so I got recipe hunting.<br />
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There are many flapjack recipes out there, and I cast my eye over many of them, but I must say that this recipe is my own as I knew what ingredients I wanted to incorporate.<br />
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<u>UTENSILS</u><br />
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<ul>
<li>Scales</li>
<li>Saucepan</li>
<li>Deep baking tray/pan</li>
<li>Baking paper</li>
<li>Spoon</li>
<li>Knife</li>
<li>Peeler</li>
</ul>
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<u>INGREDIENTS</u><br />
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<ul>
<li>250g Butter</li>
<li>250g Light brown muscovado sugar</li>
<li>150g Golden syrup</li>
<li>2 Bramley apples, peeled and chopped small</li>
<li>1/2 tsp Cinnamon</li>
<li>1/2 tsp Vanilla extract</li>
<li>425g Porridge oats</li>
<li>Pinch of salt</li>
<li>100g Chocolate chips (I used semi-sweet Nestle Toll House; see alternatives below*)</li>
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* Nestle Toll House is an American brand that you can get over here in big department stores like Selfridges and Bentalls, or online from amazon. As I have an American Mother and a super dooper Auntie over in the States, I can always get my hands on some (but only if I am very very nice). If you want to pick something up locally to substitute then good quality plain or dark cooking chocolate, roughly cut up with a knife, can take the place of semi sweet chocolate chips.</div>
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<u>RECIPE</u></div>
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Turn oven on to preheat at 180C/Gas 4. Fan assisted ovens may wish to reduce to 170C.</div>
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Grease your pan, I use the butter wrapper to grease before I throw it away, then line with baking paper.</div>
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Place butter, sugar and syrup in a saucepan and put onto a low heat. </div>
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Stir to dissolve sugar and melt butter.</div>
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Add the chopped apple once you have a smooth liquid that smells wonderfully of caramel.</div>
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Add the vanilla and cinnamon to the mixture and keep on a low heat for about 5 minutes. </div>
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Take the pan off the heat and pop the oats and salt into the mix.</div>
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Stir until fully combined.</div>
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Pour the yummy, sticky contents of the saucepan into the greased and lined baking tray.</div>
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Sprinkle over the chocolate chips.</div>
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Pop into the oven for 25-30mins.</div>
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Take out once the top is turning golden.</div>
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Allow to cool before taking out of pan and cutting into 12 bars or 24 squares.</div>
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Of course all baking is best shared, so put some aside for someone special!</div>
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LoveOmLifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13826217701116672746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-465593056831958445.post-34172716926916906112013-10-13T22:07:00.001+01:002013-10-15T18:00:19.884+01:00Gatherings<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It doesn't get much better in life then being surrounded by friends, family, food and fizz. With the turning of the leaves comes the time of year to start getting everyone around for a hearty feed, so on Saturday that is just what we did. My parents invited long term family friends, B and R, over with a further 2 generations of their brood. Table set, we were good to go!<br />
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It felt particularly special as my little brother came home from Uni and I was there with my pup. It was a long awaited reunion for the two of them that involved many cuddles and mad shiba 500's.<br />
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We all know the best of gatherings include a table full of food (check), good company (check) and a rather good array of drinkies (oh boy do we have a check). We came over all seasonal and opted for some, rather alcoholic, cider or a good glug of Beaujolais to go with the joint of brown sugar and clove ham.<br />
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<span style="text-align: start;">The Henry Weston 2012 Vintage was a particular success!</span></div>
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Now it wasn't any entirely lush affair as we had two of the cutest little fellows at the table.<br />
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I can assure you it is just apple juice in these glasses!<br />
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They were very good for sitting at the table for as long as they did, so after a large portion of one of the best carrots cakes ever made, it was toy time.<br />
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I don't know who the bigger kids were, as "Scooby Doobie" was watched by one generation more than others.<br />
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It truly was a wonderful day that made me feel full of joy for the change of season; with the coming of Autumn comes the prep for Winter and many more reasons to feast!<br />
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<br />LoveOmLifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13826217701116672746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-465593056831958445.post-77036192773410447512013-10-11T17:18:00.000+01:002013-10-17T14:10:59.629+01:00Walkies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It has been a couple of days since I last posted anything as I have been tweeking away to try and get a super, working blog together, but in seeking aesthetic perfection I appear to have neglected the posts and my pup. So today I set out to tend to both. </div>
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Despite some rather unpleasant autumn weather I prepared for a morning outside. Thermals, scarf and waterproof on, and puppy harnessed up, we went on our way. We had just been invited to do a group walk on the beautiful National Trust Ashridge Estate by our trainer, Regan Skinner. At only 6 and a bit months, my little man was by far the youngest one but he didn't let his age or size deter him and got right into playing with the biggest dogs there. I swear in his mind he is the size of a Great Dane. This was the first time I let him loose out in the open (any other Shiba owners will know the perils of recall with this breed) and I was a little anxious so we kept the lead on but allowed him to walk freely. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieBxVHp7yL5y1pl4MUp-ALW-mpAtj01c-nacDgtzius01ySAgzfmqecg5aA2QmjSFsSkfM9NAm-m4qRkVWXDLe18x_i9cpnvVzFFAI1aU1kHYjcghFt5VedtHyaj3iYYo5IMig1tTl1VFp/s1600/IMG_1347.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieBxVHp7yL5y1pl4MUp-ALW-mpAtj01c-nacDgtzius01ySAgzfmqecg5aA2QmjSFsSkfM9NAm-m4qRkVWXDLe18x_i9cpnvVzFFAI1aU1kHYjcghFt5VedtHyaj3iYYo5IMig1tTl1VFp/s640/IMG_1347.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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I needn't have worried as Dana, the Trainers Carpathian Shepherd kept him in check and reined him back in by his lead when he started to wonder too far ahead...how did he teach her to do that?!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYmGORzK5McVdkBu_bdkjMYZQtk-DyH8JHuv81i_CPgK4TjFC9rEOFODWJ3IQYjQahX8iUWzP9dD9q4JlC4YpBpHYtwWbfKgaYCV7iX-4Zwwr2XpTFBVQlb5MnEJA54neO1VQxngzD9MWd/s1600/IMG_1364.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYmGORzK5McVdkBu_bdkjMYZQtk-DyH8JHuv81i_CPgK4TjFC9rEOFODWJ3IQYjQahX8iUWzP9dD9q4JlC4YpBpHYtwWbfKgaYCV7iX-4Zwwr2XpTFBVQlb5MnEJA54neO1VQxngzD9MWd/s640/IMG_1364.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Above is the man himself, Regan Skinner, Dog Trainer extraordinaire. I cannot recommend him highly enough and should anyone be on the lookout for classes then check out his site <a href="http://www.regansdogtraining.co.uk/" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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In all we spent just over an hour walking though the open, expansive fields and parkland on the estate. Even in the cold and pouring rain there is no denying the beauty of the place. What I found amazing is that we didn't even come close to covering half the grounds. Lets hope that when we go back next week we can explore a little further.<br />
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The best thing about having a dog, aside from having such a little cutie to cuddle, is reconnecting with the great outdoors and getting moving. Lets face it, when the summer is over most of us find little reason to get out and about, unless we have a pet. When I was first diagnosed with M.E. I had such great trouble walking but with my best friend at my heels I have been building up my strength and using my limbs again. By lunchtime today my pedometer told me I had walked nearly 7000 steps, my lungs had been filled with the freshest of air and I feel totally deserving of my glass of wine tonight.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuUFFQjEDAhiON0YHpG9eMMF33ryHK96hyphenhyphen8l8VKe86cC-6NYWBeSvRJOVOaAwmaEkDOBcKkntQB5pALFBwZdc45ovuJCUttINI5Wr0e3BEicjhE0Qo1d_TPxSHbguvotNe1RZxf4jksvD8/s1600/IMG_1393.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuUFFQjEDAhiON0YHpG9eMMF33ryHK96hyphenhyphen8l8VKe86cC-6NYWBeSvRJOVOaAwmaEkDOBcKkntQB5pALFBwZdc45ovuJCUttINI5Wr0e3BEicjhE0Qo1d_TPxSHbguvotNe1RZxf4jksvD8/s640/IMG_1393.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I know I will sleep soundly later, and as for my pup, well he didn't last long once we got back in. Snuggled up on my bed, hidden with a pillow over his head, he was more than a little perturbed that I wanted one final picture...maybe, just maybe, he will stay too tired for any cheeky shenanigans tonight...</div>
<br />LoveOmLifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13826217701116672746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-465593056831958445.post-2159280607919440202013-10-07T17:37:00.002+01:002013-10-13T20:38:31.445+01:00Start a blog, they say...it's easy...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_jCw4rF5HVRoLR1OjZw1aTsMR5q4A7rrun-a_r9CUx_Iz0GqGKMSRlXBC3SHkoSvs20fr2yCndhFNSW4A5zJeb6sVLQi9GvJI_LarBW-XvtCgEgQxxBd-wKsI57MGJL8T9icW3SgMf914/s1600/IMG_0165.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_jCw4rF5HVRoLR1OjZw1aTsMR5q4A7rrun-a_r9CUx_Iz0GqGKMSRlXBC3SHkoSvs20fr2yCndhFNSW4A5zJeb6sVLQi9GvJI_LarBW-XvtCgEgQxxBd-wKsI57MGJL8T9icW3SgMf914/s640/IMG_0165.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Mentally I am now in a place of calm; waves are lapping on sand and the air is sweet...of course I am actually surrounded by a chilly, grey autumn day but this is not important. After spending what feels like an eternity reading and rejigging HTML text, only to wonder why nothing I wanted to change has altered and that bit I really liked has disappeared altogether, it is this mental tranquility that I am happy to achieve.<br />
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The blog still has quite a way to come but I am now confident that I will get there.<br />
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I look forward to getting to know any of you along the way!LoveOmLifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13826217701116672746noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-465593056831958445.post-14007294145851468802013-10-07T09:54:00.000+01:002013-10-08T23:32:12.155+01:00And So It Begins<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Laugh loud;</div>
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Dream big;</div>
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Love wholly &</div>
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Breathe deep.</div>
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By pursuing your passions you never know whose life you may change for the better.<br />
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- From one small pebble comes many waves -LoveOmLifehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13826217701116672746noreply@blogger.com0