trying for sighs: bucket list

Showing posts with label bucket list. Show all posts

Sunday, 8 January 2017

make the most of january

As promised in my last post, here is my bucket list for January. January is always a busy month in our house with friends birthdays, lovely hubby's birthday and family parties. There never seems to be enough hours in the day!

Here are my goals for the month:

Dry January
Well, here we are once more celebrating the start of a new year. It always takes me a few weeks to remember that we're not still in the previous year. I'll be writing 2016 for a while to come. Is that just me!

My first goal for this month is to complete Dry January. I was really pleased with myself last year as I completed the whole month. It was a struggle at times; especially on Steve's birthday when it would have been nice to have clinked a glass. The nice waiter who served us at Steve's birthday meal, made us a rather yummy mocktail which was a good substitute but this year we've decided to have a glass of bubbles to celebrate. So in a way, I'll be cheating but only for one evening. Surely, that's okay!

Make gin
One of the Christmas gifts we unwrapped from one of my daughters was a fabulous gin making kit. She knows us well. Before you think the temptation will be too much for me lol, I'll be making it towards the end of the month and giving it time to mature. The kit has everything in it you need apart from a bottle of vodka which we already had.
I have made damson gin in the past which was delicious so I'm looking forward to trying this.

Weekend trip
We always try to have a little getaway around Steve's birthday, it's become a tradition even though it's a chilly month. With thermals, long johns and woollens we'll be fine. Normally, we head into beautiful Yorkshire to Saltaire which has our heart. It's a lovely place all year round to visit. But this year we are having a change and heading to Runswick Bay which is on the Yorkshire coast above Whitby. A brisk walk on the beach to blow the cobwebs off will be perfect. Note to self; waterproofs and walking boots needed. I can't envisage using an umbrella on a wet, windy beach somehow if the weather isn't great.

We have been known to sit on a beach in gale force wind with a picnic, wrapped in a blanket which amused a lot of people walking their dogs. But we were determined to stick it out as we'd travelled two hours to get there. How stoical were we!

See a movie at the cinema
This is something I'm really excited about! I've been counting the days down until 'La La Land' comes to town. Anyone that knows me knows how much I love Ryan Gosling. My daughter bought me a fab Christmas gift of a Ryan Gosling colouring book which I adore. I'm so looking forward to hours of colouring his cute face in! In fact, my daughters said they nearly got me a life size cardboard cut out of him but changed their minds. I said I would love it for a Christmas present this year.

Read a new book
I'm trying to get back into a habit of reading a chapter a night of a book, as it helps me relax and I'm sure it helps me nod off to sleep. (It's the waking back up I have a problem with). I usually read something light hearted; either true stories of people that have upped sticks to live in another country or good old romantic chick lit.

I fancy a bit of a change but as much as I like sci fi and fantasy films, I'm not a big reader of them. I love watching all the Harry Potter films but I've never got to the end of one of the books. Should I say that out loud? Have you read any good books lately? I'd love to hear your ideas.

Have a great week ahead lovelies.

Monday, 1 February 2016

make the most of february

February! I'm being very optimistic about the weather for this month! More snow and sunny, frosty mornings with less rain and wind. So many umbrellas have been blown to pieces and my hair has been permanently frizzy so please Mr Weatherman, bring us some good news.

I got on with my January bucket list quite well. I'm still working on my e-book as I keep finding more and more information I want to put into it. If I'm not careful it will end up as an encyclopedia! It will definitely take me longer than I thought it would.

I'm now four weeks into my New Year health kick. It's going well to say we've been out for meals with friends and it's also been Steve's birthday, although, I did have a piece of birthday cake! How could I not?

I am now a proud wearer of a FitBit which is helping to keep me on the straight and narrow. I'm actually quite addicted to it. I love how it keeps account of how many steps I do, how many calories I have eaten and how much sleep I've had. I'm only averaging four hours a night so I need to find ways to get my sleep pattern in order. Steve now calls himself a FitBit widower!

I'm slowly building up my capsule wardrobe. I have my trench coat which has become like a second skin and goes with practically everything which is what I wanted. I found some real bargains in the sale too; a couple of white shirts from Topshop and a man's shirt from Zara. My daughter bought me a gorgeous pair of brogues for Christmas which will look great with capris, jeans and dresses. I'm now on the lookout for a black blazer, black jeans and a satchel. Wish me luck!

I'm thrilled to say Steve and I have completed Dry January; a whole thirty one days without a drink. The only time I felt like I wanted a drink was on Steve's birthday while we were sat in a restaurant. But the lovely waiter made me a delicious mocktail, which kinda made up for it. The plan is to be mainly alcohol free during the week (let's see how that goes).

We had a lovely spa break by the sea during the month for Steve's birthday which was just what the doctor ordered. We have both been suffering with sinusitis so it was lovely to just relax and enjoy all the facilities. I surprised Steve with a massage and we spent the rest of the day in the pool, hot tub, steam room and sauna. We enjoyed a meal in the hotel restaurant in the evening and the most amazing breakfast in our room the next day. Pictures to follow in another post.

So now onto my goals for February:

Business cards

At times, when I have been taking photos, people have asked me what I'm doing. I normally just say I write a blog and take Instagram photos. Passing a card to people saying what I do will allow people to have a look at the blog if they are interested. It will also be handy if I see funkily dressed people in the street that I would like to take photos of for the blog. Although, I haven't been brave enough to do this yet!

Turn off Netflix and read

I'm a latecomer to Netflix and I have to say I love it. There is always something to watch. It's so easy to come in from work and collapse on the sofa for the evening with a dose of catch up series. However, I think it will be nice for a few evenings a week to switch off the television, listen to music and read some of the many lovely books we have had for Christmas.

Visit the theatre

If someone were to ask me about my top five favourite things to do, musical theatre would definitely be up there. I like nothing more than singing along to my favourite musical songs (sad, I know) and losing myself for a couple of hours. There is one musical, however, that I never thought I would get to see; Hairspray. I adore the film, listen to the songs on my way to work and of course, Zach Effron is a guilty pleasure.

Well, my dream has come true! My lovely daughter surprised me on Christmas Day with third row from the front tickets. I can hardly contain myself and I am counting the days down until we go. Thirteen to be precise! One ticked off the bucket list.

Buy a salt lamp

I've been reading about the health benefits of having a Himalayan salt lamp. Both myself and Steve suffer from constant colds which always turn into sinusitis, so I am on the look out for anything that might help.

Salt lamps are known to improve the quality of air, reduce allergies and asthma, increase energy levels and help with sleep. I'll let you know how it goes.

Put together a pamper box

You know those days when you come in from work and feel exhausted and stressed! Well, I've had an idea of putting a pamper box together for those kind of days. I'm going to fill it up with all kinds of goodies, maybe a dvd, some music, chocolate and some relaxing bath bubbles.

They are also a great Christmas, Birthday or Mother's Day present.

Do you have any goals for February?

Have a great week lovelies.

Monday, 4 January 2016

make the most of january

New Year, new beginnings. How are you settling into the new year so far? Have you made any resolutions? This year, instead of New Year resolutions, I am going to have a bucket list every month, as I have done previously. I have given myself reachable targets as I was finding that ten a month was quite a lot. I'll let you know how it goes!

Finish e-book

I am in the process of writing an e-book about how to get married in New York at City Hall. I'd been playing around with the idea since we came back. It will be full of info that we found invaluable while we were there.

Eat Clean

As much as I love Christmas and all the eating and drinking that goes with it, my body is crying out for some clean eating. I'm not going on the scales for at least a month, then maybe I might just be back at the weight I was before Christmas! Well, there's always hope! Our impending summer holiday is a huge motivator.

I'm loving these new little Fitbit gadgets that you wear on your wrist. I hear they motivate you to get more active and right now that is just what I need!

If anyone sees me walking into any fast food chains, please barricade the door! I will thank you for it later.

Capsule Wardrobe

I have been known to go to the sales and buy anything that looks like a bargain, which means I end up with bits and pieces that don't work together. Convincing myself that it's a good buy because 'it's pretty, I haven't got a pair of gloves in bright green, I'm sure that skirt will be great for summer'. Guess what; the said pieces stay in my wardrobe until I have a sort out and take a visit to the charity shop.

I tend to talk myself into holding onto these pieces 'just in case' or 'I might wear that this week'. Recently, I had a clear out and begrudgingly put things aside for the charity shop. I was sure I would miss these items but I have to say honestly I haven't.

Personally, I think the French have it sussed. They rely on quality key pieces and elegance rather than keeping up with the latest fashions. This results in clothes that last longer, less time figuring out what to wear and more money in your purse.

I love the basic, simple style of Charlotte Gainsbourg, Jane Birkin, Kate Moss and Audrey Hepburn; Simple t-shirts with jeans, capri pants with a striped Breton top, mens shirts, ballet flats, a classic trench coat, a little black dress, a blazer, a cashmere sweater, a leather jacket and simple accessories. A 'made in Paris' look.

I've been drooling over a Burberry trench coat for a long time now but, as you can imagine, my purse strings don't stretch that far. So I have been on the hunt for something very similar and low and behold I have found it. Zara have done it again; this shop really is coat heaven! I have found the exact trench I wanted! My first French styled capsule wardrobe piece.

Dry January

Now this is going to be quite a challenge for me as I do tend to like a drink or two! I am prone to a glass of wine or two in the evening and a couple of cocktails at the weekend. Awwwww, just writing this I can feel the bubbles of Prosecco in my mouth! But no, I can do this! Steve and I have decided to do it together so that when one of us tries to reach for the wine bottle, we can place a bottle of sparkling water in the hand instead.

I'm hoping to see an improvement in my sleep pattern, a boost in energy and some weight loss. I will be so proud of myself if I can do it, especially as we have a few nights with friends arranged and it's also Steve's birthday at the end of the month.

I can and I will! Good luck to all you lovelies taking part too.

Spa Break

I can feel the tension falling from my shoulders just thinking about a visit to a spa. Is there anything better for relaxation than a massage, a soak in a hot tub or a skin treatment? I often think massages should be available on the NHS!

I have only had the pleasure of a spa day once. It was a lovely gift from my daughter and boy was it good. I came out feeling like I was floating on air. Well, I've been thinking what I can get Steve for his upcoming birthday and the spa break pinged into my mind. I'm still looking for ideas on where to go so if you know anywhere good, I'd love to hear from you.

Do you have any goals for January?

Have a great week lovelies.

Sunday, 31 May 2015

make the most of june - bucket list

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June just happens to be my favourite month of the year as it is my birthday month so I am very pleased to see it arrive. I am still a child at heart when it comes to birthdays. Over excited is probably the best way to describe my behaviour on the day.

I love to celebrate with family and friends with delicious cupcakes from my favourite bakery. Weather permitting we will be visiting 'my happy place by the sea' so I can feel the sand between my toes.

As it's tennis season, I will be digging the tennis rackets out for a few games. Steve and I actually get quite competitive with each other. It must be quite funny to watch, there's me throwing tantrums if Steve says the ball is out and him running round the court at top speed trying to reach every ball I hit.

I gradually keep buying bits for our wedding and this month I am determined to find my perfect pair of shoes for the day. Unfortunately I have quite big feet so I expect this will be a challenge, as I struggle to find heeled shoes to fit. My toes always end up poking out at the end and as you can imagine that is not a good look!

What plans do you have for June?

It's hard to believe that we are nearly half way through the year already. I am looking back thinking, 'Where has the time gone and what have I got to show for it?'

So, I thought, 'Hey girl.... do something you would never think of doing, like going on that roller coaster or water slide you were always scared to go on. This summer, act crazy and don't care what anyone thinks; live each day like it's your last because, before you know it, it will be over. Make this summer the best and live it without regrets'.

So, I have set myself a challenge to find 90 fun things to do this summer and post about each one. As I work full time, each fun thing won't always be posted on the day I do it, but I aim to do all 90 this summer. Look out for my first post tomorrow.

Feel free to join in with me on Instagram #90daysofsummer2015.

Monday, 4 May 2015

make the most of may - bucket list

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Hi there lovelies! I hope you have all enjoyed the weekend. It's so lovely to have a three day holiday; a real treat. I can't believe it's May already! Aren't the months just flying by!

This month I'm planning to get a little fitter and step up my exercise routine. Lighter evenings and warmer weather do make this easier! I hear green tea increases fat burning and boosts the metabolic rate so I'm planning on drinking a lot more!

I'm also looking forward to going to see 'Far From The Madding Crowd.' Have you seen it yet? I would love to know if you enjoyed it. I loved reading the novel and watching the original film. I really hope it lives up to expectations.

Have you any plans for May?

Monday, 6 April 2015

make the most of april - bucket list

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Hi there lovelies! I hope you all enjoyed a lovely Easter weekend. Spring marks for me a time of plans and projects. The lighter nights, warmer weather and the promise of things to come always make me feel more optimistic.

This month my plans are to spring clean the house and tidy the garden which I think may take me a while! Doesn't it feel great to throw open the windows and let fresh air circulate! Getting in the garden for some vitamin D, smelling the aroma of freshly, cut grass and growing herbs are all things I'm really looking forward to. I just hope the weather gets better!

What plans do you have for April? I'd love to hear them.

Have a great week.

Monday, 29 September 2014

make the most of october - bucket list

I love the start of autumn! The cooler weather, snuggly clothes and the changing colours of nature reminds me that we are coming to the end of another year. Autumn always makes me want to curl up in front of the wood burner with a good book and a glass of red, eat roast chestnuts and sit by fairy lights.

What do you love about Autumn?

Friday, 5 September 2014

make the most of september - bucket list

Hi lovelies! The month of September always marks a fresh start to me as the summer holidays have come to an end and the new school term has begun. As much as I love summer, there is lots I love about Autumn and it definitely feels autumnal now. Let the coat shopping begin!

It has been an incredibly busy six weeks for us. We managed to have a week away and have a couple of other trips (photos to follow) but for four weeks I have had a paintbrush in my hand. We now have the front room and dining room decorated and the hall, landing and stairs painted. Just the rest of the house to go!

Picnics are my thing right now! I really enjoy packing up and having them in different locations. At the beginning of the week I was eating a picnic on a cliff side and on Wednesday it was a beach. I'm planning to keep them going through the colder months. You can follow along with me on my picnic adventures over on Instagram.

What goodies have you got planned for September?

Have a wonderful weekend!

Monday, 4 August 2014

make the most of august - bucket list

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Hello lovelies! The month of August is here at last. I love summer with its sunny days, long evenings, outdoor eating and beach fun. I am feeling fully refreshed and raring to go after our holiday away in Dorset last week. We were blessed with good weather which made it even better! Being surrounded by constant beauty has been so uplifting. I read two of my books from my summer reading list which I really enjoyed too.

As I am off work until September I have so many things planned for this month. I am also looking forward to not setting the alarm for a few weeks and just taking time to enjoy the little things!

I ticked off most activities that I planned to do in July apart from the breakfast date which I will do this month at some point. Maybe an eggs benedict!

I'd love to hear what goodies you have planned for this lovely month.

Have a great week lovelies.

Monday, 30 June 2014

make the most of july - bucket list

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It's my monthly bucket list post again already lovelies! This month has flown by in a flash. It doesn't seem two minutes since we went away for my birthday. We were blessed with lovely weather as my bright, red nose the next few days testified. There was many a guffaw at work!!

I'm feeling quite summery right now as you can see from my list. My fingers are crossed for good weather so I can do all the things I have planned and get outside as much as possible. One of my jobs over the weekend was to get the barbecue out and give it a clean. We haven't used it yet this year but I am determined to have one on the next sunniest weekend.

My favourite summer go to drink has to be Pimms amd lemonade. I can't wait until we break up for the school holidays so I can sit and relax in the garden with one or two. Maybe some ice-cream too!

Weather permitting we are going to a free music festival at the weekend in Coventry. We have been once before and saw some amazing bands. There is so much happening; music stages, comedy tents, a fairground and lots of entertainment for all ages. It should be a good laugh.

Over the next few weeks, I am going to put together a reading list for my holiday. Have you got any ideas for a good summer read?

Enjoy your week lovelies.

Monday, 2 June 2014

make the most of june - bucket list

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Hi there! Well, you won't believe the bad luck we have had lately. Within two days, we had our main computer, my laptop and my DSLR camera break down. I was just getting into a role again after a blogging break and this happens. To say I was upset was an understatement! I did shed a tear or two! But, fingers crossed, we have them fixed and good to go, so onward and upwards!

I'm looking forward to this bucket list as particularly it's my birthday month. I'm not excited at all of course! It falls on a weekend so we are hoping to grab a night away somewhere. Country, city, coast......I've not quite decided yet. It will just be nice to get a change of scenery.

Last year, Steve surprised me with some beautiful cupcakes from a lovely shop called Fancie. Mouthwatering and delicious! I have to get some more.

As life has been a little tough during the past few months, we have let our date nights slip. Yet, the tough times are always when you should make more of an effort. So we are going to make sure once a week we do something for us and forget our worries for that one evening.

Have you any ideas for date nights that wouldn't break the bank? I'd love to hear them.

Have you any plans for June?

I hope you are all keeping well and have a great week. I'm back to work today after a week long holiday. Back to setting the alarm!

Friday, 4 April 2014

hi! i'm back with my april bucket list

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It has gone so quick, but I am back from a two month blogging break. I've had some lovely messages asking where I have been and how I am, so thank you all for those kind thoughts.

Life has been a bit tough recently, which has made it difficult to think about and enjoy creating blog posts. All my energies have been focused on getting by with the loss of the main wage in the house, and all the upset surrounding it. However, I know so many people have to cope with so much more, including some lovely friends.

A few weeks ago, I restarted my photo-a-day project, which some of you will have seen on Facebook, Instagram and 365Project.

I thought the best way to get positive again was to create a bucket list and make sure I do everything on it this time. The challenge now is to do it, enjoy it but not to break the bank (all money-saving tips greatly appreciated).

The Easter break from school is coming up and that is a chance to get some jobs done. This year I want to plant enough herbs and salad leaves to keep me going over the summer. There is no substitute for fresh loveliness. I also need to get busy with a paint brush. It's great having two wood burners keeping me warm all winter, but they don't do much for the cream decor. I would love to hear about your plans for this month.

I have missed you all and it feels good to be back. Thank you so much for sticking by me.

Have a lovely weekend.

Friday, 31 January 2014

make the most of february - bucket list

(Click on the image for a printable)

January seems to have passed me by in a flash! Unfortunately there has not been much fun stuff for us over the past month. I was ill in bed for the first week of the month and I still don't feel fully recovered! But I don't think this miserable weather helps! Steve has also been ill so if it wasn't one of us it was the other!

Onwards and upwards, though! A new month and a new bucket list! I'm secretly hoping for a snow day too! I'm looking forward to Valentines Day of course, although we are still not sure what we are going to do yet in the evening; maybe a meal out or cooking at home with a film. I have decided to have a bit of fun this year. We are going to challenge ourselves by buying a gift for no more than five pounds. Do I go down the novelty fun route or go for trying to find the great bargain of all time? Wish me luck!

Have you seen Before Sunrise and Before Sunset? We saw Before Sunset when I booked a surprise Valentine's Day surprise meal and viewing at the lovely Showroom arthouse cinema. It was such a feelgood film, set in Paris, and played out in real time. We were hooked on the story and caught up with the first film, where they meet on a train bound for Vienna. I look forward to seeing the final film, Before Midnight. You really should check them out, if you haven't done so already. If you do, let me know what you think.

Have a lovely weekend. We might be needing a canoe to get out if this rain doesn't stop! As the weather is terrible, I think we will find a new gallery this weekend and hope it's got a good coffee shop.

Have you any fun plans for this month?

Friday, 3 January 2014

make the most of january - bucket list

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January!!!! Is it me or does every year seem to go a little faster? It makes me realise how important it is to make the most of every day. I am so glad I started writing a bucket list as it reminds me to keep doing the fun stuff as it is so easy to forget when you are busy with the everyday.

Having a winter picnic passed us by last month as the weather has just not been good enough. I long for cold, crisp sunny days so we can wrap up, pack up our thermos and head out. Those are the kind of days I love.

I really want to make a start of restyling my kitchen. The New Year always signifies freshness and my little kitchen needs some love and attention. A few licks of paint on my walls and kitchen cupboards and it will look altogether new.

Have you any plans or resolutions for January?

Have a lovely day and enjoy your weekend. We have plans for a date night tomorrow and a walk on Sunday. Weather permitting, of course!

Monday, 2 December 2013

make the most of december - bucket list

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It feels good to be up and running again after being ill for quite a while. That is why I have been quiet lately, I have been stuck in bed feeling very yucky! I've missed you all and hope to catch up with you and your lovely blogs very soon.

It's time for the countdown to the big day! Who is like me and enjoys having an Advent calendar? I'm like a big kid and get so excited opening the window each day! I love this time of year, pretty lights, present wrapping, cheesy Christmas music, Christmas meals and yummy delights to eat!

As you can see, my bucket list is looking very Christmassy! I'm really looking forward to all the plans I have for this month. On my November bucket list I had planned to go away for the weekend but we had car trouble so didn't end up going. But we are making up for it and going away this month for a couple of days instead, which I'm really looking forward to.

What plans do you have for the festive season?

Monday, 28 October 2013

make the most of november - bucket list

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Autumn has definitely kicked in! Darker nights, rain and chilly days. I am starting to look for a winter coat and lipstick to match, before it gets really cold! Scarf and gloves time is upon us!

Here is my bucket list for November with lots of exciting things on it to do. I just hope the weather doesn't stop us doing them. We were planning to go to a Halloween festival yesterday but the rain made it impossible!

We are off on a trip to lovely Dorset next month. It's a lovely place for walks along the beach and relaxing. I'm really looking forward to it!

Have you any plans for November?

Wednesday, 16 October 2013

an adventure in a new town

A couple of weeks ago, as part of my September bucket list, we visited a little market town called Newark. I have passed through it very briefly and thought how nice it looked so we decided to explore and see what we could find. What has happened to the lovely weather we were having?

There is the remains of a castle built here in 1123 which stands proudly overlooking the river Trent. It was so peaceful and calm inside the castle walls. People were sitting on the grass and benches sunbathing, reading and relaxing. I could easily have stayed here for the day just soaking up the tranquil atmosphere.

This was one of the first buildings we saw as we walked into the town.

The church is very prominent and dates back to the 11th or 12th century. I didn't realise how much history this little town has; it played a big part in the English Civil War. I loved all the cute shops and houses, just my thing! Can you see the lovely black and white buildings in the top left of the photo? This is where we sat and had a yummy lunch.

How sweet and quaint is this old public house. We had to stop for a pit stop!

A view of the lovely cobble stoned market square.

This is one of the oldest buildings in Newark. It was formally an inn and it has managed to keep all its charm.

We were really lucky to come across this beautiful wedding that had just taken place. The men all looked very handsome in their kilts and the bride looked gorgeous. I got a bit emotional as I was thinking soon it will be us. It made me feel excited about the good times to come!

No, there was nothing to see at the bottom of the steps! Just a locked door.

Doesn't it look a lovely place to have a picnic and relax?

There is a walk beside the river with a pub and a cosy, little tea shop. If we hadn't just eaten we would have stopped for afternoon tea. I will save that for next time!

I'm so glad we came here for the day but it does need to be sunny to get the most out of it. I can't wait to come back again with a picnic and a book and just relax by the river. A lovely way to spend a day.

What I wore
H&M boyfriend jeans - wardrobe
H&M white t-shirt - wardrobe
Primark striped top
Zara scarf - wardrobe
Primark canvas shoes - wardrobe
Tesco satchel - wardrobe
Primark sunnies- wardrobe

Happy Book