Monday 31 March 2014

The Written Word National Handwriting Week Giveaway

I have always be a lover of the written word , the eloquence and love, passion , sadness and every other human emotion can be conveyed in this way. The other year my teenage son penned one of their letters to your Sixteen year old self in a retopsoective fashion . When you write others can see a maturity in your words that they never thought was there.

Written words brought my Grandad to me when he couldn't come to my wedding due to illness and that added even more sparkle to my wedding day even though my Grandad wasn't there. He had even asked for a written invitation even though he knew he wasn't coming just so he could show everyone about the wedding .



Spoken words  matter.

Written words even more so.

So as it is National Handwriting week I have a giveaway.

The giveaway will end on the 6 th April 2014




As part of its celebration of all things stationery, National Stationery Week is giving one lucky winner the chance to win a bumper stationery hamper worth £50! National Stationery Week takes place from 31 March – 6 April and is dedicated to encouraging Britain to pick up its pens. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Saturday 29 March 2014

Corners of my home



A corner of my home now what can I say as I'm ecleptic in life than this shines through in my home styling . As a child I adored Bagpuss I wanted the cat, I wanted to be Emily I  also fall in love with  unusual I can see and sense a story that others might not understand.

I 'm a collector and my eye can spot carnival glass for  example a mile off , I don't stick to a particular theme I just rotate what I have . The other day as I wandered into the village charity shop I happened upon some Rolls Royce bulletins.









A Doulton plate , a Doulton figure , a Tiffany plate , a a Teddy bear cricketer , a Chinese  trinket from Paris , carnival glass .


And a cucumber dish that my Nan had.

Thursday 27 March 2014

Easy Lemon Drizzle Cake

A Visit to T Maxxamus ( TK MAXX )as I call it can leave you light of pocket because of the temptation that is thrown your way , some folk liken it to a up market jumble sale with style but if you know what you are looking for or have a theme in mind then it becomes easier.

Lemon drizzle cake

Everyone loves cakes (and I believe home cooked tastes so much better , heavily intact ) when I get bored I bake so why don'y you bake this  this light and tangy loaf? It is quick, easy and sure to please everyone



Servings: 8-10 depending on what tins you use.
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour

Cake

  • 175g (6 oz) self-raising flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 175g (6 oz) butter or magarine (softened)
  • 175g (6 oz) caster sugar
  • 3 medium eggs
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • Finely grated rind of 2 lemons

Lemon syrup

  • Juice of 2 lemons, strained
  • 115g (4 oz) caster sugar

Method

  • Sift the flour and baking powder into a large mixing bowl, add the eggs, butter or spread, milk and whisk for 1 minute with an electric whisk or  2 minutes by hand.

  • You can either the mixture into a greased and base-lined 1 kg (2 lb) loaf tin or as I did split into 4 mini bunt tin spooning the remaining mixture into 4 muffin cases, I again use lakeland cake release and this does the trick 99 .99 % of the time.

  • Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C, 350°F, Gas 4 for 1 hour if cooking in a 2lb loaf tin  or if using 4 mini bundt tins then cook for around 30-5 minutes.


  • Turn out on to a wire tray.

  • Put the lemon juice and sugar in a saucepan and heat gently until the sugar has dissolved.

  • While cake is warm, drizzle the syrup over so that it soaks into the cake.

  • Slice and serve warm.





I bought the 4 mini bundt tins from TK MAXX myself and wasn't directed to write this post I was driven by boredom and cake. Cake makes the world go around. * fact.

Wednesday 26 March 2014

To The Manor Born


"Younger than Springtime am I " is what I feel like singing glorious weather warms the heart,mind and soul and recharges us from the darkness of winter.
















If you know me well enough by now you 'll know I am penchant to wandering about either in the countryside or around my village heart . This week has seen me wander 5 minutes from my place of work to a mystery manor it is on the side of a much older manor and is Victorian and was very grand in it's day. I am hoping when the owner finally answers the door to actually wander round the gardens but it is ramshackle now but there is a elegant beauty about the place.







The Veranda  of The Manor house 

Moss covered now but once was stunning I am sure, it is still beguiling.

This cottage is just called simply "The Cottage"



The lane I walk to work.

Monday 24 March 2014

Bahlsen PiCK UP! Biscuit Giveaway The Ninja Edition !

Now Ninja cats can't eat biscuits let alone advertise them , Rollie is sulking over this some what as he thought he could be the only Ninja in the pet world! But he is gracious in his defeat and not advertising the biscuits but that Chihuahua better  look over his shoulder !








Now you'll have all have seen the hilarious Ninja Chihuahua advert ! I love the biscuits myself for elevenses or when I get home and want to relax , rest and unwind from a busy day at school. If I took these into the staff room I wouldn't get a look in as biscuits move quicker than the speed of light.


Bahlsen describe PiCK UP! as a mouth-watering slab of thick milk chocolate sandwiched between two crisp biscuits. They are individually wrapped, locking in the freshness and perfect for when you're on the go.


Well, you can find out by entering this Ninja Biscuit Giveaway here on  Ninjakillercat Bahlsen have case of PiCK UP biscuits to giveaway –a case contains 14 packets = 70 biscuits . Enter below by the Rafflecopter magic below before midnight next Monday (31 March) to be in with a chance of winning this great, delicious prize!



a Rafflecopter giveaway




Disclosure I am going to get some biscuits not 70 could be 14 i.e. a packet  . * not sharing *


Uk only I don't think they will post biscuits to Botswana sorry!


Sunday 23 March 2014

The Eleventh Hour








These are taken at the National Aboretum Memorial near Burton upon Trent where the various armed forces are remembered with a reverent silence .

I couldn't do as I normally would tweet or Instagram as I go .

Respect.

Is called.

For.

When you see name upon name reaching out to you.

Words upon wreaths .

"Remembered and not forgotten"

There is space upon the walls for names to be carved if only it would stop but it won't sadly , we need to honour those who serve in the name of peace.

I remember .

Will you .

Thursday 20 March 2014

Getting A Child To Write A Pleasure Not a Chore

Getting children to write should not be a battle after all they discover the world through play and if writing becomes a battle to them , then it can step up many battles for years to come. Children want to uncover the mysteries of the world we and and such we need to encourage them through active play . It doesn't have to cost money you can use what you have after all everyone has a teddy called Teddy.

My Teddy is called "Teddy"

Everyone loves a teddies bear picnic I don't know a child on earth that doesn't love the jolliness of a tea party . If you have a reluctant the presentation of a blank invite might spark a modicum of protest but if you gently build up to the actual writing of an invite then it will be less of a shock. This can start with the the planning of the sandwiches , which flavour jelly and then obviously a choice of outfit. So if you follow the simple steps below then it could help your child on the road to the start of a beautiful friendship with written word.


1. Build up to the event by describing what is going to happen .

2. Read books about teddy bear picnics.

3. Plan the menu.

4. Find some lined paper or any paper will do and draw a teddy bear shape onto the paper, you can ask the child to do this and then cut it out ( with supervision)


5. It doesn't matter where the child does this a desk is preferable but as I work in education any where a child can write is a bonus. My son has an expensive desk ; yet despite this I often find him doing his homework on the floor, I don't stop him as writing is a gift that needs to be expressed any where.

*Bansky* Graffiti is ok a he is an artist

When Teddy has his invite he is good to go * you are humming that Teddy Picnic song aren't you now ?


Tuesday 18 March 2014

Britmums Sponsorship I need you ! please .

Britmums Sponsorship I have never asked before so here goes .


Why do I want  Britmums sponsorship?

Well it would help attend a fabulous event that Britmums is  bringing great brands and bloggers together  as it is over 2 days it can be quite expensive . The break down of my costs is so.

Ticket : £70
Hotel: £80 that is for 2 days as I can share.
Train fare : About £75
Tin of tuna £1.00 Well I have to look after the cat.

And no he isn't coming to Britmums.






I have been to Britmums before and it is out of this world !

What can I do for you?

Alas I can not wear a costume fun as that might be but what I can do is perhaps wear a nice outfit that perhaps comes form your company or a logo T-shirt etc . I like cats and I like most colours though custard yellow I may draw the line at , having said that I am wearing a minion T-shirt for Book week at school ( Custard yellow )



I can also write articles for you one before the event announcing you as my sponsor ,  one after the event and any possible review that you might need me to do in a hey look at this fabulous company and look what they do sort of way. I can also add an advert in my sidebar . I will also tweet about you before and during the Britmums live event.

 I am passionate about cooking , I love walking and photography , I am not keen on olives ( though if you are an olive company I can learn to love them )


What can't I do ?

I can't hand out samples and marketing merchandise how ever awesome glow in the dark beer mat s may be.

So if you want to contact me you can find my contact details here 

Friday 14 March 2014

Nana Cool

Nana's are cool aren't they now ? I'm not talking about the ones that knit , bake   , parachute or walk on stilts . I am talking about the unsuspecting Nana , the one that quietly sits and observes the world weighing things up and then speaks. And when she speaks it is with purpose delivering some earth shattering wisdom or what likely leaves you thinking " OH my my Nana didn't say that did she?"

My Nan or for these purposes my Nana; the word delivers us in a cosy after glow of wether originals, Lavender perfume that was always advertised in the 80's at Christmas. Appearances are after all deceptive no one was safe when Nan was around but only if you crossed her. She wasn't like the Nan from Catherine Tate then again ...

There was one time when we were in a car and we were sitting at the back and we got cut up by some motorist or other . My Nan then wound down the window , the other motorist wound down theirs it was like a Mexican stand off except in was in Kent and a bit posher. My Nan delivered only what can be known as a 2 fingered victory salute but the other way around with the words"Bugger off"

OH my.

Then there was the time she was watching American Gigolo ( she thought it was going to be just a war film, now as I am an adult I'm not convinced ) I was only a kid and somehow ended up watching it when I shouldn't, she seem to cover my eyes on what I presume were naughty bits. And when I caught a bit of the action so to speak she coolly said "She's giving him a wash"

Still haven't seen the film.

Then there was the time she went to see a film called the "Mona Lisa" she thought it was going to be about the painting ; sensing a theme here aren't you.


Then the ultimate one was the time my Nan bought some can only be described as crotchless tights and even when her error planned purchase ( I swear) was pointed out she said " They will keep my flaps bits cool"

SO if you want to find you Nan's Mafia name you take one thing they did and there you have your Nan's Mafia name ...


Her Mafia name would be  "Nanna Cool"






This a royalty free image.

Thursday 13 March 2014

What is Mumsnet favourite Muppet Character?

I thought long and I thought hard.

I thought I could fit this way blog wise.


I thought I could fit that blog wise.


I have tried being all Greta Garbo .

Didn't work noone noticed.


I DO do Mary Berry style cooking posts * we are getting there.




I do, do * home style * I blogged about a lamp it's work in progress.


I do take pictures really, really well.

I blog about my cat .

I have dressed my cat up in a Chef's hat before .

I blog lots about my cat.

I am what I am .


You see when I tried being all serious about some lost earrings once no one got it , even when I explained no one got it.

SO I have just decided to blog as I always do about anything and anything that pops into my little head.

SO today I have been ill distracted by the net and misreading thing like "Harrison Fords biggest parts "and misreading them as "Harrison Ford biggest pants"

He might have big pants I don't know he has a lot to accommodate.


I tried the other day to make a Mumsnet joke it when something like this.

"What is Mumsnet favourite Muppet's character "

Bit of a tumbleweed moment as no one asked so I am going to telly you anyway

"It's Beaker "

This is in reference to beaker gate



So I shall remain as random as  this ..

Suits me ? Yes ?

Wednesday 12 March 2014

The Woods Are Waking

I see the world like no other

I feel like no other



I tread upon carpets of green 




Until 


Found 

You


Today I headed towards the woods , nature  is waking up much like myself ! With a new invigorated sense of pride I am going to let nothing or no one stand in my way .

To long have I hidden in shadows , I'm going to live my life . Though my tune might not be as loud as some other peoples I can still and will play my part .

I love the woods , it is a nature reserve as well filled with bird song that releases stresses from weary souls. I am shocked if I come across anyone else walking here as I feel it is my place but you have to share such beauty and wonder right?!















Tuesday 11 March 2014

Soda Stream Pink Grapefruit

Wanted Good weather for photo shoot.

Hours 9 -5 

Pay terms talked on application.

Job description You will need to provide sun for a photo shoot on Soda Streams pink Grapefruit, you will need to shine to show off the lovely ,bubbly show stopping sparkly bubbles, ooh and could you stop off an collect a pink grapefruit to complete that arty aspect on your way to the interview.








Made from cane sugar and other all-natural ingredients, new Sodastream Sparkling Naturals make great-tasting `better for you’ sodas. Sparkling Naturals contain no artificial flavors, no artificial colours and no artificial sweeteners, and do not contain any preservatives, making them a perfect, sparkling, natural soda alternative for the entire family.

Whilst it doesn't quite have the pursing lip quality you associate with actually eating a pink grapefruit that is not what I think Sodastream is going for it's just a lovely refreshing drink on a hot and sunny March day.

I was sent the Pink Grapefruit to try alas Sodastream didn't send any sun !

Sunday 9 March 2014

Baking Mad



I thought I've got nothing to show for 365 really I'm usually landscapes and pretty buildings.
But I was told to get into gear wake up , get ship shape and get a grip. I'm on a mission to take better food photography and my great blogging pals have given me some great advice.so watch this space .




An old farm house near where I work with the garden breaking into spring.


My sobs rugby game we lost but it was glorious weather .

Fluff To Be Square



A ridiculously pretty boy handsome if you will yet he lives on his nerves and exists on vapours of worry. Is he like me ? Could be ?!
If he was more cuddly I'd show him but if not watched he'll eat your bag,your chairs your carpet won't meow unless hungry and gives death curdling stares.



Trim his claws

Good luck with that one.

This look is achieved after dry shampooing him.

Rollie is a medium to long hair .

He's 90% fluff.

He doesn't stick to the rules.

He's doesn't like cat food from award winning low price supermarkets.

He doesn't like foil.

He doesn't like Miranda.

He likes Classic FM.

He likes Monday.

He likes Faux Baileys.

His favourite play is The Cherry Orchard by Chekhov 

The other fluff bomb likes Of Mice and Men.



He's frustrated he never got the hang of knitting.

He's knows the other words to the Ghost Buster song " who you going to call  John Taylor "

A reference apparently to 1980 school discos .

He's never completed a Rubik's cube.

He knows the weather is connected to the height of Simon Cowells trousers.

He thinks bloggers are self indulgent and may make up any old nonsense.

His favourite song is "Kung Foo fighting " well those cats were fast as lightning .



He thinks it is better to wash up by hand and save the planet.



He adores hide and seek and will eat his own eye holes out.




He can't get the hang of selfies though.

Saturday 8 March 2014

Time For Tiffin From Sugarpoke



Who doesn't like a gift through the post , I know I do and great things come in little packages . Happiness lifts I call them ! and it's important to lift people from time to time whether it is for Mother's Day or just because.

Happiness is a requirement of life and just knowing someone cares means the world ! I remember my Nan once gifting their neighbour garlic bread because they didn't like that nasty garlic stuff and thought their globe trotting neighbours would !

Time for Tiffin is part of the gift range is from Sugar Poke this one comes in at £8.99 for the card and the three sweet treats lovingly gift wrapped . It's genius fitting that much happiness through your letter box.









Biscuits for review it's torture I tell you ...

You don't want one ?

Or 2 ?

Or 3 do you ?


Thought not you just carry on munching your carrot sticks then !

I was sent this for review and all opinions are mine because I didn't share the biscuits !