Driving

I've been practising driving quite a bit this weekend, as I have a driving test coming up soon. I haven't really enjoyed learning to drive and I'm quite anxious in the test situation, so this will be my fourth time. But I *really* want some more freedom and independence. This photo says it all really. Wish me luck!!

Photo via Canyon News

China collection

I love these pretty teacups that the woodsman found - perfect for a cup of Earl Grey in the summer sun

Women reading

I came across this photo by Tom Hunter called 'Woman Reading a Possession Order' from 1998, which I hadn't seen in some time. It's based on Vermeer's 'A Girl Reading at and Open Window' and is a beautiful contemporary take on the old Master. Language is power...

(Photo by Tom Hunter)

Thirty-something wanderer

The woodsman and I just finished watching SATC in its entirety for the second time. I love that show! And today I feel very much like Carrie Bradshaw. I've got the morning to myself and I've been wandering around town, a thirty-something gal with much more confidence to spend time with myself than I had when I was in my twenties. I had breakfast sat outside one of my favourite cafes, Cafe Monde, and the sun was shining. I'm now in the library, tip-tapping on my laptop and writing to you, dear readers.

Nail colour

I love this shade of nail colour from Chanel - so chic!

Iceland rocks!

As a massive Bjork fan, I've always wanted to visit Iceland - this video makes me want to go there even more! Love this track by Emiliana Torrini -I had no idea she was from Iceland. I studied Icelandic Literature and Culture for a year at uni, where we read Icelandic sagas. It's a place of real mystery and beauty.

(From Inspired By Iceland on Vimeo via the wonderful Cup of Jo)

Comfort food

I'm ill. Boooooooo. At home with the little one, whilst the woodsman works, and feeling sorry for myself as E was up at about 5am this morning. He's having an early nap now and I'm thinking of ways to make myself feel better. Watching Masterchef last night we saw a lovely sorrel soup - doesn't this one look delicious? Enough to make any ill person feel just that little bit better

(Photo via fotobank.ru)

The meaning of life

Sometimes I spend *far* too much time musing on the meaning of my life, whether I'm living the life that is most complete and most fulfilling. I had a bit of an epiphany the other day. It's nothing I don't already know, really, but something just made my thoughts crystalise on that day. The most important thing in my life - aside from family and friends - is music. Playing it, listening to it, talking about it. When I'm feeling morose, I use music to match my mood, to let me wallow in those feelings, or to lift me out of them. I use music when I can't express a part of myself. It defines me. And so whatever I choose to do with my life (no, I haven't decided yet, even though I'm nearly 35!) music must be at the heart of that. Here's a picture of me when I was doing a gig at the Brighton Festival, sitting and thinking during one of the instrumental numbers.

(Photo by Mat Thomas)

Oh so English

There is nothing so English as a visit to a National Trust property! My mum and I always try to go somewhere nice when she visits, and this holiday we went to Mottisfont Abbey. The rose garden was heavenly, we went on a beautiful riverside walk and saw some extremely old and wonderful trees. Top that off with a slice of cake and an elderflower presse and you have a thoroughly English day.

(Photos by Dy Swindlehurst)

China collection

As promised, dear readers - though a bit later than anticipated - here is an introduction to our vintage china collection. The woodsman has a great eye for beautiful old tableware and often brings me back little gifts that cost under a pound. Some are a classic style - like this lovely teapot - others are more retro/kitsch. I think this teapot is just darling.

(Photo by Dy Swindlehurst also known as my mummy!)