Back to school... An update!

 

Well, I am half-way through my 10 week photography course... where the heck did those 5 weeks go!? I've already learnt so much but I still have a long  way to go.

 

My one downfall? I just can't seem to find the time to get outside and practice.
But as my lovely Nan would say, "There is no such word as can't!" So I need to start making the time, otherwise I simply won't get anywhere.

This morning, I had a quick look through some photos that I've taken this year... And I must admit, I'm pleased with my progress so far.
I just hope the rain stops soon!

Snap chat.

I am quite ashamed to admit that I do not know the first thing about cameras. I’ve muddled my way through life, taking photos with my phone and my little digital point-and-shoot but, as good as they are, they just don’t quite cut it.

Luckily, my father-in-law is studying a degree in photography, so when I mentioned that I was on the lookout for a new camera, out came a hoard of magazines and a lot of technical words I didn’t understand! ISO who? Aperture say what?
I was given the top 5 shortlist and, typically, I picked the prettiest one.

So after a spontaneous trip to go and 'look' at cameras, I am now the very proud owner of a shiny new Samsung NX300.

So far, I've shot less than 50 photos with it but it is simply brilliant and exactly what I was looking for.
Now I just need to learn how to use it properly!

52 weeks.

 

Last year, I adoringly followed blogs taking part in the 52 portraits project.

This is where parents took photos of their children, every single week throughout the year, then chose the most emotive/funny/captivating/ photograph to share with the world.

I don't yet have children and I must admit, I was a little envious of all these beautiful photos of even more beautiful children.
(You lot really do have the most gorgeous kids!)

So I have decided to start a little personal project of my own- to improve my photography skills, to challenge myself to actually stick to something, to cherish the moments I spend with my loved ones and to simply keep a record of the year.
(I'm yet to think of a catchy name so 52 weeks will have to do for now!)

If you're doing something similar, or know of anyone who is, I would love to know!

Shop Love :: Mustard & Peaches

I first met Mairi, of Mustard & Peaches, at New Designers in 2012. I was immediately struck by her passion for her craft (and her sweet Scottish accent!)
That amount of glittering jewellery in one small space was pretty overwhelming but Mairi's work seemed to yell out at me, even though her pieces were by far the most understated. Her simple display allowed her collection of beautifully delicate, yet oddly shaped, rings to really stand out. I fell in love instantly.

We kept in touch over the following months because, like me, Mairi had just graduated from university and was finding her feet in the big wide world.
One of her business ideas was to invite couples, to her cosy house tucked away in the Northern Irish countryside, to make their own wedding rings. And in February, Steve and I were invited to be the guinea pigs! (Read about our amazing adventure here)

Since then, Mairi and her husband Adam have moved to a lovely London suburb. And at the weekend, we paid her a little visit in her adorable new studio.

Honestly, I cannot speak highly enough of Mairi. The newly launched range is absolutely stunning but if you're looking for something bespoke, Mustard and Peaches is truly perfect.

November love list...

I just don't what it is about November that I love so much.
Maybe it's because there's still a tiny bit of Autumn in the air or because the nights are drawing in and there's an even better excuse to snuggle up indoors! Or maybe because it's the calm before the mad rush of Christmas.
Either way, I feel all cosy inside when I think of November, and this year, it's going to be an especially good one!

This month, I'm loving...
* This wonderfully warming soup recipe (a great way to make use of the leftover halloween pumpkin!)

* Those chilly, misty mornings

* A toasty bonfire to warm those chilly hands, whilst oo'ing and ah'ing at the fireworks

* This blanket! (I know it's everywhere but it doesn't stop me wanting to snuggle up in it!)

* Finally, I cannot wait for my trip to this lovely country to see an even lovelier person!

Halloween humbug

I will admit, I am a bit of a humbug when it comes to Halloween. I was never really that bothered about trick or treating when I was young, partly because I am a massive wimp and I hate scary things! Not even the promise of free chocolate could tempt me out.
So this evening, I am dimming the lights (so it looks like no one's home!), having a hot bath and snuggling up in my fluffy dressing gown with a big cup of tea. Lovely.

Ok, maybe I'm not a total scrooge- I just couldn't resist this little guy!

Weekend friends.

I'm sure you'll agree that weekends are all about relaxing with your loved ones. And this weekend was extra special for me, as I went to visit my wonderful best friends.
The hours were spent giggling and eating and catching up, as we haven't seen each other since May.
They are both doing so well in their careers and I am so proud of them; B has been working in Switzerland since February and E is writing the plans to follow her dreams.

P.s. B's house deserves a 10 page spread in Country Living magazine, it is utterly stunning!

Food festival 2013

After hearing such good things about the Food Festival at Gloucester Quays, Mr H and I spontaneously decided to check it out for ourselves and it certainly did not disappoint!
It was much larger than we'd anticipated, but not overwhelming, and there were some beautifully thought out stands, full to the brim with mouth-watering treats.

We grazed our way round, starting with some fantastic ham & cheese bread from a French bakery stall and lots of cheeky tasters. Then we grabbed some local cider and stopped for lunch at a camper van serving the most delicious, fresh Mexican taco's (very cleverly named Margo & Rita)
For dinner, we hunted down the best looking pie (from Plenty Pastry Ltd), accompanied by some veg from Brown & Green. Ok, I'm going to sound a bit crazy here but the carrots from Brown & Green were the most sensational carrots I have ever tasted - they were like little orange rays of sunshine!

 Overall, a fab day out for hubby and I- that's one thing we actually have in common, a love of great food. And the surroundings of Gloucester Quays made the day all the more lovely.

Wedding wall

Well we've finally got round to hanging our wedding photos- better late than never ey?
The planning of this wall became part of the wedding plans! We had a really clear vision of what we wanted and, armed with my dodgy spirit level & even dodgier maths, I think we nailed it (literally!)

The top print was a wedding pressie from my amazing uni friends & in case you were wondering, it's the coordinates of our wedding venue. How cool is that!
It's by The Drifting Bear Co. & their website is definitely worth a look- they sell some absolutely stunning prints (I'm already shopping for the next one)