Taking time to live well

February

Reasons
to be cheerful
Friends to stay over
Hot drinks & a bedtime story
Songs that make you smile

R VIV o

r
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 A could-do list for
February
Start each day with an
energy-giving breakfast

Keep your head up and watch out

for the first spring shoots

Eat rolled up pancakes (on

the 28th) then lick your
sticky fingers

Pay a stranger a compliment ("I

love your scarf; thats the best
brownie Ive had in ages")

Read an autobiography of
somebody you admire

Write down below the things

that make you feel more alive
LUMIMARJA WALLPAPER BY MARIMEKKO AT JOHN LEWIS
FRESH Things to buy, cook, read and do this month p7
LIVING Simple style and gatherings, cups of tea and cake p20
ESCAPE Outings, weekends away and locals city guides p56
THINK Things to make you stop, read and wonder p75
NEST Loving your home inside and out p97
MISCELLANY A curious combination of the practical and the playful p123
Looking for a particular article? Our index is on page 128
 The sho
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. We ne n and
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and bo ves; no
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Lisa EDITOR
#mysim
LISA SY
plething
KES
STYLING AND PHOTOGRAPHY: EMMA HARRIS
GETTING IN TOUCH MEET THE TEAM
thesimplethings@icebergpress.co.uk Editor Art Editor Wishlist Editor
020 7415 7238 Lisa Sykes Cathy McKinnon Louise Gorrod
thesimplethings.com
Associate Editor Associate Art Editor Gardening Editor
Iceberg Press Clare Gogerty Anneliese Klos Cinead McTernan
40 Bowling Green Lane
London EC1R 0NE Commissioning Editor Picture Editor Books Editor
Rebecca Frank Jackie Swanson Eithne Farry
/THESIMPLETHINGSMAG
Contributing Editor Designers Commercial Director
/SIMPLETHINGSMAG
Frances Ambler Vanessa Grzywacz Guy Foreman
/SIMPLETHINGSMAG Lesley Straw
/SIMPLETHINGS
Chief Sub-Editor Subscription Manager
Kate Pettifer Digital Editor Terri-Jane Dow
Lottie Storey
Subscriptions Sub Editors Publisher
subscriptions@icebergpress.co.uk Iona Bower Reprographics Editor David Parker
020 7415 7238 Catherine Smith James Wootton

Advertising
guy@icebergpress.co.uk CONTRIBUTORS
07732 541875
Kirstie Young Jessica Johnson Jason Ingram
Publishing & Licensing Photographs, page 38 Know a thing or two, page 91 Photographs, page 106
david@icebergpress.co.uk @kirstieyoung @_JessyJohnson jasoningram.co.uk
07768 873139
Lisa Cohen Will Heap Terri-Jane Dow
Gathering, page 24 Photographs, page 46 Learn something new, page 51
Taking time to live well @lisacohenphoto willheap.com @terrijane

February

Reasons
Co-founders
to be cheerful
Friends to stay over
Hot drinks & a bedtime story
David Parker, Guy Foreman, Lisa Sykes
Songs that make you smile
icebergpress.co.uk

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 FRESH
THE SIMPLE THINGS TO BUY, COOK , READ AND DO IN FEBRUARY

Feelgood
fish fingers
This simple but super-
tasty version of the
beloved fish finger is rich
in healthy omega-3 fatty
acids and every bit as
comforting but without
the junk. Serve in a bap
with mayo and salad or
simply bring to the table
in the baking tray and dish
out the forks. Who needs
plates anyway? For the
recipe, turn to page 126.
RECIPE FROM THE MEDICINAL CHEF: HOW TO COOK HEALTHILY BY DALE PINNOCK (QUADRILLE). PHOTOGRAPHY: ISSY CROKER

7
 Eva Solo Oak salad set | 30
Aesthetics and functionality come
together beautifully. formahouse.co.uk

Downloadable number print (other numbers available) | 4.50

Lovely for birthdays or anniversaries. onemustdash.com

Horseshoe magnet
| 15.95
Pin reminders
and leaflets to the

THINGS TO
fridge with this big boy.
stonegift.com

WANT AND
WISH FOR
Revive your home with one or two new, zesty bits and Yellow cross-backed
apron | 60
pieces, says LOUISE GORROD
Never has getting mucky
been so enjoyable.
monamieliving.co.uk

LOUISE GORROD
Our Wishlist Editor blogs,
bakes and photographs
at buttercupdays.com.
On Instagram:
louise_buttercupdays

Adventures notebook | 10
Black gilt edging and lined covers to
encourage adventuring. katieleamon.com

8
 FRESH | FEBRUARYTHINGS

The Sebastian Cox Kitchen

by deVOL | from 15,000
A winning collaboration
between king of coppiced
wood furniture, Sebastian
Cox, and contemporary
kitchen company deVOL.
devolkitchens.co.uk
 Vegan make-up brushes
| 80 for 10
No animals were
involved in the making
of these carefully considered
brushes. All you need for a
mini make-up masterclass.
bathing-beauty.co.uk

Geo 4 card | 3
Send any late thank-you notes and
new year wishes in one of these.
Blank inside. lauraknightstudio.com

Nver big
shoulder bag
| 425
Made in Sweden, this
plaited basket-weave
leather bag is ideal
for carrying a laptop.
illustratedliving.
co.uk

Section vase
| 110120
CJJF01 citrus juicer |
Handcrafted stoneware
109.95
clay; made to order.
Just the job for
elliottceramics.com
rev
vitalising, fresh juices.
smeguk.com

Chartreuse serving tray | 15

Echoes of Scandinavian and Japanese design. murmur.co.uk

10

GREEDY GUTS
Kay Plunkett-Hogge chronicles her appetite in Adventures of a Terribly Greedy Girl
Kay Plunkett-Hogge never turns down
an interesting offer, whether it be a very
BOOK REVIEWS: EITHNE FARRY
dry martini, a robustly spiced squid dish
or an unexpected job, shes a woman who
likes to say yes. In this zestful (and often
indiscreet) memoir, she charts the course
of her erratic, entertaining life from a
childhood in Bangkok, an adolescence
in England, a first job in Thailand (as an
FRESH | FEBRUARY THINGS
Olli Ella hanging book
basket | 20; tribal
baskets | from 25; Be
Free wall hanging | 25
MAKER OF
Baskets to tuck away your
magazines, store bundles THE MONTH
of things, even to hang on Anna Wiscombe paints wooden
the wall. olliella.com
flowers, birds and houses
Anna Wiscombe laser-cuts birds and
flowers from different woods including
birch plywood and oak and beech, then
paints each piece. She started her
collection five years ago with birds
her Coal Tit brooch is still a bestseller
and grew the range with the addition
of flowers, above, 16 per stem,
necklaces and earrings. We also love
her House series: a collection of
150 limited-edition wooden houses
made in collaboration with designer
Scout Editions take your pick from
a Cabin, Mews, Apartment,
Townhouse or Penthouse.
annawiscombe.com
extra and translator on The Killing
Fields), a failed career as a singer and
an interlude in New York in the fashion
industry as a model booker, before
returning to London to write recipes
25 of which are in this book, including
grilled beef with dipping sauce, Korean
guacamole and sashimi with Thai salsa
verde and dill. (Mitchell Beazley)
11
 ti on f or
t su scrip h
e a g i f 26 M a rc
Giv ay o n
ot he r s D n, to o!
M ll c hip i
w e
and ODE MUM17 AKT/SUBSCRIBELL
RC O. U WE
E N T E G P R E S S .C 7 2 3 8 A N D E
R 5 E
I C E B E L 0 2 0 74 1 E F OR FR
L S U
OR CA OU ONE IS
GIVE
Y
r 13 issues
nly 44 fo
O

For international gift subscriptions, please see our website.

Terms and conditions: This offer is for new UK print subscribers only. Check online for overseas prices. You pay 44 and
receive 13 issues instead of 12. Order by 22 March for delivery in time for Mothers Day. Offer ends 31 March 2017. Prices
correct at point of print and subject to change. For full terms and conditions, please visit: icebergpress.co.uk/tandc
 FRESH |FEBRUARY THINGS

Stratton cement plant

pot pairs | 20 in
Tapered Stone (centre);
15 in Cocoa (outer pots)
These surprisingly light,
poured cement plant pots
suit succulents very well.
gardentrading.co.uk

GOOD TOMES
Let your reading list be your life coach, says
Will Schwalbe in Books for Living
In the age of clamorous search engines and instant
solutions, its easy to forget that some questions
need a measured answer. Schwalbe recommends
the best books for dealing with lifes dilemmas, big
and small. Lacking in courage? Read EB Whites
Stuart Little. For a lesson in trustfulness, try Paula
Hawkinss The Girl on the Train. To appreciate the
value of kindness, Schwalbes essay on RJ Palacios
Wonder is just the thing. Those hoping for a tale
that celebrates slowing down and kicking back,
Lin Yutangs The Importance of Living is for you:
Matt black pressed bamboo tray |
If you can spend a perfectly useless afternoon
32; salad bowl | 30
in a perfectly useless manner, you have learned A smart black lacquer finish on
how to live. (Two Roads) these stylish servers. alsohome.com

13
 FRESH | FEBRUARY THINGS

Kaleidoscope Scoop
grey tablecloth | 80
This jacquard tablecloth
will keep your dining table
protected and stylish.
northlighthomestore.com

SHOP OF
THE MONTH
A bright, welcoming homeware store in
Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire
February is a dark month, and our
town finds itself in a dark valley, so one
of the things our shop offers is some
warmth and inspiration flickers of
hope and light as the first signs of spring
start to appear, says Ffion Nunn of the
lighting and craft boutique she runs in
Hebden Bridge with her mother
Hannah Nunn. Selling a variety of
desirable items, including a core range
of papercut table lamps, wall lamps and
candle covers designed by Hannah, and
laser-cut lanterns by local artist
Kate Lycett, alongside stationery, gifts
and homeware from a number of
talented local designers, the shop is
a beacon of light and friendliness in
the gloomier months.
radiancelighting.co.uk

Wry advice for lacklustre gardens in My Garden is a Car Park by Kendra Wilson

A good guide is essential to transform tricky
gardens strange shapes, shadowy beds
bad soil into something lovely. Luckily,
Kendra Wilson is on hand with her wry,
useful and entertaining advice. She describes
how to translate striking features from
famous gardens into something achievable
with limited cash, patience and space. She
suggests brightening a dark courtyard with
a host of pale plants; using giant plants in
gardens that have dolls house proportions;
planting scented flowers in sunny beds to
make the most of their fragrance, and using
pots to give you the freedom to move your
garden around. The best piece of advice for
beginners, though, is a careful overview of
whats already growing and to try not to look
at it with murder in mind. (Laurence King)

14
5065
 THINGS
TO PLAN
AND DO
Make American-style pancakes, DIY wellness retreat,
repair winter hair and celebrate love.ByRebeccaFrank

1 Preheat oven to 120C/Fan

100C/225F and put a wire rack
in the oven to keep the pancakes
warm. In a large bowl, mix flour,
baking powder, bicarb, salt and
sugar. In another bowl whisk the
buttermilk with the 4 tbsp melted
butter and egg yolks. Then whisk
the wet mixture into the bowl of
dry mix to form a smooth batter.
2 Put the egg whites in a clean,
bowl and whisk until they form
medium peaks yet are soft in the
middle do not over-whisk.
3 Fold half the egg whites into
the batter using the whisk and
then a spatula, turning the bowl
while folding. Add the remaining
egg whites in the same way. The Gift yourself a break
batter should have clumps of
PROUDLY egg white not fully incorporated. We could all benefit from a wellness retreat but you dont
HOMEMADE 4 Heat a non-stick frying pan have to take a week off work or spend a small fortune. Try
over a medium heat until hot these ideas for last minute, cost-friendly ways to recharge
FLUFFY then turn down to medium-low.

PANCAKES Brush with 1 tbsp melted butter,

This decadent breakfast will
set you up, whether you wait
for Shrove Tuesday or not
Makes 8 pancakes
240g plain flour, sifted
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp bicarbonate of soda
1 tsp salt
3 tsp golden caster sugar
500ml buttermilk
4 tbsp butter, melted, plus
3 tbsp extra
2 large eggs, separated
200g blueberries (optional)
8 rashers streaky bacon
2 avocados
Zest and juice of 1 lime
Maple syrup, for drizzling
wiping off any excess with
kitchen towel. Drop 23 tbsp
batter into the pan for each
pancake (and scatter on blueberries
if using). Cook for 2 mins each side
until lightly golden. Keep the
pancakes warm in the oven.
Repeat with the remaining batter,
adding more butter if necessary.
5 Meanwhile fry the bacon. Mash
the avocados with a fork, then mix
in the lime zest and juice and
season with black pepper.
6 Serve each stack topped with
avocado, bacon and an indecent
amount of maple syrup.
Recipe from Flipping Good!
by Sudi Pigott (Kyle Books)
Photography: Maja Smend
Time for quiet
If you feel its time alone you need, arrange at least a day and
night and preferably a whole 48 hours to yourself. Switch off
your phone, email and social media and do something that
makes you relaxed or that you want to engage in, be it
writing, drawing, sewing, gardening, yoga or meditation or
just sitting in your pyjamas and reading or watching your
favourite films. It will be hard but resist the temptation to
make contact with anyone, let your mind wander and take
a walk or bike ride if you get restless.
A wellness weekend with friends
If you prefer relaxation time in the company of others, hire a
cottage for the weekend not too far from home (you can get
lower prices at this time of year and good availability). Or, if
somebody has a quiet house and is prepared to host, even
better. Use your shared contacts and ask a yoga, Pilates or
mindfulness teacher to lead a class for you all.
Take all your food and snacks with you and enjoy some
seriously early nights, long walks, healthy food, classes
and some quality time with your mates, to boot.

16
 FRESH | FEBRUARY THINGS

LOVE
MINDFULLY
These notes on love from Zen
Buddhist monk, Thich Nhat
Hanh's book How To Love
(Rider Books) offer food
for thought

True love is made of four

elements: loving kindness,
compassion, joy and
equanimity.

Understanding is loves
other name and the best
gift you can give.

You cant offer happiness

until you have it yourself.
Build a home inside by
accepting and learning to
love and heal yourself.
Listen now and talk later.
Allow those you love to
speak freely without
interruption or criticism.
Sometimes a kind word is
enough to make someone
blossom like a flower.
There is no place for pride
in love. We need to be able
to get help from the people
we love.
PHOTOGRAPHY: EMMA GUTTERIDGE
Repairing hair oil
Argan oil will nourish your hair, working
magic on damaged or colour-treated locks
2 tbsp argan oil*
3 drops rosemary essential oil
3 drops cedar wood essential oil
3 drops lavender essential oil
HOW TO BE
1 Pour the argan oil into a small bottle and add the
essential oils. Shake well and use a tiny amount
FEARLESS
Pause, reflect, smile and take action
on the tips of wet hair after washing to bring
Give it a bit
moisture to dry ends.
2 Or use it as an intense conditioner to add shine.
Massage the mixture into tired, dry and lifeless hair.
Let it absorb for 1520 minutes before shampooing.
of well !
Why it works
Argan oil is highly moisturising, nourishing and rich

in antioxidants and vitamins A and E. It stimulates

cell activity and boosts circulation. Rosemary is
antibacterial, regulating sebum levels in your scalp.
Cedar is anti-inflammatory. Lavender has potent
skin-soothing powers and helps heal wounds.
From All Natural Beauty by Karin Berndl and Nici
Hofer (Hardie Grant). You can find more Brave New Girl by Lou Hamilton is
homemade beauty projects on page 114. published by Orion Spring

*And yes, it is sustainable: no trees are harmed in the extraction of argan oil.
17
 FRESH | FEBRUARY THINGS
CAN WE TELL YOU ABOUT...
COSY PUBS WITH
ROOMS
Gurnards Head,
Near Zennor, Cornwall
Just sometimes, you find a place to
stay that is exactly what you hoped
for. If thats a snug pub with
roaring fires, armchairs to doze
in, a fine menu to feast on, and a
restful bed, minutes from the
coast, you wont be disappointed
by The Gurnards Head.
Like each of the three places
owned and managed by Charles
and Edmund Inkin of Eat, Drink,
Sleep (they have another in
Penzance and one in the Brecon
Beacons), the Gurnards Head has
just the right combination of
informality and comfort. You can
scuff about in the bar downstairs
in your jeans, down a sherry (there
is a good selection), then move
along to the eating area where
chef Max Wilson cooks a short,
seasonal, delicious menu. Any
thoughts that its location way out
on the Lands End peninsula might
mean that the menu suffers from
parochialism, will be dismissed as
18
you tuck into rump of beef with
salsa verde or gurnard with orange,
anise, squid and samphire dressing.
Then all you have to do is totter
to bed and collapse on the Vi-Spring
mattress. There is no TV, so you
wake up rested and listen to the
radio. The rooms are all warm,
mellow colours, freshly cut flowers
and piles of books. Try to bag one
that overlooks the (very quiet) road:
at tea time the neighbouring farmer
herds his cows past the window.
gurnardshead.co.uk
DATES FOR
YOUR DIARY
Love stories for every taste
and of every type
Casanova
Be transported to
18th-century Venice in
the Northern Ballets fiery
dance adaptation of
Casanova. Leeds Grand
Theatre (1118 March).
Pull up a chair (or two)
Catch The World of
Charles and Ray Eames
exhibition while you can,
which celebrates their
iconic design and tells
the sweet story of their
romantic relationship
Elsewhere through handwritten
OThe Devonshire Arms, notes. Barbican, London
Peak District A traditional (until 14 February).
inn with 13 rooms situated
on the Chatsworth Estate Reel romance
plenty to do even on the Two very different love
wintriest of weekends. stories are arriving at
devonshirepilsley.co.uk cinemas. Fifty Shades
OThe Cholmondley Arms, Darker (10 February) and
Cheshire In the village of Disneys film adaptation
Cholmondeley, the former of Beauty and the Beast
schoolhouse is now a starring Emma Watson
charming pub with six (17 March).
bedrooms and a great
selection of gins. The food of love
cholmondeleyarms.co.uk Bask in the feelgood
OThe Village Pub, factor of comedy musical
Cotswolds A smart yet She Loves Me, set in
informal pub in the a Budapest perfumery
village of Barnsley with in the 1930s. Menier
six cosy digs, hearty Chocolate Factory,
food and Cirencester London (until 4 March).
just a few miles away. menierchocolate
thevillagepub.co.uk factory.com
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19
20
 FE B RUARY

LIVING
PHOTOGRAPHY: STOCKSY/NADINE GREEFF

LOVE IS A LONG LUNCH WITH OLD

FRIENDS, HOMEMADE SOUP AND
BREAD, LEARNING SOMETHING NEW
AND A FAVOURITE TOP
 SIMPLE STYLE
L
oose, shapeless and button-less, the
smock is a garment to pull on over
your head and lose yourself in. No
one can guess what is going on
underneath it, whether its a chunky knit,
several thermal vests, or a roll of belly fat.
And, unlike prissier items of clothing you
may have in your wardrobe, it actually gets
better looking the more it is worn. This is
the uniform of the paint-spattered artist or
the sawdust-covered artisan who wears it
accessorised with a handful of paintbrushes
or a chisel tucked into a pocket. The more it
looks like its been worn, the more authentic
it becomes, reaching peak credibility when
the sleeves are frayed and a pocket is ripped
and dangling.
It could be our renewed interest in craft
and making things that has restored the
smock to favour. It is hard-wearing usually
made from cotton drill or canvas and
hard-working, and will cheerfully withstand
all that is thrown at it. And, with companies
like Toast and Seasalt doing their own takes
on its classic shape boxy with a boat or
funnel neck and three-quarter-length
sleeves it has actually become fashionable.
Needless to say, its origins lie with the
working man. Eighteenth-century rural
workers fashioned loose garments from
THE
CLASSIC
Aroma Top | 50
Original looking only cosier, in
soft needlecord. seasaltcornwall.co.uk
22
THE SMOCK
Words: CLARE GOGERTY
heavy linen or cotton to toil in the fields.
Salty seadog These first smocks are correctly called
or bohemian
smock-frocks and were calf-length
artist? You
decide and frequently adorned with smocking:
embroidered pleats that gathered the
garment at the sleeves and waist. This
style was revived in the 70s, when
versions with cap sleeves, a yoke and
acres of floral material filled shops such
as Laura Ashley and Miss Selfridge.
The smock we wear today owes more
to 19th century Cornish fishermen, and
was stitched by their wives from
sailcloth. The artists who descended
upon the fishing village of Newlyn at
that time were much taken by the
working life they saw around them,
including smock-wearing fishermen,
and recorded them in their paintings.
They also took to wearing smocks
themselves, and thus the whole
bohemian connotations of the garment
was born. Patch pockets, now an
essential element of the smock,
came later. They add to its supreme
PHOTOGRAPHY: TOPFOTO
usefulness: a smock can be worn for
Unlike prissier items of countless domestic and creative tasks,
clothing, it gets better from pottering in the gardening, to
kneading bread, to spoon whittling.
looking the more it is worn Verily, it is a garment of our times.
T H E U P D AT E
TWO
WITH A
TWIST
V-neck smock | 72 Petrichor overshirt | 110
Roomy, robust and rural. A heavy duty cotton overshirt
carriercompany.co.uk inspired by the smock. finisterre.com
 Rural Workwear & Accessories.
Handmade in Norfolk, England.

www.carriercompany.co.uk
+44 (0)1328 820699
Church Farm House, Wighton, Norfolk, NR23 1AL, UK
 Meet, eat, stay
WHEN OLD FRIENDS COME FOR THE WEEKEND, THIS WINTRY
LUNCH FOLLOWED BY TEATIME TREATS WILL IMPRESS . ALMOST
AS INDULGENT AS HAVING T WO DAYS TO HANG OUT TOGETHER
Photographs: LISA COHEN/TAVERNE AGENCY Food styling and recipes: DEBORAH KALOPER
T
he friends you hold dearest are
rarely the ones you see the
most. Quiet winter weekends
offer the chance to redress this
to invite old friends to stay for
a deliciously unhurried
reunion. Theres time to catch up over
gentle walks, pottering around the house,
preparing and sharing good food. On the
menu is a lunch that nods to the sense of
occasion: a deli-style starter packed with
flavour; a slow-cooked beef dish, and a
wintry take on pavlova with spiced
meringues and rhubarb. There
are even hazelnut brownies
for afternoon grazing. Just add
tea and chat for a weekend
to remember

25
 LIVING | GATHERING
M EN U
Ricotta, minty salsa verde
and baby pickled vegetables
Ricotta with minty
salsa verde & pickled Braised beef cheeks
baby vegetables with chestnuts
Creamy polenta
Sauted mushrooms
A HERBY, CRUNCHY, with thyme
CREAMY STARTER TO Salad of bitter greens
AWAKEN TASTE BUDS

Poached rhubarb with

Ricotta with minty salsa verde cardamom brown sugar
25g mint leaves, washed meringues
35g watercress, washed
Few sprigs dill, leaves picked and
washed
AF TERNOON SNACK
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
1 clove garlic, minced Hazelnut brownies with
2 tbsp olive oil orange liqueur
300g fresh ricotta
150g black olives
Toasted croutons or grissini, to serve

1 Place the mint, watercress, dill,

lemon juice and zest, garlic and oil in
a food processor and blitz until
smooth. Season to taste.
2 Place the ricotta on a serving
platter, drizzle with minty salsa verde,
and serve with olives, croutons,
grissini and pickled baby vegetables.

Pickled baby vegetables

1 small bunch baby beetroot (about
150g with tops removed), washed
and thinly sliced*
1 small bunch radishes (about 150g
with tops removed), washed and
thinly sliced*
325ml white balsamic vinegar
225g sugar
1 tsp whole peppercorns
1 tsp whole allspice
1 tsp dill seeds
2 small birds-eye chillies

1 Place the sliced beetroots and

radishes in two separate bowls,
and cover with boiling water. Allow
to stand for 12 mins, then drain
and refresh with ice-cold water.
2 Place the remaining ingredients
in a saucepan and bring to the boil.
Pour half of the hot liquid over
the beetroots and allow the
remaining liquid to cool before
pouring over the radishes.
3 Cover and refrigerate the cooled
pickles and allow the flavours to
infuse for 23 hours before serving.

26 *Use a mandolin to slice the vegetables paper-thin.

 Braised beef cheeks
with chestnuts

SLOW COOKING MAKES

ENTERTAINING GUESTS
LOOK EFFORTLESS

Serves 6
2 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, diced
1 large carrot, diced
2 sticks celery, diced
4 sprigs thyme
2 bay leaves
6 beef cheeks (325g350g
each), trimmed of sinew
1 litre beef stock
750ml red wine
1 tbsp olive oil
3 pickling onions, sliced in half
130g chestnuts, cooked

1 Preheat oven to 170C/Fan 150C/

325F. Place the oil in a large casserole
dish (stove top and oven safe) over a
medium-high heat. Season the meat
and brown in batches, about 8
minutes for each piece, set aside.
2 Add the onion, carrot, celery, thyme
and bay leaves to the pot, reduce the
heat slightly and cook until softened,
about 810 mins.
3 Return the beef to the pot, cover
with stock and wine and bring to
the boil. Cover and place in the oven
Cook these braised
for 34 hours.
beef cheeks slowly in 4 Meanwhile, sear the pickling onions
the oven. Then its all in olive oil in a small frying pan, over
hands to help prepare
a medium heat, to a golden colour.
the polenta and greens
Add to the beef with the chestnuts
after 34 hours of cooking. Return
to the oven and cook for a further
30 mins. Serve with creamy polenta
(overleaf) and crusty bread.

27
 LIVING | GATHERING

Creamy polenta

USING MILK INSTEAD

OF STOCK MAKES
THIS EXTRA CREAMY

Serves 6
700ml milk
500ml water
240g polenta
90g finely grated Parmesan cheese
3 tbsp butter

1 Place the milk and water in a large

saucepan over a medium-high heat
and bring to a rapid simmer. Slowly
pour the polenta in a steady stream
into the pan, while whisking
constantly. Reduce the heat and
continue stirring for 20 mins. The
polenta will thicken gradually.
2 Stir in the Parmesan and
butter, season with salt and
pepper and serve.

Sauted mushrooms
with thyme

A SATISFYING SIDE
DISH MIXING COMMON
AND WILD VARIETIES

Serves 6
200g mixed mushrooms
3 tbsp butter
2 tsp olive oil
1 tbsp tarragon leaves
4 sprigs thyme
1 clove garlic, sliced
2 tbsp lemon juice

1 Use a damp cloth to wipe any dirt

from the mushrooms, then slice.
2 Place the butter and oil in a large
frying pan over a medium heat. Add
the mushrooms and cook for 1012
mins, or until they are tender and
beginning to brown. Add the herbs,
garlic and lemon juice, and cook for
12 mins. Season well with salt and
pepper and serve.

28
You know a meal is
special when even the
sides are showstoppers:
bitter greens and herby
mushrooms (opposite);
hearty polenta (below)

Lemon
vinaigrette
Juice of 1 lemon
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp Dijon mustard
2 tsp wild honey
125ml extra virgin olive oil

Combine the lemon

juice, garlic, mustard and
honey in a small bowl.
Whisk in the oil in a steady
stream to emulsify. Salad of seasonal
bitter greens

STRONG FLAVOURS
TO BALANCE A RICH
STEW BEAUTIFULLY

Serves 6
1 small frisee
1 small radicchio
90g mixed chicory, dandelion
and cime di rapa
1/4 loaf sourdough bread or ciabatta
30g pecans, chopped
40g hazelnuts, chopped
60ml olive oil

1 Preheat oven to 170C/Fan 150C/

325F. Remove and discard the tough
outer leaves from the frisee and
radicchio. Wash all the salad leaves
in plenty of cold water, and spin
in a salad spinner.
2 Tear the bread into walnut-sized
pieces and arrange on a baking tray
with the nuts. Drizzle with oil and
season. Bake for 1012 mins, until
well toasted. Cool before serving.
3 Mix the salad leaves with the nuts,
croutons and dressing and toss
thoroughly just before serving.

29
 LIVING | GATHERING

Hazelnut brownies

Tangy rhubarb HARD TO RESIST, WITH

balances the spiced
caramel sweetness A WARMING HINT OF
of these winter
CITRUS LIQUEUR
meringues

Makes 12 brownies
250g unsalted butter, diced
250g dark chocolate, chopped
6 eggs
280g sugar
2 tbsp Grand Marnier
160g plain flour
Fine zest of 1 orange
100g hazelnuts, roasted and
chopped
FOR THE GANACHE

200g dark chocolate, roughly

chopped
250ml double cream

1 Preheat oven to 170C/Fan 150C/

Poached rhubarb with heat, stirring until the sugar has
cardamom brown sugar dissolved, then bring to the boil.
2 Slice the rhubarb, add to the sugar
meringues syrup and turn off the heat. Cover
and allow to stand for about 15 mins,
until the rhubarb is tender.
BROWN SUGAR MAKES
3 To make the meringues, preheat
THESE MERINGUES oven to 150C/Fan 130C/300F.
GOLDEN AND CHEWY Place the egg whites and sugar
in a large heatproof bowl. Set the
bowl over a pan of simmering water
Serves 6 and whisk until the sugar has
FOR THE POACHED RHUBARB dissolved and the whites are warm
280g caster sugar to the touch, about 45 mins.
375ml water 4 Using an electric hand whisk, whip
Juice and zest of 1 orange on medium-high for 2 mins. Add the
1 tsp pink peppercorns cardamom, increase the setting to
1 tsp Sichuan peppercorns high and whisk for a further 68 mins
2 star anise until the mixture has tripled in volume
1 bunch rhubarb, washed and and is stiff and glossy.
leaves removed 5 Using a large kitchen spoon,
FOR THE MERINGUES shape 6 oval meringues onto a baking
125g egg whites tray lined with baking parchment.
240g brown sugar Place in the oven and reduce the
1 tsp ground cardamom temperature to 110C/Fan 90C/200F,
Soured cream, to serve and bake for 11 hours. Turn off the
oven, leaving meringues inside, and
1 Place the sugar, water, orange juice, allow to cool completely.
zest, and peppercorns into a large 6 Serve with poached rhubarb (hot
frying pan. Cook over medium-high or cold) and a dollop of soured cream.
325F. Butter a 20x28cm baking tin
and line it with baking parchment.
Place the butter and chocolate in
a heatproof bowl over a pan of
simmering water, and heat through
until the chocolate has melted.
(Do not allow the bowl to touch the
water.) Stir until smooth. Remove
from the heat and cool slightly.
2 Place the eggs, sugar and Grand
Marnier in a large mixing bowl and
beat for 2 mins until well combined.
Pour in the slightly cooled chocolate
mixture, combine well, and fold
through the flour, zest and hazelnuts.
3 Pour into the baking tin and use a
spatula to distribute the mixture
evenly. Bake for 2025 mins. Remove
from the oven and cool completely.
4 To make the ganache, place the
chocolate and cream in a heatproof
bowl over a pan of simmering water
and stir frequently until melted.
Remove from the heat and allow to
cool slightly. The ganache will thicken
as it sets, and should be thick enough
to coat the brownie, yet pourable.
5 Pour the ganache on top of the
brownie, spreading it evenly with a
spatula. Allow ganache to set before
slicing into squares.
Note: In the unlikely event these
make it past day one, they will
keep for 34 days in the fridge in
an airtight container.

30
 LIVING | GATHERING

Teatime decadence:
hazelnut brownies,
served (right) with
candied kumquats
and hot chocolate
THREE WINES
FOR A LONG
LUNCH

RICOTTA, MINTY SALSA

VERDE & BABY PICKLED
VEGETABLES
Chteaux Dereszla Prince
Tamas Tokaji 2014, 14
An amazingly complex dry
white with deep apricot
notes. Its citrussy overtones
pair well with the minty salsa
and its roundness balances
the cheese and pickled veg.

BRAISED BEEF CHEEKS

WITH CHESTNUTS
BBS Pinot Noir
2014, 10
This wines initial pinot fruit
gives way to a firmness on
the finish that makes it
a natural partner for
food, especially good with
slow-roasted red meats
and earthy flavours.

POACHED RHUBARB
WITH MERINGUES
Clos Marfisi Muscat de
Cap Corse 2015, 23
Indulgent and sweet but
not too gloopy, this has
lovely notes of summer
fruits that are perfect
alongside rhubarb. Delicate
enough not to overpower
the dish. Serve cold.

Wines recommended by Borough Wines & Beers

(boroughwines.co.uk), which works with small
producers worldwide to offer a unique selection of
wines, spirits and beers through its website and
eight shops in London and Hastings, including one
round the corner from The Simple Things office.

31
 n my day, Im pleased to say although
it sounds really old school we didnt
say I want to be famous when I grow
up, or I want to be a celebrity, we said
what we wanted to do. Broadcaster,
commentator and Kingston
fessor of fashion diversity, Caryn
Franklin is talking about the early 1980s, when she
really fell in love with fashion. The twist is Caryn did
become famous, best known for presenting the BBCs
long-running The Clothes Show. But its that do thats
been crucial. Caryns used her position (to quote her
website) to activate, commentate and motivate, or
(to quote her directly) to be gobby on topics ranging
from fashions lack of diversity to sustainability. Even
in the kitchen of her London home where were sitting,
the fridge is accessorised with cut-out articles on
issues ranging from air pollution to pressures on
young Hollywood stars.
Over a pot of Earl Grey, served in vintage china cups,
and a homemade spelt loaf, Caryn shares some of her
motivations, which have been informed, she believes,
by two values instilled by her parents: honesty and
service. Early on, she developed the habit of calling

32

things out when they didnt seem right. Aged 17, she
wrote to a commentator, complaining hed patronised
the Grand Nationals first female rider. When he replied
to justify himself, it kind of encouraged me. Even
now, her business partner sometimes has to nudge her
under the table to shut her up. Things may have been
different if, as initially planned, Caryn had joined the
army. Given the pride she took in being sent home from
her London comprehensive school for flouting the
uniform rules, her dad suggested she may not fit in
with military life. So she went to art school, at
Kingston University and then Central Saint Martins.
LIVING | WISDOM
Take what you are
good at and use it to
involve other people.
Work out what skill
you have to just make
a tiny change
A doer as well as a dreamer, Caryn Franklins career
has changed perceptions as well as lives. And, as she
tells Frances Ambler, shes only just getting started
Something clicked when she came across the style
magazine i-D, which launched in 1980. It felt like her
world so, after graduating, she rang up and invited
herself in. Terry Jones, the magazines founder, left
her minding the phones for a few hours, and she
stayed, going on to be fashion editor and co-editor. If
Id gone, sorry, cant do it, it wouldnt have happened.
It was an exciting, inspiring time. Caryn had the
Kings Road as her catwalk. Shed leave the magazine
offices, looking for people to photograph for i-Ds
signature straight-up street fashion portraits, herself
dressed in attention-grabbing style. In 1984, Channel 4
asked her to research upcoming designers for its
programme Swank she ended up on screen. The
invitation for The Clothes Show followed.
Rather than wanting fame (she thought the show too
mainstream), she eventually said yes to get i-Ds name
onto TV but, more significantly, stayed because six
months into their relationship her partner had been
diagnosed with a severe form of MS, making Caryn
both his carer and the main breadwinner. It was a
situation that reached crisis point after the birth of
their daughter. Caryn took just two weeks of maternity
leave in the middle of a series, returning to set as a
single mother with her newborn, along with her own
mother for support. She later married filmmaker Ian
Denyer, with whom she has a second daughter. While
shes still processing the complexities of that earlier
relationship, she knows it taught her, in comparison to
many women, complete respect for my body I dont
think Ive ever been in a changing room with a woman
who doesnt apologise for her body, she says. Although
an extremely hard way to learn it, I now have nothing
33
 but gratitude for my health. I dont self-objectify or
view my body as an exterior that doesnt come up to
scratch because I dont look like a supermodel.
Being on a primetime show was its own education.
Caryn, wearing anything on screen from a rubber
dress to leather chaps, would be approached by
women, telling her, I wish I could dress like you but 2
I dont have the confidence. It got me thinking about
how fashion gave people a sense of self or not. Thats
been a thread throughout her career. In the 1990s,
Caryn produced a documentary about the trend for
thin models, which led to her becoming a patron of the
Eating Disorders Association. We now absorb 2,000
to 5,000 media images every week, Caryn says,
of course were susceptible to internalising the status
afforded to glamourised, thin, young, white and often
sexualised bodies. In 2009, she co-founded All Walks
Beyond The Catwalk, an organisation promoting
positive body image by introducing diversity in age,
size and race. It has taken her to Parliament, and
beyond. Four years ago, she was awarded an MBE for
services to diversity in the fashion industry.
1
BOUNDARY-BREAKING
Her approach hasnt always made her popular. Im
the lippy one who doesnt get invited to the party, she 1 With Safia Minney of People

admits, Id just always rather do it my way. Case in
point was when, in her early 30s on The Clothes Show,
she was told to dye the white streak in her hair to look
younger. Caryn refused. Instead she emphasised it by
colouring the rest of her hair darker (her hair is now
fully and magnificently grey). Caryn tried to push
other boundaries, too, such as putting hip hop artists
on mainstream television when no one else was. But
she always felt she could do more.
Today, she says, a digital platform lets her talk to
audience members about important things I couldnt
get on the BBC. And she utilises the medium
wholeheartedly: look up Caryns impassioned article
about the menopause for the website Refinery29.uk
and youll see why its her most-commented-on piece.
Its written from her personal experience. Going into
the menopause, I was unprepared it isnt discussed.
Online, she continues, we can be more collaborative,
and pass on information thats meaningful.
As the article attests, Caryn, at 58, is embracing her
tribal elder/grandmother/crone life stage (I love
those labels.). Shes open to sharing her experiences,
from the personal to the political. If every purchaser
of clothes saw what Ive seen, she says, referring
specifically to trips shes taken with her friend Safia
Minney, founder of Fair Trade clothing company,
People Tree, where shes witnessed the treatment of
garment workers first hand, I like to think more
people would buy differently. Anyone who buys
clothes, Caryn emphasises, is a stakeholder in the
fashion industry: People have enormous power look
Tree 2 Rocking the late 1980s
3 Supporting the No More Page
3
Three campaign which saw The
Sun drop its topless images
I dont think Ive ever been in a
changing room with a woman who
doesnt apologise for her body
what happened 15 years ago when people said that they
didnt want animal testing for cosmetics. With fashion,
people can say Im going to buy less, and its going to
be a garment that satisfies me thats not been made by
people whove been exploited. She shops differently
now, I scan the label for information; I talk to the
person who has it on the rails who made this?
Perhaps thats Caryns key belief: we all have the
power to inspire change. All you can do is take what
youre good at and use it in some way to involve other
people, she believes. Work out what skill you have to
just make a tiny change. And this is where fashion can
be a way of broadening the narrative. Fashion
creatives can have the best ideas in the world. Take
for example, Fashion Targets Breast Cancer, which she
has co-chaired with the designer Amanda Wakeley
since 1994. Breast health was virtually undiscussed
when it launched but, helped by Caryns dedication,
the campaign recruited the likes of Kate Moss in its

34

In Bangladesh, finding
out more about the
producers of our clothes
first year. It has not only raised awareness but millions
of pounds, funding Britains first dedicated breast
cancer research centre. It underlines Caryns belief that,
when fashion decides to do something, its amazing.
ACHIEVING FEELGOOD FACTOR
That applies on a personal level, too. Thanks to
fashion, shes seen people completely fall in love
with themselves at the mirror for the first time or
all over again. An MSc in Psychology of Fashion
has recently underlined Caryns interest in how
what we wear makes us feel. Despite lecturing
PHOTOGRAPHY: BILLIE SCHEEPERS, MIKI ALCADE, GETTY IMAGES, FINNBARR WEBSITER
throughout her career and her professorship, shes
never considered herself an academic and tackling
her first assignment brought major self-doubt,
I thought Id made a terrible mistake. With
completion has come new confidence and Caryn
is excited about what she can do with her new
knowledge, whether thats looking a CEO in
the eye and being able to cite studies about
how imagery affects self esteem, or helping
the Womens Equality Party wording
specific aspects of its manifesto. Its really
thrilling, she says.
The thrill of gaining her Masters
followed a particularly tough year in which
the amount shed taken on was having
serious consequences for her mental
health. Her daughters intervened,
telling her she needed to stop
LIVING | WISDOM
FASHION FORWARD
The Caryn Franklin CV
1959 Born in Isleworth, Middlesex, the oldest of
five children
1970 Watches feminist protesters disrupt a
televised Miss World at Londons Royal
Albert Hall a game changer for her
1982 Having graduated from Central Saint Martins,
begins work at i-D magazine
1986 Asked to present BBCs The Clothes Show
1993 Becomes a patron of the Eating Disorders
Association (now BEAT)
1996 Co-chair of Fashion Targets Breast Cancer
with designer Amanda Wakeley
1997 Completes the first of her four books, which
include a novel
2009 Co-founds All Walks beyond the Catwalk to
introduce diversity in age, size and race as
an ethical requirement
2013 Works with government ministers on
parliamentary body confidence initiatives
and receives an MBE for services to diversity
in fashion
2016 Achieves an MSc in Psychology of Fashion at
University of the Arts London and is named
Visiting Professor of Diversity in Fashion at
Kingston University
martyring herself to projects. I was ready to hear it,
says Caryn, Id ridden myself too hard. Everyone has
to learn that they arent Superwoman. Shes emerged
with a new understanding of how she works: I have to
do my projects in a way that makes me feel
good about what Ive done that day.
When it comes to her daughters, she says
couldnt have wished for more. Theyll
quite happily say put a sock in it, Mum!
Caryn laughs. I love that feisty, clashy
kind of femininity weve had around the
table. But beyond the kitchen table,
where weve now spent the best part
of the afternoon, the place she feels
happiest is the garden, whether here,
at her sisters allotment, or her own
place in Suffolk. I probably have a
different life as a result of being a
digger and a grower. There are only
filthy Wellington boots and jeans
there, and no mirrors, she says.
That gives me a good grounding.
As to whats next The only
ambition is to feel good about whatever
Im doing. Ive fought hard to achieve
balance and put a lot of work in to sure
up my own sanity and my motivations.
Then, of course, its back to the doing.
And, now I know more about myself, Im in
a stronger position to be more effective.
35
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 LIVING | EATING WELL

T H E P OW E R
OF SOUP
IS THERE ANYTHING MORE REVIVING THAN
A STEAMING BOWL OF SOUP AND A HUNK OF
FRESHLY BAKED BREAD TO DIP INTO IT? HERE
ARE THREE DELICIOUS DOUBLE ACTS TO TRY

Recipes: LIA LEENDERTZ Photography: KIRSTIE YOUNG

37
 Cullen skink

Cullen skink is a traditional creamy

smoked haddock soup from the
north east of Scotland, as cosy and
comforting as can be made thick
with potatoes then finished with
lots of pepper. Pair it with freshly
baked or just toasted soda bread
spread with thick, cold butter.

Serves 6
500g smoked haddock
300ml water
1 bay leaf
50g butter
2 leeks, washed and chopped
2 medium sized potatoes,
chopped into chunks Use undyed smoked
500ml whole milk haddock (left) to
make wonderfully
Handful of chives cockle-warming
cullen skink (above).
1 Put the fish, water and bay leaf into a Below: homemade
vegetable stock
low, wide pan, cover and bring to the
boil. As soon as the water boils take it
off the heat. Leave it to sit for a couple
of minutes and then lift the fish
which should now be cooked out
onto a plate, reserving the cooking
water. When the fish is cool, flake it,
discarding any bones and skin.
2 Melt the butter in a saucepan
and then sweat the leeks, covered,
for at least 20 mins until soft and
translucent. Add the potatoes and stir
well, then add the water and bay leaf
from the fish pan. Simmer until the
potatoes are tender, then lift out a
couple of big spoonfuls of the leek
and potato mixture and set aside.
3 Add the milk and half the fish and
bring to a simmer, then blend with a
stick blender. Add the rest of the fish,
and the reserved leeks and potato,
heat through, season with salt and lots
of freshly cracked pepper, and serve
topped with snipped chives.

38

Soda bread
Soda bread is the quickest and
simplest bread to make, requiring
no mucking about with yeast, as
the rising agent is bicarbonate of
soda. It makes it no less delicious,
quite the opposite in fact, and
wholemeal flour gives it a
wonderfully rustic look and nutty
flavour. It is traditionally made
with buttermilk, but using a
mixture of yogurt and whole milk
also works very well.
Makes 1 loaf
170g wholemeal flour
170g plain flour
1 tsp salt
1 tsp bicarbonate of soda
1 tsp baking powder
3 tbsp plain yogurt
Full fat milk (up to around 290ml)
1 Preheat oven to 200C/Fan 180C/
400F and prepare a baking tray
lined with baking parchment.
Combine all of the dry ingredients
in a large bowl, and mix.
2 Spoon the yogurt into a measuring
jug and then pour in milk to make up
LIVING | EATING WELL
Flour notes
There are only four true
ingredients in real bread:
flour, yeast, water and
salt. But the other
important element is time.
As dough rises it also
ferments, which
neutralises the parts of
the wheat protein most
likely to trigger reactions
to gluten. Many bread
recipes require strong
bread flour, which has a
high gluten content and so
produces elastic dough.
Gluten-free flours will
react differently from
wheat flour in recipes.
Doves Farm (dovesfarm.
co.uk) has a good choice of
wheat, non-wheat and
gluten-free flours.
290ml in total. Stir until yogurt and
milk are combined and then pour it
into the dry mix and stir with a spoon
until roughly combined (if the mixture
is too dry you may need to add a little
more milk at this stage).
3 Use your hands to knead the dough
very briefly, just enough to bring it
together and shape it into a mounded
round. Place it onto the baking sheet
and cut a deep cross into the centre
of the mound.
4 Bake for 30 minutes or until the
39
 LIVING | EATING WELL

Ribollita (below) is
a meal in a bowl,
incorporating cannellini
beans and thickened
with stale bread. Tastier
than it sounds

Ribollita

This Italian soup translates as

reboiled, and traditionally it is
made one day for eating the next.
It is thickened with bread, but dont
let that stop you from pairing it
with an airy, herby focaccia.

Serves 6
2 tbsp olive oil, plus extra
for drizzling
2 onions, chopped
2 carrots, roughly chopped
3 cloves garlic, finely sliced
400g tin chopped tomatoes
250g cooked cannellini beans
250ml water or stock
1 tsp dried oregano
2 slices white bread, ideally stale
A few handfuls of cavolo nero,
roughly chopped
Small handful of chopped parsley

1 Heat the olive oil in a pan and gently

fry the onions, carrots and garlic until
softened and translucent.
2 Add the tomatoes, beans, water or
stock, and oregano and bring to the
boil, then simmer for 30 mins.
3 Tear up the bread and add it to the
pot, along with the cavolo nero, and
simmer for another 20 mins.
4 Season and divide into bowls.
Drizzle each serving with olive oil and
sprinkle with parsley. Or follow
tradition and leave overnight to let
the flavours marry together, then
reheat and serve the following day.

40
Focaccia

A lovely, airy bread for dipping

in oil or soup. This recipe is
based on Paul Hollywoods and
works brilliantly.

Makes 2 loaves
500g strong white bread flour
10g salt
10g instant yeast
140ml extra virgin olive oil, plus
extra for kneading and drizzling
360ml cold water
2 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp sea salt flakes

1 Lightly oil a square or rectangular

plastic storage box. Measure the flour,
salt and yeast into a bowl. Make a well
in the centre and pour in 40ml of the
oil and 240ml water, then stir in with
your fingers, adding more water as
you need it until all of the flour is
incorporated. You may not need to
use all the water but you should create
a fairly wet dough.
2 Coat your work surface with some of
the remaining olive oil, tip the dough
onto it, and knead for around 10 mins,
adding more olive oil if the dough
starts to stick. Drop the dough into the
plastic container and cover with a
clean tea towel. Leave to double in
size: about an hour.
3 Cover two baking sheets in
parchment and drizzle on olive oil,
then tip the dough out of the
container and as gently as possible
cut it into two pieces and stretch them
into rectangles on the baking sheets,
taking care not to knock the air out of
them. Cover with clean tea towels and
leave to rise for another hour.
4 Preheat oven to 220C/Fan 200C/
425F. Use fingers to make dimples
all over the focaccia, then drizzle
with olive oil and sprinkle on herbs
and salt. Bake for around 15 mins,
or until golden on top and hollow
sounding when the bottom is tapped.
Drizzle on more oil and leave to
cool on a wire rack.

41
 LIVING | EATING WELL

Bacon, red lentil and

thyme soup

This is a really warming and hearty

soup, and irresistible topped with
crunchy bacon pieces and onions.

Serves 4
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 onion, finely diced and 1 onion,
sliced
8 rashers smoked bacon
200g dried red lentils, well washed
800ml water
1 bay leaf
Bunch of thyme
Double cream

1 Heat 1 tbsp of the oil in a saucepan on

a medium heat and add the diced
onion. Snip six rashers of bacon into
the pan and fry until the onion is
translucent and slightly caramelised,
and the bacon is crisping.
2 Stir in the red lentils, pour on the
water, add the bay leaf and half the
thyme and simmer for 15 mins, or until
the lentils are soft. Remove the bay
leaf and blend with a stick blender,
then taste and season.
3 To make the toppings: fry the sliced
onions until browned and crispy, then
drain them on kitchen paper until
needed. Grill the remaining pieces of
bacon until crispy. Heat the soup Cheesy bread to tear and
and pour into bowls and top with share and dip into smoky
lentil soup (above)
a splash of double cream, some
fried onions and crumbled bacon
and a few fresh thyme leaves.

42
 LIA LEENDERTZ
is a gardening writer and the
author of several books,
including My Tiny Veg Plot and
My Cool Allotment (both
Pavilion). Her first cookery
book, Petal, Leaf, Seed: Cooking
with the Gardens Treasures
(Kyle Books) is out now.
lialeendertz.com
Cheesy pull-apart rolls
A doughy cheese-topped delight
that goes wonderfully with this
satisfying, smoky soup.
Makes around 9 rolls
500g strong white flour, plus
extra for dusting
2 tsp salt
7g instant yeast
300ml cold water
3 tbsp olive oil
150g mature cheddar cheese,
grated
Optional: pieces of hard
mozzarella
1 Tip the flour, salt and yeast into a
bowl and stir, then pour in the water
and olive oil and mix.
2 Dust your work surface with
flour and knead the dough for 10 mins,
then place in a clean bowl, covered
in a clean tea towel. Leave the
dough to rise for around an hour,
until roughly doubled in size.
3 Tip out of the bowl and knead briefly
again, then form balls of dough a little
larger than ping pong balls, and put a
piece of mozzarella in the centre of
each if you like.
4 Arrange them in a round cake tin,
leaving plenty of space for them to
expand, and grate the cheese over
them, so that it falls in between each.
Cover with a tea towel and leave to
rise for an hour, until doubled in size.
5 Preheat oven to 220C/Fan 200C/
425F. Bake the rolls for around
25 mins. Remove and leave to cool for
a few minutes before pulling apart
and eating while still warm.
Taking stock
A good stock is not always essential to
a soup, but it will enrich and deepen
its flavour. It is a good way of using up
leftovers, particularly leftover bones
and chicken carcasses.
To make a meat stock: put the bones
into a large pot, top with plenty of
water, add a halved onion, a roughly
chopped carrot and the same of celery
and a bundle of herbs and a few
peppercorns, and simmer together for a
few hours to extract all of the flavours.
Strain through a muslin and use
straight away, or cool and freeze.
A fish stock can be made in the same
way by boiling up any offcuts of fish,
along with crab, prawn or lobster shells,
and perhaps some onion and fennel.
Delicate vegetable stock makes good
use of a glut of suitable veg, such as
broccoli or cabbage stalks, fennel and
mushrooms. Add plenty of water, herbs,
onions, carrots, celery, and spices such
as peppercorns and a few fennel seeds.
43
 WHAT DO YOU DO
WITH YOURS?
Its official: a subscription to The Simple Things makes you feel good

Hayley Gillard @hayleygillard1 shoploveone @shoploveone Jen ONeill @jenoneill

3 January 2017
Brrrrr feeling the #hygge love
tonight its freeeeezing
outside! @simplethingsmag
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4 January 2017
Latest issue
@simplethingsmag Frosty
days are all about #hygge
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4 January 2017
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feature on Auckland too

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11 December 2016 18 December 2016 28 December 2016
Slow Sundays are my As per usual Im in love with Wonderful to escape into
favourite. Starting my day the December issue of @simplethingsmag stunning
with breakfast and @simplethingsmag wildlife photography winners
@simplethingsmag Always so inspiring @BWPAwards & #hygge ideas

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 TIPPLE OF
THE MONTH
This gimlet offers all the propriety of a G&T with
the carnival spirit of a caipirinha

Juice from 6 limes

100g sugar
950ml water

Stir until sugar dissolves, then add

750ml gin, plus a few lime slices,
kumquat slices & whole kumquats*.
Serve over glasses of ice.

Garnish glasses with lime slices and

kumquat swizzle sticks. Prep the swizzle
sticks by placing 3 kumquats onto a
small wooden skewer to put inside each
glass. (Can be made the day before.)

Recipe and
photography from
The Forest Feast
Gatherings by Erin
Gleeson (Abrams)

* If kumquats are out of season, use orange or mandarin slices in the punch and green grapes for the swizzle sticks. 45
 LIVING | WEEKEND PROJECT

GOOD TO GO
ENERGY BALLS ARE PLEASINGLY ROUND,
PACK A PUNCH AND THEYRE EVERYWHERE. KATE TURNER,
WHO LOVES INVENTING, MAKING AND EATING THEM,
EXPLAINS WHY THEY ARE WORTH A TRY

Photography: WILL HEAP

46
S
imple to make and very, very tasty,
energy balls are brilliantly handy
ball-shaped snacks just the job in a
lunchbox, for picnics in the woods,
to fuel some digging in the garden,
or as a little boost before bed! They
can be sweet or savoury, any size you fancy,
packed with healthy ingredients or just a few
simple leftovers, but always full of natural energy.
Ive been making energy balls for years, as a
fun way of getting nutrient-dense ingredients
into family meals and as a healthier alternative
to pre-packaged goodies. The kids love to get
involved, especially when it comes to the hands-
on rolling, and its great fun trying out different
combinations of ingredients.
For sweet balls, use any nut or seed you fancy,
any dried fruit you have to hand, and roll them in
an endless variety of toppings. Simply blitz in a
food processor or blender, then get creative with
extra goodies cacao powder for energy, hemp
seeds for protein or bee pollen for some colour
and wow factor. Theres no added sugar as they
are naturally sweet and moreishly delicious.
Savoury balls can be either baked or raw,
depending on the ingredients you choose. They
can be part of a bigger meal with salads, roasted
veg, dips and dressings or good on their own
as a simple snack. I choose to use gluten-free,
vegetarian ingredients with no refined sugars,
but what you choose to include is up to you.
Its great fun to experiment with flavours and
textures and a very easy way to make tasty,
healthy snacks for the whole family.
Spicy black bean
burrito balls
Very tasty on their own as an
energy-boosting snack or as part
of a bigger burrito meal
Makes 1012 balls
1 tbsp coconut oil
1 small onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, crushed
2 tsp red chilli, finely chopped
2 tsp cumin seeds
400g black beans, ready to eat
30g fresh coriander, roughly
chopped
Linseeds to coat
Brown basmati rice, cherry
tomatoes, guacamole, sour cream
and a lime wedge to serve
(optional)
1 Preheat oven to 200C/Fan
180C/400F. Line a baking tray with
baking parchment.
2 Heat the oil in a frying pan over a
medium heat. Add the chopped onion
and cook for around 5 mins until soft.
Add the garlic, chilli and cumin and
continue cooking for a further 2 mins.
Add the beans and cook to heat
through, stirring occasionally.
3 Put the bean mixture in a food
processor with the coriander and
whizz until roughly combined. Season
to taste, then take small handfuls and
roll into balls.
4 Put the linseeds on a separate plate
and roll the balls around to coat them.
Put them on the lined baking tray and
bake in the oven for around 15 mins.
5 Leave to cool on the tray to firm up
before eating. These balls will keep in
an airtight container in the fridge for
around a week.
47
 LIVING | WEEKEND PROJECT
Brazil nut &
broccoli balls
These can be eaten raw or baked.
Delicious either way!
Makes 1012 balls
100g brazil nuts
50g pumpkin seeds
3 tbsp ground flaxseed powder
100g broccoli florets and
stems, chopped
100g carrots, chopped
1 tbsp coconut oil
tsp ground cumin
Sesame seeds to coat (optional)
1 Put the nuts and seeds in a food
processor and blitz until fine. Add the
rest of the ingredients and whizz again
until combined and starting to form a
48
sticky ball. Season to taste.
2 Take small handfuls of mixture and
roll each into a ball. Put the sesame
seeds on a separate plate and roll the
balls around to coat them.
3 If eating raw, put the balls in the
fridge for 1 hour or the freezer for 20
minutes to firm up. If baking, place on a
baking tray and bake in a preheated
oven at 200C/Fan 180C/400F for
around 15 mins. Leave to cool on the
tray to firm up before eating. These
balls will keep in an airtight container in
the fridge for around a week.
Kate Turner is an organic allotment
gardener, homegrown chef and mother to
a bunch of free-range kids. She blogs at
homegrownkate.com and is the author of
four cookbooks, including Energy Bites
and My Zero Waste Kitchen (both DK).
Hazelnut & cacao
chocolate balls
A little chocolatey treat! Cacao is the
raw version of cocoa powder and
packed with antioxidants and iron.
A great reason to eat raw chocolates
Makes 1520 balls
150g hazelnuts
300g dates
2 tbsp peanut butter
34 tbsp cacao powder, plus
extra to coat
1 tbsp coconut oil
1 Put all the ingredients in a food
processor and whizz until combined.
Add extra cacao powder if youd like a
more decadent-tasting ball.
2 With the motor running, add a little
water if necessary (12 tbsp) until the
mixture starts to form a sticky ball.
3 Scoop out little handfuls of the
mixture and roll into balls, any size you
like. Roll the balls in extra cacao
powder for a more trufflesque look.
4 Put the balls in the fridge for an hour
or the freezer for 20 minutes to firm up
before eating. They will keep in an
airtight container in the fridge for
around a week.
DIY energy balls

A simple guide for you to make

your own sweet balls. Endless
combinations of flavours and
textures and all of them packed
with natural energy! Play around
with the ingredients until you find
your favourite

Makes 1520 balls

150g your choice of nuts or
seeds, such as cashew, almond,
pumpkin, brazil
300g your choice of dried
fruit, such as raisin, pineapple,
date, apple
24 tbsp sticky stuff, such as
tahini, coconut oil, honey, nut
butter, fruit juice
12 tbsp superfood powder, such
as maca, cacao, acai, baobab,
lucuma (optional)
1 tsp ground spice, such as
cinnamon, turmeric, nutmeg
(optional)
Toppings to roll: chia seeds,
sesame seeds, desiccated
coconut, bee pollen, crushed nuts

1 Put your chosen nuts, seeds and

dried fruit in a food processor and
blitz until finely chopped.
2 Add your sticky stuff and blitz
again until the mixture starts to
form a large sticky ball.
3 Add any powders or spices, if using,
and blitz again until fully combined.
4 Take small handfuls of the mixture
and roll into balls. Place your chosen
toppings on plates or in bowls. Roll
the balls to coat.
5 Put the balls in the fridge for an hour
or the freezer for 20 minutes to firm
up before eating. They will keep in an
airtight container in the fridge for
around a week.
1 2 3

4 5

A JOB WELL DONE my skin that I tried to make my own. The results were 1 Emma also produces

candles fragranced with

RAISING
very mixed, so when I met someone at a village fete with pure essential oils.
an amazing formulation who was about to pack up the 2 Back to basics: Emma

business, I asked to buy her recipes. I offered her 2,500 might have a factory

THE BAR
now that her business
based on the logic it was what my neighbour had paid
has grown, but it all
for his hobby bike. began in the kitchen.
3 The desire to work

Its all about education. I really admire Jamie Oliver for from her beloved
Emma Heathcote-James is the founder Cotswolds base was part
helping people understand the preservatives put into of her inspiration.
of Cotswolds-based Little Soap Company pre-made food. At the moment, people dont understand 4 Emma still has the

whats going into cosmetics. Our products only use pure kitchen table where
she first hand-mixed
organic ingredients stuff you can be happy putting on
her soaps.
Words: FRANCES AMBLER your skin every day. In our Little Soap School, we offer 5 The original Artisan

classes in hand-making bars and balms. If people are Handmade range that
Little Soap Company is a hobby that went wrong. going to copy, they will. If they work as hard as me in started it all

I freelanced in the media but wanted something that
was mine, a hobby business to get me away from my
laptop. My grandmother collected handmade bars of
soap from all over the world. After she died, her stashes
had dwindled. I tried various soap, but it felt so awful on
those rst few years, they deserve their success!
Remember your story. At rst I bought ingredients in
small, very expensive quantities, made the bars on my
kitchen table and sold them at markets. I broke even and

50
 LIVING | LIFE SKILLS

it was lots of fun but I wanted them to be in Waitrose.

I used to wait in their foyer, searching for the right buyer.
I wince about it now but it worked! But that kitchen
table is in our offices to remind us how we started.

Surround yourself with like-minded people. When

I started, I was so lonely. I didnt realise how hard it
would be on my own. I found out about Women in Rural
Enterprises (WiRE) and started my own group. It was so
helpful meeting local producers and makers.

Listen to others but trust your gut. Speaking at a

conference early on, one audience member kept asking
pertinent questions as I lamented the physical cap for
one-man producers. She asked why hadnt I upscaled
and got a factory if I wanted to get organic soap to
everyone? It turned out that she was from Tesco and
wanted to stock my products. I spent two or three
months deciding whether to go ahead, to make it my
full-time job. The creation of our Everyday range meant
I had to nd factories I could trust. People do business
with people and Ive learned that my gut instinct is
always right. After that, everything gathered speed and
we then went into Waitrose, Sainsburys, Booths, Tesco
and Boots nationwide. That was ve years ago.
Get employees who are better than you. The challenge
is nding the right people its your baby; to others,
understandably, its a job. But nd them and its a massive
help I hand over the things Im not good at, and focus
on what I enjoy most; the vision, public speaking, seeing
buyers and social enterprise work. Youve got to trust
other people.
The best ideas can come from your own needs. I used
to look after guide dog puppies Umber was especially
naughty and always lthy. Once I grabbed some nearby
soap to rub him down. That led to the development of
our new Little Beast bar. Weve also made a shampoo a
real challenge without using chemicals. Theres nothing
else thats similar for pets so it lls a gap in the market.
My business is me, so its got to be somewhere that
suits who I am. An industrial unit just wouldnt work for
me. Were in a Cotswolds stone building with ten acres of
land out the back. In the summer, theres nothing nicer
than sitting with your feet in the stream.
Find ways to unload. I tend to say yes a lot; Im learning
to say no. At rst, I was treating the business as a massive
distraction from what wasnt great in my life. Yoga and
running have been magic for my anxiety and stress.
Know yourself. At the start of last year, my family and
business mentor suggested I had some downtime the
PHOTOGRAPHY: ALAMY
LEARN SOMETHING NEW
Tarot
A 60 -SECOND INSIGHT INTO A
NEW PERSONAL CHALLENGE
By TERRI-JANE DOW
IVE ALWAYS LOVED a TV witch, from Samantha
in Bewitched to Sabrina the eponymous teenage witch,
so its not surprising that Instagrams #instawitch
movement appeals to me. So, when a friend bought me
some beautiful tarot cards (traditionally you shouldnt
buy your own), I set off to learn more about them.
Tarot began in Northern Italy around 1430, as a card
game. It wasnt used as a divination tool until the 18th
century when many decks were created with slightly
different interpretations and artwork. There are 78 cards,
divided between Major and Minor arcanas. Majors (or
Trump cards) are the character cards, including the
Fool, the Hierophant, and the Hanged Man. Minors are
the four suits of Wands, Cups, Swords, and Pentacles,
each with ten numbered cards and four court cards.
Most newbies start with a Rider-Waite deck, because it
is supposed to be easier to interpret. These days, tarot is
used more as a tool for intuition and insight than fortune
telling, and its this aspect that I nd helpful.
A good website to help you learn basic card meanings
and spreads is biddytarot.com, and the tarot community
on Instagram is full of advice on different interpretations
the #tarotreaders hashtag is helpful. Also, read Jessa
Crispins The Creative Tarot and her newsletter Reading

business had grown so fast. But thats just not me, Ive
got to keep moving. This year, were releasing shower gel
and haircare exclusively for Waitrose. Even now, eight
years on, when I see our products on the shelves, I want
to tug peoples sleeves and tell them that I made them.
the Tarot, both of which dig into the characters of the cards.
I might never achieve Samanthas twitchy nose, or the
sarcasm of Sabrinas cat Salem, but Im making a start!

51
 ADVERTISEMENT PROMOTION
A baristas best friend
E XC E L L E N T CO F F E E I S N OT J U ST A B O U T T H E G R I N D. T H E R I G H T
M I L K C A N TA K E YO U R M O R N I N G L AT T E TO A N OT H E R L E V E L
C
offee is a subject dear to
many hearts; in the UK we
drink about 55 million
cups of coffee a day. There
are now fantastic artisan
coffee shops dotted around our towns
but our demand for a wonderful cuppa
doesnt stop there searching out great
beans, and the best way to drink them is
a serious business for many of us.
However, did you ever stop to think
about the other two thirds of your coffee?
Milk, just plain old white stuff, is so
much more than meets the eye. Milk
gives your coffee a new texture, adds
sweetness and body, and of course
changes the nutritional value, too.
52
MILKS TRUE VALUE
The team at Yeo Valley arent coffee
experts, but with more than 50 years in
the dairy business they know a thing or
two about what makes great milk. Yeo
Valley milk comes from their farms in
Somerset, as well as from their partners
the Organic Milk Suppliers Cooperative
(OMSCo). OMSCo helps farmers to sell
their milk, and ensure that they get a fair
price for it by working together. Tim and
Mary from Yeo helped to set up OMSCo
more than 20 years ago, and have been
working with the South-West based
cooperative of farmers ever since, as they
think these family farms produce the
best milk around.
From cow to cappuccino,
milk is perhaps coffees
most overlooked ingredient
Yeo Valleys milk is proudly British and
organic. The cows eat a forage based diet,
which means they mostly eat grass or
clover, just as nature intended. Yeo
believe that this makes their milk even
tastier. There are no GMOs fed to the
cows and they are able to roam outside
for most of the year (they like to come in
out of the cold and rain in winter, too).
So next time youre picking up some
milk to go with your
coffee, remember to
show your milk the
same love you show
your beans.
Find out more at
yeovalley.co.uk.
 CAKE extra for greasing
1 tsp baking powder
or until a skewer comes out clean.
3 Leave to cool in the tins for 10 mins, then

IN THE
4 large eggs turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
1 tsp rosewater 4 To make the rose mix, combine all the
FOR THE ROSE MIX ingredients in a saucepan and cook

HOUSE
20g dried rose petals* over a low heat for 23 mins, stirring
1 tbsp dry-roasted fennel seeds continuously. Take the pan off the heat
tsp ground cardamom as soon as the sugar starts to melt. Give
4 tbsp caster sugar it a good stir and set aside to cool.
This pretty cake is inspired by an Indian FOR THE ICING 5 To make the icing, whisk the cream and
rose petal preserve. Aniseedy fennel 300ml double cream sugar together in a bowl until soft peaks
balances the rosewater while dried rose 2 tbsp caster sugar form. Fold in the crushed fennel seeds.
petals add crunch to the creamy icing 1 tbsp dry-roasted fennel seeds, 6 To assemble, place one cake on a serving
lightly crushed plate and spread half the icing over it.
Sprinkle with half the rose mix. Place the
ROSE AND HONEY CAKE 1 Preheat oven to 180C/Fan 160C/350F. second cake on top. Spread the remaining
Serves 1012 Grease 2 x 20cm cake tins and line them icing over this layer and finish by sprinkling
100g golden caster sugar with baking parchment. over the last of the rose mix. Leave to
100g clear honey 2 In a large bowl, mix the cake ingredients stand at room temperature for 10 mins
100g self-raising our with an electric whisk for 2 mins until light before serving.
100g ground almonds and creamy. Divide the batter equally into Note This cake will keep, refrigerated in
200g unsalted butter, softened, plus the prepared tins and bake for 2025 mins an airtight container, for up to four days.

Recipe from The Cardamom

Trail by Chetna Makan
(Mitchell Beazley).
Photography: Nassima
Rothacker

* Waitrose stocks dried rose petals and you can also buy them in some health food stores and online. 53

y
ups
JOANNA WAKEFIELD
lives in York and creates
jewellery inspired by textiles
and haberdashery. Her
simple thing is rooting
through her grandmas intto something that requires more concentration,
vintage button box for
inspiration.
joannawakefield.com
54
2pm
WE ASKED JEWELLERY DESIGNER JOANNA
AKEFIELD TO DESCRIBE HER DAY IN CUPPAS
Mo
orning! Tell us a bit about where you wake up.
I live in a mews house, and work from a converted
garrage underneath my home.
d whats happening in the mornings?
I have a fresh lemon and ginger in my biggest mug
aftter my energising yoga boost. At 9am I switch
on Radio 2 and get cracking. By 10.30am, Im onto
earrly elevenses a good, strong Yorkshire tea,
steewed a bit, with a splash of milk. I tend to work
with more vigour after this tea fix, so Ill get stuck
succh as soldering. Im usually starving by 1pm but
tryy to hold out until 2pm as Im often being
prooductive and I love listening to Jeremy Vine.
remy has finished how do you spend lunch?
If ttime allows, I take half an hour to spend with
cat, Mr Earl Grey. By lunch, hes lunging at my
stu
udio door wanting to pester me! While he has
hiss treats, I have something on toast such as
11am
avocado, with some lemon juice, salt and pepper,
washed down with my last Yorkshire of the day.
And does Earl Grey (the drink, not the cat)
feature in your afternoon at all?
Yes, after lunch I have a cup of Earl Grey, or a
more tropical tea, with a fruity Thomas flapjack.
The light is best in my home about this time, so I
often nip to my bright spot and snap a few pictures
of my work for my Facebook and Instagram feeds.
Do you get out and about much?
Getting fresh air is really valuable to me when Im
in my studio all day. Each week, I make sure I get a
city centre walk or two for a break from the studio.
Its been a busy day. Time for bed?
Running a new small business, my evening is
usually consumed with emails and admin. But
I always give myself some time before bed to relax:
I light a candle, unwind, and breathe, and drink
some night-time tea from a comforting mug.
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 FE B RUARY

ESCAPE
ENJOY A WINTERS DAY OUT WHERE THE RIVER
MEETS THE SEA. RETREAT TO A COSY COTTAGE
IN KENT AND FLY SOUTH TO SOAK UP
SUMMERTIME BUENOS AIRES

PHOTOGRAPHY: STOCKSY/ROLFO

56
57
 MY CITY*: BUENOS AIRES 1

GABY REY TAKES US ON A SOUTHERN-SUMMER TOUR OF ARGENTINA'S 2

CAPITAL, WHERE TANGO, PARKS IN BLOOM AND BARBECUES BECKON

PHOTOGRAPHY: GABY REY; ALAMY; GETTY IMAGES

58
 ESCAPE | MY CITY

1 Houses in La Boca near

GABY REY the port were originally

is a journalist, specialising in the cultural painted with paint left
scene of Buenos Aires. She has written for over from the boats.
2 Plaza San Martn: best
and edited fashion and trend magazines
such as Mapa del Diseo and Time Out. visited early in the
She is an amateur photographer, eternal morning with a coffee,
dance student and nature lover. Find her says Gaby.
3 Impressive Art
on Instagram, @gabyreyok
Nouveau elegance at
Galera Gemes
shopping centre.
4 Not your typical

street corner, but no

*Theres no better way to get to the heart of a city trip to Buenos Aires
than through the people who live there. Every is complete without
month, we ask someone, clearly in love with their a spot of tango.
5 Tasty minutas at
city, to take us on a personal tour and tell us what
El Preferido
makes it so special. You may feel inspired to visit
one day or to rediscover the charms of a city 5

closer to you, but for now just sit back, relax

and enjoy some armchair travel.
How long have you lived here?
Ive been in in Buenos Aires for 21 years I came
with my family when I was 12 years old. I was raised
in Sierra Grande, a small village in Patagonia, a vast
region in the south known for its beautiful and wild,
mountainous landscape. It was a magical childhood!
Whats it like in February?
February is a great summer month, not as hot as
January and yet you can still enjoy an evening pool
party on a terrace. It is still holiday time so people are
more relaxed and the city is less crowded than usual.
February is also the end of high season so you can get
lower rates on ights and accommodation.

Tell us what makes it unique Wheres your favourite outdoor space?

I liken Buenos Aires to a mysterious lady sipping a
glass of wine while listening to a tango. In some ways
it is a melancholic city, recalling the old world with
its Parisian style architecture, Italian inuenced food
and, of course, Spanish language. And yet Buenos
Aires has something unique in its people, who are
spirited, passionate and kind, and in its special
traditions such as mate (a traditional infused drink),
asado (Argentinian barbecue), and soccer.
I enjoy being by the water so for me it would be on a
boat sailing at Rio de la Plata. If you go to Peru Beach
in the San Isidro area you can enjoy lunch next to the
river and go kayaking and windsurng.
Whats the nature like?
At this time of the year there is a huge variety of trees
still in bloom, from the magnicent jacaranda to the
yellow tipas, red ceibos, and sweet-smelling tilos that

59
1
I still havent found meat like ours. The smell of
a good asado is an Argentinian perfume
waft their scent through the city. We owe this magic to
Charles Thays, a French architect and naturalist who
designed most of the city's green spaces. You can enjoy
his legacy at the Botanic Garden or Parque Lezama.
What time of day do you most enjoy?
Early morning is a great time to visit a park like Plaza
San Martn. Grab a coffee at Caf Paulin (Sarmiento 635)
and sit on a bench facing the Kavanagh, an Art Deco
skyscraper. I also love pero time during summer
when I enjoy a glass of ros and city views at any
skyline bar such as the Pulitzer Hotel (Maip 907).
Tell us about the light and colours
There is the aristocratic Barrio Norte with its muted
greys and beige stone. Or La Boca neighbourhood,
where youll nd the vivid colors of the old immigrant
houses next to the port. You can also nd lots of great
graffiti around the city; theres even a tour you can
take to see it all (graffitimundo.com).
Tell us about the people who live here
Passionate. Intense. Talkative. It only takes ve minutes
to get into a conversation with any Argentinian stranger
60
in a bar. People are kind, they are pleased to help
foreigners. Sometimes it can look like were arguing
because we speak pretty loud, but were only talking!
Whats your favourite way to get about the city?
The easiest way to get about is by metro. You can also
pick up EcoBici, the yellow free bicycles with stations
placed all around the city. Asking locals is also a good
way to nd new places. If you get lost, dont be shy to
ask; locals are always happy to improve their English.
What has been your best discovery?
The viewpoint on the 14th oor of Galera Gemes
in the centre of the city (Florida 165), because you
get a 360-degree view of Buenos Aires including the
galeras beautiful domes and you can even see the
Uruguayan coast. Built in the early 20th century, this
building was one of the citys rst skyscrapers.
Tell us about eating in your city?
The immigrant inuence and our own creole stamp
make the city a gastronomic pool that keeps growing.
Bodegn food is the synthesis of Italian and Spanish
cuisine. You can taste what we call minutas (it takes
only minutes to be cooked) like Milanesas a caballo
(breaded fried steak with two fried eggs on top yes,
pretty healthy!) at Gambrinus (Av. Federico Lacroze
3779) and El Preferido (Jorge Luis Borges 2108). You
should also try locro, a hearty thick stew with corn,
 ESCAPE | MY CITY

1 Where old meets

new: the House of

Congress reflected in
a modern building.
2 The Obelisco in

Plaza de la Repblica.
3 February is bloom

time in Buenos Aires,

with the city's many
trees, including
jacaranda, adding
colour and perfume to
the city's parks.
4 A metro station:

"the easiest way to

get around".
5 5 A gaucho supervises

asado, aka Argentine

barbecue

meat and vegetables. For dessert, an mixto. And of

course, the asado: dont miss the choripn (a type of
chorizo hot dog) with chimichurri sauce!
4

Whats the shopping like?

If youre into tango, you can nd the best dancing shoes
here, beautifully designed and handcrafted. You can
visit the factory and design your own pair (see Gabys
personal tour). You can also get the whole Gaucho look
and buy a poncho, a beret and a facn (gaucho knife).
Wheres your favourite place to escape to?
Delta Tigre, without doubt. Its a popular weekend
getaway for locals. It only takes 40 minutes by train to
Puerto de Frutos in Tigre where you can take a
catamaran to any of the deltas islands. You can hop
off the boat and have lunch at a restaurant next to the
river or rent a small cabin for the whole weekend.
What would surprise a newcomer to your city?
How European we are. You need to stay for a while
to start discovering our own particular features.
And also how late we go out. We can gather to go out
after midnight! If youre giving a party and invite
friends at a certain hour, be sure all the Argentinians
will arrive an hour later.
What do you miss most if youve been away?
Every time Im away from home for more than a
month, what I rst miss is the Argentinian meat.
Even if I can get amazing food abroad, I still havent

61

1
3
1 The view from the
14th floor of Galera
Gemes Gabys trapped in a traffic jam at any time.
favourite discovery.
2 Handmade hats at
Casa Maidana take four
days to craft, following
a traditional process.
3 Coffee central, Caf
Paulin in Centro
62
2 You can visit the factory and design your own
found meat like ours. The smell of a good asado is
an Argentinian perfume.
If you could change one thing about the city, what
would it be?
I wish there were fewer cars and more bicycles.
There is no such thing as rush hour here: you can get
Where would you recommend staying?
If you want to experience the most fashionable side of
the city, I would say Palermo. For the bohemian and
arts scene, that would be San Telmo. And if you want
to get away from tourists, you might like to stay in
Colegiales, a growing neighbourhood with a cool vibe.
What keeps you in your city and where would you
like to live if you could not live here?
My family and my job keep me here, but also the
people. I could live in Spain because there is a
particular familiar ambience there, despite the
landscape, which makes me feel close to home.
GABYS
PERSONAL TOUR
FAVOURITE SHOPS
Enseres
Adorable little store that is a bazaar and art
gallery. enseresbazar.net
Fueguia 1833 by Julian Bedel
A local perfume lab inspired by the scenery of
Patagonia, the verses of Borges and the
immensity of the Andes. fueguia.com
Casa Maidana
Handmade hats since 1911, by Maidana family.
Av. Rivadavia 1923
Victorio
The place to go for handcrafted tango shoes.
pair. victoriotangoshoes.com.ar
FAVOURITE GALLERY
La Abadia de San Benito
Latin American art gallery inside a 1930s
former Benedictine monastery with vaulted
ceilings, hardwood floors and lovely gardens.
Gorostiaga y Luis M Campos, Palermo
FAVOURITE BAR
Los Divinos
A Friday night hotspot with a hidden cellar of
natural wines from Argentina. Best wines,
rilletes and homemade Dijon mustard in town.
Gascn 1272, Palermo
FAVOURITE RESTAURANT
Los Talas del Entrerriano
This is the place for traditional asado, a
carnivorous mecca outside Buenos Aires. Be
prepared to wait, especially on Saturday nights.
talasdelentrerriano.com.ar
FAVOURITE HOTEL
Moreno Hotel
In San Telmo, this Art Deco building has triple
height ceilings, a terrace with magnificent
views and the BeBop Jazz Club in the
basement. morenobuenosaires.com
Favourite way to spend an
hour
At Biblioteca Nacional, admiring the brutalist
architecture of Clorindo Testa. Its also a fresh
refuge from the heat in summer. bn.gov.ar
The one thing you have to see
Avenida 9 de Julio is one of the main arteries
of the city, known for its Obelisco monument
and for being the widest avenue in the world.
 Tudor
r evival
SEE, DO, STAY, LOVE THE UK.
THIS MONTH: A SIMPLE, ANCIENT
COTTAGE IN KENT

Photography: JESKA & DEAN HEARNE Words: JESKA HEARNE

GO & STAY
We were badly in need of an escape when we arrived at
Providence Cottage near Cranbrook in Kent. Luckily for
us, we found a retreat from the modern world in every
sense: a 500-year-old, grade-II listed Tudor cottage that
wraps you up in its magic and takes you back to a simpler
way of life. Just the place to switch off and unwind.
Owners Darren and Ellen have done a fantastic job of
respecting the cottages heritage, using simple fittings
and allowing original features to do the talking. If only
the walls could talk! Its a place that has seen quite some
history it was once owned by John Calcott Horsley,
who designed the first ever Christmas card.
Downstairs, a large living and dining room centres
around a huge inglenook fireplace. Upstairs, a writing
nook, bathroom and double bedroom feature ancient
beams, sloping floors, low eaves and exposed brickwork.
Although some might balk at the lack of central
heating, television or standing shower, we embraced it.
We took long soaks in the bath, spent evenings by fire
and candlelight, played old vinyl on the record player

64
 ESCAPE | WEEKEND AWAY

From far left: Cranbrook and its

smock mill; the inglenook
fireplace and timbered exterior
at Providence Cottage

and games of dominoes. Its a place to truly hunker

down. We made rounds of warming tea, and at the end
of the day, sunk into a beautiful cloud of linen.

SEE & DO
After a slow start on our first morning, we headed
straight to Sissinghurst Castle Garden, one of my
absolute favourite National Trust properties. The
gardens are world-renowned, the work of poet and
writer Vita Sackville-West (see page 75), who began
transforming the derelict ruins in the 1930s. It might
have been winter but it was still a magical place to be,
and fascinating to see the intricate bare bones of the
ornamental borders. Before leaving, we climbed the
castle tower for a wonderful view over the estate and
miles of beautiful Wealden countryside.
Later that day we drove a little further on to
Tenterden, a former Cinque Port, now stranded inland,
with a tree-lined high street and working steam railway.
Here we pottered around taking photos, exploring the
many independent shops, and stopped for a particularly
good coffee at The Nutmeg Deli and Coffee Shop

This series comes from online

UK travel guide This is Your
Kingdom, whose handpicked
contributors explore favourite
places, special finds and great
goings on. You can read about one
we love here each month and more
at thisisyourkingdom.co.uk.

65
 before heading back to Providence Cottage for supper
in our favourite nook in front of the fire.
On our final morning, we had a wander around
Cranbrook, taking in the impressive smock mill and
narrow medieval streets lined with pretty old houses.
Like Tenterden, there is a range of independent shops.
We discovered a sweet little deli, antique and gift shops,
and a great cake store called Cocolicious.

EAT & DRINK

After our visit to Sissinghurst, we were pleased to
discover The Milk House a former 16th-century Clockwise, from below:
property thats been transformed into a really great Sissinghurst Castle;
village pub. Here, we sat in front of a crackling fire and The Milk House is a
really great village
ate from their all-day grazing menu. The wood-fired
pub in Sissinghurst;
pizza was very good and so too was the local cask ale. glasshouses indoors
Our weekend ended on a real high as we made our way and out at The Walled
to The Walled Nursery at Hawkhurst. With 13 Victorian Nursery, Hawkworth

glasshouses, its like no other nursery Ive ever visited

and we had a great homemade lunch in their newly
opened Vinery Caf (complete with a log-burning stove
for the colder months). The apple cake was divine.
We rounded our visit off with a walk around the
garden and glasshouses. Of course we spent way too long
eyeing up weird and wonderful species in the succulent
house before deciding it was time to head home, relaxed
and rejuvenated, and with heads full of gardening ideas.
providencecottagecranbrook.co.uk

Jeska Hearne is a contributor to thisisyourkingdom.co.uk and

co-founder of online lifestyle store thefuturekept.com. More
of her photographs and stories can be found on her blog
lobsterandswan.com and Instagram @lobsterandswan.

66
The Simply Classic shepherds hut
A warm and versatile garden room
retreat, with bed and stove
01300 348414 | enquiries@plankbridge.com
www.plankbridge.com
 Blackwater estuary in
Essex at low tide, where
yachts tilt on the tidal
mud and migrating
birds overwinter

68
 ESCAPE | OUTING

ESTUARIES ARE AT THEIR MOST

POETIC AT THIS TIME OF YEAR.
WANDER THERE FOR A LITTLE
BROODING AND BIRD WATCHING

Words: CLARE GOGERTY

T
here are times when the
landscape suits, even
amplifies, your mood. A sandy
beach on a sunny summers
day buoys feelings of jollity.
A mountain top uplifts and
exhilarates as you fill your lungs and look at
the never-ending view. But where do you go
when you want to indulge a reflective mood?
When you want some time alone, perhaps,
to think a little? To wander and wonder?
I always head to an estuary the
Blackwater estuary between Maldon and
West Mersea in Essex in particular and
especially round about now when it is at its
most evocative and mysterious. An estuary
PHOTOGRAPHY: ALAMY

is the tidal mouth of a big river, a shifting

landscape where the river and the sea meet.
It reveals itself quietly: on a chilly winter
morning, it is threaded with mist and the
only sounds a muffled foghorn from a

69
 ESCAPE | OUTING

Estuary legends
Three spectral creatures who have
arisen from the mists of an estuary
1. The Mermaid of Padstow, Camel
estuary, Cornwall
Out hunting for seals, local man
Tristram Bird came across a beautiful
maiden and fell in love, legend has it.
Some say she tried to lure him under
the sea, others that she rejected his
marriage proposal. Both agree that
he shot her, only later realising she
was a mermaid. Her wailing cry can
still be heard after a fearful gale, like
a woman bewailing the dead.
2. The Seawitch of Leigh-on-Sea,
Thames estuary, Essex
container ship or the clatter of startled orange beaks descend in search of food.
Twice widowed and the mother of crows disturbed from their roost. It is eerie During the winter, migrating birds arrive at
nine children, Sarah Moore gained a and enigmatic, a place of saltmarsh, creeks the Blackwater Estuary Nature Reserve in
reputation as a witch in the 1880s. and tidal islands linked to the shoreline by sociable gaggles to feast on the invertebrates
This was largely because she read perilous causeways. burrowed beneath the mud.
fortunes and asked sailors for money
in return for promising them a fair
Its not surprising then, that Sarah Perry My favourite place to meander
wind. A local pub still bears her name set her bestselling novel The Essex Serpent thoughtfully is the sea wall along the edge of
and a book, The Drowning Pool by amid the Blackwaters saltings and the Dengie peninsula, which overlooks the
Syd Moore, is partly based on her life. marshland. It is a fitting location for a dark estuary. Built to mollify the impact of
3. Humber Monster, Humber estuary, winged creature to lurk, slithering through coastal erosion, this concrete path runs
Lincs/East Riding of Yorkshire
the shallows, dark, viscous and terrifying. alongside the patchy and scrubby vegetation
After a swimmer was killed there, this
man-eating serpent was said to lurk It is a landscape from which Magwitch from of the saltmarsh, past the lonely and ancient
in the estuary near Hull. A large, Dickens Great Expectations could emerge, chapel of St Peter-on-the-Wall at Bradwell,
black shape was spotted making its slathered in mud and blood, fresh from the and over a beach made entirely of yellow
way up river and was described as prison boat (although in fact, that was the cockleshells. If ever there was a place to
having a head the size of an elephant,
Thames estuary in Kent). gather your thoughts, this is it.
six humps and flashing eyes. Locals
are keen to point out that this beast, But it is not all creepy otherworldliness. When I have had enough moody
seen throughout the 1920s, predates At high tide, the Blackwater fills its banks introspection, I head to Mersea Island.
sightings of the Loch Ness monster and tributaries and moored boats bob about Travelling there has an element of
and is remarkably similar looking. cheerfully. When the tide ebbs away, adventure itself as its connected to the
expanses of mudflats and saltmarsh are mainland by The Strood, a causeway
revealed and oystercatchers with their jolly flooded twice daily by the tide. Get your

70

2
timings wrong and you could spend more
time than anticipated on the island. Which
may not be a bad thing: this is the place to
demolish a seafood platter, and oysters in
particular the rich sediment of the estuary
creates the ideal habitat for these delicious
shellfish, which have been farmed on
Mersea for centuries. Once these have been
eaten on the deck of the West Mersea Oyster
Company, with a view across the oyster beds
to the rickety houseboats moored alongside,
all is right with the world.
If you arent anywhere near the
Blackwater estuary, there are 90 more
estuaries in the British Isles, all with their
own particular pleasures, so it is easy to
find one within reach.
PHOTOGRAPHY: ALAMY
LARKING ABOUT IN THE MUD
The muddy banks of estuaries might not
look like the most inviting place for an
afternoon stroll; they dont have the come-
3
hither properties of a sandy beach or a
grassy riverbank. But put on your wellies
and pull on a pair of gloves and venture on to
their squelchy shorelines and you could be
rewarded with treasure.
This is especially true of the Thames
estuary. The river rises and falls by over
7m twice a day here, revealing mudflats
peppered with historic finds. The mud is
anaerobic (without oxygen) meaning that it
preserves whatever ends up in it. In the 18th
century, searching for things lost in the mud
was a profession mudlarking carried out
by the young and the poor who would
scavenge among the sewage and corpses of
dead animals for items that had been lost or
fallen off boats to sell for a few pennies.
These days mudlarking is a more
wholesome practice, but some of the things
found remain the same. Clay pipes, some
dating back to the 16th century, are often
unearthed: sold prefilled with tobacco then
thrown away, they frequently ended up in
the river. The popularity of mudlarking has
led to licences being issued for more serious
practitioners (available from the Port of
London Authority, which will also advise
you on where to look) but, generally, surface
finds are OK to take home and treasure.
A SHIFTING, TIDAL WILDERNESS
Walk along the side of an estuary at low tide
and, among the boats moored and mired in
the mud, you will see wading birds
curlews, dunlin, oystercatchers, perhaps
pecking for food. They know that mudflats,
with their wriggling channels and creeks,
are rich with worms and shellfish. More
than 85,000 waterfowl overwinter in the
Severn estuary, for example, and now is a
good time to pull out the binoculars and see
Estuary bridges
1. Humber Bridge When it opened in
1981, this was the longest single-span
suspension bridge in the world (it is
now eighth). Elegantly poised above
the Humber estuary near Kingston
upon Hull, this 2,200-metre road
bridge connects the East Riding of
Yorkshire and North Lincolnshire.
2. Severn Bridge and the Second
Severn Crossing The first suspension
bridge spanning the Severn estuary
opened in 1966, allowing motorists to
zoom over the river between Wales
and England, and its clever design
earned it Grade I-listing. It has a
cycle path and footpath for a more
leisurely crossing. In 1999, the
Second Severn Crossing opened.
3. Forth Road Bridge Connecting
Edinburgh and Fife over the Firth of
Forth, this suspension bridge is not
to be confused with its proverbial
neighbour, the Forth Bridge, but is
just as spectacular, especially lit up at
night. The bridge has a footpath and
cycle track, and visitors can climb its
main towers during an annual bridge
festival (forthbridgesfestival.com).
1 Mudlarking on the
Thames foreshore.
2 West Mersea beach on
the Blackwater estuary.
3 The Humber Bridge,
aka, that rare 1980s
thing an architectural
beauty
71
 1 Oyster pickers at

Mersea island, where

oysters have been
farmed for centuries.
2 A historic barge on

the river Orwell at

Pin Mill in Suffolk.
3 Brent geese at

Northey island in the

Blackwater estuary.
4 Red Sands Fort, in

the Thames estuary

1 transitional landscape of the estuary
Evocative estuary words
Saltings, saltmarsh, mudflats,
creeks, fleets, gutways,
swatchways, lagoons,
inlets, meanders
if you can spot a few migrant species such as
whimbrel and ringed plover, who arrive in
large numbers to refuel mid-migration.
A large part of the Dyfi estuary in
Ceredigion, a magical area of mudflats, peat
bogs, river channels and creeks, is owned
and managed by the RSPB and attracts
Greenland white-fronted geese who
overwinter there from October to March,
although their numbers are worryingly
dropping. Visit the Dee estuary, on the
Welsh border this month, and look up:
you might see pink-footed geese
stopping off on their flight home to
Iceland from Norfolk.
Its not just about birds, though. The
half-sea, half-river is home to many
different species drawn by its variety of
habitats. Alongside the mudflats is
saltmarsh formed where silt and sand
accumulate where sheep and cattle graze
and waterfowl feed on the grass, and where
salt-tolerant plants such as sea purslane and
golden samphire form colonies.
The sheltered waters of estuaries also
attract marine animals seals are often
spotted in the Humber estuary, and
Atlantic salmon swim up the Severn estuary
on their way to freshwater rivers to spawn.
Everything that lives here depends on the
rhythm of the tide. It brings in food from
the sea as it rises, and sluices everything
clean as it falls away.
SOMETHING STRANGE IN THE SEA
As if sightings of eerie sea creatures rising
from murky waters isnt enough to put
shivers down the spine, there are other
man-made constructions almost as
otherworldly lurking in the Thames estuary.
The steel structures that make up the Red
Sands Fort look like alien creatures pausing
before they continue their walk across the
ocean. In reality, they were designed by civil
engineer Guy Maunsell to provide anti-
aircraft fire during the Second World War.
Towed down the river and lowered on to
the seabed in 1943, they were once inhabited
by 265 men, but are now deserted. It is
not possible (or safe) to clamber up and visit
the structures (and the access ladders have
been removed), but you can sail around
them in a beautiful red-sailed Thames

72

3
barge (greta1892.co.uk), departing from
Whitstable, and taking in those other eerie,
man-made structures, the Kentish Flats
Wind Farm, as you go.
ON THE WATER
The clatter and jingle of rigging on moored
boots is as an evocative estuary sound as
the melancholy honk of Brent geese (spot
them in the Wash and Essex estuaries).
Wide, sheltered estuaries with calm waters,
like Salcombe in Devon, provide a great spot
to tether a boat. Salcombe has 4,500
moorings, the assembled yachts and
dinghies creating a jaunty, nautical mood.
Many of these boats, from kayaks to tall
ships, can be hired and offer the gamut of
water-borne activities. The large tidal flow
of estuaries means that the water recedes at
speed, often reaching three knots ideal for
kayaking and dinghy sailing.
The more sedentary might prefer to stroll
on to a ferry and watch the changing estuary
shoreline and seascape from its blustery top
deck. One of the coasts greatest pleasures is
coursing over the waves between two
attractive seaside towns, then hopping off
for fish and chips at a warming pub.
PHOTOGRAPHY: ALAMY; JUSTIN MINNS/NTPL
During the colder months, there is the
added thrill of choppier waters, keener
winds and fewer people. Wrap up warm in
something waterproof and embrace the
elements. The Saint Mawes ferry crossing
Carrick Roads (the Fal estuary in Cornwall),
runs for 364 days a year, operating a slightly
reduced service in winter. The 20-minute
trip will take you from Falmouth to Saint
Everything that lives here depends on
the rhythm of the tide. It brings in food
from the sea as it rises, and sluices
everything clean as it falls away
Mawes (or the reverse) with a good chance
of spotting seals as you go. If you dont even
want to get out of the car, head for the King
Harry Ferry, a chain ferry that operates all
year connecting St Mawes and the Roseland
Peninsula with Truro and Falmouth and
enjoy the novelty of being cranked over the
water at a leisurely pace.
AN ALTERNATIVE WAY OF LIFE
Many houseboat communities have sprung
up along the banks of estuaries offering an
unconventional way of living that looks
tempting from the footpath. Nothing tunes
you into the rhythm of the tides like waking
up as your home is lifted from the mud by
water rising beneath it at high tide. The 20
houseboats of the Orwell estuary at Pin Mill
in Suffolk sit higgledy-piggledy along the
foreshore, some wrecked, the skeletal ribs of
their hulls sticking out of the tidal mud, others
spick and span and offering holiday lets.
Several were once working barges carrying
supplies up and down the river.
An afternoon stroll past the houseboats,
spotting waders along the saltmarsh, then
ending up at the waterside Butt and Oyster,
is as satisfying an introduction to the
pleasures of estuary life as any.
ESCAPE | OUTING
Creative estuaries
LV21 Lightship Moored at
Gravesend Town Pier Pontoon
in the Thames estuary, this
40-metre steel-hulled lightship
has been transformed into an art
space and performance facility.
Attend one of its many and
varied events, or hire it to hold
your own. lv21.co.uk
Creature of the Estuary As part
of last years Estuary Festival
(estuaryfestival.com), film maker
Eelyn Lee, with a team of artists,
performers, designers and
mariners, made a short film
about fear, memory, migration
and mud. Find screening dates at
creatureoftheestuary.tumblr.com.
The Estuary Songwriting
Project Eight musicians have
produced original compositions
around themes suggested by
the Thames estuary, including
landscape, natural history, social
history, legends and folklore.
Listen to the results at Cecil
Sharp House, London, on 22
March (cecilsharphouse.org).
73
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 THINK
THINGS TO MAKE YOU STOP, READ AND WONDER

Full Moon
Victoria Sackville-West

She was wearing the coral taffeta trousers

Someone had brought her from Ispahan,
And the little gold coat with pomegranate blossoms,
And the coral-hafted feather fan;
But she ran down a Kentish lane in the moonlight,
And skipped in the pool of the moon as she ran.

She cared not a rap for all the big planets,

For Betelgeuse or Aldebaran,
And all the big planets cared nothing for her,
That small impertinent charlatan;
But she climbed on a Kentish stile in the moonlight,
And laughed at the sky through the sticks of her fan.

About the author

Victoria Sackville-West, better known as Vita, was an English
poet, novelist and garden designer she created the beautiful
Sissinghurst, famous for its series-of-rooms design. She was
the inspiration for Orlando: A Biography by Virginia Woolf, with
whom she had a decade-long affair. Her witty, wayward poetry
reflected her idiosyncratic view of romantic love and how to live.

75
 RETHINKING MONEY
DO WE PUT TOO MUCH STORE BY POUNDS AND PENCE?
CHANGING YOUR ATTITUDE TO SPENDING CAN REAP REWARDS
Words by: RACHAEL OAKDEN
A
re you giving up something for Lent?
Alcohol? Internet shoe shopping? How
about shopping, full stop? In fact, why
not go the whole hog and give up
money altogether? It sounds barmy.
Not to mention impossible (although a
few brave pioneers of moneyless living have managed it).
But if you agree with the growing chorus of thinkers who
believe the Wests obsession with making and keeping
money is at the root of the planets problems poverty,
inequality, environmental destruction it makes sense,
if not to give up money, at least to re-evaluate our
unhealthy relationship with it.
Thats the advice of the Archbishop of Canterbury,
Justin Welby, whose new book Dethroning Mammon
(Bloomsbury), contemplates the role of money in
modern life. Mammon the name attributed to the
power of money and nance in The Bible is a deceptive
and destructive master, he argues, which calls the weak
to suffer in the name of the general good.
A former oil-company executive who served on the
Parliamentary Commission on Banking Standards, the
Archbishop urges us to change attitudes to possession
and wealth to create fairer societies and a more stable
world. The problem with materialism is not that it
exists, but that it dominates, he writes. It shouts so
loudly it overrides our caring about things of greater
value. One reader spotted glued to a copy of Dethroning
Mammon on the London Underground was a certain
Mark Carney, governor of the Bank of England.
This timely book may have been intended as a
76
companion for Lent a period of reection for
Christians associated with fasting and penance but it
strikes a chord with all who feel drawn to self-denial at
this time of year. Post Christmas and January sales
frenzy, we all feel a bit queasy, not only about the amount
of food, drink and sparkly tat weve spent our money on,
but by the sheer scale of spending, full stop.
(NON) CONSUMER POWER
No wonder, then, that among the healthy-eating
regimes, tness kicks and Dry January pledges that
dominate New-Years resolutions, a new sort of detox is
on the rise: the nancial fast. In her new book The No
Spend Year (Coronet), personal nance journalist
Michelle McGagh recounts how she eschewed all but the
most essential purchases for 12 months. If you think that
sounds like something you could do, bear in mind that
McGaghs non-essentials included moisturiser, haircuts
and bus fares: one of her lowest points was throwing up
from exhaustion by the roadside during a 30-mile bike
ride to go wedding dress shopping with her sister (the
irony was not lost on her).
McGagh, who blogs at londonminimalists.co.uk, was
motivated by the pragmatic desire for nancial freedom:
during her no-spend year she shaved an extra 23,000
off her mortgage. But she also discovered that rejecting
consumerism made her more receptive to simpler
pleasures: the great outdoors, time spent with loved
ones, the generosity of strangers. It costs us nothing to
be kind but in our me me me society were often after
our next x, our next goal, she writes in the book, which
 THINK | IDEAS

combines memoir with nancial advice. This year has

inspired me to take the blinkers off, look beyond the
bigger picture and get involved in my community.
If the idea of getting your weekly grocery bill down to
30 by surviving on batch-cooked veggie chilli and pasta
sauces sounds too challenging, there are other ways to
embrace a low-spend lifestyle. Jen Gale (see our feature
in Issue 43, Jan 2016) pledged to buy nothing new for a
year (not just for herself but for her husband and two
young children), sourcing clothes and toys from charity
shops and making homemade biscuits instead of buying
childrens party gifts. More than three years after her
experiment ended, she still hasnt bought an item of new
clothing (except for ethically sourced underwear), and
continues to make her own shampoos and deodorant.
We are all consumers, but that is where our power
lies, says Jen, whose second-hand life was motivated by donated food, grinding his own our and even making
concerns about climate change and sustainability. his own soap and toothpaste from wild plants.
When youre faced with huge problems, its easy to feel I did [it] on the basis of one major realisation: much of
powerless, to think that youre just one little person who the suffering and destruction in the world factory
cant make a difference. But being more considered farms, sweatshops, deforestation, species extinction,
about the things I buy is my way of trying to make a resource depletion, annihilation of indigenous peoples
change. It has a ripple effect. If I take a jar of homemade and their cultures were symptoms of a much deeper
biscuits to a childrens party instead of a factory-made issue, he wrote in The Moneyless Manifesto
toy, perhaps other people will think thats OK. (moneylessmanifesto.org). His experiment lasted nearly
three times longer than the year he planned. Ive never
LOW-SPEND TO NO-SPEND been happier, he said. Money gives us the illusion of
Jens conscientious approach to consumerism buy independence, but were becoming dependent on people
less, buy better is one that we could all try, for a far away from us, as opposed to people in our local
month, a year, even a lifetime. Her website, communities. That has led to destruction of community.
mymakedoandmendlife.com, offers recipes and Community is at the heart of the gift economy, the
inspiration for more mindful money management. By means by which Mark led his moneyless life. A gift
ILLUSTRATIONS: ISTOCK

contrast, the extreme reaction of former organic food
business manager Mark Boyle to the problems caused by
the pursuit of money and stuff is one that few of us could
emulate. Mark gave up money altogether in 2008, living
in a solar-powered caravan, surviving on foraged and
economy means unconditional sharing of skills, time,
knowledge, information or material goods between
people, in contrast to a conventional exchange-and-
reward economy. Even bartering, the oldest form of
currency (see box for more on alternative currencies),

77

is based on recompense for goods and services. Thanks
to web communities such as Freecycle (freecycle.org),
Freegle (ilovefreegle.org) and Streetbank (streetbank.
com), its easier than ever to integrate the gift economy
into modern life. At the click of a trackpad we can meet
neighbours, swap tools, donate skills, build communities
and keep usable objects out of landll.
Ultimately, borrowing your neighbours lawnmower
instead of buying a new one wont change the world.
You cant tweak an abhorrent system, says Mark Boyle,
who is currently setting up a moneyless community in
his native Ireland and has turned his back on technology,
corresponding by post and ling his monthly newspaper
column on hand-written letters. But its an achievable
rst step towards mindful living. On a personal level, all
you can do is to make small changes at whatever rate you
can, Mark says. Question whether all the stuff you are
consuming is making you happy, or if its just feeding an
addiction. Instead of buying the next gadget, go and
spend time in the natural world. The more attachment
you feel to the rest of life, the more youll act differently.
78
EXCHANGE
GREATS
From barter to the Bristol pound: a guide to
alternative currencies
OThe well-versed economic argument that
barter was the first form of currency is disputed
by some experts: in his 2011 book Debt: the First
5,000 Years, the anthropologist David Graeber
argues that debt, not barter, was the first
financial system. Nevertheless, barter the
direct exchange of goods and services, such as
livestock, grain and labour predates money by
several thousand years, dating back at least to
Ancient Egypt (the first official money-based
currency was in Lydia, now Turkey, in 600BC).
OModern forms of barter have been adopted as
alternative, more ethical forms of exchange in
recent years, particularly in local economies.
LETS (Local Exchange Trading Systems,
letslinkuk.net) and time banks (timebanking.
org) are two community-based mutual aid
networks that facilitate the trading of
knowledge, time, skills and services.
OThe best-known alternative currency,
Bitcoin, is a digital peer-to-peer payment
system, or cryptocurrency, that is not controlled
by any government or central bank. Accepted as
payment by a growing number of UK businesses,
it can bought, sold or mined (see bitcoin.org to
learn how it works).
OThe Bristol Pound (bristolpound.org) is the
UKs first city-wide local currency, a paper-
based and electronic currency thats equivalent
in value to pounds sterling but can be used only
in transactions with local independent
businesses (and to pay council tax). Other
UK-based local currencies include the Brixton
Pound in south-west London (brixtonpound.
org), Lewes Pound in East Sussex
(thelewespound.org) and Totnes Pound in
Devon (totnespound.org).
 THINK | PLAYLIST

Soundtrack to February
UPLIFTING SONGS

Its Getting Better Mama Cass

Losing Streak Eels
Happy Together The Turtles
Youve Made me so Very Happy Blood, Sweat and Tears
Hey Ya! Outkast
Happy Pharrell Williams
The 59th Street Bridge Song Simon & Garfunkel
(Feelin Groovy)
Movin on up Primal Scream
I Got You (I Feel Good) James Brown
Inspector Norse Todd Terje
I Get the Sweetest Feeling Jackie Wilson
I Love Your Smile Shanice
Get Happy Judy Garland
Good Vibrations Beach Boys

Listen at thesimplethings.com/blog/happyplaylist
DJ: CLARE GOGERTY. ILLUSTRATION: SHUTTERSTOCK

stop
look
listen Disperse February
gloom with songs to
make you smile

79
 THINK | GALLERY

CROWD FINDING
MOST GROUPS OF WILDLIFE CAN BE DESCRIBED AS A HERD, A
FLOCK OR A SHOAL, BUT WHERES THE FUN IN STOPPING THERE?
ARTIST AND ILLUSTR ATOR MATT SEWELLS CHARMING PORTR AITS
CAPTURE THE APTNESS OF THEIR COLLECTIVE NOUNS

A richness of martens

Back in the 14th century, a fine sum was paid

for the fur coat of a pine marten so, in the eyes
of a stalking huntsman, spotting a group of
them must have been like winning the lottery;
hence their collective noun. Unfortunately
trapping, along with habitat loss, has led to a
scarcity of these shy, arboreal hunter-
gatherers. They have long since hidden away
in the wildest woodlands of Scotland and
Wales, though recently a small group was
spotted in Shropshire, the first such sighting
in a hundred years.

80
 A lounge of lizards

There are thousands of different kinds of

lizard: think iguanas, slinks and geckos,
chameleons and Komodo dragons. What they
all have in common is their cold blood and
their need to heat up from the sun on warm
stones. Its this lounging around that makes
them easy prey, but all is not lost a lizard can
release its tail from its body, confusing
a predator. The tail will grow back, leaving the
lizard to lounge another day.
 THINK | GALLERY

An obstinacy of buffalo

A beached whale? An overturned lorry?

Is there anything as unmovable as an
obstinacy of buffalo? If you are intimidated
walking through a field with a couple of
daisy-chewing cows in it, imagine facing the
bovine brick wall that is a tonne of male
African buffalo*, possibly with a herd of up to
2,000 others. Oh, and they are notoriously
aggressive and fiercely protective too.

*The buffalo of the US are really bison and the water buffalo
of Asia and Australia have straighter horns

82
 A sleuth of bears

Bears were once found across northern Europe, but were gone from Britain by
the Middle Ages, wiped out through hunting. And this is where the origin of the
bears odd collective noun lies; it refers to the sleuth hounds (bloodhounds)
that were used on the trail of the great brown bears. Even then, seeing a sleuth
of them was only likely during a feeding bonanza, as they rarely come together
in groups when they do meet, it always turns nasty.
 THINK | GALLERY

A memory of elephants

Herds of elephants are made up of females

with their calves and young males. Everything
is overseen by their leader, the old matriarch
of the extended family, who could be up to
60 years old. They say an elephant never
forgets and she mustnt; it is her
responsibility to remember the rare sources of
water and food in times of drought and to
recall all the elephants crossing their path,
be they friend or foe.

84
 A dazzle of zebras

Dazzle refers to the famous striped markings,

of course, which are great camouflage on the
savannah; but it is when they are startled in a
big group that their streaks come into their
own, literally dazzling and confusing any big
cat who disturbs the herd, aiding the zebras
escape. This tactic was used in WWI by the
British Navy; boats were painted in black-and-
white stripes as, when in a flotilla, it was
difficult for enemy gunmen to aim correctly.

Illustrations and text taken from Matt Sewells

seventh book, A Charm of Goldnches & Other
Collective Nouns (Ebury Press). Matt lives in
Shrewsbury and is an avid ornithologist
 THINK | WELLBEING
MY ANXIOUS MIND
EMILIE McMEEKAN TELLS HOW CONNECTION, HUMOUR AND
THE ACCEPTANCE THAT GOOD ENOUGH IS ENOUGH HELPED HER
TO FEEL LESS ANXIOUS ABOUT LIFE
P
erilously perched. I used to feel like I was
standing on the edge of a cliff, peering down
at a gloomy landscape, all jagged rocks and
fog and crashing waves. Alone. About to fall.
Falling even. That is anxiety.
Anxiety is not the same as fear, which is a
response to a real, immediate threat. Anxiety is the
expectation of future threat. Anxiety turns thoughts
into your enemies. Lets them control your responses.
When the phone rings you assume that someone is dead.
Even though its a nearly always a PPI call.
We are living in the age of anxiety. More than eight
million people have been diagnosed in the UK. Thats
12.5% of the population who have crawled away from
that cliff edge, headed to a GP and said something like
Help. I cant sleep, eat, I am panicky and uncertain all
the time, I cant stop crying, I am so tired. There will be
millions more who are just frozen at the edge, clinging
on. Thinking that their pounding heart and constant
jumpiness is normal. Their personality even.
Today I am armed. Armed with some tools for living:
a weekly swim that always shifts my mood; a therapist
who gives me a safe space to air all my fears. I am also
armed in my workplace with the website I co-founded,
themidult.com, in response to what happened to me: a
space for women to connect, discover and laugh, to blow
a hole through the panic.
So what is making us so anxious? Is it our 24/7 phone
dependence? Is it the terrible pressure of multi-tasking?
The curated lies of social media? The excessive strains of
modern life and the proliferation of choice?
In short, yes, says Dr Tara Swart, a neuroscientist who
runs executive coaching business, the Unlimited Mind.
Dr Swart believes there are three main drivers to our
current state of anxiety emergency: information
overload, technology, and social media. Technology
I learnt that to ght anxiety you need connection.
Its the loneliness that will tear you apart
86
means we are switched on 24 hours a day, our brains are
bombarded with information and social media means
we are subjected to a greater level of public scrutiny.
We are left in a constant state of hyper-vigilance.
Something I understand all too well. The roots of my
own anxiety stem from a fractured family and high-
pressure environments (school, university, work). After
a stressful period in my life during which my father
died, I changed jobs, and, oh, had several children
I began a course of therapy. Which made me realise
the following: I am constantly checking everyones
emotional temperature to establish whether everything
is OK and adjusting myself accordingly to make
everyone else feel better. I have a very loose sense of my
own needs and wants, as well as a drive to do everything
brilliantly. On a bad day this leaves me feeling like I am
never going to be good enough. And this in turn leaves
me with a deep-seated sense of shame.
For me, that not good enough shame spiral turned
into real anxiety attacks. My negative thoughts became
a chorus, so loud that I could not focus on anything else.
I would hide in the loo at work waiting for the assaults to
subside. By the time I crawled to my GP, I couldnt stop
crying, I couldnt eat, I couldnt sleep. He immediately
prescribed beta-blockers, to stop the physical sensations
of panic, such as racing heart. And sent me to a therapist,
to deal with my negative head. I had never felt so alone.
Now, of course, I know I am not alone. Anxiety affects
anyone, regardless of status or apparent happiness
even those who seem to have it all. Take Bront Aurell,
the successful Danish entrepreneur, owner of
ScandiKitchen and author of Fika & Hygge. Bront tells
me that when she was writing her second cookbook, she
became so weak with anxiety that she couldnt lift even
ILLUSTRATION: SHUTTERSTOCK
a glass of water. I started getting muscle spasms in
my left arm. I went to bed for a week and didnt move.
In the course of sharing our experiences, haunting as
they are, Bront and I laugh, a lot. We find common
ground beyond the terror. And this idea, this connection,
this facing-off the worry by making it funny, is central to
The Midult. Founded in 2016 with fellow journalist
 THE ROAD TO CALM
How to feel less anxious: three crucial building blocks

You can be vulnerable Admitting you need help, that

things arent perfect, is so hard for a lot of women who
are juggling work, kids, parents, everything. Listen to
Bren Brown, whose TedTalk on vulnerability has
been viewed 27 million times: Embracing vulnerability
is risky but not nearly as dangerous as giving up on love
and belonging and joy the experiences that make us
Annabel Rivkin, it is a digital enterprise geared towards
the most vulnerable. Only when were brave enough to
women negotiating midlife. An online community of
explore darkness do we discover the power of our light.
news and views built to help navigate this difficult
period where we might feel trapped by our choices,
Seek connection Therapist Doug Vaughan says that
anxious about what the future might hold.
finding a community so we can borrow their
It is anti-shame because what I discovered while
perspective is crucial. Having people around you
getting better is that shame cant survive being spoken.
who will pick you up You know you are doing that
That quote comes from Bren Brown, a therapeutic
thing again is essential.
researcher who calls her own breakdown a spiritual
awakening. I learned that to fight anxiety you need
Adopt any kind of mindfulness If you cant face
connection its the loneliness that will tear you apart.
meditating try the Danish concept of hygge. Says
You need to accept your vulnerability because this is
Bront Aurell, Its a state of mind, of safety, comfort
where you will grow, and blossom. And you need to be
and relaxation. That time you played Monopoly with
present in the moment, and restore your defences.The
the kids and the rain was beating outside, and you ate
biggest lesson I learnt on my anxiety journey is this: I am
a packet of biscuits because it felt nice. It is about being
good enough. I will always worry and thats OK. And
present in the moment youre in.
sometimes, when I feel my feet firmly on the ground, I
can let things go. Because perfection is for other people.

87
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88
 W H AT I T R E A S U R E
My grandmother's bracelet
by Frances Ambler

L
ike many treasured pieces of jewellery, this bracelet
originally a gift to my nan from my granddad
means something for being passed down through
the family. Its got the added charm of being out of
the ordinary created from 26 Dutch 10 cents pieces, each
about the size of a five pence. Each coin bears the face of
Wilhelmina, Queen of the Netherlands, who was exiled
following the German invasion in 1940, and dates from
between 1936 up to 1944, the year it was given to my nan.
On 6 June 1944 at 10am, Granddad was part of the D-Day
landings and moved across Europe over the following
months. By November, his regiment was stationed at a
Dutch farm they slept in a barn, and were invited in for
meals. He liked the family and somehow communicated to
them that he wanted to buy a gift for his wife. A few days
later, he was handed this bracelet.
My granddad was a very gentle man in volume, he was
always overshadowed by Nan. He didnt talk about the war
but, through this bracelet, I learned about some of his
experiences. During those months, he saw extraordinary
things such as the pianos of German collaborators being
thrown into canals but also moments of lightness. He
would chuckle remembering how the farms hens laid eggs
in his tin hat. How alien it all must have been to his previous
life as a Lincolnshire brickie.
He arrived home on Boxing Day. After Christmas, he was
meant to be going to the Far East, but he never went; his
hearing had been damaged on D-Day. Instead, he went back
to his trade, answering the new need for his
country reconstruction.
The bracelet hangs loose and
heavy on my wrist and I hear it
clink as I move. But actually I dont
often wear it, preferring to sit with
it and run it through my fingers,
feeling each individual coin. It helps
me to remember the people that gave
this bracelet to me, but also to
consider all the events that brought it
here, into my hands, and to be
thankful for where I am today.
What means a lot to you? Tell us in 500 words;
thesimplethings@icebergpress.co.uk
 CHALKBOARD
POSTCARDS

Who doesnt like receiving a card in the post?

Weve turned our favourite back-page chalkboards
into postcards you can buy a pack of eight* from our online shop at
ICEBERGPRESS.CO.UK/SHOP
*A pack contains two of each design, 5 inc UK p&p (while stocks last). For international postage details see website
 HEALING HANDS,
ESSENTIAL OILS AND
AN ANCIENT
HOLISTIC THERAPY
Words: JESSICA JOHNSON
Illustrations: YELENA BRYKSENKOVA

91
 THINK | TRADITIONS
N
ext time you find
yourself furiously
rubbing a stubbed toe or
kneading sore shoulders,
remember you may well
be emulating your
ancestors. Massage
remedying the bodys niggles, aches and
imbalances through touch is a practice
dating back to the beginning of time.
The term massage originates from
the Arabic word mass or mash
meaning to press softly with links
to massein Greek for knead. This medicine, massage was no longer a privilege
fusion reflects centuries of overlap
between Eastern and Western
practices. Ancient medical
texts found in China suggest
massage was recognised as a
treatment alongside herbs and acupuncture
from as early as 2700 BCE and around half a
century later, hieroglyphics from Egyptian
tombs portray people soothing hands and
feet with an intuitive rubbing of the hands.
Yet while therapies such as Thai massage,
shiatsu, Chinese massage and the Ayurvedic
Indian head massage were founded
on principles that aimed to work in
tune with the bodys energy points,
Western massage was built on more
prescriptive and anatomy-focused
foundations. These emerged
around the time of the Greeks and
were adopted wholly by the Romans;
Julius Caesar was said to have had
specially trained slaves to pinch
him to alleviate neuralgic pain
a technique still used today on
couches across the world.
During the 16th century, massage
became popular across Europe as
physicians began to mix the therapy with
92
conventional medicine. Yet it waasnt until
the early 1900s that Swedish phyysiologist
Per-Henrik Ling changed the landscape
d massage strokes
considerably. A series of stroking, pressing,
kneading and friction movements he named
medical gymnastics sowed the seeds for
Swedish massage as we know it today.
From the 1960s, as society began to tap Kneading: like working
into a new groove of complementary
for the wealthy but a widespread healthcare
choice for the holistically minded.
U N D E R N E AT H I T A L L
Massage is based on the manipulation of
the bodys soft tissues to enhance a persons
physical self and their emotional state of
mind. By applying varying levels of pressure,
(light, medium and deep), a therapist, also
known as a practitioner or bodyworker, can
help with anything from improving
exibility to alleviating insomnia or stress.
And we neednt wait for pain to strike
before reaping the benets. Research has
proven that a 45-minute Swedish massage
can lead to a signicant decrease in the
stress hormone, cortisol, as well as a
boosted immune system.
For many, a massage is not a luxury, but
a necessity for good health, says advanced
clinical massage therapist Louise
Enticknap. Monthly massage sessions are
a great idea foreasing out those aches and
pains before they turn into a chronic
condition and they also allow people a
chance to check in with their bodies and
minds. (therapeuticmassage4you.co.uk).
Glossary
y of
Effleurage: long gliding and
circular strokes to encourage
blood flow to the heart. Often
used to bookend Swedish
massage or to apply oil.
dough. Skin is squeezed,
lifted and rolled to help ease
muscle tension and create
spaces between the
connective tissues.
Feathering: fingertips are
used to create light, brushing
movements using alternate
hands. Can be ticklish.
Cupping: hands are cupped,
shell-like, and used to relieve
congested areas with gentle
patting movements.
Wringing: mimicking a firm
towel-ring, these twisting
and pressing movements
work best on well-oiled,
fleshy areas such as hips,
buttocks and limbs.
Hacking: the sides of
alternate hands are used to
strike the body, creating
a brisk and stimulating
sensation often signalling
a treatments end.
Holds: to help establish trust
and put the client at ease, the
therapist may adopt a simple,
calming hold with their hands
(usually starting with the feet
and ending at the head).
Aura stroking: hands are
moved just above the surface
of the skin which can create a
warm, tingling sensation for
the receiver.
K N E A D T O K N OW
Tune into your bodys needs to work out
the right treatment for you

Swedish massage The mother of

Western massage, this skin-to-skin
treatment usually takes place on a couch
and is based around kneading, rolling,
friction and percussion techniques.
Best for: overall relaxation.

Deep tissue and sports massage Different sstrokes

Echoing the Swedish format but using Gone are the days of hands
and oil treatme ents alone as
deeper pressure, this is designed to help
clinics and spas brew up new
athletes achieve peak performance twists on the classics. Stretch
(ridding muscles of excess lactic acid), out at Urban Retreat,
while deep tissue can be ideal for chronic Harrods in-house
pain. Beware: the therapist may work on
D I Y M A S S AG E spa, and youll be
de-knotted with the
trigger points using knuckles and elbows. Five easy steps for self-massage: neck and
help of warm tiger
Best for: labourers, gardeners and shoulders by Susan Mumford, author of The clam shells
sportspeople (obviously). Massage Bible (Godseld Press) (urbanretreat.co.uk).
Meanwhile, a
Remedial massage A bespoke Equipment: deep tissue
massage at
recipe that blends aspects of deep tissue -1 tsp oil in a shallow dish
The Spa at
massage, trigger point therapy, myofascial A small towel Bristols Lido,
release*, acupressure, hot and cold stones, Self-massage is a great pick-me-up and way to builds in the use of
stretching and homecare advice. unwind. Release tension in the neck and oil-soaked bamboo canes
Best for: chronic or acute conditions such shoulders and your whole body will feel better. (lidobristol.com). Going one
as lower back pain, RSI and IBS. Techniques can either be done through the step further, a Chavutti-Thai
massage at Boswedden
clothes or using a massage oil. House B&B and Retreat in
Shiatsu Translating as nger pressure First, some simple stretches. Seated with Lands End involves lying
in Japanese, shiatsu is traditionally applied straight back, lower your chin to your chest. on the floor while the
with the receiver fully clothed, lying on the Roll your head in a circle starting left then practitioner guided
oor. The therapist works with the bodys round to the right until you come full circle. by a rope to balance
uses oil-warmed feet
meridian points to promote the optimal Raise your head, shrug your shoulders and
to release blocked energy
ow of qi (Chinese for energy). release. Next, spread some oil over neck, (boswedden.org.uk).
Best for: maintaining good health. shoulders and upper arms (optional):
Shiatsu treats the whole person as opposed 1 Place one hand over the opposite shoulder. In safe
to just the symptom. Slowly squeeze and knead the muscles along hands
the crest of the shoulder. Massage therapy
is not regulated
Aromatherapy massage Essential 2 Continue the kneading movement up your
but many therapists
oils are extracted, expressed or distilled neck to the base of your skull will be part of
from plants and owers, and added Return to the shoulder and lift and squeeze accredited
sparingly to carrier oils such as grapeseed, the muscles. Repeat on the other side. professional bodies
jojoba or almond. See over page. Theyre 3 Shampoo rmly over your scalp with such as the
thumbs and ngertips. Complementary
then used with massage to aid anything
Therapists Association
from headaches to lymph ow. 4 Brush briskly down from your neck over (ctha.com) or Federation
Best for: switching off with shoulder and upper arm to your elbow. of Holistic Therapists
heavenly scents. Repeat on the other side and relax. (fht.org.uk).

* This treatment aims to restore fascia points (connective tissues that cover our muscles and
organs), using a mix of stretching techniques and sustained pressure.

93
 THINK | TRADITIONS
OIL S FOR OPTIMAL BLENDING
Whether youre after an energising lift or a cocooning escape from the worlds stresses, theres an aromatic blend
waiting for you. Important: if you are pregnant, you must rst seek medical advice before using essential oils
GRAPEFRUIT
(CITRUS PARADISE)
Note: top
Cutting through the senses with a
zesty punch, this uplifting fragrance
is expressed straight from the peel
of our breakfast fruit. Blend with
black pepper for a heady natural
defence booster or, for a toning
skin tonic, blend with a drop
or two of jasmine.
LAVENDER
(LAVANDULA
ANGUSTIFOLIA)
Note: middle
Less old ladys handbag, more
mid-summer country meadow, this
centuries-old fragrance is a
stress-reliever. Compatible with
most other oils, its ancient
properties are also used to treat
allergies, heal sores and burns and
settle the digestive system.
CHAMOMILE ROMAN
(ANTHEMIS NOBILIS)
Note: top/middle
Herbaceous with a fruity zing, the
notes of this oil are anti-spasmodic
and ease tensions as a natural
balancer. Mandarin, neroli and rose
are good bedfellows.
94
BERGAMOT
(CITRUS BERGAMIA)
Note: top
This light and refreshing oil is
expressed from the peel of the fruit
of the bergamot tree and is
regarded as a staple in the Italian
medicine chest. An excellent
natural antidepressant, it blends
beautifully with cedarwood,
jasmine and rose.
SOME NOTES ON BLENDING
Neals Yard Remedies
aromatherapist Fran Johnson says:
Think about a top, middle and
base note to create balance and
use a maximum of three essential
oils (EOs). Blend essential oils into
a base oil or un-fragranced lotion
at 2.5% EO to base product for
normal skin; and 1% EO to base
product for sensitive skin.
ROSE
(ROSA DAMASCENA)
Note: top/middle/base
A drop of this powerfully sweet
floral aroma goes a long way in
your carrier oil. Its balancing and
nurturing properties can help
alleviate tension and depression,
as well as nourish dry skin. Plus,
youll stay smelling sweet all day.
NEROLI
(CITRUS AURANTIUM AMARA)
Note: top/middle
The blossom of the bitter orange
tree is steam-distilled to capture a
soothing yet uplifting fragrance.
Used to relieve muscle spasms and
palpitations, its sedative properties
are often used to unlock emotional
troubles. Not to be used on skin
that will be in direct sunlight.
TEA TREE
(MELALEUCA ALTERNIFOLIA)
Note: middle
The trusty friend of every spotty
teenager. A neat dab may work
wonders on stubborn blemishes
but the medicinal-smelling and
stimulating aroma of tea tree in a
carrier oil also helps to clear the
head of cobwebs. Team with the
high notes of eucalyptus oil to help
stave off winter colds.
CLARY SAGE
(SALVIA SCLAREA)
Note: top
The stuff of sweet dreams and
inner calm. A sweet, nutty
fragrance, clary sage is also used
to remedy menstrual problems,
soothe hot flushes and banish
feelings of anxiety and depression.
Note of caution: must be avoided
in pregnancy and with alcohol.
 Treat yourself to Oh Comely
Have Oh Comely delivered to your device or your door, six times a year. Youll save money
and get your copy early. Were available on Apple, Amazon, and Readbug. Or, for the print
edition, pay just 12 every three issues/six months. A whole year of magazines is just 25.

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 Call us Learn more
01296 481220 osmouk.com

Firing imaginations
for over 35 years NO MORE
WATER MARKS

WOOD M U LT I - F U E L GAS ELECTRIC

TOPOIL: Highest quality food safe protection for wood worktops

9 9 9 9 9
| | | |
MICROPOROUS NATURAL OIL-WAX BASED DURABLE HIGH COVERAGE
 NEST
LOVE YOUR HOME INSIDE AND OUT WITH THE SIMPLE THINGS

Crocus
If you were really together last
September, you would have planted
crocus bulbs and been rewarded with
these lovelies flowering around about
now. Crocus tommasinianus is one of
the first bulbs to poke through the lawn
before opening its lilac petals to reveal
a startling orange stamen. Pick a few
from the garden and either float in a
bowl or gather in a tumbler to bring
some colour into the house when there
is very little else around.
PHOTOGRAPHY: NGOC MINH NGO/TAVERNE AGENCY

* If you were less organised, florists and garden centres should be selling them in pots soon 97
Frankie and Melanie
brought with them the
glazed palm tree door
from their old house.
It sets the tone for the
Hawaiian-style
accessories in the
vibrant living room
 NEST | HOME TOUR

ALL DRESSED UP
FANCY DRESS AGENTS MELANIE AND FRANKIE CALLANDS COUNTY DURHAM MINERS
COTTAGE IS FILLED WITH VINTAGE GLAMOUR, EXUBERANCE AND OODLES OF POODLES
Photography: BRENT DARBY Words and styling: HAZEL DOLAN

MELANIE CALLAND
lives in County Durham with husband
Frankie, their five poodles, Dita, Coco,
Bettie, Jet and Charlie. They run
Fantasia Fancy Dress Hire
(fantasiacostumes.co.uk).
Melanie blogs at retropoodles.
wordpress.com.

99
 Melanies colourful
personal and home style
is enough to brighten
any dull day. She and
Frankie replaced the
kitchen when a flood
wrecked the ground
floor. My aunties
kitchen was built in the
late 1950s and I always
loved it, she says.
I found the bright red
and cream kitchen at
B&Q and then added the
right handles so it
looked old-fashioned

H

eads turn as Melanie Calland passes.
With her curls set, circle skirt
swishing, cats-eye specs and,
stretching ahead on their leads, five
coiffured poodles, its fair to say she
stands out from the crowd in the
former colliery village in the Wear Valley.
Her home, too, stands apart from its neighbours.
Melanie and husband Frankies front door opens
onto a scene of mid-century domesticity with a
classic, red-vinyl, three-piece suite and mirrored
cocktail cabinet, 50s diner furniture even a
bamboo tiki bar, complete with palm tree.
When they first saw the house, though, the
appeal was its plainness. Wed been helping
other people gut and revamp their houses, says
Melanie, and we just couldnt face it any more,
so it was really nice to find somewhere we could
just move straight into. The decor was neutral,
and the only pressing need was to create enough
storage for their vast wardrobe of vintage clothing.
We had cupboards the length of a room in our
old house, Melanie says, but nobody has the
amount of clothes we have. So we asked if we
could take the rails when we moved. We left the
doors and used the rails to make a bedroom here
into a dressing room. Our buyer didnt mind. She
let us take our glazed palm tree door, too.

BRIGHT AND UPLIFTING

Over the years, Melanie and Frankie have
gathered an enviable collection of furniture,
NEST | HOME TOUR

The table and

chairs are from
a 50s diner. The
wall is a paean
to poodles
 A red vinyl 1920s three-
piece suite makes a bold
contrast with pastel walls.
The Callands bought their
vintage Readicut rug,
originally sold in kit-form,
at a church sale. The
Clement chair in Ferrari
Red by Retro Sofas
(retrosofas.co.uk) is
similar to their Art Deco
originals. The coal bucket
and fireside companion set
were found on Ebay and
the firescreen came from
a fleamarket in Consett

102
NEST | HOME TOUR
These gems from Frankies cowboy shirt
collection are too special to hide away. The
bathroom wall colour (opposite; Duluxs Mint
Macaroon) was inspired by the mid-century
chalkware fish. In the bedroom (opposite,
above), the saturated palette of Technicolor
Westerns inspired the vivid red wall
 NEST | HOME TOUR

fabrics and accessories, from the 1920s to the

1960s; some shipped from America, others
picked up in local antique and charity shops,
handed down, or spotted at weekenders
for music and vintage enthusiasts. The
craftsmanship, colours and shapes appeal to us,
rather than one particular era, says Frankie.
Gradually they changed the decorative
scheme of the house, taking inspiration from the
uplifting bright pastels and robust reds of the
movies for the living room and bedroom. Not only
does it look different, it feels different, too, with
its half-forgotten period textures: shiny vinyl,
bamboo and tufted candlewick.
At vintage fairs I can spot an Italian poodle
ornament at 20 paces, Melanie says. Each room
is punctuated with clusters of these and other
favourite collections. The whole look is
enormous fun, yet still homely and welcoming.
Theyd no plans for bigger scale changes until
a burst pipe flooded the ground floor. The kitchen
was condemned, so we thought: Right, why dont
we have it the way we want it?, says Melanie.
The couples working life is a whirlwind and at
the end of the day their retro home is their place
to unwind. When we first came here, I could
smell woodsmoke and coal fires in the air
outside, and it immediately felt nostalgic and
safe, says Melanie. Its always changing and
evolving, but it always feels like home.

MELANIES STYLE
O Colour is key: think of Technicolor from old films, rather
than primary shades. They all have to be a bit off.
O True vintage fabrics are wonderful to find, but youll
often only find short measures. Good reproduction
fabrics are available, though, all printed from original
patterns and in a variety of colourways.
O Group similar pieces together. That makes it clear they
are a collection. You can really see what they have in
common and what makes them different from each
other, and it looks better than scattering them around.
O We go away to weekenders, where dozens of bands
play old-style rockabilly, rhythm and blues, and swing,
and you find all the vintage dealers over from America,
selling clothes, records and bric-a-brac from the era.
O America is amazing for bargains, but dont expect to
find one on the main track. You have to go deeper into
the backwoods and small towns to find the yard sales.

105
 S H O O T S A N D L E AV E S
PHOTOGRAPHING YOUR GARDEN THROUGHOUT THE YEAR CAN
HELP YOU UNDERSTAND WHAT WORKS AND WHAT DOESNT.
CINEAD McTERNAN SHARES HER BACKYARDS YEAR IN SNAPS

Photography: JASON INGRAM

L AT E S P R I N G

106
 NEST | GROWING

A
photograph is hard to beat
when it comes to recording L AT E S U M M E R
small- and large-scale
changes in your garden.
Whether its to monitor the
seasons and the changing
light and shade throughout the year, or to
keep track of planting combinations and
container displays, a picture makes a quick
and detailed record. Photographing your
garden is also a useful tool to hone your
design or make significant changes.
Im lucky, because my husband, Jason, is a
garden photographer, so we arent short of a
picture or two of our patch. However, I still
rely on my own shots to keep a more regular
record. Photographs dont need to be
beautifully framed or technically perfect to
tell the story of what happens in your garden
think of them more as notes, jottings and
aide memoires.
This year, more than most, Im glad to
have a selection of images of our small
(12x8m) garden to look at. Last spring, we
planted a more ornamental, late-flowering
garden in place of the productive plot we had
previously, so its useful to remember how it Whether its to monitor the changing light and shade or keep
looked. The summer is an exceptionally
busy time of year for Jason and hes rarely at track of planting, a picture makes a quick and detailed record
home, so it seemed a shame to create a
high-summer garden that hed never get to
appreciate. Unfortunately, our aspect is
north-west facing and half the garden
AUTU M N
skulks in the shade for most of the day, so I
was interested to see how this part of the
plot coped at different times of the year and
where, if any, problems arose.
A cold, wet spring delayed planting, so the
first pictures were taken at the end of the
season, to chart the early progress of the
lush, young plants. September was another
significant time to record the garden,
because it peaks then. We were also keen to
record it in late October, as some of the
garden puts on a good show while others
parts die back and we wanted to make sure
we achieved a good balance in each bed.
The new year is a good time to start
your photographic chronicle its an
opportunity to reassess those dreary areas
of your plot that could be brightened with
some winter-flowering plants, and then
to record what happens next. Here are
the most recent instalments from my
photographic scrapbook, which shows
how helpful it is to compare a few snaps
taken in different seasons.

107

L AT E S P R I N G
Watching the garden grow: borders
and boundaries
OOne of the most noticeable things about
the garden now is the boundary. As with
many city gardens, creating some privacy
is a priority. This shot (above) shows that
in early summer, the wisteria on the right
is doing a super job of masking the fence,
The wisteria in June is doing a super job of masking the fence. Mexican giant hyssop, globe
thistle and Mexican feather grasses soften the border edges and provide frothy lling
Mexican feather grasses
(above) bring height to the
borders; catmint, globe
thistle and nasturtium leaves
add frothy colour by the
greenhouse (right).
Opposite: espalier apple
trees, currants and herb pots
108
whereas our back wall and the fence
on the left, is still fairly exposed.
This year, I want to consider ways to
improve these areas, perhaps
planting a climbing rose, such as
Rambling Rector, which copes on a
north-facing wall, or I might try
taller, structural grasses to break
up the hard lines.
OThe espalier apple trees,
containers and herb pots are all
looking as they should, with plenty of
healthy fresh growth. They also provide
a balance to the burgeoning beds opposite,
so I shall leave them alone.
OThe borders on the left are new and
beginning to take shape. The one
directly in front of the greenhouse is
a combination of old and new plants.
The catmint is well established and has
flourished in that spot for three years,
but by midsummer its unruly and
overshadows the rest of the border. In an
attempt to keep it at a manageable size and
in proportion with the rest of the planting,
I cut it back to about 70cm three times
throughout the year.
OThe border in front looks in proportion,
with a combination of a Mexican giant
hyssop (Agastache Blue Fortune), a globe
thistle (Echinops ritro Veitchs Blue)
and a couple of Mexican feather grasses
(Stipa tenuissima), which soften the
edges and provide some frothy filling.
Self-seeding marigolds (not yet in flower)
will create a gloriously colourful edging
that remains a constant feature
throughout the growing season. In the
foreground, the spiky green foliage of
the self-seeded poppies is a great foil for
the frothy grasses and helps unite the
three beds, so I shall keep that as it is.
 NEST | GROWING

CINEAD McTERNAN
is our garden editor and author
of two books, Kitchen Garden
Experts and The One-Pot
Gourmet Gardener (both
Frances Lincoln). Follow the
daily progress of her small
urban plot at hoeandhum.
wordpress.com

109
 L AT E S U M M E R
The garden romps away: self-seeders
and salvia spires
OIts interesting to see that our neighbours
ornamental currant (Ribes sanguineum)
now covers much of the trellis, providing
more privacy, so its only the section of fence
leading up to the greenhouse that needs
something planted to soften the wood.
Given that its a smaller space to cover than
I had thought, the rambling rose might
be too vigorous. So, on reflection, a slow-
growing clematis or a tall frothy grass will
be better options. They also wont throw
the greenhouse into shade.
OThe catmint has been cut back and is now
the same height as the rest of the border.
However, the burgundy spires of red bistort
(Persicaria amplexicaulis Firetail) romped
through the bed. Although a great addition

110
 NEST | GROWING

Clockwise, from below: giant hyssop

spires; marigolds amidst the feather
grass; cascading redcurrants; red
bistort, flanked by cut-back lilac
catmint (front), marigolds and giant
hyssop; self-seeding poppies
contrast with feathery bedfellows
such as flowering verbena (below)

Our neighbours ornamental currant now covers much of the trellis. Red bistort has romped
through the bed, overwhelming Joe Pye weed, but providing a long owering season

to the plot that provided a very long
flowering season, it completely
overwhelmed the three Joe Pye weed
plants (Eutrochium purpureum) and the
tufted hair grass (Deschampsia cespitosa
Goldtau). Both probably need a couple of
years to get established, so Ill lift and
divide the bistort in spring, to try to
balance the three plants. Sadly, theres
not enough room to use the extra plants
elsewhere in the garden, so Ill pass them
on to friends rather than consign them to
the compost heap.
OThe salvia spires and the soft-pink,
button-shaped scabious were both already
growing in this border and blend well into
the new scheme, offering extra interest
and contrasting textures. Although the
self-seeding nasturtiums provide plenty of
lush green foliage in the spring and autumn
garden, theyre best removed during
summer months to prevent them from
smothering their neighbours and
overrunning the path.
OThe marigolds and Mexican giant hyssop
now slightly overpower the Mexican
feather grass, but another year will help the
grass to become more established and
jostle for position, so Ill wait until next
year to reassess if anything needs to be
divided or moved.
OThe self-seeded poppies are flowering
well. Now in their second year, they form
a substantial display and act as a foil for the
wispy purple clusters of the Verbena
bonariensis. The Russian sage, (Perovskia
atriplicifolia Blue Spire) though pretty,
is too tall and, in retrospect, the wrong
variety. It was cut back to reduce the
height but in spring, I think it needs to be
replaced with a more compact type, such
as Little Spire, or Silvery Blue.

111
 NEST | GROWING
AUTU MN
The garden begins to fade: silky fronds
and late flowers
OTheres still plenty of colour and interest
in the garden by late October to early
November. The bistort continues to
flower in earnest, the tufted hair grass
is offering one last hurrah, while the Joe
Pye weed provides structure and height to
the bed by the greenhouse, as well as a
source of food for any butterflies that are
braving the weather.
112
OIn the middle bed, the marigolds,
which had gone over, have been pulled
out, allowing the silken fronds of the
Mexican feather grass to spill over the
border to counter the Mexican Giant
Hyssops upright, decaying blooms.
Theres an abundance of marigold
seedlings already, so theyll bring
plenty of colour to the garden next spring.
OIn the third bed, the delicate stems of the
Russian sage, though a little straggly, make a
pretty contrast to the bold, dense heads of
the russet sedums, which were planted to
provide late-summer and autumn interest,
once the poppies finished flowering.
OMost of the herbs, like the rosemary,
thyme and bay, and fruit, including
red, white and black currants and
gooseberries, will be left in situ, while
more tender varieties, including the lemon
verbena and parsley, will be moved into
the greenhouse.
Above: the russet
seedhead of
an echinacea.
Below: red bistort
continues to hold
its own while
a shock of tufted
hair grass enjoys
a last hurrah
 HOME STYLE
T
here is nothing modest about the
chandelier. There it hangs in the
middle of the room, shimmering
and twinkling, bouncing light from
its tiers of pendant crystals, all show-offy
and flamboyant. Little wonder, then, that
it has been the light fixture of choice for
ballrooms, theatre foyers, palaces and
rooms with regal pretentions for decades.
Until now. A new generation of designers
has reinvented the chandelier, downsizing
it for the more modest home, introducing
contemporary styling without abandoning
its razzle-dazzle. These days, a chandelier
can hang above a dining table (where it is
often called a pendant light), in a hallway,
the living room, even the bathroom. Anyone
can now step into its spotlight and share its
reflected and dazzling glory.
The chandeliers illustrious and status-
symbol reputation was established by the
cost of the materials originally needed to
create it. Rock crystal and bronze, for
PHOTOGRAPHY: GETTY IMAGES
example, as favoured by the court of Louis
XIV of France at Versailles, was way beyond
the reach of ordinary mortals. The kings
choice of chandeliers, suspended in glittering
phalanxes from the ceiling of the Hall of
Mirrors, set a high and for the majority
of people unreachable, bar.
THE
CLASSIC
Candle chandelier | 420
Uses actual candles. Authentic.
nordichouse.co.uk
THE CHANDELIER
Words: CLARE GOGERTY
These early chandeliers were
illuminated by candles,* which were
arranged on crown-like designs, their
flickering light cast around the room by
prisms. During the 18th century,
Bohemian glassblowers developed
elaborate chandeliers involving bevels
and facets to further dazzling effect.
The Venetian glassblowers of Murano
took this one step further with the
introduction of glazed, polychrome
flowers which sprouted in profusion
from frond-like stems chandeliers of
this style are still produced.
The advent of gas lighting, followed
by electricity, and more recently LED
lights, has meant that the chandelier
has continued to evolve as designers
become increasingly inventive. When it
comes to choosing one for your own
Chandelier as home, there are a few things to keep in
jewellery, worn by mind: generally, the bigger the better
Shirley MacLaine no one wants a mimsy chandelier; make
sure your ceiling rose can take the
weight (especially if you plan to swing
from it ), and although this runs counter
There it hangs, bouncing to the chandeliers glamorous image,
light from its tiers dont forget to dust.
of pendant crystals * Chandelier comes from the French chandelle
which means candle holder.
T H E U P D AT E
TWO
GREAT
TWISTS
Antler chandelier | 368 Wooden chandelier | 250
Illuminate a timber lodge with French styling for your mini
this. sweetpeandwillow.com chateau. coxandcox.co.uk
113
 N AT U R A L S E L E C T I O N

RECIPES TO SOOTHE AND NOURISH YOUR

FACE AND BODY AND IN PREPARING
THEM PERHAPS EVEN YOUR MIND TOO

Recipes: DOMINIKA MINAROVIC AND ELSIE RUTTERFORD

114
 NEST | WEEKEND PROJECT

P R O U D LY
HOMEMADE

he natural properties of
plants have been staples of
beauty lotions and potions
for centuries but that can
seem far removed from the
baffling list of ingredients
found on some bottles and jars. A
growing number of enthusiasts are
going back to basics (for one, see the
Little Soap Company on page 50),
happy to know exactly what they are
putting on their skin. Whether youre
after a one-off dabble or a more
substantial switch in your routine,
these fuss-free recipes from Clean
Beauty Co (cleanbeautyco.com) are
a gentle introduction to the art.
Hot and steamy face
Once you start experimenting with compress
homemade beauty, youll see the
contents of the kitchen cupboard in a
SMOOTH YOUR SKIN WITH
whole new way. Put coffee to use as
an exfoliator, and use the anti- A SOOTHING BLEND THATS
inflammatory qualities of oats to calm GOOD ENOUGH TO EAT
your skin. Not sure of where to get hold
of anything? Try freshskin.co.uk or
baldwins.co.uk. Makes one use only, use immediately
Fun to make, even better on your YOU WILL NEED:
skin: these simple recipes add the 125ml camomile tea
feelgood factor to your bathroom. 1 tbsp honey
1 tsp grated ginger
125ml soya milk

A note on safety
1 Add the honey and ginger to the hot tea
There are a few basic need-to-knows for making beauty products at home:
and leave for 10 minutes.
Essential oils shouldnt be put directly onto the skin, or into water rst. As in these
2 Stir in the soya milk.
recipes, they need to be used with another carrier oil. Pregnant women should
3 Submerge a cotton flannel in the
check with their doctor before use.
mixture and place over your face.
Sterilise equipment and make sure its fully dry before use, as water causes
4 Repeat three times.
bacteria growth. These recipes dont contain preservatives, so keep them water free.
5 You can leave the residue on the skin
Do a patch test on your skin 24 hours before full application, in case of any
overnight or remove immediately.
unforeseen irritations.
Following with a refrigerated toner will
close the pores and tighten the skin.

115
 Skin-boosting
body butter

ITS FLUFFY APPEARANCE

BELIES ITS NO-NONSENSE
NOURISHING PROPERTIES

Makes 100g; lasts six months in an Great for dry skin, this icing-soft
airtight container
YOU WILL NEED:
whip is made for slathering all over
50g mango butter and smells as good as it feels
50ml jojoba oil
5 drops geranium essential oil
2 drops vitamin E oil

1 Melt the mango butter in a bain-marie.

2 Slowly add the jojoba oil, stirring
as you do.
3 Place in the fridge to cool for 5 mins.
4 Stir in the essential oils.
5 Whisk the mixture with an electric
whisk, then put back in the fridge
for a further 5 mins. Repeat until you
have a creamy texture, almost like icing
on a cake.
6 Spoon into your container, being careful
to maintain the fluffiness.

116
 NEST | WEEKEND PROJECT

Oatmeal soak

BATHE YOUR TROUBLES

AWAY WITH THIS GENTLE,
SKIN-SOOTHING BLEND

Makes enough for about ve baths;

store in an airtight container for up
to 3 months.
YOU WILL NEED:
90g porridge oats
10g coconut oil
5 drops lavender essential oil

1 Grind the oats in a blender or

coffee grinder for a few minutes
until they become extremely fine.
Frappuccino bars 2 Gently heat the coconut oil in
2 Add the coffee and stir well, then a bain-marie, add the lavender
spoon the mixture into a small, silicone essential oil and stir well.
A BODY SCRUB AND muffin tray. This uses a 33cm tray. 3 Combine the oils and oatmeal
MOISTURISER IN ONE, TO Leave a gap at the top of each the and stir.
GIVE YOU A REAL KICK idea being the coconut oil will sit on 4 Add a handful to a running bath
top and form a white layer and place and swirl to ensure even distribution.
in the freezer to solidify.
Makes: 10 bars; lasts 6 months in an 3 Melt the coconut oil and the
airtight container. remaining shea butter in a bain-marie.
YOU WILL NEED: Add the essential oils and stir well.
85g shea butter 4 Once the coffee butter is solid,
80g ground coffee remove from the freezer. Pour the
85g coconut oil liquid coconut mixture on top of
5 drops geranium essential oil each muffin.
5 drops grapefruit essential oil 5 Place in the fridge and again allow
Extracted from Clean Beauty: Recipes to
the entire mixture to solidify. Keep in
Manage your Beauty Routine Naturally by
1 Divide the shea butter in two and put the fridge and use as and when you Dominika Minarovic and Elsie Rutterford
one half to one side. Melt the other half need them. (Square Peg). Photography: Charlotte
in a bain-marie. Kibbles

117
 THIS MONTH IN OUR SERIES ON WHAT REALLY
GOES ON IN A HOME WE MAKE OURSELVES
A NICE CUP OF TEA AND COFFE E
Words: CLARE GOGERTY
THERES NOTHING THE British like
more than a hot beverage. Which isnt
surprising when you consider a cuppas
magical power to revive, comfort and
warm. Or when you appreciate a decent
cup of coffees ability to propel you through
the day. Both drinks also bring shape to the
day, from elevenses, which offer the
chance to sit down with a cuppa and a
digestive, to afternoon tea break with its
feet-up-and-do-the-crossword potential.
These days, of course, coffee drinking is
much more than a few granules shaken
into a mug and doused with boiling water.
118
The advent of the barista has made coffee
geeks of us all. Now that we appreciate the
coffee beans potential, the search for ways
to make the best brew at home is endless.
Similarly, tea has been rediscovered with
variations such as matcha, oolong, and
fermented kombtucha sitting alongside
more traditional loose-leaf blends.
Tea-making equipment is no longer
a mug, kettle and teaspoon today its
all about infusers and matcha whisks.
All of which is for the greater good. The
more breaks taken for hot-drink making
during the day, the better, in our book.
LOOSE LEAF
O R T E A B AG S ?
DISCUSS
Making a cuppa with loose
leaf tea requires more cash
and more patience than using
teabags. Loose leaf tea is made
of whole leaves or large pieces
of leaf still containing
aromatic oils. The flavour is
released slowly into the water
so you have to wait for it to
infuse. Remember to keep it in
an airtight opaque container
in a cool, dry place.
Commercial teabags are
filled with small pieces of the
lowest grade commodity tea,
and so are quick to infuse.
Much of the aroma is lost
during processing, however,
so what you gain in time you
lose in flavour.
A new breed of tea
producers, such as Pukka and
PHOTOGRAPHY: GETTY IMAGES; STOCKSY
Teapigs, fill their bags with
better quality tea, herbs and
spices. The pyramid bag as
championed by Teapigs has
more infusing space than
regular tea bags creating a
more nuanced flavour.
 NEST | HOW WE LIVE

BREW A PROPER CUPPA

Emilie Holmes, owner, Good & Proper Tea (goodandpropertea.com)
advises on the art of tea making.
Making sure every cup of tea is a good cup of tea is all about getting
things in the right order. First, make sure you use good quality tea. Go
for whole, loose leaf tea which will give you the most flavour. Ideally
you should use freshly drawn, filtered water. This might be a faff, but
it makes a huge difference (especially in London, which has hard
water) and will brew much cleaner, crisper cup. The water
temperature must be right for the tea: different teas require different
brewing temperatures. Herbs and black tea like heat, so can be made
using water just off the boil, but green tea, oolongs and white tea taste
better when made using cooling water. The higher temperatures burn
the leaf of more delicate teas, resulting in a bitter taste, so reducing the
temperature brews a sweeter cup. Measure the quantity of tea as per
the brewing instructions, paying attention to the ratio of leaf to water.
Too much water and itll be thin, too much tea and itll taste bitter.
Allow time for the tea to brew. Loose leaf tea needs more time than a
traditional tea bag. Most black teas need around three minutes, which
allows the leaves to unfurl and release their full flavour. Leave it too
long and the tea will taste bitter, too short and the cup will lack body.

CO F F E E M A K I N G M A S T E R C L A S S
Bryan Serwatka of small batch specialty KNOCK (FROM 120, o the aroma and th
out he
coffee roastery Volcano Coffee Works madebyknock.com). delicate nuances of the
e
(volcanocoffeeworks.com) advises on Electricburrgrinder: co
c offee. If you like yourr
making great coffee at home. BARATZA (ENCORE, 149, er,
coffee on the lighte
AEROPRESS
Buy a grinder This is your most important coffeehit.co.uk). cleaner side then
tool for making great, fresh coffee at home. this is the method
The coarseness of your coffee grounds Source fresh coffee If for you. (hasbean.
hugely affects how coffee is extracted in youre investing in co.uk)
brewing, so consistency is key. Burr brewing and grinding kit, 2. THE V60,
grinders, which consist of two revolving then sourcing freshly CHEMEX E
CERAMIC COFFEE
abrasive surfaces (burrs) between which roasted coffee beans is DRIPPER, 25
the coffee is ground a few beans at a time, essential. Coffee is best within A
Another pour over
are preferable to blade grinders (which one month of the day it was roasted, so brewer, and the industry
ke
have a blade in the centre like keep an eye out for the roast date. standard for most speciality
a propeller) as the beans are (FROM 6 FOR 250G, coffee bars. It brings out more
ground more evenly and you u volcanocoffeeworks.com) intensity than a Chemex, and
have more control of the draws out more sweetness and
grind. Most hand-grinders Choose your brewing method balance
have adjustable grind sizes These are the three main home as a result. (hario.co.uk)
and, although they require a brewing methods available in 3. THE AEROPRESS, 28 Looking
bit of elbow grease, the the speciality market, in order like a big coffee syringe, coffee is
results are remarkably of brew strength per device. brewed in the chamber, then the barista
superior to basic electric 1. CHEMEX, FROM serves it by pressing the
blade grinders. 37 Works by coffee through
Recommended hand- pour over brewing. a filter. The added
grinder makers: A filter is placed in pressure brings out more
HARIO (FROM 40, the top and water is body and coffees natural
THE V60
hario.co.uk); RHINOWARES poured over the coffee to oils. A class of its own.
(45, bearandbear.com); BARATZA brew it. This brings (aeropress.co.uk)

119

TOOL S FOR TE A
Truth be told, the majority of
British people dunk a teabag in a
mug and squish it with a teaspoon.
But that is everyday tea, gulped
without noticing. Once you get a
sense of how good tea can taste, you
will select better quality, loose leaf
tea and search for the relevant items
to brew it properly. There is a world
of tea paraphernalia out there.
Teapot China is the traditional
choice (like the Eva teapot from
maiamingdesigns.com, below)
but new glass teapots with built-in
infusers are both beautiful and
useful spent tea can be disposed of
easily plus you can can watch the
tea gently infuse.
Tea strainer To filter leaves when
pouring from a traditional teapot.
In-cup brewer Place in mug, spoon
tea into the infuser, pour boiling
water over and infuse.
Matcha whisk Made from bamboo
to whisk matcha into a creamy
beverage. You might also need
a matcha scoop.
Teaspoons The first were shaped
like scallop shells, referring to the
shells Oriental merchants put on tea
chests for clients to take a sample.
A modern version is the Measure
Spoon that ensures you get the
tea-to-water ratio right.
Tea press Like a cafetire but
for tea brewing.
ESPRESSO BONGO
The steaming, gleaming espresso machine
has been a thing of hipness since the 1950s.
Once confined to European cafs, it is now
commonplace on the high street and in the
kitchen. An espresso, in case you are
unaware, is a small, intense cup of coffee
created by forcing a small amount of nearly
boiling water under pressure through
finely ground coffee beans. It is also the
base for most other coffees, such as
cappuccino, latte, flat white.
If you crave an instant shot of caffeine in
the morning, you might consider buying an
espresso machine. As we are all now coffee
connoisseurs, its best to avoid pod coffee
makers with their unsustainable plastic
packaging and restricted manufacturers
choice of blend. A home espresso machine
means you can explore different coffees
from your preferred roaster, fine-tune the
crema (surface foam), and get to steam
milk to your desired thickness.
John Lewis has a good selection.

YOUR FORTUNE
IN YOUR TEA CUP
BESTSELLING TEAS Tasseography is the art of reading tea
The top five at Good & Proper Tea, 96A Leather Lane, London EC1 leaves to predict your fortune. (In the
Middle East, coffee grounds are also read,
1.Assam The firm UK favourite. A delicious, punchy breakfast brew. which is known as cafeomancy.) Make a
2. Peppermint A crisp, fresh, whole-leaf peppermint. pot of loose leaf tea, pour into a white cup
3. Matcha This Japanese green tea, whether served traditional style or in a (for better visibility), sip the tea leaving a
latte, has gained a cult-like following. small residue, swirl the tea around in the
PHOTOGRAPHY: ALAMY

4. Jade Tips The bestselling everyday green tea. Deliciously refreshing cup, then upend in a saucer. Squint closely
with a lingering sweetness. for symbols in the tea leaves. Common
5. Jasmine Pearls Hand-rolled green tea pearls that have been infused with ones include stars (good luck), spirals
the scent of jasmine flowers. A smooth, floral cup. (creativity), parallel lines (travel, change).

120
 NEST | HOW WE LIVE

EXTRA SOMETHINGS
Turn tea and coffee making into an art with these desirable things

Estrum jug, 39 Good and Proper teapot, 22 Glass coffee cup and saucer, 26
brostecopenhagen.com goodandpropertea.com miafleur.com

Bone china hybrid sugar bowl, 87 Moomin Butterfly tray, 20 PG Tips tea caddy, 5
furnish.co.uk cloudberryliving.co.uk jeremyshomestore.co.uk

Almedahls Picknick tea cosy, 15 Matcha whisk, 12 Elephant grey vacuum jug, 50
andshine.co.uk goodandpropertea.com evasolo.com

121
 29 th SAV
Ale Ma E TH
xa rch ED
nd
ra 1 st ATE
lac pril !
Pa A
e, L 20
on 17
do
n

The WI Fair returns in 2017, this time at the iconic

and picturesque Alexandra Palace in London
Celebrating every aspect of the WI, the event will Pop the date in your diary and sign up to our
welcome members and non-members alike for QHZVOHWWHUIRUUHJXODUXSGDWHVLQFOXGLQJQRWLFDWLRQ
what promises to be four fantastic days out. of when tickets go on sale in December.
With workshops aplenty, energising seminars, Ticket prices for WI members will be:
theatre demonstrations, hands-on activities and an 11 each for groups of 10+, 12.50 for individuals
extensive shopping experience, the event will have and 14 on the door*.
something for everyone, whatever your interest. We cant wait to welcome you to the fair.

www.thewifair.co.uk
*Terms & conditions and a transaction fee apply.

THIS MONTH
1 NAVIGATE BY THE MOON 123
2 ICELANDIC SKYR 124
3 GROWING RASPBERRIES 125
4 BREAK A RECORD ON THE
LONDON UNDERGROUND 125
5 FEELGOOD FISH FINGERS 126
6 IDENTIFIER: RUNES 127
HOW TO
NAVIGATE BY
THE MOON
Dont be a lunatic on moonlit nights
refer to our heavenly guide
Moonlight navigators should do
so under a crescent moon (when
part, but less than half, of the
moons face is illuminated).
North/South
Imagine a straight line from the
two points of the crescent down
to the ground in Britain, itll give
PHOTOGRAPHY: NATURE PICTURE LIBRARY
you a rough idea of where south
is (or, in the southern hemisphere,
where north is). The higher in
the sky the moon is, the more
accurate itll be the moon is
at its highest when due south
from the UK.
East/West
Like the sun, the moon rises in the
+ F E B R UA RY +
A curious combination of the practical and the playful
Compiled by: FRANCES AMBLER Illustrations by: JOE SNOW
CAPTION
COMPETITION
OVER TO YOU
Make us giggle with a caption for
this hungry kitten. Well send a
lovely book to the writer of our
favourite.
Post your best efforts at facebook.com/
thesimplethingsmag
Get your claws out to grab this helpful
Swiss Army-style crustacean.
Crab multi tool, 17.99
firebox.com
east and sets in the west (well,
kind of it varies north and
southwards, but very roughly).
The bright side of a crescent
moon is always facing the sun, so
if the moon rises before the sun
sets, the bright side will be facing
(Japanese)
west. After midnight, the bright
Gazing vacantly into the distance
side will be facing east. Our top
without thinking
tip? For accurate navigation,
bring a compass and torch.
123

LIBERTY ELIZAS PINK
A classic Liberty print keeps it
looking pretty.
BEST FOR: With two mirrors
(normal and double magnification),
its compact but mighty.
30, andreagarland.co.uk
g
KATE SPADE NEW YORK
TELEPHONE
Adorned with a charming vintage-
style telephone dial.
BEST FOR: aspiring Hollywood
goddesses.
31, johnlewis.com
j their thoughts.
MARBLE
A classsy marble-effect numbeer with
bronzee trim. BEST FOR: tick king the
chic but cheap box
x.
8, skinn don.com
124
SAD ANIMAL FACTS
From Sad Animal Facts by Brooke Barker (Boxtree)
FINGER FINDER
Though a spectator may attempt to
hide information from you, if you
employ some simple techniques, they
will be unable to do so. In this
demonstration of apparent mind
reading, you use the unconscious
reactions of a spectators body to read
EFFECT: A spectator extends one of
their hands out in front of their body
and spreads their ngers wide apart.
The magician asks him to concentrate
on one digit of the ve, and do so
intently. Amazingly, the magician
determines without asking leading
questions which nger the spectator
is thinking of!
PERFORMANCE: Instruct a spectator
to stand directly in front of you and to
Adapted from Mysterios Encyclopedia of Magic and Conjuring by Gabe Fajuri (Quirk Books). More
entertaining and diverting titles can be found at quirkbooks.com
TASTY
TREND
SKYR
A soft cheese found in the yoghurt
aisle. This ancient Icelandic staple,
with a velvety texture and slightly
sour taste, is made by incubating
skimmed milk with live active
cultures before straining away the
whey making it protein- and
calcium-packed, while being low in
fat. Its now even being produced in
Britain, by Yorkshire-based Hesper
Farm (hesperfarmskyr.co.uk).
TRY IT: at Michelin-starred
Texture in Londons Marylebone
(texture-restaurant.co.uk).
BUY IT: in Waitrose.
SEE IT: on our Tasty Trend
Pinterest board.
hold their arm out and away from
their chest. Open your hand, please,
and spread your ngers apart, palm
out. Once they have complied with
this request, give them further
instructions: Concentrate on make
a denite mental selection of one of
your ngers. Think of it, and nothing
else. Its a funny thing to concentrate
on, I know, but please pick one of your
digits and home in on it. Block
everything else out of your mind.
Now use your index nger to push
against the tip of each nger in their
extended hand. The nger that gives
you the most resistance will be the one
they are concentrating on.
To conclude the demonstration,
announce their mental selection.
 H OW H A R D C A N I T B E

TO VISIT ALL LONDON UNDERGROUND

STOPS IN A DAY
You must be Barking! This feat requires major planning and minor athleticism.

The Tube Challenge record carriages for exits and interchanges.

visiting all 270 stops on the London
Underground is 15 hours, 45 minutes
andd 38 seconds. Not easy.
Start off on the right track
Avoid engigineering works and pick a
quiet day. Severere delays may mean
you meet your Waterlo rloo.
Timing is everything
Which lines start and finish earliest
and latest? How frequent are the
trains? As you wind your way down
on Baker Street, consider the best
Get training
The rules (tubechallenge.com
g )
say going by foot or public transport
between stations is fine. One record
included 9.7 miles of running.
Study the masters
Every station has one of Mark
Wallingers Labyrinth artworks,
numbered to show the order in which
num
it was visited for the
th 2009 record
record.
And, if you work it out from that,
you deserve your success.

GIVE IT A GROW
RASPBERRIES
Because its always time for tea
somewhere in the world

Lemon juice
stops avocados
going brown. If
youre making
guacamole or
salsa, pop the
avocado stone
WHY WOULD I?
in the bowl too; Plant now, and youll be enjoying the fruits of your labour by
it keeps it fresh summer raspberry canes will produce fruit from their rst year,
for at least two and even more the next. They prefer sun, but do well in shade, too.
You can also try them in large (60cm diameter) containers. Also known as Bai Mudan or White
hours and stops Peony, this Chinese white tea has a
WHEN DO I PLANT THEM?
it browning Anny time from November to March for summer fruiting raspberries, delicate, owery avour. The uppermost
do remember if theres no frost and the soil isnt waterlogged. Plant each can
ne two leaves and the bud are plucked in
to remove the 60c cm apart, about 8cm deep. In a container, plant a few cm from early spring and left to wither naturally
the side, equally spaced, and ensure theyre kept well waterred. and dry in the sun. That makes for
stone before HOW DO I KEEP THEM ALIVE? a tea thats low in caffeine, high in
PHOTOGRAPHY: ALAMY

serving! Make surre soil is never too dry or too waterlogged. In sprin ng, add a antioxidants, but also quite pricey.
From: Womens Institute layer of manure
m around the base of the canes and you c can water SERVING NOTES Use more leaves than
Practical Know-How: in them with to omato feed as they fruit. In late autumn cutt every cane you would with other teas, and
the Kitchen (Simon & that has borne e fruit that year to about 25cm from the
th ground. Its steep at a lower temperature for one
Schuster) upsetting now, but ut will make for a more fruitful bush
bu next summer. to three minutes.

125
 Lessons from our sschool days, long since forgotten

MRS GREN
All living things could do with meeting MRS GREN.
Not a kindly teacher, but a useful acronym to

DOGS IN BLANKETS
The secret dreams of sleeping pets
MARCEL, WHIPPET, 18 MONTHS
I hear you. Going on about pancake day. With a name like Marcel,
can you not tell that I am French? We do not get overexcited
about a day of pancakes. Non! We have the far superior fte des
crpes, which Ill have you know I celebrated on 2nd February.
OK, all I did was wait by the hob for the festivities to begin, but
rien for the chien! So, thinking about it, perhaps I will partake in
this pancake day business
Tweet a pic of your #dogsinblankets or #catsonmats @simplethingsmag
remember the seven processes all living things have
in common: Movement, Respiration, Sensitivity,
Growth, Reproduction, Excretion, Nutrition. From
apple trees to zebras, all organisms can move (even if
its only particular body parts), respire (produce
energy), and are sensitive to changes around them.
Growth and reproduction are pretty self explanatory,
suffice to add that all living things excrete get rid of
waste products and take in nutrients/food. So
remember MRS GREN as you practise your
sensitivity to that giant spider crawling around your
bedroom. You have more in common with it than
appearances might suggest...

FEELGOOD
FISH FINGERS
SERVES 2
2 tbsp ground axseed
2 tbsp ne porridge oats
tsp garlic granules
tsp dried mixed herbs
2 large skinless salmon llets
Olive oil, for coating
Lemon wedges, to serve
1 Preheat the oven to 200C/Fan
180C/400F. Mix the ground flaxseed,
oats, garlic granules and dried herbs
together, and season to taste. Spread
this mixture out over a flat surface.
2 Cut the salmon into fingers and
lightly coat in olive oil. Roll the fingers
in the oat mixture until they are
completely covered.
Scouring shelves for second-hand gems
THE COOL BOOK:
The Teenagers Guide to Survival
in a Square Society
by Art Unger
The poor teenager living in a
society that doesnt understand
them. Before Just Seventeen
3 Place on a baking sheet and bake in (RIP), there were books like this
the oven for around 25 mins or until 1961 title offering advice on how
the coating is crisp and golden. to talk to a date or break off
Serve with lemon wedges. with a steady. With suggested
chat-up lines including Arent
Recipe from The Medicinal Chef: How to you Lana Turners sister?, its
Cook Healthily by Dale Pinnock amazing things ever got that far.
(Quadrille). Photography: Issy Croker Found at awfullibrarybooks.net

126
 IDENTIFIER

RUNES
The runic alphabet had up to 33 characters learn these nine
to give those Anglo-Saxons a rune for their money*

feoh f ur u thorn th
Means wealth, more specifically wealth in the form In Anglo-Saxon, its thought to mean aurochs, a Given a range of meanings, from forest giant to
of cattle. Its influence is still he(a)rd: the modern now-extinct wild ox, with huge horns that were (perhaps because of the runes shape) a literal
English words fee and fine are derivatives. prized as drinking vessels. Cheers to u! thorn. However you interpret, one to avoid.

os o ra r
Its shape suggests a flag, and wed like to flag up Equivalent to R in the Roman alphabet, this meant In Anglo-Saxon meaning torch sadly this doesnt
that os is associated with messages in Anglo- riding initially on a horse, but later with the likes cast light on why, in Norwegian and Icelandic rune
Saxon meaning mouth. of wagons and chariots. Rad indeed. poems, its interpreted as ulcer!

mann m eh e
Also means birch as one of the first to gain leaves Mann means man straightforward enough for Just when you think youve got the hang of reading
each spring, in northern Europe this tree has long anyone to (man)handle and, like today, it can runes... Meaning horse, its an e not an m. Little
been associated with fertility. mean either the individual or humankind. wonder that its named eh.

* There are different runic alphabets this is based on the Anglo-Saxon futhorc, in use from the 5th to the 11th
centuries. Each rune has its own name, associated letter and individual meaning.

127
 WHERE WAS THAT?
All the lovely things in this issue organised with page numbers to help you find them

COOK
C
CO OK BUY
Fresh Feelgood sh ngers 7 Things to want and wish for 8
Proudly homemade Fluffiest pancakes 16 Book reviews Adventures of a Terribly Greedy Girl,
Gathering: Meet, eat, stay Books for Living, My Garden is a Car Park 11, 13, 14
Ricotta, minty salsa verde & baby pickled vegetables 26 Maker of the month Anna Wiscombe 11
Braised beef cheeks with chestnuts 27 The Simple Things Mothers Day gift subscription 12
Creamy polenta 28 Shop of the month Radiance lighting 14
Sauted mushrooms with thyme 28 Simple style Smocks 22
Bitter greens with lemon vinaigrette 29 The Simple Things subscription 44
Poached rhubarb with cardamom meringues 30 Best of The Simple Things Anthology 74
Hazelnut brownies 30 The Simple Things chalkboard postcards 90
Eating well The power of soup 37 Oh Comely subscription 95
Tipple of the month Kumquat gimlet punch 45 Home style Chandeliers 113
Weekend project DIY energy balls 46 Home truths Making tea and coffee 118
Cake in the house Rose and honey cake 53 Miscellany trio Compact mirrors 124
Tasty trend Skyr 124
A new leaf Pai mu tan tea 125

DO
Things to plan and do 16
Homemade remedies Repairing hair oil 17
Learn something new Tarot 51
Playlist Songs that make you smile 79
Competition Win a luxurious wool bedding set 88
THINK
K Flowers in the house Crocuses 97
Growing Photographing your garden 106
Wisdom Fashion commentator Caryn Franklin 32 Weekend project Homemade beauty 114
A job well done Little Soap Company 50 How to Navigate by the moon 123
My day in cups of tea Jewellery designer Joanna Wakeeld 54 How hard can it be to visit all Tube stops in a day 125
A poetic pause Full Moon by Victoria Sackville-West 75 Give it a grow Raspberries 125
Ideas Rethinking money 76 Household hints Stop avocado going brown 125 BLOSTMA WALLPAPER 5201 BY FARROW & BALL; FARROW-BALL.COM

Gallery Matt Sewells portraits of collective nouns 80

Wellbeing How to feel less anxious 86
What I treasure My grandmothers bracelet 89
Know a thing or two Massage 91 GO
Home tour Vintage air in County Durham 98
New tricks Finger nder 124 Can we tell you about Cosy pubs with rooms 18
I used to know that Mrs Gren 126 My City Buenos Aires 58
Identier Runes 127 Weekend away Providence Cottage, Cranbrook, Kent 64
Bedtime story Take a Deep Breath by Jennifer Ryan 130 Outing Estuaries 68

128
 MARCH ISSUE

EVERYDAY
Gathering Outing My City
The cookbook club Following the blossom trail A locals guide to Malm

Weekend project Home style Growing

How to whittle a spoon Mid-century chairs & toast racks Appreciating herbs

IF YOU ENJOYED THIS ISSUE

you can buy the next one at icebergpress.co.uk/shop from 22 February
If you really liked it, might we suggest a subscription? Its cheaper, too see page 44
PHOTOGRAPHY: KYM GRIMSHAW; KIRSTIE YOUNG

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 BEDTIME STORY
TA K E A D E E P B R E AT H
A short story by JENNIFER RYAN
N
otice pinned to the Brampton village hall
noticeboard: Come for a Second World War
singalong, Tuesday evening at 7pm,
Marigold Bisgood. I put the notice up
gingerly. Who knew how everyone would
react, or if anyone would turn up at all?
Its worth a try, I told myself. Opening the door out into
the frosty night, I took a deep breath of fresh air. It doesnt
matter if no one comes, after all.
Once I got into the warmth of my little sitting room, I took
out my mothers song sheets. Id found them in the attic,
clearing out last week: Well Meet Again, Dont Sit Under no one would come.
the Apple Tree, The Boogie-Woogie Bugle Boy and The
White Cliffs of Dover.
My mother had sung in the choir during the war, the
women pulling together to get through the horrors of
Dunkirk, then Battle of Britain, and the Blitz.
It was all about keeping spirits up, shed told me. We
werent going to let Hitler see that he was getting us down!
130
She taught me how to play the piano to all these old tunes.
Her favourite was The White Cliffs of Dover, and shed
tell me how she imagined she was one of the bluebirds,
soaring high over the cliffs and fields in the radiant
sunshine after the war.
It was only a few months ago that she died, older but
still with that essence of magic. I found it difficult to be
here, in her place, and moving to the village. I had a sense
of displacement, a feeling that everyone else knew each
other, except me.
What was I thinking, starting a singing group? Of course
Tuesday evening arrived, and I marched down to the hall
ten minutes early determined to put up a good front. The hall
was empty, although someone had left the heating on, so at
least it was warm and, once the lights were on, it looked
rather friendly, with the piano in one corner.
I sat down and put a finger on middle C, listening to the
sound reverberate around the empty space. It wasnt too
badly out of tune.
Lifting the music out of my bag, I decided to give myself
a bit of a warm-up, placing Well Meet Again carefully on
the music rest. There were one or two mistakes because of my
nerves, but I soon became immersed in the tune. Memories of
childhood came flooding back: the family get-togethers, all of
us standing around the piano at parties, the merry sound of
Mum singing in the kitchen. Its almost magical how a song
can bring everything back to life inside you like it was there
all along, just waiting to be relived.
Suddenly a voice rang out behind me, a womans voice,
young and clear, singing along with the music. Hope rose
inside me, and I kept playing as an older womans voice
joined in. Still following the tune I knew so well, I turned
to see three more women come in, one of them elderly and
being helped along by the younger two. By the time I reached
the final chorus, several more people had arrived, and
although we were not more than a dozen, we were certainly
a happy little group.
Do you have The White Cliffs of Dover? someone called.
I brought it out, thinking of the bluebirds and my mother,
and, as I played the first soaring notes, I suddenly felt as light
as a bird, home at last.
ILLUSTRATION: HANNAH WARREN
Jennifer Ryans debut novel The Chilbury Ladies Choir is set in an
English village during the Second World War. Her simple pleasure
is a long, chatty countryside walk with her girls and Timmy the dog.


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