I’ve been away for a few days exploring Shropshire; an area of the UK I’ve not visited before. Sometimes it’s good to just walk away from the usual way of life and take a breath. I went with a dear friend and, although the British weather wasn’t always kind and we had to change our planned excursions; we made the most of every day. Food was high on our agenda and we certainly found plenty of independent cafes to try out breakfast and lunches! We first stayed in a beautifully

What a glorious summer it has been. I’ve loved the wall to wall sunshine; even if my garden wasn’t so keen. Fried blooms and yellowing lawns. But I’m certainly not complaining; my shorts have been a constant uniform. Some sturdier flowers did make it through adding colour We also started building the new Summerhouse and trying to use as much reclaimed material as possible. Stained glass windows added a touch of style to the natural wood structure. An old pew from our antique

Every year, for the last four years, I have holidayed with a friend I’ve known for about 40 years. It’s our annual break; somewhere hot, interesting and in an hotel where we do nothing but relax. This year we chose Madeira. An island we have both wanted to visit and it certainly hasn’t disappointed so far. We chose a fortnight this year and, although initially I was concerned it would be too long, I realise now it is perfect. After the three days it takes us both to de-stress

As I look out of The Shack into the field on one side and my garden on the other, I am enjoying the bobbing daffodils, the brightly coloured tulips and all the green surrounding me. Who knew there were so many greens! Spring is truly here and it always inspires. New growth, hope and freshness. Not just in the garden but also in our homes. Change can be frightening but also exhilarating. Whether it’s a life change or finally plucking up the courage to decorate a room. Adding v

As we patiently wait for Spring, our thoughts turn to new life in the garden, longer days, better weather, Spring cleaning and maybe even decorating our homes. I’ve been reading that home trends are moving away from cold, white minimalism and towards warm, rich, earthy tones. Now, I’m not one to follow trends, but for once, this news is music to my ears! I did try living in a house with white walls once. I always admire the look in other homes, but it just wasn’t for me. The

Suddenly summer was over... ...and the rain tap was turned on. Everywhere is looking greener, though with a last minute reprieve for the...

I’m still holding out hope for one last hoorah, a final blast of sunshine, though I know the gardens could still do with a good soak.

School’s Out! The school gates have swung open for summer. Whether you're planning family adventures, juggling work, or simply soaking...

Welcome back after our summer break. It seems like an age since we spoke! I hope you’ve had a happy summer, even though the weather left...

By the time you read this blog, I will (hopefully) be in sunny Sorrento! I am writing this while wrapped in cosy blankets and fluffy...

Greetings from a charming corner of France! No, I haven't relocated permanently to the shack—sadly, it's still a work in progress....

This is my first blog, so it's only right if I go ahead and introduce myself! I'm Jane, but in the world of all things vintage and...