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Many of us are finding the idea of buying presents more than a little overwhelming. But when you have a good idea of what the recipient is into, that's half the battle over with and you're on the right path towards finding something you know they'll enjoy. Giving well-thought out gifts is one of the loveliest things about special occasions - seeing the joy on someone’s face as they tear off the gift wrap and see something they've been hoping for is always a delight. It won't come as any surprise to you any of you that at Peppermint Teal, we love to read. Losing yourself in a good book is a wonderful to destress leaving you feeling so much more relaxed and revived. And when you throw tea and cake into the mix - it's one of our favourite methods of self-care - definitely great for the soul! And when you feel like being sociable, there's nothing like being part of a reading group and getting stuck into a riveting discussion about that month's read. Just think - you fave book could lead you to making new friends! So to us, books are so much more than just words on a page. So that's why we created this post specifically with book lovers in mind. But what do you buy someone who likes to read? Well a book of course! True, anyone who enjoys reading would be grateful to receive a new book to get stuck into as a gift. But what if you feel like getting the bookworm in your life something slightly different..? Even though we know books are very much their thing, book-buying for the avid reader can sometimes be a challenge. How do we know they'll love the book we've bought them? What if they already have it on their bookshelf or have downloaded it onto their Kindle? Perhaps they've already read it before - and worse still hated it! Or maybe just maybe, you don't want to be totally predictable and buy them yet another book especially if you think everyone else will be getting them something to read. The smart choice might be to get them a gift that isn't a book but is still related to their love of reading. Some book-themed merchandise maybe? Something they can use while they escape into yet another novel? Or maybe something that'll look fab in their new reading nook. Believe us - there are so many options with regards to buying gifts for reading fanatics. It's not all just books - as great as they are. If you wish to purchase something a little different for them, you just need to use a little imagination and think outside... the book! So we've come up with ideas for non-book gifts that you could give to a book aficionado and if you're a bit of a bookworm yourself, there's no reason why you shouldn't treat yourself too! For many of the items mentioned here, there are also book-themed versions available if you want to really amp up the literary connection. 1. BOOK VOUCHERS OK, this isn't the most groundbreaking of gift ideas when it comes to buying a present for a book fan, and a bit of a safe option (this list gets a bit more interesting as we go on - promise!) But if there's one thing that avid readers love more than receiving a new book, it's receiving a voucher so that they can head down to their nearest book shop and purchase a copy of the latest book they've had their eye on. And at least this way you'll know that they're bound to get a book they really, really want! 2. BOOKMARKS We know, we know - another simple idea! But let's face it book lovers - those who prefer to read printed books anyway - can never have too many bookmarks. Furthermore, book marks are a gift item that's quite reasonably priced so it'll be quite easy on your pocket. And if it's a gift that you're going to post, you can just slip it into a card. You can get a wide variety of bookmarks and not just the type made from card. There's some lovely resin ones; laser cut-out wood or metal; leather; magnetic ones that attach to the corner of a page... If you're a bit crafty, you could always crochet them a pretty and unique bookmark. 3. BOOK SLEEVES Books are very precious to book aficionados so this one is perfect for someone who loves their printed books. Book sleeves are a type of pouch, usually with a zip that can fit over individual books that keep them safe and limit damage while they're being jostled about among the many other possessions in your bag. Once again, if you're a bit on the crafty side, you could always knit, crochet, or sew a book sleeve, and no doubt the extra effort will be appreciated. If the recipient prefers to read eBooks, then a sleeve for their tablet is another option. 4. TOTE BAG A book sleeve is ideal for one book, but you'll need something a bit more roomier if you have more than one book. A simple tote bag makes a great book bag for someone who likes to cart a few books around with them. And yes you've guessed it - if you're handy with a needle and thread, you could always sew one up for them! There are also some lovely book-themed tot bags around that the avid reader would just adore! 5. READING JOURNAL/PLANNER Planners and journals are all the rage these days. There are ones for health and fitness; mindfulness; achieving goals, and there are plenty of journals and planners out there aimed at those who like to read. We reckon it's a must have for bibliophiles. Reading journals or planners are an excellent way to track your reading, remind yourself of your favourite reads, and help you remember what you'd like to read next. 6. PERSONAL LIBRARY KIT We thought that we knew everything there was to know about book-related products on the market but we had no idea that library kits are actually a thing! Where have we been! Personal library kits are a gift option that's more aimed at the 'generous bookworm' - the reader who likes to loan out their books to others. It's always nice to share... but it's not so nice when what you've loaned out is not returned! Library kits save book owners from having to remember what they have loaned out and to whom, and whether or not the books were returned. While we know that there's probably an app for this, a library kit is for those who like to keep things a little more 'old school.' Library kits come with items such as a rubber stamp and ink pad; checkout cards; pencils, self-adhesive pockets and anything else that makes you feel like a librarian before everything went high-tech! Come to think of it, these library kits might also make a good gift for a bookworm who actually does work in a library! 7. BEVERAGES And no we don't mean a can of coke! There is a reason why there are cafes located within many libraries and bookshops nowadays - because books and beverages, especially cosy warming drinks, go together hand in hand! Who wouldn't like to be sipping on something delicious and comforting while they're getting swept away in another great story? So what better gift could you give a bibliophile than a nice selection of teas or maybe even a year-long tea subscription? The book lover who loves tea just as much as they love reading will be spoilt for choice on deciding what brew to have before they settle down to read a good book. And if tea's not their thing, then there's coffee, hot chocolate... or maybe even something stronger! Whiskey anyone? 8. EDIBLE TREATS As the White Witch in The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe correctly said, it is dull to drink without eating, so perhaps you'd like to give the recipients some edible goodies to go with the beverages! Cakes, cookies and brownies are great to munch on while you're enjoying a hot drink and a good read. Boxes of chocolate or fudge are also a great treat. If you don't want to order something that's ready-made, you could always buy them kits for cakes, scones or muffins for instance, were they can make themselves some freshly-baked goodies for when they're ready to settle down to read. Or if they like baking as much as they enjoy reading, perhaps you can get them some bakeware so that they can whip up some bakes to enjoy while they're reading. If you yourself are a dab-hand at baking, perhaps you can rustle up some book-shaped cakes or cookies, or literary themed cupcakes. You could also give them edible treats connected to their favourite read or a well-known book. For example Turkish delight (The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe) mix for currant buns (A Little Princess) hot chocolate or chocolate fondue kits (Chocolat) gift box with ingredients to make a treacle tart (Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone.) You could also give them a framed piece of kitchen art you've designed yourself featuring the recipe. For more inspiration regarding food, recipes and books, check out The Book Club Cook Book by Judy Gelman and Vicki Levy Krupp. The possibilities when it come to giving edible goodies as gifts for book-lovers are endless! 9. FOOD/DRINK ACCESSORIES We've already established how food and drink partner really well with books. But now you'll need something to eat them off and drink them out of! Mugs, china teacups and saucers, teapots or a nice tray to transport edible and drinkable goodies and reading material over to the reading space are gifts that will be very well received. 10. GET COSY! We always think of reading as such a cosy activity - and at Peppermint Teal, we're big fans of cosy self-care rituals! Does anyone know a book-lover who doesn't enjoy getting all cosy and comfy while getting stuck into a novel? So for the book worm in your life, how about the ultimate in gifts that spell comfort and warmth so that they can get extra comfy while indulging in their favourite pursuit? Fluffy blankets; cosy socks; hot water bottles with wooly covers, shawls and large cushions are all great ideas. One of the advantages of giving such gifts is that they are practical gifts that can be used at anytime and not just for reading, and they'll come in extra handy during the autumn and winter months. 10. CANDLES While we don't think that reading by candlelight is great for your eyes, but continuing with the cosy theme, we do think that having lit candles while you're reading adds to the ambience - especially if they're beautifully scented with a fragrance that promotes relaxation. 11. OUTDOOR ACCESSORIES These are gifts that will appeal to those who love to read outdoors. Though if you're going to give these as Christmas presents, chances are they won't be able to use these for a few more months - unless you live in Oz! These gifts are similar to those mentioned under 'cosy' but these will be blankets, rugs and cushions that are outdoor, waterproof, and more portable versions that you can use in your back garden, or take to the park or beach. A sun hat or sunglasses might also be very well received. 12. TICKETS TO A BOOK FAIR We can't think of a single bibliophile who wouldn't relish the prospect of being surrounded by all things literary. So buying them a ticket to an upcoming book/writers/literary festival will be right , or write (hehe!) up their street! These events are a fantastic way of bringing writers and readers together in certain towns or cities. It's an opportunity to hear readings by authors; talk to writers and publishers; discover new book titles; have books signed; listen to poetry recitals, and even watch acting performances. It's a great occasion for people who really enjoy the creative scene and the written word, and no doubt a lot of fun for those who really enjoy reading. 13. THEATRE /CINEMA TICKETS An avid reader might like to see the pages of their favourite novel come to life on the stage or on the big screen. So if there is a play or film adaptation of a novel that's just been released, you might want to treat your readaholic friend to tickets... and they can see which version of the literary work they prefer. It'll definitely make for an interesting discussion! 14. READING SUBSCRIPTION BOX We're looking at ideal gifts for readers that are not books but we have to admit - this one might actually contain a book! But book subscription boxes are such a lovely gift to receive that we just had to include it in this list. Each company will offer different items with their boxes but you can generally find things like bookmarks; candles; edible treats, mugs and so much more. If it's a bit daunting to subscribe for boxes on a monthly basis, a one-off gift box will still be very much appreciated. 15. BOOK THEMED ITEMS There's a whole host of book-themed and book-shaped gifts out there that book lovers will just die for! Jewelry; t-shirts; sweaters; vases; socks; tree ornaments, even hair accessories. You name it, it's there! There are no end of possibilities when it comes to buying gifts for the bibliophiles in your life. Hope we've inspired you with some of our ideas! Photos: Wix GIFs: Wix Blog graphics: Angel Noire

Spring has descended upon us, and apart from cherry blossoms on the trees; pastels being the hues of the day and the arrival of little lambs, the season is also significant for something else - spring cleaning! As soon as spring begins, there are many who'll immediately roll up their sleeves and set to work cleaning their homes from top to bottom. Then there are some of us who tend to take our own sweet time just picking up a mop! Although we adore the winter months, we have to admit there's something delightful in seeing the first rays of the spring sunshine. It's also very pleasing to open up windows, letting in the fresh spring air and flinging out all those old winter cobwebs. It's also very liberating to free ourselves from the cocoon of winter blankets; thick jumpers and heavy coats and boots - as cosy as all that is - and to switch over to something much lighter. And spring cleaning is a wonderful way of cleansing and purifying your living space in order to welcome in the new season. It's almost as though you're letting in the spring light and warmth into your home. But let's be honest - cleaning, scrubbing, tidying and organizing isn't everyone's idea of a wild time. Not unless you're Monica from Friends! And sometimes doing such a big clean up and tidy can be quite overwhelming and stressful. You wonder if you've got into all the nooks and crannies; if you've missed a spot; if you've gotten into all the corners. And when you think of all that you need to do, you often feel like giving up before you've even started! That's why we've put together this spring cleaning checklist which helps as the perfect guide in getting your home in order. Don't be startled by the list of tasks that are included in the planner - or that the planner is twelve pages long! And no it is NOT twelve pages full of tasks, so don't worry! Some tasks may not apply to you; many are jobs that take less than five minutes - and you can always rope in family and friends to help you out and delegate tasks you don't quite fancy doing yourself! You have the option of using the cleaning checklist straight from your device once you've downloaded it or you can print it out and keep it in a binder if that's more your thing (definitely more my thing - Angel!) There is also a printer-friendly version included in the download if you'd prefer to use less ink. The checklist is FREE and available to members of Peppermint Teal (go to the Member's Freebies area.) If you're not already a member, you can sign up and get access to loads of other freebies that Peppermint Teal like to give away, as well as comment on posts and join in with discussions in the group forums. So it pays to be a member... especially as you don't have to pay a penny! So what are you waiting for??? Happy spring, everyone! Photos: Wix Blog graphics: Angel Noire

Reading is such a fun, enjoyable and relaxing hobby. For many of us, just being in a place surrounded by books can make you feel happy, cosy and relaxed, be it a bookshop; a book fair, or your very own uniquely-created reading nooks. But when we think of a place with wall to wall books, the most obvious place that springs to mind is of course - the library! A place full of free books of all different genres with cosy chairs where we can sit and enjoy them? What's not to like! Many of us will have developed our love of books and libraries when we were tiny children just learning to read and our parents enrolled us at the local library. Then there was the school library where we could pick out books for our weekly read or get on with some homework. When we went to college, some of us practically lived at the campus library! Admittedly that wasn't so much for pleasure as much as the need to hurriedly get our assignments done. But for many of us, libraries have been a big part of our lives for a very long time. But as we get older and libraries become less of a necessity, many of us don't use libraries the way that we used to and it's such a shame. Libraries, sadly appear to be on the decline, and are receiving less funding due to government cutbacks. Therefore it's essential to use them while we still can in order to prove that libraries are a vital part of our community. True, libraries aren't solely about books like they once were. In fact these days many libraries only carry about half the amount of print books that they once did, as they gear themselves towards various other services. But libraries are still wonderful places to sit and read; check out new book titles, or catch up on work in peaceful surroundings. And for those of us who love books, actual books, there's no other place where we'd rather be. So here are ten reasons why libraries are awesome and why we should all be making the most of our local library, and ways in which we can do so. 1. SAVE SPACE, SAVE MONEY! For those of you who own and actually make proper use of your Kindle, you're already saving space and money! But for those of us who like to have an actual book in our hands while we're reading, we know just how much space a huge book collection can take up, especially for those of us who are living in more compact surroundings as many of us are having to do now. This way, you get to borrow books from the library and return them when you've finished before moving on to your next read - meaning that your bookshelves won't be groaning under the pressure of all that added weight! Furthermore, as it's free to borrow books from the library, you'll be able to read any and as many books as you wish and it won't cost you a penny - providing of course that you return the books on time and don't rack up any fines! 2. TRY BEFORE YOU BUY! A library is a fantastic way to discover new authors and new genres, and basically acquaint yourself with the kind of literary works you might otherwise not have come across. But even with the type of reading material that you are normally quite familiar with, it's still possible to pick up a book that you are less than satisfied with. While book reviews give potential readers an idea of whether or not they will enjoy a book, the only definite way to know if we will enjoy a book or not is, surprise surprise, to read it! This is where libraries come to the rescue because you can of course read a book without spending a penny on it. If the book turns out to be a disappointment, you'll have lost nothing. But if you love it that much, you can go out and purchase your own copy - which is something us book lovers love to do! 3. THE ALL-IMPORTANT LIBRARY BOOK SALE! Most libraries have a section where you can regularly buy books that they no longer wish to loan out. The best one we've seen so far is at The Morse Institute in Natick Massachusetts. And in addition to this, every so often libraries have a massive book sale where they sell off a large number of old books to make space for newer titles. You can buy these books at bargain prices, in many cases much lower than your local charity shop or thrift store with the possibility of setting up your own second-hand bookshop - if you wish to do so! We are all aware of why it's important to cut down on waste and reuse whatever we can, so these book sales are a great idea. Plus with books facing extinction, it's a great opportunity to rescue as many books as possible and give them a new home. Though going back to point number one, your bookshelves may not thank you for it! 4. MAGAZINES GALORE Another thing facing extinction are of course newspapers and magazines - and with the prices of these, it's hardly a surprise! True many publications have moved online but with many of us old-schoolers, nothing beats having the actual copy in our hands. Again this is where libraries come in handy, as many now carry an astounding number of magazine titles - probably more so than most stationers and newsagents nowadays, once again saving you space and money. The Morse Institute in Natick, and Millis Public Library both in Massachusetts, are two libraries we've come across that holds an impressive number of titles, and The Morse Institute in particular has a delightful reading room for readers to enjoy them in. Hopefully your own local library is equally, or at least almost, as good. 5. WORK SPACE As anyone who lives in a town or city will know, such locations have something of a coffee-shop culture, and the humble coffee shop has become something of an office for many people these days. Entrepreneurs, budding authors or just anyone who wants to escape the office and can work remotely can all be found setting up shop at a table at a café or coffee shop. J.K. Rowling started out writing the Harry Potter books over cups of tea at The Elephant Room in Edinburgh after all! But we've always found libraries to be much more suitable places to work and study in. Quiet, peaceful surroundings with books galore, computers and all sorts of other office equipment and services... what more could you want? Furthermore a lot of libraries now have private rooms and areas where you can hold conversations which is ideal for taking those all important phone calls! 6. WORK OR VOLUNTEER Libraries are also places that can provide employment or volunteering opportunities. If you enjoy working with people and love being surrounded by books all day, what better place could there be to work than in a library? Admittedly it can be hard to get into library work but you can always start out by volunteering. Ask at your local library if there are any voluntary positions available. And you can go to the library's or local council's website to see if there are are job posts available. 7. BOOK CLUB What? A library? Holding book club meetings? Well I never! OK, so it shouldn't come as too much of a surprise that your local library might have it's own reading groups (kind of goes with the territory!) Book clubs are a great way to ensure consistent reading, and you get to talk about the novel you've just finished with a group of likeminded people. So it's also a great way to socialise and who knows - you might even make a new friend or two! If this sounds like something you'd like to be a part of, then it 's a good idea to check to see if your library has such groups, and if they don't - why don't you think about starting your own? Maybe even geared towards the kind of books you enjoy reading. Ask your friendly librarian about how to go about creating your own reading group at the library. 8. ASSISTANCE AND EDUCATION Libraries offer a range of services these days. It's not all about books, you know! Although if you ask us books are always the best part of any library! But if you need help writing up your CV and cover letters or need business advice, you can book a session with a mentor who will come in to the library at specific times in order to assist those who need their help. Local MPs have even been known to occasionally set up shop in libraries in order to give help and advice to the locals. And then there are classes that teach you practical skills such as basic computing, numeracy and literacy, all free of charge. See what educational services and assistance your library offers to the public. 9. FUN ACTIVITIES Libraries in more recent times, really have become a cultural and social hub of the community and not just a place to borrow books. You can learn languages; do arts and crafts classes; attend the book or film clubs, and there are often special events for children. Then there are events with authors, poets and other guest speakers. Most of these activities and events are completely free of charge. One of our favourite libraries is Redbridge Central Library and Museum in Ilford, just on the outskirts of London, England. Apart from the fantastic array of books in this very spacious library, the top floor is dedicated to a local history museum which showcases a different exhibit every month. And there's also a delightful little café situated on the ground floor just as you enter the library that serves up a delicious and relatively inexpensive iced coffee or hot brew. 10. COSY VIBES Most libraries are delightful, cosy places where you can take some time out for yourself; reading a good novel, or quietly getting on with some work or study. The library might not be everyone's idea of the place to be, but if you're someone who enjoys quiet time and cosy vibes, then the library might just be for you. You can even bring a non-messy craft project (knitting, embroidery etc.) or get out your tablet and earbuds and watch a movie while being surrounded by books. Sounds like bliss to us! Blog graphics: Angel Noire

For many of us, our love affair with banana bread began when we were navigating the bizarre situation that was the lockdown. So 2020 will not only be known as the year when a virus shut the world down, but it will also be the year when the world was given banana bread - in a big way! In fact why there wasn't a shortage of bananas, we don't know. So as an ode to the humble banana bread loaf, we thought we'd zhuzh things up a bit and create these fabulous Triple Chocolate Banana Bread Bars. Who doesn't love the combination of chocolate and banana together? A match made in dessert heaven! Makes: 16 cake bars INGREDIENTS: 250g plain flour 130g butter, softened 100g soft brown sugar 3 ripe bananas 2 eggs, beaten 1tsp baking powder 1 tsp vanilla extract 1tsp. ground cinnamon 1tsp. ground ginger 1tsp. ground cloves 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda 50g chopped nuts (whatever you like!) 50g dark chocolate chips 30g cacao powder 50g milk chocolate chips 50ml milk 50ml condensed milk THIS IS HOW WE DO IT: Preheat oven to 160ºC. Grease and line 2 22cm x 24cm cake tins. Cream the butter and sugar together in a large mixing bowl. Mash the bananas. How smoothly you mash the depends on whether you like to find big banana chunks in your cake (we do!) Add the mashed bananas to the butter and sugar mixture. Then add the eggs, vanilla and spices. Sieve the flour, baking powder, cacao powder and bicarbonate of soda into the bowl and mix well. Add the chocolate chips, nuts and both types of milk and mix well. Spoon mixture into the cake tins. Bake in the middle shelf of oven for about 25 minsutes. Insert a skewer or knife into the middle of the cake. If it comes out clean it's ready. Take the banana bread out of the oven and allow to cool slightly. Slice into rectangles while in the tin. Remove from tin and scoff. Sharing optional. COOK'S TIP: 1. Instead of making cake bars, this mixture can be used to make loaves or muffins. Just substitute cake tins for loaf tins or muffin tray lined with muffin cases. 2. A good glug of rum can be added to the mixture. Photos: Pixabay Word cloud: Angel Noire

Another year is on the way out and we are all awaiting the new one. Some of us at this moment are preparing for the New Year's Eve bash we're going to throw tonight. Others are excitingly getting ready for the New Year's Eve bash we're going to attend. And for some of us, well it's just a cozy night in as we see the new year in quietly. But all of us will be wondering what 2024 has in store for us... and hoping that it'll be something great! 2023 has been a real roller-coaster of a year for us. During the early part of the year, we were met with a great deal of sadness of which we are still working our way through. The one good thing that came out of it, was the love and support of family and friends who rallied around and let us know that we were far from alone. Everyone always says you know who your real friends are you're going through a crisis. Well I'd like to think that we always knew who our real friends were but this just confirmed it. But it wasn't all heartbreak and devastation. This year was a very busy year with lots of new experiences and travel to places we'd never been to before. I made my annual visit to London to see family and I got to celebrate my birthday with my immediate family for the first time in over a decade, I reckon! We did a road trip with my sister's family which we really enjoyed. We had two lots of friends come over from Britain, had another amazing road trip up to Montreal and our stay there was nothing short of magical. We had an amazing Thanksgiving with The Fella's best friend and his family, and a very peaceful Christmas. Oh and I had my first ever girl's trip! I've never had a holiday with the girls before but at my grand old age, I finally did it and we had great fun. I cannot wait to hang out with the girls again. It really can't come soon enough. And in other events, we saw the coronation of King Charles III. William and Kate became the Prince and Princess of Wales as they move one step closer to the throne. Harry and Meghan were well, Harry and Meghan! Barbie starring Margot Robbie in the title role became a box-office smash with the world going Barbie-pink mad. His obsession with the letter 'X' led owner Elon Musk to rename Twitter well, X (although it'll always be Twitter to us!) And as is sadly the case every year, we said bid farewell to a host of famous stars as they were laid to rest. These included Tina Turner; Suzanne Somers; Lisa Marie Presley; Len Goodman; Shane McGowan; Sir Michael Gambon; David McCullam; Tony Bennett; Paul Reubens; Sir Michael Parkinson; Sinead O'Connor; Jane Birkin; Jerry Springer; Paul Cattermole; Raquel Welch; Burt Bacharach; Tatjana Patitz, and most recently Ryan O' Neal to name just a few. The loss of a person is always hard, and obviously heartbreaking for family and friends. But one loss that sent shockwaves around the world was the passing of Friends star Matthew Perry. For almost three decades he brought laughter into so many people's households - mine included - with his portrayal of the king of sarcasm Chandler Bing. No matter what might have been going on in our lives, an episode of Friends could make everything right in the world again even if it was just for a while. And Matthew contributed to that greatly, and I for one am very grateful May they all rest in eternal peace... And there was further despair around the world, as conflict and bloodshed raged on in certain parts of the world. We saw images of hardship and suffering which is not an easy thing to handle. If it's hard for you to watch these images on a screen, you can only imagine what it's like for the people caught in the midst of such turbulence. We're all hoping that conflict everywhere can be resolved peacefully, and also that there won't be new surge of war or any other disaster next year. We can only hope and pray that 2024 will be happier for us, and a great year all round for everyone. xx Photos and GIFs: Wix Blog graphics: Angel Noire

When I have to teach my students the word 'habit' and how to use it, I often go around the room asking each one of them what their worst habit is, and sometimes the bold ones will turn the tables on me and ask me what mine is. I often respond along the lines of drinking too much coffee or eating too much chocolate. But I've just realized that my worst habit is actually far worse than that. My worst habit is that I am forever starting things and then not finishing them - a habit that stems from childhood. I feel like I should stand up in a room and declare, "Hello. My name's Angel and I'm a quit-aholic. It's been two hours since I abandoned my most recent project." Think I'm joking? Think again! At sixteen, I gave up A-level French because after being top of my French class for years, it came as a shock to find that I was struggling with the language at non-phrase book level. "You give up too easily," said one of my classmates. Well I couldn't argue with that! Fast forward several years and I've lost count of the number of home study courses that are still incomplete; the lessons for singing, dancing, and various instruments that I stopped attending early on; those books that are falling off my bookcase on subjects I'd always said I'd wanted to know more about but never managed to get past the introduction; the language CDs and DVDs which taught me hello and goodbye in many languages but not much else. Then there are the craft kits that are collecting dust, the work-out equipment that looks just as it did when I brought them home from the shops, the blog posts I started last year but haven't got round to finishing; the drafts of plays, short stories, and novels that I always mean to work on; my ideas for new business ventures that remain just that... And these are just the ones I can remember. It all starts off so well with so much interest and enthusiasm. But as soon as I realise that it's not going to be as easy as I thought it would be or I feel I don't possess enough natural talent, I start to lose interest and lack the patience and perseverance necessary to keep going, which explains the reason why I only ever touch upon the basics (if that!) And at long last I've figured out what my problem, no, make that problems are and what lies at the crux of the issue: 1. Having a Finger, Thumb and Toe in Every Pie! As I have waaay too many related and unrelated interests. This leads to sloppy time management as there just aren't enough hours in the day to do everything, which in turn leads to an inability to focus because I'm trying to do too much and end up feeling overwhelmed. And many of my likeminded, 'creative type' friends agree with me. We're just so inquisitive and curious about everything and want to give it a go. We have a million things whirling around our heads like a cyclone. And then just as quickly as our interest appeared, it starts to wane, and we then move onto the next big thing. Well I'm glad to know I'm not the only one! 2. Being an Impatient Perfectionist I'm someone who wants everything to go swimmingly the first time I attempt it with hardly any error at all. But the realist in me knows that that's totally, um, unrealistic. Although there are some skills you'll pick up almost immediately, there will be plenty more where you'll have to work at it. And if you're dedicated enough, you'll understand that and put the work in. 3. Fear of Failure I have a deep-rooted fear of making a fool of myself. I've always been berated for being more pessimist than optimist, and I always expect things to not go as planned. So I figure, "Well, why bother?" Which is really silly I know considering there's lots of things that have actually worked out very well for me! 4. Procrastination! To top it all off, I have a tendency to procrastinate, especially when I feel that whatever I try to accomplish is never going to culminate in the desired result anyway (see point 3.) And there you have the perfect recipe for never getting anything done! Skipping Through the Day... But without meaning to sound overly dramatic (even though Mr. D says no one does overly dramatic quite like I do) I had a flashback to when I was five and we were practising for sports day at school. I had been put in the skipping race even though I couldn't skip to save my life. Feeling deflated at being laughed at and ridiculed by the other kids, I persuaded my mum to buy me a skipping rope. That weekend she did. From morning until evening honing my skipping skills was pretty much all I did. And do you know what? None of the other kids ever laughed at me again. Do you know why? Because I was lethal with a skipping rope (and not because I tried to whack them with it. Although I probably should have done!) I also remember having incredibly sore legs the next day but I now realise that that was a good thing. No pain, no gain and all that! Recalling this event has restored a lot of my inner confidence. It reminded me that with a lot of determination, hard work, and persistence you really can achieve anything - that's not just talk show host speak! I remember that five year old who had enough fire in her belly to go out there and show everyone that she had what it took. She didn't think that it was too complicated or unachievable. She didn't listen to those who said that she couldn't do it. Perhaps it's time I followed my younger self's example. But then I realized that the determination of my younger self did crop up over the years. It was that determination that helped me achieve two degrees; fulfil my dream of studying drama; train as a florist; pass my driving test (something my dad thought was never going to happen) and carve out a career as an EFL teacher for the past eight years. I certainly didn't give up at the first hurdle there. Maybe I do have it in me to get things done after all. But I do feel angry at myself for allowing this habit to continue for as long as it has. I've missed out on developing new skills and interests not to mention wasting sh**loads of money. But now that I've realized where I've gone wrong, I don't have to allow this habit to continue. So what exactly do I need to do? 1. Prioritize! We all have the same twenty four hours in a day, and for many of us it's not enough. We have to accept that we're only human and we'll never be able to give our full attention to everything at once, and attempting to do so will only end in suffering from burnout. So the key here - after acceptance - is the need to prioritize and concentrate on what's most important to us. I can always give the other interests a go when I've fulfilled these goals. 2. Create a Schedule And once you've figured out what's important to you, make a commitment to dedicate some time each day or each week (even if it's just a little time) to a particular activity or task, and really make a promise to yourself to go for it. After all you owe it to yourself to try - plus if you're anything like me, you'll want to get my money's worth out of all the stuff you've purchased! If you need a little extra guidance, create a list or a schedule. Don't scoff - you'll be amazed at how much you're able to get done, and you'll feel this sense of satisfaction at how much you've achieved. It's also a good way to keep track of your progress. 3. Break it Down You wouldn't try to shove a whole steak in your gob (unless it's a very bizarre party piece!) because we all know things are easier to accomplish in bite-size pieces. So if you are going to create some kind of schedule, remember to break down your tasks. You might have 'practice guitar' on your list of things to do that day, but decide what it is you need to do with regards to practicing guitar. Are there new chords you need to learn? Do you need to work on your sight-reading skills? Perhaps there's a piece of music you need to get right. And if you're 'learning French,' decide what it is you're going to do with regards to your French studies: grammar; watching a French film; learning new vocabulary etc. 4. Understand That Perfectionism Can Be a Goal-killer! Try to stop getting so hung up on being able to do everything perfectly. Accept that we can't all be brilliant at the first attempt, and there's nothing wrong with that. I'm always telling my students that with practice and patience, you'll make vast improvements so maybe it's time I took some of my own advice. Until then, I'll just have to accept that I'm going to suck! Who cares if I can't ice a cake properly? I'm not Mary Berry! So what if I can't rock a guitar like Slash? At least I'll have fun trying. I heard someone say recently that it was better to do something badly than not at all, and that is all the inspiration I need (unless of course the doing something badly is flying a plane, performing life saving surgery or firing a gun in which case it really is better not to do them at all!) I'm going to leave you with this fantastic piece of advice from the legend that is Dave Grohl which is a reminder that even the greats don't always start out as great. Sure, you might be pants today, but tomorrow people might be throwing their pants at you while you're rocking out on stage! Right, now I'm off to a car boot sale to buy some sh**ty instruments and start putting all those 'teach yourself' guitar and drum books and DVDs to good use!

While people the world over will be out Trick or Treating, Bobbing For Apples or shaking their tailfeather while donning a super scary costume, those of us who grew up in Britain will know that Before Halloween took over the country, as it did the world, as the most highly anticipated autumnal event, there was another event, celebrated annually in Britain that was once the highlight of the season and also had origins of the macabre and sinister variety - Guy Fawkes Night. Also known as Bonfire Night and informally known as Fireworks Night, this great event takes place on November 5th - just a few days after Halloween. Unfortunately though, Guy Fawkes Night has fallen out of favour a fair bit ever since most of the world - British folk included - decided that they'd rather don costumes, visit haunted houses and partake in other traditions made famous by our American cousins. But while Guy Fawkes Night isn't the biggest event on the British social calendar that it once was, there are still a lot of people who do celebrate the anniversary of the foiled terrorist attack on Parliament back in the seventeenth century. And for those who do choose to celebrate in style, they will partake in traditions such as setting off a plethora of fireworks in their back garden; attending fireworks displays; gathering around the bonfire with their nearest and dearest, as well as indulging in traditional Bonfire Night fare which includes... parkin! WHAT IS PARKIN? Parkin is an ever so delicious baked goody that's as synonymous with Guy Fawkes Night as bonfires, Catherine wheels, and toffee apples. This spiced, sweet treat is traditionally served up on Guy Fawkes Night and is the perfect thing to tuck into while gathered around the glowing flames of a bonfire on a cold, dark night. It's very similar to gingerbread in appearance and taste but it has a different texture as one of the key ingredients is coarsely ground oatmeal. Parkin also contains spices, lots of molasses, treacle or golden syrup which gives parkin its sticky texture. There are two types of parkin - one that hails from Lancashire and the other from Yorkshire. One of the things that's quite unusual about parkin is that you're not supposed to consume it the day it's baked. Instead you leave it in an airtight container for the parkin to 'mature;' so that the flavour develops and the sticky texture intensifies. HOW LONG DO YOU LEAVE IT TO MATURE FOR? Hmm, this depends. Some recipes claim that three to five days is sufficient. Others say seven, some say ten, and there's a couple who tell you to leave it in an airtight container for as long as is humanly possible! The first time we made parkin we consumed it after ten days and it lasted for three weeks. The second time was also left to mature around ten days but unfortunately it didn't keep for more than two weeks after that. It would appear that the more sugar you add to the recipe, the longer the parkin keeps. But we think five to seven days is a good amount of time to allow the parkin to mature. SO WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN LANCASHIRE AND YORKSHIRE PARKIN? Lancashire parkin is lighter, more golden brown in colour as it contains more golden syrup. Yorkshire parkin is darker in colour with a much deeper flavour as it's made with black molasses. If you're a newcomer to parkin it might be an idea to try the Lancashire version first, as some find the Yorkshire version a bit bitter due to the high black molasses content. That might explain why Yorkshire parkin is generally served in wedges topped with stewed apple. Lancashire parkin, on the other hand, is sweeter and tastes a lot more like regular gingerbread. And while not necessarily customary, there's no reason why you can't serve Lancashire parkin with a portion of apple compote because who can say no to apple desserts... though people in Lancashire might beg to differ! THE ORIGINS OF PARKIN While the origins of this deliciously, sticky cake with a spicy kick are not totally clear, we do know that parkin is peculiar to the north of England. Some believe that parkin is older than Guy Fawkes himself and could be linked to Paganism or All Saints Day. But it became more popular in eighteenth century England, and the first mention of parkin by name could be found in court records from 1728, where one Anne Whittaker was accused of stealing oatmeal to make it! Guy Fawkes Night staples such as Parkin and Bonfire Toffee were popular many centuries ago because they were easy to make and kept for a long time. This was the late eighteenth century in England when refined white sugar was very expensive and not easily affordable by those who lived in the poorer northern region of the country. So instead of the refined, white sugar, they opted for its cheaper counterpart - treacle! Another thing that was consumed in large quantities was oatmeal, a less costly cereal. Treacle and oatmeal - the two chief ingredients of parkin! Go ahead and give our recipe a go - we hope you won't be disappointed. INGREDIENTS 8oz/2 cups/227g plain flour 7oz/1 cup/200g soft dark brown sugar 6oz/1 cup/170g medium oatmeal 3 level tsps./9g ground ginger 1 level tsp/3g ground nutmeg (optional) 1 level tsp./3g ground cinnamon (optional) 2" piece of root ginger, peeled and finely grated (optional) 5oz/142g butter 1 egg 3 fl oz/89ml black treacle or black molasses 7 fl oz/207ml golden treacle or golden syrup 1 level tsp./5g bicarbonate of soda 1/4 pint/5 fl oz/150ml of warm milk 1/2 level tsp./3g salt METHOD Preheat the oven to 325°F/170°C/Gas Mark 3 Grease an 8x8 baking tin and line the bottom with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, mix oatmeal, flour, spices (including root ginger if using) salt. In a saucepan, place brown sugar, butter, black treacle/molasses, golden treacle/syrup, and gently heat the mixture until sugar has thoroughly melted while taking care NOT to boil the mixture. Remove sugar mixture from the heat and allow to cool for 5 minutes. In the meanwhile, dissolve the bicarbonate into the warm milk. When sufficiently cool, add the beaten egg and mix well. Pour sugar mixture into the dry mixture and combine well. Add milk mixture and combine well to form a thick, sticky batter. Pour the batter into baking tin and bake for 70 minutes or until a skewer inserted into middle of cake comes out clean. The cake should be quite firm and springy. Allow parkin to cool in tin. Remove from tin, remove parchment paper, and cut into squares. As difficult as this may be, place parkin squares in airtight container and leave it in there for at least three days! allow it to sit for at least 3 days before eating. NOTES A lot of the recipes we looked at when trying to make parkin don't necessarily specify a particular type of oats. But we can tell you that Instant oats are definitely out and are not recommended for Parkin. The kind of oats traditionally used when baking parkin are steel-cut oats. We have however used rolled oats and it has been fine. A medium-coarse oatmeal is needed for parkin, so if necessary the oatmeal can be briefly pulsed in a food processor until they are broken down to the required sized pieces. But be careful about overdoing it and pulsing the oatmeal into a fine flour which is not what you want, as you need it to be more on the coarse side in the name of texture! As you know Yorkshire parkin generally uses black treacle/molasses while Lancashire parkin uses golden syrup. However while it may not necessarily be traditional, there's nothing to stop you mixing the two until you get the desired flavour. The ratio of black treacle parts to golden syrup is a matter of personal taste. Yes it's trial and error but a helpful hint is that if you prefer fuller, stronger flavour then head down the Yorkshire route and add more black molasses. But if you would prefer a more milder but still delicious flavour, then go for more of the golden syrup.

Everyone likes a freebie, don't they! When we started the Peppermint Teal site, our focus was on our brand of better living and life-enhancement. AchieveMint... EnjoyMint... Life-EnhanceMint! We wanted to use our experiences and what we've learned over the years and put it all to good use in the hope that we'd be able to help others. And one thing we've learned is that anything that makes your life easier and more manageable is not to be sniffed at. You're like, "Duh! We know that!" Well we know you know that! The question is what are you doing in order to make your life easier and more manageable? What time-saving tips are you using? Are your cluttered surroundings causing you a huge amount of overwhelm? Are you taking steps to create a more stress-free lifestyle? Are you having problems juggling, remembering and managing everything? The problem is that even if you've said yes to even one of these, a lot of people are too overwhelmed to do anything about it, feeling that just a few simple tweaks to their routine or the way they do things, won't really change anything. But that's not necessarily true. Routine, structure, having a place for everything and everything in it's place goes a long way to creating improvements in productivity, organization and efficiency. Which in turn can lead to less stress and overwhelm, and can save time and money. So Peppermint Teal came up with the idea to create a range of free printables which can help with certain aspects of your life which should hopefully lead to easier, more manageable, stress-free living. So we're starting you off with a weekly schedule planner and a blank recipe card which you can use to jot down your healthy, delicious meals, your tasty treats, or your therapeutic bakes! These can be downloaded to use on your device or if you're old-school like us (or you just like pretty printables!) you can always print them out and pop them in a file, stick them on on your wall, your fridge... whatever works best for you. And yes, that's right, it's all FREE!!! But it's only free to members of Peppermint Teal so if you're not already a member, why not sign up now? That's also totally free plus you also get a free self-care eBook!

These days most of us tend to be cappuccino and cake kind of people, but seriously - who doesn't love a good tea party? Especially if it's done properly. This rather elegant pastime is considered to be a quintessentially British pursuit; so much so that in the States, an afternoon tea party is considered to be a regular occurrence for all British people. Well sorry to be the bearer of bad news guys, but most of us from the 'old country' don't even own a piece of fine bone China, never mind use it every day. Most of us can't even remember the last time we used a saucer! On the rare occasions us cappuccino drinkers do drink tea, it's usually from a take-away cup - just like our cappuccinos! But a classic afternoon tea party can be a fabulous occasional treat and is very popular for birthdays, bridal showers, anniversaries... and some married couples opt for a tea party instead of a full on traditional three course wedding breakfast. Tea parties are great for when you feel like being super elegant and refined and want to go overboard with the dress coats, tea dresses, hats, gloves, monocles, pearls... Told you it's not an every day thing! Tea parties can vary in terms of theme, style and food served. Although they are usually considered to be quite formal occasions, they don't always have to be. They're just great fun; ultra relaxing, and a chance to socialize with a cup of tea and a huge slice of cake! However if you choose to go down the formal route, there are certain customs you might want to take heed of. So here's the low-down on tea party etiquette. TEA PARTY ETIQUETTE IF YOU'RE THE HOSTESS: 1. Depending on the occasion and how formal you want to be, you may want to send out proper written invitations rather than to simply text/phone email them. Make sure you send these out in plenty of time. 2. Once you've greeted your guests, show them to the table and invite them to sit down. Whether you give them assigned seating or allow them to chose their own seats is up to you. 3. As the hostess, it's your job to serve each of the courses and pour the tea. Make sure the conversation is flowing as much as the tea is, and that your guests have enough to eat and drink. 4. It's fine to arrange for someone else to do the serving if you wish so that you can concentrate on just having a good time with your guests. 5. If you are not able to get outside help and you have a fairly large number of guests, you can nominate a couple of friends to help serve - especially if you know that they are happy to do so! 6. You might think you are being helpful to your guests by bringing ready-sliced scones to the table but these are always served whole. IF YOU'RE THE GUEST: 1. It's always nice to bring a small gift for the host or hostess. 2. Take your place at the table and wait to be served. 3. Keep your purse or handbag on your lap or behind your chair but not on the table. 4. When the party's over, always send a handwritten note of thanks to your host - preferably within a week. FOR EVERYONE: 1. Place napkins on your lap. If you need to leave the table, leave the napkin on your chair and not on the table. 2. No reaching across the table for anything. If you'd like something, ask someone to pass it to you. 3. It's perfectly acceptable to eat with your fingers - no one eats sandwiches with a knife and fork - but anything that has the potential to be messy should be eaten with a fork. 4. Remember that thick cream is for scones - not for tea! 5. Take small bites of the sandwiches no matter how tiny they are. Don't cram a whole one into your mouth. Now is not the time for party pieces! 6. When eating scones or muffins, break off a bite-size piece, then put a small amount of butter and/or jam on it. If clotted cream is being served, a small amount can be dabbed on after the jam. 7. Don't dip the sugar tong or sugar spoon into your tea if you are taking sugar. 8. Stir the tea with your teaspoon and then place the teaspoon on the saucer behind the cup. 9. If your tea is too hot, simply leave it on the table to cool. Don't blow on it to cool the tea down - and especially not to the point where you're creating a tsunami in a teacup! 10. Slurping is not acceptable... 11. ...And neither is dunking biscuits! 12. Whatever our American friends might say, it really isn't necessary to stick your little finger/pinky out when drinking tea from a teacup. Who does that??? But if that's what you wish to do, then fine! This is of course a rough guide and 'rules' are pretty much up to you.. The most important rules which goes without saying is that everyone should be happy, comfy, well-fed and having fun! Enjoy!!! Images: Pixabay Banner: Angel Noire using Pixabay images Word Cloud: Angel Noire

There are many reasons why people decide to live abroad: work, study, love, a fresh start or just a deep desire to try something new and broaden their horizons. And while there are a great number of other benefits to living abroad, there's unfortunately also a less than fabulous side. For those of us who have lived or are living the ex-pat life, you know that it's a bit of a roller-coaster ride. On the one hand you're embarking on a new adventure; experiencing the excitement of a different way of life; a new beginning; meeting new people... But then on the other hand, becoming an ex-pat is so much more than just sailing off into the sunset with your polka-dot knotted hanky on a stick! Big moves often come with big lifestyle changes which can sometimes feel a bit unsettling and overwhelming as you try to integrate yourself into a new country. In this two part post, we take a look at the highs and lows of living in another country; hear the experiences of those who, for better or for worse have made the move and talk about ex-pat life as it really is, and look at ways to ride those highs while trying to steer clear of the lows as much as possible. In this first part, we take a look at the benefits, advantages and all the good things that life in another country has to offer. 1. LIVING THE DREAM! When we were little and we started learning about different countries at school; met someone interesting from abroad, or started watching the latest foreign import soap opera, we all at one time or another harboured aspirations to go and live in another country when we grew up. And for some of us, the dream doesn't necessarily die when we reach adulthood; it's just that real-life gets in the way. So the dream remains just that - a dream. That's why it really is an achievement when you take that step and actually go and set up home in another country. It's quite an accomplishment to be able to get your visas/permits; hop on a plane with some of your most treasured possessions; get a new job; a new place to live; make new friends, and basically start navigating a new way of life. It's a chance to get out of the rut of everyday life in the same town with the same faces. Remember you are doing what most people wish to do but never actually get round to doing, so don't forget how fortunate you are to have this opportunity and really go for it. MAKE THE MOST OF IT! Have you ever seen the look of pure wonder on a toddler's face after seeing a decorated Christmas tree for the first time? Moving to a new country means you're going to be experiencing plenty of new wonderful and amazing things whether it's the local cuisine, fashion trends, historical sites, cultural events etc. So get out there and make sure you have as many of these 'wow' moments as possible. Aim for as many cultural experiences as you can whether it's learning a new language, playing the country's national sport, or exploring your new country's arts scene. Share what you've learned/experienced with your family and friends back home. It'll give them a new perspective on life in general as well as dispel any long-held myths they may have had about your adopted country. You never know - it may inspire them to visit... or even think about going to live in another country. Most people love learning about other people's cultures so the locals might be quite intrigued by you and want to know more about where you come from. Introduce them to popular TV shows from home or invite your new friends over and cook them a traditional meal. Share your experiences with the world! Have you noticed how many expat blogs and vlogs there are out there? As an expat, you are blessed with the opportunity of experiencing life in a country different to the one you grew up in. The experiences that you have and the things that you have learned could prove invaluable to others including future expats or people who just want to have a general idea of life abroad. So find a way of documenting these experiences which you can then share with others. 2. STEPPING OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE Even the most outgoing, adventurous of people can often feel overwhelmed by relocating to another country where you have to start from scratch. Moving abroad isn't just a question of stepping out of your comfort zone — it’s often feels more like taking a big, massive leap. Through a hoop. That's flaming. Backwards! If you flunked GCSE French, the thought of having to learn another language may fill you with dread. If you never learned to drive/are a nervous driver/find owning a vehicle to be a major expense and hassle, you'll be horrified at living in a place which doesn't have a good public transport system. You'll also have to explore your new surroundings; get to grips with the work culture; register with a doctor; set up your finances... and that's all before you learn where the best places to hang out and meet people are! For those of us who aren't keen on change or don't have the biggest sense of adventure, moving abroad can be a seriously overwhelming experience. But it's amazing what you can do when you need to. A lot of people who have made the leap abroad have felt that this has boosted their confidence; enabled them to grow; has got them out of their shell, and uncovered their true potential. MAKE THE MOST OF IT! While some people like to jump in head first and go with the flow, others prefer to be well prepared. If you're the latter, be sure to do your research first so that there are no nasty surprises when you get there. As well as the necessary documents and immunizations you'll need prior to leaving - which are essential knowledge - find out whatever else you'll need to know, from food, healthcare, climate, laws, and customs to what to expect on a daily basis. Research enables you to discover where you need to compromise/work around, and what's an absolute deal breaker before you even contemplate a new life abroad. Having something to focus on and work towards will prevent those feelings of being stuck. So think of attainable goals you would like to achieve while you're out there - learning a new skill; retraining; volunteering etc. - as this will make your time in your new country more productive and give you that sense of achievement. Let's not lie - stepping out of your comfort zone isn't easy. But you don't have to do anything big and bold upon arriving. Take those all-important baby steps: find a new local coffee shop; try a different route to work; join an activity group; say hi to the regulars at your local pub... each new thing you do, no matter how small will get you used to your new environment. Every little step will help you get accustomed to your new home. And if it's something that gets you out of the house and meeting new people, that's even better. If you're unable to continue with the activities you did at home, break out of your comfort zone and try something new. Ask around or look online to see what's available. If you really feel up to pushing past your limits, why not begin your own activity group, either through the local library, meetup group, or even your place of worship. There's lots of options available and the more you do, the more you'll feel comfortable in your new surroundings. It's useful to get to know expats from other countries, and meet people who are in/have been in the same situation as you. You might find that they are a huge source of advice and support. It'd be handy to look up expat groups on social networking sites to connect with other people from around the world who might just be living on your doorstep. 3. MAKING NEW FRIENDS... AND POSSIBLY FINDING LOVE! The internet and modern day technology have made the world seem a lot smaller and now meeting people from all over the world has become a whole lot easier. And all from the comfort of your living room! But of course when you go to live in another country, you come into contact on a regular basis with people you might otherwise never have met - even in your living room while on a social media platform! Whether it's your new work colleagues who you get to know over after-work drinks; hanging out with your new neighbours, or even making friends with the guy who runs the coffee shop - it's amazing the people you'll cross paths with and you might even become lifelong friends. Or find lasting love! MAKE THE MOST OF IT: Say yes to as many invites as possible. Don't be shy! It's true that a lot of people like to keep their work life separate from their home life but if your new work lot invite you out to lunch or after work drinks, it'd be a good idea to go. It's a good way of easing yourself into a new social scene. While we know that not all neighbours are like the ones you find on Ramsay Street, if you live in the kind of neighbourhood where they all get together, have cook-outs, and generally have something of a community vibe, give it a go and try to join in. There's absolutely nothing wrong with hanging out with other expats but make sure your circle includes a lot of the locals too. Join a class or activity group to so you can meet more likeminded people. Join a dating site if it's love you're looking for. Or see what events there are for singles. 4. REINVENTING YOURSELF Moving to another country brings out a side to you you never knew existed - as well as the chance to restart your life. A lot of people who have made a new life in a new country have said that they're not the same person they were when they arrived. Moving abroad brings about a lot of changes and gives you the chance to reinvent yourself. You learn to adapt to your surroundings; pick up new skills and ways of doing things; you come out of your shell more, and really appreciate the person that you've become. MAKE THE MOST OF IT! Many people living abroad often find themselves with more time on their hands than they had at home, so use this time to do something that you've always wanted to do but didn't have the chance to when you were at home. It might be taking a class, trying a new activity, or trying to realize a long-held ambition... now is your time to put all that into action. Now is a good time to sort out bad habits. Perhaps you've moved somewhere where healthy eating and an active lifestyle is the norm, or where smoking and drinking is a bit of a no-no. This is your chance to reduce your consumption of junk food, cigarettes and alcohol (if you can't cut them out altogether) and adopt some good habits in order to make important changes to your lifestyle. If for whatever reason you need a career change, look into the possibility of retraining. Check out colleges which do the accredited courses you need to get you into your new chosen field. 5. IMMERSING YOURSELF IN A NEW CULTURE We could always learn a language at an evening class; grab a recipe from a magazine, and watch cultural festivities on TV... But what better way to understand a new culture than full cultural immersion; by going to the country and experiencing everything that it has to offer first hand? When in another country and totally immersed in the culture, you learn things that you could never get from a book or documentary. You begin to understand the nuances, different aspects, and subcultures within a particular culture. You learn what is important to certain communities and what they hold dear. Whether we like to admit it or not, most of us have presumptions and preconceptions about different countries and communities. Once you have a better understanding of other cultures and you’ve seen your preconceptions proved wrong, you’ll be careful not to be jump to assumptions so quickly in the future. Seeing how people live in another country can also give you a new perspective on life, and will enable you to incorporate these discoveries into your own life. You'll chill out more if you find yourself living in a place where the pace of life is slower and less hectic. Where there is an emphasis on a more outdoorsy lifestyle, you may become more active and nature-loving. And the issues that exist in your adopted homeland may have you developing a deeper appreciation for your own place of birth and the things you took for granted. And let's not forget being exposed to popular culture and entertainment that you might otherwise have missed out on. MAKE THE MOST OF IT: Go with an open mind and understand that things may be very different to what you're used to at home. Things that are weird/acceptable at home may be seen in a different light in your new country. Be aware of the local culture and social conventions and remember when in Rome... You have the perfect opportunity to learn and master a new language. This is a great skill and will really enable you to understand and integrate into the local culture. Try new activities and sample new cuisines. See what your new home has to offer. While it's always good to make friends with any fellow expats, remember that when it comes to understanding the ways of your adopted country, there's no better teacher than the locals, so don't shy away from including them in your social circle. Joining in with festivities is another good way to learn about the culture. So try to attend any of the events that the locals will be going to. These are often centered around a holiday or celebration with religious/cultural significance and is a good learning - not to mention fun - experience. Plus it's also a great way to meet new people. What do you love about living the expat life? Photos: Pixabay Blog graphics and word cloud: Angel Noire

A deliciously fruity cocktail, delicately fragranced with rose, and just the right amount of fizz! Try our Pomegranate Roseberry Sparkler. POMEGRANATE ROSEBERRY SPARKLER Prep time: 5 mins Serves: 4 Ingredients: 500ml pomegranate juice 100gm raspberries, pureed and sieved 1tbsp. rosewater 200ml sparkling wine Seeds from one pomegranate, muddled Pink or red rose petals to garnish THIS IS HOW WE DO IT! 1. Add the pomegranate juice to the muddled pomegranate seeds and stir well. 2. Add the rosewater. 3. Divide the raspberry puree between the four glasses. 4. Half fill the glass with the pomegranate juice. 1. Mix the pomegranate juice, rosewater, pomegranate seeds, and raspberry puree in a jug. 2. Half-fill four glasses with the pomegranate mixture. 3. Top up with the sparkling wine. 4. Garnish with rose petals. 5. Enjoy! Main Image: Pixabay Banner: Angel Noire using Pixabay images Word cloud: Angel Noire

The upcoming posts that we're busily creating here have a 'friends and enemies' theme. It wasn't intentional - it's just sheer coincidence that that's the way it's worked out! A lot of the inspiration has come from recent incidents that have occurred in my own life and as usual I like to use my experiences - both good and bad - to help others, as well as share any events or activities that I think might be of benefit to our followers. And one that might be of interest will be the Survivor Empowerment Summit for survivors of narcissistic abuse, as well as those who may currently be experiencing narcissistic abuse, and concerned family and friends who wish to know what they can do to help their loved ones. The telesummit takes place on June 1st - World Narcissistic Abuse Awareness Day. If you haven't registered for your spot, you can do so here. https://wnaad.com/ OK now that we've got the 'enemies' bit out of the way, let's look at our upcoming friendship-themed posts. RECONNECTING WITH AN OLD FRIEND Within the last week I got back in touch with two old friends I haven't spoken to in over a decade. I usually pride myself on my ability to stay in touch with people. Even if I don't call them every day or every week, as long as I get those birthday and holiday greetings out there, well - that's something! But despite my best efforts, on this road called life where we meet so many wonderful people along the way, they don't all stay on the same journey , often taking a different path. And sometimes the inevitable happens and you lose touch completely. Even in this day and age where almost everyone has an online presence, it's still not always easy to track people down. Almost by chance I managed to locate two old friends who I'd been wanting to get back in touch with forever. One was a young lady I worked with many years ago, while the other was someone my husband and I knew during the early days of our marriage. With my old work friend, the reception I got was disappointingly rather lukewarm. She wasn't annoyed or irritated that I had messaged her. But it was quite clear that she didn't want to resume our friendship. Her reaction almost put me off contacting the other friend. After all there's only so much rejection a girl can handle, right! But as it happened, my friend was delighted to hear from me and very happy to be back in touch with my husband and me again. Experience has taught me that when it comes to reconnecting with old friends, you never quite know what you're going to get. With some old friends, it's been a pleasure getting back in touch and we've managed to pick up right where we left off. With others they're happy to hear from you but they've moved on with their lives. Then there are some who I wish I'd never, ever, EVER bothered reconnecting with because the situation is like something out of a really bad Lifetime movie when I was actually hoping for a Hallmark! So the question is, is it really worth reconnecting with old friends when so much time has gone by? Or is it best to leave some things in the past and move on? Read our upcoming post to find out the answer! MAKING FRIENDS AS AN EXPAT It's can be tough making friends as a kid. And for some of us, it doesn't always get easier when you become an adult either. But throw being an expat in the mix, and it just got a whole lot crazier! While some people have moved to pastures new and found a whole new tribe waiting for them, for others it can take a lot more time and effort. So much so that you actually end up wondering if there's something wrong with you. There isn't. Well there might be but we'll give you the benefit of the doubt and say there isn't! There's many reasons why it might be harder to make friends in your adopted country: homesickness; fear of rejection; not being familiar with the culture or language; feeling self-conscious; focusing more on work and less on your social life, or just finding it harder to feel included in already long established social circles. You may find yourself wondering if you'll ever find your crowd. WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU'RE NOT KEEN ON YOUR FRIEND'S PARTNER So your friend is totally in love with their partner - but you think they could do better. This is a situation that people the world over have encountered. We all know the saying you can choose your friends but you can't quite pick your own family. Well the same can be said for your friend's partners as well. You want your friend to be happy - even if you're not so happy with the person they're happy with! But it's your friend's life and your friend's happiness and you want to be supportive. There are some instances where you're right to be concerned - for example when you feel that there might be abuse or some other unhealthy situation occurring. In such cases you'll treat the matter with sensitivity, seeking professional support and guidance as to how to help your friend, as well as letting them know that you're there for them. But when it's just a case of people not bonding or characters clashing, you need to work out the best way to navigate this conundrum as well as working out the best way to maintain your friendship - and your composure! It can be done! Check out our upcoming posts to discover all the answers to these questions and more! Images from Wix Word cloud by Angel Noire