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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!

Over in the UK, Mother's Day is tomorrow. But the rest of the world -including Mr. D. - will be honouring their beloved mums in May. But whichever part of the world we live in and whenever Mother's Day falls, we'll definitely be keeping our mums in mind. Everyone says I'm my mother's double. I've lost count of the times I've actually been mistaken for her. I'm hoping it's not because I look old! But then my mum could never be be considered old as she looks so young. She really could pass for my (slightly older!) sister. But I always felt that our looks were where our similarities began and ended as personality-wise we couldn't have been more different. I'm definitely more outgoing whereas Mum's a bit reserved. Our style in dressing is very different: I'm probably more Avril Lavigne whereas Mum dresses in a way that makes the Queen look like Avril Lavigne (which always frustrates me!) I like a good drink and can really put those cocktails away but Mum's a teetotaler  who just has to look at a glass of wine and her head starts to spin. I like my music loud and angry while Mum's the queen of the easy listening classics. We couldn't be more different - or so I thought... It hit me one day a few years back, when I was in a bookshop perusing the cook book section and was wondering what to add to my already ever-increasing stack of cook books when it dawned on me where I got my addiction from - Mum! As a kid Mum had a whole load of cookery books (and I do mean a whole load of books) which I used to pore over, looking at the pics, while Mum would be putting the recipes to good use. All these years later, I'm doing the same and always like to test out any fabulous recipes I come across. It got me thinking about other ways in which I'm a lot like my mother. I'm often so busy focusing on the differences that I don't think about things that we both have in common. It's the same with the majority of my friends - they love their mums to bits but don't think that they're anything alike. Maybe one day they'll also discover that they're more alike than they think. 1. MUM AND I ARE BOTH FEEDERS! Nothing to do with the band - this is where the cook books come into effect! When you come to our homes, you'd better be coming with an empty stomach. Just don't think you'll be leaving with one! In fact you may need a crane to carry you out because we're in danger of overstuffing you! Nothing makes us happier than cooking for other people and having people around our table (something we both get from Mum's late mum - my lovely grandma) and we feel really humbled by the appreciative comments we get. 2. WE WATCHED ALL THE SOAPS RELIGIOUSLY... BUT DON'T NOW! Long before I ever came along, my mum was a real soap connoisseuse. It all started with a soap opera many people may not have heard of called Peyton Place, and from there it was I Crossroads... then Coronation Street... Emmerdale Farm....Dynasty, Dallas... She used to watch them all. And as I grew older, I also became a bit of a soap addict too, and could never get enough of soaps like EastEnders, Neighbours, and Home And Away. It was amazing because I couldn't remember my eight times table (I still have to think about it!) but I could remember what caused Madge and Harold were arguing about six months earlier! However over the years our love of soaps dwindled. In Mum's case it's because she's too busy to keep up with what's happening in Weatherfield or Albert Square, and in my case it's because soaps don't interest me the way they once did and I don't believe that they're as good as they used to be. Though that said I do still keep with Easties and Neighbours, more out of habit than anything else (though with the latter, that won't be for much longer!) 3. WE'RE GREAT WHEN IT COMES TO THE OLD HOSPITALITY! I only invite people into my home if I really like them (well doesn't everyone!) so it's very important to me that everyone who does come to our home, whether it's for a quick visit or to stay for a while, is made to feel very welcome and know that we are happy to have them over. So we go out of our way to make sure they're happy, comfy and that they treat the place like their second home. And looking after guests is something I learned from Mum who learned from the best - her mum! However I think most people prefer to go to Mum's than mine because she's a much better cook than I am! 4. SPORT IS NOT OUR THING. Just about everyone in our family is into a sport of some kind. And just about everyone supports a particular football team. That's soccer to my American friends! All except Mum and me. I've tried to get sporty in the past but it just wasn't happening. Mum didn't even try! We do however tune in to watch the World Cup especially when England's playing. That's about as sporty as we get! 5. AND NEITHER IS DRIVING! Everyone who knows me knows that driving really isn't my forte. And it's not Mum's either. Mum never learnt to drive and nor has she ever wanted to. I once asked her why and she said that if she learnt to drive then that would be one less thing that Dad did - and he already doesn't do much as it is! I did however manage to get my licence (how, I'll never know!) and was a car owner when I lived in London but sadly I'm a real hazard on the road due to being a real bag of nerves behind the wheel - something I've so far never managed to conquer that I hope I'll be able to one day - so I tend to leave the driving to those who are less of a calamity. 6. WE'RE NOT ONES TO COMPLAIN OK maybe not strictly speaking true as we have been known to have the odd grumble. Maybe more than the odd grumble! But compared to a lot of people we know, we hardly ever complain. If life's getting us down, something seems unfair, or we're just having a bad day, we just suck it up and get on with it. So we're the ones who will tell the wait staff when everything is fine when the food and service sucks; tell people who enquire that everything's fine when it isn't, and are the least likeliest of people to leave a bad review on Tripadvisor! And on the rare occasions when we do complain, it's only because it's absolutely necessary. I guess you could say that we know how to pick our battles. Oh and on the rare occasions when we do complain, we don't hold back - me in particular! 7. OUR BODIES ARE MADE UP OF NINETY SEVEN PER CENT SUGAR! It's not just my looks I got from my Mum but my incredibly sweet tooth. Thanks to her, I'm a real sucker for sugar and it's virtually unheard of for me to go to a restaurant and not end a meal with a dessert. And if I'm too stuffed for dessert, I at least take a peak at the dessert menu to see what I'm missing out on! 8. WE'RE USELESS WITH TECHNOLOGY Oh my goodness, where do I begin with this? At least with Mum, she was born way before technology took hold of us the way that it has now. She didn't grow up in an era where people stopped breathing if they had to go without their iPhones for five minutes. I however, have no excuse especially as I'm a blogger as well. I'm not as bad as I'm making out as given a certain amount of time, I can usually figure things out. That said, I'm still far from great! 9. ADVICE IS OUR MIDDLE NAME For as long as I can remember, people having been calling on my mum whenever they had a problem of some kind - and they still do. Perhaps it's because Mum's very understanding, a good listener, gives good advice, and tries to help out in any way that she can. Well it's a good job I've been trained by the best because at I've had all sorts of people - friends, family, colleagues, clients, random people on the bus - confiding in me about their problems. I guess I just have one of those faces! 10. WE'RE REAL HOME BIRDS Mum was always a home bird. I don't think she even went to the pub as a teenager. I, on the other hand, was a real night owl, and once I got a taste of London night life there was no stopping me. However now that I'm older, those wild nights out are pretty much a thing of the past - although nothing comes between me and my rock gigs! I'd much rather stay at home and cook for friends. and believe it or not, we still manage to have a great time! Do you take after your mum in more ways than one? In what ways are you similar? Or are you like chalk and cheese? Happy Mother's Day to all the mums in Britain and Ireland. Photos: Pixabay Blog graphics: Angel Noire

Some things never go out of style and chocolate mousse is one of them. It's not hard to see why: elegant, sophisticated, and considered the ultimate dessert for those who want to do 'fancy' (but figure profiteroles might be too much hard work!) Furthermore, who doesn't have room for light-as-air mousse even after a very rich meal? But that doesn't stop some know-it-all on Come Dine With Me declaring that a fellow contestant has chosen the 'safe' option when mousse is spotted on the menu. Chocolate mousse could be described as the 'cornflakes' of desserts: seems simple enough; forgotten in favour of it's seemingly more exciting sweet counterparts, but once you dig in you'll remember how delicious, satisfying and moreish it really is. Who wouldn't want to indulge in those velvety, foamy clouds of chocolatey awesomeness. Chocolate mousse - or any kind of mousse for that matter - may appear simple and easy to make, and indeed it probably is easy for those who are blessed with an abundant amount of culinary talent. But mousse can be a risky option when you want a dinner party dessert that impresses as there are a number of things that could potentially go wrong including setting issues; problems with the consistency; the texture being more custard-pudding than mousse-like; the mousse becoming too grainy if the chocolate isn't tempered correctly... plus we all know that desserts with raw egg can be unsafe for certain people. So not as simple as it looks. There are certain key ingredients needed to make a good, rich but light, flavourful chocolate mousse, the first of which is a good quality chocolate with a high cocoa content. Of course there's also the aerator to create that cloud-like texture, and for that you could use whisked egg whites, whipped cream, or whisked aquafaba. If you want the chocolate mousse to hold it's shape better, you may also want to include some kind of setting agent like gelatin or agar agar. The above is a rough guide to the basics of chocolate mousse-making. But the end result can vary greatly depending on the combination and kind of ingredients used. The textures can differ from thick and slightly puddingy to light and overflowing with chocolate air bubbles (that's the best kind - Angel!) You can omit the eggs entirely and just use whipped cream, or a plant based whipped cream with aquafaba but of course that will change the texture and consistency considerably. If you wish to jazz things up a little, try adding your preferred flavouring such as vanilla, brandy, peppermint, orange or coffee. You could also top it with sweetened whipped cream, chocolate flakes, mint leaves, fruit pieces or crystalized petals or orange rind to make your dessert look pretty. Back in the day, chocolate mousse was usually served with shortbread or tuile biscuits as part of the dessert course. In fact those biscuits are still a favourite accompaniment for chocolate mousse. But this dessert is actually very versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Chocolate mousse can be: Piped into profiteroles, eclairs, doughnuts, or choux buns Used as a filling for tartlets or pies In the form of a mousse cake or as a filling for a gateau Set with gelatin to create a type of airy, much lighter blancmange Filling for chocolates Frozen to make a type of ice-cream As one of the layers for a trifle Chocolate mousse looks stunning and luxurious even though it is a dessert that requires minimal preparation time, although you will have to prepare it well ahead of time so that it will chill in the fridge for at least eight hours and set well. However if you're concerned about using raw eggs, you can always use pasteurized ones or leave out the eggs altogether and use whipped cream or aquafaba but bear in mind that it will obviously make a difference to the taste and texture. Classic Chocolate Mousse Prep time: 15mins Cook time: 5 mins Set time: 8hrs Serves: 4-6 Ingredients 8oz dark chocolate, grated 2 tbsps. hot (not boiled) milk 2oz butter 4 eggs, separated 8fl.oz whipping/double (heavy) cream 3oz caster sugar Method Put chocolate, milk & butter in pan. Heat gently until chocolate melted & mixture creamy. Cool slightly & add beaten egg yolks. Whisk egg whites until stiff, adding sugar a bit at a time. Gently fold egg whites into chocolate mix. Whip cream and gently fold into mixture. Pour into glasses. Set overnight. Dig in when ready! MAKING A VEGAN VERSION Substitute water for the milk or switch to a plant based version. You could also use, if you want to create a favoured chocolate mousse: rosewater orange blossom water fresh orange juice coffee liqueur Switch to plant-based versions of butter and cream. When using aquafaba instead of eggs, you could use: 3 tbsps. of aquafaba (before whisking) = 1 large egg 2 tbsps. aquafaba (before whisking) = 1 large egg white only Finding an egg yolk substitute isn't the easiest of things, but a cashew nut puree might be the way to go. Soak the cashew nuts first in boiling water, then puree. This will help in creating the custard base of the mousse, but this step can be omitted. Bear in mind that it will alter the taste and texture of the dessert - but will still be very delicious! Good egg yolk substitutes are: 3 tbspoons cashew nuts, pureed = 1 egg yolk 1/4 cup tofu, puree = 1 egg yolk 1/4 cup soy yogurt = 1 egg yolk Photos and GIFS: Pixabay and Wix Blog graphics: Angel Noire

Since moving to America, I've struggled to find a really good hairdresser. No, it's not because they're all rubbish - they're not. But it's not easy to find a hairdresser who gets me, my hair and what I want... especially when it comes to my fringe! And my husband doesn't understand the obsession with finding the perfect hairdresser. The way he sees it, if someone's got a pair of hairdressing scissors and a blowdryer, and they know what to do with them - then what's the problem? It cast my mind back to when we lived in London and we moved home quite a few rimes until we moved to the States. But the problem was - problem according to Mr. D. that is - was that he could never understand that no matter where we moved to, I still insisted on trekking to the other side of the city to visit my usual salon. "What's the matter with you?" he would ask exasperated, "we have a salon just down the road from us and you still want to go to your old salon!" "Yes," I replied equally annoyed, "because they know me." "So what? The beauticians at the new salon will get to know you too. I don't see why it matters..." And on and on it raged. Most people might not care who cuts their hair just as long as it's done well and for a good price. But for some of us, we are very particular who we allow near our face, hair, nails and body. If they prove to be good, we will continue to use them no matter what the cost or how far we have to travel. And it's not only that but over time, we start to build a rapport with our beautician/hair stylist. They know what treatments we like; what products work for our skin and which don't; how we usually have our hair styled etc. And of course there's the bonding that occurs over the luxury pedicure. We talk; we tell them things; they tell us things; we share advice about things that aren't even remotely related to hair and beauty. That's why we keep going back to the same people time and time again. And as I know only too well, good salons are really hard to find. I have had my fair share - and probably everyone else's fair share  - of horror stories including the disgusting beautician who used window cleaner on my face (?) and the even more hideous salon owner who tried to cover up for her. So is it any wonder then, that when we find someone whose work we like and whom we bond with, that we make like Velcro and attach ourselves to them? Over dinner with some of our friends one night, Mr. D had a good moan to them about me traipsing for miles to get to my fave salon. "Well," one of my friends began, " when you get used to a salon, you don't really want to go anywhere else. That's just the way it is." That told him! He even said that he overheard his work colleagues talking about the same thing: that they would travel out of town to go to a salon that they really liked. I think he's beginning to understand that it's just what some people - especially us girls - do. However my friends did laugh their heads off when they heard that I was constantly emailing my hairdresser when I went on holiday - saying that I was taking the attachment thing too far! I'm now going to contradict everything that I've just said and end the story by saying that eventually I did visit a new salon that was only a ten minute walk from where we once lived. Well it was Mr. D. who persuaded me to give it a go.  "Just go and see how it is," he said. And I did because it was the weekend; I was frazzled after a hard week, and I didn't want to travel too far for a well deserved facial and massage. And I'm glad that I did because I was very happy with the service - and they cut my fringe exactly as I wanted which many hairdressers can't do, even when I go in with a photo - and I got on brilliantly with the ladies who worked there. But that does not mean that I have abandoned any of my regular haunts. And whenever I go to London, I go to whoever is nearest to the place where I'm staying. It always helps to have somewhere local to go to when I need a super quick pick-me-up. So why do I feel so guilty? I feel like a cheating spouse! As though seeing more than one stylist is a crime. Does anyone else have salon issues? Photos: Pixabay Blog graphics: Angel Noire

It's well known that from the beginning of January each year, many people promise themselves that they will absolutely without fail 'get fit this year.' End-of-the-year events such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Eve - and let's not forget the ongoing series of lockdowns and quarantining which has seen many of us reaching for the biscuit tin - will have seen a great deal of excess and indulgence which we now want to shake off and replace with more healthier habits which includes regular exercise. But while starting an exercise routine isn't the problem, keeping it going usually is and before the month is over, so is the exercise plan! It's a known fact that many gym memberships - while purchased with the best of intentions - don't get used after a while. Those running shoes that were bought for going on 5am runs are still on the shoe rack, barely used. Before you know it, you've slipped back into bad habits and have ended up in the same old unfit rut that you were trying to get out of. WHAT'S THE BIG DEAL ABOUT EXERCISING? Quite a lot actually! Everyone knows the obvious advantages to a regular exercise routine: you shed pounds; keep the weight off, and develop abs that would make any of the Magic Mike dancers insanely jealous! But there's so much to exercise than maintaining a great physique. Other benefits include: Stronger bones and muscles Reduced risk of chronic illnesses Improved mobility Reduced anxiety and depression Increased levels of confidence Improved mood Great energy booster Promotes better sleep More improved memory Helps concentration levels Helps to clear brain fog Promotes glowing skin Good for your heart Makes you feel happier Boost your sex life! Now who wouldn't want all that! AND THERE'S MORE! BUILDING STAMINA AND ENDURANCE Stamina can be described as the ability of your body to withstand physical exertion for a prolonged duration. It is the ability to endure short and very high-intensity workout as well as long and low-intensity workout. If your stamina is good, you will be able to resist various issues like disease, fatigue and stress. By improving your physical strength you will also improve your mental strength. You can increase your stamina by doing some specific exercises that challenge your body. BECOMING MORE SELF-DISCIPLINED For those of us who are a little too relaxed, getting fit and active is a good way to become more disciplined. An exercise plan is a good way of sticking to a routine, eating and drinking healthier options, and making better lifestyle choices. ADOPTING HEALTHIER EATING HABITS Exercise and healthy eating usually go hand-in-hand, with a lot of people assessing their diet and eating habits once they start to get more serious about their exercise regime. Furthermore optimizing nutrition is essential for a good work out performance so it's natural for people to change their ways with regards to food. A BETTER USE OF YOUR TIME Let's be honest - a lot of us don't make good use of our time... even though we often complain that we don't have enough of it! But instead of procrastinating, exercise is a good way of using your time productively and can also lead to to a better frame of mind that makes you productive in other areas of your life as well. DEVELOPING A NEW PASSION Finding something that you're totally mad about is fantastic - and when it's something that brings a lot of emotional and physical health benefits that's even better. It's wonderful to see someone who's found something that they're so deeply interested in: they have a sparkle in their eye; they're positively glowing when they talk about their new interest, and their positivity and enthusiasm may well rub off on others. BECOMING MORE SOCIABLE Especially true if you're joining a gym or a class, it gets you out of the house and meeting people, where you could possibly make new friends - or even find love! POSSIBLY EVEN STARTING A NEW CAREER! It's not unusual for people who start a fitness activity to become so engrossed with it that training to do this as a career becomes a natural progression for them. There are few things better than making money out of doing something you love so that work never seems like work! FERTILITY People who are trying for a baby are often told to do a certain amount of exercise regularly and studies have shown that exercise reduces the risk of ovulation problems and decreases the risk of miscarriage. So you know all the benefits of exercise but what do you need to take into consideration before starting your work out plan? FIRST THINGS FIRST 1. DOCTOR, DOCTOR! No matter how fit you think you are, it's always worth consulting your doctor before starting an exercise plan to ensure that what you have in mind is suitable for you. An early checkup can detect any health problems or conditions that could put you at risk for an injury during exercise. If you have an injury, medical condition, or are pregnant, your doctor and/or an exercise therapist can help design an appropriate exercise program for you that will be suitable for your range of movement, physical strength and endurance. This is especially vital for those who are newcomers to strenuous and vigorous physical exercise. And if you choose to hire a personal trainer, they will understand your strengths and limitations, and will be able to create a plan that will be equipped to meet your needs and capabilities, thus optimizing your workout performance. 2. LET'S TALK BUDGET! Oh why must we talk about money! Hmm... maybe because along with levels of health and fitness, the amount of money you are able to invest in your new exercise regime will, whether we like it or not, will dictate the choices that you have available to you. How awful is it to have your heart set on something and then realise that you don't have the funds to pay for it? Most interests require a certain level of investment, and health and fitness is no different. You'll need to account for (if applicable) membership, classes, personal training, equipment, clothes and footwear, health supplements, and even travel. All of these all add up and it would be a shame to have to stop doing something you love because you can no longer afford it. Total up the costs and see if it's affordable. Don't be too disheartened if it's out of your budget. You might be able to get deals on membership or classes if you shop around. See if you can pick up pre-used equipment either from friends or online (make sure they're in good working condition) Find out wherever you can make savings. 3. LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION! There may be activities or classes that are not held within your local area which may require a bit of effort for you to get there. Think about how your daily schedule may affect this. Sometimes the commute can really take it out of you, and you might end up coming home really late. If you're not perturbed by this then fine, if not see if there are any other alternatives. Many classes for example are now offered online, so you can see if that option is available to you. 4. STAY HYDRATED We all know that staying hydrated is important at the best of times. But when you're working out it's even more essential for you to maintain adequate levels of hydration. Replenishing fluids during physical activities is important for supporting optimal exercise performance, especially when working out in hot conditions. Furthermore, sufficiently hydrating after exercising can help you recover quickly and get you ready for your next work out session. 5. OPTIMIZING NUTRITION Consuming a balanced diet with all the necessary food groups is essential when it comes to maintaining your level of performance in your support your fitness program. That includes fats and carbs but remember there's a difference between 'good' fats and carbs (nuts, seeds, avocados, brown rice, oats, quinoa etc.) and 'bad' fats and carbs (crisps, chips, biscuits, cakes etc.) Good nutrition is vital to maintain healthy energy levels, fuel your body before a workout, optimize performance, and aids with post-exercise recovery. 6. WARM UP & COOL DOWN We've all been told how important it is to warm up and cool down before and after a work out session - but these are steps that a lot of people still skip. Warming up before working out can help prevent injuries and improve your performance. It also improves your flexibility and reduce soreness after a session. The importance of cooling down is that it helps your body return to its normal state. Cooling down for just a couple of minutes can help restore normal breathing patterns and even reduce the chance of soreness. 7. YOUR BODY'S CALLING - ANSWER IT! If you’re a complete novice when it comes to working out or you're starting to get back into it after not exercising for so long, don't push yourself and be aware of your limits. It's always best to stop exercising if you feel pain or discomfort while working out. It's never a good idea to ignore the pain and push past it as it can cause injuries. If you're feeling short of breath; lightheaded, or nauseous - take a breather; stop and rest before picking up where you left off. Bear in mind that working harder, faster and doing a thousand planks a minute isn't necessarily better nor effective, especially if you're exercising incorrectly. Taking your time to progress through your fitness program can help you maintain your routine in the long term and make the most of it. 8. ALLOW TIME FOR RECOVERY Hands up all those who started an exercise plan with frenzied zeal and enthusiasm and then suffered physical and mental burnout? Exercising for too long or too intensely will only tire you out, causing you sore muscles and joints and perhaps even injuries. What was supposed to give you the feel good factor, now gives you anything but! To avoid this, plan time between work out sessions for your body and mind to rest and recover. 9. BE FLEXIBLE WITH YOUR REGIME It's not just your body that needs to be flexible but your plan does too! Unfortunately things like illness; family issues and urgent work projects can get in the way. So if you're feeling unwell or you have other unavoidable issues, don't beat yourself up. Instead give yourself permission to take some time out. If you're worried that you may never get back into the habit of working out - especially when you started out so well. Try to work out for just five minutes a day in order to keep the momentum going. We've given you lots to think about and that's before we've even started on our list of ways that will inspire you to make physical fitness activities a part of your everyday life! So here are fifteen ways which will hopefully see you make exercise a regular activity in maintaining your levels of health and fitness. 1. FIND AN ACTIVITY YOU ENJOY It goes without saying that if you don't enjoy it, you won't employ it! It's a widely held belief that exercising involves the usual suspects: jogging, aerobics, football... but what if these activities aren't your thing? It might be a while before you find something you wouldn't mind doing. There's a whole variety of activities that might interest you if the run-of-the-mill ones don't: indoor rock climbing; pole fitness; hurling (no we don't mean chucking up after one too many!) boxercise... the list is endless. Think of activities you'd like to do - and think about ones you definitely wouldn't! See what your family/friends/colleagues are doing in order to get inspiration Check out what kind of things the local gyms are offering. Even if you choose not to go to a gym, it'll give you an idea. 2. TEAM PLAYER OR SOLO STAR One of the things that put people off exercise is the boredom of exercising alone when they would rather be part of a motivating team or class and have the added benefit of the social aspect. While others feel that they would perform better completely alone or in a one-to-one session with a trainer or instructor. Decide which option works best for you. 3. GET INTO A ROUTINE Think about what the best time for you to start working out is and how many times a week you'd like to exercise. Remember to be realistic about your goals, and also don't plan work outs too close to bedtime or soon after dinner. Finding time to exercise can be a challenge, so make it simpler by scheduling time to exercise as you would with most other activities. Find ways in which you can incorporate physical activities into your daily routine which won't disrupt things that you normally do such as watching a TV show while using the treadmill; read while working out on a stationary bike, or going for a walk during your lunch hour. 4. START SMALL! Don't feel as though you need to begin with one hour sessions seven days a week! It's best to start of doing the bare minimum (15-20 minute sessions) three times a week - or whatever you're comfortable with - and then build up gradually by doing a few more minutes/repetitions with every session. Start slow and progress at your own pace, especially if you're just beginning to exercise. Give yourself the necessary time to warm up and cool down, and work out at a pace where you don't feel overly tired. As your stamina increases, so will your work out sessions. 5. INVEST IN EXERCISE GEAR Your baggy jogging bottoms and spaghetti sauce-stained t-shirt and old plimsols might not fuel you into getting into shape! So what do you do? Invest in some good work-out gear to motivate you and get you looking and feeling the part. And it doesn't have to be mega expensive - most chain stores do reasonable quality gymwear at affordable prices. The important thing is that it's comfortable to wear and you can move around quite easily in it. But do purchase the best footwear that you can afford as it's important for comfort and support. 6. AN EXERCISE BUDDY MIGHT HELP Even if you decide that you want to be a solo star when it comes to working out, it often helps if you have a work out buddy, especially if you need that support, motivation and encouragement... as well as someone who you're accountable to so that you don't give up at the first hurdle! Someone who's in th same boat as you and shares similar exercise goals would be a good choice, even if you don't work out in the same space at the same time. It's good to have someone to give you that motivation and support, who you can share ideas with, and discuss your progress and goals. Someone who can spur you on in a non-competitive way might be exactly what you need. 7. REWARD YOURSELF Sometimes you may need to bribe, we mean, motivate yourself into doing something that you don't always want to do. And that's where rewarding yourself comes in handy. It can be something like a massage, a new item of clothing (like new gym wear!) or going for a swim. But if the thought of spending money every time you have to feel motivated fills you with dread, you could always go for a hike, enjoy a relaxing afternoon reading or watching a movie, chill out on the beach or in your garden, or go hang out with your mates and have some laughs! 8. UNDERSTAND THAT YOU'RE NOT GOING TO SEE RESULTS OVERNIGHT One of the reasons why people give up on their exercise program is because they don't see the results they were looking for after 10 push ups! This is where patience comes in and the understanding that you won't always see instant physical results. You know what they say about watched pots - well the same applies here as well. So instead of wondering why you don't have biceps to rival Mark Wahlberg's, focus on the positives that exercise is bringing into your life. Are you enjoying your gym sessions and the chance to get out of the house more? Have you noticed an improvement in your sleep patterns? Do you feel happier and healthier? Concentrate on the things that you are achieving with with your exercise plan - be patient and you'll see the desired results soon enough. 9. REALIZE THAT YOU MIGHT SUCK AT YOUR CHOSEN WORK OUT ACTIVITY INITIALLY! You've invested a truckload of money into your new physical activity, you've gone on and on about it to anyone who'll listen - and now after a week, you want to give up and forget you'd ever heard about this new exercise craze that's taken the world by storm. Why? Because you suck at it! Or at least you think you do. Not many people take to new things like a duck to water the first time they try them. That's where patience, perseverance, practice and the realization that you might not be perfect at your first attempt comes in. Think about all the things you didn't do well at first. If that had been your reason for giving up, then you wouldn't be able to do anything! Take small steps and set yourself attainable goals. Be consistent with your sessions. You never know by the end of the first month you may find you've come a long way... 10. BE KIND TO YOURSELF Think about the kind of things you would say to someone who was starting a new exercise plan but they felt it wasn't going as well as they would have liked. Thing about the things you would say and do to encourage and motivate them. Show yourself the same kindness and support. 11. REMIND YOURSELF OF BENEFITS AND GOALS When deciding to start working out, it's important to keep in mind why you're doing it, and what your ultimate goal is. Furthermore, try not to make your goal too broad and be more specific. For instance, simply stating, that you want to lose weight and tone up, makes it harder to focus on what you want to achieve and to measure your progress. But saying that you want to lose ten pounds, and tone up your arms so you'll look fab in your wedding gown by mid-August will make tracking your progress much easier. 12. MIX IT UP A LITTLE! Even if you don't do so during the early stages, plan to include some different activities into your regime at a later stage. Different activities can help keep exercise boredom at bay, as well as reducing your chances of injuring yourself by overusing one specific muscle or joint. Aim to alternate between different activities that emphasize different parts of your body, such as walking, swimming, weights etc. And also be a bit imaginative with regards to future activities and aim to make it fun. Maybe your workout routine includes various activities, such as walking, aerobics, or dance. But don't stop there. Take a weekend hike with your mates, or take a ballet class for adults. Find activities you enjoy to add to your fitness routine. 13. KEEP YOURSELF ENTERTAINED Some people often complain that they find working out to be too tedious. If you can, throw in a little something to keep you entertained. Work out in front of the telly. If nineties hip hop is your jam, have that playing in the background. Listen to your favourite podcast or audio book... anything to make exercise seem less monotonous. But make sure it's nothing that's likely to distract you. 14. VISUALIZATION! OK, we know this one may sound a little too woo-woo for some of you. But sports coaches who have trained many a successful athlete have incorporated this into their training so surely it can't be a bad thing! Even if you're not planning on winning gold at the next Olympics, if you're someone who needs a lot of motivation or who gives up too easily, visualization could be the way to go in improving success with your exercise programme. Visualization involves using your senses to create a mental image of a physical task before you attempt it, including imagining what the movement will feel like in your muscles and your mind. 15. TRACKING YOUR PROGRESS A written plan may encourage you to stay on track. Furthermore, tracking your progress, such as logging your repetitions or noting your running times, can help keep you motivated and improve your performance. Retake your personal fitness assessment a month after you begin your program and then again every few months. Then you can make any necessary changes such as increasing the amount of time you exercise in order to continue improving and meeting your goals... Or maybe you're exercising just the right amount to meet your fitness goals in which case you can continue with your plan until you feel otherwise. If you lose motivation, set new goals or try a new activity. Starting an exercise program is an important decision and one that your physical and mental health will love you for. But it doesn't have to be an overwhelming choice. With careful planning, making healthy choices , and pacing yourself, you can establish a healthy habit that lasts a lifetime. Good luck! Photos: Pixabay Blog Graphics: Angel Noire

The very first post of the year - Happy new year, everyone! We hope that 2022 has got off to a great start for you all. A new year is synonymous with new beginnings and starting afresh; where we want to make the necessary changes to bring increased health and happiness for ourselves and wish the same for our family and friends... and that includes our friends of the four-legged/six-legged/eight-legged, furry/feathered/scaly variety! And talking of such friends - meet Patriot! She is a beautiful thirteen year old cavalry mare who we've been very lucky to meet, although she's probably more besties with the man who often visits her and her other equine friends, armed with their favourite treats! Up until recently, Patriot was part of a group of beloved cavalry horses who served with The National Lancers - a ceremonial cavalry squadron based in Framingham, Massachusetts. In the past, Patriot has done the group proud by taking part in local parades and the town's annual reenactments of Paul Revere's and William Dawes' Rides. And parade season starts on Patriot's Day which so happens to be Patriot's birthday (and hence how she got her name!) As Patriot's day falls on different days each year (it's on the third Monday in April) I wonder if that means Patriot can make like the Queen and have two birthdays every year... I know I would! As the new year gets under way, Patriot has a year that will present many changes and challenges - unfortunately not all of them good. At Peppermint Teal, we're all about health and well-being, positive changes and improving your quality of life, and that of course applies to our animal friends too. So when he heard about Patriot's plight, we wanted to step in to do our bit to help... Towards the end of last year, Patriot had to be retired from the Lancers due to a sustained injury: she has bone chips in her stifle joint which is causing her a great deal of discomfort. It was with very heavy hearts that the Lancers had to let Patriot go as she was no longer physically able to fulfil her role within the group. WHAT ARE BONE CHIPS? Bones chips - also known as chip fractures or osteochondral fragments - are exactly that: slivers of bone, ranging in size but generally quite tiny, that have chipped off at the surface of the joint. And while it can occur on any of the horse's joints, it's more usual in the front fetlocks or the knee. Bone fragments can either remain partially attached to the joint, or it can come away completely and float around within the joint. WHAT CAUSES BONE CHIPS? Although it's unknown how it occurred in Patriot, bone fragments can be caused by bone disorders; some form of trauma; genetics, and poor leg conformation among many other causes. WHAT PROBLEMS ARISE FROM BONE FRAGMENTS? One of the concerns regarding bone fragments, even the really tiny grain-of-sand type ones, is that it could lead to further bone damage: debris-like shedding caused by the friction of pieces of damaged bone rubbing against each other. This inevitably creates sensations of discomfort - a bit like when you've got a tiny but nonetheless irritating stone in your shoe, hindering your mobility and performance. The consequences of bone chips in horses' joints might include inflammation, lameness and the possibility of soft-tissue injuries if the horse places more stress on their healthier joints. THAT'S AWFUL! WHAT CAN BE DONE ABOUT IT? The treatment options depend on matters such as the fragment's location and it's affect on the horse, among many other variables. Thankfully though we live in an age with great medical and technological advancements which means that bone chips don't present the same dire consequences for horses that it once did, so it's not all gloom and doom. The good news is that not all chips lead to further deterioration of the joints and consequent complications. In fact bone chips are a fairly common occurrence where horse joints are concerned, and it's estimated that more than twenty per cent of horses will experience bone fragments at some point in their lives. But if the bone chip is not causing the horse any distress and it's creating little to no hindrance to their performance and mobility, it is possible to just leave it alone with further monitoring and care. The other options if the chip is being a right pain in the joint are surgery or injections - with Patriot needing both... Patriot will have to undergo surgery on her leg to remove the bone chips and repair the surrounding tendons. Furthermore she will have to have annual joint injections to help ease any symptoms of arthritis. This surgery is vital for Patriot in order to give her a more improved quality of life, as without it, she will suffer the agony of crippling pain. Unfortunately the costs of the surgery are quite extensive, and while those who know Patriot have very generously dug deep in order to cover the costs, they still have yet to meet their target. That's why a fundraising page has been set up in order to help with the cost of Patriot's surgery - currently estimated at between $4,220 - $5,220 - which is due to take place mid-January. Any surplus money left over from this fundraiser will go towards meeting the cost of further surgical procedures as well as her future injections. If you're as moved by Patriot's plight as we are, we encourage you to please donate to Patriot's fund to make a little (OK, rather large!) retired cavalry horse happy again. We're not even looking for donations of Besoz-sized proportions (although that would be nice!) Every little helps and would be gratefully received if it means that Patriot can - literally - get back on her feet again and be in better health. But there is a lovely bright light on the horizon. Patriot is in the process of being adopted by a very loving, big-hearted couple - her caregivers who created this fundraiser - who are doing everything that they can to ensure that she is happy, comfortable and well cared for. They have managed to secure a place for her at a stable where Patriot will undergo physiotherapy as part of her healing process, and that's something that they are extremely grateful for as it means that she'll have a better quality of life and a happy, healthier, well-earned retirement in a place where her needs will be met. Patriot was born to a rescue horse and was a surprise baby! So she's had quite a remarkable - and some might say dramatic - start in life and has gone on to achieve some great accomplishments. She is thought of with great fondness and now all everyone who knows her wants, is for her to receive the support and treatment that she needs in order to live a happy and healthy life. For more details about Patriot's fundraiser and if you wish to donate to her surgery fund please go to: https://www.gofundme.com/f/surgery-for-patriot Patriot's caregivers would like to thank everyone who has taken the time to read this post, and to those who have donated and sent their best wishes. They are very moved by the support they have received and are very grateful for everyone's kindness. Good luck, Patriot. You got this! All photos of Patriot courtesy of CV Blog graphics: Angel Noire

When my lovely mother-in-law paid us a visit recently one of the things she did during her stay here was purchase this balaclava by Turtle Fur in order to keep her face all warm and snug against the elements of the cold New England winter (although we've experienced colder!) And one of the things she was most excited about, was that because of her purchase, someone else would be getting a free hat! TURTLE FUR If you're someone who loves outdoor pursuits and snow sports, there's a good chance you've heard of Turtle Fur and may even have bought some of their products. Turtle Fur is a brand, originating from and still based in Vermont, that specializes in outdoor headgear and accessories for outdoors and snow sports enthusiasts. But Turtle Fur are more than just a brand that focuses on great quality products made from sustainable fabrics for outdoor activities such as hiking and snowboarding, as they are also very socially and environmentally minded. Their values are 'Adventure, Community, Comfort and Quality,' and that is reflected in their products, services and initiatives. The company's aim is to encourage people to get off their backsides, away from their desks and devices , and get out to enjoy the great outdoors and all it has to offer; furthering their sense of adventure and exploration, as well as spending quality time with family and friends. We live in an age where more and more people are suffering from stress and exhaustion, and are struggling with mental and emotional health issues. We all know about the healing power of nature, and physical exercise and activities; of relaxation and recreation and why it's all so important to our physical and mental wellbeing. That's why it's great that Turtle Fur are encouraging people to get more into such activities. And then of course, there's Project Warmth... PROJECT WARMTH I'm a summer baby but I've never been much of a sun worshipper. Give me autumn and winter any day! But that said, I don't like to freeze either and I definitely feel the cold more than most other people. In the past, I've known what it's like to shiver with cold - and that's just from being inside a building! When I'm super cold, I can't function properly; can't concentrate; I'm not as productive as I should be, and there's no way I can get to sleep unless I'm all toasty and warm which greatly affects my emotional and physical wellbeing. So can you imagine what it must be like for people who live in inadequate housing without proper heating or warm clothes? Exactly! And that's why Turtle Fur launched Project Warmth back in 2008. Back then it was just a small initiative that supported schools, shelters, and hospitals within the local area, but over the years it has grown on a nationwide scale, donating hats and other cold weather accessories to those who are in need. Most of us really appreciate brands who do their bit for society and to help improve the lives of others. That's why it's awesome that Turtle Fur took steps to launch the Project Warmth initiative to help people in need stay that much more warmer. Cheers guys! THIS IS HOW YOU DO IT! When you purchase your Turtle Fur product, take a photo of you wearing it, and then share it on one of your socials. Tag Turtle Fur in it and use #projectwarmth in the caption. When Turtle Fur see it, they'll send out a hat or cold weather accessory to someone who really needs it. If you also tag the retailer in your post, Turtle Fur will donate ANOTHER accessory to someone in need. It's great to know that my mother-in-law's purchase will help someone stay a little more toasty. Good on ya, Mom! When I wrote the last post of the year last year, we were Frengellica. At the time, the idea to rebrand didn't even occur to me. And now here we are with a new look, a new name, and more into better living than ever before. It just goes to show you never know what lies ahead. As I write the last post of the year for Peppermint Teal, I wonder what 2022 will have in store for us. Some of us are thinking no further than tonight's NYE bash and want to see the new year in in style. While others are thinking of new year's resolutions - and whether or not they'll still be going strong past January! Then there are others who are writing a list of goals they are determined to achieve in the new year. Whatever stage you're at this NYE, I hope 2022 brings good things for each and everyone of us. Happy New Year! Photos: Angel Noire and Pixabay Blog Graphics: Angel Noire Peppermint Teal do NOT do sponsored posts so you can bet your life this ISN'T one!

We're headed towards the holiday season and we couldn't be more excited. For most of us, it's a chance to relax, spend time with family and friends, enjoy ourselves and just generally eat, drink, and be merry! However, there is a downside to all the festivities. In the run up to the celebrations, this period can be hectic and overwhelming, especially if you're catering for large groups of people, have family or friends staying with you over the holidays, or if you're just feeling the financial strain of it all. So what should be a happy and relaxed occasion, can have you feeling stressed, exhausted, and in desperate need of a holiday in order to recover from it all! So with that in mind, Peppermint Teal have come up with fifteen ways in which you can practice self-care throughout the holiday season, ensuring that you take the time to nurture yourself physically, emotionally, and spiritually so that you're in tip-top condition health-wise to enjoy all the festivities. THE FESTIVE SEASON BEGINS. WHAT CAN GO WRONG? When we talk about the 'festive season,' we're not just referring to the most obvious one - Christmas - but also Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, New Year's Eve, and New Year's Day. In fact why don't we throw in Thanksgiving as well! At this celebratory time of year, nobody should be feeling anything less than peace and goodwill to all men (and women of course!) The season is a special, magical time for many of us; a time filled with family fun, seasonal traditions, great food and festive cheer. Unfortunately though, the festive season isn't always the joyous occasion we want it to be which can leave people fraught and ridden with anxiety. It can be a very expensive time. Having people over to stay; staying over with others; buying gifts; visiting places... It can all be a little heavy on your pocket! Especially when we feel pressurized into purchasing things we don't need or want either because we feel we have to have it; we don't want our families to go without, or because we don't want to come across as mean. It's often a time of chaos, clutter and a cacophony of noise! Our homes, fridges, calendars and heads are overflowing with things we need to have, do, and remember. So for people who thrive on peace, quiet, and calm, it can be an incredibly overwhelming time. The festive season is known for being a time for family. But family rifts, rows and politics can leave you dreading having to spend the happiest time of year with people whose company you don't enjoy or who you can't trust to behave themselves. Furthermore the period is also a reminder of loved ones we've lost or live far away from, creating more feelings of sadness. The festive season is also party season! There are invitations to parties, events, lots of activities to do... It's great for the social butterflies among us but for those who are more introverted, or those who see the festive period as a chance to relax and unwind, the non-stop socializing can be a bit of a nightmare as you find ways to avoid or at least reduce the amount of times you go out. Festivities often come complete with food and alcohol - and lots of it! So it's not an easy time for those battling eating disorders, alcoholism, food allergies and intolerances. As we wrap up yet more gifts to place underneath an elaborately decorated tree, we struggle with feelings of guilt as we think about people who don't have as much as we do, and will not be having as a good Christmas as we are. 1. REFLECT ON WHAT THE HOLIDAY SEASON MEANS TO YOU One of the reasons for stress and headache around this time is because you're so focused on making sure that everyone else is happy that you've not given much thought to what you would like. And when everyone else's wishes are not in alignment with what you desire, this can lead to feelings of overwhelm and resentment, not to mention dread as the big day approaches. Naturally compromises may have to be made - especially if you live in a household with other people. But this doesn't mean that you shouldn't strive towards having at least a little bit of the Christmas you'd like. First and foremost, think about what what the holidays mean to you and what you absolutely can't do without. Is it about family and friends? Rest and relaxation? Indulging on some fine-quality food and wine? Nostalgia? Maybe it's your only chance in the year to jet off for some winter sun or snow. You might decide that you want to ditch the over-the-top consumerism and embrace the true spiritual side of what the holidays are all about. Perhaps you'd rather volunteer than go from party to party. Or maybe after working so hard, you just want to chill in your own home with an extra large pizza rather than indulge in your mum's festive fare - as good as that is! So in order to be true to yourself and enjoy the festive season as you wish, think about what's important to you - what you absolutely must have and what you can do without. Have this as the main priority of your holiday season, and then have all other plans centered around your main focus, remembering not to be overly rigid with your plans and allow some room for flexibility. 2. SET A BUDGET Sadly most of us are not Jeff Bezos so when it comes to the festive season, we do not have an unlimited budget. So once again think about what matters the most to you, what you cannot do without, and what you don't mind ditching. Maybe you've decided that you want to splurge on luxury food items, or buy those shoes you've had your eye on, ready for the party season. Perhaps you've decided that you need that winter break after all. Or maybe you'd like to make a sizeable donation to charity. Then there's the presents you'll need to buy. Work out how much it'll all cost and what is or isn't possible within the realms of what you can realistically afford. And this is the important bit... Be HONEST with yourself about what you can afford when setting your budget. We've all heard of at least one person who goes mad every Christmas and then spends the next year having to pay it all off. No one wants to start the new year with a massive debt, spend all year clearing the debt - and then get straight back into it come December! 3. START SHOPPING EARLIER Shopping for Christmas might be fun but it can also be very stressful - as those of us who have left our shopping to the last minute will know. There's a lot to be said for buying all your necessities and spreading the cost throughout the year. It may be the same amount of money that you're spending, but you'll feel the pinch a lot less than if you have a lot of money going out in one hit. Furthermore you can take your time and feel less overwhelmed when you start earlier plus you might even come across bargains throughout the year which means you might make some savings. 4. TREAT YOURSELF The festive season is a time for giving and it only comes around once a year - so why not give to yourself to something well-deserved as well as everyone else. It could be an experience like a spa day, a weekend break (very handy for after Christmas!) or an outdoors activity. But treating yourself doesn't always mean you have to splurge. It could just be something as simple as having a lie-in (considered by some to be a real luxury!) or a bubble bath with chocs and a glass of something bubbly. Or maybe even a Christmas movie marathon with loads of frothy hot chocolate. The decision, as they say, is yours! 5. CONNECT WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS We live in an age where people, more often than not, don't live in the town in which they were born. So we understand how important it is to be digitally connected to family and friends 'back home.' But what about when you do get together with your nearest and dearest - and you spend the whole time glued to your device wanting to know what everyone else is doing? Take this opportunity to spend some quality time and connect with the people around you, without the distraction of devices and social media (you can always catch up with those who live far and wide later on) and be present with those you’re actually with. Taking a few pics to remember that moment is fine and you can post them to your socials later. But don't see every second as a photo opportunity for the 'gram! 6. GET OUT THERE One of the reasons why people don't like the winter season is because they think of cold, dark evenings with absolutely nothing to do. That might be fine if you like the idea of hibernating under a cozy duvet with a book for three months (totally up to you!) But for those who prefer to be out and about, the thought of not being able to mingle with the crowd fills them with horror. But of course it doesn't need to be that way. There are still lots of things that you did during the warmer months that you can do now - like going to the cinema, bowling, out to dinner etc. But there are lots of seasonal activities that are only on for a limited time which will make you glad that it's winter so you don't want to miss out. You could drive around town and look at the Christmas lights and decorations that are in your neck of the woods - complete with hot cocoa! If you're lucky enough to live near a drive-in movie theatre, you might be able to catch the showing of some holiday movies. Events and places like outdoor ice skating; winter fairs; ski resorts, and the all-important pantomime if you live in Britain... who says you need to stay in throughout winter! Go online to see what events are available in your local area. 7. GIVE SOMETHING BACK 'Tis the season to give and to give from the heart so embrace the spiritual side of the festivities. The festive season sees many people counting their blessings; practicing gratitude and giving back. Aside from doing something good to help someone in need, it also makes you feel good within yourself when you focus on giving to others. And don't think that the act of giving revolves solely around money. You could also give by giving up some of your time to listen to someone who has a problem and give them advice, or giving up up some time to volunteer at the local shelter; giving someone a helping hand with a job that needs doing; giving a call to a friend you haven't caught up with in a while, or giving a smile or seasonal greeting to your barista/server/bartender to boost their spirits (trust me they'll need it! - Angel, someone who used to work in retail!) 8. DON'T BE AFRAID TO SAY 'NO' It's a simple enough word but many of us struggle with saying 'no.' The people-pleaser in some of us doesn't want to let people down or make people think badly of us. So at a time when we have more to deal with than we normally do, we end up taking on more than we should; shelling out for more than we should, and end up feeling stressed, harassed, and resentful. But of course we don't let anyone know that! There's a difference between saying no because you don't want to do something, and saying no because you genuinely can't do any more. And if it's the latter, then just say a polite but firm 'no.' Never follow this up with a reason because pushy people will just talk you out of it. Though to be reasonable, you can try to compromise - something along the lines of "I'm sorry I won't be able to do that now but maybe tomorrow afternoon?" Anything that's not suitable for them means that they'll need to make alternative arrangements (even if it is begrudgingly!) but never let anyone make you feel bad. It's better to say 'no' than agree to something that will seriously compromise your inner-peace and emotional wellbeing. 9. THE POWER OF LISTS! We all tell ourselves that there's no need to write anything down as we'll remember. But then we waste time by having to continually dash out and battle the crowds to pick up bits and pieces we've forgotten, which does precious little for our stress levels. So to make sure you don't forget Aunty Joan's Christmas present, make sure you write lists for all the things you need to get, and for the tasks you need to get completed. Keep adding to it as you remember things. You can also include deadlines to ensure you stay on schedule. 10. SPREAD OUT THE FESTIVITIES Realistically there's no way you can see all the people you'd like to spend the festivities with on the one day. Spreading the celebrations out over a period of several days, means that not only do you ease some of the pressure off the big day, but you also have things to look forward to after the main event. When you've spend so much time planning and prepping, and there's a build up to the big day, it's a bit anti-climactic when it's all over and you feel as though you have nothing else to look forward too. So plan for the days following the main event in order to have some great things lined up that you can enjoy with different groups of family or friends. 11. BE FOOD-SAVVY If you invite a large group of people over, there's a good chance that there might be at least one person who has different dietary requirements to the others due to health, religious or ethical reasons. Of course you want to be the perfect host and cater to everyone's needs. But realistically it's just not possible to create all these different dishes without tiring yourself out. By the end of it all, you'll never want to see another piece of tofu again! After finding out your guests various requirements, plan for one main meat dish and a vegan, gluten-free alternative that's also allergen-free if any of your guests have serious allergies. Then for side dishes and desserts, keep everything gluten-free; swap dairy for plant-based and eggs for egg substitutes, so that everyone can dig in with no problem and you won't have run yourself ragged. 12. ADVANCE PLANNING AND PREPPING If you're one of those last minute people, you'll know how stressful it is to be running around, feeling totally out of control, trying to get everything done at once - sometimes with little or no help. Organization is not everyone's greatest strength - even though we all say that it is on our CVs! But being disorganized means a lot of time gets unnecessarily wasted; you feel completely stressed; you don't get to socialize with your guests and by the end of it all, you feel anything but festive cheer! This is where your lists will come in very handy so be sure to make your lists as early on as possible, and plan and prepare in advance as much as possible. This includes working out your budget; the menu; gifts, to managing the big day and the days leading up to it. 13. BE HAPPY TO RECEIVE We're taught that it's better to give than receive and while we won't argue with that, receiving can make you feel loved and appreciated. We're not just talking gifts here but things like compliments on your festive decor; accepting offers to give you a hand; enjoying yourself more and giving yourself permission to celebrate, eat, drink, and socialize more. Allow yourself to stay up later and start that exercise plan in the new year! So allow yourself to receive the festive cheer of the celebratory period. It can be very uplifting and can give you a much needed boost. 14. CARVE OUT SOME 'YOU' TIME Although you want this time to be special and for everything to run like clockwork, it's important to remember that a lot of the work that you're doing is essentially for a few days. So don't stress if things are not perfect - half the time people are too busy enjoying themselves to notice the slight imperfections. So instead of working relentlessly during the prepping stages, take some time out for yourself. Listen to music; watch an episode of your fave show with a glass of wine; read... Also make sure to find time to eat healthily; drink water; sleep well, exercise and meditate so you're well enough to handle anything. And how do you make sure that the work continues while you're taking time out? Why, you delegate of course! 15. GET NOSTALGIC! There's something so endearing and meaningful about traditions that have existed in the family for decades. You might not always have appreciated them when you were growing up but it's amazing how much meaning those traditions have when you move away or you're not able to be with your family. Family traditions bring back happy memories of childhood and family events, filling you up with that warm, fuzzy feeling. There are still many traditions that you can keep alive that will keep you connected to your family - especially if they're not with you during the holidays - and help bring back memories of the good old days which is great for that much needed feel-good factor. You can still put up the the nativity crib; watch your fave holiday movies, and make your nan's famous shortbread - though admittedly it won't taste quite like hers do but it'll still be fab! Hope every one has a very happy and stress-free festive season. Photos: Pixabay Word Cloud: Angel Noire

It's Halloween today, the first of the main autumn/winter festivities which means there's not long to go before all the other great holidays and festivities of the season come along. That's fantastic - I do love a good party - but if there's one thing I'm not looking forward to, it's being served food that I really can't stomach. And then I end up looking and feeling like the one misery-guts contestant on Come Dine With Me! I've never thought of myself as a fussy person when it comes to food, especially when compared to Mr.D, who has a list of food dislikes that's almost as tall as he is. Standing on a chair. On tippy toes. With his arms up! I considered myself to be the kind of person who'll eat anything - or at least give it a try. But a conversation about food the other day made me realise that I had an awful lot of food hates myself. In fact after openly sharing them, I doubt I'll ever be invited to dinner again! 1. Glacé cherries This might seem a little ironic considering I love cherries, but they have to be either fresh or dried - I can even live with the tinned variety. But glacé cherries for me are a huge non-no. Their bright, tomato-red colour just puts me off as I know that real cherries aren't supposed to be that colour. In fact for years I thought that they're weren't 'real' cherries as they didn't look or taste like the cherries that I love but they are - they're maraschino cherries that have been stoned and candied in a sugar syrup. Even as a child I've never liked them, and my dislike for glacé cherries still continues. As much as I adore cherry bakewells, fruit cake and Christmas pudding, I always pick out the offending glacé cherries. 2. Smoked salmon I love, love, love salmon. It's one of my fave foods. So you'd think I'd be a huge fan of smoked salmon, right? Wrong! Smoked salmon and I never really hit it off. I never liked the taste or the texture. I know it's considered a luxury delicacy, but I could never acquire a taste for it. In fact, give me a tin of salmon over the smoked stuff any day! 3. Quiche Oh my goodness - if there's a food I really cannot stomach, it's quiche. I've never liked it and they used to serve the horrid stuff  for school dinners on a regular basis. I don't think I've ever eaten a whole slice of quiche. I've given it a good go but that taste, that smell... no, just not happening! 4. Green banana Green bananas are usually served in savoury dishes and feature in Caribbean, South American, African and South Asian cuisines - cuisines I enjoy a great deal.   I don't come across green bananas very often, thankfully. But when I have, I've never really enjoyed them so tend to pick them out. I don't like the texture - and the fact that I believe bananas should be yellow and sweet probably has something to do with my dislike of them! 5. Cooked peppers Now I can eat raw peppers without any problem at all, and I don't believe that a salad is a salad without them. But for some reason, I don't enjoy peppers when they've been cooked. Unlike many of the foods on this list, I can actually eat cooked peppers but then again I've had to - you won't believe how many dishes contain cooked peppers. It's just that I'd prefer not to! I don't really like the flavour or texture of peppers when they've been cooked. 6. Non- peeling oranges I've always had a bit of a love-hate relationship with oranges. One of those things in life that just can't be explained. But even though I'm happy to OD on oranges when I have a really bad cold, they have to be of the peeling variety. I can't be doing with all that cutting malarkey. And since childhood, I've never been able to stand the sight of those navel oranges - definitely not for me! 7. Soft jelly sweets Now I've always had a sweet tooth so naturally I love sweets. But I don't like those ultra soft, sugar-coated jelly sweets. I'm not totally sure why - I vaguely remember being sick after eating too many of these as a child so I'm sure that's got a lot to do with it - but they've always made me feel a bit queasy after tucking into a few, so I tend to give them a miss. I prefer the jelly sweets with a harder texture. 8. Curried/stewed fish OK, so I love fish, I love curries, and I love stews. I even like fish stews and curries. But I'm very fussy about how the fish is cooked. It has to be in chunks rather than steaks, and there shouldn't be any huge bones and certainly no skin, as  I hate the texture - all slimy and nasty. Not good! 9. Duck Duck is very popular with many people but I personally have never understood the appeal. It has a rather strong flavour that I really don't like but if I did have to eat it, I'd prefer to have my duck cooked a bit longer than most people would prefer. I've tried to get into it but I've accepted that my tastebuds are different to everyone else's and duck just isn't for me. 10. Offal I reckon it's a small minority of people who can stomach offal - but I'm not one of them. The smell alone is horribly off-putting, and although I've tried classics such as steak and kidney pie, and  liver and onions,  it's not something that I'm in a hurry to sample again. If any of you have any 'food nasties,' I'd love to hear about them! Blog graphics by Angel Noire

A while back we took a look at all that was fab about being an ex-pat and the benefits that experiencing life in another country can bring. But anyone who's ever moved abroad will also know that unfortunately there's a downside to being an ex-pat and it's not all cocktails on the beach and making a new bunch of mates. In the second part of this post, we take a look at the drawbacks of being an expat and ways in which these can be overcome. 1. HOMESICKNESS Even if you've been enthusiastic about the move and are enjoying your new life in another country, there can still be a certain level of homesickness. But it's when that level of homesickness is so severe that it's stopping you from making the most of your new life and doing the things that you need to do, leading to loneliness and anxiety, then it becomes a huge issue. Before you move abroad, you expect to feel a certain degree of homesickness - closely associated with culture shock and loneliness - when you arrive in your adopted country. You know there's going to be a difference in lifestyle and habits; you won't see your mates every day or pop round to your mum's whenever you like. Certain social traditions won't make sense; you might not be a huge fan of the food; you'll miss the local barista who knew your order before you'd even requested it, and your hairdresser who knew exactly where you have your parting! But you don't always account for all the weddings, birthdays and new arrivals you'll miss out on; the loss of loved ones; the feeling of helplessness when there's a problem at home. Even regular family traditions like weekend brunch or Sunday lunch, get togethers with the girls and watching the match in a pub with your mates... nothing prepares you for how much you'll miss these until you're not there anymore. With the best will in the world, it's not always possible or affordable to rush home whenever you want to. The best way to deal with it is by trying to adjust to everything that your new destination offers. As days and months go by, you won’t find everything so “bizarre” in your host country. OVERCOMING THE ISSUE Be mentally prepared and go with an open mind. This makes the minor setbacks easier to deal with. Accept that you will experience culture shock and in the initial stages, you might well experience loneliness and frustration. Plan for how you might overcome these setbacks well in advance. Be open to change and understand that your routine and lifestyle will not necessarily be the same in your new country. One of the best things about living in another country is learning new things and having experiences that you may not have had in your home country. So embracing such changes will help you adjust and adapt when new things come your way. Even if the move is because of a new job, think of attainable goals that you'd like to achieve while living in your new country and work towards them. It’s a chance for personal growth and development, and can make your time as an expat more fulfilling, productive and enjoyable - and should hopefully keep feelings of homesickness at bay. Keep in regular contact with family and friends back home. It'll lift your spirits and might even motivate you into exploring your new surroundings and experiencing new things. But while it's good to keep in contact with family and friends, make sure you don't become overly reliant on them. Take steps towards meeting new people and forging new friendships. Don't worry you won't forget your mates at home! And talking of family and friends, invite them to visit. Having your family come to visit will make your new home feel more like your old home. But make sure it's close family and good friends who will lift your spirits - not acquaintances who are just looking for free bed and board while on holiday! Find a good expat store! Or at the very least check out the international food sections at your local supermarket who might import favourites from your home country (though be warned, they won't come cheap!) These stores are very useful when adjusting to life in a new country, especially for those with children. Work can be very useful when it comes to getting to meet new people and learning more about the country you're living in. But if you're unable to work for any reason, give volunteering a go. Use Meet Up groups and social media groups to connect with other expats. It might be beneficial for you to link up with people who understand what you're going through, and to share information and knowledge. But make sure to include the locals as part of your social circle too. 2. NOT BEING ABLE TO FIND WORK When in your home country, you don't need to justify your existence for being there. It's 'your country' - you're just 'there'! It doesn't matter what your employment status is like - there's no need for you to prove yourself to anyone. But when you are relocating to another country, you need to demonstrate that you’re moving for a justifiable reason i.e - a job, a study program etc. This also means your ability to remain in the country depends on the reason why you’re there. If you applied for an employment visa, you need to keep the job to keep your legal status. Usually when people move abroad, they've already got a job lined up. But if you're moving for reasons other than employment, it can be difficult to land a job within five minutes of arriving. For instance a lot of people end up abroad because they're the spouse of someone who has obtained a post. So while their spouse has been able to find work - they haven't. It could be that the kind of work you did at home is hard to find in your new country; maybe your qualifications don't translate, or you need to retrain. And when it’s already a very competitive job market to begin with, don't be surprised if you find that the recruitment process is focused on prioritizing locals (which of course isn't allowed and will never be admitted to - but it happens!) OVERCOMING ISSUES Research the job situation before you fly out. See what's available in your field. Is work easy to come by? Will you need to retrain? Will the work you currently do enable you to work remotely from your new country? Also familiarize yourself with employments laws regarding taxes, holidays, further qualifications etc. before you arrive in your adopted country so you will know what to expect and not get any unpleasant shocks. Try to find out whether the qualifications you currently hold will translate, and what you need to do if it doesn't. If there there isn't much demand for the work you currently do, see if you possess transferable skills that can be used in another field. A lot of people view a move to another country as a time for transformation and that includes career. If you've always wanted to try something else, see what training opportunities are available where you're moving to. If you're moving to a country with a different language, learn at least some of the basics before you get there. take classes; purchase an online course etc. before you go, and see if there are schools or private instructors where you can learn the language. Try to use the gifts and talents you were born with to help others. Volunteering is extremely rewarding, so if you have useful skills (medical, technological, language etc.) it might be beneficial to certain local groups and organizations. Don't be shy in asking around. 3. DIFFICULTY IN MAKING FRIENDS You may have been one of the most popular kids on the block when you were at home. You may even have frequented your very own Cheers bar where everyone knew your name! So it's a real shock to the system when you move to a new country and find making new friends a real mission. And not so much mission as mission impossible! When you don’t have a network of friends to rely on, you have no choice but to create a new one. But when you're a super nice person and you're saying and doing all the right things, it's a bit hard not to take it personally when you find it hard to meet your new BFF. You begin to wonder what's so bad about you that people don't want to hang out with you. This type of thinking doesn't just lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation but loss of confidence; low self-esteem, and anxiety. You may find the odd person who claims that they're 'not a people person,' but most of us would agree that humans are pack creatures. Having that sense of belonging, finding your tribe, knowing someone has our back, and feeling part of a group or a community - it's what we strive for. And once we've found it, we thrive on it. For those of us who have made the leap to living in a new country, we all know how important it is to find that feeling of belonging and be part of an inner circle. So what do you do when it's easier to make than friends? OVERCOMING ISSUES Be aware that you might not find yourself with a welcoming committee the second you step off the plane. But remember that while making friends and establishing new bonds might be stressful, it's also character-building. You might be on your own for a while but you'll come through it more resilient; self-reliant, and it's a great chance for you to get to know yourself as a person all over again. If you don't consider yourself to be a particularly gifted person when it comes to languages, needing to communicate in another language can be quite daunting. Overcome this obstacle by learning the new language at least two months before you leave. If you are unable to find or attend language classes in your area, look for online resources or try to find an online tutor in your host country and start lessons before you leave. Before you leave, look up what is on offer in your new local area with regards to groups, clubs, and classes. Once again, expat and Meetup groups will come in handy. It sounds very obvious but accepting invitations and going to places where there's a chance for you to get to know people and make friends is a very good idea. This one might be tough but be honest with yourself. When you're overly-keen and anxious to make friends, you might come across in a way that is quite unappealing to others. No one wants to make friends with the person who's false, pushy, desperate or just plain odd. So take a step back (or ask someone you trust if you feel you can handle brutal honesty!) and see if it's you who's pushing people away, and act accordingly. Be natural and be yourself - that's who people want to get to know. If a friendship is based on an act, it's not likely to last for very long. Your real friends will appreciate who you are and you will only meet 'your tribe' if you be yourself. Even though finding your tribe can sometimes take a while but be patient. And as keen as you are to establish friendships, please be discerning. Unfortunately unpleasant people exist everywhere. They are protected by the law so there's not much we can do about them! There's no immediate way of knowing who's who, so don't be overly trusting and rush into friendships. Take your time getting to know people and use the common sense you were blessed with. 4. SOCIETAL PROBLEMS One of the reasons why people emigrate is because they feel that life in their home country has 'gone downhill' and they're on the lookout for something better. But the truth is that hardships and social and political issues exist everywhere. If there is a place other than Disneyland that doesn't have such problems, then we'd all be living there, wouldn't we? It's all a question of what we're prepared to live with and finding a place that's as close as you can get to your idea of perfect. Your host country might be subject to a whole array of societal issues that you had either not been aware of or had never experienced before. There may be problems regarding extreme poverty; corrupt officials; severe inequality among certain groups of people; a non-democratic government; no publicly funded healthcare system... the list goes on. Most people wouldn't willingly go and live in a place which had this level of social and political problems. But if you end up moving to such a country for whatever reason, how do you deal with such issues? OVERCOMING ISSUES Be aware and thankful for your previous experiences and opportunities that you were blessed with. When we're confront with images of suffering or hardship, we often have the belief that it's sad but we don't know what it is we can do to improve things. Start by offering kindness, and think about things you can do to resolve the situation - no matter how small the step may be. Use your compassion, experience and knowledge to educate others, not just in your new community but also your family and friends at home. People can learn a lot from others and the sharing of ideas can go towards fixing problems in their own home countries. There are some countries where certain issues are not high on people's list of priorities - recycling and environmental issues; road safety; overconsumption and waste... But nobody likes preaching and lecturing so maybe lead by example. Pick up litter; take your own mug to the coffee shop; wear a helmet when you're cycling etc. Explain to people why it's so important coupled with stories of your experiences. Sensible people often respond well to this. Never underestimate the gifts, skills and talents you have that can be put to good use. Once again volunteering and putting your skills to good use with local organizations who may need help from you is a great idea. 5. NEW KID SYNDROME Some of us may have at least once in our lives known what it feels like to be the new kid at school. We need to learn how to navigate this huge, unfamiliar building and worry about getting lost; try to learn the rules of the new school; we need to figure out who the nice and not-so-nice teachers are; who to be friends with; how to avoid the mean kids; whose lunch table to sit at; what after-school classes to take... you wonder if you're ever going to figure things out. And that's before we even get to you to feeling awkward, anxious, like the proverbial square peg, and wondering if you'll ever fit in. Well unfortunately new kid syndrome can strike even when you're an adult and not at school! Moving to another country can also bring about new kid syndrome. But while most people don't mind standing out, it's a real problem if you feel like a fish out of water. But this awkward feeling in the beginning is completely normal, though it should hopefully get easier with time. But sometimes it goes a bit further than just feeling a bit shy and awkward. Culture shock, for instance, might be another source of trepidation, and might make you feel uncertain. There are unfamiliar laws, rules and societal norms you not only have to understand but also abide by. And that's before we really head to the totally unpleasant side of being an expat - unfriendly and unwelcoming locals, and the prejudices and disrespect you might have to face. It's not something people like to talk about when discussing expat life but sadly it does happen. But what if you're made to feel different and believe that you'll never fit in? OVERCOMING OBSTACLES It might be easier said than done but try not to feel too overwhelmed. Think about how you felt when you started at your new school... college... university... your first day at your new job... meeting your partner's family for the first time. You might have been a bundle of nerves and wondered if it would ever get easier but you soon found your feet. With time you will adjust to your new surroundings and the new way of life. Be optimistic - remember the new kid at school who everyone was totally fascinated by and wanted to know more about? Well that could be you! Not every newcomer is made to feel as though they don't belong; some are welcomed with open arms. We've said this before and we'll say it again - if you're going to live in another country where the language spoken is different to yours, learn some of the language before you leave. It means you won't feel totally isolated when you get there. Furthermore learn something about the culture, traditions, etiquette and laws before you get there so that there aren't any nasty surprises and you don't commit any unpleasant social faux pas. Once again expat online groups could be a great source of information, and any expats you might meet in your local area will be able to help you navigate your way around. And who knows you might end up being great mates. As we said in the previous post, there are no greater teachers than the locals. So if you meet any welcoming locals don't be afraid to ask questions and forge bonds. Don't allow anyone's rudeness and disrespectful behaviour to ruin this experience for you. But that said blatant prejudice and discrimination is never acceptable. But it's a sad fact that a lot of countries don't regard matters of discrimination as seriously as others. Read up on discrimination laws before you leave and organizations you can turn to should you have a problem. Businesses generally have a duty of care to their employees. So if you're relocating because of work, your superiors should be able to step in if you come across any problems. They might also offer Discrimination, diversity and cultural awareness training, and extra materials which can support and assist relocating employees. For those of you who have gone to live or have lived in another country, what did you find to be the worst aspect of expat life? What other problems did you encounter? How did you overcome difficulties? Blog graphics: Angel Noire Photos: Pixabay

It's seems a bit overly dramatic when you say that a mask has changed your life (unless we're talking about Covid prevention!) But this face mask to beautify your skin is a miracle in a little yogurt pot! Well we think so anyway. This mask of yogurt featuring white tea with special guest appearance by honey is excellent for when your skin is parched, discoloured, tired- looking and duller than a meeting at the annual cabbage growers association (sorry cabbage growers!) The beauty (no pun intended) of this mask is that it's made with ingredients that could very easily be found in your kitchen. In fact all the ingredients are edible with nothing harsh or unpleasant so it's good for those of you who need to use something that's quite mild. It's also very cost-effective and very easy to whip up and apply. You can use any yogurt you fancy (providing it's not fruit flavoured. But vanilla is fine. Just kidding!) although full-fat Greek yogurt is the one that we've found to be the most suitable for this mask because it's rich, creamy, feels more moisturizing and has better staying power than other types of yogurt so it won't slide off your face and drip everywhere. Be warned though that white tea isn't as readily available on supermarket shelves as it once was. So if you're fed up of hunting high and low, order it online and go for a high quality organic white tea. But do persevere because it will sooo be worth it! THE STARS OF THE SHOW YOGURT If you're searching for the secret to eternal youth, you really don't have to look another further than the pot of yogurt in your refrigerator. Some of us already know that yogurt can play an important role where gut health is concerned, but yogurt can also be a great addition to your skincare routine. As we all know there are a million and one types of yogurt in supermarket chillers - low-fat, goat milk, plant-based etc. - and they may all have a slightly different effects on your skin but we're going to be looking specifically at Greek yogurt which was the kind that we found to be most effective in this mask. There are lots of goodies in yogurt - Greek and non-Greek kind that is super beneficial for your skin. The lactic acid, an organic compound, found in yogurt for instance has an exfoliating effect that can help to brighten skin, shrink pores and reduce the appearance of fine lines. The zinc can regulate oil production, while the probiotics have a calming effect on dehydrated skin by boosting cell-renewal and repairing the lipid barrier (also known as the moisture barrier) so it's perfect for sun-damaged skin. WHITE TEA Out of the four main 'true' teas (as opposed to fruit or herbal teas) black, green, and oolong, white is the least known and the least studied. But white tea is the least processed and therefore retains a high amount of antioxidants, which makes it an incredibly healthy tea. From the studies that have been carried out, it is believed that white tea can contribute to dental health, weight loss, as well as reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer. But with regards to skin health and beauty, white tea has many benefits either taken as a drink or applied topically to the skin. It's totally normal for skins to show signs of aging as we get older but there are certain factors - environmental, lifestyle and internal such as UV damage, smoking, and free radicals- that can speed up the aging process and affect both internal and external aging, which obviously nobody wants! This is where white tea comes in handy as it may help delay the signs of premature aging, both outside and inside of the body. It's full of polyphenols which have antioxidant benefits, and help protect the body against damage from free radicals. YOGURT AND WHITE TEA FACE MASK For Skin Types: All - Dry/Sunburnt/Mature/Aging/Acne/Combination/Sensitive Not recommended for: Those with dairy allergy - yogurt made with cashew milk may be a good substitute. Frequency: Once a week but can be used more often if you wish to. You will need: I white tea bag - just-used is fine 1 tblspn Greek yogurt 1 teaspoon manuka honey Rose water Cotton wool pads/muslin face cloths This is how you do it: Empty contents of tea bag onto yogurt. Add honey and combine well. Apply yogurt mixture to face and neck in small circle motions in an upward direction. This is good for getting in a bit of exfoliating/massage action! Leave on your face for twenty minutes. After this the yogurt should appear less wet and look and feel more 'cakey'. Rinse with water. Dip cotton wool pads/muslin cloths into rose water and gently wipe all over face and neck. Apply your favourite moisturizer. This mask can also be applied to areas such as feet, hands, and any other part of the body where the skin might be discoloured and in need of hydration.

Let's be honest - there hasn't been much at-home entertaining going on in the last year and a half thanks to the pandemic. But now with restrictions being eased (for now at least!) most of us are starting to resume life as normal. And that includes having your mates over. We all like to make an effort when we have guests over and want everyone to have a good time. There are those who throw fab gatherings effortlessly and still manage to look as cool and chilled as a cumber cocktail (a Benemint Cucumberpatch perhaps!) And then there are some who look as though they need to lie down for a very long time - and not because they've had one too many! When you're having guests over for a very informal evening, the easiest way to do it is with cocktails, canapes and antipasto platters. A lot of these can be great cupboard stand-bys so even if it's all very last minute.com, you can still pull off a great evening without rushing around and looking frazzled. Even with cocktails you don't need to be Tom Cruise or have a brewery load of alcohol to create something quite impressive. So if you're having a last-minute gathering - or you've got a crowd who has just turned up unannounced - there are ways of hosting a great evening without feeling as though you are in danger of committing murder beforehand. Here are some great tips to hosting the perfect at-home gathering. BECOME THE COCKTAIL QUEEN (OR KING!) If you are very last-minute or you simply dread having unexpected guests, it's a good idea to make sure you have some stand-by items ready in the fridge or cupboard. There isn't really much need to stock up on ultra expensive ingredients that you're probably never going to use again. We all remember the fairy tale about the magic stone soup and it's true - with limited ingredients and a lot of imagination you can come up with something quite impressive: Have at least one bottle of wine, rum or vodka tucked away for 'emergencies,' ready to act as the base for a good cocktail. Always make sure you're never out of ice. You can cheat by using a cocktail mixer pack where all you have to do is add alcohol and serve. There aren't many fruits that can't be used in a cocktail, either sliced, pureed or muddled and strained so let your fruit bowl be your best friend! Herbs and spices such as basil, mint, lemongrass and ginger and even chilli can really give your cocktails a much needed kick. Cola, lemonade, sparkling water and various types of juices make great mixers. Never underestimate the importance of the humble lemon (or lime.) The zest and juice can be added to the alcohol; the fruit can be sliced, and the peel can be used for decoration. When all else fails, cooled sugar syrup + lemon juice + alcohol of your choice+ ice + soda + lemon slice = inexpensive yet impressive cocktail! Don't forget to frost the rims of the glasses with sugar. If you do have time to prepare, freeze either fruit juice, coffee, cola, tea lemonade etc. to avoid watery cocktails. Also remember that it's not all about the alcohol as you may have guests who don't drink. Simply omit the alcohol in their drinks, substitute it with a flavoured syrup, if necessary, and top up with ginger ale, lemonade, soda etc. THE EASIEST CHARCUTERIE BOARD EVER Canapés and antipasti platters are traditionally nibbles served to guests as they arrive and as they are a precursor to a main meal, they tend to be light. However, it's not uncommon now for people to forgo a sit-down meal in order to serve an array of canapés, especially if they are having a lot of guests or want to keep things informal. So unless you’re planning a party with lots of guests, keep the antipasto fairly simple so you don’t override the the main meal. You could perhaps serve two or three dishes from the list below along with some fruit, nuts and bread. If you're planning on serving a main meal, then the  antipasto should complement the meal you’re planning. Think about the appearance and fragrance of the food; blending flavors, aromas and colours will create interesting antipasto plates. We'd all love to do a Delia when it comes to entertaining but let's face it - we don't all have time to stuff quail eggs or make pastry from scratch. Neither do we have the patience or finances to track down obscure, expensive  ingredients which can probably only be ordered online. So if you're pushed for time - or money - cheat! Make the most of your local, supermarket, grocer or deli. And if you're fortunate enough to live near a farmer's market, so much the better! Here's a list of simple nibbles you could include as part of your platter: Jarred marinated artichoke hearts Water crackers Various types of cheese Sliced or cherry tomatoes marinated in dressing Olives Cold meat slices Different types of bread Slices or chunks of fresh fruit Jarred roasted peppers Garlic hummus and pita bread Sardines and sweet onions Capers Sweet pickles, chutneys and relishes Cold shrimp Roasted nuts Homemade garlic bread Grilled deli vegetables Marinated fresh mozzarella Anchovies You could also decide what you'd like to be the key component or theme in your antipasti platter ie. - meat, vegetables, fish etc. and then base other nibbles around them: Meat:  a selection of natural deli meats - pepperoni, salami and prosciutto etc. — then add mixed olives, brie, deviled eggs, roasted vegetables and crackers. Vegan: vegetable crudités, marinated olives or olive tapenade, pitta bread, roasted peppers, vegetarian stuffed dolmas and roasted garlic hummus. Seafood:  fish roe, sardines, anchovies, seared fresh tuna and smoked salmon, crackers served with cream cheese, sliced marinated onions and capers. Fresh Fruit and Nuts: Serve chunks of melon, figs and pomegranate alongside  deli meats, and then add toasted walnuts and roasted, salted pistachios. Roasted Vegetables with Cheese: roasted veggies e.g. - baby aubergines, beets, bell peppers,courgettes, carrots, tomatoes, asparagus, onions and garlic. (Look for roasted vegetables in the prepared foods section of the store, or simply toss raw veggies with a bit of olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper and roast on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet in a 450°F oven until tender.) Served with tangy cheeses like feta, Gruyère or aged Manchego. Cheese and More Cheese: Look for out-of-the-ordinary cheeses like Rustica cheese with red peppers or black peppercorns, rosemary coated Manchego, Caciotta cheese with green olives, Gouda with mustard seeds or cumin, drunken goat cheese made with red wine and Sotocenere cheese with truffles and a hint of cinnamon. Then combine them with a few traditional ones like provolone or fresh mozzarella. Serve with crusty bread, olives, deli meats, fruit, crackers, pickles and chutneys. Sweets: Baked brie; mascarpone; White stilton; almonds; nut brittle; dried apricots, biscotti, brioche chunks; fresh cherries; berries; dark chocolate; honey, jam Here's an example of a super simple antipasti platter and a quick and easy cocktail. Hardly any fuss at all with easily found ingredients. ANTIPASTI PLATTER INGREDIENTS: 125g crostini 240g artichoke hearts 225g queen green olives 70g Napoli salami 70g Milano prosciutto 70g sliced chorizo 80g Parma ham METHOD: Arrange the selection of canapés on a breadboard or platter. APPLE AND CINNAMON SPARKLE INGREDIENTS: 200ml vodka 300ml sparkling apple drink 1 green apple, sliced 6 cinnamon sticks METHOD: Mix vodka and sparkling apple drink.Pour into martini glasses.Garnish with a slice of apple and a cinnamon stick. What could be simpler! Enjoy!