Typecast

After I shared my 2022 planner/diary blog post I received some messages about what pens I use, especially from people who were new to considering Tomoe River paper (in the Hobonichi) or wondering why I was raving about 120gms paper (for the Filofax refill). For me, the paper I use has to be responsive to the ink in my pen, so here's a quick overview of the pens I use regularly...   Fountain Pentel JM20  : This is basically a disposable fountain pen with a plastic nib that feels firm on one side and flexible on the other which will generate a thick and thin line, depending on which side you use.  It has black ink, a plastic barrel and a clip on the cap.  I appreciate that this isn't exactly environmentally friendly but I off-set that in other ways, hopefully.  Monteverde Prima Rollerball : I received this to review five years ago  and it quickly became one of my favourite writing implements because of the chunky barrel which is actually unique in its desig...

Around mid-November, I always start thinking about what diary and planning system I'm going to use next year. I have a few tried and tested favourites but there's always something new that piques my interest. For 2022 I did consider returning to a travellers notebook system and seriously looked at the Jibun Techo , however, I am going to be fairly traditional with my choices but will be splitting business and personal. It's always worth remembering that I treat my diaries and planners as a B.O.A.T - my Book Of All Things. It's always to hand and I scribble ideas, reminders, shopping lists and to-do lists down alongside regular notable dates and appointments. It's my portable brain dump. So let's dive in...  Hobonichi Techo (A6) I first used a Hobonichi Techo back in 2015 because I thought the 'page a day' journal style layout would be great for the variation of the bullet journal system I use. However, the blank space gave me a sense of overwhelm so ...

It's that time of the year again and you're either SUPER organised and finished your Christmas shopping in July or you are - like me - panicking about a couple of presents because they are 'at a funny age' (like my granddaughter or 'they don't need anything' (at least one of my sons). So here is my annual gift guide which will hopefully help you find that amazing, inexpensive present that you'd never thought of! (Please do keep an eye on this page because I tend to add to it as I find inspiration) Big Bobble Hats I've been an ambassador for Big Bobble Hats for a couple of years now and have about six of their designs, plus some of their matching buffs.  These are a great stocking filler and I'm sure there's a colour combination to match your outfit, your running club colours or just something hugely fun.  This one here is the one I wear for parkrun because it matches the high-viz jacket I wear when volunteering!   If you use the code TC15 w...

This is the Knife Angel , currently on display in Blackburn, Lancashire. It has taken four years to make and was created by artist, Alfie Bradley at the British Ironwork Centre in Oswestry, Shropshire. It stands 27 feet tall and is made from 100,000 seized and surrendered blades.   It has already toured thirteen UK towns and cities, making significant impact to individuals, families and communities. It is much more than just a sculpture as, whilst on display, there are amnesty boxes where knives can be safely deposited, a peace vigil has been held and there are core educational programme for schools and community groups. I've now seen it during the day and at night and it had a different impact on me both times. You can't just wander past it and muse about knife crimes. You have to pause, look closely at the craftsmanship, take into account that some of those blades had been used - or intended to be used - to hurt, maim or kill someone.  If you're in the area, take some ...

Your backyard isn't just a place for your dog to bury things or empty outside space. It can be a new section of your home that works well for entertainment or a spot where you get in shape. Renovating your backyard can make your house feel much more of a home. Here are some of the benefits of renovating your backyard. Gives Your Unused Space Purpose The backyard tends to be neglected, especially during the winter season. However, you can get backyard contractors to help you create a better space. Maybe you can have a swing set or a play area for your kids to encourage them to play outside. You can watch your younger kids play around in the comfort of home. It's better than going to a local park because you have personal space to allow them to express themselves. Not to mention, you can have a place to relax and spend some quality time with your little ones. Brings Your Loved Ones Together You don't have to go to a bar or a restaurant to enjoy some time with friends and fam...

Now the nights are drawing in and the temperature is dropping, there's definitely a need to wrap up in all kinds of soft and snuggly clothing.  I have my one of my crocheted blankets on the back of the sofa ready to tuck around me, a lovely fluffy dressing gown to snuggle up in when I get changed into my pajamas and my slipper socks to keep my feet warm and toasty.  Yes, slipper socks are my current guilty pleasure (and I'm wearing my penguin ones right now) and much better than traditional slippers, so here are some recommendations.  Fair Isle Pattern The Fair Isle pattern is very classic and traditional but there's so many colour combinations that you can mix and match your splash of colour to help cheer you up. These slipper socks which I bought from Amazon are quite short but have a great grip on the sole to stop me from skidding across our laminate flooring!  Cable Knit  These cute cable knit slipper socks are just perfect with the bit of faux fur peepin...

What would you do with an extra hour? I hate the phrase : "We all have the same 24 hours in the day". I hear it bandied about by all manner of life coaches and even used to use it myself when mentoring young adults. Yes we DO have the same 24 hours in the day but we don't all have the same opportunities or financial security. Earlier this month, another of Arnold Schwarzenegger's newsletter sections resonated with me and it was this... Use the 24 hours that we are given wisely - and include sleep in that time too. That hour scrolling on social media (ironic, huh?) could be spent reading a book. Another hour could be spent as quality time with family or a friend. Another hour could be spent learning a new skill or working on your personal development. This way of thinking has given me a new perspective on my 24 hours. PS: please do click that link to Arnie's newsletter. It's the highlight of my inbox each month and I put aside at least half an hour to devour i...