EXPLORING LLANBERIS

 The journey from Bournemouth took just over five hours, and as a top co-pilot I only slept for about 20 minutes of the journey. Annoyingly this was just as we entered the rolling hills of the Welsh valleys, but I definitely made up for it by requesting a few little pit stops to stop and take pics. 

Leaving first thing in the morning meant a couple of stop offs for coffee were inevitable, but it meant we would have some time to explore Llanberis a little that afternoon. 

Once our bags were down and our bellies full of tea and cake (more on this later) we set off to explore a few of the local landmarks.

Never before have I been so far north in Wales and was albeit slightly naïve but fascinated to understand that the majority of the locals actually spoke Welsh!  

We ventured out to find the most breath taking waterfall and also an awesome castle (or what was left of it). The scenery itself was enough to keep you occupied, made even better by the slight appearance of Autumn. It was on this walk I had the first glimpse into wondering if the impending climb was a good idea as it was on the decent from the castle that I went ass over tit!!! Blaming my new walking boots, as it couldn't possibly be my renowned clumsiness we hiked on in search of what more Llanberis had to offer. 

Cue the part of continuing to chat about more about the cake. This section is something I could dedicate a whole blog post to as the hospitably we experienced from Elaine and Andy was like no other. The second we arrived at Glyn Afon Guest House we were greeted with a steaming pot of tea and the most delicious selection of cakes to help ourselves to. Both Elaine and Andy were so so welcoming and it instantly felt like a home from home. So much so that I realised I had already taken my boots off whilst we were chatting to them in the reception area. 

It felt like we were on some kind of baking and goodies retreat as at every given opportunity there was rocky road, lemon cake and any other cake you can imagine on offer. Even our rooms were stocked with little chocolate treats and also all the toiletry essentials you could possibly need for a weekend stay. 

If you have read my post about the actual climb you will know that I prevented a hangry midmountain meltdown by stocking my bag with lots of snacks. Now whilst I don't recommend going up without any kind of supplies but with an Elaine breakfast, let's just say you will be fuelled for hours. Fresh fruit and yoghurt, pancakes and then a full English meant our bellies were well and truly stocked up for the impending adventure. I mean 3 course breakfasts need to be become a thing right? Not to mention, you guessed it a little cake care package was on offer. 

The only one complaint we had was that Elaine couldn't up ship and head to Scotland so we could stay there when we do the next challenge up to Ben Nevis. 

Both evening meals we headed to two local pubs. The first, The Heights, was a proper "walkers" pub and whilst I was a little saddened not to be greeted with a big roaring fire the staff were lovely and friendly, and the food was super hearty and perfect the night before climbing Snowdon. The second The Gwynedd Inn was definitely the kind of pub you want to head to after conquering a mountain. My one piece of advise is to go hungry as the portions were HUGE!

Sadly the Slate Mine Museum and little Hospital Museum were closed so we couldn't venture around them, but the location made for such a beautiful and relaxing break.

We stayed for two night which I think gave the perfect amount of time to explore Llanberis. Next time I would love to head back to try the zipwire which was sadly closed whilst we were there. 

This was such a perfect little staycation and I am definitely going to be creating a list of more places in the UK to head to.... So send all your recommendations my way. 

Have you explored North Wales or Llanberis before? 

CLIMBING SNOWDON AND LIVING WITHOUT EXPECTATION

In true winging it style there was a two week time frame from being asked, to saying yes, and then taking on the Snowdon climb. I mean who needs to stop and take weeks or months to decide if they want to hike up a mountain without any prep? But what an awesome way to say goodbye to my 31st year and hello to the next! 

The night before we set off my walking buddy asked me what I was most looking forward to about the climb. I thought about it for a second and then admitted that I was heading into it with no expectation. No hopes of how it would go, or without preconceptions of what I expected. 

 One thing I did know for sure was that I needed to be armed with lots of snacks, as let's face it  no one wants to be hangry half way up a mountain. If the trip taught me anything it's that I'm now a firm contender for the next series of SAS Who Dares Wins after successfully reaching the summit of a mountain with 40kg of carbs in my Bergen rucksack. 

Tying up my walking boots on the morning of the climb I still had zero expectation of what laid before me. Soon into our adventure I was very grateful that I invested in a good pair of said walking boots and snug socks.. both come highly recommended. We passed a couple of hikers later on during our descent sporting a pair of Nikes and I'm not sure they would have had feet left by the end. 

We set off up the Miners path which gave us the opportunity to witness an everchanging scenery and was a perfect combination of more gentle (ish) terrain with some clambering. Shout out to my nail tech for all 10 of my nails staying fully intact. The higher we climbed the more beautiful it became as the landscape literally transformed before us. This particular path was also home to the most stunning and unexpected lakes. 

After reaching the summit we ventured back down the Llanberis route. I am by no means now claiming to be some sort of hiking expert but I would highly recommend doing this route if you're a first timer. It gave a real all round experience. 

On both the ascent and descent we experienced  moments where the mist immersed us into a blanket of zero visibility. Then within seconds, as if by magic, the wind blew and carried that blanket away revealing the most breath taking views. At no point did this change in conditions make us turn back. Our speed may have lessened but momentum up the mountain continued as we knew the path we were heading up. This got me thinking about life. How we are surrounded by such beauty and adventure yet sometimes something blocks our path, or clouds our outlook. Despite this meaning some things may have to be adapted it's always important to remember this time too shall pass. Life is still going on around us even if in that split second we can't quite see where we are heading.  

That said, as we reached the summit the mist shrouded us once again and we couldn't see a thing. Tom Hardy could have been standing nude at the top and I would have been none the wiser!! It was during this moment I realised having no expectation worked in my favour. It meant even after several hours of climbing up the side of a mountain I didn't feel failure or disappointment the fact we reached the summit and couldn't see a thing. All I felt was happiness and a sense of achievement in the fact we had reached the top. I didn't care that we couldn't see the views, or the fact it was blowing an absolute hoolie. I mean don't get me wrong it would have been nice to catch a glimpse of it, but I'm not complaining. 

I pinky promise this is me at the top and not just stood in front of a white wall in the B&B!! 

I've noticed a pattern of behaviour most of us adopt as we get older. The over planning and leading with presumption and preconception.  As a child we've yet to learn about consequences or being let down so everything is just one big adventure and excitement. Little ones never really head into anything thinking about what to expect. I realise this was exactly how I stepped into this challenge. How leading with an open mind and no expectations gave way to enjoying every part of the experience. The experience ended up being far greater and more precious this way as no matter what the outcome there is always something to be taken from it. Try it...I promise you won't be disappointed. 

This was an epic adventure that I'm so chuffed I said yes to and I can't wait to get my walking boots back out for the next one. 

I have also done a little post all about Llanberis itself which you can read about here. 

Here's to many more adventures. 

x

HELLO PUMPKIN

Visiting a Pumpkin Patch has been on my bucket list for years. The reason it's stayed unticked is the added detail that I wanted it to be in America!! Each year I've seen people heading to one and picking their perfect orange companion, and I guess I've always stayed a little stubborn to wanting to do it stateside. 

Adopting more of a yes man (or women) attitude lately I've been wanting to crack on and gain more life experiences. This has meant putting a stop to waiting for the right time or place but just saying yes and enjoying that individual moment. All these moments are ones that could be done again with a particular person, or in a particular place, but it means not denying myself of still having some fun. And fun was exactly what we had.  

We are fortunate enough to have a patch right on our doorstep, so in full Autumnal attire (I thought the pumpkin outfit might have been a bit overboard) we headed in search for our orange mate. 

The way in which the Cat and Fiddle Farm Shop has created the patch was so so wonderful and gave all the Autumnal vibes. Armed with a wheelbarrow that they provide you are given free reign to head out and pick pumpkins until your hearts content. There were literally big ones, small ones and some the size of your head (note I have a whacking great head!!). 

Once the chosen one had been paid for ,we grabbed one of the tables that had been set out to enjoy a delicious hot chocolate.

A controversial move but after seeing some gorgeous designs on Pinterest I'm actually going to be painting my pumpkin as opposed to carving... I mean who even am I? Keep an eye out on my Instagram where if it's not too much of a disaster I will be posting pics. 

 This particular patch is a pick your own all year round so I'm definitely going to be heading back next year for strawberries and whatever else they have to offer. 

Pumpkin Health and Safety Disclaimer: The stalks are super spikey and the big ones are deceivingly fricking heavy! Yes I am clumsy and a liability so witnessed both first hand!

 

HELLO SEPTEMBER

For me September has always signified new beginnings. Even more of a new beginning than New Year which just seems full of resolutions you break three days in, and the overwhelming sense that just because we’ve welcomed a new year everything is somehow magically going to be different. September seems a good bedding in month where we know the direction the year is heading, and it offers the perfect prompt to shape the last chapter of the year into the best one. It is also the gateway to my favourite time of year.

September is also the Queen of nostalgia when it comes to the start of a new school year. I have the fondest of memories of going shopping for new stationery and convincing my parents that I definitely DID need a whole new pencil case and pen set. Not to mention that feeling of writing on the first page of a brand spanking new exercise book. And can we please take a moment to remember scented gel pens – Shout out to the popcorn and bubblegum ones!!!!

This obsession with stationery is one that has been with me for as long as I can remember. It’s always been my absolute dream to have my own stationery business/range. It was also an addition to my 30 before 30 list, but one that didn’t end up getting ticked off.

During lockdown I started creating my little Love Notes which only fuelled this passion and desire of all things paper and writing. So whilst the old me would have continued living with this dream for the next few years (never quite having the balls to push forward with it) the Winging It part of me has said SHHH to this self doubt and I’m excited to say this dream starts now….

So beauties with nostalgia, love and passion all rolled into one I would like to introduce you to HELLO SEPTEMBER.

I don’t have a finished logo yet, nor a website or webshop but that's not going to stop me.  It’s the starting point to grow my dreams and turn them into a reality. It's my submission to the universe rather than sitting on this dream for another eternity. It’s the hello to the next little chapter of the Winging It Movement. HELLO SEPTEMBER will include calligraphy and also physical stationery items, which I cannot wait to share with you. 

 Keep your eyes peeled over on my HELLO SEPTEMBER Instagram for all the updates and latest news. 

Lots of love, a very excited Liv xXx

 

 *Image credit for the second image is Alinne Marst

Sculpture By The Lakes...

Note: AD- Press Visit 


I've been chatting ALOT lately about enjoying the little moments, slowing down and attempting to go with the flow (I spoke a little more about this here). On the flip side I've always been a bit of an adventurer and love discovering new places. My visit to the Sculpture by the Lakes was the perfect combination of zen and discovery, and the perfect introduction back into the real world after lockdown!!

The Sculpture by the Lakes is the wondrous work of Simon Gudgeon and is home to 30 sculptures. Due to current restrictions visits are by bookings only and all the info can be found over on their website. It's also worth noting that due to the deep and fast flowing water they have a no dogs or no children under 14 policy. I apologise to all those people with little ones, but I have to say it really added to the relaxing atmosphere of the lakes as you could truly get lost in the moment without overhearing tantrums or screaming!

The natural layout of the location combined with  prebooking tickets meant that social distancing was super easy. They have also scattered tables and chairs far enough apart that you can fully relax and enjoy the view without having to worry about people being too close.

Their onsite cafe has also switched to a takeaway only service and the food looked delish. We however chose to take a picnic and we found a perfect spot overlooking the lake. Being in the depths of the countryside (also helped i'm sure by the no children rule... again sorry parents) allowed for the most peaceful and tranquil lunch. One where you could truly get lost in your own little world.

Who knew a picnic basket could have so many compliments! I lost count of the amount of people who made reference to how beautiful it was.... I think it needs its own Instagram account!!

Discovering the sculptures became a bit of a treasure hunt and there was something so enchanting about them. My favourites were definitely the water reflection sculptures and the thought provoking effects that they had.

This sculpture was also one of my favourites as it made me think of mother nature herself, it was like she was having a little rest which I just thought was so so beautiful.
The weather itself was a little overcast which was a shame in comparison to the scorching weather we have become accustomed to just lately. Despite the slightly grey day it didn't take away the beauty of the place.
I can see this being a place I will return to not only with friends, but equally to sit and enjoy a good book whilst being immersed within the most stunning surroundings.

Beyond the lakes we also discovered a gorgeous little veggie plot of dreams! All of the produce they grow can also be purchased which is simply wonderful. I've become such a fan of fresh and local produce so finding this was a lovely added bonus.

 Can we also just take a moment to admire their salad bags that come mixed with edible flowers!

The venue also has its own gallery where you can purchase sculptures and artwork. The Sculpture by the Lakes is also hosting the Dorset Arts Festival this July. If you are an arty lover then this is sooo worth a visit, and to be honest even if you are not it's a beautiful escape from any kind of hustle and bustle.

There is also the opportunity to hire out various parts of the venue including cute Shepard style huts and terrace roof spaces. This would be perfect for weddings or celebration for a real retreat vibe. All the information can be found here.

Me and my picnic basket of dreams will definitely be paying another visit here. Next time i'm going to bring some sunshine along with me, and most definitely will be trying out some of the delicious looking food from their cafe.

I want to take the opportunity to thank Darren Northeast PR for the invite and for the lovely people at Sculptures by the Lakes for having us.
It was a very wonderful Friday indeed.

Have you discovered any local gems lately?

Slowing Down & Learning To Go With The Flow...

I think the world has been longing for a slower paced life for some time. An influx of mediation apps and Hygge methods all pointed towards the unbusying of our lives. A desire to take a step back and truly establish what is important in our lives. To become so less consumed and overwhelmed by unnecessary rubbish. Albeit a rather extreme lesson, this period has forced us to stop and to live in the real and shrunk down world of our small, local communities. And most importantly to take pleasure in life’s little moments.

I’ve always been someone to chase big goals, to want to climb the career ladder and to achieve great things. By the time my 25^th birthday had rolled around I had pretty much ticked off the majority of my big goals and bucket list items.

I’ve spent so much time over the last few years trying to get back to this goal chasing, over achieving person… effectively feeling like I need to try and fix myself. I was constantly faced with feelings of unfulfillment and questioning what and where I was going wrong. After this prolonged opportunity of reflection throughout lockdown there’s been a huge shift in my focus. I now question whether I was actually ever really “broken” or just simply embarking on a different pathway. A new  journey that differs from the experiences I was familiar with ( my old norm), patterns of behaviour that no longer are going to serve me in this next chapter. All of which have been highlighted by stripping back life, going with the flow and having a bit more faith in yourself.

I think its really important to stop comparing yourself to who you used to be, but put focus on who you are now.

There are some big goals I still want to work towards like:

• the want for my own house,
• a little business,
• oh and a soul mate (all pretty flippin huge),

but all these goals will be achieved in the exact moment they are meant to happen. Right now, I’m taking great pleasure in things like blabbling on this blog, practicing my calligraphy, cooking, baking and growing my little herb garden. Not because I’m the best at these tasks, but for no other reason than simply because I enjoy them. All in fact are things I wouldn’t be doing if my soul focus was pointed to the big goals. I’m learning to banish the perfection curse and getting good at being bad at things.  Learning to unperfect myself as I’m sure this is where wonderous things occur. There’s a true sense of freedom and fun by simply having a go at something as opposed to being afraid of the outcome not being perfect. Who says you even have to know what the outcome will be?

Mark Chappell once said to me “ Realise that ultimately nothing really matters. Why not just do what makes you happy? Rather than viewing the world in a pessimistic way, it actually gives us total freedom. See it like making sandcastles! We know the sea will wash everything away, however the pleasure is just creating freely in the moment, not being attached to a future outcome. No matter how inevitable.”

There a true sense of freedom and joy by simply slowing the heck down. Naturally seeing what brings you happiness and allowing your goals and dreams to evolve more organically.

I think the point I’m trying to make is don’t get so caught up in the big stuff in life that you lose sight of the smaller things that bring you the true happiness. Have these goals, but detach yourself away from the outcome and enjoy the everyday.

Things I’ve enjoyed whilst slowing down:

• Noticing the incredible Spring blooms that have blossomed
• Writing letters, learning calligraphy  and sending and receiving  happy post
• Reading my monthly Red magazine subscription from cover to cover
• Channelling my inner Mary Berry and doing a little baking
• Enjoying the little things like a tea and scone over the wall with our neighbours
• Experimenting with new recipes
• Unfollowing social media accounts that don’t uplift me or make me smile
• Being reminded how pleasurable and relaxing a puzzle is, and also highly addictive. Full geek mode activated right there!
• How epic the Desperate Housewives series was and still is
• A takeaway feeling like an absolute treat again, as opposed to a weekly habit
• Discovering the most beautiful walks on our doorstep
• Realising that success is not defined by the amount of likes and followers your Instagram has
• Having a clearer, less busy headspace
• Being so much more open to new opportunities and trying out new things

What have you discovered or rediscovered since slowing down? 

*Image credit for the second image is Stella Rose
**Image credit for the second image is here

Move over Sir Wiggins…

For my 29^th birthday I was given a road bike.It’s been that long since I have owned a bike it felt like when I was 5 years old again with handlebar tassels and balloons attached to the crossbar.

This was back in October 2019. Since then I have been out a grand number of……. OK just once! This is an absolute shocker but to be truthful, the term “it’s like riding a bike” didn’t quite work with me. I don’t know if it was the thin road bike tyres, or the fact I have just got a little wimpy in my older age but riding it made me really nervous.

With the roads having next to no cars on them I thought now would be the ideal time to get my confidence up and get cycling. Throwback to the days of my cycling proficiency test at primary school, I literally felt like I had to relearn everything – even signalling with my arm without wobbling!!!

Here are 15 things I have learnt about cycling:

  Padded cycling shorts are an absolute must….. the more padding the better!

       Most chaps and gals I’ve seen out cycling look super hot in their cycling attire….. I do not!

  The uphill thigh burn is strangely addictive.
   
 Be prepared to be walking like John Wayne the day after a cycle.
   
  I don’t like going super whizzy down hills.
  
Pot holes are not your friend.
     
Gravel paths are also not your friend.
    
There are some pretty epic places right on our doorstep to discover.

    Tea and cake post run is always a wonderful idea…. And very much deserved.

 Downhills will turn you into a human windscreen with all the bugs that you will take out.

  Gloves are a necessity – if for nothing else to act as support for the excessive braking (possibly just me).

  Every time you will go out you will feel yourself getting stronger.

  Every bump you go over you will be ever grateful for said padding in lesson 1.

   Keep your mouth closed – the incoming flies are not the kind of extra protein your diet requires.

   Go at your own pace – like with anything else you do, no one else’s ability matters.

** Just a side note…. I know how fortunate I am with regards to being in a location that has allowed me to exercise during this time and not see a single person. Again this is simply how I have been coping and spending my daily exercise allowance during lockdown.