HELLO FEBRUARY...

 

DATES FOR THE DIARY - FEBRUARY EDITION...

 

DATES FOR THE DIARY - JANUARY EDITION...

1st of January...The clock strikes midnight and a new day dawns.

This new day is graced with a higher status than the rest. It signifies a brand new year, a brand new set of opportunities and a collection of fresh chances. This also brings pressured resolutions and the need to alter ourselves. A naive way of thinking that harder times aren't going to happen, and that being ourselves is not enough. What we really should be doing is anchoring ourselves to weather any storm. And reminding ourselves we are more than enough. 

I've recently discovered the importance of coming home to our true selves, and arming ourselves with the power and ability to ride the lows whilst celebrating every single damn part of the highs. After all, this is what life truly is. 

That said, I am someone who loves clean slates, fresh starts and new beginnings. Yet I am very much done with setting unattainable resolutions, so instead I am curating a set of intentions to live this year by. Ones that align with how I wish to spend my days, and the life I want to create for myself. I really encourage you to do the same.

Delve deep into your most secretive desires, those ones you haven't shared before for fear of what others might think... Ok, step back.. some desires can be kept to yourself, but you know what I mean ;) But start living the life that makes you the happiest. 

Stop comparing your life to the snap shot show reel you see online. Stop following someone else's goals and interests if they don't fill you with joy. This is your chapter to damn well do you baby, and don't let the opinions of others or society make you think the path you're on isn't the greatest. 

Every day we wake up brings this new set of chances, hopes and opportunities so don't be pressured to feel like a single day is going to be ground breaking. It will be a collection of moments, and doing something small each day that will provide that tipping point to living your truest and most fulfilled life. 

There is this societal pressure to act like Usain Bolt out of the blocks when January hits. To make all these crazy promises to ourselves to be super productive and make vast life changes. But we are now heading into the depths of Winter. Something that is often forgotten when we climb out of the festive season. The very concept of Wintering is to slow down, rest, retreat and hibernate. 

I am someone who is utterly obsessed by the seasons, and I have seen a number of people speak about this period of relaxation and reflection throughout winter; just like the world around us that is healing and resting ready to bloom in Spring. This is therefore a beautiful season to take things at our own pace, reflect  on where we have been, and where we want to head next. To cultivate a wholesome way of living and to fall in love with the simple things in the everyday.

I have shared below a few dates for the diary this January, and also a little snippet of my bucket list. 

Whether you choose to move mountains and set big goals, or take a slower approach to your intentions this January, I hope you're doing it for you... and no one else. 

Happy 2023. 

HELLO JANUARY...

 

WHERE IT ALL BEGAN... THE WINGING IT MOVEMENT.

Where it all began...

 

I started this blog back at the start of 2020. A year that started and ended in a way that none of us could have ever imagined or predicted. Despite its hardships and challenges, this is a year I will be forever grateful for as it gave me the time and opportunity to remind myself of what I truly loved in life.

The things that made me golden, and the things that bought me so much joy I could burst.  

 

It has now allowed me to truly go back to my passions and purpose, and has made way for a new (or odd depending how you look at it) chapter of my life. 

 

I wanted to keep a special place on this blog for this starting point. I wanted to play a little homage to where the journey back to myself began. A time that allowed me to venture back onto a path that was truly aligned to myself, and my genuine loves in life. 

 

So below is my original bio. A little snippet of where I was in life only a short time ago. A little reminder that whilst I love a plan, and am definitely working towards a more focused direction, sometimes it's still ok to wing it a little bit through life. 

 

 

Moi - I’m a little too obsessed with glitter, coffee shops, stationery, lists and a bit of leopard print thrown in too!  

I’m one of those typical millennials that got a little lost on life’s journey after attempting to seek out the “Instagram perfect life”. NEWS FLASH, REALITY CHECK, whatever you want to call it – that life isn’t always as it seems.  So now, I’m just a single gal entering into her 30’s and pretty much WINGING it!

I’m simply interested in getting stuck into life’s adventures, giving it a go and seeing where it takes me. “All fur and no knickers” AKA “ All the gear and no idea” 

 

 Say hello to T H E  W I N G I N G  I T  M O V E M E N T 

 

The Winging it Movement was inspired by too many missed ideas and opportunities that have stayed whizzing around my busy brain. Missed because I feared they were not perfect enough to release to the world. Missed because I was too concerned of what others would think or say. 

So, for now I’m about to wing my way through a brand-new decade, and I’m excited to take you with me. 

 

DISCLAIMER: I don’t claim to have all the answers, and everything I natter on about is purely from my own experiences and opinions. If you don't agree then that's cool but would love to hear about your experiences too. Oh, and grammar police please be kind 😉, Happy reading all the same. 

 

 

Love Liv x

HELLO PAPER + GOLD...

The Winging it Movement has taken me on such a wonderful journey these last few years. 

It's allowed me to explore what makes me feel golden, forced me outside my comfort zone, and provided some wonderful experiences. It also served as a reminder that great things can also happen in your comfort zone too, by simply listening in to what you truly desire, and doing more of the things that help fill up your cup. 

I often speak about my life as chapters. Amongst this chapter's highs, it's also provided some crashing lows. Drawing back to my golden movements has served as the reminder that good things are still present. There are silver linings to be had, or at least some form of lesson or message.

It now feels right to venture into this next chapter. One where I don't wing it quite so much but follow some form of plan or direction. To push forward with my purpose and where I feel most aligned. 

This is now the chapter along with this online journal that encompasses my true passions....

• My love for beyond beautiful stationery and paper goods
• My passion for embracing each one of the seasons 
• My lusts for boujie decorations for occasions and festivities, and celebrating every moment no matter how big or small!

Say hello to Paper and Gold. 

The Paper - My love for calligraphy, stationery and paper goods. 

The Gold - All of the beaut moments and things that make me feel golden, AKA Life's golden touches. 

Here's seeing what this next golden chapter brings. 

FOREVER STATIONERY, NEVER STATIONARY!

 May 16th - May 22nd, the week where we celebrate and quite frankly geek out on the best pens, add more notebooks and journals to our current stash of ones too pretty to write in, and go crazy for all things stationery. 

National stationery week kicked off with the Stationery Show at the Business Design Centre in London. I was gutted not to be able to attend this year, and this FOMO was only exacerbated by the plethora of beaut images that have flooded my instagram feed over the last few days.... *Instantly goes to book tickets for the next event. 

As a self confessed stationery and notebook Queen, I thought it only highly appropriate to do a bit of a round up of a few of my current stationery obsessions. 

Here goes...

Hello Time - A monochrome lovers dream. 

The concept of time is such a precious one, and seems more poignant than ever these days! This incredible range of stationery puts time at the forefront of its design. Hello Time's mission is "to help you plan your time more efficiently and intentionally so you can spend this precious resource on the things that matter most". This sentiment is one that is held in such prestige in my life so including Hello Time in my round up was a no brainer. And did I mention they are created here in the UK - WOOP! 

The undated planners are perfect to start at any point of the year, so there really is no excuse to have to wait for a new calendar year to get organised. 

Hello Time Planners 

One product from Hello Time that has been a game changer for me is the Daily Desk Pad... The strategic layout allows for to do lists, note taking, scribbles and goal setting to be laid out on one page. To have this freedom to create these various outputs on a single sheet is really useful when the creative juices get flowing. *adds another to my basket.

Day Daily Desk Pad

Paper goods are not the only thing Hello Times kicks butt at! Head over to their website to stock up on other desk and pencil case essentials - Thank me later ;) 

Coffeenotes - When stationery meets sustainability. 

If you follow my Instagram,  you will know one of my favourite past times is being sat in a coffee shop journaling and writing away. So when I first discovered Coffeenotes last year it felt like the ultimate power couple had been discovered! 

Like many others, sustainability is something that is close to my heart, and the discovery of beautiful stationery created from recycled coffee cups just ticks every single box. 

Like this duo couldn't get any better Coffeenotes is also right on my doorstep here in Dorset. 

The countdown is on for these to launch, and I can't wait to check them out even more. 

Ella Iconic - Become a CEO of your own life. 

The Ella Iconic CEO of My Own Life planner is one I have used for the last few years. It's the kind of planner that you can use for all areas of life, from day to day appointments, to goal setting and habit tracking. Ella Iconic's recent rebrand oozes femininity and the blush tones bring a relaxed and calming vibe.

For those wanting to focus more on selfcare routines and kickstart a wellness and workout routine, the team at Ella Iconic have just released a fitness and workout planner. If you're anything like me, anytime I start something new requires a new journal or planner, so this is perfect for anyone embarking on a new wellbeing journey. 

Mid years planners, dividers, index tabs, pens,pencils, notepads and desk pads, this list goes on. But one thing I know for sure is Ella Iconic have what it takes for you to plan a life that allows you to take control of it, and feel like you can tackle anything that comes your way.

CEO of My Own Life Planner 

Fitness & Workout Planner 

  

Tom's Studio -  A fountain of beauty! 

Do you remember the very first time you made the pen level up? The very first time your teacher rid you of that hideous red Berol Handwriting pens and your fingertips gripped your first fountain pen? The ink blots, splodges and splurges that followed made me first fall in love with handwriting. Watching the ink flow out onto the paper gave me such joy and wonder. 

My love for beautiful pens was continued on my 21st Birthday. Whilst friends were receiving Tiffany's padlock necklaces I was gifted the most decadent Cross rollerball... Something that is still cherished and scribbling away today.  

The last couple of years have seen yet another inky glow up in the form of my passionate discovery of Calligraphy. This is where the wonders of Tom's Studio comes in. Tom combined his practical skillset of working in a blacksmith forge with his knowledge from a background in product design to create the most exquisite pens you have ever seen. The design of both the calligraphy and foundation pens are truly works of art, and ones that will truly stand the test of time. All are handcrafted making them so unique and even more special to add to your writing tool collection. 

The array of inks also on offer are presented in beaut little bottles that make you want to gather the whole collection.... See for yourself here. 

Not to mention that they are also another Dorset based brand. 

Calligraphy 

Fountain Pens

Inks

Seasons - One for all seasons. 

It's no secret around here that I am utterly obsessed with the seasons, so throw in a stationery range that literally has its namesake and it's an instant yes from me! The Seasons ambition is to "translate the rhythm of the seasons into a collection of books and products that inspire their audience to live beautifully and reconnect with the world around us". I think you will agree with me that mission has been fully achieved and in fact exceeded! 

A selection of journals, artistry tools, wax seals and cards creates a capsule collection of beautiful curated stationery. It's the kind of stationery that can be used practically, but also offers the most incredible products to use as styling (i.e. the journal that's too beautiful to write in). 

The Seasons products are the most stylish designs that gives stationery a real demure edge. I am all for romanticising the small moments in life and romance is definitely an apt word for describing all of their products.

I feel like my Christmas wish list is going to be full of products from the Seasons collection. 

Journals 

Artist Collection

Cards

I would love to hear what stationery items you are loving at the moment. 

x

Note all images are from the brands website, so are not my own :) 

A SLOWER PACE TO A SIMPLE LIFE...

Self care feels a bit of a buzz word these days. A term used by companies to sell you an enormous amount of stuff you don’t need. A term that causes you to feel guilty for not wearing a deep cleansing face mask in a steaming hot bath the second you step through the door. The truth is though, I ended last year without a drop of anything left. Utterly burnt out. Completely empty. As the saying goes “you can't pour from an empty cup" and my cup felt like it had hit an all-time drought.

This provided the stark reminder of the actual importance of self-care before it became a marketing technique. Self-care in the form of whatever that looks like for you. However it helps you recharge and reset, and to simply take some time out for yourself. Living life at your own pace, and not the societal race. So for me, 2022 isn’t about just filling up my cup, but the whole damn jug!

With this in mind, I stepped cautiously into January. A slower pace. A new outlook on this new chapter. I knew for a fact how I was feeling before the turn of this new year wasn’t sustainable. I knew A LOT had to change. I also knew big, off the cuff changes would soon be given up by February, so this slow approach has worked perfectly. I didn’t want to rush it. Adding in small daily/weekly/monthly habits to make for a more consistent and sustainable lifestyle. Basically readopting the kind of lifestyle I rediscovered during the first lock down. A lifestyle that had fallen out of habit, and the historic pressures of how I feel like I should be living life took over again. 

I have always been utterly obsessed with the change of seasons, and have become so much more aware how our life reflects these transitional changes too. Winter is providing that recharging and resetting before the blossoming of Spring.

 It's a given that a brand new year, comes with a new diary and journal. Unlike years gone by when I would fill the month to view calendar with dull appointments and errands, I have designated this space to be filled with the things that make me feel golden. The things that help fill up my cup.  My little guilty pleasures of coffee dates by myself with a journal, dinners with friends, manicures, exploring new towns and places (all things I’m no longer seeing as guilty, but just the things I love). Oh and more regular massages….. Seriously questioning why it’s taken me 32 years of living to finally book in for a proper massage.

I’m also really looking forward to discovering more beautiful places and things, and sharing them on here in my Just Four You posts. 

2022... I'm Turning up for MY version of life. The one that is created for me by me. And not curated by some Instagram person I've never met before telling me how they think I should be living.

I’ve been having coaching and therapy sessions (which by the way should be a flippin given in everyone’s life). This has prompted so many fundamental changes in my mindset and self confidence. I find it utter madness how in England therapy is such a taboo subject.People boast about the amount how much time they spend in the gym, how many KG's they can lift. Yet no one seems to gloat about taking care of their own mental health. Well here I am, shouting from the highest rooftops.

I want this year to be the year for positively significant shifts, no matter how big or small. 

Doing the things I choose, and want to do. Setting out on my own path and not getting sidetracked.

But most importantly, I want to keep enjoying the small things...

My flask of tea on my morning commute

Birds arriving for their daily feed on my window feeder

Home cooked food with family 

Dressing the table for dinner

Pjs straight out the airing cupboard when you get out the bath

The arrival of my monthly magazine subscription 

Snuggling up under a blanket with a hot chocolate 

Being in bed by 9pm with a book, and a cuppa

Not rushing around 

Wintery walks, and seeing the early signs of Spring beginning to make their appearance

Weekly swims

The change in the moon and stars

A cheeky Sherry by the fire

Creating lists 

Here's to a year that looks good for ourselves!! 

GIFT GUIDE - VALENTINE'S EDITION

 A little collection of dreamy gifts to remind your loved one, best friend, family member or secret crush just how much you care.

When it comes to gift giving I love finding something that combines beautiful design and aesthetic, along with practicality and something that is going to be used and cherished. Cue the beautiful designs and products from Anders & Boo. Plus, anything with a pun is always a must!!

    AFTER ALL THIS TIME

Discovering The Chocolate Gift Company feels like one of those little treasures you want to keep to yourself, but also tell every single person you know about them!! Their Valentine's treats range from Chocolate Lobsters to Prince Charming Frogs. No matter who the recipient there is the perfect gift for everyone.... and most definitely yourself!! 

HOLLOW CHOCOLATE LOBSTER

PRINCE CHARMING CHOCOLATE FROGS

I was lucky enough to get my hands on one of the beaut Christmas decorations from Lotta's House and I knew I would undoubtedly fall in love with the Valentine's collection as well! I am already lusting after the Spring decs that are popping up on her account too. 

LOVE LETTER

LOVE TOKEN

How are you sharing the love this year? xx

Note: All images are credited to the companies themselves. Images not my own. 

GIVE A LITTLE LOVE...

 No sooner had the last bauble gone back into the box, I was straight onto Pinterest to start getting some inspiration for February 14th AKA Valentine's, or for the singletons amongst us... Galentine's. 

I have the fondest memories of finding chocolate love hearts, and notes in my lunchbox (thanks Mum), and the excitement of the years I would actually come home to red envelopes on the doormat ( those were the days). 

From paper crafts to dreamy grazing boards, the season of love is something I want to share. Whether you are single or taken, I think Valentine's gives the opportunity to go beyond just romantic relationships and offers the opportunity to share the love with those closest to us. A little reminder of how much they are loved and cared for. 

A select few of my faves for a little V Day inspiration...

Dreamy Grazing Boards

Little bags of choccie

Simple paper crafts to add subtle decoration

Homemade Chocolate Bars with the CUTEST handmade wraps - Not to mention a winning pun

Love Hearts - Perfect for extra decorations, or dinner party place cards 

A boujie Galentine's setup

A WINTER TIME BUCKET LIST...

All of the layers, gallons of hot chocolate and cosy evenings by the fire after a chilly walk, are just some of my favourite things about Winter. 

This post is a little late to the Winter party, but in truth I have been embracing the slowed down vibes that this frost dipped season brings. Setting my intentions for the coming months, and enjoying endless cups of tea and shortbread. 

I will be forever grateful that we live in a country that gifts us the seasons, so making the most of what they offer really does bring me so much joy. 

If you missed the others you can catch them here: Spring, Summer, Autumn. 

But for now, here is chapter 4 of my seasonal bucket list... 

Wrap up in all your layers, and discover a new walk

Get up at the crack of dawn to embrace the Wintery sunrises

Open the pages of a new journal, and set your intentions for the year

Pick your "Word of the Year"

Light Winter scented candles ( Even the ones you are keeping for "best")

Enjoy a movie marathon snuggled under a mountain of blankets 

Don't forget the snacks!

Host a games night

Cook a roast with all the trimmings - Why limit this just for Christmas Day?

Plant bulbs and seeds ready for Spring

Enjoy early nights and lazy mornings 

Be kind to yourself 

Enjoy the warmth of an open fire

Keep fairy lights twinkled around the house 

Catch the Moon in all her glory 

Take a long bath with all the bubbles 

Breathe