The recycling bin is a rich source of crafting materials, but all too many people empty it, then go out and spend a fortune on cardboard, fabric and many other things they could be getting for free. I’ve long believed that there are two ways to improve your income: earn more, or spend less. By … Continue reading
As the school holidays reach their end, many parents are finding their wallets stretched thin. Here are some free ways to have fun this weekend (whether you have kids or not). They could even save you money… Go Foraging I’ve picked all the above in the last few weeks (in a town, not the depths … Continue reading
I have long been a fan of afternoon tea. One of the best I’ve ever had was at the Old Thatch on Shanklin (pictured). However, when times are tight, even a reasonably priced afternoon tea is out of budget. Luckily, it’s easy to create your own. As it’s Afternoon Tea Week this week, and the … Continue reading
I’ve long been a fan of flower and plant folklore and tradition. From herbal poultices to aromatherapy, home made toiletries to countryside traditions (I wassailed and I liked it), I think there’s a huge amount of knowledge that has been largely forgotten, but lives on in story form. Here are a few of the naturally-inspired … Continue reading
This week is National Allotments Week. The theme for this year is ‘Growing the Movement’, so it seemed only right to help spread the word. I love allotments, particularly community allotments. This week, many allotments are holding open days so you can find out more about how you can get involved. I’m a member of … Continue reading
The calendar may say summer but the hedgerows are saying autumn right now. The official start-date for autumn is either 1st September or 22nd September, depending on whether you opt for meteorological or astronomical seasonal markers. However, if you take a phenological approach to reading the weather, many of the signs of autumn are here. There … Continue reading
The weather may not be blue skies and sunshine but there are still lots of ways you can connect with nature this weekend. Try one of these. Forage for Comfort Food Wrap up as required and head to your nearest blackberrying spot. Watch out for apples too – the first windfalls are falling from … Continue reading
