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Peter Pan

One of my most favourite books to read has been Peter Pan by J M Barrie. My brother was thoughtful enough to by me this beautifully illustrated copy for Christmas as it is my favourite book in the world.

I adore Peter Pan. It was my favourite childhood book, one of the few my mother ever read to me. She read Peter Pan every night to the point that by the age of five, I could retell the story for myself word for word and ended up correcting my mum should she read something incorrectly. Eventually my mum bought several varied versions of the book just to keep herself entertained whilst reading to me, although I always had a favourite.

I find so much joy within the story, the thought remaining young and innocent forever always appealed to me - although it is said that Peter was really an angel that held the hands of children as they made their way to heaven. The thought of being able to escape to a magical world fills me with so much hope as I wish that some day I can do the same.

As a child I thoroughly believed in Peter Pan, much the way a child would believe in Santa or the tooth fairy. I would sleep with the window open, no matter the weather, and try to stay up as late as possible or wake in the night and sit in my window ready for his arrival. But of course that never came. I feel as if on some subconscious level, I do still believe in Peter as, although I am an adult, I still sleep with the window open slightly - just incase...

#book #books #bookworm #jm barrie #Peter Pan #love #story #life #childhood #wendy #believe #imagination #illustrated #neverland #SweetPeasandHerbalTeas

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Making Time

Despite the disconcerting circumstances, I have been so grateful to have time to jump straight into some of my favourite hobbies - although not all of them with the majority of my resources still being at mums.   It’s Ben wonderful to be able to read so many books back to back again and be able to start new sewing projects meaning I had time t make this sweet little bookmark so I no longer have to fold my pages. 

I hope that when this is all over I will remember to purposefully make time for the things I love doing whether that be my art, sewing, Reading, knitting or anything else I can think of! 

#craft #sewing #crosstitch #books #book #reading #bookmark #bookworm #hobbies #love #life #isolation #quarentine #coronavirus #COVID19 #self help #self-discovery #self care #SweetPeasandHerbalTeas

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A Little Bit of Hope

Last night during our ““Clap for Carers” in the UK, (which happens every Thursday at 8pm throughout lockdown), a beautiful double rainbow appeared - although I only managed to capture half of one.

Within the UK a lot of children have painted or drawn rainbows to display in their windows and the rainbow has been used as a symbol of hope. This seemed very fitting last night during our clap when two appeared at once.

I love to see rainbows at the best of times but yesterday evening this really instilled a ray of hope into my heart. We will get through this. This won’t be forever. We all reunite with our friends, families and colleagues soon. We just have to hang in there, stay strong and remain positive. 🌈

#rainbow #colours #lockdown #uk #united kingdom #england #hope #coronavirus #COVID19 #pandemic #love #hopeful #positivity #NHS #carers #clapforthenhs #clapforcarers #strong #SweetPeasandHerbalTeas

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New Beginnings

Despite the current climate, things seem to be looking up. My work place is open again and, although the new precautions are scary and daunting, I finally feel great to be back into a routine. 

I’ve moved back to my mothers after isolating with my other half and his family for three months as it’s more convenient for work. It was pretty hard to be truthfully honest, it felt like a break up without being broken up. We’re all good though despite going from seeing each other every day to only once a week. its nice to be back with home comforts and my own family.

 I’ve managed to redo my room, chuck away some clutter and deep clean which was great. I’ve treated myself to some new skin care and I even cut my own hair - eek! I feel like this is the new start I’ve been waiting for and I feel like I’m very much on my way to an even more positive mindset! 

#new beginning #fresh start #positivity #self care #self-love #self-discovery #self love #self help #home #lockdown #quarentine #COVID19 #coronavirus #recovery #work #life #love #family #SweetPeasandHerbalTeas

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Self-Care Saturdays

Self-care Saturdays are my favourite day of the week and I am so fortunate that my working pattern allows me to have the opportunity. Self-care days are so vital in giving my mental health a little boost and just having time to reflect on the week and plan for the next coming days. I find it so important for me personally to have time to myself. I am very much an introvert. I love to go out and meet people and do fun things but I do need the time to recharge at the end of the week ready for the next one. I enjoy my own space very much and self-care days are the best way for me to achieve this, although I know this isn’t always the case for everyone!

Self-care is not uniform. It can happen in several different ways. For example;

I began my self-care day by going to an eye appointment and getting new glasses. Despite sounding like a chore, this is still a form of self-care as I got up and out early, enjoying the morning sun and fresh air. This of course contributes to physical health as eye sight is very important and may otherwise have gone over looked and further contributing to a negative cycle of physical and mental health. (Plus it’s always nice to splash out on something new - even if it is my glasses!)

I continued my day a slow pace, with no need to be anywhere or do anything of vital importance. This allowed me to combat jobs I had been putting off without pressure such as sorting through old make up and cleaning my make up brushes. The ability to do theses chores without the pressure of time or importance made the job so much easier and fore-filling. I’m sure I’m not the only one who is more productive at my own pace? Finally, I had a lovely warm bath with my favourite bath bomb and a hair mask as well as several cups of Caramel Brownie herbal tea! I relax best in the hot water and you can feel your troubles fizz away with a bath bomb. Sometimes this isn’t always the case; sometimes this can be the place I begin to other think as the world seems to stand still but I find the best way to combat these moments is with a video to watch or a good book to read whilst in the bath. Clean body =clean mind!

#self-love #self-care #saturday #lush cosmetics #recharge #introvert #self help #SweetPeasandHerbalTeas #positivity

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Girl Online - Going Solo

My book order finally arrived, meaning I finally managed to read the last instalment of Zoe Suggs’ book series - Girl Online. I was very excited to dive into this one, having finished the previous two so quickly. 

I love how each book shows so much character progression as they work through their struggles, cope with growing up and build their relationships as well as achieve their goals. I love that this book is littered with details on how to cope with anxiety which still remains a constant theme throughout the series - another reminder that this isn’t something you can just be “cured” of. This is a really good addition to the series, although the first book is my favourite! 

#zoella #zoe sugg #girl online #girl online going solo #going solo #reading #read #book #books #bookworm #family #relationship #friends #love #life #positivity #SweetPeasandHerbalTeas

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The Perks Of Being A Wallflower

This is the fourth book I have managed to read during isolation: The Perks Of Being A Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky. I adore this book as well as the film having read it first when I was in my mid teens, just before the film adaptation came out. 

It’s a wonderful thought provoking story dealing with the real issues of everyday life for some people. It tackles many themes such as loss, trauma, homophobia with many life changing lessons hidden inside. It’s written in the style of letters which I feel makes the book more personal, feeling as though the main character is talking directly to you, making you feel part of the story. 

I really, really relate strongly to the main character with themes such as mental health and childhood trauma. It’s a book that is very difficult to put down and stays with you long after finishing it. 

#the perks of being a wallflower #tpobaw #book #stephen chbosky #books #bookworm #mental health #trauma #SweetPeasandHerbalTeas

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The Women Who Went To Bed For A Year

This is the third book I have read since being in isolation- The Woman Who Went To Bed For A Year by Sue Townsend. This book was a very easy read from the first page to the last, I even managed to finish it in 3 days!  Some points are deep but overall it’s a very lovely, light hearted and funny book! I really empathised with the title character as I often feel the need to crawl into bed and shut out the world and I think this story really captures how it can feel when you find yourself in a rut or depression slump.

I really recommend this read!

#The Women Who Went To Bed For A Year #Sue Townsend #reading #read #book #bookworm #books #funny #depression #lockdown #SweetPeasandHerbalTeas

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Love, Aubrey

The latest book I’ve read is Love, Aubrey by Suzanne LaFleur. I had this book when I was in my early teens but lost it half way through reading (my sister probably stole it), so I finally managed to grab myself a new copy! 

Despite being a book for young teens primarily, iris a very deep story that stays with you once you’ve finished. I did find it a little hard going at times and did struggle to concentrate on the chapters but once you have finished and really think through the events I  the book, it can feel slightly haunting.  PSA: I am going to be returning to work as of the 1st of June, meaning sadly I won’t have as much time for books, crafts and updating my blog but hopefully i’ll be able to find a balance!

#Love Aubrey #Suzanne LaFleur #reading #reads #read #books #book #bookworm #young adult #lockdown #COVID19 #coronavirus #isolation #loss #love #family #SweetPeasandHerbalTeas

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The Blogging Bug

I feel as though I’ve got what I call “the blogging bug” lately. This is when I feel the need to constantly attach myself to my blog, sharing my thoughts, feelings and interests with the world - no matter how insignificant they may be! I have so much I want to be able to post but due to this lockdown, I don’t feel like I am getting very far. It’s like having the Blogging Bug and Blogger Block all at once! 

My blog has become a diary for me, being able to outsource my emotions whilst also remaining anonymous to an impartial crowd. It’s a lovely feeling to be able to express myself in this way but lockdown is making it very difficult as I am struggling with content. I seem to follow the same routine most days and the only exciting part of my days is being able to snuggle up and get lost in a book, finding myself in an imaginary world far away from the current troubles that are surrounding us. Is that crazy?  I have luckily managed to order some of my sewing stuff off of the internet, as all my crafts such as my knitting and cross stitches are at my home with my Mother and I’m staying at my boyfriend’s for the foreseeable. So hopefully I will be able to update with more than just books and my rambling! 

#rambling #blog #blogger #blogging #content #self help #self-discovery #self care #self love #lockdown #books #sewing #crosstitch #positivity #blah blah blah #reading #diary #bookworm #mental health #SweetPeasandHerbalTeas

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“Don’t Get Any Ideas”

So recently my sister had a baby - my wonderful nephew was born on the 24th of April! Everything went swimmingly given the current climate and all are healthy and well. I am over the moon with his tiny fingers and chubby cheek, I can’t wait to meet him!

In all the excitement, I showed my boyfriend a picture of the baby only to be met with “Don’t get any ideas”. And this struck a nerve. I know nothing was probably meant by this comment but I still felt it to be rude? When the one thing you want more than anything is to be a mother and to have the person you want to share you’re life with say “Don’t get any ideas” when it is already all I think about?

It’s not like we’re in a new relationship- with just celebrated three years together. But I did feel like he stamped on my dreams? The one thing I truly strive for? I don’t know if I’m over reacting but I am really upset by the comment.

Maybe it’s a sign? Maybe our relationship isn’t heading where I thought? Or maybe I’m overthinking this? I don’t know.

#help #advice #relationship #boyfriend #baby #family #love #life #overthinking #anxiety #SweetPeasandHerbalTeas

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Just Keep Swimming

Things are still a bit strange here in the UK, with no one knowing what to say, what to do or how to feel. Things are also still a bit strange for me, living with my partner and his family whilst lockdown continues. 

I’ve stayed here for periods of time before, this shouldn’t be any different. I think it may be the uncertainty of when I will be able to go home that’s causing my inner turmoil? Everyone is lovely and welcoming as always - I’ve been with my other half three years next month so why does it feel so awkward?

I’ve tried to keep myself busy as best as possible in order pass the time, particularly as everyone is mostly still at work. I have been keeping to my routine and getting up at a sensible time (7am, allowing myself an extra hour in bed). I have been reading a lot more, which has been fantastic - I’m already half way through my book! I’ve also been helping with house work, probably even more than I would at home by doing the washing, cooking and cleaning. I want to feel useful whilst I’m here, is that crazy? To earn my right to stay despite also paying rent? 

Things between myself and my other half also seem to be awkward too? We don’t have a fairytale romance by any means but lately things feel a little more strained? I think it’s the situation and the stress we’re under but we have already had a little spat. I’m worried that I’m under his feet? That he felt he had no option to have me here - although he asked me to stay? I don’t know, I guess the doubt is setting in. But tonight we finally managed to have some quality time together for the first time since moving in which seems to have helped but I can’t stop doubting? I guess I’m just a big over thinker.

I’ve just got to keep Positive, try to remain calm and look towards the future and hope all of this will blow over shortly.

#coronavirus #covid19 #self-love #doubt #boyfriend #love #overthinking #positivity #pandemic #SweetPeasandHerbalTeas

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Moving In

Due to the new isolation rules given to us by the government in these trying times, I have been fortunate enough to move in with my other half for the time being. We were planning to move out next year and began to save to buy a house this year. However, with the current climate we believed it to be a better idea that I move in with him and his family for the duration. I just hope I made the right decision. 

The first night was just like any other night we spend together: sat on the sofa, in our pyjamas, watching Netflix and eating left over pizza. But I would be deluded if I believed it would stay this way. But I am aiming to stay positive and hope for the best.

day one of isolating at my other half’s : me and his brother have cleaned the house top to bottom, cleared through the bedroom and made way for my belongings as well as having fun and silly moments along the way. My other half has gone to work and his mother is coming home tomorrow from a weekend away - hardly appropriate given the crisis we are facing but? And my father in law has redecorated the bathroom. It feels just like being at home. 

Hopefully everyone else has managed to find safe and comfortable places to isolate. Hopefully I will be able to continue my hobbies here as well as checking in with my mum on FaceTime every day!

#hope #home #love #covid19 #coronavirus #pandemic #isolation #self care #boyfriend #moving #SweetPeasandHerbalTeas

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A Foodie With A Food Problem

Isolation is beginning to take a till bit of a toll on my mental health regarding anxiety surrounding food.

 I love food, I really do. I am a big foodie, I’m not fussy and will eat pretty much anything. But as this isolation continues, I’m beginning to lose my grip around food. I haven’t started binging and purging again - thank goodness - but I have begun to starve and compensate again. I will go without food throughout the day or I will eat one big meal and not eat at all the next day or couple of days to compensate.  It is all about control. I cannot control the situation surrounding me so I’ve begin to control my food again. Although this time, I am aware of it and beginning to work on this already - that’s a sign of recovery of which I am proud of. 

I have taken steps to help myself though:

🌸 Focus on at least one meal a day - mostly dinner

🌸 Remember to have at least two snacks if only having one meal

🌸 Drink plenty of fluids but remember to not substitute meals for coffee

🌸 Make sure there’s ice cream around as a treat for myself once I’ve finished a meal - ice cream is my favourite motivation! 

#bulimia #ed #eating disoder recovery #eating disorder #mental health #self-discovery #self-care #self-love #self help #recovery #food #SweetPeasandHerbalTeas

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Mothers Day

So today in the UK, it’s Mother’s Day. I am finding it particularly difficult this year as I’m not able to be with my mum due to her self isolation due to her vulnerability to Covid-19. However, we’ve made the best of things by dropping her presents and card at the door and having a quick catch up over FaceTime but I know many people will not be as lucky to even have this type of contact with their mums.

Mother’s Day is a wonderful day to appreciate mothers across the country although they should be shown appreciation and love everyday - if you have a relationship with your mother of course. But Mother’s Day is not just for the mums. It’s for the women surrounding you who raised you, it is for the Fathers who are doing both roles, its for the mothers in heaven, it’s for the women who are yet to become mothers and those who have lost children. 

If you can, take time today and every other day to appreciate your mum or mother figure and all that they do for you because one day you may have to face life without them and would not want to regret leaving your love unsaid or  not shown.

#mothers day #mothers #mum #love #appreciation #SweetPeasandHerbalTeas

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Starting my Blog

I’ve finally decided that it is time for me to start a proper blog; a place to share my thoughts, feelings, interested and hobbies with the world in my own way. I do already have my own personal Tumblr that I have been building for several years now but I felt it was time for me to make a place where I can be more me and channel my thoughts in a positive way. I don’t know what this blog is going to be just yet, I’m just trying to discover myself. I’m not expecting a following, this is just a place for myself. 

We’ve gotten to a stage where an internet presence is a common ambition, with millions of people joining social media daily and many people being lucky enough to obtain full time jobs from their presence. However, I do believe there should be a place for real content, not fabricated ideals created from social media personalities. Therefore I am creating my blog to ensure that there are glimpses of real life for the average person still available with obtainable ideals. As I said, I don’t plan on gaining a following but if I do have a least one follower, I want to show them the average life, not a poor one or a highly privileged one. Just average. 

#blog #content #first #self-discovery #self-love #average #life #social-media #positivity #SweetPeasandHerbalTeas