Blogs I love

Morning Everyone! 

Today I'm sharing a few blogs I follow and love.

 In some ways I'am reasonably new to the blog game. I mean, there are some amazing ladies that have been at this for ten years or more. I salute those ladies, because that right there is some serious commitment! And as much as I like writing and sharing fun things on my blog and little pieces of my life I also love reading about other women stories, lives and interests. 

I won't even attempt to summarise these blogs because they are far too good, interesting, thought provoking and funny to be summarised in a few short words. 

 So instead I will just list them and let you peruse as you please 😜

Mix and Match Mama

A Little Bit of Everything

A Cup Of Jo  

Fashionista

Cupcakes and Cashmere

Happy reading friends! See you all tomorrow for my weekly wardrobe! 

Lou 

xxx

Recent Reads!

Morning! 

I hope your Monday's are off to a flying start friends. We celebrated fathers day here over the weekend and found a little time to relax and unwind from a huge weekend. There was amazing food, family and Netflix - it was bliss! 

If you have been reading the blog lately you will know that my Gilmore Girls addiction has taken priority in the free time department. However all the flying during my recent trip away gave me the opportunity to catchup on some reading. Here is what I have been reading lately! 

Dear Fatty by Dawn French 

Dawn French is one funny lady and her book Dear Fatty is hilarious! This book is written in letter form to various members of her family, friends and fans. Addressing all issues from body image to love and motherhood. I thought this book was filled with a tone of heart as well as plenty of laughs. A great read if you are looking for something light! 

Ten Eternal Questions: Wisdom, Insight and Reflection for life's journey by Zoe Sallis. 

This book was a really interesting read. Zoe Sallis's book looks at the ten 'Big' questions we are all searching for answers to. After interviewing spiritual leaders, politicians, celebrities and more for over ten year, Zoe compiled a book of what differing individuals believed where the answers to the ten eternal questions. This is a fascinating and eye opening read which I definitely recommend. 

Modern Romance by Aziz Ansari  

As I was waiting at Newark airport I picked up this book and was immediately hooked. Comedian Aziz Ansari has been joking about love and our quest for 'the one' for years, so he decided to do a little research and write his findings. With the help of several researchers, countless interviews and some personal experiences, Aziz explains the ways in which modern technology has changed our love lives. From finding love to staying in love, technology is a big part of the whole experience. This book is seriously relatable as well as humorous and incredibly interesting. 

So there you have my recent reads! Not many I'll admit but Gilmore Girls is too additive ;) Keep those recommendations coming friends. I love seeing what you are all reading ! 

Have a wonderful day! 

Lou 

xxx

My May / June reads!

Morning friends! 

Today I'm sharing my recent reads because it has been far too long. If you have been reading the blog for a while now, you will know that I'm not always the best reader. I tend to be either super committed to my reading or won't pick up a book all month. It is something I'm working on because lets be real, reading is fantastic for your brain, langue and writing skills! 

Here are a few books I have read lately that you might enjoy! 

The Life and loves of a he devil by Graham Norton 

I mentioned this book in my last 'Must read' post and now I have finished it. Hilariously honest, genuine and touching. This book is a great read if you are looking for something light or a good laugh! 

Under the tuscan sun by Frances Mayes 

I'm currently reading this book and loving it. This is a sweet story based on real events where two Californian university professors save up to buy their dream summer escape in, you guessed it, Tuscany! The writing is witty, honest and filled with beautiful imagery. I'm loving this book and can't wait to see how it finishes. 

The Clasp by Sloane Crosley 

This book is next on my 'to read' list and I'm excited. A number of friends have recommended this book to me and it sounds sweet. This book centres around of friends trying to navigate life and love while accepting the fact that sometimes life doesn't go to plan. Throw in a love triangle and a wedding or two and you the perfect holiday read. 

I can't wait to sit in front of the fire and read a few good books this month. If you have any recommendations please comment or message me. You guys always have great tips! 

Happy reading everyone! 

Lou 

xxx

April / May reading List

Yay for Wednesday!

Wednesday means we are half way through the week and the weekend is in sight! Today I'am sharing my April/ May reading list. As most of you will agree, we often promise ourselves 'I will really commit to reading ... may books this month' and then find ourselves surrounded by unread books and disappointment, when we don't finish them :( Instead I am keeping my reading lists open ended. So lets see how long these take me #ipromisetotrymybest 

This one is definitely not a serious read but I'am certainly looking forward to it. Jim Gaffigan is a NYC comedian and a favourite of my dad and I. I bought this book for my dad for his birthday and he loved it, so I'm keen for a good light hearted read. You can find it here!

I recently read Oprah's 'What I Know For Sure' and she mentioned that one of the best books she has ever read is A New Earth by Elkhart Tolle. And if Oprah says you should read something, you read it! That is just how it works! So this book is currently on its way to me. You can grab a copy of your own here! 

Last up, I have been recommended this book by a few people and have finally got my hands on a copy. The Battle Plan for Prayer, is a book designed to help people create their own prayer plan and find five minutes a day for themselves and God. I'm definitely excited to read this one because like so many people I know how hard it is to carve out 'me time'. If you are looking for some help in this department, check out this book here!

Have a wonderful day and happy reading! 

Lou xxx

The Art Of Thinking Clearly by Rolf Dobelli

Morning everyone! 

It's Wednesday and that means its time to talk books! I have been incredibly slack with my reading lately but finally getting back to my never end list of books. Please remember to comment or message me recommendations because they are always great! This week I'm sharing my current read, The Art of Thinking Clearly by Rolf Dobelli.

Now I'll be honest I'm not a huge fan of 'self help' books or books with too much advice on how to live your life. For example I really disliked the Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin. Which some of my friends rave about and is an international best seller. I just can't describe it, I just didn't jell with that book. Hence my apprehension when I was suggested this read! 

However I'm pleased to say I'am really enjoying The Art Of Thinking Clearly. Divided into two - to - three page 'lessons' this book anaylise the way we think as well as understand why. This book is not a lecture about where you are going wrong or why you are not 10000% happy all day everyday *something completely unachievable and natural, if you ask me! 

This is an easy read that is reflective, encouraging and leaves me with a smile on my face. I can't wait to finish it this weekend! You can grab yourself a copy here! 

Me Before You by Jojo Moyes

It's Well-Read Wednesday! 

This week I'm sharing my latest read, Me Before You by Jojo Moyes! As I have mentioned before, I was really excited to read this book but sadly it fell a little short for me. So many of my friends had recommended this book to me and with the film coming out later this year, I was eager to get on board with this story. But sadly I just couldn't! I found the main character Lou to be completely frustrating and thought the storyline wasn't all that exciting and was FAR too long.The ending was sweet and I will admit I shared a tear or two.

I know some people will disagree with my take on this book and that is completely fine. For the life of my I just couldn't get on board with it :(

Lets hope the film adaptation, to be released later this year, takes a more exciting spin on this story line.


See you all tomorrow!

Lou xxx

Why Not Me by Mindy Kaling

Morning Everyone! 

To say my literature taste is electric would be an understatement. If you have been reading my blog for a while you will know I read pretty much every genre from political biographies to Harry Potter. I really like lots of different types of books, hence why I LOVE all your recommendations! *If you have any please comment or message me.

Moving on! 

Over the last few weeks I read, comedy writer and TV star Mindy Kaling's new book 'Why not me' !

I read her previous book 'Is everyone hanging out without me?' and loved it, so I figured I would give this one a crack. This book is very funny, yet truthful and kind of inspiring. Through personal antidotes Mindy discusses dating, life as a modern single lady, sexism in Hollywood and how she came to be one of the most well know female TV actors today. 

This book is a perfect read if you are looking for a little bit of encouragement, lots of laughs and some 'real talk'. I also think this book would make a great gift for friends and sisters. You can grab yourself a copy here! 

Next up on my to-read list 'Me Before You' which I am told has just been made into a movie! Better get started on that one ASAP! Happy reading everyone. 

Lou xxx

February reading list.

Morning Everyone!

With February fast approaching and the chaos of the new year settling down I'm back and read! Yay! One of my goals for the new year was to find just 20 minutes a day for myself. 20 minutes where I could read a book, practise some yoga or just have a cup of tea. Yesterday I headed to the store and picked up my three next reads, which (fingers crossed) will be completed by the end of February!!

First up, The Art of Thinking clearly by Rolf Dobelli. This international best seller has been recommended to me by a number of friends. This book aims to help you recognise common 'thinking errors' in order to help you save time, become more productive and better allocate your time. Sound  pretty great right! 

Funny girl, Mindy Kaling has written another New York Times Best Seller and I already know I will love it! I read Mindy's first book last year and really enjoyed it. Her books are light, funny and also touch on a variety of subjects from feminism in Hollywood to self-love. I can't wait to read this one!

Finally, Me Before You by Jojo Moyes. I have mentioned this book before and it has been on a number of my to-read lists! I have promised myself that I WILL FINISH this book in February. I have been told by a number of sources that this book is well worth a read, so I am committed to seeing this one through. Here's hoping I do! 

Happy Reading Friends!

Lou xxx

What I Know For Sure by Oprah Winfrey

Happy Well-read Wednesday Everyone! 

Today I wanted to share a new book which I only discovered (and have nearly finished) on the weekend. We headed to Sydney for a quick getaway on Saturday morning and as I was trolling the news agents, killing time before our flight I came across this little gem by Ms Winfrey. 

I am not usually one for self-help books but after reading the first few pages in the store I knew two things. First this was not your ordinary 'self-help' book and secoundly I was not leaving the store without a copy. After an hour and a half long flight I was a quarter way through the book and in LOVE. 

If you have ever watch Oprah on TV or read any of her other books you will instantly recognise her charming, relaxed and friendly writing style. This book is more a reflection of her own journey and the lessons she has learned along the way, rather than a self-help book. Although there are definitely lessons she is sharing that I know I will take with me long after finishing this book! 

This book is an easy read that can easily be completed in a weekend and will leave you feeling all sorts of happy, thankful and reflective. 

What I know for sure is that every single person reading this needs to grab a copy right now!!

Happy reading! 

Lou xxx 

My must have Cookbooks!

Good Morning! 

Todays well-read Wednesday is also a bit of a nod to some of my favourite recipes. Today we are talking cook books! 

I love to cook but really need to devote more time to mastering a few more signature meals! However when I do get the the afternoon to myself, you will probably find me in the kitchen making a mess and creating something delish! 

So, here are a few of my favourite, go-to cook books that are guaranteed to leave you wanting seconds! 

Bill Granger has to be one of my favourite cooks ever. All of his books include charming stories and notes about his young family, his career and his personal favourite recipes. His 2009, Holiday is perhaps my favourite book of his and is filled with simple but delicious meals, that the whole family will love. Bonus, it is currently reduced on Amazon. Grab one for yourself here.

Donna Hay, is also another popular culinary genius in our house. My mother and I have been watching her show and experimenting with her cook books for years. Although she has released tens of books, my personal favourite is still 'Modern Classics'. There are a few editions now, but the recipe selection remain very similar. This book is a MUST on any bookshelf as far as I am concerned. Pick up one fore yourself here.

Who doesn't love Nigella? Firstly her food is always decadent and insanely delicious. But most importantly it is easy and often quick. Two things that are pretty important to me when making a mid week meal. This book is rarely off the shelf in our house and I have gifted this book many a time to friends for birthdays, christmas etc. If you don't already have a copy, you need one! Grab yours here!

Now the Crabapple Bakery Cupcake Cookbook has to be my all time favourite cookbook. How can a small cupcake book win over every recipe I have ever read? You will just have to find out for yourself! (But SERIOUSLY these cupcakes will blow your mind!) My personal favourite is the basic vanilla cupcakes with buttercream frosting. Simple but perfection! These cupcakes not only taste great but look beautiful. I love all of these recipes and know you will too! Grab your own copy here. 

So there you have it, my must have cookbooks right now. Happy cooking everyone! 

Lou xxx

The Fault in our Stars - John Green

Morning everyone

This weeks well read wednsday is a true tear jerker and a fantastic read! Many of you may have herd of this book before, as it recently became a motion picture and world wide success. 

Written as a young adult novel, John Green's fictional tale of two terminally ill young lovers, quickly became an international best seller.

Now when I originally herd about this book I decided that this didn't sound like my cup of tea. However after a little convincing from friends who had read this beauty I gave it a go! And boy oh boy am I glad I did.

This book is heart breaking and equally beautiful. Contemplating first love, the meaning of this sometimes cruel world and the twists and turns that make life so darn special. You will cry, laugh and cry some more but I promise you will love it!

Grab a copy from Amazon here.

Lou xxx

The Marriage Plot by Jeffery Eugenides

Happy Wednesday! 

I know I advent done a book review in what feels like forever but to be completely honest I have been a rather slack reader lately :( Between post vacation catchup, christmas prep and work, I have been a busy lady. 

However I have finally started The Marriage Plot and I am loving it! This one has been on my to-read list for a while now and my mom and several friends have recommended it to me. So I decided to finally get started and I am so glad I did! 

I am about half way through so if you know the ending please don't tell me ;) This humorous and heart felt coming of age story, follows three Brown university seniors through their final year of university and first year post grad. 

This is a great holiday read, its light, funny and seriously relatable. Covering everything from our (sometimes testing) child/ parent relationships, to young love and the depths of true friendship. 

I am loving this book and can't wait to finish it. a great read for your christmas break!

Lou xxx

Love letters of great men Volume 1

Happy Wednesday! 

I hope your weeks are going well. Today we are talking about a recent book purchase of mine, which I  think some of you will find insanely corny. I also have a feeling that a few of you will be on Amazon ordering yourself a copy before finishing this post. 

As you guys know I am a total sucker for romance and a book read. Thus, the book of the week is Love Letters Of Great Men. Volume 1. 

If you have seen the Sex and the City movie you will remember Carrie reading the book in bed and Big's quote from the book during his wedding vows. 

This book features love letters from some of histories most fascinating (and romantic) men, including Beethoven, Lord Byron, Mark Twain and John Keats to name a few. This book is a great source of inspiration if you are indeed writing your own wedding vows or a speech. I however purchased this book simply because I am an incurable romantic. 

You can purchase the book here. Have a great day girls! 

Lou xxx

Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert

Happy Happy Wednesday Everyone! 

I am so excited about todays book post because this has to be one of my all time favourite books. If you haven't heard of this global best seller a) where have you been? and b) Get on Amazon right now and  buy yourself a copy! This book follows one woman's search for the meaning of life, love and faith as she travels the world. 

This book was also made into a fantastic movie in 2010, by the same title and stars Julia Roberts! 

Now if the title of the book wasn't quite clear enough, this book enters around my three favourite things in this world. Eating (my favourite hobby), faith and love! This book has travel, romance and some big philosophical questions. I loved it! 

And once you have finished the book you can rent the movie. Win! 

Have a great day friends :)

Lou xxx

Well-read Wednesday on a Thursday ...

Hey Everyone. 

As some of you may have noticed I was complete scatter brain yesterday and jumped straight ahead to Thursdays post, which was my recipe of the week. SeriouslyI need a holiday, I don't even know what day it is y'all! Any way and ready to talk books. This weeks book is F. Scott Fitzgerald's classic Tender is the night. 

I read this book first in high school and began my love affair with Fitzgerald's work. Seriously F. Scott Fitzgerald was a true romantic an optic one at that. His stories are truly timeless and this book is no exception. 

Now if you do indeed find your self enchanted with Fitzgerald's work, I would highly recommend this book. I received this collection of his short stories a few years ago for christmas and have read it back to front about a million times! What can I say, I am a sucker for the classics!

All of Fitzgerald's book highlight the complexities and struggles of love but ultimately remind us that it is the greatest gift we can ever receive or give. 

Lots of love to you gals today! 

Lou xxx

A not-so well-read Wednesday!

Happy Mid- Week Ladies!

Its Wednesday and that means it's time to talk books. However life lately has been crazy and as I am sure you will all understand that often means that your favourite hobbies, such as reading a book with a cup of tea, go right out the window *sigh! 

But but but... I did manage to finish 'The Two of Us' by Andy Jones (Which I discussed a few weeks back. You can read my review here. ) And having finally finished the book, I can now say it is one of my all time favourites. So, my friends get on Amazon and get yourself a copy ASAP because this is a must read! 

When life settles down a little (fingers crossed soon) I will start the Alchemist. I know it is an absolute classic and am ashamed to admit I have never read it. So it is first up next month! 

Finally, I saw this picture the other day and knew I had to share it with you all. This is such an important reminder for us all when life is extra hectic. You ladies are awesome and smart and funny and TOUGH, so persevere! 

Lou xxx

Unwritten Letters To You by T.B. LaBerge

Happy Wednesday everyone! 

Officially half way through the week, Woo Hoo! 

I am really excited to share this weeks book post with you guys. I found this writer about a year ago, when I stumbled upon one of his quotes online. Fair to say that after reading a few more of his quotes I was determined to hunt down more of his work. Lucky for me, I found out he published a book and let me tell you it is beautiful! 

His works focus on love, religion and the importance of appreciating our beautiful, complicated lives. 'Unwritten Letters To You' is filled with quotes that will make your heart skip and your inner romantic sigh. LaBerge's honest and incredibly accurate description of what it is to feel love, be in love and loose love, will leave you in owe. 

I adore this book and know you will too! You can purchase it here. 

Lou xxx 

September 'To-Read' List

Happy Wednesday Everyone! 

Instead of a book review this week , I thought I would share my September 'To Read' list.  If you are anything like me you have a 'to-read' list that is as long as your arm. I love reading all genres of books, so as soon as I hear someone mention a good read my little ears perk up! I also enjoy hearing other peoples reviews and recommendations, so if you have any PLEASE leave me a comment below. Here are a few books that are on my September 'to-read' list that have been recommended to me.

September 2015 - 'To-read' 

Me before you ~ by Jojo Moyes

Wave ~ by Sonali Deraniyagala

The Alchemist ~ by Paulo Coelho

I hope you enjoy these recommendations and happy reading!

Lou xxx

The Two of Us by Andy Jones

Hello hello! 

For this weeks well-read Wednesday I thought I would share The two of us by Andy jones. I actually haven't finished this book, I am about half way through it and loving it! 

The book follows Ivy and Fisher, during the beginning phase of their relationship. As they start to learn about each others loves, hates, family and past, they quickly realise this is much more than a fling.  The book looks at a year in the life of a couple, trying to navigate careers, a new relationship and the ups and downs of life.

"The Two of Us is a charming, honest and heart-breaking novel about life, love and the importance of taking neither-one for granted."

I am super excited to finish this book because we all know I am a sucker for a good love story! Heres hoping it ends well for Ivy and Fisher!

See you all tomorrow for my recipe of the week.

Lou xxx

The Diary of a young girl - The diary of Anne Frank

Morning Everyone! 

Considering yesterdays post was all about our trip to Amsterdam I thought I would keep the theme of the Netherlands going. This weeks well-read Wednesday is all about 'The Diary of a young girl - The diary of Anne Frank'. Now this one is a heavy read. I first read it in high school english and automatically loved it. No doubt most of you would have either herd of it or read it before. 

Basically the book follows the story of one jewish family during WWII who are being hidden from the Nazi's by non-jewish friends. The book is based around the diary of Anne Frank, the daughter of the family, who wrote about her experiences during the war and her families life in hiding. This book is both heartbreaking and inspiring. Even in the face of war and death, the courage and positivity expressed by this young girl is truly breathtaking. 

This book will make you cry... a lot... leave you in awe of the strong human spirit and remind you that we must never forget what happened and must never let it happen again. 

A truly beautiful book that is well worth a read. 

*We visited the Anne Frank house/ museum in Amsterdam (seen above) and loved it. Filled with the history of Anne Frank and her family as well as a tone of information about WWII. This museum is a must do when in Amsterdam. 

Happy Wednesday friends! 

Lou xxx