Denim Skirt from cotton Traders - Chic & Stylish Link up.

Hi everyone. 

How’s it going?

Hasn’t this year just gone in the blink of an eye!  I’m thinking about things happening earlier in the year and it turns out they’re things from the year before! I think I’ve just been waiting for Summer to arrive and hadn’t noticed the year just fly by!

The weather has turned cold and quite nasty to be honest. I hate the rain and it’s arrived with a vengeance although no snow here … yet! I’m chilly as well so want to lounge around in tracksuits under a throw really! I spent a hour yesterday trying to take some photos and got totally disheartened. The sun was shining creating too many shadows in my dressing room but it was still quite windy so I didn’t trust my tripod falling over and smashing my phone, I’ve got something else planned later today as I’ve got some smashing Christmas outfits to share with you in the coming weeks. Fingers crossed it goes smoothly. 

I wore this skirt on Tuesday and realised I’d not shared this Cotton Traders beauty with you. It’s a stunning skirt for sure and one I feel right at home in. 

Items marked with * have been gifted to me, however these are 100% my own honest comments. 

Styling my Cotton Traders Trench Coat.

Morning lovely friends. 

How’s your week gone?

Mine has flown by since the safe arrival of Violet Jacqueline and my weekend to Southwold it’s been so busy, is December really just around the corner? I’m contemplating putting my Christmas decorations up already! Have you put yours up yet?

My daughter’s house is by coming along nicely and it won’t be too long before she (and her ‘bigger’ family) move out. I’m dreading the day but I know they’ll have a wonderful new house to enjoy and turn into a home. 

Since the weather has turned a bit cooler I’ve been enjoying this new trench coat and it’s been a welcomed addition especially as the natural shade will go with so much. Checkout this outfit I wore last week and maybe it’ll inspire you to buy your own trench coat. 

Items marked with * have been gifted to me, however these are 100% my own honest comments. 

My New Arrival - Chic & Stylish Linkup.

Morning my friends. 

Hope you’re okay and have had a wonderful weekend and an even better week!

Apologies for missing a post on Monday it’s been hectic and guess what … the baby has arrived!

I’ve been away with some friends for a long weekend and I’ve had an amazing time. Eleven friends and I celebrated a 60th birthday in Southwold which is in Suffolk. I’d planned to travel up with some of the other girls on Friday but the safe arrival of my baby grand …. Daughter gave me other plans!  Yes you read correctly Emily had a little girl and she’s as cute and as gorgeous as a little baby can be! Violet arrived on Thursday, so I wanted to make sure they were safely back home before I left! So I made an early start on Saturday morning feeling smug doing the journey on my own without any mistakes - I arrived just before 11 to join in the fun. X

So as you can imagine it’s been a very mixed weekend and a very busy beginning of the week with lots of happy times. We’re all so excited and I for one have had plenty of cuddles with the new bundle of joy. 

Items marked with * have been gifted to me, however these are 100% my own honest comments

Bright Pink Boots & Bag - Chic & Stylish Linkup.

Dear readers,

Thanks for joining me today.

How's the new month going? Busy again for me and the baby is due this weekend so I’m sure within the next few weeks I won’t know if I’m coming or going! Emily has got everything ready and we’ve decided to change my dressing room to another very small bedroom so she can have another space to use if she needs it. Her new build is in touching distance to being finished with most of the painting done, electrics fitted bar a couple of lights, the kitchen is due to be fitted at the end of the month as are the bathrooms & tiling - with carpets and flooring installed next week so before long there’ll be moving home and leaving me for the second time .. well that’s how it feels to me! I want them to have their new home and enjoy all the extra space, which has all the new fittings - but I know I’ll miss them all so much especially Max, he’s very much a proper little boy complete with a cheeky character to boot!  He’s only going to be down the road and hopefully will be of an age that he’s happy to come and stay with us, but at the moment he’s very much a Mummy & Daddy’s boy … let’s hope the new baby goes down well! 🤔

As I mentioned above my dressing room will be repurposed to a bedroom so photo opportunities might be a bit intermittent in the next couple of weeks, please bear with me my friends. I’ve taken some lovely photos over the past couple of days albeit drizzly weather, but still quite bright. Fingers crossed the weather will stay similar to this for the foreseeable future. 

I thought I might as well show you an outfit I wore yesterday. It’s a casual style and it’s a new way of dressing for me, colour wise I usually keep with similar shades, but here I wanted to mix pastels with brighter tones, let me know what you think. 

Items marked with * have been gifted to me, however these are 100% my own honest comments. 

 

Morning everyone.

So pleased you could join me.

How have you been?  A busy few weeks for me with the baby's arrival growing ever closer!  The house is full with baby clothes and all the extras they need and I'm getting rather excited to say the least.  I'm wondering how Max is going to take the new baby.  He has his moments, but on the whole he's very good with me, David and the rest of the family, so I'm sure it wont be too hard for him when she goes off to hospital, well that's unless she takes after her sister, my eldest daughter, she popped our first grandchild out at home and didn't have time to get to the hospital!  So yes as they say anything can happen!

Another month has rolled by and don't they seem to be getting faster?  It'll be Christmas before we know it and we'll be enjoying all the delights that brings.  I've vowed to get presents done early (I know I say that every year) but I want to enjoy getting them and not having it to be a chore.  

So without further ado let's look back on my outfits for October for the ....

October Review.

My first post featured a bit about Porto & Life insurance, you can read all about my exciting trip here and marvel at the photos of the special place David and I celebrated our 60th birthdays - albeit a tad late!

What to wear with a full skirt - Chicandstylish Linkup

Hi everyone. 

How’s it going?

A couple of birthdays this week. It was my mum’s on Monday so I invited her for dinner and we had a family favourite of spicy prawns with a glass of champagne to wash it down. My daughter made her a cake and she had some lovely cards, gifts and a couple of bottles of wine. I know she had a brilliant time and it was lovely to spend it with her. 

On Wednesday it was Emily’s birthday. All the family came round and the easiest dinner to prepare quickly was hotdogs and chips which went down really well.  Her due date is getting nearer and we’re all very excited to meet our newest addition to the family. 

Popped into a couple of shops to get some birthday presents on Tuesday and managed to bag a rather nice pair of trousers. I’ve been after some Leo print jeans but spotted these lightweight wide leg casual trousers for a sale price of £12. Wore them the next day with my chunky trainers, black jumper and statement chunky chain necklace. Will share a piccy soon as it was dark when I got a chance to take photos. So until then, I’ll share this look which I ‘copied’ for a fellow Instagram. 

Autumnal Hues from Style Not Age.

Morning my lovely friends. 

Hope your weekend went well. 

It’s the last Monday of the month so shall we take a look at what the latest challenge is for the ladies from Style not Age? It’s perfect for October …

Autumn Hues. 🍂

Our prompt is right on cue as we’re well and truly in the midst of autumn. The leaves have started to turn gorgeous shades of red's, browns, yellows and oranges, and the weather has changed typically to having cooler, wet and dewy mornings, making way for warmer, sometimes sunnier afternoons - we really are lucky here in the UK, the sights to see are splendid and worth taking a walk in the woods for. I took full advantage of the weather to take these shots, only one little hiccup when I couldn’t find my remote for the phone when I got home. Endless searching in pockets, my bag, the car, around the car, back to scour the location only to return home succumbing to the thought of getting a new tripod and controller only to see it sitting on my worktop in plain sight! Do you ever lose something that’s staring right at you? 😂

Burgundy jumper & blazer - Chicandstylish Linkup

Morning all. 

Hope it’s going well for you all. 

Hasn’t the weather been funny? Just can’t seem to make its mind up. I’m going out in jeans and a jumper or jacket and having to take layers off by the afternoon and sometimes it’s the opposite, starting off in lightweight clothes and having to put a jumper on to warm up! I’m not sure I’m fond of this in-between time!

I’ve worked hard over the past few days, leaving little time to get blog posts, photos and social media sorted, you see I’ve been painting at my daughter’s house. Everything is being painted white and I’ve been doing what I can which has been quite tiring - but I love it. You start with a mist coat, which is half paint half water and I’ve been covered nearly head to foot with the stuff, it’s so sloppy (if you’ve ever done this before you’ll know what I’m talking about)! Upstairs is almost ready for carpets, so moving in date is edging nearer although I’m not sure they’ll be in before the baby arrives … in November!! I’ll keep you posted as to how that goes my friends. 

So let’s talk burgundy, are you a fan? I had a jumper a few years ago but that went to charity and because it was the only thing that matched this grey blazer I’ve hardly ever worn it! Well that changed when I came home with this skinny rib top from Sicily. 🍇

… it was a bit of a spur-of-the-moment purchase, the ones we make without giving any thought to what it would be worn with!!

A Wrap Dress from Jenerique.

Morning all. 

How are you my friends?

I’ve blinked and missed the weekend! Surely it’s only Friday? Ha ha, I’m joking really but to be honest with you my weekend was so busy it came and went in a flash!

Friday night I was back to ballroom. We took on a jive and as usual I picked it up quite well and throughly enjoyed the whole dance, well we only learnt half the routine and will finish it off next week. 

On Saturday morning I helped my eldest daughter out and took one of her boys to football. After a last minute change of venue the game started in the rain, and fortunately I anticipated the wet weather and took my rain coat and umbrella. Alas it turned chilly by the end of the 40 minute game and I was rather happy to get home. 

I soon warmed up as I went to my daughter’s house, the one who’s living with me whilst her house is extended, for a day of painting. We started with a base layer of mist spray which was the worst part of painting. Once all the upstairs rooms had one coat of the mist spray we started on a proper coat of paint, we went round all the rooms before returning home for an Indian takeaway and a much needed glass of bubbles. 

The following day, after doing a clean for my daughter at her Air BNB, I went back to paint again, this time after finishing the landing I started on the downstairs. Another mist coat which is a watery half mix of paint was applied. It’s a big room with the kitchen, dining area and sitting room all in one place and although it took ages, we managed to get it all done. We’ll tackle that room in the week with proper paint and hope to see the difference in no time, painting a room really starts to make a room more like a liveable room doesn’t it? After a busy weekend of hard work it was wonderful to come home to a home cooked dinner of chicken, mushroom and leek pie served with baby roast potatoes, tender-stem broccoli and peas. Isn’t it nicer to have dinner cooked for you?

As you can imagine I didn’t have time to take photos, which is a real shame - I’ve been wearing so many wonderful autumnal outfits since I came home, so I’ll share a cute dress I took away with me to Sicily. 

Items Marked with * have been gifted to me, however these are 100% my own honest comments. 

Trending Leoprint & Red - Chicandstylish Linkup

Good morning my friends. 

How are you all?

Feeling typical holiday blues recently. I adore going away, but hate coming home to normality, that being said I love coming home to see the family. Didn’t have much washing so the suitcase’s and everything I packed is away. 

My holiday to Sicily was amazing, I had been worried visiting for a second time wouldn’t be as good, but I have to say it was every bit as fantastic as the first time. I’ll be posting about my trip in the next few weeks, so if you like The Godfather and Sicily do look out for it. 

Todays outfit is based around the trendy leopard print and red mix,  all shopped from my wardrobe and you’ve probably seen the clothes before, but it’s nice to play around with pieces in your wardrobe to find new looks isn’t it!

Styling Cream Wide Leg Jeans.

Hi there lovelies. 

How you all doing?

I’m returning home from my exciting few days in Sicily today, hope you’ve seen what I’ve been doing on stories!

I feel like now I’ll be starting to get ready for Christmas, there’s decorations and goodies in the shops already so I’m planning on getting something every week so it won’t be too much of a rush nearer December. 

Items marked with * have been gifted to me, however these are 100% my own honest comments.

 

Satin Slip Skirt with Lightweight Jacket - Chicandstylish Linkup.

Good morning everyone. 

I send you good wishes from Sicily!

I’m away for a few days so have this post planned in advance. The last couple of days have been the usual busy build up to my trip, there’s always so much to do and even though I try to plan everything that I need to get ready it’s still a mad rush at the last minute!

I’ve been checking the weather in Savoca and it’s apparently going to be a nice and hot in the high 20’s, which will be lovely.  I’m taking a few different outfits and plan to have a nice choice of dresses etc, shoes and jewellery.  We’ve been there before back in 2022 and it’s nice to know where the hotel and all the places we visited last time are. I’m hoping we’ll visit some new venues, so will be taking the guide with us (so long as I can find it) 😂.

Today I want to show you a ‘go to’ look that works so well for me. It’s a perfect number for nicer Autumn days when it’s not too cold and still fairly warm. We position have many more days like this so I’d switch a couple of pieces to make it suitable for colder days. Let me know if you like it my friends. 

September Review.

Hi there everyone. 

Thanks for dropping in!

I’m getting ready for my little trip to Sicily on Wednesday. It’s a joint birthday present for David and me and you might remember the story of what happened when I gave my hubby his present! Catch the full post here, it’ll enlighten you as to what happened if you missed it!

Out to our friend's house on Saturday night and they really were the most perfect host’s. They cooked us a wonderful meal which comprised of steak pie made with gluten free pastry which was delicious, roast potatoes, homegrown runner beans, mushrooms and tenderstem broccoli. Tucking into this wonderful meal whilst enjoying delicious wine was the best, we talked and laughed and I had the best night.  Eton mess followed by cheese, biscuits and a glass of port followed! Now it wasn’t a late night but I have to say Sunday went very slowly, so much so I didn’t do anything but lay on the sofa! Way too much drinking involved but boy was it a good night. 

Even though it’s the 7th October, it’s the first Monday of October which means a quick recap of September’s outfits for the …

September Review. 

At the beginning of September the weather, like usual was changeable so lightweight trousers and tee shirts with a jacket are the perfect answer to our fickle temperatures. 

I noticed these flamboyant wide leg trousers immediately I saw them and picked up the top at the same time. The oversized jacket is a thin fabric that makes it a good addition for a mix of weather. 

Life Insurance & My Trip to Porto - Chicandstylish Linkup

Hello everyone, welcome to my blog.

Hope you are good. 

I'm so pleased you stopped by today! The much anticipated blog post about my trip to Porto is here!

Do you remember I mentioned both David and I had our 60th birthday’s this year and we were elated to have been given this amazing present from our 5 kids and their partners.  Yes they’d planned a wonderful long weekend to Porto in Portugal where the Port comes from and what an interesting and memorable few days we had.

The older I get the more I realise how important life is!  Life is for living each day to the full, as you never know what is round the corner.  It's often hard to get out and do the things you want to do isn't it, but I'm a firm believer in making time to do something different it will fulfill you in ways you wouldn't imagine.  Some years ago I returned to ballet lessons and after that I joined a ballroom class, and I've got lots on my agenda to try out, I'd like to try painting, riding a horse and may learn to play the piano - these might not happen but it's all about setting goals or making some kind of bucket list!  I'm becoming more and more aware of losing people in my life - my dad passed away some months ago - we had an estranged relationship but it's still hard to accept things won't be the same. That's why I'd recommend some sort of life insurance.  Life can take an unexpected turn and leave loved ones stranded, not something I'd wish on anyone, affordable life insurance is easy to get and very much worth it.  Why not see what your possibilities are, it's never too late and really easy to find out all the details like monthly costs etc and would, in my opinion, be money well spent and give you peace of mind for sure.

Now let's get back to my weekend in Porto. We flew from Stanstead early on the Saturday morning and enjoyed the 2 hour 10 min flight watching a film on David's phone and polishing off a couple of drinks and a cheese and ham toasty.  After a bit of a hiccup with our transfer (the driver didn't turn up), we jumped in a taxi and were soon on our way to our little hotel.  The transfer was only a 25 minute drive, so before we knew it we'd arrived.  Check in wasn't until 3 pm so we dropped off our suitcase and bag and went off to explore.  

Style not Age share their Secondhand outfits.

Good morning everyone. 

Hope you’re well. 

I’m actually shocked at the fact it’s October tomorrow … October how did that happen! I’ve even spotted some Xmas decorations in my local Sainsbury’s along with mince pies and Christmas puddings, it’ll be fairy lights and tinsel before we know it! That being said I need to order my turkeys soon. We order from a local turkey farm and I have to say they are always delicious. One year our turkey had a pretty pinkish tinge, this was a result of them being fed on the remnants of butternut squash in the surrounding fields. 

I went to a lovely family event yesterday, it was my niece’s daughter’s christening and it was lovely to join all the family for a good old catch up! It was held in the church she got married in and then at a local pub. Obviously I enjoyed a couple of glasses of fizz along with some tasty party food - anyone else love party food? I always end up eating too much only seconded by eating too much cake!

Our challenge this month was set by Gail, she liked the idea suggested by Hilda so this month we’re styling our 

Secondhand September outfits. 

Chicandstylish Linkup

Dear friends,

Thanks so much for joining me today.

Been tied up with the family over the past few days, so just the linkup today. I do hope you share your amazing outfits and let me know what you’ve been up to. 

Still working on this post about Porto, but here’s a taster of the stunning views. 

My Damart Jumper.

Morning everyone. 

Hope your weekend went well and the new week is off to a good start. Sorry for the late post, the weekend seemed to just run away from me!

I’ve been doing some building work on Saturday and Sunday (well sort of building work). I’ve been helping David and my son-in-law with plaster-boarding (fetching and carrying really) and generally tidying up getting ready for the plaster’s to be able to start work. My daughter and her son and hubby are still living with me and we’re all working hard to get them fully installed before their new baby arrives in November!

I’m still working on the blog post for my weekend in Porto so will get that ready as soon as possible. 

This isn’t something I’d normally go for, but the soft chunky knit, that has a crochet looking details, caught my eye. 

Until then let’s take a look at this classic outfit featuring my new A line skirt and this dreamy jumper.

Items marked with * have been gifted to me, however these are 100% my own honest comments. 

Styling a vibrant jumpsuit - Chicandstylish Linkup

Good morning everyone.

Thanks for joining me today.

Apologies for no post on Monday, in my head I'd planned a post, but in reality it didn't materialise!

I've been away for a long weekend break to Porto in Portugal.  It was amazing and very much needed by both hubby and myself! You might recall it was a birthday present for the children, they all clubbed together for a joint 60th present and our trip away was the result.  They had planned to send us to Savoca in Sicily, but you can read all about that story here

Well I’m working on a post telling you all about Porto which will follow next week. Until then let me show you this vibrant jumpsuit that I was kindly gifted from Jenerique. 

Items marked with * have been gifted to me, however these are 100% my own honest comments. 

Memory Lane & Insurance - Chicandstylish Linkup

Hiya, how are you?

All good with me. 

I'm getting a tad excited for my weekend away this Saturday.  The kids bought us a trip to Porto for both David and my 60th birthdays and the time has finally come.  I've planned a little capsule wardrobe to take with me comprising of some new and old pieces - I'll try to share them on Instagram in the next day or so!

I've done the online check in and up loaded the boarding passes to my phone wallet.  We've got some euros left over from our previous holiday and we have insurance with our bank - which is really helpful (I always check the small print to make sure we are properly covered) so all I need to do is get a couple of toiletries and pack! Porto here I come!

Our new build is coming on nicely, slowly but nicely - do you know we've lived in this house for 15 years now.  We sold our property on the sea front in Seasalter and made the move to this house which had lots of potential and lots of land!  Remember how I go on and on about the size of the grass I have to cut, well it's had about 1/4 taken away now which is where our new house sits!  You can see more on my dedicated Instagram account Mummabbuilds which shows what we've done and how far we've come.  

So back to the house, lots has happened in the passing years, we've had numerous birthdays - many big ones, two weddings, two dogs (both passed away) and we've also lost special people along the way.  We've had so many good times, and generally it's been a good house to us, albeit an old, in-need-of-lots-of-work house. 

You might wonder why I've been so nostalgic, well it's house insurance time which always takes me back to when we got the house keys.  Well to be honest we didn't get the keys, our daughter did! We’d sold our previous property and there was a short period before we could move into this one so we moved lock, stock and barrel into my Mother-in-laws house.  I've got wonderful memories of our time there and it just went really well.  We decided to book a holiday to Turkey and half way through we completed and could have moved in, pair that with the fact that my eldest daughter and her husband returned home AND it rained for the whole weekend, I really wanted to be in the UK moving in to my new house and not in rain-y Marmaris!  

Now back to my household insurance. and with inflation increasing that too is going up.  Because our house has suffered from underpinning in the past we decided to keep the original insurance going and not break away from them, but I guarantee there's some fabulous home insurances out there which have quoted me in the past and it's definitely worth doing your ground work and getting a good deal!

This post has sponsored content, however all words are my own. 

My Chanel Inspired two piece.

Hello everyone

How’s it going?

I’ve had a mad weekend really, it all started really well but went downhill rather quickly on Saturday. My youngest managed to fall from a scaffolding tower and spilt his underarm open - so I spend most of Saturday in A & E. 

He was helping at my daughter’s new build when the injury happened, suffice to say he won’t be doing that again in a while. Fortunately they are nearly at a stage of interior painting etc. He ended up with five stitches and some antibiotics & the sad thing is he’s off to Centre Parcs today so won’t be able to ride the bike or swim!

Isn’t it such a worry when our kids grow into adults, we still worry and care about them but have to leave them to their own devices and not get too involved. If anyone has learnt how to do this please let me know! 🫣

Sunday, I’m pleased to say was an improvement with David and I and his sisters’ and brother visiting our nephew for his birthday. We had a wonderful lunch compromising of pulled pork and all the extras, paella with some delicious salads - Greek, carrot & beetroot and burrata with rocket, peaches and pine nuts. Everything was delicious and the afternoon ran smoothly with only the addition of better weather improving it!

I ended up wearing this dress yesterday which was perfect for the cooler temperatures, but this cute little number would have been a possibility had I managed to get them in smaller sizes. 

Styling New Trousers - Chicandstylish Linkup

Hello my friends. 

How’s it going?

I really do seem to have blinked and missed the summer, I’m still hankering after wearing my summer dresses, and fear Autumn will be upon us in no time - making jeans, boots, jumpers and coats top priority! Having said that it’s still hot here, so I’m still in my shorts and Tee shirts! How’s the weather for you?

Feeling quite pleased with myself recently as I’ve been into town and bought a couple of new bits for the new season. Some super trousers from H&M accompanied me home and I’m looking forward to styling them with a slinky top I picked up from them a week earlier. I had to grab a bigger size trouser (anyone else think H&M come up small),  Upon doing so I spotted a matching silky top, so will possibly get that online for my weekend away to Porto the weekend after next. 

Thought you might like a sneak peak of my new trousers, what do ya think?

August Review.

Good morning everyone, great to have you here!

Welcome to September too!

I still can’t believe it’s the beginning of Autumn, we don’t seem to have had any Summer really!

This weekend has been hard work, David and I painted the whole of the outside of our new build. We want to get to the next phase which will be taking the scaffolding down and it’s within touching distance! All that’s left to do is put a couple of tiles on the tile hanging area along with some lead work and get the guttering and drainpipe put in place. So this weekends painting really seems like we’ve reached a milestone! Mind you I felt completely whacked out. I’m proud of the seriously difficult positions I got myself into - hanging from scaffolding and balancing on steps I’ve really quite surprised myself. It looks amazing and both David and I are rather pleased with what we’ve done. Do stop by Mummabbuilds_ to see more of our achievements. 

Remember I told you I ventured into town last week? Well I came home with a couple of nice pieces and was really happy with what was in the stores AND we have a new shop opened in the city along with a new restaurant (The Ivy) which is being constructed as we speak! I’m excited to try it out as soon as it opens after visiting one in London a few months ago. 

The new clothing and jewellery shop  - Oliver Bonas has taken up residence in the city centre and it was lovely to have a browse in the store and spotted loads of bits I wanted to take home with me, I’ll be sharing one I nearly bought on IG soon, be sure to look out for it. 

As it’s the first Monday of the month, it’s time to draw your chair up and grab a cuppa for a look back on what I wore and did last month for the …

August Review. 

Stripes are making headlines this season so this dress will be a winner for next month & beyond - maybe with another layer or two and some closed in trainers. Do have a peak back here and let me know what you think about this summery look. 

Smart Skirt, Casual Tee - Chicandstylish Linkup

Hello and thanks for stopping by. 

How are you all doing?

I’ve been enjoying a few quieter days and haven’t even been to the gym so had a bit of time for photo taking and reel making. I’ve got a lot more enthusiasm for Instagram recently which has been really helpful. Do pop over to check them out and let me know what you think. If you’d like to follow me on there, here’s a link!

I’ve planned to pop into town today, first time in ages! I've been so disillusioned with the local shops and hope they might have improved! Fingers crossed for that! I want to see what’s ‘new in’ in M & S along with Zara and H & M, have you been checking the stores out in person or seeing what’s new online?

Today’s outfit is all shopped from my wardrobe and came about because of this satin skirt. Read on to find the backstory to this slinky midi. 

Style not Age - Lovely Linen.

Hello and welcome to my blog.

If you're new here, I'm an over 50 year old blogger who likes to share my own styles and a bit of my lifestyle with you and maybe a few holidays thrown into the mix too!  Good to have you here. X

Wow what a weekend that was! I did something every day and today I’ve got nothing on so I’m just going to sit back relax and take it easy! 

Friday I was excited to be taken out to lunch for a belated 60th birthday present. The Pig in Bridge was the venue and what a lovely place it is. 

Situated on the outskirts of Canterbury this red brick building is an interesting old house that’s had a rock and roll lifestyle of its own. Back in the day it was a country club and hosted disco’s over weekends and was definitely the place to be! I remember spending many a night dancing, drinking and generally partying into the early hours. Taking full advantage of the checkered dance floor and basement restaurant on many occasions!  Fast forward to the 2020’s and it’s now a renowned restaurant chain sharing signature pig touches including some mouthwatering ‘piggy bits’, fish and meat dishes from within a 25 mile radius along with home grown vegetables that you can wander around the gardens to see them growing, it’s not unusual to have the menu change twice in one day depending on what’s available from the garden. 

I actually opted for a small lamb plate and throughly enjoyed it and knowing I was out again in the evening and wanted a lighter lunch to make room for the delicious meal I’d be having in the evening. 

Friday night I went for my last ever meal to my favourite restaurant Reads. You might have seen me mention this venue in the past as David and I often had our anniversary meal there. So the couple who own it are retiring, they’ve worked as restaurateurs for over 47 years and much to the sadness of many customers have decided to finally shut the doors for the last time. David, my mum & uncle and my sister and her husband enjoyed one final wonderful evening there along with a full restaurant of valued customers. I opted a lighter option and had halibut which was divine as was the cheese soufflé and panna cotta. Sorry if I’ve made you hungry!

Saturday night we dined with friends. Their new house, which overlooks the coast,  had me oo-ing and arrhh-ing at the modern interior which was stunning - given me lots of ideas for our new build. 

Sunday afternoon was my mum’s annual garden party. Thirty five of us gathered in her garden to drink eat and be merry. We were fortunate to just about avoid the rain, we had a big downpour for about 5 mins which dried up nicely making way for warm sunshine which was a joy. The kids spent the afternoon on a bouncy castle and we all relished the homemade dishes we’d all taken. A much better plan to take dishes so it wasn’t all down to one person to prepare. I took pate and coronation chicken which I have to add all got eaten! It wasn’t a late night so I got to relax on the sofa and have an early night. 

It’s nearer the end of the month which can only mean me and the style not age ladies taking centre stage and sharing our  …

Lovely Linen outfits with you!

Leopard Print Skirt Styling - Chicandstylish #Linkup

Morning all. 

How’s your world treating you?

Nothing much to report really, just a normal week so far but a busy weekend on the horizon for me. 

I missed gym on Monday after not feeling 100% so Wednesday’s were my only two classes this week. I’m still going to Fight Club and have to admit to struggling with the routine yesterday! Maybe it’s because I’m getting over a cold or just getting old but trying to grasp the whole routine was a nightmare, I kept having to stop and I think the instructor had given up on me! If you’re messing up the routine you have to go and do either press up’s or burpees so guess who was doing those first! 😂. So fingers crossed I’ll be back to normal and grasp the workout quicker next week or I might have to consider doing a different class! 🤷🏻‍♀️ 

On a better note though I went through the jacket section of my wardrobe and added a few, that I didn’t want anymore, to Vinted. I’ve got rid of about 5 so far, only for a few £’s but it’s good to pass them on and give them a new lease of life isn’t it! Do you sell on Vinted or what’s a similar site where you are?

Today I’m sharing something I wore on Tuesday to visit my mum, it’s an old faithful skirt and new Tee shirt & I’m really pleased with the look. Do let me know your thoughts. 

New Season Essentials from Bonmarche.

Good morning my friends.

Seems we're flying through August aren't we!

After hectic weeks It's been good to slow down and enjoy a quieter weekend. I had Max on Saturday and introduced him to the Peter Rabbit film. It’s all about the children’s story written by Beatrix Potter featuring the fictional character Peter and his family and shares all the funny antics they get up to. Peter is voiced by James Corden, whose wit and personality shines through - do watch it with your kids, grandkids or just watch it alone, it’s a fun one to see - I guarantee you’ll love it. 

Max was smitten and nearly watched it all the way through! I was in my element too as I really enjoy watching kids films. 

Sunday we had a small BBQ nothing fancy but it was good. My daughter prepared most of the food, with the help of my other daughter and my son was in charge of bbq-ing so I could sit back and relax and then enjoy some delicious food making the most of the warmer albeit cloudy weather by sitting in the garden - I’m not sure how long that’ll be happening eh! I’ve also noticed the thing I hate! The nights are starting to draw in! Winter will be upon us before we know it! Urgh!

As promised on Thursday today I'm sharing some new in pieces from Bonmarche.

Items marked with * have been gifted to me, however these are 100% my own honest comments.

Two Nights in Cornwall - Chicandstylish Linkup

Hi there,

How are you today?

I've had a wonderful couple of days away followed by a busy couple of days with the kids.  If you didn't know I went to Cornwall with my mum and sister for my uncle's 80th birthday.  He lives in a remote area near the South West coast in a little place near Lostwithiel.  It's beautiful down there with stunning scenery which I hasten to add was even more improved by the fact that it was hot and sunny.  I've been when it's rained and even though it's very damp and dreary still looks very picturesque. Have you even been to Cornwall?

Today's post is all about the wonderful couple of days I spent there, so I hope you enjoy my memories.

Mixing a Slinky Skirt with a Casual Tee!

Hello and thanks for joining me today.

Here’s one I made earlier!

I’m away for a couple of days visiting my uncle in Cornwall as it’s his birthday. I’ve come down with my mum and sister on a 5 hour car ride to stay in a local-to-him hotel which is in Liskerd, I’ll share on IG stories what I get up to. 

It’s been a worry as to what to pack as the weather has been all over the show again, so as we’re driving I’ve packed to cover all eventualities … lol. I’ve got four dresses, and some wide leg trousers, sandals and trainers along with my new jean jacket. Please do have a look so you can see my new pieces. 

Ballroom on Friday was wonderful, I’ve really nailed the waltz routine and am “banana-ing” rather well even though I say it myself.  I really wished I’d learnt years ago! To be fair I love any kind of dancing and have a sense of dance that comes naturally, although some of the new faster styles are a bit too faster for me, I’ll leave that to the young ones - lol. 

Today I thought I'd show a more younger style that's trending at the moment.  I think it looks great, but you'll have to let me know your thoughts.  Is this a style you'd wear?

Items marked with * have been gifted to me, however these are 100% my own honest comments. 

Dark Florals for Autumn - Chicandstylish Linkup

Morning all.

How are you my lovely friends?

It’s been a great week after a busy weekend. 

Friday night was the usual ballroom class and we’ve been learning the waltz and I have to say it must be one of my favourite dances. I’m really getting to grips with it and enjoy sliding over the dance floor embracing every move with enthusiasm and vigour. I’m learning to lean back from the shoulders which makes the whole experience much more fulfilling (Strictly season is just around the corner so I’m all the more interested in getting it right - just incase eh! 😉)

Saturday night I went out with my sister and our hubby’s & you can hear and see our delicious dinner here.

On Sunday I looked after Max and did a bit of clearing up the spoil from the hedge I’d trimmed the day before, it was a slow day after my night out and I have to admit to not feeling like doing much at all!

Items marked with * have been gifted to me, however these are 100% my own honest comments.

 

July Review.

Hello and welcome. 

Thanks for joining me today. 

I’ve had a lovely few days. Starting with lunch with my mum and sister on Thursday to a local hotel. We dined at Hempstead House which is about 3/4 hour away from me. I picked the burger and chips which was divine. I’ve added a piccy below. 

I ended up wearing an old maxi that looked a real picture. It was a dress I’d already worn to a wedding way back in 2022! I like to wear and rewear all my outfits, although it’s often harder to don a dress that’s been seen before but given a bit of time and different occasion it’s all good. Do you rewear your dresses again and again?

Styling a Stripey Dress - Chicandstylish Linkup

Wow, welcome August!

How on earth did that happen?  Way over half way through the year, we'll be talking about Christmas soon!

How's your week been? Mine's having a bit of a lull after a busy few weeks, I really need it though.

I went shopping with a friend on Monday, but have to say I was really underwhelmed by the shops in my local city of Canterbury.  So many stores have closed down making way for restaurants and eateries along with charity shops (nothing wrong with CS I might add) but all the big stores have gone from our town centres making it more like a ghost town.  M & S did have some lovely pieces (this skirt is on my wish list) and Fenwicks had lots of lovely dresses, sandals and shoes but with hefty price tags attached to them!

Needless to say I didn't come home with anything, but will be checking the skirt out online it’s got a cute little top to match it and I'll see what else they have to offer for home delivery too!

Today I’m actually going out with my mum and sister. We’re going to Hempstead House for lunch. I’ll let you know how it goes my friends. 

Today I’ll show a dress I bought when I popped out for a card!

Style not Age share Festival Finery

Morning my friends. 

How’s your world going?

Another jam packed week!

Out on Friday afternoon for my friend’s 60th birthday celebration, you remember the weekend away to Benenden well it was for her birthday and she’d hired a beach hut in Whitstable. It was lovely to sit and chat to some of our mutual friends, meet some of her school friends (anyone else have friends who tell you about their other friends so you feel like you know them?) & catch up with friends you only meet at certain times. She’d bought some nibbles and soft drinks along with some fizz and cocktails. I only had one glass of Prosecco because I was driving and wanted to go to my ballroom class! Today’s post features the dress I wore, do let me know your thoughts. 

Items marked with * have been gifted to me, however these are 100% my own honest comments. 

What to wear in this changeable weather - Chic & Stylish #Linkup

Good morning my friends. 

How’s it going in your neck of the woods?

Gym classes are going well, I’m on my second week of Fight Club and I have to admit to it being harder than the first one! I felt exhausted on Wednesday evening and could have gone to bed really early. No ballet today so I’m off to the garden centre for a wander around with my mum and a spot of lunch!  I’ll probably try to get some bedding plants for a couple of pots that need filling so it’ll be nice to see what they have on offer!

With very much changeable weather in the UK it’s been hard to know what to wear! I’ve started off each day either with something warm on or cooler clothes, it’s been a real conundrum! 

I bought these red palazzo trousers on Vinted a while back. I love to have a look through to see what’s for sale, and there’s always so much choice. Trouble is you never know if it’s the right material, size or fit and that’s the main reason I prefer real life buying rather than shopping online! I’m all for touching and seeing before I buy!

Lightweight trousers are a real winner in these conditions when it’s not hot or cold and it’s good to be able to add layers a bit like season changes eh!

Airbnb in Benenden.

Hiya everyone. 

How’s your weekend gone?

Another busy one for me, so sorry for the late posting. 🌸

I’ve had a wonderful weekend away for a friend’s 60th and I found myself quite literally in the middle of nowhere!

Eight of us descended on a fabulous Airbnb in Benenden to celebrate the special birthday and we all had an amazing time. Our friend didn’t know we’d all be there so it was a big surprise for her to find us all waiting. 

We’d planned to stay in the accommodation most of the time only venturing out to visit a local Vineyard in the Kent countryside. A super market delivery had been arranged, so all the goodies were delivered just after we arrived.  One of our friends had made Friday’s evening meal which was delicious. It’s called Pastitsio which is a Greek dish comprising pasta, ground beef and béchamel sauce. She served it with a Greek salad and a cold glass of fizz. A traditional birthday cake followed and after nibbling on crisps, dips and olives earlier in the afternoon I was completely stuffed!

Tea Dress - Chic & Stylish Linkup

Hiya, how are you today?

Has your week gone well?

Been a slower few days after a busy weekend. Time to collect my thoughts and start planning for the “Summer” I’ll use the term loosely as I doubt it’ll be the summer I or anyone else wants if I’m honest! Because it was so hectic for me Mondays post was rather late! You can read about my weekend and see the beautiful dress I wore here, I hope you’ll pop back for a browse.

We did have a little sunshine yesterday and it felt quite hot, but the sun was interrupted by clouds every so often, it’s such funny weather in the UK isn’t it!

You remember all the kerfuffle with my gym instructor leaving, well I’ve been trying out some different classes as they’ve all been switched around! Until yesterday I’d been trying Body Attack followed by Spin, but a friend suggested I have a go at Fight Club. The name has always put me off as I prefer more of a dance style class, but gave in and tried it! I loved it! I borrowed some gloves (the worst bit, because they smelt awful), so I’ll need to buy my own and very soon! Lots of jabbing, punching, uppercuts and body shots combined with star jumps, squats and jogging on the spot and the class was soon over! I’ve booked again for next week and hopefully I’ll have my own gloves by then!

Items marked with * have been gifted to me, however these are 100% my own honest comments. 

This stunner is from Girl In Mind!

Hello and welcome to the blog. 

Big apologies for the late post today. 

Hope you’ve all had a super weekend. I’ve had a busy one this week. 

Friday was my wedding anniversary.  David and I celebrated 38 years married and went out for a fabulous meal out in a local restaurant called Birdies which is in the heart of Whitstable and is always busy! They have a divine menu and have always been renowned for their beef wellington and lobster with garlic sauce. Both David and I had these choices and I can confirm they were very tasty. 
After a few too many glasses of fizz and a couple of Jäger Bomb’s (don’t judge me),  I had a pretty bad morning and wondered if I’d make my visit to London on Saturday night!!

I had some food and a little nap before getting ready for the afternoon train and felt so much better. I vowed to take it easy this time, which I adhered to, well done me!

I love visiting London, there’s just something exciting about being there. With so much going on and plenty of people buzzing around I’m full of awe. I wonder what everyone is doing, where they are going and where they have come from, I’m just such a nosey person. 

We were with friends celebrating both David and my birthday’s. They’d booked an Italian restaurant called Circolo Poplare who have many restaurants over Europe and are most certainly popular dining choices - it was packed!

We had such an amazing meal highlighted with the notable carbonara served from a cheese bowl and the lemon meringue pie which was a-maze-ing! See piccys below!

I’m always on the hunt for new dresses and after seeing a friend wearing a similar style I just had to ask her where it was from. 

Girl in Mind is a new-to-me website which offers unique and interesting designs for that special occasion and once I saw this beauty I just had to buy it! As I was a new customer I enjoyed a 15% discount which made the stunning dress under £40!!! Have a look on there as they’ve got loads of lovely styles to muse over, let me know what you’d pick!💕

Monochromatic Green - Chic & Stylish Linkup

Good morning everyone. 

Thanks for stopping by. 

How’s your week gone? Another few days that have been a whirlwind, but without anything major happening!

I’m still getting used to my new gym classes. They seem to be going well and I’m getting settled into the new routines, trouble is one of the classes I’ve been going to for ages that has the same instructor is still as hard as when I started it. I did an exercise on Monday that had my feet against the wall facing out in a straight arm plank, moving backward into a bear squat and then forward to a press up! Well honestly it’s one of the hardest exercises I’ve ever done and yesterday I was still struggling to walk properly! I look like a 90 year old, wobbling around and needing to push myself up from even sitting!!! What’s that all about, I thought I was fit!!

Last night I just had to watch the football last night, the thrilling game had me on the edge of my seat, in fact the whole family were in a frenzy at times. We did it!  I'm not quite sure how, but we did it! England are through to the final , so I guess we all know what I'll be doing on Sunday now! Did you watch any of the games? 

Today’s outfit started off with a watch, my new watch it be exact and I’m thrilled with the design and colour. 

Items marked with * have been gifted to me, however these are 100% my own honest comments. 

Summer Essentials with Bonmarche.

Good morning everyone. 

Hope you’re doing okay. 

Is it me or are the weekends getting shorter? Blink and I almost missed it, which is so annoying because I didn’t do very much either! What did you get up to?

Friday was my second week back to ballroom dancing. I realise I really did miss having all that time off and am excited to get back to normal. We’ve been learning the quickstep and it’s another I’ve grasped quite well and enjoy the speed of travelling across the floor with chasse’s, quarter turns and  fishtails. Are you a fan of ballroom dancing? I love any sort of dance and can usually pick up routines quite well. I started classes again to help with my memory, there’s nothing like a ballroom or ballet routine to keep the cogs turning, and whilst that’s happening fitness is improving at the same time!

Saturday I was in the garden addressing the hedge.

I vow every year to keep up the trimming so it’s not such a major job, and to be fair I think the reason I leave it is because the wet weather makes my garden so wet and squishy the tower I use just sinks in and it awfully hard to move. I’ll try to do the last cut before the wet weather arrives and after the growing stops! An easy dinner for me with another takeaway, I opted for a burger and chips and devoured it as I was so hungry after all the strenuous work (I cut the front lawn too!)

Sunday was a bit more chilled, David was working on the new build and putting some hung tiles on the outside wall, we’re having the majority rendered and the chap is hopefully coming today - weather permitting - have a look at my skills at tiling here!

One of the best things about having adult children who still live at home is sharing the cooking with them. So much so my youngest daughter cooked yesterday. She produced a delicious bolognaise tray bake comp with garlic bread, stick baguette and dips. The only bit I had to do was load the dishwasher - perfect Sunday for me. 💕

I did have two lovely afternoons out last week the first was meeting a friend who I’ve not seen since March. We went to a seaside hotel and had a wonderful lunch complete with a cheeky white wine spritzer - see my post last week for what I ate.  The very next day I went for afternoon tea for a friend’s 60th, we went to a local hotel which was a perfect setting and had the typical sandwiches and cakes laid out on a special stand. Copious amounts of tea was consumed and plenty of talking - can’t wait to do it again now! X

Do you wear shorts? I often save them for holiday wear or staying indoors or for gardening in the summer. But I’ve been impressed with these I was kindly gifted from Bonmarche last week!

Items marked with * have been gifted to me, however these are 100% my own honest comments.

 

Lunch in the Hotel Continental - Chic & Stylish Linkup

Good morning my friends. 

All okay?

It’s been a busy week I’ve been out with friends twice!

On Tuesday I met a friend for lunch and we had lots to chat about as I’d not seen her since March! We went somewhere different and enjoyed some yummy food and a cheeky glass in a local venue the Hotel Continental. The weather was pants with wind and rain more in keeping with Autumn! Are we ever going to have nice weather to stay? 

I devoured a prawn and Marie Rose baguette along with salad and chips (nice thin chips that were extremely crunchy with a perfect amount of salt) and yes I ate it all! I did wear rather an inappropriate outfit though, my flip flops and white trousers were very much out of place and I should really have opted for boots and jeans with a rain coat to top it off! (It was pouring)

Wednesday I went with three friends for afternoon tea, we went to Hempstead House which is about 1/2 hour drive from me. The venue was stunning, very chintzy with swags and tails and chandeliers.  We were the only customers so very much had the room to ourselves. It was good to chat and put the world to rights over a tasty Afternoon Tea along with a big pot of tea each! It was for my friend’s 60th birthday, so it was lovely to elongate the celebrations as her birthday was earlier on in the year. 

I’m afraid I didn’t get a full length photo of what I wore for lunch, but here’s the bright yellow top that complimented my white trousers. 

June Review

Hi there, how are you?

Hope your weekend went well, did you do anything exciting?

Just a stay-at-home weekend for me. I spent the whole of Saturday in the garden trimming the hedge, it’s still a mammoth job and boy did I ache after stopping late afternoon, (with still more to do) but I’m impressed with what I’d got done! 

On Sunday, typically UK weather and it rained all day, bit of a godsend really as I didn’t fancy more trimming so will save that for one day in the week when I’m more rested!

I cooked a Spanish chicken with roast potatoes, coleslaw, asparagus, salad and corn on the cob. Which, I must say, was very tasty, it’s nice to have a slightly different dinner once in a while, I’d hate to say I was bored with a traditional roast. I’ve got a busy week as I’m out to lunch with a friend Tuesday and have a birthday Afternoon Tea with some other friends on Wednesday. Praying it’s going to be nice weather for both, it’s not nice walking out in the rain is it!

They had a lemon theme this season and I’m sure you’ll find many styles you love as do I. 

June Review.

For the first post in June I was delighted to feature some pieces from the stunning new collection from Bonmarche. They had a lemon theme this season and I’m sure you’ll find many styles you love as did I. 

Sun Dress from Oasis - Chic & Stylish Linkup

Hello nice to see you here.

Hope you're week is going well.

The hot & sunny weather has finally arrived - yippee.  It’s been absolutely glorious here over the past few days and I’ve been loving being in the garden pottering around. Well not pottering as such, I started with the grass, next I strimmed the edges, trimmed some of the hedges, weeded (my daughter did most of it) sorted some pots and generally tidied up the garden. All the time I had the sun on my back and managed to get a bit more colour, shame I’ve still got lines on the front from my recent holiday to Mallorca! Time to sit in the garden and do nothing I think. 

Isn’t it nice to shower after a long day working in the sun. I think that’s the best feeling to get all the dust and dirt off and relax in something cool and comfortable. Well today's outfit is just that. 

Items marked with * have been gifted to me, however these are 100% my own honest comments. 

Style Not Age share Dreamy Dresses.

Good morning

How are you?

All fine and dandy with me, I’ve literally forgotten about my holiday the other week. Back down to earth with a very big bump!  All the washing is done and put away until my next break which is to Portugal in September.  

Warmer weather seems to have arrived and it's been lovely to sit in the garden and enjoy it!  On Saturday evening I went to a friends for a gin and buffet evening.  It was good to sit and chat in their lounge which has a big bi-fold door into the garden.  There's something enchanting about sitting outside on a Summer's night when it's warm, although we did have to close the doors when it got a bit cooler and the bugs started to arrive - I had enough bites on my holiday!  Did you catch my holiday edit?  I shared some of my dresses that I wore in Majorca and talking about dresses, this month's Style not Age is upon us and the title, set by moi, is .... 

Dreamy Dresses.

Broderie Anglais Midi Dress - Chic & Stylish Linkup

Hello and welcome to my blog today. 

How are you all?

My holiday seems a distant memory now, I’m hopeful that the better weather will come and stay. We’ve had a couple of nice days recently although still windy at least the skies are blue and there’s no rain!

I popped into a couple of shops on Wednesday and was pleased to return with a few bits. Two dresses of which one will be featured on Monday for the Style not Age challenge and a cute pair of black thin fabric wide leg trousers. I’ve seen some girls wearing them with chunky flats and little tee shirts so thought I’d try them for myself. If they look alright I’ll share them with you soon. 

I also went to the gym classes, but have been saddened by my normal gym instructor leaving and moving out of the area! You know when you love how someone teaches and going to her classes was always looked forward to, well that’s just how I feel about it! There’s been a change around with different instructors and new classes so it’s all been a bit of an upheaval! I hate change and am a creature of habit, with often going to the same hotel and holiday destination with the same restaurant frequented too! Anyone else like that? 

So on Wednesday I did Body Attack followed by Spin, both went okay although BA was a bit of a shock to the system, however I did them and survived… lol!

It’ll take a few weeks to settle I reckon and I’ve got a couple of others choices to try and see if I prefer them!

Do you like to change classes around or are you like me and like routine?

I’m sharing a holiday dress with you today, I was kindly gifted this one from Izabel London Clothing and think it’s going to be perfect when the warm sunny weather arrives! ☀️

Items marked with * have been gifted to me, however these are 100% my own honest comments.