tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76917706846143134132024-03-04T21:20:02.976-08:00Round in SpiralsA sustainable lifestyle blogElainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02353932919544437033noreply@blogger.comBlogger57125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7691770684614313413.post-82417610804203953932018-06-20T04:14:00.000-07:002018-06-20T04:14:58.467-07:00Latest charity shop haul<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_zwDOYRxVULAhkie-mZ7xZS8D_gY6UYmjp_BvCj4D7BkcE37eDarV4jBloh0fp5oHRBcchMaejrNXTpWwMArimKASxbPlUrcwBe17E-IwcZUhAc_zu5qoemQnr2E6FYRoXvniINm4UFI/s1600/lavender-3458764_1920.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_zwDOYRxVULAhkie-mZ7xZS8D_gY6UYmjp_BvCj4D7BkcE37eDarV4jBloh0fp5oHRBcchMaejrNXTpWwMArimKASxbPlUrcwBe17E-IwcZUhAc_zu5qoemQnr2E6FYRoXvniINm4UFI/s640/lavender-3458764_1920.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Do I need to introduce a charity shop haul? I don't think so... So let's jump right in:<br />
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Firstly, a couple of cat-related things from my local Cats Protection shop. Daisy has a water bowl indoors, but I noticed recently that she likes to drink fresh rainwater outside. Maybe it tastes better to her, more natural, I'm not sure. So I decided to get her a water bowl that can stay permanently outside, and I picked this little one up for £1.49. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQgyM2J0QokpNyVCakCxBKfAnqY5KUoLpEhD6pxuM3-hVcymMvR2oxhOeW22X7yMbYxATyvHoUW5XOUfgFJ1Jmpuo6dtsoYS1khNF-NTyrpY0mswe-KyWvzE6lnuzrsCdSpnzlI22bqLk/s1600/Charity+shop+haul+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Charity shop thrift haul haulternative" border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQgyM2J0QokpNyVCakCxBKfAnqY5KUoLpEhD6pxuM3-hVcymMvR2oxhOeW22X7yMbYxATyvHoUW5XOUfgFJ1Jmpuo6dtsoYS1khNF-NTyrpY0mswe-KyWvzE6lnuzrsCdSpnzlI22bqLk/s640/Charity+shop+haul+001.JPG" title="Cat bowl and cat key fob" width="640" /></a></div>
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Inside the bowl is a tiny little key fob (99p). I was cat-sitting for a friend over the weekend, and I knew I had my friend's spare key, but I didn't know which one it was because I'd taken the fob off. So I wanted a kitty-themed one to remind me. And I found just the thing! Often, charity shopping can be hit and miss, but this was almost like cosmic ordering!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR0tB1vWQjsFKRUExaX3u24BMnWBc77uBDf56UWWzOCXIK1830wvO8Sds-9GE5kwlEeZHMsNHAT-5XVsL_10XF_1ZdAHw-qVYkgl9W13sXuj_ZJniQqUeyo4lWySwxfcIKdZFoPTStAnY/s1600/Key+with+fob.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Thrift charity shop haul haulternative" border="0" data-original-height="1465" data-original-width="1600" height="586" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR0tB1vWQjsFKRUExaX3u24BMnWBc77uBDf56UWWzOCXIK1830wvO8Sds-9GE5kwlEeZHMsNHAT-5XVsL_10XF_1ZdAHw-qVYkgl9W13sXuj_ZJniQqUeyo4lWySwxfcIKdZFoPTStAnY/s640/Key+with+fob.jpg" title="Cat key fob up close" width="640" /></a></div>
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Also from Cats Protection, for £1.99, I got this vase. I was sort of looking for a creative way to display jewellery, and I thought it would work for that, but actually, I just like it as an object.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip4jYmvlEQ41T5_FQzUSKP_YDIIinC9ANTNQ5YDeiDy1B4bH6p0hzWFJSp1we3pvwocg5vRGn9ZiwjVheSl15BPPgwb-UQxYfIkQyHnKHPlPECa23FYiJdEDP7S04xr-wojYQED0Mc5cw/s1600/Charity+shop+haul+007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Charity thrift shop haul haulternative" border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip4jYmvlEQ41T5_FQzUSKP_YDIIinC9ANTNQ5YDeiDy1B4bH6p0hzWFJSp1we3pvwocg5vRGn9ZiwjVheSl15BPPgwb-UQxYfIkQyHnKHPlPECa23FYiJdEDP7S04xr-wojYQED0Mc5cw/s640/Charity+shop+haul+007.JPG" title="White vase" width="640" /></a></div>
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Over to the MIND mental health charity shop next, and I found this lovely big scarf for £4. It reminds me of my student days in the early 90s, when it would have got up on the wall. Now, I'm thinking of using it as a throw for the end of the bed. (Please excuse the state of the wall, it's been scrapped down for repainting...)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTWv3CadMFv3dcksFzMri_c2DGhDd8xrEO8h38iYCqQpZzMJoZBnBYmXsJmVIi2wN0aYAw4qQhdLOytHPgemFOiZXHFSGPc0VlohAqcF2az1CpIqYRYb6owA8iD7z8kwGb7WZS-XyIjsY/s1600/Scarf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Thrift charity shop haul haulternative" border="0" data-original-height="1158" data-original-width="1600" height="462" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTWv3CadMFv3dcksFzMri_c2DGhDd8xrEO8h38iYCqQpZzMJoZBnBYmXsJmVIi2wN0aYAw4qQhdLOytHPgemFOiZXHFSGPc0VlohAqcF2az1CpIqYRYb6owA8iD7z8kwGb7WZS-XyIjsY/s640/Scarf.jpg" title="Large scarf" width="640" /></a></div>
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Over at Cancer Research, I found this shirt for £3.25. I didn't used to wear shirts, but now I love them as a extra cosy layer, especially now that I don't have to look vaguely smart to go to the office any more. This shirt is quite thick and slightly fluffy, so it will get a lot of use when autumn comes along. Although it isn't exactly hot here today...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2M4RSORL5LlL7NXHha3t0z5if39NhZFJMlnaeegZhm7USK8XzHwfd_fKTW4VVark6Vq8qeQPsi6umXOM4B5aVEimmbs-efAR_NP-vkP4evhk0WFbnA6am_HgnbXAziNP022sC0VLw8Tg/s1600/Shirt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Thirft charity shop haul haulternative" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1533" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2M4RSORL5LlL7NXHha3t0z5if39NhZFJMlnaeegZhm7USK8XzHwfd_fKTW4VVark6Vq8qeQPsi6umXOM4B5aVEimmbs-efAR_NP-vkP4evhk0WFbnA6am_HgnbXAziNP022sC0VLw8Tg/s640/Shirt.jpg" title="Black and white check shirt" width="612" /></a></div>
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Last, a book for £1.50, also from Cancer Research. Lately, I've found myself reading a lot more non-fiction of various kinds, on the grounds that the real world is pretty interesting. But when I find a really good author, it's great to get lost in the realm of fiction again. I'd previously read 'Where'd You Go, Bernadette' by Maria Semple, and loved it, so when I spotted this book, also by her, I snapped it up. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdoTo4nznfH-t0kp_WuyXUVtOesRVKZPi_3HKNjc_6neQmAUtOoccbEg7Aafqz38k2NhmU5RNhGxkbsdiYizn3P6_xpnd1NrtM6DerZSGydZvF9WSkvvh9HHJnAqN1QcXCEjBGnWy78gY/s1600/Book.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Thrift charity shop haul haulternative" border="0" data-original-height="1393" data-original-width="1600" height="556" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdoTo4nznfH-t0kp_WuyXUVtOesRVKZPi_3HKNjc_6neQmAUtOoccbEg7Aafqz38k2NhmU5RNhGxkbsdiYizn3P6_xpnd1NrtM6DerZSGydZvF9WSkvvh9HHJnAqN1QcXCEjBGnWy78gY/s640/Book.jpg" title="'Today Will Be Different', by Maria Semple" width="640" /></a></div>
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And that's it for this haul. As usual, I'm pretty pleased with everything I've got.<br />
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Have you had any good charity shop finds recently?Elainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02353932919544437033noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7691770684614313413.post-36767249122444179832018-06-08T10:45:00.000-07:002018-06-08T10:45:18.443-07:00World Oceans Day & Morsbags & update<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs1hzhCmWWhT5yHJEK9nUDSUwhPaMvsxTluOqdK966eWHRStV9dumT7NXfvh7ElEqLbr_0Hdkr8yAnXNXbnZa7gnWKpvmelpfzWexQyI68sWlBb981oHqILzcJiHnAqvgMHqzozBAPoJo/s1600/birds+on+rock.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Plastic bags reducing pollution Morsbags World Oceans Day" border="0" data-original-height="1220" data-original-width="1600" height="488" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs1hzhCmWWhT5yHJEK9nUDSUwhPaMvsxTluOqdK966eWHRStV9dumT7NXfvh7ElEqLbr_0Hdkr8yAnXNXbnZa7gnWKpvmelpfzWexQyI68sWlBb981oHqILzcJiHnAqvgMHqzozBAPoJo/s640/birds+on+rock.jpg" title="High seas" width="640" /></a></div>
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Happy Friday, everybody! <br />
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This Friday also happens to be <a href="http://www.worldoceansday.org/" target="_blank">World Oceans Day</a>, and to celebrate, I decided to sign up to Morsbags again, and create my own bagging pod. <br />
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If you have never come across <a href="https://www.morsbags.com/" target="_blank">Morsbags</a> before, it's a movement that was created a few years ago to combat the destructive impact of single use plastic bags in our seas and waterways.<br />
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It's a really simple concept - you get together some second-hand fabric (cotton is normally best), and sew it up into lovely shopping bags that can be used instead of plastic ones. They should be washable, if you choose your fabric well, and will last for ages. Mine certainly have...<br />
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The Morsbags motto is 'sociable.guerilla.bagging'. The bagging element is obvious! It's social, because many pods (or bagging groups) have members who get together to sew on a regular basis (although, you can also stick to being a solo pod if you'd prefer). And the guerrilla bit is where you release your brand new bags on the unsuspecting public. They are handed out, completely free of charge, in hopes that people will switch to using them instead of plastic bags.<br />
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I used to be in a pod back when I lived in Durham, but I moved a couple of times, and lost the momentum. A lot has changed in the 10 or so years since I last bagged, but there is still so much to do to tackle plastic pollution. So I'm very happy to have signed up again. <br />
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The all-important labels are available from Morsbags for a small sum, but there are no other charges. And here are some I made earlier:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiQpVdGTrk1oKGqKiiLFjgyxVSUfX5v2eO2ZnpDVaQ2Gvuqq1qSbOhMFeFoC9O2M_eyUzIiu2zGxwqGMlz6mwmkX3paLN9n7WKxXc-OtqllOl1YGj0-DTz2OLA2kdI6T5KAxiJU-C-pdc/s1600/WP_20180608_16_31_58_Pro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Plastic pollution resuable bags second and fabric" border="0" data-original-height="899" data-original-width="1600" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiQpVdGTrk1oKGqKiiLFjgyxVSUfX5v2eO2ZnpDVaQ2Gvuqq1qSbOhMFeFoC9O2M_eyUzIiu2zGxwqGMlz6mwmkX3paLN9n7WKxXc-OtqllOl1YGj0-DTz2OLA2kdI6T5KAxiJU-C-pdc/s640/WP_20180608_16_31_58_Pro.jpg" title="My Morsbags" width="640" /></a></div>
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You only need basic sewing skills to create these bags, and it's a lot of fun. Lots of people get pretty creative with them too.<br />
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If you like to join up and have a go, the website will give you all the information you need, including the instructions for <a href="https://www.morsbags.com/make-a-morsbag/" target="_blank">making the bags</a>. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!<br />
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UPDATE<br />
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And on to my update. You know back when I said I was all ready to blog again after my break? Well, I kind of wasn't. But I haven't abandoned the blog just yet.<br />
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Long story short, work got in the way for a bit, so I've had to focus on that for the past while. But I knew that I wasn't really happy with the look of the blog, so I'm working on a bit of a rebrand. It's small things with the template, like having to 'curate' the five pictures at the top, which is quite difficult and time consuming. Also, I don't like my picture, but I don't seem to be able to find a better one. (This is a hopeless excuse, I know...) <br />
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Another key thing is that my work involves sitting at a computer screen for 8 hours a day, most days, so I find it difficult to spend the further screen time that blogging demands. And that makes it pretty difficult to grow the blog too, as that requires even more time on other social media platforms. <br />
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But does it matter? I realised that the answer is no. I have a small readership by any measure, but actually, that's fine. It's something I do for enjoyment, and if I can share information and ideas with other people, that's a bonus.<br />
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But an update is on the way, and when the refreshed blog is ready, I will announce it right here!<br />
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In the meantime, let me know in the comments if you are doing anything special for World Oceans Day...?Elainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02353932919544437033noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7691770684614313413.post-1201902144449485812018-05-03T09:10:00.001-07:002018-05-03T09:10:44.625-07:00Sustainable switches that have worked for me<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgynoZaRaglwnvKEUBezckwwWtUwofdIP5ASA-uV9nsI0QvvCHuubQB8CC9u0t9WNL209rexTtOj2xNOWPOsiYmeUShSaJ8MTKJL5q_fVy_chQTfBqK2rDhW1lmPXYfP1QJJTPV7wkz7NQ/s1600/leaf+with+drops.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="897" data-original-width="1333" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgynoZaRaglwnvKEUBezckwwWtUwofdIP5ASA-uV9nsI0QvvCHuubQB8CC9u0t9WNL209rexTtOj2xNOWPOsiYmeUShSaJ8MTKJL5q_fVy_chQTfBqK2rDhW1lmPXYfP1QJJTPV7wkz7NQ/s640/leaf+with+drops.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Making switches to more sustainable versions of the things you used to buy can take a quite a bit of time and research. And also a bit of trial and error. But when you find a better alternative that works for you, it is completely worth all the effort. So, I thought I'd share a run down of the sustainable switches I've made recently that I've been very happy with. <br />
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<strong>1) Go Cat to <a href="https://www.yarrah.com/en/" target="_blank">Yarrah</a> Organic cat food</strong><br />
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I first blogged about Yarrah <a href="https://roundinspirals.blogspot.co.uk/search?q=Yarrah#.WusmvGeWyP8" target="_blank">here</a>, when I was looking around for more ethical and sustainable ways to feed the cat. The company seems to have pretty good credentials, and I am pleased to be able to say that we have been using Yarrah since I first offered it to Daisy. <br />
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She seems to enjoy it as much as she enjoys any food, ie not that much, but she eats it and stays alive, so it must be OK. I order two bags from <a href="http://www.zooplus.co.uk/" target="_blank">Zooplus</a> every four months, and it works out at around £2 a week, which is a price I'm pretty happy with. <br />
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My only gripe is that - as with so many organic products - Yarrah comes in plastic packaging. (Why????) But that's the only drawback, so this is a switch we'll be staying with for the foreseeable.<br />
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<strong>2) Supermarket recycled toilet roll to <a href="https://uk.whogivesacrap.org/" target="_blank">Who Gives a Crap</a> toilet roll</strong><br />
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I wanted to try Who Gives a Crap toilet roll for a number of reasons. Firstly, it's a good way to buy toilet roll in bulk, and I'm doing my best to switch to bulk buying whenever possible. <br />
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Secondly, it involves minimal plastic packaging. The rolls are all wrapped in paper, and come in a big cardboard box. The only plastic is the tape, which I guess is fairly unavoidable. Thirdly, the company donates 50% of their profits to providing toilets and improved sanitation for many people in need. <br />
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Finally, my delivery guy had a bit of a laugh when he read 'You've got a nice bum' on the box as he handed it to me!<br />
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It's a more expensive way to buy loo roll, but I like this company and their ethos, so I will stick with it.<br />
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<strong>3) Supermarket recycled kitchen roll to Ecoleaf kitchen roll</strong><br />
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Whilst I've cut down a lot on kitchen roll, I do still use it now and again. I switched to <a href="https://www.sumawholesale.com/" target="_blank">Suma</a>'s Ecoleaf version when I found it at my local health food shop. I like that you get one big roll instead of two smaller ones - no more shoving the second one in the back of the cupboard till the first one runs out. <br />
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The paper is 100% recycled, and the wrap is 100% compostable, which is great. Hopefully, I'll eventually cut out kitchen roll altogether, but until then, this is the one for me. <br />
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<strong>4) Bulk buys from Big Green Smile</strong><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicc51i2poW-OaR_67TuX-iOIgkccXp7bT6g5lVJPHt_yB5Q9y3R47T4MADUE1czSmEkrUfCToueDNpR2abMcQ9vfJXJbTlPGXhTLwrgDDKGt06KzdTlzZle4BgwqpbMrem_3t77c1IpEc/s1600/Big+Green+Smile.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1383" data-original-width="1237" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicc51i2poW-OaR_67TuX-iOIgkccXp7bT6g5lVJPHt_yB5Q9y3R47T4MADUE1czSmEkrUfCToueDNpR2abMcQ9vfJXJbTlPGXhTLwrgDDKGt06KzdTlzZle4BgwqpbMrem_3t77c1IpEc/s640/Big+Green+Smile.jpg" width="572" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.biggreensmile.com/" target="_blank">Big Green Smile</a> is an online company that sells many household products in 5 litre bottles. At the moment, I have bottles of washing up liquid and disinfectant from Bio D, shower gel from Faith in Nature, and toilet cleaner from Ecover. I just top up smaller bottles of each item using a funnel, which is easy - and strangely satisfying - to do. I wasn't sure if I could reuse my smaller toilet cleaning bottle, but it turns out you can prize the nozzle off with a sharp knife, then refill and reuse. <br />
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Whilst this clearly still involves plastic, it's less than if I was still using the small standard-size bottles. You can buy pump dispensers to go with the 5 litre bottles, and if you had difficulty lifting them, this would be fairly essential. But I don't need them, which saves a bit more plastic.<br />
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And these bottles last for ages! I love not having to go out and buy more washing up liquid etc every few weeks. A couple of orders from Big Green Smile each year is more than enough to keep me going. <br />
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So those are a few of the switches I've made. I want to cut down on the plastic even more, but in the meantime, I'm pretty happy with these products. It has really reduced my reliance on the supermarket as well, which is also a cause for joy!<br />
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Till next time...Elainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02353932919544437033noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7691770684614313413.post-20204122072906874332018-03-29T06:14:00.000-07:002018-03-29T06:14:05.321-07:00Recipe: Buckwheat Banana Bread<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpAUny7scIA7Wj3Jx-c5uFdPDmPsJPSIJ0qQCZZ4RxMwcy-FpeNJve6YibNV9sH26wmMZTiR9eMyL-F-p0-QNVl2DOpg5TFIcf_1E4mTgDg5OvkDd_VTI6-KuwMJp6b711NPRntFXG6D0/s1600/Banana+bread.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Banana bread vegan plant-based gluten-free sugar-free" border="0" data-original-height="1297" data-original-width="1549" height="534" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpAUny7scIA7Wj3Jx-c5uFdPDmPsJPSIJ0qQCZZ4RxMwcy-FpeNJve6YibNV9sH26wmMZTiR9eMyL-F-p0-QNVl2DOpg5TFIcf_1E4mTgDg5OvkDd_VTI6-KuwMJp6b711NPRntFXG6D0/s640/Banana+bread.jpg" title="Banana bread" width="640" /></a></div>
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Happy Thursday, everybody :) I'm just checking in today to bring you an important banana bread recipe. Yes, important. Really! For this banana bread is completely free of eggs, dairy, added sugar, and added fat. How good is that?<br />
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I was sceptical about how successful this recipe would be, but I had three very ripe bananas that needed using up, so I had a go. And I can safely say it's delicious! The texture is great - moist and a little springy - and it is just sweet enough. The fruit and nuts add plenty of interest.<br />
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The recipe is from the book <a href="https://www.hive.co.uk/Product/Jasmine-Hemsley/East-by-West--Simple-Recipes-for-Ultimate-Mind-Body-Balance/20904040" target="_blank">East by West</a>, by Jasmine Hemsley. I changed it slightly by using spelt flour instead of buckwheat flour, and cacao powder instead of the cinnamon. But the banana bread turned out just great. As it's low in sugar, I've been having a couple of slices for breakfast, and it really keeps me going till lunchtime. I know that I'll be making this recipe on a regular basis from now on. Here's the original version:<br />
<br />
<strong>Ingredients:</strong><br />
<br />
290g buckwheat flour (I used spelt flour)<br />
2 tsp baking powder<br />
1tsp baking soda<br />
1/2 tbsp ground cinnamon<br />
4 ripe bananas, mashed & 1 ripe banana, sliced<br />
1 tsp vanilla extract<br />
60g raisins<br />
30g walnuts<br />
<br />
<strong>Method</strong>:<br />
<br />
Preheat the oven to 180 deg C/gas mark 4. <br />
<br />
Mix all of the dry ingredients, plus a pinch of salt, together in a large bowl. <br />
<br />
Mash four bananas, 120ml of water, and the vanilla extract together, then add the dry ingredients. Mix in the raisins, walnuts and banana slices. <br />
<br />
Transfer the mixture into a 750g loaf tin lined with baking parchment. Bake for 25 minutes, then turn to ensure even cooking, and bake for a further 15 minutes until firm to the touch. Allow to cool before slicing.<br />
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And that's it. I've got my banana bread stored in a cake tin, and it seems to be keeping well several days later. I hope you love it too, if you decide to give it a go...Elainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02353932919544437033noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7691770684614313413.post-66509659454073246842018-03-23T11:13:00.001-07:002018-03-23T11:13:55.351-07:00Repurposing items to reduce waste<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVZHjFtGv4u5mGOnXNP1zu1TqdsXOzX4KgzIl1vgo0U6s0iyvLKKTmldYAA8u5dGNYUj3wI5usf1VvX8JIrg98s1PTG3vIAsv7HOHWPHjefGdxadLwk5n-P5tEl81KjqN6JI71qazYBcQ/s1600/Snow+drops.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Repurposing reduce zero waste frugal minimalism " border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVZHjFtGv4u5mGOnXNP1zu1TqdsXOzX4KgzIl1vgo0U6s0iyvLKKTmldYAA8u5dGNYUj3wI5usf1VvX8JIrg98s1PTG3vIAsv7HOHWPHjefGdxadLwk5n-P5tEl81KjqN6JI71qazYBcQ/s640/Snow+drops.jpg" title="Repurposing to reduce waste" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />
Hey, it's nice to be back! I've had a good break, and I'm all ready to blog once again. I thought I'd kick off with some items around the house that I've been able to repurpose rather than throw away. It's always best to try and reduce the amount of stuff that's coming into the house in the first place, and I'm working on that. However, since these things were already here, it makes sense to get as much use out of them as possible. <br />
<br />
1) My partner's sister-in-law is a ceramicist, and one Christmas she gave us each a couple of mugs she'd made herself. This was a wonderful gift. Unfortunately, I was washing one of my mugs in the sink one day, and the handle cracked off. As it was damaged, I couldn't donate it, but I really didn't want to throw it out either. So now, it's a lovely, artisan-made brush holder in my bathroom.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6dxpujk7vdwKPut9C1rGxwQhksOKRKD-kscmzKPMEGNCStyghyphenhyphenBWDUVxI7oFGA5dzeVsGfh85OaXzoPI9Ej1V5bAwA6FEsXgupDBphthefYUBdDh6obkoPSxmpyZYvgTUIZxEPKe_V7I/s1600/Repurposed+mug.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1554" data-original-width="1600" height="620" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6dxpujk7vdwKPut9C1rGxwQhksOKRKD-kscmzKPMEGNCStyghyphenhyphenBWDUVxI7oFGA5dzeVsGfh85OaXzoPI9Ej1V5bAwA6FEsXgupDBphthefYUBdDh6obkoPSxmpyZYvgTUIZxEPKe_V7I/s640/Repurposed+mug.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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2) A coffee tin from Aldi, repurposed as a utensil holder. I have a couple of these in the kitchen now, as I like the design.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBh7I8iKUfSKSJCpDkva4z5ucl6nlhkmpjzGW9LZncNtOi8EuX0lxq7G5ISgkAJkb9sJ_WFFxnMJYePiWtUqd1T0b2Q2WBQbS2qhGYKlCY7znekPLy-1OGSUuWAqQCHEZixHsA4wuKxa8/s1600/Utensils+in+a+tin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1502" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBh7I8iKUfSKSJCpDkva4z5ucl6nlhkmpjzGW9LZncNtOi8EuX0lxq7G5ISgkAJkb9sJ_WFFxnMJYePiWtUqd1T0b2Q2WBQbS2qhGYKlCY7znekPLy-1OGSUuWAqQCHEZixHsA4wuKxa8/s640/Utensils+in+a+tin.jpg" width="600" /></a></div>
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<br />
3) Glass jars as storage jars. I use a lot of glass jars this way as it's so much better than having food in plastic containers. I'm afraid I don't normally spend time taking the labels off, although they would look much better if I did. As well as dried goods, I use jars to store things like half an onion or half a lemon in the fridge, and you can also use them in the freezer too. They are super versatile and inexpensive.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIuXDMqwBYxH9ktmfVkq8yw59qOnlMDwchy31ElJzvjMuEh6i8-8aX0c9Tw6boiklu3ig1Nznfss8W0SMcxGx0aQhqQAMvsa2812UvI58MZcYI9pVwwO9HbpqiUf4v3uU8ZNAAwKRIxrQ/s1600/Storage+jars.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1123" data-original-width="1600" height="448" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIuXDMqwBYxH9ktmfVkq8yw59qOnlMDwchy31ElJzvjMuEh6i8-8aX0c9Tw6boiklu3ig1Nznfss8W0SMcxGx0aQhqQAMvsa2812UvI58MZcYI9pVwwO9HbpqiUf4v3uU8ZNAAwKRIxrQ/s640/Storage+jars.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />
4) Rubber gloves to rubber bands. Yes, I know I really shouldn't use rubber gloves at all, but I don't have a dishwasher, and I hate how dry my hands get after doing the dishes. So I do still buy rubber gloves, but I make sure each pair lasts as long as possible. When they finally spring a leak, I cut them up into rubber bands. You can make them quite broad, so they don't dig into things the way normal rubber bands can. I've also cut them into strips to tie plants to sticks, and other miscellaneous uses. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHOZrsr4y-atQtN44rAs5qFJe86omhvaO3Qg3J11L4sK-etoFQBRL9N9tZTgzz26LItqjgqTVVRevG0L5H4KLYx3oQJZUrK1Pia2bh7MKixXaVKdxjVt1xnFzjk86T7VftkXezzgh4Yc8/s1600/022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHOZrsr4y-atQtN44rAs5qFJe86omhvaO3Qg3J11L4sK-etoFQBRL9N9tZTgzz26LItqjgqTVVRevG0L5H4KLYx3oQJZUrK1Pia2bh7MKixXaVKdxjVt1xnFzjk86T7VftkXezzgh4Yc8/s640/022.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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<br />
5) An odd glove becomes my glove for scrapping the car. I've moved house quite a few times over the years, and for some reason, things go missing almost every time. This was a nice pair of gloves, but this one wound up on its own after a move, and I've never been able to find its mate. Luckily, it's the right-hand glove (I'm right-handed), so I now keep it in the car for the sole purpose of scraping ice. <br />
<br />
You know how your hand freezes after only a few seconds of scrapping? Well, I no longer have that problem as this glove is always ready and waiting. Chances are I won't have brought any other gloves with me, no matter how cold it is, so it's great to be able to keep my hand warm whilst scrapping the ice. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIAsNyxdWqtTnOqvyJcc2-dN6W1ipdTbekk3UpfTp-hz2GT-bGvlMrWzJmZWBJ9C6GYapbdT1OeFVoEpdx3CtBTott-wptkpaR6AdapD_oYo9QmBSCHVoc1c0SCdP15XfOD5yFhZl9XVM/s1600/Glove+and+scrapper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1385" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIAsNyxdWqtTnOqvyJcc2-dN6W1ipdTbekk3UpfTp-hz2GT-bGvlMrWzJmZWBJ9C6GYapbdT1OeFVoEpdx3CtBTott-wptkpaR6AdapD_oYo9QmBSCHVoc1c0SCdP15XfOD5yFhZl9XVM/s640/Glove+and+scrapper.jpg" width="552" /></a></div>
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The coffee tin and the glass jars could be recycled, but it benefits the environment to keep them out of that process for as long as possible. The other items would just have to be thrown out, so I'm glad that I've been able to find new uses for them.<br />
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Do you have any favourite things that you've repurposed or upcycled? I'd love to hear!Elainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02353932919544437033noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7691770684614313413.post-28485233014466132212018-03-02T14:00:00.000-08:002018-03-21T10:35:02.935-07:00Spirals takes a break & challange update & mini charity shop haul<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7sqfj_LROzBlZRMmv3wDf3IxewvVE-d5-NjaPexSpHa4st4_rurKBGAJH3iEE3aOyN6ggHzHBduq6UbcnnZbYgOtZDTM7wLvFVfU_Gr3soGoPHUDoE6okZTmMCp5wziBsg5aH_MHs_Tc/s1600/sheep-2563722_1920.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Buy nothing new challenge charity shop thrift haul" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7sqfj_LROzBlZRMmv3wDf3IxewvVE-d5-NjaPexSpHa4st4_rurKBGAJH3iEE3aOyN6ggHzHBduq6UbcnnZbYgOtZDTM7wLvFVfU_Gr3soGoPHUDoE6okZTmMCp5wziBsg5aH_MHs_Tc/s640/sheep-2563722_1920.jpg" title="Challenge update and mini haul" width="640" /></a></div>
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First thing is, I'm going to take a little break from posting on the blog for a while. Next week, I've got a work 'thing' that will take up all my time and mental energy. After that, I've got a nice week off (will be needing it...) and I'm planning on having a good digital detox and reconnecting with the world beyond the internet. I'll be back with some new posts towards the end of March. <br />
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<strong>Buy Nothing New Challenge update</strong><br />
<br />
I confess that I have bought some brand new things. Yep, I'm afraid I've broken the challenge, but let me explain the circumstances. I bought:<br />
<br />
1) A pair of <strong>winter gloves</strong> for the bike. My partner had originally wanted to get me these for Christmas, but we had no luck finding a pair that suited. So last weekend, he suggested going to a different shop and having a look. I didn't have the heart to say, no, I can only have second hand ones, and we found a pair that was just right. So we bought them. <br />
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2) A <strong>magazine</strong>. I managed without magazines for the whole month of February, but in a moment of weakness, I gave in and bought one. I have made a great discovery through the challenge, though. Susie from the lovely blog <a href="http://secondhandsusie.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">Second Hand Susie</a> left me a comment suggesting that my local library might have magazines online. <br />
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I checked it out, and they do, so I signed up. It's such a good resource. They have a good range of magazines, and you can download back copies too. So I gave in once, but hopefully I can get by with the online versions till the end of the challenge. <br />
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3) A <strong>bird feeder</strong>. It was an emergency! It's been pretty snowy (amber warning snowy!) here in the north-east, and I couldn't bear for the little birds not to be fed. I don't normally put food out for them as I'm frightened of the cat getting them. But luckily she hates the snow and hasn't been out for days, so I thought it would be OK. <br />
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To be honest, I didn't even set out to try and find a second hand version. I just went to the pet shop and bought a new one. I even managed to get a metal one, which was a bonus. <br />
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So yes, I've bought some new bits and pieces, but in the overall scheme of things, it isn't too bad. The challenge is really about being mindful, and looking at alternatives to buying new, if it's practical. <br />
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<strong>Small charity shop challenge</strong><br />
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I definitely wouldn't be able to do a complete 'No Spend' challenge for any length of time, as I love my charity shopping too much. Above all, it's just so relaxing. I can go in there, start rummaging around, and I just switch off completely from the all hassles of the day. It really is retail therapy, but without the bankruptcy. Here are my latest finds:<br />
<br />
1) A little orange <strong>toilet bag</strong> from Body Shop. It came with a mango body wash and body butter but I've donated those back because I just wanted the bag. It was £1.95 from Cancer Research.<br />
2) Two <strong>mini-soaps</strong> from M&S. They were 50p each at the RSPCA shop. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguFtetv9MBudxYfLRVa89waSH65hXkkzg1XTd_h9RWMMAa3ALD0BSu8Ss3vOv0dKXH8kxib-a1yl9bv3hmhmUGWC5Isoew64U5RPpwk00LwpBGnTA_pq2a5LI3LKyUEX_Uvl31SNjbmFM/s1600/DSCN3243.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguFtetv9MBudxYfLRVa89waSH65hXkkzg1XTd_h9RWMMAa3ALD0BSu8Ss3vOv0dKXH8kxib-a1yl9bv3hmhmUGWC5Isoew64U5RPpwk00LwpBGnTA_pq2a5LI3LKyUEX_Uvl31SNjbmFM/s640/DSCN3243.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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3) A pair of gorgeous <strong>spotty mugs</strong>. They're a lovely warm, deep orange, more so than the photo shows up. I felt really lucky to find them, I love a good mug. £1 each at Cancer Research. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHYT1Fscf3eWlPd_xKMmtMEdw1ZIxSCZcivySP-GR-bUN5RN2L3HdQOqi9iQN4IHr-a-2n8yl51kedF0LlN9OYhmjtlf6AIY2OdmQ9hFRPbh2lN1GmO_dmveEkWd4Yi4TJZG-mOMOuypE/s1600/RSCN3269.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHYT1Fscf3eWlPd_xKMmtMEdw1ZIxSCZcivySP-GR-bUN5RN2L3HdQOqi9iQN4IHr-a-2n8yl51kedF0LlN9OYhmjtlf6AIY2OdmQ9hFRPbh2lN1GmO_dmveEkWd4Yi4TJZG-mOMOuypE/s640/RSCN3269.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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4) A really delicate double necklace. I'm not sure where it's from originally, but Accessorise often do jewellery like this. I'm going to try and photograph it a bit better, but at least you can see the tiny charms. £2.50 at the Mind shop. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqBY9HStQbpkCqUb1ybrUhDPDdE9mweIBYU4CNZp-t37x4dYfjnMofl-rGPf37HbxeOOc09FC7HA3adOW5FEKgnVAoMxuuOOVbLksiF7MCTwz1BvvDgUMsJnjoCbp6Z7FoYd_0-IfFaeg/s1600/RSCN3268.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqBY9HStQbpkCqUb1ybrUhDPDdE9mweIBYU4CNZp-t37x4dYfjnMofl-rGPf37HbxeOOc09FC7HA3adOW5FEKgnVAoMxuuOOVbLksiF7MCTwz1BvvDgUMsJnjoCbp6Z7FoYd_0-IfFaeg/s640/RSCN3268.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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5) Last, a sweet rabbit brooch. It's painted ceramic, and about 1.5 inches tall. Again, I need to take a better photo. It wasn't a good photo day, for some reason. Only 50p from the Mind shop. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtUZzKsqtGpV4BdGTEdiPaJ0EwlwuN34dUl-syeIyGSvqQ3iHATxplI22Oq4N2fo3NLMZphjtQf6Yub6jts-a9xQOYUWxo8UaHbeTwNe1UMODlYcLpLFj25dJjr4SDK62SrfZYFNa7od4/s1600/RSCN3267.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtUZzKsqtGpV4BdGTEdiPaJ0EwlwuN34dUl-syeIyGSvqQ3iHATxplI22Oq4N2fo3NLMZphjtQf6Yub6jts-a9xQOYUWxo8UaHbeTwNe1UMODlYcLpLFj25dJjr4SDK62SrfZYFNa7od4/s640/RSCN3267.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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That's everything for now. I'll be back in a few weeks, and hopefully it will be spring by then.<br />
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In the meantime, keep warm!Elainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02353932919544437033noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7691770684614313413.post-10270983638957037142018-02-21T13:03:00.000-08:002018-02-21T13:03:09.839-08:00Buy Nothing New Challenge - Update 3<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA9lzn-wthKBd8sx4g_eN1TIS_dEtxOr541gH__0BuUC-g9KiLPCduMqwSY0Abyujk-83JMc0EPZj0Hy-sfBSkJ08jxuFCCr2wdy9amcY3tibjsChMaUpKbV8ICUSBrIE470lqBny9_7c/s1600/tulips-3163317_1920.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA9lzn-wthKBd8sx4g_eN1TIS_dEtxOr541gH__0BuUC-g9KiLPCduMqwSY0Abyujk-83JMc0EPZj0Hy-sfBSkJ08jxuFCCr2wdy9amcY3tibjsChMaUpKbV8ICUSBrIE470lqBny9_7c/s640/tulips-3163317_1920.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />
When I started this challenge, I thought I'd intersperse the updates with my other posts, but it has kind of taken over the asylum. I find that I actually spend quite a lot of time thinking about what I might need or want to buy new, and then thinking of ways to avoid it. <br />
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So this time, it's all things laundry-related. I mentioned before that my washing machine is on the blink. It still works, but it doesn't go on to the spin cycle automatically any more. I have to switch it off, leave it for 10 minutes, and then manually change the programme to the spin. It still does the job, but it's a bit of a hassle. <br />
<br />
I'd hoped I'd be able get a washing machine repair man out, and he'd fix it up for a relatively small sum of money. Fortunately, we still have somebody in the area who will repair appliances - it's a service that just isn't so much in demand these days. Anyway, he had a look, and said that 1) the problem is with the circuit board, and 2) the drum is coming loose. Between these two issues, he said it was not worth repairing the machine.<br />
<br />
The washing machine came with the house when I bought it seven years ago, so it's a fair age now. I've had good use out of it, so on balance, I accepted the expert advice of washing machine repair man. Especially as he was prepared to do the call-out for free!<br />
<br />
So the options: <br />
1) Wait till the end of the challenge and get a new washing machine - if I'm honest, I'd really like a lovely shiny brand new machine! They aren't even all that expensive these days, and it would be good to get a more energy-efficient model. But it's not really in the spirit of the challenge, so...<br />
<br />
2) See what I can get second-hand. There aren't many washing machines coming up on Freecycle at the moment, so I'll need to have a scout around and see if there are any shops selling second-hand machines. Ideally who will deliver and install - might be pushing my luck there.<br />
<br />
3) Go to the laundrette - there is one round the corner, but I nipped in the other day to see what it would cost, and it's £5 for a wash. £5!!!!! And that's before you even think of drying your laundry! Is it any wonder people can't afford to eat if they have to pay that sort of money to wash clothes. <br />
<br />
As the machine still approximately works, I'll go with option 2 for now. <br />
<br />
With all the concern about microfibres from clothing getting into the oceans, and then into our food and water, I was really pleased to read about <a href="http://guppyfriend.com/en/" target="_blank">Guppyfriends</a>. These are basically laundry bags that you can use to wash synthetic fabrics in with your normal wash. The microfibers get trapped inside the Guppyfriend, and you then presumably put them in the bin.<br />
<br />
At £25, a Guppyfriend is quite pricey. Ordinarily, I'd have gone ahead anyway and spent the money because of the benefits to the environment. <br />
<br />
But the good thing about the Buy Nothing New Challenge is that I have to stop and think, even about good, innovative products like this. So in the meantime, I'm going to do a little research and read a few reviews to see if it is worth the investment.<br />
<br />
And the solution is staring me in the face - stop wearing my synthetic clothing for now.<br />
<br />
So that's all for this update. I've bought a couple of things at charity shops, and have possibly spent slightly more than usual on food and drink, but I haven't bought anything new since the last update. Yay!<br />
<br />
Till next time :)Elainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02353932919544437033noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7691770684614313413.post-23910829499182656312018-02-12T12:02:00.002-08:002018-02-12T12:33:14.973-08:00Buy Nothing New Challenge - Update 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg35TMnLhHbc8lrqLEFO06KvbvJsfBBJpNJek9F1GOgKFtbFlsRZ-XDMZfG8AronSz33Cyo2kzYI6nnSONuPhTGsUhED4xZr0u2aWHmZqE32npQq2m9j1rZJWXLU6WBm1LbZ-vipAhd7Us/s1600/Trees+in+mist.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Buy Nothing New 2 month challenge" border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg35TMnLhHbc8lrqLEFO06KvbvJsfBBJpNJek9F1GOgKFtbFlsRZ-XDMZfG8AronSz33Cyo2kzYI6nnSONuPhTGsUhED4xZr0u2aWHmZqE32npQq2m9j1rZJWXLU6WBm1LbZ-vipAhd7Us/s640/Trees+in+mist.jpg" title="Update 2 of the challenge" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
After my early fail last weekend with the flowers (see <a href="http://roundinspirals.blogspot.co.uk/2018/02/buy-nothing-new-challenge-update-1.html#.WoHiPWdLGP8" target="_blank">Update 1</a> here), I have managed to stick to the rules of my <a href="http://roundinspirals.blogspot.co.uk/2018/02/my-buy-nothing-new-challenge-for.html#.WoHi9GdLGP8" target="_blank">Buy Nothing New Challenge</a>. However, this week, I feel that the stakes are starting to edge up a bit:<br />
<br />
<strong><em>St Valentine's Day</em></strong><br />
<br />
The first challenge of the week has been Valentine's Day, coming up on Wednesday. Luckily, my partner and I have never really bought each other gifts, so that's one shopping dilemma out of the way. But we do send cards. Normally, I'd head to Paperchase as I can be fairly certain of finding a card I like there. But this year I couldn't, as it would break the rules of my challenge.<br />
<br />
Fortunately, I've been able to sort this one out quite easily. I have a box of random unused cards that have accumulated over the years. For some reason, I've bought these cards but never sent them, and now I can't even remember who they were for. <br />
<br />
So at lunchtime, I went to the box and picked out a card would make a reasonable Valentine's card - my partner dislikes 'traditional' Valentine's cards, so I often customise a bit anyway. The card has been sent off in good time for Wednesday - job done....! (My partner works away during the week, hence the need to post the card.)<br />
<br />
<strong><em>Birthday present No 1</em></strong><br />
<br />
This Saturday is an old friend's birthday, and also my brother's birthday. They were born not only on the exact same day but in the exact same year, which I always find a little strange for some reason. <br />
<br />
For my brother, I got a Lumie Bodyclock. I've had one for years, and I'm always <a href="http://roundinspirals.blogspot.co.uk/2017/10/lumie-bodyclock-review.html#.WoHlxWdLGP8" target="_blank">going on about it</a> to anybody who will listen, because it has genuinely revolutionised my winter mornings. My brother is no more a morning person than I am, so I thought I'd share its life-changing powers with him.<br />
<br />
But could I get hold of one without buying new? Indeed I could. <br />
<br />
At New Year, I had an email from Lumie to say that they had various refurbished clocks and lamps for sale at discounted prices on their website. These are items that have been sent out for a trial period, but people have then sent them back for a refund. The company checks that they are in good condition, and re-sells them for quite a bit less then the original price. <br />
<br />
So I got a refurbished model for my brother. Technically, I bought it last month, but still, that's one birthday present achieved within the challenge rules. And I also have a birthday card from the stash to send with it. Success!<br />
<br />
<strong><em>Birthday present No 2</em></strong><br />
<br />
My friend is easy to buy for as she is perfectly happy with thrifted items, or, say, a book I've read that I know she would really like. This is a reciprocal arrangement, as I am just as happy to receive the same sort of gift from her. <br />
<br />
This year, I'm going to send her some nice handcreams. I acquired two or three through my <a href="https://www.thevegankind.com/" target="_blank">TVK</a> beauty subscription box, but I don't really use handcream myself. She uses lots, so it makes sense to send mine off to a good home. So that's another good result for the challenge. <br />
<br />
<strong><em>Looking ahead...</em></strong><br />
<br />
So Valentine's Day and two birthdays have been successfully negotiated this week. But there are a couple of things about the house that are going to need repaired or replaced quite soon, and these will take a bit of thought if I'm going to stick to the rules. I mean things like the cat's scratching post, which she has worn through. Also, the washing machine has developed a fault, and I need a new pair of boots. <br />
<br />
I'll let you know how I get on in the next update...Elainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02353932919544437033noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7691770684614313413.post-38635704298468369422018-02-10T05:58:00.002-08:002018-02-12T12:26:44.302-08:00Buy Nothing New Challenge - Update 1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRwTncGxc-p4hbFkQI4_cU7a7lGQ24izKGpniQBa1OQBzt0ZmoNYUWoTe1jt56yeKKcNZQ0YvrOV6z_3OsvQR2TrIvTAavyOtahbXkRhi0Hb8yYKv_Jjy1fy3251Z7qMpGUwn7GGCfDNo/s1600/Sun+on+shore.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Buy Nothing New Challenge frugal minimalist" border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRwTncGxc-p4hbFkQI4_cU7a7lGQ24izKGpniQBa1OQBzt0ZmoNYUWoTe1jt56yeKKcNZQ0YvrOV6z_3OsvQR2TrIvTAavyOtahbXkRhi0Hb8yYKv_Jjy1fy3251Z7qMpGUwn7GGCfDNo/s640/Sun+on+shore.jpg" title="Buy Nothing New Challenge - Update 1" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
10 days in, and it's time for Update 1 on my Buy Nothing New Challenge for February and March 2018.<br />
<br />
I'm glad to report that things started out quite well. I had an early success last Friday, when I went to the supermarket to get some things in for tea. I usually stop by the magazine aisle, especially at the start the month, when the new editions come out. <br />
<br />
So there I was, as usual, having a look at the shiny new magazines. I was about to choose one when I remembered my challenge - buy nothing new, which clearly precludes new magazines. I have a bit of a magazine habit, but I managed to step away from that aisle empty-handed. Go me!<br />
<br />
So far so good, but it was not to last. The next day (Saturday 3rd), I went back to the supermarket. I was making a sweet potato, spinach and cashew nut curry, and I had everything in except the sweet potato. Now, sweet potatoes fall within the rules of the challenge, but fresh flowers do not. Yes, by day three, I'd failed. <br />
<br />
On my trip to get a single vegetable, I also bought a little bunch of yellow gerberas and a little bunch of freesias. The thing is, I'd completely forgotten about the challenge at that moment. I saw the flowers, thought they were gorgeous, and stuck them in the basket. I didn't even realise what I'd done until the next morning. I was sitting in my kitchen waiting for the coffee to brew, looking at the flowers, and eventually it came to me that they broke the rules of the challenge. Only three days in!! Aghhhhh....!<br />
<br />
At this point, I just want to say that, whilst I am taking my challenge seriously, it's also meant to be a light-hearted one. Hopefully even fun! So I was a bit miffed with myself, but I'm not going to beat myself up about one little slip. Well, not too severely, anyway. <br />
<br />
Since then, I've stuck to the challenge. This week, I've bought only food and drink, and replaced an empty deodorant (I don't think I mentioned it in the rules, but basic toiletries are allowed as required.)<br />
<br />
And I have enjoyed the flowers - here they are:<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHt63eccHIUfSa-DEdRT12WABm6Nj5ZUYtRyuoexWnudIwUVsACFbHwzfUhILROWOKIDCTd5WiFRm_xDHABHJ1aFZhCpVR4k-JJ7h9iIItvJW1JHdCDt8UWW9l7wfjPKiCrqKpmI3Olk4/s1600/The+flowers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Buy Nothing new challenge frigal minimalist" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="899" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHt63eccHIUfSa-DEdRT12WABm6Nj5ZUYtRyuoexWnudIwUVsACFbHwzfUhILROWOKIDCTd5WiFRm_xDHABHJ1aFZhCpVR4k-JJ7h9iIItvJW1JHdCDt8UWW9l7wfjPKiCrqKpmI3Olk4/s400/The+flowers.jpg" title="The contraband flowers" width="223" /></a></div>
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Next update coming soon!</div>
Elainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02353932919544437033noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7691770684614313413.post-58448455012849146242018-02-07T14:19:00.001-08:002018-02-07T14:20:08.103-08:00Haulternative - recent charity shop finds<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglb8CnmgwkGgwe2syJsyV8DYLE1aED3yQq2wt-riQfphUtbPPAbFIJqm01TXyY-6Jd5vpQcd8qr8yRsXxOQBKJaNPePOvTFvav7qx8AdsnJ-TiV8kPXJKTPW7WGaAvWRHLybJ7pVj7FKs/s1600/Tree+on+hill.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Haulternative charity shop finds frugal thrifting" border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglb8CnmgwkGgwe2syJsyV8DYLE1aED3yQq2wt-riQfphUtbPPAbFIJqm01TXyY-6Jd5vpQcd8qr8yRsXxOQBKJaNPePOvTFvav7qx8AdsnJ-TiV8kPXJKTPW7WGaAvWRHLybJ7pVj7FKs/s640/Tree+on+hill.jpg" title="Charity shop finds" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
(NB - firstly, I just want to say that, although these charity shop buys would not break the rules of my Buy Nothing New Challenge, I bought them in January. I'd decluttered enough stuff to fill up a couple of charity donation bags, and I felt a bit rubbish with a cold, so I treated myself...!)<br />
<br />
So let's jump in:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQWvxRZDRbBgyUd3RBJ_N__7SaSsqn6Y9b_ZXJDWTZeya4mfjuu2YpZe-Rgb6lBOFZqFAE5S-K7A9gr4X4dTJYz3b4LF8avqo947oizTt_-JF5ze0W5LkyHXMINh9NSopaKGKzmLWi100/s1600/001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Haulternative charity shop buys frugal thifted" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1497" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQWvxRZDRbBgyUd3RBJ_N__7SaSsqn6Y9b_ZXJDWTZeya4mfjuu2YpZe-Rgb6lBOFZqFAE5S-K7A9gr4X4dTJYz3b4LF8avqo947oizTt_-JF5ze0W5LkyHXMINh9NSopaKGKzmLWi100/s640/001.JPG" title="T-shirt, facecloth, bracelet and necklace" width="598" /></a></div>
<br />
First up, there's a <strong>T-shirt</strong> from George (Asda) for £1.25 at Cancer Research. I live in T-shirts and jeans, so an extra tee never goes amiss, especially at that price. <br />
<br />
Next, a new cotton <strong>facecloth</strong> for 50p, also Cancer Research. For a long time, muslin cloths have been the thing, but actually, I prefer an proper old-fashioned facecloth. I've noticed that hotels are more likely to provide them with the towels these days, so maybe they're having a bit of a comeback.<br />
<br />
Then I got a <strong>bracelet</strong> and a <strong>necklace</strong> for 99p each from the Salvation Army shop. I've noticed they've put their prices up quite a bit, especially in the trinket and ornament department. These two didn't have price tags, but the lady at the till just asked for 99p each for them, which was fine by me.<br />
<br />
Here's a closer pic of them:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSO6SiF6yQxpCeGc6PLQquVollkS8IOKsQeB_F46ujGueFmGpqK3XR0PutlrrBuD4zMdSaLHu3OQI6ktkNhpxdIuztpo6mkIYo4AEgnQi7EmN394GOJYqFSZU7lqbMQkH40p4xUWlWO1Y/s1600/003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Haulternative charity shop buys frugal thrift" border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSO6SiF6yQxpCeGc6PLQquVollkS8IOKsQeB_F46ujGueFmGpqK3XR0PutlrrBuD4zMdSaLHu3OQI6ktkNhpxdIuztpo6mkIYo4AEgnQi7EmN394GOJYqFSZU7lqbMQkH40p4xUWlWO1Y/s640/003.JPG" title="Close-up of the bracelet and necklace" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
The bracelet has a casual, summery feel, and the little charms are extra cute. I haven't worn it yet as it doesn't feel right with long sleeves and wintery layers. I've worn the necklace a couple of times, though - it's really delicate and pretty. <br />
<br />
Next, I got a <strong>book</strong> about houseplants, also 99p from the Salvation Army. I need more plants in my life, and this is a good place to start. <br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieMqcPHhLcuswWJZOalMvnxX7lyUiWOyKKWswiqo_w8pP0foY2_KvGMT2_03ZsEigZ4IwlXfALweUHaoXA5Pe2yElQmlWFsnwtmyw4p_515jMFLembtZybxOROGkEPVpUqBixXS_KnX2g/s1600/005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Haulternative charity shop buys frugal thrift" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1370" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieMqcPHhLcuswWJZOalMvnxX7lyUiWOyKKWswiqo_w8pP0foY2_KvGMT2_03ZsEigZ4IwlXfALweUHaoXA5Pe2yElQmlWFsnwtmyw4p_515jMFLembtZybxOROGkEPVpUqBixXS_KnX2g/s640/005.JPG" title="Book on houseplants" width="548" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
And finally.... a gorgeous little <strong>penguin</strong>! (£2.99 from Oxfam, for the record.)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmqoWdQmC2curfJSmQW_527mewUTfMusPg_02kShsLPIzPSjeI3YyXJRr80mSd_go-GV2TXP-JpHw_Hlbr3EL6CNzpITbupYNHS9Rs4SDpFX3UJAMMaXylCijVsv8aWrovRk8bjLvRBpU/s1600/006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Haulternative charity shop buys frugal thrift" border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmqoWdQmC2curfJSmQW_527mewUTfMusPg_02kShsLPIzPSjeI3YyXJRr80mSd_go-GV2TXP-JpHw_Hlbr3EL6CNzpITbupYNHS9Rs4SDpFX3UJAMMaXylCijVsv8aWrovRk8bjLvRBpU/s640/006.JPG" title="Cute penguin" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
OK, I don't actually need a penguin ornament, but I couldn't walk out without him. The lady at the till was not best pleased - she'd had her eye one him, and was hoping he wouldn't find his way out to the shop floor. Too bad - he's mine!<br />
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(And the Buy Nothing New Challenge? I've had a blip, but not a terrible one. I'll let you know how it's going in my first update, which will be on its way very soon...!)Elainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02353932919544437033noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7691770684614313413.post-77703908356441297002018-02-01T13:05:00.000-08:002018-02-16T09:19:26.871-08:00My 'Buy Nothing New' challenge for February and March<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibK0w2OrdrSdKV0vFsKgviKFVt5SFV9v6BsgMcra8nfKjMlm1_rIXpKJ_ZK2dHpim389GkbO3i-JCqkbTJACR-Vm6kKeZwgYPsK5rnou5H4CQ5bvUGSJI6hGbrvVc4zpNmUevwjm-hNuY/s1600/winter-3086867_1920.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1600" height="409" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibK0w2OrdrSdKV0vFsKgviKFVt5SFV9v6BsgMcra8nfKjMlm1_rIXpKJ_ZK2dHpim389GkbO3i-JCqkbTJACR-Vm6kKeZwgYPsK5rnou5H4CQ5bvUGSJI6hGbrvVc4zpNmUevwjm-hNuY/s640/winter-3086867_1920.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
It would be fantastic to do a whole no-spend year, but I know for a fact that I don't have what it takes. I love reading about other people's no-spend challenges, though, it's seriously addictive. But because I'm such a light-weight, I've decided to kick off with a two-month 'Buy Nothing New' challenge. <br />
<br />
If it isn't a total disaster, I'll tackle a longer spell in the future. It's important to pace yourself, after all.<br />
<br />
My partner's birthday comes up in April and I'm not mean enough not to get him a present, so that conveniently leaves February and March. A challenge is not a challenge without rules, so here are mine:<br />
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For February and March 2018, I will:<br />
<ul>
<li>buy groceries and household necessities</li>
<li>pay all the regular household bills</li>
<li>pay the usual travel costs</li>
<li>buy our usual Saturday paper (we've been getting the paper for years, it would be strange to do without it)</li>
<li>allow for our usual trip to the local pub on Saturday evenings (this is really the only time we pay money to go out, so again, it seems a bit restrictive to give it up)</li>
</ul>
<br />
<ul>
</ul>
For February and March 2018, barring disaster, I will not:<br />
<ul>
<li>buy anything new for myself or for the house.</li>
</ul>
<br />
<ul>
</ul>
If I need, or more accurately, want anything, I'll see if I can find a good alternative to buying new. This challenge is partly about saving a bit of money, but also about being a bit more creative and thoughtful with the stuff I already have. Of which there is plenty...<br />
<br />
At the moment, the challenge doesn't feel like Mission Impossible, but I guess we'll soon find out. <br />
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I wish me luck!<br />
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Elainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02353932919544437033noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7691770684614313413.post-87980856996794277522018-02-01T11:00:00.001-08:002018-02-12T12:26:25.696-08:00Beauty products giveaway winner!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglLar5IuZmcrNBNmsxhOHfFUfNnCHfLut7GMT73xWMDYGsbWMB1d-HayxmXDMWJWuTfcuneMrXoswiAPB6dr-X_8hxk_-gSPh2-uCrOSYEcDU2MSZO3OIlFKljuxhfjJBZ58M28mztdFI/s1600/beauty+giveaway.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="955" data-original-width="1280" height="476" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglLar5IuZmcrNBNmsxhOHfFUfNnCHfLut7GMT73xWMDYGsbWMB1d-HayxmXDMWJWuTfcuneMrXoswiAPB6dr-X_8hxk_-gSPh2-uCrOSYEcDU2MSZO3OIlFKljuxhfjJBZ58M28mztdFI/s640/beauty+giveaway.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
And the winner of the giveaway is: ADEINNE TONNER!!<br />
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Congratulations, Adeinne, the beauty products will be with you soon. Sorry to everybody else, but thank you for entering, and keep an eye out for my next cruelty-free giveaway!Elainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02353932919544437033noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7691770684614313413.post-21717576548824238132018-01-29T12:04:00.000-08:002018-01-29T12:05:37.862-08:00My cruelty-free winter skincare routine<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrqZ0IlvnvBMxltTkV2f8VQoJpOaeqH5l2wTfHXPgN6ykYf7RW_4b-NQOR_BCfSjMd7cnt63iKEpUr0VVplMcEGjpTw-WaFlhHaSCHAeaUxpAW82A9bOMazy5K5rlrXvWazjQqHRloOas/s1600/007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Cruelty-free winter skincare review" border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrqZ0IlvnvBMxltTkV2f8VQoJpOaeqH5l2wTfHXPgN6ykYf7RW_4b-NQOR_BCfSjMd7cnt63iKEpUr0VVplMcEGjpTw-WaFlhHaSCHAeaUxpAW82A9bOMazy5K5rlrXvWazjQqHRloOas/s640/007.JPG" title="Cruelty-free winter skincare review" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Lately, I've put together a winter skincare routine that I'm really happy with, so I just wanted to share a little review of the products. <br />
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First, the lovely <a href="https://www.paiskincare.com/products/camellia-rose-gentle-hydrating-cleanser?variant=26946000135" target="_blank">Camellia and Rose Gentle Hydrating Cleanser</a> by Pai is super fresh-smelling. My skin is not particularly sensitive, but having the central heating on for several months is a sure-fire way to dry it out. This cleanser always feels incredibly smooth and comforting on parched skin. <br />
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I don't wear make-up every day, but when I do, I currently use the <a href="https://whiterabbitskincare.co.uk/products/cleansing-water-lime-and-coconut" target="_blank">Lime and Coconut Cleansing Water</a> by White Rabbit to take it off. Although it's described as a water, it contains oils which make sure it doesn't dry out the skin too much. There's no need to rinse, but I sometimes use the Mount Purious <a href="https://www.ethicalsuperstore.com/products/mount-purious/mount-purious-rosewater-facial-toner---100ml/" target="_blank">Rosewater Facial Toner</a> to finish if my skin feels a little bit oily after cleansing.<br />
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(I recently found out that you can return the empty metal containers to White Rabbit and receive a 50p discount on your next purchase from them, which is a great idea.)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil7tjtkWGVY-Xnh-rRTv_UPmELPvb1tGX8VmDEdM-SLlJJ6WAGCkM4bYPCNAYiG2gunFbFTuOVUJ0v0ZIZAz3zqF-XZaakgCoEZqSVwlnKL00zQqu7U7BWjMVNVAeQMVsCBlxn1S7i090/s1600/009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil7tjtkWGVY-Xnh-rRTv_UPmELPvb1tGX8VmDEdM-SLlJJ6WAGCkM4bYPCNAYiG2gunFbFTuOVUJ0v0ZIZAz3zqF-XZaakgCoEZqSVwlnKL00zQqu7U7BWjMVNVAeQMVsCBlxn1S7i090/s640/009.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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For moisturiser, it's my favourite <a href="http://www.phbethicalbeauty.co.uk/index.php?route=product/product&product_id=479" target="_blank">Monoi Oil and Gardenia Anti-aging Moisturiser</a> by PHB Beauty. This is so luxurious, with a subtle yet exotic scent that makes me think of far-away summer holidays (of the kind I can't afford, but what can you do...)<br />
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Finally, a new favourite! The <a href="https://www.bodykind.com/product/9359-andalou-1000-roses-rosewater-mask-50ml.aspx?Referer=Froogle_Andalou-1000-Roses-Rosewater-Mask-50ml&utm_source=froogle&utm_medium=price%20comparison&utm_campaign=Andalou-1000-Roses-Rosewater-Mask-50ml&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIoqGMhfH92AIVar7tCh3kTwDFEAYYCSABEgIRfvD_BwE#reviews" target="_blank">Rosewater Mask</a> by Andalou Naturals was a Christmas present from my partner's sister. Luckily, she's great at choosing presents, and this has been an instant hit. I really don't like the feeling of masks that dry out on your skin, and then take an age to scrub off. The Rosewater Mask is the first one I've tried that doesn't dry out, so it feels very calming on the skin, and washes away very easily. I've used it a couple of times, and it has left my skin feeling extra soft. <br />
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These products are all cruelty-free and vegan, and I find them to be very gentle and soothing now that my skin is feeling the ill effects of winter. <br />
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Have you tried any of these products? If so, what do you think?<br />
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Elainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02353932919544437033noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7691770684614313413.post-42291778919101568712018-01-25T09:59:00.000-08:002018-02-01T07:49:23.492-08:00ALDI cosmetics and household products - new Cruelty Free International certification!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3spWgH1RH2yI3qqg-MrtCxJjfs8UGrETrS5M-XLa6-uUNXR5oUSHNidDzcTU-FuPda5OLg-Z1n3Lp8DbK9yvdrmi6J1Hcfz8pv-x4wRUX0XMjUCxrmoxSAr270S9WhC2clRwf9w82D40/s1600/rabbit-740621_1920.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3spWgH1RH2yI3qqg-MrtCxJjfs8UGrETrS5M-XLa6-uUNXR5oUSHNidDzcTU-FuPda5OLg-Z1n3Lp8DbK9yvdrmi6J1Hcfz8pv-x4wRUX0XMjUCxrmoxSAr270S9WhC2clRwf9w82D40/s640/rabbit-740621_1920.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Good news - <a href="https://www.aldi.co.uk/" target="_blank">ALDI</a> have now received the Leaping Bunny certification from Cruelty Free International for their own brand cosmetics range. They received certification for their own line of household products back in July last year, so it's great that they have now been able to make the step of having their cosmetics range certified. <br />
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This is especially good for those, like myself, who live in smaller towns where there is not such great access to cruelty free brands and products. I'm quite happy to shop online, but I do like to go and buy things in person now and again as well. I haven't had a chance to check out the ALDI ranges yet, but I'm taking a guess that they are also budget-friendly. <br />
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You can check out other Leaping Bunny certified companies and products <a href="https://crueltyfreeinternational.org/leapingbunny" target="_blank">here</a> at the Cruelty Free International website. Elainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02353932919544437033noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7691770684614313413.post-21602913208570746532018-01-16T12:55:00.000-08:002018-01-16T12:55:56.439-08:00Frugal January - low-cost things to do this month<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8LgIeCuBCsj6HZ8ON3qU7Ab870sMF8Y5pnFiGUCkKfD3UVapmMzG8jvTDT5Gs1oLBwb530SiAveKaH3qZ2Cc5A5zgzgfQ21FjE-VSwTrbqD9EZlCKJRIUg3Hag8YOHISYrZwyayK50VA/s1600/goat-2216868_1920.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Frugal low spend things to do in January" border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8LgIeCuBCsj6HZ8ON3qU7Ab870sMF8Y5pnFiGUCkKfD3UVapmMzG8jvTDT5Gs1oLBwb530SiAveKaH3qZ2Cc5A5zgzgfQ21FjE-VSwTrbqD9EZlCKJRIUg3Hag8YOHISYrZwyayK50VA/s640/goat-2216868_1920.jpg" title="Frugal January" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I'm still low-spending this January, but not no-spending just yet. Partly, this is because the sales can be invaluable for picking up things like clothing essentials, and other bits and pieces I might need to replace. Also, there are a couple of family birthdays in January and February, and unfortunately, I'm not organised enough to sort out presents and cards in advance. <br />
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Nonetheless, here are a handful of low or no-spend things I like to do this month:<br />
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<strong>Savings</strong><br />
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I don't find January to be a conducive time for any major reviews of my financial situation. However, these are two small saving methods I use to give me a sense of control over my money after the Christmas expenses: <br />
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1) <em>Saving £2 coins</em>. You don't get all that many £2 coins in your change, so when I get one, I put it in my little old-fashioned piggy bank. Clearly, if I get given a fistful of them, I won't save then all at once, but the odd one here and there adds up. At the minute, I have £30 or so in £2 coins in the pig, and it's really good to have a little slush fund in the house for small emergencies. <br />
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2) <em>Saving a pound a day</em>. This is just a small fund that I restart each January, so that the following January, I'll have a little lump sum of £365 to spend in the sales, or for paying off the bills. Basically, it's a standing order for £7 a week to a savings account that I don't touch all year, or use for any other purpose. <br />
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The great thing is that this method really demotivates me from mindless spending. For example, I might want to spend, for the sake of argument, 70p on a bag of crisps. In the back of my mind, I know that if I spend that money, I'll have pretty much blown my savings for the day. Often, this is enough to motivate me not to spend the money, so it can be an effective little deterrent. <br />
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(If £1 a day is too much, then make it 50p a day, or £3.50 a week - you will still end up with £182.50 each January. Or basically any amount that you won't miss day to day.) <br />
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<strong>Audit what I have and use it</strong><br />
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In other words, I make a list of the stuff I already have to hand - for example, the books in the house I haven't read, or the DVDs I haven't watched - and I make time to get through them. It's also a good time to round up all the unfinished projects that are kicking about, and decide whether to get on with them or let them go. By this, I mean creative things like the lino-cut set I bought after attending a day course. I haven't used it, which suggests I'm not going to, but it's good to set time aside and make a decision. If I decide that I'm not going to pursue something, I'll pass it on to somebody who will. (And make a note to self to think more carefully about taking on these projects in the first place...)<br />
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<strong>Catch up with friends</strong><br />
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Before Christmas, we often put pressure on ourselves to catch up with as many people as we can. But seeing them in January is just as valid, and often less stressful as well. It doesn't need to cost much, maybe just a coffee out, or a drink after work. <br />
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That said, I haven't quite managed to see anybody yet, as I've had a bad cold/virus thing for around two weeks now. But if you haven't been struck down with the New Year plague, it's lovely to see people in January, and it gives some focus and structure to the month.<br />
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<strong>And finally</strong><br />
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If some new make-up would light up the month for you, don't forget to enter my cruelty-free and vegan beauty giveaway - either scroll down, or find it <a href="http://roundinspirals.blogspot.co.uk/2018/01/cruelty-free-and-vegan-beauty-giveaway.html#.Wl5l32dLGP8" target="_blank">here</a>. Good luck!Elainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02353932919544437033noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7691770684614313413.post-50091035892921951462018-01-11T10:33:00.000-08:002018-01-30T04:08:13.329-08:00Frugal January - shopping sustainably at Approved Food<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPlVI7tZG4sneCZDLgyd4WJNl44_-6YhAp2p9DZLGVXDZcbMtzCIxFMhZUaSwEO1_lVPCKRzrDe53bZmQbTWYEAk8fg-1o18ahXd6BJOnAxZfmKQNgNbvIIvNG9tnOBSt3jw9D4LeUIiU/s1600/Approved+food+pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Shopping sustainably Approved Food review frugal" border="0" data-original-height="847" data-original-width="1280" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPlVI7tZG4sneCZDLgyd4WJNl44_-6YhAp2p9DZLGVXDZcbMtzCIxFMhZUaSwEO1_lVPCKRzrDe53bZmQbTWYEAk8fg-1o18ahXd6BJOnAxZfmKQNgNbvIIvNG9tnOBSt3jw9D4LeUIiU/s640/Approved+food+pic.jpg" title="Approved Food shop" width="640" /></a></div>
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I may have swerved the traditional setting of resolutions this New Year, but I haven't been able to avoid the annual tightening of the purse strings. Last year was a more expensive one than usual, not least as both my parents turned 80 and so some celebrating was in order. So this year, I want to get the spending back down, and get my savings up again. <br />
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One way I save some money on groceries is by shopping at <a href="http://www.approvedfood.co.uk/?ref=headerlogo" target="_blank">Approved Food</a>. I usually place an order every few months, and I can thoroughly recommend them. Before we dive in, I just want to say that I have no affiliation at all with Approved Food - I just enjoy using them, and wanted to share.<br />
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If you've never come across Approved Food before, they're an online company who sell food and drink that is past its 'best before' date at a discounted price. They also seem to buy up discontinued lines, and you can even find items that are still within date. <br />
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If you sign up for their regular email, you'll be forgiven for thinking that they mostly stock junky snack food and sugary drinks. But dig deeper, and you'll find a surprising number of more eco-friendly and cruelty-free products on their virtual shelves. Arguably, by consuming any products that would otherwise go to landfill, you'll be shopping more sustainably. However, these are some of the more 'conscious' products I picked up this time...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU0A6zWte5_cRRtbezF2ClJ-FWn6NAbaYCrPW9D8pZrMN6jNLeijEJk1VQmZ-wORPAk3_nkCkUe5eekGFyJlx_tSlcXznoKq3fV_6YoR-PU6DCl3cWW5iqug-0pRVS1Fv5wlhG02zZkHo/s1600/Blog+food+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Shopping sustainably Approved Food review frugal" border="0" data-original-height="1175" data-original-width="1600" height="467" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU0A6zWte5_cRRtbezF2ClJ-FWn6NAbaYCrPW9D8pZrMN6jNLeijEJk1VQmZ-wORPAk3_nkCkUe5eekGFyJlx_tSlcXznoKq3fV_6YoR-PU6DCl3cWW5iqug-0pRVS1Fv5wlhG02zZkHo/s640/Blog+food+2.jpg" title="Approved Food sustainable shopping" width="640" /></a></div>
1) Fourpure Session IPA (this brand is new to me, but they seem to have good sustainability credentials) 2) Biona organic chopped tomatoes 3) Crazy Jack organic soft figs 4) Village Green Preserves Sweet Sesame & Date Spread (vegan) 5) The Wild Peanut I'm Bananas peanut butter (also new to me - contains honey, so not vegan :( but palm oil free, and the company supports Tree Aid).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4d2s3gpoalCdqMgx0eMZXE8DVrjdw1IQXagldEsiF-Vv90ASwxXqdJ13Nxkh2uFs0RejEMTCSjU3A6kZdaVCcXw1B_hYZkqkPrP1rg6bS5__mOhLFsCwx0iun1JtsF6XW7gytyLBV-yw/s1600/Blog+cereal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Shopping sustainably Approved Food review frugal" border="0" data-original-height="1379" data-original-width="1600" height="548" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4d2s3gpoalCdqMgx0eMZXE8DVrjdw1IQXagldEsiF-Vv90ASwxXqdJ13Nxkh2uFs0RejEMTCSjU3A6kZdaVCcXw1B_hYZkqkPrP1rg6bS5__mOhLFsCwx0iun1JtsF6XW7gytyLBV-yw/s640/Blog+cereal.jpg" title="Approved Food sustainable shopping" width="640" /></a></div>
6) Dorset Cereals mueslis, including their organic version - I eat lots of muesli, so I bought several boxes. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin0uBhwGvg1A49cf_JAq-xsPn26LJu5ttLviVZM2elc5D8a16hxe71jLeDeEeXbpR0edVDPGurzMWR5mvuowblcxPYYuayIiFj610LOhBBhxjW4uZR3kEdi6THXEQIDaPsx-wBjH2hS5M/s1600/Blog+food.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Shopping sustainably Approved Food review frugal" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1528" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin0uBhwGvg1A49cf_JAq-xsPn26LJu5ttLviVZM2elc5D8a16hxe71jLeDeEeXbpR0edVDPGurzMWR5mvuowblcxPYYuayIiFj610LOhBBhxjW4uZR3kEdi6THXEQIDaPsx-wBjH2hS5M/s640/Blog+food.jpg" title="Approved Food sustainable shopping" width="609" /></a></div>
7) Dr Kargs organic seeded spelt crackers 8) Suma organic brown rice 9) Granovita organic vegetable stock cubes 10) Maclean's oatcakes (not organic, but palm oil free).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7wEfWutVFaS3Pd3eJDVzSp5hRK1lHMuYupuxzpUzKjhKBwb4N1R46vDgdokoUQDX-fSG8g0nuqnctWmbMbxSlg726uakD2aCM6l3totWpnwqH6fyLhxw9n0Qbg92e7_26LWqYhxFhU4w/s1600/Blog+sweet+snacks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Shopping sustainably Approved Food review frugal" border="0" data-original-height="1461" data-original-width="1600" height="584" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7wEfWutVFaS3Pd3eJDVzSp5hRK1lHMuYupuxzpUzKjhKBwb4N1R46vDgdokoUQDX-fSG8g0nuqnctWmbMbxSlg726uakD2aCM6l3totWpnwqH6fyLhxw9n0Qbg92e7_26LWqYhxFhU4w/s640/Blog+sweet+snacks.jpg" title="Approved Food sustainable shopping" width="640" /></a></div>
11) Cliff bars (these are my cycling energy bars) 12) 9 Bars 13) Deliciously Ella cacao and almond energy balls 14) Pulsin bars (vegan protein bars).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-BGYp4pT9yYu6oHae12Le1JVwpQWQ4lNb1GLg55MD4Gz04ZoQamem2T2Vvd0C9TI6JI4S_0I4NP33fC47QT6ujAo7iw2FEc71Q06zsEt1Kur2wONG31KPw0d7-YSkP8VLVpcnY-CQxX0/s1600/Blog+snacks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Shopping sustainably Approved Food review frugal" border="0" data-original-height="1525" data-original-width="1600" height="608" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-BGYp4pT9yYu6oHae12Le1JVwpQWQ4lNb1GLg55MD4Gz04ZoQamem2T2Vvd0C9TI6JI4S_0I4NP33fC47QT6ujAo7iw2FEc71Q06zsEt1Kur2wONG31KPw0d7-YSkP8VLVpcnY-CQxX0/s640/Blog+snacks.jpg" title="Approved Food sustainable shopping" width="640" /></a></div>
15) Hippeas organic chickpea puffs (vegan) 16) Yushoi baked pea snacks (vegan) 17) Clearspring organic rice crackers & organic tamari roasted soya beans (both vegan). <br />
<br />
The average saving is around 50% on the full price, and I have found everything I've bought from Approved Food to be really good quality. Occasionally, I'll get something that I find I don't like, but that's just personal taste. I'm planning a no-spend couple of months this February and March, so this lot will keep me going for quite a while!<br />
<br />
I didn't buy any toiletries this time, but I have previously spotted brands such as Weleda, Dermalogica, Beauty Without Cruelty and Natracare, so it's always worth a look in the Health section. <br />
<br />
Have you tried Approved Food? If so, what did you think of them?Elainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02353932919544437033noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7691770684614313413.post-21969570948904309482018-01-10T03:57:00.000-08:002018-01-30T01:44:18.628-08:00Cruelty-free and vegan beauty giveaway!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuw-R7Yk5FwAjI_opdY7fFkOkBF54BOpttinLTqqOr7POjx-NccXwATnxt2-7rCjWuT7vXyGfP7vw0lID7TUUcF9f5f6rsU_5ze-owUn7dXMuNEcfsdDlJu8cYO-8YkOre1NZKcVUD8qA/s1600/beauty+giveaway.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Cruelty-free vegan beauty product giveaway" border="0" data-original-height="955" data-original-width="1280" height="476" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuw-R7Yk5FwAjI_opdY7fFkOkBF54BOpttinLTqqOr7POjx-NccXwATnxt2-7rCjWuT7vXyGfP7vw0lID7TUUcF9f5f6rsU_5ze-owUn7dXMuNEcfsdDlJu8cYO-8YkOre1NZKcVUD8qA/s640/beauty+giveaway.jpg" title="Cruelty-free vegan beauty product giveaway" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I haven't done a giveaway on my blog before, so I am very happy to announce my very first giveaway of some lovely cruelty-free and vegan beauty products. <br />
<br />
The lucky winner will receive all of:<br />
<br />
Bellapierre Cosmetics <a href="http://www.bellapierre.com/uk/shimmer-powders.html" target="_blank">Shimmer Powder in Excite</a> - a shimmery white with a purple reflection.<br />
<br />
Alva Natural Cosmetics Green Equinox <a href="http://www.alvanaturalskincare.co.uk/makeup/146-green-equinox-sparkling-harmony-225g-4013640022802.html" target="_blank">Sparkling Harmony Mineral Powder</a> - a multi-tasking product in warm sand with a golden shimmer effect. <br />
<br />
Maggie Anne <a href="https://www.maggieanne.co.uk/shop/All-Polishes-c19308716" target="_blank">Gel Effect Nail Polish</a> - one in <em>Jasper</em> (a warm neutral) and one in <em>Susie</em> (a classic red shimmer).<br />
<br />
PHB Ethical Beauty Natural and Organic <a href="http://www.phbethicalbeauty.co.uk/natural-organic-fairtrade-vegan-paraben-free-cruelty-free-make-up/Lips/lip-liners/lip-crayon-peach" target="_blank">Lip Crayon in Peach</a> - dusky peach in a matte finish.<br />
<br />
PHB Ethical Beauty 100% Organic <a href="http://www.phbethicalbeauty.co.uk/apricot-gloss" target="_blank">Natural Lip Gloss in Apricot</a> - a cool nude shade.<br />
<br />
PHB Ethical Beauty Anti-aging <a href="http://www.phbethicalbeauty.co.uk/natural-organic-fairtrade-vegan-paraben-free-cruelty-free-skin-care/shop-skin-concern/Anti-aging-skin-care-for-all-skin-types/firming-eye-gel" target="_blank">Eye Gel in Argan and Rock Rose</a><br />
<br />
Spectrum Collections <a href="https://www.spectrumcollections.com/search?q=sponge" target="_blank">Unicorn Tears Wonder Sponge</a> - for creating a flawless foundation base.<br />
<br />
& Spectrum Collections <a href="https://www.spectrumcollections.com/collections/brushes/products/tapered-finishing-brush" target="_blank">Tapered Finishing Brush</a> - a medium sized, multi-tasking brush. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMKA51FjVpSZ9YNQLygvCgWJsHW7ZzXOB9-U-G1oBBZgun-ZZMNi1Bbeqt7qozSjViJXwqUAl9jGmdQrYav96xXHwkVTe3-NeYQCAGsyHdVTGtCrocOrSghBDcgTscWdZ6ndhV335KKHE/s1600/giveaway+002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Cruelty-free and vegan beauty product giveaway" border="0" data-original-height="1292" data-original-width="1600" height="516" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMKA51FjVpSZ9YNQLygvCgWJsHW7ZzXOB9-U-G1oBBZgun-ZZMNi1Bbeqt7qozSjViJXwqUAl9jGmdQrYav96xXHwkVTe3-NeYQCAGsyHdVTGtCrocOrSghBDcgTscWdZ6ndhV335KKHE/s640/giveaway+002.jpg" title="Products in the giveaway" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
To be in with a chance of winning, all you need to do is leave a comment on this post telling me what your favourite cruelty-free beauty company is, and enter the giveaway here: <br />
<script src="https://widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js"></script>
<br />
<a href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/04175e171/">http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/04175e171/</a>?<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/”http://umeandthekids.com”" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="”_blank”"></a>The giveaway will be open from today, Wednesday 10th January 2018, and will close by Tuesday 30st January 2018. The lovely winner will be chosen by Rafflecopter and once all of their details have been checked and verified I will notify them via email. Please note that this competition is open to UK residents only.<br />
<br />
Good luck, and here's to a cruelty-free 2018!!<br />
<br />
(The giveaway has been linked via here...)<br />
<br />
<div align="center" style="padding: 5px;">
<div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img alt="SuperLucky Blog Giveaway Linky: the UK's biggest list of blog giveaways" height="74" scale="0" src="https://superlucky.me/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/BCLinky_button.gif" title="SuperLucky Blog Giveaway Linky" width="200" /></div>
</div>
<pre style="background: rgb(240, 240, 240); border-image: none; border: 1px solid rgb(204, 204, 204); color: #777777; display: block; font-size: 90%; height: 50px; margin: auto; overflow: auto; padding: 10px; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap; width: 90%;"><div align="center"><a href="http://superlucky.me/category/competitions/blog-comp-linky/" title="SuperLucky Blog Giveaway Linky"><img src="https://superlucky.me/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/BCLinky_button.gif" alt="SuperLucky Blog Giveaway Linky: the UK's biggest list of blog giveaways" style="border:none;" /></a></div></pre>
<br />Elainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02353932919544437033noreply@blogger.com111tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7691770684614313413.post-2560006319365855402018-01-04T11:51:00.001-08:002018-01-06T07:23:55.260-08:00Why I love January...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4vB1s-YAYCNAyIa80m4PEN3BlsDdoCXJNohZ78XeQmHBvY6-OW66iq3ckW9qEb4hiyCxr9-3sRf5SS7HNEEzkBWHZyn4EyUglNVLVMsYAonLOXTCuC4i-fCf6xovkt0b4HDqCtYRbfzc/s1600/January+image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Why I love January" border="0" data-original-height="1118" data-original-width="1280" height="558" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4vB1s-YAYCNAyIa80m4PEN3BlsDdoCXJNohZ78XeQmHBvY6-OW66iq3ckW9qEb4hiyCxr9-3sRf5SS7HNEEzkBWHZyn4EyUglNVLVMsYAonLOXTCuC4i-fCf6xovkt0b4HDqCtYRbfzc/s640/January+image.jpg" title="January" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<strike><br /></strike></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Firstly, Happy New Year!! Let's make 2018 a good one...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">It's fair to say that January gets a bad press, but is one of my favourite months of the year. I usually travel over Christmas and New Year, so for me, January is when I get to be back in my own home and have a proper rest after weeks of running around like a mad thing. </span><br />
<br />
I discovered that the Finnish word for January is <i>tammikuu. Tammi </i>means oak, the heart of the forest and the name literally means "oak moon". If you think of January as the heart of winter, as opposed to, say, the dead of winter, it sounds much more positive. <br />
<br />
<strong>It's oh so quiet...</strong><br />
<br />
It is often said that nothing happens in January, but that's fine by me - I love how quiet it is. For those of us who don't like bustle and crowds very much, it can feel like a really wonderful time. The shops are quiet, the pubs are quiet.... everywhere is quiet! It's just great...<br />
<br />
<strong>Baby, it's cold outside</strong>...<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Most years, the worst of the winter weather sets in after Christmas, so it's a great time to stay indoors and listen to the wind and rain outside. And if there's snow, even better - it's so peaceful watching it fall, and it seems to transform everything. On the other hand, if those dry, bright, icy cold days come along, few things are better than wrapping up and going for a wintery walk. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6QLG96Y64okTgvcWqgjppI4ZBjPkXj_HQnmdeilWE248mJxDTlaEWVEjnzL8ntVPWfHNwoCgqjAvG0RtGb704KHEzWEby8JLAS-KLj9BcLxpHknIul9sCiou_Pze_ZonKXhC4ZvKN5hY/s1600/Bright+winter+day.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Why I love January" border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="1280" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6QLG96Y64okTgvcWqgjppI4ZBjPkXj_HQnmdeilWE248mJxDTlaEWVEjnzL8ntVPWfHNwoCgqjAvG0RtGb704KHEzWEby8JLAS-KLj9BcLxpHknIul9sCiou_Pze_ZonKXhC4ZvKN5hY/s640/Bright+winter+day.jpg" title="Bright wintery day" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />Hygge hasn't been a thing in the media this winter, but January is the perfect time to practise it. I take down all the recognisably Christmasy decorations, but things like the fairy lights and candles all stay until the evenings get lighter, and it starts to feel like spring. </span></div>
<div>
<br />
<strong>Resolutions? Not so much...</strong><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
I used to make New Year's Resolutions, but not anymore. Instead, January is my time to settle in and make plans for the rest of year. Not resolutions, or even goals, because these feel like there's an in-built failure mechanism. Plans don't have this connotation for me. Plans are things that more or less happen, barring natural disaster, or other things we can't control. <br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">To me, the coldest, darkest time of the year doesn't feel like the right time to make drastic changes. Nature is firmly against us on this one, after all. The trees won't be budding for weeks... the creatures that aren't hibernating are just doing enough to get by. We humans would do well to take our cue from the natural world in January.</span><br />
<br />
<strong>Just relax... and plan...</strong><br />
<br />
So I get out my diary and start thinking about holidays, or trips to see the family. I get out recipe books and start doing a bit of meal planning. Oh, and whilst the diary is out, I pencil in some exercise too. When it's there in black and white, it's easier to get on with it. <br />
<br />
I've been taking this approach for a couple of year now, and it really works for me.<br />
<br />
Does anybody else like January, or is it just me?? <br />
</div>
Elainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02353932919544437033noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7691770684614313413.post-6500594768845641752017-12-19T12:25:00.000-08:002017-12-19T12:25:10.277-08:00Happy Christmas!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLpLbKoQPD5rzwuGTtVkPUNvIaXumfPKUf4hDsbJy9Kie0DjviWYJcXFlkEmWY4zWnSWHEIVOmDG3y1NTukuiTL9ZM4QiLCwG5Io4dVFbUTeNC3e8lex88SsiEe3hVTYRiQO_mrpz3E2o/s1600/lights-1088141_1280.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="1280" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLpLbKoQPD5rzwuGTtVkPUNvIaXumfPKUf4hDsbJy9Kie0DjviWYJcXFlkEmWY4zWnSWHEIVOmDG3y1NTukuiTL9ZM4QiLCwG5Io4dVFbUTeNC3e8lex88SsiEe3hVTYRiQO_mrpz3E2o/s640/lights-1088141_1280.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Just a quick post to say Happy Christmas to all my lovely readers!! And thank you also to everybody who has commented, it is always appreciated!<br />
<br />
So I'm signing off for a bit now - I'll be spending a week over Christmas with my parents & my brother and his family, and then New Year with my partner and some old friends. There'll be a fair bit of travel, but I'll have my trusty Round In Spirals notebook to hand so I can get busy with my blogging plans for 2018.<br />
<br />
Coming up will be:<br />
<ul>
<li>some serious decluttering - I've been at it for a couple of years now, but I'm ready for a big push in the New Year.</li>
<li>meal-planning - I really want to feature food more on the blog.</li>
<li>no-spend days, weeks, even months if possible - I need to rein it in a bit...having said that, there will almost certainly be...</li>
<li>more charity shop finds, and</li>
<li>as much sustainable/ethical living as I can fit into the coming year. </li>
</ul>
See you very soon!<br />
<br />
Much love,<br />
<br />
Elaine xxxElainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02353932919544437033noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7691770684614313413.post-38519610510014979502017-12-13T12:53:00.000-08:002017-12-14T01:46:55.208-08:005 more things I've stopped buying<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizyDk3Z5FyI_BxUcPUyA9yOgIwTGe-FTACliGZYS7JmjwI_1eVdDylKS-_W-Y_1qx8ijiEyaD9OSON5N4EnLUkRGvxBvrGfDCxTUt1QpuobnAHCf8LT6lIHcMXH-IC8QJ13od9JPdqOc4/s1600/Lamb+on+wall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Things I've stopped buying - minimalism frugal" border="0" data-original-height="519" data-original-width="573" height="577" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizyDk3Z5FyI_BxUcPUyA9yOgIwTGe-FTACliGZYS7JmjwI_1eVdDylKS-_W-Y_1qx8ijiEyaD9OSON5N4EnLUkRGvxBvrGfDCxTUt1QpuobnAHCf8LT6lIHcMXH-IC8QJ13od9JPdqOc4/s640/Lamb+on+wall.jpg" title="Things I've stopped buying" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
In no particular order, here are a few more things I've cut back my spending on:<br />
<br />
1) <strong>Dry cleaning</strong><br />
<br />
Ages ago, I splashed out on an expensive pair of work trousers which were dry-clean only. I liked how they looked, so I wore them a lot. When I realised I'd spent just as much money on the dry-cleaning as the trousers cost in the first place, that was that. No more. Now I only choose machine or hand washable clothes, and even then, the hand washable stuff goes in the machine too. (For the record, I've had very few, if any mishaps, with the hand-wash items.)<br />
<br />
2) <strong>Fabric conditioner</strong><br />
<br />
My mum never used fabric conditioner when I was growing up, and so it has just never occurred to me that it's necessary. It's also pretty bad for towels, making their fibres less absorbent, as my partner's Dad has found out through years of dedicated fabric conditioning. I quite like a rough towel - saves money on exfoliators!<br />
<br />
3) <strong>Micro-fibre cloths</strong><br />
<br />
One of the hardest things about trying to live a more planet-friendly life is finding out that a product you've switched to in good faith is actually harmful to the environment. Micro-fibre cloths are firmly in the frame here. They are marketed as being eco-friendly because they lessen the need for cleaning products. Which is fine as far as it goes, but it turns out that synthetic fibres are a <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2016/jun/20/microfibers-plastic-pollution-oceans-patagonia-synthetic-clothes-microbeads" target="_blank">serious environmental problem</a>. I've therefore purchased my last micro-fibre cloth, and will stop using the ones I already have.<br />
<br />
4) <strong>Regular subscription boxes</strong><br />
<br />
I used to get both the lifestyle and the beauty subscription boxes from <a href="https://www.thevegankind.com/" target="_blank">The Vegan Kind</a>, but I've cancelled both of them. Not because I didn't love receiving them - I did - but I ended up with more products than I could get through before the next box arrived. The beauty products, that is - the snacks disappeared pretty quickly. <br />
<br />
I also tried out a couple of subscription meal boxes from the <a href="https://www.mindfulchef.com/" target="_blank">Mindful Chef</a>, but decided it was something I could live without. The meals were delicious, and the ingredients were fresh and great quality. But the packaging...<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLjf8h0N_61SDtl8Gym9WRQRmnXmvGGpz0ULl6OLcrk7iLNYE4e02S9lX8vHh-ublTcSqBlxT3Um75IZqgDTu6yHWCouJwYyPTngi2cdbYro1_G0Gcft8kFdwb24WLfspB5Fda_QLt97g/s1600/Mindful+chef+box.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Things I've stopped buying frugal minimal" border="0" data-original-height="1055" data-original-width="1600" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLjf8h0N_61SDtl8Gym9WRQRmnXmvGGpz0ULl6OLcrk7iLNYE4e02S9lX8vHh-ublTcSqBlxT3Um75IZqgDTu6yHWCouJwYyPTngi2cdbYro1_G0Gcft8kFdwb24WLfspB5Fda_QLt97g/s640/Mindful+chef+box.jpg" title="Subscription box from Mindful Chef" width="640" /></a></div>
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It was too much. Just look at this lot! At the front of the pic is a teaspoon of paprika in a plastic tub, and a glass jar of mustard. As a keen cook, I already have full-sized jars of paprika and mustard, so I just didn't need these. I've kept the recipe cards they sent, but I'll be buying the ingredients myself, at a fraction of the cost. <br />
<br />
5) <strong>Magazine subscriptions</strong><br />
<br />
I haven't kicked the magazine habit altogether, but I don't get subscriptions anymore. Not least as they all come in clear plastic bags. If there was an option to have magazines delivered in paper envelopes, I'd probably go for that. But until then...no thanks!<br />
<br />
What are you saving on?<br />
<br />Elainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02353932919544437033noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7691770684614313413.post-90432191730028309182017-12-04T12:27:00.000-08:002018-01-08T01:39:11.073-08:00My 'goals' for 2017 - review of the year so far<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXHg6hs6NRwxoC-QDR8kXwZXgAEs_UpZerEiojfD-hPgOm6hVFnJXsAqbkbggKTHT11wW1NPYPeoeztcKeS9NYOUpO-ngl89xSACssG-QyCEHEijbCQv5JTo0tEFPKQMoTfw5RBp0tONw/s1600/Review+of+2017+goals.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="2017 goals medium chill minimalism" border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXHg6hs6NRwxoC-QDR8kXwZXgAEs_UpZerEiojfD-hPgOm6hVFnJXsAqbkbggKTHT11wW1NPYPeoeztcKeS9NYOUpO-ngl89xSACssG-QyCEHEijbCQv5JTo0tEFPKQMoTfw5RBp0tONw/s640/Review+of+2017+goals.JPG" title="2017 goals" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
OK, 2017 isn't quite out yet, but as I've already achieved my personal goals for the year, I may as well have a little review! In fairness, it helped that I had a very short list of goals, but they were quite big and important ones for me. When I say 'goals', they weren't as in a formal list that I wrote down at the start of the year or anything. They were more like things that were essential to me and my continued well-being. Anyway, they were:<br />
<br />
1) Get made permanent in my new job, after 15 gruelling months of training (I managed this in February 2017).<br />
<br />
2) Drop my hours to 0.9 time, so the equivalent of 33.3 hours per week (this happened in August 2017).<br />
<br />
3) Switch my mortgage deal as my current 5 year fixed deal was due to end in January (got this sorted on 1 December 2017).<br />
<br />
These are all steps towards my masterplan which, in a nutshell, is to reduce my time spent at work, and to pay off my mortgage early at the same time. This time round, my new two year mortgage deal has allowed me to reduce the monthly payments by around £150. I will be topping the payments back up by that amount every month, and this will apparently reduce the overall term by 5 years. 5 years!! That's a lot. I can stop the overpayments if I need to, but it's a big incentive to find ways to cut back my spending and achieve this bigger goal. <br />
<br />
There is even a term for my plan, which I hadn't realised until I read the book <a href="https://www.hive.co.uk/Product/James-Wallman/Stuffocation--Living-More-with-Less/18139073" target="_blank">Stuffocation</a>, by James Wallman. Yes, it turns out I am espousing a movement called 'the medium chill'. The medium chill exists in contrast to the big chill, which involves making as much money as you can whilst you are younger, then retiring around forty or so, and chilling. If you're not too burnt out to enjoy it.<br />
<br />
I don't mind admitting that I don't have the ambition to achieve the big chill, so the medium it is for me. As a label, it doesn't have much currency - in the book, Wallman rejects it as a movement in favour of experientialism. Still, the <a href="http://grist.org/living/2011-06-28-the-medium-chill/" target="_blank">original article</a> on medium chilling at <a href="http://grist.org/">grist.org</a> makes for an interesting read. (And experientialism sounds quite tiring, really...)<br />
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I don't want to set out any goals for next year just yet - plenty of time for that - but hopefully 2018 will bring some more medium chilling. (It just needs a better name!)<br />
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Elainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02353932919544437033noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7691770684614313413.post-65444333546438760662017-11-28T11:34:00.000-08:002017-12-07T12:44:01.633-08:0010 life hacks around the house<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL0Ij3N7_aoXyL-9lZKOj1EgBgF6ApgKqYq4AuguDSZWU9h_3DTG858lvl8eRSQYJNpLeenQ9GAlVCQMgLZYCaI7HULImWU0VnnFNkMmHNBsfFaYIfA6v5wVHRierXDlWsRq3UubooGyU/s1600/life+hacks+around+the+house.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Life hacks around the house simple living" border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL0Ij3N7_aoXyL-9lZKOj1EgBgF6ApgKqYq4AuguDSZWU9h_3DTG858lvl8eRSQYJNpLeenQ9GAlVCQMgLZYCaI7HULImWU0VnnFNkMmHNBsfFaYIfA6v5wVHRierXDlWsRq3UubooGyU/s640/life+hacks+around+the+house.JPG" title="Life hacks around the house" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I am always on the lookout for life hacks around the house, whether they save
me time or money, or just help to make life a little better.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So when I spotted an old Reader’s Digest book
called ‘</span><a href="https://www.worldofbooks.com/reader-s-digest-household-hints-handy-tips-by-gor000441723.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Household Hints and Handy Tips’ </span></a><span style="font-family: inherit;">on a charity shop trip, I was excited
to see what gems I could get out of it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></o:p></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The book is from 1992, so a lot of the advice, for example,
the financial management section, is quite outdated.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nonetheless, here are 10 hacks I picked up as
I read through:</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt 36pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-fareast-font-family: Verdana;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: "verdana";">1)</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "verdana";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you
want to <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">line-dry a garment without pegging
it</b>, use a pair of tights.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With a
delicate sweater, for example, thread a leg through each arm of the sweater, then
pull the waist of the tights through the neck hole.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Peg the tights to the line, and you’ll avoid
peg marks on the garment as it dries.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt 36pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-fareast-font-family: Verdana;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: "verdana";">2)</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "verdana";"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Store earrings</b>
by fastening them through the holes of a large button OR use an ice-cube tray
as an organiser to keep earrings in a drawer.</span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt 36pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-fareast-font-family: Verdana;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana";">3)</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "verdana";"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Freshen
carpets</b> with a homemade dry shampoo – sprinkle the carpet liberally with
salt or cornflower (the book also suggests oatmeal, but presumably it would
need to be fairly fine), leave for a couple of hours, then vacuum off.</span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt 36pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-fareast-font-family: Verdana;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: "verdana";">4)</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "verdana";"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Cleaning
light bulbs</b> keeps them brighter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Remove them from their fittings when cold, and wash with a damp
cloth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Make sure they are completely dry
before refitting.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt 36pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-fareast-font-family: Verdana;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: "verdana";">5)</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "verdana";"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Don’t
make your bed</b> when you get up – apparently, we lose up to 300ml of body
moisture each night, and if you make the bed immediately, this moisture will be
trapped in the mattress and bedding.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Leave the duvet or covers back for at least 20 minutes before making the
bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt 36pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-fareast-font-family: Verdana;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana";">6)</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "verdana";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Always <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">use
two pillowcases</b> to protect pillows from skin oils, night creams etc getting
into the filling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you have foam
pillows, these are particularly susceptible to damage from oils.</span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt 36pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-fareast-font-family: Verdana;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: "verdana";">7)</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "verdana";">If you want rice as an accompaniment to a meal
you are cooking in the oven, you can <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">cook
the rice in the oven</b> too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Measure the
rice by volume (50-90ml per person) and put into a dish which has a lid.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Boil double the volume of water, add to the
dish, and cook in the oven with the lid on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It will take a bit longer than on the hob, but it saves boiling a
pot.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt 36pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-fareast-font-family: Verdana;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: "verdana";">8)</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "verdana";">I try to use bowls and dishes to <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">store food in the freezer</b>, and so I
sometimes run out if several are in there at once. A tip from the book is to
line a bowl with aluminium foil, place food into the foil and freeze.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once the food is solid, you can lift it out
of the bowl in the foil, wrap it over, and put it back in the freezer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="_GoBack"></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt 36pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-fareast-font-family: Verdana;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana";">9)</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "verdana";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">If you can’t stand the fiddly process of <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">peeling shallots</b>, garlic cloves or
small onions, pour some boiling water into a dish and soak them for a few
minutes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let them cool down, and the
skins will be far less papery and annoying, and much easier to remove.</span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt 36pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-fareast-font-family: Verdana;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: "verdana";">10)</span><span style="font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; font: 7pt/normal "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "verdana";"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Instead of buying a purpose-made steamer, you
can <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">steam vegetables</b> using a metal
colander or sieve set on top of a pan of boiling water.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Place a neatly fitting lid on the colander,
and keep an eye on the water level in the pan in case it boils dry.</span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">These are not ground-breaking, I will admit, but I hope they help!</span>Elainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02353932919544437033noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7691770684614313413.post-22112990826139915292017-11-23T11:28:00.000-08:002017-12-07T12:46:21.533-08:00Thrifted Thursday - recent frugal charity shop findsAs an antidote to Black Friday, and on a different day, here are my recent finds from my local charity shops. It's a little home wares haul this time, and all the pieces are already being loved and used in my house. <br />
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Even with charity shop visits, I have started a process of not buying something I like there and then. Regardless of how inexpensive it might be, it's still a waste of money if you buy on impulse, and that item just becomes another unit of clutter. So I spotted all these items on the first trip round the shops, but left it till the next day to go back and buy them. <br />
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This way, if I've forgotten about something I've seen, then I can't have wanted it that badly in the first place. If an item has been sold by the time I get back to the shop, then the decision is taken out of my hands. If I go back in search of something, and it's still there, and I'm sure I'll use/enjoy it, then I'll go ahead and buy my thrifty little treasures. <br />
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So this time round, I got:<br />
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<strong>1)</strong> <strong>A couple of plant pots</strong>. Their simple, minimal designs caught my eye, and they were under £2 each. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc8u80fZJFSq-LbAnHpCBRM483aeHIraOq30sw4dwM_OboVewXRzMeYcGl1K6uV_jpEwkAbXIZQ9dmWkrG3e2Fe14Ly9HVIv47CV8YbcxRkrXATyYNySFKVubImhEWDgiyaDO4v3eJH24/s1600/my+pics+047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Thrifted recent frugal charity shop finds " border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc8u80fZJFSq-LbAnHpCBRM483aeHIraOq30sw4dwM_OboVewXRzMeYcGl1K6uV_jpEwkAbXIZQ9dmWkrG3e2Fe14Ly9HVIv47CV8YbcxRkrXATyYNySFKVubImhEWDgiyaDO4v3eJH24/s640/my+pics+047.JPG" title="Thrifted Thursday" width="640" /></a></div>
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<strong>2)</strong> <strong>A ceramic pot with a lid</strong>, which says Le Bain on the front. As the name suggests, I've put it to use in the bathroom, to store cotton buds and cotton face pads. It cost £3.<br />
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<strong>3)</strong> <strong>The candle dish</strong> that the red candle is sitting on, which was £1.<br />
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<strong>4)</strong> And finally, <strong>a plate</strong>, originally from M&S, for £3.99. I loved this complex peacock pattern at first sight, and I'm using it as a decorative item rather than as a dinner plate. It would do as a serving plate if I was ever to find myself in need of making canapés available to guests (not something that happens very often...).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaT9McEoHESCME-tVIe6krzrXKTNlzfT0_wX11r3CoPvtDm6qMxZmzjgsoMdtEgU0b97dMC_a21Mc9ozArZCIyhhlk5x1KtTDYE-NMff2JCHsX-98gK1LuKZXVKjDUkmS9awR2FxXx1a4/s1600/Plate+cropped.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1571" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaT9McEoHESCME-tVIe6krzrXKTNlzfT0_wX11r3CoPvtDm6qMxZmzjgsoMdtEgU0b97dMC_a21Mc9ozArZCIyhhlk5x1KtTDYE-NMff2JCHsX-98gK1LuKZXVKjDUkmS9awR2FxXx1a4/s640/Plate+cropped.jpg" width="628" /></a></div>
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So that's my haul. No Black Friday stress, no need to trouble the overdraft, and I've given a little bit of cash to charity into the bargain. It's all good...!<br />
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<br />Elainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02353932919544437033noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7691770684614313413.post-89802317707619209982017-11-13T13:44:00.001-08:002017-12-07T12:51:13.558-08:00T K Maxx - cruelty-free (small) haulI went to Edinburgh recently for a day trip to meet up with an old friend. Whilst I was waiting for her bus to get in, I nipped into T K Maxx for a little stock up. I've run out of Dr Bronners, and normally they have loads in, but not this time. Never mind,,,!<br />
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What I did get was...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgggDEvXpH_m_p6TBle9Vs0i2MvXkDLw3_xmlHPsJUX-MRg7z85THEZn5jd7M6KjS9dbOcWtnt-h-wRTJsdeB7mgLkg1h5XdBD0binBUto2pv2b0ufdz-kvhwgI22Td-d_9oRYbxv6hy1M/s1600/shampoo+etc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="T K Maxx cruelty-free alba botanica hawaiian shampoo review" border="0" data-original-height="1592" data-original-width="1600" height="397" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgggDEvXpH_m_p6TBle9Vs0i2MvXkDLw3_xmlHPsJUX-MRg7z85THEZn5jd7M6KjS9dbOcWtnt-h-wRTJsdeB7mgLkg1h5XdBD0binBUto2pv2b0ufdz-kvhwgI22Td-d_9oRYbxv6hy1M/s400/shampoo+etc.jpg" title="T K Maxx cruelty-free haul" width="400" /></a></div>
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... a lovely big bottle of shampoo by <a href="https://www.albabotanica.com/en/" target="_blank">Alba Botanica</a>, who are certified by Cruelty Free International. There were a number of different scents available, but this is the gardenia version - it smells quite pungent and floral, but not to the point of being unpleasant. It is free of artificial colours, parabens, phthalates, and harsh sulphates. This is a 946ml bottle for £9.99, so pretty good value. <br />
<br />
I like to buy a litre or so at a time so it will keep me going for ages. The only small concern is that, if I've not tried the product before, it might not be good for my scalp. This has happened before - I got a lovely big bottle of shampoo home, only to find that it made my head itchy. The answer was just to use it as shower gel instead. It did a great job, and none of it went to waste. <br />
<br />
I also got the Deep Sea Spearmint toothpaste by <a href="http://www.jason-personalcare.com/" target="_blank">Jason</a>, Again, I haven't used this product before, but I like it. It tastes less sweet than my usual Superdrug own brand toothpaste, but it's still minty and fresh. I can't get used to toothpastes that don't taste of mint - just seems wrong somehow. It cost £3.99, which isn't cheap, but this is a 170g tube, so it's quite a but bigger then the Superdrug stuff. It's certified bunny friendly, and is also free of a long list of undesirable ingredients. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1pN2Or78vIw3BR9e-_4C1IaoOU-cj_IKcY98XiK3hZYRveHGibVcVyJr8-HdhwgqzB6PchyphenhyphenBkLySlqbBPHEx6ql5IEHswBnnjQQETMEQ6192LIRGDXBWnbpHCVo2UkqU2MPvnJhLARo8/s1600/my+pics+046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="T K Maxx cruelty free jason toothpaste review bamboo socks" border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1pN2Or78vIw3BR9e-_4C1IaoOU-cj_IKcY98XiK3hZYRveHGibVcVyJr8-HdhwgqzB6PchyphenhyphenBkLySlqbBPHEx6ql5IEHswBnnjQQETMEQ6192LIRGDXBWnbpHCVo2UkqU2MPvnJhLARo8/s400/my+pics+046.JPG" title="T K Maxx cruelty free haul" width="400" /></a></div>
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Finally, I got three pairs of bamboo socks for £4.99 from a brand called Glenmuir. At my local health food shop, the bamboo socks can be pricey, so I was happy to find these!<br />
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Hopefully, the Dr Bronners will be back on my next visit...Elainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02353932919544437033noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7691770684614313413.post-27523647341663653722017-11-03T14:51:00.000-07:002017-12-07T12:52:43.551-08:00FatFace achieves cruelty-free certification<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx2ocrvWbKcZXZw5LBdgyCoJWZ-aB_QIz4J7RF_kZ-3gi6RH_Gmtcdqtr0KMfKOMJOdkg3_peNazeGTw9Et6ryqTT_JwQsYJzbjZvRevnTmi1vgfFGcU-xXfy6MvIp1U2WaUjlEcRoWdY/s1600/purple+flower.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Fatface certifed cruelty-free leaping bunny" border="0" data-original-height="829" data-original-width="1025" height="515" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx2ocrvWbKcZXZw5LBdgyCoJWZ-aB_QIz4J7RF_kZ-3gi6RH_Gmtcdqtr0KMfKOMJOdkg3_peNazeGTw9Et6ryqTT_JwQsYJzbjZvRevnTmi1vgfFGcU-xXfy6MvIp1U2WaUjlEcRoWdY/s640/purple+flower.jpg" title="Fatface certified cruelty-free" width="640" /></a></div>
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This week, fashion store <a href="http://www.fatface.com/" target="_blank">FatFace</a> has received leaping bunny certification for its whole cosmetics and toiletries range. I have to say that I didn't know they had cosmetics or toiletries, but nonetheless, it's great to know that one more CF option will be easily accessible and available on the high street. I noticed on their website that they do not use down in their clothing, which is another plus. It's true that every little helps... :)<br />
<br />Elainehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02353932919544437033noreply@blogger.com0