Girls just wanna have fun!

Cindi Lauper had the right idea. Girls do just wanna have fun. Sometimes it feels good to shake off the confines of the roles of mother, wife, boss, employee etc and roll back the years to when you thought of nothing but having fun. I took a break this afternoon and found a moment to have a bit of a play in the local playground. Some of the toys seemed a bit on the small side, but I did enjoy larking about in the sun with only myself to entertain.

An empty playground and lots of tiny toys willing me on to channel my inner child.

I know this is designed for four, but if I could just catch my balance...

A quick whizz around the pole...

It's not so easy to steer like this.

And this is when the school teacher was passing by with the children - just actin' natural.

Your chariot awaits madam, was what I thought, but I nearly got wedged in the teeny, tiny seat!

One final whizz around the pole before I go.



My new Michael Kors jacket is having it's first outing. 





Sunshine and blue sky. Why it's enough to make you believe that spring has sprung.



The MK jacket was a find in the Truro branch of TK Maxx last month. It's so heavy thanks to all of these studs that I had to post it home in case it pushed my luggage allowance over the limit. The leather look skirt was from the same shopping session, but I didn't really buy them as an outfit at the time. I thought they would be too rock an' roll to be worn at the same time, but when I pulled out this baby pink cashmere sweater the whole thing came together like a dream. Seemingly the look I stumbled across by chance is called Soft Rock as I've just seen in the SS16 edition of Vogue. As I've said before, I'm not a huge follower of trends, but I do like to treat myself to a women's magazine from time to time to see what's afoot fashion wise. I can see I might have more fun playing about with this new style clash. Leather jeans with a bit of lace or a ruffled shirt perhaps...

Jacket: Michael Kors (TK Maxx). Skirt: Green Envelope Los Angeles (TK Maxx). Sweater: M&S (charity shop). Brogues: H&M. Tights: Primark. Bag: Primark. Sunglasses: Quay Australia. Necklace: Noel. Watch: Michael Kors. Bangle: Kate Spade New York. Rings: charity shop.

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Did I mention I went shopping?

Well, what self-respecting fashionista could miss the chance of shopping in London? Not me, that's for sure! My favourite haunt is Kensington High Street, in particular TK Maxx. Steve had taken himself off for a walk along the Embankment while I did some last minute rushing around to gather up some bargains. And this beauty of a jacket has to be the find of the day, if not the entire holiday!
The brand is DSQUARED2 (sorry if this logo isn't quite right) and as you'll see from the price tag below it was a mighty bargain. Apologies for being so crass as to mention these figures, but a saving like this surely has to be flagged up. My regular readers may be a bit surprised at my extravagence here, but my frugal shopping in charity shops 95% of the time leaves me free to splash out from time to time on something really special, and I only wish you could see how very special this little jacket is.


I have a friend who knows one of the buyers for TK Maxx and they had a very interesting chat about brands, designers and these kind of deals. The top and bottom is this - when you buy designer brands from an outlet village the products are made especially for these outlets and are consequently made to a lesser standard and quality ie cheaper fabrics, linings, even zips or soles on shoes. The pieces which turn up in TK are direct from the designer and are end of line, or odd sizes which the main retailer couldn't house and therefore were made available to the TK Maxx buyers. My husband used to try to tell me that the price tag was just inflated to make it look like a bargain, but this in fact is not the case.

Early morning photo shoot before I head off to work.

The camera is propped on my garden wall while I dodge across the road to do a bit of posing. Quite funny as the morning rush hour (well eight bikes and two buggies) was in full flow.

Trying to look nonchalant whilst a truck goes past.

OK, and smile!

The leather is butter soft, the fit is perfect - it would have been a sin not to buy this.

Yet another of Sasha's handbags. Although I did buy this one for her. Does that make it any better?


Featuring my new Italian shoes here too.

I obviously love this jacket, but will have to make sure I don't gain another pound as it won't fit if I do. It's not a bad idea for me to have a snug jacket on board as I've been a bit lax with things since we got back from our holidays. Sea swimming has been a bit lacking due to one thing or another, but hopefully once this weekend is over, my routine early morning swim can be reinstated. Regular exercise is a bit like that don't you think? Once you've dropped out off the routine, you can find a dozen reasons as to why you can't get back into the groove. In my defence I can say that health issues have gotten in the way rather than outright laziness. Normal service will be resumed soon I promise! Oh, and on that final point I must mention the latest news from the Government here in the UK trying to ban the use of exclamation marks. Old fashioned grammar is increasingly becoming outmoded with the latest victim being my favourite. How will I add a bit of indignation, surprise, delight, anger, joy or plain sock-it-to-you punch without my exclamation marks?!!! Oh, I know. By just carrying on the same as usual.

Jacket: Dsquared2. Trousers: TK Maxx. Polo neck: eBay. Shoes: Italy. Handbag: Accessorize. Watch: Michael Kors. Bangle: Kate Spade New York. Perspex ring: gift. Silver ring: charity shop.

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The big outdoors

It's so easy on a Sunday afternoon to veg out or drift around the house looking at tasks waiting to be done, and not feeling inspired to do any of them. Today I had a huge to-do list. All of it seemed to leave me feeling a bit blah. Particularly as the sun kept breaking through the clouds, tempting me to peek out of the kitchen window at the big outdoors. The beach lies just 15 feet from my kitchen which is great, but is also a great temptation when you have other things to do. So I made a bargain with myself to catch up with chores until 2pm and then get out. I decided to combine a walk with some blog photography. I needed a new backdrop and headed to the North end of the island and on towards King Charles' castle, a ruin with an amazing view right across the whole of the Isles of Scilly.


And this is me, after a fifteen minute walk from home, enjoying the most spectacular 360 degree view across the entire Isles of Scilly. It's breathtaking stuff.

This is the genuine wind-swept look, no fans or props required.




A great spot to sit and stare, to wonder at life.

Confession time - I left my rose gold brogues at home and this wasn't the top I wanted to wear (it was still in the wash). But, I'm here, out in the fresh air and so pleased I broke away from the chores.


The sunshine is at last showing these new trousers off better. These are the ones I recently bought in Palermo as seen here. They're navy and turquoise, pure new wool, quite weighty and yes, would look great with brogues.

Jacket: TK Maxx. Trousers: Maggazini Anita. Trainers: Salomon. Top: charity shop. Rings: charity shop. Sunglasses: Quay Australia.

I'll finish off today with a look around the islands from this wonderful vantage point. One of the best things about having been away on holiday is coming back to views like these. I think we all need a change of scenery every so often so that we appreciate what we have at home. It helps us return refreshed and able to see things in their true perspective. I'm so lucky to live on this idyllic little island out here in the middle of the Atlantic. 

This is Bishop Rock Lighthouse some seven miles away. 

Can you see it in the far distance? The island across the water is Bryher.

In the distance to the right is the island of St Agnes and the bigger one to the left is St Mary's, the main island of the group.

The wooden jetty ahead on Bryher is called Anneka's quay after Anneka Rice who built it in the era of the Challenge Anneka programmes. Do you think I gave her a big enough name check there?

Straight ahead are the ruins of Blockhouse castle and beyond are the Eastern Islands with St Martin's to the left. For those of you who may wish to learn more about the islands or even plan a visit see here. If you hanker after the big outdoors in a very manageable size these islands offer the perfect holiday escape. Favoured by walkers, bird watchers, sailors, divers, beach lovers and those who like to cycle, swim, windsurf, kayak, fish, island-hop and watch gig racing  - even take part in a triathlon - you can find all of this and more here on the beautiful Isles of Scilly.

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Palermo's finest winter coat

The cruising pics are over and we're back home again. You may however, recognise the coat that I bought in Palermo see here. I do think this is the finest coat I could have found in the whole of Sicily never mind just Palermo. Ooh how I love it! It feels like a proper grown up coat and all the better for being in this gorgeous mix of pink, red and black. It's taken my daughter and her wise words to convince me how important a good coat is, be it for winter or any season we might need one. She pointed out that it's what's on show all the time, the first thing people see and therefore massively important to get it right. I've always fallen into the way of thinking that we take our coat off to reveal the main event, but if Sasha is right then the coat is the main event. Well, hurrah that I've finally caught up and have a coat to be proud of. 

Sunshine and a new winter coat, how very lovely!





Do you remember those spot the difference pictures from your childhood? Well we have some in today's blog. I won't reveal them until the end, but see how many you can spot.


Excuse me for looking so smug, but this coat is making me smile.

Oops Sasha, I forgot to ask if I could borrow this clutch again.



I've decided not to showcase the new Palermo trousers in the same post as they really need a short jacket to allow you to see the cut and shape of them best. Instead I've put this together with my new faux leather biker jeans. Faux leather is forever in fashion, and I've been worn down by that fact. Don't get me wrong, I love faux leather, just not on me. I've looked at leggings/jeggings and decided that to carry these off you need to have reed thin legs that go on and on. These biker jeans are much better for the short-legged (like me) as they have padded knees and zips to lend a bit of distraction. Also they are much thicker than leggings therefore have a bit more structure to them, helpful again for those with thighs that curve rather than go straight up and down.



I like the fluffy jumper to soften the biker jeans, but wish I'd worn a different necklace. That sudden rush to get out to catch the sun when it finally appeared this afternoon meant there wasn't much time to think through the accessories.

Silver does seem to be working as another neutral in my wardrobe. I could wear these brogues with so many outfits and they'd all look sensational thanks to them.

Check out these bees loving this bit of early spring sunshine. And for the sharp-eyed amongst you, the rings are different as is the colour of nail polish. A bit bizarre, I know, but these are two different photo shoots meshed together. Award yourself 3 points if you noticed them all x


Coat: Magazzini Anita. Sweater: H&M. Jeans: H&M. Shoes: Office. Necklace and silver rings: charity shop. Clutch: Sasha's. Belt: H&M. Sunglasses: Quay Australia.

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Final port of call, Marseille

Marseille was our final port of call, but the opportunities for a photo shoot in the pretty area of the old port were marred by the grey drizzle. We made the most of things and picked up some last minute gifts from a local market and then sought refuge in a cafe overlooking the harbour. Steve succumbed to the pleasures of a hot chocolate which was thick enough to stand a spoon in, coupled with a chocolate fondant, lavishly decorated with whipped cream. Some of you may not yet be aware of the fact that when you're on holiday abroad there operates a clever phenomenon whereby any excess of calories consumed miraculously disappear during the "Holiday Calorie Conversion Process". Known as the HCCP, this little documented process happens automatically at the airport when you pass through the metal detector gate at customs, and it is sometimes aided by the use of that large magic wand they wave across your body to help rid you of the last few stubborn holiday calories. Voila! You leave the country weighing exactly the same as when you arrived.


It's so good to know that this contains zero calories.



By the time we got back on board the sun appeared, making it ideal for my French themed shoot. I had planned this outfit for today with meticulous attention to detail, but Steve made me ditch the string of onions and black beret.

Chanel trousers: gift. Striped top: Primark. Shoes: Vans. Belt: eBay.


As we moved around the deck I could see the Captain of the ship appear. Notice this sudden alertness in my eyes.

Steve didn't know that the cogs were turning as I hatched a plan...

Yes, here I am with Captain Giuseppe Maresca of MSC Preziosa. I didn't tell him I'd be featuring him on my blog. I think he just assumed I was an adoring guest. He asked how we'd enjoyed the cruise and if we would travel with the company again. He possessed the cool charm which comes from intelligence and position.



The following day was Valentine's day. Now some women may get roses, but I was lucky enough to get a rose gold Michael Kors watch. Yes, my husband spoils me, I know. The rose gold knot bangle was what he bought me last year as we came through Singapore airport on our way back from New Zealand. Yes, I know, he spoils me.

There are two glass lifts which service the centre of the ship offering you wonderful views, so that afternoon I rode the lift and took some shots of the public areas.

The lower floor is the Diamond bar and lounge from where there are a series of diamond staircases for all aspiring Hollywood starlets to pose. Ahem, well maybe not just starlets.

On the top of the ship is another swimming pool with yet more bars, a disco and nightclub beyond. Steve and I never managed to get that far in the evenings. Dinner was followed by a show in the huge theatre, a quick whizz through the casino and into the Green Sax lounge for drinks and dancing. Everyone seemed to find there own niche and this was ours.

We had a day at sea between leaving Malta and docking in Barcelona. We could see Sardinia in the distance some 20 miles away at lunchtime. The day for most seemed to be about chilling out, or in my case trying on frocks for yet another busy evening. This black dress may be conservative by my normal (flashy) standards and that's because I offered three choices to Steve and he chose this one (we clearly are the typical case of opposites attract). For a change I wore my silver sandals and the gold and silver necklace to add a bit of bling.

Dress: Laura Ashley (charity shop). Silver sandals and clutch: TK Maxx. Necklace: Magpie Vintage. Watch and rings: charity shop. 


No matter what pose you choose, these glittery steps add real glamour.



Early morning as we come into port. Notice the obligatory silk pyjamas for morning balcony shots.

Soft grey light as dawn breaks - all the more romantic when viewed from the ship.

Oh how I shall miss this new day, new port lifestyle.

Sailing along the coastline as we leave Marseille to head off for the final leg to Genoa. Sob, sniffle, sob.

The French flavour continued as we were treated to the Can-Can by the entertainment troupe. The theatre was packed every night and today's influx of French guests loved this offering.

On the last night I had a choice of four dresses which I hadn't yet worn. After much chopping and changing I decided to go with the Bollywood number. I think this peach colour is good for my skin and hair colouring. On top of that I just love beads and sparkle!

Dress and shawl: Enjoy Clothing. Shoes: Primark. Yellow ring: Martin James. Sparkle ring: charity shop.








This was our final night with the friends we had made. We had a brilliant time from start to finish and I really couldn't recommend this type of holiday enough. I know cruising has a staid image, but the guests were all sorts of ages enjoying all sorts of entertainment. The nightclub was open into the wee, small hours, as was the casino. There were too many bars and lounges for us to find and visit within a week. Eating could be a 24 hour occupation if you chose, and there were children's clubs, fitness classes, dancing classes, a gymnasium, a health and beauty spa, a shopping mall, icecream parlour, pizza joint,  library, internet cafe - oh the list went on and on. Do it all, or do none at all and just go on a cruise to rest. But I urge you to try it, just once - you may have a ball. Arrivederci, Captain Maresca, we might see you again one day!

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