Liv Purvis's Blog, page 10

A Weekend At Three Mile Beach

  *ad- press stayIf I had to pick a place that fills me up, after home, more than anywhere- it’s likely I’d say Cornwall. It’s somewhere that holds such treasured memories for me; of sunny family holidays in St Ives, train journeys pattering in from St Erth and autumns spent with the cobwebs being blown away on Praa Sands; it’s so different to home and yet so familiar.

Although I’ve only scratched the surface of it’s entirety, there’s something so special about being there. So, when my pal Carrie mentioned a little October getaway to a special little place called Three Mile Beach it took all of half a second (and naturally, in true Liv fashion, a quick flick through my paper diary) to know we’d be there with bells on.

There’s something special about the coast as it gets cooler, plus with little A having not yet visited that part of the world; when better than to introduce him to one of my most treasured parts of the U.K.?

And Three Mile Beach, just next to Hayle is just that and more. Situated a stones throw from the breathtaking Gwithian beach on St. Ives Bay, it feels like a perfect balance of being away from the hustle and bustle and footfall of a seaside town, whilst conveniently being so close to everything too. With the drive through the dunes leading to their rainbow beach houses (and literal moments away from the most scenic walk onto the shore), it ticks every box in being the perfect summer-to-winter beachside staycation.

 

 

 

 

 

Arriving just as the day was ending, a couple of lovely locals we met on the train down pre-empted us about how beautiful sunsets were here if the day had been nice, so we made a beeline for the car park and along to the sea- where the views span all the way across to sparkly St. Ives and back again. It felt like a total treat having this as a bit of a front garden, and somewhere to escape to just before settling in for the night. The sky felt vast, serene and was magical it turn from a clear blue to a hazy purple, speckled with the moon and the lights from camper vans above us in the car park- who knew such joy could be found enjoying outdoors when I’d normally be tucked inside watching Pointless? Ahem…

 

The rest of the weekend was equally as spoiling as the moment we arrived. Three Mile Beach truly goes the extra mile (is that a pun? If so, pun absolutely intended)- and everything is truly considered to make your stay as seamless, stress free and enjoyable as possible. From travelling down with a baby- we were able to pre-book their baby pack; which meant a cot, high chair, baby bath, steriliser, bottle warmer and blender were all ready and waiting for us- making the luggage load a little lighter; which is never a bad thing (especially when you travel with as much as us)!

They also offer a whole range of experiences; from hire bikes, surf lessons and the offer of a private chef to cook dinner one evening (yes, really); meaning whether you’re down for a special occasion or family holiday- everything can be as taken care of as much as you like. They also offer a pizza making kit and oven, do takeaway and eat-in roasts on a Sunday from their food truck (with every evening offering a different menu and cuisine) and make sure the fridge is stocked with a handful of delicious local goodies to get you started when you arrive.

Honestly, I was completely blown away by the amenities and how taken care of you are here; even when we ran out of milk it wasn’t too much trouble to pick up a pint or two. Plus with a hot tub and sauna in the garden (I know, I KNOW)- you could quite merrily stay inside all weekend and still feel like you’ve had a true holiday, which- when you’re staying somewhere this gorgeous, is certainly saying something.

 

 

 

Although most trips away come with me planning a full squeeze-everything-in-itinerary, it was so lovely to slowly take in everything on our doorstep; from the coastline, cycle routes and seal pups (!) but more on that tomorrow…

x

 

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Florals in Fall

  *yes, I did just say fall instead of autumn…** features press samplesThere’s something very special about stumbling across a brand in the magical woodland that is Instagram. Whether that’s checking a tag on an outfit the girl you adore is wearing, spotting a share on stories or by chance noticing their little circle icon stand out in a mist of little dots; sometimes it can feel like a total fluke finding a brand that completely sings to you.

Thankfully people like Isabel at the Daily Dress Edit (and joyful dress aficionado Jess Diner) make discoveries like this all too easy; which is where Seraphina comes in. From paisley prairies, seventies inspired blue denims and scalloped cord, they’re the kind of dresses that make transitional seasonal dressing streamlined- and make pieces in your wardrobe transcend seasons (which I spoke about a little here, but there’s something special and important about having things that don’t need to live under your bed half of the year), and truly feel like dedicated live-in items, which is exactly what want to see when you open your wardrobe.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Although I discovered them a little while ago now (their summer dresses are what dreams are made of), when they got in touch about their new collection I couldn’t wait to style it and take it for a spin in the countryside (nestled in the back of our cottage garden no less), and as fate would have it, a stones throw away from their showroom in Semley too.

With a gorgeous midi length and delicate floral print balanced out with a pie crust tie collar and statement sleeves (anything that sheds even a glimmer of Henry VIII Tudor arm is surely a win with me), it’s the perfect dress for this time of year. Although it would look equally cool with chunky trainers for running about, I loved it with my white cowboy boots (in my head I asked ‘what would Hanna do?!’) and know it would also do well with a roll neck underneath and tucked under a boxy coat when things cool down even more. I used to very much be a ‘white dresses for summer’ person, but it’s nice discovering how to be more flexible and adaptable with your wardrobe, and when dresses are this beautiful- why save them for the sunshine anyway…

 

(Dress: Seraphina*, Boots: Sezane*) *press samples

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A Week in the West Country…

  It took a quick scroll on Kip during the lengths of a long and dreary winter in lockdown to know that by the time autumn rolled around again, we’d be more than ready for a little cross country holiday. Whether that meant staying close to home, or venturing a little further- a hankering for a change of scenery and something a little different to our own four walls couldn’t come quick enough.

So booking The Craftsman’s Cottage back in March was possibly the one time being organised has shown up for me this year (the rest of the time I’m a last minute Liv who can barely plan the day in front of her), and when it rolled around last week I couldn’t have been more excited, or ready for a little break.

Nestled in the heart of Wiltshire, in a cosy village called Semley (which boasts a beautiful church, village shop with some of the loveliest local produce and more dogs on morning walks than you can literally shake a stick at)- I quickly knew it would satisfy all of my Cameron Diaz in The Holiday dreams from the moment we drove up the pebbled path off of the beaten track.

Fortunately an unseasonal snow hadn’t yet presented itself, so it was just down to the log burner in the front room, beautiful big oven in the kitchen and radio humming Gold throughout the house to bring in the cosy feels on all fronts. Paired with a week of exploring the west country and some of the south coast with my family, travelling at this time of the year in the UK is fast becoming my favourite time to explore- and much like Cornwall last year, I was so excited to make the most of what was on our doorstep for the week.

 

 

 

Despite being situated in the most beautiful village, one of the most special things about this property is what’s inside. Filled with art, table wear, furnishings and crafts from a bounty of British talent- there’s a true focus on close-to-home skill- even down to the hamper on arrival filled with local honey, homemade cake and bread and butter too; which adds even more of a home from home feeling (except here the milk bottle is full and not left with a few drops)…

 

 

 

 

Another thing we also loved is how it’s location straddled so many beautiful spots. We were just shy of an hour from cities like Bath, towns like Bruton and Frome- and the Jurassic Coast too; meaning whether we fancied a stroll around a bustling centre or skimming stones on the shore- we were never too far away. Plus, having the luxury of a car meant that packing plenty in was an option (as well as travelling with everything plus the kitchen sink). It was a truly special little stay, and I know I’ll definitely be bookmarking it for future adventures too- maybe I’ll try and time it with some snow next time too… 

A little diary of some of the favourite things we did…

Monday: Although we didn’t manage to go, nearby there was an outdoor lido (Tisbury Pool) which is heated, which would make a lovely way to start the day in season.

Tuesdsay: Spending the morning exploring beautiful Bruton with some of my favourite shops (which I’ve listed here). Followed by lunch at Roth Bar & Grill at Hauser and Wirth, which is very dog and baby friendly (we sat in the orangery). Naturally picked up some bread for dinner from the At The Chapel too.

Wednesday: A day exploring beautiful Bath– lunch at Café Lucca, followed by a potter around the cobbled streets and a trip to the Thermae Spa and a flick through Found and Topping & Co (which, with all the treats, Maggie loved too)!

Thursday: A little closer to home, we explored Stourhead in the morning- soaking up the beautiful gardens as the colours changed before heading to The Beckford Arms for a classic pub dinner.

Friday: Sea spotting at Poole and Bournemouth today- with lunch at Riptide Coffee (best sandwiches), a magical speedy spa treatment at Lush and a meander on Bournemouth’s sandy beaches.

 

 

 

x

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The Monthly Playlist: September

  The observant amongst you might notice that it’s been a YEAR- an actual year since my last playlist post (which hadn’t even occurred to me until now, so a slap on the wrist it is)- but the eagle eyed might have noticed monthly playlists ticking over on my Spotify account since I’ve been away; so I thought I’d bring you up to date a little with the songs I’ve loved from the last month (rather than do a whole yearly run down, because we might end up being here a while)…

With shiny new releases on the horizon from Orlando Weeks (Look Who’s Talking Now is an earworm if ever I heard one, and is the ultimate Saturday morning sunshine song), ABBA (*insert tears of joy*) and Fur- I feel like getting my car driving confidence has made an arrival at the ultimate time because if ever there was a time for some true Wayne and Garth style headbanging (you just watch me TRY and head bang to ABBA) then this must be it. Joe also played me Lou Hayter’s new record (namely because Arlo seems to really like it… kid has taste) which is a total ‘80s dream- so I’ve got plenty to be listening to (and that’s without even listening to the Strictly dance songs on repeat either)…

 

Fur – When You Walk Away Pt. 1Franz Ferdinand – Eleanor Put Your Boots Back On The Avalanches ft. MGMT, Johnny Marr – The Divine ChordOrlando Weeks – Look Who’s Talking NowABBA – Don’t Shut Me DownWings – MamuniaPublic Service Broadcasting – Blue HeavenSilvertwin – The Night Is OursLou Hayter – Time Out Of MindFur – Anybody Else But MeThe Lemon Twigs – Live In Favour Of TomorrowMay Erlewine, Woody Goss – Days Go ByABBA – Hasta MananaCass Elliot – Don’t Let The Good Life Pass You ByCaroline Polachek – Bunny Is A Rider

If you’d like some further listening, June’s playlist was a bit of a stonker (as well as May and April’s, but naturally you might say I’m biased)- and you can keep up to date on my Spotify too which is always full of the weird and wonderful.

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An Afternoon At Down House

  I feel like summer this year cruised by in the blink of an eye. Perhaps it was the endless roll of grey days instead of sunshine; where normally weeks would be punctuated with the scent of barbecues drifting over the fence, beach trips on busy trains and evening walks to the park to make the days last longer.

It wasn’t a total wash out; but it certainly seems like the seasons have blurred together a little; and although in the last week I’ve definitely felt the arrival of autumn with the heating rumbling back up and a nip in the air- it was last week that Joe and I took the opportunity to make the most of the last of the summer weather, with a little day out in the car.

A bit like last year, it felt a little like a bit of a special occasion doing something nice on one of the last days of sunshine. Having been trying to get out more in the car and make the most of days where we both can step back from work and soak up precious moments with Arlo- we settled on an afternoon at local treasure, Down House.

With the home of Charles Darwin being a stones throw away from where I grew up; it’s somewhere that weirdly bypassed any school trips and has always been somewhere I’ve wanted to visit. Funnily enough, Joe and I only normally seem to do the whole ‘English Heritage/National Trust’ circuit when we’re on city breaks or on holiday, so actually being able to soak up some history on our doorstep in an afternoon felt like a really lovely thing to do.

 

 

 

Not only is the house itself beautiful and oozing with history (and completely accessible too); but the grounds in the sunshine were heavenly. We mooched around the vast greenery, admiring the gardens and the flowers that were still left in bloom. Although the greenhouse was closed for refurbishment, it was also the perfect place to settle down for a bit of lunch; gobbling up fresh sandwiches and enjoying the warmth of the sunshine on my overdressed self.

Given the last year, it’s these kind of moments I’m desperate to not take for granted- the little local drives, the moments of sunshine, lunches outside, local gems close to home and spending time with those that matter the most. We might not have had a sunny summer; but we’ve had one peppered with little adventures and small special moments, and after all- isn’t that what it’s all about.

 

 

(Cardigan, Dungarees, Bag & Boots: All C/O Sezane as part of a paid partnership- affiliate links used)

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My Experience As A Nervous Driver

  If you’ve read my blog for a while, you might remember me talking about passing my test and learning to drive in my twenties. It was a long time ago, so I won’t hold it against you if you don’t remember- but four years later and having only driven a handful of times since that post- until recently, I’d become a really anxious driver (narrator, “they don’t call her nervous Purvis for nothin’”).

Not anxious in the sense that, y’know, I’d rather not do it but still would. Anxious as in leave my car outside my parents house for so long it had to be given away, and the thought of driving anywhere solo would leave my hands in a state so clammy you’d think I was re-sitting my GCSE’s every time I thought about getting behind the wheel. And that’s without even thinking about hill starts, finding the bloody biting point or approaching a roundabout…

Anyway- since passing initially, and a few minor experiences of stalling, cross van men honking at a girl who couldn’t quite get her gears in order, and a series of events which knocked my confidence (and would have been absolutely minor had I carried on and not let them phase me)- I pretty much retired from driving. I catastrophised every thought about getting behind the wheel, and continually told myself I wasn’t able to do it. I wasn’t a good driver and I’d be more trouble on the road than off of it. We moved into our house over four years ago, and since moving, I seemingly left any last scraps of driving ability at my parents (along with my poor car too).

So, despite passing my test- this year, with a new baby, a handful of visits to the hospital (some certainly more testing than other) which left me reliant on everyone around me with a car (namely my dad- big up Papa P)- I decided enough was enough. If it wasn’t the promise of UK round road trips, hazy Sunday evening drives back from the beach and supermarket visits where I don’t have to carry back 10 bags nimbly balanced on each weepy finger- then it was the absolute necessity of needing that freedom and ‘okay- lets get in the car and go’ immediacy which we’d never had before, and with a baby, needed more than ever. Don’t get me wrong, you don’t need a car with a baby- of course you don’t. But the mounting pressure of things I’ve wanted to do, people I’ve wanted the ease of seeing and places I’ve wanted to visit- as well as a shamefully groaning Uber account and new responsibilities that 2021 has presented meant that getting back behind the wheel (even more so as someone with a license) felt like a now or never moment. And goodness, if I’m one thing as well as incredibly nervous- I’m pretty determined too.

Getting on the ladder

During lockdown last year, in tandem with The Insecure Girls’ Club, I did an Instagram live with my wonderful sister in law, and trainee health psychologist Lucy– all about experiencing a fear of driving; something I knew so many could relate to and something I’d been experiencing consistently for what feels like forever. Although you can watch the whole live here (so I won’t repeat everything we say), one thing Lucy said that stuck with me was about the process of achieving something, looking a little like being on a ladder. It was no use saying ‘okay, I’m just going to do it and drive’ and that be the only step. It was about making small steps to a final goal- and even if I needed to add more in as I went, made the process feel more tangible and less daunting. A one thing at a time process. Because from experience, I knew, for me, it wasn’t going to be as simple as grabbing my keys and going.

So, I made a plan- I set myself an end goal (which totally doesn’t have to be concrete, and the goal posts can move as much as you need them to) to drive to the seaside at the beginning of September- but to do this I knew I needed a) to have some refresher driving lessons b) to have a car and c) to tackle motorways- which all in all felt like a lot of admin to get around, but actually breaking it down made things so much easier. I was told endlessly that going automatic was the easiest way to make driving easier too, so here is a look at the way I approached it!

  The Plan Seek out an instructor that could offer refresher lessons on a flexible basis, in an automatic car (I’d never driven automatic before, but knew this would alleviate a lot of anxiety- I suppose you could also hire a car for this, but felt more comfortable having an experienced driver with dual controls with me)!Book in a couple of lessons, and go at my own pace- even if that meant driving around the block for an hour for a few weeks- slow and steady.Build up to a motorway lesson (I ended up moving this once, but keep at it)!Start researching cars and the kind of thing I’d need- if that means talking to my dad/granddad/someone who knows way more about cars than me that’s fine (I don’t say this to be misogynistic, I literally only know about car colours and Figaros and that is it).Book in for a test drive (if that’s the route I decide to take).Ask my dad/mum to come with me for a few drives in my own car so I can get used to it at my own pace, and start making small local journeys- first with someone else if needed, but build up to on my own too.Go for a motorway drive with someone else in my own car.

 

And actually, making those steps and approaching them with a slow, considerate mindset has been game changing. Giving myself little goals, but acknowledging that they’re free of watertight deadlines and it’s okay if it’s not all easy and linear has made things so much easier too.

And that’s just it- because it has gotten easier.

Although I didn’t drive us to the seaside at the beginning of this month, last Sunday I drove to see my nan on the coast, with my dad in the passengers seat, Arlo in the back and music playing and I couldn’t have felt more proud. Yesterday I spent the day going from the hospital to the supermarket to the vets, sometimes with Joe in the car, sometimes with Arlo and sometimes solo- and honestly, a few months ago I never thought I’d have seen the day. I was in and out of car parks, awkward bays and even did a turn in the road without having to get out of the car and panic when I kept people waiting- I was COOL! AS! A! CUCUMBER! Honestly. It feels liberating knowing someday soon, I will be able to buckle us all up as a family and hit the UK motorways, and enjoy the things that have been on my doorstep all this time.

But, with all of that I’ve continually tried to remember that I haven’t been driving long. Although I passed my test years ago, the time I’ve actually spent on the road has been hours compared to most people’s years, so I know that it’s important to go easy and gentle on myself too.

I continually try and remember that I don’t have to feel comfortable doing things straight away, and although it’s good to make progress; progress comes from time and experience. That’s not a bad thing, but it won’t happen immediately either. Confidence takes patience, and remembering that you properly learn to drive only once you start driving (mostly after you’ve passed your test) has helped a lot too. It will get easier; it already has and it’s all part of the process. Although I might still be a little bit clammy handed, every drive I do makes me a tiny bit closer to the headscarf wearing, top down, music playing driver I know I have deep down somewhere, and if I can do it- I promise you can too.

P.S If you want to chat to other nervous-Purvis’ about all things driving, we’ve set up a Facebook page called The Insecure Girls’ Driving Club for support, recommendations and tips and I hope it might help, even a little bit.

x

 

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My Breastfeeding Friendly Outfit Edit

  *ad- includes affiliate linksInitially, this post started as a bit of a tribute to the best breastfeeding dresses I’ve come across on my travels. A tribute to the 3am shopping scrolls of the hazy early feeding nights; feeling a bit lost with my wardrobe and desperate to hunt out a couple of pieces that would make me feel a little like me (plus, honestly- anything to keep me awake when you’re in the midst of a cluster feed and your Jaffa cake packet is empty).

Although I’d undoubtedly accumulated a few staples through pregnancy that I knew would see me through this new chapter and beyond, there still felt like a few holes in my wardrobe- namely for the ease of whipping ‘em out at a moments notice, and feeling like myself when I got dressed in the morning. But, much like pregnancy; although dressing practically for breastfeeding is now a consideration- I want to be able to add to my wardrobe pieces that’ll see me through after my breastfeeding journey is over too. Although I want to feel like ‘me’ now, I don’t want any additions to be reserved for just one chapter of my life but for the whole story.

When it came to curating a wardrobe for this chapter, I thought it would be exclusively wrap dresses, low cut tops and maybe a cheeky poncho here and there (which, by the way, if these are your thing- amazing)! But in this postnatal period, it’s been just as much about finding my style groove post-pregnancy again as it has finding things that I can comfortably feed in too. It’s about balancing my identity and what makes me feel good, whilst also adapting to a wonderful new period and staying true to my style. There are lots of breastfeeding friendly styles that don’t lend to the things I’d normally wear, but much like how dressing like a Victorian child and prairie dresses aren’t always ideal for breastfeeding either; it’s about striking a balance; knowing what works and what will last too- because there’s a lot more that works than you might think; so I thought I’d share some of my favourites here…

   

Dresses Dresses DressesButtons, smocking and a pull down sleeve 

When it comes to dresses; a lot of my pregnancy and pre-pregnancy dresses haven’t doubled up as being super breastfeeding friendly- and it’s about now I wished I wasn’t so fond of a super high neck, a big ol’ tunic dress and a sixties mini (although paired with shorts underneath they’re not to be ruled out). A couple of people told me to perhaps be wary of this during my pregnancy (with regards to picking up anything new), but stubborn Liv (and perhaps a little skeptical of jinxing anything) didn’t listen! Anyway- where possible, at the moment I’ve been trying to keep an eye out for anything with buttons down the front, pull down sleeves, elasticated smocking and maybe a wrap or two. It’s the category I’ve perhaps found hardest to adapt, but my tips would be to keep an eye out on Depop for anything vintage, and only invest in something if it’s truly something you’ll keep pulling out. Beyond Nine have some lovely pieces (that seem to sell out like hot cakes), and Rixo have some gorgeous super special dresses with lovely BF friendly details too. One of my favourite blouse purchases was this from Olivia Annabelle, who also has this gorgeous dress which would be perfect too…

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Dungarees Dungarees Dungarees Railroad Stripes + Vintage Ruffles = Fail Safe Feeding

There’s something very easy and cool about a great pair of dungarees when it comes to feeding easily and not having to overthink your outfit too much. Whether you’re layering them with a frilly white broderie anglaise blouse, or a classic striped tee- a great flared pair, and more recently a railroad striped pair have been my absolute go-to. They’re amazing with converse, ankle boots or even a Mary-Jane for something more put together. There’s nothing they don’t look great with, and whether you want a pair that baby can tuck discreetly into, or something with adjustable straps- there are so many brilliant pairs out there that make for pieces that will last you forever. Clary and Peg are the queens of pregnancy and postnatal dungarees (and dresses), so if you want a brilliant feed-friendly brand; make them top of your list. Ashley James has also done a gorgeous edit of TU at Sainsbury’s, which has a cracking pair there too.

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Tops Tops TopsAn Oversized Vintage Tee + High Waisted Jeans = Easy Peasy

When it comes to dressing easily for breastfeeding; separates are king. I truly think I’m a jeans and t-shirt girl through and through, and one of the easiest things for me have been a pair of Levi’s Ribcage jeans (or any great high waisted pair), an oversized vintage t-shirt and a jacket on top. Equally, floaty drapey blouses have been a sartorial saving grace; whether that’s a vintage favourite or something more recent; pairing them with a great pair of trousers or layered underneath dungarees work so well for an easy access fail-safe look that keeps baby covered too. The vintage smock tops from Leila Ray vintage are an actual DREAM, and I wear mine endlessly. Initially I was worried about feeling too ‘exposed’ but whether you chose to wear a vest underneath to pull down as you pull a top up (Boob Design have some great ones if you’re after some more tailor-made BF friendly tops); you’d be surprised at how little you can actually see when there’s a baby lying across you- so as long as you feel comfortable, that’s all that matters.

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My Entire Current Make Up Routine

  *ad- features press samples and affiliate linksI didn’t realise quite how long it had been since I’d shared my make up routine, but after becoming a bit of a dab hand at applying make up in about 6 and a half minutes flat (which largely seems to be mask/sweat proof)- I thought I’d share with you the beauty heroes that have seen me through the last seven or so months- come rain, shine, hormonal tears and largely whatever life throws at me.

Although it’s taken a while, I feel really lucky to be in a place with make up where I seem to know what suits me and works for my skin; and although I’m a big fan of taking various products for a spin and introducing new launches as and when; these seem to be some of the things I come back to again and again.

The brands that never seem to let me down, and a routine that can be switched around- added to and tweaked to create a pretty perfect easy routine, night or day. Low maintenance, but seemingly impressive at keeping the ‘oh goodness, you look tired!’ comments at bay- so something must be working…

For the face…

Foundation: For medium, build-able, glowy-yet-doesn’t-slip coverage I bloody love the BareMinerals BarePro Performance Wear Liquid Foundation. It feels beautiful to apply and blend, and lasts most of the day without fading (and doesn’t crease either). For something a little more heavy duty, or to blend in with the above when I need it the Bobbi Brown Skin Long-Wear Weightless Foundation seems to be truly made of the hard stuff, and keeps everything LOCKED down. 

Concealer: If I’m in need of a good under-eye fixer-upper, the award goes to the IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye Concealer, which is the perfect dewy, take anywhere pot of magic. For everything else my absolute favourite concealer goes to the Hourglass Vanish concealer which on good days does the job of both foundation and concealer; it’s truly magic- and THE GLOW, oh the glow. My second in command has to be the NARS Radiant Creamy concealer, which for everything is brilliant. Under eyes? Tick! Naughty spot! Tick- you name it, she’s on it. Literally.

Blush: For a perfect natural flush, my favourite blush is the Pixi On-the-Glow Blush stick– which is a tinted moisture stick that you sweep across your cheeks for the most gorgeous natural flush of colour. I also pop a bit on my nose (for an authentic ‘just taken my mask off’ look)- and you can also use a little on lips and lids too.

 

Highlighter: Although everything in the palette I’m about to mention is cracking, I tend to turn to the highlighter everyday for a perfect sweep of glow, without it being glittery or OTT shimmery. The palette in question is the Beauty Pie One Palette Wonder; which comes armed with a blush, bronze and shadows, which are all perfect for on the go- but are so much more than a ‘do it all travel compact’.

Bronzer: For the perfect blend-able bronze, the Chanel Les Beiges Healthy Glow bronzing cream is a total winner. Although I was definitely late to this party, it’s so, so brilliant at applying to the contours of the face for a real soft warmth, which doesn’t look muddy or blocky in any way- perfect for someone a little heavy handed like yours truly.

Brushes: There are four brushes that I use for everything and for foundation I adore the Sigma Flat Kabuki, Bobbi Brown Full Coverage face brush– for bronze and highlight the Dior 16 brush, and for eyes the Dior 21 brush.

On the eyes…

Shadows: When it comes to eyeshadow, typically if it’s anything NARS I’ll love it. Their eyeshadow palettes are my absolute number one, and if I’m not sweeping a shimmery rose from the Orgasm palette over my lids, then it’s something from the Wanted one instead. I’ve also recently discovered the Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Cream Shadow Sticks in Golden Pink and Malted Pink, which are so easy to sweep over your lids if you’re after something really quick but last all day.

Lashes: There are two mascaras I have on rotation; the first being the Gucci one- which I initially purchased because I’m a fickle, over-excited fashion fiend who is a sucker for great packaging. Turns out, it’s also actually really good (which is a relief). It creates long, fluttery lashes which are always clump free- and I always feel particularly fancy whipping out the pink and gold tube. My other favourite is the Volume Million Lashes from L’Oreal which is a big ol’ volume supplier, and always makes me feel like a sixties siren (ahem).

Brows: I recently ran out of my favourite Beauty Pie Superbrow Angled Shaping Pencil, so in stepped the Benefit Goof Proof Brown Pencil, kindly supplied by mama Purvis- which is pretty bloody good. In general I need a good angled pencil, brush and something not too thick- and these both tick the boxes and don’t run down my face either. To keep everything put, I love the Hourglass Arch Brow Volumising Fibre Gel, which does a stellar job of keeping my brows in good shape (and for lazy days, I’ll use it solo for a little bit of colour too).

 

  And the finishing touch…

Scent: Although I’m not necessarily loyal to one particular fragrance; there’s a few I absolutely love which I have on rotation- but in general, the brief is something light, clean, slightly floral and absolutely summery. A sucker for something citrusy (and arguably something that smells like a nice posh hotel), I recently ordered a sample pack of the Loewe perfumes after seeing so many people rave about them, and I have to say they didn’t disappoint. Joe and I treated ourselves to Agua Ella– and it’s the most beautiful smell- they truly smell like heaven. On days when I’m trying to be sparing with our shared bottle of fancy- I also love Jo Malone’s English Pear and Freesia for something sparkly, fresh and fruity, and the beautiful new Chloe Naturelle scent, which feels soft, floral and warm- and makes me want to waft around in some floaty tulle and pretend I’m Lucy Boynton; never a bad thing IMO.

x

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My Birth Story

  If I’m being honest there was a big part of me that didn’t know if I’d ever share my birth story online. It’s something so deeply personal and intimate that I wasn’t sure if there was a space for it, and although in the lead up to birth I inhaled every birth story from the many random Facebook groups I joined (honestly if there’s one thing getting me through 3am heartburn it’s a 38+ 2 home birth story from Sharon in Colchester), I still wasn’t sure how I’d feel once baby had arrived.

But then there’s a moment I always come back to, which I remember helping me so much in the days following my birth. I remember the feeling so well, sitting in my hospital bed with Arlo by my side, days after he was born; feeling overwhelmed and a bit lost (and pretty lonely due to Covid restrictions); where I serendipitously read the birth story of another mother on a birth group who’s experience looked almost parallel. Our babies even shared first and middle names and it felt like a warm blanket being wrapped around me- and this new feeling of muddling through as a mama suddenly didn’t feel so unknown or unique. It was ground that had been trodden so many times before, and although there’s definitely a feeling of being the first person to ever experience these things, knowing, and being reminded that so many had been there and done that was the reassurance I so greatly needed.

So that’s why I’m sharing this. For anyone about to give birth, have just given birth or even anyone in-between. To know that it’s okay and normal to experience whatever you’re going through; to know that it’s normal for things to change, and as long as you feel safe, listened to and happy and comfortable; there is no right or best way to do it either. Know it’s okay to take the pain relief (which, obviously goes without saying, but some of the things I read made me feel like it was less ‘natural’ to do so, which is weird); women have enough to manage without being martyrs to their own births so don’t refuse things if you don’t want to because of a perceived, or real pressure. Know that whatever happens; you’re amazing and have just done the most incredible thing.

Throughout my pregnancy, I gobbled up a handful of hynobirthing books, and found the breathing techniques and affirmations so, so useful during my birth. But largely being fully informed felt like one of my greatest powers during birth, and meant when things progressed differently to expected I was aware of what each step, or option might look like (meaning Joe could ask necessary questions and I could remain focused on being the zen mother earth I intended on being… ahem)…

But I’ll start at the top!

At our 36 week scan we found out that little A was in a breech position. Having visited hospital the week before, and read up a little about this in one of our several birth books; we’d had an inkling this could have been the case- but still being before full term, knew there was still time for him to do his thing and get into position (I think I’d joined a couple of Facebook groups at this point for reassurance)… alas, given another week, and creeping up to the shiny 37 week mark, he didn’t budge- cheeky sir!  

This left us with a few options; a planned caesarean, a vaginal breech birth or an attempted ECV; all of which we’d read a little about, and in the end decided to attempt an ECV- something I’d ended up doing extensive reading about, and felt comfortable, for me, that it might be worth a go (at this stage we’d tried everything from Spinning babies, moxibustion and sitting upside down on a bloody ironing board- the glamour of January 2021 was truly unparalleled and I have the images to prove it). After booking in for an ECV on the 27th (which, in truly non medical terms, is where your stomach muscles are relaxed using an injection so that externally a doctor /medical professional can try and move the baby into a head down position)- everything felt very real. I felt extremely nervous; and going into the hospital that morning, knew there was even a chance today could be the day we’d meet him. But- if there’s one thing finding out baby was breech and the ECV taught me; it’s that with birth and labour there are so many variables out of your control, and if something doesn’t go to ‘plan’- often times there’s really nothing you can do and that isn’t your fault. I felt a lot of pressure (perhaps from reading lots of positive birth stories) to have a birth that looked a certain way, and whilst a water birth adorned with fairy lights and a string quartet playing would have been lovely; it was at this stage something mentally shifted for me; which meant in the days that followed; and whether the ECV was successful or not- I felt strangely more prepared for birth to go in a number of ways, and that be completely ok.

…Anyway! Back to the bloody story (sorry if your tea is cold at this point). Fortunately, the ECV was successful. I asked to have my headphones in (and will forever thank The Lemon Twigs for helping keep my mind in one place), held Joe’s hand and did a lot of the up breathing I’d practiced with hynobirthing- and in less than two minutes the procedure was over. I remember vivdly hearing the doctor say ‘it’s been successful!’ and baby had turned. At this stage things felt a lot more real and we were able to head home (with a slither of a suggestion my blood pressure was creeping up), and now to wait until the little man finally decided to make an appearance.

 Fast forward four days to the Sunday evening. After settling down to watch My Best Friends Wedding (we’d initially lined up the last couple of episodes of It’s A Sin, but my overly emotional baby brain couldn’t hack it), and Christening Joe with his first viewing of this scene– we headed up to bed. After spending the previous weeks waking up around 3am with horrendous heartburn and the need for endless wees, it was nothing short of a miracle when I checked the clock to see that I’d slept through to 5:30am (a lie in!) After getting up and thinking I needed the mother of all wees, I was greeted with what can only be described as a true water-breaking spectacle. I couldn’t bloody believe it! This is what they said it could be like- and after waking Joe with a, ‘THEY’VE BROKEN! MY WATERS HAVE GONE!’ It suddenly felt like Christmas morning. The lights were on and the kettle was boiling; but because I knew things could still take a while, I tried to keep my calm- potter around, get slowly ready- which madly consisted of doing my make up and putting on a nice dress (in fairness to my pregnant brain, I thought a dress would be apt because I could give birth in it- not considering I wouldn’t actually be wearing anything at all, but I’m glad my favourite Ghost dress got a special outing)- as I phoned the birth centre to let them know what was going on.

Because I was due to have an appointment that morning (and finally share my birth preferences), I asked whether I should just wait to come in at midday, but was told to make my way in the next couple of hours just to check things out as my waters had likely gone; and near enough exactly after I came off the phone my contractions started. They felt like waves of period pains, coming and going every now and again- so I started timing them using the Freya app and doing a bit of breathing- whilst giving my dad a ring to take us over to the hospital.

On the way over, feeling positive, I packed some extra festoon garden lights into my hospital bag whilst panicking that I hadn’t made an all important birth playlist. So with oxytocin clearly in full throttle, started adding Elvis, ABBA and, erm… Chumbawumba to an integral playlist that I now know would not even come close to being aired. Fortunately, before The Fratellis could be added for a second time, we arrived at the hospital- and despite being almost certain I’d be sent home to continue laboring, found out I was 4cm dilated and Joe could stay with me- which felt like a bit of a miracle, as by this point things had started ramping up (and although the thought of going for a nice sandwich was tempting, I wasn’t sure how much walking around I could muster).

In an ideal world- one of my main birth preferences was to have a water birth, and fortunately there was a room with a pool available that I was able to use. Seemingly after walking into the suite, I went full on diva Liv in the ZONE mode, focusing literally on breathing and nothing else (it might have been the only time in my life I’ve not said more than five words in HOURS. A sponsored silence would have been an idea right about then)- and the pool was filled up. Over the next few hours I was in an out of it, breathing through contractions, occasionally noticing that the water might get a bit chilly, or too hot- and giving Joe an angry look to suggest it might be time for a jaffa cake (the lone one I consumed throughout the entire experience- my appetite, like my conversation, was AWOL). After trying some gas and air (which personally didn’t do much for me other than give me something to focus on), I was 8cm dilated by 5pm, and Joe was genuinely checking when Domino’s was open until- we’d have pizza at home tonight! CAN YOU BELIEVE! By 21:15 I was fully dilated, (which although at this point felt about ten years later), and by now my contractions had become back to back and incredibly intense- meaning there was little let up in-between each one. It felt like I wasn’t getting any respite in-between them, and just remember thinking ‘it has to be soon, right?! Surely it’s pushing time?!’ At this point Joe had heard the counting from the Freya app since midday and I slowly think it was driving him mad too.

Around 10pm I started pushing in the pool (after some gentle guidance from the midwives, as I hadn’t experienced the urge to push like I was expecting to), and ended up coming out of the pool a handful of times for examinations, and to try to make progress on the bed. This probably felt like the most intense and relentless part of the labour, as I wasn’t sure if I was doing the right thing (other than making some remarkable farm-yard like noises). I just remember truly not caring about anything, waddling to the bed from the pool, and even previous anxieties of ‘oh shit, what if I…poo’ had almost completely dissipated- because honestly, what they say is true; and it truly felt like trying to pass a watermelon. Stunning work, mother nature!

After an hour and a half of attempted pushing and still little progress, I was reviewed and I remember vaguely hearing the words ‘permanent pelvic floor damage’ and potential next stages mentioned if things carried on. Weirdly there was definitely a moment my stubborn determination was like ‘just let me try a bit longer’ but luckily I am not a medical expert, and the common sense of those around me prevailed. Additionally, Joe was able to relay things to me, as I truly felt like I was on another planet, so was happy to have him aware of my wishes and able to advocate for me when I was a little preoccupied.

At this point I was transferred to the labour ward to be assessed, knowing that the next stages looked like ventouse or forceps- and honestly, at this stage as long as baby was okay I was happy to try anything. Because baby’s head was in a transverse position (and unable to be moved), the former two didn’t work- and I remember being presented with some forms and the option of an emergency caesarean, as every other option hadn’t been successful, and I’d been pushing for too long. By now, my contractions were so intense that I genuinely just wanted him to be here and to feel a bit of relief, and after consenting to the caesarean, was taken into theatre and given a spinal (which felt like being given the most incredible instant ibuprofen for period pains EVER- literally in moments I felt like I’d gotten my voice back and could focus again) and was walked through everything. Although I didn’t imagine my birth to end up in theatre, having Joe by my side, the brilliant midwives and being able to still have a hugely special song playing as Arlo entered the world was the most unbelievable moment of my life. I remember hearing his tiny cry for the first time, and seeing him appear from over the curtain, and Joe’s reaction to him was the most beautiful thing, and I genuinely think however it would have happened would have been perfect, because it was him.

Little Arlo arrived at 1:58am on the 2nd of February, to a soundtrack of Into My Arms by Nick Cave, and two gushing parents who adore the little squidgy boy more than anything in the world.

****

(I’m going to wrap up this post here, because although I’ve got so, so much more to say- especially about the days that followed post natally (if you’d like another post on that let me know), I think the birth is enough for one day! I know it doesn’t require a disclaimer, but this is my experience and not everyone’s experience. I still feel that although things didn’t go to plan, it was a really positive experience, and felt so supported, which is the main thing. Birth is the most incredible, mind-bending and powerful thing I’ve ever gone through, and I hope in some small way this can comfort anyone who perhaps might have had a different experience to how they imagined (can I say experience one more time?)

P.S Everyone talks about the magic toast after birth, but for me it was the magic hospital jacket potato with the plasticy cheese that felt like heaven. A true perk of a prolonged postnatal stay!)

x

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I’m Back! A New Chapter…

  Hello, hello! Is this thing on?I feel like I’m coming home, or back to school, catching up with an old friend after several months apart. Returning after the longest holiday- excited and raring to go, but also not ready- may never be quite ready- to carry on where I left off either?

Either way, I can’t quite believe that after nearly seven months (!) I’m back tapping away, ready to start a new term, but most importantly- a new chapter over on this little corner of the internet. Even typing out a blog post feels surreal, and I know I’m a little dusty when it comes to forming articulate sentences (be it typed or IRL), but HELLO! It’s me! Did you miss me? Because I most definitely missed you.

So, so much has happened in the last few months, it’s almost tricky to know where to begin. Honestly what they say is true, blink and you’ll miss the first few months- because it truly feels like time has flown by. But firstly- there’s someone very special I’d like you to meet. Little A, baby Arlo. Our little moon, sunshine and stars and everything in-between. He arrived a couple of weeks after I hung up my laptop charger and settled into a serious re-watch of Sex and The City, alongside Junior Bake Off (just to add in some pure wholesome to the mix).

Just as the snow came, and just as the paint on his bedroom walls had dried. It was, and still is, the most magical time, and although I know looking back it felt mind-bending, deliriously overwhelming and beyond surreal- it was the most special time, and getting to know him, spend every moment with him, smell his heady baby smell, hear his mischievous little laugh, see his sunshiney gummy smile and see this special little soul become a proper little person has been the most magical time of my life; and god am I grateful for it. I’ll be chatting a little more about my birth story this week, and also have a few other posts lined up about motherhood and having a baby; so keep your eyes peeled for those very soon.

But obviously if that isn’t your cup of tea, which is more than ok, there’s lots of your usual programming resuming too which I’m so excited about. There’s a couple of travel posts, some autumn style cooking, and a little (deep) chatter into my driving journey which has come on quite a fair bit since I last checked in around here. As I type this I’m just over an hour away from collecting my first car (*wipes clammy hands*) and I’m so, so excited for the freedom and experience this will bring! More exploring the UK? Yes please! Adult supermarket trips without walking back from Sainsbury’s carrying 400 bags?! YOU GOT IT! Crikey I’ve really grown up in more ways than one over the last few months haven’t I?!

Anyway- this is just a little hello from me, or a welcome back to myself if you will! I hope you’ve all been taking care and being gentle as the big wide world opens back up. I know I’ve found it incredibly overwhelming at times, so I hope you’ve been taking it easy on yourselves, and putting one foot in front of the other- however quickly or slowly that looks for you. If there’s one thing I’ve learnt over the last few months, and one thing I’m going to try and hold myself to going forward, is that it’s okay to not have things done perfectly. I’d hyped myself up thinking about getting this blog post perfect. ‘She’s back!’ It’s gotta be punchy! Sentimental! Maybe even tear jerking!’ But going forward if I’ve learnt anything, it’s that it’s okay to not have it all sussed out- and waiting for things to be perfect will stop you or slow you down before you’ve even begun. It’s okay to be soft, messy, learning and not holding myself to impossible standards all the time- whether that’s in work, parenthood, being a friend, doing more for the planet or even just being human- and I hope I can take that into the new term with me too.

 

Anyway- thank you for hanging about, I’m so excited to share this new chapter with you all, and if there’s anything you’d really love to read about or see around here do let me know!

Liv x

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