[jasminejonesy-blog]

30 delightfully alternative advent calendars

Advent calendars are no longer the indulgence of children. If anything the older you get they better they get. 24 miniature bottles of gin? Artisan coffee lurking behind each door?  Yes please. Very much yes please.

If you fancy straying away from the ordinary this festive season, we’ve curated a list of alternative advent calendars to inspire you. Ranging from luxurious to comical; there’s something for everyone.

May your December be merry and bright! 

Gifts for her: What to buy the lady in your life this Christmas

The 2016 beauty advent calendar edit 

Zinc village advent calendar

A less ordinary advent calendar to grace your mantle this Christmas. Each little drawer is numbered 1 to 24 ready to be filled with sweet treats and miniature gifts, the perfect way to count down to Christmas. Place tea lights in the holders to illuminate the village windows and doors, creating an enticing Nordic feature to display in your window.

£62 Rowen and Wren

Opal Advent calendar box

The perfect gift for knitters. Countdown the days to Christmas with this unique cube-shaped advent calendar. Each day a new window reveals a surprise mini ball of Opal 4 ply sock yarn.

£55 Love Knitting

Personalised photo advent calendar

Celebrate the run up to Christmas with this unique, personalised take on the advent calendar. Each numbered day is hung using miniature wooden pegs from a length of decorative string; open to reveal a different image of your choice in a Polaroid style. 

£14 Not On The High Street

Drinks by the Dram whisky advent Calendar

24 different whiskies behind 24 windows - this selection of drams from the world's finest distilleries contains all the festive spirit any whisky lover could ever dream of!

£149.95 Master of Malt 

Imperial candles advent calendar

24 natural soy wax melts lovingly poured in England.  From apple cinnamon to spiced orange, fill your house with a new festive fragrance each day of advent. Also includes one surprise hidden jewel worth up to £2,000.

£32.99 Imperial Candles

Luxury tea advent calendar 

Behind the Christmas windows of this award winning calendar you will find 24 tea-themed gifts including luxury tea bags, mini matcha pots, tea scented mini candles and vegan chocolates.

£35 Bluebird Tea Co.

Craft beer advent calendar

Enjoy a glorious festive season full of superb saisons, stouts, pilsners and ales. Featuring a seasonal selection of daily surprises from Brooklyn Brewery’s dark chocolate stout to Flying Dog. 

£74.99 Craft Beer Advent Calendar

Lucky dip advent calendar

Celebrate the countdown to Christmas a little differently this year with a personalised lucky dip advent calendar in a Box!  Bursting with 24 surprises, one for each day of advent.  Each box is filled with heaps of colourful confetti, streamers and prizes, suitable for both children and adults, male or female.

£35 Not On The High Street

Advent biscuit tin

An array of hand illustrated circus treats including a dancing poodle, ring masters top hat, acrobat and of course big top tent.

£48.00 Biscuiteers 

Peel the sprout advent game

Peel back the crepe paper each day during the countdown to Christmas and and enjoy trinkets and trivia within each layer. Kids will love it.

£8 Paperchase

Speciality coffee advent calendar

Enjoy 24 days of amazing coffee from 12 of the top Scandinavian speciality micro roasters. Each day of advent features a unique 50-gram sample of speciality Christmas coffee.

£99 Kaffee Box. No

Pork crackling advent calendar

Behind each of the windows you'll find a mini bag of awesome flavoured pork crackling. Sadly, none of them will be in the shape of a bell or a Santa.

£12.50 Snaffling Pig

Mini wine advent calendar

A combination of 24 mini bottles of white, red, rose and mulled wine, including South African Merlot, Australian Chardonnay, Chilean Sauvignon Blanc and a stunning White Zinfandel from the USA.

£60 Pamper Hamper Co.

Personalised fortune cookie advent calendar

A traditional and delicious fortune cookie advent calendar alternative bursting with 24 mixed flavour cookies containing traditional fortunes and your chosen Christmas message on the reverse.

£34.99 Cracking Cookies

Christmas bookshelf advent calendar

From Oxford’s Bodleian library, a colourful array of late 19th- and early 20th-century seasonal titles. Find a festive image from the Bodleian's collections behind each of the 24 doors.

£4.50 Bodleian Libraries 

Seed advent calendar

A quirky gardening take on the traditional advent calendar. Count down the days to Christmas with packets of seeds and gardening wisdoms for the year ahead. This beautifully illustrated advent calendar will delight gardeners with a different variety of seed and fact for each of the 24 days.

£29.99 Not On The High Street

Coppenrath Christmas street scene

This beautifully illustrated advent calendar folds out to become a free standing double sided piece of artwork with a picture behind each door. Perfect for those who like their Christmas a little more traditional.

£12.95 John Lewis

Design im Dorf - advent ledge

Crafted from oak, stainless steel and glass, this minimalist countdown to Christmas is definitely heirloom material. The closer the tree moves to the candle, the sooner the holidays are approaching.

£24.90 Connox

Botanical gin advent calendar 

24 gins behind 24 different windows, each made using juniper from a specific regions, cold distilled under vacuum.

£104 Amazon 

Personalised advent calendar activity tokens jar

A personalised advent Calendar Jar full of 24 gorgeous wooden tokens, each with a creative activity idea for every day of advent. Pick out a token and use the suggestion as a starting point for some advent fun. Each activity suggestion needs only a few minutes - perfect for when you need to fill small pockets of time.

£24 Not On The High Street

Advent calendar for cats

Lily’s Kitchen advent calendar for cats is abundantly filled with naturally wholesome treats for your feline. You’ll find a selection of three different cat treats behind each window.

£9.95 Waitrose

Christmas beard oil advent calendar

This alternative advent calendar comes crammed with enough beard oils to see him right through to well after Christmas! 

£29.99 The Bearded Man Company

Asbach Uralt advent calendar

This huge Asbach Uralt advent calendar is filled with a selection of Asbach's best Brandy filled chocolates (aka those chocolates you hated as a kid but fully appreciate as an adult).

£25.99 Flowers Buy Delivery

Personalised charm bracelet advent calendar

This lovely advent calendar comes in a luxury ballerina box with lots of tiny boxes for each day. Choose to add a hand stamped initial star to the charm selection, an engraved heart or birthstone.

£24.65 Bloom Botique

DIY cheese calendar

So Wrong It’s Nom food blogger Annem Hobson answered the distress call of several hundred cheese lovers last Christmas with her festive DIY cheese advent calendar. Have a go yourself!

[Photo: sowrongitsnom]

Keepsake baby's first Advent calendar

This charmingly illustrated and personalised baby's first advent calendar is a wonderful way for parents to remember special moments and occasions in the run up to their baby's first ever Christmas. Each day contains space for parents to jot down little anecdotes about their babies or perhaps festive activities they attended as a family.

£15 Max Made Me Do It

Carluccio’s chocolate advent calendar

This advent calendar from Carluccio’s has a lovely retro feel. Packed with foil wrapped milk chocolates, some with a gianduja filling, all completely adorable.

£9.95 Carluccio’s

LEGO city advent calendar

24 different LEGO surprises wait behind each door including vehicles, buildings and mini figures. 

£19.97 George

Digital advent calendar

25 artists will collaborate on this 2016 digital calendar. Each day of advent a bespoke illustration will be revealed themed around 4 different Shapes. The full website will go live on December 1. In the meantime check out the delightful 2015 edition.

[Photo: Shape]

Reverse advent calendar

Grab a box and on each day of advent fill with an item of food for those less fortunate this Christmas time. When the box is full donate it to your local food bank. A Christmas tradition worth getting into. 

[Photo: Trussell Trust]

[jasminejonesy-blog]

The weird world of red carpet posing

Posing on the red carpet is such a weird unnatural thing to do. In order to survive the daunting sea of photographers flashes without looking like a total boob you’ve got to be prepared. Celebs don’t just exit the womb knowing how to stand like a new born giraffe or car crash victim, that shizzle takes practise. Some have even made posing into an art form, coining their own signature stance. 

Let’s have a look at some of the most iconic red carpet poses and the messages they send out.

Over the shoulder neck twist

If the wind changes you’ll stay like Quasimodo. A deeply unnatural pose that could result in permanent injury if used in everyday life. No exiting the corner shop and striking this one in the doorway, please! To be reserved for special occasions only. Try it in this years Christmas family photo. 

[Photo: Getty Images]

The need to pee knee pop

Think: quite need a wee but not desperate enough to wet myself. That’s pretty much the knee pop. A safe option that looks good from all angles and will make everyone will fancy you. Wow, ultimate seduction.

[Photo: Getty Images]

Gonna wet myself leg cross

You’ve gone past the ‘quite need a wee’ phase and you’re on the verge of soiling the red carpet but keeping it sexy with a carefree lean and a cute smile.  Wow, such bladder control.

[Photo: Getty Images]

Boobs and bum stance

An advanced pose recommended only for those with circus skills. Involves standing to the side, balancing on one leg while sucking in the stomach and arching the back to give the illusion of a big bootay. Wow, so glamorous.

[Photo: Getty Images] 

 Where’s my bum? 

Queen Bey’s a fan of this one, in fact she may have invented it. Touch your bum with both hands to check you haven’t left it at home with your keys and phone, voila! Elongated frame and all eyes on your botty bot. Wow such derriere.

Yep. Still there. [Photo: Getty Images]

The Matrix lean

A fave among super slender celebs looking to give the illusion of incredible balance and curves. Victoria Beckham’s been rocking this one for the past 12 years. Wow, so lean-y.

[Photo: Getty Images]

See ya!

Please only strike this one if you’re on the A-list and genuinely need to keep moving on to bigger and better carpets. Wow, so very very important.

[Photo: Getty]

Too posh to pose, pose

A favourite among royalty, this safe un-pose-y pose with straight back and relaxed shoulders means nobody will be taking the mick out of you back at the palace. Wow, such poise! Such glamour!

[Photo: Getty Images]

The peacock pose

This curve maximising pose involves sticking out the bum whilst turning to smell an imaginary fart. Remember the ‘fart’ is pleasant smelling - the face should reflect this. Wow, so mysterious.

[Photo: Getty Images]

Peekaboo leg

Great for showing off one leg. Get a dress or skirt with a long slit, imagine the paparazzi are a bunch of babies and play peekaboo with them using your leg. Wow, so playful! So sexy!

[Photo: Getty images]

Hand on hip

Mon dieu, what a classic! When you’re suddenly aware you’ve got pesky arms, pop a hand on your hip, stare into the middle distance and ponder what to have for dinner. The resulting look is that of an attractive human who isn’t trying too hard. Wow, such elegance. 

[Photo: Getty Images]

Two hands on hips

The sister stance of ‘hand on hip’, except with sas. Stare into the middle distance, hold your breath and imagine you’ve got a really good secret. Wow, so intense.

[Photo: Getty Images]

Casual leg kick

Inspired by flamingos. Involves kicking one leg back but super casual and organic like you’ve never practised it in front of the mirror at home. Wow, so breezy.

[Photo: Getty Images]

[jasminejonesy-blog]

10 ways to make your boobs look amazing

[Photo: pinterest]

God bless boobs, every single pair. Fifty percent of the population have them, the other fifty want them - even if it’s just for a day to see what they’re like!

From gorgeous petite peaches to big beautiful baps, whatever you’ve been blessed with, we’ve got some lovely tips for t*ts, and none of them involve surgery!

Breast enhancing exercise

Breasts are made of mostly fat and glands so it’s not possible to make them physically bigger with exercise, however you can work to increase the pectoral muscles underneath giving the appearance of larger firmer boobs. Push ups, dumbbell flies and chest dips are all great ways to work this area out.

[Photo: pexels]

Pin up worthy cleavage 

Breast enhancers or silicone ‘chicken fillets’ come in a range of shapes and sizes for all your cleavage enhancing, breast lifting, cup increasing needs. Confidence boosting specialist Jo Thornton stocks a diverse selection of enhancers that aren’t readily available in shops.  She’s also contactable for tips and advice. 

Contouring

Contouring has long been the secret weapon of drag queens and if they can make themselves look like they’ve got boobs without having actual boobs, imagine what it can do for your baps! This tutorial by beauty blogger Natalie Boucher will tell you everything you need to know.

[Photo: Natalie Boucher]

Taylor for your big beauties

A lot of clothes these days tend to hang straight off the boobs - a nightmare for big breasted beauties. Understanding your figure and dressing to enhance is an absolute game changer. Think pin up style glamour, don’t be afraid to show off your waist by cinching an outfit in with a belt or opting for more fitted clothes to really make those curves sing.

[Photo: pinterest]

Wear the right bra

Making sure you wear the right bra for your breast shape, size and figure is the first step to having great looking boobs every day. There’s no one-fits-all solution to this so get yourself measured and use this breast shape dictionary to determine what type of bras work best for you.

[Photo: etsy]

Fake the hourglass look

For ladies with rectangular frames looking to fake curves, try pairing high waisted trousers or skirts with a ruffled top to enhance your breast area. On the beach, a bikini with frills or tassels also works a treat. 

[Photo: asos]

Fake boob reduction

Want to tone down your beauties? Wearing one block of colour will streamline your silhouette while cowl necks draw the eye away from your boobs.

[Photo: asos]

Get reacquainted with the push up bra

A good push up bra is a simple fix for all your cleavage desires and with such a huge range of styles and enhancements available there’s no need for tape! Check out Wonderbra; whether you want your boobs pushed up and together or beautifully pert and separate for a plunging neckline; backless, strapless and shapewear there’s a combination to suit all needs. 

[Photo: Wonderbra]

Posture, posture, posture!

Check your posture, are you slouching or leaning forwards? If you want to show your breasts at their best, good posture is a great way to start, it’s also conducive to good back health. The best way to improve posture is to focus on core strengthening exercises such as yoga or pilates.

[Photo: Pexels]

Look after your décolletage

The skin on the décolletage (a lovely French word for a woman's cleavage as revealed by a low neckline) is often overlooked, but it’s one of the first places women show their age. Dodge premature ageing by incorporating the décolletage into your skin care regimen. Cleanse, tone, moisturise and don’t forget to slap on the sunscreen! 

[Photo: Wikipedia/Jasmine Jones]

30 of the most memorable Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show looks

Spice Girls take down sexist TV crew in resurfaced footage

[jasminejonesy-blog]

30 festive gifts for your furry friends

Us Brits are well known for the soppy way we indulge our pets all year round. Christmas is just another excuse to shower our beloved furry friend with gifts galore. Some of us are lucky enough to receive presents from our animal friends too. Last year my cat got me the posh hand cream I’d been lusting after. He’s so advanced. 

For all you doting pet parents out there, we’ve curated an extra special gift guide to inspire you this festive season, for all your fur babies great and small. 

30 delightfully alternative advent calendars 

Gifts for her: What to buy the lady in your life this Christmas

Santa and Rudolph fancy dress

Let your pet join in with all the fun over Christmas in this fancy dress costume! Perfect for parties or to wear on Christmas day, make sure your four-legged helper looks the part throughout the holiday season.

£24.99 Pets Pyjamas 

Santas hat cat bed

A festive bed for your kitty to snuggle in away from the hustle and bustle of the Christmas day action.

£9.99 Pet Planet

Paisley & faux fur dog snood

Made with 100% wool and luxury faux fur this paisley mulberry snood is ideal to keep out the winter cold, protecting the ears and neck. 

£20 The Pink Whiskers

Catnip gingerbread men

These cute gingerbread men make the purrfect christmas gift for that special feline. Each handmade gingerbread man is lined with calico for extra strength and filled only with premium Canadian catnip. Each catnip gingerbread man comes packaged in a cookie box and tied with a festive red ribbon.

£7 Not On The High Street

Custom pet ornament

A gorgeous bespoke clay polymer figurine of your beloved pet in a glass bauble. Delightful!

£30 Made By Izzy Gifts

Christmas guinea pig costume

What makes a cute guinea pig even cuter? Tiny little festive antlers of course! These adorable costumes are fitted with an adjustable length of elastic and are perfect for other small pets too.

£16.50 Crafted 4 Pets

Christmas stockings for pets

Delightful paw-shaped stockings handmade with co-ordinating gingham lining, embroidered with your pet’s name.

£13.75 Emma Crafty Monkey

Harris tweed dog coat

Harris tweed dog coat tailored to your canine’s exact specifications. Lined with cosy shearling, complete with a collar that can be popped to protect your pooch from howling winter winds.

£65 Dawn Colgan

Dog shaped cat scratcher

If you’ve got the space and the extra cash treat your feline friend to a scratch post with a good dose of humour.

£695 Not On The High Street

Dog Santa hat

A perfect little Santa hat for your perfict ‘lil buddy.

£3.99 John Lewis

Doughnut pet ID tag

Double sided pet ID tag with a doughnut print. Choose from a range of 'toppings' to create a sweet tag for your cat or dog. Tags are double sided so you can include important details on the reverse.

£7 We Love Pets

Lily’s Kitchen festive cat treats

Share a magical Christmas moment with your cat with this cracking box of delicious, hand-baked treats, bursting with natural turkey, chicken liver, and cranberries.

£2.95 Ocado

Personalised dog lead hanger

A hand made dog lead hanger personalised with your pet’s name. 

£15 Wright Wood Designs

Merry mouse cat toy

A festive plush catnip-filled mouse for your kitty to destroy.

£1.49 Pet Planet

Cat cave

This hand made felted wool cat bed is the perfect hideaway for your furry friend. Comes with the option of personalising it with your cat’s name.

£32 Love Cat Caves

Custom pet portrait

Honour your beloved pet this Christmas with a bespoke pet portrait. 

£62 Wet Nose Watercolours

Festive onesie

Get in the festive spirit with this red and white stripy onesie for dogs, designed with a hood with 3D ears.

£10 Accessorize

Harris tweed dog bow tie 

Make your hounds the talk of the town this festive season with a handmade Harris tweed bow tie by House of Eden. Check out their gorgeous matching leads and collars.

£7 House of Eden

Lily’s kitchen Christmas treat bag for dogs

A Christmas themed treat bag full of wholesome, natural treats for dogs, including: bed time biscuits with chamomile to help them sleep on Christmas eve, ‘Rise and Shines’ for energy on the big day and turkey treats for lunch.

£12 Lily’s Kitchen

Dog bed and travel basket

This portable dog bed has sides that flip up so it can double as a basket; perfect for using at home and away.

£15 Dogca

Kong cat window teaser

This catnip filled toy attaches to the window so your kitty can entertain itself while you’re away. 

£3.99 Pet Planet

Reclaimed timber pet feeders

Make feeding time a chic affair with one of these rustic reclaimed timber feeders.

From £25 Granny Plum

Christmas turkey dog toy

Let your dog have his very own Christmas turkey! This novelty toy squeaks and includes a rope for tug of war games.

£6.99 John Lewis

Wine box cat bed

A stylish gift for your cat and the perfect solution for pet parents who have issues with garish pet furniture.

£28 Baxter and Snow

Personalised pet treat jar

A charming little place to put those pet treats. These delightful jars come personalised with your pet’s name.

£8 Not On The High Street

Christmas hoodie for cats

Let your kitty join in with the Christmas jumper action (or just get really annoyed) this festive season.

£3.99 Amazon

Hand thrown stoneware bowl

Treat your fur baby to their very own hand thrown stoneware bowl, personalised with their name. 

£25 Kara Leigh Ford

Cat/dog striped tipi

Give your pet a unique super cosy place they can call home with this printed black stripe tipi. Handcrafted in London from 100% hand printed cotton and locally sourced wood. 

£49 Puptart Handmade

Christmas pet decoration

This personalised plastic bauble is refillable so it can be used every year.

£5 From Leoni With Love

Customised pet earrings

Okay these are for you but your pet will definitely feel dead chuffed you love them enough to immortalise them in the form of jewellery.

£8.50 Cake For Corvids

[jasminejonesy-blog]

30 Christmas novelty knits under £20

Not a funny kinda guy? No worries, man; let your clothes be the joke this festive season. Christmas is the one time of year you can legit bust out an ugly jumper and actually get compliments. 

This year’s novelty knits are better than ever, forget your Santa and Rudolph with their bums out (so basic); this year’s Christmas jumper game is on point, we’re talking cultural references, retro nostalgia and puntastic wit. 

Get ‘em while they’re still..er...relevant. 

Festive gifts for your furry friends

30 delightfully alternative advent calendars

Go Jesus it’s your birthday jumper

£12.99, Ebay

Stranger things Christmas jumper

£13.99, Etsy

Drake Hotline Bling Christmas jumper

£18.99, Etsy

Quagmire Christmas jumper

£19.99, Etsy

Jon Snow hoodie

£9.99, Etsy

Trump Christmas jumper

£19.99, Etsy

Eight bit retro Christmas jumper

£13.99, Etsy

Will Smith retro Christmas jumper

£19.99, Amazon

T-rex deer Christmas jumper

£10.20, Plaintshirts.co.uk

Roast dinner jumper

£19.99, Etsy

Batman inspired Christmas jumper

£13.99, Amazon

Behave Christmas jumper

£19.95, Etsy

Tesco value Christmas jumper

£19.99, Etsy

Sleigh my name Christmas jumper

£15, asos

Santa’s coming Christmas jumper

£15, Boohoo

Piste again Christmas jumper

£19.99, Cheesy Christmas Jumpers

Gangsta wrappa Christmas jumper

£20, Etsy

Poo emoji Christmas jumper

£15, Boohoo

Winter is coming Christmas jumper

£10.20, Plaintshirts.co.uk

Home Alone Christmas jumper

£15, Boohoo

Gingerbread man Christmas jumper

£19.99, Cheesy Christmas jumpers

Tesco finest Christmas jumper

£14.99, Etsy

Death to brussels sprouts

£13.99, Etsy

The Grinch Christmas hoodie or jumper

£11.99, Etsy

Selfie Christmas jumper

£14.99, Etsy

Eight bit kittens

£10.20, Plaintshirts.co.uk

Cop out Christmas jumper

£14.95, Etsy

Meowy Christmas jumper

£18.99, Etsy

Unicorn Christmas jumper

£16, Etsy

Gingerbread man jumper

£30, Topman 

[jasminejonesy-blog]

15 comforting one-pot dishes to soothe you this winter

The long drawn out evenings are the perfect time to take refuge in the kitchen and fall in love with cooking. 

These comforting and restorative one pot dishes vary from super quick to steady and slow, ideal for weekend and midweek meals. What better on a cold winter’s night than a steaming bowl of delicious dinner.

Thukpa

A Nepali style chicken and noodle broth. This deeply spiced one pot dish is comforting and easy to make.

[Photo: gigglingspoons]

African peanut and sweet potato stew

This colourful vegan recipe puts black beans and sweet potato centre stage with oodles of garlic and punchy ginger. Perfect for a gloomy winter’s night.

[Photo: Vegangela]

One pot chilli mac and cheese

It’s chilli con carne and mac and cheese in - you guessed it - one pot. A more beautiful marriage of classic favourites there has never been.

[Photo: damndelicious]

Dhal makhani

This deeply satisfying buttery black lentil and kidney bean dish is perfect for the slow cooker. 

[Photo: Hari Ghotra]

Sausage and butter bean casserole 

The ultimate winter comfort food. This dish is super speedy and easy to prepare. Perfect for a midweek winter warmer. 

[Photo: Myfussyeater]

Katie’s Irish Stew

A simple classic with Guinness (of course) cooked slowly over two to three hours until the beef is tender and falling apart. Serve with a hunk fresh crusty bread and slices of butter.

[Photo: coleycooks]

Easy lentil and sweet potato curry

A creamy hearty vegan dish that’s super cheap to make and keeps well in the fridge making it perfect for next day lunches. Serve with quinoa or rice if you fancy bulking it out.

[Photo: Detoxinista]

Rustic Italian one-Pot chicken and rice 

Yummy, cheesy full of veggies and protein. This should please even the fussiest of eaters.

[Photo: Simpleasthatblog]

One-pot veggie and soba noodle soup

Buckwheat noodles in a soothing broth with a kick of spice and plenty of detoxifying veggies. This recipe is perfect if you’re feeling a little run down (read hungover). 

[Photo: the glowing fridge]

Minced beef hotpot 

This recipe is cheap to make and packed full of root veggies with a hint of horseradish. Traditional comfort food at it’s best.  

[Photo: fabfood4all]

One-pot curried quinoa with butternut squash and chickpeas

A spiced coconut-based curry packed with veggies a protein. This recipe can be knocked up in 30 minutes flat. 

[Photo: ohmyveggies]

Portuguese kale soup 

With a prep time of ten minutes this dish really does take care of itself. It tastes even better the next day making it perfect to batch cook and use for lunches or lazy meals throughout the week. 

[Photo: beachbody.com]

Slow-cooked portobello mushroom stew with herb dumplings

A rich and satisfying mushroom stew with yummy dumplings. 

[Photo: belleaukitchen]

Quick easy fish stew

A white fish stew cooked in fish stock and white wine. Delicious served with fresh bread to soak up all that lovely sauce.

[Photo: simply recipes]

One pan cheesy chicken, broccoli and rice

This simple cheesy dish makes the perfect mid week lazy dinner.

[Photo: thegirlwhoateeverything]

[jasminejonesy-blog]

7 terrible DIY contraception ‘hacks’ (do NOT try at home)

[Photo: Flickr]

Let’s not beat around the proverbial bush: there are no birth control ‘hacks’. There is no substitute for the real thing approved by medical professionals. 

Contraception isn’t something new, humankind has been trying to control birth for centuries. Thankfully the medieval days of toxic brews and animal guts sheaths are over.

All clued up individuals know bagging up is the most sensible thing to do if you want to avoid STDs and unwanted pregnancies. Disturbingly though, there are reported instances of folk using some seriously gruesome DIY contraceptive methods. While it’s great these people are into preventative measures, clingfilm doth not an adequate sheath make.

Someone once told me “everything you could ever possibly imagine already exists.” This stuff really goes way beyond. Sheesh.

1. Plastic bag

Unexpected item in bagging area. Er, yeah. A young Vietnamese couple made the headlines earlier this year after sustaining horrific injuries from using a plastic bag in place of a condom. Apparently the guy was ‘too shy’ to buy condoms. Just as well he made international news then.  

No. [Photo: Pixabay/cocoparisienne]

2. A potato

On the insane advice of her mother, a 22-year-old Colombian woman inserted a potato into her vagina as a form of contraception. Two weeks later it grew roots, causing her intense abdominal pain. According to Columbia Reports the unnamed patient said: “My mom told me that if I didn’t want to get pregnant, I should put a potato up there, and I believed her.” Well, that’s certainly a new spin on family planning.

[Photo: Robyn/Flickr]

3. Cling film and crisp packets

In 2004 the BBC reported that cash strapped teenagers were resorting to crisp packets and cling film in place of condoms. Chairman of the British Association for Sexual Health Peter Greenhouse said: "These young people are so poverty stricken they cannot even afford the bus fare to get into town, so how can they afford condoms?” The Family Planning Association appealed to the government to make free condoms available in all doctors surgeries across the UK. We’re guessing crisp packets are still in use then.

[Photo: Nelson Lee/Flickr]

4. Latex gloves

A survey of 15,000 British women aged 25-34 found a quarter had heard of alternative methods of contraception being used including cling film, latex gloves and plastic bags. Basically these ladies knew someone who’d tried this stuff out. A quick online search reveals plenty of other people genuinely toying with the idea of using a latex glove instead of a condom with enquiries made on Yahoo Answers and Reddit to name a few. Answers ranged from humorous: “For the sake of future of all of humanity, use condoms you moron.” To the more down to earth: “If your boyfriend isn't old enough or confident enough to buy condoms, then you guys are way too young for sex.” 

Say what? [Photo: SuMeR B/Flickr]

5. Douching with fizzy drinks

Back in the day urban legend had it that douching with fizzy drinks after sex could kill sperm. It doesn’t. Never mind the potential yeast infections. Wonder how many ‘Coca Cola’ babies there are walking this earth?

[Photo: unspalsh]

6. Chocolate bar wrappers

According to the History of Contraception Museum in Cleveland, Ohio, a 12-year-old Australian boy circa 1990 reportedly used a Cadbury’s Violet Crumble wrapper in place of a condom.  Two things: twelve years old and what the heck?

[Photo: Quirky Travel Guy]

7. A sandwich bag

Intended to be used either as some sort of diaphragm inside the vagina or just a straight up condom. Both sound horrific. Googling ‘zip lock bag as condom’ yields some incredibly depressing results. Annihilate the term ‘bag it up’ immediately. 

[Photo: Tumblr]

Stress relief: 21 simple hacks to give anxiety the heave ho

Eating eggs for breakfast ‘lowers the risk of having a stroke’ 

[jasminejonesy-blog]

14 thrifty ways to make winter less depressing

There’s no denying it, the clocks have gone back, the nights are drawing in and winter will soon be upon us.  The UK long-range weather forecasters have issued their annual ‘enough snowfall to resurrect the mammoth’ threats and everyone’s suitably bummed out. You may as well stop enjoying the clement autumn weather and give up on life for the next five months. Just kidding.

For those of you dreading the winter blues, fear not, in fact, think of it as delaying gratification because there are plenty of lovely frugal ways you can enjoy the winter months. Embrace the seasons and all they have to offer.

Create a cosy space

Since you’re inevitably going to be spending a little more time indoors you should feel at liberty to get your space prepared. Treat yourself to some cosy blankets and plush cushions in cheerful colours. A string of fairy lights, candles and additional lamps fitted with the right bulbs to give off warm sunny light will help to lift your mood on those longer evenings. Mirrors to bounce the light around can work wonders too; check out your local charity shop or car boot sale and see if you can pick up some bargains.

[Photo: Pexels]

Start a themed night with friends

If you’re on a budget this winter there’s no reason you should starve yourself of social interaction. Why not get a group of friends together and take it in turns to host a movie night? The host picks the movie and each guest brings a dish themed from that choice. Cheap and cheerful.

[Photo: Pexels]

Host someone on Couchsurfing

There’s nothing like showing a new visitor round your town to get a fresh perspective on familiar surroundings. Hosting someone on Couchsurfing is not only an awesomely cool and kind thing to do, it’s a great way to make new friends and maybe call in a favour next time you’re abroad.

[Photo: Couchsurfing]

Curl up with a book

Never underestimate the power of a good book to transport you to amazing places. Winter is the perfect time to snuggle under a blanket with a cuppa and some literary escapism.

[Photo: Lia Leslie/Pexels]

Get into baths

Sometimes the only way to warm up at the end of a cold day is to get into a steaming hot bath. Indulge yourself with candles, scented oils, a book/Netflix and a long soak. 

[Photo: Pexels]

Take up a new hobby

Since we’re a bit sun-starved here in the UK when we do have good weather most of us want to be out in it. The winter months are perfect for taking some time for yourself to learn a new hobby. An evening in crafting and sipping on a glass of red is time well spent. Knit yourself something nice or get festive by sticking on some Christmas tunes and making decorations.

[Photo: Anastasia Zhenina/Pexels]

Learn something new

Feed your mind by learning something new this winter. Delve into one of the hundreds of free online courses available at Future Learn. 

[Photo: Pixabay]

Get in the kitchen

Fall in love with cooking. Create hearty winter stews, delicious roasts or get baking. It’s methodical, therapeutic and you get to eat at the end of it. What’s not to like?

[Photo: Unsplash]

Volunteer 

Seriously, it’s gratifying and good for you. If you’re feeling blue, getting out there and volunteering can shift the focus from yourself to others. Studies have shown people who volunteer feel more socially connected thus warding off loneliness and depression. Find out about opportunities in your local area.

[Photo: Pexels]

Visit a friend you’ve not seen for a while

Whether it’s going across town, taking a coach to another city or arranging a Skype date, spending time investing in a neglected friendship will make you feel warm and cosy inside. 

[Photo: Pixabay]

See some comedy

You don’t have to drop a shedload of cash to see a big name at Wembley, there are loads of cheap/free comedy nights to enjoy all year round. Check out your local comedy venue for details or visit Chortle and discover something new. 

[Photo: Elizabeth Whitaker/Flickr]

Rediscover board games

Turn off the telly, put down those tablets and phones and get into board games. Playing together is great for bonding, exercising creativity and improving memory and problem solving skills. 

[Photo: Pixabay]

Get into the festive sprit

Sip on some mulled wine and browse the stalls at your local Christmas market. You don’t have to buy anything, just soaking up the atmosphere can be enough to lift spirits. 

[Photo: Markus Spiske/Pixabay]

Get enough vitamin D

According to the NHS “In the UK, sunlight doesn't contain enough UVB radiation in winter (October to early March) for our skin to be able to make vitamin D.” Low vitamin D levels are linked to depression; ward of those winter blues by taking a supplement or making sure you get enough through your diet.

[Photo: Pexels]

[jasminejonesy-blog]

This self-defence tool is a must for female runners

[Photo: Go Guarded]

Many times I’ve wondered how I might defend myself if I were (God forbid) attacked while out running. How would I physically cope in that situation, out of breath and vulnerable? I doubt I’m the only woman who’s played this chilling scenario out in her mind. 

You may remember the tragic story of Karina Vetrano who was assaulted and murdered in August while out jogging in her hometown on a route she’d been on countless times before. Sadly we hear these stories all too often. 

Jodi Fisher is the amazing woman behind Go Guarded.  She’s invented a discreet self-defence weapon for active women. Go Guarded is a heavy-duty, plastic, serrated-edge weapon that is worn on any finger”.

[Photo: Go Guarded]

Fisher says she was spurred on to make the ring after hearing countless horror stories in the news. “I started running approximately one year ago and I was troubled by the lack of effective self-defence options for runners.” 

The clever ring takes up no more space than a normal ring and hands power back to the wearer to jog on in peace of mind. “You will naturally use your hands to fight off an attack. With Go Guarded on your finger, you can increase your effectiveness in escaping an attack and reaching safety.”

[Photo: Go Guarded]

Although it’s sad inventions like this have come to exist the depressing reality is the unthinkable does happen. Fisher, who is from a criminal justice/law enforcement background said: “It is not my intent to incite a culture of fear for women, but the sad truth is horrible things do happen, and I truly believe we need to take whatever steps possible to keep ourselves safe.”

[Photo: Go Guarded]

The ring retails at $15.99 (approximately £13) and is available for purchase overseas. 

[jasminejonesy-blog]

The internet’s legit going insane over this picture of someone’s legs

[Photo: @leonardhoespams]

When Instagram user @leonardhoespams posted this picture on Monday we’re pretty sure they didn’t expect the internet to react the way it did. That is to say, it legit lost it’s mind - once Twitter got a whiff of it that is.

@carobiii @msbreeezyyy shiny legs? Lol like plastic

— tom (@Mister2Hours) October 25, 2016

People could not cope with what they were seeing/not seeing.

I still don't understand that picture with the shiny legs

— • Davé • (@Bey4Dave) October 27, 2016

The optical illusion had a lot of folk confused.

Once you see it you can't unsee it pic.twitter.com/5mREeJUhYV

— bree (@msbreeezyyy) October 25, 2016

Everyone was wading in, giving their ideas on what they thought they were seeing. 

@iAmSandra23 I only see shiny legs...

— Deona Alesandrelli (@deonanicoleee) October 27, 2016

And then it broke.

@msbreeezyyy That's craaaaazy. Once your brain knows, the shiny legs are gone forever 😱

— Blake Parker (@bptml7) October 27, 2016

Hard.

she found out it wasn't shiny legs and that it was just white paint pic.twitter.com/cnvv1RVvoa

— adela (@adelajeon) October 27, 2016

Once you see it, you can’t unsee it.

Enjoy the oily shiny legs right up until you realize it's just white paint on her legs. Once you see it, you can't see shiny legs again. pic.twitter.com/IV7KbCUMFp

— Anthony Cumia (@AnthonyCumia) October 27, 2016

Because these aren’t shiny legs with loads of oil on them. Not even close. They’ve just got paint on them. 

The blue dress/black dress screwed with my mind!! And now there's shiny legs/white painted legs?! pic.twitter.com/Cjq9UV0w2Z

— Dani Wright (@Misss_Danii) October 27, 2016

Maybe you knew that all along?

The original poster has since made their Instagram private so we don’t know what they reckon about all the fuss. They’ve certainly had a lot of folk scratching their heads about it. We’re not sure how much we can trust our brains right now.

Once you see it you can’t unsee it pic.twitter.com/R9qecBAxhB

— Jimmy John's (@jimmyjohns) October 26, 2016

Great British Bake Off episode ten: Candice Brown earns the crown

20 hacks to pimp your Halloween house party

[jasminejonesy-blog]

Great British Bake Off episode ten: Candice Brown earns the crown

The finalists: Candice, Jane and Andrew [Photo: BBC]

It’s the Bake Off final and a particularly special one at that as it’s the last episode before the show moves over to Channel Four sans the core cast. It’s been emosh. Who knows what the future holds? But enough about the future, let’s discuss the very recent past.

In the signature bake our three finalists were challenged to make a filled three layered meringue crown. “How they achieve that is up to them,” said Mezza. 

A nail bitingly intense coronation.  [Photo: BBC]

Well, they all went for a pavlova style. Jane, the nations beloved family baker kept things simple with her red white and blue meringue crown. Andrew engineered a crunchy cassis queen’s jubilee crown; watching him adorn that polystyrene head with it was an intense moment. Candice, true to form, went to town with her mango and strawberry crown using two different meringues topped with a tiny Queen Victoria inspired meringue crown .

Jane working on her impressive pavlova. [Photo BBC]

Mary thought Jane’s looked like a “first rate meringue” and Paul, after being bowled over by “three layers of heaven” awarded her the Hollywood Handshake. Yet again Candice proved herself more than capable of achieving impressive, complicated and intricate results, wowing the judges with her colourful multi-flavoured spectacle also bagging herself a Hollywood Handshake. Andrew produced a good meringue but the filling lacked flavour and sharpness.

The bakers present their Victoria sandwiches for the judges. [Photo BBC]

The Technical Challenge was a Victoria sandwich. Easy right? So easy Mary thought she’d leave out any instructions at all. Andrew, demoralised after being excluded from the Hollywood Handshake club got hella engineery on that sandwich - he even weighed the eggs. Our youngest remaining contestant reaped the rewards of his attention to detail nabbing himself first place on account of his smooth buttercream, good jam, and even textured sponge. It was a tough call between Jane and Candice but Candice came in second only because her sponge was “a bit” better than Jane’s.  

Ah, we’ll miss the japes of Mel & Sue. [Photo BBC]

With the field wide open our bakers faced their final Showstopper Challenge ever, “a picnic fit for her majesty” with FOURTY NINE items on the menu: one chocolate celebration cake, 12 puff pastry sausage rolls, 12 mini quiches, 12 savoury scones and 12 fruit and custard tarts, all in five hours.

Shout out to Andrew, “the precision baker”, who created a spreadsheet with every hour of the allotted time broken down into five minute blocks.  Undeterred by her Botanical week lace collar mishap Jane opted to decorate her four tier chocolate cake with a white chocolate lace collar. Sadly it didn’t stick, “If in doubt throw glitter on it!” she chirruped as her eyes grew big and glassy.

Jane ahead of her second lace collar mishap. [Photo BBC]

Judging time saw Jane present a beautiful spread. “I’m sure the queen would love this colourful selection” said Mary. Despite the glittery mishap they thought her cake tasted great and her tarts and quiches were very good. Unfortunately her raw sausage roll pastry let her down.

Series seven finalist Jane. [Photo BBC]

Sadly Andrew’s beautiful, meticulously displayed picnic looked better than it tasted. He too had underdone his sausage roll pastry, his scones lacked flavour and his tarts had...you guessed it...a soggy bottom. 

Series seven finalist, Andrew. [Photo BBC]

Thankfully he didn’t let his gran down - her chocolate cake recipe was a hit.

Relief after the bakers complete their final Showstopper challenge. [Photo BBC]

But it was Candice’s “exciting hamper” complete with “little piggy” sausage rolls sporting peppercorn eyes and crackling tails that really wowed the judges. 

Candice is announced winner. Her mum (background right) is the best! [Photo BBC]

Her persistent desire to go the extra mile in flavour and detail despite repeated raised eyebrows and reservations from the judges saw her earn series seven victory. 

GBBO series seven winner, Candice. [Photo BBC]

Congratulations Candice! And a hearty pat on the back to Jane and Andrew.

Overjoyed, Candice shares a tender moment with her boyfriend. [Photo BBC]

So, it’s with a tear in our eye we congratulate all 12 bakers and wish them well. 

For all the beautiful bakes, cheeky innuendos and for pulling it all off in such style – thank you, Candice. #GBBO #GBBOFinal 💄 pic.twitter.com/xLabHMuutW

— British Bake Off (@BritishBakeOff) October 26, 2016

Oh, and word on the grapevine: Candice and Jane are planning a baking road trip. Spin off series, perhaps?

Great British Bake Off, episode nine: a fondant farewell

[jasminejonesy-blog]

20 hacks to pimp your Halloween house party

Halloween falls almost on the weekend this year so it should be ripe for plenty of house parties. 

Make yours one to remember by going all out with the decorations; you’ve still got a good few days to get it sorted. We’ve put together this list of simple hacks to turn your party into one hell of a spooktacular night.

Have fun y’all!

Why we dress up for Halloween

Instagram’s best last-minute DIY Halloween costumes 

Origami lights

Pimp a string of LED lights with this clever little origami tutorial. 

[Photo: Handmade Charlotte]

Frozen hand 

Fill a latex glove with water and freeze. If you want to go a step further use food colouring. Limited effort maximum joy.

[Photo: Pinterest]

Googly eyed mummy candles

Put those pesky glass jars to good use with this fun idea.

[Photo: Craft Redesigned]

Origami bats

Adorn your walls with these super cute origami bats.

[Image: youtube]

Mandarin pumpkins

No time? No problem, grab a Sharpie and get to it! 

[Photo: A Designer’s Life]

Stranger things lights

Stay spooky and current with these DIY Stranger Things lights. 

[Photo: Instructables]

Magnetic spiders

The collective noun for a group of spiders is a ‘cluster’ of spiders. Make your own creepy little cluster with this tutorial.

[Photo: Delia Creates] 

Creepy eyes in the bushes

[Photo: The Meta Picture]

Spooky spider silhouettes

Creep all your guests out by putting spooky spider silhouettes in your windows. 

[Photo: Charcoal and Crayons]

Wispy ghosts

These DIY wispy ghosts make a great table decoration. 

[Photo: Ashbee Designs]

Bloody towel

Completely ruin a towel you don’t care about and put it in the bathroom. C’mon! You don’t need a tutorial for this!

[Photo: Pinterest]

Spider web wall

Make any bare wall space a focal point with this DIY string spider web.

[Photo: The Art of Doing Stuff]

Ghost fridge

This one goes out to all my homies who can’t be arsed. Make your fridge spooktacular with this simple ghost fridge idea.

[Photo: Jeans Crafty Corner]

Hanging ghosts

These simple hanging ghosts work great indoors or out. Put a load in your hall way and force your guests to fight their way into your house.

[Photo: Simply Design]

Paper bag lanterns

Paper bags, LED candles and a steady hand are all that’s required for these lovely DIY lanterns. Use them to decorate your doorstep or stairs.

[Photo: Kids Kubby]

Bats

Create your own colony of bats with this downloadable DIY cut out.

[Photo: Made Everyday]

House o’ lantern

Turn your actual house into a pumpkin with this easy tutorial.

[Photo: Spoonful]

Illuminated ghost garland

Make an impact both day and night with this ghost garland tutorial.

[Photo: Design and Diapers]

Floating witches hat lights

Light up your living room dance floor with these floating witches hats. 

[Photo: Polkadot Chair]

Spooky eye wreath

Got a spare few hours? Get to work on this impressive eye wreath. C’mon, times a wastin’!

[Photo: I Love To Create]

[jasminejonesy-blog]

10 genius uses for Vaseline (saving sore lips not included)

[Photo: Nataliedee]

With so many fancy cosmetics on offer, it’s easy to overlook the classics. Vaseline has been a medicine cabinet staple for around 150 years and it’s still going strong. 

But it’s not just for babies bums or lips y’know. There are loads of beauty hacks you can put this simple product to work on and the best thing is it’s super cheap and effective.

Make your perfume last longer

Moisturised skin holds fragrance for longer. Dab some Vaseline on your pulse points, spritz away and smell heavenly for hours.

[Photo: pixabay/sunriver]

Polish like a pro

Apply a small amount of Vaseline to cuticles to stop unwanted varnish straying onto skin.

[Photo: pixabay/stux]

Use when hair dying

When dying your hair at home always be sure to apply a thin layer of Vaseline on your forehead, neck and ears to prevent unwanted stains anywhere other than your barnet.

[Photo: stylebyzara]

Help putting on earrings

If you’re only an occasional earring wearer putting those babies on can be a bit sore. Rub a small amount of Vaseline on your lobes to help ease them in.

[Photo: wikihow]

DIY body highlighter

Mix one part liquid highlighter to one part Vaseline and apply it to cheekbones, shoulders, collarbones or anywhere you like for an illuminating shimmer.  

[Photo: pinterest]

Remove stubborn eye makeup

Sweep Vaseline over any makeup that refuses to budge and watch it melt away.

[Photo: wikihow]

Sort out those cracked heels

Slapping about all day in sandals can be super drying on even the softest of feet. Slather your tootsies with Vaseline before bed, pop on a pair of cotton socks and you’ll be back to angel heels in no time.

[Photo: pexels]

DIY body scrub

Mix Vaseline with coarse salt to create a thrifty but very effective exfoliating scrub.

[Photo: pinterest]

Perfect glowing legs

Apply a small amount of Vaseline to shins to get a pixel perfect finish on your pins.

[Photo: pexels]

Soothe dry cuticles 

Way cheaper than cuticle creams and just as effective. Use a pea sized amount for both hands and massage in.

[Photo: pixabay/joelfotos]

[jasminejonesy-blog]

20 weird books that actually exist

The age old idiom says you should ‘never judge a book by it’s cover’. Don’t lie, you totally do. So does everybody else. Why do you think Jilly Cooper’s Rutshire Chronicles were such a success? Because everyone needed to know if that man’s hand survived being trampled by a low kitten heal, obvs*.

Some things just can’t be explained: the Bermuda triangle, why it’s called a ‘pumpkin spiced latte’ when there’s no actual pumpkin in it and these odd books. But that doesn’t matter, we’re very much judging them by their covers and to be honest, we’re pretty keen to read them all.

The second book in the Catholic Guilt trilogy? 

[Photo: pinterest]

Early sex ed book?

[Photo: pinterest]

Featuring Jack and Jill?!

[Photo: theforce.net]

Probably true. 

[Photo: prickly legs/tumblr]

Pretty interested to know the games you can’t to be honest.

[Photo: amazon]

Silly wife wouldn’t know how to live without a husband.

[Photo: pinterest]

By being James Bond on a really cold evening?

[Photo: pinterest]

They needed to write a book to tell people this?

[Photo: pinterest]

Nowt wrong with being a realist.

[Photo: looku.com]

Is the question on everybody’s lips.

[Photo: pinterest]

Harry Potter working title?

[Photo: pinterest]

“And that’s why I’m still single.”

[Photo: pinterest]

Maybe read number eight first?

[Photo: frank zumbach]

So. Many. Questions.

[Photo: pinterest]

Wow. Tasty spread.

[Photo: pinterest]

Washable cover? For wiping off poison puke?

[Photo: pinterest]

“Mummy, what’s a boner?”

[Photo: amazon]

What the..?

[Photo: pinterest]

Sheesh, that guy looks so awesome.

[Photo: pinterest]

...when you’re being coerced by a creepy Mr Bean in eighteenth century garb.

[Photo: pinterest]

*Rivals by Jilly Cooper. The second novel in the ten part Rutshire Chronicles. 

[Photo: amazon]

[jasminejonesy-blog]

10 fun cardio ideas if you hate running (and exercise in general)

Want to torch fat but hate running and cardio exercise in general? Don’t blame you. Unless your super committed or an enthusiast, exercise can be a boring, repetitive chore. You get stuck in your head, the time creeps by at a snails pace and the longer you avoid it, the harder it is to get back into it. 

Well, not anymore because we’ve put together a list of ten enjoyable alternative ways to stay in shape, specially for those who hate exercise.

Dancing

Dancing is fun and liberating and it’s totally legit to do it whilst drunk. In fact most people do. So go ahead, treat yourself. Or why not try it sober at an early morning rave? If none of these appeal then sign up for a dance class.

[Photo: Alice Peperelle Facebook/Morning Gloryville]

Borrow a child

Kids move around loads. Take one to the park and see for yourself. Provided it’s under seven you’ll definitely get your money’s worth running around keeping it entertained whilst making sure it doesn’t die. It can be fun too. Try it out some time (with permission, of course).

[Photo: Scott Webb/Pexels]

Trampolining

Sure you might wet yourself but it’s a super fun way to do it. Most kids have a trampoline rusting away in their back garden. If you’ve got kids or you’ve got mate’s with kids or you know a kid down your street who’s got a trampoline, kick them off it and get jumping. Trampolining is fast way of building muscle and burning fat so go ahead and wet yourself.

[Photo: Chris Mullany/Flickr]

Swimming

Pool, sea or lake, swimming is great for toning muscle owing to the fact that water is 12 times as dense as air; just wading through the stuff will get you in shape. Swimming is a brilliant cardio and strengthening workout and since it’s a low impact exercise you can go at it for longer. Jobs a good’un.

[Photo: Pexels]

Hiking

Hiking is a great way to get out, see the countryside and breathe some clean air into your reluctant lungs.  Pick a route with some sort of incline and it’ll definitely count as a decent cardio workout. Get on Borrow My Doggy if you’re alone and in need of a pedigree chum.

[Photo: Pexels]

Team sports

Cast your mind back to when you were at school, was there a particular sport you enjoyed? Even just a tiny bit? If so, why not pick it up again? Team sports are not only a fun and stimulating way to work out, they’re also brilliant for socialising and making new friends.

[Photo: Redbrick/Flickr]

High intensity interval training

This type of training involves alternating between really going for it for short bouts of time followed by less intense exercise. So by the time you start hating it you’re just about ready to stop. It’s also great for people who get bored easily as you can change up the exercises each time like in this video. 

[Photo: pexels]

Climbing

It’s difficult to get bored trying not to fall off a wall or some rocks. The minutes will fly by as you engage your brain figuring out your next move and avoiding death. Stimulating, challenging, and one hell of a work out, climbing exercises almost every muscle group in the body and it’s fun too. 

[Photo: pexels]

Cycling

Cardio whilst sitting down? Yes please. Cycling is low impact so it won’t stress your joints like running will but it’s still totally possible to make it an effective workout. Cycle to work one day, do some sight seeing or just get on your bike and ride.  

[Photo: unsplash/pixabay]

Climb all the stairs

Avoid lifts and escalators and get climbing those stairs. The good news is, you don’t have to make a special journey in spandex to do this. If you work a few floors up you can sneak in some cardio any time of the working day for free. Think of it as a mini skive if it helps.

[Photo: unsplash/pixabay]

[jasminejonesy-blog]

20 delicious foods you can eat when cutting down on carbs

Diets don’t have to be miserable, especially low carb ones. You can still eat plenty of delicious foods without feeling deprived, it’s just a matter of knowing what to avoid and some good alternatives. 

If you’re trying to cut out carbs, regarding fruit and veg, a basic rule of thumb is: if it tastes sweet it’s probably high in carbs. Avoid bananas, grapes, pears and pineapple.  In terms of veggies, it’s best to stay away from anything starchy. Careful of condiments such as ketchup which are high in sugar and loaded with carbs.

Obviously we don’t recommend extreme or crash dieting but if you’re trying to shed a few pounds for health reasons we hope this list will help you on your way.

Pancakes

Yes pancakes! This recipe swaps out flour for protein powder for a tasty carb free breakfast or anytime treat. 

[Photo: pexels]

Courgette lasagna

Swap out those naughty lasagna sheets for strips of courgette. Slice lengthways and layer like you normally would.   

[Photo: Pexels]

Beef

There are zero carbs in beef so enjoy that courgette lasagna why don’t you?!

[Photo: mali maeder /Pixabay]

Almost mashed potatoes

Puree some steamed cauliflower in a food processor, add butter or cream and salt and you’ve got yourself a tasty low-carb side dish.

[Photo: pixabay]

Salmon

Salmon is zero carb and full of beneficial omega-3 fatty acids so enjoy!

[Photo: pixabay]

Eat all the squash

Bake it, mash it or grate and mix with eggs and fry up into fritters. Squash makes a great alternative to potatoes.

[Photo: Pexels]

Lamb

Lamb is lean and low carb. Enjoy a moussaka some time!

[Photo: pixabay]

Aubergines

Technically a fruit but whatever. Aubergines are low carb and high in fibre. Seriously, enjoy a moussaka some time!

[Photo: AdinaVoicu/pixabay]

Spiralized courgette noodles

A stir-fry makes the perfect quick and easy midweek meal. You can still enjoy this simple and delicious dish with no added guilt by substituting rice or noodles with courgette noodles. Plenty of stores stock pre-prepared courgette noodles if you don’t want to invest in a spiralizer.

[Photo: pinterest]

Vegetable bake

Like mac and cheese but hold the mac. Use veggies like low carb broccoli and cauliflower. If you’re not a fan of brassicas try peppers, courgettes, mushrooms and squash. Add some chicken for an extra protein boost.

[Photo: pexels]

Eggs

Any way you like. Fast food, low carb and good for you.

[Photo: pexels]

Chicken

An excellent source of protein and totally carb free.

[Photo: pexels]

Jerky

Most jerky is carb free. Add it to your list of go-to snacks to reach for when hunger strikes.

[Photo: Amazon]

Trout 

Trout is a carb free safe bet laden with beneficial omega-3 fatty acids.

[Photo: flickr/stu_spivack]

Shellfish

Enjoy shellfish as a low-carb treat.

[Photo: pexels]

Tomatoes 

Tomatoes are low carb. Treat yourself to some posh ones and lap them up with some tasty olive oil, thinly sliced (low carb) onion and cider vinegar.

[Photo: pexels]

Kale

Kale is a real room splitter, some love it, some hate it. As a low carb option it can be a real treat drizzled with olive oil and lemon, liberally sprinkled with salt and baked in the oven until crisp. Like crisps and very moreish.

[Photo: pexels]

Roasted pumpkin seeds

Pumpkin seeds are fairly low carb. Stick them in under the grill or in a dry frying pan to really crisp up and bring out that delicious nutty flavour - watch the like a hawk though as they burn very quickly. Sprinkle with salt and you’ve got yourself a healthy tasty snack. 

[Photo: pixabay]

Macadamia, Brazil & walnuts

Macadamia, Brazil & walnuts are all low carb options. Grab a small handful for a high protein snack that’ll stave off hunger.

[Photos: pexels]

Mushroom pizza

Grab yourself some large mushrooms, place in the oven on an oiled tray to dry our for around ten minutes then top with your favourite pizza toppings.

[Photo: thegreenappleclub]

[jasminejonesy-blog]

Great British Bake Off, episode nine: a fondant farewell

Four semi-finalists: Jane, Andrew, Selasi & Candice. [Photo: BBC]

Sacré bleu! It’s the semi final, no more Val’s or Rav’s to hide behind. Every detail counts, people! Our four hopefuls battled it out in the sweatiest, messiest week so far: Patisserie Week.

The Bake Off tent was that quiet this week you could hear a pin drop. The number of contestants may have decreased but the sheer volume and demand of work just keeps getting harder. First up: 24 savoury palmiers (aka fiddly as hell puff pastry) in two different styles and flavours.

Is this the first time we’ve ever seen Selasi break a sweat? Yes, yes it is. Why? Because he’s never made a palmier in his life. Not only that but he keeps having an anxiety dream where he’s reached the final and has to bake in a dress. Classic. 

Andrew comes back strong one hour in with his second batch of puff pastry. [Photo: BBC]

First to stumble is Andrew with his dry crumbly pastry. We all know a dry pastry makeith for disappointed judges. What with it being the semi final an’ all our youngest remaining baker makes the brave choice to start over one hour in. Despite the setback he gets away with it producing a beautiful display of simple but tasty cheesy elephant ears and herby treble clefs with good flavour and colour. 

Sleep deprived Jane’s pesto with sun dried tomato and tapenade palmiers have a lovely flavour but her oily choice of filling made them a little soggy. Candice’s mushroom, streaky bacon and parmesan palmiers were a hit but her red onion, blue cheese and walnut pastries were overfilled with loss of definition.  Selai’s salmon, spinach and mushroom offerings were underdone and his sun dried tomato, onion, peppers and parmesan parmiers raw. 

That’s not a savarin, this is a savarin. [Photo: BBC]

With the playing field wide open the bakers move on to the technical challenge: one high end savarin. What the heck is a savarin? Well, in the words of Jane: “a sort of round yeasty cake thing soaked with syrup”. That’s right Jane. It’s a fiddly old thing that needs proving twice then decorated it with chantilly cream, caramel shards, fruit and a hand-piped chocolate label.

Nobody. Knows. What. They’re. Doing. Fortunately our clever semi-finalists have brilliant baker’s intuition to fall back (aka totally making it up). In first place came savvy Jane who knew the hot weather would impact on her proving and adjusted times accordingly, producing a perfectly coloured cake with good decoration. Candice’s over baked cake saw her come in third. Andrew took second place, his decoration was good but his cake a little over baked. And last was Selasi. Two successive disapointing rounds has really put him in the danger zone.

The contestants line up their savarins. [Photo: BBC]

For the show stopper the bakers were challenged to make two different types of fondant fancies. That’s 36 little cakes with genoise sponge, buttercream and fondant all made from scratch (you know, the pink and yellow ones Mr Kipling does).

Candice impressed the judges with her chocolate, praline and cherry bakewell creations. “You’ve made two cracking fondant fancies, they don’t look so brilliant but they’re stunning,” gushed Mary.

Jane with her dip ‘n’ ice technique. [Photo: BBC]

Jane’s renegade decision not to coat her pistachio and raspberry and lemon curd surprise fancies with buttercream ahead of icing meant they came out a little messy. “They’re supposed to look tempting,” said Mary. However her flavours were good and the insides were neat.

Andrew’s vanilla and jam and mocha ‘philharmonic fondants’ decorated with musical notes and bowties and presented in a little orchestra pit won the judges over bagging him this week’s Star Baker title.

Although Selasi’s lime and ginger and pink velvet and prosecco fancies had a great sponge they were too sweet and “a bit basic”. Alas three below par rounds saw the nation’s favourite exit series seven. Goodbye Selasi, we’ll miss your effortless chilled out approach to baking. 

Goodbye my friend. I know you’re gone, you said you’re gone but I can still feel you here. [Photo: BBC]