The High Fives- March 2018

This month has been all about stimulating the senses. As I drafted a list of what what I've been enjoying this past few weeks I quickly realised that it's mostly been about sparking the imagination and inspiring new ideas. When the weather's a bit naff and a break away somewhere hot isn't on any imminent horizon, a sure fired way to get out of a funk is to enjoy new things or rediscover old favourites. 

   With a busy month of productions going on stage (I choreograph for a living) dining out and indeed dining well has sadly not been a feature. Tupperware dinners and copious gallons of coffee have fuelled the month of March, so despite not being able to give any foodie recommendations, what I can offer you is equally delicious. As you read on, you'll discover that I commuted my way through March to the soundtrack of many a podcast episode and music download. There was a bit of time for retail therapy and some inspiring viewing which has left me longing to go travelling. Enjoy!

PODCASTS

I'm always on the hunt for a new series to add to my collection. With an episode roughly lasting 30-45 mins, I can devour a few in one day if I'm commuting a fair bit. I have my faves which I've already introduced you to, but this month I've been loving a couple of newbies. Firstly Fearne Cotton's Happy Place is one which I knew I'd enjoy. Interviewing the likes of Stephen Fry, Paloma Faith and writer Matt Haig they explore life and what happiness looks like for them. Uplifting and insightful, I highly recommend you tune in weekly for a dose of feel good vibes and in depth discussion around mental health issues. 

Find 'Happy Place by Fearne Cotton' here: 

https://itunes.apple.com/gb/podcast/happy-place/id1353058891?mt=2

Already an avid fan of her other podcast 'The High Low' with fellow journalist Pandora Sykes, I knew Dolly Alderton's 'Love Stories' was going to be a perfect match for my motorway marathons. From first times to heartbreaks, passions to unrequited love each week a new guest divulges the most intimate details of their most defining relationships. Light-hearted yet weighted by some real poignant and topical discussions each episode is a joy from start to finish with a heady mix of vulnerability, wisdom and laugh out loud anecdotes.  

Find 'Love Stories with Dolly Alderton' here: 

https://itunes.apple.com/au/podcast/love-stories/id1343714594?mt=2

DOCUMENTARIES

Photo courtesy of http://www.leonlogothetis.com

It's rarity to get some sofa/telly time but when I do I take full advantage and try to take sole ownership of the remote control if at all possible. Hubby and I are guilty of mindlessly scrolling through Netflix struggling to find something we'll both want to watch. Akin to the vultures in The Jungle Book indecisiveness plagues our relationship and we often find ourselves deliberating back and forth, with very little progress being made in terms of making a decision on an array of topics, including what kind of takeaway food to order.   We both enjoy a documentary and feeling like we both needed some pick-me-up viewing, I tuned into episode one of 'The Kindness Diaries'. Relying entirely on the kindness of strangers, former broker Leon Logothesis embarks on an around the world tour in his yellow motorbike, Kindness One. In return for the shelter, food, fuel and friendship he is offered by so many Leon repays the kindness he has been shown in the most extraordinary ways, realising some dreams for his unsuspecting new friends who were only to happy to help a man in need. Episode one was so gripping  we subsequently devoured all 13 episodes in the one sitting! Surely that speaks volumes?! If you want to restore you faith in the human race this is the series for you.  

Check out this trailer for 'The Kindness Diaries' here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vN51oWwwbqg

Photo from https://www.netflix.com/

Watching this then sparked my interest in world travel (can you tell I'm dire need of a holiday?!) and so the following evening we watched 'Expedition Happiness' on Netflix- a vlog-style account of one couple's adventures travelling in their converted school bus from Alaska to Argentina. Breathtaking scenery, chance encounters and the inevitable set-backs of crossing the globe in a bus, film-maker Felix Starck and his musician girlfriend Mogli both from Berlin, with their very cute dog Rudi in tow, explore the Americas documenting every step of the way. Inspiring viewing indeed! 

Check out their YouTube page: 

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDfAt3KEBpjVWsDkBY_OdAg

ISLA CANDLES

I was thrilled to discover I'd won an Instagram competition this month with the prize including three gorgeous candles from Isla Candles. With each scent inspired by travel I felt this was very apt following my Netflix-athon of travel documentaries. Born from the founders' memories of their wedding in Mallorca, each fragrance although sourced in Scotland, is reminiscent of their adventures abroad. 

Perfectly packaged and beautifully presented, these candles would make a perfect wedding day scent, a birthday gift or a treat to oneself. Having burned the scent 'Mallorca' I can safely say these handmade with 100% eco soy wax candles are worth investing in for a fresh, inviting home scent. We also love 'Granada'. 

Check out the website for their entire range:

http://islacandles.co.uk

ANNE-MARIE

Photo from twitter.com/annemarie

Choreographing for a living I listen to A LOT of music in any one day, spanning many decades and from all genres. I tend not to keep abreast of the charts, opting for podcasts rather than the radio on my commutes, mainly to stop me from 'working' as I drive. However one current artist that I've been loving for sometime is Anne-Marie. Her track with Rudimental, featuring Sean Paul 'Rockabye' soared to number one in the charts in 2016 and from then she's enjoyed much success at home in the UK and across the globe, with hits 'Ciao Adios' and 'Alarm'. In a bid to stick to my new year's resolution to enjoy more live music and theatre I jumped at the chance to see her at Glasgow's o2 Academy just last night and she did not disappoint. Her distinct tone, insane resister and unique phrasing matched by her passionate performance is something quite remarkable. Even if her music isn't your cup of tea, the raw talent she possesses both as a performer and song writer is undeniable. Although I prefer the stripped,acoustic back versions of some of her most well-known tracks, the power of her band behind her was impressive. There's nothing quite like live music and Anne-Marie as a force on stage is both captivating and inspiring. 

Here is a link to one of my favourite versions of her track 'Ciao Adios'
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZCQRBqJxSI4

#CHARITYSHOPFRIDAY

If you've been following us on Instagram for some time you'll know I'm partial to a charity shop bargain or two. I love unearthing something super affordable that I feel is the perfect addition to my wardrobe, without the pang of guilt that comes with high street/online shopping. Being self-employed I'm frugal and don't like to splash the cash on myself but with charity shop buying it's practically sin-free with the added bonus of helping support a worthy cause to boot. I mostly have a Friday afternoons free and often find myself perusing the rails of my local shops in the hope of picking up something pretty. Our Instagram family have been appreciating my weekly posts teamed with the hashtag #charityshopfriday and it got me to thinking-what sort of treasure is everyone else discovering in their local thrift/charity shops? So as March comes to a close, we are striding into April in the hope that we can spread the joy that is bargain hunting by asking our followers to share their #charityshopfriday purchases. In addition, I love to see how others piece an outfit together using their wardrobe staples along-with vintage or second-hand items. Don't worry if you bought that £2.50 skirt from The Salvation Army store on Tuesday...just wait until Friday to give us the low down on your weekly finds. With trends coming full circle, if you're someone who likes to keep up with what's 'in' right now you're bound to rummage your way to finding exactly what you are looking for at a fraction of the price. Happy shopping-can't wait to see what you find!

A Letter to Mum

Mum, 

I wonder if you realised just how all consuming being a mum would be before we came along. I guess for you it was a switch that turned on and never went off again. In the 35 years and 6 months I've been on this planet, you have never taken one day off from being a mum. You live and breathe us and we feel the love you have for us surround us wherever we are and whatever we are going through. If we need anything, and I mean ANYTHING you're right there with it. From sewing a few buttons on something to sorting out my entire life in one phone call, you never fail to offer sound advice, a shoulder to cry on and your absolute undivided attention. Like a hot plate, you'd drop whatever you were doing to be by our side, no questions asked. You are hands down the most kind, selfless, hard-working, positive, caring person I know and my entire life I've only ever wanted to make you proud of me. Your approval and support means everything, for you are the epitome of what a role model is. You have never pressured or coerced us to do or be anything other than who we wanted to be. Even in times of uncertainty, you knew me inside out. You know me better than I know myself. 

 I know that in my lifetime there will never be the time, nor the words to express my gratitude for everything you've ever done for me. No amount of chocolates, flowers or lunch dates could ever repay the unrelenting, unquestionable love you show us every single day. You're my adviser, my cheerleader, my accountant (yup, the job you love the most!), my devil's advocate, my confident but most importantly, my friend. There was a time when I'd think "if I could be half as good a mum as you are, I'd be delighted!". But what really matters now is that I try to be as good a friend to you as you are to me. You don't just hear me, you listen. You don't just know me, you understand and for all of it I thank you for being the best friend I've ever had. 

Love Lisa x

To my friends who are Mums,

I vigorously applaud you, in absolute awe of the daily juggling act you perform, simultaneously handling jobs, homes, kids, partners, friendships, pets and family. I see the struggle and it is real but you each approach it bravely, battling fears and the unknown with absolute grace. The tears, tantrums and endless worries that motherhood presents you face head on, never giving yourself the credit deserved for keeping your head (and your brood) above water. You're all swans. Watching you become a mum has truly been the one of the most amazing experiences of my life. Any self doubt you may have had prior to your bundle of joy arriving was, of course, completely natural but totally unfounded, as you're nailing the role, passing with flying colours. Yeah it's damn hard and there are probably moments (or entire days) where you are questioning everything and nothing seems to be going 'right' but always know that I'm over here in the corner being your biggest cheerleader. My limited knowledge and lack of experience aside, I see how awesome a mum you are (I have one so I know what that looks like!) and as your friend, I will endeavour to remind your wee ones as they grown up that they're incredibly lucky to have you as their mum....even when you're enforcing chores, limiting online time or not allowing them to go to a house party. I got your back girl! 

Each of your stories are different, from conception to birth, first words to big steps and with each milestone I've watched in amazement as you orchestrate the best life possible for your wee yins. The painful, sleep-deprived, cabin-fevered triumphs astound me-how have you not gone crazy?! The love that binds you and your child is palpable, it's oozes from you and it's a love like no other. They take you to the brink, test every fibre of your being and yet, your love never wavers (although your patience might at times). You wipe noses, bums and slates clean,  never holding a grudge,  always looking to make the day better. You are secondary, an after-thought, someone in the background but you're the glue. Remember you are the glue.

 I don't know how you are doing it. Life, that is. I've only got me to worry about. No tiny human is reliant on me turning up and answering to their every whim and yet I find this adulting thing tough. I guess you'd reply to that saying something like, 'You'd be the same. You'd be a great mum' and I'd reply with, 'Nah, I'm not so sure about that'. Truth is. I'm certain I'd try my hardest, as you've shown me it's all worth it. For all the belly-laughs, sleepyheads, high fives and sing-along car journeys you treasure and the many adventures still to come your way, I wish nothing but sheer joy for you and fabulous kids. I consider myself extremely blessed to be on this journey with you all. To share the highs and lows with you is a privilege and I thank you for inviting me in to your world and in to your family as it continues to grow. You are a marvellous mum and I'm proud to call you my friend. 

You ROCK!
Lisa x

Mother's Day, in my opinion, should be every day. All mums should be shown the love, respect and gratitude for everything they have done and continue to do for us daily. Who ever you call mum, don't wait to tell them how wonderful they are or how safe or loved they make you feel. You're a grown ass adult now (I'm assuming so if you're reading this) and you spent long enough as a kid taking her for granted, expecting her to be there at your beck and call, never showing her the thanks she deserves for the pleasure of it. Use your words and  your hugs to let her know that everything she does is a real blessing that you'll treasure forever.

Happy Mother's Day. 

Weesse x

The High Fives- February 2018

I write to you as #thebeastfromtheeast takes hold of Bonnie Scotland. It's a snowy abyss out there and it would seem that we're destined to be held up in our IRL snow globe for a few days, so I thought it best I aim to be a tad productive whilst I can't get to work (which is causing me mild anxiety to say the least!). Looking out in to the winter wonderland before us I can't believe that we're almost in to the month of March. Firstly, the frightful weather is not hinting at an emergence of Spring any time soon but also, once again, I'm arriving at the end of a month flabbergasted that time has flown by in the blink of an eye. Not so much an action-packed month for us, February has mostly been about working and settling into 2018 (whatever that means!). The highlight was Hubby celebrating turning 40, with an epic 13 hour-long house party (yup!) and me proving to be hostess with the mostess- my Wife of the Year award must've got lost in the post....again?!

I won't lie I struggled to concoct a list of favourites/recommendations for February-tut tut February, must do better! However, here's a few titbits you may enjoy as we creep tentatively in to March (praying for blue skies and NO MORE SNOW!). 

PODCASTS

Becoming a regular feature in The High Fives, podcasts are literally life savers when it comes to my daily commute. As a freelance artist I travel a fair bit by car and mostly solo. I shouldn't be left alone too long with my over-active, worrier of a brain, so podcasts are an excellent distraction as I make my way to and from my places of work but more than that, they can be so informative and thought-provoking (the good kind of thoughts, that is!). This month I discovered a new firm fave thanks to Erica Davies (fashion editor and Insta-Goddess). How I Built This with Guy Raz offers fascinating insight into the stories of entrepreneurs, idealists and innovators who created some of the world's most well-known, successful brands and companies. From Instagram to Kate Spade, Buzzfeed to Spanx this podcast series is not only incredibly interesting but really quite inspiring as each of the guests recount the highs and the lows they overcame to build their movement. As I'm late to the party, I'm making my way through the back catalogue but honestly, every episode has been worth listening to. Highly recommend! 

When I've not been planning my next empire thanks to How I Built This, I've also been listening to Table Manners with Jessie Ware. I only became aware of singer Jessie Ware on New Year's eve as we faithfully tuned in to Jools Holland Hootenanny. I loved her voice and her style and so, as with everything I see these days, I looked her up on Instagram only then to learn she hosts a podcast with her mum Lennie. Centred around their love of home-cooked food, music and family they invite a guest/s (many a well-known name in there) to join them for a meal and a chat. The mother-daughter rapport is endearing and at times, frankly hilarious. The natural flow of conversation is refreshing, with each episode being very different thanks to the guests they invite over for supper. From Ed Sheeran to Sandi Toksvig, the dinner-table discussions vary greatly but are always a perfect blend of fun and informative in to the lives and careers of some very interesting friends of Jessie's.

AYE WRITE with Ruby Wax

Photo from www.ayewrite.com

Mimi alerted me to this event taking place in Glasgow's Royal Concert Hall this month, knowing that I'd been keen to attend having not long finished Ruby Wax's brilliant book A Mindfulness Guide for the Frazzled (another recommendation!). I'd heard of Aye Write, Glasgow's book festival but regrettably had never attended, nor any book event for that matter, so I was intrigued to know what an such event would entail. Ruby Wax was just how you'd imagine her to be- incredibly witty, down-to-earth and her knowledge and understanding of the human brain and it's intricacies frankly astounding. Speaking to a packed auditorium, she not only read exerts from her latest book How to Be Human-The Manual, she also took questions from the audience and shed some light on how she decided to reinvent herself after her career as a comedian and presenter came to an end. She walks the walk and talks the talk when it comes to mental health issues and we left inspired and enlightened...and with a copy of her new book to boot! As it was on my 2018 TO-DO list to attend more events (and read more!) this was a perfect addition to February. Aye Write runs from 15th-25th March and there's heaps of events for you to pop along to. Check out their website https://www.ayewrite.com/Pages/default.aspx

ALL THE GRUB

Birthday celebrations continued in the shape of a quiet meal for two at North Lanarkshire's newest hotspot, The Tipsy Cow in Airdire. I heard some good reviews and wanted to check it our for ourselves. You know I'm a sucker for aesthetics, so I was immediately impressed on arrival at the industrial, quirky decor. Wood, exposed brick, leather and neon sign-age, the space is modern but still has a homely feel to it. 

With friendly, attentive staff we were made to feel welcome and immediately relaxed in to the chilled vibe they've created. I ordered a 'hanging kebab' with flat breads, hummus and fries, whilst Hubby splashed out with a ribeye steak with all the trimmings and we both devoured our meals. A step from pub grub, this trendy venue offers a Market Bar, Brasserie, pre-Theatre and Gluten free menus. From afternoon tea to a Sunday roast, it's the ideal place for a catch up meal with friends or family. I'm already planning a re-visit to try out their breakfast menu!

 

Mimi and I also ventured to Mezzidakia on St Vincent Street in Glasgow for a pre-Aye Write festival munch. Frequenters of our local Greek restaurant, Omorphia Taverna in Bellshill (where the food takes some beating) and huge fans of Meze Meze in Edinburgh, we're accustomed to seriously tasty, authentic Greek food. Sister restaurant to city centre favourite Topolabamba, Mezzidakia seemed like a safe bet. 

Once again, on first impressions the decor is a winning factor. I don't know what it is about brickwork, candles and rope but I freaking love the stuff! Thankfully the food was as equally impressive. We ordered a few small dishes (meze) to share and each had a Bukharon falafel kebab which was delicious. If you're in the mood for a trying something new, meze is the perfect way to dine with friends. We'll definitely return to Mezzidakia and would recommend the falafel! 

Made Up at Blush Beauty

On the handful of occasions I've been lucky enough to have my make-up applied professionally it's been for a photo-shoot with a particular look in mind and not necessarily what I would have chosen for everyday wear. Donna Nelson of Blush Beauty based in North Lanarkshire has been our beautician for a number of years but never have I treated myself to her outstanding make-up artistry, always opting for a facial or gel manicure. Christmas vouchers from my dear friends were crying out to be exchanged for the many wonderful services Donna offers but on this occasion I decided it was time to have Donna work her magic and Hubby's 40th gathering seemed the perfect event. 




Donna took the time to ask what I was looking for, what I was wearing and gave suggestions for the overall look she was creating. As ever, I was made to feel totally at ease as she worked her magic and boy, did she make me feel like a million dollars! My finished look was exactly right for my colouring, the event and my style-she got it spot on. If you're attending a special event this year, be sure to have your make-up applied by Donna. She's the best in the business and a lovely, friendly gal to boot! Can't wait until next time! Blush Beauty Facebook page: 
https://www.facebook.com/Blush-Beauty-1419721938273300/

How to be a Woman by Caitlin Moran

Have you got a book that you'll read time and time again? A book that when you finished it you felt a pang of sadness as you absorbed the last line? Caitlin Moran's How To be A Woman is that very one for me. I can't believe I hadn't read it before now but like so many others, it's been gathering dust on my bookshelf for long and weary. Described on the back cover as "part memoir, part rant" this blow by blow account of how a 13 year old girl navigated the weird and soften cruel roller-coaster of womanhood is spectacular. Periods, love, bras, sexism and abortion thrown in for a heavy dose of reality, with every issue it's like she's speaking to you...it's like she is you and when she's not being you, she's your mate....only way more cool! The writing is flawless and it speaks to you and your 13 year old self like no one ever could. And yes, I did pick it up in a charity shop for £1! 

And there you have it....February's High Fives. Enjoy discovering some new faves and if you're in the North Lanarkshire area, I'll see you at The Tipsy Cow for brunch....just as soon as this snow stops!!

Over and out,

Weesse x