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

The High Fives August 2017

If you've been keeping up to date with The High Fives you'll have gathered that I land on the end of each month totally bamboozled as to how we got there so quickly. Blink and you miss it (life, that is!), so I particularly enjoy taking the opportunity to reflect on the month's highlights, recalling fun moments with friends and family, new-found faves and the buzz of discovering something quite special that I then can share with you lovely lot! So without further ado....here's August in 5!

1. READ

August saw Mimi and I take some needed time out, migrating to sunnier climates. On holidays abroad I always require a book to accompany my afternoon balcony chill-out sessions (whilst hubby takes his siesta). When it comes to reading, I tend to opt for non-fiction, biographies and alike and if you can throw in some life-hacks or some inspirational and motivational stories, I'm there with bells on! My dear friend Linzi had been recommending Matt Haig's Reasons to Stay Alive for sometime and having heard an interview with him on a podcast I listen to regularly, I was really keen to read it. The cover, adorned with quotes of admiration from so many well-known respected public figures, gives you the sense that you may be about to read something quite special and indeed, I found the book to be outstanding in so many ways. Such an incredibly open, honest account of his mental health issues, Matt Haig speaks to you, whoever you are, whatever you're dealing with and reminds us that ultimately we all have mental health which we must be tuned in to and treat with the utmost care. He speaks from experience and although his may be unique to him, the resounding message is that there is always light where there is shade and depression, anxiety and similar illnesses are treatable. His wit and the humanity permeating his writing  helps the reader to digest and relate to what can be, for some, still is a taboo subject. Chapters appear in list form at points, with bite-sized chunks giving you food for thought, helping to put you right there with him. He writes in a way that you feel you are reading a friend or a family member's story, in their words which you can connect with wholeheartedly. Matt Haig's zest for life and the gratitude he has to be living and not just existing is palpable and something to be greatly admired. Everyone should read this book....yes, even you!  

2. EAT

 A trip to the Edinburgh Fringe would not be complete without some seriously good grub and boy did we feast on some tasty treats?!! Meze Meze on Rose Street Edinburgh is a must-go...must-eat-EVERYTHING! Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine, the tapas-style dining (although the portions were incredibly generous!) allows you to try a number of dishes, perhaps brave something new and also, share with others (yes, I said share!). Halloumi, falafel, hummus, calamari....everything was fresh, flavoursome and filling. We literally had to be rolled out of there! Don't even get us started on the desserts! Opting for the pre-theatre menu which was awesome value for money, we found the restaurant small but perfectly formed, with an informal, friendly atmosphere that we were more than comfortable with. Can't wait to go back....and we won't be waiting until next years festival, that's for sure! 

Psst. If you're in Glasgow, why not try Maggie's Buns (no, I'm not alluding to anything remotely dodgy!), Maggie Mays' new burger joint?! Tasty grub, cool decor, live music and in the city centre. Boom. Done! 

3. WATCH

Photo from Twitter

I'm not much of a telly buff. I'll rarely make an effort to tune in to a programme regularly or series-link something-I'm more of a Netflix viewer and even at that, I'm fickle in my loyalty to anything that requires more than one sitting. However Channel 4's Craft It Yourself came along this month and it converted me-I was hooked! Upcycling, DIYing and crafting have always fascinated but slightly terrified me. Fear of royally screwing up a piece of furniture or super-gluing my index fingers together, I've shied away from attempting anything (apart from painting and glossing the skirting boards) that may require manual labour, apparatus and well, a certain level of skill (or maybe just patience?!). That is, until now! The bug has most definitely bitten and I'm mad on transforming and creating home ware bits and bobs. Craft It Yourself not only inspired me to give-it-a-go but gave practical, handy tips for mini-makes, as well as more involved projects. Transforming one room each week, working with a different theme, the 3 presenters made a variety of pieces demonstrating a number of skills and techniques which didn't all seem so specialised that you couldn't at least try your hand at it. Sadly the series is now finished but you're be able to get it on catch-up so go check it out! Definitely worth doing if you're looking to get crafty and need some inspo other than Pinterest. 

4. LISTEN

If you haven't quite jumped on the podcast bandwagon as yet, you must subscribe to BBC Radio 4's Desert Island Discs. Originally created in 1942, this popular radio series, now hosted by Kirsty Young invites each 'castaway' to select 8 tracks they would take with them to their desert island. Famous footballers to actors, musicians to fashion moguls, the stories that surround each track chosen are truly fascinating. Kirsty Young is a wonderful interviewer and I'd be hard pushed to pick out a favourite guest, as there are so many I've listened to that I have loved, not only for their music choices but for the tales they've so brilliantly told. Music has a real power to evoke feeling and to spark memories for us all and with every selection, there is an opportunity to learn more about each guest as a person, rather than the personality we already know. A perfect driving companion, this series is a firm fave and with over 3000 episodes I've got plenty of commuting time left to continue my love affair. 

5. SHOP

Some days things are just okay and other days...Glasgow gets an H&M Home!!!! Oh my giddy aunt was I excited when I heard that, finally, beautiful home ware would be adorning Buchanan Street?!! A visit to the new (mahoosive) store quickly confirmed what I already knew to be true....I NEED EVERYTHING! Honestly, I moved from one god damn gorgeous aisle to the next, loving every single item. I managed to restrain myself to a modest purchasing of just 4 cushion covers but that was merely a warm-up for the up and coming spend-athon that will inevitably ensue when we finally decide what room we are decorating next. Affordable, stylish and decent quality pieces for all corners of your humble abode, H&M Home Glasgow is well worth a look...just don't buy everything...leave some for me please!

And just like that August was over. Hoping September has lots of goodies in store!

Thanks for reading...hope you found something you like!

Until next time,

Weesse x

The High Fives- May 2017

It's great finding stuff you really like isn't it?! It's even better when you can share your new found faves with others (well sharing's caring after all!), so I thought the blog would be the perfect platform to do just that, with this new feature, The High Fives!  A cohesive list of FIVE little gems that I've been loving, varying from bargain buys to Netflix binge-worthy hits. Hope you find a new found fave! 

Photo from Google Images

1. GIRLBOSS on Netflix 

Managed to devour this new series in a matter of days. Telling the true life tale of fashion empire Nasty Gal's CEO Sophia Amouroso's climb to top from her humble eBay-shop beginnings. Inspired by her book of the same name (which I ADORED!), I loved season one! WARNING!!- this programme may make you psyched to start your own business post-viewing!  

2. PODCASTS

These have been a real game changer for me over the past year or so in terms of making my lengthy commutes way more palatable. I've dabbled in tuning into a few different series but have recently locked down a couple of firm faves. I'm pretty sure you'll find a podcast about ANYTHING you're interested in but my current recommendations (in no particular order) are: 

Scummy Mummies- comedy duo Helen Thorn and Ellie Gibson tackle a range of topics relevant to all those not-so perfect parents out there. If you need a dose of reality and a right good giggle be sure to check this out. 

Ctrl Alt Delete- Writer Emma Gannon's book of the same name is a fabulous blow by blow account of how this millennial grew up on line in the age of MySpace and Internet dating. On her podcast she  interviews other Creatives about their experiences on-line and sparks inspiring conversations about life, careers, friendships and everything in between.  

The High Low- This pop culture/news podcast by writers Dolly Alderton and Pandora Sykes highlights some of the week's biggest stories to the more frivolous tit bits we all enjoy. 

Photo from Amazon.co.uk

3. WHAT WOULD BEYONCÉ DO? by Luisa Omielan 

I love books but I'm terrible at setting aside time to read them. I have shelves jam packed with untouched novels and biographies, ever-determined that one day I'll plough my way through them. However I broke this bad habit after seeing stand-up Luisa Omielan live at last year's Edinburgh Fringe. Her show Am I Right Ladies? was bloomin' marvellous and seriously uplifting, so I was keen to get me another Luisa fix in the form of her book, What Would Beyoncé Do? A frank, honest and hilariously insight into life as a female comic, this beaut of a read has you feeling like you're one of Luisa's closest confidants. You can't help fall in love with her as she takes you on her miss-adventures. 

4. MEGAN ELLABY

Oh my days! This girl got style.....oodles and oodles of it. If you like a daily shot of Instagram inspo or a weekly YouTuber hit be sure to check out fashion blogger Megan Ellaby. Fashion hauls, styling tips & the coolest flat I've ever seen, her 60/70s rock chick vibes are the stuff of dreams. I unashamedly want to be her mate but fear I wouldn't be cool enough! 

5. SLEEK MAKEUP DIP-IT LINER

Photo from Sleekmakeup.com

Admittedly I have for many years stayed clear of using liquid eye-liner for fear of looking like a KISS band member. I reckoned I did not possess nearly the required level patience nor the steady hand for applying it to perfection so stuck with my trusty kohl pencil. However Mimi recently put me on to SLEEK MAKEUP Dip-It liquid eyeliner and I'm a convert-love the stuff and love the price!  Available also in Superdrug this cheap-as-chips, gets-the-job done purchase that I can safely say I'm able to use without disastrous results is a winner! Winged liner is now a possibility- woohoo!