Take more chances; Dance more dances
Having danced since I could walk and spending my teenage years in the dance studio for hours every evening after school, naturally the urge to dance runs in my blood. Although I steered away from a further professional career in the industry, my passion for my art still remains strong and I just love getting back in the studio again.
I’ll admit it has been some time and I am very much out of practice now, but that doesn’t stop me from having a prance around once in a while to experience that exhilaration of expressing myself to music again. Even just putting on those old pointe shoes and trying out some of my favourite routines from the past gives me such joy.
Whilst I’m still able to do a lot and my flexibility remains good, I was surprised at how much more difficult it is just to get through an entire routine after so many years. It really makes me appreciate how fit and skilled I was back in the prime of my professional performing dance days.
Following such an enjoyable session in the studio again this weekend, I’m going to make the time to do this on a weekly basis if possible. Even if I can just get an hour a week in to re-master a few routines and let off some steam I’ll be happy. Sometimes it’s not about being the best at something, but living for the moment and taking more chances to reignite the soul ❤
Following my two year adventure down under experiencing the beautiful simplicity of Australian lifestyle and meeting people from all corners of the world, it’s left me yearning for more. Whilst I embark on a fresh career path back at home here in England for now, I already have plans to travel with my job in the future and maybe one day find myself living back in my spirit land of Oz.
Luckily for me, I already have a trip booked back to Australia and also Bali with my best friend. We fly out to Sydney just after Christmas and spend two weeks there before jetting over to Bali for another week. I couldn’t think of a better way to spend my Birthday month next year especially as I’ll be rolling over into the quarter of a century milestone of 25 years old. With my Birthday being Australia Day (26th January) this will be my third year celebrating down under in the height of summer, amongst the joyous atmosphere of such a special day for everyone in Oz.
I can barely contain my excitement as we get booking and look forward to a month of fun, adventure and partying! Some of our best planning sessions have been on a Friday evening over a bottle of wine and platter of cheese as we dream about what will be a trip of a lifetime. I just can’t wait to show my best friend the Aussie way of life which I fell in love with and undoubtedly she too will catch that wanderlust…
Bake in the oven for 10-15 minutes until golden brown and leave to cool before adding the icing. I opted for buttercream icing sprinkled with hundreds and thousands, some pink edible crystals and little individual flowers. I even made a few slices of fairy bread with the left over hundreds and thousands – a funny traditional Aussie birthday treat of buttered white bread topped with sprinkles!
I was chuffed with my creation and everyone at work was impressed with my baking skills. I’ve always seen baking as more of a science, but once you know the basics there is room to experiment and get creative with different recipes. I look forward to making another batch of these soon and having a play with alternative flavours and maybe even trying to formulate my own healthier mix using natural sugars and plant based milk.
I haven’t always been an early bird as I’m naturally more productive in the evenings. However with a new routine and 9-5 job, I have learnt to embrace the crack of dawn and soak up my morning me time.
After drawing back the curtains, the first thing I do every single morning is make the bed to set me up for a positive, productive day; clear space, clear mind.
Most mornings I will then do a half an hour workout and stretching routine which energises my body and releases any tension from sleeping. Having danced all of my life, I feel sluggish and tired when I don’t exert myself physically, so I make this a priority.
After a quick shower and simple makeup routine, I relish the process of choosing my outfit for the day as fashion and style has always been a passion of mine. Finally, I make my morning coffee in a keep cup and take 5 minutes to catch the morning news as I savour that moment before dashing to work.
Being regulars, the owners of Mama Mia always make us feel welcome and deliver fantastic service to match the exquisite food. With a beautiful bottle of red Syrah wine on the table we toasted to mum’s birthday.
I usually opt for the Spaghetti Al Frutti di Mare which is packed with delicious seafood, but this time I chose something a little different and discovered a new favourite. The Tagliatelle Al Funghi di Bosco delivered terrific flavour using such simple ingredients of mushrooms, tomatoes and olive oil. My sister went for a pizza, mum had Petto di Pollo alla Cindy chicken in a creamy sauce and of course dad had his usual personalised dish which is the Gamberoni All Aglio prawn starter served with rice.
Before our coffees mum was treated to a profiterole stack with a candle as the restaurant joined in a happy birthday sing song. After sharing the desert we had our digestif for which I indulged in a Calypso coffee featuring a shot of Tia Maria. It was a lovely evening celebrating mum’s birthday and spending quality time with my family as we enjoyed delicious food and wine alongside friendly service; smiles all round.
Consequently, I have chosen to take it easy this weekend and prioritise my mind, body and soul. After getting through those basic chores like washing, cleaning and groceries on Saturday, Sunday has been all about self care and indulgence starting with a long lie-in and comforting cup of tea in bed.
Being a dull, cloudy October day, I chose to burn my Apple and Honeydew candle from El Collectives as I lounged in bed and read my book. With breakfast being my favourite meal of the day but not having time to enjoy it properly during the working week, I always look forward to indulging in an extra special brunch on the weekends. This bowl of goodness was just what I was craving and brightened up this dreary day; sweet crunchy granola, creamy greek yoghurt, tangy cinnamon apple and warm berry compote.
Following a much needed quiet afternoon to recharge my body and mind in preparation for another hectic week at work, it was time to cook up a comforting autumn evening dinner. Taking inspiration from Pinterest and making use of ingredients we had in stock, I made a Spanish Chicken Cacciatore served with couscous and broccolini. Accompanied with a glass of wine whilst watching a film, this was the perfect Sunday night setup.
Whilst I’ve always been focused on getting that to-do list ticked off and completed, I now also appreciate the importance of taking time for me to switch off and rest. Weekends should be spent prioritising ourselves, nourishing our bodies with good food and ensuring self care comes before anything else in order to perform our best in day-to-day life.
The position of Events Executive had opened up and I couldn’t think of a more fitting role. Having always had a passion for events, I was excited to see what this job entailed and whether my skills in organisation and planning would be suitable. Following initial conversation and interviews with HR, I learnt that the position would be to support and co-ordinate the operations of events and weddings at the hotel. Whilst my experience hasn’t necessarily been in hotels and weddings, my abilities to multi-task whilst maintaining a close eye for detail are perfectly suited to the role. When it comes to delivering a luxurious five star experience for the client, a need for absolute perfection and seamless execution is essential, both qualities of which I proudly obtain.
Following a long interviewing process to gauge my abilities to reach such high expectations, I was thrilled to be offered the job! I couldn’t think of a more career enhancing company to work for given the brand’s worldwide reputation for delivering exceptional standards of service.
With Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts located in some of the most enticing countries internationally, there is also opportunity to travel with the job in the future. So as I embark on this exciting new career in events, my ultimate goal will be to travel whilst working for this company which carries such highly esteemed reputation and presence across the globe. I may be back in the quaint countryside of Hampshire for now, but this could be the stepping stone to new horizons anywhere in the world.
Soon we’ll be swapping those afternoon pub garden chills sipping refreshing G & T’s for comforting glasses of red wine snuggled up watching movies. Winter season also means ultimate comfort food to warm the soul; hearty soups, delicious stews, spicy curries and of course traditional Sunday roasts with all the trimmings.
With beautiful memories and monumental events including my brother’s wedding and moving home after two years in Australia, the summer of 2019 has certainly been one to remember. So as the early nights draw in and temperatures plummet, I fondly look back on those unforgettable times and look forward to many more awesome times to come… enjoy every season of your life!
With her passion and knowledge for art, just over a year ago the opportunity to open her own gallery arose and it seemed too good of a prospect to miss. Now indulging in her love for images and framing, Caroline brings together a collection of pieces from a varied source of local artists as well as posters, photos and prints purchased at auction, exhibitions and online.
The eclectic mix of traditional paintings to abstract canvases and modern prints makes for an interesting viewing experience, enticing customers to perhaps invest in art they wouldn’t usually choose. My preference tends to be the more abstract, modernistic pieces such as this ‘Art Of Kissing’ poster.
I also really like this collection of original press photographs which capture the spirit of celebrities in their raw form often unseen to the public eye.
However I too occasionally find myself drawn to work which wouldn’t normally be to my taste. This oil painting by Sergio Kendall caught my attention with its vibrant colours and abstract style. As a feature on the main wall hung amongst a variety of different posters, paintings and photographs, this stunning piece catches the viewers eye.
The space is very much an expression of my mum’s niche, yet stylish taste and brings together a broad range of art in all kinds of forms. Her ethos when approached by artists or searching for new pieces is to ‘never sell anything in the gallery that I wouldn’t have in my own home’. This is what makes the vision unique at Picture This.
Taking inspiration from its classic 18th century origins woven into the 400 acre surrounding English landscape, their ethos focuses on reconnecting with the land. From the walled gardens and orchard where chef Skye Gyngell sources produce, to the lake where guests may take a dip, everything is drawn from nature to rediscover our connection to the ancient land.
As a local and living just down the road from this elusive, highly acclaimed hotel, I was keen to visit this wonderland for myself. The Assembly at Heckfield place offers a diverse programme of events cultivating the space and all it has to offer.
With so many experiences open to guests and visitors alike there is something for everyone; whether its taking a walking woodland tour and foraging for mushrooms, putting your hand to professional cocktail making, or getting active with Bodyism’s B Free Yoga class.
I was particularly intrigued by the sound of the plush cinema room screening classic films as well as new releases. So b
Upon entering the main house, we were greeted by the front of house staff who were happy to give us a tour of the different communal areas, before we settled down in the bar for a drink. The eclectic interiors tastefully combine elements of original Georgian heritage, alongside modern features to achieve a stylish yet homely feel.
Prior to our cinema viewing, we took a seat in the Trestle Bar lounge where we enjoyed a glass of G&T as we browsed the interesting coffee table books and admired our exquisite surroundings. Our hostess also informed us that most of the artwork and furniture is from the owner’s personal collection.
Soon it was time to take our seats for the film, taking a trip via the theatre bar first of course. With a selection of drinks and homemade sweet treats on offer, you can enjoy your favourite glass of wine or cocktail whilst watching the film.
The intimate theatre room with its plush leather seating and personal side tables, makes for a truly special cinema experience. At only £15 per ticket, I was astounded by the luxury of this spectacular theatre room open to the public. As we sipped our G&T’s watching Once Upon A Time In Hollywood, I felt like I was on our very own set for an English period drama.
Overall, it was fabulous to explore Heckfield Place for ourselves and as a local from just down the road, I will be coming back to experience more of their exciting events. I will also be keen to book into the Marle restaurant and sample their set lunch menu or even pop in for breakfast following a yoga class…I do feel rather smug to have this fabulous estate right on my doorstep!
Dani Aneka 