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Hi! I'm April J Harris

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A selection of images from a weekend at Thornbury Castle
Featured Post

Slow Cookers, Seasonal Inspiration and A Weekend In A Castle

Hello! As we enjoy the last golden stretch of summer, many of us wish we could hold on to the season forever. Others (like me!) are excited for the first signs of autumn. Of course, in the Southern Hemisphere, winter is changing to spring, but wherever you call home, this in-between season is a wonderful time to savour each moment and gather inspiration for the days to come. Behind The Scenes - A Family Trip to Canada & A Weekend in a Castle! Before I share some seasonal inspo and some...

April and Guy Harris on the terrace at Hambleton Hall

Hello! This time of year is often busier than we think it will be, but there is always joy to be found in the simple things like a day out, a few hours reading your favourite book, a nostalgic bake, or the fun of planning your next getaway. From iconic London landmarks to dream-worthy destinations further afield, today I am sharing a few of my favourite places to explore, as well as some easy appetisers and salads for entertaining or light meals, and a nostalgic cake that is perfect for...

Curried Mango Chicken served on a white plate with broccoli. There are papadums and Naan bread in the background.

Hello! Today I'm sharing five easy recipes (perfect for busy evenings or relaxed entertaining), a peak behind the scenes at two stylish summer events and a wonderfully uplifting read. Behind The Scenes Last week my husband and I spent a lovely day with friends at The Henley Royal Regatta, a stylish boat-racing event held annually in Henley-on-Thames. We enjoyed champagne, an exquisite three course lunch, afternoon tea, and of course, the boat races! If you fancy a peek even further behind the...

April Harris in a garden looking down at a bouquet of flowers in her hand

An Intentional Summer While summer often brings thoughts of holidays and relaxation, the reality is that most of us are still balancing work, family and everyday life. However, even in a busy season, there are ways to bring a little extra something into everyday life—whether it’s a quiet moment with a cup of tea, a weekend outing, or making dinner feel just a bit more special. In this edition, I’m sharing some inspiration to help you do just that: a peek at our road trip through the Loire...

April Harris resting her hands on a pile of four books

Hello! Over the past few weeks, I promised to share a list of 25 Best Summer Reads, and I'm so happy to have it ready for you! Photo by Terry Joshi I have curated a list of 25 novels I love and I hope you will too! From historical fiction with strong female characters to some great mysteries, a few light reads and a bit of fantasy, there's something for just about everyone here. The post includes a free downloadable printable list to make it easy to keep track of the books you would like to...

A scarf with a book and a notebook sitting on it, topped with a pen

Hello from the sunny south of England! May always feels like a month of gentle contrasts to me — warm, sunny days interspersed with rainy, cool ones, new beginnings as well as recollections of days gone by. From a treasured family memory of VE Day to a visit steeped in royal history, fresh spring recipes and a rediscovered love of handwritten pages, here are a few musings and inspirations I’d love to share with you as the month begins – along with a few surprises I have been working away at...

a quiche with bread and salad to the side

Hello! Whether you're celebrating Easter, observing Passover, or simply savouring the joys of spring (or autumn in the southern hemisphere), this time of year is all about fresh beginnings and gathering with friends and loved ones. There’s nothing quite like a good catch-up over a relaxed weekend brunch. If you’re planning one anytime soon, I’ve got some deliciously simple ideas and recipes to help you make it extra special. Tips For Hosting a Relaxed Brunch Keep things as simple and...

April J Harris cooking in her home kitchen

Hello Reader, Feeling daunted by the recent advice to eat 30 different plants a week? I totally understand, but I promise it's easier - and more delicious - than you might think. In my experience, it can even be fun. Eating 30 different plant foods a week is not about being entirely-plant based, it's about introducing even more variety and choice to your menus. It's a great way to support your gut health, boost your immune system, and reduce the risk of chronic conditions like heart disease...

Celebrating the Everyday I don't know about you, but I'm finding the constant onslaught of rather alarming news to be a tiny bit wearing, and sometimes downright frightening. But other than avoiding the news, there really is not a whole lot I can do about most of what is happening. So I decided to fight back by celebrating the little things, the everyday stuff that seems like it does not matter, but that I would miss like anything if I couldn't do it anymore. And do you know what? It's really...

A heart shaped wreath made with roses and fresh flowers hung on a blue door

Hello February... I like to think of February as the month of all kinds of love - love for our friends, families, partners if we have them, our pets and fellow humans. There is so much going on in the world that is unsettling or even downright alarming, but if we focus on love, it can change our perspective and bring us hope. Even if you have mixed feelings about Valentine's Day or think of it as a bit of a "Hallmark holiday", looking at it as inspiration for a month of love can make...