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 Valley, easy ways to reclaim your summer even if it's your busiest time of year, a few easy seasonal treats, and lots of little ways to add joy, beauty and flavour to your summer days.

And if you are in the Southern Hemisphere, I have not forgotten you! These travel tips, ideas and recipes work beautifully year-round.

Behind The Scenes

I spent the majority of last week exploring London and collating some great experiences and travel tips to share with you in the very near future.

This week, my husband Guy and I took part in the James Martin Car Rally at Chewton Glen and Cliveden House Hotel with our 1977 Rolls Royce Silver Shadow II. I'll be sharing more of our adventures on my socials and the website, but you can see some snippets of the first day in my latest Instagram post.

Exploring the Loire Valley

From fairy-tale châteaux to quiet country towns and sun-dappled vineyards, our family road trip through France's beautiful Loire Valley was full of fun, flavour, and a few lovely surprises. I am sharing our full itinerary, including our scenic route through France to the Loire Valley and back, travel tips, things to see and do, and our favourite stops along the way on the website now.

Reclaim Your Summer

Sometimes, making the most of summer is just about slowing down and making space for what brings you joy. (To be fair, this is true of any season.) Check out my ideas and inspiration to help you reclaim your summer regardless of how much there is to fit in.

A Taste of Summer

Make dinner extra special with these easy summer desserts and treats.

Mixed Fruit Pavlova I'm remembering my late mother-in-law Avril and sister-in-law Gail with this well-loved family recipe. Tender crisp meringue, lovely light whipped cream and fresh fruit make Pavlova a delightful dessert. Get the recipe

Lemon Ginger Crinkle Cookies Just the thing with a cup of tea or cold drink on the patio, these cookies are fun and easy to make. Get the recipe

Strawberry Pudding Cake With strawberries in season, now is the perfect time to make this magical dessert. As it cooks, the batter separates into a tender cake with a luscious layer of fruity sauce! Get the recipe

This week I'm...

Links marked with an asterix (*) are affiliate links - If you purchase using these links it does not cost you any more, but I make a small commission. As an Amazon affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Reading - The laugh-out-loud funny Sorry I'm Late, I Didn't Want To Come - an Introvert's Year of Living Dangerously* by Jessica Pann

Watching - The Buccaneers on Apple TV+

Listening to - Everything Cookbooks - a podcast for writers, readers and cooks

Working on - The World of Jane Austen Jigsaw Puzzle* Working on a puzzle is one of my favourite ways to relax. I use a puzzle board* so I can tuck them away when I am not working on them.

That's all for now. However you are spending your summer, I hope you find lots of moments to savour.

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Thank you so much again for being a subscriber. Remember you can reply to this email with any questions, comments, suggestions or just to say hi. I love to hear from you. Warmly, April x April J Harris | Helping you make the most of life at home and away. ​Website | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest​