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Hi! I'm April J Harris

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April and Guy Harris standing by the Arc du Triomphe in Paris
Featured Post

Cosy Days, Seasonal Joys and a Little Paris Magic

Hello! How is it nearly the end of October already?! Frankly, I'm really not ready to say goodbye to this, one of my favourite months, so I've been thinking about ways to make the most of these beautiful last days of October as well as some lovely ways to welcome November. But first, a little peek behind the scenes. Behind the Scenes I'm sending this dispatch from Paris! As my husband is working, I have been exploring on my own most of the time, but we've managed a few quick lunchtime walks...

A collage of images including April standing on a stool taking a flat lay photograph of some clothes, images from Amazon studios, April drinking a cup of tea, and the view over the gardens and Rutland Water from the terrace at Hambleton Hall

Happy October! How are things in your corner of the world? Recently I have been thinking a lot about how little changes can make a big difference. It's not just about being healthy (although of course that is important), it's also about helping ourselves to feel nurtured and cared for so we can live in an atmosphere of growth and make the most of every day. Whether it’s finding delicious ways to make the most of what’s already in our fridge, adding more variety to the meals we cook, choosing...

April J Harris standing in a pumpkin coach in a pumpkin patch

Hello! Wherever you are in the world, I hope this finds you well! Today I'm thinking about all the ways we can welcome new seasons. I love getting ready for what I like to think of as the cosy season, creating snug corners to curl up in with a book and a cup of tea, and adding seasonal touches to the decor in our home. Planning autumn adventures is fun too. I'm very excited about a family visit to one of our favourite hotels in Rutland this weekend, and there's a trip to Paris coming up in a...

A selection of images from a weekend at Thornbury 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...