An evening of Burlesque

WARNING – pictures below contain scantily clad performers!

Good evening friends,

Yesterday afternoon, Callum and I stumbled across a advert for ‘An evening of Burlesque’, at one of our local theatres.
As luck would have it, we were free for the evening, and were able to purchase a couple of last minute tickets.

Neither of us had ever been to a Burlesque show, and didn’t really know what to expect, however, last night was more than we could have imagined.

Tickets were £26 each, for a show of just over 2 and a half hours, including an interval.

Not exactly a family show, but otherwise, there was something for everyone.
Singing, dancing, fire breathing, tap dancing, stunts, comedy, stunning costumes and of course the dazzling burlesque, I was absolutely mesmerised from start to finish.

All performers were incredibly talented, including fantastic comedic timing and interaction with the crowd.

‘The champagne glass show girl’
Something I’d always wanted to see but didn’t know it was still performed

If this dazzling act is touring near you, don’t hesitate to see them, you won’t be disappointed!

https://instagram.com/aneveningofburlesque?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=An evening of Burlesque

https://www.entertainers.co.uk/show/an-evening-of-burlesque

Kaya •

Totland Bay, Headon Warren Saturday Stroll

Good afternoon friends,

How is this weekend treating you so far?

Yesterday was glorious, almost Spring weather.
The sun was shining, I was warm and ready to stretch my legs. My fiance and I (warms my heart every time I say that), packed a picnic, a flask of coffee and drove out to Totland Bay.

Forgive me, I talk about the Island, (Isle of Wight), as if you know exactly where I mean – below is a lovely picture I found on Google of a map of the Island (Totland is the far left, under Yarmouth)

OOTD
Crazy town t shirt – from the merch table
Checked skirt – New Look
Black ankle boots – H&M
Parka in a pocket – Primark

Face
Foundation – B.Flawless Matte Foundation
Lips – Kylie Lip Kit in the shade Boujee
Eyes – Primark Amber Passion 9 pan Pallette
No 7 Eyeliner
No 7 Eyebrow Pencil
Benefit Hoola Bronzer
Revolution Ultra Face Base Primer
Bare Minerals Lashtopia Volumising Mascara

As we walked up hill, we passed a few dog walkers, and I could hear a group behind us.

I could feel my chest tighten at one point, we were walking up hill and chatting away, so my first thought was that I was feeling a bit unfit, we slowed down but I could still feel a bit if pain

The group were walking about 30 or so meters behind us, the paths were long and twisted, most of the time I couldn’t even see them, just hear them in the distance, then I realised my chest was tight because I was anxious.

I think where I only leave the house to do food shopping, to leave the house and be free to explore, to hear and see others around me without a mask, I guess subconsciously it made me uncomfortable.

It was a bizarre feeling, I was out in nature with my love, enjoying our exploring, and then reality hit with what the world’s gone through the past year. It happens, for anyone who’s felt the same, take a minute or 10, a deep breath, remember all the good that’s around you, and carry on.

I realise this is an over-share, but let’s be realistic, we’ve all done it and I couldn’t stop laughing …

The wave of anxiousness subsided, but then the realisation of how much I needed the loo hit.
I’m not going to lie to you, this happens.. and when nature calls, friends, sometimes you have to pick a spot, and pee behind a bush!
The views were glorious, but I was distracted by not only finding some bushes to hide behind so I couldn’t be seen, cursing myself for wearing tights, and preying some creature didn’t crawl up and bite my backside. How bloody awkward.

Anywho, that happened, my other half kept a look out and I wasn’t caught.

We made it to Headon Warren and took in the spectacular views, I haven’t visited here for years and forgot how beautiful the view was over the Needles.

We sat and had a little picnic on the beach which consisted of, Mixed cheese’s and meats on home made sour dough, chocolate chip cookies and cocktail sausages

Little collection of stones – I pick a few favourites and take them home to display in a glass jar – I do this every time we go to the beach

Two ladies to the right of us braved the calm waters for a swim, it looked freezing but they were laughing and had huge smiles on their faces for the time they were in the water.

It was lovely to just breath in the sea breeze, listen to the waves crash and relax.

We made our way back to the car by walking along the seafront, it had started to get alot busier, there’s always one or two who think they’re more important than others.

Even if social distancing wasn’t applicable, if you’re passing another party, move to one side, instead a group but 5 stood side by side strolling past others whilst they pressed themselves up against the wall to keep a bit of distance between them. The same walking up the cliff stairs, groups stopping and chatting mid step… Could you not?

We made our way up and back along the path smiling back at home owners sat in their gardens enjoying lunch with the radio playing.

Our looped walk of 3 and a bit miles was refreshing, I really need to get out more.

Kaya •

Blogmas – Scavenger Hunt

Good morning friends,

Sunday afternoon we took a stroll around the beautiful town of Brading.

Each Christmas, my other half and I, take part in a Christmas quiz.

The Christmas quiz is arranged each year by one of our family friends, who picks a town for us to explore with a list of scavenger hunt style quiz questions

The quiz of 40 questions took us just under 2 hours whilst we strolled around the quaint little town.

Friends and family would normally take part in the quiz together in teams, this year was different but fun all the same.

Perfect way to spend a crisp Sunday afternoon

Kaya •

Grease – Cinema Under the Stars

Good afternoon friends!

I hope you’re all having a wonderful Bank Holiday Monday!

Last night my mum and I wrapped up warm and headed out to the Old Barracks.

Each summer the Old Barracks hosts a free night time out door cinema event that screen a dozen or so films through out the summer.

Pictures in the park screen a variety of films, from Moana, The Greatestest Showman, Rocky Horror Picture show, and our favourite,Grease.

In past years you can turn up on the day and try and squeeze in on the lawn (if there’s space and parking) this year for obvious reasons, it was a little different.

We reserved our free tickets and wouldn’t be given entry unless we had a screen shot or printed confirmation of our tickets as there was limited space.

Parking for the evening was only £1, and tickets were checked at the entrance where there were cones to direct the one way system of one way in and out.

Everyone had social distanced themselves, and snuggled into their plot with blankets, foldable chairs, bean bags and cusions.

The cafe served hot and cold delights, Mr Whippy Ice creams, tubs of sweets, crisps, fries, pizza and popcorn.

Mama and I bought a big bag of crisps and a Flask of tea, sat comfy on our chairs with throws over our legs.

Doors opened from 6.30pm with the movie to start at 8pm.

After an hour and a half of booming crappy chart music, when the time came to actually start the film they had technical difficulties, so the film actually started at 8.30.

Maybe next time some funky music in theme with the film could be playing, and they cluld prep the film before the start time so we arent waiting around for 30mins? But anywho!

I’ve watched Grease more times than I can rememeber, but watching it on the big screen, under the stars with my mum, it was spectacular.

We sang every word to each song, grining with excitement before each started, perfect.

Yes we were sat in the dark, but you don’t have to encourage me to dress up a little.

Not overly different from my normal style, I took a little inspiration from the 50’s

Polka dots, Rita red lips, soft black eye shadow winged liner, pearl earrings and red nails.

Have you been to an outdoor cinema before? If so what did you watch?

Kaya •

Farmhouse Fayre (Supporting Local)

Good afternoon friends,

I hope you’re all keeping well!

Now more than ever, it is essential to support your local business’s.

For the past year or so we have been visiting Farmhouse Fayre, our local Green Grocers. Before lock down, we would visit every other Saturday to pick up our goods.

I dont know if its because I love to cook, or picking out your own fresh fruit and veg subconsciously makes you think your food will taste better? Who know? But our trip to the green grocers always out a smile on my face.

The staff there are so lovely, helpful and kind. They’re wonderful at recommending what might mix well for certain dish’s, how to cook/cut certain products, and what is best in current seasons.

They also sell hummus chips… do I need to say more?

Since lock down we haven’t been able to visit, which was disappointing, but had discovered they are selling online, and also now sell Fruit and Vegtable boxes.

Hold me back!

They offer 3 varieties of boxes; Medium £20 (pictured above), Large £30 and extra Large £50

The standard Fruit and Veg box generally contains the following (subject to seasonal variations):

2.5kg Isle of Wight potatoes (dirty)

3 x onions (m)

2 x red onions

1 x swede

1 red cabbage

1 x cucumber

5 x apples

5 x satsumas

3 x pears

5 x bananas

1 baby carrots

5 x tomatoes (large)

1 x garlic

500g red grapes

1 x lemon

1 x lime

2 x kiwi fruits

1 x little gem lettuce

1 x cress (punnet)

1 x cauliflour

Now that is a heck of alot for £20!

When ordering these boxes online, you have the option to Click and collect or your box can be delivered for free!

Before we realised you could get free delivery, the past 3 or 4 times, we have clicked and collected which will have you order ready in about 2-3 days where you can pick between 8.30am and 5pm.

The green grocers also sell a variety of local produce.

Meats, milk, Cheeses, eggs etc

And have recently paired up with another local shop, Grace’s Bakery, who we ordered a fresh loaf of bread from. It was delicious and smelt incredible.

Since recieving our boxes we’ve been able to increase our fruit and veg consumption.

Just to name a few, we’ve made, Soups, casseroles, burritos, pasta salads, fruit salads, cauliflour cheese, vegtable curries,stir fry, roasted veg, jacket potatoes, the list is endless.

The boxes also helped us to have a meat free week (blog to follow in the future) something I’ve always wanted to try but never have. With such a variety of gorgeous fresh ingredients it made it so easy.

Buying these fruit and veg not only takes the pressure off going to the supermarket, or waiting for an online delivery with at times, ridiculous delivery charges, but you’re also supporting local.

We have been trying our best to support local businesses over the past couple of months.

Buying fresh, local produce, and helping the community, is something we should all be taking part it.

Kaya •

Carisbrooke Castle

Good afternoon friends,

I hope you’re all keeping well this beautiful Monday!

Yesterday morning, my family and I went for a social distancing at

‘The Castle’… Carisbrook Castle.

This beautiful 12th century castle was the location of where Charles I was held prisoner, before being beheaded.

The castle is currently closed to the public due to the global current events.

Standard Admission for the castle grounds is around £12.50 for adults and £7.50 for children.

Inside the grounds includes A chapel,museum, the well house, with a working well, operated by Donkeys, And many other rooms to explore.

In all honesty I havent been in the castle for years, the merchandise and the admission fee are over priced,but the site is beautiful to view from the outside also.

Leading up to and around the castle walks are extremly popular with all, and you can enjoy it for free.

Children and adults riding their bikes, walks with the family, visiting the horses on the adjacent fields, or just parking up outside the castle to take in the view

Walking around the moat of the castle, which you can run up and down of (great fun for sledding when it very rarely snows)

Beautiful old walls around the castle, with the most beautiful views over looking Newport,

A variety of pathways leading off of the path to local footpaths to and other ventures.

With many hidden windows and doors around the site, you cant help but peak through, and maybe attempt to wiggle the handle.

I’m forever thankful for our island, the sites, the nature, the history and all that is there to be discovered.

Kaya •

Bank holiday Adventure

Good evening friends,

I hope you’re all keeping well, safe and making the most of this glorious bank holiday weekend.

Saturday afternoon, my boyfriend mum and I went on a little adventure. We drove out to a beauty town in the south of the island, St Lawrence.

I could of dressed better for the adventure, but again, my head wasnt in the right place, I havent left the house properly for a stroll in months, I has the correct shoes but I could of worn shorts and t shirt instead of black Jean’s and a hoodie.

It’s as if I forgot about how warm and beautiful our spring/summers can be.

We parked up and began our social distancing walk by strolling past some absolutly beautiful hidden homes.

I love walking past others houses and see how they’ve made it into their own, either with the plants, decor, ornaments and finishing touches.

I never have a reason to visit this part of the island, so often forget how beautiful and peaceful it is.

We were lucky enough to have the most beautiful weather, and only passed about a dozen others with children and dogs, all to which we said good afternoon and hello to each other, and all were respectful enough to social distance and stand 2 meters or more apart when passing.

Along the way we passed old churches, abandoned homes, homes that we’re getting a bit of TLC, old stone walls and monuments, and an abandoned railway.

My boyfriend and I popped our heads in, we were going to walk all the way to the end, but we’d already been walking a few hours and decided to give it a go next time.

All whilst my mum feeding us information about the gorgeous sites. She and my boyfriend have such wonderful knowledge about the island, I try my best to soak it in but it just doesn’t stick.

Either way, an explore with them made my weekend.

As we strolled through the town, through the fields and hidden enclosures, up and down some extremly steep hills, exploring every nook and cranny, we sat down on a few benches, tucked into some doughnuts and enjoyed the view.

A long walk on our beautiful island is exactly what I needed.The fresh air did me some good, hearing the birds sing, the leaves rustle, the fresh sea breeze, with not a care in the world. It’s been months since I’ve felt like this.

Rememeber to look for the little things that are still possible, that are beautiful and they’ll keep you going.

Kaya •

Cornerstop Café, Isle of Wight

Good evening friends,

Is there ever too many independent eateries? No, no there isn’t!

The Cornerstop Cafe opened 2 weeks ago, and I’ve been excited to visit there since!

Joint owners, Munshur and Jo and Manager Becky (Munshurs wife/Jo’s sister), have created a cosy and friendly cafe in the heart of the Island.

The cafe dines about 20 people, in a vibrant setting with comfy seating, large windows that let the natural light shine through and also gives anyone walking by food envy, with friendly staff and chilled music in the background, we certainly felt as though we had chosen the right spot for lunch.

The cafe offers a menu of hot and cold fresh food and drinks, sweets, and even a ‘soup of the day’. All which were extremely reasonably priced.

As well as trying new independent places to eat, I love trying out new coffee’s.

I’m quite fussy when it comes to coffee, as I like mine to be strong, without that bitter tang.

The Cornerstop Cafe use Puro Fairtrade coffee which is rich, smooth and flavoursome.

‘Puro Fairtrade Coffee is commitment to stop the exploitation of the third world, ensuring fair prices to coffee growers and saving rainforest and its species within coffee producing countries. Money from the sale of Puro is returned into the purchase and protection of rainforest reserves in the very countries our coffee comes from.’

I had a cappuccino, and a Tuna mayo baguette (with a variety of free salad fillings for you to customize your meal) whilst my partner enjoyed freshly made Pancakes with maple syrup, and a cuppa tea.

I had a bite of the pancakes (of course), and they were perfectly light and fluffy.

We couldn’t help it, and were tempted by the home made cakes. We shared 2 between us, the chocolate cake and the lotus biscuit slice.

My goodness, both were scrumptious, but I’d never tasted anything like the lotus biscuit slice, I should of asked for the recipe!

With a variety of alternative milks, gluten free bread, and home made vegan delights there is something avalaible for everyone.

The cafe also has a children’s s play area, and is dog friendly as well, which is perfect for families who want to relax and enjoy without the fuss.

As well as the fantastic menu, they also offer snacks on the go, and a £5 meal deal offer!

Crisps, chocolate, cold drinks and home made sandwiches packed, all ready to go, along with hot sausage rolls. What more could you want?

This delightful cafe is located at Newport Bus Station, and is open Tuesday – Saturday 8am to 3pm.

The freshly made meals, and cakes, the decision to supply alternative milks and breads, and the decision to use a fairtrade coffee supplier, this Independent family business have certainly put alot of love and thought into the cafe.

I wish them much success, and look forward to popping in soon for another slice of Lotus biscuit cake

Kaya •

Beer and Buses weekend 2019

Good morning friends, and happy Sunday!

Something very exciting has been happening on the Isle of Wight, The Classic Buses, Beer and Walks Weekend 2019!

The Isle of Wight Classic Buses, Beer and Walks Weekend is an annual event which is will take place over the weekend of the 12th/13th October 2019
A collaboration between the island’s branch of CAMRA (Campaign for real Ale) and the Isle of Wight Bus and Coach Museum first took place in 2014.
This event originally started as a way to use preserved buses and coaches on a modest network of routes linking pubs and other places of interest.
As well as a variety of Isle of wight Buses, the majority of the heritage vehicles visit from all over the country, which means this will be at the owners’ expense, with some travelling considerable distances to participate in this autumnal event.

Whether you’re taking part or just interested in these beautiful vehicles, a small number of them will be on static display at the Quayside in Newport.

This event relies heavely on volunteers who give their time to Marshall and to give information to those participating. The event has grown to the extent that it now makes a substantial contribution to the island economy at a traditionally quiet time of year.

This year, an amazing 19 routes will be operated, covering the majority of the island.
While travel on the special routes is free, users are encouraged to purchase a programme for just £7, from the Museum, Newport Quay and many other venues. Not only does this contain essential timetables, but also money-saving offers from certain participating venues.

By purchasing the programme you are supporting this fantastic event as Profits from the weekend are used to fund the Bus Museum’s various projects.

In previous years the money has helped toward essential projects which has included restoration and the maintenance of the museums building.

‘Beer and buses’ is a one of a kind autumn event for anyone weather you’re venturing solo, as a couple, or with a groups of friends. A unique and exciting activity to give people the chance to see another side of the island and explore dozens of local pubs that they may not have visited before.

Have you ever taken part in an event like this? And would you like to?

Kaya •