Be by the sea. On Cramond Island

I love the sea. Always have, always will. It’s in my blood. My grandpa used to joke that my family is part-selkie. Sometimes I half believe him. More than a few weeks without a shoreline and I get a little stir crazy. So, as one of my thirty things for being 30, I’ve promised myself … Continue reading

a new photo.

a fresh start

Hello, world. Yes, I have tons of how-tos from Homemade Christmas with which to regale you. And oodles of tales of the practically perfect holiday spent with family. And much joyous news to kick start this fresh, bright new year. But you know what? I’m finally over the jet lag and it’s too sunny to … Continue reading

Homemade Christmas

Can I just tell you how excited I am for Homemade Christmas? Sure, it’s because we’re poor. Sure, I’ve had at least two major meltdowns, blubbering about how my crafting skills are not up to the task and will not adequately convey my love. I’m over it. I’m excited. It’s been a month of brewed, … Continue reading

Homemade Christmas is Coming

…and it is starting to look delicious. I’d tell you all about it, but it’d ruin the surprise. More anon festive revellers.  Watch this space.

Thirty Things Update II

I have been remiss. I started this blog to ostensiby track my Thirty Things for Thirty Years project. I’m just over six months in, which by my reckoning means the sand in the hourglass has gone down by a third. I haven’t mentioned anything about this whole shebang in ages, what with international travel and … Continue reading

National Portrait Gallery of Scotland

On 1 December, something magical will happen. The Portrait Gallery reopens, to much fanfare I am assured. For the last few years the Gallery has been shut for renovations. While they were much-needed and I can hardly begrudge them the update, I eagerly anticipate its return to my weekend rotation of nerdy outtings.

Thanksgiving Treats

I love any holiday revolving around food. In celebration of this truly awesome day, I’m wallowing in past delicacies and the delights yet to come. Particularly the discoveries I made in Sharjah, and a little bit of traditional feasting too. A meditation on great foods. I know what you’re thinking. Who spends a morning thinking … Continue reading

Sharjah in rearview

This trip has been positively eye-opening. While I may leave Sharjah imminently, this experience has left me enlivened, positively brimming with exciting ideas. Thanks so much to @rupertbu @bodour @nouranoman @kalimat_ books and the Department of Culture & Information for their hospitality and support. Thanks to my drivers and tour guide for their wonderful insights … Continue reading

Sharjah: Comics & Graphic Novels

Britain is notoriously squeamish when it comes to illustrated work. Despite delivering excellent artists and writers like Alan Moore, Neil Gaiman and a bevy of other superstars – they still lack a mainstream following or any significant literary respect. Whether that’s the cause of or effect behind the cagey, insular and incredibly risk-averse market is … Continue reading