With January being the longest on record, ever, it was a relief that February was a short month and that Boris. finally shared his roadmap out of this seemingly never-ending lockdown!  I now have a my sugar waxing, manicure, pedicure, eyebrow tint and shape, back massage and facial, hair cut and colour booked!  I've also got a week in Cornwall in July, a few days in Devon to finally see our new great-niece, a couple of nights in a beach hut in Sussex and a reservation at The Ivy Marlow Garden!  That's just for starters ....!!

I am now wondering what I have been doing all year!?  I am determined to come out of lockdown more organised and clutter free than when I went in but still haven't quite got that right.  I guess it'll be a mad rush to get sorted, nothing like a deadline to focus the mind.

So what have I been doing to be fifty and fab this February?  Well the 'no spend February' wasn't exactly no spend!  It was 'less spend' until I attended a new season trends workshop with Stylist, Anita Feron Clark on Thursday, then I had a little online shopping spree.  I personally think February was too depressing not to have a few treats.  Nothing has arrived yet, quite a lot might be going back if it doesn't fit or suit.

So a little round up of what I have been doing lately ...

As I start to write this post, I can't even remember what we did for Mother's Day in the first lockdown ... which started the day after on 23rd March.  I think we had a takeaway roast from our local pub!  I know my children had organised an outing but it all had to change!  Anyway, it looks like we will be celebrating Mother's Day 2021 on Sunday 14th March, in much the same way, at home!  So I am bringing you a few gift ideas, continuing my Christmas gift theme of uncluttered gifting based on things that can be used or experienced.

Hopefully some ideas for things you might like and can give hints to your children, or some ideas to treat your own mum.  I'm really excited to share these ideas with you, some really gorgeous gifts ...

I thought I'd pop in and give you all a progress update on my online personal training and the return to structured workouts, an improved diet plus an l carnitine supplement I have been trying out.  How are you all feeling?  My little positivity boost from a couple of weeks ago didn't last and I am having to dig deep to find some enthusiasm for lockdown life. But exercise is helping, at least it adds some structure to my routine.

I started this new focus early in December, just before Christmas and at the time I did wonder if I was a bit mad but now nearly 3 months on I am so glad I started when I did.  Like everyone I did gain a few pounds during the first lockdown and my exercise took a back seat due to my son taking over the log cabin (gym) to work from home!

When I was having my usual catch up and accountability call with Drew last week, I said to him, this is the longest I have stuck at a regular workout plan - three times a week.  I was pretty committed when I did The Body Coach SSS Plan but that seems ages ago now and my workouts with Drew are much more personalised for my needs, therefore so much better!

This week we did my fitness assessment.  On zoom of course!  And I am so delighted, actually I am downright proud and I am going to shout about it - my progress is amazing!  And I am surprising myself!

A lighthearted and positive post to lift our spirits in a never-ending lockdown (although I spy better news coming)!  Last week on instagram I shared some of my simple pleasures and asked you for yours, so today I am sharing more ...  make a cup of tea, grab a biscuit and enjoy some simple pleasures!  And share yours in the comments below!

Plus it is my '5th blog anniversary' this week.  My first post was on 20th February 2016 and I cringe a bit now when I look back as I had absolutely no idea what I was doing, not sure I know much more now!  But I think generally I have improved.  I've kept my blog the same, not given it a facelift as actually I like it and it is easy for me to use and set up and I hope easy for you to find blog posts you are interested in.  But do get in touch if you have any feedback for me.  My main focus is to enjoy my blog, writing is my hobby, I am always delighted if a brand finds me but it isn't my sole aim, really I just like to help others.  I've had a few messages recently asking about menopause, I am always happy to help with general questions and see if I can point you in the right direction.