This month’s focus is Food and Drink. Ali writes about how to lose weight at the same time as avoiding hunger with her Slimming World group sharing tips, too (Pages 36 & 37). Sobriety appears to be on the rise, but how easy is it to avoid alcohol in everyday life? You’ll find a wealth of advice and information on Pages 32 and 33. If you’re parent to a wannabe mini baker, why not consider organising a Krispie Crazy birthday party? Vicki reviews the unique way of celebrating a child’s birthday on Pages 34 and 35.
Elsewhere, Charlie shares some excellent advice on how to save room when packing all your beauty products for your holiday (Pages 12 & 13). Pages 40 to 43 showcase some of the wonderful gardens open for you to visit this month - if you visit any of them, please let us know what you think!
So, until August, our key message has got to be: take time out whenever you can to focus on yourself - you are important, too.
Some of us will remember those days when people at work walked aimlessly from office to office, file under their arm, seemingly busy, as they booked endless meetings to justify their existence even though nothing ever seemed to materialise as a consequence.
Equally important was to be first in and last out of the office each day.
Post lockdown, many attitudes to work have shifted and staff are often disinclined to travel into the office as frequently as they once did, sometimes to the detriment of working relationships, team mentality and continuity. Post-pandemic labour shortages and intensified workloads for the remaining staff have become more commonplace.
Increasingly, many businesses now recognise the value of working smarter, not harder. According to new 2024 research conducted by Indeed Flex, (the online market place for flexible and temporary work), the number of UK staff suffering from burnout or stress has grown to concerning levels, doubling in 2023 compared to previous years, with 92% admitting
to having experienced stress or burnout during their careers.
Of added concern, recent data published by the NHS shows that almost 11 million fit notes were issued across England last year, with 94% being signed ‘not fit for work’. A large proportion of these were repeats, issued without any guidance or advice.
So, let’s look at ways to work smarter, not harder.
Working smarter begins with staff acknowledging that they work to live rather than live to work. Enjoying a job, a career that inspires them is important, but so too is making time to nurture relationships and external interests that feed their soul and provide valuable, satisfying down time. Breaking the cycle and introducing a different focus allows the mind to have a change of ‘scenery’.
In the early days of your business or career, you may have insisted on doing every aspect of the work yourself. You wanted to learn, understand what was involved and also ensure that quality control was maintained. But holding the reins so tightly precludes anyone else from becoming
fully involved, contributing new ideas or investing in better ways of doing things.
And trying to do everything yourself is often counter-productive. There could well be more important things you need to spend your time and focus your energy on.
Delegating responsibility to others allows them to feel involved in their work and care about the business. They can feel proud of their suggested ideas, especially if they are recognised, discussed and perhaps adopted. Engaged staff feel positive and valued.
It’s worth investing in staff training and appraisals once your business starts to grow, as this provides an opportunity to focus on staff development and clarify the direction the business is taking. Everyone can then discuss ways to work smarter and more efficiently. Plus, when you invest in your staff they feel relevant, involved and nurtured, freeing you to work on other areas of the business, or even take a break.
Some areas of your business may involve skills that you’re not proficient or even especially interested in. They’re outside your comfort zone, your area of expertise or may only occasionally be required. Working smarter means questioning if it’s worth outsourcing these tasks, rather than trying to master them yourself, especially if you’re labouring over your accounts, social media or health and safety, potentially costing you more in wasted time than it would to engage a professional.
And equally, just because a potential client approaches you doesn’t mean you have to accept their request. Sometimes recommending work to someone who’s better equipped is a smart decision and could pay dividends in the long run, helping you improve your reputation for integrity and become the ‘go to guy’ in your particular field. This is a proactive way to forge good cross-referral relationships with others in your network.
Working smarter also means making a commitment to regular breaks. A break provides an opportunity to detach from a problem, gain new insights and perspectives, often returning ready to deliver valuable new ideas and suggestions.
Even a 20-minute interlude can make a difference, teaching your mind and body to switch off and introduce a little distance between you and what you’re working on. You wouldn’t run a machine continuously at maximum capacity! Sometimes, letting it cool down avoids over-heating and ensures more efficient performance. It’s important to apply that principle to yourself!
Having interests away from work that distract, inspire and maybe even provide a different kind of challenge can deliver a positive stimulus into your life. Then, when you do return to work, you feel refreshed, recharged and ready to bring a motivated and enthusiastic approach back to your thinking. All ways to achieve a better work/ life balance as you work smarter, not harder.
Article By Susan Leigh
Susan Leigh, South Manchester counsellor, hypnotherapist, relationship counsellor, writer & media contributor offers help with relationship issues, stress management, assertiveness and confidence. She works with individual clients, couples and provides corporate workshops and support. For more articles, information or to make contact please visit: http://www.lifestyletherapy.net
McLaren Artura Review
The McLaren Artura boasts a 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine and an electric motor, unlike its purely fossil-fuelled predecessor, the 570S, which continued the English outfit’s tradition of using 4.0-litre V8 lumps.
To mark the launch of the new convertible Spider version, the coupe we’re testing has received a modest upgrade.
The Artura’s engine, which initially produced an impressive 585PS, has been uprated to 605PS. When combined with the electric motor, the total system output now rises from 680 to 700PS. An eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission compliments the powertrain.
Inside, you might be taken aback by how minimalistic the Artura is - but McLaren has tended to aim for few distractions in the cockpit.
For example, you won’t find a single button, switch or dial on the steering wheel, which, judging by its three dual-spoke carbon fibre and flat-bottomed design, is there for the sole purpose of you using it to drive as precisely (and quickly) as possible.
The Artura can go from zero to 62mph in 3.0 seconds flat, helped by an instant burst of torque (720Nm) from the electric motor when you move off the line.
That said, the Artura is built with civility and usability in mind. Its default start-up mode is
all-electric, enabling early risers to leave the garage without waking the entire street.
Once the engine revs, it sounds delightful and roars off like a caged lion to a (limited) top speed of 205mph. At all stages of the rev range, there is a lot of performance available, and overtaking is a joy and a piece of cake.
Of course, it is only a two-seater, but there’s plenty of room inside. Even taller adults won’t struggle to fit into the car, aided by the space created by the ‘scissor’ doors, which open upwards, creating a large gap.
You will also find several spaces to keep your belongings, and for a supercar, the amount of
room in the boot (underneath the bonnet) is 160 litres.
McLaren has worked wonders with the Artura. It is another excellent car to add to its British collection.
Fast Facts - Mclaren Artura, as tested:
• Max speed: 205 mph
• 0-62 mph: 3.0 secs
• Fuel economy: 58.8 mpg
• Engine layout: 2993cc twin-turbo V6 + e-motor
• Max. power (PS): 700
• CO2: 108 g/km
• Price from: £190,715 On the Road.
By Tim Barnes-Clay. Follow on Instagram: @tbarnesclay
Jobs To Do In The Garden For July
July is a month filled with vibrant blooms, fresh produce, and sunny days in the garden.
As we soak up the summer heat, there are plenty of tasks to keep gardeners busy and ensure a thriving garden. From tending to your flowers to harvesting your veggies, here are the top jobs to do in the garden for July.
1. Watering: With the intense heat of July, it’s crucial to keep up with watering your garden. Early mornings or late evenings are the best times to water your plants to prevent water loss through evaporation. Make sure to water deeply to encourage strong root growth.
2. Weeding: As your garden blooms, so do the weeds. Spend some time each week pulling up weeds to prevent them from competing with your plants for water and nutrients. Mulching can also help suppress weed growth.
3. Pruning: July is a good time to prune flowering shrubs, such as roses, after they have finished blooming. This encourages new growth and helps shape the plant. Deadhead spent flowers to promote continuous blooming.
4. Harvesting: If you planted vegetables in the spring, you may start to see a bountiful harvest in July. Be sure to pick fruits and vegetables when they are ripe to encourage further production. Regular harvesting also prevents overripe produce from attracting pests.
5. Fertilising: To keep your plants healthy and thriving, consider fertilising them in July. Use a balanced fertiliser to provide essential nutrients. Be sure to follow the instructions on the packaging to avoid over-fertilising, which can harm your plants.
6. Pest Control: Keep an eye out for pests in your garden, such as aphids, caterpillars, and beetles. Look for signs of damage on your plants and take action to control the infestation before it spreads. You can use organic methods like hand-picking pests or introducing beneficial insects.
7. Deadheading: To encourage continuous blooming in your garden, deadhead flowers regularly. Remove spent flowers to redirect energy into producing new blooms. This not only keeps your garden looking tidy but also prolongs the flowering season.
8. Mulching: Mulch helps retain moisture in the soil, suppresses weed growth, and regulates soil temperature. Apply a layer of mulch around your plants to keep them healthy during the hot summer months.
9. Planting: While the summer heat can be challenging for some plants, certain varieties thrive when planted in July. Consider planting heat-loving annuals like zinnias, marigolds, and sunflowers. You can also start planning for fall by sowing seeds for cool-season crops.
10. Maintenance: Lastly, don’t forget about general garden maintenance tasks like cleaning tools, repairing structures, and keeping paths clear. A well-maintained garden not only looks beautiful but also functions efficiently.
July is a busy month in the garden, but with proper care and attention, your plants will flourish throughout the summer. By staying on top of watering, weeding, pruning, harvesting, and other essential tasks, you can enjoy a thriving garden that brings joy and beauty to your outdoor space. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your gardening gloves, and get ready to dive into these exciting garden projects in July.
How To Save Space Packing Make-Up And Beauty Products For Travel
So, you’ve got a trip booked and decided that you’re only going to take a carry on suitcase with you.
This can only mean one thing - you’ve somehow got to squeeze all of your liquid into a TSA approved, quart-sized, resealable clear Ziploc bag. This has only got more and more tricky over the years. I don’t know about you, but as the years pass by, my hair and skincare routine just grows and grows. I could blame it on ageing or even the beauty industry, but if I’m honest, it’s probably just me. Either way it’s become increasingly difficult to leave
home without all of my hair, makeup products, moisturisers and creams.
Trying to fit all of your products into one clear TSA clear Ziploc bag is somewhat similar to a game of Tetris and we all know how challenging that can be!
Here are some tips to help you pack
• Use solids instead of liquids
• Try and condense your travel make-up to just the essentials, by sticking to a make-up look that’s natural and not too complicated,
this will ensure that you don’t lose valuable packing space with multiple products.
• If you can, try and opt for powders for exfoliants, dry shampoos and cleansers. There are many products that come in powder form, that you just simply mix with water.
• Bring samples - if you’re anything like me then you will have a drawer where you stash all your beauty samples. Samples are perfect for short trips and they practically take up no space.
• Buy some refillable travel sizes bottles/ pouches - having refillable containers on hand for your moisturisers, shampoos, shower gels, hair masks, conditioners and cleansers, will ensure you have the best skin and hair during your trip. Just remember, the trick is to only fill them as much as you actually think you’ll use. By factoring in how many days you’re going away for, this will ensure you maximise the space in your Ziploc bag.
Boots travel set - available at www.boots.com
Travelins 5-pack travel pouches (50ml) –available at www.travelins.co.uk
OneNine5 3-Pack of reusable silicone travel bottles - available at www.onenine5.com
Hi, I am Charlie, a former make-up artist originally based in Norwich. I have always been passionate about art and channelling it through creative makeup. I trained at Norwich City College in Fashion and SFX makeup. My work has been published both nationally and internationally.
Want to see more? checkout my Instagram - @ThePoutyLip
Nova Silver
July Favourites!
We are in the middle of summer now! Which means beach trips, BBQs in the garden, and long walks in nature. To celebrate all the lovely weather we are having, we have created a list of our top picks for summer 2024! Whether you are going abroad somewhere hot and sunny or enjoying the sun where you are now, keep reading to see our favourite pieces to wear in the summer!
Shiva’s Eye
Shiva’s Eye gets very popular in our shop around this time of year, not only because it’s a beautiful shell but it’s also the perfect piece of jewellery to buy and wear for a summer holiday! With brown and black bands carved into the shape of “Lord Shiva’s eyes,” it is known to be a truly powerful shell. The shell got its name from the Hindu god “Shiva” and is normally found in the waters of Thailand, Indonesia and Australia.
We have a wide range of Shiva’s Eye jewellery available in store, ready for those summer days. One of our favourite Shiva’s Eye sets we have in our collection is our round Shiva’s Eye pendant and earring matching set. This set is simple yet beautiful and is perfect for everyday wear.
Carnelian: The July Birthstone
The birthstone for this month is the beautiful Carnelian. Whether you have a birthday in July or you don’t and like to wear bright colours then this is the stone for you! Carnelian is known for its diverse range of different hues, ranging from pale orange, to dep reddish-orange and to even deep reddish- brown. The red carnelian is believed to bring courage and strength while as the orange carnelian has properties of creativity and joy. The carnelian also has healing properties including emotional balance, physical healing, and spiritual growth.
We have some beautiful Carnelian jewellery in store at the moment, including this gorgeous chandelier necklace which is perfect to wear on a holiday abroad! Or if you prefer something simpler, we have this lovely round carnelian pendant which is great to wear with a casual outfit or out in the evening.
Best Of Norfolk - Through The Lens Of Our Readers
Thanks to the wonderful photographs shared by our followers on Facebook, have a look at these amazing June images of our stunning region.
Charlotte Watlow - Sunset Over Trimingham
Helen Chapman - Norfolk Coastal Path At Weybourne
Helen Chapman - Topcroft
Charlotte Watlow - Signets
Charlotte Watlow - Tunstead, Norfolk
Dawn Mountain - Dosing Deer, Houghton Hall
Gav Jaynes - Sheringham Looking Towards Weybourne
Helen Chapman - Galeon Andalucia At Great Yarmouth
Alex Harvey-Jones
Dawn Mountain - Summer Solstice Moonrise At Walcott
Julie Pretty - Castle Acre Priory
Fiona Ellis - Mousehold Heath
Helen Chapman - Church Of St Michael, Flordon
Dawn Mountain - Houghton Hall, Anthony Gormley’s - Time Horizon Exhibition
Alex Harvey-Jones - Stiffkey
Charlotte Watlow
To be in with a chance of having your own photographs featured in the future, look out for our regular Facebook posts where you can add your images. Alternatively, send an email with your image and caption to: submissions@icenimagazine.co.uk
Helen Chapman - Weybourne
Charlotte Watlow
Focus On: Food & Drink
DINING OUT: NICCO STYLE
Derby
is a very popular city and attracts visitors throughout each year.
There is a modern Derby and also a most interesting Derby from past times. Derby grew from the period of the Industrial Revolution. When the railways came into being, during the 19th century, Derby became a major centre for locomotive and train developments, plus associated industries. The engineering aspect continued, with Rolls Royce and Toyota also carrying achievements forward, being further renowned examples of Derby’s success. Sports and world-class entertainments have audiences
and spectators enthralled regularly. Hotels, plus bars and restaurants, provide the requirements for today’s modern lifestyle.
I located award-winning Nicco Restaurant & Bar (opened 2021) in Derby. Featuring contemporary Indian dining, Nicco offers cuisine to an exceptional standard.
Papadums and Chutneys were perfect. To start my dining experience I chose Chicken Dosa (Crispy savoury Indian pancakes filled with chicken and served with sambar). Excellent to commence and to engage my taste buds. Certainly, confidence for the following courses was aroused.
I opted for Tandoori Sea Bass (Sea Bass fillets marinated in cracked coriander, chilli, mustard and lime. Served with Bombay potatoes and
salad) for the main event. The complementing flavours of ingredients warranted ‘Compliments to Chef’. Succulent and tender, the pleasures were outstanding. I added Mushroom & Garlic Rice and Truffle Naan for sides. Other very popular dishes included seafood, meat and vegetarian choices.
For dessert I selected Saffron Rasmalai. Rich and creamy, this completed the dining occasion perfectly. Quality wines and drinks offer a very impressive long list of cocktails and mocktails. Thank you to Head Chef, Surjeet, who, with the team, provides the skills to ensure all diners have a most enjoyable and memorable time.
Private events, parties and celebrations are regularly accommodated. Gift vouchers are available - could be a surprise for someone special? Regular, live music times are very well attended. The Weekend Breakfasts, Bottomless Brunch, Giant Combo and ‘Naanwich’ options have regular devotees too. Advance booking is very advisable. Thank you to Kam and Grace for their genuine welcome and excellent service throughout.
Highly recommended.
How Do You Feel About Food And Drink?
There are few things more convivial than sitting down and breaking bread with friends and family.
Typically, many families used to designate Sunday lunch as their sacrosanct, sit down together time, but increasingly now, as people are busier and have more demands on their time, Sunday has blended into the rest of the week and is often used to catch up on chores, like shopping, cleaning and gardening.
So, it’s perhaps even more important that we maintain regular check-ins with family and friends. All relationships need nurturing and certainly the important ones deserve quality attention, offering more than just quick updates and requests for chores to be done.
Certain times of the year remain associated with sitting down together over a relaxing meal. Christmas, Easter, birthdays, Bank Holiday weekends, maybe American Thanksgiving, are times when we typically make the effort to be together over a long, leisurely meal.
And with so many restaurants opening for longer hours, eating later gives ample
opportunity to be busy in the morning and schedule a later lunch/early dinner which doesn’t tie up the entire day.
Summer months are often a popular time to share food and drink, with people happy to dust off the barbecue, invite everyone round, ask that they bring their signature dish and a bottle or two and enjoy a relatively inexpensive catch-up with friends and family. Plus, if guests are eating outside it minimises the need to clean up afterwards. A few paper plates ensure that everywhere is quickly tidy again!
Eating what’s seasonally available is regularly recommended as being the healthiest option. Rather than expecting various fruits and vegetables to be available all year round, often having been transported across the world, stored in warehouses, treated and sprayed with a miscellany of chemicals and preservatives, we’re now regularly reminded that it’s healthier and more environmentally beneficial to eat local and seasonal produce. Plus, when we shop local we support our farmers and the farmer’s markets.
Also, growing our own food has increased in popularity, with waiting lists for allotments
becoming longer and longer. It’s a positive way to spend time together as a family and is a good way to educate children about food, as well as tasting amazing.
How is your personal relationship with food and drink?
Information regularly emerges about our heatlh, obesity levels and their correlation with what we actually consume. Several sources are keen to educate us on the importance of nutrition, providing options for us to shop conveniently for healthy, quality food. Local organic farmers, co-operatives or companies will often deliver to our homes as well as sometimes provide all the ingredients required to make a specific recipe.
There’s a growing focus on the importance of quality nutrition and how it improves our general health and wellbeing. Many of us are reducing our reliance on ready meals and processed foods. Cooking from scratch, following the TV chefs and their ‘easy to follow’ recipes is becoming more popular, as noted whenever someone like Delia Smith mentions a specific ingredient and the supermarkets are deluged with purchase requests.
Alcohol intake, too, has come under greater scrutiny with increasing numbers of us choosing to become alcohol free, drink less or restrict ourselves to an occasional drink. It may be because it’s dry January, Lent or that we’ve decided our home should become a dry zone. For others, offering to be the designated driver gives them an alcohol pass.
There’s greater popular interest in becoming healthy and allocating time for fitness and exercise, with gyms, cycling and walking clubs now part of many people’s weekly routines. Sports clubs, dance classes and yoga are available for all ages and provide opportunities to socialise and maybe meet up afterwards or enjoy an occasional night out. If that’s not feasible, personal trainers can usually be booked to suit most diaries.
Bars, clubs and restaurants usually offer an interesting menu of soft drinks, alcohol free beers, spirits and mocktails, so providing tempting alternatives to alcohol.
It’s important to consider the correlation between our health, efficiency levels, performance and what we regularly consume. Our diet impacts on our stress levels, quality of sleep and general mood. So, we should remember to read the labels on the foods we buy, even when purchasing something like breakfast cereal. We need to own and take responsibility for our health and wellbeing.
Yes, it’s good to relax the discipline at times, have an occasional ‘blow out’ and not be too inflexible and rigid. Though, often people find that as they feel fitter and healthier they’re less tempted or interested in unhealthy, less nutritious options.
Committing to fresh, home or locally grown food, having a minimal relationship with sugar, processed food and alcohol has been found to improve concentration, performance and overall health. Yes, it may take a little focus to remedy bad habits, but it’s so worth it!
Article By Susan Leigh
Susan Leigh, South Manchester counsellor, hypnotherapist, relationship counsellor, writer & media contributor offers help with relationship issues, stress management, assertiveness and confidence. She works with individual clients, couples and provides corporate workshops and support. For more articles, information or to make contact please visit: http://www.lifestyletherapy.net
Embracing Sobriety: How To Enjoy Food And Drink Just As Much
Living in a sober age does not have to mean sacrificing the pleasures of food and drink.
In fact, in many ways, it can open up a whole new world of culinary experiences and sensations. Whether you have chosen to abstain from alcohol for health reasons, personal beliefs or simply to lead a more mindful lifestyle, there are plenty of delicious alternatives to explore.
One of the most exciting trends in the food and drink industry in recent years has been
the rise of non-alcoholic beverages. No longer limited to sugary pop or bland mocktails, nonalcoholic drinks have evolved into sophisticated creations that can rival their alcoholic counterparts. How many times have you heard someone tell you how good one of these drinks taste? They certainly seem to be very popular! Craft breweries and distilleries around the world are now producing alcohol-free beers, spirits and wines that capture all the complexity and depth of their alcoholic counterparts without the intoxicating effects. From hoppy IPAs to complex botanical spirits to rich red wines,
there is a non-alcoholic alternative for every palate.
When it comes to food, the possibilities are equally enticing. In a sober age, we are more attuned to the subtle nuances of flavour and texture, and there is a growing appreciation for the art of cooking and dining without relying on alcohol to enhance the experience. Chefs and home cooks alike are experimenting with new ingredients and techniques to create dishes that are not only delicious but also nourishing and satisfying.
One of the key benefits of exploring alcohol-free food and drink is the ability to truly savour and appreciate what you are consuming. Without the numbing effects of alcohol, every bite and sip becomes a sensory experience, allowing you to fully engage with the flavours, aromas and textures of your meal. This heightened sense of awareness can lead to a deeper connection with the food you eat and a greater enjoyment of the dining experience as a whole.
In addition to the sensory pleasures of food and drink, there are also numerous health benefits to be gained from embracing a sober lifestyle. Cutting back on alcohol consumption can lead to improved sleep, increased energy levels and better overall health.
By focusing on high-quality, nutrientdense foods and beverages, you can nourish your body and mind in a way that supports your wellness goals and promotes longevity.
So, how can you make the most of food and drink in a sober age? Start by exploring the wide variety of non-alcoholic beverages available on the market today.
Whether you prefer a refreshing beer, a complex spirit or a rich wine, there is sure to be a non-alcoholic option that suits your taste. Experiment with different brands and styles to find your favourites, and don’t be afraid to try something new.
When it comes to food, think about how you can use ingredients creatively to enhance flavour and create a memorable dining experience. Consider using fresh herbs, spices and citrus fruits to add depth and complexity to your dishes, and don’t be afraid to try new cooking techniques or recipes.
Embrace the process of preparing and enjoying food as a form of self-care and self-expression, and let your creativity shine in the kitchen.
In conclusion, food and drink in a sober age can be a source of joy, inspiration, and wellbeing. By exploring non-alcoholic beverages, embracing the sensory pleasures of dining, and focusing on high-quality, nutrient-dense foods, you can cultivate a deeper appreciation for the culinary arts and nourish your body and soul in the process. Cheers to a delicious and fulfilling journey of food and drink in a sober age!
Krispie CrazyThe Birthday Party Experience
My daughter turned 9 last month, which feels impossible as it’s only five minutes since I was cradling her to sleep, watching endless episodes of In The Night Garden and encouraging her to say Mama.
We love a good birthday party - especially so since lockdown meant she wasn’t able to connect with her friends. Although inviting-thewhole-class parties are long gone, she still likes to celebrate with a select group of friends. And one day, I was chatting to Claire from Krispie Crazy to discover she was starting to run parties - I didn’t even give it a second thought!
Claire comes from a teaching background and has two daughters herself, so I know she has the required patience levels and necessary teacher glare to keep things under control. She is also a lovely, kind and caring person, who my daughter warmed to immediately.
Krispie Crazy’s parties comprise a demonstration of buttercream icing and fondant techniques followed by the chance to decorate four cupcakes of their own, which they
take home instead of (or as well as if you want!) a traditional party bag.
Each child was provided a Krispie Crazy apron to keep their party clothes clean with an extra special one for the birthday boy or girl that says “It’s My Birthday!” This was a lovely touch that my daughter really appreciated.
My daughter and her friends really enjoyed the experience and produced a range of creative designs using the techniques demonstrated by Claire. They all seemed to have fun and the comments afterwards were positive.
We hired a bouncy castle, too, as small groups for the decorating is best - that kept everyone busy and entertained.
Honestly, we can’t recommend this party offer from Krispie Crazy enough - she was fantastic as was everything she did with the kids. At £12 a head, it’s definitely value for money!
For more information, head over to the Krispie Crazy Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/krispiecrazy/) or email Claire: Krispiecrazy@gmail.com
Losing Weight... And... Never Feeling Hungry!
When I saw the theme this month was food and drink I got very excited because at Slimming World we love food!
My favourite things about Slimming World is that you don’t have to go hungry whilst losing weight and you can cook all your family favourites by learning about the swaps you can make and how to cook foods differently.
Here are some tips for eating the foods you love whilst focusing on your health.
1. Protein rich foods:
Eating foods high in protein is great for filling you up, helping you feel satisfied and then you
are less likely to snack on things you are trying to avoid that have higher calories. Protein rich foods include meats, fish, beans, peas and lentils. At the weekends I pre-cook bacon and chicken and have ham in the fridge as my snacks. Many of my members pre-cook eggs and have them ready to enjoy.
2. Prepping foods: Many members share that having foods cut up or pre prepared helps them not to grab the foods they are trying to avoid, especially when you come in from work or the school run hungry. For example, having apple and melon cut up or grapes and blueberries ready to eat.
3. Alcohol swaps:
As we are now in the summer months we might be wanting a glass of something in the garden but know alcohol has calories (some types more than others!) so you might be feeling in a dilemma about what to do. A great tip is to trick your brain by enjoying your favourite diet drinks in a wine glass or add lots of fruits to make them feel like a real treat! Some shops also do sugar free mocktail drinks.
Here are some of my group’s favourite foods and drinks to help them enjoy food and still lose weight.
Tina said: ‘My top food is vegetarian chilli - big pot and graze on it all day. Also can be served with almost anything and you never feel like you are missing out. My go-to is also Linda McCartney rosemary and red onion sausages, especially cut up and eaten cold throughout the day.’
Vida also agreed with the chilli - ‘Low fat mince. Cook a big pan and divide it up. Chilli, spag bol and cottage pie can be made out of it and put in freezer.’
Vida, myself and many members love making home made chips, Vida preps her so she always has some cut up and ready to put in the oven. I use a crinkle cutter and like to add bacon and some cheese on top!
Veronica’s go to is ‘Little chicken drumsticks.. cut skin off and bake’. You can even add your
favourite herbs and spices. Veronica also stocks up on her favourite diet drinks.
If you would like more tips, support and food ideas, Slimming World groups happen throughout the week offering this 52 weeks of the year!
Slimming World have also recently launched their own delicious, healthy recipe boxes, delivered to your door: https://slimmingworldkitchen.co.uk/ making it super easy to try meals for yourself!
Hi, I’m Ali, a Slimming World Consultant in Old Catton and Thorpe Hamlet in Norwich. As a slimmer myself and a parent, I love to bulk cook, making family friendly meals. I am passionate about helping people achieve their goals and feeling healthier and confident.
If you or someone you know would like to lose half a stone or more I would love to hear from you! Get in touch to find out more about Slimming World groups: 07835111224.
Discover The Joy Of Garden Visiting In July
In A Private Garden Open For The National Garden Scheme.
Our garden owners work hard to prepare for their open days so why not support them and discover the joy of garden visiting.
A delightful variety awaits, from enclosed City spaces to Country Estates. Large or small there is something for everyone and children go free.
Norwich boasts the secret garden of the Bishop of Norwich, also a former Victorian cemetery Lodge garden, and a modern selection of charming compact gardens. Just east of the city is the opportunity to have an evening guided tour of a restored Victorian walled garden, whilst to the south an accordionist plays in his garden at Stoke Holy Cross.
There is plenty of space to roam in the gardens of Salle Park, Lexham Hall and The Long
Barn, while a knot garden has been designed at Swanton Abbot. A splash of colour and a plantsman’s garden at Dereham, while in the conservation village of Castle Acre a group four individual gardens open their gates. You will find two gardens opening together for the first time situated in the rira; village of Tittleshall.
Sunday 7th July
BISHOP’S HOUSE, BISHOPGATE, NORWICH NR3 1SB
1-4.30 adm £5 chd free. Wheelchair accessible. Home-made teas. No dogs. 4 acre walled garden dating back to C12. Extensive lawns with specimen trees. Borders with many rare and unusual shrubs. Herbaceous borders flanked by yew hedges. Rose beds underplanted with hosta, a meadow labyrinth & organic kitchen garden, herb garden and bamboo walk. Plant sales. Children’s trail.
Walled Garden Plumstead
Wednesday 10th July
THE WALLED GARDEN, LITTLE PLUMSTEAD, NR13 5FA
Evening opening 6-8. Guided tour £10 prebooking essential. ngs.org.uk. Richard Hobbs will be taking two guided tours, each for 20 people. A special treat to see the recently restored fine Victorian walled garden. Heritage apples and pears against the brick walls. There is a cutting bed, alpine, herbaceous and shrub areas and a Victorian-style glasshouse.
Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th July
OLD MANOR FARMHOUSE, THE HILL, SWANTON ABBOTT, NR10 5EA
9.30-5.00 adm £5 chd free. Home-made teas. Dogs allowed. Visits also by arrangement. Originally a field surrounding a formerly derelict C17 listed farmhouse (not open). The garden structure was laid down as sympathetic to the Dutch style of the house. Closed knot garden of box surrounded by pleached hornbeam, pollarded plane trees. Beech and yew hedges divide areas and flank walks. Herbaceous borders and lawns, clematis & rose walk to potager and paddock.
Sunday 14th July
SALLE PARK, SALLE, REEPHAM, NR10 4SF
10-4 adm £6.00 chd free. Home-made teas in the Orangery. Partial wheelchair access. Fully productive Victorian kitchen garden with original vine houses. Double herbaceous borders, icehouse, and Norfolk heritage fruit orchard. Third year of no dig. Formal Georgian pleasure gardens with yew topiary, rose gardens and lawns and freshly planted Orangery.
Wednesday 17th July
LEXHAM
HALL LITCHAM, PE32 2QJ
11-5 adm £8.00 chd free. Home-made teas. Dogs allowed. Parkland with lake and river walks surround C17/18 house (not open).
Formal garden with terraces, roses and mixed border. Traditional working kitchen garden with crinkle-crankle wall. Year-round interest with the walled garden at its peak in July.
Sunday 21st July
BRACONDALE GARDENS, NORWICH, NR1 2BB
14 CONESFORD DRIVE, NR1 2BB
18 CONESFORD DRIVE, NR1 2BB
1 WOODSIDE COTTAGES, BRACONDALE, NORWICH NR1 2AY, 10.30-4.30 combined adm £7.00 chd free. Light refreshments on green next to 1 Woodside Cottages. Compact town gardens a short walk apart and each with a different character, situated not far from Norwich City Centre. Lush planting of fruit vegetables and flowers welcome you at the side of 14 Conesford Drive, a 1960s modernist house, leading to a densely planted cottage garden of carefully selected perennials and climbers. 18 Conesford Drive is a professionally designed and planted garden with restrained plantings of herbaceous flowers, climbers and small shrubs which gives the garden a Japanese feel. A small pond contains white waterlilies. 1 Woodside Cottages is a small cottage garden packed with colourful plants both perennial and annual as well as ornamental and edible. The resident chickens are also decorative. A small pond supports a multitude of frogs.
CASTLE ACRE GARDENS, KING’S LYNN, PE32 2AN
EGERTON HOUSE, BACK LANE, HIGHFIELD HOUSE, BACK LANE ORMONDE HOUSE, STOCKS GREEN
TUDOR LODGINGS, PALES GREEN
10.30 - 4.30 combined adm £10.00 Home-made light refreshments and teas at Tudor Lodgings.
Castle Acre is a historic conservation village with castle, priory and river walk. The four delightful gardens will provide the visitor with interest and inspiration. Park at Tudor Lodgings and explore
the two acres that fronts a C15 house (not open) and incorporates the Norman earthworks. Lawns, topiary, perennials, hot border, cutting garden and wild area around a pond. Walk up the road and slip through the back garden of Ormonde House, south facing and planted with mixed shrubs, perennials and annuals. Within walking distance is Highfield House where ¾ acre has evolved over 30 years and is well planted with herbaceous borders, wild meadow and pond, and neat vegetable area. Nearby is Egerton House, opening for the first time and has a good mix of sun & shade loving plants, a patio with pots, small pond and very productive vegetable area. Walk back down to Tudor Lodgings for delicious teas on the lawn.
DUNBHEAGAN, DEREHAM RD, WESTFIELD, NR19 1QF
1-5 adm £5 chd free. Home-made teas. Partial wheelchair access. Dogs welcome. Rare and unusual plants grow with the more recognisable. Explore the many paths through densely planted borders which make a riot of colour. Plenty of seating.
Cokesford Farm
NORTH LODGE, 51 BOWTHORPE ROAD, NORWICH, NR2 3TN
11-5 adm £5 chd free. Home-made teas. No dogs. Magical town garden surrounding Victorian Gothic Cemetery Lodge. Strong structure and vistas which include a classical temple, oriental water garden, formal ponds link with winding pathways with a surprise around every corner! Predominantly herbaceous planting. Carnivorous and succulent collection in handbuilt conservatory.
2-5 combined opening with Woodford Lodge, adm £6.50 chd free. Home-made teas at Woodford Lodge. Dogs allowed. Twoacre farmhouse garden well planted mixed borders, lawn and ha-ha. Extensive views over farmland and lake. Parterre, vegetable garden, orchard and short woodland walk.
WOODFORD LODGE, TITTLESHALL, KINGS LYNN PE32 2PF
2-5 Combined opening with Cokesford Farm, adm £6.50 chd free. Home-made teas. Dogs allowed. An acre garden around C17 farmhouse with Georgian brick front (not open). Comprises 10 different areas, including 80ft rose walk, labyrinth, herb parterre, rill, walled pool, pots and raised vegetable beds. Variety of colourful planting combining leaf colour and texture to create contrast.
DALE FARM, SANDY LANE, DEREHAM, NR19 2EA
10.30-5 adm £6 chd free. Home-made teas. Visits also by arrangement. Partial wheelchair access. Dogs allowed. 2-acre plant lovers’ garden surrounding large spring-fed pond. Exuberantly planted borders with over 1000 plant varieties. Sculptures, gravel area, & vegetables. Over 100 varieties of hydrangea. Music during the day. Wide choice of plants for sale.
11-5 adm £4 chd free. Light Refreshments. Partial wheelchair access. Also open by arrangement. Seating areas, arches, flower borders, pond, vegetable plots & greenhouse all make up this 1/3 acre, which is packed with colour. Craft stall and accordionist playing.
THE LONG BARN, FLORDON ROAD, NEWTON FLOTMAN,
NR15 1QX
10.30 – 4.30 adm £6 chd free. Home-made teas. Partial wheelchair access. Informal garden with Mediterranean influences; gnarled olive trees, figs and vines, plus herbaceous borders. Plenty of seating in paved courtyard under pollarded planes trees. Views over ha-ha to ancient parkland. Park and woodland walks.
NORTH
LODGE, 51 BOWTHORPE
NORWICH, NR2 3TN
ROAD,
11-5 adm £5 chd free. Home-made teas. No dogs. Magical town garden surrounding Victorian Gothic Cemetery Lodge. Strong structure and vistas which include a classical temple, oriental water garden, formal ponds link with winding pathways with a surprise around every corner! Predominantly herbaceous planting. Carnivorous and succulent collection in handbuilt conservatory.
County Organiser Julia Stafford Allen who will be opening her garden in Castle Acre says, ‘It is a delight to be able to share the garden with others at this time of year and to help raise money for health and nursing charities.’
About National Garden Scheme
The National Garden Scheme gives visitors unique access to over 3,500 exceptional private gardens in England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Channel Islands, and raises impressive amounts of money for some of the UK’s bestloved nursing and health charities through admissions, teas and cake.
Thanks to the generosity of garden owners, volunteers and visitors we have donated more than £70 million to our beneficiary charities, and in 2023 made donations of over £3.4 million.
Founded in 1927 to support district nurses, we are now the most significant charitable funder of nursing in the UK and our beneficiaries include Macmillan Cancer Support, Marie Curie, Hospice UK and The Queen’s Nursing Institute.
The National Garden Scheme doesn’t just open beautiful gardens for charity - we are passionate about the physical and mental health benefits of gardens too. We fund projects which promote gardens and gardening as therapy, and in 2017, we launched our annual Gardens and Health Week to raise awareness of the topic.
Our funding also supports the training of gardeners and offers respite to horticultural workers who have fallen on difficult times.
To find your perfect garden, visit ngs.org.uk, download the National Garden Scheme app or purchase the National Garden Scheme’s Garden Visitor’s Handbook, which is published annually and available via ngs.org.uk/ shop and at all good book retailers.
Castle Acre Tudor Lodgings
ICENI ANAGRAMS
Food anagrams - do you know your stuff when it comes to this topic? The following five anagrams are all traditional dishes from the British Isles.
Don’t forget to email us your answers to be in with a chance of winning an Iceni Magazine pen! Solve all five and send us an email to: submissions@icenimagazine.co.uk. UK residents only.
ESME SNOT - an untidy way to end a posh meal.
BENNIE FELT GLOW - a main course for Arthur Wellesley?
TIPSY ANCHORS - popular lunch with PGI status
GIPSY HOUNDER DIRK - starter or main course accompaniment in God’s own county
