This week I had a lovely few things to do: I went to a couple of relaxing yoga sessions, had dinner with my friends Sophia and Niamh, went to the cinema with my friend Becca, and spent the weekend with Ben, which included a lovely trip to Wightwick Manor – what a week!
WHAT’S INSPIRED ME THIS WEEK
As a fashion designer, and general creative type, I am constantly seeking inspiration wherever I am, and these posts are a way to document what has ignited something within me this past week. Whether its artwork I’ve seen online, photography that moved me, or a collection of colour in nature that kick-started a creative idea in my head, I’ll be sharing four ideas that have brought me joy in the past seven days.
R. READING
This week I finished An Unquiet Heart by Martin Sixsmith, the story of iconic Russian poet Sergei Yesenin.
I didn’t know anything of Yesenin’s life or work going into the book, but finished the novel feeling truly moved by his story. His personal struggles, set to the backdrop of a country slipping into the grips of communism, made for a very moving, and captivating, book.
I don’t often read historical fiction or fictionalised novels of historical figures’ life stories, but after enjoying this book so much I’m intrigued to read a few more.
E. EDUCATING
On Sunday Ben and I visited Wightwick Manor, a National Trust property, and had an incredibly lovely day.
As much as I love strolling around the grounds, looking at gorgeous old manor houses (and treating myself to a delicious National Trust sweet treat!) I also love learning about the history of the places we visit.
Wightwick Manor was particularly well preserved inside and we wandered around the house learning about what life would have been like to live there in the Victorian era.
P. PLAYING
On Halloween night my friend Becca and I went to see Hugh Grant’s latest film: Heretic.
I’m not usually one for horror films, but this was more of a psychological thriller than a traditional horror, and I actually quite enjoyed it.
Both Becca and I were left in shock at the end of the film, and we were definitely itching to get out of the cinema and discuss our thoughts, which is a sign of a good film I think!
As someone who grew up religious I loved the discussion of monotheism in the film, even if it did leave my mind feeling a little frazzled.
O. OBSESSING OVER
When thinking of something to write about obsessing over this week there was one clear answer: a restaurant I visited not once, but twice this week.
Quinto Lounge is a go-to for me, but this week I actually tried a new dish. I went out of my comfort zone and tried their prawn and chorizo orzo pasta, and it was absolutely delicious. I think that’s a new favourite dinner unlocked!
R. RECOMMENDING
It’s no secret that I love visiting old houses, palaces, and historical locations, so it should come as no surprise that I thoroughly recommend getting a National Trust membership.
If you’re 25 or under, like me, then it’s only £40 a year, and allows you unlimited access to lots of wonderful, and incredibly interesting, properties, across the United Kingdom.
T. TREATING MYSELF TO
I have been going to regular yoga sessions at the new yoga studio, I AM YOGI, that has opened in Sutton, and I am absolutely loving the chance to take a break and spend an hour being mindful.
The calming atmosphere, flickering candles, and invitation to take a step back from the stress of life, is very much needed, and I can’t wait to continue treating myself to improving my yoga practice.
Love Chloe x
