The first month of 2015 is over, and I can’t quite believe it. Everything is just going so quickly at the moment, and I’d quite like to just jump on a table and politely ask life to pause for a moment.
This month hasn’t exactly been the greatest. I’ve struggled with sleep (to the point of lying awake until the early hours, knowing getting up for work at 7am would be horrendous), been busy at the office, and had longer gaps between seeing my boyfriend. Coupled with desperately trying to gain some sort of summer internship, I’m stressed. But I’ve also picked up a few new favourites along the way…
Cheaper frying steaks. Not quite as meltingly tender or naughty-feeling, but a third of the price and still gives you the meaty hit. And they taste wonderful made healthy too! Just yum! You can have a read of my Asian Steak Salad recipe here.
Taking time out from a computer screen is something I’ve been meaning to do, but it never quite works out. So much to do, so little time and all that! This Line A Day diary is the perfect balance, and I’ve really enjoyed making a few moments to reflect on my day.
Baking! I posted about some Hot Toddy Cupcakes I made recently, and by the response you all liked the sound of them. I’m now developing a banana, coconut and rum variant for summer months!
In other baking news, Ruby (2013’s GBBO finalist) has written a book, and I received it for Christmas. I’m not sure why it hasn’t been raved about, as it is stunning. Admittedly I haven’t actually baked anything from it yet, but its the perfect balance of simple recipes, beautiful photographs and the science behind baking. I’ve read it cover to cover. Twice.
And whilst reading and reflecting, what better accompaniment that a good cuppa?! My parents bought me a Brown Betty teapot for my 21st, and it’s just the right size to get out two perfect cups. Not great when I’m trying to cut down on tea, but I’m limiting myself to one pot in the morning, and one in the evening.
Whilst I’ve been missing W like crazy, it’s been nice to have a weekend or two to myself. I’ve treated myself to yummy breakfasts played with a sous-vide attachment to my slow cooker, and generally chilled out. Blueberry pancakes made an appearance, and they were delicious!
I’ve also been intent on improving my health and fitness this month. Green tea has been making an appearance, though I am infusing it with extra lemon and a little honey to make it palatable! I’ve also been doing and enjoying some of the 30-Day challenges. The squat one is my ‘favourite’ although I seem to be struggling with the jump from 80 to 100 – my legs keep giving up in the nineties. The lunge and tricep dips are also being done, and once I get a mat I’ll be throwing myself into some of the ab ones too! Just need to find some enjoyable cardio (without aggravating the foot injury) now and I’m there…any idea?!
How has your January been? Any new favourites been discovered?
