The Falcon, Bletsoe

The past couple of weeks have been packed with goings-on, so please forgive my absence. I've been indulging my social side a little too much! But this does mean that I have a lot to catch you up on.

Indulgence has definitely been the theme for the last fortnight. Catch-ups, meals, visiting friends, and more on the way, I'm starting to feel frayed around the edges. But I wouldn't change it!

Not that all of my time has been spent exerting myself, or doing particularly strenuous activities, there has been some much-needed down time too. Some of which was spent enjoying a delicious Sunday lunch at a gorgeous pub in Bedfordshire.

Venturing out for a Sunday roast is always a dangerous thing to do. Appealing in thought, they never quite live up to expectation, with nostalgic thoughts of your mum/nan/aunt's Sunday fare springing to mind, and the knowledge that you have just paid for something not up to their standards. That was not the case when we took a trip the The Falcon in Bletsoe, a beautiful 17th Century pub set on the banks of the River Great Ouse.

Having discovered that I'm gluten intolerant, I've become increasingly wary about eating out. Despite the fact that many places offer gluten-free options, they are frequently limited, bland or just unpleasant. I needn't have worried. The Falcon managed to cater to the changes I needed, without it feeling like I'd drawn the short straw.

Feeling indulgent (there's that word again), we had baked camembert to start. Served with roasted garlic and a fig jam, it was delicious. Gooey hot cheese, fragrant garlic and sweet figs, it was delicious.

I always become indecisive when it comes to having a roast. Do I take the safe bet and have the chicken? Or do I risk the beef, hoping it doesn't arrive grey and dry? (I genuinely do put this much thought in when it comes to food. Don't judge me!) In this case, I was more trusting, as I'm lucky enough to know the chef! I've been treated to Martyn's cooking for years, so I knew I was in for a treat. I opted for the roast beef with all the trimmings, which I could have, because all came in a gluten-free option. As usual he didn't disappoint. It was one of the loveliest Sunday lunches I've had for a while (sorry Mum). Reasonably priced, it didn't break the bank, it's a beautiful setting, and the staff are lovely. All in all a perfect Sunday afternoon.

Had the weather been warmer, I'd have been tempted to go for a stroll after lunch. As said above, the pub is set on the river, and is in a beautiful rural location, so if you decide to visit, why not go for a wander to work off your lunch?

Take a closer at The Falcon here - http://www.thefalconatbletsoe.co.uk/, in case you don't fancy a roast. But who wouldn't?!

Guest blogging for a good friend

I started up A Little Bit of Everything for several reasons. It has encouraged me to get out and about, seeking stories to share. I wanted to share recipes and crafts that I've tried. I wanted an excuse to improve my photography. The main reason being that I love to write, and this wonderful creature has given me the means to practice and improve.

So it meant an awful lot when recently, a good friend of mine and fellow blogger, Michael Green, asked me to write a guest post for his website, discussing the local music scene in our town, and the way in which aspiring musicians, artists and writers can make a name for themselves.

I've a huge amount of time and respect for Michael. A huge talent and immensely hard worker, Michael has been honing his talents as a musician and songwriter for years. He has been working on his own blog for some time, and has been a massive influence on me since starting up, so I grabbed the opportunity to write for him with both hands. It's been an absolute pleasure, and it would mean the world if you'd take the time to follow the link below and take a few minutes to read it. A lot of love went in to it. I hope you enjoy it!

Find my guest post at http://www.michaelgreenmusic.com/blog/4590375066/From-open-mic-nights-to-your-name-in-lights-(The-Bedford-music-scene)/10507050.

Competition Time!

Yesterday saw the release in the latest edition of my new Independent Business series, and a review of the lovely Kelly's Kels Belles Beauty Bedford (found here http://lilysalittlebitofeverything.blogspot.co.uk/2016/02/independent-businesses-kels-belles.html). Thanks to all of you lovely people out there reading, and the post's success, Kelly has offered a competition!

If you'd like the chance to win a set of Gelish nails and cuticle oil, pop over to Kels Belles Facebook page here https://www.facebook.com/Kelsbellesbeauty/?fref=ts, and like and share the competition post.

Likewise, you can make your way to the brand new Lily's A Little Bit of Everything Facebook page and find the post there and do the same - https://www.facebook.com/lilysalittlebitofeverything/?fref=ts.

Good Luck to all of you that enter!

Independent Businesses - Kels Belles Beauty Bedford

As I've been telling you all recently, I've been embarking on a mission to write up about independent businesses. It's so easy to visit your nearest chain store and pick up what you need, but what these places offer in convenience, they lack in the personal experience. Independent business owners are a huge part of our community and require support and our custom to thrive. Having asked my friends for suggestions about who I could post about, I was put into contact with Kelly-Marie Parker, the lovely owner of Kels Belles Beauty. She invited me down for a chat and to get my nails done, so on Saturday I paid her a visit.

The first impression you get as you wander down to the salon is just how quaint it's surroundings are. Based in Clair Court on Lime Street in Bedford, you would never know that you were in the centre of town. Quiet, relaxed and charming, Kels Belles is set in a lovely courtyard, removed from the noise and fuss of the high street.

As I entered, I was greeted by Kelly. At 26, Kelly has been running her own business for 2 years, and set up the salon last May. It's gorgeous. Elegant to look at, with soft colours and a cozy space, there's clearly been a lot of work put in. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, the staff equally so.

I sat down at the nail station and Kelly helped me pick a colour whilst she talked me through the products she uses. She clearly knows her stuff, and invests time into looking for the best products possible. I commented that her prices are so reasonable that her mark ups can't be huge. The lovely thing about Kelly is, as she stated herself, she'd rather keep prices low and know that her customers will come back to her because of the quality of her products, rather than charge people a fortune and lose their custom in the long run.

I went for a beautiful heather tone for my nails and Kelly set to work. We chatted as she worked on my nails, and I was struck by what a forward-thinking business woman she is. Having worked in beauty for 8 years, Kelly has worked her way up the ladder and has no plans on stopping yet. About to embark on a teaching qualification, she told me that she'd like to get to a point where she can train others in certain products, and would eventually like to open more salons.

We spoke about how Kels Belles came about, and it was simply that she set her mind to it, worked hard, and is now reaping the rewards. As Kelly stated herself, "It's easy if you think positively".

Offering a multitude of treatments, Kels Belles may be small but it has a huge amount to offer. Gelish nails, Lycon waxing, hair treatments, lashes, spray tans, the list goes on. The biggest deal currently running at the salon is the HD Brows treatment. Currently 50% off the first treatment, so get down there quick! I've already had my patch test done ready for my next visit.

One of the treatments Kelly is really proud of is the Lycon wax. An all-natural, hot wax, Lycon can remove the smallest, finest of hairs and is hugely popular. Unlike regular waxing, Lycon can be used in the same place several times and is great for those of you with sensitive skin, and even pregnant women. Kelly assured me it's less painful than regular waxing, so I may even be brave and give it a try!

Visiting the salon was a truly lovely experience. Kelly and Ashley, the resident hair stylist, are friendly and chatty. Too often, you feel rushed and awkward at nail appointments, just the next in a long line of people waiting their turn. This could not be less true of Kels Belles. Even the other customers got involved in the conversation, giving the morning a social, fun feel.

At the end of my treatment, I was left with gorgeous nails and a pampered, content frame of mind, plus some lovely cuticle oil to keep my nails looking wonderful on the recommendation of Kelly.

Kelly is hoping to host a special 1st birthday gathering for the salon, so as soon as I hear anything I will keep you posted.

You don't just get a treatment when you visit Kels Belles, you get and experience, and leave feeling like you've made new friends, you really can't ask for much more. This is definitely one to watch, I have a feeling Kelly and the Kels Belles team are going to go far. Pop down for a treatment or two, you won't regret it!

If you want more information about Kels Belles, you can find the salon on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/Kelsbellesbeauty/?fref=nf, the website will be up soon, and there will be more photos to follow, so keep your eyes peeled.

Roasted Red Pepper, Red Onion and Garlic soup

On my quest for finding anything that I'm allowed to eat now that gluten is out of the question, I stumbled on a soup I thought you might like. Packed with vegetables and spice it's a healthy option too.

Adapted from a Nigella recipe (hers is roasted tomato and red pepper base, and as much as I love the tomato I just didn't fancy it this time), it takes about an hour and 10 to put together, but, whilst a lengthy process, it's worthwhile, trust me. This can work for those of you with soup makers and those of you making it the old-fashioned way.

Ingredients include:

• 2-3 red peppers (capsicums), roughly chopped
• 1-2 red onions, roughly chopped into large pieces
• 6-8 cloves of garlic, depending on how much you like it, with skins kept on
• 500ml gluten-free vegetable stock (I used Knorr cubes, but if you don't have to be gluten-free, feel free to pop whichever ones you have to hand in there)
• 1 tsp sriracha (suit to your taste, it can be very spicy)
• 1 tsp ground cayenne pepper 
• olive oil
• salt and pepper

Firstly, heat your oven to 200c. Whilst you wait, chop up the red pepper, red onion, and separate your cloves of garlic, coat in olive oil and season with the salt and pepper.

Pop on a baking tray, spreading the vegetables out evenly and roast for 30 minutes, or until the peppers start charring.

If you have a soup maker (I use a Morphy Richards Soup & Saute), pop the vegetable stock, peppers and onion into the jug. Gently crush the garlic cloves with the flat of a knife and squeeze out the flesh into the mix. Add the sriracha and cayenne pepper - adapt the amounts to suit your taste - add a little more salt and pepper if you would like. Put the lid on and select the 'smooth' setting.

If you don't have a soup maker, place all ingredients (remembering to remove the garlic skins) into a pan and blend with a hand blender until you have a smooth, thick consistency.

The beauty of this is that you can season it to your tastes, or add extra ingredients to suit you. It's a great base for a variety of recipes, or tastes wonderful on its own. It might not be the prettiest dish, but she's tasty and good for you, you can't ask for much more than that!

Wychwood Wonderings and no wine

Happy mid-week all! Most of us are now on that happy slip-slide towards the weekend, content that Monday can't hurt us for another few days. Unless, of course, you're one of the poor unfortunates working at the weekend. Like me.

Not that I have much to complain about. Weekend work is a rare occurrence for me these days, and the few that do get added onto the end of the working week incorporate a part of my job that I really enjoy. However, last Saturday was a real treat, so this one is bound to suffer in comparison.

Saturday afternoon/evening was spent wandering around the quite charming and very quaint Wychwood Brewery, home of some of my favourite tipples (I have a few). Tucked away in a quiet nook in Witney, Oxfordshire, Wychwood have become a serious competitor in the real ale market.

Even HRH is a fan!

Their staple, Hobgoblin, is the 2nd most popular bottled ale in the UK, 1st at Halloween, having adopted the title of unofficial Halloween beer.

Just a regular Sunday evening in...

I bought the tickets as a birthday gift, and they are a complete bargain. For £8.50 per person, you receive a tour, a drink (or two, or three), and a half pint glass, all of which made for one very happy boyfriend.

The motley crew behind the bar.

The brewery and shop are lovely. More compact than you would think, considering its output, they brew not only Wychwood and Brakspear ales, but the annual winter and summer Duchy ales for Prince Charles, the proceeds of which are donated to charity.

I'd decided, despite my official abstaining from alcohol, that I would allow myself a drink that day. It really would have been rude not to.

You start the tour in Wychwood's very own bar, where you can sit and sup a half pint of either Hobgoblin or Hobgoblin Gold. You then move onto the tour, experiencing the making progress, the ingredients, the atmosphere. Then it's back to the bar for the tasting session. Ale in shot glasses was a bit of a revelation! You get to try all of their standard drinks, and they aren't stingy. I was particularly enamored with the large ceramic Hobgoblin jug we were served from. Needless to say, if you find yourself in the Oxfordshire area, I'd recommend a visit! But be sure to book, tickets sell incredibly quickly.

Ale shot anyone?!

Apart from my mild deviation, I've managed to stay away from alcohol, and I am feeling all the better for it. Plus I have no morning-after paranoia, which is a definite plus!

Continuing on the healthier way of life, I've introduced bee pollen into my diet. Just half a teaspoon scattered on my morning yoghurt, with a handful of mixed nuts, or a plum sliced on top has really improved my energy levels as a result of the extra B vitamins. I'd recommend it to anyone struggling with fatigue, particularly in the cold, dark weather we're having right now. It's also beneficial to purchase locally sourced pollen, as it aids in immunising you from local allergens. 

As a side note, keep your eyes open over the next couple of weeks, as I'll be adding to my Independent Business series with a visit to Kels Belles Beauty in Bedford.

What a Week

As is standard after the hubbub of Christmas and New Year, the inevitable lurgy found me at the weekend. Needless to say I found myself lacking the ability to write anything worth your time over those few days, hence my absenteeism. 

Being ill is always rubbish, being ill at the weekend is worse. The time that should be spent spending quality time with loved ones, or doing something you love (or just something you need to do. Hello housework), gets frittered away on tissues, medicine, and, in my case, turning into a bored, whiny mess. I am not a good sick person.

On top of that, the week started with the saddest of news. Most people who pop by here will know I am a music fan. My CD collection is a prized possession. So to wake up and learn of the great David Bowie's untimely death was not only a shock, but pretty devastating, I'm a huge fan. The world now feels somewhat disjointed, and out of focus. It's a strange concept to some that people can become so attached to a person who they do not personally know. Yet when a person's art, their words and their presence is a constant in your periphery, I believe that warrants attachment and admiration. As others around the world express their grief, I know I'm not alone in that sentiment. I'm hoping to pop down to a local restaurant of mine on Friday evening, Herd, where Black Star will be played in its entirety, and everyone has been invited to bring their favourite Bowie records with them to be played and appreciated. If you are local and like-minded, I encourage you to go and raise a glass to a true great. To paraphrase something someone wise said this week, I'm just grateful that I was lucky enough to have breathed at the same time as him. 

Enough of the maudlin train of thought or I'll be crying into my computer. After months of trying to reinvigorate my health, it's been brought to my attention that I may be gluten intolerant, which is bloody brilliant, it's not like my entire diet is chock full of gluten or anything! So for the next few weeks, I'll be trialling a gluten-free life, which I'll be sharing with you lovely lot. By sharing, I of course mean endlessly moaning about the lack of cake/wine/biscuits/anything remotely bad for me, in my life, but as I'm the one that's got to go through it I feel it's only fair that you should shoulder some of the burden! I'll be researching some recipes and alternative foodstuffs, if I find any gems I'll let you all know. The upside of this being that hopefully all the weight I acquired over Christmas will soon be a distant, wobbly memory! Every cloud!