Bursting hedgerows, bumblebees and long days punctuated by burnt bbq’s are the best things about this time of year. Despite high hopes, we all know that summer doesn’t always deliver here in Great Britain. Here is a list of indoor things I have been enjoying lately, I thought they might be handy, even though I love a damp Mr Whippy, don’t you?

Reading

Piglet by Lottie Hazell

This is brilliant story told through dialogue and descriptions of amazing food. Piglet is due to marry her seemingly perfect fiance Kit. However he does something awful before the wedding and Piglet spirals out of control. This debut novel is darkly funny and very impressive.

Theatre

Nye by Tim Price

This production is well worth staying out after 10pm. ‘Nye’ has been beautifully filmed and beamed to cinemas via National Theatre Live. Bevan Nye is the force behind the establishment of the NHS in 1948 and his story is brilliantly told with care and humour to convey his great passion for a national healthcare provision. Michael Sheen’s performance as Nye is incredible and the production is flawless.

Film

‘High and Low - John Galliano’ by Kevin MacDonald

There is no need to be a fan of high fashion to appreciate this documentary about disgraced fashion designer John Galliano. Not only does look at how creative and moral worlds can collide but raises issues around cancel culture and redemption. MacDonald frequently makes reference to Galliano’s phenomenal fall from grace through clips from ‘The Red Shoes’ (Pressburger) and in particular a devastated Napoleonic figure. It is quite a serious talky film but there is plenty of razzle dazzle with scenes featuring Naomi, Kate and the gang.

Listening and Eating

Bacao Rhythm and Steel Band makes me think of the Carribean, fun times and Notting Hill Carnival. I am making a lot of Muffin Cakes to provide revision sustenance for the boys. You will probably have all the ingredients for this easy cake by Ravneet Gill. I use whatever frozen fruit available and halve the quantity of sugar.

Gardening (not really)

I will be watching Chelsea Flower Show next week and feeling inadequate about our weed ridden football pitch/garden. However this candle by Earl of East actually smells of a greenhouse. One step closer to the good life…..

I hope that you are having a lovely May. Please share any of your rainy day tips and tricks below.

Sophie x