Simply Staffordshire

Need coaching when you leave the Military?

noreply@blogger.com (Simply Staffordshire) — Thu, 20 Mar 2014 11:45:00 +0000

Liz Abram is a coach and Simply Staffordshire member. She specialises in coaching those who are leaving the forces and entering a whole new world outside the military. Please enjoy her guest blog post and pass on to your friends and family who may need support.

I came to coaching three years ago after a successful career of my own in the RAF, followed by many more years as an Army wife running my own business before my husband finally left the Army in 2012. (Hooray!)

I now concentrate on working with service leavers, either preparing them for the military resettlement process, or working with them as civilians who may not have got what they needed from their resettlement and who find themselves lost and stuck as a result.

This is what I can do through coaching:

Get you thinking in a new, resourceful way
Help you identify what you REALLY want
Focus on how to get there
Guide and support you
Plan, do and review your progress
Equip you with tools and coping strategies
Get you on track for a fulfilled and exciting future
Help you achieve the salary you deserve

The best thing about being a coach is helping others achieve what they want out of life. It’s a brilliant feeling to be instrumental in someone else’s change for the better, and to see them flourish as a result of the coaching process. It is privileged and rewarding work.

So, if you fancy redesigning your life so you can achieve better balance, improve your prospects, earn more money and have more time for yourself and your family:

Call me on 07763 064689, email me on liz@lizabram.co.uk or visit my website: www.lizabram.co.uk to see more

What's in a photograph?

noreply@blogger.com (Simply Staffordshire) — Mon, 03 Mar 2014 12:57:00 +0000

Please enjoy this guest Blog from our member business owner, David Gough of David Gough Photography...some insightful thoughts on using great photography in your business...

The idea that a picture is worth a thousand words goes back over a century and it still holds good today. Photographs are everywhere, from giant billboards to the small thumbnails in your Facebook account. They are so commonplace we hardly notice them, unless they stand out.

One obvious way they stand out is by their absence. Have you ever read a blog post, article, or advertisement without any photographs at all? They tend not to be so eye catching and the words have to work harder to gain attention, whereas a good photograph included along with your words gives them a lot more impact.

Another way for photographs to stand out is by their quality - or their lack of quality. A photograph lacking in quality has a quieter voice and doesn’t add as much weight to the message. If the quality is really poor it can become distracting and starts to tell a story of its own. Such things as poor focus, poor exposure, background clutter, and strange items growing out of people’s heads - lamp posts are a favourite - all detract from an image.

One thing that quickly gets my attention is a crooked horizon, they really jump out at me unless it is obviously been done for deliberate effect. Maybe that’s just a photographer thing. I once spent a while taking a long hard look at a poster at an airport. Was I interested in the product? Not really, and I can’t remember exactly what cosmetic it was advertising. It was a great portrait though and I was looking at the lighting to work out how the lights had been used to achieve it. In much the same way someone who makes delicious food will be working out what ingredients went into a dish eaten in a restaurant while on holiday. The average person will either like the food or not, the expert digs deeper.

The average person sees the subject in their camera viewfinder, whereas a more experienced eye is also looking at the other things in the viewfinder - the things that shouldn’t be there, how the light falls, the degree of focus, the relative weight in the overall composition, and how the colours work together. That photograph you see as a nice shot may even be the result of several images combined together to make a single image.

So what makes a good photograph? Well like the thousand words it tells a story and, like the products you are trying to sell, requires the same care and attention. Maybe your story is about your product, or it could be about the service you provide for your customers. It could even be the story of you working and the many careful stages you go through to make your work particular work of art. A chef might want photographs to illustrate a new menu. A carpenter might want to show the hand-crafted nature of his work. A holiday home owner would want to show her holiday let in the best possible light and make it feel warm and inviting. Well-produced photographs can tell your story more clearly and echo the words in your advertising rather than fight against them.

If you would like to find out more about how photography can tell your story please give me a call. Contact details are below and on my web site www.davidgoughphotography.com. And if you are a Simply Staffordshire member check the current offers on www.simplystaffordshire.co.uk to see what discounts apply.

Footnote: Are you are new to photography, or maybe struggling to work out all the controls on that nice new camera you got for Christmas? Perhaps you are disappointed in the results you get from photography despite your best efforts. If this describes you consider spending either a half a day or a full day with me as your photography coach. Share the cost with a friend if you wish. These sessions will be tailored for you and the type of photography you want to do. Call or email for details.

David Gough Photography

t: 07977 142146

e: david@davidgoughphotography.com

w: www.davidgoughphotography.com

As January passes...a plan for 2014

noreply@blogger.com (Simply Staffordshire) — Fri, 24 Jan 2014 16:09:00 +0000

The start of the New Year feels fresh and full of possibility, especially after the excesses of Christmas. I always find though, as January rolls on, that despite your best efforts, things can feel a little drab or flat. We are neither in the grips of a crisp white winter nor in the light of some spring hope just yet...so how to manage the passing of January?
For me it is about focussing on plans and dreaming of brighter days. It is also very much about accepting that humans hibernate of sorts too and it's ok to snuggle in, make delicious warming frugal food while plotting fun times ahead.
Naturally I am in the business of ensuring those fun times are to be had in Staffordshire and for me it's about simple pleasures like a picnic, a walk somewhere new, discovering a new place to visit or a great cafe with top cake.
During 2014, there will be lots going on in Staffordshire to commemorate the Great War of 1914-18. Despite a long time resident of Staffordshire, there are parts that I have yet to become familiar with. The commemorations will be the perfect excuse for me to discover new corners of Cannock Chase, the site of troop training grounds, cemeteries historic landmarks. I also plan to take my off spring to the National Memorial Arboretum to help them better understand the sacrifices and stories of the war and the part Staffordshire played in it.
You can find information about the activities and events happening in Staffordshire from the following links, including where to stay, how to plan a trip and when to visit the county in 2014.

www.staffordshiregreatwar.com - This is the council's website, bringing together events and trails in Staffordshire.
www.learnorganicgardening.co.uk - a beautiful Edwardian garden in Brocton on the edge of Cannock Chase offering garden tours Edwardian high tea...a perfect way to finish a day of exploring.
www.simplystaffordshire.co.uk - a hand picked guide to Staffordshire highlighting places to eat, stay and visit during a visit.
www,thenma.ork.uk - the National Memorial Arboretum website full of information about their activities and events during 2014.

So, pop some soup on & your feet up and have fun making your 2014 plans in Staffordshire!

Fairytale Beginnings...hello 2014

noreply@blogger.com (Simply Staffordshire) — Thu, 02 Jan 2014 08:58:00 +0000

Ok - so 1st New Year's resolution is clearly to post on my blog more than every few months! We have been so busy at Simply HQ that posting about our life here in Staffordshire has ended up at the bottom of our list!
So to start the year in proper fashion, I decided to share our New Year walk with you...a magically muddy affair that thankfully finished with a warming drink in the pub.
Our walk took place around the village of Alton - deliciously quiet at this time of year. Along with a large selection of children, dogs & tired adults, we started at the top of the village and dropped down onto the old railway line at Crump Wood. Even in the early afternoon, the valley floor had started to milk over with gathering mist and crossing over the Churnet felt a million miles from civilisation.
To avoid the risk of the walk becoming mundane or clean, we then took a detour up to Ina's Rock over the old canal and horse bridge. The climb was steep enough after a week of eating, drinking and sitting but we were rewarded with the a break in the clouds and warm sun on our faces to help our gasping at the top.
We eventually worked our way back down over rocks and under vegetation gathering several muddy bottoms along the way to be greeted with this image on the meander to the pub...truly a magical sight of Alton Castle filling the new year with promise and mystery.

For more musings & mysteries - Staffordshire style, please stay tuned and we promise more posts will follow!
Happy New Year to you all from Emily at Simply HQ xx

How to make a Sticky Toffee weekend treat...

noreply@blogger.com (Simply Staffordshire) — Sun, 13 Oct 2013 19:53:00 +0000

As previously mentioned in this Blog, my cooking repertoire is often limited by a lack of time, elevated stress levels & boys...however today I made a NEW recipe! I attempted a Sticky Toffee Pudding to take to a supper with friends and thought I would share my journey and some some sticky top tips along the way!

So...Sticky Toffee Pudding...dates, brown sugar, butter, brown sugar, dates, eggs, flour & brown sugar...best served (in my humble opinions) with thick double cream but could tolerate custard or vanilla ice cream. I am picturing deep brown, moist bricks of cake covered in a lake of shiny, sticky toffee sauce followed by an overly full feeling of heaven.

In my research for a top recipe, I realise that the Sticky Toffee Pud is a hotly contested subject...Nigella had a quickie version - not authentic enough? Mary seemed to offer a classic although I didn't have coffee essence (?!?). Gordon's was too tricky and the Hairy boys seemed to have a random amount of dates in theirs so I did my own!

Here it is....

100g softened butter
200g pitted dates, chopped
150g dark brown sugar
175g self raising flour
1tsp baking powder
175ml hot water
2 large eggs
Preheat the oven to 170C or Gas Mark 5 and prep a square tin (about 18-20cm accross) by buttering and lining the base.
Beat the flour, sugar, butter, baking powder, eggs until smooth. Stir in the chopped dates and then add the hot water. This will seem odd and create a batter like thick cream...but it does work!!
Pour the patter into the tin and wiggle the dates about a bit to evenly distribute them. Bake for 45 mins until risen and bouncy on top.
Sauce...
125g butter
175g dark muscovado sugar
6-7 tbsp double cream
Slowly melt the butter and sugar until fully melted and the sugar has dissolved. Take the pan off the heat and pour in the cream stirring quickly...you will have the perfect shiny sauce to pour over squares of pud. Serve warm with cream, custard or vanilla ice cream....

Cool Summer Cooking

noreply@blogger.com (Simply Staffordshire) — Mon, 19 Aug 2013 18:08:00 +0000

image thanks to BBCGoodfood - my picture was awful, but their recipe was great!

I wish I was something of a great cook who creates hip & cool morsels in my kitchen but I am not. Simply, I am a slightly harassed 40 yr old mother to sons of the age that requires carbohydrate, IV style, about every 2 hours. I love food (& have the thighs to prove it) and feel in my head that I know about food. I am quite a good cook, I grow (well I sow, neglect & gather minute portions of) vegetables, I am bothered about where my food comes from and I know my way around a chickpea. However, the reality of my daily culinary existence is anchored firmly in the realms of pasta, potatoes, couscous & rice. Don't get me wrong, I make a mean fish pie and I reckon Jamie, Nigel and Hugh would love my risotto, but I think my downfall is the atmosphere in which I cook.
Picture the scene....a lovely, light, sunny kitchen diner with a view over the garden down to my office. There is my favourite wisteria hanging, untamed, round the kitchen window and French doors. There are open shelves housing my recipe book collection - even including some Elizabeth David and lots of Nigel. What you will need to add to this image in your head are the added ingredients that reduce a delicious risotto, being made with a glass of wine on the go while listening to some vintage Brucie, to a vat of sloppy carbs, made far too fast........
Firstly an extremely small window of opportunity to create the meal of your dreams. I work for myself, so am always halfway through another email at the bottom of the garden, when I realise with horror that the magic 5 has come & gone. There is a boy marching purposefully down the garden with a familiar face. It is a little pale, cross & determined. "Mum...when is tea ready? I'm hungry....". B**ger....
Secondly, another boys lopes (older) down the garden and says "Mum, football practice is on tonight. We need to be there by 6". Rats....
Thirdly comes the most sole destroying bit. Despite every effort, I am not one of those parents that plans a weekly menu. I have a vague idea of things I might cook in a week. Unfortunately this list is usually created in my woolly head and is mainly based on what I made last week. Dullness ensues as I look bleakly into my fridge and try to remember those days when I had time to plan a meal remembered from an article I read in the weekend papers (ha!) Dullness is followed quickly by a surge in heart rate...panic descends as I start to shout randomly about getting changed, finding football boots and goalie gloves.
Finally I start chopping onions in the hope that inspiration will follow, which it doesn't and I make risotto again.
So...the reason for the title - Cool Summer Cooking?? Well today I had time and today I rediscovered some previously lost foody mojo and created pea & mint soup, chickpea & spinach curry. Tomorrow I plan courgette & feta patties & a cake! Saturday was home made "in front of the telly" nibbles of lemon thyme Italian cured sausage, olives, home made falafels with minty yoghurt dip, pittas and houmous...delish...
Thank you summer for finding me just a little time for some cool cooking....

The very best of Staffordshire - Soiree Food meets Forestside & Tinkers Bells...

noreply@blogger.com (Simply Staffordshire) — Sun, 11 Aug 2013 14:49:00 +0000

Wow - it has been a while since I last blogged. We have been very busy with the launch of our brand new directory search options making it even easier for you to find great places, people, businesses, workshops and places to stay in Staffordshire. Not only that, but it will let you create a network of top local businesses that you can call upon to create a great event, holiday, celebration and much more.

To inspire you, please read on to this guest blog from one of our hand picked members, Soiree Food, who recently worked with two of our other members to create a fabulous, unique and truly special Hen Weekend in Staffordshire....

Tinkers Bells tent...

Great News from Soiree Food.

I am very pleased to tell you about a successful evening! The weather was just perfect. The clients greeted me with a kiss, they were having such a fab time. When I delivered my hot box full of goodies including Morroccan Lamb, chicken breast stuffed with sun dried tomatoes, mozzarella and basil wrapped in Parma Ham and Chargrilled Vegetable Lasagne. Crunchy roast potatoes and Greek salads were also added to the feast! Is your mouth watering yet??

The campsite, Forestside on top of Marchington Cliff, played host to this with stunning views. The accommodation was provided by Tinkers Belles in amazing bell tents. A perfect combination of Simply Staffordshire member businesses working together to create a great Birthday event!

The next morning I received wonderful feedback from the guests who said "It was simply perfect".

I am now holding small private Soirees in the Pods at Forestside as a "Dining Experience" if you wanted to stay over I'm sure Tinkers Belles could be arranged!!

A Soiree evening at Forestside Campsite....

Don't forget to find the very best, hand picked businesses in Staffordshire, please visit the Simply Staffordshire website today!

Summer Strolls in Staffordshire...

noreply@blogger.com (Simply Staffordshire) — Fri, 28 Jun 2013 10:18:00 +0000

As some of you will know - one of my favourite pastimes is to walk with my pal Stan the Simply Border through Staffordshire countryside. It is where I feel at home, calm and I can take time to dream, plan and be inspired by the unspoilt views. Stan always, always leads the way...

Despite the fact that we are bemoaning summer as a somewhat fail this year, strolling through the fields, you can see that the seasons are still rolling on. The long meadow grass is slowly being cut filling the air with that unmistakeable smell of high summer. Crops have happily coped with what the climate has thrown at them and local farmer's report no major disasters in summer crops like Rapeseed.

At the centre of summer sits food - local, home grown, full of flavour and full of memories. One memory that sends me straight to childhood is Gooseberry Fool...creamy, sweet, sharp and delicious. Here Is Nigel Slater's classic recipe:

Serves 6
450g sharp cooking gooseberries
3-4 heaped tbsp sugar
300ml double cream

Top and tail 450g of sharp cooking gooseberries. Tip them in a pan with 3 or 4 heaped tbsp of sugar and one or two of water, then bring to the boil. Simmer for 10 minutes until the fruit has burst. Cool then chill. Crush with a fork. Whip 300ml double cream till thick, but stop before it will stand in peaks. It should sit in soft folds.

A Room with a View

noreply@blogger.com (Simply Staffordshire) — Wed, 19 Jun 2013 12:16:00 +0000

It feels as if I can honestly say that it feels like summer! I know we are nearly upon the longest day, but up until now there have only been snatched moments of warmth.

Today Staffordshire is looking beautiful. The meadows are mown and the cow parsley is abundant in the hedgerows. There is a haze about the air and all is calm, warm and scented. Sitting here at Simply Staffordshire HQ, I am enjoying the sweet scent of the lilacs in their last flush of bloom and the new, heady smell of the honeysuckle - this year rampant! Yellows are coming into the garden too with the day lilies bursting by our door. I am hoping this burst of warmth will help the strawberries along - a proper pick your own!

Simply HQ is a hive of activity too...a new website directory is coming with lots of new members coming on board...a new workshop programme on its way for the late summer autumn and a new initiative to celebrate Staffordshire in the pipeline!

If you want to explore your own county of Staffordshire, want to support local business or want to visit Staffordshire, stay and discover then please stay in touch, share our website and we will take you on a journey!

www.simplystaffordshire.co.uk

A Marriage Made in Staffordshire...

noreply@blogger.com (Simply Staffordshire) — Mon, 20 May 2013 14:55:00 +0000

I have just spent a weekend that was one of those unique & special times in life when you stand still and observe the beauty in the world. Poetic? Yes, unashamedly. A wedding is something that brings together family & friends to celebrate love and this weekend there was a wedding that did just that in a stunning and special place on the Staffordshire/Derbyshire borders.

Beechenhill Farm....

Not only was this wedding about my family & the people I love, but it was also in and about a place I love - creating a moment in time that I will never forget.

As many of you will know, my heart is lost to Staffordshire, its countryside, people, places, food....oh the list goes on - so you might imagine how excited I was at the prospect of the wedding of my baby sister & the lovely Jason- a wedding absolutely packed full of all those special ingredients - place, people, home made food, home grown flowers, family heirlooms.....

Burleigh Teapot arrangement...

Martha, Jason & Fi...

The place was Beechenhill Farm at the top on Ilam in the stunning Staffordshire Peak District. It is an underplay to call this place "award winning" because it is more than that. Set atop of a hill overlooking Ilam below and sweeping views, Beechenhill is run by Sue & Alex (not to forget their invaluable support crew) who simply "get it". They know how to help, not interfere, support, advise, stand back, join in, stay calm - all vital ingredients for a wedding. They allow people to create a truly unique and personal wedding by loving what they do. Thus lugging home grown flowers, much loved china, family table cloths, home made food, home grown food and personal touches is welcomed and encouraged. All these ingredients make a perfect recipe for a wedding full of exactly what a couple would want. The wedding party takes over the whole place for the weekend - so gorgeous eco cottages and B & B accommodation awaits too!

A bridal couple's room with a view....

Food & drink are crucial to a great party so the food was home made by the bride & family or sourced locally, including delicious ham, beef, sausages & cheese from Denstone Hall and beer from Freedom Brewery. Included on the menu, cleverly created by the new Mrs, were sausage & apple tarts, leek & Caerphilly Crumble pies, home grown green salads (complete with the secret family recipe dressing), roasted vegetables with couscous and much more. Pudding choices included her infamous brownie or Mum's amazing rhubarb syllabub (home grown naturally).

Fit for a wedding....

Flowers were largely grown by Mum and arranged (that would be me & Mum!) in favourite Staffordshire pottery teapots, jugs & vases.

The weekend was topped off with more food on Sunday while gazing at the view and gossiping about the fun from the night before - bliss!

Rhubarb Syllabub & Brownie cooks...

So wishing Martha & Jay love & happiness in their marriage, thanking Sue & Alex (& all their helpers) for their superb hospitality, Fi & Jamie for unending support and of course Staffordshire for its beauty and setting!

A New Home for Simply Headquarters

noreply@blogger.com (Simply Staffordshire) — Wed, 01 May 2013 21:44:00 +0000

We have been a little quiet over the last few weeks because we have moved offices! I had no idea it would be quite so exhausting and long winded! We have also been busy introducing great new features on our website - something that is ongoing. Despite the wifi going wayward and the desk going demented, I think I can say we are up & running again and finally catching up with follow ups, prospective members, renewals and planning our next meeting.
So...if you are thinking of becoming part of our new member of the Simply gang....take a peek at our Join Us page for more details and on line application.
Here is a sneeky pic of Simply Staffordshire Towers!

Mother's Day workings...

noreply@blogger.com (Simply Staffordshire) — Sun, 10 Mar 2013 18:02:00 +0000

Although I am not one to buy into the pink glittery special days created by card companies and supermarkets, I do really like to to take time out to honour all the special women in our lives that have served to mother us and nurture us. I am a daughter, a sister, a business woman, an auntie, a niece, a grand daughter, daughter in law and a Mum myself. I am always reminded of the impact all these relationships have had on me and how they have shaped the person I am today. Although not always easy or straight forward, always a learning experience and always valuable.
Every generation has had its challenges and struggles - war, poverty, illness and more and I sometimes think the challenge for today's Mums of around my 4 decade age is how to balance all the balls we juggle. I absolutely believe that women should have as many choices as men, that women are capable of anything they put their minds to. I think though, that the reality of our modern, have it all society, can be crushingly difficult, exhausting and painful. As girls of the 80's, we were told we only had to work hard and we could have everything - a job, career, children, families, beauty and longevity. As women of today we know that isn't the whole story.
Please don't mistake this as a whinge....it surely isn't, but a reflection of the reality of many today in the UK. I have chosen to run my own business because I knew that my pre children corporate career was completely incompatible to a home life and a secure & safe home for kids. I have chosen this path to be flexible, be there for the kids and the family while forging a work life that I love and that will fill my days when my kids don't any more. This flexibility is a giggle though...as I am not sure I have a girlfriend who doesn't do the lions share of the home stuff (food, meals, washing, arranging dentist appointments, worming the dog etc....). Even today of all day's I have a sickly offspring that threatens to completely turn my working day on its head tomorrow. I breath & say this is why I am self employed....
On top of this normal calendar chaos is the helpful media impression that as we hit 40, we also hit our sexual peek & beauty. We shine a confident, mature, inner peace glow...lose the greys, cellulite, run for miles, eat no carbs & still have time for girlie nights away. Um......
What keeps me going is that I am wholey imperfect, slightly grey, prone to panic and calendar meltdowns, have moments when I feel no older than 18 and certainly haven't got a grip on my work life balance. I try to take each day as it comes and totally rely on the women I love for support.

In business, I find that women are great at networking and most are great at sharing their knowledge, time and help. Women are innovative and forward thinking and often good at challenging the status quo. They can be resilient and tough with an ability to multi task like no other. I realise I am like many other working Mums...fraught, happy, exhausted, innovative, tough, fulfilled, panicky, chaotic, focussed, control freaky, disorganised, smiley, loved, hopeless, workaholic, passionate, persistent, plump, fit, busy and brainless...usually all in the same day!
Happy Mother's Day to all those mums out there working hard, getting it right, getting it wrong and more than anything not being perfect.

Vintage February Food

noreply@blogger.com (Simply Staffordshire) — Sun, 24 Feb 2013 14:59:00 +0000

It has been a long cold month since I last got round to a Blog post! I have been very busy with the business network including a trip to Westminster, getting involved with a new local Food Festival, delivering workshop and more.
February can be a tricky month for many...I am very happy to go with the seasons and accept them for what they are, but February can be bitter and can drag with increasing feelings of desperation for some signs of spring and sunshine. Slowly we begin to emerge from our winter hibernation searching for green shoots, signs of life, the sound of chatting birds in the trees and longer days.But at the same time, we still need nourishment, warmth, simple sustenance and to protect ourselves from bugs, germs & illness. Food, for me at this time of year, has to be simple but hearty, easy but comforting and interesting so that I can resist turning to treats that I don't need. A couple of weeks ago a re discovered my great Aunt in Law's hand written recipe books. A woman ahead of her time, she ran a bakery & shop for many years and lived until she was 95. The books are delicate and hand written in pencil with comforting splashes and notes in the margins. They include recipes like Queen Fancies, Savoys, Best Slab Parkin, Lemon Snow, Chorley Cake and Lemington Buns. There are several recipes with lovely vintage terms like "gills of syrup" and "shortening". The books date back to the 1930's and 40's and display a frugal wisdom, producing great food on a budget and accounting for shortages. As we all try to make our food go further while enjoying a make do & mend, vintage feel, I wanted to share some of the best recipes with you. Here is one to start you off...

War Cake
This egg free cake stores brilliantly and can bee eaten with a cup of tea or served with some warm custard for a quick pudding on a Sunday.

War Cake

1lb Plain flour
8ozs sugar
6ozs fat
1/2oz bicarbonate of soda
8ozs currants
8ozs sultanas
1/2 tsp mixed spice
1/2 wineglass of vinegar
2ozs milk

This cake can be made in any shape tin and some use a German bundt tin but I use a loaf tin. Rub the fat and flour together with the tips of your fingers as you would for pastry. Then add the sugar, bicarb, fruit and spice and mix through with a blunt knife. Mix the dry ingredients with vinegar and milk until you have a dough and fill the buttered tin. Auntie Wynne was unclear about how long to bake for, but I have found that about 40 minutes at 180C or Gas 5 works fine.

Sunday Sunshine in Staffordshire

noreply@blogger.com (Simply Staffordshire) — Sun, 27 Jan 2013 12:02:00 +0000

What a week of weather - I realise that this is not an original subject but we as humans, we tend to ride on the tide of the changing seasons, weather and atmosphere we are in. Allowing yourself to go with the flow of the weather means that we can really live in the moment in which we are presented at any one time. We can wallow in the energy, light and feeling of each day and night that comes and, for me, this feels like a privilege. I can then appreciate each day even if it is cold, grey and wet, knowing that spring days will come and that it is necessary for wildlife, flora and fauna to have dark days to enjoy light days to their full.

I am getting poetic, but I am positive that if we allow ourselves to be appreciative and thankful for everyday we are happier folks. I am no expert in always living in the moment and do tend to spend this time of year making plans and looking to the future. This week has been so busy with work and hectic in its pace, so to help myself switch off I have been dreaming of my veg patch plans and my office BIG MOVE!

Yes, I am moving my office from the house to the shed...not just a shed, but a new home for my business, a space for inspiration, peace and quiet and with a view over my garden and veg patch. Thus tidying up and improving the veg patch project goes hand in hand so there is no upset to my newly found serenity!!

My imaginings are taking me to a place of vintage fabrics, streamlined filing, quite a big dollop of girlyness but not too much clutter and an inspiring view of my pest free, abundant, weed free vegetables (like something in Monty's garden)....are you getting a picture?

So today feels like the first day of planning. The sun is out and for the first time in weeks, we can see the green fields, new shoots and feel some warmth on our faces. Snowdrops have been undeterred by the heavy snow and have simply sat waiting for their moment, without fuss or panic. The Hellebores are doing the same....happy to wait, knowing their show will be appreciated by all. As the project progresses...I may share some pics and you can see how my day dreamy plans come together and Spring springs.

New Year Intentions

noreply@blogger.com (Simply Staffordshire) — Tue, 22 Jan 2013 21:41:00 +0000

It has been a busy time since Christmas...weather, lists, routine, weather....and I have been trying to focus on my intentions for 2013. One of them is to sort out my blogging habits! I love to Blog but often forget to tell you about what we have been up to or simply assume it won't be of interest. So...2013 will see more blog posts with more everyday happenings in the world of Simply Staffordshire.
It might be a recipe, a walk, an idea, a success, a challenge, a minor rant or just ramblings...but hopefully it will give you a better feel of Simply Staffordshire, its members, passions, people and places.
For you business folk out there you can visit our Business Blog to find out what workshops we are offering and the support we give to independent business.

We are applying for a Business Award in the Community Engagement category. Yikes! Feels like a big piece of homework that I keep re working and fiddling with! It made me have a good think about what sort of engagement we engage with. We offer free membership to local charities and not for profits. This means they can operate & celebrate on a level playing field and enjoy the same benefits as all our members without the cost. Not only are charities short on cash at the mo, but they can teach us so much about event planning, innovation as well as the causes they talk about. The stand out independent businesses we celebrate can offer their support too - either corporate sponsorship, referrals or business support or simply helping spreading the word.

Anyway...deadline looming, I better get to it!

http://www.thisisstaffordshire.co.uk/businessawards

Short Breaks in Secret Staffordshire

noreply@blogger.com (Simply Staffordshire) — Sun, 06 Jan 2013 12:54:00 +0000

It is that time of year when we plan our next break, trying to cheer ourselves up as we go back to work after the Christmas holidays. Some of you will plan a big sunny summer holiday with planes, airports, beaches, suntans and blue skies. Some of you will prefer a discovery holiday - maybe European history, American road trip, cruising or hiking. In and around all that planning though, there will be an opportunity for many of you to plan a short break in the UK. You perhaps meet up with friends once a year or maybe you have a special Birthday to celebrate in 2013. Perhaps you simply like to plan the odd weekend away to break up the year into manageable chunks. Staffordshire is the secret you can discover...

Staffordshire is a large county just north of Birmingham, east of Shropshire and butts up to Derbyshire. You may not know it or you may harbour a preconception that it is just that Stoke on Trent place you pass on the M6 on your way to the Lakes. You may be aware that you have visited but only got as far as Alton Towers. Staffordshire is, in fact, a secret gem that sits beautifully in the centre of the UK waiting to be discovered, minding its own business, quietly plodding on, happily comfortable in its own skin, not showing off, avoiding shouting about its qualities and not entering any tourism talent shows. It is down to earth, warm and friendly with rugged edges and soft centres. It is home to unrivalled open countryside, fabulous historic treasures, popular theme parks, award winning food producers and micro breweries, untouched market towns and a strong independent retail sector. Staffordshire has unprecedented industrial heritage that can be explored and amazing pottery courtyards and potbanks that offer great shopping from Moorcroft to Bridgewater. On top of all this there are more miles of peaceful canals to enjoy than almost anywhere else in the UK with top walking and proper pubs.

What Staffordshire can offer you is its location and great transport links (only 1.5hrs from London by train) meaning gathering friends and family from the 4 corners of Britain headache free. Staffordshire offers you unrivalled variety, satisfying all passions and desires. You may have adrenaline junkies in your party that can be pointed to a theme park while you discover a hidden valley, hiking from pub to pub. Shoppers can be catered for at pottery outlets, large local malls end even better special independent shopping meccas like Leek and Lichfield. If you like more specialist holidays to enjoy climbing, canal boat hire, mountain biking, horse trekking then Staffordshire can accommodate you.

So...are you tempted to try Staffordshire, stay in our enchanting and varied county, discover our great local food & beer and explore all that we have to offer?

To start your journey, visit Simply Staffordshire for some of the very best people, places and accommodation in Staffordshire, hand picked for you.

Love Local: Part 2

noreply@blogger.com (Simply Staffordshire) — Wed, 12 Dec 2012 11:36:00 +0000

In the second part of our Christmas Shopping Local series, we have chosen Uttoxeter! Yet another stunning, historic town that deserves more recognition than it gets. True...if you park in the main car park, you may be mistaken and think that all there is a tall spired church, houses in the car park and a less then attractive 60's precinct...but persevere!!
If you park in the main car park (which is cheap!) you can either take the path past the very useful COOP and the fabulous Edmontons Butcher! Great local produce and meat, very helpful staff and always top tips on how and what to cook for your taste and budget. As you go through the precinct you will find a great Fashion shop selling big high street names, an old fashioned green grocer and you will be making you way into the old High Street.
The other way into town from the Car Park is the snicket into the Hight Street which will take you past Hidden Gem Beauty Salon (I can recommend!) and you are in the middle of things very quickly.

The high Street and the offshoot, Carter Street are full of independents, ready to help, offering great service and products. I would recommend The Vintage Tea Emporium for a cup of tea in china cups or their traditional afternoon tea. They also offer workshops. Another highlight is Birds the Bakery - fabulous bread at a great price, Nana B's for a beautiful range of wool, buttons, ribbon and much more. The Market place is full on Wednesdays Saturdays and Peaches n Pears is a great lingerie shop with fabulous service.
If you take a stroll up Carter Street you will find The Daisy Chain - a great gift shop! A bit further on is the wonder of Emma's Cookshop...a shop simply full of all your kitchen and baking needs and wants! A little further up is You In Mind Cafe and Gallery...offering great food, a gallery packed full of local artists and designers and a Paint a Pot room. They have a small garden area at the back for sunny days and are almost next to the historic Redfern's Cottage - worth an explore.

So all in all you can discover great local passion, good independents, a good Wednesday outdoor and indoor market and a great cuppa.

Love Local: part 1

noreply@blogger.com (Simply Staffordshire) — Mon, 03 Dec 2012 22:35:00 +0000

As we hurtle towards Christmas and the lists get longer, the blood pressure slowly but surely raises and there is simply no more room to write anything else on the calendar, we thought it would be the perfect time to go local.
Buying local, enjoying local and shopping Staffordshire are ideal ways to slow down, find unique gifts, avoid the feeling of being ripped off and people will smile! Lots of Staffordshire towns are adding special Fairs, markets and events to go with you shopping - some are even offering free parking to encourage you in. Shopping with friendly local people, supporting your local economy, buying special gifts with a back story, avoiding crushing crowds and feeling part of a community has got to be an easy choice! So....
Part 1
LEEK
Shopping options:
Leek is the perfect place to find a unique gift because there is an option to suit all tastes and pockets. You can go vintage, antique, funky or traditional. There are lots of choices of gift shop like Bibelot, The Alphabet Store, The Bay Window to name a few, as well as places to grab a cuppa, buy a sugary treat or have a quick pint...essential to keep you going. The White Hart Tea Rooms are perfect and central, Pronto Deli is perfect for a coffee and Italian dolce with a great range of foodie gifts too.
Pre Christmas events:
Sunday shopping 9th December - cafes, shop open, buskers, free parking, face painting, owls & more.
Victorian Leek Sat 15th December - free parking, Christmas Market, fine food, collectables, cooking demos & live entertainment. Free guided walks around Leek & exhibitions at the Nicholson Museum. There is even a Victorian Magician.
Parking:
free on special days and good parking in town.
Extra bits:
Leek is an historic town surrounded by beautiful countryside. There are proper old pubs, great local feeling, fabulous architecture and enough to keep you there all day and evening. There are also great places to stay if you want to make a weekend of it.

The Making House goes Swishing!

noreply@blogger.com (Simply Staffordshire) — Thu, 25 Oct 2012 11:35:00 +0000

We had a great Swish last Thursday at The Making House, it was a lot of work, but also a lot of fun!

At The Making House we believe in encouraging people to reduce, reuse and recycle as much as possible through the workshops we run as well as the craft items we sell and so the spirit of swishing fits in perfectly with this. Gok Wan, of course, took the idea of swishing to the mainstream and even the likes of Marks and Spencers are now encouraging people to swish. Alongside the clothes swapping, we like to support a local charity and for our latest event we raised money for Burton and District YMCA.

For those of you who haven’t been to a swishing event it’s an opportunity for you to swap your quality clothes and accessories for someone else’s to create a new and different look. We had our own expert, Joelle Harris, on hand to give upcycling advise and suggest ways you could adapt pieces; when all else fails, following Gok’s inspiration, add a feature belt to your outfit! We like to make it a fun evening and so as well as clothes swapping, we’ve drink, food and pampering sessions for people to enjoy. And as always there’s some great art and craft on display too.

For anyone thinking of running a swish, it is great fun but, be warned, I had forgotten how much work was involved! You need plenty of people to help sort clothes, plenty of rails and hangers and do insist that you get the clothes in before the event.

Joelle Harris our sewing expert at The Making House explains why we swish

We all love to have new clothes to wear, but what does it cost? There’s the cost to us in financial terms, but also to the environment and those people who work in the industry.

There are lots of things to consider in the production of textiles, like the water, chemicals, and dyes used in growing cotton, making polyester, and all the alternatives. The labour that goes into making our clothes, we have all heard about sweat shops and child labour. Then there is what we do with the clothes once we have finished with them.

Maybe that’s why we tend to hang on to what is in our wardrobes, we think, I paid good money for that, I shouldn’t just throw it away. Fortunately there are events now, like our swishing event, where the things in your wardrobe that are still in good condition can be swapped guilt free for something you would actually wear.

For those things that you have actually worn out, don’t bin it! It will end up in landfill, along with about 80% of Britian’s textile waste. The trouble with this is that, polyester isn’t going to decompose for rather a long time and natural fibres will decompose and create methane. Both bad for the environment. Put them in the textile bank instead, or send to your favourite charity shop. What isn’t good enough to be resold, will stand a much better chance of being recycled. Lots of clothing can be recycled, such as cotton and wool. Polyester is the ultimate recyclable fibre, just chop it up and melt it down. In fact the ultimate recyclable item of clothing is the fleecy! Which can be made from plastic bottles in the 1^st place.

We run various upcycling workshops here at the making house.

You can take a jacket made in a lovely fabric, but no longer in fashion and redesign it into a wearable jacket, or waistcoat. Alternatively cut it up and make a great new bag.

Joelle Harris will be running a fantastic upcyled bag workshop at The Making House

on Saturday 17th November 10 -4 £60

You will learn how to create a lined bag using recycled fabrics. I Love the jacket style bag, maybe I’ll do that with the pink suit I claimed at the swish…or maybe I’ll just wear it! (Price includes a home cooked vegetarian lunch)

Joelle gives talks on upcycling and ethical fashion to ladies groups, which includes a demonstration of how she begins to upcycle a jacket. Visit our ‘talks’ page for more details.

A foodie weekend in Staffordshire

noreply@blogger.com (Simply Staffordshire) — Wed, 03 Oct 2012 14:04:00 +0000

We are really excited to be going to the Stone Food and Drink Festival at the weekend! Three days of foodie heaven with a Staffordshire twist. Our stand will be showcasing some of our foodie members - Camaya hand made chocolates, Denstone Hall Farm Shop & Cafe, Simply Scrumptious Cupcakes and On my Pinna. We will have a show offer for those local businesses wanting to join our buzzing network of stand out local businesses and we can't wait to enjoy some delicious treats too!

This is an ideal opportunity to grab a last minute break to Staffordshire and our Where to Stay guide will help you find some of the best, hand picked accommodation to suit all tastes and pockets.
See you there.....
Emily xx

Discovering Staffordshire...business, murder and cake...

noreply@blogger.com (Simply Staffordshire) — Thu, 20 Sep 2012 12:52:00 +0000

I wanted to share with you the adventures of our member meeting last night that took networking to new heights! We met in Abbots Bromley, the beautiful, historic village and one of Staffordshire's absolute gems and were handed our Murder Mystery instructions. The sun was setting and the air was chilled and none of us had explored the village before....
So the story started..."Rural entrepreneur, Emmy Lee has been found dead in a little shed...." and we had to find her murderer! We started by discovering some the more ancient buildings in the village and the clues that lead the way needed concentration, teamwork and and eagle eye. We found the Church House and then the Church with its 1000 yr old antlers from the Horn Dance. Searching through the graveyard at dusk as all the houses put on their lights and lit fires was quite magical. The centre of the village was lit up with cosy, friendly pubs and the Buttercross with its beautiful hand drawn map of the village and its history. As we worked our way through each clue we were able to eliminate suspects and murder weapons while catching up, sharing business news and discovering more about our Staffordshire businesses and Abbots Bromley. Ivan and Sue from Staffordshire Treasure Trails had truly outdone themselves with the brilliant Simply Staffordshire trail, their expert knowledge and great clues meant we all got a real flavour of the village and how Treasure Trails works.
The Autumnal evening had turned dark and chilly and we were absolutely ready for tea and cake. In the little road next to the Crown Inn, we got to Buttercross B and B with its beautiful Georgian door and stone fagged hall. The blackboard welcomed our network and the stripy winding stairs invited us up. The Bed and Breakfast is run by Jayne who has an expert eye for great service and extra touches. The guest sitting room looks over the Buttercross itself and the centre of the village spreads out in front of you. Gurgling coffee and vintage tea cups were waiting as we snuggled on the cosy sofas. This was networking at its best. We got a guided tour of the Bed and Breakfast which has become fabulously popular since its launch in January with rave reviews and repeat visitors. Jayne has simply thought of everything and arranges trips out for her guests to discover Staffordshire - nothing is too much trouble.
So news was shared, ideas were explored, business was discussed and giggles were had...perfect small business networking in a perfect Staffordshire setting.
Special thank you goes to Jayne from Buttercross Bed and Breakfast and Ivan & Sue from Staffordshire Treasure Trails for all their help, support and hospitality.
If you & your Staffordshire business would like to become part of the Simply Staffordshire business network to enjoy marketing, networking and business building the local way, then please contact me today for more information. Membership starts at just £49 per year.
Hello@simplystaffordshire.co.uk

Sweet September in Staffordshire

noreply@blogger.com (Simply Staffordshire) — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 10:10:00 +0000

I have often posted and mentioned that I love September - a time for reflection, renewed energy and plans for a cosy Autumn. September has got a colour and smell about it that I find so evocative of happy times and special moments.
This year is no different as we have been treated to some fabulous weather and Staffordshire hills and fields have slowly turned to golden yellow and the dust has risen from the combines. Mornings are misty, quiet and magical and each day feels precious as the last days of warmth fade. Perfect time to visit Staffordshire if you ask me!
Our village has a proper old fashioned Show in early September which is nothing short of a treat. We have a Dog Show complete with be-ribboned pooches, over excited puppies, grumpy canines that would rather be at home. Hilarity ensues as dogs make friends, break friends and trot in the wrong direction. Rosettes are traditional, judging is serious and we love it!
We also have proper old school classes to enter from Victoria sponges (red rosette for me this year!!) to flower arranging and art. The children spend all summer holidays creating models from recycled material and the last of the garden flowers are arranged in jugs and jars. Competition is fierce as folks inspect runner beans, giant onions and chutney made from practically anything.
On top of all this fun, we have the local falconry group with beautiful birds, vintage vehicles, wooden skittles, plant stalls and lots of time to sit, chat and take it all in.

Food in September is starting to get comforting, warm and hearty. Runner beans are still going strong in the veg patch as is the Italian cabbage and so get added to every stir fry, soup and meal that is eaten! However cake has featured heavily this month so far (as previously explained) so I thought I would share the very simple recipe I used for the winning Victoria Sponge.

A Proper Victoria Sponge

8 oz very soft butter

8 oz castor sugar

4 large, free range eggs (room temperature)

8 oz of self raising flour

small tsp of baking powder

a couple of drops of vanilla essence

Pre heat and oven to 180C (165C fan oven) or gas 6 and line and butter 2 8inch cake tins. Beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This will take a good few minutes so don't rush this stage. Add an egg at a time and beat well until the mixture is light and fluffy. You can also beat in the vanilla at this time. Sift the flour and baking powder onto the mixture and very carefully fold into the eggy batter with a large meal spoon. You should end up with a batter that is the consistency of thick whipped cream and pour equally into both tins. As you spread the mixture in the tin...really just tease it into the corners and don't be rough at this stage. Place into an oven for about 20 minutes. The cake is ready when it is just coming away from the sides of the tin and has the very slightest spring on the top when pressed. Once ready, allow to cool fully before using best jam to sandwich together. Strawberry or Raspberry is traditional but blackcurrant is a triumph if you added lemon zest instead of vanilla essence. Sprinkle sugar on the top. Now proper W.I. standards mean it has to be castor sugar but icing is good too.

Enjoy with a cuppa and your feet up.

More seasonal and home made treat recipes can be found at www.simplystaffordshire.co.uk

Family Feasting... sharing recipes with love...

noreply@blogger.com (Simply Staffordshire) — Mon, 27 Aug 2012 14:00:00 +0000

As I think I mentioned in a tweet recently, food seems to pervade every little part of our lives. In my business, it is the single subject that produces a massive response, that people want to talk about on Twitter and post pictures about on Facebook. I am either planning it, planting it, cooking it, writing about it, shopping for it, eating it but there are a few times in a day when it isn't at the forefront of my thoughts. Of courses there is a cake loving piggy in me too!
On a more serious note, there is more debate then ever about how we eat food, how we buy it, waste it, afford it and how we should look at the bigger picture and consider food miles, sustainability, global shortage and destruction of our eco systems. That doesn't even begin to address our unhealthy attachment to junk.
As such I thought I would share with you my foody life....and hope you enjoy and join in to share yours too...top tips, ideas, inspiration, recipe sharing and foody gossip!

A wet weekend Bank Holiday style...

This years veg patch has been the most disappointing ever with a dismal potato crop mostly enjoyed by slugs, leeks that resemble limp spring onions, carrots that never grew after 2 sowings. However, I have got a glut of Cavalo Nero (Italian black cabbage) and runner beans. I harvested like mad this weekend before the snails had a beet feast than us.
I sliced and blanched some runner beans, let them cool and froze them in portion size bags for some summer tastes in an Autumn meal. I picked enough runner beans and cabbage for our Sunday lunch but had masses of cabbage left over. I remembered the Two Greedy Italians making a Potato and Cabbage Bake so looked out the recipe...
Simply butter a baking dish, wash and blanch the cabbage (any combination of varieties) and allow to cool. Boil some potatoes for only 5 minutes, drain and slice them into thinnish slices. Choose some favourite cheese (Tallegio, parmesan, Mature cheddar all work well) and layer the ingredients in the dish. Start with a layer of potato and finish with potato and add salt and pepper to taste in the layers. Pop some small knobs of butter on the top and cover with foil. At this stage I have cooled, labelled and placed in the freezer for another day or you could put in a warm oven for 40 minutes until you have a golden topping and bubbling sides. Perfect as a vegetarian supper or a side dish with a Sunday roast.

Sunday was a Chicken Dinner - free range chicken, roasted quickly on a bed of red onion, roast potatoes and vegetables (Carrots, Runner beans and Cavalo Nero, shredded). The soggy, browned onions are a great base to superb gravy. Not original and exciting as such, but delicious. Pudding was a Hot Lemon Bake...mainly because I had one sad lemon in the fruit bowl at risk of going off.
To make the pudding, butter a smallish oven proof dish (I used an old fashioned enamelled pie dish). Beat 50g butter with 200g castor sugar and the zest of your lemon until light and fluffy. Next beat in 3 eggs yolks, 250ml milk and 100 ml of the lemon juice. In another bowl whisk the egg whites until firm but not very stiff. Gently fold the 2 mixtures together until you have no more egg white lumps. Pour into your dish and bake at 180C for 45 minutes, until golden brown on top. This is ideally served hot with cold cream poured on it!

Olympic Inspiration for small businesses...

noreply@blogger.com (Simply Staffordshire) — Sat, 11 Aug 2012 13:15:00 +0000

As the Olympic Games come to an end there has been a repeated thought that has run through my grey cells...it is the inspiration and admiration I have for all the athletes who have to find the strength, will power, confidence, guts, support, finances, belief and courage to go for their dreams against all the odds while fighting the fear, poverty, stress, isolation, competition, bad days, injury and set backs...remind you of anything?!?

There are so many lessons and ideas that a small business owner can learn from these athletes. To the horror of my offspring, I have spent much of the last fortnight being teary as I have heard the stories of heartache, gratitude, thankfulness, excitement and success that have been displayed before us. It is a story that is so resonant for folks who run small businesses. In these times of banking crisis, recession and depression it is so easy to be sucked into that negative whirlwind of media coverage, national news and global crisis and yet from that I am constantly overwhelmed when I see small, local businesses being innovative, single minded, brave, enthusiastic and successful. It seems to me that the world is on the shift and that the way forward for many is to do it their way. Small businesses are so good at coming together, networking, building business together, sharing knowledge and ideas and always looking at the big picture rather the just the bottom line. I see Staffordshire towns around me working together, looking to the future, using innovative ideas to improve footfall and share their story with their customers. It is simply human nature to survive against the odds and to adapt to change, difficulty and setbacks and it inspires me.

The Olympics has been a time to stop and reflect in the personal stories of success and set backs and how those who are passionate, focussed, single minded and frankly special can make all the difference to all around them. They have the power to be pebbles dropped in a pool and spread the positive ripples through all of us.

Please feel free to leave your comments on the Olympics - it would be great to hear how they might have inspired you, driven you mad or given you the courage to keep going....

Summer in Staffordshire...

noreply@blogger.com (Simply Staffordshire) — Mon, 23 Jul 2012 05:48:00 +0000

This Blog post has been in my head for weeks but it never seemed the right time to write it! Finally I think the time is appropriate to talk "summer" without being laughed at!
Summer in Staffordshire means an influx of visitors to Alton Towers, Drayton Manor and Trentham Estate but also a chance for us all to enjoy the unspoilt countryside for us locals too. We have a wealth of places to enjoy...canals in secluded valleys with beautiful paths and great pubs...canals around Leek are particularly beautiful and you can find day boat hire on our website. Walking is fabulous in the county and following the Staffordshire Way means you can enjoy the tops of moors and the depths of valleys all in one day! We are also great at celebrating our summer months with outdoor concerts and Festivals. Shugborough offers great events and Trentham Estate put on fabulous Saturday Night Music - outdoor entertainment for everyone. Music is a theme for the county...everything from the V Festival to Lichfield Festival....fabulous.

So in a nutshell Staffordshire just about the perfect location for a summer break, for locals to explore and friends to gather to enjoy food, ales, countryside, music, thrills and history.

xx