Interiors | Zelkova Bonsai & Marie Kondo's Spark Joy

As part of my attempt to create a more 'Zen' environment to live and work in I've purchased a Bonsai tree, adding fresh leaves and beautiful shapes to my very neutral room. I've always been fascinated with Bonsai trees as they look remarkably like ancient trees and require care which adds a meaningful task to the day.

I also found these adorable fox bookends to keep my books tidy. I'd been looking for something very simple but these were in the garden centre for half their price. Much of my ornaments are of wildlife so these fit in perfectly and again add a splash of colour.

On another matter this little book is quite famous right now, Spark Joy by Marie Kondo (Author of The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying). The book gives a deep insight into Marie's tidying method which she calls the KonMari method. Inside are answers to questions about the best way to fold and store clothing, the order in which you can find best success in organising belongings and which possessions you should discard. Although there are many books on the matter Marie has a real flare for instilling passion into those that read them. I had already started clearing out objects that no longer served their purpose to me then this book came along and now I could decide what really brings me joy and make my room a cozy and calming place.

TRAVL// LONDON'S CALLING [IMAGE HEAVY]

For a wee while I have thought about venturing down to London, our Capital city, to enjoy the Art, Culture and cuisine. I took an early train, armed with; my map (only £2 from The Works), some travel snacks, my trusty camera and an eagerness to experience bustling London.

The train ride gave me ample time to get through 'How to be Danish', a brilliant book (one of my 101 in 1001) about Patrick Kingsley's experiences with Danish folk and much of their countries cultural attributes. It's a pretty short book but really gives you a sense of the calm, friendly and (for many) cyclist enthusiastic Danes.

I'm a fan of the stunning mixture of architecture to be found in London. The contrast going along the street below, with the immense glass structure of the shard facing the Tower Bridge, it is difficult to believe these two majestic giants exist so close together. It reminds me of Tokyo, where you'd see tiny old shrines the size of a shed stood proudly between two massive skyscrapers.

My University course is design based so it felt ideal to visit the Design Museum. I found myself sat on a bench outside the Museum, enjoying a Starbucks coffee and watching the world drift by, the sun making the Thames sparkle, it was such a lovely break from packed tube trains and the mad crowds of the shops. The Design Museum has an exhibition about Women in Power, showcasing photographs and clothing of women that have influenced the world. I was particularly fond of the Chanel suit and Skin's (of Skunk Anansie fame) outfits which had shoulder pads with immense layering.

I had the chance to meet with a friend for lunch at the new Shoryu Ramen restaurant, located behind Liverpool Street Station. We had a little difficulty finding it but it was so worth it, I had an awesome Garlic ramen dish and a bun with prawns and they were so delicious I would eat there every day if I could! After dinner we went to Liberty's to check out the cosmetic counters and I picked up a few things which I'll put in a later post, it is amazing in there, every time I go it feels like an other worldly experience. I sound like a crazy lady haha but seriously I adore all the beautiful prints and the luxurious displays of fine leather bags and sparkling jewellery.

I leave you with photos of my day, none of me because, well why would I haha I'll probably put my outfit and some Instagram shots in the purchases post.

BOOK// CYCLING HOME FROM SIBERIA

"Cycling Home From Siberia tells the story of Rob’s three-year bicycle ride from northeast Russia back to London, via Papua New Guinea, Tibet and Afghanistan. Along the way he camped at minus forty, was robbed at gunpoint, and hitch-hiked on boats across the sea."

Reading books is something I don't often get around to doing as I feel guilty for not doing work, alas what can be more inspiring than reading! Rob Lilwall's book 'Cycling Home from Siberia' was so captivating it took me barely two days to finish and I struggled to put it down. The quote above from his website here is a great shorthand of what this book encapsulates but without so much of the depth or emotion from the book itself. 

Lilwall endures horrendous temperatures and heated tensions with his co-cyclist as he embarks throughout Siberia and onwards across several countries, with very little former experience on cycling vast distances. His writing style allows you to experience the journey too, reading as if he was telling a friend or someone that may be considering embarking on the adventure themselves. Reading about his strong faith and the kindness of almost strangers definitely made me consider how I treat others and also how genuinely blessed my life is (deep revelations here I know). 

I felt envy as he trekked through Japan, a country that seems to always remain captivating to myself. Lilwall instilled a curiosity in me about places I had never really considered visiting before but now would love to go see, though perhaps not on bike. If you're a keen traveller I think this book would be a real treat for you to enjoy (maybe on a long flight). 

I have his next book 'Walking Home from Mongolia', though I am putting it aside to read something a little different for a bit as I feel if I finish that too I'll be left with no more of his wonderful antics. If you're interested in his books they're very reasonably priced online or are available at Waterstones where I picked up mine.