Search Results for: Lifestyle

‘An inch in the right direction is better than a mile in the wrong direction’

‘If you think your life is bland, then you haven’t added enough flavour’

‘People who live in glass houses should never undress’

In September 2009, London cabbie Mark Solomon began asking passengers in the back of his taxi for a random quote or proverb. It started spontaneously, to give him more purpose and direction, but he found that sharing these daily inspirations with others made them feel part of something special too.

The project developed into a popular website (www.blackcabquotes.com), and now this pocket-sized book offers the best thoughts for the day, ranging from the truly philosophical to the downright bizarre.

If you think writing a guidebook is easy, think again…

They were bored, broke, burned out and turning 40, so when Ben and Dinah saw the advert looking for a husband and wife team with young kids to write a guidebook about family travel around Britain, they jumped at the chance. With naïve visions of staring moodily across Coniston Water and savouring Cornish pasties, they embark on a mad-cap five-month trip with daughter Phoebe, four, and son Charlie, two, embracing the freedom of the open road with a spirit of discovery and an industrial supply of baby wipes.

How could we live without tea?
From its beginnings in Asia to its position as a popular global pick-me-up, tea has become the drink of choice for two billion people every morning!
This charming miscellany, packed full of fascinating facts and practical advice, as well as tasty recipes from spicy chai tea to traditional tea loaf, will intrigue, inform and delight lovers of this cheering beverage across the globe.  

What did the manager do when the pitch became flooded?
He sent on his subs.
God and the devil were having an argument, and Satan proposed a football game between heaven and hell to resolve the dispute.
God, in his eternal goodness, pointed out that it wouldn’t be a fair match because all the ‘good’ players go to heaven.
The devil smiled, replying, ‘Yes, but we’ve got all the refs.’
Football is obviously very serious business – like when that disallowed goal was ‘never off-side’, and that was ‘totally a dive’ – but it’s a funny old game really. This compendium of hilarious jokes will help you see the lighter side when your team is showing you up, and give your mates a good chuckle at the celebrations when they win. 

Prepare to take your love of coffee to the next level with this richly aromatic tour of the world’s favourite drink, from bean to cup and beyond

Happiness comes in all shapes and sizes: espresso, cortado, flat white, latte, cappuccino…

We wake up and smell it. We crave it when we’re sleepy. We take deep lungfuls of its rich aroma when we buy a new bag of it. We put it in cakes, cocktails and just about every other type of food imaginable. But most of all, we rely on it to punctuate our day with a caffeine hit and a small burst of all its delicious flavours.

In this homage to the coffee bean you will:
– Learn how coffee was discovered, how it is grown and how it is turned into our favourite drink
– Discover everything you wanted to know about different beans, roasting styles and brewing techniques
– Take a barista training course from the comfort of your own kitchen, with top tips on making the perfect brew at home
– Get to grips with modern developments in the coffee world, such as nitro, cold brew, proffee and snapchilled coffee
– Try out delicious coffee-based recipes, from flavoured lattes and iced coffees to coffee fudge, tiramisu, homemade syrups and espresso martinis

The only thing this book doesn’t contain is caffeine – you’ll have to make a fresh cup of joe for that.

In which year did the first televised football match take place? What were the first shin pads made out of?  Who held the shortest ever managerial position, at a record-breaking ten minutes? From the humble beginnings of Notts County football club in 1862 to the technical heights of the game that we watch today, football is a sport treasured by millions of people across the globe. Packed with facts and trivia, this miscellany takes you on a tour through the origins of the game, its key players and famous rivalries, and the triumphs and scandals that colour its history. Whether you’re a new fan, a keen player or an avid spectator, For the Love of Football is perfect for anyone who knows the incomparable joy of the beautiful game.  

Strap yourself in for a barrel of laughs and a party to remember with this incredible collection of booze-based games from around the world.

This comprehensive guide gives you all the essentials required to play, including difficulty ratings, a “what you need” section and clear game instructions.

Don’t worry if you’re new to drinking games – all you need is a generous amount of your favourite alcoholic drink, a few common household items and the desire for some outrageous fun with your friends.

But this is no ordinary collection of boozy shenanigans – it contains the collective knowledge of beer chuggers, gin swiggers and wine sippers from across the globe. Learn how to wear “Chicken Goggles” like the Aussies, beat the Brits at “The Horse Race” and “Slip It In” like an American.

And that’s not all: while you’re waiting for your turn, you can distract and amuse yourself with one of the many random drinking facts and myths found throughout the book – that is, if the room isn’t already spinning.

Forget “Beer Pong” – these are the world’s CRAZIEST drinking games!

You don’t need to compete in the Tour de France to appreciate the wonders of two wheels, and you don’t need to be a genius to enjoy this book. So when your legs deserve a rest after you’ve been out on the bike, how about a puzzle or two to exercise the mind? From quick quizzes and riddles to more leisurely crosswords and sudoku, whether you’re a cycling superfan or just enjoy the occasional ride, there’s plenty in these pages to tickle your fancy and get your brain into gear.

Could you ski to the South Pole? That was the challenge that British Adventurer, Felicity Aston put to women from around the Commonwealth as she set out to create the most international all-female expedition ever to the South Pole. The team would not be experienced explorers but ‘ordinary’ women who wanted inspire others to follow their dreams or make a change for the better in their lives. She received more than 800 applications and embarked on a three-month journey around the world to interview candidates. ‘What is skiing?’ was the question that greeted her in Ghana.

At the close of 2009, Felicity led a team from places as diverse as Jamaica, India, Singapore and Cyprus – some of whom had never even seen snow or spent the night in a tent before joining the expedition – on a 900 km skiing trek across the Antarctic, one of the toughest and most notoriously hazardous journeys on the planet.

Eighty-mile-an-hour winds ripped through base camp; frostbite and injuries were an everyday occurrence; deadly crevasses emerged from the cracking ice beneath their feet. But they also shared beliefs, ideas, philosophies and laughter, made lasting memories and broke no less than six World Records.

“A gentle, warm, vulnerable book that buzzes and sings and blossoms… Donaldson shows that it is not just nature that benefits from working with the earth – the human soul heals and grows too. With lives as tangled and bright as the wildflowers in the verges, this book is a joy to read. ” – Mary Colwell, author of Curlew Moon and The Gathering Place


A heart-warming true story of the woods and wildlife, conservation and community, perfect for fans of Detectorists and The Outlaws

When Carol’s world suddenly unravels, leaving her single and jobless, she stumbles upon an unexpected opportunity: leading a ragtag team of countryside conservation volunteers. At first glance, the prospect of nurturing Britain’s diverse wildlife in the great outdoors seems like a dream come true. However, reality paints a different picture: her office is a ramshackle porta-cabin overrun with mice and plagued by leaky ceilings, and the volunteers are far from impressed with her lack of practical skills.

Despite this rocky beginning, Carol gradually earns the respect of her eclectic group of volunteers, forging a tight-knit community that will grow to become essential to each member. This diverse group spans generations, from twenty-somethings to septuagenarians, with each of them looking to get something different out of volunteering, whether it’s a sense of purpose, a fresh start in life or a tick on their community service form. They also bring their unique quirks and life experiences to the mix.

Volunteer days soon evolve into the highlight of Carol’s week, as they bond over their love of nature, mental health battles, and the desire for companionship. As they work together outdoors, the team discover a simple yet powerful recipe for self-confidence, improved well-being and a newfound perspective on life’s challenges. This journey not only brings solace and new joys to Carol’s weeks, but eventually it helps her move on with her life, too.

The Volunteers is a heartwarming tale that celebrates the redemptive force of the woods and wildlife. It underscores the universal need for belonging and illustrates how, even in the most unexpected places, we can find a community to call our own.

Test your knowledge, stimulate your mind and enjoy your retirement with this refreshing collection of over 100 crossword puzzles

Welcome to your retirement! You’ve earned your freedom and now you have the time, the knowledge and this book to start solving entertaining, creative and clever crossword puzzles.

With more than 100 crossword puzzles of varying difficulty, plus clues and solutions, this activity book will help to keep your mind active as you enjoy your retirement.

Topics span across subjects, from Sport to Music to History and beyond, offering the perfect way to spend your new-found free time.

With this stress-busting large-print compendium, not only will you be exercising your critical thinking skills, increasing your knowledge base and improving your memory, but you’ll also be saving your eyes!

Whether you’re a recent retiree, approaching the big day or have been enjoying your freedom for years, you’ll discover a challenge, a companion and a stimulating collection of crosswords in The Retirement Crossword Puzzle Book.

From the South Downs Way to Offa’s Dyke, from the Thames Path to the Norfolk Coast Path, from Pembrokeshire to the West Highlands, there are big walks here to keep you rambling all year round. And what better way to discover the landscapes of Great Britain, from green and gentle dales to majestic mountains and rugged cliffs?
An indefatigable walker, David Bathurst has unlaced his boots to produce this invaluable companion to the fifteen best-loved long-distance footpaths of Great Britain. His appreciation of the beauty and history of the British countryside and his light-hearted style will appeal to novice and experienced walkers alike.

Invite positivity and appreciation into your life with this guided journal for practising gratitude

Gratitude plays an important role in boosting self-esteem, reducing stress and improving your overall well-being, but it’s not always easy to find time for. Happily, this journal is here to be your daily reminder to focus on the good things in life.

My Daily Gratitude Journal is the perfect space for you to record everything that brings you joy. With beautiful journal pages and thoughtful prompts, it contains everything you need to help you look at your life through a more positive lens. There’s also a helpful introduction to gratitude with information on why it’s an important practice and how it can positively impact your life.

Give yourself a gratitude break each day to remind yourself of everything you’re grateful for, whether it’s your family and friends, your health, your favourite TV show or even the weather. Once you get started, you’ll be amazed by just how much there is to appreciate.

A tidy mind is a calm mind. Through a series of easy-to-follow tips, this book will help you clear your mental clutter, improve your clarity and find peace.

Do you ever feel frazzled and unable to concentrate? Are you drained by the never-ending to-do list in your head? Would you like to feel more in control? If the answer is “yes”, you are not alone – and it might be time to give your mind a spring clean.

Mental clutter is anything in your head that takes up time and energy, and when there’s too much, the mind becomes exhausted. But with a few simple techniques, you can bring order to your inner world and find a sense of peace again.

This guide will help you to:
– Learn what mental clutter is and how it manifests
– Identify the causes of your mental clutter – from to-do lists, to decision-making and information overload
– Reduce the burden on your mind and improve your mental clarity
– Keep your mind tidy over the long term

How to Tidy Your Mind will help you say “no” to mental clutter and “yes” to feeling joyful, calm and clear-headed.

This beautiful book is filled with simple self-care tips and ideas to help you nurture your well-being every day

Self-care comes in many guises, but at its heart it’s anything you do to take care of yourself. It could be five minutes of gentle breathing, time reserved for pursuing a hobby, or the joy of a hot shower – as long as it leaves you feeling restored and refreshed.

Within these pages you will find a raft of simple but effective tips to help on your journey, including:
– Why self-care is key to happiness and health
– Finding the best methods for you
– How to fit self-care into a busy schedule
– Inspiration to nourish your mind, body and soul
We all need to take time out every now and again to recharge our batteries. Whenever you find your energy fading, dip into this beautiful book and find strength again.

‘Fearlessness has got nothing to do with being unafraid. It’s about doing things anyway, getting on with it, living, whether you’re afraid or not… Courage is about being who you are with your whole heart.’

Fuzzy-haired, neurotic, cello-playing Catrina is devastated when lover, Jack, leaves her to go surfing on the other side of the world. Trapped in a dead-end job and torn by his departure, Catrina dreams of running away. But how do you run away when you’re flat broke? Luckily, her friend Andrew comes up with a plan: they’ll get an old van, turn it into a camper and busk their way from Norway to Portugal, via the midnight sun. When Andrew is killed in a tragic accident Catrina decides to go it alone, with disastrous consequences. Until her experiences on the road gradually teach her the real meaning of love, courage and above all else, the importance of following her dreams.

From refreshing gazpacho to hearty chicken noodle soup and whether you love it as a healthy option, or for the warm hug it gives you, there’s a world of soup out there!
Say goodbye to ready-made soups and discover how satisfying it is to prepare these easy-to-follow recipes.

Ditch cross training for crotch straining with this cum-pendium of erotic exercises

Think you can’t f*ck yourself to fitness? This book is here to settle the mass debate. Whether you’re a rookie romper or a seasoned sexpert, these drills are sure to get the juices flowing and keep you trim and toned.

Each of the exercises in this book will help enlarge your love muscles and boost your stamina, and the useful diagrams and simple instructions will guarantee your lovemaking achieves maximum results. Simply find a willing partner and prepare yourselves for some downright dirty antics!

In this book you will find:

– A range of X-rated workouts from beginner bonks to advanced bedroom aerobics
– Guidance on dirty warm-ups and post-climax cool-downs
– A list of essential erotic equipment
– Space to list your achievements and log your lovemaking
Regardless of your gender or sexual orientation, this is the ultimate guide to getting f*cking fit!

Have you ever found yourself wishing that there was more to life?

Would you like to feel happy and fulfilled every day?

Do you want to take control of your future?

When we have a purpose, we truly come alive. A life purpose is empowering; it’s both an anchor and a guiding light. Whether you find yours through a career, helping others or a creative pursuit, a purpose imbues our days with meaning, direction and happiness – which is why knowing yours has the power to transform your life.

This book will help you to uncover your own unique purpose, or your “why”. From reflecting on your past to visualizing your future, the tips and advice in these pages will guide you towards your true calling and a deeper sense of contentment. So, dive in and begin your journey of self-discovery.

It’s more than just a radio station – Radio 4 is a celebration of curiosity, knowledge and entertainment, and it’s a beloved soundtrack to life for millions of Britons. But for the moments when you’re not tuning in, how about a puzzle or two to pass the time? From quizzes and riddles to crosswords and sudoku, whether you’re an expert on all things Radio 4 or merely a casual listener, there’s plenty in these pages to tickle your fancy and tease your brain.

Self-belief is the key to your greatness.

Packed with useful tips, positive affirmations and bite-sized biographies on women who rock, this book is a celebration of female strength and courage. No matter what your aims are for today, this month, this year or in life, it will encourage you to ignore the cynics, seize exciting opportunities and live a life that you love.

Timely advice for a milestone birthday

So what if you’re turning 40? After all, with age comes wisdom – and more excuses to slow down and take things easy. Hey, at least you’re not 50! Packed with celebratory quotations, this little book will help you shrug your shoulders, blow out the candles and KEEP CALM.

Timely advice for a milestone birthday

So what if you’re turning 60? After all, with age comes wisdom – and more excuses to share your valuable life lessons with literally anyone who will listen. Hey, at least you’re not 70! Packed with celebratory quotations, this little book will help you shrug your shoulders, blow out the candles and KEEP CALM.

Timely advice for a milestone birthday

So what if you’re turning 50? After all, with age comes wisdom – and more excuses to reminisce about the good old days. Hey, at least you’re not 60! Packed with celebratory quotations, this little book will help you shrug your shoulders, blow out the candles and KEEP CALM.