Re-Discovering London at My Own Pace

London eye at night 

Today was a perfect Saturday in London—sunny, warm, and productive. I finally got around to getting that much-needed haircut, opting for a short style that feels just right for me now. It’s funny how something so simple, like a fresh haircut, can boost your mood. Afterward, I took a stroll through North Road market, picking up some fresh fruits before heading home to meet a couple of potential buyers for some items I’d listed. By the end of the day, I’d made a couple of sales. It felt like a small win, closing the day with that satisfying sense of accomplishment.

My week, however, was full of little adventures. One of the highlights was taking an Uber boat ride from Putney to Barking Riverside. It was a day that couldn’t quite make up its mind—cloudy one moment, sunny the next—but the scenic ride made it all worthwhile. I’ve always loved the view of London from the water; it gives the city a whole new perspective, reminding me of how vast and dynamic it is.

Later in the week, I wandered over to Wapping, a small and quiet suburb that’s perfect for capturing the charm of old London.

https://www.greeneking.co.uk I took some photos of Chadwell Basin and made my way through familiar spots like London Bridge and the Embankment.https://www.shipandshovell.co.uk/ I stayed out late that evening to catch the London Eye illuminated at night—it’s such a striking scene, and no matter how many times I’ve seen it, it never loses its magic.

Last night, I decided to do something a little different and visited the Victoria and Albert Museum. https://www.vam.ac.uk/On Fridays, they have music and drinks in the main lobby, which creates such a lively, almost festive atmosphere. Although I wasn’t in the mood for a drink, I loved walking through the museum halls, taking in the beauty of the artworks and the energy of the evening.

I left the museum around 7:30 p.m., but instead of heading straight home, I took the bus to Hyde Park, and from there, I walked to Buckingham Palace. https://www.rct.uk/visit/buckingham-palace There’s something about walking through London at night that’s magical. I just kept walking, soaking in the beauty of the city under the night sky. By the time I got home, it was nearly 11:30 p.m., which is strange for me—I’m still getting used to the idea of staying out late.

It’s one of the big changes that comes with retirement, I suppose. No more 10 p.m. curfews or early alarms at 4:45 a.m. I’m slowly adjusting to this new rhythm of life, one where time feels more fluid and free. It’s strange but wonderful, and I’m learning to embrace it—whether it’s a late-night walk through the city or an impromptu day of exploration.

All in all, this week was a mix of everyday moments and little adventures that reminded me of how much I love this city and how much I’m enjoying the extra time to take it all in.

Chadwell Basin

Devil’s Tavern, The prospect of Whitby

London Bridge at night.

The Shard

The Ship & Shovell Pub

Architecture around Embankment

St.Paul Cathedral, London

Regent Street, London

Greenwich, view from Uber boat

Famous Regent Street, London

Victoria & Albert museum, courtyard

Stunning  Buckingham Palace at night

Liberty Store, London

Heddon Street Kitchen

Re-Discovering London at My Own Pace

London eye at night 

Today was a perfect Saturday in London—sunny, warm, and productive. I finally got around to getting that much-needed haircut, opting for a short style that feels just right for me now. It’s funny how something so simple, like a fresh haircut, can boost your mood. Afterward, I took a stroll through North Road market, picking up some fresh fruits before heading home to meet a couple of potential buyers for some items I’d listed. By the end of the day, I’d made a couple of sales. It felt like a small win, closing the day with that satisfying sense of accomplishment.

My week, however, was full of little adventures. One of the highlights was taking an Uber boat ride from Putney to Barking Riverside. It was a day that couldn’t quite make up its mind—cloudy one moment, sunny the next—but the scenic ride made it all worthwhile. I’ve always loved the view of London from the water; it gives the city a whole new perspective, reminding me of how vast and dynamic it is.

Later in the week, I wandered over to Wapping, a small and quiet suburb that’s perfect for capturing the charm of old London.

https://www.greeneking.co.uk I took some photos of Chadwell Basin and made my way through familiar spots like London Bridge and the Embankment.https://www.shipandshovell.co.uk/ I stayed out late that evening to catch the London Eye illuminated at night—it’s such a striking scene, and no matter how many times I’ve seen it, it never loses its magic.

Last night, I decided to do something a little different and visited the Victoria and Albert Museum. https://www.vam.ac.uk/On Fridays, they have music and drinks in the main lobby, which creates such a lively, almost festive atmosphere. Although I wasn’t in the mood for a drink, I loved walking through the museum halls, taking in the beauty of the artworks and the energy of the evening.

I left the museum around 7:30 p.m., but instead of heading straight home, I took the bus to Hyde Park, and from there, I walked to Buckingham Palace. https://www.rct.uk/visit/buckingham-palace There’s something about walking through London at night that’s magical. I just kept walking, soaking in the beauty of the city under the night sky. By the time I got home, it was nearly 11:30 p.m., which is strange for me—I’m still getting used to the idea of staying out late.

It’s one of the big changes that comes with retirement, I suppose. No more 10 p.m. curfews or early alarms at 4:45 a.m. I’m slowly adjusting to this new rhythm of life, one where time feels more fluid and free. It’s strange but wonderful, and I’m learning to embrace it—whether it’s a late-night walk through the city or an impromptu day of exploration.

All in all, this week was a mix of everyday moments and little adventures that reminded me of how much I love this city and how much I’m enjoying the extra time to take it all in.

Chadwell Basin

Devil’s Tavern, The prospect of Whitby

London Bridge at night.

The Shard

The Ship & Shovell Pub

Architecture around Embankment

St.Paul Cathedral, London

Regent Street, London

Greenwich, view from Uber boat

Famous Regent Street, London

Victoria & Albert museum, courtyard

Stunning  Buckingham Palace at night

Liberty Store, London

Heddon Street Kitchen

Transforming Oyster Shell Finds into Beautiful Trinkets

Gold painted Oyster shells, jewellery holder

There’s something magical about strolling along Vancouver's beaches, the cool breeze, the sound of the waves, and the unexpected treasures hiding in the sand. One of my favourite finds has  been oyster shells—each one a little piece of nature’s art. Over time, I've turned this humble beach discovery into something special, a project that combines the beauty of nature with a touch of artistic flair.

After gathering a collection of oyster shells on a recent beach walk, I brought them home to begin the transformation process. The first step was to wash and bleach them, ensuring they were clean and pristine. I left them to dry in the sun for a full week, letting the natural light work its magic.

Once dried, I started painting some of the shells in a beautiful, rich gold. The way the metallic paint caught the light felt luxurious and gave the shells an entirely new life. For some, I decided to add a delicate, floral touch. Using tissue and napkins with soft floral designs, I carefully glued them onto the shells. When it dried I gently filed with mail file all edges to remove access paper. The combination of gold and floral patterns created an eye-catching contrast that felt both elegant and whimsical.

Painted in gold outside of the shell. 

Painted the edges of the Oyster shell

When tissue was dry I painted the edges

To ensure these pieces would last, I applied a coat of acrylic varnish over each shell, sealing in the color and protecting the delicate designs. The result? Stunning little oyster shell boxes with lids, perfect for holding trinkets or simply displaying as unique décor pieces.

Whether sitting on a vanity or given as a thoughtful gift, these oyster shell creations are both beautiful and functional. I’m thrilled with how they turned out—each one feels like a tiny treasure, a nod to the natural beauty of Vancouver's shores and a testament to the transformative power of a little creativity.

Gold painted Oyster shells, jewellery holder

Gold painted Oyster shells, Jewellery Trinket Dish

 

Transforming Oyster Shell Finds into Beautiful Trinkets

Gold painted Oyster shells, jewellery holder

There’s something magical about strolling along Vancouver's beaches, the cool breeze, the sound of the waves, and the unexpected treasures hiding in the sand. One of my favourite finds has  been oyster shells—each one a little piece of nature’s art. Over time, I've turned this humble beach discovery into something special, a project that combines the beauty of nature with a touch of artistic flair.

After gathering a collection of oyster shells on a recent beach walk, I brought them home to begin the transformation process. The first step was to wash and bleach them, ensuring they were clean and pristine. I left them to dry in the sun for a full week, letting the natural light work its magic.

Once dried, I started painting some of the shells in a beautiful, rich gold. The way the metallic paint caught the light felt luxurious and gave the shells an entirely new life. For some, I decided to add a delicate, floral touch. Using tissue and napkins with soft floral designs, I carefully glued them onto the shells. When it dried I gently filed with mail file all edges to remove access paper. The combination of gold and floral patterns created an eye-catching contrast that felt both elegant and whimsical.

Painted in gold outside of the shell. 

Painted the edges of the Oyster shell

When tissue was dry I painted the edges

To ensure these pieces would last, I applied a coat of acrylic varnish over each shell, sealing in the color and protecting the delicate designs. The result? Stunning little oyster shell boxes with lids, perfect for holding trinkets or simply displaying as unique décor pieces.

Whether sitting on a vanity or given as a thoughtful gift, these oyster shell creations are both beautiful and functional. I’m thrilled with how they turned out—each one feels like a tiny treasure, a nod to the natural beauty of Vancouver's shores and a testament to the transformative power of a little creativity.

Gold painted Oyster shells, jewellery holder

Gold painted Oyster shells, Jewellery Trinket Dish

 

Transforming a Free Oak Chair into a Farmhouse Masterpiece: A DIY Adventure.

Farmhouse Masterpiece: A DIY Adventure

Oak chair before DIY transformation

Sometimes the best DIY projects start with a bit of serendipity. That was the case for me when I stumbled upon a free oak chair on the marketplace. A sturdy seat destined for a new home, it had the potential to be much more. And with a bit of creativity and elbow grease, I transformed it into a charming farmhouse-style chair as a decor piece in my hallway, it is also perfect for sitting down when putting  the shooes on.

The Journey Begins

Obtaining the chair was an adventure in itself. Without a car, I had to take two buses to pick it up. As I lugged this solid oak piece onto the bus, the driver couldn't resist a bit of humor, quipping about how many seats there were on the bus and how I didn't need to bring my own. His joke added a touch of levity to my journey and set the tone for the project ahead.

The Chair’s Potential

Upon collecting the chair, I was pleased to find it in excellent condition. The oak was sturdy and the seat was well-crafted—no need for a major overhaul. However, to integrate it into my hallway’s decor, which features a farmhouse cabinet, I decided a little transformation was in order. The goal was to match the chair to the existing farmhouse aesthetic.

Painting and Stenciling: A Farmhouse Makeover

1. Preparation: I started by giving the chair a thorough cleaning to remove any dust or grime. Then, I lightly sanded the surface to ensure the paint would adhere well. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth followed to remove any sanding residue.
2. Painting: I chose a soft, creamy white paint to evoke that classic farmhouse feel. A high-quality acrylic paint worked best for this project, providing a smooth finish and durability. I applied two coats, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next.
3. Stenciling: To add a bit of personality and charm, I used a French script  stencil pattern. I opted for a subtle design that wouldn’t overwhelm the chair but would add a distinct, vintage touch. Using a small stencil brush, I carefully applied a muted gray color over the stenciled areas, ensuring a crisp, clean look.
4. Finishing Touches: Once the paint and stencil were dry, I applied a clear sealant to protect the finish and add a slight sheen. This step was crucial for durability, especially since the chair would be used here and there.

The Final Result

The transformation was a success! The chair now complements the hallway cabinet beautifully, adding a touch of farmhouse charm. It’s a sturdy, stylish and the stencil detail brings a unique, personal touch that ties everything together.

Reflecting on the Journey

This DIY project was more than just a makeover; it was a testament to the joy of upcycling and the satisfaction of creating something special from a simple find. The bus ride, with its humorous interlude, became a memorable part of the adventure. And now, every time I use the chair, it’s a reminder of the creativity and effort that went into making it a cherished piece of my  home.

Transforming a Free Oak Chair into a Farmhouse Masterpiece: A DIY Adventure.

Farmhouse Masterpiece: A DIY Adventure

Oak chair before DIY transformation

Sometimes the best DIY projects start with a bit of serendipity. That was the case for me when I stumbled upon a free oak chair on the marketplace. A sturdy seat destined for a new home, it had the potential to be much more. And with a bit of creativity and elbow grease, I transformed it into a charming farmhouse-style chair as a decor piece in my hallway, it is also perfect for sitting down when putting  the shooes on.

The Journey Begins

Obtaining the chair was an adventure in itself. Without a car, I had to take two buses to pick it up. As I lugged this solid oak piece onto the bus, the driver couldn't resist a bit of humor, quipping about how many seats there were on the bus and how I didn't need to bring my own. His joke added a touch of levity to my journey and set the tone for the project ahead.

The Chair’s Potential

Upon collecting the chair, I was pleased to find it in excellent condition. The oak was sturdy and the seat was well-crafted—no need for a major overhaul. However, to integrate it into my hallway’s decor, which features a farmhouse cabinet, I decided a little transformation was in order. The goal was to match the chair to the existing farmhouse aesthetic.

Painting and Stenciling: A Farmhouse Makeover

1. Preparation: I started by giving the chair a thorough cleaning to remove any dust or grime. Then, I lightly sanded the surface to ensure the paint would adhere well. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth followed to remove any sanding residue.
2. Painting: I chose a soft, creamy white paint to evoke that classic farmhouse feel. A high-quality acrylic paint worked best for this project, providing a smooth finish and durability. I applied two coats, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next.
3. Stenciling: To add a bit of personality and charm, I used a French script  stencil pattern. I opted for a subtle design that wouldn’t overwhelm the chair but would add a distinct, vintage touch. Using a small stencil brush, I carefully applied a muted gray color over the stenciled areas, ensuring a crisp, clean look.
4. Finishing Touches: Once the paint and stencil were dry, I applied a clear sealant to protect the finish and add a slight sheen. This step was crucial for durability, especially since the chair would be used here and there.

The Final Result

The transformation was a success! The chair now complements the hallway cabinet beautifully, adding a touch of farmhouse charm. It’s a sturdy, stylish and the stencil detail brings a unique, personal touch that ties everything together.

Reflecting on the Journey

This DIY project was more than just a makeover; it was a testament to the joy of upcycling and the satisfaction of creating something special from a simple find. The bus ride, with its humorous interlude, became a memorable part of the adventure. And now, every time I use the chair, it’s a reminder of the creativity and effort that went into making it a cherished piece of my  home.

Turning Leftover Candle Bits into Beautiful Homemade Candles

A Creative and Frugal DIY Project

Turning Leftover Candle Bits into Beautiful Homemade Candles

Handmade, crochet candle wick

It is a Russian superstition not spending money on Mondays. I try to stick with this old superstition and keep myself busy at home with DIY and craft projects. 

Spent the afternoon making candles using leftover bits from old ones I had around the house. I added some lovely scented oils I brought from the UK – I’ve got 17 bottles in total from a farewell gift set. Since I didn’t have wicks, I crocheted my own using thin cotton yarn from my stash! It worked out perfectly.

I melted the old candles in a jar placed in a pot of water, kept an eye on it for 45 minutes, and then carefully poured the wax into a mix of glass and ceramic containers I already had. I’m so happy with how they turned out – I made six large and small candles, and they smell and look gorgeous. Considering how pricey candles are these days ($10-$15 each!), these beauties cost me nothing but time. This is what I call being creative, frugal, and resourceful!

I hope you enjoyed this post, you might like the next one ⬇️⬇️⬇️

https://verasslowlivingdiaries.blogspot.com/2024/08/how-to-transform-scrap-wood-into.html

Turning Leftover Candle Bits into Beautiful Homemade Candles

A Creative and Frugal DIY Project

Turning Leftover Candle Bits into Beautiful Homemade Candles

Handmade, crochet candle wick

It is a Russian superstition not spending money on Mondays. I try to stick with this old superstition and keep myself busy at home with DIY and craft projects. 

Spent the afternoon making candles using leftover bits from old ones I had around the house. I added some lovely scented oils I brought from the UK – I’ve got 17 bottles in total from a farewell gift set. Since I didn’t have wicks, I crocheted my own using thin cotton yarn from my stash! It worked out perfectly.

I melted the old candles in a jar placed in a pot of water, kept an eye on it for 45 minutes, and then carefully poured the wax into a mix of glass and ceramic containers I already had. I’m so happy with how they turned out – I made six large and small candles, and they smell and look gorgeous. Considering how pricey candles are these days ($10-$15 each!), these beauties cost me nothing but time. This is what I call being creative, frugal, and resourceful!

I hope you enjoyed this post, you might like the next one ⬇️⬇️⬇️

https://verasslowlivingdiaries.blogspot.com/2024/08/how-to-transform-scrap-wood-into.html