Run Fest Run! *Ad- Gifted

Hello everyone, it's been a while but I can explain! I took a break from blogging and in that time I developed an addiction thats gotten rather out of hand... running! So much so I've signed up to the Manchester Marathon (more on that in a future post) and decided to take my shorts and trainers to the very first Run Fest Run Festival! (Tickets were kindly gifted from Run Fest Run)

For those that know me well, I've been doing the festival circuit for a good 12 years now and have had my fair share of warm ciders whilst pitching a tent but this festival was something else...

Based in the beautiful grounds of Bowood House Estate in Wiltshire, Run Fest Run is a festival that brings the love of running together with camping, partying for all round good people. From pitching our tent to shopping the stalls, buying a pint and running, everyone was SO friendly and from early on during the Friday, I knew we were going to have a brilliant weekend.

The weekend of running was divided into teams to add some fun competitiveness to the runs and the teams consisted of:

- Team Butterfly with captain Paula Radcliffe
- Team Bumblebee with captain Steve Cram
- Team Dragonfly with captain Colin Jackson
- Team Ladybird with captain Natasha Evans

Each runner received a t-shirt along with bug accessories for the weekend and every race run put points towards each teams total. It was great to see family clans within their chosen insect team and the kids were so enthusiastic! I was on Paula's team which I was super chuffed about as she's been a real inspiration through my running journey!

As a newbie runner having only ran for 8 weeks prior to the festival, I must admit I was a tad nervous but I soon got to know that the running community is full of friendly and incredibly encouraging people that really spurred me on. The first race I entered was a 5k neon run which started at 10pm on the Friday night. I must admit it felt a bit weird to be watching the likes of Reef and Razorlight perform on stage whilst donning my running kit and without a drop of alcohol passing my lips but equally the music got me excited for the race ahead and what a first race that was!

All armed with our head torches, a mass of runners descended on the start line, ready to take on the challenge of night running. I'd never run in the dark nor had I ever done a race but the atmosphere was brilliant and the lights from peoples head torches, shoes and other light up attire dancing across the terrain made the whole experience truly magical. I had no idea where I was going but I just followed the lights and listened to Chris (my better half) as he encouraged me to keep going up the hills- something I also didn't anticipate from running in the flat fens! Before I knew it we could hear cheering and clapping and we were crossing the finish line, ready for a hot shower and a hot chocolate too.

As I've mentioned I've done a festival or two in my time so I was slightly dubious of what the shower situation would be like but I was pleasantly surprised and impressed at the facilities. There were plenty of showers to go round and there was always one free when I arrived, each steaming hot and welcoming after good run.

Saturday both Chris and I woke up feeling...refreshed! Again something I've never experienced at a festival in all my years of attending them. I'm usually greeted to a sore head and a dry mouth but instead we felt awake and excited for further races planned for the day.

Saturday was the main day for racing, with the half marathon starting at 08:45, followed by the 5k at 11:15. There was also a 2.5k, 10k a running club relay and a 3k road race to get involved with so there was a run for everyone. I opted for the 5k and Chris did that plus the 10k later on.

It was great to spur on those running before and after you as they ran through the beautiful Bowood Estate.

If you fancied a break between the runs but still wanted to exercise those limbs, there was wild swimming on the lake. It looked incredible and I envied those in their wet suits- something I'd definitely hire for next time! I did get to admire the beautiful view though which was just stunning.

So to get you ready for each run there was a warm up at the main stage from various runners which was brilliant and really got you excited to get out and go for it!

I must admit I struggled a bit with the Saturday 5k race due to the heat and my lack of hill running before but again the running community came to my aid! A woman with her young son were running along and could see I was struggling and instantly gave me words of encouragement, telling me how fantastically I was doing. Chris was doing the same and perhaps it was hayfever, excitement or just general overwhelment  but my eyes may have leaked a little!

Peppered around the course were amazing marshals spurring you on and even live bands singing you past. It all made for a brilliant atmosphere and crossing the finish line past the main stage gave you that little extra burst of energy you needed to finish.

I was super chuffed not only to be part of the races over the weekend but to also cheer on, whoop and support fellow runners. Whilst Chris ran his 10k (and totally smashed it considering he hasn't ran 10k for months), I cheered, clapped and encouraged as many runners as I could during the race and it's made me think that I'd like to volunteer as a marshal at my local Park Run. Just one of the many positive things I took away from the weekend!

For those who ran the half marathon or just wanted a bit of a treat for their muscles, sports masseuses' were on hand to relieve any tension and relax your tired muscles. It looked pretty heavenly to be fair!

If you thought the running celebs weren't getting involved in the racing you'd be wrong! Chris Evans, Vassos and all the running coaches could be seen doing the half marathon, 10k 5k and even the relay racing which was great to see! Having listened to Chris Evans and Vassos on Virgin Radio talk about running, you can tell they are truly passionate about it so it was great to see them getting involved. I blame them for getting me into running in the first place! Although I should thank them rather than blame them- running is bloody brilliant and if it wasn't for them, this festival wouldn't have been born!

In between all the running, warm ups and music there were some fantastic tents to go sit and get inspired or motivated in. From ultra marathon runners to vegan runners, motivational speakers to nutrition and healthy eating- there was something for everyone to listen to and for me my favourite  had to be listening to Fearne Cotton. Her talk was on being happy and learning to let go of trying to be perfect and instead learning to find joy in the everyday. I love how running helps her to clear her head and find balance and listening to her talk gave me even more enthusiasm and motivation not just in running but in everyday life.

So after a hard days running, it was only right to settle down with some hearty food and a cheeky cocktail or two and listen to Ten Tonnes, The Coral, Faithless and Olly Murs perform. They were all bloody brilliant but I did go a little mad when Sister Bliss came on stage!

Everyone was having a brilliant time and for those that didn't fancy the music, Chris and Vassos even ensured the footie was put on a big screen over the other side of the festival; keeping the football fanatics very happy!

Sunday marked the fun runs of the festival which I sadly missed out on due to travelling home but next time I will definitely make sure I can stay for those! They looked incredible for families with children and this was the final attempt to gain points for your team for the weekend! The Dragonfly runners won in the end and were rewarded with tickets to Car Fest South in August!

I've said it before but I'll say it again- I've never been to a festival like it! Usually I'd come away from a festival feeling fragile and shattered but from Run Fest Run I felt even more excited for running, enthusiastic and generally buzzing with energy! You wouldn't have known it was a first time festival as it was executed perfectly and every thought had been considered- the main thing being the facilities. Showers, toilets and sinks weren't a problem whatsoever and for me that's a huge tick. But the thing I took away most from the weekend was the atmosphere and the comradery from the running community. Whether you're a newbie runner, fun runner or have a goal in mind, there is something for everyone and you're all welcome. My only complaint? Why isn't there another one in the diary! I miss it immensely even a fortnight on and can't wait to go next year.

*Ad Gifted- I was very kindly gifted two weekend tickets to Run Fest Run 2019. I was under no obligation to write a full blog post but I enjoyed it so much I really wanted to share  it with anyone who is interested in a) running and b) the next one!

Introducing: The Juicy Lucy at Handmade Burger Co! *Gifted

Its been a few weeks since I've raved about awesome eateries so today I thought I'd tell you all about Handmade Burger Co's latest creation- the Juicy Lucy!

I was kindly invited by Queensgate shopping centre to go along and review this beast of a burger and it's certainly up there with the best on the Handmade Burger Co menu. The location is perfect for a break from shopping, being located on the edge of Westgate Arcade and in the heart of the shopping centre.

We started our evening with a cheeky drink or two. I was on the wine whilst Chris opted for a Corona but there's lots to choose from to wet your appetite. From cocktails to milkshakes, you'll be spoilt for choice. All the fizzy drinks are re-fillable and you can pimp a milkshake with a spirit to make it extra indulgent!

One of the things I love about Handmade Buger Co is the fact that everything is made from scratch and with over 40 different handmade burgers to choose from, I don't think anyone can complain about the variety! The burgers aren't all beef either. You can choose from veggie or chicken too if that's more your thing. Naturally, Chris and I went in for the big guns and needless to say, we were very impressed!

Say hello to the Juicy Lucy- a burger which lets be honest looks absolutely epic!! Stuffed with American cheese, served in a bun with lettuce, red onion, garlic mayonnaise and served with a gherkin....everything about this burger is a taste sensation!

When I say stuffed with American cheese, it really is. One knife slice into the beef patty and the melting cheese was on show! Chris decided to double up his order on the Juicy Lucy , opting for a double stacked pattie which is amazing for any big eaters out there!

I chose the Blue Cheese and Bacon burger, with a flat mushroom thrown in for good measure which actually made my burger. In it's brioche bun you;ll find, blue cheese, caramelised onion relish, bacon, lettuce and blue cheese mayo and oh my lord its a taste sensation- particularly if you're into your cheese!

If you thought the burgers were the only epic part of your meal at Handmade Burger Co then you'd be wrong...They are phenominal also. Chris opted for the Denver fries whilst I chose the sweet potato fries, I swear that nowhere else does sweet potato fries like Handmade Burger Co and if you opt for them when you go- you won't be disappointed!

By the time we'd eaten our mains we were well and truly stuffed. It beat us and our bellies couldn't muster the strength to delve into desserts but there is always next time! What I will say is go to Handmade Burger Co with an empty stomach. This is not the place for a light meal but it's certainly the place for the best burgers in town. 

Have you tried the Juicy Lucy yet?

I was invited along with to try the new Juicy Lucy burger at Handmade Burger Co by Queensgate Shopping Centre and received a complimentary meal for myself and Chris. I was under no obligation to write a review but I enjoyed it so much I decided to do a blog post so that you guys could discover it and hopefully go and enjoy it too!

Easter Dinner DIYs

April is here, spring has sprung and before know it Easter will be thrust upon us in the form of a four day weekend. In the past I have either been away or moving house over the Easter weekend so this year I decided to embrace it in the best way I know how- crafts!

Now don’t get me wrong, these DIYs aren’t ground breaking by any means but they add a little something that will make your Easter feel special...

Easter nest cakes

These little babies have been around for years and for good reason. They’re simple and quick with minimal fuss but show you’ve made some effort with your Easter.

This recipe makes 12 nests and you will need:

- Shredded Wheat (85g crushed)

- Melting milk chocolate (200g split into pieces)

- Mini Eggs (x 2 bags)

- Cake Cases

- Easter chicks for decoration (because cute!!)

Step 1- Shred your shredded wheat and then melt your chocolate by placing it into a glass bowl over a pan of simmering water.

Step 2- Once the chocolate has melted, add in your shredded wheat into the bowl and stir well to combine.

Step 3- Spoon the chocolate covered wheat into the cupcake cases. Use the back of a teaspoon and press into the centre of the mix to make the nest shape.

Step 4- Place 3 mini eggs on top of each nest and chill in the fridge for 2 hours until set.

And voila! There you have your simple but very cute and effective Easter cakes done and dusted in under 30 minutes!

The bunny napkins

I saw these napkins on Pinterest and got a bit obsessed! How cute are these!? Again they are incredibly easy to do but add an extra touch to any Easter eating.

You will need:

-Cloth napkins

-Plastic and/or polystyrene eggs

- Spray paint (or if you want to paint with a different paint go ahead(

- A marker pen

- Twine

Step 1- Spray paint (or hand paint if you’d prefer) your eggs the colour you’d like. Tip: Place the eggs on sticks for easy access when spraying and place in a vase/ jug to dry on the stick!

Step 2- Once dry, write the name of your guest onto the egg.

Step 3- Fold your napkin in half diagonally, then take the centre triangle and fold it down to the bottom of the napkin.

Step 4- Roll the napkin up and then place your egg in the centre of the napkin.

Step 5- Fold the napkin up and over the egg to create the bunny ears. Secure in place with twine.

Again, it’s a super simple DIY to do but the effect is fun and I’m sure your dinner guests will appreciate the effort!

The Easter Centre Piece

This is the first time I’ve ever attempted a centre piece so I decided to work with faux foliage and flowers for the table display and real flowers in the case. I’m a little heavy handed/ wasn’t sure how long foliage and flowers would last displayed on the table so if you’re a beginner like me, this is a good option.

You will need:

- Faux Eucalyptus (eBay)

- Faux flower heads (available in most craft stores and shops like Wilkos, B&M)

- A flower crown (mine was from ebay)

- More plastic eggs (again spray painted/hand painted to the colour of your choice)

- A vase of your choice

- Daffodils., tulips or any spring flowers you’d like to have as your centre piece

Step 1- With your vase in the centre, grab your eucalyptus and begin to fashion it into the shape you’d like your centre piece to be. Place them diagonally across one another to disguise the ends and bend the “stork” ends in order to get your eucalyptus laying as you’d like it.

Step2- Place your flower crown on top of the eucalyptus arrangement. I did this to add some depth to the flower arrangement and it’s a great way to get use out of a flower crown other than on your head!

Step 3- Place the individual flowers sporadically around the eucalyptus to bulk out sprase areas and/or cover and areas you don’t want to be seen. The arrangement should begin to look a lot fuller now.

Step 4- To finish it all off, nestle your plastic eggs into the arrangement for added Easter effect before placing your spring bouquet of choice in the vase.

This was surprisingly simple to do but I think the effect is pretty cool and will definitely get you in the spring and Easter vibes.

So those are my Easter dinner DIYs. I know it’s not as widely celebrated as Christmas but I think Easter is the perfect excuse to decorate and feel cheery for spring, plus with the long weekend its a lovely opportunity to spend time with family and friends so why not make your home a bit extra?

I hope you enjoyed the DIYs and if you decide to re-create any yourself I would love to see them! You can also watch the video I made on these DIYs if you’d like to see them in action:

Have a brilliant Easter Bank Holiday!