Reflections on 2014

So,in common with many of you, as I write this I am thinking about the goals which I set myself in 2014 and whether I managed to achieve them. The things which made me happy, the things which made me proud, the things I would rather forget…

Much is made of the new year, new start, many people use the coming new year as a chance to change something which they are unhappy about in their personal or professional lives. They seek the comfort of the new year, knowing that this means I new start. A fresh slate. A sense of  beginning again.

I thoroughly endorse this. I too overindulge over the festive period. I like the idea of new goals and challenges although I strongly dislike the new years resolutions! If something needs to be changed, don’t feel you have to wait until new year to change it. Similarly, I have friends who actively look for something in their lives to change, when perhaps something more general, such as a goal of a more active and healthy new year, would suffice.

Looking back on my 2014, on the whole I am satisfied. It was the year I finally achieved qualified Solicitor status (Attorney for U.S readers) after many years of hard graft. I also was successful in securing post qualifying employment with my firm, qualifying into their property department.

I travelled to Dubai and  Bordeaux, I caught up with an old university friend whilst out in the UAE and made new friends too. I also started this blog, which has been an aim of mine for some time. Admittedly, it started life as a budget fashion blog but has become more a lifestyle platform overtime.

Towards the end of 2014, I left the law firm with whom I trained and took up a position with another local firm. I was very nervous about leaving but I am pleased to say that I left on good terms with my former employer and made what I know will be lasting friendships with many of my former colleagues.

Over the Christmas period I have set my goals for the year ahead, I thought I would share them with you all.

They are:

• To continue to progress in my career
• To make it onto the UK property ladder (finally!)
• To enjoy my 30th year (!!!)
• To continue to attend the gym regularly and to take on new challenges, I would like to do a 5K run, body permitting
• To continue to eat as much unprocessed, grain free food as possible, adopting the Paleo diet wherever I can. (Incidentally, those who are also interested may like to check out the delightful http://www.againstallgrain.com)
• To take every opportunity to meet new people, embrace life and enjoy it!
• To travel abroad at least once this year.

I have also set myself some equestrian goals, see my previous post for details!

 

I would love to hear what your goals are for 2015 and I wish you all a happy new year!

 

Sophie xxx

 

Equestrian Exploits… update

Loyal readers will know that early this year I began horse riding again, after a loooong break. A break of well over a decade in fact.  I read the blog of Amanda Shirtcliffe, a thoroughly inspirational para- rider, and I decided to try again.

So, how have I got on?

I am pleased to report that I am loving it. My only regret is staying away from it for so long. I have made some great new friends, I am gaining confidence in riding a number of larger horses as well as the ponies I generally favour. I have a “favourite” a beautiful Haflinger mare called Tizzy who is just lively enough to keep me busy but not so lively I feel unsafe (so far!!). If I only had more time, and far far more money, I would be very tempted to loan her.

I am sufficiently smitten with all things equestrian to have invested in:

A Champion Jockey Skull Cap & Silk (Hat)

Some Dublin Riverboots (which double as great walking boots!)

A body protector…

and numerous pairs of jodhpurs.

I would thoroughly recommend the following saddlers/ suppliers of all things equestrian…

Townfields Saddlers; my local saddlers in Allesley, Coventry. They are extremely helpful, very friendly and knowledgeable. They have experienced staff who can fit hats and body protectors. Their website is also excellent and they have a good clearance room too!!

http://www.townfields.com/

Equestrian clearance. For those items which don’t require fittings, such as jods, I would highly recommend them!

http://www.equestrian.com/c/clearance/

Other places you where you can find budget equestrian garms include:

• Amazon
• Rideaway
• Robinson Equestrian
• Sports Direct

I couldn’t write this without briefly mentioning the lovely Moor Farm Stables in Corley Moor. Helpful, friendly and professional. http://www.moorfarmstables.co.uk

So, now that I am a fully fledged member of the horse mad club once more, I need to start thinking about setting myself an equestrian goal for 2015. I have so far come up with:

• Gain confidence around more horses on the ground
• Gain confidence riding on the road and on country hacks
• Conquer my fear of jumps (little ones!)

Check back in 2015 for updates!

 

Sophie xx

A country walk…

I do love a country walk, and the recent lovely weather has encouraged me to add a few of these into my (mostly indoor) fitness regime, which typically includes the gym, fitness classes and swimming.  I am fortunate living in a beautiful Warwickshire village, and I feel that between work, gym and attempting a social life, I just don’t take the time to appreciate it.

Recently I have been thinking a lot about the way in which I live my life, I am always focused on the negative, I never manage to look at the positive. So, I have decided that I will try to look for the good in each situation I approach!  Life may not have always been kind to me, but on the other hand, I have been very lucky in some areas of my life, and my hard work and endeavour has finally paid off in my professional life. After all this time, (approx. 6 years!) I am now, finally, a qualified Solicitor. I thought that  day would never come.

As part of my new appreciate-what-I-have life approach I have decided to enjoy my lovely country surroundings more, and drink in the beauty of the countryside.

 

I thought that you too might like to share some of the lovely views I have encountered on my walks.

A Victorian cottage across the river sowe in Stoneleigh village. This is one of two cottages across the river, which are only accessible via a foot bridge.

 

A close up of a lovely wild meadow.

Some rather chubby pet sheep in a field. Was pondering whether the grey coloured one is a Herdwicke sheep, but my knowledge of British sheep breeds is lacking!!

 

St Mary’s parish church viewed across the meadow in the sunset.

I am fortunate to live (with family) in this village, but unlikely to be able to afford the high prices when I come to buy my own place. I am determined however to continue to enjoy the beauty of the English country side. I encourage you all to do the same!! (I also welcome any tips on country walks in Warwickshire/ West Mids/Northamptonshire…)

 

Lots of love My Little Law Life xxx

 

Spinach smoothie!

Hello everyone, I hope you enjoyed my last smoothie post. This is another recipe which I happened upon, and I love it.

What you will need

Ingredients:

2 frozen spinach blocks ( or fresh spinach if preferred)

5 sprigs of fresh mint roughly chopped

1 kiwi fruit peeled and chopped

1 green apple, peeled, cored and chopped ( I used Granny Smiths, but any will be fine I am sure)

half an avocado chopped

Equipment/ utensils:

Blender

chopping board

knife

corer

strainer

 

Combine all of the above ingredients in the blender, add two tablespoons of water. (if you prefer a thinner smoothie texture, add more water, to your taste) Blend for about 4 minutes, or until smooth.

Using the strainer, drain into glasses, and season with ginger or mint as required! A healthy, cleansing smoothie!!!

 

I have since substituted the spinach for the wonder that is broccoli, but I have say I do prefer the spinach, it gives a better consistency and a cleaner taste.

 

Feed back welcome

My Little Law Life xxx