Introducing Lily the Lemon Tree

We are really pleased with our new orangery, and we've slowly been adding the finishing touches. The one thing missing is some greenery, and my husband was very keen on the idea of an orange or lemon tree. I wasn't sure at first because we aren't the most green-fingered people, and because we go away a lot I was a bit worried about how we would look after it. But a friend recommended a local citrus nursery, The Citrus Centre in Pulborough, and so we decided to go along and take a look.

We were really impressed! They had a huge selection of trees in all shapes and sizes, and the lady was really helpful. She could see that we were beginners and so she recommended that we start with a lemon tree. It's a four season tree, so there will fruit and buds all year round, and they are the easiest type of citrus tree to start with. We agonised over a few that were a similar size and shape before settling on an Amalfi lemon tree.

We transported our tree home like a newborn baby, going slowly around the bends, gently over the bumps, and with me sat in the back to look after it.

The tree will live inside over the winter and then move outside over the summer when the orangery will be too hot. It's almost time to move it outside, but we are having work done on the garden over the next few weeks so it will live inside until that is finished. I was surprised to learn that they only need to be watered every couple of months or so, and then when you do water them you give them lots all at once along with some feed.

We've bought her a pot and have named her Lily. We will be leaving most of the fruit on the tree for decoration, but as it had six lemons when we bought it we did harvest one which I used to make a delicious lemon drizzle cake. 

I really hope that Lily is with us for a long time to come!

My current obsession - jigsaw puzzles

Recently I read this quote - "A puzzle won't solve all of your problems, but a puzzle is a problem you can solve" - attributed to Rachel Miller. It helped to explain why I've spent the last few weeks obsessed with doing jigsaw puzzles, it's a brilliant way to calm my mind and to feel that I'm keeping things in order.

I go through phases with my jigsaws, sometimes I'll be working on one after another after another, and then I'll put away my jigsaw board for months at a time. Recently I've been doing some book shopping in charity shops, and I decided to try my luck with buying some jigsaws, deciding to make peace with the fact that they may not be complete. 

Although the local charity shops do stock plenty of jigsaws, I'm quite fussy about what I like. I prefer a modern illustrative image rather than a photo, and I'm not keen on the cutesy, nostalgic scenes that seem to make up most of the offering. For my first purchase I was delighted to find this New York street scene jigsaw, and when I found that it was in good condition with no missing pieces I went searching for some more!

It took a bit of browsing, but I came home with a small haul. I couldn't resist starting with this Lego Minifigures jigsaw which wasn't nearly as difficult as I was expecting. It was really fun to put together and not that difficult at all - I loved all the different figures. It was a nice alternative to all the actual Lego that I've been building recently to sell on Ebay!

Lego - Minifigure Puzzle

This jigsaw with an illustration of nostalgic toys is as far into the nostalgia theme as I'm prepared to go! It was a sweet collection of different childhood toys, one of those puzzles that you can't really sort into sections you just have to lay out all the pieces and hunt for them a few at a time.

Gibsons - Space Hoppers & Scooters

This puzzle from Ravensburger I borrowed from my Mum, I suspect it was another charity shop purchase as the edge pieces were neatly sorted into a little sandwich bag inside! I don't mind that at all, it saves me a job and it also suggests that the previous puzzler cared about making sure that all the pieces were present. I think that Ravensburger is my favourite jigsaw manufacturer when it comes to the shape and fit of the pieces, and this one was a lot easier than it looked!

Ravensburger - The Artist's Desk

Finally I'm currently working on the last puzzle in my stash, another Ravensburger called The Fantasy Bookshop. I've been admiring this one for a while online, so I was really pleased to spot it for just a few pounds. It's quite a tricky one because there are lots of similar looking pieces, but it's coming together nicely. I'm really enjoying making the most of our extension and working on my puzzles in the sunshine under our beautiful lantern roof.

Now that I've reached the end of my pile I think it's time to do some more shopping, and this time I might see if I can find one with a few more pieces than my usual 1000 - maybe then I won't be getting through them quite as quickly!

A look at my current To Be Read pile...

I've been reading quite a lot recently, but I've also developed a slight shopping addiction when it comes to buying books. I rarely buy a new book, but I do find it difficult to pass a charity shop without adding some bargains to my stash and I seem to have had a few shopping opportunities recently.

I thought I'd share a little look at my current To Be Read pile, to try and motivate myself to carry on working my way through it! The pile is stored next to my bed as that is where I do a lot of my reading. Most of the books are from charity shops, although a couple are new ones that I've received as gifts.

Three of them are books which I have previously borrowed, read and enjoyed, and I wanted to own my own copy to read before I add them to my shelf. They are All The Light We Cannon See by Anthony Doerr, The Paper Palace by Miranda Cowley Heller and Ladder of Years by Anne Tyler. These will be easy to get through because I know that I really like them!

Two of them are books which I have started and have become stuck on as they were just not grabbing me. They are Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson, which I would like to finish, and War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy which I decided I wanted to read just to say that I had and am not regretting. They do take up a lot of space and make me feel guilty when I see them, so maybe I just need to admit defeat and pass them on.

There are also two other books that are in progress - Showstopper by Peter Lovesey isn't my usual sort of book but I've borrowed it and want to read it. The Pillow Book by Sei Shonagon I've been reading for ages, I just dip in and out of it.

The Forsyte Saga by John Galsworthy is an old edition which was my Grandma's. There are two by Haruki Murakami - What I Talk About When I Talk About Running and Men Without Women which I'm looking forward to reading. My Father's House by Joseph O'Conner I picked up because I really enjoyed Star of The Sea. 

There are a few non-fiction - How to Speak Whale by Tom Mustill which I bought for my son, then The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat by Oliver Sacks and The Magic of Reality by Richard Dawkins. All of these require a little more concentration to get through!

Finally, hidden in plain sight at the very top of the pile you will spot my Kindle in it's flowery case. I try not to think about all the unread books that are in there. Every month I get at least one book from the Kindle First Reads selection and I also have a selection from Amazon Prime Reading as well as the free ones that I download occasionally. There are currently 25 books in my unread books collection...I wouldn't have the room for all of them as physical books! 

A couple of years ago I wrote a blog post full of tips on working through the pile of unread books - How to conquer your To Be Read pile - which I think has some really helpful advice which I'm definitely going to be re-visiting!

Jason Donovan Doin' Fine 25 tour in Worthing

I've been a fan of Jason Donovan for a very long time. As a pre-teen my bedroom walls and doors were covered with his posters, and his cassettes were played over and over again. So when I heard way back in late 2023 that he was touring, and not only that would coming to very close by Worthing, of course I was first in line to get tickets!

At the time of booking we misread the details and were under the impression that the concert was in March 2024, so it was a bit of a surprise when I went to enter it into the calendar and realised that it was actually another year away. It felt as though we had been eagerly anticipating the evening for a very long time!

The venue for this leg of the tour was Worthing Assembly Hall. I had never been there before but am familiar with it because my children's school have used it for end of year assemblies and the like. I wouldn't have said that it was the most illustrious venue, not even out of those available in Worthing, but it exceeded my expectations!

We had excellent seats just a few rows back and so we had a great view. I have been lucky enough to see Jason Donovan perform in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat twice, first time around when he was Joseph and then a few years ago as the Pharoah, so Any Dream Will Do was a definite highlight. It was so funny when the audience sang along to the backing vocals, I think everyone knows it by heart from singing it at school! 

In fact I was singing along for most of the night, it's amazing how all those lyrics are still there buried in my brain from listening to him over and over as a child.

He sang a couple more songs from musicals, a few covers, and of course all of his greatest hits. The atmosphere was amazing, everyone was really into it and singing along and dancing. It was a great night, and I had a huge grin on my face the entire time! If he's performing near you and you fancy a fun evening I'd definitely recommend it!

Five stunning trails perfect for solo female hikers over 40

This is a collaborative post

For women over 40, solo hiking is a powerful journey of self-discovery, resilience, and connection with nature. The right trail offers stunning scenery, solitude without isolation, and a safe yet exhilarating experience. Whether you're a seasoned trekker or a first-time adventurer, choosing the perfect path lets you embrace the wilderness at your own pace.

In this guide, we’ll dive into five stunning trails meticulously selected for their suitability for solo female hikers over 40.

1. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia – A Tranquil Appalachian Escape

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah National Park is a perfect retreat for solo female hikers seeking tranquility, beauty, and well-marked trails. With a scenic stretch of the Appalachian Trail, it offers endless exploration. Old Rag Mountain challenges hikers, while Stony Man Trail provides a shorter, rewarding trek with breathtaking panoramic views.

Wildlife sightings, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant wildflowers enhance the park’s tranquil atmosphere, making it a perfect destination for solo adventurers.

A National Park Service report reveals that 1.5 million visitors explored Shenandoah National Park in 2023, contributing $114 million to nearby communities. This spending supported 1,351 local jobs, highlighting the park’s economic impact. Overall, the park generated a $156 million benefit, reinforcing its value as a top hiking destination. 

How can I prepare for sudden weather changes in the Appalachian region?

Appalachian weather shifts rapidly. Pack layers like waterproof outer shell, fleece, and moisture-wicking base layers. Check forecasts, but be prepared for unexpected rain, wind, or temperature drops. Carry a map, compass, and emergency shelter. Inform someone of your hiking plans.

2. Sedona’s Red Rock Trails, Arizona – A Spiritual and Scenic Experience

Sedona, Arizona, offers a breathtaking mix of rugged desert landscapes, towering sandstone formations, and a uniquely spiritual atmosphere. Ideal for solo female hikers over 40, these trails provide a sense of serenity and rejuvenation. 

Popular trails like Cathedral Rock Trail and Bell Rock Pathway offer breathtaking panoramic views of Sedona’s red rock landscapes. The Boynton Canyon Trail is famous for its energy vortex, drawing hikers seeking both adventure and spiritual renewal. With well-marked paths and frequent visitors, Sedona provides solitude while ensuring a reassuring sense of safety.

Enhance your Sedona hiking experience with the 7.5-mile Red Rock Scenic Byway, offering abundant sights, as confirmed by US News. The visitor center, a mile south of Oak Creek, is open daily (9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) with essential amenities. While the byway itself is always accessible, remember that certain areas may require a $5 day-use fee. This ensures you're fully prepared for your spiritual and scenic solo journey. 

Photo credit Holly Mandarich via Unsplash

3. Glacier National Park, Montana – Majestic Views and Wildlife Encounters

For mature solo female hikers, Glacier National Park provides a perfect mix of solitude, stunning scenery, and exciting wildlife encounters. Nicknamed the "Crown of the Continent," it offers a diverse range of trails. Hikers can enjoy everything from easy lakeside walks to challenging alpine adventures amidst breathtaking landscapes.

The Hidden Lake Overlook Trail offers breathtaking views of glacial waters, while the Highline Trail provides an unforgettable ridge-top experience. Hikers may encounter mountain goats, marmots, and even grizzly bears, making bear safety precautions essential. With pristine forests, crystal-clear lakes, and towering peaks, Glacier National Park promises a truly awe-inspiring adventure.

According to the National Geographic Society, Glacier National Park offers over 700 miles of trails, catering to hikers of all levels. The main entry points are West Glacier, located 25 miles from Whitefish, and St. Mary on the park’s eastern side. Additional access points include Two Medicine and Many Glacier, though these roads are dead ends. 

4. Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee/North Carolina – Misty Trails and Waterfalls

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a perfect destination for solo female hikers, featuring misty peaks, lush forests, and cascading waterfalls. With over 850 miles of trails, it offers options for all skill levels. The Alum Cave Trail boasts unique rock formations, while Laurel Falls Trail provides an easy, scenic waterfall hike.

The Smokies are rich in biodiversity, with abundant wildlife and vibrant wildflowers throughout the year. The well-marked trails and frequent visitors ensure both solitude and a sense of security for solo adventurers.

What are the best beginner-friendly trails for solo hikers in the Smokies?

Laurel Falls Trail is a paved 2.6-mile hike leading to a stunning waterfall, making it ideal for beginners. Cades Cove Loop offers scenic views with minimal elevation. Kephart Prong Trail is an easy 4-mile trek with charming footbridges.

5. Olympic National Park, Washington – Coastal, Forest, and Mountain Adventures

For solo female hikers, Olympic National Park offers an unparalleled mix of coastal, rainforest, and mountain trails. With over 1,400 square miles of protected wilderness, the park’s diverse landscapes provide endless opportunities for adventure. The Hoh Rainforest Trail immerses hikers in lush, moss-draped scenery, while the Hurricane Ridge Trail offers sweeping mountain vistas. 

For a serene coastal trek, the Rialto Beach Trail provides breathtaking ocean views and sea stacks. 

Health Considerations for Solo Female Hikers Over 40

Staying healthy on the trail is just as important as choosing the right destination. For solo female hikers over 40, prioritizing hydration and maintaining energy levels can prevent fatigue and muscle cramps. Carrying electrolyte tablets and energy-boosting snacks like nuts or protein bars can help sustain stamina throughout the hike. Additionally, wearing supportive footwear and using trekking poles can reduce strain on the joints, making long hikes more comfortable.

For those managing pelvic organ prolapse (POP), a common concern with 40+ women, hiking can be challenging, especially on uneven terrain. In the past, vaginal mesh implants were commonly used to treat this condition. 

However, the vaginal mesh lawsuit brought attention to serious complications, including chronic pain, infections, and mesh erosion. Due to these concerns, many women now explore alternative treatments.

According to TruLaw, numerous women underwent implant procedures without a full understanding of the potential risks and complications. The FDA has highlighted serious safety concerns regarding medical devices and emphasised the healthcare industry's duty to protect patients.

This makes consulting a doctor before embarking on a strenuous hike essential to ensure safety and avoid exacerbating existing health issues.

What are the best ways to manage pelvic organ prolapse (POP) symptoms on a hike?

Wear a pelvic support belt, pick low-impact trails, and use trekking poles for stability to manage pelvic organ prolapse (POP) symptoms while hiking. Practice core and pelvic floor exercises beforehand. Also, stay hydrated to prevent constipation, consume more fiber, and limit beverages that can irritate the bladder, which may provide relief. Take frequent breaks, and listen to your body to avoid overexertion.

Embrace the Journey: Discover the Joy of Solo Hiking

Solo hiking offers women over 40 a chance to connect with nature, build confidence, and find peace on the trail. With proper preparation and the right mindset, these breathtaking trails provide the perfect mix of challenge and safety. Whether seeking serenity, adventure, or self-discovery, age is never a barrier to exploration.