Hello and happy Sunday! I hope you've had a great weekend so far, mine has been lovely. Friday night was spent with family eating and drinking al-fresco and enjoying the warmth of the summer sun that has lingered most days this week. Saturday was even more glorious weather-wise and Mr CC and I tackled the complete and utter mess that our garden has become after a few (busy) weeks of neglect, and I feel so much better now it's getting sorted. By far the most exciting part of the weekend, though, has been booking a few days away to the Lake District next month. And we're staying in a tipi right next to a lake. A tipi!

But enough of my holiday plans, let's that a look at what's been floating-my-boat in the blog world this week...

First up is an intriguing and original post on food memories (notably strawberry jam) from the wonderful Sarah over at Mitenska - her blog is full of beautiful images and her writing style is so easy to enjoy that I urge you to check it out if you haven't already.

If the heat's getting to you, why not try some violet fizz with floral ice cubes?

Roses. Just because.

Somewhere new to add to my 'places to visit' list.

Lots of reading inspiration over at Circle of Pine Trees, including a life in France, a classic that I think I'm going to re-read soon and my own offering.

Finally, how are you doing with your summer wishlists? I'm planning to work on number 10 from mine this week.

Enjoy your Sundays!

Good  morning! How are we all today? I hope the rain is holding off and you're having a wonderful time eating strawberries and lazing in the sun. This week has been a mixed bag and has definitely improved as it has progressed, resulting in a slightly less stressed household just in time for Friday evening. I've been taking part in the Big Blogging Bootcamp this week from Rosalium; six days in and so far so good. I've been blogging for a little while now and I wanted to focus my energies on what's really important rather than whiling away my 'blogging time' with tweaking visuals and pondering post ideas. As such, you might start to see a few minor changes around here (I've managed to sort out the colour scheme and have altered the menu this week) but they won't be major. Have you been making any changes to things in your life recently?

On my quest to improve I've been checking out lots of lovely new blogs, particularly ones that I wouldn't normally be drawn to, including the happy and healthy living focused Happily Polly. Her recipe for Raw Vegan Raspberry 'Cheesecake' sounds so intriguing that I'm going to have to try it.

On the theme of food, this Blue and Red Berry Ricotta Galette is something I definitely need in my life.

It's another recipe. But really - rose-soaked pistachio and lemon cake? Yes please.

These reasons plus many more are why I live the simple life.

One of my biggest beliefs in life and how we live our life as a reflection of that, is that simple living is the key to happiness and fulfilment.

I love Lincolnshire, so much so that I can't imagine living anywhere else. And why would I when it boasts Lincolnshire sausages, the rolling Wolds and fields and fields of spectacular countryside to explore? Looking for more reasons? Check out Emma's love for the county here.

Have you found any delectable recipes or have you read any posts you'd like to recommend this week?

P.S. Check out last week's Lovely List for some beautiful evening photographs and a link to blogging greatness.

You know those weeks when anything and everything goes wrong or gets to you? Those weeks that you reach the end of and wonder how you did it? This week has been one of those weeks. But fortunately Sunday morning has dawned bright and breezy and I feel ready to face the day! Mr CC and I went out for an amazing meal last night at our local pub with friends and this morning I'm meeting my sister for brunch (clearly the best meal ever invented) so it's been an excellent food weekend. Now back to business, what's been gracing my laptop screen with loveliness this week?!

I love Sally's photos - they always make me happy - and this summery post is no exception.

I've been working on number 8 and 9 from my Big Summer List, have you done anything from yours yet? Anya has posted some inspiring ideas if you're yet to write one.

Capturing that last light of the faded evening sun is one of the best photography moments of the year.

Have you been watching Wimbledon? I always think a tennis-themed party would go down well and this gorgeous collection of food and drink inspired by centre court is a great place to start.

Colour themed posts/outfits/ideas are always lots of fun. Check out this lovely pink post here.

I've pretty much fallen in love with Sarah Von Bargen. She blogs at Yes and Yes (because yes is more fun than no) and also has a business blog. Both are awesome. This post on 7 crazy helpful links for bloggers + creatives + small business owners pinged its way into my inbox this week and has been amazingly helpful already. Go check her out.

So what's been on your reading list this week? I'd love for you to share!

P.S.

Check out last week's lovely list here. All getting a bit much this week? Try this.