Bike ride

Struggling to fit in exercise whilst being a busy mum of 6 is tricky. So the other morning I got up before everyone else at 6 am and went for a cycle.

The weather was not too hot due to the early time, as Scotland has beef amid a heat wave. It’d been a while since I went cycling but I loved it. The wind in my face, freedom from the restraints of family demands and a clearer headspace for the following days.

I have a great wee route which is roughly 5 miles there and back. I always stop at this spot, such beauty. The water was crystal clear and the nature around me was astonishing.

There was a lovely sense of calm and peace at that time of the morning. As I travelled back the day was heating up and I looked forward to a day ahead cooling off in the paddling pool. I felt refreshed and glad I had had the opportunity to do my own thing – be selfish for a little while. Which I feel is necessary at times to be a better Mother, and wife.

Potato harvest

I was a bit concerned our potatoes we planted were dying so decided to pull them up and check what was going on.

I was delighted at what we found in our tubs.

Sue’s super Coffee Cake

I’m lucky to be surrounded by some wonderful influences in my life. I was surfing Facebook the other day when I saw an amazing coffee cake made by my friends lovely Mum Sue.

I have been using beanies flavoured coffees recently some gorgeous flavours, Irish cream, cinder toffee, and so many more. They are also low calorie for those watching your figure. I asked for the recipe for her cake and she was happy to oblige.

Sue’s Super Coffee Cake

8 oz caster sugar, self raising flour, margarine and 4 eggs.

Mix altogether then add tablespoon of instant coffee. ( I used caramel beanies)

Split between two cake tins that have been greased and lined.

Bake for approximately 30 mins at 160 degrees ( fan oven- alter settings accordingly)

Remove from oven and once sponges have cooled down sandwich together with butter icing.

Butter icing

8oz of sieved icing sugar
8oz of softened butter
2 tsps of coffee
1 tblspn of cooled boiled water

Mix altogether

I also used butter icing on top of the cake to decorate, and applied some cute heart shaped chocolates.

All the family loved this recipe – it went down a storm.

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Sensory play