Tori | Let It Go

 

 

Today, Mish sent me a piece of relationship advice in the form of a link to "Let It Go".

 

I'm not usually one for cutesy Disney sing-alongs but sometimes you just can't beat 'em. 

 

So whether it be an affair of the heart, self-loathing, guilt- whatever is playing on your mind and weighing heavy on your heart- take a deep breath, seek help if you need it, talk it over, write it down, have a cry if you must, distract yourself, learn to soothe yourself... basically, try your very best to let it go.

 

 

 

Tori | JOY TO THE WORLD #13

Auchmithie beach with my beautiful boy


Image copyright Tori at Jute, Jam and Joy 2014

Tori | love in a cold climate

A few years ago I was staying in NYC with a friend. He was a native New Yorker and I had well and truly sucked the marrow out of the city. We decided to get back to nature, et voila, a weekend in the Catskills was duly planned. 

I expected it to look a lot like Scotland, only bigger.
In reality it felt distinctly different, but yes, it was beautiful (in a grey, 'post-apocalyptic but with trees' sort of way).

 

 

On the Sunday before we embarked on the icy drive home we took a spontaneous trip to Mohonk Mountain House, NY, for a spot of lunch.

 

 

 

 

We indulged in one too many treats and took a walk (or should I say 'hike') through the grounds. I clearly did not anticipate the rough terrain and lack of paths- inappropriate footwear, anyone? [Well done Tori, well done.]

 

 

 





Good memories of good times. Have you taken any impromptu trips lately?

 

 

All photos copyright Tori at Jute, Jam and Joy, 2014

 

Mish | June Beauty Favourites Part 1

Cannot believe June is nearly over, this year is flying past. Here is a selection of beauty products I have enjoyed using this past month. Stay tuned for part 2 later on in the week.

Carmex lip balm

I suffer from dry lips on and off and this stuff is the only thing that instantly soothes them and begins the healing process.  The menthol tingling on the lips makes it feel like the balm is doing its magic.  The packaging is also lovely; the bright yellow casing makes it easy to locate in my Mary Poppins handbag. Can understand why its a cult classic.

Primark Owl Tweezers

These were a recent gift from a friend as she knows how much I love Owls. Personally I never would buy tweezers from Primark but these are really good. They grip the hair well causing minimal pain, Primark you proved me wrong.  My normal tweezers are Tweezerman which I have a love/hate relationship with. I find they don’t grip my hair well enough and annoyingly leave some hair in the root. On other days, they work a treat, maybe it’s just me. Does anyone else have that issue?  I am away on holiday soon and I think the Primark Owls may bump the Tweezerman’s out the suitcase.

 TRESemme Vitamin C Deep Cleansing Shampoo 900 ml

I suffer with psoriasis on my scalp. Anybody who suffers from it understands the pain, itchiness, and embarrassment of having a flaky scalp. I always use Neutrogena Coal Tar shampoo if I flare up, however I wanted to get a cleansing shampoo for the times I haven't flared up. I picked up TRESemme Vitamin C Deep Cleansing Shampoo and now use it once a week just to give my hair and scalp a good cleanse. My hair feels squeaky clean and it doesn't irritate my scalp, noticeably my after wash products apply easier as well. I’ve not had a psoriasis flare up this month so I couldn't say if it would completely clear the condition up on its own (I probably would revert back to Neutrogena) but I will come back with an answer should this occur. Other than that this is a real good shampoo for the days your hair feels bunged up with product. (ASDA always has the best deals on the 900ml TRESemme, you can normally buy a shampoo and conditioner for the price of one bottle, as these last a long time you normally find the same deal is on again when you need to repurchase :) )

O.P.I Original NailEnvy

A miracle worker. My nails have been a state this past year and nothing helped they constantly peeled and bent upwards.  Within two weeks my nails were strong and healthy. A friend has shellac nails and mine were stronger than hers which is saying something. I feel £18 is too expensive for this stuff as you need to apply regularly so I see the bottle being used up quickly, therefore I would suggest using store card points when purchasing Nail Envy.

So what have you been enjoying this month?  Is there anything you think Tori and I should be looking at. Leave your comments down below :)

I have no association with any of the products shown here or companies linked, these are my own personal view of them. All photos copyright of Mish at Jute, Jam and Joy, 2014

Tori & Mish | JOY TO THE WORLD #12

We've had a lazy Sunday today, still recovering from graduation ;)
 Here is a photo of a fine Scottish summer's evening.

Photo Copyright Mish at Jute, Jam and Joy, 2014

This time last year Mish had had enough of university and threw herself on the grass in her garden in protest. This is the resulting photo. Enjoy. 

Tori & Mish | JOY TO THE WORLD # 11

We don't always agree on music; frankly some of our musical tastes have left us questioning each other sanity however both of us share the love of HAIM. So click the link and lets all share the HAIM love.  ENJOY!!

Photo credit:  http://themetapicture.com/musical-drama/.
Jute, Jam and Joy do not claim any rights to this image. 

                                            

Mish | JOY TO THE WORLD #10

Thought I would try something different with today's Joy to the World post and show you all something which brings me joy whenever I take a look at it.

Tori gave me this as a thank you gift for helping her out at the Manchester archives during her dissertation year. Honestly one of the best gifts I have ever received :)

If only I could decorate as well as this!

Photo Copyright Mish at Jute, Jam and Joy, 2014

So do we have any Great British Bake Off fans reading the blog? What has been your favourite creation so far? Leave your comments below, looking forward to reading them all!

Mish | JOY TO THE WORLD #9

One Part of Broughty Ferry Beach - Thought we would give you a sneak peak of what's coming soon!




Photo Copyright Mish at Jute, Jam and Joy, 2014

Tori | JOY TO THE WORLD #8

It's been a long day. Anyone else fancy one of these?


Photo copyright Tori at Jute, Jam and Joy, 2014

Tori | BLUE SKIES, DIRTY WINDOWS

It's a dreich day in Dundee and with no prospect of an overseas adventure this year I've found myself trawling through old holiday snaps. I found these photos of a flight I took from Paris to Edinburgh a few years ago and thought the pretty pastels and soothing sky might ease you into Tuesday...  enjoy!

 

All photos copyright Tori at Jute, Jam and Joy, 2014

 

Tori | JOY TO THE WORLD #7

Spotted this on a wall in Dundee a couple of years ago... has anyone else seen them?


Photo copyright Tori at Jute, Jam and Joy, 2014

Mish | To Birkenstock or not to Birkenstock?

Let me introduce you to these lovely Papillio by Birkenstock Bali Sandals.  Aren’t they cute? OK so the tan foot bed looks butch but the blue floral design more than makes up for that. My trusty Marks and Spencer sandals died last year so I needed new summer sandals. Honestly, I have no idea why I choose Birkenstock. I received a “we miss you” card from QVC with £10 off in the post. Internet shopping happened.

Photo copy right Mish at Jute, Jam and Joy,1014

I had seen Birkenstock before but always been put off by the hard ridging in the foot bed. It looked painful. I  struggle keeping slip-on sandals on my feet; the main draw for me here is the ankle strap. I may look awkward fixing my straps but that’s the price I’m willing to pay so I don’t have to walk on grubby pavements after my shoe has gone AWOL again. 

Photo copyright Mish at Jute, Jam and Joy, 2014

Photo copyright Mish at Jute, Jam and Joy, 2014

Let’s get down to the nitty gritty. The shoes are a gorgeous sea blue base decorated with creamy/pink, flowers and green stems. There is also the odd flash of corn blue to break it up. The buckles at the strap and toes are gold tying in with the writing in the foot bed. On the inside of the straps we have a soft almost fuzzy padding making it comfortable for the foot. The foot bed contains Birkenstocks signature look a deep heel cup, arch support, a gripper for your tootsies concluding with a foot-bed edging to protect the toes. Nothing worse than stubbing your toes!

Photo copyright Mish at Jute, Jam and Joy, 2014

Photo copyright Mish at Jute, Jam and Joy, 2014

I was sceptical when I put them on but mother of mercy they're comfy! The  sandals provide amazing support to the foot and my feet are not sore and tired after a hard day's work. The style has also won me over as  I was worried about joining the Birkenstock crew (let’s be honest most are ugly as sin, the shoes not the people) but Papillio have done themselves proud here. 

Photo copyright Mish at Jute, Jam and Joy, 2014

I shall be taking them with me on my adventures safe in the knowledge that not only will my feet be stylish but also comfortable. Never again will I experience the agony of having a rat run over my bare foot again after my slip-on sandal decided to go on holiday by itself. Shudder…

Mish & Tori | Congratulations and Celebrations!!

The blogging has taken a back seat the past couple of days due to some serious end of university celebrations going on round our way. However, we will be back soon with more exciting posts, now there is a bottle of bubbly with our name on it somewhere... 



CHEERS!!






P.S. This photo was taken as we were soothing our tired feet in the bathtub so excuse the photo-bombing head and shoulders bottles. x



Photo Copyright Mish at Jute, Jam and Joy, 2014

Tori | JOY TO THE WORLD #6

 We have lift off! What are your plans for today? Anyone else fancy flying a piñata?


Image copyright Tori at Jute, Jam and Joy, 2014

Fancy a chat? Jute, Jam and Joy joins Twitter!!

Yes Tori and Mish are down with the kids and have joined Twitter. Click the link below and follow us to see more exciting Jute, Jam and Joy shenanigans!! 


Twitter: https://twitter.com/JuteJamandJoy



You bring the chat we'll bring the tea and biscuits!!

Copyright Mish at Jute, Jam and Joy, 2014

Mish | JOY TO THE WORLD #5

If only we could actually do this !

Photo copyright Mish at Jute, Jam and Joy, 2014

Mish| Piz Buin Allergy Sun Sensitive Skin Lotion Review

You may have noticed the sun has decided to join us lately, calling for new sun protection. I have a love/hate relationship with sun lotion, exasperated by the fact I’m pale skinned (i.e. a ghost). Past sun lotions left my skin in an awful state. Greasier than a fish supper due to not absorbing, finally absorbed - horrid pus spots developed. Lovely. I have tried many - all have failed to give me everything I wish for in sun protection.

A)     Protection against UVA & UVB  rays

B)     Absorbs quickly into skin-leaving skin smooth not greasy

C)     Helps stop prickly heat developing.

To give it its full title Piz Buin Allergy Sun Sensitive Skin Lotion ticks all these boxes. Its main promotional point being it's suitable for sensitive skin. This is now the only sun lotion I use. It absorbs fast and does not leave me greasy. Your skin does gain a nice sheen but nothing a normal body cream wouldn't produce. Most importantly, you are not sticky.

Photo copyright Mish at Jute, Jam and Joy, 2014

Other lotions left me feeling the full force of the sun instantly on my skin. As though I haven’t applied protection. Piz Buin is different; yes, you still feel heat on your skin but not as intense. The special ingredient is Calmanelle (sounds like a Pokémon) which is I quote from the bottle “a unique anti-irritant shield complex proven to help strengthen the skin’s resilience to the sun,” so probably explains why I don’t feel the heat as much. 

I have never had prickly heat whilst wearing this lotion which used to be the bane of my life, even a mild Scottish summer reduced me to a raw rash before this landed in my lap. The product also doesn't rub off onto clothing, always a bonus.

Photo copyright Mish at Jute, Jam and Joy, 2014

 I would say if you or someone you know has sensitive skin then Piz Buin Allergy is a good place to start.  The sun is for everyone’s enjoyment but please be sensible use sun protection. I apply this every 2 hours when I’m out. Yes people stare as I lotion myself up in ASDA car park but when I see their crispy, burnt skin, I know I will be sleeping soundly in my bed that night whilst someone applies camomile lotion to their cindered back.

Wish I could sit out in the garden all day... some people have all the luck!
Photo copyright Mish at Jute, Jam and Joy, 2014

So what is your favourite sun lotion to use? Do you use any at all? Had any sun burn disasters?  Leave your comments down below, we love reading them all!

 I have no association with Piz Buin or Boots; this is my own view on the product. I’m just a ghost trying not to get burnt :) 

Mish | JOY TO THE WORLD #4

I think we can all agree we have been the last one at some point in time.



Photo Credit: http://funnymelon.com/Omnomnomnivore_--id868.html 
Jute, Jam and Joy do not claim any rights to this image.

Tori | JOY TO THE WORLD #3

Do you like the collection of cushions I put together in Dunelm Mill?
Are grey and yellow already overdone?

Photo copyright Tori at Jute, Jam and Joy, 2014

Mish | JOY TO THE WORLD #2

Balliol the snail goes for a swim!


Photo copyright Mish at Jute, Jam and Joy, 2014

Tori | JOY TO THE WORLD #1

happy Monday from Jute, Jam and Joy



photo copyright Tori at Jute, Jam and Joy, 2014

Tori | MTTM #1 mint

 

 

Welcome to the first in the series of MONEY'S TOO TIGHT TO MENTION (MTTM). Yay!

Choosing the theme for this week's picks wasn't particularly tricky, if you read my previous post on decorating my room, you'll know why! Here's a recap: ever since I painted my room minty-greeny-blue, I haven’t been able to shake thoughts of everything and anything mint.

So if you, like me, fantasise about mint, (morning, noon and night) this list is for you! Fellow minternutters (see what I did there- laaaame), behold a veritable feast of beautiful bits and bobs, all minty and all for £5 or under. Enjoy!

1.      Mint bow necklace from iloveyoujewels, Etsy, £4.84. See also, the matching brooch and their gorgeous, pastel mint bow necklace.  

2.      Mavala Mini Colour Nail Polish Blue Mint 5ml, Boots, £4.75. I adore this colour as it is leans more towards the duck-eggy end of the minty spectrum.

3.      If you prefer to pack a more powerful punch, check out Mavala’s stunning Blue Lagoon, Boots, £4.75. Mavala is an oldie but a goodie, I can remember receiving a pack of these eenie-weenie polishes from an auntie who lives down south, I was about eight and thought they were ugly bottles. Nowadays I really rate the formulation and it’s better value for money as they don’t dry up or go goopy before you’ve had your money’s worth!

4.      Mint handmade journal: FYEO for your eyes only, isavirtue, Etsy, £3.63. I love notebooks, any stationery for that matter, always have done. If you do too, type 'mint green notebook' into Etsy and get ready to feel orgasmic.

5.       Pick up this cute-as-can-be mint table lamp, for £5, next time you pop into ASDA! It'll brighten up a dingy, unloved corner, in an instant. 

 

 

 

 

 

Photo credit: http://www.bing.com/images/search?q=tesco+mint+green&FORM=HDRSC2#view=detail&id=C1CE2C5321CC9925806219BE63FBCF5920F0768B&selectedIndex=54

Jute, Jam and Joy does not claim any rights to this image.

 

 

 

Tori | MONEY'S TOO TIGHT TO MENTION

 

Those times when you want to treat yourself but money's too tight to mention.

·         You’re waiting for payday and eating whatever’s left in the freezer.

·         You simply cannot justify another purchase this week.
        (No, really, you can’t.)

·         You’re working to a pretty unforgiving budget.

Enter my new series, 'MONEY'S TOO TIGHT TO MENTION'.

Sure to satisfy your shopping cravings; these inexpensive little gems will cure whatever ails you. Perfect when you need a wee treat but can’t justify a hard-core spree... this is shopping, guilt-free.

 

 

 

Tori| BABY'S ALL BLUE SKIES... AND GREEN PAINT

a hint of mint... photos of my room to follow!

So I have *almost* finished decorating my new bedroom. It’s quite a small space and budget constraints dictate that donated or upcycled furniture will take centre stage in my new boudoir. I’ve never been particularly keen on DIY (hammers, nails, lack of coordination… nightmare) but I am pleased to say that my little furniture projects are going nicely (post to follow).

Prior to the move I had spent many a long hour thinking about colour schemes (look out for a future post on this) however moving house is an expensive affair and I was tired of waiting so I looked out a tub of white paint, mixed in some green I had lying around (Crown Tuscan Olive) et voila! The exact shade falls somewhere between mint and duck-egg and I love it. I did the skirting and windowsill with Homebase’s satinwood paint in the shade Rattan (can no longer find it online but Crown’s Toasted Almond is a lovely alternative). I can’t get over how fresh yet soft and feminine the room looks. Hang in there for a room tour but for now I want to talk about colour.

 

I wish I could say that I took inspiration from fashion trends such as this beautiful wedding dress or Pantone’s 337 but I have to be upfront and say that a combination of impatience and a tight budget forced me to get creative with the materials I had to hand. My colour scheme is a happy accident and sometimes those really are the best.

 

Green is one of my favourite colours, in fact my old bedroom was painted Tuscan Olive hence the leftover paint.  That room sported much higher ceilings, a cornice and a larger window: the heritage colour lent itself well to a period room. I loved the snug feel that the indulgent olive shade afforded my rather small Victorian bedroom and can vouch for the balancing properties of the colour. I instinctively knew that mid to dark green wouldn’t look quite right in my new-build, boxy bedroom and as blue is said to promote mental focus, clarity and serenity; my do-it-yourself hybrid shade of pale blue-green will hopefully promote the relaxation and harmony that I so desperately crave after months of move-related mayhem.

 



ah the joys of moving house



 

 

 

[credit for photo entitled 'a hint of mint... photos of my room to follow!':  http://www.bing.com/images/search?q=mint+green&FORM=HDRSC2#view=detail&id=CBDB068517FAC4CF19141B9CB7EBE41DE2A517AC&selectedIndex=24

Jute, Jam and Joy claim no rights to this image.]

 photo entitled 'ah the joys of moving house' copyright Tori at Jute, Jam and Joy, 2014