Language | Learn to speak 'Duck' abroad

Photography: Ramona Jones

If it walks like a duck and quacks like a duck, as they say… chances are it’s a duck. But what if you’re in another country and it DOESN’T quack like a duck at all? Animal noises must surely sound the same the world over (though who’s to say if they aren’t speaking French or Spanish at the end of the day?) But interestingly, their sounds are represented differently across the globe. Why is that? 

Language learning app, Duo Lingo has a few answers: “The language you speak shapes which sounds you hear, and how you imagine animals sounding when they make noise. So the way a language represents the noise a pig makes can tell us about what sounds exist in that language and how they form words. For example, in English, the noise a pig makes (oink!) contains the sound combination [ɔɪ], reflecting that this is an acceptable combination of sounds in English, as in the word oil. But not all languages have those two particular vowels, and even if they do, they might not be allowed to be combined that way. In Polish, the noise a pig makes is chrum, where the first sound is sort of between a "k" and a "h"—a sound that doesn't exist in English! (And maybe if we had it, we'd think pigs were saying chrum, too.)”

So that’s pigs sorted. Let’s back to ducks. We’ve done a quick sweep across the globe and translated ‘Quack quack’ into a few different languages, so when you’re next on your travels you’ll know exactly what to say if a duck greets you! 

Welsh - Cwac cwac

French - Coin coin

German - Quak quak

Danish - Rap rap

Dutch - Kwak kwak

Finnish - Kvaak kvaak

Italian - Qua qua

Ukrainian - Kakh kakh

Latvian - pēk pēk

Icelandic - Bra bra

Bulgarian - Na na

Romanian - Mac mac

Mandarin (presumably Mandarin Ducks?) - 嘎嘎 (gā gā)

We couldn’t get enough of ducks in our April issue. The cover features some very fluffy ducklings, you can meet some ducks in our ‘My Plot’ pages and our ‘Magical Creatures’ feature looks at ducks this month, too. The issue is on sale now. The ducklings above belong to Ramona Jones, whose garden features in our My Plot pages this month. Her book Growing (Ebury Press) with additional photography by Aaron Gibson, is out now.

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Wellbeing | Moodscapes and walking routes

A good walk can cure many an ill but picking the best walk for your state of mind can have powerful effects and for those in need of calm, looking to relieve stress or anxiety or to boost creativity, a walk alongside a lake might be just the walking prescription you need.

Nowhere is as lavishly light as a lake, partly thanks to the sun glitter created when sun hits the surface of clean water. Sun glitter is made up of thousands of tiny glints, each caused by a splinter of sunbeam reflecting at exactly the right angle to send light to our eyes. As the water moves with the breeze or slight current, the glitter pattern changes, providing endless light and visual stimulation.
Morning light holds an abundance of blue, which helps shut down lingering melatonin that can make us feel drowsy and muddle-headed in the morning. Recent studies show that light also blunts the amygdala, the threat-detection centre that activates our fight or flight system. When we’re in the grip of chronic stress or anxiety, light quietens our amygdala. Bright light can also improve concentration and memory – neuroscientists think that our brain evolved to learn during daylight hours.
So, for energy and mood boosting blue-wave light, take your lakeside walk in the morning. However. sun glitter is also spectacular at the end of the day when light beams create glitter in shades of crimson, pink, amber and gold – telling our body it’s time to wind down. Moonlight on still water creates its own moon glitter, well worth seeking out for its mysterious elegance.
Research has demonstrated the importance of rhythmic movement for alleviating anxiety and depression and studies of older people have found that rhythmic walking not only improves physical health (muscle strength, balance and flexibility) but also quality of life.
We know that walking more briskly reduces our chance of cancer, heart disease, dementia and osteoporosis. When we move briskly, our brain produces the molecule known as brain-derived-neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that promotes the growth of new neurons. BDNF appears to help recovery from depression and stress and the brisker the movement the more BDNF we produce. Picking up the pace also helps us to sleep better and turns a walk into a bone-building bonanza.

The above extract is from The Walking Cure: Harness The Lifechanging Power Of Landscape To Heal, Energise And Inspire by Annabel Streets (Bloomsbury Tonic). You can read a longer extract in our April issue, in shops now.

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Wisdom | Mother Knows Best

Mothers do often seem to know best don’t they? This month, as we mark Mother’s Day, we thought we would share some wisdom from The Simple Things’ team’s own mums

“I remember when I was having a real wobble during exams and was woefully unprepared. Rather than telling me off for my lack of revision, Mum just gave me the biggest cuddle and told me that it didn't matter what results I got, the sun would still rise tomorrow and the world would still turn. Really simple, but it really resonated and was just what I needed to hear. She also used to say there was nothing a G&T and a pack of Walkers Ready Salted couldn't fix. I’d agree with that, too.”

Abbie Miller, Sub Editor

“My mum used to always say 'never go food shopping hungry', which is actually very good advice. She also told me when I was little that when you get money out of the cashpoint, a person is the other side pushing it through. I used to shout 'thank you' until I was about 10.” 

Rob Bidiss, Commercial Director

“‘Kiss the ugly frog’. That stuck with me! The idea is, if you've a load of tasks to do (in this case it was revision), start with the one you're most dreading as you'll feel relieved once it's done and the rest won't seem so bad!”

Jo Mattock, Commissioning Editor

“My favourite piece of advice my mum has ever given me is: ‘Never drink alone. If you’re on your own, pour yourself a drink and switch on The Archers, then you can have a glass of wine with everyone in The Bull!’. Genius.”

Iona Bower, Editor at Large

“My mum used  to say before I went out: 'Be good, and if you can't be good be careful'. Sound advice.”

Karen Dunn, Commissioning Editor

“My mum always said ‘everything feels better after a walk up the garden’. Whatever the problem was (tummy ache, friendships, homework) I was always told to go for a walk up the garden and it would feel better. She was right, too.” 

Rebecca Frank, Wellbeing Editor

“My mum doesn’t have just one pearl of wisdom but she does start most sentences with 'What you could do...' Among the funniest what-you-could-dos include  'what you could do is put a portable loo in your front garden rather than convert the under stair cupboard' and the time she suggested what my sister could do was combine her wedding with an event that happened the day before so she could re-use the flowers!”

Liz Boyd, Picture Editor

In our March issue, we met several women who have learned skills, passions and philosophies from their mothers, including Roisin Taylor and her mum Caroline, who passed on her passion for growing. You can read more about all the mums and their wisdom from page 56.

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Sponsored Post | Meet the Folk from Mentley Farm Lavender

We catch up with Mentley Farm Lavender founder, Louise Vickers, as she prepares for a busy season of growing, hosting, teaching and making.

Hi Louise, tell us about Mentley Farm Lavender

Welcome to Mentley Farm Lavender. I started the brand in 2021 as a swansong into retirement. I’d spent 28 years working for the Police in London and knew that beautiful scents and being outdoors had always had a positive effect on me, so I wanted to create an affordable space for others to enjoy. I wanted it to be a restorative place where you can learn new skills, recharge amongst nature and discover the versatility of lavender and all its healing benefits. We’re two minutes off the A10, midway between London and Cambridge, so really easy to get to.

This doesn’t sound like the quietest of retirements

Possibly not, but I’m passionate about sharing the benefits of lavender and that’s what gets me out of
bed each day. My partner, Andrew, is a retired farmer, and together we started growing lavender plants from cuttings on our four-acre plot in Hertfordshire. Then, in 2023, we opened to visitors. We now open throughout the summer months and people can come and pick their own lavender, sign up for workshops or buy lavender products made either by us or by local craftspeople. We can also be hired for weddings and photoshoots.

A proper little cottage industry! What do you sell?

We grow over 20 varieties of lavender, which are used
to make gifts, including dried lavender, essential oils, floral waters, soaps, body lotions, candles and wax melts. Our gifts are either made by us, or supplied
by other small businesses. We’re proud that all our products are eco-friendly and that the packaging is made from recyclable materials. As well as selling from The Yard Store at the farm and online, I also have a stall at a local farmers’ market, and often sell at other events.

And what sort of workshops do you run?

I run an introduction to steam distillation of plants for those interested in producing essential oil and hydrosol. We also host workshops on basketry, aromatherapy, wreath-making, herbalism and paper-flower making, as well as yoga sessions. We’re open to hosting new events, too, if there are any craftspeople wanting to get in touch.

Impressive stuff – what are you most proud of?

Well, sustainability is important to me, so I make sure that I use recycled plant pots when growing lavender, as well as recyclable plant care labels and packaging for all our products. I also run free distilling demonstrations as a way of giving back to local community groups.

Anything exciting on the horizon?

We’ve held several wedding receptions here over the past couple of years and I’d love to host more. It’s always such a joy seeing the wedding photos afterwards. Other than that I’m just getting ready for another busy season. The market stall has already started for the year, while the workshops and The Yard Store begin again next month. Then the lavender field will be open to visitors from June onwards.

Life sounds busy!

It is – but that’s just how I like it. At least I have my scented candles for a moment of calm, or I’ll pop a small lavender bag under my pillow for a good night’s sleep – you really can’t beat the healing qualities of lavender.

For more info, visit mentleyfarmlavender.com, where you can also sign up for Louise’s regular newsletter, Ramblings From Mentley. Instagram: @mentleyfarmlavender.

Outing | Music Rooms

Stepping into a room where a musician practised or composed can give you a new understanding of their work. Here are a few places around the UK where you can immerse yourself a bit and say ‘thank you for the music’.

1. Ralph Vaughan Williams at Leith Hill Place

In the Surrey Hills, just outside Dorking, sits Leith Hill Place, the childhood home of 20th-century composer, Vaughan Williams. You can see the piano on which he composed some of his works, and wander the beautiful surrounding woodlands with views over the North Downs. It’s suddenly easy to see how The Lark Ascending came to him as you look out from the highest viewing point for 50 miles around. Stirring stuff. 

2. Gustav Holst at the Victorian House, Cheltenham

Holst’s birthplace at 4, Pittville Terrace (now 4, Clarence Road) Cheltenham is a wonderful example of a Victorian home, with much to see and learn about the era, as well as about Holst himself and his life and family. The highlight though is obviously the piano upon which he composed ‘The Planets’.

3. George Friedrich Handel at 25 Brook Street, London (Handel Hendrix House)

Handel was the first owner of this Mayfair house in 1723 and remained here until his death. There are four fully restored rooms where you can see period instruments and learn more about Georgian London and there are regular Baroque performances to really up the atmosphere. And if you’re a true music fan you will definitely want to pop next door… 

4. Jimi Hendrix at 23 Brook Street, London

The top floors of 23 Brook Street were home to Jimi and his girlfriend Kathy between 1968 abd 1969. On learning about his former next door neighbour, Jimi went out and bought Handel’s Messiah and Water Music from a record shop on South Molton Street. Entry is included with a ticket to Handel Hendrix House. 

5. John Lennon and Paul McCartney at 20 Forthlin Road and 251 Menlove Avenue, Liverpool

Another two-for-one tour that is sure to delight music fans. The National Trust does a private tour of Paul McCartney’s childhood home, a 1950s council terrace on Forthlin Road, followed by a nose around 251 Menlove Avenue where John Lennon lived with his Aunt Mimi and her husband George. Certain to Please, Please You if you’re a Beatles follower. 

This blog was inspired by the ‘My Place’ feature in our March issue, which this month looks at music rooms, including the one pictured above, which belongs to Meaghan Keating @the.narrows.project. 

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More music appreciation…

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Project | Satin Stitch Patching

Learn a clever stitching technique that will give old clothes a new lease of life

Mending is officially good for you. Not only does it make you feel useful and give you the warm glow of knowing you’ve saved something from landfill, but it also lets you make an item of clothing unique with visible mending that brings character to everyday items. A mended item becomes even more beautiful and loved than before it had flaws.

Satin stitch patching

Satin stitch is a great way to make a feature out of a mend and this works particularly well on fabrics like denim It’s used to patch the fabric hole to reinforce the mend and stop it getting any bigger. Traditionally, cotton threads are used, but it can also work nicely with silk threads.

1 Select a piece of scrap fabric large enough to patch the hole in the garment – you can always trim it later. Any woven fabric will work, just make sure it has the same density as the garment you want to repair. Next, you may want to make the hole a bit more interesting – take a fabric pen and draw a shape around the hole and trim to the new shape you’ve drawn.

2 Pin your patch to the inside of the garment so the hole is covered. Be generous with pinning – you don’t want the fabric patch to move about while you’re stitching. Pin around 0.5cm from the edge of the hole.

3 Thread your needle (use an arm’s length), leaving a tail by the eye end so the thread doesn’t come out. Then tie a couple of knots at the opposite end of the thread.

4 To start your satin stitch, come through the back of the fabric at the very edge of where the hole is in the garment. Bring your needle all the way through until the knot meets the fabric. You’ll then put the needle back into the fabric from the front, positioning your needle about 5mm directly below where you brought the needle out. Next, bring the needle through the back again (almost back through the first hole in the first stitch, so the stitches are super close to one another), and then through the front, again super close to the previous stitch. Continue in this way until you come to the end of your thread and are ready to thread the needle again.

5 When tying off your thread, you’ll need to leave at least 10cm of thread to make it secure. Bring your needle through to the back, through the stitch that’s closest to where the needle is coming from. Pull the needle through about 1 cm and wrap the thread around a couple of times and pull through. This creates the knot. I like to then weave the needle under the next two stitches and repeat this process one more time to make sure the thread won’t come loose when washed. You can then take your scissors and snip really close to the garment.

6 Continue with a new piece of thread ensuring that your stitches are super compact – much like satin fabric – going all the way around the hole until you meet your starting point. Tie off your work, and give it a press to make sure the fabric is laying flat. You’re now ready to wear.

This is just one of the projects from mending expert Hannah Porter who put together our March issue’s Home Economics pages. To find out more about Hannah’s work, workshops and kits visit: restorationldn.com.

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More from our March issue…

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Playlist | Jaunty tunes

To accompany our new April issue JAUNT, we couldn’t resist putting together a playlist of jaunty tunes. So, pop it on and put a spring in your step…

You can take a listen here
Or have a browse of all our playlists

Our April JAUNT issue will be on sale from 26 March.

Competition | Win £500 to spend at One.World

Give your home a spring refresh with timeless classics designed to be cherished

Spring is the ideal time to breathe new life into your home, and this month’s competition gives you the opportunity to do just that with a £500 shopping spree at One.World up for grabs. Whether you’re drawn to reclaimed wood furniture, hand-finished ceramics, or rustic stoneware, One.World’s carefully curated range is designed to bring warmth, charm and effortless style to every home.

As a family-owned brand, One.World believes in creating pieces that tell a story – crafted with care, made to last, and designed to be lived with and loved. “One.World only sells products that we love and want in our own homes,” says Managing Director, Jason Bensohn – and that passion is woven into every design.

Sustainability is also at One.World’s core, using reclaimed materials, and crafting many of its products by hand. Not only that, but a tree is planted for every purchase, ensuring your home refresh is kinder to the planet, too.

Featuring natural, tactile textures and organic shapes, the One.World collection helps to create a space that feels lived-in, welcoming, and uniquely yours. So, regardless of whether you’re styling a cosy reading nook, elevating your dining space, or adding character with unique decorative pieces, One.World designs are made to evolve with you – embracing sticky fingers, muddy paws, and the beauty of everyday life.

With over 250 new lines added this season, there’s more to discover than ever before, plus speedy delivery, exceptional quality, and a Trustpilot rating of Excellent, shopping with One.World is effortless. From bestselling mirrors and statement wall art to elegant lighting, furniture, and home accessories starting from under £10, there’s something for every home and every budget, so enter now for your chance to win £500 to spend on pieces that you’ll cherish for years to come.

For more information and inspiration, visit one.world or follow on Instagram at: @onedotworld

How to enter 

For your chance to win £500 to spend at One.World, click on the button below and answer the following question by the closing date of 8 May 2025. 

Q: How many new lines have been added this season?

Terms and conditions

The competition closes at 11.59pm on 8 May 2025. One winner will be selected at random from all correct entries received and notified soon after. Subject to availability. The winner cannot transfer the prize or swap it for cash. Details of our full terms and conditions are on p125 and online at icebergpress.co.uk/comprules.

Competition | Win one of four Tulip Bistro Sets worth £239

We have Lazy Susan bistro sets up for grabs, meaning less time maintaining furniture and more time enjoying your garden

Spring is here and with it, the prospect of getting outdoors and enjoying fresh air, sunshine, and all that your outdoor space has to offer. For many, the arrival of warmer weather means laborious chores maintaining garden furniture ready for the year ahead. However, if you’d prefer to be sowing and potting rather than sanding and treating, then Lazy Susan garden furniture may be the answer.

After years of struggling to maintain his teak garden table, it became clear to Michael Scott that the long-term solution was not fighting a losing battle with wood, but using cast aluminium instead. After much searching, product testing and deliberation, Lazy Susan was born and now features timeless designs that are maintenance-free, rust-proof and can be left outside all year round.

The Alice Bistro set

From a charming circular four seater, through to a spacious table for twelve, Lazy Susan has something for everyone, and when you buy a set there are great discounts on extras, such as a coordinating bench or Bistro set for additional seating, as well as parasols and cushions in gorgeous tonal colours.

The Simple Things has teamed up with Lazy Susan to offer four lucky readers the chance to win a Tulip Bistro set in antique bronze, worth £239.95. These compact tables offer the ideal place to sit, relax and enjoy your morning cuppa in comfort.

For more information and inspiration, visit www.lazysusan.co.uk, or follow on Instagram at: @lazysusanfurniture

How to enter

For your chance to win one of four Tulip bistro sets, worth £239.95 each, enter our competition by clicking the button below and answering the following question by the closing date of 8 May 2025. 

Q: What material did Michael Scott use to create the Lazy Susan range?

Terms and conditions

The competition closes at 11.59pm on 8 May 2025. Four winners will be selected at random from
all correct entries received and notified soon after. Subject to availability. The winners cannot transfer the prize or swap it for cash. Details of our full terms and conditions are on p125 and online at icebergpress.co.uk/comprules.

Recipe | Salt & Vinegar Nettle Crisps

Photograph by Ali Allen

It’s hard to compete with crisps made from potatoes but these come close and they’re a wildly healthier swap – even better if you use a vinegar infused with other wild ingredients (such as wild garlic).

Serves 2-4

A few handfuls of nettle leaves, washed, drained and dried
Drizzle of olive oil
Pinch of sea salt
Spritz of apple cider, wine or malt vinegar

1 Preheat the oven to 180°C/ Fan 160C/Gas 4. Lightly oil a baking sheet and arrange the nettle leaves in an even layer. Sprinkle with sea salt.

2 Bake for 5-10 mins, checking every 2-3 mins and moving around. Cook until deep green and crispy.

3 Allow to cool, which will help them crisp further. Finish with a spritz of vinegar (ideally from a spritzing bottle), or, gently shake a few drops of vinegar across the nettles instead.

This recipe is from our feature ‘Tipping Point’ from our March issue, in which Rachel de Thample shows us ways to eat saps, buds and shoots. Photography is by Ali Allen. The feature also includes recipes for Tree Sap Syrup, CleaversWater, Wild Salad, Nettle Falafel with Lemon Balm Yogurt and Horseradish Trout with Pea Wasabi.

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Competition | Win a two-night stay in a themed vehicle

Win a one-of-a-kind stay worth £330 in the Lincolnshire countryside

The Layby Lincs offers adult-only, pet-friendly, themed vehicle accommodation on the southern edge of the Lincolnshire Wolds AONB. It’s a short drive to amazing sandy beaches, nature reserves and bustling market towns.

Louise and Alex bought Mill Lane Farmhouse in August 2022 and then set about building their dream escape for those looking to stay somewhere truly memorable, all set around a wildlife pond in their back garden.

 If a comfy, cosy, country getaway with unusual accommodation appeals to you, then this is your chance to win a two-night stay in one of the five vehicles, worth £330.

With five individually themed vehicles, there is something to suit every taste. Will you choose the bold and bright 70s disco themed RV, Alabama (above)? Or are you looking for something a little more subdued, like the English country cottage style of the racehorse transporter, Gee Gee (below)?

Staying in one of the individually themed vehicles is closer to staying in a luxury holiday cottage than it is to camping. Each one has a king size bed with cotton linens, and sustainable duvets and pillows made from recycled cotton and feathers. There is air conditioning for both heating and cooling, as well as WiFi. Outside is a private deck with your own covered kitchen, (made with 95% recycled deck boards). There is no need to share facilities, you get your own private bathroom, with fluffy towels, robes and vegan, cruelty free toiletries. Each vehicle also has its own woodfired hot tub, which is perfect for stargazing, and a fire pit for toasting marshmallows.

The site is a boutique, adults only and pet friendly retreat, with an ethos focussed on repurposing, recycling and relaxing. The whole site, (including the couple’s home), is powered by their own large solar and battery system. Being situated in a rural setting they are very fortunate to have a host of wildlife pass through the site. You might even be lucky enough to see the breeding Barn Owls who have their box on the side of the barn. Alex and Louise look forward to hosting you and any furry, feathered or scaly friends you bring to stay.

How to enter

Please enter the competition by clicking the ‘Enter Now’ button below and answering the following question:

Q: In which year did Louise and Alex buy Mill Lane Farmhouse?

For more info please visit www.thelaybylincs.co.uk or visit their Instagram @thelaybylincs  

Terms & Conditions

The winner will stay at Layby Lincs for 2 nights and the stay is for 2 guests (plus a pet if you wish)
The competition closes at 11.59pm on 21 April 2025. One winner selected at random from all correct entries. The winner is responsible for transport to and from Layby Lincs. No more than 2 large dogs or 4 small dogs allowed per accomodation vehicle. If in doubt then please email info@thelaybylincs.co.uk prior to arrival and check. The winner cannot transfer the prize or swap for cash. The winner may be required to participate in publicity. The stay is subject to availability. Dates and the vehicle you stay in will also be dependent on availability. Only one night in the hot tub is included, additional nights are £40 per night. Details of our full terms and conditions are on p125 and online at icebergpress.co.uk/comprules.

Competition | Win a Brother Sewing Machine worth £499

We are delighted to have teamed up with Brother to offer readers the chance to win this fabulous prize. Smart sewing made simple!

 No matter where you are in your sewing journey, the Innov-is A series has you covered. Easy to use and packed with features, allowing you to enjoy smooth sewing on all types of fabric, including stretchy jersey and thick denim.

The prize, worth £499

The Brother Innov-is A65 features 60 stitches, including six one-step buttonholes, ensuring you can always find the perfect stitch for any project. Its convenient features, such as an automatic thread cutter, advanced one-action needle threader, lockstitch button, quick-set bobbin, Start/Stop button, and adjustable speed control, make the Innov-is A65 easy to set up and a joy to sew with.

This sleek, compact, and sturdy sewing machine is lightweight and comes with a handy hard cover, making it perfect for those who love to sew on the go. Whether you're heading to a friend's house, attending university classes, or participating in busy sewing workshops, you can easily take your talent wherever you go.

 How to enter

For your chance to win a Brother sewing machine, please press the button below and answer the following question by the closing date of 22 April 2025.
Q: How many one-step buttonholes does the Brother Inn-is A65 have?

Find your local Brother retailer here to see and try the Brother range

Terms & Conditions

The competition closes at 11.59pm on 22 April 2025. One winner will be selected at random from all correct entries received and notified soon after. The winner cannot transfer the prize or swap it for cash. If a UK mainland address then Brother will post the machine out free of charge to the winner. Details of our full terms and conditions are on p125 and online at at icebergpress.co.uk/comprules.

Sponsored Post | Pause for Reflection with Mind

A monthly subscription box packed with fun activities to help your wellbeing, while supporting the mental health charity, Mind

How wonderful would it be if you could pause everything, take a deep breath, and give yourself a moment of calm every month? Well now you can – with Pause.

Pause is a subscription box that provides you with a monthly moment of mindfulness, creativity and calm, delivered straight to your door. Designed to boost your wellbeing, it also helps support Mind, the mental health charity, too.

With a wide range of relaxing activities, each one tailored to provide something fun and calming, Pause enables you to focus on a unique activity – many of which you may not have tried before – and it will help you to reflect, relax and get creative, too.

An ideal opportunity to set aside some time every month to acknowledge how you’re feeling and to check in with yourself, each Pause box can also help you to learn a fun, new skill and encourage you to try new activities – something that has a positive impact on self-esteem and wellbeing.

It’s easy to feel disconnected at times. However, Pause can help you to share, talk and connect with friends and family, as you can share a Pause box or teach your newfound skills to family and friends.

You can also gift a subscription and help a loved one to also enjoy a monthly moment of calm. From just £7.50 a month, over the course of a year, each box includes a free gift message and free delivery to their home, so they can enjoy your gift in their own comfort. We all want to give our loved ones a little time to help slow down. Pause encourages time for reflection, for quiet and peace – now isn’t that a gift.

Every year, one in four people will experience a mental health problem. By subscribing to Pause, all of your donation will go to Mind, meaning you’ll be helping those who need it, as well as giving yourself or a loved one a wellbeing boost. Mind could help someone access life-saving information through booklets, its website and help lines. Or help to support someone through Side by Side, its 24/7 online community. It could also help campaign for better mental health services. All donations help Mind continue its vital work. So pause, take a moment to yourself, and treat yourself or someone you love to a more mindful future – and help make sure that no one has to face a mental health problem alone. Start a Pause subscription today.

For more information on Pause, please visit pauseformind.org.uk/simple.

Recipe | Pepper, aubergine & feta pithivier

This is a Mediterranean take on pie – a delicate puff pastry pithivier filled with peppers, aubergines and feta. It doesn’t need a hefty potato mash, but sweet potato and olive oil mash suits it very well indeed.

Makes 2
6 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
2 red onions, peeled and sliced
4 sweet peppers, sliced
1 aubergine, diced
50g feta cheese, crumbled
1 sheet all-butter puff pastry
1 egg, lightly beaten

1 Gently heat half the olive oil in a pan and add the onions and peppers. Season and cook gently for at least 30 mins, stirring as you go, until the peppers are collapsed and slippery.
2 In the meantime, heat the rest of the oil gently in another pan, tip in the aubergine, and season; then cook until it is soft and has lost all ‘bounce’. Remove both pans from the heat until you are ready to fill your pithiviers.
3 Preheat oven to 200C/Fan 180C/ Gas 6. Flour your work surface and roll out the pastry until it is around half the thickness of a £1 coin. Cut out two circles, around 15cm across, and two more, around 17cm across.
4 Lay baking parchment onto a baking tray and then place the smaller circles on it. Divide the pepper and onion mixture between them, placing it centrally, and then do the same with the aubergine. Sprinkle feta on top.
5 Paint egg around the exposed edge of the pastry, then drape the larger circle of pastry over the mound and trim any excess. Paint egg all over the mound, then use a sharp knife to make a pattern on top. A small hole at the top will help steam to escape.
6 Bake for 35–45 mins, or until the pastry is crisp and browned. Serve hot or at room temperature.

This recipe was first published in issue 69 of The Simple Things. National Pie Week runs from 3-9 March. To mark it, we have collated some of favourite Simple Things pies from across the years in our March issue. Pick up a copy to find the other recipes, which include Chicken & Mushroom Pie, Spanakopita, Fish Pie with Crunchy Salmon & Leek Topping, Picnic Pie and Pork & Egg Lattice Pie.

More from the March issue…

More pies…

How to | Improve Your Pancake Toss

Illustration by Kavel Rafferty

There’s still time to sneak in a bit of pancake day training…

Easy wins

Use a non-stick pan, and don’t add too much oil. Brad Jolly, a chef with the World Record for most tosses of a pancake in one minute (140), says you don’t want too thick a batter and should wait until air bubbles form before tossing. Shake or tap the pan to loosen, then slip the pancake towards the side before you flip.

All in the wrist

Grip the handle close to the edge of the pan. You want a flick of the wrist rather than involving your forearm, or whole arm. Gordon Ramsay says to “push away, and flip back up with your wrist.”

Employ science

Dr Mark Hadley, of Warwick University’s Physics department, estimates that to get your pancake up to half a metre in the air, you need to launch at 3m per second. Pan-handling practice Mike Cuzzacrea – who runs marathons while tossing pancakes and has over three decades of records to his name – practises daily. He uses his maple tree to judge flip height (we don’t know if maple syrup is his topping of choice). He also trains toget “the arm strength and the right technique ... I practise the movement bending up and down.”

Be inventive

Even Mike relies on more than skill. To help his pancakes survive marathons, he glues a few together and wraps them in plastic. Not something we advise if you also fancy eating them.

These instructions for improving your pancake tossing skills come from our March Miscellany pages, which are always full of topical information and seasonal silliness.

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Wellbeing | Say 'Sorry' Well

Illustration by Anneliese Klos

Knowing how to make a good apology is good for both the giver and the receiver of the ‘sorry’

Whether you have regrets you wish to make amends for, or simply want to express solidarity and sympathy for a no-blame situation, knowing ‘how’ to apologise well is key. Sorry might be the hardest word but giving it your all and doing it properly can make it feel so much easier and hopefully allow both parties to move on positively. Here are a few things to bear in mind before you begin…

• Avoid over-use of “sorry”. The habitual “I’m sorry” detracts from meaningful and needed apologies.

• Ask for the other person’s perspective and listen to it. Understanding their point of view can help you to both make sense of the situation.

• Forget about blame and whose fault it is or was; an apology needn’t be an admission of guilt.

• Show empathy by making it about the other person, not you. “I realise that something has upset you, and I’m sorry.”

• Use an apology as an opportunity for positive change rather than simply as a plea for forgiveness.

• Make any intentions to change as concrete and as realistic as possible.

The advice above is taken from our feature, ‘Making Amends’ by Rebecca Frank in our March issue.

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Tipple | Orangey Hot Chocolate

Hot chocolate’s great, but add orange (and perhaps a splash of Cointreau) and it’s hard to go back.

Serves 6

2ltr whole milk
1 large orange
6 tbsp dark hot chocolate powder
1 tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp grated fresh nutmeg Cointreau (optional)

1 Warm the milk in a large saucepan over a medium heat and bring to a gentle simmer.

2 Cut the orange in half, cutting each half into half-moon slices. Put six aside and add the rest to the saucepan, along with the hot chocolate powder, ground cinnamon and nutmeg.

3 Simmer gently for 5 mins, keeping the heat low to prevent it from boiling. Stir frequently to avoid the milk from catching on the pan. Once ready, discard the orange segments.

4 To serve, pour into cups and add a shot of Cointreau for a boozy extra, if desired. Garnish each cup with one of the orange slices set aside earlier.

This recipe is just one of the ideas from our March ‘gathering’ pages, which this month is a menu for a crafternoon of ‘loose ends’ projects. It also includes recipes for Carrot & Ginger Soup, Spiced Chicken Skewers, Roast Paprika Sweet Potato Wedges, Whipped Feta & Pistachio Dip and Pear, Dark Chocolate and Cardamom Muffins. Recipes are by Kay Prestney and photography by Rebecca Lewis. Ceramics kindly supplied by Francesca Atkinson of Frankie’s Ceramics @frankieceramics.

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Sponsored post | Pause with Mind

Enjoy a monthly subscription packed with fun activities to boost wellbeing, while supporting the mental health charity Mind 

Life can get busy, so how wonderful would it be to pause everything, take a deep breath and give yourself a moment of calm every month? Well now you can with Pause, a monthly subscription box delivered direct to your door, which provides a mindful, creative and relaxing outlet. Designed to boost wellbeing, it helps to support Mind, the mental health charity, too.

Each Pause box provides a fun and calming activity, enabling you to take time out and focus fully on a unique craft or hobby. With something different every month, there will undoubtedly be new ideas you may not have tried before, each designed to help you relax, reflect and get creative.

A little something to look forward to and delivered straight to your home, Pause is an ideal opportunity to take time to acknowledge how you’re feeling every month and to check in with yourself. The simple act of completing an activity or learning something new can give you a boost, helping to improve self-esteem and wellbeing. Not only that, by sharing your newfound skills or simply talking about them to others can also help to alleviate any disconnection you may be feeling.

You could also gift a loved one a regular moment of calm with a Pause subscription. Starting from just £8 a month over the course of a year, each subscription includes a free gift message and free delivery to their home, so they can enjoy discovering new activities at their leisure.

Every year, one in four of us will experience a mental health problem. By subscribing to Pause, all of your donation will go to Mind, meaning you’ll be helping those who need it, as well as giving yourself or a loved one a wellbeing boost. Your donation could help someone access life-saving information through booklets, Mind’s website or help lines. Or it could help fund Side by Side, Mind’s 24/7 online community. It could also help to campaign for better mental health services. All donations help Mind continue its vital work.

So pause, take a moment and treat yourself or a loved one to a more mindful future – and help make sure that no one has to face a mental health problem alone. Start a Pause subscription today.

For more information on Pause, visit pauseformind.org.uk/simple

Sponsored Post | Meet the Team at Collacott Farm

We meet Tam and Ants Bennett to find out about Collacott Farm, their Devon retreat which focuses on the restorative connection that horses have to offer

“We’re passionate about creating a space where you can slow down and reconnect”

Hi Tam and Ants, tell us a bit about Collacott Farm

Ants: We run self-catering family holidays in north Devon. Guests can stay in a cosy cottage and will enjoy Horse Connection experiences, craft activities and outdoor pursuits. Last year we also held some individual connection retreats, which have proved hugely popular.

That sounds like a dream. How did it come about?

Tam: Ants grew up in Somerset surrounded by animals and I’d enjoyed idyllic childhood holidays in Cornwall. However, we’d both ended up in corporate careers in London, juggling the endless distractions of urban living – we hankered after a slower pace of life. In 2019, we took a road trip around Devon and Cornwall and were captivated by north Devon. Then 2020 hit and we discovered a new appreciation for long walks in nature. That was the catalyst for bringing our countryside dream forward and, in 2022, we took charge of a riding stables and several holiday cottages.

That’s a big leap! How’s life changed since then?

Ants: We realised that the riding stables needed a lot of investment and care, so we launched Horse Connection with the sole aim of connecting humans with horses.

Tell us more…

Ants: Previously, customers would turn up and get straight on a horse, often without much understanding. Nowadays, our guests first learn about the history of the horse, horse language and communication, safety, and how to connect with them. This provides for those who simply want to connect with horses without getting on one, but also for those keen on riding.

Tam: Horses are wonderfully sentient animals – did you know that they can hear your heartbeat from up to four metres away? It’s just one of the ways they sense and respond to human emotions.

That must be incredibly rewarding

Ants: It is – the world can be challenging, but the more we’re able to help people reconnect with themselves, the better. Too often we look externally for support and solutions, when everyone has what they need within them to thrive rather than just survive, once they reframe how they see the world. I’ve qualified in the IFEEL Method in Equine Facilitated Human Development, while Tam, a real people person, has studied coaching, breathwork, Human Design, Gene Keys, nutrition and holistic medicine. Together, through Horse Connection experiences and our new brand, MY Connection, we offer a unique way to support wellbeing.

You must be so proud

Tam: Absolutely. We’re passionate about creating a space where people can slow down and reconnect – not just with nature, but with themselves and their loved ones. We want our guests to take a break from the demands of modern life, to switch off and lose themselves in simpler pleasures, like curling up with a good book or simply enjoying the surrounds. On clear nights, the stars are spectacular and its always a joy when guests get to experience a truly dark sky for the first time.

So, what’s next for Collacott Farm?

Ants: We’re currently exploring further opportunities to work with corporate businesses to assist with leadership training, and from this we hope to set up a bursary to support vulnerable young people, offering similar experiences. The future is very exciting.

For more information, visit collacott.uk or follow on Instagram: @collacottfarm

Fun | Lost Library Books

Ever felt the burning shame of the words “I’m afraid this is overdue so… there’s a fine unfortunately…” Feel instantly better with our countdown of some of the most overdue books in British history.

• In at number five is The Adventures of Pinocchio by Carlo Collidi. Clearly the borrower learned nothing about lying well from reading the book, since he sheepishly returned it 63 years late to Rugby Library. Cleverly, he returned it during an eight-day amnesty on fines as it would have set him back more than £400 at a rate of 18p per day. 

• Climbing the ladder of shame at number four is Stanley Timber by Rupert Hughes, which was borrowed from Dunfermline Central Library. Again, during a fines amnesty during the COVID pandemic, the daughter of the dastardly borrower posted it back to the library, 73 years overdue, avoiding the £2,847 fine. 

• At number three, it’s our first school library crime. Edward Ewbank (stay behind after school please, Ewbank) borrowed The Poetry of Lord Byron from St Bees School in Cumbria  on 25 September 1911. It was returned 113 years overdue. Ewbank was sadly killed at the Battled of Ypres in 1916, so did not return the book himself, and avoided a detention. 

• Just missing out on the top spot is The Microscope and its Revelations by Willian B Carpenter, which was borrowed by Arthur Boycott of Hereford Cathedral School at some point between 1886 and 1894. In Boycott’s defence, clearly he read the book carefully as he went on to become an eminent naturalist and pathologist. His granddaughter returned the book to the school some 122-130 years later. The school generously waived the fine of £7,446. 

• And finally, at number one… a mysterious entry with no title, but known to be a German book about the Archbishop of Bremen, was borrowed by Robert Walpole from Sidney Sussex College’s library in Cambridge. It was discovered in the library of the Marquess of Cholmondley at Houghton Hall in Norfolk and returned to its rightful home between 287 and 288 years overdue. Despite not having a title of its own it is now the proud owner of the title Most Overdue Library Book in the Guinness Book of World Records. 

You can read a personal reflection on why we love a library by Frances Ambler in the February issue of The Simple Things.

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