A Yellow Summers Dress In The Highlands

Hey everyone, how are you all today? Did you have a good weekend? Do anything or nothing... You can catch up with my goings on over on Instagram. I went and seen Grease at the Kings Theatre in Glasgow last Wednesday with Chris. It was soo good! It's one of, if not my most favourite musical! I used to watch it on repeat all the time, as well as maybe knowing all the words off by heart? There are a few photos on my Instagram if you want a little nosy. Also, if you would like proper outfit post/photos then please let me know in the comments here or on Instagram. I know I've been MIA for quite a few months but I'm not going to talk about it too much right now. I just want to talk about my outfit and what I have been to in the last week or so.

A few years ago Chris' parents booked a cabin in Arrach. The first time they went with their parents & we just visited for the day. Along with other members of Chris' family, who can say no to beautiful sites & a try of a hot tub! The first post I did was I'll Meet You At The Bridge all the way back in 2013! So excuse the quality of everything... Then the following year (the year we got married! 2014) they booked another wee break last minute! Luckily for us, we were invited up again for the day. It's such a great opportunity for outfit photos & photography. Plus its nice to be able to go out and explore, if you want to know more in detail about what we got up to, what I wore and to see the beautiful sites take a look at my post Losing Myself In Argyll, Scotland. So that will give you a bit of a back story of where I'm going with this...

As you can see, we have a slight love for the ol'Scottish cabin holiday... We aren't the only ones though, the whole family enjoys them! So last year Chris' Gran decided to treat the whole family and take us back here again. I think it was around this same time last year? I could be right or wrong here, I've no idea! Well, I was super excited! Everyone together, I would get to cuddle the babies, plenty of good food & a bbq on the cards! We can never be too sure about the weather though, I was just excited about the food mostly... So to set the weekend off we ended up going to Amarettos, which I've talked about many times before and shared food photos on my Instagram. Then as we were walking towards the car I started to get these sharp pains in my abdomen, being of the female kind, I just put it down to being that time of the month. So off we head, a convoy of about 4 cars? One after the other.

This cat actually just roamed freely around the village shop. She also belonged to the village postman and was called Jess! Super cute, I couldn't help but get some photos and cuddles! Her bed was on the counter next to the till.

As we continue along the journey my tummy starts to feel even worse & then it hits me. Im going to be sick. With nowhere to stop and going about 50 odd miles, I had to throw my head out the window and get on with it... As you can imagine, it was not a pretty picture and one of my least favourite memories of my life. So unfortunately, for the next 2-4 days I spent them in bed, in agony and running to the toilet every so often. I may have come out near the end, but I was worried about infecting everyone. Especially the wee babies! Still to this day, I've no idea what brought it on. Chris & I ate the same meals the few days before so I can't have food poisoned us, plus it doesn't work that quickly once you've just eaten. So it can't have been the meal. I assumed it was a bug, but no one caught it off me!

So that gets you all caught up on where I'm going with this! We were then invited down for a night when they booked and when it was coming closer to the date. So of course we were up for that, can't say no to a hot tub can we? A few weeks ago I then ended up in hospital for a wee while (detailed post coming soon). So after that happening and not being able to enjoy the last trip, I think they felt that we both needed a wee trip away (& fattening up, especially me!). Which, Chris & I also agreed would be good for the both of us. With some great food once again, the chance of some sun & beautiful views. A relaxed weekend just before I returned to work was just what I needed! So thanks again Cammy & Suzy!

Dress- Next
Shoes- Converse
Glasses- Missguided (sale)
Bag- Skinny Dip (sale)
Lipstick- Topshop in Shoal

Outfit Details

As I knew it was going going to be a casual weekend, with the possibility of walking, I wanted to be pretty comfy and prepared for the sun. On the second day we decided to go exploring because it was a beautiful day, I'm sure you can see from the photography I shot. I didn't even plan for outfit photos, but when I seen this stunning backdrop I couldn't not! Everything matched pretty well so I didn't waste the opportunity. Plus who really knows when I'll be back here? The dress is a very pretty summery yellow, with flowers all over. I thought it would go great with my comfy red cons. Before we went we knew on the last day we would be going out, Sunday/last day tradition! So I made sure to pack my cute little black bag. I used my backpack on the journey down, packed with all my crap. So I kept with in the same family of tones with my sunglasses & lipstick. I also wanted to add to the girlyness & cuteness with the dress, so I added some frilly white socks!

What do you think of the outfit, what would you do differently? Is seeing the scottish countryside on your to do list? Where would you like to visit! Let me know in the comments below, I'd love to chat to you guys.

Papamacs Gourmet Kitchen

So here I am again guys, posting on a Monday! Hope you are proud of me, but to be honest, I hope you are actually enjoying the content I'm putting out there! I still need to kick my bum into gear about planning & scheduling more. But, I have faith I will get there in the end. So as I mentioned last week in this post, I was starting a new series on the blog. Which is great because it means at least twice a month I'll have something to share with you guys and its keeping in with the lifestyle direction I'm really keen to go with. Plus, it means I'll definitely have those posts planned every month, which will really help with having content every month. Anyways, I don't want to dribble on too much so I'll get onto talking about another amazing local spot!

Today I am sharing another amazing little place, which is also about a 15-minute drive from our flat. It's somewhere I have also been to, many, many times already... I still find it crazy where this place is located. But, being the family restaurant that it is, it doesn't surprise me that they have chosen somewhere local and stayed where they are. Papamacs, is a place you would expect up in the west end of Glasgow. Not Johnstone. Not that there's anything wrong with the town, there are no restaurants here except the traditional Scottish cafes, the chippies and the odd takeaway. Plus, the town square is tiny! As you can tell, there are "food places", but not gourmet food. But don't let those fancy words scare you. I actually went for a "test shift" here when I was younger (I didn't get the job, I was quite a nervous teen...), so I know a little history about the place. Such as the name and how truly family born and bred they are. Which again, pays homage to my "keeping it local".

I remember learning that the chef and his partner had named the restaurant after one of their Grandads (can't remember whose exactly), which is so heartwarming and lovely. It's also even more amazing that they now have a son, whose photo hangs on the wall, showing how much family really means to this place. The whole place just feels very personal. There are many portraits of what seems to be, their nearest and dearest hanging on the walls. The interior overall has a rustic feel to it. They have exposed brick walls as well as hardy wooden floorboards. The tables and chairs are also wooden, with a simplicity to them. But it all works together, the overall simple theme works really well because the menu sure makes up in whatever character the decor is missing. Which, to be honest, isn't a lot. It's a really quirky & cool bistro.

Chef Scott Keenan who is the chef & owner, was trained in Paris, as well as working in some great Scottish kitchens. You definitely sense the Parisian training with the techniques and gorgeous presentation of the food. That's one of the things that's great about here, they still manage to make really slightly boring traditional dishes, different and more special! What's also great is, Papamacs uses and sources local produce. I love knowing that the food I am eating, is from where I live. I love the idea of helping other businesses, just by going to that place. It's almost as if everyone is giving back and sharing. As well as preparing and cooking all the meals, the desserts and cakes are also made in their kitchen.

They also have their specialised & themed menus. Obviously, with the month of love fast approaching, they have their valentines menu. As well as their most recent, Annual Burns Night Special which of course,  has that fine dining feel to it! And on every last Thursday of the month, they have a steak night. So whether you just want to go for a catch up with a great friend or that special someone, it would be perfect for both. They also have their Sunday market meal, which to keep fun and interesting they change every week! Chris & I also keep trying to remember to do this, as well as try ALL their other menus and sample something from their all day/brunch selection... Although, from their Instagram, I really do feel we are missing out on those Sunday market menus!

I have been able to witness it grow over the years, which is amazing because its turned into a brilliant place! It always had that extra something anyway, so to see it grow even more is fantastic. I feel so lucky to have it only down the road. So if you happen to be in the area, or you are even sick of the hustle & bustle of the city. I would get yourselves down soon, if I can't tempt you then follow their Instagram, you will not be disappointed!

Papamacs Gourmet Kitchen
Johnstone, Scotland

Easy Like A Sunday Morning

Bernie's Cafe Deli

Heya guys, how has your Monday been? I hope it wasn't too much of a crappy start to your week! I just had a short shift today, so I decided to get some new work uniform. Best to just get it done as soon as so it's sorted, also means when it starts to get busier again I can just get straight home when I finish. I have a bit of distance to travel to & from work you see, hence why I prefer to just get to the car as quick as I can! So today's post is the start of, a sort of new series on the blog... It's a nice fun one and there's no pressure of me having to keep up with a schedule. Once in a while, I want Chris & I to go for some brunch/lunch at some new place or a cute little place hidden down some random street we stumble across.  Or even somewhere that I've managed to find online. This is to sort of help with pushing me to try and discover new places. There's also so many great local places that I've been too, there has to be more. I feel everywhere has some hidden gems.

Now, I know I started this post by saying I was going to be trying new places and pushing myself, blah, blah, blah... Well, I'm actually going to be kicking this off with a place I've already been too many many times. One of the reasons I want to to do this and share it on the blog is because I really feel supporting local business is important and plus, I want to show off the local Scottish talent. So if you ever get the chance to visit you can maybe go. I would also love to hear suggestions from you about where you live, so If I ever get the chance to go I can! If you are a follower of my Instagram, if you aren't then why don't you hope over quickly and click the follow button? Then you will have probably of glimpsed at some pretty spectacular looking sandwiches. BLTs' (without the T), more specifically. And the odd occasional bowl of soup. What can I say? I'm a creature of habit.

Bernies is the local Deli Cafe and is a little gem just about 10 minutes drives from our flat. Yes, I'm sure we could walk, but we live in Rain All The Time Scotland. Hidden away in Bridge of Weir on their main road. The place has a relaxed, warm & comforting feel to it. Whatever you are feeling, there are many options for seating. From the cute little snug spots in the corner against the window to the big soft cuddling sofas and even the 6ft runner table in the middle if you have a lot of company. It's a big open space with high ceilings, the aesthetic, it's kinda quirky and cool. With also keeping to the "supporting local", they too, support locally. They use local food sources for their menu, as close as a few metres down the road at the village butchers. All the cakes that are on display are made in house by their own baker, and for years I've sworn that their victoria sponge cake is my FAVOURITE victoria sponge cake ever.

 Choice of Daily Homemade Soup

They also have different menus depending on the time of day. As well as specialised menus like their Valentines Menu, which is being held on the 11th of February. For £19.99 a three-course meal, as well as, a glass of something fizzy is included. Whether you are wanting to share this with a special someone, or even close family & friends, Im sure whoever you chose to share it with would be a great evening. They also have Slouch & Bistro evenings. Of course, both of these evenings are completely different from each other and have their own type of menu. The slouch evenings have more of a relaxed and chilled feel to them. You are more likely to come with a decent book & blanket. While you maybe enjoy a glass or two of wine, with a side of locally curated meats. Whereas their Bistro nights have a more uptown feel to them. A slightly more put together menu, again sticking to the keeping it local theme, using well-sourced ingredients to create something new. If you do fancy going to one of these evenings, I'd be quick! Spaces don't last long... Chris & I have still to check these out. So when we do Ill let you know all about it.

Choice of Ice Cream & Cakes

  Macaroni & Garlic Bread

BLT, coleslaw & wedges

(Without the T)

As well as the special evenings and menus that they do, they are also available for hire. Which is great because it has an amazing open space.  So whether you need it for a birthday or a private event for a club you are a part of, its perfect. But again, be quick! I tried to book here a few birthdays ago, but due to leaving it late someone else snapped it up! They also like to hold fun nights for the community (or anyone willing to travel). Something a little bit different than a local karaoke session...They have had drama sessions, poetry reading and even a barbershop singing group, The B Naturals. Its great to have somewhere that also believes in the local community and actively tries to get involved as much as they can. I have to say, there is a very big fanbase for this amazing local hotspot. People all the way from Port Glasgow come for a quick bite, as well as many cyclists due to being just off a cycle track. So if you are ever in the area, I highly suggest you have a little visit.

Bernies Cafe Deli

Bridge of Weir, Scotland

What's your favourite local hotspot? Do you have any Sunday/weekend traditions? Do you even like to leave the house on a Sunday? Any brunch/lunch recommendations welcome below! I look forward to reading & replying to your comments.

Happy Birthday 5ft Life

So today marks the day that I officially created this blog & started over. For any of you who has been here since the beginning, then you will know how I first started out. As a gawky 17-year-old, I created Addictions to Shopping, a fashion blog. The name was more about tongue & cheek, rather than a serious problem. My mum, who was still here at the time, used to always moan about how much I bought & how I had a problem. When in reality, I bought no more than the average girl at that age, with her first part-time job with her own money. All I wanted to do was take photos of my outfits, with the hopes of inspiring others. Hopefully give someone the confidence to wear what they wanted.

As I got older, the blogging world changed, as did my hobbies & interests. I also decided to start creating videos and posting those online also. As I grew as a person I began to feel I had more than just style to share, not that there's anything wrong with that. Plus I wanted to influence people in other ways, share my views and continue to inspire people. Now I know I still haven't posted or shared as much as I've wanted too, but I'm not letting that phase me anymore. I blog when and where I can. Sometimes when it's busy at work, I'm pretty much working full time as well as having adult life to catch up with on the weekend. So this year, my focus will be more on planning and using my time more efficiently. I think it's great to have a schedule, but I don't want to fill up so much that I become overwhelmed and hide in a dark, dingy hole somewhere...

Something else I want to focus on this year is the variety of content I am putting out there. I've mentioned many times how I'm a foodie, I enjoy trying new restaurants just as much as I enjoy throwing something together myself. So I want to share that with you guys, try to change it up just a little bit more than I am right now. I have to say, I am very excited about where this year is going to take me blogging/social media wise.  I've already seen my Instagram & youtube community growing more and attracting interest, so it just goes to show what a little bit of hard work can do! That's the great thing about all of this though, when I am creating & working on my blog pieces, it doesn't feel like work... I love all of this so much.

Something else I want to focus on this year is the variety of content I am putting out there. I've mentioned many times how I'm a foodie, I enjoy trying new restaurants just as much as I enjoy throwing something together myself. So I want to share that with you guys, try to change it up just a little bit more than I am right now. I have to say, I am very excited about where this year is going to take me blogging/social media wise.  I've already seen my Instagram & youtube community growing more and attracting interest, so it just goes to show what a little bit of hard work can do! That's the great thing about all of this though, when I am creating & working on my blog pieces, it doesn't feel like work... I love all of this so much.

It's just a short & sweet post today. I just wanted to highlight the day and re-introduce myself back into posting again. It's only been a few months but its nice to say Hi again! Some of these photos are favourite shots, favourite posts and some memorable memories. So heres to creating more, seeing new places, trying new restaurants/food & hotels as well as watching new films! Speak soon.

Original Posts

Grunge Revolution

A Casual Halloween In Autumn

Hotel Review

Overnight for Wedding Anniversary

London, July 2014

Losing Myself in Argyll Scotland