This episode we take a moment to enjoy the final throes of summer before the return to routine and the start of another season. The Simple Things Editor, Lisa Sykes, and Wellbeing Editor, Becs Frank are taking stock and setting intentions but also working out how to make summer stretch a little bit longer.

Expect a tipple or two and could-do lists for the year ahead. Plus a final original short story to wrap up our Everyday Holidays season.

Small Ways to Live Well is a podcast from The Simple Things, a monthly magazine about slowing down, remembering what’s important and making the most of where you live.

To subscribe or order a copy of the magazine visit thesimplethings.com

Editing by Arthur Cosslett.

They don't call August silly season for nothing.

The Simple Things’ Wellbeing  Editor, Becs Frank, is back with Editor, Lisa Sykes eating ice cream and lollies and playing big kid games in the park. They’re going barefoot and trying some messy projects in a bid to find the fun and adventure. A spot of laughter yoga, anyone?

Small Ways to Live Well is a podcast from The Simple Things, a monthly magazine about slowing down, remembering what’s important and making the most of where you live.

To subscribe or order a copy of the magazine visit thesimplethings.com

Editing by Arthur Cosslett.

This week Lisa & Becs are feeling curious and ready to try something new. 

Join them to explore spring foraging and experimental cooking, picking up the things they tried in lockdown and discovering why being curious is good for all of us. 

Pop the kettle on and pause for a moment with an original short story plus we’ll hear from Mind, which is supporting A Spring Tonic through Pause, the monthly subscription box.

To subscribe or order a copy of the magazine visit thesimplethings.com

This week we are sharing chocolate and cake with Editor of The Simple Things magazine, Lisa Sykes and Wellbeing Editor, Becs Frank. Join them as they chat about why we love an inessential meal, how a treat lifts your mood, the joy of fresh eggs, time away from the to-do list and whether it’s better to save for something special. There will be time to put the kettle on and pause for a moment with an original short story.

A Spring Tonic is supported by Pause, the subscription box from Mind

Click here to find out more about the The Simple Things Magazine

This week  we discuss simple things to marvel at during winter.
In the last of this season, we embrace the season’s bleak but dramatic landscapes, why we love a small hill, natural spectacles, frost and ice and make mention of dragons…

Join us in The Hibernacle, hosted by Editor of The Simple Things magazine, Lisa Sykes with Jo Tinsley, regular contributor to the magazine, Editor of Ernest Journal and author of The Slow Traveller.

The Hibernacle is supported by Charnwood Stoves

This week we take a wander in the Hibernacle. We are seeking ways to overcome the lack of daylight and bad weather to lead us out of winter hibernation. Expect beachcombing, microclimates and lunchtime adventures. NB. Please check the laws around beachcombing for your own location.

Editor of The Simple Things magazine, Lisa Sykes is chatting with Jo Tinsley, regular contributor to the magazine, Editor of Ernest Journal and author of The Slow Traveller and fellow outdoors fan.

The Hibernacle is supported by Charnwood Stoves

We look ahead in The Hibernacle this week; exploring the power of positive thinking, the benefits of armchair travel, stating intentions, making plans and spending time with our hopes and dreams, in our WISH episode.
Hosted by Editor of The Simple Things magazine, Lisa Sykes and Wellbeing Editor, Becs Frank .
The Hibernacle is supported by Charnwood Stoves

This week in The Hibernacle, Editor of The Simple Things magazine, Lisa Sykes and Wellbeing Editor Becs Frank don their jolliest jumpers and share good cake as they discover small ways to make winter a bit more merry. Think good mood foods and gatherings, seasonal celebrations and the urge to grow things. And why wearing bright things can help. Put the kettle on and pause for a moment with an original short story.
The Hibernacle is supported by Charnwood Stoves

This week in The Hibernacle, Editor of The Simple Things magazine, Lisa Sykes shares tea and crumpets with Wellbeing Editor Becs Frank as they talk about how to literally keep calm and carry on through the whole of winter. From quiet pastimes and absorbing hobbies to how we look after ourselves and keep our stresses at bay. There will time to out the kettle on and pause for a moment with an original short story.

The Hibernacle is supported by Charnwood Stoves

This week in The Hibernacle, Editor of The Simple Things magazine, Lisa Sykes shares tea and cake with Wellbeing Editor Becs Frank as they seek out crumbs of comfort and ways to feel better in winter. Join them as they talk hot drinks and warm places for cold days, discuss the merits of saunas and which old fashioned remedies really work. There will time to out the kettle on and pause for a moment with an original short story.

The Hibernacle is supported by Charnwood Stoves

Small Ways to Live Well is a podcast from The Simple Things, a monthly magazine about slowing down, remembering what’s important and making the most of where you live. Hosted by the Editor, Lisa Sykes, in Season 1 she’ll be sharing tea & cake with colleagues and contributors in The Hibernacle – a winter retreat where you can pretend for a time that the outside world doesn’t exist.  Each episode offers a different take on thriving in winter.  

It’s a tonic for the coldest and darkest months that encourages you to put real life on hold for a while and adjust to a slower pace to reset and re-energise for the year to come. Released weekly from 21 January this six-week companion will take you from Twelfth Night through to the first day of spring. 
 
 To find out more about the magazine visit thesimplethings.com 

If you fancy an afternoon to drift and make plans from your deckchair, think of this episode as your permission slip. Join the Simple Things’ Editor, Lisa Sykes and regular contributor, Jo Tinsley to find the right headspace, dream of a different way of life, explore the appeal of islands and indulge in a spot of nostalgia. Enjoy the read-aloud short story with a recommended summer tipple and test your knowledge of Agatha Christie characters.

Small Ways to Live Well is a podcast from The Simple Things, a monthly magazine about slowing down, remembering what’s important and making the most of where you live.

To subscribe or order a copy of the magazine visit thesimplethings.com

Editing by Arthur Cosslett.

Slow adventurer Jo Tinsley is back with The Simple Things’ Editor Lisa Sykes appreciating some of the best ways to waste time when you can this summer. First stop is at the beach where they collect sea glass and hagstones, make a sundial and explore rockpools. Then it’s back home to not get busy in the garden and linger outdoors into the night. Have a go at our collective nouns quiz, just because…

Small Ways to Live Well is a podcast from The Simple Things, a monthly magazine about slowing down, remembering what’s important and making the most of where you live.

To subscribe or order a copy of the magazine visit thesimplethings.com

Editing by Arthur Cosslett.

In this episode we dress like we’re on holiday, all the better to feel sunshine vibes. Editor of The Simple Things magazine, Lisa Sykes and Wellbeing Editor, Becs Frank explore how and why we unfurl and blossom like flowers in high summer, share some tasty ways with berries and cherries and pick a few flowers. Plus good bugs & bad bugs.

Small Ways to Live Well is a podcast from The Simple Things, a monthly magazine about slowing down, remembering what’s important and making the most of where you live.

To subscribe or order a copy of the magazine visit thesimplethings.com

Editing by Arthur Cosslett.

Episode 1 – UNWIND

This week, Editor of The Simple Things magazine, Lisa Sykes, finds ways to slow down with Wellbeing Editor, Becs Frank. Join them as they discuss active rest, holiday packing, why blue space is the answer and the joy of a good book. There will be time to put the kettle on, pause for a moment and dream of holidays with an original short story before enjoying an impromptu picnic.

Small Ways to Live Well is a podcast from The Simple Things, a monthly magazine about slowing down, remembering what’s important and making the most of where you live.

To subscribe or order a copy of the magazine visit thesimplethings.com

Editing by Arthur Cosslett.

In the last episode of this season Editor of The Simple Things magazine, Lisa Sykes and Wellbeing Editor, Becs Frank are feeling the joys of spring through small ways to be happy. Join their chat about the dawn chorus and birdsong, why singing is good for everyone, revisiting pastimes from your childhood, good friends and cooing over new life. As always, there will be an original short story to take a moment with.

A Spring Tonic is supported by Pause, the subscription box from Mind 

To subscribe to The Simple Things Magazine, click here...

When is a weed not a weed, the wonder of bluebells and the precarious life of a tadpole. Learn how to bloom this spring, as Editor of The Simple Things magazine, Lisa Sykes looks for small ways to flourish with regular contributor and Editor of Ernest Journal, Jo Tinsley. Discussing life lessons from nature, join them as they chat about hedgerows weeds we like and why growing things is good for you. There will be time to listen to an original short story and to take a tea break with the sun on your face.

A Spring Tonic is supported by Pause, the subscription box from Mind

To subscribe to The Simple Things Magazine, click here...

How does fresh air, fresh food and a bit of fresh thinking sound?

This week Editor of The Simple Things magazine, Lisa Sykes and Wellbeing Editor, Becs Frank look for small ways to bring in spring. They start by opening the windows, trying some homespun cleaning and pegging out the washing. There’ll be chat about homegrown herbs and adding a twist to favourite meals. And why cycling is a good thing.

Join them to hear this episode’s original short story and discover just what’s in their first Pause subscription box from Mind, which is supporting A Spring Tonic

To subscribe to The Simple Things Magazine, click here...

Join the discussion about could-do lists and spontaneous day trips, following a quest, unusual sources of inspiration and the best ways to play truant... oh, and satisfying stuff you can do in a day.  In this episode Editor of The Simple Things magazine, Lisa Sykes seeks out small ways to seize the moment with regular contributor and author of The Slow Traveller, Jo Tinsley. Relish a moment of calm yourself and listen to this week’s original short story. 

A Spring Tonic is supported by Pause, the subscription box from Mind

To subscribe to The Simple Things Magazine, click here...

Editor of The Simple Things magazine, Lisa Sykes and Wellbeing Editor Becs Frank light candles, discuss ways to save daylight and keep melancholy at bay, marvel at autumn colours and the science behind them. The kettle’s on, there is a selection of good cake and time to pause for a seasonal short story.

Editing by Arthur Cosslett.

To go:

Westonbirt arboretum – https://www.forestryengland.uk/westonbirt-the-national-arboretumTo read:

Japanese Art of Living Seasonally: An invitation to celebrate every day by Natalie Leon (Watkins Media)

Damn Good Dumplings by Stratis Morfogen (Page Street Publishing)On our blog:

Apple Cinnamon Rose Cake – https://www.thesimplethings.com/blog/recipe-apple-amp-cinnamon-rose-cake?rq=apple%20cake

Bobbing Apples Cake – https://www.thesimplethings.com/blog/bobbing-apples-cake?rq=apple%20cake

Nightwalking playlist – https://www.thesimplethings.com/blog/nightwalkplaylist?rq=NightFrom The Simple Things:

October WEAVE issue – https://picsandink.com/collections/the-simple-things/products/the-simple-things-issue-148-october

November JEWEL issue – https://picsandink.com/collections/the-simple-things/products/the-simple-things-issue-149-november

The Greenhouse gathering featured in our October 2022 issue - 124 (edited) 

Wellbeing Editor of The Simple Things magazine, Becs Frank and regular contributor, Jo Tinsley discuss our fascination with fire, spicy foods for eating and healing, mending winter woollens and ways to make an autumn walk more ‘awe’ inspiring. Plus a short short on creative autumn pastimes.

Small Ways to Live Well is a podcast from The Simple Things, a monthly magazine about slowing down, remembering what’s important and making the most of where you live.

To subscribe or order a copy of the magazine visit thesimplethings.com

Music and editing by Arthur Cosslett

To go:
Somerset carnivals
https://www.somersetcountycarnivals.com

To read:
Enchantment Reawakening wonder in an exhausted age by Katherine May (Faber & Faber)

Awe: The Transformative Power of Everyday Wonder by Dacher Keltner (Penguin)

To make:
Pumpkin projects
https://www.thesimplethings.com/blog/pumpkin-beer-keg?rq=beer%20keghttps://www.thesimplethings.com/blog/pumpkin-bird-feeder?rq=beer%20kegDip dye candles:
https://www.thesimplethings.com/blog/make-dip-dye-candles

From The Simple Things
October WEAVE issue -
https://picsandink.com/products/the-simple-things-issue-148-october?_pos=1&_psq=The+Simple+Things&_ss=e&_v=1.0November JEWEL issue –
https://picsandink.com/products/the-simple-things-issue-149-november?_pos=2&_psq=The+Simple+Things&_ss=e&_v=1.0

Flourish – volume 3 of our wellbeing bookazine
https://picsandink.com/products/flourish-volume-3?_pos=1&_sid=45c0aa519&_ss=rOn the blog:

Turmeric balls
https://www.thesimplethings.com/blog/turmeric-balls?rq=turmeric

Hot cranberry toddy
https://www.thesimplethings.com/blog/cranberrytoddy?rq=cranberry%20toddy

Revamp your woollens
https://www.thesimplethings.com/blog/revamp-woollies


Feature references
The Christmas Craft Gathering and Know a Thing or Two Spices features appeared in November 2023 (issue 137)

Looking up feature appeared in October 2023 (issue 136)

Know a Thing or Two Wool appeared in November 2021 (issue 113)

Know a Thing or Two Fungi appeared in November 2020 (issue 101)

Back issues are available to buy at https://picsandink.com/collections/the-simple-things

If you can’t find the issue you’re looking for send us an email hello@picsandink.com

This week, Editor of The Simple Things magazine, Lisa Sykes and regular contributor, Jo Tinsley seek out treasures of the season such as berries, hips, haws, pine cones and conkers; making magical land art; guerrilla gardening and seed bombs; growing unusual berries straight out of The Gruffalo; and the subtle art of letting go.

Small Ways to Live Well is a podcast from The Simple Things, a monthly magazine about slowing down, remembering what’s important and making the most of where you live.

To subscribe or order a copy of the magazine visit thesimplethings.com

Editing & music by Arthur Cosslett

To read:

The Seed Detective: Uncovering the Secret Histories of Remarkable Vegetables by Adam Alexander (Chelsea Green Publishing)

Finding Quiet Strength by Judith Kleinman (Quickthorn)

Tiny Traumas by Dr Meg Arroll (Thorsons)

The National Trust Book of Crumbles by Laura Mason (Harper Collins)

To make:

Damson cheese, hawthorn berry ketchup and salted sloes

https://www.thesimplethings.com/blog/2014/09/10/fruits-hedgerow?rq=sloe

Seed bombs

https://www.thesimplethings.com/blog/make-seed-bombs?rq=Seed%20bombs

Pine cone bird feeder

https://www.thesimplethings.com/blog/2016/12/14/how-to-make-a-pine-cone-bird-feeder?rq=Goldfinches 

From The Simple Things Magazine:

October WEAVE issue 

https://picsandink.com/products/the-simple-things-issue-148-october?_pos=1&_psq=The+Simple+Things&_ss=e&_v=1.0

November JEWEL issue 

https://picsandink.com/products/the-simple-things-issue-149-november?_pos=2&_psq=The+Simple+Things&_ss=e&_v=1.0

 
Flourish – volume 3 of our wellbeing bookazine

https://picsandink.com/products/flourish-volume-3?_pos=1&_sid=45c0aa519&_ss=r

 
On the blog:

Wellbeing | How to let go of being busy

https://www.thesimplethings.com/blog/wellbeing-let-go-busyness?rq=Letting%20go

Recipe | Sticky sloe and nut clusters

https://www.thesimplethings.com/blog/sloe-nut-clusters?rq=sloe%20treacle%20tart

Our remedy of the week | Rosehip syrup

https://www.thesimplethings.com/blog/2015/10/7/recipe-rosehip-syrup-and-sloe-gin?rq=sloe

Feature references

Seeds of memories, Berried treasure and Let it sloe (with a recipe for Sloe treacle tart) published in November 2022 (issue 125)

Letting go feature published in October 2023 (issue 136)

Fall into place (land art by artist James Brunt) published in November 2023 (issue 137)

Back issues are available to buy at https://picsandink.com/collections/the-simple-things If you can’t find the issue you’re looking for send us an email

In our Nourish episode Lisa Sykes, editor of The Simple Things magazine, chats to Wellbeing editor Becs Frank about hearty and healthy comfort food, domestic goddesses, why we all have a favourite mug and how to feed your skin in the winter months.

Small Ways to Live Well is a podcast from The Simple Things, a monthly magazine about slowing down, remembering what’s important and making the most of where you live.

To subscribe or order a copy of the magazine visit thesimplethings.com

Editing & music by Arthur Cosslett

To read:

Genius Gut by Dr Emily Leeming (Penguin)

Regrown: How to Grow Fruit, Herbs and Vegetables from Kitchen Scraps by Paul Anderton and Robin Daly (Hardie Grant)

On the blog:

Hasselback Squash with chestnuts, pancetta & mushrooms

https://www.thesimplethings.com/blog/hasselback-squash

Bedtime cake
 https://www.thesimplethings.com/blog/bedtime-cake

Bonfire treats

Cinder toffee https://www.thesimplethings.com/blog/2015/11/4/recipe-cinder-toffee

Rye & apple parkin https://www.thesimplethings.com/blog/rye-apple-parkin?rq=parkin

Smoked toffee apple bourbon https://www.thesimplethings.com/blog/2015/10/5/recipe-smoked-toffee-apple-bourbon?rq=bonfire

 
From The Simple Things

In the November JEWEL issue

Carrot and Horlicks Tres Leches Cake 

Rye spiced pumpkin loaf

Lemony parsnip houmous with sage

An ode to our favourite mugs

In the October WEAVE issue 

How domestic goddesses changed the way we cook

Flourish – volume 3 of our wellbeing bookazine

Back issues are available to buy at https://picsandink.com/collections/the-simple-things. If you can’t find the issue you’re looking for send us an email hello@picsandink.com

Join in our special cook along episode as the team make Christmas cakes, large and small and a gluten-free pudding. In between stirring and mixing, The Simple Things’ Editor Lisa Sykes, Wellbeing Editor Becs Frank and regular contributor Jo Tinsley, will talk festive tipples, homemade gifts and advent calendars. As the cakes cook they’ll be reading seasonal microfiction.

 
SPOILER ALERT!

One of our stories in the second half of this podcast involves Santa Claus and if you have little listeners in earshot, it might not be something you want them around to hear if you want to keep the magic of Christmas going that little bit longer!
 
To do:

Listen to our festive playlists – search ‘Christmas Playlist’ on our blog for the Spotify links

To buy:

Gift subscriptions to The Simple Things

Manifesto tea towel

Christmas manifesto cards

Subscribe to The Simple Things 

On the blog: 

• Swedish glogg 
• Simple homemade hanging decorations
• Stollen with dark rum and lemon marzipan
• Bath salts
• Galette Des Rois
• Mulled white wine

 From The Simple Things:

Craft-a peel gathering – November 2023, Issue 137 – Stollen recipe, How to Dry Orange Slices and Painted Candles 

Mulling Spices for Wine gift idea – November 2022, Issue 125 

Christmas microfiction winners –  December 2023, Issue 138 

Back issues are available to buy. If you can’t find the issue you’re looking for, send us an email hello@picsandink.com

In the new December Christmas Cheer issue

Hamper swap gathering

Christmas food tidbits trivia

Kitschmas retro drinks & nibbles

To subscribe or order a copy of the magazine visit thesimplethings.com

Editing & music by Arthur Cosslett

If you’re not yet ready to come out of hibernation then this episode is for you. 

Editor, Lisa Sykes, and wellbeing editor, Rebecca Frank are being kind to themselves, enjoying animal love stories, hugs and other tender gestures, learning how to seek out glimmers, make amends and discovering the importance of saying sorry.

Editing and music by Arthur Cosslett. Season 5: Return of the light is supported by Blackdown Shepherd Huts

Small Ways to Live Well is a podcast from The Simple Things, a monthly magazine about slowing down, remembering what’s important and making the most of where you live.

You can try an immediate start subscription at www.thesimplethings.com/subscribe and receive the current issue straight away, or buy current and back issues at https://picsandink.com/collections/the-simple-things. If you can’t find the issue you’re looking for send us an email hello@picsandink.com

Editing & music by Arthur Cosslett

To read:

Self-Care For Winter: Seven Steps To Thriving In The Colder Months by Suzy Reading (Aster)

Talk: The Science of Conversation and The Art of Being Ourselves by Alison Wood Brooks (Penguin Life)

How To Have Extraordinary Relationships by Lucy Cavendish (Hardie Grant)

Why Buy Roses in February? Campaign from SSAW Collective about ethical ways of working with seasonal produce. 

To listen:

Vardrypp – from a Norwegian reader, it's about the moment when the snow starts to melt / drip and you know winter is ending and spring is coming (March in Norway)

Sunshine and Moonbeams by reader Louise Ashcroft

Team TST’s mixtape playlist – all about the songs we remembered from mix tapes past

To buy:

Valentine’s Day alternative ideas:

Scented narcissi www.scillyflowers.co.uk

Devil’s ivy (Golden Pothos)

String of hearts (Ceropegia Woodii)

 From The Simple Things:

In the February GLIMMER issue: 

Kitchen therapy: feeding your senses 

Glimmers: small moments of joy 

Animal love matches 

Coming up in the March MEND issue (order via picsandink.com from 20 February)

Making amends: how to say sorry 

Clementine Curd recipe 

Flourish – volume 3 of our wellbeing bookazine

You can try an immediate start subscription at www.thesimplethings.com/subscribe and receive the current issue straight away, or buy current and back issues at https://picsandink.com/collections/the-simple-things. If you can’t find the issue you’re looking for send us an email hello@picsandink.

If you’ve got cabin fever and are ready to head out and about then we’re here to help

Wellbeing editor, Rebecca Frank and author of The Slow Traveller, Jo Tinsley, are taking some deep breaths as they head outdoors to blow (or even rinse off) the cobwebs with a bracing walk or a sauna and a cold dip. We will be also be finding ways to keep warm while appreciating nature and satisfying the urge to get growing again.

Editing and music by Arthur Cosslett. Season 5: Return of the light is supported by Blackdown Shepherd Huts

Small Ways to Live Well is a podcast from The Simple Things, a monthly magazine about slowing down, remembering what’s important and making the most of where you live.

If you are in the UK, you can choose an immediate start subscription to the magazine at http://www.icebergpress.co.uk/subscribe and receive the current issue straight away. Or buy current and back issues here.

Editing & music by Arthur Cosslett

To read:

Weathering: How the earth’s deep wisdom can help us endure life’s storms by Ruth Allen (Ebury)

Just Add Nature: Embrace the healing powers of nature and increase your sense of wellbeing by Rebecca Frank (National Trust)

To go and do:

The Eden Project, Cornwall 

Sheffield Winter Garden 

The Japanese Gardens, Tatton Park, Cheshire 

The Japanese Garden, St Mawgan Cornwall 

Jack and Jill Windmills, West Sussex 

Cley Windmill, Norfolk 

The Line, London 

Beach Box Spa, Brighton

Stamner Sauna Garden storytelling 

Oakhill Ponds, Somerset 

Ty Sawna, Gower Peninsula 

The British Sauna Society

Glen Dye Cottages

On the blog:

The Swedish concept of Fika 

Beachcombing: Things you can take home from the seaside 

Yarn Bomber’s Toolkit 

In the February GLIMMER issue: 

Another Country: If holidays seem a long way off, get a tiny taste of travel thanks to landscapes, culture and food from aboard

Jam Jar Gardens: Planting hyacinth bulbs in mason jars

Flavour of the Weeks: Jenny Coates’ nature diary project Jenny Coates’ 52 Weeks of Nature Art

If you’re looking for ways to comfort and soothe your winter weary mind and body, then pop the kettle on, curl up and join us.

The Simple Things’ Editor Lisa Sykes and Wellbeing Editor, Rebecca Frank, are talking pies, toast and other comfort foods, and how growing veg is a mental and physical tonic. We’ll also be discussing sunrooms and citrus trees and the pillars of good health that will help to keep us on track as winter draws to a close.

Editing and music by Arthur Cosslett. Season 5: Return of the light is supported by Blackdown Shepherd Huts 

Season 5: Return of the light is supported by Blackdown Shepherd Huts

If you are in the UK, you can choose an immediate start subscription to the The Simple Things and receive the current issue straight away. Or buy current and back issues here. 

To read:

Rough Patch: How a Year in The Garden Brought Me Back To Life by Kathy Slack (Robinson) 

How to Sleep Like a Caveman: Ancient Wisdom for a Better Night’s Rest by Merijn van de Laar (William Collins)

On the blog:

Marmite and cheddar Welsh Rarebit

Nettle rarebit

Reinventing the toastie

Easter pie (Torta Pasqualina)

Root veg, Marmite & cheddar pie

Picnic pie

Spring slaw

To do:

British Pie Week (3-9 March 2025)

From The Simple Things:

Issue 141 – Growing a lemon tree

In the new March MEND issue (order via picsandink.com)

Life of pies - our favourite pies for picnics, parties, handy lunches and hearty dinners

Things I learned from the soil: Between the bare beds of winter and the abundance of spring - Kathy Slack finds hope in the veg patch cycle

Shrug off winter and wake up to spring – you’ll feel your energy levels rise while you listen to this episode. The Simple Things’ Editor Lisa Sykes and author of The Slow Traveller, Jo Tinsley will be talking rhubarb (literally) drinking some good coffee, making pancakes and discovering foraging for indoor people. 

Editing and music by Arthur Cosslett. 

Season 5: Return of the light is supported by Blackdown Shepherd Huts

If you are in the UK, you can choose an immediate start subscription to the The Simple Things and receive the current issue straight away. Or buy current and back issues here. 

On the blog:

Rhubarb & Marzipan Cake 

Rhubarb Mimosas

Rhubarb and ginger pavlova

Rhubarb and custard crepes

Birch sap wine 

From The Simple Things:

In the March MEND issue

• Turning saps, buds and shoots into nourishing and reviving dishes and drinks 
• Roasted Rhubarb and Cream Cake
• Chai Pancakes 
• Laundry symbols identifier

Manifesting, Coffee history – issue 128

Forced rhubarb recipes – issue 141

TO GO & DO:

Olney Pancake Race, 4 March 2025, 

Skipping Day, Scarborough, 4 March 2025

Blackdown Shepherd Hut breaks                          

TO FOLLOW:

Rachel de Thample

Jeska Herne, Lobster & Swan

If you’ve got an urge to ‘sort things out’ we’re here to help cheer up a chore. The Simple Things’ Editor Lisa Sykes and author of The Slow Traveller, Jo Tinsley tackle a bit of spring cleaning, appreciate new life and share some fresh thinking on finding the balance between the comfort of things and clearing out. Plus do you know your laundry labels (honestly more interesting than it sounds)

Season 5: Return of the light is supported by Blackdown Shepherd Huts

If you are in the UK, you can choose an immediate start subscription to the The Simple Things and receive the current issue straight away. Or buy current and back issues here. 

Editing and music by Arthur Cosslett.  

THINGS TO MAKE & DO

Revamp Your Woollies for Winter

https://www.thesimplethings.com/blog/revamp-woollies?rq=mending

Homemade Cleaning Wonders

https://www.thesimplethings.com/blog/129-homemade-cleaning?rq=spring%20cleaning

An excellent toolbox

https://www.thesimplethings.com/blog/good-tool-box?rq=spring%20cleaning

Conker Laundry Soap

https://www.thesimplethings.com/blog/conker-soap?rq=laundry 

ON THE BLOG

In praise of potting sheds

Allotment Sheds

Easy Eco Switch Ups

TO READ

Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Grams (Doubleday Books, 2022) 

Rough Patch by Kathy Slack (Little Brown 2025)

TO LISTEN

Spring cleaning songs

IN THE MARCH ISSUE

My Plot: Building a recycled shed

Gathering: BYO project party

Home economics: Patching and stitching. How to revive jeans, shirts and other wardrobe staples Identifier: Laundry symbols

IN THE FEBRUARY ISSUE

An ode to the library

Join us for our Easter Special episode of Small Ways to Live Well, the podcast from The Simple Things magazine 

Released on Good Friday, Team TST are recording live from a Blackdown Shepherd Hut in Somerset where they’ll enjoy cake and decorate an Ostereierbaum (Easter tree) before trying a sauna and cold plunge and warming up with rival hot chocolate recipes. Plus the signs that spring proper is here, stories of cute spring animals and making the most of April showers.  Oh and we’re learning how ducks quack in other languages. 

 Co-hosted by The Simple Things Editor, Lisa Sykes; wellbeing editor Rebecca Frank and author of The Slow Traveller,  Jo Tinsley

Our Easter Special and Season 5: Return of the light is supported by Blackdown Shepherd Huts. 

If you are in the UK, you can choose an immediate start subscription to the The Simple Things and receive the current issue straight away. Or buy current and back issues here. The May TEND issue  is on sale at picsandink.com from 17 April, on newsstands 24 April

 Editing and music by Arthur Cosslett. 

To read:

Play spring bingo – signs that spring is really here 

Speak like a duck abroad 

To bake:

Simnel cake recipe & history

Hot cross buns recipe

Gugelhupf  – Austrian Easter cakes

To make:

Ostereierbaum (Easter tree) 

Dyed eggs

Hot chocolate
Tangerine & nutmeg
Sea salt
Spiced
With pink peppercorns 
Orangey tipple 

To buy:

M&S Simnel cake

Blackdown sauna & cold plunge deck 

Beautiful mugs in the Blackdown hut for hot chocolate were by Florence Ceramics 

From The Simple Things:

 In the April JAUNT issue 

Rain gardens

Easter buns of Europe

Magical Creatures – mallards
 
 

In our new anthology&

Feeling like spring has sprung? Join The Simple Things editor, Lisa Sykes, and wellbeing editor Rebecca Frank, who are marvelling at the first signs of spring with a hot picnic to go, enjoying the blossom in our gardens and finding out how different landscapes affect our wellbeing. 

If you are in the UK, you can choose an immediate start subscription to the The Simple Things and receive the current issue straight away. Or buy current and back issues here. 

Season 5: Return of the light is supported by Blackdown Shepherd Huts

Editing and music by Arthur Cosslett. 

To read:

The Walking Cure: Harness the life-changing power of landscape to heal, energise and inspire by Annabel Streets (Penguin Tonic)

To follow:

@wildwoodmoth – get inspired to take a photo a day on your regular routes with Alice Tatham

@mirandakeeling – stopping to notice. Look out for an extract from Miranda’s new book The Place I’m In in our May issue 

To make:

Cherry blossom origami as seen in the March MEND issue here

Easter origami including rabbit egg holders, rabbits and chickens here

To buy:
Lumie Sunrise alarm clock (with birdsong) 

From The Simple Things:

In the March MEND issue 

Learn with mother: four women discuss the unique qualities they inherited from their mother

In the April JAUNT issue (on sale at picsandink.com from 20 March, on newsstands 26 March)

Walk on the wild side: gather wild garlic to enjoy with friends and find new ways to cook with this easy forage 

Healing landscapes: thinking about where you walk and what you need will help you choose the right route for your mind and body 

From our March 2023 Light Issue (129) available to buy here

First picnic of the year (with warming food while it’s still a bit nippy!)

Plant a fruit tree in the garden (however small) for your own beautiful blossom. 

Find out how to plant a fruit tree

Promise & Possibilities 

Anything seems possible at the start of summer and in this first episode The Simple Things’ Editor Lisa Sykes and Wellbeing Editor Rebecca Frank use their imagination to explore what a ‘could-do week’ looks like, find ways to make bank holiday journeys more bearable and the joy of being a regular, as well as making the most of elderflowers and roses and passing on some creative first aid. 

If you are in the UK, you can choose an immediate start subscription to the The Simple Things and receive the current issue straight away. Or buy current and back issues here

Editing and music by Arthur Cosslett. 

On the blog

Rhubarb and rosewater tart

https://www.thesimplethings.com/blog/2016/4/13/recipe-rhubarb-and-rosewater-tart-with-cardamom-and-honey-cream?rq=rose

Elderflower champagne recipe

https://www.thesimplethings.com/blog/2014/06/06/recipe-elderflower-champagne?rq=elderflower%20

Rose petal and strawberry sandwiches

https://www.thesimplethings.com/blog/silly-sandwiches?rq=rose%20petal

To read

Extra Mile guides to Delicious Alternatives to Motorway Services, Coastal cafes and Farm shops

Wild Swimming Hidden Beaches by Daniel Start (Wild Guides) 

Creative First Aid by Caitlin Marshall and Lizzie Rose (Murdoch Books) 

In The Simple Things

From the May issue  (155)

 Respect your elders – plan an elderflower foraging session then make cake, cordial and much more…

 The joys of being a regular – why revisiting regular favourite places results in so many happy returns

Buy the May issue here

From the June issue (156)

Could-do week – shake up your week to make time for the things you enjoy every day

The Longest Day microfiction competition

Buy the June issue at picsandink.com from 23 May and on the newsstand from 28 May. 

From The Simple Things Anthology Volume 4: A Year of Celebrations

Pushbike picnic : Vegetable crisps, three cheese & herb savoury muffins, Italian focaccia pressed sandwiches, apricot, blueberry and almond energy bars. 

Back garden campout featured in August 2021 issue (110) with Paprika & Parmesan Popcorn, Campfire Tacos, Frittata, Kohlrabi Slaw, Bean Salsa and Chipotle Mayo with  Puffed Quinoa fridge cake. Plus Raspberry French Toasties and skillet granola for breakfast

Promise & Possibilities 

It's half term, another bank holiday weekend so in this episode The Simple Things’ Editor Lisa Sykes and Wellbeing Editor Rebecca Frank are setting out to DISCOVER things new to them (and hopefully you) plus learning why stepping outside of our comfort zone is good for us. And because it is midsummer we’ll be celebrating a magical creature and finding a moment of magic to note and notice.

If you are in the UK, you can choose an immediate start subscription to the The Simple Things and receive the current issue straight away. Or buy current and back issues here

 Editing and music by Arthur Cosslett. 

To discover

The Tweed Run 

Treasure Trails

Caring for God’s Acre – Love your Burial Ground Week 7-15 June

To read

Snorkelling Britain: 100 Marine Adventuresby Emma and Gordon Taylor (Wild Things Publishing)

On the blog

Maypole cake

How to maypole 

From the June issue (156)

Magical creature: Beavers

My Plot: Narrowboat nursery & tow-along greenhouse

Weekend away: staying in a lighthouse

Buy the June issue here and on newsstands from 28 May. 

From our new book: The Simple Things Anthology Volume 4: A Year of Celebrations
 
 

Whitsuntide recipes

Modern Eccentrics – Boss Morris, yarn bombers, mermaid, steam punks 

Treasure hunting

In previous The Simple Things

Whitsuntide gathering (May 2024 – 143)

Nature reserves (May 2023 – 131)

Churchyards for wildlife (July 2022 – 121)

Narrowboat home tour (August 2021 –110)
 Three campervans (July 2021 – 109)

Converted horsebox home (August 2024 – 146)

Promise and Possibilities 

In the third episode of our magical midsummer season, Rebecca Frank, Wellbeing Editor of The Simple Things, and Jo Tinsley, regular contributor and author of The Slow Traveller are celebrating the first day of summer and the things that make us shine at this time of year. Join us on a nostalgic trip to the British seaside, pick up some useful knowledge for growing your own pick of salad ingredients in pots and hanging baskets, and take some wise advice from our pick of wellbeing books for different times of life. 

If you are in the UK, you can choose an immediate start subscription to the The Simple Things and receive the current issue straight away. Or buy current and back issues here

 Editing and music by Arthur Cosslett

On the blog

BBQ sides – because it’s all about the side dishes and pickles really

Broad bean guacamole and kohlrabi slaw

Salty dill cucumbers 

To read or listen to 

Yoga for Stiff Birds by Marion Deuchars (Skittledog) – we feature a different stretch in the Miscellany section of the magazine each month.

Rising Strong: How the Ability to Reset Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead by Brené Brown (Ebury)

Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking by Susan Cain (Penguin)

The Lido Guide by Emma Pusill and Janet Wilkinson (Boundless)

To find out more

Lidos – Discover your nearest lido by visiting The Outdoor Swimming Society website and browse ‘The Big Lido Map’ at All The Lidos 

Visit the lidos mentioned in the episode:

Shepton Mallet Lido 

Saltdean Lido 

Hathersage Swimming Pool 

Brockwell Lido 

Silver Nutmeg jewellery on Folksy

In The Simple Things

From the May TEND issue (155)

One Pot Food Forest – a mini food forest where all the seeds are sown at once but have different harvest dates so the planter evolves over time, offering a constant crop. 

From My Plot: A Wilder Way with Poppy Okotcha, author of A Wilder Way: How Gardens Grow Us (Bloomsbury)

Magical creatures: an appreciation of pondskaters

Buy the May issue here

From the June SOAR issue (156)

Shelf help – 18 classic wellbeing books recommended by our experts that offer wisdom throughout life’s changes and challenges. The collection includes Quiet by Susan Cain and Lost Connections by Johann Hari as mentioned in the podcast. 

Good vibrations – how chanting a mantra can help still a busy mind

Salad Days  - growing advice and recipes for homegrown salads from The Kew G

You’ve arrived at Episode 4 in our Magical Midsummer season of the Small Ways to Live Well podcast from The Simple Things magazine. Join Lisa Sykes, editor of the magazine and Jo Tinsley, a regular contributor and author of The Slow Traveller. The loose theme for this episode is carefree because if you can’t feel a little bit frivolous and ditch a few chores and responsibilities around midsummer, then when can you?

So think of us as your suggestion box this week, an audible prompt to try things you haven’t done for years, wear something out of the ordinary or take a trip. We’ll also be celebrating festivals and tiny campsites, appreciating a magical creature as we have every episode this season and sharing a few moments of magic that will hopefully inspire you to capture your own.

If you are in the UK, you can choose an immediate start subscription to the The Simple Things and receive the current issue straight away. Or buy current and back issues here

Editing and music by Arthur Cosslett

On the blog;

Camping Truths: Camping is full of highs and lows but somehow it’s always worth it. Here, some of the Simple Things team share some of their most memorable camping moments. 

To read:

The Slow Traveller : An intentional path to mindful adventures by Jo Tinsley 

Tiny Campsites: 80 Small but Perfect Places to Pitch by Dixe Wills

Mini Quilting by Laura Strutt

Things to do & make 

The Big Retreat Festival, Pembrokeshire 

Weekend Project: Pass holderand Belt bago or pouch template

Greener Camping Club

Nearly Wild Camping

In The Simple Things:

From the June SOAR issue (156)

My Living: The Festival. Amber Lort-Phillips on the realities of running a festival

Wearing Well: Bucket Hats. More stories of the clothes we love!

Buy June issue here and on the newsstand until 24 June

Subscribers will receive the July issue from 20 June when pre-orders will also open at picsandink.com or you can buy on the newsstand from the 25 June. Find out how to subscribe here

The Simple Things Anthology Volume 4: A Year of Celebrations

Any excuse to celebrate with the food, flowers and decorations for every occasion and ways to mark the season

Country shows: A day out with animal, vegetable and mineral appeal. 

In previous issues of The Simple Things (back issues are available to buy here)

Out

Welcome to Episode 5 of our Magical Midsummer season in the Small Ways to Live Well podcast from The Simple Things magazine. Join Editor Lisa Sykes and and Jo Tinsley, a regular contributor to the magazine and also, very appropriately, author of The Slow Traveller, as we discuss all things SLOW from taking our time to savour summer fruits and learning how to enjoy the fruits of our labours to working out the best ways to while away a summer afternoon. Plus, we’ll be sharing some wise advice on travelling slowly. 

If you are in the UK, you can choose an immediate start subscription to the The Simple Things and receive the current issue straight away. Or buy current and back issues here

Editing and music by Arthur Cosslett

On the blog

Recipe: Ploughman's scones

Ice cube herbs

Ice cube aftersun
 
 

To read

The Slow Traveller: An intentional path to mindful adventures by Jo Tinsley 

Ernest journal

Things to do

Black Girls Do Run

In The Simple Things

From the June SOAR issue (156)

Looking Back: Radio Times. Whether the Top 40 or Desert Island Discs, we tune into the programmes that have ruled the airwaves – and our hearts – over the last 100 years 

Kitchen Therapy: Take it outside. Lottie Stories shows us how to make Blossom Ice Cubes

Wisdom: A question of sport. Long, light days encourage us to get outside and get moving, just like these women, who you’ll find doing what they love across the UK’s paths and roads, bridleways and waters. 

Competition: Put pen to paper. To celebrate National Flash Fiction Day this month we’re launching our search for your best short stories, themed around ‘The Longest Day'. Send your entry of 300 words max to thesimplethings@icebergpress.co.ukwith the heading MIDSUMMER MICROFICTION. Closing date 31 July. Full details in our June issue

Buy June issue here and on the newsstand until 24 June

Subscribers will receive the July issue from 20 June when pre-orders will also open at picsandink.com or you can buy on the newsstand from the 25 June. 

It’s the final episode of our magical midsummer season and today all three of the Small Ways to Live Well podcast hosts have come together to talk about the most magical moments of this special time of year. Join Lisa Sykes (editor, The Simple Things), Becs Frank (Wellbeing editor) and Jo Tinsley (regular contributor and author of The Slow Traveller) as we discuss midsummer feasts and rituals, wonderful places to enjoy the solstice, the art of storytelling, and how dreams help us process emotions (and how to decode them).  

If you are in the UK, you can choose an immediate start subscription to the The Simple Things and receive the current issue straight away. Or buy current and back issues here

Editing and music by Arthur Cosslett

On the blog:

Midsommartårta (midsummer strawberry cake) recipe

Lemon basil spritzer recipe

Wild midsummer cocktails 

To read:

Decode Your Dreams: Unlock your unconscious and transform your waking life by Ian Wallace (White Lion Publishing)

Lucid dreaming – find out more about directing your dreams in our wellbeing bookazine, Flourish (Volume 3) buy it here

The Slow Traveller : An intentional path to mindful adventures by Jo Tinsley 

In The Simple Things

From the June SOAR issue (156)

Midsummer short story writing competition To celebrate National Flash Fiction Day this month we’re launching our search for your best short stories, themed around ‘The Longest Day'. Send your entry of 300 words max to thesimplethings@icebergpress.co.ukwith the heading MIDSUMMER MICROFICTION. Closing date 31 July. Full details in our June issue

What happens at Stonehenge? Read about this and other seasonal ideas including making a fairy-lit garden room in our monthly Almanac

Buy June issue here and on the newsstand until 24 June

In the July FRUIT issue (157) 

Tomato leaf martini – a fabulously fragrant summer tipple

Sleepless in summer – how to get the rest you need in the warmest months

Magical creatures: Purple emperor butterflies

Subscribers will receive the July issue from 20 June when pre-orders will also open at picsandink.com or you can buy on the newsstand from the 25 June. Find out how to subscribe here

Check out The Simple Things Anthology Volume 4: A Year of Celebrations for any excuse to celebrate with the food, flowers and decorations for every occasion

Today our theme is SAVOUR and we’re advocating letting summer linger on as long as possible, savouring the tastes, fruits and flowers of the season, finding holiday habits to carry on with and appreciating things to treasure. Hosted by The Simple Things’ Editor Lisa Sykes and Wellbeing Editor Rebecca Frank

If you are in the UK, you can try an immediate start subscription to the The Simple Things and receive the current issue straight away. Or buy current and back issues here

Editing by Dhylyn Foster. Music by Arthur Cosslett. 

SHOW NOTES

On the blog

Fig and goat’s cheese bundles 

Search ‘What I treasure’ on the blog for some of our published pieces from readers on a belonging that means a lot to them.

To read

Reading Between The Lines by Emma Bache (Quercus)

In The Simple Things

From the September issue

New herbal non-alcoholic tipples series begins

Handwriting and why it is good for you

 Buy the September issue here

From the October issue

Home Economics: Koromagae and clothes care when you switch from summer to winter.

Buy the October issue at picsandink.com from 18 September and on the newsstand from 24 September.

In September 2024 issue – 147 Appreciating your garden at dawn, day and dusk

In August 2025 issue – 158 Kitchen therapy: figs, blackberries, plums and damsons

From The Simple Things Anthology Volume 4: A Year of Celebrations

Vineyard harvest supper

Dahlias

In this second episode at the start of the new school year The Simple Things’ Editor Lisa Sykes and regular contributor Jo Tinsley indulge in a bit of schooldays nostalgia but also discuss why it’s a good time to take on new projects, find new habits, make something new and learn a few skills.

 If you are in the UK, you can try an immediate start subscription to the The Simple Things and receive the current issue straight away. Or buy current and back issues here

Editing by Dhylyn Foster. Music by Arthur Cosslett. 

On the blog

Things to do with Weird Veg Box Vegetables

 Parsnip panpipes (yes, really)

To read

Forecast: A diary of the Lost Seasons, by Joe Shute (Bloomsbury)

In The Simple Things

From the September TREASURE issue (159) 

The Slapdash Manifesto: General principles for good enough

Wearing Well: Wristwatches

Buy the September issue here

IN PREVIOUS ISSUES

Revisiting team sports (Issue 147, September 2024)

Veg box suppers: golden marrow marmalade, Moroccalili (Issue 111, September 2011)

Wearing Well Backpacks (Issue 111, September 2021)

Miscellany: How to win at conkers (Issue 136, October 2023)

Clapping game lyrics

A sailor went to sea, sea, sea

To see what he could see, see, see

But all that he could see, see, see

Was the bottom of the deep blue sea, sea, sea

A sailor went to knee, knee, knee

To see what he could knee, knee, knee

But all that he could knee, knee, knee

Was the bottom of the deep blue knee, knee, knee

A sailor went to chop, chop, chop

To see what he could chop, chop, chop, 

But all that he could chop, chop, chop

Was the bottom of the deep blue chop, chop, chop

In this third episode The Simple Things’ Editor Lisa Sykes and Wellbeing Editor Rebecca Frank turn their attention to what they have and where they live, enjoying treasures, finding fresh ideas at home and sampling a bit of Kveldsmat – the Norwegian tradition of evening breakfast.

If you are in the UK, you can try an immediate start subscription to the The Simple Things and receive the current issue straight away. Or buy current and back issues here

 Editing by Dhylyn Foster. Music by Arthur Cosslett. 

On the blog

Greek Panzanella 

Journalling ideas 

Search ‘What I treasure’ on the blog for some of our published pieces from readers on a belonging that means a lot to them.

To browse
Treasure tins – #concentratesofplace @tanyashadrickwriter

Window swap

In The Simple Things

From the September issue – 159

Home Economics: Tomatoes – how to make the most of a seasonal glut of tomatoes 

Wisdom: Emma Bridgewater on 40 years of preparing pottery and the special ritual of coffee and cake

How to Kveldsmat – the Norwegian tradition of a late night snack

My plot: Andrew Fusek Peters shares wildlife photography taken from his Shropshire garden. Fusekphotos.com @andrewfusekpeters and book Garden Safari (Graffeg)

In the October (160) issue 

My Place: The corners of our home that mean the most – Kitchen tables 

Keeping a commonplace book by Miranda Mills, author of The Country Commonplace Book (Batsford)

Sunday best – the comfort and delight of Sundays by Daniel Gray author of Sunday Best: Travels through the day of restby Daniel Gray 
(Harper North)

Bramble basket project 

Buy the October issue at picsandink.com from 18 September and on the newsstand from 24 September.

From earlier issues

Letting go – just like nature, we need to shed in order to grow and flourish  (136)

How to great a weekend retreat at home (142)

Back garden campout – enjoy an end of summer camping trip without going away (110)

As the autumn equinox tips summer into autumn, Wellbeing Editor Rebecca Frankand regular contributor and author of The Slow Traveller, Jo Tinsley lace up their hiking boots and go exploring. From the joy of early autumn city breaks and solo travel to a walking meditation and games you can play with your dog.

If you are in the UK, you can try an immediate start subscription to the The Simple Things and receive the current issue straight away. Or buy current and back issues here

Editing by Dhylyn Foster. Music by Arthur Cosslett.  

ON THE BLOG

 How to be a fearless traveller

 Songs about dogs

 Days out for You and Your Dog 

 How to trespass with good manners

TO READ

The Book of Trespass: Crossing the Lines that Divide Us, by Nick Hayes

The Slow Traveller by Jo Tinsley

School for Dogs (And Their Humans) by Sophie Collins

IN THE SIMPLE THINGS

 In October issue:

 My Living: The dog walker 

 Wellbeing: Lessons in chemistry – how hormones help

 Miscellany: Give the dog a game

 Buy the October issue at picsandink.com from 18 September and on the newsstand from 24 September.

IN PREVIOUS ISSUES

 Action stations: Hiking between stations or heading to the end of the line (159, Sep 2025)

Dog days out: Around the UK are people and places going the extra mile for dogs (147, Sep 2024)

Natural connection: A rope swing, a cairn and a den, these humble handmade features our landscape may just hold the key to improving our relationship with nature (147, Sep 2024)

Good well hunting: Places for refreshment, healing and worship, wells and springs are magical places (158, Aug 2025)

Buy current and back issues here

LEARN MORE 

The Outdoor Swimming Society | Is it legal?

The Outdoor Swimming Society | Right to Swim

Join The Simple Things’ Editor Lisa Sykes and Wellbeing Editor Rebecca Frank for our own mini harvest festival as they relish this time of abundance for cooking, gathering and squirreling away before the first frosts arrive. 

If you are in the UK, you can try an immediate start subscription to the The Simple Things and receive the current issue straight away. Or buy current and back issues here

Editing by Dhylyn Foster. Music by Arthur Cosslett. 

On the blog

Hedgrow fizz – foraged berries diluted with sparkling wine or water 

Crab apple whisky 

Crab apple and fennel seed leather

In defence of the pear 

How to stock a store cupboard 

Lessons from Nigella
Baked pear pies 

In the October HUG issue (160) on sale now 

Kitchen therapy – baked pear pies and a mindful drawing exercise

Wine and cheese gathering – good wine and cheese pairings make for happy guests 

In previous issues

In the September TREASURE issue (159) 

Plates to plot – share the harvest with friends by holding your own allotment feast with a tipple of warm apple cider and other seasonal dishes

Coming up in the November issue (161) 

Smart ways to eat well. An extract from Shrewd Food: 60 Ways to Eat Yourself Healthy by Noonie Zand Goodarzi (Badger Books). Illustrations by Mudd Bexley
November issue 161 will be available to pre-order at picsandink.com  from 16 October, on sale from 22 October.  

Don’t give up your garden for winter: The natural world may be winding down but autumn is actually the start of the agricultural year, a time to plant and plan for the months ahead

In Flourish Volume 3 

Today, tomorrow to keep: pears 

Chocolate pear cake and preserved pears in red wine 

Pre-order the new Flourish Volume 4 with 10% off at www.picsandink.com until 29 October

How to subscribe to The Simple Things – for an immediate start subscription with 30%  go to off cover price go to  http://www.icebergpress.co.uk/subscribe

Join The Simple Things’ Editor Lisa Sykes, Wellbeing Editor Rebecca Frank and regular contributor and author of The Slow Traveller, Jo Tinsley as they take an early evening walk together and ponder over the joy and comfort of a familiar ramble, consider why being outdoors helps us to talk more freely, and finish with a stroll in the footsteps of Jane Austen in Bath’s very own pleasure gardens. 

If you are in the UK, you can try an immediate start subscription to the The Simple Things get 30% off and receive the current issue straight away. Or buy current and back issues here

Editing and music by Arthur Cosslett. 

In The Simple Things

In the October HUG issue (160) on sale now

Magical creatures – an appreciation of the tawny owl

In the November SPICE issue (161)

An Autumnal roast – it’s the season for roast dinners and this one is a winner

Buy the November issue at picsandink.com from 16 October and on the newsstand from 22 October.

From Flourish, our wellbeing bookazine (Volume 3)

How to do autumn well – foraging, feasting and conker fighting

Outdoor therapy – how it works and techniques to try as your walk

Flourish Volume 4 is coming soon and is available to pre-order with 10% off until 29 October

IN PREVIOUS ISSUES

Which Jane Austen character are you? Fun quiz and events to suit your character. (Issue 154, April 2025)

Moodscapes and walking routes – how different landscapes make us feel. (Issue 154, April 2025). Read more on our blog. Taken from The Walking Cure by Annabel Streets (Bloomsbury Tonic) 

Buy current and back issues here

LEARN MORE

Jane Austen 250 year anniversary events in Bath https://visitbath.co.uk/inspire-me/literary-bath/jane-austen-bath and beyond www.janeausten.co.uk

The joy of a familiar walk by Alice Tatham (Issue 129) Follow Alice on Instagram @thewildwoodmoth