Paddling pools, choccies, jim jams & mists…

What an absolute scorcher it’s been! I’m sitting here inside, watching the ominous clouds in the garden turn a deeper shade of charcoal with every tap of my finger… the heatwave is about to break. But wow, it’s been hot. And a large portion of last week was spent splashing about in the paddling pool and eating ice cream…

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Izzy spent hours in here with very few additional requirements. The odd request for water, or a snack… or a demand that I should join her… but mostly, she was in her element just pottering about having a lovely time. Her swimsuit is from the gorgeous Olivier London and their swimwear, which has Econyl recycled nylon in it, is made from waste plastic and fishing nets from the ocean. And it’s beautiful.

The swimwear range is so whimsical and feminine and nods to the hazy days of summer with styles also named after the vintage Liberty prints; Joanna Louise, Betsy, Phoebe and Kensington Park – a print that was originally created in 1931. 

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I love the heat, but I need my arsenal of cooling-down aids. These include ice cream (many) jugs of water (infinite) a paddling pool (tick) and my newest discovery and one I shall never leave the house without ever again in the Summer… Jurlique Hydrating Mists.

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This lightweight mists instantly hydrate my skin and speckles me all over with a gorgeous calming scent. They are rich in plant based antioxidants and protect the skin and rebalance dryness to restore a natural glow. My skin feels instantly soft, hydrated and dewy… and I think I might be a bit addicted.

Izzy had a special Mermaid Pyjamas delivery from the folk at Sleepy Doe, who have collaborated with artist Ciao Chiara, to create these adorable mermaid jim jams.

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Izzy hadn’t been able to wear these yet as it’s just been SO HOT, but they are in her cupboard ready and waiting. She adores the mermaids, and so do I – the design is absolutely beautiful. Sleepy Doe was founded by Sophie in 2016 (after 11 years in the fashion industry) who believes that often the simple things are the best things in life. She wanted to create a line of long-lasting sleepwear to sit comfortably in any home and that is also sustainable and ethical. The fabric is so soft and of the highest quality… you know when you can just tell 😉

And artist Chiara, is an English-Italian illustrator, who creates “minimal, playful illustrations and lettering, with dark inks, harmonious gouache tones and a sophisticated edge – a modern take on nostalgic Italian cultural references. A strong feminine attitude, and natural beauty also influence her work, and her style is inspired by her heritage, celebrating the joys in everyday life, family, good food and design.” LOVE IT!

And then finally… today I was the lucky recipient of one of Rococo Chocolate’s Father’s Day hamper offerings, where they have partnered with Hayman’s Gin – a family gin distillery in London.

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And quick quick! If you order today you can still get it in time for Father’s Day!

So as you can see, my week has been peppered with the most lovely things, which have all brought joy and real moments of gratitude, amidst the TOTAL CRAZY of launching my new online book club and troubleshooting every other minute of the day.

It really is all go over here and I couldn’t be more grateful for these moments of calm and loveliness.

A huge thank you to all the brands who sent me their wares to discover and enjoy – you’ve made a rather frazzled Eva feel a bit on top of the world.

This post includes PR gifts and affiliate links