A spring diary: Petals, sketches & little adventures
Hey friends,
I can’t believe I’m already writing my end-of-spring blog! Honestly, this year has just flown by. I usually love to check in here at the end of every month, but by the time I remembered, April had already slipped away, and it was a new month before I knew it. So, I thought I’d do something a bit different and share a little spring catch-up, like a diary entry of what creative things I’ve been up to.
One of my favourite things about spring is wandering around my neighbourhood, chasing after the beautiful pink blossoms before they disappear. I swear, if you blink, you miss them; they’re here for just a few weeks, and then the pavements are carpeted in petals. I always try to take a photo or two before they’re gone!
Most days have still been a bit chilly, so I’ve been spending extra time snuggled up with Cocoa, my kitten, who is somehow growing faster than I can keep up with. He’s become such a mischievous little companion - always biting my hands. I can never stay annoyed at him for long; he’s just too sweet. I think he’s secretly responsible for the fact that I haven’t even finished a single book yet this year! I finally started Verity by Colleen Hoover after hearing so many rave reviews. It’s meant to be a real page-turner, so I’m hoping to get hooked soon.
March was a real highlight, I got to travel to Thailand (mainly Chiang Mai and Krabi) and squeezed in a few days in Singapore too. It was honestly amazing! I packed my sketchbook and a little stash of Caran d’Ache pencils and pastels, but the trip was such a whirlwind that I barely had a moment to draw. Instead, I took tons of photos on my Canon G7X, planning to relive it all through sketches once I got home, and that’s exactly what I did. I’ve been filling my pages with travel memories, using everything from Winsor & Newton brush markers to Ecoline pens, and then layering Caran d’Ache pencils for extra depth. Do any of you keep a travel art journal? I’d love to hear about your favourite supplies or routines!
Lately, I’ve found myself missing those carefree days of wandering around London, just exploring whatever art I happen to stumble across. A few weekends back, I finally made it to the Southbank Centre to see Chiharu Shiota’s Threads of Life. Walking into a room full of floor-to-ceiling threads, all tangled and woven around a central object, felt like stepping into someone else’s daydream or nightmare. The atmosphere was almost eerie (if the lights had been red instead of bright white, it would’ve added to the mood!). I do wish they’d let fewer people in at a time, though; it’s hard to soak it all in when you’re being gently herded along.
One thing I kept thinking about was how so many of these immersive exhibitions have become social media sensations. On the one hand, it’s wonderful that art is reaching new audiences and inspiring people to visit museums. But sometimes I wonder if we’re losing a bit of the magic - are we there for the art, or just for the perfect photo?
I stumbled across the most stunning little bookshop: Shalimar Books. I was instantly drawn in by the warm glow of the lights and the shelves packed from floor to ceiling with books. The shop is a real hidden gem, specialising in South Asian literature, history, poetry, and children’s books. It felt like stepping into a colourful, literary treasure trove, with vibrant covers, beautiful displays, and the owner was so friendly, who genuinely loved to chat about books. If you’re around the area, I can’t recommend popping in enough, whether you’re looking for something new to read or just want to soak up the atmosphere.
Another little spring highlight: making bracelets at Moroccan Corner, a cosy spot tucked away near Walthamstow. The vibe was so relaxed, with delicious smoothies and the best company, such a fun way to unwind and catch up with friends. Some of these charm bracelet workshops can be ridiculously pricey, so I was happy to find this one. I’m already eyeing up a few others to try next time!
Thank you for catching up with me! I’d love to hear what made your spring special, or if you have any book or art recommendations. Feel free to share in the comments or just say hi :)
Until next time!
Janki x
