Cyanotypes are known for their rich Prussian blue—crisp, cool, and unmistakable. But with a little gentle chemistry, you can shift that iconic blue into warmer, moodier hues: soft sepias, deep charcoals, even plum purples. The process is called toning, and it’s as much about art as it is about science—a way to bring new atmosphere… Read More toning cyanotypes-kitchen alchemy for moodier blues
Reflections on handedness, grip, and the quiet rebellion of adapting tools and spaces. Being left-handed isn’t just about which hand holds the pen—it’s a daily exercise in adaptation. From the moment you pick up a pair of scissors clearly designed for someone else, you learn to negotiate with a world built for right-handed norms. Early… Read More left-handed living
In the early 19th century, as the Industrial Revolution surged through Britain, not everyone welcomed the wave of change. In towns like Hyde—particularly the hillside village of Gee Cross—anxiety and unrest grew among skilled textile workers. These men and women had spent years mastering their crafts, only to see new machines threaten their livelihoods. Out… Read More the luddites & gee cross: resistance in the age of industry
Image credit:“Left Handed and Proud” graphic © Left-Handers Day.Available at: lefthandersday.com/left-handers-day/graphicsUsed with appreciation to promote awareness and celebration. Today is Left-Handers Day yay! — a moment to celebrate the 10% of us who grew up flipping scissors, smudging ink, and quietly questioning why everything seemed to favour the right. Growing up in Britain in the… Read More left-handed and learning to bend: a quiet rebellion from the left side
“Not every root needs to be visible to feel growth.” A Gentle Reflection I recently shared a guide on propagating eucalyptus from stem cuttings—a process I approached with hope, curiosity, and a little bit of herbal reverence. I followed the steps, prepared the soil, whispered encouragement to the leaves… and waited. But the cuttings didn’t… Read More rooting calm: what propagating eucalyptus taught me about patience
If you’re making homemade jams, chutneys, cordials, or fermented drinks, sterilising your bottles and jars is essential to prevent unwanted bacteria or mould from spoiling your hard work. The process is simple, but it’s important to do it correctly for food safety and the best results. Why Sterilise? Even brand-new jars can contain dust, invisible… Read More how to safely sterilise glass bottles & jars
Ginger and turmeric create a warm, vibrant harmony that dances between spice and earthiness. Fresh ginger brings a lively heat, its peppery bite brightening the palate and leaving a gentle tingle, while turmeric offers a deep, grounding flavour—slightly bitter, with hints of orange and soil after the rain. Together, they balance sharpness and depth, creating… Read More ginger & tumeric cordial
While Hyde is best known for its cotton mills, coal mining played a crucial role in the town’s development — especially in and around the village of Gee Cross. The area sits atop part of the Manchester Coalfield, and coal seams were commercially exploited to fuel local industry. Coal in the Hyde Area From the… Read More mining hyde & gee cross: the hidden depths of hyde’s industrial heritage
Beeswax, a versatile substance produced by honeybees, is celebrated for its beauty and wide-ranging uses, from air-purifying candles to sustainable food wraps and nourishing skincare. It is biodegradable and supports biodiversity, making it a valuable alternative to synthetics. Ethically sourced beeswax reflects a commitment to protecting pollinator populations.… Read More the wonders of beeswax: nature’s golden gift
ADHD, Autism, and OCD | Understanding the Overlap and Differences This Venn diagram highlights shared traits like sensory sensitivity, executive dysfunction, and rigid routines, while also showing what’s unique to each condition. You can explore it further on Neurodivergent Insights. I was diagnosed with OCD 25 years ago. Back then, there wasn’t much support or… Read More ocd, adhd, autism? i’m still figuring it out – and i don’t want to be defined by a label
Rachel Bakewell 