Nova Silver Spring Has Sprung This April Best Of Norfolk Through The Lens Of Our Readers
The Pros And Cons Of... Growing Your Own Vegetables Is Sustainable Living For You? Sustainability Is A Word That Has Evolved And Expanded
“There is no such thing as 'away'. When we throw anything away it must go somewhere.” – Annie
Leonard
Welcome to Issue 144 of Iceni Magazine!
This month, we're buzzing with excitement about Sustainability. Ever thought about growing your own veggies? Discover the ins and outs on Page 30. Susan Leigh, our trusted counsellor, explores whether sustainable living is right for you in her insightful piece on Pages 25 to 27. And if you're looking for a starting point to embrace a greener lifestyle, we've got you covered with top tips on Pages 28 & 29.
But that's not all! Charlie’s article on Pages 10 & 11 delves into the secrets of a skincare range that's a gamechanger for teenagers battling problematic skin. Need gardening inspiration now that the frost is disappearing? Jump into April's gardening tasks and welcome spring with joy (starting on Page 8). Plus, feast your eyes on the Best of Norfolk images from March and celebrate the beauty of our stunning county.
As we bid farewell until May, we wish you endless sunny days and the bliss of outdoor adventures (just remember your sunglasses and antihistamines!). Dive into the excitement of Issue 144 and savour every moment. We'll see you soon!
Visit www.icenimagazine.co.uk CONTRIBUTORS
Charlie, Iceni Home And Garden, Nova Silver, Susan Leigh, Tim Barnes-Clay, Trevor Langley, Vicki Jeffery.
Would You Date Someone Who’s Living With Their Ex?
When someone is in that interim stage of adjusting from being partnered to single, ultimately aiming to move from a shared home into their own place, it follows that domestic issues can take a while to resolve.
There’s much to navigate; the emotional upheaval of the breakup, sorting out finances, possessions, where to move, especially if children need to be considered. All this can cause those involved to feel drained and depleted.
Returning to dating may mean that initially they’re still living with their ex. Whilst this arrangement may seem unusual, it often depends on what other options are available and what factors require taking into account.
There could be many reasons why a divorced couple continue to live together. Finances could be proving hard to resolve, which may result in limited monies being available to fund moving
on and them living independently of each other. Access to children and appropriate childcare may be an issue. A couple may share work or business interests. Or they may still be good friends, have an amicable relationship, yet don’t feel they can remain married, but are okay to house share for a while.
Starting a new relationship with someone who’s still living with their ex can be problematic. Their ex will know them better than anyone and may still, even though they’re no longer officially a couple, continue to exert significant influence over them. It’s not easy to go back to ‘theirs’ after a romantic evening together, or you may be uneasy about what’s being discussed as your relationship progresses. No matter how clear you are about these concerns, you’ve got to accept that your relationship will be discussed at times.
Navigating living with an ex means that firm boundaries need to be established by the couple from the outset. How are the revised
living arrangements going to be introduced and maintained? Personal space, whether it be bedrooms, bathrooms or even shared cooking areas need to be clearly discussed and agreed. Late night guests, sleepovers, loud music and any potentially contentious topics, like cleaning and household expenses, need to be dealt with as soon as they arise in order to keep the relationship cordial and on track in its new, more formalised setting.
What if your ex lives near you? It can be tempting to try to avoid bumping into then by using other shops, cafes and petrol stations. Driving major detours to avoid going into ‘their space’ can quickly become stressful and anxiety prone. It’s far better, from the outset to continue going about your daily life and accept that they quite possibly share similar concerns and are equally apprehensive about running into you. But if you frequently see them the more desensitised you’re likely to become over time.
Starting a relationship with someone who lives with their ex means being alert to any signs that they’re not over them. Are they constantly checking in with their ex to see if ‘they’re okay’? Of course, there may be outstanding matters that still need to be dealt with, but regular texting, calling round and looking out for their ex delays the healing process and indicates that there are still unfinished or unresolved issues. It’s no surprise that the first relationship after a significant breakup is often called a ‘rebound’, there being much love and affection that’s become available and is now looking to be directed at a new, special someone.
Some couples agree to a “no contact rule”. This can provide reassurance that their relationship is over and can help with the healing process. But, if there are outstanding or ongoing matters that still need to be dealt with, it can feel onerous and expensive to have to always go through formal channels, like a mediator or lawyer. ‘No contact’ depends on circumstances and can be especially tedious to navigate if children need to be considered.
And occasionally people do get back with their exes. If they move in similar circles, their paths may intermittently cross. After early adult concerns, like mortgages, career advancement, young families or aging relatives, are dispensed with, the empty emotional space can provide ample time to reflect on what might have been possible together. Could now be a time to reflect on the relationship and introduce a relaxed, less stressful, more accommodating approach to life and each other.
The saying, ‘the grass is not always greener on the other side’ can sometimes apply to relationships. A couple may recognise that they got together when young and didn’t appreciate what they had at the time. Or, they became preoccupied with work, career progression, family matters and lost sight of each other as a consequence. Sometimes a couple can reignite their relationship as they get older and look back with affection and perhaps regret.
Some may choose to revisit their relationship and see each other with renewed affection and less critical eyes.
Article By Susan Leigh
Susan Leigh, South Manchester counsellor, hypnotherapist, relationship counsellor, writer & media contributor offers help with relationship issues, stress management, assertiveness and confidence. She works with individual clients, couples and provides corporate workshops and support. For more articles, information or to make contact please visit: https://www.lifestyletherapy.net
Jobs To Do In The Garden For April
Embrace Spring’s Awakening
As April brings longer days and milder weather, it serves as a splendid reminder for gardeners to shake off the winter slumber and dive into action.
This month marks the beginning of a vibrant growing season, and there’s plenty to do in your garden to ensure a bountiful summer ahead. From sowing seeds to tending to established plants, here’s a comprehensive guide to the essential gardening jobs for April.
1. Sowing Seeds Indoors and Outdoors
April is an excellent time to start sowing seeds for a wide range of vegetables and flowers.
Indoors, you can start off tender plants like tomatoes, peppers, and courgettes. These will need a head start before being moved outside after the last frost.
Outdoors, as the soil begins to warm, you can sow hardier varieties like peas, carrots, and radishes directly into the ground. Consider creating a sowing calendar to keep track of what needs to be planted and when, ensuring a continuous harvest throughout the season.
2. Preparing Your Vegetable Patch
With the risks of frost diminishing, now is the time to prepare your vegetable patch. Begin by clearing away any debris or weeds that have
accumulated over the winter months. You can incorporate compost or well-rotted manure into the soil to enrich it and improve its structure.
Plan your layout based on companions that grow well together, maximising space and yield. Make sure to create pathways to access your crops easily as they grow.
3. Planting Flowering Bulbs and Perennials
April is the perfect month to plant summerflowering bulbs such as dahlias and gladioli. These bulbs can add a vibrant splash of colour to your garden during the summer months. Ensure you plant them in welldrained soil and in a sunny spot to promote healthy growth.
Additionally, consider introducing perennials to your flower beds. April is an ideal time to plant varieties such as daylilies, coneflowers, and peonies, which not only provide colour but also attract pollinators to your garden.
4. Tidying Up Existing Flora
As the weather warms up, it’s crucial to tend to your existing plants. Prune any dead or damaged branches from shrubs to encourage new growth. If you have flowering plants that bloom in early spring, remember to deadhead spent flowers to promote continued blooming and maintain the plant’s health.
Now is also a good time to cut back ornamental grasses and tidy up your borders to create a neat and attractive garden space.
5. Weeding and Mulching
With warmer temperatures and increased rainfall, weeds will also begin to emerge. Regularly check your garden for any unwanted growth and remove them promptly to prevent them from establishing a strong foothold.
Following weeding, applying a layer of mulch around your plants can suppress weed growth, retain soil moisture, and prevent temperature fluctuation in the soil. Organic mulches, such as wood chips or straw, can also add valuable nutrients as they break down over time.
6. Installing Supports for Climbing Plants
As climbing plants like sweet peas and runner beans begin to grow, ensure you have adequate support in place. Erecting trellises or using stakes will encourage healthy growth and keep your garden looking tidy. It can be an aesthetically pleasing way to add height and structure to your garden while promoting air circulation around the plants.
7. Checking and Maintaining Garden Tools
April is a great time to assess your gardening tools and equipment. Clean, sharpen, and oil tools to keep them in good condition, ensuring they’re ready for the busy months ahead. Well-maintained tools not only perform better but also make gardening a more enjoyable experience.
Conclusion
With the arrival of April, your garden is bursting with potential. By following these tasks, you can nurture your garden into a flourishing paradise.
Whether you’re an experienced gardener or a novice, the key is to embrace the changing seasons and enjoy the process of growing - a rewarding experience that makes all the hard work worthwhile!
Generation Z Skincare
The First Skincare Line For Gen Z
This brand has been created by two siblings, Carlotta and Niccolo, who understand what it’s like dealing with skincare challenges as teenagers.
They’ve created a simple yet effective skincare range that’s uncomplicated and delivers innovative solutions which are tailored towards the younger generation.
What should a Gen Z skincare routine look like?
Adapting a good skincare routine from a young age is important. Educating kids on personal hygiene, will help them to be confident and feel good about themselves. Gen Z only need a few basic skincare essentials. It’s important that they cleanse twice a day, as well as moisturise. Spot treatments can also be added to their skincare routine, should they need them.
Cleanser
Cleansing is a really important part of skincare for all ages. However, teens need a cleanser that deeply cleans the pores whilst being gentle on the skin. Gentle foaming cleansers or non-oily gel cleansers work well. You can simply use lukewarm water and your hands, there is no need to use cleansing brushes or other fancy gadgets.
Teenagers with normal skin can use a hydrating wash to remove dirt, sweat, makeup, pollution and sebum. However, in the teenage years hormones fluctuate and the fluctuation can bring oily, blemish-prone skin, so it’s important to choose a cleanser that is formulated for oily skin - a cleanser that’s hydrating, but at the same time won’t cause breakouts.
Flariel’s Cleansing Face Gel contains six main actives, which include -
• Burdock extract - suitable for oily, clogged and dull skin, plays a global role in regulating sebum secretion.
• Blackcurrant oil - rich in vitamin c, offers anti-inflammatory benefits and is ideal for soothing and nourishing young or delicate skin.
Moisturiser
Try to keep it simple and avoid moisturisers that don’t have a greasy formula. There are twelve main actives in Flariel´s Moisturising Face Cream which includes rich bran oil. This ingredient is moisturising and soothing and it helps to nourish the skin without altering the PH levels. It also contains burdock extract which is suitable for oily skin as it helps to regulate sebum secretion. Shea butter delivers moisture to the skin, as well as protecting the skin by creating a natural barrier without clogging pores. It also contains fresh aloe vera juice, a natural, potent soothing moisturiser which has healing properties, which makes it ideal for cracked or irritated skin. It’s rich in
water-binding molecules, minerals, amino acids and vitamins c and e.
Spot cream
Flariels Pimple Serum is specifically designed to combat pimples and blackheads. It contains four main actives -
• Azelaic acid - anti microbial agent fighting bacteria that cause breakouts.
• Salicylic acid - beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) with exfoliating, healing and antiseptic properties.
• Mandelic acid - promotes a turnover of surfacelevel skin cells, significantly improving the skins evenness.
• Burdock extract - suitable for oily, clogged and dull skin, plays a global role in regulating sebum secretion.
Other products available in the range are -
• Under eye serum
• Oil controlling face mask
• Exfoliating face scrub
All products are available to purchase from www.flariel.com
Hi, I am Charlie, a former make-up artist originally based in Norwich. I have always been passionate about art and channelling it through creative makeup. I trained at Norwich City College in Fashion and SFX makeup. My work has been published both nationally and internationally.
Want to see more? Check out my Instagram - @ThePoutyLip
Lexus LBX Review
As I stepped into the all-new Lexus LBX, I felt an immediate sense of contentment.
This compact crossover, designed specifically for the British and European market, redefines what we can expect from small luxury vehicles.
The smallest Lexus offering to date, the LBX is a self-charging hybrid that beautifully combines contemporary design with practicality. A luxury element is evident, but the model is affordable, an aspect guaranteed to attract a younger demographic that might not have previously had Lexus on their shopping list.
When I entered the cabin, I was surprised at the minimalist but high-tech interior design. It has a spacious feel to it with an uncluttered look and open visibility. I appreciated how the layout encourages a serene driving experience. The smooth, flowing design of the instrument panel adds to the expansive feel, creating an inviting atmosphere that I found immediately enjoyable.
Driving the LBX is effortless, whether hammering along a motorway or navigating rural roads, or doing the school run in town. The interior of the car positions key controls within reach so you can keep your eyes on the road. I found myself connected to the Lexus without even trying, and it felt as if everything that I wanted was exactly where it should be. The horizontal configuration of the dash improves visibility and enhances the way you experience the car’s dynamics, particularly when cornering.
The comfort of the LBX is also worth noting. The driving position felt akin to a larger saloon, with a confident sense of being connected to the car. The back seats were a huge success with my kids, positioned slightly higher to provide improved visibility for all - a pleasant touch that is not unnoticed. Each seat felt stable and supportive, and I could easily see how the eight-way power adjustments would cater to the different preferences of any front seat occupant. What’s more, the LBX’s technological features made quite an impression on me,
especially the 12.3-inch fully digital driver’s instrument display.
The LBX also has responsive steering, sensitive brakes, and smooth throttle inputs, all to provide a driving experience that is exciting but stable on any road. Despite its compact size, Lexus has created a serene cabin environment akin to what you would expect from a larger luxury model. For instance, the closing sound of the doors offers a reassuring sense of quality. Road roar is also minimal, and you can hardly hear the pitter-patter of rainfall.
At the heart of the LBX is a new self-charging full hybrid powertrain that delivers high efficiency and the acceleration characteristic of battery electric power. With a total system output of 134bhp and peak torque of 185Nm, the LBX achieves 0-62mph in a brisk 9.2 seconds for the front-wheel drive model and 9.6 seconds for the all-wheel drive variant. Impressively, it boasts official WLTP combined cycle figures of 62.8mpg and CO2 emissions from 102g/km.
The LBX is a refreshing entry in the compact luxury car market, one that’s set to draw
in a range of drivers. As I explored this innovative model, I couldn’t help but feel that it encapsulates what many of us are looking for - an upscale experience that doesn’t sacrifice practicality.
Fast Facts - Lexus LBX Takumi Design Hybrid - as tested
By Tim Barnes-Clay. Follow on Instagram: @tbarnesclay
DINING AT THE PATTENMAKERS ARMS
Derbyshire has numerous very interesting towns and villages.
A vast number of people delight in the enjoyment in these towns and villages and there is a lot of interest for countless people, including families and visitors from around the world.
Visits to country houses and estates hold much enjoyment for many. The hills and dales provide great delight for people, including cyclists, ramblers and all who enjoy being outdoors. Many towns and villages have very interesting customs and history. The village
of Duffield, situated in the Amber Valley, Derbyshire, approx. 5 miles north of the city of Derby, has an interesting history.
I located the Pattenmakers Arms in Duffield, Derbyshire. The name ‘Patten’ is derived from the wooden shoes that had wrought iron hoops attached to the soles, which, in past times were worn to make walking in wet and rain-soaked terrain conditions easier. I ventured forth, at a lunchtime, to dine.
I chose King Prawns (pak choi, pineapple salsa) to commence. A very good selection to engage my taste buds. Main courses offered excellent favourite and other splendid dishes too, with meats, fish and more. I opted for Chicken Stuffed
with Brie (wrapped in bacon, served with herb mash and seasonal green vegetables). With enticing aromas and complementing flavours in abundance, the tasting sensation continued throughout. ‘Compliments to Chef’ were duly dispatched. Head Chef is Sam. Sam and the team take great delight and pride in constantly pleasing diners.
One of my favourite desserts is Rum Poached Pineapple - and this was on the menu (pistachio crumble, sorbet). It made a perfect finish to the dining experience. Quality wines /drinks and very impressive cocktails had beverages suiting any palate.
Celebrations and occasions are easily accommodated. Sunday lunches and event nights are very popular and also the
entertainment times. The Private Dining and Function Room (buffet menu also available), with its own bar and television/screen facilities is booked regularly, for business meetings, conferences and receptions. Gift vouchers are available - perhaps to surprise someone special? Thank you to Chloe, for exemplary service.
Forget about those dark evenings, spring is here! Why not get in the spirit with one of our favourites at Nova? Our timeless Honeybee jewellery set, crafted in sterling silver featuring a realistic design. Available in pendant, earrings and studs- a present for everyone!
Bees have many different folklores in Greek mythology; bumblebees as messengers who could communicate with the supernatural world. Throughout history, they are believed to symbolise generosity, prosperity and fertility due their contribution to the world.
April birthstone is the gorgeous and much loved Moonstone semi-precious stone. Moonstone is a customer favourite as it can include multiple colours within the stone and catch the light beautifully ranging from pink, green, blue to even yellow. Moonstone is said to be the stone for new beginnings, what better way to start the spring!
One of the Spring colours for this year is a soft yellow. So with this in mind, Citrine would be the perfect stone to add to any of your outfits. We have a whole collection of Citrine which comes in a faceted and cabochon style including these larger oval studs. Citrine's name comes from a french word for lemon- which is apt for the colour! The Egyptians were one of the first to discover Citrine and used this in talismans for protection and can also be found in the handles of weapons throughout history including in Scotland.
Easter is also this month, Sunday 20th April. Why not treat your loved ones this Easter to a pair of studs? They start from £5 online and instore. Our small heart studs from our Simply Silver range are the perfect alternative to an Easter egg.
For more inspiration this month visit our Instagram where you can catch up with new items everyday. Or join our mailing for our newsletters. https://mailchi.mp/7920677b6d4d/nova-silver-newsletter-signup
Best Of Norfolk - Through The Lens Of Our Readers
Thanks to the wonderful photographs shared by our followers on Facebook, have a look at these March images of our stunning region.
Claw Photography And Crafts - I Have No I-Deer How Many There Were
Claw Photography And Crafts - Bath Time
Sally Redgrave - Crocuses Taken In Hunstanton Norfolk
Jill Watkinson - Haymarket In The Sunshine
Claw Photography And Crafts - Curlew
Vicki Jeffery - Roarr Dinosaur Park
To be in with a chance of having your own photographs featured in the future, look out for our regular Facebook posts where you can add your images. Alternatively, send an email with your image and caption to: submissions@icenimagazine.co.uk
Jill Watkinson - Norwich Market
CLAW Photography and Crafts - Red Deer
Dawn Mountain - The daffs down Honing Long Lane Jill Watkinson - Norwich Market
Focus On: Sustainable Living
Is Sustainable Living For You?
Sustainability is a word that has evolved and expanded in its interpretation over the last few years.
At one time it referred to us either individually or as a group being able to maintain a continuous commitment to an initiative or process over a sustained period of time.
Nowadays, sustainability often has bigger, more global implications, as in people across communities and even continents co-existing in a positive, environmentally-friendly way and doing so over a long period of time.
March 2025 marked the fifth anniversary of lockdown. It brought many memories, emotions and insights to the forefront of our minds.
At significant times, like when there’s a local, national or international incident, a war
or natural disaster, it can inspire people to refocus, take action and become keen to find ways to make better, more sustainable choices.
The resultant reflection can bring about ways to live in a more connected, less consumable way. Interestingly, recent estimates show that 7 million people in the UK volunteer at least once a month, offering their time, expertise and support to charities, clubs and amateur societies, being keen to avail themselves of opportunities to do something valuable for free. Thinking of others is a regular choice for many people.
And locally, whether there’s a family in need, an accident or a crisis it can motivate others to help and support the situation, doing whatever they can to improve things. Sometimes, being part of an initiative and joining a group where you’re given a badge or T-shirt can encourage involvement, so that, even years later, you’re
able to say, ‘I was there’. Reflect back to the 2023 Coronation, where approximately 1500 charities required people to volunteer.
Whilst a prompt to review how we live can come as a consequence of a major global event, like a pandemic or disaster, so can a major personal change, like redundancy, divorce, a health crisis or unexpected demand. There may follow the realisation that accumulating lots of possessions, fame or status is ultimately meaningless. Our perceived successes may deliver only temporary personal satisfaction, sometimes feeling like a superficial goal that will never be satiated.
I remember seeing an interview with the singer Lionel Ritchie, in which he said that his goal for many years had been to reach the top of his career mountain, only to find when he arrived that there was nothing there!
Aspirations can motivate, but may ultimately provide little long term fulfilment or desire to continue indefinitely. They may be a reflection of other people’s hopes and dreams. ‘There must be more to life that this!’ is often heard in the aftermath of these situations.
Giving and being supportive is often done automatically and willingly, delivering important and satisfying outcomes, especially when there’s no financial reward. Donating time, energy, expertise and enthusiasm, either intermittently or on a regular basis, can enhance your feelings of wellbeing and fulfilment. And there’s often a collective, sustainable feel when an endeavour is being done for the greater good. Helping a community project, working on an allotment and sharing its produce, fundraising to save a valuable landmark, litter picking are all investments of time and effort that are working to sustain your community and local area.
Learning a new skill can be a positive outcome from getting involved, whilst also mixing and
making new friends, adding a valuable regular commitment in your diary. An unexpected benefit may be the opportunity to include the experience on your CV when applying for a new job, something that could be especially relevant for young people as a way to demonstrate their versatility and willingness to help others.
Are there points to keep in mind about sustainability?
It’s important to remember that each of us have different lives and different interpretations of what sustainability means to us. Some people may have serious personal considerations, like family, time or financial constraints that result in them having less time or money to negotiate with or they’re less environmentally invested than others. Someone who says they’re a dedicated vegan may be okay about animal testing of medicines, whereas others may be horrified to compromise in that way.
Remember that sustainability is about balance too. Farmers regularly allow their land time to lie fallow, refresh and recharge; other times they apply crop or livestock rotation. Intelligent, informed decisions have to be made as part of a sustainable approach, rather than constantly expecting results.
Being self-sufficient and sustainable can also be about educating our children as we grow our own vegetables and swop or share any excess. Reusing or recycling bottles, avoiding wastefully buying three for the price of two if we only want one, car sharing or even walking the school run
are all positive steps. There’s a growing interest in upcycling clothes and furniture, where quirky touches can add originality to preloved items before being passed to a new home.
But we can all make mindful choices about how to shop, what to buy and who to support. Increasing numbers of consumers are finding that they prefer to make their purchases from healthier, more sustainable outlets, choosing farm shops, local markets and buying directly from the source. Charity shops often sell quality, preloved items, the sale of which supports the charity, the environment and the consumer.
There are opportunities for us all to consider the consequences of our actions.
Article By Susan Leigh
Susan Leigh, South Manchester counsellor, hypnotherapist, relationship counsellor, writer & media contributor offers help with relationship issues, stress management, assertiveness and confidence. She works with individual clients, couples and provides corporate workshops and support. For more articles, information or to make contact please visit: https://www.lifestyletherapy.net
Top Tips For Sustainable Living: Embracing A Greener Lifestyle
In an era marked by climate change and environmental degradation, the concept of sustainable living has gained unprecedented importance.
Sustainable living focuses on reducing our ecological footprint and making conscious choices that benefit not only the planet but also our communities and ourselves. Here are some top tips on how to incorporate sustainable practices into your everyday life.
1. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
The mantra ‘reduce, reuse, recycle’ encapsulates the primary principles of sustainability. Start by assessing your consumption habits and identifying areas where you can reduce waste. This could mean buying only what you truly need, choosing products with minimal or eco-friendly packaging, and avoiding single-use plastics.
Reusing items where possible can make a significant difference. Consider repurposing glass jars for storage or using old clothes for cleaning rags. Finally, make recycling part of your routine. Familiarise yourself with local recycling guidelines to ensure you're disposing of materials responsibly.
2. Opt for Sustainable Transportation
Transportation is a significant contributor to carbon emissions. Therefore, choosing more sustainable modes of transport is vital. Walking, cycling, or using public transport whenever possible are excellent ways to reduce your carbon footprint.
For longer journeys, consider carpooling or using electric vehicles (EVs) if available. EVs produce fewer emissions than traditional cars. If you must drive, maintaining your vehicle can improve fuel efficiency, which in turn reduces emissions.
3. Embrace Local and Seasonal Foods
Supporting local farmers and markets is not only a sustainable practice but also a way to enjoy fresher produce. Local foods have a lower carbon footprint because they don’t have to be transported long distances. Moreover, choosing seasonal produce means you’re likely to consume foods that are fresher, tastier, and more nutritious.
Try to grow your own fruits and vegetables if space allows. Even small balconies can support container gardening, allowing you to enjoy the fruits of your labour while reducing dependence on store-bought items.
4. Minimise Water Usage
Conserving water is crucial for sustainable living. Simple changes in daily habits can lead to significant savings. Install water-saving fixtures in your home, such as aerated taps and low-flow showerheads. Collect rainwater in barrels to use for watering your plants, and always check for leaks in pipes or faucets.
When washing dishes or clothes, try to run full loads to maximise efficiency. Shortening showers and turning off the tap while brushing your teeth are also effective habits to adopt.
5. Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy
Implementing energy-efficient practices in your home can drastically reduce energy consumption. Use LED bulbs instead of incandescent ones, and make sure to unplug devices when not in use to minimise phantom energy loss.
Consider investing in renewable energy solutions if financially feasible, such as solar panels. Even small-scale renewable energy solutions can make a positive impact and often come with government incentives to offset costs.
6. Support Ethical and Sustainable Brands
Choose to support companies that prioritise sustainability and ethical practices. Look for brands that utilise environmentally friendly materials, commit to fair trade, and have a transparent supply chain. By choosing sustainable options, you reinforce the demand for responsible practices in the market.
7. Reduce Meat and Dairy Consumption
The livestock industry is one of the most significant contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and water pollution. You don’t have to become a full vegan or vegetarian, but reducing your meat and dairy consumption can have a substantial impact. Consider adopting ‘meat-free Mondays’ or exploring plant-based alternatives to your favourite meals.
8. Engage with Your Community
Sustainability thrives within communities. Join local environmental groups, participate in clean-up events, or attend workshops on sustainability. Engaging with others who share your values can foster a sense of community and shared responsibility, amplifying the impact of individual actions.
Conclusion
Sustainable living is not merely a trend; it’s an essential lifestyle that can lead to a healthier planet and a better quality of life.
By implementing these practical tips, you can make meaningful changes that contribute to a sustainable future.
Every small step counts, so start today and inspire others to join you on this journey towards a greener, more sustainable world.
The Pros And Cons Of Growing Your Own Vegetables
Growing your own vegetables can be a rewarding and enriching experience, offering numerous benefits for your health, wallet, and the environment.
However, it also comes with its own set of challenges. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or someone just considering starting their first vegetable patch, it’s important to weigh the advantages and disadvantages to determine if it’s the right endeavour for you.
The Pros of Growing Your Own Vegetables
1. Fresher and Healthier Produce
Homegrown vegetables often taste better and are more nutritious than those bought in shops. They’re fresher because you pick them at the peak of ripeness, and you have full control over
how they’re grown - free from harmful pesticides or chemicals, if you choose organic methods.
2. Cost Savings
Once established, a vegetable garden can significantly reduce your grocery bills. Seeds are relatively inexpensive, and many vegetables, like tomatoes or courgettes, yield high quantities. Over time, the savings can be substantial, especially if you regularly consume fresh produce.
3. Environmental Benefits
By growing your own food, you cut down on the carbon footprint associated with transporting and packaging supermarket produce. Additionally, composting garden waste can reduce your household waste while enriching your soil.
4. Physical and Mental Health Benefits
Gardening is an excellent form of exercise, helping to improve strength, flexibility, and endurance. It’s also known to reduce stress, improve mood, and provide a sense of accomplishment. Spending time outdoors can also boost your vitamin D levels.
5. Education and Family Bonding
A vegetable garden can be a wonderful way to teach children about where food comes from, sustainability, and the value of hard work. It can also be a bonding activity for families, promoting teamwork and shared goals.
6. Food Security
Growing your own vegetables ensures a steady supply of fresh produce, reducing your reliance on market availability. This can be particularly beneficial during economic uncertainties or disruptions in the food supply chain.
The Cons of Growing Your Own Vegetables
1. Time-Consuming
A vegetable garden requires a significant commitment of time and effort. Regular watering, weeding, pest control, and harvesting can be demanding, particularly for those with busy schedules.
2. Initial Costs and Setup
Although gardening can save money in the long run, initial expenses can add up. You may need to invest in tools, soil amendments, seeds, containers, and other equipment. If you don’t have a garden, the cost of setting up a raised bed or greenhouse can be higher.
3. Unpredictable Challenges
Gardening is subject to the whims of nature. Unfavourable weather conditions, pests, diseases, and poor soil quality can all impact your harvest. These challenges can be frustrating and may lead to crop failures despite your best efforts.
4. Limited Space and Resources
Not everyone has access to a large garden or allotment. Limited space, lack of sunlight, or unsuitable soil can restrict the variety and quantity of vegetables you can grow. While container gardening is an option, it may not yield the same results as a full garden.
5. Seasonal Availability
Homegrown vegetables are often seasonal, meaning you might not have access to certain crops year-round. Preserving or freezing excess produce can help, but it requires additional effort and resources.
6. Hard Physical Work
While gardening is great exercise, it can also be physically demanding and may not be suitable for everyone. Tasks like digging, bending, and lifting can strain the body, especially for those with health issues or limited mobility.
Conclusion
Growing your own vegetables is a fulfilling activity with a range of benefits, from improving your diet and saving money to helping the environment and enhancing mental well-being. However, it also requires careful planning, hard work, and a willingness to face the unpredictability of nature. By assessing your resources, space, and time, you can decide whether the rewards outweigh the challenges.
National Garden Scheme
Spring is truly on the way and why not enjoy a garden situated in an atmosphere of historical architecture (Houses not open).
On the Norfolk/Suffolk border just near Beccles, the gardens at The Elms, opening for the first time for the scheme, surround a Queen Anne house. Opening for two days over the Easter weekend there is much to enjoy in the gardens of the former Georgian rectory, Wretham Lodge and, near Swaffham is the popular garden at Holme Hale Hall built in the early 19th century. There are also many gardens opening for the National Garden Scheme throughout the year which are open By Arrangement. This is an opportunity for a group of friends, clubs and societies to organise a private tour by booking directly with the garden owner and arranging a time which suits them. By arrangement gardens are listed in our booklet, on the website By Arrangement Norfolk. Last year Carol organised a private visit for a retired staff group from City College ‘We all had such a lovely visit that we will be organising another this year.’
Sat 5th April 10-4
The Elms, Elms Road, Toft Monks, Beccles, NR34 0EJ. Adm £6, chd free. Pre-booking essential, please visit www.ngs.org.uk for information & booking. Tea, coffee & cake in our Marquee. Gardens are set around a beautiful, moated Queen Anne house. Extensive spring bulbs, herbaceous borders, formal rose garden, ponds, arboretum and year-round interest. Good wheelchair access. No dogs allowed
Sun 13th April 12-4
Holme Hale Hall, Holme Hale, Swaffham, Thetford, IP25 7ED. Adm £8, chd free. Refreshments served all day. Refreshments in aid of another charity. Visits also by
arrangement Apr to Sept. Walled kitchen garden designed by Arne Maynard and replanted in 2016-17. Soft palette of herbaceous plants inc some unusual varieties which provide a long season of interest. Greenhouse, vegetables, trained fruits, roses and topiary. 130-yearold wisteria. Wildlife friendly with wildflower meadow and renovated island pond. Historic buildings with a dry garden formed from crushed concrete and rubble. Wheelchair access to most areas. Dogs allowed.
Sunday 20th, and Monday 21st April 11-5
Wretham Lodge, East Wretham, IP24 1RL. Adm £7, chd free. Home-made teas at local church. Refreshments in aid of local church. Visits also by arrangement Apr to Sept for groups of 10 to 30. A 10-acre garden surrounding former Georgian rectory (not open). In spring masses of species tulips, hellebores, fritillaries, daffodils and narcissi; bluebell walk and small woodland walk. Topiary pyramids and yew hedging lead to double herbaceous borders. Shrub borders and rose beds (home of the Wretham Rose). Traditionally maintained walled garden with fruit, vegetables and perennials.
Visit www.ngs.org.uk and for more information
Holme Hale Hall Photo credit: National Garden Scheme
ICENI ANAGRAMS
This month, all our anagrams relate to Sustainability.
If you manage to solve all five, don’t forget to email us with your answers for a chance to win an Iceni Magazine pen. Solve all five and send us an email to: submissions@icenimagazine.co.uk. UK residents only.
CLY CRINGE is an easy thing for everyone to do!
Many people aim to be RUNNABLE ACTOR.
GREENER BEE ALWYN is an interesting option for many households and businesses.
Ever heard of TOFFS TIE AARON? Turn over a new leaf and try it!
Before you do anything, always think of the INVENTOR MEN!
