Indra A4 Embossed And Stoned Leather Journal

When Not On The High Street (NOTHS) got in touch and asked if I would like to review something up to the value of £50 from across their site, I nearly passed out with excitement. I adore the items they stock and think that being able to buy from independents in this way is a great way to shop.

I decided to buy some art work, then I thought I’d get something as a treat just for me, then I found the Christmas stuff, and then the fashion ranges…. needless to say that I was browsing all evening with a wishlist as long as your arm saved in my basket at the end of it. What I chose in the end was a gift for my husband, Roy.

Unlike myself, Roy is hugely creative, he writes, sings, plays guitar, writes songs and is a fabulous artist. As the review request came through a couple of days before his birthday I thought I’d see if I could find something as an extra treat and was thrilled when I found this:

[slideshow id=16]

The images here don’t actually do the item justice so have a look at the product page for more info.

The Indra A4 Embossed And Stoned Leather Journal which would normally retail at £34.95 is a perfect gift for someone like Roy. The quality is undeniable, it looks fabulous, it feels great and is useful, or it will be, once he decides what he wants to use if for (I think he is still at the “it is too lovely to spoil by using” stage).

This item ticks all of the boxes for me too as it is an eco-friendly and fair trade product. The paper for example is made via a charity in India that support the provision of education for women in the area. Even the Khadda paper is recycled as it is handmade from leftover cloth from the garment industry.

The journal arrived on the morning of Roy’s birthday and he was thrilled, and I mean THRILLED! He has even taken it to work to show a couple of mates (who have all cooed over it!). I would call that a win, and I will definitely be buying  gifts in the future from NotOnTheHighStreet, especially now I’ve seen for myself an example of what they sell.

So, thanks NOTHS, you have made my husband very happy! If anyone has any questions about NOTHS then why not give them a shout on Twitter or visit their Facebook page.

 

For film addicts and gift shoppers

For valentines...and beyond!

 

On Valentine’s day I received a big red box from the post-lady. At first I was a bit panicked because Roy and I don’t do Valentine’s and if he’d had a change of heart about this then I was going to have to go and buy something for him quickly. Fortunately there was no need for me to join the 14th Feb shopping madness as this box was from Warner Brothers- for me!

I’d forgotten Warner Brothers had said they were sending something out to be honest so when I realise it was a lovely surprise. Why am I mentioning this now over a month after the loved-up day? Well, I’ve only just finished the films. Roy and I watched Crazy Stupid Love on St Vals (excellent film!), my youngest sister and I watched Valentine’s Day a few days later and I’ve watched a few during those magical two and half hours when my youngest has his afternoon nap. Talk about guilty pleasure!

Sent for St Val’s but perfect for any time, which has got me thinking…. gift ideas! Roy and I have a big family. I am one of six siblings and he is one of fourm then there are inlaws and nieces and nephews, not to mention parents. Thinking up original gift ideas which aren’t going to bankrupt us isn’t the easiest task but thanks to Warner Brothers this Xmas, and possibly a few birthdays are now sorted.

I’d do a themed box of films with popcorn and chocs. Not only are these great looking presents but not hugely expensive and as you can pick up DVD’s, choc and what not over a period of time they are perfect those those sticking to a gift budget.

  • The Julia Roberts box (obviously including Pretty Woman, Runaway Bride etc). I might end up keeping this though, I am a BIG fan of Julia and more so Mr Gere.
  • An action box, perfect for brother-in-laws.
  • War film for Dad?

So, if you were going to  make a box up which theme or actor/actresses would you theme it around?

*Please be aware that I may steal any ideas posted in comments and blatantly pass them off as my own when using them for family gifts.