Top of the Telly

As much as I feel guilty about it, and as much as I should make a dent in the many books I own and haven’t read, I do love telly. This year has been a time when we’ve probably watched more TV than usual, but I’m pleased to see the standards haven’t dropped.

Here’s what I have been enjoying recently: 

1. Des, ITV

David Tennant starred in this drama based on the true story of serial killer, Dennis Nielson. Although I’m not a Doctor Who fan, I do love David Tennant, and his ability to play a multitude of different characters. The drama itself was very clever, yet quite chilling. You’re captured by Des’ psyche, and just how blunt he is about the crimes he has committed. I almost wish there were more episodes than the three.

                                                                                                    Image via The Sun EUSTON FILMS.ITV

2. Crime and Punishment, Channel 4 

      If you know me well, you’ll know that I love a police/emergency documentary, (please come back ‘24 Hours in Police Custody’!). So when Chris mentioned that this series was filmed in Southampton, we had to watch! It was a bit strange knowing all the areas that the incidents they cover took place, and that we could’ve been in the same place, at the same time, completely oblivious to what was going on. The episode around rape includes a recording from an interview with a rape victim in the 1980s, which is particular harrowing, and makes me grateful for how far we have come in terms of justice for victims.

                                                                                                Image via Inews 72 Films/Channel 4

3. Gogglebox, Channel 4

Gogglebox is my absolute favourite. I’m a long term fan! When you think about it, it is a weird concept, watching people watch TV, but it just works! I also find it a good way of seeking out what would be good to watch yourself. I’ve been watching old episodes on Amazon Prime, as well as the current series, I’m even watching one as I write this! And before the new series started I was watching all the different versions; Gogglebox Australia, Celebrity Gogglebox and Celebrity Gogglebox USA. I said I’d had a lot of time on my hands!

                                                                                                                             Image via Channel 4

4. Great British Bake Off: An Extra Slice, Channel 4 

Unpopular opinion, but I actually prefer Extra Slice to the Bake Off. It’s much more light hearted and fun. Jo Brand is the perfect host, and Tom Allen is an excellent fit, with his sarcastic comments to the audience. And I never get tired of seeing the expectations vs. reality of the viewers’ bakes - the hedgehog cake attempts still crack me up!

                                                                                                                    Image via Channel 4.    

 5. Ambulance, BBC

      I’m really pleased the BBC didn’t keep us waiting too long for the next series of Ambulance. As I mentioned, I love emergency programmes, and this is one of the best. It certainly reminds me of my privilege, and that I am reasonably healthy with a roof over my head. I have huge respect for the emergency services staff, and the things they have to deal with day to day, not to mention the abuse they can get. The cases will certainly stay with you, and remind you what a blessing life is, as well as the blessing of the NHS.

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What have you been watching? Let me know what you'd recommend!

April Favourites

Image credits Zoey IMDB, Steamer AO, Vicar of Dibley The Sun - otherwise all my own

I’m trying to look at the positives at the moment, and making the most of being stuck at home (something that rarely happens normally!) so here’s a few things I enjoyed in April.

Electric Steamer – I feel a bit boring having a kitchen appliance as a favourite, but hey I’m enjoying it! I’m a big fan of a ‘chuck it all in and forget about it’ appliance which is exactly what this Russell Hobbs Steamer is. I’d been thinking of getting an electric steamer for a while as I’ve heard it keeps the nutrients in the food and is healthier than boiling or frying. My favourite thing to do is put salmon, veg and potatoes in there as you have a whole meal in 15-20 minutes!

Make Your Bed, William H. McRaven – This book had been on my Amazon Wish List for a while, and I was lucky enough to get it from my lovely sister (thanks Zo!) for Christmas. The book is written by ex Navy SEAL, who explains the life lessons he learnt in his experience. I love the way it is written, it’s not a cringey self help book, and there’s certainly humour throughout. I also enjoyed the short chapters as it made me feel more accomplished and motivated me to read more often.

Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist – Ah I love this show so much! Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist ticks many of my boxes. People bursting into song at random moments? A strong independent female lead? Actual diversity? The show explores so many themes, and as mentioned the characters are so diverse. There’s a gender fluid character, plenty of female leaders as well as one of the characters having a debilitating disease and how this effects the family.

Madlug Bag – I was very blessed to finally get a Madlug Rucksack for my birthday. I love this Teal colour so much! I took it out for a spin (on an essentials trip of course!) this week and I'm very pleased with it, the thick straps are great for my shoulders and there’s plenty of room inside. I also love brands with a conscience, so I was pleased to hear Madlug had a similar approach to Toms, with the buy one give one initiative, by giving a bag to a child in care for every bag bought.

Vicar of Dibley – I was so pleased to see Vicar of Dibley was on Netflix. I thought it was perfect timing for the lockdown period. For me it’s one of those ‘cosy’ programmes, like ‘Call the Midwife’, you can just snuggle up and enjoy, and they’re pretty failsafe, I always know they will make me laugh or cheer me up. I can also relate to Geraldine and her love of Chocolate, and the Lord of course ;) I also live for the Alice and Geraldine jokes after the credits. It’s a no, no, no, no, yes from me!

Zoom Quizzes – As a big fan of quizzes, this is certainly one of the few positives for me. I’ve loved doing quizzes over Skype with family and friends. My family have been doing one every Saturday and it’s definitely a highlight of my week. I don’t see myself getting sick of them anytime soon!