Thursday, 4 July 2024

Welcome To The Midweek Chillout

Midweek Chill Out: The Wednesday Wind-Down

Ah, Wednesday. The hump of the week, the fulcrum of our weekly grind. For many, it's the turning point from 'Just get through this' to 'Weekend is coming!' But here at the Ninjakillercat blog, we don't just get through Wednesday—we celebrate it. Here’s how you can turn your midweek slump into a serene soiree of chill vibes.

Morning Rituals: Starting Right

The key to a tranquil Wednesday is setting the tone early. My midweek mornings start with a gentle wake-up. No blaring alarms here, just the soft chimes of nature sounds. A quick stretch and a few mindful breaths later, I'm ready to face the day.

Tea is non-negotiable. My kettle and I have a deep, meaningful relationship. This isn't just about tea; it's about starting the day with something that brings joy. Pair that with a slice of freshly toasted sourdough, topped with avocado and a sprinkle of sea salt, and you've got a breakfast that's both nourishing and soul-soothing. ( in reality though it is non rescript cornflakes from a randomn supermarket)

Midday Escape: Lunchtime Zen

By midday, it’s easy to feel the weight of the week. That’s why a proper lunch break is essential. If the weather’s nice, I head to my favourite local park. There's something magical about eating al fresco, with the rustling leaves providing the perfect backdrop. 

For lunch, it's all about simplicity and flavor. A vibrant salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, a handful of walnuts, and a tangy vinaigrette does the trick. And if I’m feeling indulgent, a small chunk of artisan cheese never goes amiss.( though again in reality your sandwich goes limp from all the summer rain ; not a euphemism ! Afternoon Delight: Cat Nap and Cuddles

Here’s where the Ninjakillercat comes into play. Mid-afternoon, I find myself a cozy nook, preferably one bathed in sunlight. My cat, a master of midweek chill, curls up next to me, purring contentedly  or just death stares me till I perform the service it requires and then it nonchalantly walks away. A 20-minute cat nap is rejuvenating, and if you’re lucky enough to have a feline friend, their warm presence can make all the difference unless it has it claws sunk into you and you desperately need the toilet !

Evening Unwind: The Art of Doing Nothing

As the workday wraps up, it's time for some serious unwinding. Ditch the screens for a bit. Instead, light some candles and let the soft glow fill the room. I’m a big fan of lavender-scented ones for their calming properties.

Dinner is kept simple but hearty. A bowl of homemade pasta, perhaps with a light tomato and basil sauce, is perfect. It’s comfort food at its best, and the act of cooking can be incredibly meditative.

Post-dinner, it's time for a bit of pampering. A hot bath with Epsom salts and a few drops of essential oils can work wonders. Put on some mellow tunes—Bon Iver or Norah Jones are my go-tos—and let the day's stresses melt away.

Night-time Serenity: Preparing for Tomorrow

Before bed, I take a few moments to journal. Nothing too intense, just a few lines about what went well today and what I’m grateful for. It’s a gentle reminder that even in the midst of a busy week, there’s always something to appreciate.

Finally, I set the stage for a good night's sleep. A cup of chamomile tea, a few pages of my book, and I’m ready to drift off, knowing that I’ve made the most of my Wednesday.

So there you have it, folks. Your midweek chill-out, Ninjakillercat style. Embrace the Wednesday wind-down, and you’ll find the rest of the week a little brighter, a little lighter, and a whole lot more enjoyable. Until next time, stay chill and keep purrin

Tuesday, 2 July 2024

Best Of The Vienna Christmas Markets

It’s only July  I know I know but if you feel like flying yourself off to Vienna in the weeks leading up to Christmas then you will find Vienna in full Christmas Sparkle about now.It doesn’t cost anything to look at the markets and it is a festive treat for the eyes and it is not tacky in the slightest , I know Christmas does have that problem.The aroma of Christmas bakery items packs a pre Christmas punch and don’t forget to wash it down with some warm Christmas wine.







Vienna has many Christmas markets and the traditional “Vienna Magic Of Advent “ which turns the city hall square into a magical fairyland complete with the most magical ice rink I’ve ever seen.There are Christmas markets then there are Vienna Christmas markets and these are the ones you need to go to in your lifetime they are simply amazing .. no they are out of this world !

























Vienna sets the imperial stage when it comes to Christmas markets , markets spring up in the prettiest of squares and the Baroque backdrop is truly breathtaking ,Vienna is such an elegant city .The Christmas markets feel also cinematic with glittering Christmas trees, and sparkling decorations which are set against imperial palaces and impressive art installations.All this is combined with live music and cosy comfort food which is an absolute must at this time of year.








The tradition of the Christmas market dates back to medieval times and in Austria the Christmas market is very different you will find yourself sipping on Christmas punch which comes in a whole host of flavours, and each market has it own Christmas mug which you can either buy or return to get your deposit back.A must have snack is Kartoffelpuffer which is a heavy potato cake served with a variety of toppings , I had mine with sour cream and bacon.








Vienna Christmas World – Rathausplatz





This is the Christmas market I went to with my husband and we were so amazed at the set up of it all , one minute it isn't there and then magically it is all ready with overflowing Christmas magic.It is full of Christmas charm with over 150 wooden stalls, complete with lights dripping off tress the best ice rink I have ever seen.There is so mcc to see and buy and you will find some beautiful Christmas keepsakes and gifts for other people.




Belvedere Christmas Market

I was at the Belvedere on Saturday to see the art of Gustav Klimt and in particular the Kiss





While we were there they were setting up for the Christmas market and it looks like a very intimate Christmas market in a breathtaking setting , it is a perfect place for a stroll day or night.This is a Christmas market with a Baroque flavour it is smaller and more intimate as previously mentioned.You could buy yourself a handmade Christmas decoration here and enjoy the stately surroundings.

Meet Rainbow Fish......



Hi meet Rainbow Fish part of my classroom display for the play corner. Now I have no art skills at all, but I managed to do this. I managed to sketch out the basic shape of Rainbow Fish and gradually painted it and added the detail. What do you think do you like it?


The theme this term is water So I was put in charge of this classroom display and play corner . The play corner is on a under water aquarium theme. Here are some photos. I designed the whole thing, I must admit Rainbow Fish  is a great educational resource.



Note the cut out rainbow Fish characters on the blue film ( which is the water ).




Here we go inside the aquarium shell material to the side and blue material covering the top. Honestly it really feels like an aquarium in there, shame I am too big too play in there.



Look who it is! It is Olivia the bozz eyed Octopus though sadly her lips fell off.




Careful those giant waves don't sweep you away! more Rainbow Fish characters on the waves.


More Rainbow Fish  art . I hope you have enjoyed my pictures and I hope it gives you ideas for your classroom or at home. It is so simple to do and encourages a multitude of play ideas and helps promote their leaning. I welcome your comments. Thank you.

Meet Dave the googly eyed bee.

easy childrens craft using goggly eyes



















Meet Dave the googly eyed bee. I made him and seven others for the home corner in my classroom. Simple to do.

1. Paint a polystyrene ball yellow allow to dry.
2. Paint black stripes on allow to dry.
3. Stick googly eyes on.
4. Fold wings in black card and stick on.
5. Attach paper clip and use wool to hang up.

6. Name bee mine is called "Dave".

The Perfect Star Wars Gift For Christmas

Unless you’ve been living in the moon you can’t have failed to notice there’s a new Star Wars film coming out on the 14th December of which as a family we are all very excited , I have made sure I’ve booked my tickets ready for it. It of course will be sad to see the late Great Carrie Fisher but wonderful to see her again in the big screen. As a Stars Wars mad family we’ve everything from a full sized Storm Trooper helmet in the dining room to figures , Lego and cuddly toys. Art is very important in Star Wars it’s those movie posters that draw you in with the promise of excitement and adventure so why not this Christmas give a Star Wars fan a piece of art from Red Candy.


Add a quirky homage to one of the most famous movies of all time to your interior! The Star Wars Framed Print is a wonderful piece by artist, Ale Giorgini, and presents some of the most notable characters from the original 1977 epic!

Complete with Vader, Luke, Chewy and Han Solo, this excellently cartoonish styled print has a very unique look and colour theme that is sure to draw the eye where ever you hang it. This delightful print is available in two sizes; A3 and A2. Each one comes in a black 20mm thick wooden frame with shatter-proof perspex cover.

This stylish print makes the perfect gift for any Star Wars fan and movie enthusiast”


Priced at £47 for an A2 size or £57 for an A3 size.



Disclosure I was given £45 towards a A3 size print then I put £12 towards it myself.


You can no longer get this print but you can get a very nice Star Wars door mat from Red Candy,