‘How does anyone do this?” I thought as I hobbled home from my first run, a pair of threadbare Converse biting into my heels. It took me a while to connect the dots. Maybe I was just prone to shin splints? Perhaps your calves were supposed to burn with every stride? Or – lightbulb moment … Read more
In 2013, I thought: “Hey, wouldn’t it be FUN to see if I could buy nothing new for an entire month?” (which, I recognize, is not most people’s idea of fun). And, thus, my no new things challenge was born. At first, the premise scared the crap out of me. I thought I would be … Read more
Sometimes, things fall apart: a zip jams, a lid breaks, a seam ruptures. Unless you’re a whiz with a needle or a tube of glue – or have a brilliant repair shop nearby – it can consign the broken item to the back of the cupboard, or worse, to landfill. The Guardian’s journalism is independent. … Read more
Take souffle to the next level by baking it inside an apple. This retro dessert is easy and a bit of fun, too. The result is a soft, tender apple shell filled with light, airy souffle, perfect with lashings of vanilla ice-cream (which will hopefully form a delightful puddle when served with the hot pudding). … Read more
Falling out with a friend can feel oddly shameful. Romantic relationships are meant to have passionate highs and lows, but by the time you reach adulthood, you expect your friendships to have reached some kind of equilibrium. I have this image in my head of myself as an affectionate, devoted friend – but sometimes I examine … Read more
A chilly Saturday morning on the Astroturf pitches at Coram’s Fields in central London and several youth football matches are under way. I’m watching an under-11s game. The sound is the thud of boot on ball, the shrill interruption of the referee’s whistle, and a whole lot of shouting. From the players (“Mine!”, “Here!”, “Pass!”, … Read more
Smartphones contain the entirety of our modern lives, from photos, messages and memories to credit cards, bank accounts and all life admin, so when one gets lost or stolen it can be far worse than the cost of the actual handset. Here’s what to do if the worst happens. Quickly taking these steps will help … Read more
Lunchtime in Copenhagen, Denmark. The place is packed and staff are talking customers through the menu. Would we like the slow-roasted pork with pearl barley and mushrooms? How about the rye pancakes with salmon, cream cheese and avocado? I decide on the beetroot tartare with horseradish and rye toasts, and a spelt side salad. This … Read more
High on the ridges of the Pennines, somewhere between the waters of Malham Tarn in the Yorkshire Dales and Kirk Yetholm in the Scottish Borders, a 31-year-old woman stands amid a group of mainly male walkers. She’s wearing bell-bottom jeans, a fitted long-sleeve top and an Alice band to keep her hair out of her … Read more
Gather round, faithful quizzers, for another adventure is at hand. Dare you tackle our 15 questions on topical news, general knowledge and pop culture trivia? If you do, you will be excited to find you are being treated to a brand new regular feature. The quiz is also, as ever, littered with a few silly … Read more