What I Loved in July: A Cosy Round-Up
What I Loved in July: A Cosy Round-Up
A delicate dance of nature's beauty
Sometimes, nature whispers its secrets in the smallest ways — in the closing of a leaf, the bloom of a flower, or even the scent of a favorite oil. July came and went in a blur of sunshine and surprise showers, but not without leaving behind a few little treasures worth sharing. Today, I'm sharing the beauty of my favorite plant, some unexpected botanical styling, and a few rituals that keep me grounded.
If you're new here, welcome! I'm still figuring out how often to do these little catch-ups (SEO says "be consistent," but honestly, I'm just here for the tea and a chat). So, kettle on? Let's dive in. ☕
🌱Plant Update: Meet My Sensitive Little Star
Meet the shyest member of my plant collection
Meet the shyest member of my plant collection — the sensitive plant (Mimosa pudica). Brush against its leaves, and it folds inwards, like a quiet secret. It's getting so big! Its little "arms" seem to multiply each week. I'll need to move it soon (fingers crossed it forgives me for the disturbance), but I love watching it grow. It's a reminder that slowing down is powerful.
🌸Cozy Science Corner
Why do sensitive plants fold their leaves when you touch them?
Watch the magic happen — nature's quiet reflex
These fascinating little plants, also called "Touch-Me-Nots," send tiny electrical signals — like a mini plant reflex — that make their leaves close up for protection. Nature's little magic trick!
🦋Butterfly Bush Blooms & Garden Rescues
It's been so windy lately that we had to anchor my cherry vine tomatoes outside. These are Pomodorini Tomatoes (Strabena variety) — sweet, vibrant, strawberry shaped, picture perfect and perfect for snacking or salads. Their shy yellow flowers are finally starting to show, and I can't help but check on them like a proud plant parent.
Tiny butterfly blooms bringing color therapy to life
While the plant offers calm movement, these tiny Butterfly Bush (Buddleja davidii) flowers bring color therapy to life. I rescued the last few before the wind could carry them off. Now they're brightening up my windowsill — one of those small joys that makes the whole house feel cosier. I couldn't resist capturing them up close — their details are pure joy.
🍜Pantry as Natural Apothecary
Growing up, I loved reading stories about children in Korea, China, and Japan, and their food always fascinated me. So recently, I decided to try my hand at some authentic Japanese pantry staples.
Botany extends beyond the garden — even my pantry feels like a natural apothecary
One star ingredient? Yutaka White Miso Paste. I've been adding it to everything: marinated tofu, chicken stew — and the results are *chef's kiss*. This miso jar has become part of my quiet evening routine. If you've never cooked with it, I highly recommend picking up a small tub and experimenting. Next on my list? A few cosy recipes featuring miso that I can't wait to share.
🪞Lavender Rituals & Self-Care
A drop in the diffuser, and the world slows down
And then there's lavender oil. This little bottle is my new bathroom shelf hero. I actually first discovered the AVEDA Stress-Fix Oil in a Birchbox (back in my subscription box phase), and at the time, I thought, "Eh, I'll try it later."
Well — "later" turned into a full-on obsession. It's lavender heaven. It's marketed for bath, body, and scalp, but I've also been using it to soothe irritation and ingrown hairs on my chin (thanks, PCOS). It's calming, smells gorgeous, and a little really does go a long way. A drop in the diffuser, and the world slows down — it's aromatherapy and ritual all at once.
💡Birchbox Tip: I've actually discovered so many unexpected favourites through subscription boxes. If you're ever feeling stuck on where to start with skincare, they're a fun (and budget-friendly) way to test things out before committing.
🍰Food Favourite: My "Fridge Cake" Ritual
Confession: I love my cake slightly stale. Not bad stale — just "had a nice rest in the fridge" stale. Then I let it come back to room temperature (or almost), and oh… it's heavenly.
This month, I've been baking my old-school egg-weight cake weekly. My twist? I add a little lard to the batter, and it gives it the most beautiful texture. Then I finish it with a sugar glaze and a scattering of sprinkles. It has become our cosy little ritual: a slice with tea in the afternoon or a warm dessert with custard after dinner. CJay approves, which means it's officially staying on the menu!
If you fancy a peek at my recipe experiments, keep an eye out. I'll be sharing the full recipe soon.
🍃This Month's Little Treat
I've been working on a sweet freebie for you—a printable sticker pack filled with:
- 🍅Pomodorini Tomatoes on the vine
- 🪻Butterfly bush flowers
- …and a few more botanical beauties!
Perfect for cozy journaling, scrapbooking afternoons, or adding a handmade touch to your planner.
Watch my Gumroad and sign up for my newsletter so you won't miss the release!
That's my July round-up: sensitive plants, butterfly blooms, kitchen experiments, and lavender-infused rituals. Thank you for reading my rambles — it means so much that you're here.
Now I want to hear from you:
What was your favourite cosy thing last month? Comment below, I would love discovering new little joys from you.
Until we speak again, stay beautiful.
💛Turtledove Luv
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