This book was novel change of pace for me mostly because it was a non-fiction book but also because it falls into the category of "Health, Mind and Body" or "Self-Help" which I normally avoid. I find I'm happiest and more relaxed when I've spent a day pottering around the house so I guess my take away from reading this book is I need to switch off the electronics a little more often and just potter! I'd be happier and more content for doing so. For McGovern, the final fundamental of pottering is that it is, on the whole, digital-free. “Ignoring digital devices means you are not bombarded with messages, information, unrealistic images of perfection…” she says. “Without witnessing all that, you can have some time that is your own.”

Now, that "gem" I mentioned earlier. Accessed either from the parking area or one of the balconies is a self contained one bedroom "annexe". This adjacent extension has a large double bedroom with bathroom off, fully equipped kitchen and a balcony! Perfect for those with older relatives needing a home so that they can live independently but close enough to keep an eye on! Make do with what you’ve got. When you live simply, you are resourceful; improvising and compromising with whatever you have to hand, from putting together a lunch using the contents of your fridge to creating entertainment out of paper and pencils. This means making the best of your situation, as well as the things that surround you. But one thing should be changed: In the fantastic epilogue of this book, Anna McGovern explains in a fantastic way why you should read this book, in a beautiful way. So dear author, dear publisher: In the next edition (I think there will be one), please put the epilogue at the very start of the book. Pottering is not glamorous. You don’t have to put too much effort in, go very far or even do it with others. Pottering is not a lifestyle concept, and it doesn’t require practice. Just be. The book is filled with gorgeous, evocative illustrations whose lighthearted and inviting scenes show people pottering through work in a garden and eating dinner with friends. Its descriptions of the practices and purposes of pottering are apt and unadorned, and its charming British diction is inviting.This is the book for people who want to discover productivity at an easier pace, and above all the contentment you achieve when accepting that you can only do what you can do. Pottering is exactly what you would expect from a book of that title. It is gentle and refreshing, lovely to look at it with its simple and expressive illustrations and unhurried. It is an antidote to the rush and expectation of modern life where there is simply too much all the time, a bombardment of stimuli most of which are too distant to be acted upon and merely create frustration and anxiety.

Pottering is a charming little book about the pastime (or shall we call it art?) of pottering. It follows the self-help style, and encourages readers to slow it down a little and enjoy some everyday tasks and moments without the hassle of being productive and most importantly digital-free. In many ways, the principles are similar to the popular "being present" meditative propositions. Even though not much new is being revealed, it's a lovely guide and an important reminder of dropping down that "to-do list" and take it one spontaneous step at a time. I also enjoyed the author's personal experience at the end, where she shares how she became preoccupied with pottering. It’s time to dial down the noise in your life and brain. Keeping away from your phone, Netflix and social media will help. As McGovern states: The key principles of pottering include making “do with what you’ve got,” not trying too hard, movement, staying local, and keeping it digital-free. Such techniques foster contentment and effortless living, focused on single tasks that embrace experimentation over excellence and are often, but not always, solitary pursuits. One chapter includes seasonal ideas to prime one’s mind for living at a slower pace year round, including spring cleaning, making popsicles in the summer, planting bulbs in the fall, and snuggling in the winter. PS - Sitting down for 10 minutes, drinking a cup of tea and reading a book in between tasks is a valid pottering action! 😉If you have an idle hour to while away, you might like this book, especially if you are an Anglophile like I am. Anna McGovern adresses the need for "digital diets" and getting away from the connectedness, and gives a whole new perspective of relaxation. And that without the need for courses, seminars, techniques or yoga mats. A whole chapter is actually named "Make do with what you've got". There are, according to McGovern, five fundamentals of pottering. First, pottering is about “making the best of your circumstances and the resources you have to hand”. Improvisation and compromise are key here. In fact, there is an element of make do and mend.

DETACHED THREE BEDROOM HOME TWO MINUTES FROM EASNEY SEAFRONT WITH SELF CONTAINED ONE BEDROOM ANNEXE!! This is the loveliest book about one of my favourite things to do. It explains the whole idea of "pottering" and what it means to "potter" about and do the most mundane things, we enjoy, like make a cup of tea or clear out that long neglected cupboard., that has turned into Narnia. Seeing this book for the first time did cause some concern for this reader. Is it another self help thing? Will it be embarassing?This is a sweet little read that continues with the modern trend of self-help books designed to tell us to slow down and stop doing so much, and to have fun doing it. It has a decidedly old fashioned British tone and is very sweet and encouraging. It was not really anything new to me, as it turns out I am already a master at pottering. I really don't need to read very descriptive instructions on how to do things like oil a hinge (and make it somewhat enjoyable in a calming and happy sort of way), but if I had to then this would be a wonderful guide. It reminds me a lot of a charming children's book in the tone, and could be a great fit for busy folks who want to learn how to slow down and enjoy the little moments. Heading to the upper floor you'll walk into a large open plan living/dining room with another cloakroom off and a HUGE Garden room bringing the outside in - just what you would expect from a home of this standard. Thats not all though, two balconies adorn either end of the house with access to the hidden gem beyond! The fabulous fully equipped wide galley style kitchen is very modern and caters for all chefs! As you enter into the hallway the standard of accommodation is evident and reflects the executive style of homes in the area. Ultimately, I recommend giving this book a read and seeing if adopting a pottering approach would be a positive thing for you. I don't see how it could fail to be a positive thing for anybody and I feel a little bit sad that with the pace of life nowadays we're losing the subtle art of it.