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Elizabeth's Kitchen Diary

Elizabeth's Kitchen Diary

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Image source: Shutterstock, copyright Billion Photos

The Mega Food Blog Birthday Giveaway!

Published on December 1, 2016 • Last updated July 22, 2017 by Elizabeth Atia

One winner – over £585 worth of prizes!

Image source: Shutterstock, copyright Billion Photos

This week sees two significant milestones in my life. First, my blog turned five years old! I can’t believe the time has gone by so quickly since I first started sharing recipe posts as a hobby (read: procrastination from university study!), to blogging, freelance writing and recipe development becoming my full time job.

Secondly, I turn 40 this week. As I type this I am in the final hours of my 30’s and, if I am to be honest, I’m approaching this birthday with a degree of reluctance. I don’t know why, but I am not keen on the whole idea of turning 40. I know I’ll wake up on my birthday and things won’t be any different than they were the day before, except I’ll be a little bit older, but still…. heading into my fifth decade makes me want to squeeze out a few little tears.

So! To celebrate these events, because they are definitely celebration-worthy, I have reached out to brands I have worked with over the last five years to offer you this…. The Mega Blog Birthday Giveaway!

To enter, simply scroll to the bottom and enter via Rafflecopter. You’ll have to leave a blog post comment to unlock the rest of the entry options. I’d love it if you left a comment to help cheer me up about this whole turning 40 thing. The more ridiculous the comment the better as I have a strange sense of humour. 🙂

ProWare Kitchen Mini Pan Set Giveaway

PROWARE KITCHEN MINI PAN SET WITH MINI LADLE

I have been using the ProWare Kitchen Copper Tri-Ply pots and pans set in my kitchen since the summer of 2013 and I honestly, hand on heart, love this entire range to bits. The copper exterior of my set has aged beautifully over the years (I’ve never brought them back to their original shine, preferring the aged copper look), while the stainless steel cooking surfaces are still just as good quality as the day they arrived.

I’ve worked with many different pots and pans brands over the years and have noticed that over time that non-stick surfaces eventually flake off, handles loosen and fall off, or the pans warp (if you drop them!), but the ProWare range – impeccable, still, and they’ve been well used – daily! It’s well worth the investment.

ProWare have kindly offered one of their mini pan sets with a mini ladle worth £83 for this mega blog birthday giveaway. This includes their Copper Tri-Ply 9 cm Mini Pan £19; their Copper Tri-Ply 10 cm Mini Casserole £29; their Copper Tri-Ply 12 cm Mini Frying Pan £17 and their silver plated stainless steel Mini Ladle £16.

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Fine Italy Tuscan Menu Giveaway

FINE ITALY – THE TUSCAN MENU

I have been on a culinary tour of Italy over these last few months, sampling the various menus from Fine Italy. I have been saving this one, the Tuscan Menu, for my 40th birthday celebrations. Each menu delivery comes with everything you need to prepare a complete four course meal for four people, with wine, without having to add any other ingredients. It’s packed into a fantastic wooden crate too, with the Fine Italy logo burned onto the outside.

Cooking instructions are very simple, meaning I can take the day off in my kitchen on my birthday and have my husband and children prepare a dinner of the finest regional specialities from the Tuscan region of Italy.

Fine Italy have very kindly offered one of my readers the chance to enjoy this menu too.

For the starter you will enjoy sun dried tomatoes and black olive pate on olive oil bruschetta along with pork salami cured in hemp leaves. For the first course, penne pasta with a spicy arrabbiata tomato sauce. For the second course, slow cooked Chianina beef; the best meat in Tuscany prepared to a traditional recipe. For dessert, almond biscotti and cherries in Fresia wine syrup. To serve throughout the meal, Tuscan wine: a classic Chianti Classico red. RRP £54.78

If a four course meal is too much you can now order a main with a dessert from only £3.49 per person. Visit their website to find out more.

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Grana Padano Cheese and Proscuitto di San Daniele Gift Box Giveaway

GRANA PADANO CHEESE AND PROSCUITTO DI SAN DANIELE

Did you know that Grana Padano cheese was invented by Benedictine monks who wanted to find a way to preserve surplus milk? Dating back to 1100 AD its quality reputation quickly spread and it was served at both Renaissance banquets held by princes and dukes as well as being a main source of nourishment for people in rural areas.

Proscuitto di San Daniele is cured in San Daniele del Fruili where the sea breeze off the Adriatic meets the winds from the Alps, the morainic hills curb humidity and the Tagliamento river regulates the temperature. This results in the perfect microclimate to preserve the thigh meat of selected Italian pigs.

Using only sea salt and traditional techniques dating back for centuries, the result gives us a prosciutto
that is delicate to the taste and so soft to palate that it melts in the mouth. Its aroma grows more persistent as maturing progresses.

Both Grana Padano cheese and Proscuitto di San Daniele have been recognised by the European Union as Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) products since 1996, and they have kindly offered one of my readers the chance to win one of their taster gift boxes worth approximately £10.

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Prendime Bar by Amedei Tuscany

PRENDIME BAR FROM AMEDEI TUSCANY

Amedei Tuscany, founded in 1990, was born from Tuscan-born Cecilia Tessieri’s vision and love of chocolate. Cecilia has embarked on a mission to make Italian chocolate the most exquisite chocolate possible. After a number of apprenticeships between France, Belgium and Germany and having always had a desire to find the world’s best cocoa beans and a continual search for perfection has resulted in her being the only woman in the world to hold the renowned title of Maitre Chocolatier, and producing the six-time winner of the Academy of Chocolate’s Golden Bean award.

Amedei chocolate has received cult-like status amongst chefs and chocolate aficionados, especially considering it is one of the only Italian chocolate companies to have control over the entire production line, from cocoa bean to the finished product. Amedei chocolate is not only delicious, it is pure and as healthy as chocolate can be. Cecilia has managed to eliminate the use of soy lecithin and conservatives.

Amedei is available online and at Fortnum & Mason, Liberty’s, Selfridges and Harvey Nichols.

They have very kindly offered one of my readers the chance to win their Prendimé Bar – a 500 gram slab of chocolate the size of a computer keyboard – perfect for smashing into pieces and sharing at the dining table (or not!). RRP approximately £25.

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Mirrie Dancers Chocolatier Giveaway

MIRRIE DANCERS CHOCOLATE BOX

Mirrie Dancers is a new quality chocolatier based on our wild and remote Shetland Islands, run by my friend Dave Williams. Locally, the Northern Lights are known as the Mirrie Dancers and this chocolatier aims to capture their magic in the palm of your hand. A wide variety of delicious flavours are currently available, with more being added regularly.

For the Christmas season he’s come up with some rather fantastic chocolate ideas including some festive chocolate Christmas baubles, and then there’s his very popular ‘chorcas’, Belgian chocolate orcas. If you’re looking for a unique gift idea this Christmas season this would work perfectly.

Mirrie Dancers have very kindly offered a box of 12 northern lights-inspired chocolates worth £12 as a prize.

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BarWise™ Bottle Opener Gift Set from Joesph Joesph

BarWise™ Bottle Opener Gift Set from Joesph Joesph

BarWise™ is a stylish range of innovative bar tools from Joesph Joesph that revolutionises the way you open bottles. The intuitive design of each product makes opening capped or corked bottles far easier than with conventional openers.

The easy-to-use design of their BarWise™ Corkscrew makes removing corks from bottles a doddle. Simply push the corkscrew down onto the neck of the bottle, grip the sides and wind the handle clockwise to drive the screw into the cork. Continue winding and the cork is removed effortlessly, without the need to lever or pull it out like a conventional corkscrew. It also features integrated twin foil cutters.

Their handy Magnetic Bottle Opener features a unique 360° stainless-steel opening edge that means you can prise off bottle caps from any angle. Once off, the magnetic head can hold up to 4 bottle caps at a time.

This BarWise™ Bottle Opener Gift Set from Joesph Joesph retails for £20.

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Pizza Express Giveaway

DINNER AT PIZZA EXPRESS

I get invited to all sorts of fantastic events all over the UK, and even further abroad. Seriously, I was invited to an event in New York once! Unfortunately, living as remotely as I do transportation costs (and the time it takes) are prohibitively expensive so I have to regretfully decline nearly all of these invitations.

I recently received an invitation to taste test the new Christmas menu at my nearest Pizza Express. Unfortunately, said venue is 218.1 miles away, with most of those miles being open sea. So, Pizza Express have kindly offered for one of my readers to go in my place!

This Christmas, Pizza Express has well and truly mastered the art of indulgence. Their delicious Porchetta Natale Romana pizza boasts a succulent pulled, seasoned hog roast topping with a sage and onion rosemary herb stuffing while their Cauliflower Cheese and Cauliflower E Carne Cheese Romana pizza recipes put an unexpected twist on traditional winter comfort foods. For sweet toothed dough lovers, Snowball Dough Balls are by popular demand and to wash it all down, sample the sumptuous Mulled Sloe Gin.

Pizza Express have very kindly offered my readers to win a £50 voucher for their nearest Pizza Express restaurant, although by the time this giveaway ends their Christmas menu may be finished, but still… free pizza!

In the meantime, why don’t you play their #shakethetree game on messenger – you might win a prize!

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5.7 litre Crock Pot with Hinged Lid Giveaway

5.7 LITRE CROCK POT

I use my Crock Pot, a lot. I find it’s the perfect kitchen appliance for slow cooking tougher cuts of meat, and especially those strange little flappy bits of Shetland lamb that somehow end up in my freezer every year (I buy a lamb for the freezer and that’s always the last bit to be cooked).

Crock Pot have very kindly offered one of their new 5.7 litre slow cookers as a prize to one of my readers. This new model has the lid attached so you don’t have to worry about condensation dripping onto your countertop when your meal is ready, it simply falls back into the bowl.

Their larger bowl is ideal for larger families with busy lifestyles – effortlessly feeding 5-6 people. Simply place all the ingredients in, select high or low and get on with your day. Your meal will be ready when you return and you can serve it straight from the slow cooker bowl! Win! RRP £35.99

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Cirio Tomato Goody Bag Giveaway

CIRIO TOMATO GOODIE BAG

Hhrrrmm…. there appears to be a bit of an Italian theme going on here! I’ve been cooking with Cirio tomatoes now for quite some time. I confess, before I tasted the wide variety of tinned and jarred tomato products from Cirio I would only cook with the lower end supermarket range.

That was until I learned the difference that quality makes to home cooking, and I’m a firm Cirio convert now. My favourite? Their pomodorino cherry tomatoes. Heavenly!

Cirio have very kindly offered a goodie bag of their products for this mega giveaway including: 1 x tin Cirio chopped tomatoes; 1 tetra pack Cirio chopped tomatoes; 1 x jar of Cirio passata; 1 x tin Cirio peeled plum tomatoes; 1 x tin Cirio Filetti tomatoes; 1 x tin Cirio Datterini tomatoes; 1 x Cirio keyring; 1 x Cirio trolley disc; 1 x Cirio apron and 1 x Cirio shopper bag with an approximate value of £20.

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Redmond Multicooker RMC-280E Giveaway

REDMOND MULTICOOKER RMC-280E

This innovative product – the multicooker REDMOND RMC-280E – was introduced into the European market in 2014. This irreplaceable kitchen helpmate can save you time and money, replacing a whole range of kitchen appliances such as a stove, oven, slow cooker, steamer, bread maker, deep fryer, yoghurt maker and many others.

I’ve been working with one of their older models for a few years now (currently on a pre-Christmas offer for only £33!) and I’m really impressed with the versatility of the product, as well as the ease of storage. You can quite literally cook anything in these multicookers – the perfect kitchen appliances for smaller kitchens, or even for caravans.

This particular model comes equipped with 51 cooking programmes, time delay and keep warm functions, a five litre non stick ceramic bowl and a programmable choice of time and temperature settings from 35 – 175 C.

It also comes with a cookbook developed by Redmond chefs, with 100 delicious recipes from European cuisine. RRP £175

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 SoundPEATS True Wireless Earbuds Bluetooth V4.2 Twins Stereo Sound Headset Giveaway

SoundPEATS True Wireless Earbuds Bluetooth V4.2 Twins Stereo Sound Headset

I like to listen to music while I’m working or cooking away in my kitchen. Everyone puts on Marilyn Manson or System of a Down when they bake a cake, no? Over the years I’ve reviewed several SoundPeats products including some of their earlier wireless headphones and (my favourite) their portable P2 bluetooth speaker (£15.99). This speaker has come in handy outside of my kitchen recently as our car stereo has decided to randomly switch on and off, constantly, draining our car battery, so it’s had to be disconnected. Trips into town are now made musical through this speaker and my iPhone play list.

SoundPEATS have kindly offered one of their newest wireless bluetooth headsets as a prize to celebrate this month. The SoundPEATS True Wireless Earbuds Bluetooth V4.2 Twins Stereo Sound Headset means no more cables getting trapped in your clothes or on things while you move about, and the bluetooth technology ensures crystal clear sound and stable connectivity.

I haven’t yet tried these myself (my set are currently on their way), but given how impressed I’ve been with their other products I’m sure these won’t disappoint. I’m planning on giving them to my teenage son for his Christmas present as he seems to like to plug himself in when he does the washing up. RRP £59.99

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Chocolate Gift Box Giveaway

CHOCOLATE GIFT BOXES

Escapade PR have offered to send out one of each of the Malteser Gift Boxes, Mars and Snickers Gift Boxes and an M&M’s Large Gift Box.

The Maltesers gift box contains: three bags of Maltesers, two Maltesers Treat Bags, four Maltesers Teasers Bars and a box of Maltesers. RRP £13 from Next.

The Mars and Snickers Gift Box contains: three Mars bars, three Mars Duo bars, three Snickers bars, three Snickers Duo bars and a Mars Funsize pack. RRP £13 from Next.

The M&M’s Large Gift Box contains: three bags of M&M’S Chocolate, a bag of M&M’S Crispy, two bags of M&M’S Peanut, an M&M Peanut Treat Bag, an M&M Chocolate Treat Bag and an M&M Crispy Pouch. RRP £13 from Next.

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Wonderful Pistachios

WONDERFUL ALMONDS & PISTACHIOS

In the San Joaquin Valley in California, the warm days and cool nights work in harmony with the region’s naturally rich soils to create perfect growing conditions for the perfect snack — nuts that are heart-healthy and a good source of fiber, loved by consumers around the globe.

Wonderful Pistachios & Almonds is the world’s largest grower and processor of almonds and pistachios; in tandem with their Grower Partners, they farm 125,000 sunny acres that deliver 450 million pounds of nuts.

Their speciality crops are grown, processed and marketed under one entity: Wonderful Pistachios & Almonds, ensuring the finest quality every step of the way — from their trees to our hearts.

They have offered two packets of almonds and two packets of pistachios as part of this giveaway prize. Approximate value: £8.

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Image source: Shutterstock, copyright Billion Photos
image source: Shutterstock

MEGA BLOG BIRTHDAY GIVEAWAY

To celebrate my blog (and my own!) birthdays, all of the above clients have offered to provide giveaway prizes for a total prize value of over £585! Prizes include: a ProWare Kitchen Mini Pan Set + Mini Ladle RRP £83; the Tuscan menu from Fine Italy RRP £54.78; a Grana Padano and Proscuitto di San Daniele gift box worth £10; a box of Mirrie Dancers chocolates worth £13; a BarWise™ Bottle Opener Gift Set from Joesph Joesph RRP £20; a £50 voucher for Pizza Express; a 5.7 litre Crock Pot worth £35.99; a Cirio Goody Bag worth £20; a Redmond Multicooker worth £175; a pair of SoundPEATS headphones worth £59.99 and a snack goodie bag from Escapade PR worth approximately £10 Edit: this has been upgraded to three chocolate gift boxes and four packets of Wonderful Almonds & Pistachios worth £47. EDIT 2 – Amedei Tuscany are also giving away one of their Prendime Bars worth £25!

Simply fill out the Rafflecopter entry form below to enter!

HOW TO ENTER

For your chance to win the Mega Blog Birthday Giveaway worth over £585 enter using the Rafflecopter form below. Come back and tweet about the giveaway every day for more chances to win!

TERMS & CONDITIONS

This giveaway is open to UK entries only. Entrants must be age 18 or over. The winner will need to respond within 30 days of being contacted; failure to do this may result in another winner being selected.

The prizes are offered and provided by each of the individual companies listed above. The prize is to win the Mega Blog Birthday Giveaway worth over £585. There is no cash alternative and the prize is not transferable.

There is no entry fee and no purchase is necessary to enter this giveaway.

The promoter (Elizabeth’s Kitchen Diary) reserves the right to cancel or amend the giveaway and these terms and conditions without notice.

Entry into our giveaways will be deemed as acceptance of these terms and conditions.

If you need some help using Rafflecopter, here’s a quick clip to show you how. Rafflecopter will pick the winner at random from all the entries received. I will be verifying entries. Any automated entries or those who have claimed they have made the mandatory blog post comment and really haven’t will be disqualified. It’s mandatory! Please make sure your comment is eight words or longer or Google views it as spam and this negatively affects my spam score. All entries with comments fewer than the mandatory 8 words will be disqualified and deleted.

Closing date is midnight (that’s 00:00 hours, 12 am on Sunday night/Monday morning) on Monday 2 January 2017 (GMT). The winner will be announced shortly afterwards.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

SHARING WITH SOME BLOGGING LINKIES
Dream & Sparkle by Sparkles at Midnight

Disclosure: this is not a paid post, although Elizabeth’s Kitchen Diary has received review items from all of the above companies over the course of the last five years. 

Category: Giveaways, Past GiveawaysTag: giveaway

About Elizabeth Atia

Daydream adventurer. Expat Canadian. Foodie. Calls Shetland home.

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Rebecca MacBain

    January 3, 2017 at 12:41 am

    Happy birthday!!!

    Reply
  2. katrina cristofoli

    January 3, 2017 at 12:09 am

    HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU.. MAKE MY BIRTHDAY FOR ME
    YAY.. WOULD LOVE TO WIN FOR ONCE. XXXXXX

    Reply
  3. Joanne Exley

    January 2, 2017 at 10:31 pm

    Happy Birthday

    Remember 40 is the new 18

    Reply
  4. Zoe Dickinson

    January 2, 2017 at 12:57 am

    Congratulations on coming this far! Such a great blog that I will continue to read for as long as you continue to post! 🙂

    Reply
  5. Dawn Andrews

    January 2, 2017 at 12:50 am

    Happy birthday.

    Reply
  6. Tina L-D

    January 2, 2017 at 12:48 am

    Happy Birthday and congratulations on the blog, always enjoy it

    Reply
  7. Andrea Goodheart

    January 2, 2017 at 12:48 am

    I turn 55 in two days and yet I still remember when 39 became 40 and it did feel a big deal! Nevertheless, I could still wear a bikini, get up off the floor without making a groaning noise and make it through the night without needing to get up to go for a wee so if you can still do all these things I suggest you just continue to enjoy being 40! 😉

    Reply
  8. Leanne Bell

    January 2, 2017 at 12:38 am

    Happy Birthday
    Live,
    Love,
    Laugh
    & Learn!!! Best wishes x

    Reply
  9. Mandy S

    January 2, 2017 at 12:34 am

    Well time to put away the face creams as your eyesight starts going and glasses only make your wrinkles look bigger…from someone who has turned 50 but feels like and wishes was 40 again. Best wishes x

    Reply
  10. Wendy Tolhurst

    January 2, 2017 at 12:32 am

    Happy Birthday – if the average woman lives to 84 years, you are not even halfway there yet, so you can’t even be considered middle aged! Also, with all the recent media coverage about people in their forties and fifties being at risk of either insufficient exercise, being overweight or drinking too much, you still have time to make sure you don’t become a statistic!!!

    Reply
  11. SUSAN L HALL

    January 2, 2017 at 12:25 am

    When i was in my 40’s i thought it was all doom and gloom as all i ever seemed to attend was Funerals i thought OMG is this the way my life is going to be from now on? Now ive started my 50’s it has all changed round again as this year ive already got 5 weddings to attend ( including my son’s) and friends children have babies on the way so may get invited to Christenings. Goes to Show Life gets better with age Have a wonderful New year and Birthday

    Reply
  12. Mark Turner

    January 2, 2017 at 12:07 am

    Just remember that life begins at 40

    Reply
  13. Jayne K

    January 2, 2017 at 12:07 am

    You’re not forty – you’re £39.95 plus postage & packing 😉

    Reply
  14. Louise Whittaker

    January 2, 2017 at 12:06 am

    I turned 40 in October and love it! My 20’s I was a workaholic, 30’s had my kids and bought my house, now I’m a chilled out young lady 🙂 middle aged is another 20 years away in my opinion

    Reply
  15. Donna Sadler

    January 2, 2017 at 12:05 am

    They do say Life begins at 40! I believe all us ladies are like fine wines…we improve with age! Ive always followed what my gran told me: Plenty and 20, Dirty at 30, Naughty at 40, Nifty at 50, be thankful when you get to 60 lol. Im 38 this year, roll on the naughty 40s! lol

    Reply
  16. Ruth Llewellyn

    January 2, 2017 at 12:00 am

    Happy birthday to you and happy new year 🙂

    Reply
  17. Natasha Whitehead

    January 1, 2017 at 11:58 pm

    Amazing prize. Happy New Year.

    Reply
  18. Tasha Hamilton and

    January 1, 2017 at 11:53 pm

    Happy birthday and all the best in 2017

    Reply
  19. katrina adams

    January 1, 2017 at 10:40 pm

    Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday to you, Happy birthday dear Mega Food, Happy Birthday to you.

    Reply
  20. Diane Duggan

    January 1, 2017 at 11:29 pm

    There’s a lot to be said for being 40 – no acne, more confidence, less likely to get pregnant.

    Reply
  21. Keeley Shaw

    January 1, 2017 at 11:20 pm

    Happy 40th birthday. I hear 40 is the new 20! Well my tablet is so slow I’ll be 60 by the time I’ve finished writing this. Have a good one and live life to the full. x

    Reply
  22. Leanne Perrett

    January 1, 2017 at 10:45 pm

    happy birthday and happy 40th i was 40 a few months back myself and when i was young that scared me getting to 40 but today i feel the same as i did 2 years ago except now im a little rounder than before and a little grayer 🙂

    Reply
  23. Michelle Sykes

    January 1, 2017 at 10:41 pm

    Smile, everything goes South from now on – but with a smile life is amazing

    Reply
  24. SAMANTHA SCHOFIELD

    January 1, 2017 at 10:21 pm

    OH MY CONGRATULATIONS AND I HOPE IT IS THE BEST YET.

    SORRY ITS SIMPLE

    Reply
  25. Teresa Sheldon

    January 1, 2017 at 10:21 pm

    Happy Birthday sweetie love reading your blog I’ve tried and like many of your recipes and remember your not 40 your 18 with 22 years of Fabulous experience
    Here’s to the next wonderful 40, by which time your chair will have more controls than your car

    Reply
  26. alison clark

    January 1, 2017 at 10:17 pm

    No wise words but I do hope that you don’t have a complete melt down like I did when I turned 30! – 40 is the year after next and I don’t think that will bother me at all .

    Reply
  27. jen lloyd

    January 1, 2017 at 10:15 pm

    Happy Birthday… they say life begins at 40 so embrace it and have fun!

    Reply
  28. Rachel B

    January 1, 2017 at 10:14 pm

    Happy BIrthday! Age is just a number….

    Reply
  29. Fiona jk42

    January 1, 2017 at 9:51 pm

    Happy birthday. I remember my 40s as being great, I was still (relatively) fit, healthy and had loads of energy. Enjoy your 40s and have lots of fun.

    Reply
  30. olivia kirby

    January 1, 2017 at 9:48 pm

    Happy Birthday! I’m 40 in 27 days! I’m hoping it’ll be my best year yet!

    Reply
  31. Leeanne Clifford

    January 1, 2017 at 9:41 pm

    It might sound incredibly clichéd but things really do click into place in your forties!
    I feel less bothered by what others think now and I have become a better person because of it.
    Happy birthday and embrace your forties. I’m 42 now and love it!
    Xx

    Reply
  32. Carol Emmett

    January 1, 2017 at 9:31 pm

    Well, life expectancy has gone up so in reality you are probably turning 30. And if life expectancy keeps increasing then you may never reach 40 – it will just keep hovering in front of you.

    Reply
  33. Lorna-Jane Holland

    January 1, 2017 at 9:26 pm

    Happy Birthday! I’m afraid I can’t comment on life in a fourth decade as I’m still a fair way off reaching that milestone, but I always think that it’s important to live life to the full, no matter what your age. Happy New Year!

    Reply
  34. Danielle pooley

    January 1, 2017 at 9:25 pm

    Happy birthday!! I hope you get truly spoiled 🙂

    Reply
  35. Sarah Rowland

    January 1, 2017 at 9:24 pm

    iv heard the 4th decade is one of the best! im just new into the 3rd decade and enjoying what iv got so far….life is good and all the best for 2017 xx

    Reply
  36. Lynne O'Connor

    January 1, 2017 at 9:13 pm

    Congratulations and Happy Birthday. 40 is a great age, if a distant memory for me. You’ll find you no longer spend time preoccupied by what others think and can just get on with life

    Reply
  37. Claudia Carroll

    January 1, 2017 at 9:07 pm

    I am headed for my 40th in 2017 too so you’re not alone. I just hope to enjoy the time I have with the people I love!

    Reply
  38. Claire Jones

    January 1, 2017 at 9:03 pm

    Happy Birthday! Loving the blog and 40 is just a number

    Reply
  39. Alisa Moore

    January 1, 2017 at 9:01 pm

    Someone told me recently ‘Age doesn’t matter unless you’re a cheese’!

    Reply
  40. Lauren Old

    January 1, 2017 at 8:56 pm

    Happy birthday and keep up the fantastic work you do on your blog! 🙂

    Reply
  41. Samantha Parkes

    January 1, 2017 at 8:51 pm

    Congratulations and happy new year. Wishing you every success in 2017 with your amazing blog.

    Reply
  42. Wendy Guy

    January 1, 2017 at 8:40 pm

    Smile, relax and enjoy.

    Reply
  43. Sheri Darby

    January 1, 2017 at 8:30 pm

    Happy Birthday – you know that 40 is the new 20 don’t you!!!!

    Reply
  44. Jacqueline Mclean

    January 1, 2017 at 8:19 pm

    Happy New Year x

    Reply
  45. Cal at Family Makes

    January 1, 2017 at 8:19 pm

    Happy birthday. Your 40’s are the best decade – still young enough to do most things, but wiser and with more confidence and love!

    Reply
  46. Kyomi Johnson

    January 1, 2017 at 7:59 pm

    Congratulations and happy birthday to you and a very happy new year

    Reply
  47. tamalyn roberts

    January 1, 2017 at 7:56 pm

    happy birthday xx

    Reply
  48. denise s

    January 1, 2017 at 7:52 pm

    being 40 is great , you have experience wiseness ,learnt from mistakes and feel confident about yourself. engoy this decade, do fun things

    Reply
  49. DENISE W

    January 1, 2017 at 7:45 pm

    It’s not as bad as starting your sixth! Happy birthday being forty is great children are almost grown up and nearly off your hands ( they never are I lied there would’t have any other way ) your older enough to know better now and not get into scrapes ( I lied there too, it all seemed a good idea at the time) Embrace being 40 its lots of fun its time for a little me time enjoy, life does’t have to change because of a number Happy Birthday!

    Reply
  50. Gemma Holland

    January 1, 2017 at 7:44 pm

    As we get older contentment increases. Have a great birthday!

    Reply
  51. katherine s

    January 1, 2017 at 7:44 pm

    Happy birthday!! I hope you have a wonderful year!

    Reply
  52. Collette Mackey

    January 1, 2017 at 7:19 pm

    Happy birthday at least you’re not fifty lol

    Reply
  53. Joanna Ford

    January 1, 2017 at 7:15 pm

    Happy New Year

    Reply
  54. Jen Dawson

    January 1, 2017 at 7:07 pm

    Fabulous blog! just stumbled across you today for the first time 🙂 I read your story and for one stranger to another, i’m really proud of you! I know that might sound weird but having the courage to even get online and share recipes as a hobby takes confidence, but to then develop it as you have and make it a career you love is fantastic! it’s inspiring to read and i’m looking forward to delving into your website more 🙂

    Good luck for the future in developing your dream further and be proud of all you’ve achieved!

    Jen x

    Reply
  55. Mel Evans

    January 1, 2017 at 7:06 pm

    Wow, what a brilliant giveaway. Happy Birthday, age ain’t nothing but a number!

    Reply
  56. Jamie Millard

    January 1, 2017 at 6:50 pm

    happy birthday!

    Reply
  57. Eileen Tingle

    January 1, 2017 at 6:48 pm

    Helen Keller — ‘I cried because I had no shoes until I met a man who had no feet’
    Remember this in all your dealings and you won’t go far wrong – Happy birthday x

    Reply
  58. Paula Phillips

    January 1, 2017 at 6:48 pm

    I’ll try a joke –
    What’s the difference between a snow man and a snow woman – snow balls.

    Reply
  59. Emma Schofield

    January 1, 2017 at 6:46 pm

    Exactly what I will be next birthday so you are not alone lol. I’m having a massive kids party to rebel having a bouncy castle and all sorts x

    Reply
  60. Sheila Reeves

    January 1, 2017 at 6:41 pm

    40 is a breeze, found it easier than turning 39 – and just look what you have done in the last five years – your 40’s will be brilliant!!

    Reply
  61. Angela Paull

    January 1, 2017 at 6:40 pm

    A big birthday is an extra special excuse for a celebration. I share with you my favourite food based joke for the occasion. What do you call an ape with whipped egg whites on his head? A Meeang-Utan

    Reply
  62. Jo Farnsworth

    January 1, 2017 at 6:19 pm

    Happy birthday!! Hope you have a great time and thanks for the chance with a great giveaway!

    Reply
  63. Rose Elise

    January 1, 2017 at 6:02 pm

    Many congratulations! And here’s a joke for the smile: What did the Stilton say to the Cheddar? Tell me something cheesy because I’m feeling blue!

    Weeeell… it’s not FUNNY but I hope you smiled wryly at its ridiculousness!

    Reply
  64. Natalie White

    January 1, 2017 at 5:51 pm

    Congratulations on being 5ish!

    I think you should celebrate with 5 cookies and 5 glasses of wine 🙂

    Reply
  65. Sarah Chappell

    January 1, 2017 at 5:42 pm

    I love being in my 40s best time ever

    Reply
  66. Rachelle Morgan

    January 1, 2017 at 5:42 pm

    Happy birthday for this week, 40 is the new 30 they say

    Reply
  67. Yvonne Wilkinson

    January 1, 2017 at 5:37 pm

    40 is good. it’s the age when you start to not worry what other people thin

    Reply
  68. Valerie Seal

    January 1, 2017 at 5:32 pm

    If you thought being a teenager was tough, try being a parent of one!
    Happy Birthday!

    Reply
  69. sallyanne rose

    January 1, 2017 at 5:18 pm

    best decade – enjoy x

    Reply
  70. Annette Oliver

    January 1, 2017 at 5:11 pm

    You’re not even middle aged yet

    Reply
  71. Margaret Lee-Roberts

    January 1, 2017 at 5:00 pm

    One day you will look back and wish you were 40!

    Reply
  72. Ellen Stafford

    January 1, 2017 at 5:00 pm

    Wishing you a very happy 40th birthday. Hope you have an amazing time and thanks for the fabtastic blog.

    Reply
  73. ELLEN DARLINGTON

    January 1, 2017 at 4:58 pm

    Happy Birthday. 40 is the new 20 – more confidence more wisdom! Congratulations on your 4th decade of your blog

    Here’s to the next four decades

    Reply
  74. Chirag Patel

    January 1, 2017 at 4:56 pm

    happy birthday it’s only a number and your as young as you feel

    Reply
  75. Lucy Carter

    January 1, 2017 at 4:55 pm

    Happy Birthday, they say 40 is the new 30!

    Reply
  76. samantha buntain

    January 1, 2017 at 4:49 pm

    Happy 4th Decade and Happy New Year 🙂

    Reply
  77. Gillian York

    January 1, 2017 at 4:47 pm

    Happy birthday and a Happy New Year

    Reply
  78. Nat thomason

    January 1, 2017 at 4:42 pm

    This comp mad me smile what wonderful tasty prizes I would share with all the family

    Reply
  79. sandy ralph

    January 1, 2017 at 4:27 pm

    happy birthday, its true life does begins at 40. well I have found this to be true, it seems that confidence comes out big time, and you have more time for yourself and your husband as the kids are growing up and more independent

    Reply
  80. Beryl drake

    January 1, 2017 at 4:17 pm

    Congratulations on being 40 , you have reached the age of experience

    Reply
  81. Alix boswell

    January 1, 2017 at 4:08 pm

    Happy belated Birthday, 40 is the new 30!

    Reply
  82. samantha currie

    January 1, 2017 at 3:44 pm

    love the blog

    Reply
  83. Gillian McClelland

    January 1, 2017 at 3:35 pm

    Life begins at 40. You can seize the day and make of life whatever you desire, reach for the stars. life is for living

    Reply
  84. David Hides

    January 1, 2017 at 3:28 pm

    great blog, happy 2017

    Reply
  85. Debbie Preston

    January 1, 2017 at 3:27 pm

    40 is only a number. Enjoy your life and have fun

    Reply
  86. Ian Campbell

    January 1, 2017 at 3:19 pm

    The world’s an oyster, a mine of possibility, think about that when you next make some tea!

    Reply
  87. Rebecca Howells (@PeanutHog)

    January 1, 2017 at 3:17 pm

    Happy Birthday – enjoy your celebrations. You are only as old as you feel.

    Reply
  88. Tracey Jane Harman

    January 1, 2017 at 3:11 pm

    Happy Birthday to you and it would be a fantastic one for me too if I was lucky enough to win this totally amazing Prize ,,And no worries at 40 you’re still a spring chicken , me on the other hand not so much its not the age that’s doing it though its the fact I’m about to turn 49 and have 9 grandchildren !

    Reply
  89. sharon

    January 1, 2017 at 3:08 pm

    I am 47 and I am still waiting for life to begin ! I have a passion for food like your self and feel that I not only have to eat food I see but dream food also !! Have fun and enjoy life.

    Reply
  90. Jenny Jones

    January 1, 2017 at 2:58 pm

    Happy Birthday and happy New Year! The funny thing about age is that the more you think about it, the older you feel.

    Reply
  91. christine westlake

    January 1, 2017 at 2:56 pm

    Remember life does not begin till you reach 40!!

    Reply
  92. lia sturman

    January 1, 2017 at 2:54 pm

    40 is the new 30 🙂

    Reply
  93. Susan Jackson

    January 1, 2017 at 2:45 pm

    40 is just 18 with 22 years more experience, Happy Birthday

    Reply
  94. Allan Fullarton

    January 1, 2017 at 2:43 pm

    Your blog is fantastic – happy birthday.

    Reply
  95. Amanda Gregory

    January 1, 2017 at 2:23 pm

    Happy personal birthday and happy birthday to you for the blog. What a fab achievement. You’ve got lots of great fans, which is so well deserved. That’s something to be very proud of as you turn 40. Congratulations. Thanks for the lovely giveaway too.

    Reply
  96. Emma Fox

    January 1, 2017 at 2:06 pm

    You’re not alone – I begin my 40th decade soon too 🙂

    Reply
  97. Rebecca Powell

    January 1, 2017 at 1:55 pm

    Congratulations on your 40th birthday!! I love your blog

    Reply
  98. Julie Camm

    January 1, 2017 at 1:36 pm

    Just enjoy, you have more confidence in yourself in your forties, and your best friends by now will be mostly long-term who you can laugh with, moan and have a rant about things with occasionally, but mainly have fun with and together with them you never feel like you’ve hit forty, in fact you feel like you’ve never grown up!

    Reply
  99. L P Mulligan

    January 1, 2017 at 1:26 pm

    Lt life now truly begin!

    Reply
  100. Sheena Read

    January 1, 2017 at 1:08 pm

    Your blog is fantastic

    Reply
  101. Sheila Hodgson

    January 1, 2017 at 12:54 pm

    May the force be with you at FORTY

    Reply
  102. Emma

    January 1, 2017 at 12:46 pm

    Happy birthday. They say that Life begins at 40! Enjoy it.

    Reply
  103. Emma

    January 1, 2017 at 12:45 pm

    Life begins at 40!

    Reply
  104. Jane Skarratt

    January 1, 2017 at 12:41 pm

    The older you get the more you can say what you think

    Reply
  105. adrian price

    January 1, 2017 at 12:37 pm

    FORTY ITS THE NEW 30

    Reply
  106. Elizabeth Harbron

    January 1, 2017 at 12:37 pm

    You learn something new every day so the older you get the better!

    Reply
  107. Joanne Hutchings

    January 1, 2017 at 12:25 pm

    Happy returns! Just remember life begins at 40 and it’s the perfect opportunity to look back on all you’ve achieved and all the good things still to come.

    Reply
  108. Helen Metcalfe

    January 1, 2017 at 12:17 pm

    I dreaded turning 40 and made sure we were are on holiday when it happened to soften the blow. I woke up on my birthday and guess what? I didnt feel any different. Its really painless!!

    Reply
  109. Martina Alban

    January 1, 2017 at 12:06 pm

    I love reading your blog , you are my inspiration in many things

    Reply
  110. Oksana Fitzgerald

    January 1, 2017 at 11:34 am

    Happy birthday!!!! May all your wishes come true

    Reply
  111. Ailsasheldon

    January 1, 2017 at 11:14 am

    Have low expectations and keep moving forward!

    Reply
  112. Lucy Chester

    January 1, 2017 at 11:08 am

    Happy birthday to you, I am finishing mine and have to say they have been great and I have enjoyed them all and come and join me on the journey, you will not regret it

    Reply
  113. Jackie Osborne

    January 1, 2017 at 11:08 am

    The older you get the faster times goes by. You only have one life so go for it, live life to the full. Your life is what you make it.

    Reply
  114. Rachael O'Brien

    January 1, 2017 at 10:17 am

    I felt this way turning 30 ! Now I’m 34 I feel wiser and ready for 40’s your still young ! Plus it’s only a number . In my head I’m still 15! Would love to win this year is all about spoiling myself and being as happy as possible this will definitely help ! Xx

    Reply
  115. Petra Hora

    January 1, 2017 at 10:17 am

    Amazing news.

    Reply
  116. Petra Hora

    January 1, 2017 at 10:16 am

    Perfect news!

    Reply
  117. Rebecca roberts

    January 1, 2017 at 10:03 am

    Happy birthday happy new year and happy blogging keep up the fantastic work

    Reply
  118. Katie Thomas

    January 1, 2017 at 9:52 am

    You’re only as old as the person you feel 🙂

    Reply
  119. Julie Edwards

    January 1, 2017 at 9:50 am

    Happy birthday!!! Life DOES begin at 40!!!

    Reply
  120. Jackie Roberts

    January 1, 2017 at 9:44 am

    Oh and happy 5th birthday too

    Reply
  121. Jackie Roberts

    January 1, 2017 at 9:43 am

    Happy Birthday and take solace in the fact you have the waist of a teenager!

    Reply
  122. Tina Holmes

    January 1, 2017 at 9:21 am

    Congrats, I love your blog! Your pictures are amazing!

    Reply
  123. Steven Montgomery

    January 1, 2017 at 7:57 am

    Things only get better 😉

    Reply
  124. claire little

    January 1, 2017 at 3:48 am

    you’ll rock it 🙂

    Reply
  125. Andrea Johnson

    January 1, 2017 at 2:45 am

    I’ve just turned 40 too and was dreading it, it’s not so bad, it’s now my excuse to drink decent wine while I (very selectively) pretend to be a grown up! Happy birthday 🙂

    Reply
  126. Su Brett

    January 1, 2017 at 2:34 am

    Birthdays are just natures way of telling us to eat more cake – Happy Birthday!

    Reply
  127. steph lovatt

    January 1, 2017 at 12:32 am

    Happy Birthday!! Naughty Forties is the new twenties

    Reply
  128. Patricia Avery

    January 1, 2017 at 12:28 am

    Happy birthday to you and your blog 🙂

    Reply
  129. karen Howden

    January 1, 2017 at 12:17 am

    Keep Smiling you are only as old as you feel

    Reply
  130. Samantha Fernley

    January 1, 2017 at 12:15 am

    Hopefully 40 isn’t that bad as I’ll be on that bus shortly too. Happy Birthday xx

    Reply
  131. Nancy Bradford

    January 1, 2017 at 12:00 am

    The fact that you are going to be closer to 40 than 50 for five whole years should make you smile.

    Reply
  132. Rachel King

    December 31, 2016 at 11:48 pm

    I turned 40 earlier this year – but it’s ok, my husband is still older than me!

    Reply
  133. Dawn Hull

    December 31, 2016 at 11:43 pm

    Lots of people say that life begins at 40 and it is true!!! Happy birthday and best wishes for 2017!

    Reply
  134. Stev Rigby

    December 31, 2016 at 11:23 pm

    The older you get the more fun you become because you care less about what people think of you!

    Reply
  135. Lisa Wilkinson

    December 31, 2016 at 11:17 pm

    It’ll be easier from now on – the first 40 years of childhood are the hardest

    Reply
  136. Jenn Gillies

    December 31, 2016 at 11:13 pm

    You’re halfway there!!! LOL! As one who is halfway through my 4th decade… I am not sure how that thought makes me feel… the jury is still out. 🙂

    Reply
  137. madeline connolly

    December 31, 2016 at 10:57 pm

    happy birthday

    Reply
  138. EJ Dunn

    December 31, 2016 at 10:21 pm

    Age is just a number!

    Reply
  139. Anita hargreaves

    December 31, 2016 at 10:02 pm

    Watching Dawn French on bbc4 she is just as vital and attractive. Happy Birthday x

    Reply
  140. Scott

    December 31, 2016 at 9:37 pm

    Happy bday!

    Reply
  141. Hazel Rea

    December 31, 2016 at 9:35 pm

    Congratulations on five years of blogging and here’s to many more! Forty is just a number – just think of yourself as a 20 year old with 20 years experience which will let you make the next decade the best.

    Reply
  142. raj awasti

    December 31, 2016 at 9:35 pm

    I wouldn’t worry about hitting 40…
    Life begins at 50 now 🙂

    Reply
  143. Peter barnes

    December 31, 2016 at 9:31 pm

    I am celebrating my 40th on 4th Jan. Embrace it, I’m looking forward to giving a few new things a try this year and making the most of it. Have a great birthday !!

    Reply
  144. Tracey Ryder

    December 31, 2016 at 9:31 pm

    Have a happy birthday and live life to the full

    Reply
  145. Clare H

    December 31, 2016 at 8:48 pm

    Happy Birthday! age is just a number!

    Reply
  146. Clare H

    December 31, 2016 at 8:48 pm

    age is just a number! Happy Birthday!

    Reply
  147. Danielle Mc

    December 31, 2016 at 8:40 pm

    Happy birthday!! I have to say that when you turn 40 it must suddenly make you even better looking. It was my Fiance’s 40th in June and I must say……… Ding Dong!!! Sending magical 40th birthday vibes!!!

    Reply
  148. Rachel Butler

    December 31, 2016 at 7:48 pm

    I hope you’ve had a wonderful birthday and embraced everything wonderful in life! Because you know what? Decade Schmecade! Number Schmumber! Age Schmage! It means nothing! And as they say….you’re only as old as the lover you feel! xo

    Reply
  149. Erica Price

    December 31, 2016 at 7:44 pm

    Happy Birthday! Enjoy your 4th decade adventures.

    Reply
  150. kathy cakebread

    December 31, 2016 at 6:25 pm

    Happy birthday – fab comp 🙂

    Reply
  151. Mandi Davison

    December 31, 2016 at 6:06 pm

    Look on the Bright side…you only turn 40 once……Have a great 2017 🙂

    Reply
  152. Mark Fridlington

    December 31, 2016 at 5:59 pm

    Just think of Nigella Lawson, who has gone past her 4th decade, as an inspiration. (I hope that makes you smile).

    Reply
  153. Aaron Milne

    December 31, 2016 at 5:54 pm

    As i’m just into my 5 th decade rest assured youll always be younger than me !

    Reply
  154. Kat Allinson

    December 31, 2016 at 5:33 pm

    Happy birthday and huge congratulations on 5 years of your blog <3

    Reply
  155. Sarah Lee

    December 31, 2016 at 5:31 pm

    Happy Birthday and Congratulations on 5 years of blogging. x

    Reply
  156. Georgina Jacobs

    December 31, 2016 at 4:53 pm

    Welcome to a great decade!

    Reply
  157. Anthea Holloway

    December 31, 2016 at 4:40 pm

    Congratulations and many happy returns. I think the forties are very happy years!

    Reply
  158. Kerry Kilmister

    December 31, 2016 at 4:25 pm

    Life begins at 40 or so I hear! Happy Birthday and happy blog anniversary xxx

    Reply
  159. suzi moore

    December 31, 2016 at 4:18 pm

    40 you are just a spring chicken my love, i wish i could be 40 again, happy birthday x

    Reply
  160. Gemma Aktekin

    December 31, 2016 at 3:52 pm

    Happy Fortylicious Birthday!
    Birthdays are good for your health, a recent study has proven that people who have more birthdays live longer 🙂

    Reply
  161. Helen T

    December 31, 2016 at 3:34 pm

    Life begins at 40! Enjoy 🙂

    Reply
  162. Gwyn Sharps

    December 31, 2016 at 3:25 pm

    Wow! How amazing! Have a wonderful 40th! xxx

    Reply
  163. Sarah Wilson

    December 31, 2016 at 3:12 pm

    Happy Birthday! Keep up the hard work, you’re doing a fab job! 🙂

    Reply
  164. Suzanne Roberts

    December 31, 2016 at 3:02 pm

    Happy birthday, remember;

    Youth is a gift of nature
    but
    Age is a work of art.

    Hope you have a wonderful year ahead.

    Reply
  165. jo byworth

    December 31, 2016 at 1:51 pm

    Happy birthday and it is true what they say, life really does begin at 40

    Reply
  166. Gloria Hartley

    December 31, 2016 at 1:42 pm

    Happy Birthday! Hope you get all you desire and wish for. This is fist time i have seen your blog and have to say it is great, well done keep it up in 2017 i will definitely be returning.

    Reply
  167. Michelle Flaxton

    December 31, 2016 at 1:38 pm

    Just think of all those happy times and funny moments you made with family and friends in those years and you’ve only got more to make and remember with age

    Reply
  168. katie w

    December 31, 2016 at 11:59 am

    Penblwydd Happus – remember life has just began treasure every moment, laugh as much as possible as these times we make

    Reply
  169. Gisela Barrington

    December 31, 2016 at 10:57 am

    This is my first visit to your site and I am impressed with your cooking skills and your amazing connections in the world of food. Being 40 means being bang in the middle of your life! With your talents there is nothing to be afraid of…..you will always survive!

    Reply
  170. JOANNE ROXBURGH

    December 31, 2016 at 10:49 am

    Happy Birthday 🙂

    Reply
  171. Jo McPherson

    December 31, 2016 at 9:25 am

    Happy Birthday ! Your 40’s are great, enjoy them !

    Reply
  172. hanene nasr

    December 31, 2016 at 9:10 am

    Great prize. Fingers crossed

    Reply
  173. Anna Lord

    December 31, 2016 at 8:53 am

    40 is the new 30, embrace it and be grateful for everything you have including your great talent as a much loved blogger. Happy Birthday beautiful lady,

    Reply
  174. Sarah Norgrove

    December 31, 2016 at 4:36 am

    How many archaeologists does does it take to change a lightbulb ?
    A: Three. One to change it and two to argue about how old the old one is

    Reply
  175. Anni Ezmerelda Large

    December 31, 2016 at 2:44 am

    Happy Birthday! I love your recipes. They inspire me to get creative in the kitchen. 🙂

    Reply
  176. Jenna Dick

    December 31, 2016 at 1:34 am

    You asked for something to make you smile (or groan in despair)…What do you call a fish with no eyes? A fsh.

    Reply
  177. Sue Harrison

    December 31, 2016 at 1:27 am

    4th.. you’re a spring chicken ! 🙂

    Reply
  178. James Holyland

    December 31, 2016 at 1:00 am

    As Queen said nothing really matters!

    Reply
  179. Tiff Jordan

    December 30, 2016 at 11:49 pm

    You’ll be fine turning 40- it’s really not so bad, happy birthday. If anything it gives you confidence to completely be yourself so I hope you’ll be happy and carefree x

    Reply
  180. Leila Benhamida

    December 30, 2016 at 11:41 pm

    Happy Birthday! 40 years of wisdom. You are AMAZING!

    Reply
  181. David Powell

    December 30, 2016 at 11:15 pm

    Happy Birthday – There is nothing to fear of birthdays, even as you get older.

    Reply
  182. clare davies

    December 30, 2016 at 11:09 pm

    Happy 40th to you! i recently turned 30 and after being in denial it wasnt so bad! after all its just a number! have a fab time 🙂 x

    Reply
  183. Em S

    December 30, 2016 at 9:50 pm

    40 is fabulous, enjoy the big birthday

    Reply
  184. Gilla Abrahams

    December 30, 2016 at 9:49 pm

    Congratulations. Have a lovely birthday and look forward to having a very happy New Year and new decade.

    Reply
  185. sian hallewell

    December 30, 2016 at 9:42 pm

    Getting older means getting wiser , more patient, more understanding, more compassionate. Whats not to like.

    Reply
  186. Dorogi Eva

    December 30, 2016 at 9:14 pm

    Happy birthday! My partner was 52 in December and I would share the prize with him. He deserves it

    Reply
  187. lisa tebbutt

    December 30, 2016 at 8:11 pm

    happy birthday

    Reply
  188. Dale Dow

    December 30, 2016 at 8:11 pm

    Happy Birthday! My Mums life started at 40!!

    Reply
  189. Ali Thorpe

    December 30, 2016 at 8:05 pm

    If you’re turning 40,
    You can be quite naughty,
    And a little haughty.
    Give me that big torte …eeeeee :/

    Reply
  190. Ellie Jones

    December 30, 2016 at 7:25 pm

    Happy Birthday and remember as the song goes it can only get better ☺ lots of love xxxx

    Reply
  191. Hannah Smith

    December 30, 2016 at 6:59 pm

    Happy birthday! You were one of the first blogs I read. Good luck for 2017, I’m completely rebranding so it should be a fun year.

    @smeethsaysfashn on twitter (for now)

    Reply
  192. Pam Francis Gregory

    December 30, 2016 at 6:29 pm

    Many Happy returns – here’s to the next 4 decaes!

    Reply
  193. Alison

    December 30, 2016 at 6:02 pm

    Happy birthday. It could be worse, I entered my fifth decade this year eeek

    Reply
  194. Isabell Whitenstall

    December 30, 2016 at 5:50 pm

    Happy Birthday. I think you are still a bairn. 40 is no age at all, well it seems no age to me when I am knocking on 72. Forget the number and have fun.

    Reply
  195. Claire Tucker

    December 30, 2016 at 5:36 pm

    life is just beginning…you get a whole new sense of humour

    Reply
  196. Margaret Nokling

    December 30, 2016 at 5:18 pm

    Happy Birthday. Remember its not the years that count but what you put into them!

    Reply
  197. Jill Fairbanks

    December 30, 2016 at 4:37 pm

    Smile it could be a lot worse in 2 years I will entering my 50th ! Happy birthday

    Reply
  198. claire fawkner

    December 30, 2016 at 2:47 pm

    Happy Happy Birthday! Hope you have a fabulous time!

    Reply
  199. JULIE WARD

    December 30, 2016 at 2:40 pm

    50 is the new 40 I’m told so you have another 10 years to go. I’m still young in my head and I’m 60 and still stupid

    Reply
  200. Susan Hoggett

    December 30, 2016 at 2:35 pm

    Happy Birthday, you’re very talented and make alot of people happy following your wonderful blog, keep it up and all the best for 2017!!

    Reply
  201. Samantha R

    December 30, 2016 at 2:25 pm

    Happy birthday!! Here’s to another 40 years of happiness, health and love. 🙂

    Reply
  202. CAROL PATRICK

    December 30, 2016 at 12:37 pm

    Age really is just a number, it’s health & happiness that are most important in life

    Reply
  203. Karen Harrison

    December 30, 2016 at 12:28 pm

    Celebrate your 40’s – you’re older, wiser, smarter and more body confident than you were in your 20’s – and you no longer care what people think!

    Reply
  204. Allan Wilson

    December 30, 2016 at 8:53 am

    It’s not down hill from 40 !!!

    Reply
  205. kate m jones

    December 30, 2016 at 1:49 am

    First of all…..Happy Birthday 🙂 They do say that life begins at 40 so wipe that tear away and start the next part of your great adventure with a smile on your face and love in your heart 🙂

    Reply
  206. Hannah Carroll

    December 30, 2016 at 1:38 am

    Happy birthday! I hope you have a fantastic day, and are truly spoilt, and don’t forget, 40 is the new 20! 🙂 xx

    Reply
  207. Anthea Larkins

    December 30, 2016 at 1:31 am

    40 is just a number, you are as old as you feel.
    I feel like a 25 year old, instead I have a 50 something year old asleep next to me!!!!

    Reply
  208. tarbs gill

    December 30, 2016 at 12:52 am

    Happy birthday! Welcome to my world! 🙂

    Reply
  209. Mary Baldwin

    December 30, 2016 at 12:38 am

    Happy Birthday and blogiversary. Age is just a number – remember to love yourself and care or yourself so others will as well. Do what I say and reply 21 with a big smile when anyone asks your age – very rarely do people probe any further; they’re not that brave!

    Reply
  210. anastasia jones

    December 29, 2016 at 10:40 pm

    Happy Birthday, and well done keep up the good work xxx

    Reply
  211. Wendy Smith

    December 29, 2016 at 10:22 pm

    Happy Birthday and remember you’re only one day older than you were yesterday

    Reply
  212. Angela Macdonald

    December 29, 2016 at 10:09 pm

    Happy 40th birthday! Life truly does begin again at 40! 🙂

    Reply
  213. Sarah Rees

    December 29, 2016 at 9:35 pm

    Happy birthday – its not so bad. I turned 40 last year and it just made me want to live life more 🙂

    Reply
  214. Olly Cator

    December 29, 2016 at 8:47 pm

    Wow, my mouth was literacy a gasp as I perused this post. Many congrats on the blog and it’s ace presentation.

    Reply
  215. janine atkin

    December 29, 2016 at 8:39 pm

    happy birthday! and what an amazing giveaway!

    Reply
  216. Cheryl Sutton

    December 29, 2016 at 8:34 pm

    A massive happy birthday! , Its my birthday in feb so this would be a fantastic gift to receive, thank you for the chance

    Reply
  217. Virginia

    December 29, 2016 at 8:08 pm

    Happy Birthday! Hope you have a great time.

    Reply
  218. Jason Tolliss

    December 29, 2016 at 8:05 pm

    Happy birthday, hope you have a great one and here’s to the next four decades

    Reply
  219. claire stewart

    December 29, 2016 at 7:30 pm

    Happy Birthday always remember you are beautiful

    Reply
  220. michelle speight

    December 29, 2016 at 6:48 pm

    remmeber there are wheely good zimmer frames for you haha

    Reply
  221. angela sandhu

    December 29, 2016 at 5:53 pm

    Happy Birthday!

    Reply
  222. Naila Mo

    December 29, 2016 at 4:14 pm

    Congratulation, have a wonderful birthday. Your Blog is amazing, keep up the great work

    Reply
  223. Nicola Battensby

    December 29, 2016 at 3:06 pm

    Enjoy life for the moment; age is but a number

    Reply
  224. Suzanne Sendell

    December 29, 2016 at 1:08 pm

    Age Is just a number,just because we’re all getting older doesn’t mean we have to take things easy,lifes to short to worry about our age
    Enjoy everyday as we will never get that time again
    Happy Birthday, go for It girl xx

    Reply
  225. Stephanie

    December 29, 2016 at 1:07 pm

    Happy Birthday! Remember Life begins at 40 🙂

    Reply
  226. Christine Caple

    December 29, 2016 at 1:00 pm

    I hope you had a fantastic birthday, you are still young!

    Reply
  227. Rebecca Smith

    December 29, 2016 at 12:56 pm

    big happy birthday!!! enjoy your day and look back and remember all that you’ve achieved and you’ll see how fabulous you are xxxx

    Reply
  228. julia linsley

    December 29, 2016 at 10:14 am

    Creativity Food and Love are all you need

    Reply
  229. cathyj

    December 29, 2016 at 9:36 am

    enjoy life

    Reply
  230. greig spencer

    December 29, 2016 at 9:19 am

    age is but a number, you will be fine xxx

    Reply
  231. Maxine G

    December 29, 2016 at 9:13 am

    Happy happy birthday and wishing you all the best for 2017!

    Reply
  232. carole n

    December 29, 2016 at 12:20 am

    happy birthday to you – just enjoy the day and forget about numbers

    Reply
  233. Gwen Biviano

    December 28, 2016 at 10:07 pm

    Many Happy Returns x

    Reply
  234. Brenda Melaniphy

    December 28, 2016 at 9:50 pm

    Try to make sure you live your life in such a way that when time machines are invented, you can proudly turn around and say ‘I have no need to go back in time because I have truly lived my life in the best possible way’. Happy 40th birthday!!

    Reply
  235. Kathryn Hipkin

    December 28, 2016 at 8:32 pm

    Just think – acne and teenage angst are gone forever! Yummy food lives on! Happy Birthday!

    Reply
  236. Ann Skamarauskas

    December 28, 2016 at 5:27 pm

    welcome to your extremely late 30’s 🙂

    Reply
  237. Mark Fletcher

    December 28, 2016 at 4:16 pm

    40 is great- you have the resources to do all the stuff you couldnt at 20 and the wisdom to know better but do them anyway because hey youre not 50 yet!!

    Reply
  238. Rebecca MacBain

    December 28, 2016 at 3:40 pm

    Happy new year

    Reply
  239. Paula T

    December 28, 2016 at 3:28 pm

    I had a big birthday this year and was mortified about joining a new number.
    It’s not so bad at all and was worth a if the fuss and champagne 🙂 Happy Birthday xx

    Reply
  240. Tracey S Anderson

    December 28, 2016 at 3:03 pm

    Hip hip hooray it’s your birthday … Keep smiling 😀 x x

    Reply
  241. Carole Paton

    December 28, 2016 at 2:53 pm

    Forty was fantastic but fifty is absolutely fabulous! The last 10/11 years have been the bet and most adventurous of my life. Scream ‘Bring It On!’ at the top of your lungs and eenjoy every minute!

    Reply
  242. Claudia

    December 28, 2016 at 2:12 pm

    Happy Birthday and thank you for running such a great blog

    Reply
  243. Matthew Warman

    December 28, 2016 at 2:01 pm

    Happy Birthday! 40 is the new 30 so no need to panic! Enjoy!

    Reply
  244. Ella Swinbank

    December 28, 2016 at 1:57 pm

    It’s not good, but it’s better than the alternative – death. So Happy Birthday and remember you’re as young as you feel so live life to the full and enjoy the journey! I’m in my 50’s, trust me 40’s are fine…

    Reply
  245. Jo Carroll

    December 28, 2016 at 1:34 pm

    Happy 40th…you’re still a pup 😉 My only advice is to stay away from long rafflecopters…they eat up precious xmas celebration and birthday party time…hehe!

    Reply
  246. Clifford Sherwood

    December 28, 2016 at 11:33 am

    Smile and the world smiles with you

    Reply
  247. Lydia Graham

    December 28, 2016 at 12:52 am

    I remember when I was 40, what a long time ago it seems. Hope you had a lovely birthday

    Reply
  248. John Tingay

    December 27, 2016 at 11:40 pm

    You’re not forty – more like a pair of twenty-year olds!

    Q. How do you confuse someone over forty?
    A. Aubergine

    Reply
  249. Danielle Graves

    December 27, 2016 at 11:10 pm

    Happy birthday lovely, don’t worry about your age, think of yourself as a fine whisky – only getting more fabulous with age

    Reply
  250. Rose P

    December 27, 2016 at 10:47 pm

    If you think approaching forty is bad wait till you reach 60 ,life starts to dawdle then

    Reply
  251. lynn neal

    December 27, 2016 at 10:42 pm

    Happy Birthday! Celebrate with a conga around your neighbourhood and get as many people to join in as you can and then post a picture on your blog!

    Reply
  252. Clara Bee

    December 27, 2016 at 10:36 pm

    A big happy happy birthday to you!

    Reply
  253. Ruth Wollerton

    December 27, 2016 at 10:33 pm

    Happy Birthday – i wish you lots of FIZZ, bubbles and presents big and small; so you have the best birthday of ALL.

    Reply
  254. Katy C Johnston

    December 27, 2016 at 10:19 pm

    What delicious looking treats and a lovely blog! x

    Reply
  255. LondonREC

    December 27, 2016 at 10:16 pm

    Happy birthday – hope your family spoils you!

    Reply
  256. Sylvia Paul

    December 27, 2016 at 9:27 pm

    Happy birthday! Hoping your 40s will feel incredibly new and exciting like your 20s — only doubly so!

    Reply
  257. Jodie Cook

    December 27, 2016 at 9:16 pm

    Have a fantastic birthday! Hope you have an amazing day!

    Reply
  258. Julie Wilson

    December 27, 2016 at 9:06 pm

    Embrace and enjoy it. It’s been my best decade so far. I hope that it is for you too.

    Reply
  259. lyla

    December 27, 2016 at 8:19 pm

    Happy Birthday, just think it’s still another 10 years before you can go on Saga holidays, 20 years before you get a free bus pass and 25 years before you can get a free TV licence!

    Reply
  260. Laura Pritchard

    December 27, 2016 at 6:57 pm

    I have a sister 10 years younger than me so she is a constant reminder of how much more confident I get with age (she is 25 & I am 35) – when I see her I realise how much I prefer being me at any age!

    Reply
  261. Beth Bowdler

    December 27, 2016 at 4:59 pm

    You are as old as you feel. I am 62 and feel as though I am still in my twenties!

    Reply
  262. Alex Cuckson

    December 27, 2016 at 4:47 pm

    Best things about turning 40……

    1) You suddenly realise that you can wear what you want and when you want, and not really care what anybody thinks. I.e. Want to dress like a fairy, wings and all? Do it! People will think you’re eccentric and ‘funky’ for your age.
    2) You will no longer feel obliged to go to anything, just because your mates do for fear of missing out. Equally, you won’t fear booking to get onto a workshop or whatever on your own because you have confidence to do it alone! Yay to stuffing a dead rat, making hats etc.
    3) You can still act your shoe size!

    Happy birthday!

    Reply
  263. steven phillips

    December 27, 2016 at 3:58 pm

    Happy Birthday and what a great blog its now on my blog reading list

    Reply
  264. Heather Cain

    December 27, 2016 at 3:50 pm

    40 is the new 30 – just start a brand new state of mind – “I don’t care what people think of me – I know I am the best at what I do”. Wear what you want to wear – don’t be pigeon-holed into a certain look. And just be HAPPY – enjoy every day- laugh every day – often at yourself specially if you forget something as this will happen more often lol. Talk to yourself too – it helps believe me lol.

    Reply
  265. jenna rothen

    December 27, 2016 at 3:30 pm

    happy birthday hope you have a great day.

    Reply
  266. Jenna G

    December 27, 2016 at 1:03 pm

    Happy Birthday! New Follower here and your photography is incredible! Congratulations on 5 years of blogging that is quite an achievement!

    xxx

    Reply
  267. KAREN HALL

    December 27, 2016 at 1:07 pm

    Age doesn’t matter just lobe and live life to the full xx

    Reply
  268. Frances H

    December 27, 2016 at 11:41 am

    Plus sides to getting older – 1. Cheaper car insurance, 2. Hang on I’m still thinking … there must be something else. Sod it! It must be my age. Let’s focus on the car insurance eh?

    Reply
  269. Rajee Pandi

    December 27, 2016 at 10:32 am

    Happy Birthday Elizabeth You have done great work. I love to read your beautiful content not easy to find other blogs

    Reply
  270. Lesley Bain

    December 27, 2016 at 4:19 am

    Who is 40? You meant 21 right? Happy Birthday 😉 x

    Reply
  271. Inga Andersen

    December 27, 2016 at 3:41 am

    You know what they say, life begins at forty. Don’t believe ’em though lol it began years before then! HAve a Happy Birthday 🙂

    Reply
  272. izzy smith

    December 27, 2016 at 1:19 am

    congrats, thanks for the fab giveaway xxx

    Reply
  273. Jane

    December 27, 2016 at 12:46 am

    I’m 2.5 years off that one as well, it’s a number and think of the wealth of experience that you can still help people who are slightly younger than you. Stay young.

    Reply
  274. Susan Smith

    December 26, 2016 at 11:47 pm

    Congratulations hope 2017 is another good year for you, keep up your wonderful work

    Reply
  275. C Kennedy

    December 26, 2016 at 11:22 pm

    Happy birthday! And huge congratulations to you, you’ve done such an amazing job with the blog

    Reply
  276. Catherine Joyce

    December 26, 2016 at 10:45 pm

    Happy Birthday – it does get better once you reach 40, things that used to matter are not important anymore!

    Reply
  277. Kristyn Harris

    December 26, 2016 at 10:26 pm

    Life begins at 40! Hope you have a great birthday and a fantastic year!

    Reply
  278. Angela Wilcox

    December 26, 2016 at 10:13 pm

    Happy birthday. Turning 40 is nothing to worry about, I turned 40 myself a couple of months ago and I’m determined it will be my best decade yet

    Reply
  279. Kathryn MacKinnon Cook

    December 26, 2016 at 9:54 pm

    You’re only as old as the man you feel ;-)…..

    Reply
  280. Deborah Mackenzie

    December 26, 2016 at 9:42 pm

    Happy birthday! 40 is the best year as you now have a licence to do as you want! It is when life really begins and you can start to put yourself first more and so I say do something really memorable anddo something you have always wanted to do!

    Reply
  281. Kev C

    December 26, 2016 at 8:27 pm

    Congratulations, here’s to the next 3 decades!!

    Reply
  282. Catherine

    December 26, 2016 at 8:13 pm

    I hope you have had a great birthday! and what a fab giveaway!

    Reply
  283. Rachel @ Coffee, Cake, Kids

    December 26, 2016 at 7:18 pm

    Have a good one – remember life begins at 40!

    Reply
  284. michelle o'neill

    December 26, 2016 at 7:16 pm

    Have a fantastic birthday.My 40s have been the best time!

    Reply
  285. Rachel Chico

    December 26, 2016 at 6:43 pm

    Happy birthday,only 11 months till my turn

    Reply
  286. Rachel Colclough

    December 26, 2016 at 6:13 pm

    Happy Birthday. Just after turning 40 I decided to take up martial arts something prior to my 40s I never had any interest in. Love it and hope to promote to 1st degree black belt in 2017.

    Reply
  287. Barbara Handley

    December 26, 2016 at 5:05 pm

    Happy Birthday.

    Q: What did one candle say to the other?
    A: “Don’t birthdays burn you up?” !!

    Reply
  288. Victoria Prince

    December 26, 2016 at 12:31 pm

    Happy belated birthday to both you and your blog! I’m trying to think of something vaguely witty but I’m too exhausted to think, so I’m sorry about that!

    I do, however, always look forward to reading your blog 🙂 and I hope you continue to write for many more years!

    Reply
  289. Susan Ellins

    December 26, 2016 at 12:17 pm

    Happy birthday

    Reply
  290. Loma Wood

    December 26, 2016 at 9:56 am

    It gets better! Really and truly – I am 67 and I don’t care what anyone else thinks or says and I am super happy!

    Reply
  291. Michaela Hannah

    December 26, 2016 at 6:08 am

    Happy birthday and Happy Christmas! Best wishes for the New Year

    Reply
  292. Caroline Huby

    December 25, 2016 at 12:24 am

    Happy birthday to you!! Life begins at 40 🙂

    Reply
  293. Elizabeth Gaskell

    December 25, 2016 at 12:06 am

    Forty is nothing to worry about. I’m 58 and looking 60 square in th eye. If it’s one thing I’ve learned age is just a number, and forty is the new 25! Embrace it and enjoy it.

    Reply
  294. Mike W

    December 24, 2016 at 9:12 pm

    Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, may all your dreams come true.

    Reply
  295. Jess Powell (Babi a Fi)

    December 24, 2016 at 2:47 pm

    Happy Birthday! Always remember that age brings the wisdom to know what you like – and the strength to not put up with what you don’t! x

    Reply
  296. Kate Grogan

    December 24, 2016 at 7:12 am

    Hapy Belated Birthday – 40 isn’t that bad is it?!

    Reply
  297. Kate Kathurima

    December 24, 2016 at 6:36 am

    HAppy Birthday now go out and celebrate like you 18 again

    Reply
  298. Kathleen

    December 24, 2016 at 12:14 am

    Wow just been loooking at the REDMOND MULTICOOKER RMC-280E it looks awesome

    Reply
  299. Teresa

    December 23, 2016 at 5:34 pm

    Happy Birthday Christmas Baby! I loved my 30’s – those were my best looking years, good hair, good skin, best career years too. In my 40’s I have home with the kiddos – getting squishy! ☺

    Reply
  300. antony machin

    December 23, 2016 at 4:59 pm

    we dont get older we get wiser

    Reply
  301. mainy

    December 23, 2016 at 2:40 pm

    Celebrate and enjoy, live life to the full and act outrageously whenever possible!

    Mainy

    Reply
  302. Jess Mary

    December 23, 2016 at 8:24 am

    Happy Birthday Elizabeth! Keep up the good work in everything you do! Your blog is amazing and always an inspiration for me 🙂 xx

    Reply
  303. Solange

    December 23, 2016 at 5:49 am

    Age is just a state of mind. Happy Birthday.

    Reply
  304. allison mary

    December 23, 2016 at 1:57 am

    Well, when I was turning 40 i was worried life would be downhill from then onwards, however it proved to be the beginning of the best years of my life. Happy birthday! Allison.

    Reply
  305. Emily Clark

    December 22, 2016 at 6:40 pm

    ITSSSSSSSSSS CHRISTMAAAAAAAAAAASSS! Well, it is! Have a wonderful birthday and a lovely Christmas!

    Reply
  306. Allyson McLeod

    December 22, 2016 at 5:10 pm

    Have a fantastic birthday. I was 40 last year and although some old hag told me it was all downhill from now (miserable old biddy!), I disagree. Age is only a number and you are only as old as you feel. I went off to Australia for a 3 week holiday on my own to celebrate my 40th birthday and it was the best holiday ever. Treat yourself!

    Reply
  307. Graeme

    December 22, 2016 at 3:53 pm

    40 – you young whippersnapper.

    Reply
  308. Katherine McDonald

    December 22, 2016 at 3:50 pm

    Happy Birthday!

    Reply
  309. Colin Bragg

    December 22, 2016 at 2:22 pm

    Quote from Bob Hope – “You know you’re getting old when the candles cost more than the cake”

    Reply
  310. Kathleen

    December 22, 2016 at 11:41 am

    Oh my that crock pot looks wonderful. I would use it for my chilli con carni. I can almost smell the awesome smell of the tomato meat garlic and chilli if I close my eyes….yummy perfect for these cold winters days.

    Reply
  311. georgina s

    December 22, 2016 at 2:04 am

    happy birthday

    Reply
  312. Monica Gilbert

    December 22, 2016 at 1:05 am

    For me, my 30s were much better than my 20s. As I approach 40, I’m expecting much to be the same.

    Reply
  313. Nicki Simpson

    December 22, 2016 at 12:11 am

    This will cheer you up……a joke that my 4 year old received in a cracker and she keeps telling it over and over….and over (usually getting it wrong)

    Why are ghosts such bad liars?

    You can see right through them!!!!

    HAHAHA

    Reply
  314. paula cheadle

    December 21, 2016 at 11:46 pm

    congrats on your birthday, i’ve been that and done it, I treated as just another birthday but told everybody I was 39 + 1, the next year it was 39 + 2 and so on until I got to 45 then I just could not be bothered any more

    Reply
  315. Rebecca Nisbet

    December 21, 2016 at 11:25 pm

    ohhhh!! happy birthday to you!!

    Reply
  316. Sparklett21

    December 21, 2016 at 10:25 pm

    Happy Birthday, only two years until you can have your second 21st!! I high,y recommend it Merry Christmas

    Reply
  317. Katie Harmer

    December 21, 2016 at 10:23 pm

    Happy 40th birthday, let there be many more! Well done you 🙂

    Reply
  318. Jayne Townson

    December 21, 2016 at 10:14 pm

    Wishing you a very Happy birthday! Don’t forget age is just a number, you’re an amazing person, it’s how you feel inside the matters most. Many thanks for the amazing giveaway. I love reading your blog and enjoy your many lovely photos, good luck for the future.

    Reply
  319. gemma middleton

    December 21, 2016 at 9:46 pm

    Happy Birthday – life begins at 40!!!

    Reply
  320. Laura Corrall

    December 21, 2016 at 9:23 pm

    Happy 40th birthday to you! As well have happy 5th blog birthday too. Looking forward to many more happy years reading your blog. So much inspiration.

    Reply
  321. Nicole

    December 21, 2016 at 8:09 pm

    Happiest Birthday and to delicious nibbles! Cheers!

    Reply
  322. kerry white

    December 21, 2016 at 7:07 pm

    Happy birthday to you and your blog. Really interestinf.

    Reply
  323. Fiona P

    December 21, 2016 at 6:56 pm

    40 is the new 25!

    Reply
  324. dina

    December 21, 2016 at 6:51 pm

    Happy birthday!

    Reply
  325. Isabella

    December 21, 2016 at 6:22 pm

    Happy Birthday! I hope you had a lovely celebration, lots of treats and lots of bubbly!

    Reply
  326. Rebecca Smith

    December 21, 2016 at 5:15 pm

    Have a very happy birthday and I hope you get everything you wish for

    Reply
  327. Lynne

    December 21, 2016 at 5:13 pm

    Embrace it, I have and I’m loving the new adventure. Such amazing prizes on offer, may I wish you a very happy birthday and more amazing years blogging x

    Reply
  328. Leigh

    December 21, 2016 at 3:50 pm

    Have a great birthday

    Reply
  329. Jessica Howliston

    December 21, 2016 at 1:28 pm

    Great giveaway!!

    Don’t worry about turning 40, just remember they say life begins at 40! After all age is just a number and can’t determine how far we can dream or how much we achieve! Enjoy your birthday xx

    Reply
  330. Sharon Jackson

    December 21, 2016 at 10:05 am

    Age is just a number, your as young as you feel. Happy 40th Birthday, enjoy every moment life brings 🙂

    Reply
  331. chelsey Hollings

    December 21, 2016 at 10:01 am

    Happy Birthday 🙂

    Reply
  332. Karen

    December 21, 2016 at 9:23 am

    Happy birthday! Hope it’s a good one! I live your blog. It’s a great place to find food inspiration and always makes me hungry!

    Reply
  333. Peter Watson

    December 21, 2016 at 9:22 am

    You’re less than half way through your journey,a long way to go yet

    Reply
  334. James Devon

    December 21, 2016 at 9:15 am

    It only gets easier from now on!

    Reply
  335. Joyce McCormack

    December 21, 2016 at 9:12 am

    Embrace your 40s, have fun, keep blogging, enjoy your lovely family. Do as you always do grab opportunities as present themselves. Have a wonderful birthday Elizabeth.

    Reply
  336. Joyce McCormack

    December 21, 2016 at 9:08 am

    Happy birthday Elizabeth, eat well, keep fit enjoy your family and keep smiling. Embrace your life age is a state of mind. My OH went onto the doldrums on his 40th, however; he took his 50th in his stride. I love your blog and that giveaway is just to die for.

    Reply
  337. Jodie A Harvey

    December 21, 2016 at 12:41 am

    Happy birthday to you, Happy birthday to youuuuuuuuu – have a fantastic day! relax and enjoy 🙂

    Reply
  338. Susannah Clayton

    December 20, 2016 at 10:17 pm

    You are only as young as the one you hold….so I hope your partner is young!!!!

    Reply
  339. Carly Belsey

    December 20, 2016 at 8:30 pm

    They say life begins at 40 so it’s only going to get better 🙂

    Reply
  340. Angela Kelly

    December 20, 2016 at 1:53 pm

    Happy birthday! You should smile knowing that through your blog you spark the imaginations of countless people. I’m looking forward to my 40s because my 30s have definitely been better than my 20s, so the 40s should be great! Hopefully it’s the same for you too.

    Reply
  341. Polly

    December 20, 2016 at 9:25 am

    Happy birthday! I hope the next year of your life is full of days that create only happy memories xx

    Reply
  342. purpleshoes

    December 19, 2016 at 7:03 pm

    Happy birthday! May this be the best year yet!

    Reply
  343. Maria P

    December 19, 2016 at 6:19 pm

    Happy Birthday! 40 is the new 20 🙂 enjoy!

    Reply
  344. Nigel Rummey

    December 19, 2016 at 12:57 pm

    I am in my 6th decade but still act like I am in my 3rd!

    Reply
  345. Keith Hunt

    December 18, 2016 at 11:45 pm

    Don’t know it it’s genetics or remarkably good luck but you still look very young.

    Reply
  346. claire timbers

    December 18, 2016 at 9:25 pm

    wow happy birthday!

    Reply
  347. Toni Pearson

    December 18, 2016 at 8:32 pm

    I’m loving g life in my forties…..hope yours is as wonderful. X

    Reply
  348. jennifer mason

    December 18, 2016 at 11:53 am

    it could be worse…………………you could be 50 lol

    Reply
  349. Harline parkin

    December 18, 2016 at 10:08 am

    Has time passes us by and years pass never look back only fondly and always look ahead what’s to come

    Reply
  350. lynn savage

    December 17, 2016 at 9:52 pm

    Four turtles were celebrating their 40th birthdays together, when they ran out of ice cream. They decided the oldest one, Fred, should go to the store and get more.

    The rest of them waited for Fred to come back, but after a couple of days they started getting frustrated. The youngest one said, “Poor Fred. Ever since he turned 40 he’s really getting slow.”

    A voice from behind the door said, “If you’re gonna start saying bad things about me behind my back, l’m not even going.”

    Reply
  351. claire woods

    December 17, 2016 at 7:57 pm

    You’re only as old as you feel. I’m sure you don’t look your age. Age is only a number. Let me know how it is on the other side, as I’ll be joining you there next April! x

    Reply
  352. LESLEY BRADLEY

    December 17, 2016 at 7:03 pm

    40 isn’t even remotely old! I’m 45 and loving it! Speaking generally of course, but people in their 40s have loads of energy, experience of life and confidence ( I’m not afraid to say No to people anymore!). I honestly prefer being in my 40s to my 30s! Have a wonderful birthday and welcome to a very special and exclusive club!

    Reply
  353. Sue Sproats

    December 17, 2016 at 4:20 pm

    Nothing to fear from the big birthday! Enjoy your family and friends and soak up their love and friendship, Happy Birthday when it arrives xxx

    Reply
  354. Janet Sigley

    December 17, 2016 at 11:00 am

    Love this! Would love to win!

    Reply
  355. pete c

    December 17, 2016 at 4:36 am

    forget your age; it’s the experience behind it that makes you better as you mature!

    Reply
  356. Annabel Greaves

    December 16, 2016 at 8:24 pm

    Have a great birthday – believe me things carry on just the same after you turn 40 xx

    Reply
  357. Adeline Sheradelia

    December 16, 2016 at 2:16 pm

    A very happy birthday – and remember, life begins at 40! 🙂

    Reply
  358. Lynn Brown

    December 16, 2016 at 8:56 am

    Happy birthday I’m sending you a bunch of virtual flowers to make you smile . As they say this too will pass and it’s better than reachingthe next decade!

    Reply
  359. Marie Evans

    December 16, 2016 at 1:19 am

    Just remember life begins at 40, And you are a lot wiser now than you where 10yrs ago.

    Reply
  360. Rachael Mccadden

    December 15, 2016 at 8:10 pm

    Happy Birthday

    Reply
  361. Beky Austerberry

    December 15, 2016 at 4:38 pm

    May your 40’s be merry, successful and enjoyable.

    Reply
  362. Ellie Fletcher

    December 15, 2016 at 3:21 pm

    Happy Birthday! Just discovered your blog via twitter and am really enjoying it x

    Reply
  363. Angie McDonald

    December 15, 2016 at 2:12 pm

    Happy Birthday to you!
    I hope you go on many more adventures and enjoy them wherever you head!

    Reply
  364. Andy Hayes

    December 15, 2016 at 1:15 am

    Happy Birthday young lady

    Reply
  365. Sarah R

    December 14, 2016 at 6:43 pm

    Congratulations! I can absolutely guarantee that being 40 is the BEST fun ever!

    Reply
  366. Natalie Zimmer

    December 14, 2016 at 1:58 pm

    I hear 40 is the new 20! 🙂 Don’t be sad; the best years are yet to come. I’m not far behind you! Happy Birthday

    Reply
  367. Kay Sherman

    December 14, 2016 at 8:49 am

    I can’t seem to see my comment so I’m sorry if I’m not commenting twice

    40 big congratulations I’m 30 in may – can’t wait lol

    Reply
  368. Kate - gluten free alchemist

    December 13, 2016 at 10:35 pm

    Woohoo! 40 and doing fantastically! You are inspiring, creative, determined and focussed…… great way to start your next chapter! And as one who has been there (the 40 bit that is…. not the inspiring,creative etc etc bit) and has this year entered decade 5, I promise the journey has really just begun.Continue to embrace life, cook great food and love well! HAPPY BIRTHDAY xx

    Reply
  369. Heather Morrison

    December 13, 2016 at 10:17 pm

    Congratulations on turning 40. Fabulous AND forty! Great 5 years of blogging too. I’m relatively a new reader but love it xx

    Reply
  370. Carina

    December 13, 2016 at 9:39 pm

    Have a fab one. It’s just a number , hopefully one which signals a great decade, you are old enough to know yourself a bit but young enough to get away with naughtiness. Enjoy it, savour the days and take some risks, it gets trickier once you hit the next decade 🙂 Health is all that matters, as I learnt at age 39, if you have that, you are sorted. Amazing giveaway.

    Reply
  371. Natasha Mairs

    December 13, 2016 at 9:07 pm

    Happy birthday!! Fantastic giveaway, some really great prize here to win

    Reply
  372. Sue

    December 13, 2016 at 4:42 pm

    What a fantastic array of prizes in your Giveaway. Well I suppose such a wonderful milestone birthday is worth celebrating.

    I dreaded the big four oh, not as much as I dreaded the big five oh … and now I’m half way to the next one. You are but a youngster.

    Anyway age is all in the mind, and I think your blog gives away nicely that you are indeed very young in mind and heart 🙂

    Reply
  373. Jorgelina

    December 13, 2016 at 1:41 pm

    Congrats and happy birthday! Forty is nothing! I’m on my way to 42 and I still feel like I’m in my 30s! Onwards and upwards!

    Reply
  374. Kat (The Baking Explorer)

    December 13, 2016 at 11:29 am

    Wow, two amazing milestones, congratulations! I’ve enjoyed reading your blog for around 4 years now and you really do an amazing job! Getting older just means you can get away with more mischief and eat more cake – so it can’t be a bad thing!

    Reply
  375. Kelly E Hirst

    December 13, 2016 at 12:16 am

    Happy Birthday! Remember it’s not about the years you are but what you have done with your years

    Reply
  376. sharon martin

    December 12, 2016 at 9:30 pm

    Happy Birthday, just remember age is just a number. live, love & laugh

    Reply
  377. Emma Arkwright

    December 12, 2016 at 7:12 pm

    40 is the new 30, or 21 if you’d rather x

    Reply
  378. Abhi

    December 12, 2016 at 10:34 am

    Happy birthday!

    I’m not a fan of birthdays either, so a few years back I promised myself to partake in something every year that takes me out of my comfort zone or do/learn something new ever year. As I turn (hesitantly) older every year I’ve now got something to look back fondly back at, and generally live life with little regret.
    If all else fails, have a tequila! (Or limoncello)

    Reply
  379. Pauline Armstrong

    December 12, 2016 at 3:02 am

    Have a great birthday believe me life gets better from here on in

    Reply
  380. Steve Dickinson

    December 12, 2016 at 2:32 am

    I started going grey and hair sprouted from my ears and nose, hope you have better luck ! lol

    Reply
  381. Robyn Clarke

    December 12, 2016 at 1:19 am

    The best is yet to come 😉

    Happy Birthday.

    Reply
  382. Judith Allen

    December 12, 2016 at 12:44 am

    OOps, sorry, just managed to put at least one tweet in the wrong place in the widget today. Sorry!

    Reply
  383. Victoria Mylittlel

    December 11, 2016 at 11:59 pm

    Happy Birthday! Remember its about how you feel inside and not the number! 🙂

    Reply
  384. Sarah Revill

    December 11, 2016 at 11:30 pm

    Well done and happy birthday 😀

    Reply
  385. Ella L

    December 11, 2016 at 11:20 pm

    Happy Birthday enjoy the day! do something fun and fivolous

    Reply
  386. Sam Swain

    December 11, 2016 at 10:39 pm

    Happy birthday, at least you are not entering your 5th decade! 🙂

    Reply
  387. ksenia zywczuk

    December 11, 2016 at 10:25 pm

    rose are red, violets are blue
    40 is the new 30,
    habby bday to you!

    Reply
  388. Graeme MacMillan

    December 11, 2016 at 9:54 pm

    Happy Birthday !
    Two quotes come to mind –

    Forty is the old age of youth; fifty is the youth of old age. – Victor Hugo
    and
    Women are most fascinating between the ages of 35 and 40 after they have won a few races and know how to pace themselves. Since few women ever pass 40, maximum fascination can continue indefinitely. – Christian Dior

    Reply
  389. Mummy of Two + 1

    December 11, 2016 at 4:12 pm

    Have a great birthday and enjoy being 40!

    Reply
  390. Rachael ashmore

    December 11, 2016 at 3:00 pm

    Happy birthday. Would love to win this prize. Thanks for the chance

    Reply
  391. Sue Buckman

    December 11, 2016 at 10:22 am

    Have a fantastic birthday

    Reply
  392. Kathleen

    December 11, 2016 at 9:40 am

    The thought of you making a full Christmas dinner today makes my mouth water. It’s our wedding anniversary on the 21st December but Dave will be working and by the time he gets home washed and showered it’s going to be a tad late. So we went out last night and had a wee pre anniversary meal. I had my first full Christmas dinner of the season and loved it. Abreslutly delisious. I could gladly have the same dinner at least three times per week until new year. Nothing beats a Christmas dinner for me. Enjoy yours today x

    Reply
  393. Jane H Shaw

    December 11, 2016 at 8:08 am

    Do something you’ve never done before or do that one thing you always wanted to do. Remember age is just a number. Happy Birthday

    Reply
  394. sam macaree

    December 10, 2016 at 8:26 pm

    happy birthday!

    Reply
  395. Kat

    December 10, 2016 at 5:23 pm

    A very happy blog birthday! What an amazing giveaway! Thank you so much for sharing at #DreamandSparkle

    Reply
  396. Gemma Massey

    December 10, 2016 at 4:37 pm

    Happy birthday hope you have a fabulous time xx

    Reply
  397. Rosie Thomas

    December 10, 2016 at 4:34 pm

    Happy Birthday!!! Love your blog

    Reply
  398. Claire Toplis

    December 10, 2016 at 12:22 pm

    Happy blog birthday to you x here is to many more blog birthday s

    Reply
  399. Claire Toplis

    December 10, 2016 at 12:15 pm

    Happy blog birthday x

    Reply
  400. Derek Wilson

    December 10, 2016 at 11:18 am

    You’ll now be swapping your evening glass of wine for a warm milky drink and an early night. Enjoy!

    Reply
  401. david cavender

    December 10, 2016 at 5:21 am

    we must all ride on the road of life-i just wish the ride was a bit more smoother!

    Reply
  402. maria blythin

    December 9, 2016 at 11:13 pm

    happy 20 20 lol x

    Reply
  403. Kathleen Hazell

    December 9, 2016 at 5:24 pm

    Well . I thought I had already sent you a comment but I can’t find it so I will try again. Firstly mega massive congratulations on 5 years of blogging and an even bigger congratulations and celebrations at being so lucky that you’re only a mere 40 years old. You youngster you! Life begins at forty! Use every day wisely with no regrets and do the things you wished you’d done but never got around to found. Cherish every day with your beautiful family but keep a little bit of time to share with us too. You’re an awesome lady. God bless you and yours extra mega good xxx

    Reply
  404. Geeta Nosib

    December 9, 2016 at 10:13 am

    Happy birthday. God bless. Everything you said icompared with myself. It was my birthday yesterday but I am much older than you(65) I still got my teeth. The only thing is the creaking bones especially in the morning. I am sure you don’t have pain in situ in your body. Enjoy your birthday….40 is the new 20. Ha ha. Xxx

    Reply
  405. Sophie Ade

    December 9, 2016 at 12:19 am

    Happy 40th Birthday and happy 5th year of blogging. I really enjoy your blog.

    Reply
  406. Sue Thomas

    December 9, 2016 at 12:19 am

    Happy birthday. You are still younger than me x

    Reply
  407. Natalie Crossan

    December 8, 2016 at 11:24 pm

    Happy happy birthday xxx

    Reply
  408. Mary Wilson

    December 8, 2016 at 9:14 pm

    Naughty 40. Choose 3 things you have never done and go for it x

    Reply
  409. Helen Adams

    December 8, 2016 at 7:38 pm

    A word of wisdom for you on your birthday: Smile while you’ve still got teeth! Happy Birthday!

    Reply
  410. James Harris

    December 8, 2016 at 11:10 am

    Enjoy the forties whilst you can as another decade will have whizzed past before you know it!

    Reply
  411. Di Coke

    December 8, 2016 at 9:21 am

    I did a cartwheel and a conga to celebrate my 40th birthday. You should do the same!!!

    Reply
  412. Iris W

    December 7, 2016 at 10:57 pm

    Happy Birthday and Blogversary, I was a bit worried about turning 40 a couple of years ago, but it didn’t hurt at all.

    Reply
  413. hannah igoe

    December 7, 2016 at 9:56 pm

    Happy Birthday, I love reading your posts so keep them up

    Reply
  414. angelina masih

    December 7, 2016 at 7:23 pm

    Happy Birthday Stay Blessed xx

    Reply
  415. Sarah Brokenshire

    December 7, 2016 at 6:44 pm

    Happy birthday! I love your blog! x

    Reply
  416. Gillian Holmes

    December 7, 2016 at 11:44 am

    You can now wear flat sensible shoes

    Reply
  417. Lorraine Benn

    December 7, 2016 at 8:06 am

    Have a great 40th Birthday, I passed that quite a few years ago, my next big birthday will be 60! Great giveaway prize you are doing. Hope you get some nice things for your birthday 🙂

    Reply
  418. Sharon H

    December 7, 2016 at 3:25 am

    Yours was the very first food blog that I followed and it remains one of my very favourite . I love everything about it and your recipes have never let me down.
    Have a wonderful birthday and remember that 40 is the new 20 without all the self doubt and with all the knowledge, go forward and enjoy!!

    Reply
  419. Debbie Hoare

    December 7, 2016 at 3:08 am

    Happy birthday . . . naughty 40!

    Reply
  420. Tracey Woods

    December 7, 2016 at 12:40 am

    The best thing about being forty is that you are a whole ten years from being fifty.

    Reply
  421. Dawn Wilkinson

    December 7, 2016 at 12:30 am

    Happy Birthday

    Reply
  422. Francesca Mason

    December 6, 2016 at 10:40 pm

    Happy Birthday! Hope you have an amazing 21st 😉

    Reply
  423. Zoey P

    December 6, 2016 at 10:01 pm

    Happy birthday, it’s not all that bad . Love reading your blogs keep up your good work.

    Reply
  424. Ann-Marie D

    December 6, 2016 at 8:07 pm

    Your life has barely begun…you have enough knowledge to make the most of the coming decade!

    Reply
  425. maureen findley

    December 6, 2016 at 6:39 pm

    congratulations now time to celebrate with family and friends.

    Reply
  426. Claire Bayliss

    December 6, 2016 at 4:05 pm

    Birthdays are a time to treat yourself, regardless of age (plus you can get away with eating cake for breakfast 😉 )

    Reply
  427. Janice

    December 6, 2016 at 2:50 pm

    it doesn’t feel much different to 39

    Reply
  428. Mummy Fever

    December 6, 2016 at 2:01 pm

    Happy 4th decade to you!

    Reply
  429. Emma hunt

    December 6, 2016 at 1:43 pm

    Don’t worry. Norty forty is fabulous!

    Reply
  430. Kathryn Cox

    December 6, 2016 at 1:11 pm

    A good excuse for a drink 🙂

    Reply
  431. Charlotte

    December 6, 2016 at 12:42 pm

    It will just keep getting more fun. Remember when 30 was scary? I dont know about you, but the 30s were pretty fun for me 🙂 So looking forward to the 40s being even better!

    Reply
  432. Denise

    December 6, 2016 at 11:28 am

    Hope you have a lovely birthday, I turned 40 last year & felt just how you are as how can it really be 20 years ago that I was 20?! It must only have been 8 or 9 years ago at the most, surely?! Prosecco helps that’s the only advice I can offer you .

    Reply
  433. Diana

    December 6, 2016 at 9:52 am

    Happy Birthday! 40 is nothing! It’s a new 20! Smile, have fun and enjoy life! 😉 xx

    Reply
  434. Clare Fox

    December 6, 2016 at 9:41 am

    Happy Birthday. Hope the celebrations include processo and cake …. The two key ingredients to celebrate in style woo hoo

    Reply
  435. Brandi Puga

    December 6, 2016 at 6:22 am

    Oh my gosh now I am STARVING! #DreamandSparkle

    Reply
  436. Nellie France

    December 6, 2016 at 3:18 am

    Happy birthday! This is a seriously amazing prize, can’t believe it is going to one person!

    Reply
  437. Judith Allen

    December 6, 2016 at 2:28 am

    Happy Birthday to you and your blog, good luck for the next 40/5. And thank you for this amazing giveaway!

    Reply
  438. Kellan Morgan

    December 6, 2016 at 1:25 am

    If you intend to live forever, so far so good.

    Reply
  439. Lisa Williams

    December 6, 2016 at 1:01 am

    Congratulations 🙂 Also So so much Birthdayness to you 🙂

    Reply
  440. GLENDA HANKS

    December 6, 2016 at 12:28 am

    if you limit your age to your shoe size you can’t go wrong, even if we do stay in Europe. Happy Birthday.

    Reply
  441. StaceyD

    December 6, 2016 at 12:22 am

    Happy birthday ! Wish you double the blessings n triple the love and comfort in years to come

    Reply
  442. Caroline Hooper

    December 5, 2016 at 10:22 pm

    When I turned 40 a few short years ago my youngest daughter said to me -‘ oh mummy you’re not old you only have a few wrinkles and two grey hairs!” it made me laugh so much that I forgot all about the number. I hope you have a lovely birthday! x

    Reply
  443. Sam Goodwin

    December 5, 2016 at 9:34 pm

    Happy birthday! and happy blog birthday too! Thanks for sharing it with us xx

    Reply
  444. jennifer bolognesi

    December 5, 2016 at 8:58 pm

    Just remember, once you’re over the hill you begin to pick up speed

    Reply
  445. Caroline H

    December 5, 2016 at 5:35 pm

    40s are great – no pressure to do anything just because it’s in fashion, so you can ignore daft clothes, hideous makeup trends and don’t need to know any celebrity or reality star!

    Reply
  446. Richard Middleton

    December 5, 2016 at 5:11 pm

    Nice twist – most birthdays you celebrate by receiving presents

    Reply
  447. Angus

    December 5, 2016 at 3:01 pm

    <