About me and my photo challenge
My story
I’ve always loved being outdoors — for as long as I can remember. That love of nature was passed on to me and my sister by our parents, and it’s stayed with us ever since.
When I met Jenny (better known as Mrs Lawns), that love only grew stronger. We’re both happiest outside, whether that’s weekend walks around Clumber Park or our daily strolls closer to home with the dog after work.
Between work, walking, and spending time in nature, I’m outside every single day — and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
If you’re looking for a little inspiration to get out more yourself, you’re in the right place.
This means that between work and walking, with Jenny and the dog, I am outside every single day. So if you are looking for some inspiration to do the same, you have come to the right place.
How my challenge
works
From the very first day of my photo challenge, I made myself a promise — every photo I post has to be taken on the same day. No dipping into old pictures, no saving something for later. Occasionally (though rarely) Jenny will suggest I could use a different photo if I spot something nicer after posting, but my answer is always the same: no.
My theme is nature, but it’s a flexible one. Every photo is taken on my phone — no fancy cameras, no special equipment. I’m sure the shots might look sharper if I used a professional camera, but that’s not really the point. Doing it this way keeps it simple, and shows that anyone can take on a challenge like this themselves.
How it started and why am I doing it
There’s only one person to blame for me taking on this challenge — my friend, Tasha Leigh Willets. Back in November 2021, knowing how much walking we did, she asked if I’d like to start a 365-day nature photo challenge. My immediate thought was, “No thank you,” and I carried on doing… well, nothing really.
Fast forward to June 2022 and something changed. I thought, “Why not? Let’s give it a go.” And that’s where the madness began!
When I decided to put together what I thought would be my one and only book, Jenny and I agreed we didn’t want to take any money for it ourselves. So every single penny from the sales goes to two of my favourite charities — Bassetlaw Hospice and Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust.
pAckaging
Please note I will be sending books out from home and I am keen to reuse any packaging, so that deliveries can be a bit more sustainable. Apologies in advance if you wonder why your parcel may be in a 2nd hand wrapping.
Thank you.
Opening Hours
Because my book business isn’t my main focus for work and is hopefully a way of making a bit of extra money for my charities, any messages and orders I receive may get to me at funny times, so please be patient.
I will get back to you as soon as I can.
Contact Us
07714458943
Rosehaven, Church Lane, East Drayton, Retford, Notts, DN22 0LH
happy hours
If you are near our shop, you are in luck. You can have that cookie WARMED UP! Oh, happy day. Pick your happiness!
Opening Hours
Closed Mondays | Open All Day
Tuesday Through Friday
Open 8am – 12pm