A Thing Of Beauty

Wonderfully curious beings of the internet, I wanted to share a little treasure with you.


Since moving to the Netherlands and taking on this grand adventure, I have grown to love this place, taken steps towards broadening my little world and have adapted and developed in a ton of ways, but one thing that will remain a constant struggle is missing my family and peoples back in the UK. One thing I continue to busy myself with is finding ways to stay connected to those I miss, and although it takes a lot of effort on both sides, things begin to find a pattern and routine and become fun, rather than a hole in my daily thinkings.


My parents are particularly good at making me feel super special, even from this distance, and one particular moment occurred a few days ago. Following a pretty cruddy couple days I decided to venture out to the city on a solo mission to explore a little and cheer myself up in the process, and my oh my what did I stumble across? A huge book store! A spent a ridiculous amount of time wandering around (which you indeed can very well do, guilt free, when you're alone!), I was in my element. Shelves upon shelves on wonderment and promise, welcoming me amongst their midst!


After losing time hidden within the classics I was given strict instructions from the parentals, via a pleasant but brief phone call, that I was not to leave the book shop without treating myself to a brand shiny new novel AND that I was to park my butt in the store's coffee shop and enjoy something delicious with a page or two of my latest find. My folks are the best!


This, dear friends, is the little gift I chose for myself!

"If it weren't I who was to be always young and the picture that was to grow old! For that - for that - I would give everything!"

The Picture of Dorian Gray written around 1890 by Oscar Wilde. This classic novel tells of a mysterious young and beautiful Dorian Gray, and his life of excess and corruption. Full of secrecy and scandal, I couldn't be more excited to sink my teeth into this notorious piece of writing, a story which is well known by most but has sat on my 'to read' list since forever. Until now, that is.


This book caused huge out rage and controversy when it was first published, due to it's uninhibited content and the issues it covers. A gothic piece of writing that has staying the passing of time, has been used and referred to in countless other productions and can we please take a moment to appreciate this particular copy, which ironically so, was what caught my attention initially!


This fine edition, in all it's leather bound glory, boasts a stunning front and back cover, a satin ribbon book mark, marbled end papers and perhaps the most distinctive feature, it's green stained edging! Friends, I am in love! This will make a beautiful addition to my beloved book shelf and having devoured the opening chapter, I look forward to falling into this story and escaping into the tale of this most notorious Victorian libertine, in all it's saucy mystery!

What simple gesture can put a smile on your face? Is there something that cheers you up, a little treat for yourself or a kind moment exchanged with a beloved?