January 2023 Happy New Year

Winter Warmers News Edition

January seems a long month but we can start to get excited about the new life about to burst into action around us. Snowdrops and then the first of the daffodils as the days start getting noticeably longer.

I keep the bird feeders topped up with high fat food, nuts and seeds.

It’s good to get out and walk or garden at this time of year and there are plenty of vests, shirts, cosy jumpers, scarves and coats in our winter sale to beat the chill, keep you warm and looking good at the same time!

To beat the January blues here are our favourite jumpers on line and in store at the moment. A new arrival from Soya Concept called Biara 1 in blue is sure to be a hit being soft and lightweight to take you into the spring.

We are also loving the Soya Concept Joanna jumper in blue which is soft, comfortable and features the on-trend stripe too.

Layer up with the ‘Cream’ Florence and Vanessa vests which continue to be a popular choice with customers because they are flattering and feel so luxurious.
The Vanessa vest can be seen by clicking the name as can the Florence.

January Birthstone - Garnet

The Garnet is this month’s birthstone and we love this tear drop garnet stud. Did you know Garnets are thought to bring health, wealth and happiness? Take a look by clicking the link. Silver Garnet studs

Scarves scarves scarves:-

We love scarves at Raft and here are some examples of our most popular for this winter.
The picture above shows eco style scarves which are 100% recycled REPREVE polyester.

The Edeltraut a soft colour block scarf with black, taupe and stone and

Our plain Brushed Scarf with tassels is a good staple.

Scarf tying tips:
Take a look at this YouTube video showing 6 ways to tie your winter scarf.

Soups are fantastic in the winter months as they’re packed full of healthy veg and budget friendly. Kate loves to make hearty soups and here are a couple of quick and easy often used 10 minute recipes:

Sunday lunch scraps soup:
Use all the vegetable peelings that you normally throw on the compost. Potatoes carrots cabbage parsnip etc..
Fry an onion and chopped garlic in olive oil and put it in with the veg peels into a pot with some water to cover, a stock cube and any mixed herbs you fancy.
Once boiled, just blend and Bob’s your uncle. It turns out differently every time 😀

Pea and mint store cupboard soup:
Fry an onion and garlic and once soft add to a saucepan with 750g frozen peas, 1 litre of vegetable stock, 2 tablespoons of mint sauce from a jar and black pepper to taste. Boil for ten minutes and blend lightly leaving some peas chunky. Parmesan and crusty bread are the perfect accompaniments.