create & elevate with xanthe

Slice of Life - June Edition

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 10:05:09 GMT

Each month, I share a little slice of what I’ve been creating, sprinkle in ideas to spark your own stories and gather a few favourite reads, listens and watches that have caught my eye lately. If this edition doesn’t fully display in your email, it’s simply brimming with goodness - open it on desktop, in a browser, or on the Substack app to enjoy the full thing!

Hello, how are you?!

Last month I was feeling a little bit “what next?” creatively. But over the past few weeks, I’ve felt that spark returning.

I think my 100 Days of Colour in Hoi An project has had a lot to do with that. Showing up every day to notice something, photograph it and share it has reminded me how much creativity thrives when we simply pay attention. The funny thing is, while I’ve been taking more photos than ever, I haven’t been filming much video at all.

Perhaps that’s also because we’ve had such a busy few months. We’ve had a steady stream of visitors, lots of family time, and I’ve spent a lot of time helping Luke with his business too. It’s all been lovely, but naturally my own creative work has shifted into the background a little.

Summer is in full swing here in Hoi An and in just a couple of weeks we’ll be heading back to the UK for a visit. Hopefully we’ll find a little bit of summer there too.

Somewhere amongst all of this, a new project arrived.

Although, it’s not really a new idea at all. In fact, it takes me right back to the beginning of sharing videos on Instagram. Back then, I would often post simple collections of clips, little details I noticed throughout the day or weekend. No voiceover. No big story. Just paying attention to life as it was happening. A bit like this from 2015 -

The more I thought about it, the more appealing it felt to return to that simplicity.

After spending 100 days noticing colour, I realised I wanted to continue that practice of awareness through video. So I’ve started a new project called The Beauty of Noticing.

I’ll share more about it below, but for now I’m simply enjoying the process of slowing down, paying attention and seeing where it leads.

I’m still sticking with my plan of making one Week in the Life video each month and this one turned out to be a particularly good week to document. We squeezed a lot into this week and enjoyed a few last adventures before Ky headed back to the UK, and I’m so glad I captured it all.

April’s monthly montage was finally finished and I’m still working on May’s Memory Postcards video. I had hoped to finish it in time for this newsletter, but life has other ideas!

My videos can be found on YouTube - I’d love you to follow me over there.

Before I introduce the new project, I should probably mention that I finally wrapped up my 100 Days of Colour in Hoi An. I wrote more about it here in this blog post.

What started as a simple idea to take more photographs turned into one of my favourite creative projects in a long time. For 100 days, I paid attention to colour. Noticing it in the rice fields, market stalls, walls, flowers, food, family life and everyday moments. It gave me a reason to look more closely at my surroundings and reminded me how inspiring this little corner of the world can be.

This video contains all 500 photographs from the project. They move quickly across the screen, far too quickly to appreciate each photograph individually, but together they create a colourful snapshot of these past one hundred days. Plus, I love some of the accidental pairings into diptychs. (The left side is days 1- 50 and right is days 51 – 100.) And full gallery is on Pinterest.

This project felt less like a challenge and more like a celebration of something I already loved. Colour has always been at the heart of my photography and video work, and spending 100 days immersed in it only made me appreciate it even more.

More than anything, it reinforced that creativity doesn’t always come from doing more or having to do something different each time. Sometimes it comes from paying closer attention to what’s already there and what you already love.

By the end, it wasn’t just about colour anymore. It had become a practice of noticing.

And once the project finished, I realised I didn’t really want that practice to end.

Which brings me to the next project...

As I’ve said above, this new project grew out of everything I learned during 100 Days of Colour in Hoi An.

It’s a simple practice of paying attention through video. A handful of clips gathered throughout the day and edited into a short visual diary of awareness, awe and everyday moments.

There’s no voiceover, no obvious storytelling and no pressure to create something polished. In many ways, it feels less like a video project and more like a meditation. An invitation to slow down, look around and notice what’s already here.

What interests me most are those small moments that make me pause for a second. The light shimmering on the river. Morning light falling across a wall. Flowers dancing in the breeze. A splash of colour. Sea sparkles. My daily matcha. A beautiful composition. Something ordinary that suddenly feels extraordinary simply because I noticed it.

While much of my work revolves around memory and creating videos that become time capsules of a season of life, this project feels much more rooted in the present moment. It’s about becoming aware of what’s happening around me right now and taking the time to appreciate it.

The more I pay attention, the more beauty I seem to find.

Here are the first few videos from the project so far - Or watch them on Instagram - as I slowly find my way back there after a couple of years of posting very inconsistently.

This month, I’d love to invite you to try your own version of The Beauty of Noticing.

Take a photograph each day. Film a few clips. Write a paragraph or two in a notebook. Collect colours or light through your camera. Notice shadows. Record birdsong. Pay attention to whatever catches your eye.

For me, projects like this become a kind of awareness practice. A visual meditation. A reason to slow down and become more present inside my own life rather than rushing through it on autopilot.

When I’m actively looking for things to photograph or film, I notice more. Not just beautiful things, but interesting things. Light moving across a wall. A reflection in a puddle. The colours in a market stall. A tiny interaction between strangers. Small moments that might otherwise pass me by.

There’s something powerful about training ourselves to look for awe in ordinary days. Not because every day is extraordinary, but because there is almost always something worth noticing if we’re paying attention.

You don’t need to share your observations anywhere. You don’t need to turn them into a finished project. Just spend a little more time noticing.

I suspect you’ll find, as I have, that life becomes richer, more meaningful and far more interesting when you do. And if you do feel like sharing, do let me know!

Each month on the 26th I invite you to document your day - 26TH:DAY IN THE LIFE project. Over the years, I’ve discovered the benefits of having a consistent project that encourages me (and hopefully you) to show up, no matter what’s going on or how you’re feeling. The Day In The Life video is such a doable project, as you only need a few clips to tell the story of your day.

Here is my offering from May -

And you can watch 2025 editions on YouTube : HERE. Or 2024 over here.

So why don’t you join us and create your DITL on June 26th? Mark your calendars, everyone is welcome. And if you’d like FREE resources and inspiration to help get you started, head to 26TH:DAY IN THE LIFE for everything you need.

A slightly smaller collection this month, as I haven’t consumed nearly as much as usual. But these are the things that caught my attention.

LISTEN - I loved this conversation with Susa Tulan on the 10% Happier Podcast with Dan Harris about awareness, presence and how we can bring more mindfulness into everyday life. It felt particularly timely as I was starting my new project.

WATCH/LISTEN - As always, Amy Poehler hanging out with fun people is a good time.

READ - So much online content feels like it’s chasing the same trends, using the same language and aiming for the same outcomes. I’ve never been particularly interested in creating that way, so this piece really resonated with me.

Good Enough

Everyone online sounds the same now

Something has been bothering me when I scroll through my feed. Post after post, newsletter after newsletter, everything reads as if it came from the same place. Same structure, same tone, same 3 takeaways wrapped up neatly at the end, and almost no real person behind any of it. Perfectly curated, perfectly presented, completely hollow…

a month ago · 69 likes · 20 comments · Max Pete

READ - If you find yourself getting triggered by people, situations or things that happen in everyday life, there are some useful reflections in this piece.

One Year From Now

I've spent 15 years in personal development. This is the fast track to upgrade your life.

For the past seven years, I've been running and facilitating leadership development programs for large global corporations…

a month ago · 147 likes · 12 comments · Camilla - One Year From Now

LISTEN - Envy is one of those emotions we don’t always like admitting to, but Dr Emily on The Imperfects offers some practical ways to understand it and work with it.

READ - Nothing revolutionary here, just a reminder that simple, consistent actions often have the biggest impact over time.

Reclaim Your Energy

20 boring habits with a massive return (if you actually repeat them)

I used to think getting my life together would feel more dramatic than this. I imagined some major turning point where I would suddenly become incredibly disciplined and organized and clear-headed overnight, as if my entire personality was waiting to activate after the perfect routine. Instead, a lot of the improvements happened in much less exciting wa…

a month ago · 824 likes · 20 comments · Reclaim Your Energy

READ - Another good reminder that many of the things that support long-term health are remarkably unglamorous.

Longevity Newsletter by Dr. Poonam Desai

9 BORING Habits That SLOW DOWN aging

The boring, free, evidence-based stuff that actually moves the needle. From a longevity doctor who’s tired of watching people waste money on the wrong things…

a month ago · 2714 likes · 119 comments · Dr Poonam Desai

LISTEN - If you’ve been curious about the Tradwife trend and why it’s become such a cultural talking point, this is an interesting discussion on The Rest is Entertainment.

READ – I loved this piece: that many of us are only one skill away from a very different future, we’re just waiting for the perfect moment to learn it.

Macy Michelle

Life-Changing Skills You Can Learn in a Month

Most of us are one skill away from a completely different life. We just keep waiting for a better time to learn it…

a month ago · 582 likes · 7 comments · Macy Michelle

LISTEN – If Artificial General Intelligence scares you, maybe don’t listen to this. But if you’d like to stay informed about what’s happening out there, this new series Endgame with Jamie Bartlett is interesting. The first episode investigates a question many of us are wondering: how worried should we be?

As always, feel free to share your recommendations with me! I’d love to know what you’ve been enjoying lately and if you checked out any of these suggestions. Share in the comments!

Cheerio for now, hope you’ve found some inspiration and do say hello in the comments, I love hearing from you.

Xanthe xx

P.S. I’ll be pausing the newsletter in July. So I’ll see you in August!

If you’d like to stir up a little creativity this summer, the MAKE VIDEOS – 10 Projects to Tell Your Everyday Stories might be for you. It’s a self-paced collection of simple, joyful prompts designed to help you start filming your life in a way that feels doable and fun. You’ll learn how to make videos but it’s more about becoming someone who makes them as part of their life.

There are ten projects to explore - some short and playful, others deeper and more reflective. You can use them as sparks for summer adventures and create videos that feel meaningful.

If you’ve joined any of my courses before, you’ll recognise a few much-loved favourites in here. This version gathers the best of them into a refreshed, flexible format. It’s easy to start, easy to keep going, and perfect for building (or rebuilding) a creative rhythm.

If this sparks something, you can find out more and join MAKE VIDEOS – 10 Projects here.

(This section contains affiliate links, you will not be charged more but I may make a small commission if you purchase through my links. Many thanks for your support.)

If you’re looking for amazing copyright free music for your videos, my favourite music library is Epidemic Sound, I use them for all my videos. Each month I compile my favourite tunes that I’ve used in my videos or ones I’m saving for future projects into a playlist. June is here!

Slice of Life - May Edition

Tue, 05 May 2026 04:11:49 GMT

Hello, how are you?!

April has been a really lovely one in real life. Having our boys here, folded into our day-to-day life, has been so special. We’ve had friends visiting, my mum came out for a week, and it’s been one of those months where everything revolves around being together. Showing people around Hoi An, wandering through favourite spots, watching my mum sit and draw, and, of course, eating a lot of good food along the way. I feel a Hoi An food guide might be on the cards…!

It does mean that my creative projects have taken a bit of a back seat, as life has been full in other ways.

Plus, I’m still in that in-between moment creatively, with a bit of a “hmm, what next?” feeling. I’ve really missed the fun of guiding live online courses, but I also have a sense things are shifting and that chapter might be closing.

What hasn’t changed is how much I still love making videos and taking photos, and mostly I love encouraging other people to do the same.

So I thought I’d bring a little bit of that back in this month. I’m offering a bonus for anyone who joins MAKE VIDEOS in May - I’ll share more details below.

So for these next summer months, I’m keeping things simple. Finishing my 100 Day project, sharing as I go, and seeing what unfolds from there. I’ll still be on YouTube when I make something, but I might give the newsletter a little breather unless I have something I’m excited to share (or a particularly good list of recommendations).

And if you ever feel like replying in the comments, asking a question, or just saying hello, I always love hearing from you.

Have a lovely May!

Love from Xanthe xx

If you’ve been thinking about joining the MAKE VIDEOS – 10 Projects to Tell Your Everyday Stories I wanted to add a little something extra this month.

Anyone who joins during May will receive a 45-minute Zoom session with me. It’s a space for us to talk through your ideas, answer any questions you have, shape how you approach the course, and help you get started in a way that feels clear and doable. It’s something I usually offer separately, but it felt like a nice way to bring back a bit of that live connection I’ve been missing.

The course itself is a self-paced collection of ten projects designed to help you start filming your life in a way that feels natural, personal and enjoyable. Some are easy and playful, others more reflective, but all of them designed to help you find your own rhythm with video.

You’ll have 12 months of access, so you can move through it in your own time, dipping in and out as it fits around your life.

If you’ve been pondering joining the course, this might be a lovely moment to begin - MAKE VIDEOS – 10 Projects here.

All my videos can be found on YouTube - I’d love you to follow me over there.

Here is my offering from April -

And you can watch 2025 editions on YouTube : HERE. Or 2024 over here.

So why don’t you join us and create your DITL on May 26th? Mark your calendars, everyone is welcome.

WATCH - This is lovely. I especially love how you see the film makers in various reflections. Very creative.

“….help out and stop making art for a second”

READ - Loved this piece on the “yellow font theory”.

The Letterform

How Typography is Making People Famous

I recently saw a video on Tiktok about what I guess we’re calling, the big yellow font epidemic. This made me laugh, but it is actually a very intriguing concept, and of course sparked my interest immediately as a type designer. Essentially, there is a rise of content creators (or want-to-be content creators) that are all using the same video templates…

2 months ago · 74 likes · 3 comments · Paola Kassa

LISTEN - Daily Creative : Rules and Play - Especially the second interview in this one, which is all about the importance of play and keeping curiosity alive as a way to guide creativity. Things we know… but always worth being reminded of.

WATCH - The Lunchbox. Beautifully shot and completely immersive. It draws you into India in the loveliest way, with such a sweet story.

WATCH / LISTEN – I know I share Good Hang a lot and often the episodes with the Parks & Rec crew… but I adore them, and Nick Offerman is always a delight to listen to.

WATCH – Hamnet. I finally saw it, and visually it’s stunning. The symmetry, the wide shots, the close-ups… all so thoughtfully done. Very emotional too.

LISTEN – Daily Creative : Procrastination Proof - Who’s great at procrastination? I imagine most of us… This is a good conversation with a nudge to think about your “future you” when you’re planning your day (or putting things off).

READ – As a rom-com lover, I really enjoyed this new trope we can all get behind.

Empty Calories

I Have A New Romcom Trope Pitch: The Intellectual Woman and the Himbo

Despite a resounding public craving for the rom-com to be resuscitated, Hollywood has yet to get its shit together. The airy delights of the 80s, 90s, and early aughts had everything: clever premises, career-making performances, and lines so unforgettable they have permanently replaced key survival information in my brain. I could not, at this time, cha…

2 months ago · 74 likes · 27 comments · Lisa Kholostenko

READ – If you’re even slightly obsessed with packaging and design… you’ll enjoy this one.

writing by charlotte beck

Graphic Design Criticism at the Gentrification Bodega

Yesterday, I did some retail therapy. I was in need of a vintage crawl down Andersonville. I snagged a much needed pair of Hunter boots, and as I left the shop I was met with the teensiest graphic design gallery in Chicago — Ándale Market…

4 months ago · 715 likes · 28 comments · charlotte beck

WATCH – “Age Is No Barrier.” Such a lovely mini documentary. Community, movement, being outside… and doing it all later in life.

READ – Loved this idea of creating a monthly “10 things” list. So simple.

keepsake

you need to be making monthly 10 lists

It is not groundbreaking to make little lists of things. People have been doing it for centuries. There are so many iconic variations on the form: pro and con lists, grocery lists, the classic ‘to do’. What makes a 10 list so special though, is that it isn’t something you…

2 months ago · 1948 likes · 52 comments · Julianna Salguero

As always, feel free to share your recommendations with me! I’d love to know what you’ve been enjoying lately and if you checked out any of these suggestions. Share in the comments!

Documenting Home - When I was watching the documentary When We Move (linked above), it kinda reminded me of a video I made years ago about moving house. I’m so glad I took the time to interview the boys and gather those memories into one place.

There are also these little snapshots of summer days in the different homes we’ve lived in. Watching them back now, I feel so grateful I have a record of that chapter of life.

It reminded me how easily our everyday spaces change, as we grow or move locations. So it’s important to capture what they felt like.

I’d love to nudge you to document your home in some way this month.

It could be through photos or video. Maybe gather a few vignettes of corners or favourite spots. Capture small routines, with your home as a character in the frame. You could even interview yourself, your family or housemates, or include your pets going about their day.

Keep it simple and easy, just a few moments, as they are now. I promise, in years to come, you’ll be so glad you did.

(If you do make something inspired by this idea, please share it with me - I’d love to see it!)

(This section contains affiliate links, you will not be charged more but I may make a small commission if you purchase through my links. Many thanks for your support.)

Slice of Life - April Edition

Sun, 05 Apr 2026 10:03:41 GMT

Oh hello April. Here in Hoi An, the heat is slowly building and the rice fields are shifting towards harvest. It feels like the season is changing again.

March was full on. I’ve been keeping up with my 100 Days of Colour in Hoi An project, sharing five photos a day here on Substack and Pinterest, and slowly falling back in love with photography. It’s been such a simple practice, and it shapes how I move through my days. I’m noticing lots. Small details in my neighbourhood, familiar scenes with fresh eyes, colours I might have walked past before, and scenes I would never capture on video because there’s no movement, but I love the texture, shapes, stories and of course, the colour.

It’s made me feel even more grateful to be living here, surrounded by so much everyday beauty.

There’s also been something grounding about the discipline of it. Showing up each day. I upload my frames to Substack while I enjoy my cup of Earl Grey in the morning, no matter what’s going on, making it part of my rhythm. I know how important it is for me to do something creative daily, and this project has reinforced that again.

But I’ve noticed something else. While I’ve been so focused on photography, video has taken a bit of a back seat this month, which surprised me. For a long time, I felt like I could do both quite easily, but recently it’s felt harder to do both. There’s been a lot going on behind the scenes with work and just general life, and I think I’ve simply reached the capacity of what I can do creatively in one go.

There have still been moments I’ve captured. I’ve shifted to making one Week in the Life video each month, which feels far more doable this year, and I showed up for the 26th Day in the Life project, even though I wasn’t feeling well and the video didn’t quite turn out like previous versions. But I made it anyway and just adjusted things slightly.

Our boys arriving last week has been a real highlight. They came out for my birthday, and even though I wasn’t feeling my best, with a dreadful migraine showing up uninvited, it’s been so lovely having them here. And I’m soaking up every day with them for now.

So, it’s been a slightly quieter month on the video front…

All my videos can be found on YouTube - I’d love you to follow me over there.

When You Can’t Do It All is something I’ve been feeling lately.

What happens when you can’t do everything you’d like to get done?

I’ve always been someone who likes to keep multiple creative threads going at once. Filming, editing, taking photos, sharing, teaching. And for as long as I can remember, that has felt quite natural. But this month has reminded me that sometimes, you simply can’t do it all. And that’s okay.

Here are a few things that have helped me keep going anyway, and maybe they’ll help you:

1. Let one thing take the lead.

For me, this month, it’s been photography.

The 100 Days of Colour project has felt easy to do each day. It’s simple, fun, has a deadline, and fits into my life without needing too much from me. Instead of trying to force anything else, I’ve let that be enough for now. If a video gets made, that’s a bonus, and I know the flow will come back for those types of projects. There will be time for video to shine again.

2. Adjust the rules when life happens.

On the 26th, I wasn’t feeling well at all, and the video I made wasn’t what I had imagined I would create for that month. I’d thought that with the boys here, we would have had a fun day bopping around. But rather than skipping it or feeling like I’d failed, I adjusted the story slightly and made something that fit for that day.

Creative projects are meant to support you and you can bend the rules if you choose.

3. Something is always better than nothing.

This is the one I come back to again and again.

Creating a shorter or different video still counts. Showing up imperfectly is still showing up. And occasionally, those are the videos that end up meaning more later on.

If you’re in a season where things feel a bit full, or your creative energy isn’t quite where you want it to be, maybe this is your reminder that you don’t have to do everything to still be someone who creates.

You just have to keep a small ember glowing.

And if you do want a bit of structure or support with your videos, that’s exactly what I share inside MAKE VIDEOS CLUB. It’s there if and when you need it.

If you’d like to stir up a little creativity this year, the MAKE VIDEOS – 10 Projects to Tell Your Everyday Stories might be the perfect companion. It’s a self-paced collection of simple, joyful prompts designed to help you start filming your life in a way that feels doable, personal and fun. You’ll learn how to make videos but it’s more about becoming someone who makes them as part of their life.

There are ten projects to explore - some short and playful, others deeper and more reflective. You can use them as sparks for your creative goals and create videos that feel meaningful.

With so much curated and AI-generated content around, the most powerful thing you can create is something real - the routines of your days, the people you love, your home and neighbourhood and all the small moments you might forget.

If this sparks something, you can find out more and join MAKE VIDEOS – 10 Projects here.

Here is my offering from March -

And you can watch 2025 editions on YouTube : HERE. Or 2024 over here.

So why don’t you join us and create your DITL on April 26th? Mark your calendars, everyone is welcome. And if you’d like FREE resources and inspiration to help get you started, head to 26TH:DAY IN THE LIFE for everything you need.

LISTEN/WATCH - We should all listen to this -

and then watch the documentary.

LISTEN - If you’re feeling the urge to get back to reading and need a little encouragement or reasons why - have a listen to this? I’ve really made reading a priority this year and I’ve enjoyed so many books already.

WATCH - I’m really hoping I get to see this documentary when it comes out later this year.

WATCH/LISTEN - A really interesting conversation around the Paul McCartney: Man on the Run documentary, with stories and songs from his Wings era.

WATCH - I see this all the time in Hoi An old town - people posing and capturing the sights. This felt like an interesting perspective on all of that.

WATCH - I’m obsessed with Fred Herzog’s colours

READ - A good reminder of the kinds of excuses we tell ourselves when it comes to doing creative work. Sometimes you just need to see them written down.

How To Go Freelance by Grace Abbott

9 excuses you're making not to do your creative work and my rebuttals

There is an ambient anxiety that soundtracks your life when you’re a creative person who is not expressing themselves. I know firsthand, after a decade of building brands for other people – writing, designing, strategizing, building, posting – knowing…

8 months ago · 321 likes · 61 comments · Grace Abbott

WATCH - Adapt or die in terms of ai or maybe think about it this way?

LISTEN/WATCH - I always enjoy listening to Hannah Fry, she makes science easy to digest.

LISTEN/WATCH - If you need something light and pure escapism. Listen in to Amy and Steve…

Or Rose Byrne talking to Sam Fargoso.

MUSIC - And finally, I’m loving the new albums from James Blake and Raye. Good for the soul! and full of hope :)

As always, feel free to share your recommendations with me! I’d love to know what you’ve been enjoying lately and if you checked out any of these suggestions. Share in the comments!

Hope you’re doing well, thanks for being here and reading along. Wishing you a lovely month ahead.

Take care,

Xanthe xx

P.S. I’ll be back on 5th May with the next edition.

(This section contains affiliate links, you will not be charged more but I may make a small commission if you purchase through my links. Many thanks for your support.)

Slice of Life - March Edition

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 04:11:34 GMT

Hello!. Last month I mentioned that Tet was on its way. The Lunar New Year arrived in a wash of red and yellow, blooms and lanterns, with fire horse symbols everywhere. Suddenly Hoi An was glowing again. After the wet grey of the rainy season, everything here looks so beautiful at this time of year. The light returns, flowers spill into the streets, and there’s that feeling of one chapter closing and another beginning. It really does feel like the start of the year.

Having Luke’s mum here visiting has added to that feeling. Showing someone around the place you live makes you see it differently. The streets I pass every day feel more cinematic. Everything looks more vibrant and even simple routines feel worth pointing out. It’s reminded me how easy it is to stop noticing your own life when you’re inside it all the time.

I think that’s partly what sparked my new 100 Day project.

I’ve done a few of these before. 100 days on my bike. 100 days of vertical video. 100 days of lockdown. There’s something about committing to a small creative daily act that sharpens the way I see. This time, I wanted it to be simple. Something I’d be doing anyway. No pressure to produce something big or polished and I realised I hardly take photographs anymore.

So I’m challenging myself to 100 Days of Colour - A colour diary from Hoi An.

Each day I’m taking photos, noticing what colours are calling to me, and sharing them here on Substack Notes and because I love seeing all the shots together, there’s a Pinterest board and a gallery too.

I’ll add in little videos as I go, but right now I’m really enjoying the simplicity of framing colours in photographs. It feels doable. And that’s exactly what I need.

It’s been a quieter month on the video project front, just a Week in the Life and my February Memory Postcards video completed.

All my videos can be found on YouTube - I’d love you to follow me over there.

Creative Notes this month is inspired by my latest 26th Day in the Life project and the February Memory Postcards video: the “10 Things” format.

I loved how simple it made everything feel. Instead of trying to craft a narrative or find a thread through the footage, I gathered my clips and looked for moments that stood out. Then I turned them into a list : Ten things from the day (or month).

If you’d like to try it, here are three ways to approach it:

1. Gather first, decide later. Whatever time period you’re working with - a day, a week, a month - bring all your footage into your timeline before making any decisions. Don’t plan the structure yet. Just watch your clips and notice what’s there. Themes. Colours. Small rituals. Moments worth remembering.

Let the footage suggest the number. It doesn’t have to be ten. It could be five. It could be twelve. It’s simply your list of things.

2. Make a simple list. Open your Notes app and write them out.

Morning coffee
Walking through the market
A quiet five minutes in the afternoon

Keep it straight forward as this becomes your structure. You don’t have to find a focus or an arc.

3. Let your voice add what the camera can’t. Now expand on each point, giving it a little more depth. The footage shows what happened. Your voice can share how it felt.

Talk about your mood that day. The detail that didn’t make it into the frame. The thought you had while walking. Because you’re working from a list, you’re not trying to tie everything into one neat message. You’re simply noticing.

Why don’t you try this for your next video? - try making a list, picking a number and see what happens.

I’m still at the beginning of my 100 Days of Colour project, but I’ve been thinking a lot about how much easier creativity feels when it has a shape to hold it. That’s exactly why I made MAKE VIDEOS – 10 Projects to Tell Your Everyday Stories

It’s ten clear starting points for your creativity. Projects you can step into one at a time, whether you have a quiet week at home or a full, messy one. Each one gives you a way to approach filming so you’re not staring at your camera wondering what to capture or how to turn it into something watchable.

If you’ve been meaning to document your days but keep putting it off, this gives you somewhere to begin and something to finish. You can dip in whenever you’re ready and move through it at your own pace. If that sounds helpful right now, you can find all the details and join MAKE VIDEOS – 10 Projects here.

Each month on the 26th I invite you to document your day - 26TH:DAY IN THE LIFE project. I love a consistent project that encourages me (and hopefully you) to show up, no matter what’s going on or how you’re feeling. The Day In The Life video is such a doable project, as you only need a few clips to tell the story of your day.

Here is my offering from February -

And you can watch 2025 editions on YouTube : HERE. Or 2024 over here.

So why don’t you join us and create your DITL on March 26th? Mark your calendars, everyone is welcome. And if you’d like FREE resources and inspiration to help get you started, head to 26TH:DAY IN THE LIFE for everything you need.

WATCH - Small Prophets is charming!. I think you’ll like it.

READ - My 100 Day project is all about noticing, so I loved this reminder: “There’s always something to make us feel alive, no matter where we are. But first, we have to choose to look.”

Creative Fuel with Anna Brones

"Paying attention makes me feel alive."

In the shop: cards and prints and all the reminders that yes, you have permission…

4 months ago · 115 likes · 11 comments

WATCH / LISTEN - Here they tackle the important question: is Gen X the greatest music generation? It leans a little US-heavy, but it’s still a fun listen and I’m sure fellow Gen Xers will be nodding along.

READ - A detailed guide to rebooting your attention. Lots to dip into here.

as slow as possible

38 ways to create more than you consume, while you consume

I’m Tuğba, a Greek-Turkish artist living in Berlin - as slow as possible is a newsletter exploring the in-between spaces of our lives that we see but often do not notice. Interested in reading more of my work…

4 months ago · 274 likes · 17 comments · Tuğba Avci

LISTEN - A deep dive into Pulp Fiction and the way it shifted cinema at the time.

READ - Loved this! A nudge to shape the month with a bit more intention.

From Me to You

March Guide: A Bucket List for the Month Ahead

January arrives with all this newness, new year, new you, everyone’s setting goals and buying planners. February at least has the decency to be short, plus there’s Valentine’s Day, giving the month some kind of energy (even if that energy is just about where to eat and how to spend the day). April brings the promise of spring, May is practically summer…

4 months ago · 775 likes · 28 comments · Nancy Yin

WATCH - I’ll never tire of looking at Martin Parr’s photography. There’s so much humour and honesty in the way he frames everyday life.

READ - Some good reminders…

Untethered Mind

The 13 habits of people who actually like themselves

Ever met someone who seems genuinely comfortable in their own skin…

4 months ago · 813 likes · 16 comments · Alex Mathers

READ - I love this project. What we carry in our bags reveals so much about who we are and what our days look like.

WATCH - Two comedy queens just chatting about their work.

READ - I think about time passing and memory a lot, so this really resonated.

High Agency

Why time speeds up as you age (and what to do about it)

Why do some people die at 80 and feel like they’ve lived 30 years…

4 months ago · 274 likes · 27 comments · George Mack

WATCH - Amusing and true!

As always, feel free to share your recommendations with me! I’d love to know what you’ve been enjoying lately and if you checked out any of these suggestions. Share in the comments!

So, that’s all from my little corner of Hoi An. Lanterns, blossoms, visitors and a camera back in my hand noticing colour again.

I’m very aware there are continually difficult and heavy things happening in the world right now. This small space isn’t about ignoring that, but about offering a little brightness, a little quiet, and a little reminder of the everyday beauty that still exists alongside it. Sometimes that feels more necessary than ever.

I’ll be sharing my daily photos over in Notes as the 100 Days unfolds, and I’d love to know what beauty or colour you’re noticing in your own world too. It doesn’t have to be a project - One small thing from your week is enough.

Thank you, as always, for being here and for reading along. I’m so grateful.

Xanthe xx

P.S. I’ll be back on 5th April with the next edition.

(This section contains affiliate links, you will not be charged more but I may make a small commission if you purchase through my links. Many thanks for your support.)

Slice of Life - February Edition

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 10:02:23 GMT

Hi there!. The past month has been beautiful here in Hoi An. Everything comes alive after the rainy season. The weather shifts, the sun shows up without being too hot, and flowers start popping up everywhere. We’re just a week or so away from the New Year celebrations of Tet and, to me, this really feels like the start of the year. Plus, it’s the year of the horse - Galloping, strong, and gentle. I’m leaning into that image.

Taking a little break last month from regular creative projects and live teaching turned out to be exactly what I needed. Some space to find my footing again and reconnect with what I love to do and share.

During that pause, I was editing my 2025 compilations, which meant watching every single Week in the Life video from the past year. All fifty-two of them!. Seeing them back to back was emotional, grounding, uplifting and surprisingly moving. Not just because of the moments themselves, but because of the many different ways the stories were told. Some weeks were quiet and observational, others more reflective. Some were built around routines, others felt overflowing with moments, and a few focused on a single day or feeling. And somehow, they all worked.

What really surprised me was how much I’ve learned simply by showing up each week. Little ways of filming when motivation was low. How to shape a week when nothing “big” happened, or when there was too much footage or I didn’t have enough time. When to lean on voiceover, when to let the clips speak for themselves, how music adds emotion and how to keep things simple while still meaningful. Watching them all together made those patterns really clear, and it lit something up for me.

Somewhere in the middle of editing those compilations, I realised I hadn’t just been making videos. I’d been building a way of creating.

And that’s when I started creating something new!

My new online course - The WEEK IN MY LIFE project. It’s grown directly out of my videos from last year and everything they taught me along the way, and I’m really excited to share it with you.

The course is a guided experience focused on documenting a week in a way that feels doable, personal, and hopefully enjoyable!. I’ll walk you through different ways to approach filming your week, from simple structures to more creative variations, and share the tips and rhythms that helped me keep going. It’s not about perfection, but about finding a way to show up that fits your life, your energy, and your season, so you can make a Week in the Life video you’ll want to watch in years to come.

We’ll start at the beginning of March. I’d love for you to join in. All the details are HERE. Please take a look and if you have any questions - let me know!

As I mentioned, this month has been mostly about creating 2025 compilations from the WITL videos. First, I focused on the music I used. It was especially hard to narrow down the over 150 tracks I used to just 33, showing the variety of music and how each track really enhances the emotional arc of the video. I made a special playlist of all the songs in this compilation : 2025 FAVOURITES - WEEK IN THE LIFE VLOGS - check it out!.

Then I made a month-by-month 2025 compilation, selecting key moments and montaging the clips together. It turned out like this -

But I also started thinking about why I still want to make videos. What’s important, and what my why really is, especially in this current landscape of AI video and the ability to create almost any type of video. So I added a voiceover with my ramblings to a different version of the edit, and I hope it resonates.

I’m still hoping to make a Week In My Life video regularly (just not every week!). So this was from the beginning of January and New Years Day was especially lovely!

And I might try to do a monthly “memory postcards” compilation of sorts throughout 2026. Here’s January to kick things off -

All my videos can be found on YouTube - I’d love you to follow me over there.

Making a 2025 compilation : I’ve been reminded how wonderful it can be to look back and put together favourite moments from your year.

If you’re feeling drawn to make a year-in-review or compilation video - there’s still time! and you can of course, gather your clips and put the footage together in chronological order, or in a mish-mash that feels good. But here are a few other ways to approach it.

1. Choose a single theme for your edit

Rather than trying to include everything, pick one angle. That could be music, a season, routines, gratitude, small moments, a feeling, or even a listicle. Limiting the focus makes the edit feel more doable and more intentional.

Try this: Dip into your 2025 archive and see if there are any clips that match one theme. Stick with those for now. You can always make another version later.

2. Let music lead the emotion

Music can do a lot of storytelling on its own. When I edited my music compilation, I realised how much each track shaped the pacing, tone, and emotional arc of the video. Choose a song that sets the pace of your edit.

Try this: Start with a track you love and build the visuals around it. Music sets the tone and pace for your video! Notice how it naturally suggests cuts, rhythm, and length. Whether your year was a whirlwind of excitement or a serene retreat, choose tracks that mirror those emotions. The right music will elevate your video and draw viewers into your story.

3. Use voiceover to anchor your why

A compilation doesn’t have to explain everything, but a few spoken thoughts can add depth, especially when you’re reflecting on how the year felt for you.

Try this: Once you’ve got a rough edit in the timeline, make some notes about what you could say as a voiceover. Write a script or record a rough voice memo first. Ramble. Reflect. And then refine it. Just experiment and be playful with it.

A year-end compilation isn’t always about showing the best bits. It’s a way of paying attention to the details and honouring the act of showing up. Even a short, imperfect compilation can become one of the most meaningful videos you make.

And so begins the third year of this Day In The Life project, where each month I invite you to document your day on the 26th - simply called the 26TH:DAY IN THE LIFE project. Over the years, I’ve discovered the benefits of having a consistent project that encourages me (and hopefully you) to show up, no matter what’s going on or how you’re feeling. The Day In The Life video is such a doable project, as you only need a few clips to tell the story of your day.

Here is my offering from January -

And you can watch all my 2025 editions on YouTube. Or 2024 is over here.

So why don’t you join us and create your DITL on February 26th? Mark your calendars, everyone is welcome. And if you’d like FREE resources and inspiration to help get you started, head to 26TH:DAY IN THE LIFE for everything you need.

WATCH - If you need a little pep talk to start the thing (or finally do the thing), Ash knows how to string beautiful words together and gently remind you what actually matters.

WATCH - A fascinating deep dive into the different aspect ratios used in Sinners, and how they were designed to shape the viewing experience. One for the film nerds.

WATCH / LISTEN - If only Jen Law could be my millennial friend.

READ - Beautifully said.

The Content Girl

Your AI is showing

I don’t know if it’s just my echo chamber, but my social feeds are filled with what is very, very obviously AI-generated content at the minute. I can’t scroll for five minutes without being exposed to some horror…

a year ago · 7529 likes · 497 comments · Ellen

WATCH/LISTEN - MTV was a huge part of my youth, so I loved this conversation. We hear from Tim Freston, who was there at the very beginning, and how the channel slowly became a cultural institution.

LISTEN - Can it be true? A bonus episode where they discover Vine is returning. How is that possible?!

READ - Loving this year’s colour palette from Pinterest. Which is your favourite?

WATCH - A pocket of London. Such a beautiful portrait of an iconic place - made me a little homesick.

WATCH - The Lowdown. Ethan Hawke as a truth-seeker, taking us along for the ride as he tries to uncover the story around him. A wild story, and the soundtrack is excellent.

READ - The courage to create badly. I loved this. A reminder that in a world full of polished highlight reels, there’s real value in being a beginner again and making things imperfectly.

milk and cookies

the courage to create badly

i have been thinking about how we’ve all become terrified of doing things poorly and not in the way people usually talk about perfectionism where someone confesses they spent three hours choosing the right filter for an instagram photo and everyone nods knowingly. i mean something deeper and more paralyzing, something that’s infected the way we approach…

5 months ago · 893 likes · 60 comments · ayushi thakkar

WATCH - Whether you already know Tim Key (you should, I’ve definitely mentioned him before, and I adored his film from last year) or not, this conversation is an absolute joy.

LISTEN / EXPLORE - Such an intriguing idea. I know I’ve got a few old cassettes & mixtapes knocking around, with no idea what’s on them…

WATCH - A portrait of Hiromix, and the impact of her everyday life photography.

As always, feel free to share your recommendations with me! I’d love to know what you’ve been enjoying lately and if you checked out any of these suggestions. Share in the comments!

That’s it for this month’s little collection of thoughts, videos and creative reflections. As always, writing this newsletter is one of my favourite ways to pause and take stock, and I’m so grateful you’re here reading along.

If the idea of making a Week in the Life video has been quietly nudging at you while reading this, I’d love you to join me for my new course. It’s been shaped thoughtfully and pulls directly from a year of showing up imperfectly but consistently, and I can’t wait to guide others through the experience. All the details are HERE if you’d like to take a look.

Hope something here resonated or sparked an idea in your creative process, you’re always welcome to reply. I know I say it every month, but even a short note or a “still here” genuinely makes my day and reminds me this is a real conversation, not just words on a screen.

Thank you for being here and for caring about my creative work.

Xanthe xx

P.S. I’ll be back on 5th March with the next edition.

(This section contains affiliate links, you will not be charged more but I may make a small commission if you purchase through my links. Many thanks for your support.)

Slice of Life - January Edition

Sun, 04 Jan 2026 22:01:27 GMT

Hello! How you doing? Happy New Year :)

January always arrives with a lot of “fresh start” energy, but I’ve never been very good at rushing into it. I like to ease my way into a new year. It’s less about becoming someone new and more about listening for who I already am underneath the noise. Spring has always felt more like my true beginning, so for now I’m letting January unfold gently and seeing what shows up.

That’s looked like settling back into familiar routines, letting ideas arrive without chasing them and noticing what I’m naturally drawn to when nothing is demanding my attention. There’s been filming and scribbling notes for videos and voiceovers, but also quite a lot of looking back. Especially as I finally stop and acknowledge something that feels pretty big: I completed a full year of weekly vlogs. Fifty-two weeks of Week In My Life stories!. Every single one finished and shared. That feels huge to say out loud. Not because they’re perfect, but because they’ve changed how I trust myself creatively. I know now that I can keep showing up, even when things feel quiet, challenging or ordinary. I’m working on a few celebratory edits to mark it properly, because just like finishing my daily video challenge in 2023, this is something I’m genuinely proud of. And if it nudges someone else to keep going with their own projects too, even better.

This January also looks a little different for me in another way. For the first time in over a decade, I’m not kicking the year off by hosting/launching a “live” course/membership. I’m giving myself more space to think, to play and to see what wants to emerge next. (If you’ve got any ideas of what you’d like me to offer, please get in touch). That said, if you’re feeling ready to create, my MAKE VIDEOS – 10 Projects to Tell Your Everyday Stories course is still very much open and waiting for you. It’s completely self-paced and designed to help you actually make videos - not just think about making them. More than that, it’s for anyone who wants to feel like the kind of person who notices their life, trusts their perspective and follows through on the ideas that matter to them. I’m also still offering one-to-one sessions if you’d like personal support, clarity, or a bit of creative momentum. Especially if what you’re really craving is confidence in your own creative voice, rather than more rules or pressure. (You’ll find all the details for both further down.)

I hope you had a lovely festive season, with a bit of sparkle mixed in. Ours was very quiet, as you can see in my Christmas Day 25.12.25 video below and it turned out to be unexpectedly lovely. Restful, calm, and much needed. I missed our boys a lot, but they were happily doing their own thing, and I’m already counting down the days until they come to visit for my birthday.

January here in Hoi An is always a treat. This is our third one, so we know the rhythm now as Vietnam gently builds towards Tet, the Lunar New Year, in February. The Christmas decorations are coming down and will be replaced by red ribbons, flags, and an abundance of flowers everywhere. I can’t wait. Maybe this will feel like my new beginning after all. Here’s a little taste of what January looked like here last year…

My December videos are the final stretch of my year-long weekly vlog project. They feel like a gentle winding down. A noticing of contrasts, small moments, and the quiet satisfaction of reaching the end of something I’ve been creating all year.

All my videos can be found on YouTube - I’d love you to follow me over there.

As I mentioned, rather than rushing into this year, I’m letting this month be about easing back into filming, noticing what’s unfinished and finding a rhythm for new projects that feels doable. Here are some suggestions that are helping me.

1. Close the loops on last year’s videos

If you have unfinished edits tucked away, choose just one to return to. You don’t need to fix everything. A simple ending, or re-jiggle of the timeline, perhaps add a few lines of voiceover, or even exporting it as it is can be enough. Finishing something is often more about closing a chapter than perfecting it.

Tiny filming prompt: Open one old project and find a way to complete it today. It could be adding some shots you filmed today, removing footage that doesn’t work, or scribbling down some notes to record as a voiceover or spoken to the camera.

2. Decide how you want your videos to feel this year

Before thinking about ideas or goals, pause and name a feeling you’d like your videos to carry this year. Calm. Curious. Playful. Grounded. Let that feeling guide what you film this month and how you approach it.

Tiny filming prompt: Write one word in your notes app or notebook, then film one short clip that matches that feeling. Let it be the catalyst for your future snippets.

3. Start small and familiar

When you’re ready to make videos this year, begin with something already happening your day. A morning routine, a walk, making tea, a bike ride. A handful of clips is plenty. These small moments are often the easiest way back into a video-making rhythm and the ones you’ll treasure most later.

Tiny filming prompt: Video the very first thing you notice when you step outside today, even if it’s just for a few seconds.

January doesn’t need a big creative reset. Think of it as a gentle re-entry. A way to begin without pressure and let the year unfold one ordinary moment at a time.

There are ten projects to explore - some short and playful, others deeper and more reflective. You can use them as sparks for your creative goals for 2026 and create videos that feel meaningful.

2026 feels like a good time to be making our own videos. With so much curated and AI-generated content around, the most powerful thing you can create is something real - the routines of your days, the people you love, the small moments you might forget. Choosing to document your real life is a quiet decision about who you want to be in a world that’s getting louder by the day.

If this sparks something, you can find out more and join MAKE VIDEOS – 10 Projects here.

The ongoing free Day In The Life project continues for its third year!, with a little shift to the 26th!. Each month on the 26th I invite you to document your day - 26TH:DAY IN THE LIFE project. Over the years, I’ve discovered the benefits of having a consistent project that encourages me (and hopefully you) to show up, no matter what’s going on or how you’re feeling. The Day In The Life video is such a doable project, as you only need a few clips to tell the story of your day.

Here is my offering from December -

And you can watch previous editions 2025 on YouTube : HERE. Or 2024 over here.

So why don’t you join us and create your DITL on January 26th? Mark your calendars, everyone is welcome. And if you’d like FREE resources and inspiration to help get you started, head to 26TH:DAY IN THE LIFE for everything you need.

WATCH - Goodbye June - Beautifully and sensitively directed by Kate Winslet, with such strong performances and a poignant, quietly powerful story written by her son. It’s tender, human and really stays with you. One for a cosy evening and I needed plenty of tissues.

LISTEN - If you’ve watched the film, this is the perfect follow-on : Kate Winslet on Talk Easy with Sam Fragoso. Kate chats with Sam about the making of Goodbye June, the creative process and the emotional layers behind it all. So thoughtful and fascinating.

LISTEN - A great deep dive into the making of Go Your Own Way on Song Exploder with Lindsey Buckingham. Hearing Lindsey talk through the song piece by piece adds so much context and makes you listen to it differently afterwards.

WATCH - I first saw this documentary years ago and loved revisiting it. Such a beautiful reminder of what a brilliant writer and storyteller Nora Ephron was and how much warmth and wit she brought to her work.

WATCH - Watching the documentary sent me straight back to enjoy Sleepless in Seattle and Julie & Julia. Both are endlessly comforting, full of heart, and just as lovely on a rewatch. (no link needed, just encouragement!)

LISTEN - TrackStar with Amy Allen and Charlie Puth - A really engaging conversation about songwriting, melody, and instinct. They talk about songs from ABBA, The Beatles, Sheryl Crow, Dolly Parton, Britney Spears and more. Insightful!

READ - 50 fun and whimsical alternatives to resolutions. Such a refreshing take on January. Gentle, playful ideas that feel much more human than traditional goal setting.

The Way of Beauty

50 Fun & Whimsical Resolutions for a More Joyful 2026

New Year’s Eve may be my favorite holiday, and in my ongoing attempts to create more converts to the New Year’s Eve hype, I want to remind everyone of one very important thing: you can harness the energy of the new year however you want…

6 months ago · 3713 likes · 60 comments · Hannah Liz

WATCH - This is inspiring. One of those videos that gives you a quiet nudge rather than a big push. I loved it.

READ - What pop music can teach us. An interesting look at creativity, consistency, and craft through the lens of pop music. Lots of ideas here that translate well beyond music.

Make Work Better

5 lessons pop music can teach us about creativity

By this stage of the year most of us are exhausted…

6 months ago · 27 likes · Bruce Daisley

WATCH - If you’re still holding onto a festive mood, The Great British Bake Off: Peep Show special is such a treat. Especially Olivia Colman, who is an absolute joy.

READ - I loved this list. Thoughtful questions that open up proper conversations rather than small talk.

Uncynical

Questions to ask your friends

"remember when" is the lowest form of conversation…

a year ago · 18217 likes · 110 comments · Dylan

WATCH - Surprisingly entertaining listening to these two talk about their films and acting.

WATCH – Speaking of Leo DiCaprio, I loved diving into this YouTube breakdown of One Battle After Another. I enjoyed the movie, particularly the cinematography and use of colour. It was shot on film, so it has that beautiful texture and look, but the lighting choices and composition are just as striking. This breakdown articulates exactly why it looks and feels the way it does.

READ - Such a good reminder that change doesn’t have to be loud or dramatic. These small adjustments gently shift the texture of your days without turning the new year into another pressure-filled project.

notes by allie

The smallest possible reset: how to start a new year without overhauling your life

The beginning of a new year tends to invite extremes. We’re told to reinvent ourselves completely - adopt new routines, chase new goals, step into some polished version of who we think we should be. And when that feels unrealistic, the advice swings the other way: don’t change anything at all, because resolutions are pointless anyway…

6 months ago · 565 likes · 13 comments

WATCH - What a joy to watch the John Candy documentary. A loving, entertaining portrait of a talented and much-loved man. It was lovely to hear more about his life, his work and the people who adored him.

READ - I’ve been toying with the idea of starting a photo walk club here in Hoi An… even if I’m the only member because I used to love doing/hosting photo walks!. Then I discovered this Substack with lots of tips and helpful advice to start hosting a tiny club.

TinyClub

Now Is the Best Time to Start Your Club

If you’re thinking of starting a club, January is the moment you’ve been waiting for…

6 months ago · 11 likes · 3 comments · TinyClub

LISTEN - I’ll always have a soft spot for George Michael, ever since getting the Wham! Make It Big album with my first Walkman. This session is gorgeous to have playing in the background.

READ - You know I love gathering joyful moments into video vignettes, so this project - JOY SCAVENGERS - is right up my street. Come and join in…

Joy Scavengers

A year long scavenger hunt...for Joy

When you look back on a year, what actually stays with you…

6 months ago · 3 likes · Joy Scavengers

As always, feel free to share your recommendations with me! I’d love to know what you’ve been enjoying lately and if you checked out any of these suggestions. Share in the comments!

That’s it for this first slice of the year - just a gathering of thoughts, videos and things I’ve been enjoying.

I’m always grateful when I hit send on these, knowing there’s this connection between us. If anything here tickled your fancy, sparked an idea, or simply made you feel a little less alone in your own creative plans, I’d really love to hear from you. Tell me what you’re watching or listening to, what you’re making, or what you’re gently curious about this year. You can reply on email, or even better leave a comment on Substack, or just say hello.

Thanks, as always, for being here and starting the year with me.

Xanthe xx

P.S. I’ll be back on 5th February with the next edition.

(This section contains affiliate links, you will not be charged more but I may make a small commission if you purchase through my links. Many thanks for your support.)

Q: Tell me more about your 1:1 sessions

A: These are personalised one-to-one online sessions for creators who want a bit more clarity, confidence, or creative momentum. It’s a calm, supportive space to focus on whatever feels most important for you right now. These sessions aren’t about fixing you or your work, but helping you reconnect with your instincts and move forward with more trust and ease.

We might talk through a project you’re stuck on, shape an idea that’s still a little foggy, look at your filming or editing approach, or zoom out and untangle the bigger creative picture. If you’re right at the beginning of video-making - we can start with the basics and build from there in a way that feels doable.

You can bring half-formed ideas, questions you’ve been carrying around, or a desire to be more intentional with your videos. I’ll meet you where you are and help you move forward, with gentle structure if that’s helpful.

Sessions are 45 minutes and cost £120, £199 for two sessions, or £600 for six if you’d like ongoing support. Small group sessions with friends are also an option if you’d like to share the experience.

If it feels like the right time, just send me an email and I’ll set it up.

Slice of Life - December Edition

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 22:12:30 GMT

Each month, I share a little slice of what I’ve been creating, sprinkle in ideas to spark your own stories, and gather a few favourite reads, listens and watches that have caught my eye lately. If this edition doesn’t fully display in your email, it’s simply brimming with goodness - open it on desktop, in a browser, or on the Substack app to enjoy the full thing!

Hello from a very soggy Hoi An, here in Vietnam. Hope you’re doing ok?

This past month has been a mix of wild weather, quiet routines and a surprising amount of reflection. There were storms, floods, endless rain and a couple of typhoon warnings. Days spent indoors watching the water rise and fall, keeping an eye on the news. (We’ve been ok, but many people in the surrounding areas have been struggling.)

There were the bright moments too: volunteering in the recovery efforts, little pockets of sunlight, the comfort of my morning routines and a pull toward old memories. It all unfolds in my weekly vlogs.

The festive season is starting to show up here with little pops of Christmas lights, decorated shop fronts and the occasional Christmas tree decorated in colourful ornaments. It’s nice to soak it in and I hope you’re feeling a bit of a lift too from the festivities and as we move toward the end of the year.

Since 2012, I’ve always begun each year by hosting something, whether it’s a new project, a guided online course, or a way to start January by creating together. But this time I’m not running anything live or year-long. It feels a little strange, but I’d like to step into 2026 with a little space and see what unfolds. If you’ve got any ideas of what I could offer next, in terms of the world of video creation, do let me know!

If you’d still like to learn from me or dive into my favourite projects, the self-paced version of MAKE VIDEOS - 10 Projects to Tell Your Everyday Stories course is always there for whenever inspiration strikes - all the details are below. And I will keep going with my monthly Day in the Life project, which will shift to the 26th as we move into 2026. It feels like the right rhythm for this next chapter.

I’ve been slipping back into my archive - past Octobers and Novembers, old Day in the Life projects, morning routines from years ago and bike rides with the boys. It’s amazing how revisiting old footage can spark something new and remind me of what matters as a storyteller.

And it’s been interesting to see how those older moments sit alongside the clips I’m filming now.

All my weekly videos live on YouTube - please subscribe over there!

Here are the past few uploads… Starting with a rain-soaked week that reminded me of previous Octobers.

A week of rising water, staying home, and watching our community pull together.

After a tense few days of storms and warnings, the sunshine returned and shifted everything.

My annual 11.11 ritual reminded me why I fell in love with documenting ordinary days in the first place. If you filmed just one day each year, what would you want your future self to remember about this one?

With barely any new footage, I ended up wandering through old Novembers instead and found more than I expected.

As you can see above, my weekly vlogs this month included scenes from older videos, where I stitched past and present footage together. It’s a fun way of telling stories. If you’d like to try something like this or you’ve got an idea to “look back” in video, here are a few tips to get started -

Using Archive Footage to Tell New Stories

1. Spend time with your archive

Watch through your previous completed projects or any unused footage. Pick the clips or sections you want to use and gather a few “maybe” options as well.

This part takes time, but it’s worth it. The more familiar you are with your footage, the smoother the process will be.

Notice what catches your attention as you rewatch. Look for scenes that will work with your current footage in terms of the story you’re telling. Are there moments you’d forgotten, places you miss, or small details that spark new ideas? Let your past creativity nudge your present one.

2. Notice the threads

As you watch, look for connections between then and now - weather, seasons, colours, rituals, moods, or even questions you were asking back then. Think about how you can place past and present side by side. How might these echoes help tell different stories?

3. Shape the story with a voiceover

Once you’ve chosen your clips/videos, make notes of the themes and threads you want to explore. A simple voiceover can weave everything together and give the footage a fresh layer of meaning. Consider how the older footage can shape a new story that feels richer than sticking to just the present day footage.

4. Let it be imperfect

Working with a larger volume of footage - the old and new, can feel like a lot. But if you’ve nailed the voiceover and gathered everything you need, assembling the edit can be surprisingly straightforward. And even if it’s not perfect or quite how you imagined it, it’s through practice and playing with these stories that you get better at the process.

Be playful. Experiment. Be excited that you get to breathe new life into older stories while gathering new ones along the way.

If you’re feeling that end-of-year pull to reflect, reset or stir up a little creativity, MAKE VIDEOS – 10 Projects to Tell Your Everyday Stories might be the perfect companion. It’s a self-paced collection of simple, joyful prompts designed to help you start filming your life in a way that feels doable, personal and fun.

There are ten projects to explore - some short and playful, others deeper and more reflective. You can dip into them now as the year winds down, or use them as sparks for you creative goals for 2026. Either way, you’ll come away with videos that feel honest and meaningful.

And truly, this feels like a good moment to be making our own videos. With so much curated and AI-generated content around, the most powerful thing you can create is something real - the routines of your days, the people you love, the small moments you might forget if you didn’t catch them on camera.

If this sparks something, you can find out more and join MAKE VIDEOS – 10 Projects here.

I always like to have an ongoing free project for people to join in with. This year it’s the 25TH:DAY IN THE LIFE project, where each month on the 25th I invite you to document your day. Over the years, I’ve discovered the benefits of having a consistent project that encourages me (and hopefully you) to show up, no matter what’s going on or how you’re feeling. The Day In The Life video is such a doable project, as you only need a few clips to tell the story of your day.

Here is my offering from November -

And you can watch previous editions on YouTube : HERE.

If this sparks your interest - there’s just one more left for this year! On Christmas Day! Will you join us and create your DITL on December 25th? Mark your calendars, everyone is welcome. And if you’d like FREE resources and inspiration to help get you started, head to 25TH:DAY IN THE LIFE for everything you need. And this project will continue in 2026 on the 26th!

LISTEN (or WATCH) - Cameron Crowe is such a music lover and you can feel it in everything he makes. This conversation with Jack on Trackstar is full of stories about the bands he’s interviewed over the years. He also talks about the film he’s working on about Joni Mitchell, which sounds interesting and there are some brilliant David Bowie moments in there too. So good.

LISTEN - The fabulous Bridget Christie is on Memory Lane and it’s such a warm, funny chat. It feels like you’re listening in on friends. And if you haven’t seen Bridget in The Change, I think you’d like it.

And her mini series Mortal (which I’ve mentioned before) is also wonderful.

LISTEN - Who doesn’t love Bill Nighy. His new podcast is exactly the tonic you’d hope for. Comfort easy listening. Thanks to Francesca for the recommendation.

WATCH - I’ll probably end up sharing Georgie every month if that’s ok with you.

LISTEN - I adore Kathryn Hahn and she’s so open in this conversation with GP on Goop. They start by talking about the heartbreak & grief feeling of the empty nest experience, which I really relate to and don’t hear spoken about very often. The rest of the chat is lovely too.

READ - Love these reflective questions for winter.

Shangrilogs

Questions to ask yourself before winter takes over - #189

Quick housekeeping: no posts this Wednesday or next Sunday. Enjoying a little down time…

7 months ago · 85 likes · 23 comments · Kelton Wright

LISTEN - If you love Thelma and Louise, this episode is such a good deep dive into the film and how it was made.

LISTEN - Michael Palin talking to Louis Theroux about Monty Python and travel is as charming as you’d expect.

READ - I loved this. A reminder we all need -

i remember

your life starts today

7 months ago · 473 likes · 77 comments · laura

READ - So encouraging to see photography students and creatives still deeply committed to making work in this AI-heavy moment we’re living through.

WATCH - Riot Women is excellent. Great drama, brilliant performances, beautifully written.

READ - If you’re feeling a bit lost, this is a wonderful list of films to sink into -

Club 28

28 films for when you feel lost

Ahoy, sexy…

9 months ago · 4595 likes · 129 comments · Brigitte

LISTEN - Whether you’re a fan of her music or not, Charlie XCX on Goop was a surprisingly great listen.

WATCH - And finally a little reminder from me ✨

As always, feel free to share your recommendations with me! I’d love to know what you’ve been enjoying lately and if you checked out any of these suggestions. Share in the comments!

That’s it for this month’s little bundle of life and inspiration. Writing this newsletter still feels like those old blogging days… gathering small moments, thoughts, favourite things and sending them out into the world. I’m always grateful that you’re here reading along.

If something in this edition made you smile, sparked an idea or nudged a bit of creative energy, I’d love to hear about it. Your replies via email and comments left here on Substack always make this feel like a real conversation, rather than something sent into the void. Do stay and chat!

As we head into the festive season, I hope you find pockets of joy, rest and whatever feels good for you. And here’s to a gentle start to 2026… I’ll be back in January!.

Sending love and peace to you all <3

Xanthe xx

(This section contains affiliate links, you will not be charged more but I may make a small commission if you purchase through my links. Many thanks for your support.)

Q - What’s on my equipment wish list this year?

A - While I believe in making the most of what I already own. I haven’t purchased a new camera since 2017!, so I can’t help but dream!

I’d love a DJI Osmo Pocket 3 for shooting on the go. Along with either a new Canon G7x III or a Canon R6 II or the big one - Canon R5 - one day! Plus, I’d love the new AirPods 4, I use my AirPods every day and would love to upgrade!

My blog post on GIFTS FOR VIDEO CREATORS is for anyone looking for creative gift ideas for the video creators in their lives. Or if you’re a video creator yourself, you might want to consider adding some of these suggestions to your own wish list!

As always, you can browse - My Amazon shop if you’re interested in other video or photography equipment I use and love.

Are there any other products you’d like me to share or curate together? Or any questions I can answer in more detail? Let me know!

And here are all my 2025 (so far) playlists - January : February : March : April : May : June : July : August : September : October as there’s so much goodness.

Slice of Life - November Edition

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 22:11:02 GMT

Oh, October flew past in a flash. How was yours? Here in Hoi An, we are fully in rainy season with storms rolling through, sometimes fierce and sometimes fleeting. One minute the sky is dark and wild, the next there’s sunshine spilling across the rice fields like nothing ever happened, or even a giant rainbow taking your breath away. It keeps me on my toes… and inside a little more than usual.

Music has been keeping me company while I’ve been helping Luke in his studio. Some old albums that instantly take me back to who I used to be - one of my weekly vlogs focused on just this. And there are lots of new favourite records too. It’s funny how a song can completely change the atmosphere - the same space, same weather, brand new feeling. I’ve been leaning into that.

Unfortunately, part of my plans in October didn’t come together, as my online course Mini Time Capsules didn’t work out as I’d hoped this time. Just one lovely person signed up (thank you, truly). So I postponed it. I’ve never had to do that with any of my courses over the years! It would’ve been a fun challenge to host and join in with, and I believe in the concept of these mini memory videos deeply, which is probably why it stings a bit.

I’m taking the hint from the universe and will be rethinking my offerings next year, and perhaps it’s time to hang up my hat as an online educator, even though I love it so. For now, I have the self-paced version of MAKE VIDEOS available, which is 10 Projects to Tell Your Everyday Stories. If or when you’re ready to create (all the details are below), I’d love to support you in your own time and in your own way.

Thankfully, this fun little side project of “Words to Live By” that I’ve been sharing on Pinterest, has been keeping me from spiralling into disappointment and instead focusing on creating an inspiring daily mindset. I’ve found it has become a meditation each day - stamping each letter or shaping each word and taking time to make something purely for the joy of it.

You can see all of my daily October mantras here -

Loading Pinterest Pin...

And as usual, it’s been a month of finding beauty in small things with my weekly videos on YouTube. Watch here…

First up - A cosy week hiding from the wild weather. How cute are those cats?!

A week soundtracked by old albums, new favourites and the memories music can hold. Which song instantly takes you back to a moment you never want to forget?

When plans shifted, tiny calming rituals helped me find my way back to gratitude.

A rainy week brightened by a rainbow that made everyone stop, look up and smile. What unexpected moment recently made you stop and smile?

If you’ve watched my Things Don’t Go To Plan vlog above, you’ll know I’ve been leaning on tiny rituals. The small gestures that bring me back to myself when life feels a bit off-balance.

These are the ones I mentioned:

☀️ Film a few seconds of morning light :: notice the way it dances on the wall

🌿 Get outside :: the seasons are shifting, what do you notice?

🎞️ Rewatch an old video you’ve made :: remember how life felt back then

🕯️ Light an incense stick before you work and turn it into a tiny ritual

📹 Make a Mini Time Capsule video of your day - just 5 to 10 seconds is enough

🌅 Step outside at sunset (or dusk), even for a minute

👗 Wear something that feels good :: don’t save things for best

💃 Put on your favourite song and dance :: yes, even in the kitchen

Maybe one of these will help you too. Or perhaps you’ll write your own list - I’d love to see it! Share below and even add emojis!

And if you’d like to know how I added the handwriting to my video, here’s a little demo…

If you’ve ever wanted to make videos of your life but weren’t sure what to film, MAKE VIDEOS – 10 Projects to Tell Your Everyday Stories was made for you. It’s a self-paced collection of creative prompts to help you capture all kinds of moments - the big stories, the quiet routines and everything in between.

You’ll explore ten different projects, each one offering a spark of inspiration and a new way to tell your story. Some are short and playful, others invite you to go deeper - documenting a week, a season, or the people and places you love.

I believe it’s more important than ever to make our own videos. In a world filled with polished, curated and AI-generated content, what truly stands out is the real stuff - the human stuff - the everyday beauty of life as it actually is.

If you’ve taken one of my courses before, you’ll recognise some familiar projects. This version brings together the best of my previous courses in a refreshed, flexible format - perfect if you’d like to rebuild your creative rhythm or find new motivation to keep filming life as it happens.

Find out more and join MAKE VIDEOS – 10 Projects here.

Here is my offering from October -

And you can watch previous editions on YouTube : HERE.

If this sparks your interest - Why don’t you join us and create your DITL on November 25th? Mark your calendars, everyone is welcome. And if you’d like FREE resources and inspiration to help get you started, head to 25TH:DAY IN THE LIFE for everything you need and I even send you an email reminder near the time to join in!

LISTEN - “Play isn’t childish - it’s the engine of connection, invention, and growth.” I loved this reminder from an episode of the Daily Creative podcast. Such a thoughtful listen, especially if you need a little creative spark right now.

LISTEN - Then there’s another great Daily Creative conversation all about luck. How it’s not something that just happens to you, but something that happens through you, built from discipline, relationships, and awareness. Very inspring!

WATCH - Film Club on iPlayer is just gorgeous - beautifully written, wonderfully acted and so poignant. I think you’ll love it!

LISTEN - Over on the BIFA Podcast, Tim Key chats about film and The Ballad of Ellis Island (which I recommended back in July). It’s a funny conversation.

LISTEN - I’m a big fan of Alain de Botton, so I jumped at the chance to hear him again on Great Company with Jamie Laing (I shared their last conversation!). They talk about friendship, connection and the relationship we have with ourselves. Thoughtful, warm, and quietly inspiring.

READ - This essay on Velvet Noise explores the anatomy of aliveness. What makes some people glow, find joy and see beauty everywhere. It’s a lovely nudge to stay open to joy.

LISTEN - The Science of Happiness - I often see faces in everyday things, but I didn’t realise it was an actual phenomenon! This episode dives into the science of pareidolia, and I found it fascinating, especially how it connects to slowing down and really seeing the world around us.

WATCH - This Vimeo short is such a sweet idea. What do you use as a bookmark? I adore creative questions like that.

READ - From Extra Dressed - a whimsical list of habits. I fully support this!

READ - I loved this Untethered Mind post - fifteen little habits that can make a real difference to how you feel and move through your days.

WATCH - I miss the sharing of life stuff on Instagram.

WATCH - Only Georgie Jonez could make something wonderful out of Live, Laugh, Love.

LISTEN - Steve Coogan in conversation with Louis is such a good listen. They talk about all the different roles he’s played - from Alan Partridge to Jimmy Savile.

WATCH - And finally, a fascinating musing - what places on the internet will one day become ghost towns?

As always, feel free to share your recommendations with me! I’d love to know what you’ve been enjoying lately and if you checked out any of these suggestions. Share in the comments!

Thanks for being here and for reading all the way to here!. I’m so grateful for this little corner we share each month. I hope November brings you small joys you can notice, capture, and tuck away… the kind that become memories before we even realise it. And if anything in this newsletter has sparked something for you ~ a creative plan, a tiny idea, a recommendation you’ve loved ~ I’d really enjoy hearing about it. Hit reply or leave a comment so we can keep the inspiration flowing together.

Much love,

Xanthe xx

P.S. I’ll be back on 5th December and if you’re feeling inspired to make something sooner, you can dive into MAKE VIDEOS – 10 Projects to Tell Your Everyday Stories anytime.

(This section contains affiliate links, you will not be charged more but I may make a small commission if you purchase through my links. Many thanks for your support.)

If you’re looking for amazing copyright free music for your videos, my favourite music library is Epidemic Sound, I use them for all my videos and you can try them with a free 30 day trial. Each month I compile my favourite tunes that I’ve used in my videos or ones I’m saving for future projects into a playlist. November is HERE.

And here are all my 2025 (so far) playlists - January : February : March : April : May : June : July : August : September : October as there’s so much goodness.

Ways to support (if you fancy it):

🥰 Tap the heart if you enjoyed this - it sends a little love my way and helps others discover it too.

🗣️ Leave a comment or reply - As I mentioned above, I always love hearing what resonated with you, what you’re creating, or what’s been sparking your curiosity lately.

💃🏼 Feel free to forward or share with a friend who might enjoy it - Or using the Restack feature in the app as word of mouth is magic.

💐 Every so often, people ask if there’s a way to say a little thank you for what I share here (since I don’t have paid subscriptions on Substack). So, I’ve set up a “buy me a coffee” account. 🌸 If you fancy sprinkling a little support my way now and then, you can do that right here.

Thanks for being part of this creative corner of the internet.

Slice of Life - October Edition

Sat, 04 Oct 2025 22:10:23 GMT

Each month, I share a little slice of what I’ve been creating, sprinkle in ideas to spark your own stories and gather a few favourite reads, listens, and watches that have caught my eye lately. If this edition doesn’t fully display in your email, it’s simply brimming with goodness - open it on desktop, in a browser, or on the Substack app to enjoy the full thing!

Hey, how you doing? September has a funny way of slipping by quickly, doesn’t it? Here in Vietnam, the shift in seasons is gentle - the light changes and the days cool just a little. It’s not quite the dramatic autumn-ness you get in the UK. No crisp leaves underfoot or sudden excuse to pull out my favourite jumper. Instead, I’ve been noticing the changes as the stormy skies roll in and the rice fields are harvested.

Maybe that’s why, over the past few weeks, I’ve been drawn to filming in smaller, more focused ways - a day-in-the-life here, a daily bike ride there - collecting tiny stories and stitching them together. It’s been a way of preparing myself for the new Mini Time Capsules course, but also a reminder of how much beauty lives inside the everyday when you give it your attention.

Do you notice the season shifting where you are, or are you caught up in your own little rhythms of daily life right now?

I’ve been continuing with my weekly videos that live on YouTube. Each one a jumble of moments stitched together, equal parts ordinary and magical. They’re not polished productions, just tiny time capsules of life as it’s unfolding. Take a look…

My first week back in Hoi An was full of little contrasts. Do you ever find yourself noticing the tiny moments that balance out the big, busy ones?

This week I focused on chronological daily videos as mini stories.

Each day I challenged myself to get out on a bike ride. What daily activity could you document?

And then there were the simple joys…

When I set out to film my daily bike rides for one of the vlogs above, I thought it might get repetitive - how many times can you document similar locations, the same ducks, the same stretches of golden light? But here’s the thing: the challenge of showing up every day pushed me to see it differently. To find new places & angles, notice fresh details or frame the story in another way. Creativity lives in pushing past the “same old” to discover something new.

A daily practice can feel like repetition, but it’s also an invitation. Here are a few ways to lean into that challenge:

1. Look for Variation - Even in the familiar, there’s always a slight change. The sky, the light, the energy of the moment. Something is never quite the same twice.

2. Tell it Differently - Try shifting your perspective: film from a new angle, focus on sound instead of visuals or capture tiny details instead of the big picture. Repetition becomes a springboard for creativity.

3. Trust the Process - Individually, each clip might feel simple or even boring. But strung together, they can tell a bigger story.

Daily practice can be hard. But push yourself to make something new out of the ordinary and see what magic appears.

And if you’ve been thinking about starting your own little daily challenge, consider this your nudge - pick one thing for a whole week, show up for it and see where it takes you. You might be surprised by what unfolds.

If the idea of a daily creative practice of making videos has been tugging at you, Mini Time Capsules might be the perfect place to start. Beginning on October 10th, it’s a ten-day challenge where we’ll capture snippets of everyday life - the fleeting, ordinary things that become the treasures we’ll look back on one day. All the details are here.

Here is my offering from September -

And you can watch previous editions here :

JANUARY : FEBRUARY : MARCH : APRIL : MAY : JUNE : JULY : AUGUST

If this sparks your interest - Why don’t you join us and create your DITL on October 25th? Mark your calendars, everyone is welcome. And if you’d like FREE resources and inspiration to help get you started, head to 25TH:DAY IN THE LIFE for everything you need and I even send you an email reminder near the time to join in!

WATCH – This artist is just so cool. I fell down a mini rabbit hole watching their reels and was blown away.

LISTEN – Mark Ronson on How to Fail with Elizabeth Day. Such a good chat - I loved hearing him reflect on recording with Amy Winehouse.

and then he dives into 90s Hip Hop music on Track Star -

READ – Photographer Enda Bowe captures quiet, cinematic moments on TV and film sets, and they’re just stunning. A beautiful reminder of why behind-the-scenes images can hold so much magic. Take a look

LISTEN – Hidden Brain’s episode on why our minds conspire against us - psychologist and neuroscientist Emily Falk explains why even simple tasks feel so tricky sometimes and what we can do about it. I kept nodding along and can’t wait for part two.

WATCH – The one live event I wish I’d seen while in London this summer: Georgie Jonez at Spit Nights. Hopefully next time. Please next time. I adore her! - Part one & part two

LISTEN – Robin Wright on How to Fail — what an inspiring woman. I loved hearing her speak about embracing new chapters and not being “too old” for anything.

LISTEN – Rachel Mason, a friend of Halyna Hutchins, talks about her documentary and shares her perspective on the tragic Rust set shooting on Infamous.

READ – Fellow Gen X-ers, this one’s for you: a love letter that hits all the nostalgic notes. Read here

LISTEN – Dr Emily on The Imperfects talking about belonging. So many takeaways for how we can help others feel seen and included.

WATCH/LISTEN - Aubrey Plaza - another fabulous Parks & Rec cast member - chats with Amy Poehler on Good Hang. It’s a lovely conversation full of dry humour and warmth. Exactly what you’d hope for from these two.

LISTEN – Hidden Brain on Radical Kindness. A fascinating look at why people sometimes help complete strangers and what we can learn from those generous acts.

READ – Why don’t we do more of the things that actually make us happy? Katharina musing on this - Read here

WATCH - The creative genius that is Max Joseph dives into happiness and memory in his latest episode, exploring how recalling past moments might actually help cure depression. As a lifelong memory-keeper, I found this fascinating and as always, Max is a brilliant storyteller.

LISTEN – On this episode of This Is Uncomfortable we hear a moving story about Amanda sorting through her father’s belongings after his death. While her experience wasn’t exactly my own, I really related to the frustration of inheriting stuff rather than memories.

As always, feel free to share your recommendations with me! I’d love to know what you’ve been enjoying lately and if you checked out any of these suggestions. Share in the comments!

And that’s me for this month, just a little bundle of life, creativity and things worth passing on. Hitting send on these always feels like dropping a postcard into the world: part update, part inspiration, part reminder that it’s the small things that connect us.

If something here resonated, I’d love to hear, perhaps pop a little note in the comments and let us know what’s been lighting you up lately.

So until next time, may your days be filled with tiny joys worth noticing, and maybe even documenting. Thanks, as always, for being here.

Xanthe xx

P.S. The next slice of life will arrive on 5th November.

(This section contains affiliate links, you will not be charged more but I may make a small commission if you purchase through my links. Many thanks for your support.)

I always enjoy it when you send me questions about the creative process, so here’s one that came through recently…

Q: Tiffany asked - “I love the film overlays in your videos. Did you make them yourself or do you buy them somewhere? They add a really nice touch!”
A: Thank you, Tiffany! I use a couple of apps to get that lovely 8mm-style look - either DAZZ CAM or FILMM. Both have great options for adding that nostalgic film frame effect to your videos and they’re fun to play around with if you want to give your clips a vintage touch.

And here are all my 2025 (so far) playlists - January : February : March : April : May : June : July : August : September as there’s so much goodness.

Ways to support (if you fancy it):

🥰 Tap the heart if you enjoyed this - it sends a little love my way and helps others discover it too.

🗣️ Leave a comment or reply - As I mentioned above, I always love hearing what resonated with you, what you’re creating, or what’s been sparking your curiosity lately.

💃🏼 Feel free to forward or share with a friend who might enjoy it - Or using the Restack feature in the app as word of mouth is magic.

Thanks for being part of this creative corner of the internet.

Slice of Life - September Edition

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 22:09:26 GMT

Each month, I share a little slice of what I’ve been creating, sprinkle in ideas to spark your own stories, and gather a few favourite reads, listens, and watches that have caught my eye lately. If this edition doesn’t fully display in your email, it’s simply brimming with goodness - open it on desktop, in a browser, or on the Substack app to enjoy the full thing!

Hey, how you doing? I took a break from the newsletter last month - you may not have noticed, as I imagine you were busy with your own summer adventures. And while it might not seem like a big thing to pause, this little letter does take some time to put together. Plus, I wasn’t sure I’d have many recommendations to share, as my schedule was all over the place while in the UK. But it’s good to be back here on Substack and returning to my monthly schedule of popping into your inbox each month.

It was an outrageously beautiful summer at home this year - hardly any rain, except when we were camping, of course! Flowers in full bloom, wonderful days spent with lovely people, and that rare, golden stretch of sunshine that felt like a gift. Did you have a moment like that this summer - some days that felt like little pockets of joy?

There was plenty to sort and organise too, as having lives in two places is complicated, especially when it comes to possessions but we’re slowly finding our rhythm.

Most of all, I cherished time with family and friends, with only a sprinkling of work in between. It was very much a holiday mode, and I’m so grateful for it. I’ve been back in Hoi An for over a week now, it feels like coming home. For the first time in two years, that sense of untetheredness has eased, and I’m beginning to feel that home can be in more than one place - it’s as much a mindset as it is a location.

September always feels like a mini reset, doesn’t it? I’m seeing it as a chance to return to a routine, gently step back into creative projects and make space for what’s next - check out my announcement below about a creative challenge coming in October - Mini Time Capsules!

What does this month look like for you - what’s the one small thing you’re easing back into?

As I didn’t share my weekly videos from July, there wasn’t a moment to celebrate being halfway through the year and having consistently created something every single week. I’m chuffed! It hasn’t been the easiest first half of the year, but this project has been an anchor - a way to keep showing up for my creativity, no matter what.

It might seem a little frivolous to focus on a vlog-style video, but I know these are the moments I’ll treasure years from now. This project is, first and foremost, for me. But along the way, I hope it nudges you to gather your own moments, whether that’s daily, weekly, or just once in a while. However you choose to do it, I can promise: your future self will thank you.

All my weekly videos live on YouTube - here are a few favourites from the past few weeks. Each one holds a slice of the season in its own way.

Early swims and a day wandering Margate’s streets. Did you find a summer pause, where could feel that exhale?

Bike rides along the canal, a slice or two in the sun, and clay-covered hands from a morning of making. Was there some time from your summer where movement, food, and a bit of creativity came together?

Packing up, saying farewell, and squeezing in those last golden days before heading back to Hoi An. What is your end-of-summer looking like?

Watching those videos back : lake swims, canal rides, golden days : it reminds me how simple these videos really are. A few moments gathered here and there, mostly on my phone, nothing fancy, yet they hold so many memories. If you’ve been thinking about making something similar of your own, here are a few tips to start.

Ask the Question - Before you pick up your phone or camera, pause for a moment and think - What would I want to remember from today? What little detail might matter to me a year from now? Sometimes just asking that is enough to spot a moment worth documenting.
Keep It Small - You often don’t need a whole week’s worth of footage. A handful of clips can tell a beautiful story. It doesn’t have to be perfect; it just has to exist. Start with what’s easy and see where it takes you.
Begin Anyway - Often the hardest part is starting. Waiting for the “right” day or the perfect light can mean nothing gets made at all. Grab a few seconds of footage, even if it feels ordinary. You’ll be surprised what grows from that first step.

I hope this sparks something in you - perhaps you’re picturing a few clips from your own week already - why not give it a try?

And if you’d like a little extra nudge, I’ve opened registration for something new - Mini Time Capsules starting on the 10th of October. It’s a 10-day creative challenge where we’ll gather just a handful of clips each day - 5, 10, maybe 15 - enough to hold a feeling, a season, a chapter of your life. Over the years, I’ve seen how these mini videos become treasures.

Whether you’ve never made a video before, you’ve been in a little creative pause, or you’ve joined me for one of my courses in the past - this is your invitation to jump in. Over ten days, I’ll share guidance, encouragement and daily sparks of inspiration to help you notice the magic in your everyday life. By the end, you’ll have a pocketful of simple, beautiful videos - each one a tiny time capsule of the moments you’ll want to remember.

We start on October 10th! All the details can be found here - Mini Time Capsules

And there’s an early bird special offer for you lovely readers - use the coupon code - EARLYBIRD20 for 20% off before Sept 12th.

Here are my offerings from July & August -

And you can watch previous editions here :

JANUARY : FEBRUARY : MARCH : APRIL : MAY : JUNE

If this sparks your interest - Why don’t you join us and create your DITL on September 25th? Mark your calendars, everyone is welcome. And if you’d like FREE resources and inspiration to help get you started, head to 25TH:DAY IN THE LIFE for everything you need and I even send you an email reminder near the time to join in!

WATCH – The Penguin Lessons is heartfelt and a delight to watch. Steve Coogan is brilliant, and the penguin steals every scene.

LISTEN – I often imagine what my future self might think or do in certain situations, so this episode on Daily Creative was interesting. It explores how “future you” thinking can unlock fresh ideas.

WATCH – A fascinating look at how forced constraints and problems can actually spark new kinds of creativity.

LISTEN – I’ve mentioned Ingrid before and her joyful studies always bring something fresh. This conversation on How to Be a Better Human is a wonderful dive into the everyday practices of joy.

WATCH – If you only watch one of my recommendations, pick this!! One of my favourite YouTubers sharing a positive, inspiring message about the importance of the stories we tell/share on the internet and then let yourself fall down the rabbit hole of his other videos - so good!

READ - Lucrecer is talking about Less Feed, More Life and I’m here for it. Plus, her new Layered Art Journal experience looks fabulous - this might be the spark you need.

LISTEN – Fun times with Guz Khan on The Adam Buxton Podcast. Towards the end, something wonderful unfolds about Taskmaster.

READ - If you dream about living in the homes from your favourite films, you’ll love this collection of 40 of the Coziest Movie Homes.

LISTEN – Sam Rockwell on Talk Easy. A live, open conversation about his career, his acting process, and yes - that monologue from The White Lotus.

READ - As a seeker of awe whenever I can find it, I really enjoyed reading The Disappearance of Awe (and How to Find It Again).

WATCH – The Nickel Boys is a difficult watch with strong, potentially triggering themes. But the cinematography is breathtaking - shallow depth of field, beautifully interesting framing, and a slow, revealing style that pulls you in frame by frame. And so much of it is shot from the point of view of the main characters, creating a sense of being right there with them.

You know I love a deep dive after I’ve watched something and this is a great breakdown of the symbolism and analysis of the cinematography of the film.

READ - Maybe you need this thoughtful list of Things I Do When I’m Losing Myself—gentle reminders for the more wobbly days and I loved this piece about How to Travel Like Anthony Bourdain.

LISTEN – You know by now I love a bit of Soul Music. Even when I don’t know the song that well, each episode weaves beautiful stories around it. This one, about Bésame Mucho, is a lovely listen.

READ – Last but not least: My sister, Zoe, is here on Substack. I think I mentioned her when she first started, but I’d like to again because she’s been consistently writing weekly for four months now, and I’m so proud of her. Writing is her joy, but as a full-time nurse, it hasn’t always been easy to make time for it. Still, she committed to showing up every week because action creates momentum, and if you want to write more, you have to JUST START. I’m cheering her on, and maybe you’ll enjoy what she’s sharing too. Do pop over and take a look.

As always, feel free to share your recommendations with me! I’d love to know what you’ve been enjoying lately and if you checked out any of these suggestions. Share in the comments!

That’s a wrap on this month’s little collection of life, creativity and inspiration.

Writing this letter has become one of my favourite creative rituals - it reminds me of the old blogging days, sharing snippets of life, memories and passing thoughts, just because. There’s something comforting about gathering these moments and sending them out into the world.

If something here struck a chord, made you smile or sparked an idea, I’d love to hear from you. Your replies, little notes or even a simple “still here!” mean more than you might think - they remind me that this isn’t just words on a screen, but a conversation.

And I’d love to know: what’s been lighting you up lately? Any favourite listens, reads or tiny joys? Add them to the comments, if you feel like sharing and I might include a few in a future newsletter.

Until next time, thank you, truly, for being here.

Xanthe xx

P.S. I’ll be back with the next edition on 5th of October. Oh, and before then - don’t forget to peek at Mini Time Capsules. It’s waiting for you!

(This section contains affiliate links, you will not be charged more but I may make a small commission if you purchase through my links. Many thanks for your support.)

And here are all my 2025 (so far) playlists - January : February : March : April : May : June : July : August as there’s so much goodness.

Ways to support (if you fancy it):

🥰 Tap the heart if you enjoyed this - it sends a little love my way and helps others discover it too.

🗣️ Leave a comment or reply - As I mentioned above, I always love hearing what resonated with you, what you’re creating, or what’s been sparking your curiosity lately.

💃🏼 Feel free to forward or share with a friend who might enjoy it - Or using the Restack feature in the app as word of mouth is magic.

Thanks for being part of this creative corner of the internet.

Hello from my summer pause ☀️

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 06:02:31 GMT

As I mentioned in last month’s newsletter, I’m taking a little break this August while I’m in the UK - soaking up time with loved ones and stepping back a bit from screens and schedules.

So there’s no “brimming with goodness” newsletter this month, but I’ll be back in your inbox in September with all the usual inspiration, updates and creative joy.

If you’re after something to watch, listen or read in the meantime, you’re always welcome to dip into previous editions - there’s a treasure trove of recommendations waiting for you. And if you’re curious what I’ve been up to, my latest videos are over on YouTube - please come and say hello there!

I hope you’re having a lovely summer too, finding light, beauty and joy wherever you can.

Xanthe xx

Ways to support my newsletter (if you fancy it):

🥰 Tap the heart if you enjoyed this - it sends a little love my way and helps others discover it too.

🗣️ Leave a comment or reply - I always love hearing what you’re creating, or what’s been sparking your curiosity lately.

💃🏼 Feel free to forward or share with a friend who might enjoy it - Or use the Restack feature in the app, as word of mouth is magic.

Thanks for being part of this creative corner of the internet.

Oh hi, it's my July newsletter

Sat, 05 Jul 2025 06:01:11 GMT

In my monthly newsletter I share projects I’ve been creating, inspiration to encourage you to do the same and recommendations of things I loved reading, watching and listening to recently. P.S If the whole newsletter doesn't display on email, it's because it's jam packed with goodies! Open on your desktop, in a browser or on the Substack app for everything in its full glory!

Have you ever had a month that felt like it slipped by in slow motion and fast forward all at once?

That was June for me. It began in Hoi An, where the sun was back in full force (most of the time) with sunrises & sunsets bookending our days. Sea swims returned to our routine and the blue skies brought their usual boost of joy. There was a week of storms… but we won’t focus on that.

Then, halfway through the month, we landed in London and were welcomed by… sunshine! A rare treat for here!. I loved being reminded about the gift of long evenings - golden light lingering until almost 10pm. After months of early darkness (the sun sets quickly at 6:30pm everyday in Vietnam), it feels like time has been stretched just for us.

We’re only visiting in the UK for a few weeks, so it’s full-on holiday mode: family, friends, fun plans and lots of soaking up what here has to offer. As usual, I’ve kept filming, although not every moment, but enough to stitch together the vibes and activities of these weeks. That’s the beauty of a video making habit: it flexes with your life. You don’t have to capture everything. Just something. Just enough. And that’s often where the magic lives.

Thank goodness for my weekly vlog project giving little windows into the rhythm of this past month. June was a long one (hello, five Mondays!), so there are five videos this time.

Here they are, if you fancy a peek -

First, I slowed down and noticed the beauty.

Next, I dipped into the archive.

Then there was a week of contrasts…

And SO much rain.

And lastly, a week of change, from Hoi An sunshine to English summer days.

As you can see, I’m sharing my videos over on YouTube - please come and say hello there! and maybe subscribe?.

If you’ve been meaning to start making videos or want some encouragement to keep going, the MAKE VIDEOS CLUB might be just the thing for you! It’s a friendly, supportive space where we work on one video project a month - Throughout July we’re making A SLICE OF LIFE videos - all about capturing meaningful moments from your everyday world and sharing a slice, just a glimpse into your life that tells a story.

You can jump in at anytime (yes, even mid-year!). You’ll get access to all the previous projects so you can dip into them whenever it suits you, and you’ll have support and inspiration along the way to start capturing your everyday moments and turn them into meaningful memories.

Come and join the MAKE VIDEOS CLUB - I’d love to have you in there!

Each month on the 25th I invite you to document your day as part of 25TH:DAY IN THE LIFE project. It’s been great having a consistent project that encourages me (and hopefully you) to show up, no matter what’s going on or how you’re feeling.

Here’s my offering from June 25th -

And you can watch previous editions here :

JANUARY : FEBRUARY : MARCH : APRIL : MAY

Why don’t you join us and create your DITL on July 25th? Mark your calendars, everyone is welcome. If you’d like FREE resources and inspiration to help get you started, head to 25TH:DAY IN THE LIFE for everything you need and I even send you an email reminder to join in!

WATCH – The Ballad of Wallis Island is a must-see. It’s funny, joyful, and has just the right amount of sentimentality. I absolutely loved it and laughed out loud many times!

LISTEN – Dr Emily is back on The Imperfects with another cracking episode. This one is rooted in Star Wars and links psychology - light and darkness inside us all, The Hero’s Journey, main character syndrome, and how having a mentor (like Yoda, of course) can make all the difference. Use the force!

WATCH – If you need a nudge to embrace a bit of delusional thinking (in the best possible way), this one’s for you. It’s a quick but powerful watch.

LISTEN – I found myself nodding along as Jonathan Fields talked about his 2×20 Project on The Good Life Project. It echoed so much of what I’ve been doing these past couple of years, just without consciously naming it. If you’ve ever thought, “Is this it?” or found yourself curious about making a change, this is such a fascinating and thoughtful episode. It’s a long one, but definitely worth it.

WATCH – Small Things Like These is moving and beautifully told. It’s slow-paced and heavy in subject matter, but the storytelling is so well done.

LISTEN – I loved hearing Loyle Carner chatting with Adam Buxton. Their conversation touches on promoting creative work, parenting, and mental health. Loyle is so astute, emotionally insightful, and just such an interesting voice. Plus, I really love his music.

READ – I really enjoyed this piece from i-D asking: What kind of summer are you having? I’m going for a Lomography Summer vibe.

READ – And this from Hannah Connolly’s Substack feels like a brilliant companion piece.

LISTEN – Who Broke the Internet? by Understood is a fascinating look at how the web became such a mess. It’s not just you… the “Shitification” is real, and this series explains how the tech giants helped get us here.

WATCH - I love this idea of time travelling through podcasts. A simple concept, beautifully presented.

LISTEN – If you’re familiar with the Calm app, you’ll enjoy this deep dive into its origin story on How I Built This with Guy Raz. Hearing about the founders’ journey and creative process was fascinating.

READ - Loved this! From Postscript By Liv on Substack - Because every day is all there is.

That’s everything for now. Just the usual round-up of life, creativity, and all the things sparking ideas this past month. I’m so grateful you’re here, reading along. If something in this issue made you smile, resonated with where you’re at, or gave you a nudge of inspiration, I’d love to hear from you.

And I’m curious - what’s been lighting you up lately? Any tiny joys, great reads or standout listens? Hit reply and let me know or even better, share in the comments!

Thanks for being here.

Xanthe xx

P.S. I’ll be pausing the newsletter in August, so I’ll return on the 5th of September. See you then!

(This section contains affiliate links, you will not be charged more but I may make a small commission if you purchase through my links. Many thanks for your support.)

If you’re looking for amazing copyright free music for your videos, my favourite music library is Epidemic Sound, I use them for all my videos. Each month you can find my favourite tunes that I’ve used in my videos or ones I’m saving for future projects into a playlist. JULY FAVS is here!

And here are my playlists from - January and February and March and April and May and June, as there’s so much goodness. Or all my playlists from last year! -

Ways to support this newsletter (if you fancy it):

🥰 Tap the heart if you enjoyed this - it sends a little love my way and helps others discover it too.

🗣️ Leave a comment or reply - As I mentioned above, I always love hearing what resonated with you, what you’re creating, or what’s been sparking your curiosity lately.

💃🏼 Feel free to forward or share with a friend who might enjoy it - Or using the Restack feature in the app as word of mouth is magic.

Thanks for being part of this creative corner of the internet.

Oh look, it's the June newsletter

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 05:12:15 GMT

Hey there, hope you’re well? I wasn’t feeling great during May. A lingering virus, sore throat and an all-round lack of energy stretched on for weeks. I’m only just beginning to feel like myself again… I hope!

The thing is, when you do finally start to feel better, it hits you just how unwell you were. I carried on as best I could, but running on empty is no fun. I was basically forced into resting which I’m not very good at, to be honest. I actually like being active, creative, and productive. But when your body calls for a nap and there’s literally nothing you can do to stay awake, you have to surrender.

I do feel behind on many things, especially with our countdown to returning to London (for a visit) later in June but I’m grateful that I kept up with my creative projects. Even though my weeks were pretty quiet, the vlogs kept me anchored. Searching for pockets of joy, finding moments of beauty, and practising the art of showing up, no matter what. Done really is better than perfect.

If you’re working on a creative project, I hope this reminds you that just showing up is part of the process. Completing something, even if it’s not how you imagined is still incredibly valuable.

The first project I worked on in May was finishing up my 30 Days of April video - we’d been making A Month of Memories inside the MAKE VIDEOS CLUB and this was my offering. Even though I’d been filming weekly vlogs, I wanted to create something that jumbled the whole month up and told the stories through little chapters. A mix of bike rides, sunsets, swims, and sweet moments, all layered together - a time capsule of the season.

My vlog style Week In The Life videos continued all month:

First, my joyful return to bike rides featuring ducks, flowers and the rice fields.

Next, a week captured through nine moments of gratitude. From sunset rides to pho, it’s a reminder of all the good things.

Then, I was low on energy but there were kitten cuddles and a dreamy 24-hour escape to Cham Island.

And lastly, it’s a quiet vlog about noticing everything blooming.

As you can see, I’m sharing my videos over on YouTube - please come and say hello there!. Thank you to those of you who watch and comment, I really appreciate it.

If you’ve been meaning to start making videos or just need a little nudge to keep going, the MAKE VIDEOS CLUB is open and waiting for you! It’s a welcoming space where we create one simple video project each month, with plenty of inspiration, guidance, and encouragement through our Live gatherings to help you turn everyday moments into beautiful memories.

Throughout June, the theme is HOME & AWAY - we’re exploring what home means to us, or capturing adventures big or small that take us away from the day-to-day.

You can jump in at anytime (yes, even halfway through the year!). You’ll get instant access to all the previous projects and the flexibility to dip in whenever it suits you. Whether you’re brand new to video or already in the flow, the MAKE VIDEOS CLUB is a place to feel supported and creatively inspired.

Come and join us - I’d love to see what stories you’ll tell.

Here’s my offering from May 25th -

And you can watch previous editions here :

JANUARY : FEBRUARY : MARCH : APRIL

Why don’t you join us and create your DITL on June 25th? Mark your calendars, everyone is welcome. If you’d like FREE resources and inspiration to help get you started, head to 25TH:DAY IN THE LIFE for everything you need and I even send you an email reminder to join in!

LISTEN – I’ve been following Priya Parker for years, and if you haven’t discovered her work yet, I highly recommend diving in. Her Art of Gathering newsletter is full of thoughtful gems and in this Life Kit episode she shares the power of “magical questions” to foster deeper connection at gatherings.

LISTEN – If you’re curious about the origins of this very platform, I really enjoyed the How I Built This episode where Guy Raz interviews Substack founders Chris Best and Hamish McKenzie. Their backstory is fascinating.

LISTEN – The Imperfects is one of my regular listens and I especially love the episodes with Dr Emily. In this one, she shares insights from her new book - it sounds like something that could help a lot of people.

READ – If you’ve been trying to figure out your next step, this has a great breakdown to spark ideas - You Don’t Need to Find Your Niche, You’re Probably Already Living It by Jo Barnes.

LISTEN – The story of Ke Huy Quan on Even the Rich is such a powerful reminder of what can happen when you don’t give up on your dreams. It’s inspiring, moving and totally worth your time. And if you want more, his conversation on Talk Easy is equally lovely.

LISTEN/WATCH – I’ve been really enjoying Good Hang with Amy Poehler - it’s easy-going and funny, perfect to have on in the background. The episode with Paul Rudd is especially adorable. Lately I’ve even found myself watching it on YouTube rather than just listening - who am I becoming?!

READ – I loved this piece about the camaraderie that happens in women’s bathrooms on nights out. There’s something about those quick, heartfelt connections in unexpected places.

LISTEN – Ira Glass talks about his three decades of storytelling in this Talk Easy interview and I found it so inspiring. I especially loved his idea that the best way to draw people in is to “start the story in motion” to simply get things going.

WATCH – I know I mentioned The Studio last month, but the final few episodes were so good I had to bring it up again. It’s high energy and a bit chaotic as most scenes are filmed in continuous shots, which adds to the intensity. But the acting is brilliant and it’s incredibly entertaining. If you have watched the show, take a look at this panel with the cast.

READ – AI and the End of Smartphones and the Internet by Sinead Bovell got me thinking. I’m from the generation that remembers life before smartphones and the internet, so reading about how AI agents could take over many of our online interactions felt both fascinating and slightly eerie.

LISTEN – In my ongoing effort to learn more about brain health and Dementia/Alzheimer’s prevention, this episode of Science & Soul with Dr Kristen Holmes stood out. It’s packed with practical guidance and backed by science - worth a listen.

As always, feel free to share your recommendations with me! I’d love to know what you’ve been enjoying lately and if you checked out any of these suggestions. Share in the comments!

That’s a wrap on this month’s bundle of life, creativity and inspiration.

As always, if something in here made you smile, sparked a thought, or simply reminded you to pause and notice the little things - I’d love to hear about it. You don’t have to say much (honestly, even a quick “hello from over here” is lovely!), but your replies remind me that this little newsletter is landing with real people, living real lives.

I’ll be in London when I next write… soaking up that city buzz, hugging my nearest & dearest and probably forgetting to film it all. In the meantime, I’d really love to know what you’ve been noticing, loving, or creating lately. Got a podcast you’re obsessed with? A tiny joy that brightened your week? Hit reply, and tell me or even better, leave a comment on this post in the Substack app. So we can all enjoy your recommendations.

Thanks so much for reading. I’m so glad you’re here.

Xanthe xx

P.S. *See* you again on the 5th of July.

(This section contains affiliate links, you will not be charged more but I may make a small commission if you purchase through my links. Many thanks for your support.)

If you’re looking for amazing copyright free music for your videos, my favourite music library is Epidemic Sound, I use them for ALL my videos. Each month I compile my favourite tunes that I’ve used in my videos or ones I’m saving for future projects into a playlist. June is here!

And my January and February and March and April and May are here!, as there’s so much goodness.

Ways to support this newsletter (if you fancy it):

🥰 Tap the heart if you enjoyed this - it sends a little love my way and helps others discover it too.

🗣️ Leave a comment or reply - As I mentioned above, I always love hearing what resonated with you, what you’re creating, or what’s been sparking your curiosity lately.

💃🏼 Feel free to forward or share with a friend who might enjoy it - Or using the Restack feature in the app, as word of mouth is magic.

Thanks for being part of this creative corner of the internet.

Oh hey, it’s the May newsletter

Mon, 05 May 2025 09:02:28 GMT

Oh hey, it’s May, good to see ya. In the UK, May is always one of my favourite months. Everything bursting into bloom, the cow parsley swaying in the hedgerows and that fresh green glow of spring really settling in. I’ll admit, I’m missing it this year. No cow parsley here to wander through - how will I cope?

That said, the last month or so here in Hoi An has been blooming gorgeous in its own way. The rice fields have peaked, they’re so lush and golden and now the harvest is in full swing all around us. I’ve watched peanuts, sweetcorn and even sunflowers shoot up and be harvested in what feels like the blink of an eye. Things grow at an astonishing pace here! Which makes sense, given the warmth and rain, but it still blows my mind. Crops that would take all summer to mature back in the UK seem to race from seed to harvest in weeks.

April was absolutely chockablock. Laylah (my sister-in-law) came to visit, along with our two nephews, and it was pure joy getting to show them our favourite spots and soak up time together. We packed so much in, as you’ll see in my weekly vlogs. Although to be honest, I didn’t even film half of what we got up to. I really wanted to be present, soaking up their magic in real time.

After documenting my life on video for so long, I’ve grown more comfortable trusting my instinct, knowing when to grab a little snippet and when to keep the camera away. There’s a real art to balancing the creative joy of filming with the importance of simply being in the moment. And I’m learning, more and more, that it’s okay not to capture everything, even though the memories are still important to me.

Anyway, you might think I’m chatting nonsense because I did gather a fair amount of footage… but I promise you, there’s so much more that wasn’t captured. Which is probably good because my videos would’ve been about an hour long each!

My vlog style Week In The Life continued all month:

It was my birthday at the end of March -

With family visiting, an adventure to Cham Island was a good idea -

Fun times continued as we explored and shared our life here in Hoi An -

And then it was back to quiet life of just us two -

And because the motorbike trip over the Hải Van Pass was so epic, I thought it deserved it’s own video -

As you can see, I’m sharing my videos over on YouTube - please come and say hello there! and (pretty please) would you subscribe? - I’d love to get to over 500 subscribers!

If you’ve been meaning to start making videos or want some encouragement to keep going, the MAKE VIDEOS CLUB might be just the thing for you! It’s a friendly, supportive space where we create one video project a month - right now we’re focusing on a series of “Day in the Life” videos for May.

Come and join the MAKE VIDEOS CLUB - I’d love to have you in there!

Here’s my offering from April 25th -

Why don’t you join us and create your DITL on May 25th? Mark your calendars, everyone is welcome. If you’d like FREE resources and inspiration to help get you started, head to 25TH:DAY IN THE LIFE for everything you need and I even send you an email reminder to join in!

LISTEN - Absolutely adored this conversation between Amy Poehler and Kathryn Hahn. Kathryn’s character in Parks and Rec was one of my favourites and she’s fantastic in The Studio, which I mention below. It was such a treat to hear these two talk about female friendships and so much more.

WATCH - The White Lotus - whatever your thoughts on the plot, it’s an absolute visual feast. I mentioned it in my last newsletter, but I ended up diving deeper into the cinematography because I couldn’t get over the shallow depth of field, the rich colour contrast, and that dreamy use of light. This video unpacks some of those choices beautifully:

LISTEN - I’ve long loved the podcast Soul Music - the way it weaves together personal stories and powerful songs is just gorgeous. This episode, on John Martyn’s May You Never, is such a moving listen.

READ - this guardian piece about gen z and the rejection of capital letters was fascinating - especially because i remember loving the aesthetic of only lowercase letters in my twenties. but now I even like an ALL CAPS SITUATION. (What’s going on?!)

LISTEN - Chances are, you’ve supported someone through something tough. This episode with Dr Emily on The Imperfects podcast explores how to really show up, how to be leaned on, and how to hold space for pain while still looking after yourself. Beautiful and important.

WATCH – The Studio by Seth Rogen is a behind-the-scenes peek into the workings of a fictional Hollywood studio. What really fascinates me is the way it’s filmed - each episode is captured in a single continuous shot, like watching a play unfold in real time. The dialogue is fast and funny, the movement never stops, and the chaos somehow makes it even more entertaining.

LISTEN – Six Seconds That Changed the World is a podcast diving into the rise (and fall) of Vine… remember that app? It sparked the whole short-form video movement and the idea of looping content shot and shared from your phone. Episodes are still dropping, but I’m really enjoying it so far.

As always, feel free to share your recommendations with me! I’d love to know what you’ve been enjoying lately and if you checked out any of these suggestions. Share in the comments!

That’s a wrap on this month’s little collection of life, creativity and inspiration.

If something here struck a chord, made you smile or sparked an idea, I’d genuinely love to hear from you. I know how easy it is to just read and move on (I’m the same with most emails in my inbox!), but your replies, comments, likes or even a simple “still here!” mean more than you might think. They remind me that someone’s out there, reading and feeling alongside me.

And I’d love to know what’s been lighting you up lately? Any favourite listens, reads or tiny joys? Hit reply and share if you feel like it. Maybe I’ll include a few in a future newsletter.

Until next time, thank you for being here.

Xanthe xx

P.S. I’ll be back with the next installment on 5th of June.

(This section contains affiliate links, you will not be charged more but I may make a small commission if you purchase through my links. Many thanks for your support.)

Someone recently asked me what I bring back from the UK to Vietnam - those must-haves I just can’t find here. I thought I’d share a few of my go-to items in case they’re useful for you too (or just fun to browse!).

My ultimate comfort brew - Twinings Earl Grey - I always bring a stash back with me.

Galaxy Vegan Salted Caramel is luxury in a bar. This stuff is ridiculously good - I’m genuinely counting down the days till I can have it again.

I’m not one for loads of supplements, but learning about the collagen decline for women of my age is compelling. I’ve noticed a difference since taking this - Will Powders Collagen

It’s so hard to find the right underwear here, and the heat wears them out quickly. I always stock up. My go-to knickers are from Stripe & Stare - super soft and long-lasting.

Flip-Flops & Sandals - I live in these, year-round. FitFlop are the comfiest shoes I’ve found. Even though you can get custom shoes made here in Vietnam, I always reach for these - the Gracie Leather Sandals and the iQushion Ergonomic Flip-Flops are an everyday essential.

Skincare Favourites - my current heroes that travel back with me: Skin Rocks Moisturiser is hydrating and lovely on my skin. I love Skin Rocks Retinol – gentle but effective and smells good. So does the Cream Cleanser. And the Emma Hardie Moringa Cleanser is an old favourite I always return to.

And for SPF for my face: Ultra Violette Supreme Screen SPF 50+ & Queen Screen SPF 50+ Serum – light, luminous, and lovely on the skin.

Also, you can browse - My Amazon shop if you’re interested in the video or photography equipment I use and love.

Are there any other products you’d like me to share or curate together? Or any questions I can answer in more detail? Let me know!

And my January and February and March and April editions are here!, as there’s so much goodness. Or all my playlists from last year! -

Monthly newsletter

Sat, 05 Apr 2025 00:00:48 GMT

Hey, how you doing? Since my last newsletter, I've been on quite the whirlwind journey, travelling back to Hoi An after spending time in the UK. I won’t dive into every detail here, as I’ve captured all the highlights in my weekly videos below.

When I committed to documenting each week, I could never have imagined how meaningful this project would become, it turns out it’s been just right project for me.

Back in 2023, I made a mini video each day, and that was such a great project for that time. With so much going on and life turning upside down, it was just what I needed to notice how each day brought different stories.

This year, my weekly videos strike a great balance of challenge and ease. The shooting process is fairly straightforward, allowing me to experiment with different angles and compositions of familiar scenes, while having fun with what I capture throughout the week. However, the editing can be a bit of a challenge! I often find myself avoiding the task of writing the voiceover and crafting the stories I want to tell. But the commitment to this project keeps me accountable, that’s the key for me! Once I’m familiar with the footage and have the voiceover sorted, the editing tends to flow more smoothly.

I’m not sure if I’ll make it through the entire year, but I’m taking each week as it comes and seeing where it leads me. I hope this inspires you in some way!

Throughout March we were looking for JOY and making mini vignette videos of what we captured in the MAKE VIDEOS CLUB - Another project that couldn’t have come at a better time for me. I needed to really notice the beauty, the joy and the magic with everything else going on. I found it in flowers, colourful things and cups of tea, plus so much more.

All the mini videos vignettes are montaged together here -

My vlog style Week In The Life continued all month:

Half the week in Hoi An and travelled to the UK -

Soaked up being back in the UK, navigating all the good and difficult things going on -

Then of course, it was time to goodbye -

And dealing with uncertainty -

As you can see, I’m sharing my videos over on YouTube - please come and say hello there!

If you would like more guidance, inspiration and encouragement to create your own regular monthly videos, the MAKE VIDEOS CLUB is for you! We’re making a month long memory video in April.

You can jump into THE CLUB anytime. There are 12 inspiring monthly video projects to transform your everyday moments into cherished memories. Come and join the MAKE VIDEOS CLUB and let’s make videos together!

Here’s my offering from March 25th -

Why don’t you join us and create your DITL on April 25th? Mark your calendars, everyone is welcome. If you’d like FREE resources and inspiration to help get you started, head to 25TH:DAY IN THE LIFE for everything you need and I even send you an email reminder to join in!

LISTEN: We all need a little more courage to chase after our dreams and make things happen. I loved hearing about Wild Courage from Jenny Wood on the Daily Creative podcast. I was so inspired that I sought out her episode on The Good Life Project for more insights!

WATCH: If you’re in the mood for some laughs, check out Last One Laughing UK! It’s a brilliant show where comedians try to make each other laugh. You won’t want to miss this!

LISTEN: I’m still obsessed with the Severance podcast, especially after that stunning finale! This episode dives into the details of episode 10 with Mark, Helly, and Dylan.

WATCH: The new series of The White Lotus has completely captured my interest, particularly because it’s set in Thailand and prominently filmed on Koh Samui, where I lived years ago. The cinematography is stunning, with beautiful use of light and a shallow depth of field. And the outfits? If only I had a fraction of that style!

LISTEN: How to Live in Uncertain Times on The Gray Area with Sean Illing resonates deeply with me after navigating so much uncertainty in recent years. I love hearing how uncertainty can propel us forward rather than hold us back. It’s such an intriguing conversation!

WATCH: Tuesday is a captivating tale about a daughter visited by death in the form of a macaw. It’s beautifully moving and wonderfully bizarre, with Julia delivering a stunning performance.

WATCH: I also found myself diving into another (kinda) bird-related film, Bird. It’s a tough watch due to its subject matter, but the acting and storytelling are exceptional.

LISTEN: For those with children in your lives, In the Great Green Room - This is Love is a delightful listen for fans of Goodnight Moon.

WATCH: Georgie Jonez showcasing her magic with words.

As always, feel free to share your recommendations with me! I’d love to know what you’ve been enjoying lately and if you checked out any of these suggestions. Share in the comments!

Thank you for taking the time to read this update! I hope you’ve found it both enjoyable and inspiring, whether through my recommendations, the stories from my projects, or simply the connection we share. If there’s anything you’d like me to explore further or add, I’d love to hear from you!

A big thank you to everyone who keeps in touch and shares what resonates with you. Your thoughts and suggestions mean the world to me, so don’t hesitate to reply and say hello or drop a comment below. One of the joys of being on Substack is creating this little community together—let’s keep that spirit alive!

Xanthe xx

(This section contains affiliate links, you will not be charged more but I may make a small commission if you purchase through my links. Many thanks for your support.)

You can browse - My Amazon shop if you’re interested in the video or photography equipment I use and love.

Are there any other products you’d like me to share or curate together? Or any questions I can answer in more detail? Let me know!

And my January and February and March editions are here!, as there’s so much goodness on there. Or all my playlists from last year! -

Monthly newsletter

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 07:02:05 GMT

TW - Grief / Death of a parent

Hey, how you doing? The best thing about February is that it feels short! However, this past month has been particularly challenging for me. Dealing with the sudden death of my dad and our complicated relationship, has made navigating the grief a tricky journey. The best way to explain my feelings is captured in this video:

Throughout the rest of the month, I've focused on being there for my sister and mum as best as I could from the other side of the world. I’ve also made a conscious effort to take care of myself and find pockets of joy whenever possible. By the time you read this, I’ll be back in the UK for a visit, having said goodbye to him at the small memorial we planned. Regardless of my feelings about him, I wouldn’t wish dementia on anyone. Therefore, I’m still on a mission to understand as much as I can about it to potentially prevent it happening to me. My sister, Zoe has recently joined Substack and she’s going to be sharing her dementia diaries, plus thoughts on grief and being a palliative care nurse. Do subscribe if you’re interested in following along.

Amidst the sadness, I’ve tried my best to keep my video projects moving forward. Let me share what I’ve been up to:

February was all about making ABOUT YOU videos in the MAKE VIDEOS CLUB so I created a fun little Q&A: I’d love to do a part two, do you have any suggestions of questions to include?

And I continued my weekly vlog style Week In The Life all month:

We spent some time in Bangkok:

When the mixed emotions were too much, I took one day at a time:

I even contemplated quitting the WITL project, coming up with all excuses, but then found encouragement to continue by looking back at videos from Februarys in years gone by.

You might not have noticed, but I’ve fallen out of love with Instagram, so I’m sharing my videos over on YouTube - please come and say hello there!

If you would like more guidance, inspiration and encouragement to create your own regular monthly videos, the MAKE VIDEOS CLUB is for you! Throughout March, we’re making mini video vignettes of JOY.

Here’s my offering from February 25th -

Why don’t you join us and create your DITL on March 25th? Mark your calendars, everyone is welcome. If you’d like FREE resources and inspiration to help get you started, head to 25TH:DAY IN THE LIFE for everything you need.

LISTEN: Maria Ruberto - Sleep Your Way To The Top on The Imperfects is a must-listen if you struggle with sleep or want to understand its significance for our well-being. This episode has equipped me with invaluable insights about the importance of sleep.

WATCH: Check out this brilliantly executed music video—what a cool idea! -

You can also see how they achieved it all in-camera with no special effects in the behind-the-scenes video -

LISTEN: If you’ve been enjoying the series Mo on Netflix (which I highly recommend), tune into Mo Amer - WTF with Marc Maron Podcast. It was a delight to hear more about his backstory.

WATCH: A Real Pain is a poignant and beautifully crafted story, that’s so moving in places. I love the direction and the slow pace of some of the shots.

LISTEN: 10% Better? on Daily Creative with Todd Henry is a great reminder about showing up and doing the work. They also discuss the importance of mindfulness and meditation.

LISTEN: Willem Dafoe on The Louis Theroux Podcast is a lovely conversation where he discusses his life and career.

LISTEN: If you’re a fan of Severance, I recommend the accompanying podcast, particularly episode four, where the composer discusses the show’s evocative music. It’s a beautiful exchange between the director and composer, showcasing their mutual admiration.

WATCH : And this weeks Episode 7 might be my favourite episode ever, such stunning direction and cinematography! Plus, the storytelling with very little dialogue in some of the scenes, tells so much of the back story of two of the characters. It’s a masterpiece, I’m desperate to talk about with people, so hit me up if you’d like to discuss.

WATCH : Conclave - Another cinematic masterpiece. The lighting is particularly interesting as the indoor shots use lamps and incidental lights to add another layer to the story. And the wide shots are stunning, particularly that one with the umbrellas.

LISTEN: Steve Coogan on Dish offers an amusing chat over food.

WATCH: This piece by poet, Harry Baker is truly beautiful.

As always, feel free to share your recommendations with me! I’d love to know what you’ve been enjoying lately and if you checked out any of these suggestions. Share in the comments!

Thank you for taking the time to read my monthly newsletter! I hope you’ve found it both enjoyable and insightful. If there’s anything you’d like me to dive deeper into or add in future editions, I’m all ears!

See you again on April 5th!

A big thank you to everyone who keeps in touch and shares what resonates with you. I love hearing your thoughts and suggestions, so don’t hesitate to reply and say hello or drop a comment below. One of the best parts of being on Substack is the potential to create a little community together. I know it takes time and effort to leave messages, but I’d love you to get involved!

Xanthe xx

(This section contains affiliate links, you will not be charged more but I may make a small commission if you purchase through my links. Many thanks for your support.)

You can browse - My Amazon shop if you’re interested in the video or photography equipment I use and love.

Are there any other products you’d like me to share or curate together? Or any questions I can answer in more detail? Let me know!

And here’s my January and February editions, as there’s so much goodness on there. Or all my playlists from last year! -

Monthly newsletter

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 05:31:08 GMT

Hey, how you doing? For me, last month was that curious blend of feeling like it dragged on forever while simultaneously whizzing by in a flash. Although this is how I feel most months! Perhaps it felt this way because some weeks were so packed with activity, while others seemed to drag on, especially when I was unwell. If you’re curious to see what I got up to, I documented my weeks as part of January’s MAKE VIDEOS CLUB project. You can check them out below!

Here in Vietnam, we’ve had the Lunar New Year celebrations recently, and the atmosphere was positively electric with hope, joy, and excitement for the year ahead. The streets are adorned with flowers and bunting, creating a truly magical scene. If you’re looking to add something extraordinary to your bucket list, I highly recommend experiencing the Tet celebrations in Hoi An - the abundance of flowers is simply breathtaking! This is from last year -

A reminder that February brings the start of the 100 Day Project on the 23rd. I’ve participated in this worldwide project a few times - first doing 100 days on my bike and then by creating 100 daily vertical videos. It’s a fantastic challenge, and I truly believe in the power of taking action, creating something every day, and harnessing the momentum that comes with it. I’m still deciding what I might create, but I thought I’d mention it in case you’re looking for a project to dive into.

Alternatively, if you would like more guidance, inspiration and encouragement to create regular monthly videos, the MAKE VIDEOS CLUB is for you! Throughout February, we’re exploring the prompt ABOUT ME - a wonderful opportunity to share the details of your life, your interests, and the things that bring you joy through video.

You can jump in anytime. Join us for 12 inspiring monthly video projects that will transform your everyday moments into cherished memories. You’ll have the opportunity to join for the entire year, gaining access to all the projects throughout 2025. Or you can also opt to join for just four months at a time, perfect for dipping into different seasons of creativity. Come and join the MAKE VIDEOS CLUB and let’s make videos together in 2025!

As I mentioned, January was all about the Week In The Life video in the MAKE VIDEOS CLUB so I made one for each week throughout the month.

The last few days of 2024 and into the New Year for the first video:

Then it was time to say goodbye:

Unfortunately, I got that virus:

Then soaked up all the flowers and Lunar New Year celebrations:

As you can see, I’m sharing my videos over on YouTube - please come and say hello there!

Here’s my offering from January 25th -

Why don’t you join us and create your DITL on February 25th? Mark your calendars, everyone is welcome. If you’d like FREE resources and inspiration to help get you started, head to 25TH:DAY IN THE LIFE for everything you need.

LISTEN: The Imperfects with Bronnie Ware. This episode discusses the five regrets of the dying in a poignant yet sensitive manner, reminding us that “Your life’s work is your life’s work”.

LOOK: Check out the Shop Cats of HK - what a fantastic project!

READ: I loved this article encouraging the simple act of just hanging out with friends - no activities planned, nothing scheduled, just being together. I’m all for it! I did plenty of that over Christmas when friends visited.

WATCH - This short is beautiful. The colours, the light, the feeling! Shot on 16mm film, it’s so dreamy.

LISTEN: Harris Dickinson on Talk Easy with Sam Fragoso. It was great to hear from this young East London talent. I haven’t seen the film yet, but it was fascinating to learn about his background and childhood - what a grounded chap!

- WATCH: I can’t wait for this! Out later this month.

LISTEN: The Telepathy Tapes. It’s been an absolutely captivating listen, have you listened? What do you think?.

LISTEN: “People Are Afraid to Suck” says Kofi Yeboah on MIDCONVO. I appreciated the sports analogy at the end, highlighting how athletes learn to get back up after setbacks, whereas some creatives struggle with that experience. “Put your best foot forward!”

WATCH: This looks beautifully shot! I look forward to watching.

LISTEN: The Week That Changed Los Angeles on Talk Easy with Sam Fragoso. Hear from writer Emily Witt, who’s been on the ground talking to families affected by the fires.

WATCH & LISTEN: Severance Season 2 has begun, and I’m loving the weekly release! There’s something nostalgic about waiting for each episode to drop. If you’re watching, the podcast is worth a listen for chats with the actors and behind-the-scenes details, available after each episode.

WATCH - I adore Georgie Jonez and her poems -

As always, feel free to share your recommendations with me! I’d love to know what you’ve been enjoying lately and if you checked out any of these suggestions. Share in the comments!

Thank you for taking the time to read my monthly newsletter! I hope you’ve found it both enjoyable and insightful, whether it’s through my recommendations, the inspiration from my projects, or simply feeling a connection with someone you’ve known online for a while. If there’s anything you’d like me to dive deeper into or add, I’m all ears!

You might have noticed that I’ve shifted the delivery date from the 1st of the month to the 5th. I wanted to lighten the email load on the 1st, when your inbox is likely flooded. So, I’ll catch you again on March 5th!

A big thank you to everyone who keeps in touch and shares what resonates with you. I love hearing your thoughts and suggestions, so don’t hesitate to reply and say hello or drop a comment below. One of the best parts of being on Substack is creating a little community together. Please get involved!

Xanthe xx

(This section contains affiliate links, you will not be charged more but I may make a small commission if you purchase through my links. Many thanks for your support.)

You can browse - My Amazon shop if you’re interested in the video or photography equipment I use and love.

Are there any other products you’d like me to share or curate together? Or any questions I can answer in more detail? Let me know!

And here’s my January playlist, as there’s so much goodness on there. Or all my playlists from last year! -

January newsletter

Sun, 05 Jan 2025 06:01:28 GMT

How you doing? Hope January is treating you well so far and you saw the new year in, in your own unique way.

“Flowing with ease” is my mantra for January. As I embark on this new year, I’m busy formulating creative plans and gathering ideas, all while aiming to take things slowly and ease myself into 2025. I find myself still reflecting on last year, gathering the highlights and challenges that shaped my journey. These moments will help me envision what kind of year I’d like 2025 to be.

Over the years, I’ve learned that January can be quite a challenging month. I don’t like to set resolutions; instead, I prefer to establish intentions come spring. So, I’m consciously taking the pressure off myself to make grand things happen right away. Just because it’s the start of a fresh new year doesn’t mean I have to rush into everything all at once. Maybe you feel the same way?

I truly love embarking on a January project; it gives me something to focus on and brings a little creative joy into my life. A few years ago, I did a positive words and affirmations project that truly shifted my mindset. I’ve also explored colour in various ways, and for the past couple of years, I’ve been creating Slice of Life videos.

This month, I’ll be diving into Week In The Life videos alongside the MAKE VIDEOS CLUB participants. This approach ticks several boxes for me, allowing me to ease back into regular creating. I’m still documenting my daily life but without the pressure of producing something every day. Depending on how I’m feeling, I can keep the video simple, editing snippets chronologically with text to announce the day, or I can weave together the stories of the week with a voiceover. I’m also continuing to shoot in horizontal format and sharing my videos over on YouTube—please come and say hello there! Overall, this project feels achievable; I want something that encourages me but is also easy. If you’re intrigued by the idea of making weekly vlogs this January and would like more guidance and inspiration, I’d love for you to join the MAKE VIDEOS CLUB.

You can jump in anytime. Join us for 12 inspiring monthly video projects that will transform your everyday moments into cherished memories. You’ll have the opportunity to join for the entire year, gaining access to all the projects throughout 2025—something many people have been eagerly requesting. Prefer a shorter commitment? No problem! You can also opt to join for just four months at a time, perfect for dipping into different seasons of creativity. I’ll be offering 1:1 sessions as well, which have been a wonderful success throughout 2024. It’s been fantastic to witness the amazing progress from participants, and I can’t wait to support even more of you. Come and join the MAKE VIDEOS CLUB and let’s make videos together in 2025!

Last month was all about reflection and looking back, combining footage from the past year with current activities.

This video showcases the delicious food I enjoyed:

And this one celebrates the beauty of flowers:

Before I took a break at the end of December for some festive fun, life looked like this: and it was a practice run as I get ready for more Week In The Life videos this month.

I’m still working on my year-long compilation celebration, which is quite a mammoth project, so I’m tackling it slowly. I hope to share it next month. I’d love to encourage you to put together a collection of clips from your year into a montage. So often, we let footage sit idly on hard drives or in our camera rolls, but editing something together is a wonderful way to use those clips and create something beautiful to look back on. If you need some tips or would like to check out some end-of-year videos I’ve made over the years, take a peek at this blog post.

I’m so excited that the one consistent project I did last year is continuing. Each month on the 25th I’m inviting you to document your day as part of 25TH:DAY IN THE LIFE project. I’m always inspired to show up no matter what’s going on or how I’m feeling.

Each month is a snapshot into life during 2024. January was rainy, February I had Covid, March there was a surprise 50th birthday, April was all about dementia, edible delights in May, a birthday bbq in June, back in Hoi An in July, August was games a plenty and an ordinary day in September. For October I went to the herb village and had a little boogie in November.

Here’s my offering from December -

Will you join us and create your DITL on January 25th? Mark your calendars, everyone is welcome. Head to 25TH:DAY IN THE LIFE for resources and inspiration to help get you started.

Slightly smaller selection this month, as I’ve not been consuming much media, other than really bad Christmas Netflix movies, which I can’t possibly recommend!

How to Make Next Year the Best Year: Ask Yourself These 7 Questions - If you’re seeking guidance as we enter this new year, Mel offers some wonderful insights on reflecting on 2024 and planning for 2025.

Dressing from the Inside Out with Lizzie Parsons - Courage and Spice - A fantastic conversation about finding your personal style and allowing your personality to shine through. Sas shares some self-doubt about what to wear to an upcoming event, and there are plenty of useful tips.

Tash Demetriou Live on The Adam Buxton Podcast - Enjoy a funny ramble in this special live episode. I’m a big fan of Tash and have loved all her episodes with Adam.

The Joaquin Phoenix Interview on Talk Easy with Sam Fragoso. A delightfully awkward conversation with Joaquin, who rarely gives interviews. He’s endearing, entertaining, and interesting—definitely worth a listen!

Talk Easy in 2024: A Mixtape. Sam’s interview roundup offers a variety of conversations, and towards the end, his chat with Julia Louis-Dreyfus is particularly moving as she discusses living life to the fullest.

Kinder - Daily Creative with Todd Henry. This episode reflects on the vital roles of vulnerability and kindness in nurturing meaningful relationships. Todd’s insights remind us that fostering connections, both personally and professionally, can lead to a more fulfilling life.

The Key to Gary Keller's Extraordinary Success on The ONE Thing Podcast. They discuss the importance of consistency, a topic I found particularly enlightening. This was recommended by my dear friend Kim Klassen, who shares so much goodness on TikTok.

I shared this last year, but it’s always worth an annual watch, as it’s so JOYFUL!

As always, feel free to share your recommendations with me! I’d love to know what you’ve been enjoying lately and if you checked out any of these suggestions. Share in the comments!

I hope you find this monthly newsletter enjoyable and useful—whether it’s through my recommendations, drawing inspiration from my creations, or simply feeling a connection with me, someone you’ve known online for a while. I genuinely enjoy putting it together, and I hope you’ll stick around! Please let me know if there’s anything you’d like me to add or elaborate on.

As you may have noticed, I’ve shifted the delivery date of this from the 1st of the month to the 5th. I receive a lot of emails on the 1st, and I’m sure you do too; I don’t want to add to the noise. So, I’ll see you again on February 5th!

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who stays in touch, sending me messages about what you’ve enjoyed and offering suggestions for inspiration. I love hearing from you, so please feel free to reply and say hello or leave a comment below. That’s one of the lovely perks of being here on Substack—we can create a little community together!

Xanthe xx

(This section contains affiliate links, you will not be charged more but I may make a small commission if you purchase through my links. Many thanks for your support.)

You can browse - My Amazon shop if you’re interested in other video or photography equipment I use and love.

Are there any other products you’d like me to share or curate together? Or any questions I can answer in more detail? Let me know!

And here’s my January playlist, which I’m adding to daily.

DECEMBER NEWSLETTER

Sun, 01 Dec 2024 05:38:30 GMT

In my monthly newsletter I share current projects, inspiration and recommendations of things I loved reading, watching and listening to recently. P.S If the whole newsletter doesn't display on email, it's because it's jam packed with goodies! Open on your desktop, in a browser or on the app for everything in its full glory!

Oh hey, December! Wasn’t it just November? Another month has vanished! It's been super busy over here as I’ve been working on my new online offering—I’ll fill you in more about that below. Plus, I’m helping Luke with his business; I’m currently in charge of the wrapping department (which is just me!), and I’m busy sending out his beautiful wooden pieces all around the world. It’s wonderful to see! Amidst all this, I’m still enjoying the usual day-to-day activities: bike rides, pickleball, and, of course, cups of tea.

I’m gearing up for a well-earned break over the festive period. Our eldest son is with us at the moment, and the other one will be arriving in a couple of weeks. We’re also welcoming a group of friends to Hoi An so we can celebrate together—I can’t wait! But before all of that, there’s still much to do. I’m sure you’re the same!

As I mentioned last time, the MAKE VIDEOS CLUB is now open for registration! It’s similar to this year’s membership, featuring the same 12 projects but delivered in a different order. You’ll have the opportunity to join for the entire year, gaining access to all the monthly projects throughout 2025—something many people have been eagerly requesting. Prefer a shorter commitment? No problem! You can also opt to join for just four months at a time, perfect for dipping into different seasons of creativity. I’ll be offering 1:1 sessions as well, which have been a wonderful success throughout 2024. It’s been fantastic to witness the amazing progress from participants, and I can’t wait to support even more of you. Come and join the MAKE VIDEOS CLUB and let’s make videos together in 2025!

If you’re looking for some inspiration and ideas of what to capture over the festive season, I’ve put together 10 FESTIVE VIDEO IDEAS to spark your creativity and encourage you to gather your memories at this time of year.

My focus in November was -

Shooting in horizontal to shift my perspective.
Uploading to YouTube to try something different and tick off one of my goals for 2024, as I’ve been wanting to get back into YouTube all year.
Create 10 Slice Of Life videos as part of the MAKE VIDEOS membership.

I did it! I’m happy with the 11 videos I created, as they tell stories of my life right now, offering great memories for years to come. I’ve loved returning to my first love of seeing the world in widescreen and creating in this horizontal format, and I plan to continue this into next year as I formulate some new goals.

Uploading to YouTube has been a new challenge—not in terms of practicality, but due to how quiet it is over there for me regarding views, comments, and subscribers.

I’ve never been into creating just for reaction of likes or follows, but I’ve been doing this for so long on Instagram, I’ll be lying if I said it didn’t matter a little bit. But Instagram hasn’t really been happening for me this year. My videos don’t seem connect with people in the way they used to. With so much noise and content to consume over there, it’s no surprise that my slightly slower, more personal content isn’t grabbing attention. So, if things are quiet on Instagram, I might as well give YouTube a go without worrying about reception. I just have to remind myself that I’m making videos for my future enjoyment. I love the process and how this creative outlet helps me appreciate the beauty in my everyday life. Ultimately, my goal has always been to inspire YOU to tell your own stories through video.

Here are a few of my November videos and rest of them are over on YouTube. I’m committed to continuing with YouTube in 2025, so if you find yourself over there, please come and say hello—I’d really appreciate it! Throughout December, I’ll also be uploading some of my videos from last year, as I’ll be creating at a slower pace this month. I’m not entirely sure what my end goal is with YouTube, but I’m enjoying starting fresh. I’m investing my energy in a space that feels creative, full of people sharing their own stories rather than trying to sell something. Could I potentially get monetised there? Perhaps? Can I build a community of storytellers and discover new creators who inspire me? I hope so! And would I love to be sponsored by my favourite companies to make videos? Of course! But for now, let’s just see how things unfold.

Of course, the one consistent project each month is the year-long 24TH:DAY IN THE LIFE project. I’m always inspired to show up no matter what’s going on or how I’m feeling. Here’s my November offering -

And there’s just one more left for this year! On Christmas Eve! Will you join us and create your DITL on December 24th?

This monthly DITL project will continue into 2025, but don’t feel like you have to wait until the start of the year to begin. Just jump in with one Day in the Life video on the 24th—I’m cheering you on!

Head to 24TH:DAY IN THE LIFE for resources and inspiration to help get you started.

Only podcast episodes recommendations for this month. I’ve been listening A LOT!

How Water Heals - The Science of Happiness - For me, water is a source of healing, both physically and emotionally. This episode delves into the science behind how water impacts our well-being, exploring its therapeutic properties and how we can harness its benefits in our everyday lives.

Die Empty - Daily Creative with Todd Henry. In this episode, Todd Henry emphasises the importance of stepping outside our comfort zones and confronting our fears. He encourages listeners to identify their passions and strive to empty ourselves of our best work by the end of our lives.

Prepare to be captivated by Jim Rogers’ remarkable storytelling in this episode of The Imperfects. He shares the three acts of his life, weaving a narrative that is both heartbreaking and uplifting. His insights into resilience and the human spirit will linger with you long after the episode ends.

Dame Tracey Emin discusses her upbringing, contemporaries in the YBA movement, and her life-changing cancer diagnosis on The Louis Theroux Podcast.

*Trigger warning* This episode offers a raw and honest look into Emin’s life, touching on sensitive topics such as alcoholism and sexual assault. While it may not be suitable for everyone, Emin’s courage and vulnerability make for a compelling listen. I’m a long-time admirer of her work, ever since I saw her tent piece at one of her first exhibitions, which happened to be next door to my art college in the 90s. And then I met her when she had her own little gallery in Camberwell when I was still a student.

Dr. Emily - Resent Less, Live More - The Imperfects. In this insightful episode, Dr. Emily provides valuable guidance on acknowledging resentment and taking action with forgiveness.

In this profound conversation with death doula Alua Arthur, the importance of discussing mortality is explored - Don't Learn This Too Late: Make An Authentic Life Now, By Getting Real About The End - The Mel Robbins Podcast. It’s an open and inspiring dialogue that challenges us to reflect on our lives and priorities, ultimately enhancing the way we live today.

Todd Henry always serving up inspiration and weaving together interesting stories. Seize The Moment - Daily Creative - “Are you taking advantage of the opportunities in life? Or are you letting life happen to you?”

If you need something uplifting to listen to, look no further than Lovely Day by Bill Withers on Soul Music. This classic tune is sure to brighten your spirits!

As always, feel free to share your recommendations with me! I’d love to know what you’ve been enjoying lately and if you checked out any of these suggestions. Share in the comments!

I’ll continue with this monthly newsletter next year. I really enjoy putting it together, and I hope you find it useful—whether it’s enjoying my recommendations to watch, read or listen to. Perhaps drawing inspiration from my creations, or just feeling a connection with someone you’ve known online for a while. I hope you’ll stick around?

I’ll be shifting the delivery date from the 1st of the month to the 5th. I feel there tends to be a lot of deliveries in your inbox on the 1st, and I don’t want to add to the noise, so I hope that’s okay!

Thank you to everyone who stays in touch, sending me messages about what you’ve enjoyed and offering suggestions for inspiration. I love hearing from you, so please feel free to reply and say hello or leave a comment below.

Have a wonderful festive season, whatever you’re doing. Don’t forget to make videos!. Sending love and peace to you all <3

Xanthe xx

(This section contains affiliate links, you will not be charged more but I may make a small commission if you purchase through my links. Many thanks for your support.)

Someone asked me - What on your equipment wish list? While I firmly believe in minimizing overconsumption and making the most of what I already own. I haven’t purchased a new camera since 2017!, so I can’t help but dream a little! Although I’m not currently in the market for new gear, a few items have caught my eye.

I’m really drawn to the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 for shooting on the go. Along with a new Canon G7x III or a Canon R6 II - one day! Plus, I’d love the new AirPods 4, I use my AirPods every day and would love to upgrade!

I’ve also updated my blog post on GIFTS FOR VIDEO CREATORS, perfect for anyone looking for creative gift ideas for the video creators in their lives. Or if you’re a video creator yourself, you might want to consider adding some of these suggestions to your own wish list!

As always, you can browse - My Amazon shop if you’re interested in other video or photography equipment I use and love.

Are there any other products you’d like me to share or curate together? Or any questions I can answer in more detail? Let me know!

A LITTLE ANNOUNCEMENT!

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 06:01:33 GMT

I mentioned in my November newsletter that I would let you know when the Make Videos Club is open and ready for you to join, so here I am!

I’m excited to announce that the MAKE VIDEOS CLUB for 2025 is here!

Have you ever found yourself eager to create videos of your life but unsure of where to start? Do you feel overwhelmed and struggle to think of what to shoot next and how to approach it?

I understand that feeling all too well, both personally and through my experience of guiding hundreds of people in making their own videos.

In 2023, I hosted the MAKE VIDEOS membership, where having monthly projects significantly enhanced my creativity and that of many others. A supportive community and a specific project can truly make all the difference.

This year, I’m bringing you the same 12 engaging projects that inspired so many, but delivered in a different monthly order. I wholeheartedly believe in the potential of these projects, as they provide countless opportunities for storytelling, especially when explored during different seasons. Each month, we’ll tackle a new prompt or theme designed to spark your creativity and help you share your unique stories. Imagine turning your everyday moments into cherished memories through video! Don’t forget to Make Videos For YOU…

Join us starting January 4th, 2025, for £297 for the entire year or £132 for a 4-month session. You’ll gain access to resources, tips, and a community of creators, and I’ll be there to encourage you every step of the way.

Also, I’ll be offering 1:1 sessions for an additional fee, which have been a wonderful success throughout 2024. It’s been fantastic to witness the amazing progress from participants, and I can’t wait to support even more of you. The MAKE VIDEOS CLUB is open now – If you have any questions, feel free to reach out. Let’s make videos together in 2025!

Remember I mentioned I was shifting my perspective and shooting in widescreen and uploading to YouTube. Well, it’s an experience starting again from the beginning in a new-to-me online space. But I’m loving being on the platform, it’s so inspiring. I’ll talk more about it the next newsletter. Stay tuned and please come and find me over there.

A little reminder that coming up on November 24th, we’ve got the ongoing 24TH:DAY IN THE LIFE project, I’d love for you to join us. The project will continue into 2025, but don’t feel like you have to wait until the start of the year to begin. Just jump in and create one Day in the Life video on the 24th - I’m cheering you on!

Head to 24TH:DAY IN THE LIFE for resources and inspiration to help get you started and I’ll share more reminders over on instagram @createvideoswithxanthe.

Enjoy the rest of November and I’ll be back at the beginning of December with all the newsletter goodies.

Take care,

Love from Xanthe xx