Daddy's girl?

I’m still wondering what to give my Dad for Fathers’ Day. He’s recently out of hospital, recovering from an operation – and meant to be resting. I suppose sitting around reading is an ideal pastime, so a book would make an excellent present.











I thought of him immediately I saw this vintage coffee table number, filled with glamorous photographs of Marilyn Monroe.








Despite being an only child and daughter, I’ve never really been the real Daddy’s girl – my father's heart has always belonged to Marilyn. I guess it’s pretty hard to compete with a long deceased movie icon who’s a legend in her own lingerie. Anyway, this book would certainly be the perfect gift...













Except, I think his brain needs a little more stimulation..









Sorry Dad, I know retro swimwear is all the rage, but it’s time for something ‘from you to me’: ShopCurious has this curiously clever journal, requiring some careful thought and practical application, which sounds like an even more fabulous Fathers’ Day gift.

To complete the journal, Dad will have to answer some questions about his past, his family memories and wishes for the future. I can almost guarantee that Marilyn will feature somewhere on the pages he fills out, but writing the responses should keep any father nicely occupied and out of mischief (or at least Mum's way) for a while.







And I can’t wait until the book’s completed and returned to the genuine Daddy’s girl, as I’m really curious to read the uniquely individual story of my father’s life.


Are you?

Dear Mum...

With Mothers' Day less than two weeks away in the UK, I was trying to decide what sort of gift my mother would really appreciate.

I was reminded that mothers always have plenty of advice for us. “Remember to wear your vest”, “never accept a lift from a stranger”, “eat breakfast every day” and so on. However, I wasn’t really one for listening to my mother’s advice, which is probably why the words I recall her using most often were, “I told you so.”

Now I’m a bit older, I’d like to know more about my dear Mum: What was life like when she was growing up, where did she get her ideas from and what advice would she give me now?


This curiously appropriate book ‘from you to me’, available at ShopCurious, asks these questions and many more. In fact, it’s the perfect Mothers’ Day gift…Just let your Mum provide the answers in her own special way, and return the completed book to you: You’ll find out more about your family and lots of things you didn’t know. What’s more, your mother will really enjoy adding her personal touches to the journal - and providing you with stories you’ll treasure and can pass on to future generations.

What are the most unique and precious memories from your childhood? How helpful were your mother’s words of advice to you? Do let us know… “And make sure wash behind your ears.”

Will you?

PS Mum will also enjoy this cheesy video clip - I love the curious colours.

Remember: love is timeless

In these fast-moving times, there's rarely an opportunity to sit back and spend a moment reflecting on what really matters: probably our family and our dearest friends.

Occasionally, we fall out with loved ones, or find ourselves distanced from those we’re emotionally close to. At some stage in life, it’s likely we’ll suddenly lose someone we love and realize we haven’t said all we really wanted to. Perhaps we’re rushing around so much, we forget how important it is to express our feelings … until it’s too late.




Recording feelings, thoughts and memories can be surprisingly rewarding, which is why, at ShopCurious, we’re offering a selection of journals to help you do just this. ‘From You to Me’ journals make really precious gifts – simply ask your loved one(s) to answer the questions in the book and return it to you, full of personal nostalgia and stories you’ve always wanted to know. Capture the memories and anecdotes of times spent with those special to you - and receive your own gift of love and friendship back again.








One of the journals, called These were the Days, is especially appropriate for anyone who’s leaving and moving on to pastures new. Whether you're graduating from school, university, taking up a new job, or moving abroad, this journal provides an opportunity to capture key memories and experiences from the people you've met along the way.








Alternatively, you may want to reflect on good times spent with your partner - or even an old flame, someone overseas, a mentor, or person who’s had a key influence in your life... Or, you may simply wish to recall experiences shared with a friend, relative or colleague you particularly admire, as a record for posterity.

It’s worthwhile taking a moment to remember those special to us. The gift of love is timeless.

Will you?