Fun

 Yayoi Kusama is in London

By Tina Kumar

Repeatedly SOLD OUT - this is an art exhibition not to miss.

Yayoi Kusama is an Japanese artist infamous for her creative art exhibitions; notably for the variations of ‘Infinity Mirrors.’

An exhibition that was initially sold out and only available in London till September 2021 has been extended by a year to September 2022. To allow Londoners the opportunity to see the miracle art creations.

I went to Tate Britain to see what all the fuss about. Having missed the opportunity to witness Kusama’s work previously, a few years ago when it was shown in London; I was determined to see it this time. 

There are two rooms and they are distinctive. The first is also installed with lights and mirrors but it’s the second room which is the most breathtaking. You have the opportunity to be inside for a couple minutes at a time but you are free to go in more than once. I went twice and it was well worth the hype.

I will warn you to be aware of the water in the second room of the ‘infinity Mirrors’. I was warned but I still fell in it; it’s not deep but it is part of the art experience. So be careful there!

Tickets can be purchased on Tate Britain’s website, where you must sign up to become a member for free. The ticket was only £5. Get your ticket now on https://www.tate.org.uk/visit/tate-britain

The Tate is always good! #youknowit

 

Instagram in a pandemic is my best friend

By Tina Kumar

Instagram in a pandemic has really become something I go on quite a bit during the pandemic. I went on it a lot before the pandemic; however, my time on it has increased exponentially because I’ve been at home more with more time.

Some days, I just put my phone in charge and don’t really go on it for a few hours because I know I will want to go on it quite a bit in the evening. To be honest, there’s not always that much going on Instagram but when you are on then you find yourself lost, going from one post, page or reel to another and so on. So going on social media in between breaks for a few minutes at a time is fine. I find I’m learning something new everyday on Insta and there's a change in the usual posts that used to pop up before. 

However, the most surprising thing has been how much people are finding themselves on Instagram. During the pandemic, sometimes I don’t want to be on FaceTime to friends all the time, or on Netflix too much so I find myself trying to explore and find new things on Instagram. This has been really fun and interesting. I feel like I’m learning so much just by looking at Instagram like a form of entertainment rather than getting sucked into the negative side effects of social media.

From coming across banana bread/ dalgona coffee on Instagram in the first lockdown, to discovering fitness PTs, fashion designers and just random new influencers. Instagram has been really interesting and like a learning curve. With so much on make up, beauty and fashion I feel Instagram can really be eye opening sometimes. Who would’ve thought Instagram could receive so much praise? And have everyone else agree to that fact. More time at home, being around your family and friends for almost all of the 24 hours, and limited contact with friends. Instagram in a pandemic is my best friend. 

How has Instagram influenced your perception of the social media platform in a pandemic? Have you found yourself appreciating Instagram more? What have you learnt from the app during these times? Have your learnt more? Have you discovered new things?

Would you tell your friends or family who don’t have Instagram to get an account?

I’ve always liked Instagram but during a global pandemic my perception of Instagram has changed to see it in a more positive light and I can’t wait to learn more and more through the app…

 

 

What to watch on Netflix?

By Tina Kumar 

Netflix has always been very popular in recent years but throw in a Covid-19 lockdown and the focal point of your life and time probably turns to a lot of Netflix being a part of it. Yet, the question is ‘what to watch on Netflix?’ If you are watching Netflix with someone or in a group it’s not so easy to choose what to watch because everyone wants to watch something different.

Taste really kicks in and seeing as that everybody knows there’s something for them on Netflix it can take a lot of time to decide what to watch. However, you’ll find that in the list below there’s something for everyone. There are more series listed below than films but with all this time on hand you’ll want something to keep you occupied a little longer. 

1. The Last Dance 

An inspirational story about Michael Jordan and the love of basketball is not disappointing but rather intriguing indeed. The story is so unbelievable that you want to keep watching it again and again to remind yourself of the impossible success that team had managed to achieve. You'll get what I mean when you watch it.

The series makes you feel like that maybe you could achieve something great too in your life. The way the story is told it instills a passion inside of you and almost evokes a sense of urgency to find your true passion and start working on it right away. For those who aren’t aware of Jordan’s story will find that they get to learn about not just it but also about the stories of Scottie Pippen, Denis Roadman, Steve Kerr and Phil Jackson. 

You get to learn about the whole experience from the very people involved in the incredible journey to the players' day to day lives and it feels so real. It feels like your are living the moment with them, especially due to the behind the scenes and footage of the team covered in 1997-1998 Bulls season being shown alongside the commentary.

The story is as inspirational as it is magical and if you love any sports and want to feel fired up with inspiration then this is a must watch! 

2. The Holiday 

A classic Rom-com set in England and LA. An intriguing picture you can feel lost in and be engrossed by the drama. With some of the best actors in film such as Kate Winslet, Cameron Diaz and Jude Law this movie is filled with drama, mystery, love, passion and a touch of Hollywood. Full of heart touching moments, laughter and fun! 

A girl from a literary world and another girl working in Hollywood swap worlds because of heartbreak and end up finding themselves in a better place than ever. A wonderful movie and one you can watch again and again. Some people always watch this film during Christmas time but I like watching this film all the time. Though, Christmas is usually when I do see it lol! 

3. Man on a ledge 

This movie is filled suspense, a dark truth and a power play to prove one man’s innocence. The movie exposes the dark truth that’s prevalent in society but it’s also filled with mystery. You are kept on your toes as to what happens next. The thriller film is shot in the infamous city - New York City! 

4. Friends

One of the most iconic series in the world but still as good as the first time you’d seen it. Filled with laughter, fun and mischief this show is something you can’t not have watched!

The episodes are short but the lives of Rachel, Joey, Phoebe, Chandler, Ross and Monica are enticing. The comedy and chemistry between the characters is a joy and always good, light hearted fun.

One of the best TV series ever and if you haven’t watched it then get on it now. If you have seen it before then an ever the more reason to watch it again. A classic! 

5. Gossip Girl 

You’re one and only source into the scandalous lives of New York’s elite....

Gossip Girl follows and reports the lives of Upper East Siders delved in opulent wealth. The fashion, the drama and the extravagance of the show make you addicted to the show.

It’s so good you can watch it again and again and again. This series is very long with as many as 24 episodes in a season so it’s best to start when you have a lot of time on your hands. A perfect go to while life is slowed down in lockdown.

The ambience of the show is filled with the best places in New York City, the best style and the best written lines. Gossip Girl isn’t just a show for girls but it’s also a great show for guys so if you’re a guy and you haven’t seen it before then this is something you should get watching. Now. 

Gossip Girl never gets old and it's a show I keep going back to again and again. I must've re-watched the series over 7x - that's how good it is! 

Sounds like I'm obsessed? Maybe because I am!

Now your turn. Go, go, go! 

6. Suits

Meghan Markle was in this series as the aspiring lawyer, Rachel Zane working in the world of corporate law in New York City. Crazy to think she’s now a Princess and a member of the British Royal Family. 

Many of you’ve probably seen the show before the impossible happened so you’ll know all about the lives of Harvey Specter, Mike Ross, Rachel Zane, Donna Paulson, Louis List and Jessica Pearson and this is obviously a wonderful re-watch.

Harvey Specter is rather infamous, you can't miss him - he's rather memorable! 

However, if you haven’t and you are interested in learning about the world of law or you are an aspiring lawyer yourself then watch the show. The show might not reflect the real world of law but it will surely give you an idea of what it’s like.

You might learn some legal jargon along the way like deposition, engagement letter and fraud ironically but the show is a great watch for a young crowd. It’s inspiring, it’s motivating and makes you want to work harder in life in whatever stage of your life your at. Watch this show to get a feel for the American corporate law world. The best is yet to come…

7. How to get away with Murder

This show is as crazy as it sounds. Think of something, dark, murderous, the law and impossible. Then, think of something worse and that’s the show, it is the worse. Worse in times of how crazy it is. I don't know who came up with the idea for the show but they certainly know how to keep you on your toes and the want and need on this show, to continue to eagerly find out what happens next.

Possibly the craziest show ever but so addictive, interesting and thrilling. Engaged from the very first episode you get to witness some dark story lines but so intriguing. A lecturer at a university has a class named: ‘How to get away with murder’  and she picks some students to intern at her legal clinic. However, the class is as relevant to the lives of some of the students as it as to learning about the law.

Murder, mystery and thrill will engross your attention from the minute you start watching the show. If you are looking for something you will never have seen, anything like before, then this is the show for you to start. 

8. White Collar

Light hearted, fun and incredibly smart. The way Peter Burke and Neal Caffery work to solve FBI cases is interesting as it is enjoyable. With the help of Mozzie and the rest of the FBI team the show’s storylines are always intertwined with the rigidness of the system and law in society juxtaposed with the criminal world.

The bending of rules for a better cause with Neal as the criminal consultant helping Petterthe FBI agent solve FBI cases, this show is a distinct show set in New York City. A great show to watch with friends or family.

The comedy is second to none and one of those FBI shows that’s so empowering to watch that makes you feel like you want to be in the FBI.

Watch it for a bit of fun.

9. Money Heist

In this show you’ll find a very intelligent, very abnormal professor who wants to rob the National Bank of Spain to change his lives and the lives of his team. A team who are like family and only have each other to fulfil this impossible mission without being scathed and with the attention of society’s eyes on them.

Including the eyes of the police, the law, the media and grasping on the emotions of the people in society. The professor thinks so many moves ahead that he has played out a plan in his head that he’s sure will bring his team success. He’s predicted all the moves of the opposition so that he’s one step ahead at all times but will his plan work or will it end with everyone arrested?

Watch to find out…

10. Prison Break

A lot of this show is set in a horrible looking prison but Michael Schofield’s mind is so fascinating and his persistence, tenacity and emotions take you aback. You can’t help but love it.

The show is filled with adventure Michael Schofield is set to break himself and some chosen few out of prison and only he can do it. That is if he manages to?

 

Others in his team join along the way with some unwanted team members at times being as they are persons from a maximum security prison. The danger, the risk and mystery is enticing. You don’t want to believe that you actually want the prisoners to break out but the show makes you want Michael and the others in his team succeed.

Is it wrong, is it right? That’s up to you.

The real question though is if Michael can make the escape? 

  

 

How to revive date night in? 

By Saskia Moss 

 

At a time when restaurants and bars are closed, you may be struggling for ways to spend a romantic evening in with your other half. My idea - if you can’t eat out at a restaurant, bring the restaurant to you! You may have seen that many household chains and eateries have shared with us some of their best kept secret recipes to get us through these unprecedented times. Such as: Pizza Express’ popular dough balls, McDonald’s mouthwatering McMuffin and Ikea’s infamous meatballs. However we decided to go slightly more up-market with our take on Duck & Waffle; and although the view wasn’t as impressive from my first floor apartment, the food was just as delicious! 

 

What you’ll need:

• 2 duck legs;

• Olive oil;

• Maple syrup;

• An orange;

• Fresh egg waffles;

• Eggs;

• Seasoning; 

• Plum tomatoes (optional); and 

• Parsley (optional). 

Step 1: Marinade your legs! For the marinade combine two tablespoons of olive oil, three tablespoons of maple syrup, a pinch of salt and the juice of the orange. Pop the duck legs into a bowl and cover with the marinade. Ideally you’ll want them to leave them for up to 3 hours, however if you absolutely cannot wait feel free to skip to step 2.

Step 2: Put your duck in the oven! Roast your marinated duck legs for one and a half hours at 180 degrees.

Step 3: Roast your tomatoes! Pop them into a tin with a splash of olive oil, a pinch of salt and pepper, dusting of paprika and a squeeze of honey. Roast on 180 degrees for 40 minutes. 

Step 4: Sunny side up! Crack your eggs into a pan with some olive oil (one per person). Sprinkle with salt, pepper and paprika, and cook through on a low heat. 

Step 5: Warm up your waffles! Just prior to serving, toast your waffles on a low heat. Lastly stack your waffles, roast tomatoes, duck leg, fried egg, garnish of parsley, and drizzle with maple syrup – et voilà!

Step 6: Enjoy!

 

How to make the perfect beetroot salad for lunch? 

By Tina Kumar 

 

Beetroot salad is one of the yummiest salads and so quick and easy to make. Takes me only 5 mins usually to put it together. I could eat it everyday… and sometimes I do! 

 

Ingredients 

Spinach leaves 

Mixed leaves 

Lettuce 

Pickled beetroot (or fresh if you like) 

Goat’s cheese

Walnuts 

Green pesto 

Salt/pepper/lemon (or lime) 

 

Butternut squash (optional)

Chicken breast (optional) 

Lemon Vinaigrette (optional) 

 

Steps 

1. Lay out handful of the leaves, tear them with your hands or cut them in half with a knife. Doesn’t have to be really organised. Just break them up and lay them in plate/bowl. 
2. Mix/add the spinach, mixed leaves and lettuce to have a balanced mixture. 
3. Cut 3/4 beetroots in small/medium pieces depending on how you like it. 
4. Take 1/4 of goats cheese, chop up or break with hands and add 
5. Add chicken breast and butternut squash, chopped up how desired (optional) 
6. Take 2-4 walnut halves, crush with your hand sand sprinkle over 
7. Add very small amounts of green pesto to taste 
8. Sprinkle salt, pepper and add half lemon/lime 
9. Pour over some lemon vinaigrette as desired (optional)
10. Mix the salad if you want.
11. Done!  

 

Perfect roast chicken recipe

By Jamie Oliver  

Ingredients

*  1 x 1.6 kg higher-welfare chicken

*  2 medium onions

*  2 carrots

*  2 sticks of celery

*  1 bulb of garlic

*  olive oil

*  1 lemon

*  1 bunch of mixed fresh herbs , such as, thyme, rosemary, bay 

Method

1. Remove the chicken from the fridge 30 minutes before you want to cook it, to let it come up to room temperature.

2. Preheat the oven to 240°C/475°F/gas 9.

3. Wash and roughly chop the vegetables – there’s no need to peel them. Break the garlic bulb into cloves, leaving them unpeeled.

4. Pile all the veg, garlic and herbs into the middle of a large roasting tray and drizzle with oil.

5. Drizzle the chicken with oil and season well with sea salt and black pepper, then rub all over the bird. Place the chicken on top of the vegetables. 

6. Carefully prick the lemon all over, using the tip of a sharp knife (if you have a microwave, you could pop the lemon in these for 40 seconds at this point as this will really bring out the flavour). Put the lemon inside the chicken’s cavity, with the bunch of herbs.

7. Place the tray in the oven, then turn the heat down immediately to 200°C/400°F/gas 6 and cook for 1 hour 20 minutes.

8. If you’re doing roast potatoes and veggies, this is the time to crack on with them – get them into the oven for the last 45 minutes of cooking.

9. Baste the chicken halfway through cooking and if the veg look dry, add a splash of water to the tray to stop them from burning.

10. When the chicken is cooked, take the tray out of the oven and transfer the chicken to a board to rest for 15 minutes or so. Cover it with a layer of tin foil and a tea towel and leave aside while you make your gravy. 

11. To carve your chicken, remove any string and take off the wings (break them up and add to your gravy, along with the veg trivet, for mega flavour). Carefully cut down between the leg and the breast. Cut through the joint and pull the leg off.

12. Repeat on the other side, then cut each leg between the thigh and the drumstick so you end up with four portions of dark meat. Place these on a serving platter.

13. You should now have a clear space to carve the rest of your chicken. Angle the knife along the breastbone and carve one side off, then the other.

14. When you get down to the fussy bits, just use your fingers to pull all the meat off, and turn the chicken over to get all the tasty, juicy bits from underneath. You should be left with a stripped carcass, and a platter full of lovely meat that you can serve with your piping hot gravy and some delicious roast veg. 

 

 

What do for my birthday during a pandemic and after- ideas?

By Tina Kumar 

I particularly love birthdays because its the opportunity not only to have a party but because it’s a chance to celebrate with your friends and family. Birthdays are important, a bit like weddings, as in a time when people are always excited to show up because they know it’s important. I feel I always meet lost of new people at birthday parties - it's fab! Birthdays are that once a year thing to celebrate you, your friend or a family which is in itself a pretty exciting prospect.

Not forgetting the oh so delicious treat to look forward to at the end in the form of a birthday cake! Who doesn’t love some good old cake? 

Whether you bake it fresh or buy from your favourite bakery, cakes are a special part of birthdays. With lockdown and a whole year of a pandemic so far, birthdays have had to seemingly take a step back in the way they can be celebrated. With full lockdowns or rule of 6 it can be quite hard to decide how to celebrate your birthday. Here are a few birthday ideas to lift the mode and work for way round all the rules and regulations Boris has put in place. 

• Lockdown birthday at home - with your family only. Buy some balloons, decorate the living room or dining room or your bedroom or weather permitting take the party it to the garden. Order decorations on amazon so many great decorations, balloons and themes there! Make an event of it, get everybody to rest up and wear that birthday outfit you love, get some food take out, snacks made at home, drinks and have a fun evening! 
• Add a theme to the lockdown birthday to make it fun and a bit different to your previous birthdays. 

• Birthdays where you can have friends over, celebrate in the garden or take the rule of 6 option and invite 6 friends to an outdoor restaurant to celebrate in style but with limited numbers. You can always do something again or next year with more people once we are out of a pandemic
• Though a party would be something you might want but if you are uni and with your friends, you could invite friends to a pre drinks party and create a club vibe in your living room- socially distanced, safe etc sort-a-flat-party-vibes. You know what I mean. 
• Create a movie night, prepare some snacks from popcorn, sweets, nachos, drinks, put the projector on if you like and have quiet night in for your birthday 
• Birthday drinks in outdoor setting 
• Picnic in park 

When rules let us and when it gets back to normal you could: 

• Have a dinner
• Take a day trip - from Thorpe park, to a nearby park, or nearby attraction you never get round to
• Picnic in the park 
• Go on holiday with friends for your birthday - whether it’s in the UK or abroad 
• Have a party 
• Take a trip to an art gallery and then go to a rooftop bar! 

• Go out for a birthday dinner 
• Clubbing 
• Birthday drinks 
• 1/2 nights stay in a hotel 
• Spa day 
• Or just a good, simple time at Nando’s then drinks with friends after at your favourite pub - you do you!
• Sunday Roast at your favourite pub (Sunday permitting- if your birthday falls on. that day!) 

  

 

 

Friends reunion 2021: when is it out and how to watch? 

By Tina Kumar 

Friends is the iconic sitcom that became a ritualistic part of our lives when it came out over 20 years ago. Whether you were growing up then or now; each generation has come to love the show having become familiar with the comedic show at some point in their lives. 

The much anticipated Friends Reunion special comes out today on Thursday 27th May. In the UK you can watch the show on Sky and Now TV. Sky One will broadcast the show at 8pm but you can stream on Now TV from this morning!! So go watch it now if you are keen. 

In the US, the Friends Reunion will go ahead on HBO Max. The show will be hosted by James Corden and feature many well known celebrity guests. From Lady Gaga, Cara Delevingne, Cindy Crawford, David Beckham, Justin Bieber and many more!

The show not only became known for it’s hilarious repertoire but its’ impeccable relatability in following the lives of the 20 somethings: Rachel, Ross, Monica, Chandler, Phoebe and Joey became part of Pop culture. Every season was watched by over 20 million people. All 10 seasons were a huge success and the main characters’ careers went to a new high after being part of the Friends brand.

Not only did the actors’ net worths grow to near $100 million or more but they have since forever remained a very recognisable part of American TV and history. The Friends’ cast David Schwimmer, Jennifer Anniston, Lisa Kudrow, Courtney Cox, Mathew Perry and Matt LeBlanc not only became global figures but almost 20 years on they’ve reunited and shown the lasting effects of their beautiful on-the-set and off-the-set friendship still exists with the new Friends Reunion. 

I can’t wait to see the show as a newly-become Friends fan and I’m bet neither can you…