The Ups and the Downs

One of the many reasons I love living in (well, near) Bristol is that one minute you’re in the hustle and bustle of a busy city centre and the next you can be somewhere so calm and quiet that it feels like another country.

“The Downs” is a huge open space made up of Clifton Down and Durdham down and in the Summer it’s awash with people- from the dog walkers to the runners, from young families having a picnic to the sweet elderly couples walking hand in hand. It’s a brilliant place to people watch and there are some pretty spectacular views on offer too, the most impressive of which has to be Avon Gorge which features the famous Clifton Suspension bridge- an iconic part of Bristol City.

The other weekend Ben and I ventured up there to chill out for a while- despite being busy there is always a quiet spot somewhere. We also took the opportunity to branch out with outfit photo locations…I’m getting quite used to prancing around in public now.

Top: New Look (similar) | Dress: River Island at ASOS | Boots: Missguided

The downs could also kind of describe how I’ve been feeling lately, as life hasn’t been the easiest. For as long as I can remember I’ve struggled with my mental health and the last few months have been testing to say the least.
I know a few people have commented and expressed concern over my weight and all I can say on that is I’m working on it- working on getting it back to where it was a year ago. Mood wise things are finally picking up, thanks to a tweak in medication and the unwavering support of my friends, boyfriend, family, colleagues and awesome GP I feel in a happier place right now and I’m starting to enjoy life a bit more again. Next on the agenda is to break out of my self imposed social isolation- any volunteers for dragging me out of the house?
Do you have any places near where you live that you like to escape to?

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11 comments for “The Ups and the Downs

  1. It sounds and looks so beautiful here, how amazing to visit here. I love your outfit with the touches of soft pink. Can totally relate re mental health. I’m having a tough time too. My husband is away at the moment which makes me feel more sad and lonely.

  2. That seems a good location, would be nice to see the bridge also.
    Sorry to hear your mental health is not so good, I hope that the change in weather will also felt to raise your spirits. X x

  3. And yes, I’d totally volunteer to drag you out if I lived a bit nearer! Blogger meet up?? X

  4. What a lovely place! Sorry you’ve been having such a tough time, I’m glad you have such a great support network and I hope things pick up soon x

    Josie’s Journal

  5. Beautiful photos 🙂 Sorry to hear that things have been difficult recently… Recovery is a bitch, isn’t it? I’m glad you’ve got lots of support and that things seem to be on the up. Take care xxx

  6. I didn’t want to mention anything about the weight but I had noticed. Feel free to shoot me an email or something if you ever want to talk. Just remember the journey you’ve been on – you’re strong enough to pick yourself up. <3

    I've just realised that we've known each other for about 12 years?!?!?!?!? What is time.

    Corinne x

  7. If I lived nearby I’d totally drag you out! I’m glad you’re getting a bit more support, I was worried but I wasn’t sure whether that was my own worry-wort nature coming out. Much love being sent your way <3

    The downs look utterly gorgeous by the way! I'd love to visit them one day, maybe when I can finally drive and actually get around the country a little easier 🙂

  8. It looks like a gorgeous place – makes for some lovely photo backdrops! Glad you’re starting to feel happier again; I’ve been feeling a little down lately, but I’ve realised that to get to where I want to be, it can’t happen overnight and it takes little steps! And lots of positive thinking. 🙂 xxx
    http://www.justemma.co.uknatural beauty, affordable fashion, everyday life

  9. Ah this looks like such a lovely location and I think you look amazing too, your outfit is so super pretty! So glad to hear your starting to feel a bit better too, I’m so sure that will continue with all the awesome support you’ve got around you too! X

  10. Sending you lots and lots of love wifey, you know I am here for you, any time, day or night!

    Love you ,

    Maria xxx

  11. AvatarSJ

    I’m sorry to hear you’re not feeling on top form Laura. These shots are really beautiful – one of my favourite things about the Downs is that despite how busy it can get with football matches, impromptu frisbee games, ice crean vans and picnics, there’s always a space to chill out at enjoy all to yourself. x