Lifestyle

Blog posts related to lifestyle – you will find a range of topics under this section, all related to my life as a mummy, with a toddler

My Favourite Self-Care Products From The Body Shop

AFF – products gifted in exchange for a review

20% off discount code MCA20 until the end of the year (Including Advent Calendars)

If you follow my blog, you will know I love The Body Shop. Since being a teenager and buying animal-shaped soaps on my trips to the nearest town centre with friends. I’ve loved the scents and the ethos behind the company. 

In recent years, I now require high-quality products. It’s all about taking care of my skin and having a little self-care and indulgence in my life. As a busy mum, lack of sleep sometimes means bad skin, dark circles and all the other wonderful downsides of motherhood. A rescue plan to make me look and feel better is required.

The Body Shop

I was overjoyed when The Body Shop sent me a package full of their best sellers to review

Let’s dive in

Himalayan Charcoal Purifying Glow Mask 

I’ve been looking for a product to even my skin tone and I am so impressed with the results after using this scrub. It’s my go-to product now.  And I’ve already ordered more. As a busy mum, having an even skin tone and refreshed look means less maintenance. Given that I quickly rub concealer on my face, in the car before the nursery drop. Anything that avoids this extra task, I will pay good money for. 

Over the summer, it is nicer to have no make-up on your face. These days it just sweats off me anyway. This charcoal mask is a weekly treat I can use to enable me to have a fresh face for summer outings.

Almond Milk Body Butter

I must admit, I love the fruity body butter from The Body Shop. But they do tend to be a little thicker in consistency. This one is my new favourite. Simply because it’s so light on your skin and totally refreshing for summer. I can imagine taking it on holiday abroad with me and feeling extra moisturised after a day in the sun.

Hemp Hand Protector

We’ve all heard of this one. I would say it’s one of the most iconic Body Shop products. I’ve wanted to try it for a while and my hubby is in need of some because he works outside in all weather conditions.

The texture is lovely and it smells amazing. You can literally feel it immediately helping your skin. And I love that feeling.

Ginger Anti-dandruff Shampoo

This isn’t a product I would normally choose. I have dry, frizzy and unmanageable hair. However, the smell and the texture are so refreshing. And I actually really love using it now. It makes me feel cleaner than using my previous shampoo. Unlike other shampoos, you use a very tiny amount, which means it goes further than other products I’ve used in the past.

Discount code

If you would like to purchase any of these items, I have a discount code for you to use…

20% off discount code MCA20 until the end of the year (Including Advent Calendars)

(excludes the sale, gifts & gift cards)

OTHER BODY SHOP POSTS…

Check out my recent blog posts about The Body Shop products & their exclusive Advent Calendar launch

The Body Shop

Advent Calendar Of Treats From The Body Shop

(AFF)

If you follow my blog, you will know I cannot resist a self-care treat from The Body Shop. Well, I have an extraordinary surprise to share with you today! Launching – 21 August 2022. TOMORROW!

20% off discount code MCA20 until the end of the year (Including Advent Calendars)

Body Shop Advent Calendar

For those of you saying it’s too early to think about an advent calendar, it isn’t. I am secretly really excited about autumn, Halloween and the countdown to Christmas. I am also mindful that I need to spend money wisely this year, maybe make some savings where I can, and definitely start buying some gifts earlier than usual. Just this morning, my little one had a huge smile on her face when we told her Santa is busy sorting out presents. I asked her what she wanted and the magic in her eyes made me emotional.

What a deal

The product I have to recommend to you today, allows you to receive £159.00 worth of products for a price tag of £95.00. It’s a great way to stock up on your essentials, treat someone you love, or treat yourself. We all deserve it!

Making a saving of at least £34.50 is great in my book – because I am always looking at ways of cutting costs.

Advent Calendar

The Box Of Wonders Big Advent Calendar

What’s inside?

Here to help you buff, slather and moisturise head-to-toe, our Big Advent Calendar is packed with 25 surprises, including some full-sized favourites. Unwind with our bestselling Face Masks, refresh with our zesty Shower Gels and nourish with our indulgent Body Butters made with Community Fair Trade shea butter from Ghana.

Contributing to great causes

With every Box of Wonders, you’ll also find little facts about our Community Fair Trade partners or an act of kindness, so you can share some wonder and joy with your friends, family and community. You can even reuse the pop-ups as gift tags, and the drawers are great for storing crafts and other little bits and bobs, long after Christmas.

And remember, this Advent calendar doesn’t just bring you and the people you love, happiness, it also supports our global partners in Ghana with fair and regular income opportunities and access to healthcare and education projects. So far over 600 women across 11 villages have seen improvements in their lives.

My personal favourites

I couldn’t let you go without including a full rundown of the contents and the all-important size guide – Length 31cm x Depth 22cm x Height 17 cm Weight 2.8 kg. 

I am so excited to go through this list:

  • Shea Hand Balm 30ml
  • Avocado Lip Care Stick 4.2g 
  • Strawberry Shower Gel 60ml 
  • Camomile Muslin Cloth 
  • Camomile Sumptuous Cleansing Butter 20ml 
  • Aloe Calm Hydration Sheet Mask 18ml 
  • British Rose Shower Scrub 50ml 
  • Bath Lily Large Ramie Gift
  • Himalayan Charcoal Purifying Glow Mask 15ml 
  • Shea Intense Repair Shampoo 250ml 
  • Avocado Shower Cream 60ml 
  • Mango Body Butter 50ml 
  • Almond Milk Shower Cream 60ml 
  • Tie Front Headband
  • Nicaraguan Coffee Intense Awakening Mask 15ml 
  • Almond Milk Soap 100g 
  • Pink Grapefruit Shower Gel 60ml 
  • Vitamin C Glow Sheet Mask 18ml 
  • Avocado Body scrub 50ml 
  • British Rose Shower Gel 60ml 
  • British Rose Hand Cream 30ml 
  • Vitamin E Quench Sheet Mask 18ml 
  • Shea Body Butter 50ml 
  • Himalayan Charcoal Skin Clarifying Night Peel 30ml 
  • Breathe Massage Melt 75ml 

I am so happy to see the good old Strawberry Shower Gel included. Since reviewing a recent bundle from The Body Shop, I am also in love with the Almond Milk products and love the sound of the Almond body scrub.

Final thoughts

I need to toddle off and send this post to everyone who knows and loves me, in the hope someone purchases it for Christmas for me. Sending this thought out into the universe in the hope it manifests.

Will you be buying this?

Which are your favourite products? I would love some recommendations from you on my next purchases from The Body Shop.

Advent Calendar

You can check out my two previous posts about The Body Shop.

I Have More Advent Calendars To Share From The Body Shop

Because you all loved my last post featuring The Box Of Wonders Big Advent Calendar, I have TWO additional advent calendars to share with you today.

20% off discount code MCA20 until the end of the year (Including Advent Calendars)

LAUNCHING – 18 September 2022

Advent Calendars

Quick note: Some of the links contained on this page are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. I only recommend products I use myself and think would be useful for other people.

Box of Wishes Advent Calendar

Buy for £55 Worth £89.50

Launching 18th September

Small in size but packed full of treats – the Box of Wishes Advent Calendar contains skincare, face masks and beauty tools. Hydrate with our Shower Gel before nourishing your skin with our Body Butter infused with Community Fair Trade Mango Seed Oil from India.

This calendar celebrates the women of Chhattisgarh, India, and through our Mango Seed Oil, we continue to support them with job prospects and opportunities for independence.

Advent Calendars

What’s included?

STRAWBERRY SHOWER GEL 60ML
BRITISH ROSE HAND CREAM 30ML
RASPBERRY BORN LIPPY 10ML
MINI RAMIE BATH LILY
BRITISH ROSE SHOWER GEL 60ML
TEA TREE FACE WASH 60ML
SATSUMA SOAP 100G
MANGO BODY BUTTER 50ML
SHEA HAND BALM 10ML
VITAMIN C SHEET MASK 18ML
SHEA SHAMPOO 60ML
SHEA CONDITIONER 60ML
PINK GRAPEFRUIT SHOWER GEL 60ML
STRAWBERRY LIP BUTTER 10ML
MANGO SHOWER GEL 60ML
HIMALAYAN CHARCOAL MASK 15ML
HAIR CLAW
ALMOND MILK SHOWER CREAM 60ML BRITISH ROSE SHOWER SCRUB 50ML
VITAMIN E SHEET MASK 18ML
SHEA SOAP 100G
STRAWBERRY HAND CREAM 30ML
AVOCADO SHOWER CREAM 60ML
ALMOND MILK BODY BUTTER 50ML

Box of Wishes & Wonders Ultimate Advent Calendar

Buy for £145 Worth £219

Launching 18th September

Our Ultimate Advent Calendar is bursting with iconic full-sized bestsellers as well as exciting new products, beauty tools and everything you need to nourish your body and soul. Scrub, soften and slather your way to your most beautiful Christmas yet with our luxurious Sheet Masks, nourishing Body Butters, and rejuvenating Body Scrubs.

What’s included?

AVOCADO SHOWER CREAM 250ML
CAMOMILE CLEANSING BUTTER 20ML
EDELWEISS LIQUID PEEL 100ML
MANGO HAND BALM 30ML
BOOST HAND WASH 250ML
MORINGA SHAMPOO 250ML
STRAWBERRY LIP BUTTER 10ML
RAMIE BATH LILY
MORINGA CONDITIONER 250ML
VITAMIN E HYDRATING TONER 250ML
VITAMIN E SHEET MASK 18ML
MANGO BATH BLEND 250ML
BRITISH ROSE BODY YOGURT 200ML
ALMOND MILK LIP CARE STICK 4.2G
PINK CLAY FACIAL KONJAC SPONGE
HIMALAYAN CHARCOAL MASK 15ML
PINK GRAPEFRUIT SHOWER GEL 250ML
MANGO BODY SCRUB 50ML
AVOCADO LOTION TO OIL 200ML
BRITISH ROSE FACIAL MASK 15ML
ALMOND MILK HAND BALM 30ML
EDELWEISS SHEET MASK 21ML
HIMALAYAN CHARCOAL NIGHT PEEL 30ML
SHEA BODY BUTTER 200ML
SLEEP PILLOW MIST 100ML

Final Thoughts

If you follow the blog, you will know I am a huge fan of The Body Shop. You can check out my other posts featuring their amazing products below:

ADVENT CALENDAR OF TREATS FROM THE BODY SHOP

MY FAVOURITE SELF-CARE PRODUCTS FROM THE BODY SHOP

THE REASONS I PURCHASE WITH ONE TRUSTED BRAND FOR GIFTS & SELF-CARE PURCHASES

Advent Calendars

The New Edelweiss Range From the Body Shop 

AFF – products gifted in exchange for a review

I’m so excited to talk about the new Edelweiss Range from The Body Shop. 

20% off discount code MCA20 until the end of the year (Including Advent Calendars)

Edelweiss Range

The Edelweiss range – what is it all about?

Discover the secret to smoother skin with Edelweiss skincare. Just like Drops of Youth™, but even better, now enriched with double the concentration of edelweiss. Our formulas help to gently clear pollutants and help protect skin against pollution. Made with 99% natural-origin ingredients, it helps to smooth and protect the skin, delivering 24hr hydration.

A master of resilience, edelweiss is a tiny flower with all the power to survive and thrive on the mountainside. This magic marvel protects itself against harsh environmental conditions by producing its own antioxidant, leontopodic acid. That’s why we made this mighty little plant the star ingredient of our Edelweiss skincare. Enriched with edelweiss extract, our clever formulas help maintain skin’s natural moisture barrier and smooth the way to glorious, fresher-looking skin.

Why do I need to look after my skin?

No human being is getting any younger, sorry. And I’m personally showing signs of ageing. Including pulled muscles from sleeping, fatigue and sometimes problematic skin. 

At this time of year, it’s even more important for us to look after our skin. And I’m so happy I now have a daily routine to complete with these products. 

The packaging is great and seeing the items in my fancy little bathroom basket, encourages me to look after my skin. As a busy mum, it’s important to have a routine you want to do each day. Because let’s face it, some days I barely get time to go to the toilet alone. Skincare seems to come much further down the list of priorities. And from now on, I plan to bump it up the list!

Let’s dive into these amazing products from The Edelweiss Range

Edelweiss Cleansing Concentrate

Edelweiss Range

My thoughts on this product

This cleanser from the Edelweiss Range is lovely to use. I sometimes don’t like using them, because washing the cleanser off with water can make my skin dry. But the consistency of this product is perfect. Just the right amount of foam when mixed with water. And it starts as a gel – something I have never seen before.

It leaves my skin feeling fresh, without feeling dry!

What does it do for you?

Made with 95% ingredients of natural origin, our new Edelweiss Cleansing Concentrate washes away impurities and pollution, leaving skin feeling smoother, fresh and luminous – just ask the 119 women who tried (and loved!) our new cleanser in an independent user trial*.

This skin-loving facial wash works its magic, leaving skin feeling awakened and purified, yet soft and comfortable – no tight feeling here!

Ready for the best bit? We’ve enriched it with edelweiss, which is naturally (and rather uniquely) strengthened with leontopodic acid known for its antioxidant properties. The tiny edelweiss plant is so resilient and powerful that its extract has 43% more antioxidant power than retinol. Pretty extraordinary, right?

This lightweight gel-to-water cleanser transforms from a translucent formula to a gentle bubbly foam suitable for all skin types. Our packaging is also 100% recyclable too. What’s not to love?

How to use this product

Massage a small dollop onto wet skin, lather and rinse.

  • Daily cleanser
  • Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin
  • Leave skin feeling purified and renewed
  • Made with 95% ingredients of natural origin
  • Enriched with edelweiss
  • Certified by The Vegan Society
  • Dermatologically tested
Edelweiss Range

Edelweiss Daily Serum Concentrate

Daily Serum Concentrate

My thoughts on this product

I love a good serum. You just know it’s doing your skin the world of good and this one is lovely. The bottle and pipet just make me feel great like I am investing in my skincare routine (made with recycled glass too).

The actual consistency of the serum is lovely on your face. Probably the best face serum I’ve ever used.

What does it do for you?

  • Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin
  • Leaves skin feeling fresher and smoother
  • Helps protect the skin from pollution
  • Made with 99% ingredients of natural origin
  • Now enriched with double the concentration of edelweiss
  • Certified by The Vegan Society
  • Non-comedogenic (doesn’t block pores)
  • Dermatologically tested

Our bestselling Drops of Youth™ Concentrate just got even better.

Made with 99% ingredients of natural origin, it only takes a few drops of our new Edelweiss Daily Serum Concentrate to leave skin looking smoother, fresher, stronger* and plumped with 24hr moisture.

But what makes our new concoction so exceptional? We’ve now enriched every bottle with double the concentration of edelweiss, which is naturally (and rather uniquely) strengthened with leontopodic acid known for its antioxidant properties.

We’ve enriched our vegan serum with natural-origin peptides too, just for good measure. Derived from rice, peptides are known to help maintain the skin’s natural moisture barrier.

This light, non-sticky, fast-absorbing formula also forms an invisible layer over your skin to help protect it from indoor and outdoor pollution (perfect for all you city types), which can lead to dehydration, dullness and premature skin ageing.

How to use this product

First up, have a good cleanse with our Edelweiss Cleansing Concentrate. This will help wash away all that grime, pollution and makeup, so your serum works even more effectively.

Squeeze 2-3 drops of our serum into your hand and gently massage it into cleansed skin every morning and night.

Give it a few seconds to sink in before slathering on our Edelweiss Smoothing Day Cream or Edelweiss Intense Smoothing Day Cream.

Edelweiss Intense Smoothing Day Cream

intense smoothing cream

My thoughts on this product

This product from the Edelweiss Range, is a light cream when it’s applied to your face and has a very subtle scent. Totally refreshing after a hard day at work, or in the harsh cold of the autumn months.

What does it do for you?

  • Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin
  • Leaves skin looking smoother and stronger
  • Leaves skin feeling ultra-soft
  • Helps maintain the skin’s natural moisture barrier
  • Helps protect against indoor and outdoor pollution
  • Made with 97% ingredients of natural origin
  • Enriched with edelweiss
  • Certified by The Vegan Society
  • Dermatologically tested

Give your complexion a deeply nourishing treat with our new Edelweiss Intense Smoothing Day Cream – it’s the ultimate hydration boost.

Made with 97% ingredients of natural origin, it only takes a tiny dollop of our new Edelweiss Intense Smoothing Day Cream to leave skin looking smoother, fresher, stronger and plumped with 48hr moisture.

An intensely rich and nourishing cream, this non-greasy formula has a silky texture and melts into the skin effortlessly, helping protect against indoor and outdoor pollution and leaving skin feeling deeply nourished, firmer and ultra-soft.

It helps retain moisture and maintains the skin’s natural moisture barrier.

Scoop out a pea-sized amount and smooth it all over your complexion day and night. Enjoy that feeling of supple, silky-smooth skin.

How to use this product

First up, have a good cleanse with our Edelweiss Cleansing Concentrate. This will help wash away all that grime, pollution and makeup, so your serum works even more effectively.

Scoop out a pea-sized dollop and massage into cleansed skin every morning and night.

Give it a few seconds to sink.

Check out all my previous blog posts… for The Body Shop

Fancy a discount code on any purchases you make? Visit The Body Shop – 15% OFF CODE MCA15 until 9 am on 12th November

Maybe you’re looking to start Christmas shopping. I have bought a few bits for my family already, but lots more to buy. Don’t forget the discount code when you shop…

THE REASONS I PURCHASE WITH ONE TRUSTED BRAND FOR GIFTS & SELF-CARE PURCHASES

MY FAVOURITE SELF-CARE PRODUCTS FROM THE BODY SHOP

ADVENT CALENDAR OF TREATS FROM THE BODY SHOP

I HAVE MORE ADVENT CALENDARS TO SHARE FROM THE BODY SHOP

Final thoughts

I hope you enjoyed reading my review of these products from The Body Shop.

Do you have a skincare routine? I would love to hear about it in the comments below.

signature

How Looking At History Can Help Us Plan For The Future

Every now and again we get lost in the present moment and feel like we don’t know how to get out of a sticky situation. Luckily, we have the past to help guide us. By looking at history, we can get a better sense of what has worked and what hasn’t, and use that information to plan for the future.

In this article, we’ll explore how looking at history can help us plan for the future. We’ll start by discussing why it’s important to study history. Then, we’ll look at some specific ways that knowledge of history can be used to improve our decision-making skills.

history

Finally, we’ll provide some tips on how to go about studying history in a way that will be most beneficial to you

How Can A Look At History Help?

There are many reasons why it’s important to study history. For one, history is full of stories of people who have faced and overcome difficult challenges. These stories can inspire us to do the same in our own lives. For example, an online bible course is a great way to see multiple accounts with great lessons.

More practically, knowledge of history can also help us make better decisions in the present. By understanding what has worked and what hasn’t in the past, we can avoid repeating mistakes and put ourselves in a position to make more informed decisions.

How To Use History To Make Better Decisions

1. Understand The Context Of Current Events

When something big happens in the world, it’s important to take a step back and understand the context of the event. How did we get here? What are the long-term implications of this event? To do this, you need to have a good understanding of history. Otherwise, you’ll only be looking at the present moment and won’t be able to put it into proper perspective.

2. Learn From The Past

There’s no need to reinvent the wheel when it comes to making decisions. We can learn a lot from what has worked and what hasn’t in the past. If we know that a certain approach has failed in the past, we can avoid making the same mistake again. Similarly, if we see that something has been successful in the past, we can try to replicate that success.

3. Be Aware Of Your Biases

We all have biases that influence our decision-making. It’s important to be aware of these biases so that we can account for them when making decisions. One way to do this is to study history. By understanding how our biases have influenced decision-making in the past, we can be more conscious of them in the present.

4. Plan For The Future

Looking at history can also help us plan for the future. By understanding trends and patterns from the past, we can make better predictions about what might happen in the future. This knowledge can then be used to inform our decision-making.

In Closing

Looking at history can be a helpful way to gain perspective and make better decisions. It’s essential to understand the context of current events, learn from the past, and be aware of our own biases.

history

Cleaning Your Home In Winter: The Best Tasks To Complete

Cleaning your home in the winter can feel like a real chore – and even more so than usual! It’s cold out, you’re more likely to be tired, and you’re tempted to just leave it all until the spring. However, it’s a good idea to get some jobs out of the way right now. 

If you do, you’ll make those spring cleaning jobs (and winter home protection) so much easier! So whether you’ve just moved home or you’re looking to have a really good cleanup before Christmas hits, this is the post for you! 

cleaning your home
Pexels Image – CC0 Licence

Take Down Curtains to Wash

The curtains will need to be in prime condition to help keep the cold out, so now’s a good time to take them down and clean them. If they are hand washed only, fill a bucket with some warm water and a gentle soap and then give them a once over. But if there are no special instructions, you can just put them in the washing machine like anything else. 

Go on a Dust Bust

The dust tends to collect in winter, thanks to our tendency to shed more skin cells when it’s cold and dry out. As such, it’s time to go on a dust bust! Make sure your vacuum is empty and the filters are clean, and then get a can of polish and a duster in the other hand. 

You can then go around your home, working top to bottom, cleaning up as much dust as you possibly can. Start high, like on top of bookshelves, hanging TVs, and bedframes and then tackle items like low shelves and skirting boards. It’ll make such a difference to your home’s look overall! 

cleaning your home

Get Some Professional Contacts in the Book

Some jobs are going to be a little too big for you to take on alone. This is why it’s best to get some professional contacts down in a notebook somewhere. You never know when you’ll need a water damage restoration company to come in and restore your basement and carpets, but it’s good to know who to call just in case! And when you do this work now, you can rest easy over the winter period and spend time thinking about Christmas and the cosy things that really matter. 

Don’t Forget Gutters and Vents

You may have to get outside in the wet and the cold for this one, but make sure both your gutters and any outside air vents are clean too. You don’t want them clogged up and then freezing over with hundreds of dead leaves, moss, and dust! This can lead to serious flooding and/or blockage problems, and that can be expensive to deal with during the winter time. Best to get them seen now before a problem really develops. 

Your home is going to need cleaning in the winter. However, you don’t need to spend ages spritzing and wiping! No, you just need to tackle jobs like these proactively. 

cleaning your home

5 Ways to Make Friends as a Single Parent

When you have kids, your social life takes a back seat. There are simply not many opportunities to meet potential new friends who are also parents. But being a single parent doesn’t mean you can’t make friends. As a single parent, it’s even more important to have support and company because the responsibilities of taking care of your kid alone can be pretty challenging at times. That being said, as a single parent, you probably don’t have much time to go out and meet people regularly. You might be worried about how to meet people as a single parent – especially if you don’t know many other single parents in your area already. However, this is precisely why I am writing this blog post for you!

single parent

Here are 5 tips on how you can meet new people as a single parent:

Join clubs for children or families

There are lots of clubs and meet-ups for parents in all areas. Look for clubs in your area that are related to the interests of your child or family (e.g. a playgroup, a parent-teacher association, a school club, a chess club for children, a reading group for parents and kids, a yoga class for parents and kids, a sports club where your kid can participate, etc.). You can also search online for clubs in your area that are open to all people, and not just families. This will give you a chance to meet lots of parents who have interests similar to yours. You can also join clubs for single parents. Starting a club of your own is also an exciting option if you can find like-minded people.

Join online forums for parents

There are also forums for parents. Some are more general, while others are more specific to a particular area of interest. It’s a good idea to do some research and find out which online forums for parents might be related to your interests. There are many places you can find like-minded parents or other single parents who can offer support, such as singleparents. org, Gingerbread, or other sites such as Mumsnet.

Try internet dating

If you’ve been thinking about trying online dating, this is the perfect time! Meeting new people through online dating can be significant and help you develop new interests and hobbies. You can also meet other single parents through online dating. If you’re worried about how to meet people as a single parent, dating websites can be an excellent way to get started. In the first instance, you only need to meet people if you’re ready to, as you can communicate via the app. While there are many horror stories about online dating and people being scammed, there are also success stories; you need to be careful and always trust your instincts when talking to new people or sharing real-life details of who you are and where you live.

Be active in your local community.

Another good idea on how to meet people as a single parent is to be active in your local community. This can be an excellent opportunity to meet people with your interests. If you have time, consider volunteering for an organisation in your community that interests you. This can be a great way to meet like-minded people, and it can also be a great way to make your child proud.

From helping out at local churches, homeless initiatives or community centres and organising local events or meet-ups, you can find people to talk to, a new friendship group and even find something you enjoy doing that benefits your mental health, your family life and your social life too.

Take up a new hobby

Last but not least, you should also take up a new hobby. Hobbies are a great way to meet people. Depending on the hobby you choose, you might meet other single parents this way, or you might meet people who don’t have children. Regardless, hobbies are a fun way to make new friends. Think about what you really want to learn and then find local classes or clubs that engage in this. It could be as simple as joining a gym to get fit and healthy, learning a language or taking evening classes online to help forward your career or boost your credentials.

Conclusion

Being a single parent can be challenging, but it doesn’t mean you can never meet new people again. You can make friends as a single parent; it just takes a little effort. The above 5 ways to meet people as a single parent should help you get started.

single parent

4 amazing gift ideas for the special man in your life

Unfortunately, when it comes to gift buying, men sometimes get left behind. And I don’t think it’s because they always choose to be.

I find it difficult buying for the men in my life. The only joy I seem to have in finding a unique gift, is either asking them what they want or scouring the internet to find something suitable.

If you encounter the same problem when buying for the special man in your life, don’t worry! In this post, I have some suggestions, following my endless hours spent on the internet looking for the right gift.

It isn’t just mummies and the girls who need a spa day or a pamper session now and again. I’ve taken my hubby on many couples spa days in the past and we had a wonderful time. Running around after an energetic toddler in your 30’s isn’t much fun and the aches and pains are real.

Sign up for my freebie library. Each week there will be a new freebie added to help organise your life and take away some stress!

special man in your life

Quick note: Some of the links contained on this page are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. I only recommend products I use myself and think would be useful for you.

Let’s unwrap some of these special items

Menkind

I’ve written about MenKind before. Simply because I love their quirky gifts and the fact you can buy something nobody else thinks to purchase. When you log onto the website, the gift sections are broken down into categories, which makes searching easier.

When searching for the perfect gift, I was instantly drawn to the Three Wise Stormtroopers. What an amazing, unique item. I can picture it on a display shelf in our house, along with the other quirky items we each have.

For a bit of luxury, why not check out the Deluxe Diamond Decanter Set? We’ve just had a lovely date night, a whole 24 hours away from the little one. A special item like this would be perfect for those moments. When you need to kick back, relax and enjoy some adult-only time together. This item is going on my wish list!

Next on the list had to be a gadget organiser. Surely EVERYONE loses the remote control? Try having a toddler in the house, especially one who loves hiding things. We lost the TV Control for about three months recently and then she went and pulled it out of a cupboard. A nifty Remote Control Caddy would solve some of my hubby’s first-world problems!

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    A relaxing break

    It isn’t just mummies and the girls who need a spa day or a pamper session now and again. Why not treat the special man in your life? I’ve taken my hubby on many couples spa days in the past and we had a wonderful time. Running around after an energetic toddler in your 30’s isn’t much fun and the aches and pains are real.

    Why not check out the amazing spa packages at Village Hotels? Click on the link below to book yourself a much-needed day out. Or if you’re feeling romantic, maybe a whole night away.

    special man in your life

    Weird Fish

    Whenever we need a present for my Dad, this is the first brand we seek out. I love the design and quality of the T-shirts and so does he.

    With his birthday coming up soon, I need to check out the current collection. Click on the link below to have a browse yourself.

    ManoMano

    I’ve just had a browse on this website and if the special man in your life requires some tools, look no further.

    One of the ‘house goals’ my hubby has is to restore furniture in the garage, which we don’t yet currently have. I am bookmarking the relevant page for when we do have the space and funds to make his dream a reality. Hehe!

    Final thoughts

    I hope you enjoy reading my rundown of quirky, unique gifts for the special man in your life.

    Let me know in the comments whether you will be purchasing any of these gifts?

    Do you also find buying for the man in your life difficult?

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    Pin this for later to save these amazing gift ideas…

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    special man in your life

    Ideas for Your Family Christmas Card

    Have you ever wondered what to write on your family Christmas card? If so, you’re not alone. Every year, millions of people struggle with what to say in their holiday greetings. Whether you want to be funny, sentimental, or somewhere in between, coming up with the perfect Christmas message can be challenging. 

    Family Christmas Card
    Via Pixabay

    But don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. This blog post will share some of our favourite ideas for what to write on your family Christmas card. So grab a cup of eggnog and settle in—it’s time to get inspired!

    A Funny Family Story

    One great way to make your Christmas card stand out is to include a funny story about your family. Whether it’s a tale about last year’s holiday shenanigans or a hilarious memory from your childhood, a good story will surely get a laugh (and maybe even a few tears). Keep it appropriate for all audiences—you don’t want to offend your relatives!

    A Sentimental Quote

    If you’re looking for something a little more heartwarming, try including a sentimental quote in your family Christmas card. There are many great options, from classic poems to modern songs. Just choose something that resonates with you and your loved ones and add it to your holiday greeting. 

    A Holiday Joke

    Another great way to spread cheer is by adding a festive joke to your family Christmas card. Everyone loves a good laugh, especially during the holiday season, whether it’s a silly pun or an off-colour joke. Just make sure you keep it clean! 

    Family Christmas Card

    A Meaningful Scripture Verse

    For many families, faith is an integral part of the holiday season. If that’s true for you, consider adding a meaningful scripture verse to your family Christmas card. There are plenty of great options, so take some time to find one that perfectly captures the season’s spirit for you and your loved ones. 

    An Update on Your Year 

    One final idea is to use your family Christmas card as an opportunity to update your loved ones on what’s been going on in your life over the past year. Whether you’ve had a baby, gotten married, or bought a new house, this is a great way to let everyone know what’s been going on with you—and maybe even include some photos! 

    Fun Christmas Portrait

    If you want to make your family Christmas card stand out, try adding a fun and festive portrait. You can either have a professional photographer take your picture or get creative and do it yourself! Make sure everyone is smiling and having a good time—that’s what the holidays are all about. Ensure all the kids are dressed in a fun and festive Christmas outfit. You can even get a Baby Christmas outfit for your little one.

    We hope these ideas inspire you as you start working on your family Christmas cards! No matter what you decide to write, remember that the most important thing is that your holiday greetings come from the heart. Merry Christmas! And all the best for the new year.

    Family Christmas Card

    The reasons I purchase with one trusted brand for gifts & self-care purchases

    I’ve talked about my love for The Body Shop on the blog before, and I’m here to tell you about it again. 

    From the nostalgia of buying animal shaped soaps and lip balms as a teenager. To now needing anti ageing remedies and high-quality make-up. Whatever your need, The Body Shop has something for you. They are a brand I’ve trusted throughout my life.  I have never bought a product that I didn’t consider completely high quality. Not to mention their great company ethos!

    Needless to say, I’m already smelling the raspberry body scrub and I’m getting my wishlist together. I am also currently on the website shopping for my wonderful mum, because she deserves something special.

    Quick note: Some of the links contained on this page are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. I only recommend products I use myself and think would be useful for you.

    I am proud to be an affiliate for The Body Shop, because the reality is, I recommend them to everyone I know already. Therefore, I’m going to tell you about some of the special offers they have on at the moment.

    Why I love Mother’s Day 

    I’m all for celebrating the mummies. We do a very difficult job, never moan and just get on with it. Women are the ultimate superheroes and therefore, Mother’s Day is one of my favourite occasions. 

    This post is dedicated to all the amazing mamas out there. Whatever your situation, I hope you have a brilliant mothers day. Let me know in the comments below what you have planned.

    Self-care

    If you follow my blog, you will also know I am all about self-care. These moments of indulgence and restoration helped me recover from a tough time last year. Therefore, I make it a priority to look after myself whenever I can. Self-care purchases are part of my routine now.

    Let’s dive into the wonderful products on offer

    The Body shop is currently offering the following:

    FREE MOTHER’S DAY GIFT WHEN YOU SPEND £30*

    Spend £30 and receive a free Mascara Gift Set (worth £15) featuring our Happy Go Lash Mascara and our Camomile Cleansing Butter – so you can nourish and love your lashes!

    Use code 13025

    Who doesn’t love a gift?? Or a cupboard full of products for self-care.

    Check out this handy guide on mothers day gifting

    Final thoughts

    Are you ready to make your purchases?

    Will you be buying a little gift for yourself? I sometimes, do! What self-care purchases do you have at home?

    I would love to hear from you in the comments below.

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self-care purchases

    BEFORE YOU GO

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