tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17319170613505904442024-02-07T07:39:42.895+00:00CHATTING WITH ANGELAAngela http://www.blogger.com/profile/15715175468213346973noreply@blogger.comBlogger573125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1731917061350590444.post-16104213828164052562018-04-25T08:05:00.000+01:002018-04-25T08:05:45.565+01:00How Not To Over Spend<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Oops. Well I had planned to blog a few posts in April and I had so many posts lined up in my head, however it has seemingly fallen a bit flat on its face! My last post about <b><a href="http://chattingwithangela.blogspot.co.uk/2018/04/happy-easter-april-fools-thoughts.html">April Fools</a></b> was on the 1st of the month and today is the 25th. How rubbish am I? Finally I have had the chance to write some stuff down and grab a photo from my collection and here we are. Roll on to the post.<br />
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Now if you'd spoke to me 10 years ago about money I would of confessed I was pretty crap with it. Cash burned a hole in my pocket, credit cards were my major downfall and savings - well I didn't even know what that word meant. Roll on a few years, I'm so much better than I ever used to be. Yes I have my moments of spending on various bits of tat, but as I've got older and wiser (LOL!) I'm far better. There are quite a few ways to stop over spending, firstly I'm going to start with the obvious one...<br />
<br /><strong>Cash Not Cards - </strong>With the invention of contactless cards, it so easy just to tap tap tap. You basically forget what you have in your account and just tap away your cash until it is too late. By popping to an ATM/cash machine and actually withdrawing physical cash to pop in your purse, you can see what you have. It's a safer way to spend money, because it is actually <em>your</em> money you are spending!<br />
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<strong>Credit Cards - </strong>Now credit cards are OK for some purchases, perhaps a holiday so you are protected by your credit card provider. However other than that I seriously do not recommend them. Why? Because they are not real money. It's an easy option to get carried away and spend money which you do not have. You're just leading the money from the provider, like a loan. When you first get a credit card you are likely to get a 0% card, but as soon as that runs out ... you'll be paying interest on your balance. Ouch.<br />
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<strong>Weekly Allowance - </strong>If money is tight, I suggest an allowance which I have done myself before. After you have paid your bills, popped money into a savings account etc - work out what you have left for the rest of the month. Split this money equally between the weeks of the month - an allowance as such. Any money you have left which you didn't spend in the week - save this. Pop it towards a credit card payment for example or put it in savings. Once you become savvy with your spending allowance, you'll see your left over money creep up. Yay!<br />
<br /><strong>Vouchers And Points Cards - </strong>These are a god send. Some points cards give you perks, where when you spend in store and use that stores points card you collect points. For example <strong><a href="http://www.boots.com/advantage-card">Boots</a></strong> have their advantage points scheme which for every £1 you spend you receive 4 points. You can then spend these points on future purchases, plus they'll also send you vouchers. So yes you're technically spending money, but you will be saving money in the long run.<br />
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<strong>Make A List - </strong>I am a avid list maker, even with house chores or a shopping list for food. It really helps to write a list as it really helps in not going off plan. Just stick to the list and you should be fine. However there is one thing if you are doing the food shop, don't do it when you're hungry. It might sound stupid, but it is totally true that you always overspend when doing the weekly shop if you do it on an empty hungry stomach. Trust someone who knows, because will power is a little stretched when faced with tempting foods.<br />
<br /><strong>Shop Around - </strong>It is so easy to just buy something then and there, but I will always advise you to shop around and compare your purchases - especially big purchases like washing machines. When we were looking for a jumperoo for Grace I was tempted by one on Very and it was £129.99! The hubby looked on Amazon and found the same one (just a different colour) for a cheaper price of £79.99. Think of the money we have saved just because we looked around and opted for a different colour. Nuts I tell you.<br />
<br /><strong>Do I Need It? - </strong>This relates to back when I read Marie Kondo's book <strong><a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Life-Changing-Magic-Tidying-effective-clutter/dp/0091955106/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1497168474&sr=1-1">The Life Changing Magic of Tidyin</a>g</strong>. That book has really helped me when it comes to buying things and it always makes me ask myself 'do I need it/do I need this?'. Sometimes I'll end up walking around the shops with an item in my hands, then I get to the time where I have to go to the till to buy the item - I'll have a good look and ask myself 'do I still want it?'. It works really well and I've mostly put things back on the shelf.<strong><br /></strong><br />
<strong>Stop Treating Yourself - </strong>Now get you your calculator out and add this up. If you are the kind of person who likes to buy yourself a Costa coffee in the morning and lunch out everyday, it will soon add up to quite a bit of cash. Making lunch and bring it in to work will save you money ultimately. You just need to start planning food prep in advance.<br />
<br /><strong>Barter - </strong>The hubby and I recently purchased a new mattress for a eye watering price. When we were signing on the doted line, my hubby asked the shop assistance if there was 'anything they can do?'. Sometimes you might not get money off, but you might get something for free. Or if you're buying two items they might be able to offer you a deal. What is the saying... <i>If you don't ask, you don't try.</i><br />
<br />Right folks that is all I can think of for now and I hope some of these tips help you out if you are trying not to over spend. I promise to not leave it too long in the future. Have a good day people.<br />
<br />Angela x<br />
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Angela http://www.blogger.com/profile/15715175468213346973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1731917061350590444.post-17997392822119657322018-04-01T21:35:00.000+01:002018-04-02T22:19:54.445+01:00Happy Easter - April Fools Thoughts...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Happy Easter everyone I hope you've all had a good day chowing down on a few chocolate eggs. Sick much? I have stuffed my face with a nice roast lunch and spent a nice time with family. To me that's what the day should be about - chocolate <i>is</i> overrated. Today is also April Fools day. Personally I'm not the biggest April Fools fan, I might sound a tad boring or old, but I cannot see the point.<br />
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You get people playing their jokes ...having a laugh. Pranking on one another can be fun, however sometimes people do take it a step too far and it will be distasteful and hurtful.<br />
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Imagine this scenario...<br />
<i>Person one... I have some news.</i><br />
<i>Person two... Ooh go on - spill the beans. </i><br />
<i>Person one... We're pregnant!!!!</i><br />
<i>Person two... Are you really...OH MY GAWD!!! I'm so happy for you!!! Ahhhhh.</i><br />
<i>Person one... Nahhh not really. HAHA fooled you - Happy April fools!!!</i><br />
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Is that funny? Not really.<br />
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Getting pregnant is not plain sailing. Fertility problems are not something really spoken about. It's like a taboo, an elephant in the room. A no go area taped off. What if person two had their own secret heartbreaking issues about getting pregnant? If you're lucky and the stars are aligned for you it can take you one time or only a few months then well done. You're lucky. For others it can be a painful process of peeing on ovulation sticks and constantly shoving a thermometer in your mouth every morning to check your basal temperature. It’s a hard job making a human.<br />
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When we became pregnant we were merely days from going into our <i>third</i> year of trying for a baby. There were months of tears and upset. The struggle was real and to be honest if you've not been through the struggle yourself... you <i>really</i> DON'T get it. I had friends and family making comments when they just weren't needed ... the comment of just have sex more is really just a bit of a slap in your face when you feel quite down about the situation.<br />
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There was also social media to get a grip of. A place where everybody and anybody can share their joys of impending parenthood on the world wide web. Another platform to rub salt in the already painful wounds. To see other people, proud of their grainy pictures of their unborn child - it breaks your heart every time. Obviously you are beyond happy for the owner of said grainy picture of unborn child, but deep down inside you're crying like a crazy lady inside. I have been <i>that</i> crazy lady. <i>Oh yes</i>.<br />
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The problem of making pregnancy part of a joke is it is disrespectful to everyone who has <i>ever had</i> the struggle to get those two blue lines. We ourselves had problems, but close family members were going through countless rounds of IVF. Telling them we were having a baby was so hard and scary, but luckily they have now been blessed by IVF twins in recent weeks.<br />
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I have previously written about how, out of respect we chose to <b><a href="http://chattingwithangela.blogspot.co.uk/2017/08/why-we-didnt-announce-our-pregnancy-on.html">not announce our pregnancy on Facebook</a></b>. I'm proud we took this approach and avoided social media.<br />
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Now if you're planning to pull a prank, spare a thought for a couple who could be suffering in silence that they cannot conceive, going through IVF or cannot hold onto a little one long enough that they suffer from miscarriages<br />
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Thank you and goodnight all.<br />
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Angela xAngela http://www.blogger.com/profile/15715175468213346973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1731917061350590444.post-73765042620063219592018-03-28T08:38:00.000+01:002018-03-28T08:38:09.973+01:00Quick Easy Biscotti Recipe <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOmUHaUqpOQCS3TGswdRye1dKVDb84cqx-bL31NLgh-OXFOH15dI1LM4LenZswZiMxB1NFe3C_7i-c9NSBeFgwfeOYDiTe7bJnwNN1Jx69Us_yu4XSTtjWLJR_u3p7rEr-rFhhSCWfAOdq/s1600/easy+peasy+biscotti+cantuccini+recipe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOmUHaUqpOQCS3TGswdRye1dKVDb84cqx-bL31NLgh-OXFOH15dI1LM4LenZswZiMxB1NFe3C_7i-c9NSBeFgwfeOYDiTe7bJnwNN1Jx69Us_yu4XSTtjWLJR_u3p7rEr-rFhhSCWfAOdq/s1600/easy+peasy+biscotti+cantuccini+recipe.jpg" /></a></div>
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I have the sweetest mother-in-law. Since I can remember she's always baked <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biscotti">biscotti</a>. She loves to feed them to me and to be honest I could quite frankly eat them all day long. Imagine Homer Simpson and his drooling face - that's me. She always sends me away with a goodie bag of them! Bless her.<br />
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If you don't know what biscotti are, they are a kind of 'biscuit' which can also be known as cantuccini, that originate from Italy. Biscotti are usually twice baked making them quite a hard biscuit. I personally don't always bake them twice usually, because I'm too impatient and want them NOW! You can make biscotti how ever you like, just keep the main ingredients the same - I'll highlight the main ones with a *.<br />
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I like to double up my recipe to make a shed load of biscuits and if you make too many you can actually freeze them. Winner. Right, let's crack on. Before you get started turn on your oven to gas mark 3 or 180℃ fan.<br />
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First, all you need to throw into a large bowl are the dry ingredients which are;<br />
225g/8 oz - Plain flour*<br />
150g/5 oz - Caster sugar*<br />
1/2 teaspoon - Baking powder*<br />
Pinch of Salt*<br />
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Once these are combined and mixed together, pop in...<br />
75g/3 oz - Nuts of your choice (pecans, pistachio and almonds work well)<br />
50g/2 oz - Candied peel (I do a mixture of candied peel and glacé cherries)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg58awGFNm7XMXJfinRXn4ifi2IjG62tIh02Lo_qTUEEXxdgxwy9RLiRFbNICmlXrcGWuKNbGwCm1k_zycPxvP4sSUOOXE7U1zt7JANOiierEPx8yor3GAmVi6NTfaVdiPvMkD3gCC6czuP/s1600/making+biscotti+dough+easy+recipe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg58awGFNm7XMXJfinRXn4ifi2IjG62tIh02Lo_qTUEEXxdgxwy9RLiRFbNICmlXrcGWuKNbGwCm1k_zycPxvP4sSUOOXE7U1zt7JANOiierEPx8yor3GAmVi6NTfaVdiPvMkD3gCC6czuP/s1600/making+biscotti+dough+easy+recipe.jpg" /></a></div>
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Now you need to add the wet ingredients. Just make a well in the middle of the mixture.<br />
3 medium eggs* (2 whole eggs and one yolk)<br />
1 teaspoon - Vanilla extract<br />
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Mix everything together with a wooden spoon. When you're happy pop the dough on to a oven tray covered in grease proof paper - shape it like a log. Make sure they are reasonably big trays, as the mixture will spread once it heats up.<br />
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Set your timer for 45 minutes and go and make yourself busy until the buzzer goes off. When the buzzer on the oven does ring, bring out the tray and check the biscotti are a golden brown. Leaving it on the tray, take a big sharp knife and cut them into slices. Lay them out on the tray and you can then if you wish after cutting them up - put them back in to the oven for 5 to 10 minutes to twice bake them. This will harden the inside of biscuit. You can leave them to cool on the oven tray or pop them on a wire cooling rack.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD7UgpzoDatJx91BzalEo_40pdx1yiKm4_5hf7PjiRQd6zP5g7nrNqMqYRXIdn2ercN3W-KqI1B7SFovEKnzV6-VuGjXCPUtpWd_Q-anrQaCDMier4P6QBEmlODS8uNV54YAwmwoRDSrvC/s1600/biscotti+recipe+easy+fast.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD7UgpzoDatJx91BzalEo_40pdx1yiKm4_5hf7PjiRQd6zP5g7nrNqMqYRXIdn2ercN3W-KqI1B7SFovEKnzV6-VuGjXCPUtpWd_Q-anrQaCDMier4P6QBEmlODS8uNV54YAwmwoRDSrvC/s1600/biscotti+recipe+easy+fast.jpg" /></a>Like I said above, you can switch up ingredients in the recipe. You can add extras like fennel seeds, orange or lemon zest/juice, you can dribble dark chocolate on them or half dip them in it too. If you don't want to use caster sugar, coconut is a excellent substitute.<br />
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I will say at the time I was baking these I did plan to pop pecans in the mixture however, but it turns out they were mouldy. Rather than poison myself I decided to go without and add extra candied peel instead. Problem solved. Et voilà.<br />
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Now, if biscotti doesn't sound like something you'd be into, (cannot see why) then why not try these <b><a href="http://chattingwithangela.blogspot.co.uk/2015/03/short-bread-biscuits.html">short bread biscuits</a> </b>or<b> <a href="http://chattingwithangela.blogspot.co.uk/2015/02/banana-oat-cookies.html">banana oat cookies</a> </b>which I have made previously.<br />
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Enjoy.<br />
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Angela xAngela http://www.blogger.com/profile/15715175468213346973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1731917061350590444.post-77432367199134432332018-03-19T10:24:00.003+00:002018-03-19T10:24:28.837+00:00'The Sticker Site' Stickers<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I know this is rather late considering Christmas has long gone or we could <i>technically</i> say I'm getting in there early <i>*wink wink*</i>, but I thought I'd give a shout out to a company I came across and you might just love all year round. </div>
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<a href="https://www.thestickersite.com/"><b>The Sticker Site</b></a> appeared on my personal Facebook one day as something I might like and Facebook was spot on. They are a site where you can get personalised stickers created. It doesn't have to just be Christmas, they have different themes like birthday, baby shower and reward stickers for example. You can chose from a different array of pictures and colours and also personalise with any text you wish - space dependant obviously.</div>
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I purchased <b><a href="https://www.thestickersite.com/personalised-christmas-stickers-230-c.asp">Christmas stickers </a></b>for Grace - I didn't go mad sticking them to all her gifts as she was so young, but I thought they were a nice touch for her first ever Christmas. I was sent an A4 sheet of paper with 24 individual stickers in a mat finish. They cost just under £3 and arrived in only a few days after I bought them and that was during the festive time. The sender sends them in a hard back envelope so there are no worries of them being wreaked in transit.</div>
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Obviously, I know this is a random post for March, but if you're in the market for stickers then The Sticker Site might be just up your street. Enjoy!</div>
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Angela x</div>
<br />Angela http://www.blogger.com/profile/15715175468213346973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1731917061350590444.post-89987373377731534832018-03-16T08:00:00.002+00:002018-03-16T08:00:13.570+00:00My Recent Poundland Haul<br />
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<b><a href="http://www.poundland.co.uk/">Poundland</a></b> is a really great place to pop into for a bargain. I'm in there most weeks as my local store is close by to where Grace and I attend some baby classes. Last night I popped in there to grab a few bits and I thought I'd share. I said to myself a £10 budget which I kept to - I just didn't include the two packs of mini eggs I bought in the picture hehe.</div>
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If you have a little one I certainly recommend popping in and picking up some books. For the price you might think the would be cheap looking but there are some really good quality ones in there. Graces loves Peppa Pig, so obviously we had to get two of those story books. I also noticed Rory's Story which talks about Rory the Tiger getting a sister. I thought this was a good story to read to Grace if we're blessed with baby number two. </div>
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We're currently in the baby weaning stage and even though we're making most meals from scratch I still like to have a jar or pouch in the house as a back up. My Poundland do not have a huge range of foods for babies, but they have a few jars and opted to get Heinz Creamy Oat Porridge.</div>
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If you're into crafts and especially crafts for the kids and don't want to spend lots, then Poundland is the place for you. I got a pack of 16 jumbo wax crayons so we could start colouring - I'm not expecting much colouring but its something to do. I also bought some plastic Easter egg containers. I was thinking of using them for a Easter DIY project - watch this space!!</div>
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Now it would not be right if I popped into Poundland and didn't pick up two bits for myself or the house should I say. Firstly the anti-bacterial wipes for the floor - a life saver to keep my living room floor looking clean and polished. I cover up the floor whilst Grace is <i>eating</i> - not like she's eating that much however we still manage to get something on the floor. Doh. Also she is now on the move, so it's great that these wipes are anti-bacterial and kills germs on the floor that might get walked in on shoes.</div>
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Lastly the one thing for me (apart from the mini eggs) ... this cute mason jar cup/mug. I picked this up as I was inspired by Emily Norris' use of her one from her recent Poundland <b><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o1yAKUvaZjQ&t=606s">haul video</a></b>. She uses hers for pens and makeup brushes. I'm going to pop some flowers in to mine as I think it will look rather sweet on my mantel place in the living room.</div>
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I can always buy more in Poundland and I had to hold myself back or I would of gone a little cray cray! Do you have any favourites bits and bobs you like to get from your local store? Inspire me for my next trip :-)</div>
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Angela x</div>
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Angela http://www.blogger.com/profile/15715175468213346973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1731917061350590444.post-83320297016889068102018-03-05T08:07:00.000+00:002018-03-06T10:06:33.156+00:00Gifts Ideas For A Newborn Baby<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Last week my brother-in-law and his wife gave birth to long awaited IVF twins, a boy and a girl. This weekend we popped to shops to get them a few presents as a welcome to the world. As we'd recently had a little bundle of joy ourselves, we are a little clued up in what to buy a newborn. These are a few things I recommend to buy new parents for their little ones.<br />
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<b>Outfits</b> | Clothes are the easiest things to buy and to be honest sometimes it is quite overwhelming having a new baby and everyone is giving you new clothes to tackle and wash. It makes me sound ungrateful, but honestly it can be a bit much for a new parent. If you are planning to buy clothes, don't always buy newborn clothes - vest and baby grows are always useful. Lots of people will purchase new baby sizes, so keeping this in mind I would opt for an slightly older age of clothes for example 0-3 and 3-6 months. Just keep an eye on the times of years you are buying for.<br />
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<b>Something Personalised</b> | There are lots of websites that create personalised gifts, my favourites are <b><a href="https://www.my1styears.com/personalised-baby-toys.html?p=3">My First Years</a></b>, <b><a href="https://www.uncommongoods.com/for-kids/by-age/baby-gifts-0-2-years">UnCommongoods</a></b> and <b><a href="https://www.notonthehighstreet.com/baby-child/personalised">Not On The High Street</a></b>. The list of things you can personalise is endless such as a keep sake box with the little ones birth details on. A hooded towel or dressing gown with the bubbas name on. I'd definitely check out the above links if you wish to go down the personalised route.<br />
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<b>Toys</b> | Grace has a small selection of toys that she really loves and I took this as a pointer to what to buy the babies. Amongst her favourites are her <b><a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Oball-Infant-Rattle-Flexible-bendable/dp/B0743L32NZ/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1520170927&sr=8-3&keywords=oball">O'ball</a></b>, a <b><a href="https://www.johnlewis.com/bright-starts-friends-for-me-taggies-toy/p2621285">lion teether </a></b>and her <b><a href="https://www.mothercare.com/baby-rattles-and-teethers/textured-linkies/732264.html">linkie rings</a></b>. I'd try to steer clear of cuddle toys unless its something perhaps personalised, however Grace does have a soft spot for a small <b><a href="https://www.jellycat.com/bunny/?gclid=CjwKCAiAz-7UBRBAEiwAVrz-9Rw2ToPWzNInpG-cwB0RXeoUnlWgjQGzN3XJFCZ5xRiTOTmHAguW8xoCrTMQAvD_BwE">JellyCat rabbit</a></b> which she's had since she was a newborn. Other popular gifts you could buy are <b><a href="http://www.jojomamanbebe.co.uk/sophie-la-girafe-teether-b6972.html?gclid=CjwKCAiAz-7UBRBAEiwAVrz-9TFVJ-yLjJI4M-b-1aAchJamX8hVgelc4LuByAc2sF1zzCOgKCqt5hoCkSYQAvD_BwE">Sophie the Giraffe</a></b> teether, <b><a href="https://www.johnlewis.com/ewan-the-dream-sheep-grey/p2123094?sku=234499373&s_kwcid=2dx92700027146115086&tmad=c&tmcampid=2&gclid=CjwKCAiAz-7UBRBAEiwAVrz-9RvBiKpRWmzh7edG0zBifk92pt2mOtYSl5uN7fON0MAdiQ8AnUXH8RoCtGUQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds">Ewan The Dream Sheep</a></b> white noise maker and <a href="https://usborne.com/browse-books/catalogue/subject/1/B/bbtnm/thats-not-my/"><b>That's Not My... </b></a>books.<br />
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<b>A Keepsake</b> | We were bought a lovely soft <b><a href="http://www.thewhitecompany.com/uk/Satin-Edged-Cellular-Baby-Blanket/p/satin-edged-cellular-blankets">satin edged cellular blanket</a></b> from the <a href="http://www.thewhitecompany.com/uk/"><b>White Company</b>.</a> I love it so much I think I will end up using it with baby number two. We used it when we brought Grace home from hospital and it's something I would never part with. A <b><a href="https://lianeryanphotography.com/">newborn photoshoot</a></b> is something else we were gifted. These can be very expensive and it is a very generous gift. Those little humans are only so little for a short space of time and I love the fact we have so beautiful shots of our little lady when she was so young. Other things you could get are a nice photo frame which is a nice touch - we have some pretty ones from <b><a href="https://www.wedgwood.co.uk/vera-wang-love-knots-large-picture-frame-photo-20cm-x-25cm?gclid=CjwKCAiAz-7UBRBAEiwAVrz-9QhS_QjJNTNrm7oIrrgJBDm4TfHMgnZjXi_60hlp3s55lqYPAvScPBoCAKUQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds">Vera Wang</a></b>. You could also buy something like a <b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/search?q=family+portrait+custom&as_prefix=fam&explicit=1">customised family portrait</a>, </b>a <b><a href="http://www.firsttreasures.co.uk/home">cast of baby's hand or foot </a></b>gift or a do-it-yourself <b><a href="http://www.jojomamanbebe.co.uk/baby-handprint-kit-d4506.html?gclid=CjwKCAiAz-7UBRBAEiwAVrz-9RKxzwJQoZadP8mm1UPrQlmUrGdetdGF04E9foMmg5e_L66XO6abZRoC0TgQAvD_BwE">clay impression kit</a></b>.<br />
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<b>Something Different</b> | Muslin's are always handy for moping up spills, but I really love large muslin's as you can also use them for breastfeeding cover, blankets and to swaddle your little one. I have some from <b><a href="http://muslinz.com/ranges/bamboo-range/">MuslinZ</a> </b>that are made from a mix of bamboo and cotton making them nice and soft, but I have also heard all good things about the <b><a href="https://www.adenandanais.co.uk/swaddles/shop-all/">Aden and Anais </a></b>ones too. You could put together a baby toiletries basket with shampoo, bubble bath, moisturiser, sudocream, wet wipes or cotton balls even - the new parents are always going to need those... trust me.<br />
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<b>Gift Vouchers/Cards </b>| Vouchers or gift cards might seem boring, but they are useful as you can buy what you want and when you want. You can get gift cards where you can it across a few different stores which is really handy.<br />
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I hope this post gives you some ideas of what you could gift to new parents and their little ones.<br />
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Angela xAngela http://www.blogger.com/profile/15715175468213346973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1731917061350590444.post-16824197970272762292018-03-02T22:21:00.002+00:002018-03-02T23:12:01.243+00:00What's Inside My Birchbox<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Happy March everyone. I do hope we're enjoying the snow and the freezing cold winds that have come with it!<br />
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The other week my first <b><a href="https://www.birchbox.co.uk/">Birchbox</a></b> arrived. For a while I'd been thinking about signing up - a little treat to land on my door mat every month ... something to look forward to. I'd been a member of Glossybox and Birchbox years ago when beauty boxes first became a thing. I then stopped them, as I'd felt like I'd accumulated a few too many products and was literally drowning in them. This time I signed myself up for a six month subscription which cost nearly £75 including postage. I can cancel the subscription at anytime if I'm not happy with the services.<br />
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Well enough of that... fast forward to now and Februarys box. Every month there is a theme with each box and this months theme was beauty through the decades. You could select a 70s, 80s or 90s box. Being a cool 80s baby, I opted for the 80s box. I think they got the design spot on! Thumbs up Birchbox. Anyhow let's crack on with what is inside this month.<br />
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<b>Cowshed - Cow Pat Moisturising Hand Cream</b> | I'm not the biggest fan of hand creams and kind of feel like I was the only Birchbox subscriber to receive this. However with all this cold weather my hands have become a little rough. I do love the grapefruit and bitter orange scent, as they are quite strong and they linger on your hands afterwards.<br />
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<b>Lord and Berry - Concealer Stick</b> | I do like to try brands I would never pickup myself and I've heard so much about Lord and Berry's makeup. I'm not a fan of the pencil as you obviously have to sharpen it<i> </i>when it gets low. I'd much rather it be a twist up pencil applicator. I was sent the colour beige which happens to be a little dark for my current skin tone, however in summer it might be perfect!<br />
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<b>The Beauty Crop - Eyeshadow Trio</b> | These are totally my colours and it was nice to get a full size eyeshadow palette in my box. However if I want to go for a bronzed goodness look, I'm more likely to dig out my original Naked palette by Urban Decay. This is the perfect travel size palette if you just literally want one eye look. Sadly when I gave these a swatch I found the shadows to be dusty and not very pigmented which is a shame.<br />
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<b>Luseta - Coconut Milk Hair Mask</b> | This smells divine - I do love a good old coconut product. The sample size I was given was 30ml and I used it tonight on my hair. I have quite thick hair so I ended up using the whole tube. It would of been nice to get a little more than one use out of it. When I sniff my hair I do get a slight hint of coconut and it is quite soft. I especially enjoy the fact this is a cruelty free item. I wish Birchbox would do a whole month of cruelty free options... hint hint wink wink.<br />
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<b>Percy and Reed - Quite Frankly Flawless Finishing Polish</b> | What a mouthful of a name! Forget the name length though, this is a finishing product which captures any fly aways hairs with a gentle hold. I've tried this once so far after I had styled my unruly hair with my straighteners. It's a thick cream and you don't need much and you're not left with a crispy hair look you can get with some products.<br />
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That's it for the box. I think my only disappointment with my first box is the fact received two hair products. It would of been nice to have something else like a body product or skincare item perhaps. Birchbox usually have offers on when you first sign up for a box, so keep an eye out for coupons and offers. I received a free full sized sample of Smith and Cult lipgloss as part of my offer which I love and wouldn't of ever picked out and bought myself. #Winning!<br />
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Have you ever been interested in signing up for a subscription box service?<br />
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Angela x<br />
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Angela http://www.blogger.com/profile/15715175468213346973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1731917061350590444.post-86252440479047928882018-02-23T12:05:00.000+00:002018-02-28T09:24:43.594+00:00Second Hand EBay Finds<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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There's that saying "one mans junk is another mans treasure". I think in this day and age we have become very much a throw away society. I can hold my hands up myself and say I pretty much donate to charity shops on regular basis. However I think I should perhaps try to sell my no longer loved items instead of popping them to the charity shop. Donating to charity; <i>yes</i> it is a GOOD thing, but some times it would be nice to get a little cash in MY pocket instead. No offence.<br />
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Lately I'm being quite careful where I spend my money, as I'm living off maternity pay and that pays peanuts. I cannot complain really, as at least we get paid money in the first place to stay home and look after our babies'. Since I had Grace I feel a little <i>meh</i> about my clothes. I'm living in-between sizes as I still have the mum-tum. I'm not bothered that I have a mum-tum, but it's annoying as I cannot find anything that works for me right now. I do aim to lose weight, but I'm in no big rush to get my Victoria Secrets model like body back. Not like I had this in the first place I might add.<br />
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Instead of nipping in to my trusty Primark or to charity shops I thought I would log in to EBay and look for some items that were no longer being loved and needed a new home. Here is what I got...<br />
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<strong>GAP Cream Mohair Jumper </strong><br />
I really liked this jumper as soon as I saw it and it was for sale for a mere £3.97 plus postage of £3.50 - a bargain total of £7.47. I like the look of the vertical ribbing and the collar. We're still having some chilly days and I thought this looked nice and snug. When it arrived, unfortunately it was marked which I told the seller about and she was more than happy to refund me if the stains didn't come out once washed. What looks like happened was the bag she posted the jumper in had a blue lining that rubbed off. Luckily it came off no problem.<br />
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I've had two issues with the jumper... firstly it can be a little see through meaning no white or black bras underneath unless you have a vest on first, which is fair enough. The second issue is the jumper can shed a little. I try not to wear it around Grace as I know she'll get the jumper fibres stuck in-between her fingers. I don't want her eating fluff just yet.<br />
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The burning question you have is, <i>would I buy this again??</i> The answer is ... probably. Like I said the shedding is annoying, especially since I have a baby where everything gets stuck in her hands and spaces between her fingers. Apart from that it is a nice buy, even if I get a year or 18 months of wear it is still worth it I think.<br />
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<b>Peacocks Alexa Skinny Jeans </b><br />
I've bought the <a href="https://www.peacocks.co.uk/womens/jeans/skinny-jeans/alexa.html"><b>Alexa jeans from Peacocks</b></a> before in store, but they never seem to have them in size 12 and this is why I took to EBay. The seller had these marketed as a buy now offer for £9.99 including postage. I made her an offer of £8.00 which she came back with a counter offer of £8.99. I though this seemed fair deal considering it included postage. I know what it's like to sell items and how much postage can sting you.<br />
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Once I got the jeans, they looked fine apart from that I'VE BEEN SAT AROUND FOR A BIT smell, however a good wash sorted that. I like the detail on the back pocket... I've not got this on my other Alexa jeans. What I like about this range of jeans is the stretch and give they have. I found 14s a little too stretchy and this is why I was looking for 12s. I popped these on and these just kept wanting to wriggle down but not because I think they are too big. I think they are on the small size which is a shame. I can wear them but I have to pull them up now and again. I might have to dig belt out!<br />
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Now would I buy them again? Yes certainly. I've got a pair of jeans for half price as Peacocks sell these for between £16 and £18 and there is nothing wrong with them. After I lose a couple of pounds I think they will be more of a better fit. Whoop whoop.<br />
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That's it for now for my EBay purchases. I'm also going to do a post soon on some charity shop finds. I will get to share with you all a coat that I found and I'm seriously proud of this beauty and how much I paid for it!!<br />
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Do you shop on EBay for second hand clothes?<br />
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Angela x<br />
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<br />Angela http://www.blogger.com/profile/15715175468213346973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1731917061350590444.post-44976829409132865642018-02-18T09:15:00.000+00:002018-02-18T09:15:10.793+00:00Tips For A Cleaner House<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Ha. Who would of thought I'd be writing tips on this subject. The older I've gotten I have kind of morphed into my Mum and become a bit of a clean freak. I'm a firm believer in the saying 'messy house, messy mind' and since I've been promoted into a stay at home mummy, I really feel the affects of clutter and mess in my house. It makes me go a bit nuts. I thought I'd share a few of my favourite tips that I like use daily in my home to <i>try</i> to keep on top of things.<br />
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<strong>One Touch Method</strong><br />
I've been nagging my hubby about this for years and it is slowly getting through LOL. One touch is exactly what it means - one touch and deal with it straight away. If you've finished drinking that coffee -instead of leaving the cup by the sink or dish washer, wash it up or pop it straight into the dish washer straight away. You've come in the door after work, put your jacket away on its coat hook. Don't throw it on the sofa first only to pick it up later on. You're helping yourself in the long run by tidying mess up before it's even there.<br />
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<strong>High Traffic Areas</strong><br />
These are areas of your home which are walked on frequently throughout the day. Vacuum these daily, ours are the hall way by the front door and the kitchen. They are magnets for bits of dirt - I don't know where it comes from! Just a quick blitz with my trusty Dyson and order is restored. Our stairs are high traffic too, but I leave these to the weekend as they are a bit more time consuming and who wants to vac their stairs everyday? No one!<br />
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<b>Clean Up The Kitchen Before Bed</b><br />
This might be a big task, but if you're keeping on top of things throughout the day then this should not be too hard. The last two things I like to do before I go upstairs to bed is to switch on the dishwasher and wash the kitchen floor. Your dishes will be ready and clean in the morning and the floor will be all clean and not walked on all night. No body wants to come down to a bomb site of a kitchen first thing in the morning. If you load the dish washer during the day, wipe your counters down, rinse out the sink then when the morning arrives all you will need to do is put the dishes away.<br />
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<strong>Wipe Down The Bathroom When You're On The Loo</strong><br />
Two birds one stone hey. When it's my time to go - I will spray the bath and tiles... I'll then do my business for a few minutes. Afterwards whilst washing my hands I'll wipe out the sink and then I rinse the bath and tiles with the shower. You don't have to do this every time you pee, but once a day really helps. A deep down clean will be done once a week, but keeping it clean during the week helps a lot. Another tip; I love is to put bleach down the toilet just before I got to bed every other night. I also wipe down the seat so that it is fresh for the morning #Winning!<br />
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<strong>Make Your Bed</strong><br />
This is such an obvious one. Your bed makes up for most of what you can see in your bedroom, if it is a mess and not made you sure are going to notice it. It takes seconds to make it and it will really make a big difference. Trust me.<br />
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I hope these tips inspire you. Even if you don't do all these tips I have given and just pick one then that is a good start. It is all about being kind and helping your future self.<br />
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Do you have any tips for a cleaner home?<br />
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Angela x<br />
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Angela http://www.blogger.com/profile/15715175468213346973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1731917061350590444.post-20005454201400531672018-02-12T11:06:00.000+00:002018-02-12T11:06:17.061+00:00A Few 2018 Goals<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Ooh, so yes January has already flown by and in theory I should of probably had this post done and dusted, but hey I'm going to use the excuse of <em>'I have a BABY, they don't look after themselves you know!'</em> So here we are February, nice to see you. I have penned down a few goals I'm going to attempt to achieve this year. I could probably write a million things down but it's already a long one.... soooo grab a brew or a wine - which ever takes your fancy. First Up.<br />
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<strong>The House</strong><br />
I have itchy fingers when it comes to doing things around the house. I want to decorate parts of it, but money doesn't grow on trees. We've lived in our house for nine years this November and we still have the hand-me-down carpet from the previous owner. It's tired just like me and needs a refresh. I'm slowing doing a decluttering sweep again as I feel like we've accumulated quite a few bits and bobs. I'm not sure I'll ever be happy with everything but I'm trying my hardest. Since having a small human I feel like I've been working overtime attempting to get sh*t done. It's driven me to tears on occasion which sounds really stupid, but I just want it to be perfect. You know what I mean?<br />
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In 2017 I didn't do much in the garden due to my pregnancy. I want to make it a little more child friendly for when the little lady starts to move about. I also want some space for a little Graces Garden Area. That little girl is going to love the outdoors and plants and animals whether she likes it or not. I want her to know how to care for things, no matter how small.<br />
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<strong>My Body Image and Confidence</strong><br />
Well this subject I could write an entire post. I'm not really happy with myself right now body wise. When I was with child I felt wonderful and showed my bump off in tight clothes. I loved it. I did say to myself and my hubby that once baby arrived, I weren't going to become obsessed with my weight and how I looked especially in the first few weeks. There enough pressures for new mums let alone <em>'can I fit in to my skinny 12s again?' </em>Let's be realistic people I'm no superstar with a private chef and a built-in gym at home. Well roll on nearly five months later and I'm feeling a bit <em>meh</em> about me. I've had a baby and I feel frumpy. I have about one stone to lose (and the rest...) and no clothes seem to bring me joy. Muffin tops and back fat can seriously do one please I beg you. The only problem is I'm a stay at home mum who has a serious issue with comfort eating. I used to be so strong when it came to what I ate. I was the person people spoke to when they needed help with weight lose and now I'm that person who needs help and no one is about. Ahhh help me. I need to really sort my life out especially if I want bubba number two at some stage. I refuse to be fat for that! Angela get off your arse! Nope still sitting down watching Homes Under The Hammer.... argh!<br />
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<strong>Better Online Life</strong><br />
I sometimes wonder if blogging is for me anymore, however as soon I as I think those thoughts I think KEEP GOING ANGELA! I've been blogging for years - since 2010 believe it or not, but I feel like I have never really gotten anywhere far with it. There are so many worthy people out there I just think I'm not meant to be one of those. Yes I've worked with some great brands and products, but I think where I'm not consistent with my approach due to time and my job etc, things usually fall flat. This year I have a few thoughts on my mind. Do I start to make <b><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvGx5m15QgcPbu_BpIawKNQ?view_as=subscriber">YouTube</a></b> videos again? Do I get my own domain? I currently don't have a income as I'm on maternity leave plus I don't have a job to return to. With this in mind I don't want to be dish my money out here there and everywhere if I won't get much in return. Does that make ANY sense? I've started to get into Instagram more (chattingwithangela is my name - check it out). I had to google how to make an Insta story - lame or what? Not really down with the kids am I? I really want to get my blogging head on and perhaps try to get an income from there. There is still time very to make a change!<br />
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<strong>To Be More Hands On</strong><br />
I want to get crafty and hands on this year, especially when it comes to Grace. I want to hand make sensory toys for her - I have some projects in mind and I will share them here for other mums and carers to see. I am in the middle of making my little love her own patch work play mat. I've not had much time on my hands in the evenings, because I'm normally knackered once she goes to bed. However when she's been napping I'm busy prepping scrap fabric squares. I might share the process on the blog so watch this space.<br />
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<strong>My Family and Marriage</strong><br />
When you have a baby your relationship takes a ride on the back burner for a while. Sleepless nights and a sea of nappies become your life. On occasions I basically have felt like I've not even seen my hubby. He goes to work, I look after the baby then he comes in the door and I pass out due to exhaustion. Welcome to parenthood. I'd like to have a date night now and again with him to remind us of the times before we became a threesome - child free time. This is good for family looking after the baby as they get time to bound and we have break and <i>us</i> time. Yes I totally love us being a family...the three of us but it never hurts to have wifey and hubby time - to reconnect.<br />
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When the UK decides to warm up in spring summer, I also want us to go and explore. Grace is developing constantly and is like a sponge and taking in everything. She's such nosey inquisitive little girl and I think a trip to the zoo or the seaside will do her wanders. Sand castles anyone?<br />
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and finally...<br />
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<strong>Have More <em>ME</em> Time. </strong><br />
My name used to be Angela, but now I'm Mummy. I don't really have time to myself anymore and I love alone time to reflect on life. Sometimes I have a moment or two, but usually it is swiftly followed by someone needing a bum change or the washing machine needs unloading. Since I've become a Mum I haven't even had a Lush bath. I have a big stash of bombs and not had a chance to use them. On occasion I even have to try and remember when I last had a shower. That is how bad it gets sometimes. You kind of stop looking after yourself, because you're no longer number one. It's been over six months since I even had a hair cut. I think the me time goes hand in hand to my image and how I feel about myself. I've kind of got lost somewhere in the back ground. Angela needs to step forward, back into the light. When she is ready obviously.<br />
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I think when we get to December I might review these points to see if I actually ticked off any off these. How well will I do I wonder?<br />
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Ciao for now!<br />
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<br />Angela http://www.blogger.com/profile/15715175468213346973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1731917061350590444.post-51403852922579587012018-02-09T08:25:00.000+00:002018-02-09T08:25:10.186+00:00Primark Private Collection<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Ladies and gents! If you love Jo Malone, well then keep reading. Behold Primark, yes Primark have got some rather nice home and beauty items which have hit the shelves. If you like Jo Malone and just don't have the funds to splash out on some bits and bobs from there, then these offerings from Primark might tick all the boxes for you and your purse strings.<br />
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Primark have launched a whole range of goodies from hand lotions and creams, hand washes, reed diffusers, eau de perfume mini sets and individual larger bottles of perfume and room sprays. They haven't held back when it comes to scents too. Six fragrances are up for grabs, so there should be at least one that will take your fancy.<br />
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The scents are Rose Oud, Mandarin and Basil, Amber Nior, Vanilla Absolute, Jasmine and Honey and Pomegranate and Black Tea.<br />
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I purchased two reed diffusers at £6 each and miniature set of six eau de perfumes for £8. What I like about the miniatures is the scent really lingers on your skin. It doesn't just disappear as fast as you apply to the skin. You can smell it for a good while afterwards. My favourite is the Rose Oud and the Pomegranate and Black Tea. All the scents are strong and do not smell cheap. If you could do a blind sniff test between these and Jo Malone, I think you'd find it difficult to tell the difference. I do like the roller ball applicator as opposed to sprays as you can pin point exactly where you'd like the scent to go! No wastage.<br />
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Most items start from £3. Nothing in the collection is over £10. I bet you'll be popping multiple items into your basket like I did. You can also buy the fragrances individually in larger 100 ml bottles for only £8 in case you do not fancy the miniature set like I got above.<br />
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Nip down to your local Primark quick sharp, as I can see these being really popular. Is there anything you fancy from the collection??<br />
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Angela xAngela http://www.blogger.com/profile/15715175468213346973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1731917061350590444.post-15832976014260286982018-02-07T10:08:00.000+00:002018-02-07T10:08:02.854+00:002018 Here We Are! A 2017 Round Up<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I know this post is exceptionally late, but I'm like a bus - they never run on time and usually two come at once! The year of 2017 is over and dusted. A year of joy and sadness. End of eras and a start of new chapters. I was kind of sad to say good bye to it, as it was a big year. Lets round up 2017 with a few points.<br />
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If you didn't know, 2017 was the year I lost my job. February 9th - d-day! 11 years of hard work, tears, laughed and friendships... it all came to an end due to the fact my colleagues and I were too expensive. They wanted cheaper labour abroad. I could of kept my job if I was willing to relocate (to Spain) but due to the next reason and many of reasons I decided to shove their offer where the sun certainly did not shine. If you have ever been through redundancy, you will know it's not very nice and our redundancy process went on for nine months. Nine months of shit, nine months of training our replacements, nine months of fighting for what we were entitled to. Nine months of hell and stress to be honest which we could of done without!<br />
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July 28th 2017 I officially hung up my work hat and put my feet up for a month. August was blissful - I bonded with my Mum so much as we basically became joined at the hip. It was so nice to have real nice mother daughter time. We had little day trips, we were ladies who lunched, we went conker collecting and dog walking. I will cherish those memories and times with my Mum. She's one in a million.<br />
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Then on September 17th, I got a new job. I became a Mummy. After a some what speedy labour... which I'm yet to write about I gave birth to a daughter. My little precious. When earlier in the year I found out I was losing my job, I was a mere 10 weeks pregnant. I was an emotionally wreck and due to that I ended up telling a close colleague about my pregnancy before any of our families. We hadn't even had a scan to find out if our little was was doing OK. By the end of February we had it confirmed everything was fine.<br />
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Telling my family lifted a major weight off my shoulders. I was so drained physically and emotionally and to finally say "we're having a baby" let go of some pressure. The look on my Mum's face will forever be etched in my memory. Shock and surprise. She was surprised we'd managed to keep such a big secret for 13 whole weeks. One time when I was driving her to afternoon tea with friends I got completely lost (totally unlike me as I know my way around anywhere...) she jokingly said you're acting like you're pregnant. Lol! If only you'd know the truth... I was! It felt horrible to tell a white lie and say "nah it's STILL NOT HAPPENED" while in fact I was growing a little peanut in my belly.<br />
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Roll on September and out <i>popped</i> Grace. Ha popped! After then the rest of the year pretty much became a blur. The newborn phase takes it out of you. You're recovering mentally and physically from your body taking a battering, but I would never change it for the world and I'd do it over and over again and again if I could. There is nothing quite like watching your baby grow and develop. I'm so grateful to have a healthy baby girl to call my own. Every time I see that beautiful little bundle, I thanks the gods that I was finally blessed with a child I could call my own.<br />
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I'm currently just penning together a post for my goals for 2018 and any plans I have for the next 11 months. I say 11, as January is now a memory.<br />
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What was the best and worst things to happen to you in 2017? Also I forgot to say HAPPY NEW YEAR!<br />
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Angela xAngela http://www.blogger.com/profile/15715175468213346973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1731917061350590444.post-25985508708037327952018-01-04T07:56:00.000+00:002018-01-04T07:56:00.417+00:00Spritzing Your Bits<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGVm8gu9tuKIseievFjr27Cf-fuKoGnSFbDrcR5mFcCVr19sZ_cKHe0HHzy3MPRXssVutJ3wUOd5aTIir3pMlN6RAS81R5AQ5etET2dyRZmvHILcEjioFHZbVvive9UtQuQrGu0HQDJ-3D/s1600/IMG_5123.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="1536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGVm8gu9tuKIseievFjr27Cf-fuKoGnSFbDrcR5mFcCVr19sZ_cKHe0HHzy3MPRXssVutJ3wUOd5aTIir3pMlN6RAS81R5AQ5etET2dyRZmvHILcEjioFHZbVvive9UtQuQrGu0HQDJ-3D/s9999/IMG_5123.jpg" width="2048" /></a><i>Ahhh after birth.</i><br />
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Everyone likes to remind you how awful both pregnancy and birth can sometimes be. I'd like to firmly say both of mine were pretty darn good... a dream in fact. I got my healthy little girl - finally. My pregnancy seemed to be blissful apart from a few little niggles here and there which is expected. As for the birth, well that wasn't hell like everyone seems to refer to. I'll no doubt write a post about it all in the near future if the little human allows.<br />
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Anyway, what most people don't talk about is after birth and how you can feel... <i> down there. </i>I knew you could feel pretty tender down there after child birth, but I didn't quite realise just <i>how</i> sore. John Wayne walking at about 2 miles per hours comes to mind with the added sounds affects of oooh ahhh ooohhh. With my little love I had to have an <a href="https://www.google.co.uk/search?q=Episiotomy+mediolateral&client=safari&rls=en&dcr=0&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwiii5PG3ajYAhVMB8AKHcDEBpgQ_AUICigB&biw=1440&bih=838#imgrc=_">mediolateral episiotomy</a> cut to get a bit of access due to my bubba needing a vacuum to get her out. The healing process was a painful as you can imagine, I mean in a small paper cut hurts like hell let alone a cut down there.<br />
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Fast forward to being kicked out of hospital and feeling like my lady garden has had a run in with Edward Scissor hands and the recovery process. If I could of spent the entire time flat on my back with my legs apart in the air then I would of, but when a small human relies on you every waking moment of the day well you can't. I admit I did have it slightly easy as I had help from Mum (....god bless her - an angel without wings).<br />
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What I absolutely loved doing and I mean ABSOLUTELY in capitals bold underlined is spraying My Expert Midwife's <a href="https://myexpertmidwife.com/collections/all/products/spritz-for-bits"><b>Spritz For Bits</b></a> on my bits directly. The only way to describe its affect is like aloe vera on a sun burn. A beautiful soothing effect which was very much needed indeed. Doing this whilst also spraying my maternity pads every time I changed them was just the best. Made from all natural products like lavender oil, witch hazel and tea tree oil I found it helped with the general soreness of my lady garden.<br />
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This isn't the first time I have used My Expert Midwife, I already wrote a post <strong><a href="https://chattingwithangela.blogspot.co.uk/2017/08/prepping-my-bits-with-my-expert-midwife.html">HERE</a></strong> talking about the Peri Prep . I loved that too but as the bigger you get the harder it is to reach down there to massage yourself if you catch my drift.<br />
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Caring for your bits is essential after birth and I will say now if we are blessed with baby number two then this beauty will certainly be on my shopping list!<br />
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What helped you recover from child birth? Any recommendations?<br />
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Angela xAngela http://www.blogger.com/profile/15715175468213346973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1731917061350590444.post-7180618902142696082017-12-31T23:58:00.000+00:002017-12-31T23:58:01.291+00:00A Helping Hand With AsdaBeing a new parent is literally like being thrown under a bus. Pregnancy is exciting, but then the show gets started and it's pretty darn daunting coming home with a little human that does not come with an instruction manual!<br />
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Any help is certainly a blessing from family and friends. Thank god we are lucky to have lots of family for support and to ask questions. You usually learn and find things out through your family and friends. However if you don’t have family around who do you turn to?<br />
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A few weeks ago I had the honour of meeting the oh so lovely Dr Hilary Jones and having lunch with him at The Ivy and a group of fellow mummy bloggers. Dr Hilary has teamed up with the folks from Asda to help us new parents.<br />
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The lovely team at <b><a href="https://babyclub.asda.com/Search-Results?searchStr=hilary">Asda Little Angels</a></b> and Myraid have put together four short videos full of helpful tips on subjects such baby weaning, <a href="https://babyclub.asda.com/Articles/nappy-changing-tips-with-dr-hilary-jones">nappy changing</a>, bath time and nap rash with the help of Hilary.<br />
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I would like to thank Myriad and Asda's Little Angels for inviting me to a fantastic afternoon.</div>
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Angela x</div>
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<b><i>* I was invited by Myriad, I was not paid to attend the event. All opinions are my own!</i></b></div>
<br />Angela http://www.blogger.com/profile/15715175468213346973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1731917061350590444.post-78019748442369998592017-12-30T08:28:00.000+00:002017-12-26T19:51:26.339+00:00My Muji And Liz Earle Eye Combo<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiClQnTPXPfAzFEfQU1PTBBhLpi-SC5aQ2g4Ru4AlAm5Y7r7rlwkmNHvLDi3mafHx5UeUhRTrXxdg_WwwWWk3K4RiLriWUH5DJ3uQ9EzhDHjz0i9xmuL2NB6u_Dum3-arDIHlRDMYZPUs99/s1600/IMG_5459.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiClQnTPXPfAzFEfQU1PTBBhLpi-SC5aQ2g4Ru4AlAm5Y7r7rlwkmNHvLDi3mafHx5UeUhRTrXxdg_WwwWWk3K4RiLriWUH5DJ3uQ9EzhDHjz0i9xmuL2NB6u_Dum3-arDIHlRDMYZPUs99/s1600/IMG_5459.jpg" /></a>Do you ever buy something and then think to yourself <em>"why the hell did I buy that??"</em><br />
<br />Totally. <em>All</em> the time.<br />
<br />A few years ago I picked up these <a href="http://www.muji.eu/pages/online.asp?Sec=17&Sub=70&PID=1524"><strong>eye patches</strong></a> from <strong><a href="http://www.muji.eu/index.asp">Muji</a></strong>. I LOVE Muji, I have bits and bobs from their store everywhere in my house. <strong><a href="http://www.muji.eu/pages/online.asp?Sec=9&Sub=39&PID=2424">Acrylic drawers</a></strong> for my makeup, <strong><a href="http://www.muji.eu/pages/online.asp?Sec=9&Sub=38&PID=33">tall storage units</a></strong> with wheels in my bathroom and under the stairs and their <strong><a href="http://www.muji.eu/pages/online.asp?Sec=17&Sub=80">little vanity unit containers</a></strong> in my bed side drawer. And to top it off I LOVE their <strong><a href="http://www.muji.eu/pages/online.asp?qmde=src">gel pens</a></strong> too. I'm a sucker for a good old pen. What is awesome about Muji is the prices. You're buying top quality items for a really good price that won't make you shudder at the tills when you hand over your debit card. I urge you to check them out if you haven't done so already - they have a lot of stuff and some may float your boat.<br />
<br />Anyway, lets get back to the eye patches.<br />
<br />I thought they'd be kind of cool to use at home to keep me looking younger and youthful and at only £1.50 for 20 patches I weren't going to be breaking the bank. However roll on a few years, I never got round of using them and they sat in my beside drawer gathering dust. I was decluttering one day and thought it was time to say good bye. Then it hit me, a lightening bulb moment and I saw my <strong><a href="http://uk.lizearle.com/eyebright-soothing-eye-lotion.html?gclid=CjwKCAjw9O3NBRB3EiwAK6wPT73Sv5vjLliRlBv_aZJtuQjyYV89kKkrRZuZmb_JnesH5p7ToJO9rBoCzR8QAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds">Liz Earle Eye Bright Soothing Eye Lotion</a></strong> in the drawer. Ta-dah! I now had a use for my patches.<br />
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<br />I take two patches and soak them in the solution and pop them under my eyes for 5 to 10 minutes. Hey presto refreshed under eyes here I come. Unlike conventional cotton wool pads, the patches are really thin and absorbent - they almost resemble a second layer of skin. You can lay back with these on and chill or you can do the washing up as they stay stuck to your under eyes. Whereas cotton wool patches would fall off if you stood up.<br />
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Don't I look glam? Fingers crossed these will give me my youthful looks back!<br />
<br />Angela x<br />
<br />Angela http://www.blogger.com/profile/15715175468213346973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1731917061350590444.post-44469315336396599072017-12-29T23:56:00.000+00:002017-12-29T23:56:07.181+00:00One Year Today<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i>Wow. </i>It is one whole year today since I found I was carrying a small cluster of cells in my body that in 9 months time would become my beautiful baby girl.<br />
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That day will never leave my memory, because it was such a shock. We'd be trying since January 2015 to have a baby, I'd just turned 31 on the December 2014 and it felt like the right time to become a family of three (four if you include the cat). Months rolled by and I'd peed on countless ovulation and pregnancy tests and still no joy. Trying for a baby can be such a sad journey when you're not getting the result you desire oh so much.<br />
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On this day in 2016 I woke up like any other day but with added period cramps as I was due in a few days time. I always had a few tell tale cramps a few days leading up to Aunt Flo coming to town. What instantly ran through my head was '<i><b>Oh no well this month will be a no no again'</b></i>. And a flood of disappointment ran through me like all the other months previously. I generally had this habit of doing a cheap dip stick pregnancy test on the days leading up to my due dates, so I could 100% rule out that I weren't pregnant. This month I did a test like always and just popped it on the window sill and walked away - so hygienic. I didn't even stick around to see the result as I weren't pregnant was I - It was ground hog day. About half hour later I went back to the test on the sill and saw a faint line.<br />
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I gasped. 'OH MY GOD' was what immediately ran threw my head 'it must be an evaporated line'. 'It cannot be real?' I then tried to squeeze out the smallest wee and I grabbed a super doper test (I had a whole collection in the bathroom drawer). I popped the First Response test into the tiniest amount of wee and before I even had the chance to throw the test wrapper in the bin two lines we appearing. It had happened. After all the waiting, I was carrying a life. My baby. I was going to be a Mum.<br />
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After that, I then rushed down stairs and grabbed my hubby and pulled him into the bathroom to show him the test. Once he realised what I was so emotional about (he thought the cat had died) he said 'Oh Baby' and hugged me so tight whilst I literally cried 'OH MY GOD... OH MY GOD' into his chest.<br />
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Roll on a year from that day we have a healthy beautiful baby girl who is 15 weeks old this Sunday and I feel blessed beyond anything in this world. I never thought the miracle of having a baby would ever happen. It's like that scene from Friends when Rachel finds out she is pregnant with Emma and Phoebe tricks her in to thinking she's not pregnant when she really is (clip <b><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f30-eM8w07Q">HERE</a></b> if you've never seen it). That morning I peed on a stick I thought it's going to be a negative and I was so upset inside. Another part of me had died again. Then my dream came true.<br />
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Back in 2014 I wrote a hand on your heart a post asking <b><a href="https://chattingwithangela.blogspot.co.uk/2014/12/how-do-you-know-if-youre-ready.html">How Do You Know You're Ready?</a></b> I always thought in my twenties that being a mum would change my life and I dreaded it and basically put it off. I thought my life would end and it scared the shit out of me. The wiser me now will say I was completely wrong and if I could I would go back in time and give my younger self a serious talking to I would. Yes my life has changed, but for completely ten million percent the better. I would NEVER change my life now, well only perhaps a smaller waist line! Lol. All those worries from my past seem so stupid and I regret not getting started with a family sooner. However they do say good things come to those who wait. We never gave up on our dream and I guess what I'm trying to say is you shouldn't either. No matter how long it takes.<br />
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Night night and god bless.<br />
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Angela xAngela http://www.blogger.com/profile/15715175468213346973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1731917061350590444.post-32189253675106382792017-11-14T09:32:00.003+00:002017-11-14T09:32:24.916+00:00Christmas With UncommonGoods<div dir="auto">
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Christmas this year is certainly going to be a different Christmas to all the others in my life time. I now have a feisty baby to watch over for the next 20 years and with the festive season lurking around the corner I am kind of not looking forward to it! The reason being, I often find Christmas shopping quite stressful when it comes to buying gifts - I always find people like my Dad for instance frustrating to buy for. Men are just difficult aren't they?<br />
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Going to the shops Christmas shopping with a two month old is pretty much a no go and I will do much of it all online. So what better timing than to collaborate with <b><a href="https://www.uncommongoods.com/">UncommonGoods </a></b>for this post.<br />
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UncommonGoods is a US based company which offer a creative array of gifts at affordable prices. There is an unbelievable amount on offer and I don't think there is anything they don't have - something for everybody.<br />
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When I read about UncommonGoods <b><a href="https://www.uncommongoods.com/static/mission.jsp">mission</a></b> it had me smiling and nodding my head at so many points. You almost want to fist bump them and say <i>good on you</i>. It is not very often you hear about companies who actually care about so many things.<br />
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They don't sell any goods that may cause harm to animals like leather and feathers for example. As someone who opts for cruelty free products, knowing that their mission is to protect animals had me touched. They also give back with their <a href="https://www.uncommongoods.com/static/better.jsp"><b>Better To Give Program</b></a> where they donate $1 to your chosen no-profit organisation. You just select the who you want the money donated to at the checkout when your make your purchase. How cool is that?! I don't think there are many companies out there who care so much - I kind of wish I worked for them.<br />
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Now since out little one came along, I'm quite into personalised items with her name on. I was really taken by the cushions where you can get your babies details added to it. Such a personal touch and would also make a great gift be it a Christmas or a Christening. You can see so many options <b><a href="https://www.uncommongoods.com/gifts/personalized/personalized-gifts">HERE</a></b> for personalised gifts.<br />
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Our family are quite big fan of opening stockings on Christmas Eve. Lots of little presents, some of the fun and silly and some of them actually useful. If you need some ideas of what to pop into someones Christmas stocking this year - for instance a nice pair of earrings - there is a vast amount of options <b><a href="https://www.uncommongoods.com/gifts/christmas/stocking-stuffers">HERE</a></b> up for grabs.<br />
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Every year I always find it difficult buying for my secret Santa at work. If you're clueless at what to get your secret Santa this year, you can take your pick at tonnes of gift ideas for under £20 - like this popcorn maker. There are lots of Christmas gift ideas right <b><a href="https://www.uncommongoods.com/gifts/christmas/christmas-gifts">HERE</a></b> for him and her - you'll won't know what to pick as there is so many choices!<br />
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I'm really glad I have been introduced to UncommonGoods and I'm really tempted to give them a whirl. Will you pop along and give them a look? I guarantee you'll find something for your loved ones! Oh just an FYI... as they are based in NYC, I would if you're planning to buy anything - get in there early. We all know what Christmas mail can be like lol!<br />
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Angela x<br />
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<b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">* This post is a paid collaboration with UncommonGoods. All opinions are my own as always!!</span></i></b></div>
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Angela http://www.blogger.com/profile/15715175468213346973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1731917061350590444.post-70860046304489206712017-10-23T08:12:00.000+01:002017-10-23T08:12:10.655+01:00What's In My Yoga Bag?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="text-align: justify;"><br />Yoga is far more than standing on one leg, humming and looking ridiculous. It's actually a rather good work out - try it if you do not believe me! I've been attending an evening class and</span></span><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"> I thought it would nice to share what kind of clothes I wear and what bits and bobs I take with me. So what's in my bag you ask? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><b>Let's start clothes...</b></i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The key thing with yoga is comfort. None of the positions you try to obtain should cause you any unnecessary discomfort and neither should your clothes you wear to class. You need to feel comfortable, nothing too tight or too loose it's falling down round your ankles. I like to wear a skin tight work out vests - I prefer these to loose fitting flowy tops as there is no fabric falling in your face when you're in your downward facing dog! The <a href="http://www.jdsports.co.uk/product/nike-dri-fit-contour-tank/176699/" style="-webkit-transition: all 0.25s ease-out; margin: 0px !important; max-width: 100%; text-decoration: none; transition: all 0.25s ease-out;"><b>Nike Dri</b></a> and the <b><a href="http://www.debenhams.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/prod_10701_10001_283010445255_-1" style="-webkit-transition: all 0.25s ease-out; margin: 0px !important; max-width: 100%; text-decoration: none; transition: all 0.25s ease-out;">Adidas ClimaLite</a></b> lines are one of my favourites as they are breathable and move along with you - almost like a second layer of skin.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">For my bottoms I like my leggings and when I say leggings I mean work out ones, not those causal thin black ones. The causal ones generally are a little thinner and can show your knickers off - keep that for the bedroom ladies!!!!! I own a few nice pairs from <b><a href="http://store.usapro.co.uk/bottoms#dcp=4&dppp=24&OrderBy=rank&Filter=AFLOR%5EWomens%7CABRA%5EUSA+Pro" style="-webkit-transition: all 0.25s ease-out; margin: 0px !important; max-width: 100%; text-decoration: none; transition: all 0.25s ease-out;">USA Pro</a>,</b> which have good Lycra in them and are quite high waisted. No falling down to my ankles!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Now ladies, when it comes to your boobies - please wear <i>good</i> support. Whether you are small, medium or large or even extra large in the bust department - you need support. I wear my sports bra as I have mountains (as per Shakira - Whenever, Wherever). The bras I use are from Active D+ range from <a href="http://www.shockabsorber.co.uk/product/active-d-classic-support/" style="-webkit-transition: all 0.25s ease-out; margin: 0px !important; max-width: 100%; text-decoration: none; transition: all 0.25s ease-out;"><b>Shocker Absorber</b></a>, I love this kind I wear as they are high at the front so I don't fall out. No awkward moments!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><b>Okay on to the essentials...</b></i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">You may not necessarily need any equipment to begin with. If you're attending a new group perhaps message your instructor and find out if they supply matts at the class. If you love it, want to make the class a regular thing, then you may want to buy your own. The matt I have is from the <b><a href="http://www.argos.co.uk/static/Product/partNumber/9102332.htm" style="-webkit-transition: all 0.25s ease-out; margin: 0px !important; max-width: 100%; text-decoration: none; transition: all 0.25s ease-out;">Argos Davina McCall</a> </b>range. I personally didn't want anything too fancy and this does the job perfectly.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">On to blocks, these aren't a must - it is dependant on you really. Unfortunately I don't have long luscious limbs like a super model. With some of the yoga positions you need a little help and I certainly do. The two I picked up are from USA Pro (not being sponsored - promise). I've provided the link to an Ebay page as the blocks weren't on the USA Pro site - <a href="http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/like/121343787717?hlpht=true&hlpv=2&rlsatarget=&adtype=pla&ff3=1&lpid=122&poi=&ul_noapp=true&limghlpsr=true&device=c&chn=ps&crdt=0&ff12=67&ff11=ICEP3.0.0-L&ff14=122&viphx=1&ops=true&ff13=80" style="-webkit-transition: all 0.25s ease-out; margin: 0px !important; max-width: 100%; text-decoration: none; transition: all 0.25s ease-out;"><b>LINK</b></a>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The belt is next on my list to buy. I'm currently using a range of residence rubber bands I've collected over the years. These are great too if you aren't that flexible yet and need help reaching certain positions. Link <a href="http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/1-2m-Elastic-Yoga-Pilates-Rubber-Stretch-Resistance-Exercise-Fitness-Band-/131492576404?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_3&var=&hash=item1e9d917c94" style="-webkit-transition: all 0.25s ease-out; margin: 0px !important; max-width: 100%; text-decoration: none; transition: all 0.25s ease-out;"><b>HERE</b></a> if you want to browser at some.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I hope this helps any yoga newbies out there. Have you ever tried yoga? Do you have any yoga essentials recommendations?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Angela x</span></div>
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Angela http://www.blogger.com/profile/15715175468213346973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1731917061350590444.post-17143542946081782682017-09-29T08:04:00.000+01:002017-09-29T08:04:28.902+01:00Tomato Butter Bean Cod Stew<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It's officially Autumn now and as soon as it strikes I want to pig out of soups and stews. I always find them so warm and cosy and perfect for this time of the year. Usually I eat stews containing meat, but last night I opted to make mine with white fish as thats what we had in the fridge. This is nothing I've ever attempted before, so I was not sure how it would turn out. Eek!</div>
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The meal took no longer than 30 minutes to prep and cook and can easily adapted. If you don't have butter beans, you can use another type or don't have a green pepper - use a yellow one! So what you'll actually need for this is...</div>
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A fillet of white fish - <i>I used cod</i></div>
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Cherry tomatoes</div>
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Butter beans</div>
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Green pepper</div>
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Olives</div>
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Passata</div>
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Salt, pepper, smoked paprika for seasoning.</div>
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I've given no measurements, as I am the type of cook who likes to wing it and throw in anything that I think will work. Luckily on this occasion it worked! So heres what you need to do...</div>
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Grab a big old frying pan and soften your chopped green pepper. Turn the heat down and then throw in passata, rinsed butter beans, the cherry tomatoes and your herbs and spices for seasoning. Let this simmer and give the passata a chance to thicken up. Just remember to stir now and again so it does not stick to the pan.</div>
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You can cook your fish any way you like, if you want to oven bake it or fry it in a shallow oil - then its up to you. I cooked mine in tin foil in the oven at the same time I was prepping and cooking the stew. It was just easier than keeping an eye on two pans at the same time.</div>
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Once your fish is cooked you can now add it to the wet dish. Depending on your preference, you can either flake it, cut it into chunks or just lay it on top. Give it all a stir and let it sit for a while so the fish can take on some of the flavours and thats it. You're ready to dive in and enjoy. </div>
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This is nice and healthy and not too stuffing like a classic stew. You'll certainly get your five a day with this dish.</div>
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Angela x</div>
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Angela http://www.blogger.com/profile/15715175468213346973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1731917061350590444.post-69017339582507242462017-09-23T08:19:00.000+01:002017-09-23T08:19:10.509+01:00Food Temptations And How To Avoid Them<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Whenever it was someones last day at work, it seemed like the tradition was to buy cake and lots of it. I know from personal experience it can be very difficult to avoid temptation when they, aka naughty treats are literally put under your nose. What I usually do which - sounds very weird is I sniff the food. Doughnuts, cakes, chocolate, biscuits whatever is, I'll take a deep breath through my nose...I take in the smell of it and that's enough for me. Strange I know, but there is no calories in sniffing, only when you eat it! True story. I'm quite lucky to have a strong will power most of the time, but I know others can struggle... here are some of my tips for you to avoid temptation.</div>
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<b>The Bigger Picture</b><br />
There is a very good saying... <i>A moment on the lips, a life time on the hips</i>. Just guesstimating, but I think you'll need to do approximately 500+ burpees to burn that slice of cake off. You fancy doing that really? No? Then put the spoon down my friend! If you eat it then remember have to burn it off! Keep in mind the bigger picture, don't let one piece of cake ruin it for you... If you eat it you might cave and want more bad things!<br />
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<b>Do You R<u>eally</u> Want It?</b><br />
Just because it's there does not mean you have to grab a fork and start digging in. If it was not there, would you rush out to the shops to buy something similar?? If the answer is no, then you don't really need it do you. Just walk away. <i>Yep</i> just keep walking.<br />
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<b>Visual Trick</b><br />
I like this trick where I visually change what the naughty food looks like. Instead of seeing cake for example, in my mind I just see a big bowl of sugar with a spoon. Seem very advertising now? Not really hey. No one would eat sugar with a spoon on its own would they?? Technically that's what cake is.... Just think about it.<br />
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<i><br /></i><b>Have Some...</b><br />
...but have a very <i>very</i> small portion. If you cannot keep the craving at bay or you've been healthy eating for a while then have a small piece and I mean SMALL!! If you've gone without sugar for a long time, it'll be out of your system. You might only be able to manage a small amount of cake, as you'll find the sugar in it too sweet and your stomach has reduced in size meaning you'll fill up faster. Afterwards you might think why did I bother?!<br />
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If you had some did you enjoy it? Was it really nourishing food? Naughty treats never are.<br />
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I hope these tips help someone. Do you have any tips??<br />
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); text-align: justify;">Angela x</span></div>
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<br />Angela http://www.blogger.com/profile/15715175468213346973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1731917061350590444.post-5031468290049474772017-09-19T07:22:00.000+01:002017-09-19T07:22:11.050+01:00Little Angels Bath and Sleep Time<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4tQCE8dHTuFV_ftmsFGfKp_KVKwKf-3wjZCpCjIIUu9IPuCA-Sai2652bAO2naby9LoZQaT73Q5osoCsn9zLu7O5ixpzj7BKs4afcFJba-i5Jtdy0IDSCQTf0G2r3L6ec7kG59nUWEQ0n/s1600/asda+little+angels+bath+time+bed+time.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4tQCE8dHTuFV_ftmsFGfKp_KVKwKf-3wjZCpCjIIUu9IPuCA-Sai2652bAO2naby9LoZQaT73Q5osoCsn9zLu7O5ixpzj7BKs4afcFJba-i5Jtdy0IDSCQTf0G2r3L6ec7kG59nUWEQ0n/s1600/asda+little+angels+bath+time+bed+time.jpg" /></a></div>
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I love to use cruelty free beauty and home products wherever possible. You can read <b><a href="http://chattingwithangela.blogspot.co.uk/2017/09/why-i-decided-to-go-cruelty-free.html">HERE</a></b> why I chose to go cruelty free. When I got pregnant and it came to the point of thinking about products for my little one, I knew I wanted to use cruelty free items with them too!</div>
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When I went to the <b><a href="http://chattingwithangela.blogspot.co.uk/2017/07/little-angels-newborn-nappies-by-asda.html">Asda Little Angels event at The Dorchester</a> </b>back in July, I was given the most amazing goodie bag. Luckily everything in the bag was cruelty free, which I was SO happy about. I thought I'd share with you the baby bath time products I received. There were a few bits for Mama too, but I'll share those on another post. So here's what my little bubba got...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRLxN4UcVXYQFkTz1eVt0wXngRmqrXLm19c1cpwgpdg5iEklKaueaNhI03bGWREfqu6pASBSBN2U0SANEThSQ2LQia_nSn9t6MdHPXvBESOBz-yyuBiLTZxdV-Iy3rn307FZNxr9kFpFHi/s1600/little+angels+asda+bed+time+bath+time.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRLxN4UcVXYQFkTz1eVt0wXngRmqrXLm19c1cpwgpdg5iEklKaueaNhI03bGWREfqu6pASBSBN2U0SANEThSQ2LQia_nSn9t6MdHPXvBESOBz-yyuBiLTZxdV-Iy3rn307FZNxr9kFpFHi/s1600/little+angels+asda+bed+time+bath+time.jpg" /></a></div>
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Newborns in the beginning don't become too dirty as they hardly wriggle around that much. However when it comes to the six week point where you can finally use products in bubba's bath, you can use this <b><a href="https://groceries.asda.com/product/baby-shampoo/asda-little-angels-conditioning-shampoo/910000821606">Conditioning Shampoo</a></b>. With its gentle no tears formula, this product keeps in mind how sensitive newborn skin really is. There are no parabens and it is hypoallergenic.<br />
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I think what I love the most from what I was gifted is the <b><a href="https://groceries.asda.com/product/baby-skincare/asda-little-angels-liquid-talc/910000226012">Liquid Talc</a></b>. I gave this little beauty a shout out in an earlier favourites post <b><a href="http://chattingwithangela.blogspot.co.uk/2017/08/a-few-of-my-recent-faves.html">HERE</a></b> as I was loving myself. Guilty! However I needed it for my chaffing thighs when it was hotter and it worked a treat. It provided me with lasting protection and really did the trick. I'd certainly have this on my shopping list when this runs out.<br />
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The <b><a href="https://groceries.asda.com/product/little-angels-sensitive-wipes/asda-little-angels-extra-sensitive-baby-wipes/910001252923">Extra Sensitive Wipes</a></b> come in a small packet of 15 wipes, which I think is the perfect size for perhaps little ones hospital bag. They also come in a bigger pack of 64 wipes. Great for at home use or in your nappy when you are out and about. The wipes can be used from day one, as they contain 98% purified water and are very soft and gentle.<br />
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Some babies will get a little sore under their nappies, for whatever reason. If your bubba is unfortunate to get a little bit of nappy rash, then don't worry. Asda sell a sensitive <b><a href="https://babyclub.asda.com/brands/littleangels/Toiletries/Babycare">Nappy Cream</a></b> which will help in no time at all. This rich cream is fragrance free and anti-bacterial to help babies bottoms feel better in no time. Like all Little Angels products, this it is paediatrician approved!<br />
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Now, if your little one is ready for bed but you just want to give a refresh as opposed to a top to bottom bath, these <b><a href="https://babyclub.asda.com/brands/littleangels/Toiletries/Bedtime">Extra Soft Bedtime Washcloths</a></b> are a fab option. Smelling of lavender and chamomile which will relax and calm baby before bedtime, these cloths are extra soft and larger than the normal wipes. They'll be no need to rinse or dry your sleepy head after using these - a really great option just before bed time.<br />
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All the products I mentioned at Mumsnet approved and tested. If real mums love it, then it cannot be a bad thing can it?! What products do you love to use on your little cherub?<br />
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Angela x<br />
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<i><b>*All products mentioned are PR samples</b></i></div>
Angela http://www.blogger.com/profile/15715175468213346973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1731917061350590444.post-89499937689284975842017-09-13T10:42:00.002+01:002017-09-13T10:42:45.983+01:00Happy 40th!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPyGMHbGQrVheLaBbFUzpnJO0OwlGuyPW4492EQY2aeBzx8FDcjF_FVwj_ujVYIqLlowa3IsN8TkQAwz3y_T3YGXpkznDSMEgbj478fBqa151KXEEh59QPFENqZFLSbBIk-hQoxZbi7T2x/s1600/thumb_IMG_4565_1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPyGMHbGQrVheLaBbFUzpnJO0OwlGuyPW4492EQY2aeBzx8FDcjF_FVwj_ujVYIqLlowa3IsN8TkQAwz3y_T3YGXpkznDSMEgbj478fBqa151KXEEh59QPFENqZFLSbBIk-hQoxZbi7T2x/s1600/thumb_IMG_4565_1024.jpg" /></a></div>
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Ha it's not my 40th birthday. I'm not at that milestone of my life just yet - I have a few years to go before I reach there. Thank god. Actually bubba and I are at full term! We reached 40 weeks <i>exactly</i> on Wednesday 6th. A milestone I thought I never see, because I never thought I'd be able to have a baby.<br />
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The finish line instead of being a blurry dot in the distance is now just a stone throw away - I just can't reach it yet as someone obviously didn't receive their eviction notice. I knew deep down that the little one wouldn't appear on its due date. Many people texted asking for news on the baby, which was sweet. Bless them for caring, but they do realise that not all babies arrive on their due dates. We're not talking a scheduled flight here - we're talking <i>babies</i>. They make up the rules as they go along.<br />
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It is little sad our little pumpkin hadn't arrived, as I always imagined that the 6th would be their birthday. I tried to get it out by vacuuming, cleaning the bathroom, doing a load of laundry, painting a fence...walking the dog - but no show. I've now got the big exercise ball out to bounce this baby out, whether it likes it or not.<br />
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Last Thursday I had my usual midwife check up at 40+1 weeks. They said to me at my previous appointment two weeks before, if I'd be interested in a sweep to encourage things to start. In the end we (the midwife and I) agreed to wait. We thought baby should have a chance to come when it wants to come and to start poking it at only one day overdue seemed a bit much. We booked an examination/sweep for yesterday to see how things were going. It didn't go totally to plan, so I am going back on Thursday for sweep number two. That's if I haven't had the munchkin already by then - however I doubt it.<br />
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Ideally I did not want to go so overdue, as I would have to be induced :-( Obviously I know I would have no control over that. If it does happens then the birthing unit at my hospital is out of the question and I'll be stuck on the labour ward which I don't want to be. I had the ideas of birthing pools, darken rooms and flicking fake candles - calm and serene. Now I think we're basically going to be poked, prodded and drugged until baby comes. When little one pops out we are going to be having words I tell you now!<br />
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What can I do to get this little one out? Any ideas? Help me!<br />
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Angela xAngela http://www.blogger.com/profile/15715175468213346973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1731917061350590444.post-45889466125290643102017-09-10T08:24:00.000+01:002017-09-10T08:24:08.089+01:00Things People Say To Pregnant Ladies<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWZUR3LwWXeBf7cRojrsPcfzL5ZerfEFdTvNIelZsj9SynUmd1IUiJD1Ws4E6I4oV3qthtpO6Rad-PSr8sDPO1y9hH1APRMQyFU3nJDPIr5mjzTpzZs74lsKHDurLbeNB6sYXs4ptDtuCg/s1600/IMG_4403.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWZUR3LwWXeBf7cRojrsPcfzL5ZerfEFdTvNIelZsj9SynUmd1IUiJD1Ws4E6I4oV3qthtpO6Rad-PSr8sDPO1y9hH1APRMQyFU3nJDPIr5mjzTpzZs74lsKHDurLbeNB6sYXs4ptDtuCg/s1600/IMG_4403.jpg" style="max-width: 100%;" /></a><br />
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I believe everyone thinks they can say whatever they like to you once you're pregnant. Everyone wants to know everything which is sweet, but they then comment on everything. Sometimes they say nice things, but other times they say thing which really make you feel either self-conscious or awkward. They probably don't mean it, but it's almost like their brains and mouths are not linked and come out with anything and everything. This is just a few comments I've received from random folk.<br />
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<strong>You're Looking SOOOO Big/Small </strong><strong>Today!</strong><br />
Are you calling me fat? Are you saying I don't look pregnant because I'm so small? Ha! It's a strange thing when people start to comment on your tummy area and its size. Is it acceptable to make comments? Would they like someone making remarks on the size of their tummies? <i>Rolls eyes...</i><br />
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<strong>Your Bump Looks Bigger </strong><br />
Well I am growing baby... so I will get bigger. It won't get any smaller will it really? I found my bump looked smaller and bigger on different days especially in the beginning due to bloating. Then when I got to my 7th/8th month, I am obviously bigger, so the daily comment of <i>you look bigger</i> subsided but only a little.<br />
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<strong>How Is The Baby?</strong><br />
I don't know why don't you ask it? I don't mean to sound bitchy and almost that I don't sound very appreciative saying this, but I sometimes think people forget you are still a person and not just an incubator for this little human growing in my tummy. Perhaps ask how I am first, then move on to the baby? Just an idea.<br />
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<strong>Your Life Is Going To Change - ALOT!</strong><br />
Well duh! I know. I'm not going through this pregnancy with my eyes closed. At the end of the day me and my hubby are bringing a new life into the world. I know it won't be a doddle or easy peasy. I trust to will change for certain.<br />
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<strong>You Look Glowing</strong><br />
Lol, thank you. It's not a pregnancy glow, it's makeup. I looked crap when I was suffering with morning sickness and full on mega tiredness. I didn't really care what I looked like and makeup became something I really did not think about. It just was not a priority in my life. Then later on when I hit trimester number two, it was like I had new batteries - I felt ALIVE! Back came in the makeup, followed by 'wow you look good/look glowing'. This is now because I care again.<br />
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<strong>It's Going To Hurt</strong><br />
Yawn, really you don't say. Pushing out a human child from my lady garden I can safely assume will not be painless. You really do not need to point out the obvious to me to be honest. However I know you will anyway.<br />
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<strong>You Look Tired</strong><br />
No shit Sherlock! I'm pregnant, I'm growing a human that is sucking the life out of me like a parasite (sorry baby but you kind of did) and probably no doubt suffering from morning sickness at the same time. I think people do not realise how much pregnancy can take it out of you and make you feel like crap!<br />
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<strong>Sit Down And Rest</strong><br />
Yes I know I know, but life does still continue when you're pregnant you know. The fairies aren't going to come along and do the washing up and laundry for me. You still have to go to work to earn money to pay the bills. I mean I do rest when I can, but I cannot put my feet up for 9 months and do nothing. Not very realistic.<br />
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<strong>You've Dropped!!</strong><br />
A fully packed out womb with baby and all isn't very light, especially when you're nearly full term. So it is a given that you might drop south because of gravity. Everyone then gets excited thinking baby is literally on its way because you've dropped. Keep calm people, keep calm.<br />
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I'll probably end up writing another post after the baby comes, no doubt called <em>things people say to ladies who have just had a baby</em>! I bet I'll some funny things to write on that post.<br />
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Angela xAngela http://www.blogger.com/profile/15715175468213346973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1731917061350590444.post-37818771845485760572017-09-08T16:30:00.000+01:002017-09-08T16:30:27.862+01:00Vionic Shoe Review: Minna Ballet Flats<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj92jf9setxrsX7j_bkJ2Q1qCozTRtQeFhJg7HNhjF3A0TIpUOLxkoxwc9yw2tcD9a7YJV8X0mQikPMED_3JFyMKIOwGuej2c-uOCyC6V9aDLnTX8-iVgHCIWkLOkPzIY_RAdioru3PBC1C/s1600/vionic+shoes+minna+grey+snake+skin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="873" data-original-width="1024" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj92jf9setxrsX7j_bkJ2Q1qCozTRtQeFhJg7HNhjF3A0TIpUOLxkoxwc9yw2tcD9a7YJV8X0mQikPMED_3JFyMKIOwGuej2c-uOCyC6V9aDLnTX8-iVgHCIWkLOkPzIY_RAdioru3PBC1C/s1600/vionic+shoes+minna+grey+snake+skin.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">For starters excuse the photobombing paws above, but they are so cute I had to leave them in! Cat lover over here.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Any-ho, o</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">ur poor little feet go through a battering during our lifetime don't they? They very much are used and abused and at certain stages of our lives they need a little help and support, especially during pregnancy. </span><b style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.vionicshoes.co.uk/">Vionic</a></b><span style="font-family: inherit;"> is shoe brand which has everything from boots, sandals, flip flops, trainers and more that has specialist technology designed by experts of all things feet.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Now you might assume that shoes designed and made by a podiatrist for chiropody and podiatry purposes might be ugly or granny like - wrong! They are actually really nice and you may be pleasantly surprised by how many styles there is to be had.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCSXNKHchpex98YS1lLNolM39Sby4XvlA7Esb27FjIkzzk-Q9pbv9i7XBLnwrcNcOFLBY-eIYA8exAKczqxTSIQ0GlEe4zB-ENUNX3GjfIY0YZk7st9Jlgt7UsUo_j-pEsSYWa_j1nseWj/s1600/vionic+shoes+minna+grey+snake+skin+rubber+sole.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCSXNKHchpex98YS1lLNolM39Sby4XvlA7Esb27FjIkzzk-Q9pbv9i7XBLnwrcNcOFLBY-eIYA8exAKczqxTSIQ0GlEe4zB-ENUNX3GjfIY0YZk7st9Jlgt7UsUo_j-pEsSYWa_j1nseWj/s1600/vionic+shoes+minna+grey+snake+skin+rubber+sole.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">When I was given the chance to try out a pair of Vionic shoes... I couldn't say no could I? My pregnant feeties needed the help! </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">I opted for the </span><b style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.vionicshoes.co.uk/women/flats/minna-ballet-flats-old.html">Minna Ballet Flats in Grey Snake</a>* </b><span style="font-family: inherit;">colour as I'm quite a fan of the good old ballet flat. My first impressions were 'ooo these are FANCY', as I'm so used to wearing a cheap pairs of Primark shoes. You could instantly see the quality in these shoes. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Made from durable materials with a faux snake skin pattern and the bow detailing on the </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">leather</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> toe cap - these are FAR from granny like I can tell you now! There is a firm yet flexible rubber sole that has the perfect grip, which is fab considering we're heading to the wetter months of the year.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Orthotic technology is high on the agenda with these shoes. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">They feature </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">FMT technology, a </span>biomechanic <span style="font-family: inherit;">removable </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">evaluated foot bed support that will help with the </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">natural alignment of the foot</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">. Because it is removable, on days where you might not feel up to having the extra support - all you got to do is remove the foot bed. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">They also come </span>with<span style="font-family: inherit;"> a deep heel to help with support and stability - no more excuses for falling over.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">It may feel kind of strange at first wearing the shoes with the support which I discovered. If you're used to wearing a certain style of shoe, then wearing a pair of Vionic's for the first couple of times might seem uncomfortable. However you will soon adapt and they will feel like a dream to put on your feet. As I'm used to putting on flat flip flops or ballet pumps to begin with these felt a little odd, however I got used to them after a few wears out and about.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Another great thing about Vionic is they also sell half sizes, so if your feet are not the standard size then not to worry Vionic have got your back or your foot should I say?!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">If you want to browse the digital aisles of what Vionic have to offer (and there is a lot trust me) well the link is <a href="http://www.vionicshoes.co.uk/"><b>HERE</b></a>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Angela x</span><br />
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<i><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">* AD/PR Sample (All opinions are my own as always!)</span></b></i></div>
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Angela http://www.blogger.com/profile/15715175468213346973noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1731917061350590444.post-71841119642221099262017-09-07T09:56:00.001+01:002017-09-07T09:56:52.411+01:00Why I Decided To Go Cruelty Free<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Firstly I write this post not with the intention of spreading my opinion around and forcing people to chose my way of life. That's not what I'm about - I'm not a bully or a brain washer. Everyone has the right to make their own choices in life and do as they wish, however I am about educating people wherever I can. So if I do end up changing your mind, well that will make me a happy trooper.<br />
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I'm a big softy when it comes to animals, ask any one who knows me. When I took the above picture of the bunny in Cornwall I pretty much said ahh at every picture I took of it. I'm so soft that if I see a bee walking on the floor I have to try and move in case someone steps on it and kills it. I'll jump over a line of ants walking in the garden and I am always chatting to my cat like she knows what I'm saying to her - <i>I swear she does</i>. I'm a soppy animal lover through and through and I'm proud to admit it.<br />
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I've currently been cruelty free (CF) for approximately 2 years. I first got an insight to the CF world when I went to a blogging event years ago for the Tara Smith. I can remember when she was introducing her brand to us all, that she was so PASSIONATE about the products being CF and containing no animal products. I think I fell in love with the idea of being CF from that moment onwards thanks to Tara. Here was a hair stylist to the stars of Hollywood telling us all that you don't need products containing animal products and that have been tested on them to look good. She changed me, forced my eyes open wide and I'm very grateful for it. After that moment I started to research brands and look at everything I owned.<br />
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Before I become CF I loved big makeup brands - posh expensive brands that look friggin' amazing. You know the ones I'm talking about right? If you see back on my blog and YouTube channel there are lots of posts and videos I've created which contain brands like them. Sadly a lot of them test on animals. Sometimes it's not the companies themselves that do it, but third parties when it is required by law - namely China where it <i>is</i> the law. Before any foreign beauty product can be sold in China it must be tested on an animal - sad but true. You can read this post from <a href="http://www.crueltyfreekitty.com/cruelty-free-101/animal-testing-china/"><b>Cruelty-Free Kitty</b></a> which talks more about brands and the whys. Cruelty-Free Kitty is a great source I like to visit to keep up to date with all things CF.<br />
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Annoyingly you really have to have your wits about you when choosing brands. I've had to check their small print on their websites. Some give the impression they are CF in the policies, saying things like <i>'we do not test on animals or ask anyone else to do so on our behalf - unless required by law'</i>. Argh! The reason why these brands sell in china is because of the money - pure and simple. Greedy people want to line their pockets with as much money as possible at the cost of the animals. It makes me angry and so sad that is the reason. China and it's beauty market is huge and worth billions. However there is some hope as not all beauty brands opt to sell there because of their laws. They still make money and not at the expense of animals in laboratories.<br />
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Luckily in the EU it is against the law to test on animals for the beauty industry. Praise the lord! I'm not sure why China cannot follow suit - If the EU doesn't do it then why them? Perhaps in the future China will rethink their policies and follow in the EU's foot steps.<br />
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The reason why I chose to become CF is because I didn't want to be apart of it any more. Putting money in the pockets of the greedy and the animals being used as beauty product testers. It made me feel sick ... how can a animal lover like myself do it? To use a product, that an animal has had to suffer bad treatment and testing to make sure its good enough for us humans? It made perfect sense to me now to end my association with <i>these</i> companies.<br />
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There are so many brands that are CF, so there is no need to worry your little socks thinking where will your next tube of foundation will come from if you merge into CF products. There are plenty of cool amazing brands out there which will surprise you. Why do you think I'm always having Lush baths? ;-)<br />
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Anyways, I hope this post sheds some light on the decisions I have made to be CF. Perhaps this will encourage you to think about the products you use.<br />
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Angela x</div>
Angela http://www.blogger.com/profile/15715175468213346973noreply@blogger.com0