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[Post contains PR sample]

Despite our best intentions, Eliza has amassed a lot of toys in her (almost) two years on this earth. This means it really takes something quite special to hold her attention for any length of time as she is constantly flitting to the next thing, and the next. We were very kindly sent this 120 piece pastel creative pack by Connetix and both Bob and myself are amazed at just how many hours have been spent playing with this already- more than any other toy Eliza has ever owned!

Connetix tiles are great for so many reasons:

Engaging in creative play with Connetix Tiles promotes several benefits:

  • Encourages Creativity and Imagination: Children are encouraged to unleash their creative potential and let their imaginations soar as they design and build.
  • Develops Fine and Gross Motor Skills: Through hands-on construction, children enhance their dexterity and physical coordination.
  • Supports STEAM Learning: Construction play actively supports learning in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics, fostering a well-rounded skill set.
  • Promotes Problem Solving and Perseverance: As children encounter challenges during construction, they develop problem-solving abilities and learn the value of persistence.
  • Open-Minded and Versatile: Connetix offers endless possibilities, allowing children to experiment, innovate, and explore various designs.
  • Spatial Awareness: Magnetic play helps children develop a better understanding of spatial relationships and geometry as they create and manipulate objects.
  • Magnetic Learning: Magnetic properties provide an introduction to the principles of magnetism and physics, making it an ideal tool for STEAM education.

We’ve spent many a happy hour constructing towers and buildings as a family. Eliza now has a well established career in demolition too! The tiles are also amazing for solo play, which means mummy can supervise from the sofa and drink a hot cup of tea!

Whilst the Connetix products are on the pricier side (this kit retails at £115) both Bob and I have agreed they are 100% worth it as the possibilities are endless and already we’ve seen huge improvements in Eliza’s colour and shape recognition, ability to build towers and problem solve with them as well as utilise her constructions with other toys for imaginative play. There are small packs available, as well as add-ons and we’ve got our eye on a couple for Eliza’s christmas list- the ball run expansion pack being top of that list (well, our grown up lists actually!)

Whilst this was a PR sample, and a product we probably would have been put off of purchasing due to the price, this review is 100% honest and we genuinely are blown away by Connetix and what it has bought to family play time. I cannot speak highly enough of the brand and I can promise you purchases will be made, soon.

Posted in baby, review, toddler, toys

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How to Run a Business That Basically Runs Itself*

03rd October 2023

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You might think that the title of this post sounds like nothing more than pie in the sky, and you could be forgiven for thinking that, but in the modern, tech-driven world we live in, it really is starting to be a possibility; you really can run a business that basically runs itself, with a little help from you, of course. Here’s how:

1. Smart Automation is the Name of the Game!

Ever heard the saying “Work smarter, not harder”? Invest in automating tedious tasks. From automated email responses and marketing campaigns to self-updating inventory systems, there are tools galore that can shave hours off your working week. You set ’em up, they do the heavy lifting.

2. Accounting Software for the Win!

Gone are the days of piles of receipts and late-night number crunching. With modern accounting software, not only can you track your finances in real-time, but many programs also offer insights into spending patterns and potential savings. Wave goodbye to the calculator and say hello to streamlined financial insights!

3. Delegate, Delegate, Delegate!

If you’re a control freak (and hey, many of us business owners are), delegation might sound like a scary word. But here’s the thing: hiring and training competent team members can free up your time exponentially. Trust in their skills, give them autonomy, and watch them flourish – all while you focus on the bigger picture. If you’ve picked the right staff, this really shouldn’t be a problem!

4. Embrace Virtual Assistants

Not ready for full-time staff? No worries. Virtual assistants (VAs) are an absolute boon. From managing your calendar, responding to client emails, or even handling your social media, VAs can be the multi-tasking ninjas every entrepreneur needs. Just make sure you hire a reputable one from a good agency and that you have good contracts drawn up if confidentiality is likely to be an issue for your business.

5. Set Clear Processes

While you might know the ins and outs of your business, your team might not. By setting clear, easily accessible processes for every task, you make it easier for anyone to understand their roles. Think of it as an instruction manual for your business.

6. Outsource Like a Pro

Don’t have expertise in a specific area? Outsource it. Whether it’s content creation, SEO optimisation, or graphic design, there are platforms and professionals ready to step in. No need to wear every hat in the business.

7. Stay Updated with Feedback Loops

For a business to run itself, you need to be in the loop without actively intervening. Set up weekly or monthly feedback sessions, read customer reviews, and keep an eye on performance metrics. It keeps you informed and helps in course correction if things veer off track.

As you can see, the future really is here, and you really can run a business with much less sweat and toil than ever before, so whether you’ve already founded a company and you’re looking to increase efficiency or you are just starting out and wondering if running a business is possible for you, why mot adopt some of the time-saving methods above? You won’t regret it if you do!

Posted in work

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8 Easy Desserts That Use Eggs*

11th August 2023

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When most of us think of ways to use eggs, we tend to think of savoury dishes like omelettes or fried breakfast. However, there are many sweet dishes that also heavily incorporate eggs. If you’ve got some spare eggs to use up, why not consider one of these 8 dessert options?

Vanilla custard

Vanilla custard is typically made from milk or cream, which is then thickened and given its distinct yellow colour by adding egg yolks. Sugar and vanilla extract is then added to sweeten it. Making custard at home is very easy as this custard recipe outlines. While you can eat custard on its own (the Teletubbies do), most people prefer to serve it with another dessert (such as a pie, a sponge or a strudel). Of course, egg custard doesn’t have to just contain vanilla and can incorporate other flavourings too.

Custard tarts

Once you know how to make custard, you can try your hand at custard tarts. These consist of a pastry crust and egg custard filling. Custard tarts are typically cupcake-sized, however you can make a larger custard pie if you’d prefer. 

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Flan

Flans consist of egg custard which is baked to help it set and coated in caramel. There are variations of this dessert across Europe. Creme caramel or Mexican flan is one variation that is cooked upside down. There are lots of online recipes that can teach you how to make a flan like this.

Crème brulee

Creme brulee is a bit like a flan in that it is made from baked egg custard. However, it has a layer of hardened caramelised sugar on the top. This hardened sugar topping can be hard to pull off – many chefs cheat and use a mini blowtorch. However, you can achieve this effect without one.

Eclairs

Consisting of a pastry casing and egg custard filling, eclairs are a tasty dessert favourite that are surprisingly simple to make. Eclairs are often served coated in chocolate. You can find a recipe here to learn how to make eclairs.

Meringue

While yolk is used to make custard, egg whites can be used to make meringue. You only really need two ingredients to make meringue – sugar and egg whites. However, you can also add a touch of lemon for acidity or use flour to help the meringue bind. Visit this page to find out how to make meringue.

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Pavlova

Once you can bake meringue, you can then attempt homemade pavlova. This is essentially a giant meringue topped in cream and fruit. Raspberries, strawberries and blueberries are some of the most common fruits that are added.

Eggnog cheesecake

Love eggnog? Love cheesecake? If so, a unique Christmas dessert worth trying is eggnog cheesecake. This is achieved by blending eggnog into the cheesecakes cream cheese filling. You can make your own eggnog mixture by blending eggs, nutmeg and a spirit such as rum or bourbon. It’s up to you as to how boozy you want to make it.

Posted in food

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Diamonds Aren’t Everything: Discover 8 Alternative Gemstones That Are Even More Symbolic*

02nd May 2023

Diamonds have long been seen as the go-to gemstone. And sure, they may be every girl’s best friend. But there are so many more gemstones out there with their own unique meanings, symbolism, and beauty.

So if you’re tired of the same old diamond jewellery. Or maybe you just want to add some personality and meaning to your accessories. Well, you’re in luck. Because whatever you’re looking for, there’s a precious stone out there for you. 


Image by Karolina Grabowska via Pexels

Ruby: Passion And Courage

Let’s start off this collection right with a fiery ruby. Famous for their deep red hue, rubies have long been associated with courage and promoting confidence in wearers. This variety of corundum ranges in shade from deep red to pink hues, known for symbolizing passion, energy, vitality.

Are you in search of an energy booster that will ignite the spark within? Look no further than rubies. They offer incredible clarity that can ignite passion inside of us all.

Turquoise: Protection And Healing

Turquoise, an eye-catching mineral ranging in colour from blue-green to greenish-yellow, has long been valued for its aesthetic properties. And it’s often associated with protection, healing, and emotional balance. Both of which it brings when worn as jewelry. Turquoise’s popularity in boho or tribal-inspired rings remains timeless as well.

Bringing boho style together with healing and protection, turquoise is an excellent gemstone to choose.

Sapphire: Wisdom And Truth

Sapphire, another variety of corundum, is widely revered for its deep blue colour. But, there are also rarer varieties including pink, yellow, and green hues. Sapphire’s have traditionally been linked to wisdom, truth, and spiritual enlightenment, making them popular choices in meditation practices and spiritual rituals alike. As well as engagement rings or meaningful jewellery because of their durability.

So if you’ve been looking for a gemstone to bring you clarity and insight, then the sapphire might be the perfect fit.

Aquamarine: Courage And Communication

Onto the underrated aquamarine. A member of the beryl family, ranges in hue from light blue to blue-green. Often used in engagement rings and other fine jewellery, it’s said that aquamarine promotes clear communication and self-expression. Aquamarine is also believed to have a calming effect on the mind and body. It’s no wonder it’s a popular choice for stress relief and relaxation.

Aquamarine can help soothe stress and rejuvenate, so don’t overlook its benefits for relaxation. 

Emerald: Balance And Harmony

Now let’s turn our focus onto the beautiful Emerald. A variety of beryl, it is known for its vibrant green colour which symbolises love, loyalty and fidelity. And it’s believed to bring hope and renewal. Emerald’s are said to help foster relationships by representing growth and abundance, promoting harmony between partners. Not to mention being highly sought after due to both spiritual properties as well as rarity and beauty.

Have you been seeking a precious stone that can bring you a sense of peace and balance? The emerald might be the right choice.

Amethyst: Clarity And Peace

Then we have the mesmerising amethyst. A variety of quartz that ranges in hue from deep purple to light lavender. It’s long been prized as decorative items and jewellery pieces due to its beauty and spiritual properties. Widely recognized as spiritual tools as well as healing agents, amethyst is widely associated with clarity of thought, intuition, awareness, and serenity. The perfect choice for anyone searching for inner peace.

Amethyst might just be a match made in heaven if you’re looking for a gemstone that can enhance your inner wisdom and insight.

Topaz: Creativity And Abundance

Next is Topaz. An extremely versatile mineral with various hues that’s often associated with joy, abundance, and positivity in life. The most popular, golden yellow-hued Topaz stones, have long been used as symbols of creativity and self-expression. Perfect for anyone hoping to attract positivity into their life. Historically used for communication, creativity, self-expression, or simply looking good.

To attract positivity and get you thinking more creatively, topaz is the mineral for you.

Pearls: Wisdom And Purity

Last, but certainly not least, the pearl. Now, technically not a gemstone, pearls are worth a mention because of how beautiful and unique they are. Pearls, formed inside the shells of certain mollusks, actually come in a range of colours, including white, pink, and black. But the most popular are the classic white or cream pearls. Often associated with wisdom, purity, and innocence, pearls uk are valued for their rarity and beauty. Making them a popular choice for bridal jewellery and other special occasions.

Pearls may not be as flashy as some other gemstones, but if you’re looking for an understated classic, they’re perfect. 

Conclusion

Diamonds may be a girl’s best friend, but they’re not the only gemstone out there. By exploring the meanings of alternative gemstones, you can find the perfect gemstone that speaks to your unique personality and style. Bringing a whole new level of significance to your jewellery collection.

Whether you’re drawn to the passion of the ruby, the wisdom of the sapphire, the harmony of the emerald, the intuition of the amethyst, or the self-expression of the topaz, there’s a gemstone out there for you. 

So next time you’re in the market for a new piece of jewellery, don’t be afraid to think outside the diamond box!

Posted in jewellery

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Meideya Jewellery*

03rd April 2023

Long time readers of my site will know how much I love a good jewellery brand, and I’ve been lucky enough to work with many over the years in which I have been blogging.
Most recently, a brand called Meideya Jewellery came to my attention, and they were kind enough to send me a couple of their pieces (gifted) to consider featuring.

Before I get on to the goods, a little about the brand;

Meideya is a woman owned company who’s passion is selling sustainable, stylish jewellery at affordable prices. They have new products landing weekly meaning they keep bang up to date with current trends; you’ll find something to cater to all tastes- it doesn’t matter if you prefer dainty or chunky jewellery, bold or minimal…you’ll find it on Meideya.

The first piece I chose was the Love Wave ring which costs £38.75. I love the two tone look of this piece as I flit between yellow gold and silver on a regular basis- this is the perfect every day ring for me. It’s made of stainless steel plated with 18k gold and is part of the Waterproof jewelery collection. It’s a brilliant standalone piece, but also looks great when worn as part of a stack.

The second piece I selected was the Emerald Stone pendant, £39.59. I love how bold this is, with the vibrant green stone and 18k gold plated stainless steel chain (again making it water proof and tarnish proof). This is a great necklace for everyday wearing, or for a more layered approach with a plain gold chain or a choker. I’m really impressed with the quality of the chain; it’s withstood the toddler “grab and pull” test very well!

You can see more Meideya style over on their instagram too. Go check them out!

Posted in jewellery

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