tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-65567751005410503612024-03-13T02:46:15.068+00:00 Lazy Mum Club. parenting . beauty . lifestyle . littlegem92http://www.blogger.com/profile/15802530705764563191noreply@blogger.comBlogger76125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6556775100541050361.post-82764948326689119512020-12-01T18:18:00.000+00:002020-12-01T18:18:04.485+00:00My Favourite Parenting Bloggers and Instagrammer<p><span style="font-family: arial;">Hey everyone!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Hope you are all surviving lockdown 2.0... nearly there now!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I am loving instagram right now and have been focusing a lot of energy into making more creative content. Its also so great seeing other parents content on Instagram and on the blogs. I love looking at different parenting styles and potentially learning new things i can use in my own family life!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I have compiled a little list of some of my favourite blogs and instagram accounts!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFft7OjQUrQHvipq0Wl8IOgRh2GWeAHVks4qSwInB1OHRdznsyJIHzyHgcfpeIlw_HDtbCqklF7BPKMj3urihc2B7fMJzJD93fUMTjnhYoJzwSvMFFN17m97sNz6gc_8AespAC-fisoV7p/s599/Thebreakingdad.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="545" data-original-width="599" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFft7OjQUrQHvipq0Wl8IOgRh2GWeAHVks4qSwInB1OHRdznsyJIHzyHgcfpeIlw_HDtbCqklF7BPKMj3urihc2B7fMJzJD93fUMTjnhYoJzwSvMFFN17m97sNz6gc_8AespAC-fisoV7p/s320/Thebreakingdad.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><u><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><div><u><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>The Breaking Dad </b></span></u></div></b></span></u><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">One of my favourite accounts I came across this year is Dan's Instagram</span><span style="font-family: arial;">. </span><br style="font-family: arial;" /><span style="font-family: arial;">Dan is father to beautiful little Evie. His account started when he wanted to show the dad's view point when split parents make the decision to co-parent. More often than not we are shown the mothers perspective, and not the fathers, and it is so refreshing to see Dan with his daughter playing, doing activities and enjoying everyday life.</span><br style="font-family: arial;" /><span style="font-family: arial;">As well as documenting their </span><span style="font-family: arial;">beautiful father-daughter moments together on Instagram</span><span style="font-family: arial;">, Dan has a written blog (link above) where he writes honestly about the ups and downs of being a single parent, as well as fantastic parenting tips and ideas.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center; text-decoration-line: underline;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7s8sQIE6iMV8grTteMZJ6Syd7RGOICK51Tjj1qIXUgBTAMu3H2MvmYO9Xs-2qb1IZta49RhZG2TeVwF38UFu3Y4oArzOe4hpbMVDco_Nx-PN4Mwe22MxhyphenhyphenP3kh3GbU8NvsD0rMjpRkx2S/s733/breakingdadinsta.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="733" data-original-width="722" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7s8sQIE6iMV8grTteMZJ6Syd7RGOICK51Tjj1qIXUgBTAMu3H2MvmYO9Xs-2qb1IZta49RhZG2TeVwF38UFu3Y4oArzOe4hpbMVDco_Nx-PN4Mwe22MxhyphenhyphenP3kh3GbU8NvsD0rMjpRkx2S/s320/breakingdadinsta.jpg" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><b style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><br /></b></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Insta handle: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/the_breaking_dad/?hl=en" target="_blank">@the_breaking_dad</a><br />Website: <a href="https://www.thebreakingdad.co.uk/">https://www.thebreakingdad.co.uk/</a></span></p><p><br /></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Follow him for the cutest pictures and honest insights into the life of a single parent!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></p><p><b style="font-family: arial;"><u><br /></u></b></p><p><br /></p><p><b style="font-family: arial;"></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8-7t-N1-Z1YSnax_2jk-AS_5KXMSKIYAMHtxUAOeS7qs_IKNsvMqye-WO8twEpsrwSQdCHRjjo9wkinJy1GqykcqnGb1QnvJ2dpIOPMGK5sY7cJoPYRmajed7qoz-LpN5M79ygYFBQxRV/s738/londonpaleo.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="730" data-original-width="738" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8-7t-N1-Z1YSnax_2jk-AS_5KXMSKIYAMHtxUAOeS7qs_IKNsvMqye-WO8twEpsrwSQdCHRjjo9wkinJy1GqykcqnGb1QnvJ2dpIOPMGK5sY7cJoPYRmajed7qoz-LpN5M79ygYFBQxRV/s320/londonpaleo.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></div><b style="font-family: arial;"><br /><u><br /></u></b><p></p><p><b style="font-family: arial;"><u>Tessa Kelly</u></b></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Insta handle: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/londonpaleogirl/?hl=en" target="_blank">@londonpaleogirl</a><br />Website: <a href="http://www.londonpaleogirl.com/">http://www.londonpaleogirl.com</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I began following Tessa long before she became a mamma for her delicious recipes and lifestyle tips. Recently she has focused her content more on parenthood, which is fabulous! I love how she has tailored her niche to include parents, particularly new mums!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Follow her for health and fitness tips, as well as gorgeous pics of her baby girl, Clara!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><u>Ciara Attwell</u></b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><u><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgzLD15eWgcbEgVAJVI67tkgiqdcro4p7zxeO5y96y1-CCq_rtn2wtbQsqz1y-cHKchX62jpeiQLdylAgBA73BAe8JySkrSy6o9rxfsVWIFKa0kCkszxwi-8wOikG-P_QFUiaajOjx5Gh_/s735/myfussyeater.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="729" data-original-width="735" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgzLD15eWgcbEgVAJVI67tkgiqdcro4p7zxeO5y96y1-CCq_rtn2wtbQsqz1y-cHKchX62jpeiQLdylAgBA73BAe8JySkrSy6o9rxfsVWIFKa0kCkszxwi-8wOikG-P_QFUiaajOjx5Gh_/s320/myfussyeater.jpg" width="320" /></a></u></b></span></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Insta handle:<a href="https://www.instagram.com/myfussyeater/" target="_blank">@myfussyeater</a><br />Website: <a href="http://www.myfussyeater.com">www.myfussyeater.com</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">If you ever struggle to get your little one to eat ANYTHING, give My Fussy Eater a go! I used to struggle so much to get Issy to eat anything other than sausages and plain pasta. Ciara's account popped up on Instagram, and o was instantly amazed by the tips and tricks she had to encourage your kids to try new foods.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Ciara has two children and started her blog in an attempt to get her very fussy daughter to eat better! She now has a cookbook (which I highly recommend by the way!) and also an app! Her Smokey Meatball Pasta Bake is a hit in our house as well as her Chicken and Chorizo Paella.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p><u><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Instagrammers</b><br /></span></u></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Here are a few instagammers and influencers I love to see on my feed! They make me smile everyday and i really enjoy seeing their content!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><b></b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLQ4M39TrDWsiCNHzVDBvYLyFaFBAXs12KAz-P67CG-0vy5K8D197TGHPxmoQKq6SyQOmIxMrvN6oHo_5x6zzASDz4FuprYW65Pg9RKNrwNkQ3uKet-aqvvg8X8BTmbFx1e6_5R5ywlNm6/s741/nhutella.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="725" data-original-width="741" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLQ4M39TrDWsiCNHzVDBvYLyFaFBAXs12KAz-P67CG-0vy5K8D197TGHPxmoQKq6SyQOmIxMrvN6oHo_5x6zzASDz4FuprYW65Pg9RKNrwNkQ3uKet-aqvvg8X8BTmbFx1e6_5R5ywlNm6/s320/nhutella.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><br />Michelle Nhu</b> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/nhutella_/?hl=en" target="_blank">@nhutella_</a></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">If you are you ever looking for mother daughter goals LOOK NO FURTHER! Omg, when i mean goals, i mean GOALS. Michelle and her two daughters are the most gorgeous creatures ever, I LOVE seeing their posts! Their matching outfits are so cute and instantly boost my mood! a very beautifully curated feed, highly recommend following!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p><b style="font-family: arial;"><br /></b></p><p><b style="font-family: arial;"><br /></b></p><p><b style="font-family: arial;">Val Paradiso</b><span style="font-family: arial;"> </span><a href="https://www.instagram.com/happyathomewithval/?hl=en" style="font-family: arial;" target="_blank">@happyhomewithval</a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuE7WtikcwgdtjX_8nzuU0yVTyB9GUQvIXlGn0A_dm1A5kDBlbGRzgLlM-i_oMMjMsG4VQE_MHV8b5-Q0efmp2sFqk1Ad23sHHCcGd6saoCn2mnj1bBTG-fE_1YyHnUjNNWp2c8CCDxKZ9/s737/valparadiso.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="715" data-original-width="737" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuE7WtikcwgdtjX_8nzuU0yVTyB9GUQvIXlGn0A_dm1A5kDBlbGRzgLlM-i_oMMjMsG4VQE_MHV8b5-Q0efmp2sFqk1Ad23sHHCcGd6saoCn2mnj1bBTG-fE_1YyHnUjNNWp2c8CCDxKZ9/s320/valparadiso.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><p><span style="font-family: arial;">A lifestyle and DIY queen - Val posts loads beautiful pictures of her home and ehr creations. She shares tutorials, as well as a few recipes too. Im loving her Christmas content at the moment! Check it out if you need some inspiration for the Christmas festive period!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><b></b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg64gZykCpnuyuqDXWHQRJJpxwmr_fc5ekltmaa971C0qlcCqHqCJ94jnWsP4lwRB7fdMwGVjwh5SW0dpS5l-TAU9Xx3OQeo3t5Iczm6QJnTE66rU3fsCC11GYR1Jq0FFT4X975azgwRvXA/s749/mummyandmason.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="708" data-original-width="749" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg64gZykCpnuyuqDXWHQRJJpxwmr_fc5ekltmaa971C0qlcCqHqCJ94jnWsP4lwRB7fdMwGVjwh5SW0dpS5l-TAU9Xx3OQeo3t5Iczm6QJnTE66rU3fsCC11GYR1Jq0FFT4X975azgwRvXA/s320/mummyandmason.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><br />Jessica Wetherall-Buckle</b> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mummy_and_mason/?hl=en" target="_blank">@mummy_and_mason</a></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">A newer follow for me, but a firm favourite already!<br />Jessica posts AMAZING ideas for creative play for your little ones. Her set ups are super cute and so beautifully thought out. Her feed is perfect and so pleasing to look at, I look forward to her posts!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZh_uvrwQNis4WwaZhiN3fwjofay4wSFay29OAYoX_Anf38BUqZx-oKoP4Nnn62beuETd96GIXOOaX2IzkbteDbhnKoa7UNe1nHAMh4qZpZ5ncxBSBJcqAbwiZ7bgUfgh6_1yHl2GTaPGl/s729/whatmummymakes.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="716" data-original-width="729" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZh_uvrwQNis4WwaZhiN3fwjofay4wSFay29OAYoX_Anf38BUqZx-oKoP4Nnn62beuETd96GIXOOaX2IzkbteDbhnKoa7UNe1nHAMh4qZpZ5ncxBSBJcqAbwiZ7bgUfgh6_1yHl2GTaPGl/s320/whatmummymakes.jpg" width="320" /></a></span><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Rebecca Wilson</b> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/whatmummymakes/?hl=en" target="_blank">@whatmummymakes</a><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Another mummy chef! Rebecca's concept of cooking once for you and your children is brilliant, and to be honest perfect for busy parents who cant be dealing with cooking separately for their children.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Rebecca also has a cookbook out, which I've not yet tried, but by the looks of her Instagram, it is definitely something i am considering purchasing!</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I hope your found this little guide helpful! Instagram can be a bit saturated full of accounts, it can be a little hard to filter through them all to find the ones who will post valuable content!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJLLH0pmuP6k5nl0yd_GAuXVrbJtAOIKQIqWW2z8Z1m25z3UmiLG5uxasunQELhbXMr1KFo4_malT7OMhm_10MgS3ML-77e0oxJjfF1xsmhjOCGUZithtIh5dIjJnkqBxy8i6s78k8uPlT/s2048/New+Project+2020-11-23+22_12_01.jpeg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1465" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJLLH0pmuP6k5nl0yd_GAuXVrbJtAOIKQIqWW2z8Z1m25z3UmiLG5uxasunQELhbXMr1KFo4_malT7OMhm_10MgS3ML-77e0oxJjfF1xsmhjOCGUZithtIh5dIjJnkqBxy8i6s78k8uPlT/s320/New+Project+2020-11-23+22_12_01.jpeg" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">If you're interested in my Instagram, I post about BTS of parenthood (Insta vs reality for example), as well as a few lifestyle topics (PCOS, anxiety etc) and Fashion/beauty!<br />I hate that because I'm "a mummy now" I ham expected to look a certain way or post on Instagram a certain way (mum bun, plain, unthought through images of my kids with no meaning behind them etc...) </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixYR7i1DrwjDe9YDxZncOUqL0Jt7v2mmsOyyp52wB0hh6ce_ICyR8rLXLufiPA6xN4Yer7-L-qHhrUcln_YxR615W71xmPCX3sKzB52qeWU3jCEOyBhkrz6Va5xOodW6AtcNFNydlWM1V8/s2048/New+Project+2020-11-25+19_43_04.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixYR7i1DrwjDe9YDxZncOUqL0Jt7v2mmsOyyp52wB0hh6ce_ICyR8rLXLufiPA6xN4Yer7-L-qHhrUcln_YxR615W71xmPCX3sKzB52qeWU3jCEOyBhkrz6Va5xOodW6AtcNFNydlWM1V8/s320/New+Project+2020-11-25+19_43_04.jpeg" /></a></span></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Through my content I am trying to show that i can still be the glam person i was before kids, interested in skincare and fashion etc and still have something valuable to say about parenting! I am definitely not "that mum" </span><span style="font-family: arial;">who focuses her energy entirely on being a parent and forgets about who she is (hence my handle "Lazymumclub"), but i am still a mother and have experiences that i can share with you all that hopefully can be helpful to some of you!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">So if you're interested , please do give me a follow <a href="https://www.instagram.com/lazymumclub/?hl=en" target="_blank">@lazymumclub</a></span></p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9VceO2JO1M8_HA0fezYhL7X4ojGwYvfsHwALEXsKQrbeiHFHvxDEkFOxRZ4P0NO_fsXsfLszSJo2mmaKL6Fp8MdJstfvCF74x8SMYHWD30yHvUAib29Sd61_hUr_j3oP8VOVL70Z-0aGx/s2048/New+Project+2020-11-07+21_47_51.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1513" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9VceO2JO1M8_HA0fezYhL7X4ojGwYvfsHwALEXsKQrbeiHFHvxDEkFOxRZ4P0NO_fsXsfLszSJo2mmaKL6Fp8MdJstfvCF74x8SMYHWD30yHvUAib29Sd61_hUr_j3oP8VOVL70Z-0aGx/w472-h640/New+Project+2020-11-07+21_47_51.jpeg" width="472" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">lots of love :)</div><br /><p><br /></p>littlegem92http://www.blogger.com/profile/15802530705764563191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6556775100541050361.post-20449933386035038172020-11-08T18:00:00.002+00:002020-11-08T18:00:14.005+00:00 Wedding Update<p><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">*Sips teas <span style="font-weight: bold;">AHEM</span> gin*</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">2020 - What a bitch am I right??</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Remember when we are all like “oh fuck 2019, 2020 is my year... it’s ALL about 2020, bitches! Bring on 2020!” </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Well...</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">...2019 take me back, I’m so sorry, I didn't mean what I said... please take me back!?</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">As many of you may have guessed from Boris Johnson’s most recent lockdown announcement, my wedding is not going to be going ahead this year.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">My partner and I have made the difficult decision to postpone our wedding buy not one but TWO bleeding years. *infuses gin with tears*</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8j-2npJfMSPIlI6Jw3r0OJ0Bcqgrp5Fq65W6vvxrJzeQ48lYGv_SjkT22hCDlaqL6Slj9ztF3R6IwnEFfIfLHil1ZRIKc9CGBjio5KmTsagPVdhz6n7pygXJdafcqzCB3QKhEf__qegst/s2048/IMG_6473.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8j-2npJfMSPIlI6Jw3r0OJ0Bcqgrp5Fq65W6vvxrJzeQ48lYGv_SjkT22hCDlaqL6Slj9ztF3R6IwnEFfIfLHil1ZRIKc9CGBjio5KmTsagPVdhz6n7pygXJdafcqzCB3QKhEf__qegst/w480-h640/IMG_6473.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><br /></div><br /><br /><p></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">We weren’t certain whether or not we could still have our wedding this year until the beginning of October when Bojo restricted weddings to 15 people. We knew that wasn’t going to work for us. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">I mean, us plus the 5 piece band we’ve paid for , the photographer and two videographers already make 10... plus the venue staff - wasn’t going to work!</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Some people I know went ahead and got married with these restrictions in place - but we had already paid most of our vendors, and it wouldn’t make sense to have all this money spent for just a few people to be present... not what we had paid for.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghXwXeV2lBJd0SahKuhLN4FFsz6JNd67Iwy1RCyqnEIGItURsC05PbzAiTTMeAch7SS1RnICdIl_fb5vcj-TyLD9M8MNkNWpxusZOOHFIo0xIQCRyZyaMdQZqc5LVXx22uXHR0YRbljgJS/s2048/IMG_0965.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghXwXeV2lBJd0SahKuhLN4FFsz6JNd67Iwy1RCyqnEIGItURsC05PbzAiTTMeAch7SS1RnICdIl_fb5vcj-TyLD9M8MNkNWpxusZOOHFIo0xIQCRyZyaMdQZqc5LVXx22uXHR0YRbljgJS/w480-h640/IMG_0965.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><p style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">So... November 2022 here we come!</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Why 2 years, I hear nobody cry - well, as is evident from my previous posts, I am a fucking basket case when it comes to stressing out, so a minimum of 2 years is necessary for me to recover from the trauma of 2020 and give the PM long enough to sort out his mess so I can walk down the aisle while I’m still barely in my prime!</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Good news is that everything is already planned and mostly paid for... so I can be a stress free bride for the next two years, providing Miss Rona packs up and leaves us the fuck alone for long enough! </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Let’s just hope I don’t put on a tonne of lockdown weight and can still fit in my already veeeery tight dress!</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 20.3px;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">In other news we are trying to buy a house - from one stressful life event to the next!</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;">Bring on 2021!</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnucW6upVVvW8Bl492AAxK6SxdWr37r0sRohsnTb5_A4JOfDTpZzKisHC90kaRSyblDSZum283atgNbhfc5U12Ybdq9D1C1spP13v07_X3rpA56bGqMwJLddW3k7zTz9iBWFJiWYJGsm2Z/s2048/IMG_1029.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1539" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnucW6upVVvW8Bl492AAxK6SxdWr37r0sRohsnTb5_A4JOfDTpZzKisHC90kaRSyblDSZum283atgNbhfc5U12Ybdq9D1C1spP13v07_X3rpA56bGqMwJLddW3k7zTz9iBWFJiWYJGsm2Z/w480-h640/IMG_1029.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><p></p><br />littlegem92http://www.blogger.com/profile/15802530705764563191noreply@blogger.com0London, UK51.5073509 -0.127758323.197117063821153 -35.284008299999996 79.817584736178844 35.028491700000004tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6556775100541050361.post-5100995902579944222020-09-25T18:45:00.000+01:002020-09-25T18:45:00.910+01:00Pumpkin Spice Latte Cupcakes recipe <p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><font face="Arial Narrow"><br></font></p><p class="p2" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><font face="Arial Narrow">It’s autumn guys! Officially! Starbucks have FINALLY started doing pumpkin spice lattes, a bit late I may add... so technically the start of autumn is today for me!<span class="s1"></span></font></p><p class="p2" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><br></p><p class="p2" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><font face="Arial Narrow"><span class="s1"></span><br></font></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">If you didn’t already know I have a bit of an unhealthy obsession with Starbucks especially in the autumn winter months when they bring out their seasonal drinks! pumpkin spice lattes are my absolute favourite and is one of the reasons why autumn is my favourite season! That, along with fireworks, my birthday, cozy knit wear and it’s when bugs go to die... belughhh</font></span></p><p class="p2" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><font face="Arial Narrow"><span class="s1"></span><br></font></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">Recently I’ve got back into baking, and thought I’d do some experimenting in the kitchen to create a Starbucks inspired Pumpkin spice latte cupcake!</font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow"><br></font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"></span><img id="id_2485_2532_4409_564e" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/uDbWjO-LbRKydx99KNna7j9okVkUWO71tDL59ltccPOx6iKu7ZqbVvdCkEJiPRo" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 392px; height: auto;"><br><br><font face="Arial Narrow"><br></font></p><p class="p2" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><font face="Arial Narrow"><span class="s1"></span><br></font></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">It’s a pumpkin spiced sponge with a hint of coffee, a coffee caramel centre with a Swiss meringue buttercream on top to represent the whipped cream topping on your PSL!</font></span></p><p class="p2" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><font face="Arial Narrow"><span class="s1"></span><br></font></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">I scoured the internet for PSL cupcake recipes and didn’t like any of them - a lot used pumpkin purée which I’m not keen on putting into cupcakes... or a cream cheese frosting which I HATE... </font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">so I combined recipes I already know how to do (like a coffee cupcake) and added in some pumpkin spices and switched the buttercream to a more silky one! I reckon you guys will like it!</font></span></p><p class="p2" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><font face="Arial Narrow"><span class="s1"></span><br></font></p><p class="p2" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><img id="id_38c3_1a4d_3a2a_9be6" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Zn6vBiPPdrXDyeoPf2v40LoCVtaJkNDscFS-b1USZJXKNWRrIY24WQbvZi2JdVA" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 392px; height: auto;"><br><br><font face="Arial Narrow"><br></font></p><p class="p2" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><font face="Arial Narrow"><br></font></p><p class="p2" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><font face="Arial Narrow"><br></font></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s2" style="text-decoration: underline;"><font face="Arial Narrow">Ingredients</font></span></p><p class="p2" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><font face="Arial Narrow"><span class="s1"></span><br></font></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow"><b>Cupcake sponge:</b></font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">125g unsalted butter</font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">125g caster sugar</font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">125g self raising flour</font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">1/4 tsp bicarbonate soda</font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">2 large eggs</font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">1 tbsp expresso (I actually used a tbsp of actual Starbucks espresso, just to be extra...)</font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">2 tsp pumpkin spice mix </font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow"> <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>- 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon</font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow"> <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>- <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>2 teaspoons ground ginger</font></span></p><ul class="ul1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><li class="li1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">2 teaspoons ground nutmeg</font></span></li><li class="li1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">1 ½ teaspoons ground allspice</font></span></li><li class="li1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">1 ½ teaspoons ground cloves</font></span></li></ul><p class="p2" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><font face="Arial Narrow"><span class="s1"></span><br></font></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">(Or cliff notes version - 1/2 tsp Cinnamon, 1/2 ground ginger and a pinch of nutmeg)</font></span></p><p class="p2" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><font face="Arial Narrow"><span class="s1"></span><br></font></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow"><b>Coffee caramel filling:</b></font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">210g double cream</font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">1.5 tsp instant coffee powder</font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">1/2 tsp vanilla extract</font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">180g caster sugar</font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">110ml water</font></span></p><p class="p2" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><font face="Arial Narrow"><span class="s1"></span><br></font></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow"><b>Swiss meringue:</b></font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">4 egg whites (large eggs)</font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">300g caster sugar</font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">400g unsalted butter (chopped into cubes) </font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">1tsp vanilla extract </font></span></p><p class="p2" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><font face="Arial Narrow"><span class="s1"></span><br></font></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">170 degrees (fan Oven) for 20-22 mins</font></span></p><p class="p2" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><font face="Arial Narrow"><span class="s1"></span><br></font></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow"><b>Make the caramel first- </b></font></span></p><p class="p2" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><font face="Arial Narrow"><span class="s1"></span><br></font></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">For the coffee caramel:</font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow"><br></font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">. Gently heat the cream in a pan and stir in the coffee powder until all combined</font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow"><br></font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">. Add the vanilla extract and remove from the heat.</font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow"><br></font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">. in a separate pan, heat the sugar on a low temperature, and add the water to it. LEAVE IT ALONE to do it’s thing, do not stir! </font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">You can swirl the pan a little to make sure the heat is distributed evenly, but do this very little if you can.</font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">After a little while the sugar mix will start to change colour very quickly - look for a deep amber colour and take it off the heat</font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow"><br></font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">. carefully, add the cream and coffee mix, stirring quickly as you go, stirring until all combined and the bubbles have subsided (it will froth up - just keep stirring)</font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow"><br></font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">DO NOT PUT YOUR FINGERS IN THE MIX! </font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">It is very hot - I learnt the hard way!</font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">Allow to cool in a bowl.</font></span></p><p class="p2" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><font face="Arial Narrow"><span class="s1"></span><br></font></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">For the cupcakes:</font></span></p><p class="p2" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><font face="Arial Narrow"><span class="s1"></span><br></font></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">. Beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy</font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">. Mix in the 2 eggs</font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow"><br></font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">. Sieve in the flour and bicarbonate of soda and spice mix</font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow"><br></font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">. Beat with a hand whisk or on a stand mixer for a couple of minutes or until well combined</font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow"><br></font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">. Add in the espresso and mix for 1 min further</font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow"><br></font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">. Divide the cupcake mixture into a 12-hole cupcake tin lined with cases.</font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow"><br></font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">. Pop in the oven for 20-22 mins or until a skewer comes out clean and the sponge springs back when pressed.</font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow"><br></font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">. Allow to cool</font></span></p><p class="p2" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><font face="Arial Narrow"><span class="s1"></span><br></font></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">Meanwhile Make your icing:</font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">. Add your sugar and egg whites to a metal or glass mixing bowl.</font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow"><br></font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">. Set this bowl over a pot with a small amount of simmering water in - don’t let the bowl touch the water.</font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow"><br></font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">. Gently Whisk the sugar and egg whites for a few minutes until just combined - you can check this by rubbing a bit of the mixture between your index finger and thumb. </font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">It should feel silky smooth and not grainy.</font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow"><br></font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">. Remove from the heat and whisk the mixture with a hand whisk or stand mixer for 10-15 minutes, or until the mixture is completely cool.</font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">It should Look white and fluffy with stiff peaks beginning to form.</font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow"><br></font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">. While still whisking the mixture, Gradually add your butter cube by cube, take your time here - don’t rush.</font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">Your buttercream might start to look a bit runny near the end - keep whisking, it will eventually stiffen out again!</font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">You should end up with a silky smooth buttercream!</font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow"><br></font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">. Add in your vanilla extract until well combined</font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow"><br></font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">. Fill a piping bag with wide nozzle.</font></span></p><p class="p2" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><font face="Arial Narrow"><span class="s1"></span><br></font></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">. Fill a piping bag with your coffee caramel.</font></span></p><p class="p2" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><font face="Arial Narrow"><span class="s1"></span><br></font></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">. Once the cupcakes are cooled, use a tea spoon or apple corer to make a small hole in the sponge - not all the way through though!</font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">. Fill this little well with the coffee caramel using your filled piping bag.</font></span></p><p class="p2" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><font face="Arial Narrow"><span class="s1"></span><br></font></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">. Top your filled cupcakes with a swirl of the buttercream and decorate!</font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">I drizzled some of the coffee caramel on top and stuck a little green straw in it to look like Starbucks frappes!</font></span></p><p class="p2" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><font face="Arial Narrow"><span class="s1"></span><br></font></p><p class="p2" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><img id="id_a752_9bb0_2ea1_f78b" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/nvltPJdyx2MnkSjFRYTPrYVvmmeMps3wDB9u9zQRq8-1mjtdjPMtxvTGmJs0Ug8" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 392px; height: auto;"><br><br><font face="Arial Narrow"><br></font></p><p class="p2" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><font face="Arial Narrow"><br></font></p><p class="p2" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><font face="Arial Narrow"><br></font></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">Enjoy!</font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">Let me know what you think of the recipe!</font></span></p><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s1"><font face="Arial Narrow">Please do tag me in your pictures on Instagram if you have a go at it! </font></span></p> littlegem92http://www.blogger.com/profile/15802530705764563191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6556775100541050361.post-66629345866320135272020-09-04T18:00:00.000+01:002020-09-04T18:00:09.222+01:00Garnier Press Trip to Prague <p class="p1" style="margin: 0px 0px 3px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 22px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span style="font-size: 17px;"><font face="Arial">Recently, I was fortunate enough to be chosen to go on a trip to Prague as an advocate for Garnier! </font></span></p><p class="p2" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><font face="Arial"><span class="s2"></span></font></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s2"><font face="Arial">I was there to take part in a campaign shoot for their new Organic Range.</font></span></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s2"><font face="Arial"><br></font></span></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s2"><img id="id_c861_b8fc_a4a9_f31" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/nllJhrihvWqjzkWqYjJGDvTKZ-lfcVPEPkTvFX6RqrJtIkvwXFcS1oqykWVO854" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 392px; height: auto;"><br><br></span></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s2"><font face="Arial">This was all pre Covid-19 so all was fine with the travel! I was booked to fly from London to Prague with my partner, Jack! It was the first time I had been abroad without the little one so I was very nervous!</font></span></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s2"><font face="Arial"><br></font></span></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s2"><img id="id_7481_c5dd_a460_9cc7" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/SMzu4AF2vmg1ZYv7ZZUfwULU9wJdLUAt1CkcoI-G8E-KDkxudNwlx2k3VuxDFCc" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 392px; height: auto;"><br><br></span><font face="Arial"><br></font></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s2"><font face="Arial"><br></font></span></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s2"><font face="Arial">We were put up at the InterContinental Hotel in the city centre which was lovely! We were only a 10 minute walk from the town which was handy!</font></span></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s2"><font face="Arial"><br></font></span></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s2"><font face="Arial">The two days I had there were pretty jam packed with the shoot, so I didn’t have much free time to explore the city.</font></span></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s2"><font face="Arial">The evening we arrived we were taken to dinner at an asian-fusion restaurant, where I met the other people who would be in the shoot with me! I was feeling unwell from the flight so didn’t really eat anything, but it looked SO good! </font></span></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s2"><font face="Arial"><br></font></span></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s2"><img id="id_802d_a15a_4c2e_4137" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/MBxnhQXXdWpBHmLtlPo5lA79uNLFsLYDNTMEdWv0AcuN-cZluDUysw3Ut72sxQ0" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 392px; height: auto;"><br><br></span><font face="Arial"><br></font></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s2"><font face="Arial"><br></font></span></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s2"><font face="Arial">The next morning jack and I went for breakfast at Coffee and Waffles in the Old Town ( highly recommend if you’re ever in Prague!) Before being picked up to be taken to the shoot location for fittings.</font></span></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s2"><font face="Arial"><br></font></span></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s2"><img id="id_d0b1_2dbc_4c6f_b039" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/Eu7hPjxsBLitull0GfJl0lsPIeGPmUfxiPhPawf7fw3cgCl3s03TzIpu8Kr6OJY" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 392px; height: auto;"><br><br></span><font face="Arial"><br></font></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s2"><font face="Arial">I was there most of the day, and got back around 6pm. Jack had spent the day touring the city solo, so took me on an express tour of the town. I got to see a few landmarks including the Lenon Wall before heading back to the hotel for dinner. </font></span></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s2"><font face="Arial"><br></font></span></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s2"><img id="id_63d4_67df_6e0a_da97" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/92xJFV1Xj7HdsV8nfQU7Xaosz2vg7RXcnT7tntS4BQ0KeVS5i1LYoj-D-BEk3wk" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 392px; height: auto;"><br><br></span><font face="Arial"><br></font></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s2"><font face="Arial"><br></font></span></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s2"><font face="Arial">Unfortunately I was feeling unwell again, so ordered room service for dinner and got an early night.</font></span></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s2"><font face="Arial"><br></font></span></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s2"><font face="Arial">I was up the next morning at 5.30am for the 6.30am call time!</font></span></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><font face="Arial">I was taken to location and straight into hair and makeup. They were going for a natural vibe so put in some sleek waves for my hair and did very minimal and feature enhancing makeup.</font></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><font face="Arial"><br></font></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><img id="id_7264_9593_3a7d_d1b5" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/MwQzn2oBhWRbe_oUr6oRfN50R3m5F8G_FNOJA0rixkwr1H1AY-3Vb8u4eOIFj8Q" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 392px; height: auto;"><br><br><font face="Arial"><br></font></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><br></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><font face="Arial">I had never done anything like this before so was very nervous during the video shoot - but the director was so lovely and made me feel very comfortable.</font></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><font face="Arial"><br></font></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><img id="id_e3c5_c47c_eeb7_2655" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/ifj0HcMsVO7-3RHAgRWVbmDidTy8u6w5VDo3MaAN6wHs5NhjCqtFA0m4a_-pIlQ" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 392px; height: auto;"><br><br><font face="Arial"><br></font></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><font face="Arial"><br></font></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><font face="Arial">Unfortunately due to covid, the post production team have scrapped the TV ads, but may still use the images from the photo shoots on social media and in shops.</font></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><font face="Arial"><br></font></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><font face="Arial">I had such a great time, and met some really lovely people who I am still in contact with today! </font></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><font face="Arial"><br></font></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><img id="id_ff29_54c3_3d39_6ce6" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/uQiJNeCHCNx0BjQH5Rh4HbhXB1g1wnNxs9VixSMczg8K-LVgC5d8vaX5JttLpZo" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 392px; height: auto;"><br><br><font face="Arial"><br></font></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><font face="Arial"><br></font></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s2"><font face="Arial">I was very kindly GIFTED a few products to try ahead of the trip, and have been sent some More since! </font></span></p><p class="p2" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><font face="Arial"><span class="s2"></span><br></font></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s2"><font face="Arial">I already use Garnier skin products daily, specifically the pink cap micellar water - a holy grail in my skincare routine! </font></span></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s2"><font face="Arial">So I was over the moon to be sent a few of their newer products.</font></span></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s2"><font face="Arial"><br></font></span></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s2"><font face="Arial">I have incorporated a few of them into a night time skincare routine and have been using them for a few weeks now! My skin looks a lot healthier and and feels smoother since I’ve started this routine. The moisturiser in particular is very nourishing and the smell is so soothing - perfect for getting ready for bed! </font></span></p><p class="p2" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><font face="Arial"><span class="s2"></span><br></font></p><p class="p2" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><img id="id_4894_c650_2de4_8686" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/mS13e-WtC3XoWo_BWDtj6zJ2Z9f6urxDxcd_mJjsqdIiC_GKR7MGsZPObasVIxw" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 392px; height: auto;"><br><br><font face="Arial"><br></font></p><p class="p2" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><font face="Arial"><br></font></p><p class="p2" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><font face="Arial"><br></font></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s2"><font face="Arial">Take a look at the video I made while I was away in Prague (free trip invited by Garnier).</font></span></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s2"><font face="Arial"><br></font></span></p><br><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/?igshid=10rkprcpe04yx" width="500" height="281" id="y_id_c2ef_58b_745c_b6a2" frameborder="0"></iframe><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s2"></span><font face="Arial"><br></font></p><p class="p2" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><font face="Arial"><span class="s2"></span><br></font></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s2"><font face="Arial">The products I used in the video are listed below</font></span></p><p class="p2" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><font face="Arial"><span class="s2"></span><br></font></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s2"><font face="Arial">Garnier Micellar Water</font></span></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s2"><font face="Arial">Garnier Organic Lemongrass Gel Wash</font></span></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s2"><font face="Arial">Garnier Organic Thyme perfecting Toner</font></span></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s2"><font face="Arial">Garnier Organic Lavandin anti-age sleeping cream</font></span></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s2"><font face="Arial">Garnier moisture bomb lavender sheet mask </font></span></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s2"><font face="Arial">Garnier Organic Lavandin anti-age eye cream </font></span></p><p class="p2" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><font face="Arial"><span class="s2"></span><br></font></p><p class="p3" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s2"><font face="Arial">I have since been given more products by Garnier, reviews coming soon! </font></span></p><p class="p2" style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 17px; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><span class="s2"></span><br></p> littlegem92http://www.blogger.com/profile/15802530705764563191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6556775100541050361.post-30507321142366647502020-06-24T19:00:00.000+01:002020-06-24T19:00:09.035+01:00Emotional Manipulation<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Below is a post i had written back in early 2015 that i never posted.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I came across it in my drafts and got very upset reading it. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I was in a relationship with my ex-boyfriend who had very strong opinions on what i should like and shouldn't like. This one is about makeup. I was so good at makeup back in the day - i would do all my own makeup for pageants and for the first time felt like I had something of a talent that i could nurture and grow. After this post I gave it up, i stopped learning, just so i didn't annoy him. Imagine if i had kept it going, 5 years later I could have done something with it!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgwbsYcaWXWFC1mAPX2j42i_Z3p9Xu19owE3FwAXxycYSSat8lVOECaPX8i1sLBoxQWHQhEb7OzcnCi4Gh92d3d7JFqJjn6LUTpEk84jL6-trlk3ZRlcUAGPAeW2-FK4u78T3UZdA0hGi2/s1600/_MG_7688.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgwbsYcaWXWFC1mAPX2j42i_Z3p9Xu19owE3FwAXxycYSSat8lVOECaPX8i1sLBoxQWHQhEb7OzcnCi4Gh92d3d7JFqJjn6LUTpEk84jL6-trlk3ZRlcUAGPAeW2-FK4u78T3UZdA0hGi2/s640/_MG_7688.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">When i tell people about my relationship with him, people are often shocked to hear some of the stories, even though in my mind they seemed normal. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">To this day, thinking about some of the things I went through with him startles me a little - like HOW did i let that happen, or why didn't i stand up for myself.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I know he would be SO mad if he read this, however i feel like its time for me to speak up a little about it and shine some light emotional manipulation in relationships. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm3rxkER0FElHeRuKr78W-cSK06al2DKBn4Xhv1MI0cDAoSrvoI20qaHMsUVu-A5ZZpqSQMMvoYSlWUKTEyySE6dPn54yZNWG0DHYQDfZbUwzbadABvhUiYTFXQz-96S7-tDrd8khL4x9U/s1600/Gemma_1219_MG_1139-Edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm3rxkER0FElHeRuKr78W-cSK06al2DKBn4Xhv1MI0cDAoSrvoI20qaHMsUVu-A5ZZpqSQMMvoYSlWUKTEyySE6dPn54yZNWG0DHYQDfZbUwzbadABvhUiYTFXQz-96S7-tDrd8khL4x9U/s640/Gemma_1219_MG_1139-Edit.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Because at the end of the day, that's what it was. He may not see it that way, but everyone around me had concerns a with him the ENTIRE DURATION of my relationship, and i couldn't see it or wouldn't listen. and now I am out of it and happy with someone else, and grown a little since i realise now that how i felt in the post below is not acceptable. I shouldn't have felt this way, i should have felt secure enough to say "no, this is something i love and i will carry it on". But instead I bowed out, changed my opinion on something i had loved for so long, just to make him happy.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This post will act as an introduction to a new feature on my blog that will hopefully help people in relationships where they feel like they are being controlled speak out. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Please do not hesitate to contact me if you need to talk about anything or need help.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><u><i>2015...</i></u></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Make-up.</i></span></span><br />
<div>
<span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>My hobby, my passion. Its what makes me happy.</i></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>I like it because it helps me to show my creative side. </i></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>I was never the best at anything artistic at school... like art or drama or music. My talent were always purely academic, and i hated that.<br />Then i discovered makeup, a way to create different looks that reflect the current trends and to help me develop my own artistic flair. It helps me to feel confident about myself, just like how some people feel confident wearing the latest clothes or shoes, it makes me feel good. I don't have the best skin, and there are aspects of myself that i would like to cover, and make-up gives me that escape, a way to keep these things to myself.</i></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>And he doesnt get that.</i></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Today I was watching a make-up tutorial on how to create a metallic smokey eye look, as I was interested in learning how to develop my basic make-up skills, and my other half walks in. He suddenly became <u>so</u> angry, shouting at me watching these videos and about wearing makeup in general. He called makeup artists/bloggers/youtubers vain and self centered. </i></span><br />
<span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>He said makeup is a <u>waste of time</u> and energy and a <u>useless skill</u>. <br />He thinks that make-up is purely about vanity and making oneself look pretty. </i></span><br />
<span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>And that makes me upset. I tried to explain to him why i want to wear makeup or why i watch so many tutorials and invest in good quality makeup, but he wont listen or try to understand.</i></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Apparently i look better without makeup, and i while appreciate his compliments that doesn't mean i want to show the world my bad skin and awkward pigmentation. </i></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>I am not writing this post to rant about a disagreement I have with my boyfriend or to make him seem like he is in the wrong for saying those things, because he is not totally wrong.</i></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>He just doesn't possess the knowledge I have about make-up to make him appreciate that its not a way to "make yourself look pretty" but it is an art, a science even. Anyone can own a bunch of make up, but its the brand you invest in, the quality of it and the way it is applied that that makes it so appealing to me. </i></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>There are so many different ways to wear make-up, I cannot even begin to express the types of looks and fashion trends that can be created. </i></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>And above all it gives people the confidence to go out there and face the world. </i></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>I am all about feminism, and I know women don't need makeup to make their voice heard, I just don't want to do it with my blemishes on full display. But i get where he is coming from - perhaps its not worthwhile?</i></span><br />
<span style="color: purple; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>What do you think, let me know in the comments!</i></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3T8ZPrJUETfyRLghXvTv7qNE4NDrfJGy6wxdfgcJ3nvohZa5zBEfRODuEUMZb1T4PSL1Gfot7zASE_5Hvws7JiD0lKzy_S7ygKgAtfWwhINygxKnn9rNmfT4hrPPWsBgvr5S2fG1deCBp/s1600/_MG_7445.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3T8ZPrJUETfyRLghXvTv7qNE4NDrfJGy6wxdfgcJ3nvohZa5zBEfRODuEUMZb1T4PSL1Gfot7zASE_5Hvws7JiD0lKzy_S7ygKgAtfWwhINygxKnn9rNmfT4hrPPWsBgvr5S2fG1deCBp/s640/_MG_7445.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This may seem like a typical girly post, but the fact that i allowed him to shout at me and tell me that something i like to do was a waste of time... And i never posted this!? I think i let him read the post once and he was upset i had written it, but still stood by his opinions and views. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Its the little things, like this, that build up and create a bigger issue...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Anyway, I will be doing a few posts like this, drawing on my personal experiences to hopefully give some useful advice to people who are in similar situations. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
littlegem92http://www.blogger.com/profile/15802530705764563191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6556775100541050361.post-68951739312016162212020-05-27T19:00:00.001+01:002020-05-27T19:00:00.128+01:00Coronavirus Lockdown Routine for Kids <br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Lockdown has been difficult for everybody, but especially for kids. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Their normal routines have been disrupted and suddenly they cannot see their friends and family, or enjoy the activities they would usually be doing at school or nursery.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I am a key worker, so Issy was still able to attend nursery. But for the first 6 weeks my partner and I made the decision to keep her home to reduce her exposure to the virus. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We came up with a schedule to mimic her day at nursery with a few adjustments.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Here is the routine we came up with!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtAretuvrdd74fHIPu6ilIR3uHNtxly8jAPC-CaN0chGZs-tf_VeNbAsrgyUhcKICToe7_kDZuBnjDs4SuF2TT60qKokIiDfPPV4tMXZPf9KVRy4Yvdd9M6gd_mHPzE8IEpE95bIgqKhBJ/s1600/ISSYS+SCHEDULE.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="863" data-original-width="1600" height="344" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtAretuvrdd74fHIPu6ilIR3uHNtxly8jAPC-CaN0chGZs-tf_VeNbAsrgyUhcKICToe7_kDZuBnjDs4SuF2TT60qKokIiDfPPV4tMXZPf9KVRy4Yvdd9M6gd_mHPzE8IEpE95bIgqKhBJ/s640/ISSYS+SCHEDULE.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I usually get up around 7am to get ready for work, so I would wake her and give her breakfast. I'd make sure she was ready for the day by 8am as usual so she could go on her daily walk with her dad at 8.30. We found that early morning walks were the quietest and easiest time to avoid masses of people. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_V0A7aIzZ_v1TcXL068-3BmdeCS3NeauipZJNkWvjaSQD-V-WtJiYTiu6peZw6x68uB_IeJU2iL1WXYkdWxevOuUcQmJsQz4l27BEGY18GasNebmoedGiI6XQr7sDt-2eVZDG46DE22v_/s1600/IMG_1360.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_V0A7aIzZ_v1TcXL068-3BmdeCS3NeauipZJNkWvjaSQD-V-WtJiYTiu6peZw6x68uB_IeJU2iL1WXYkdWxevOuUcQmJsQz4l27BEGY18GasNebmoedGiI6XQr7sDt-2eVZDG46DE22v_/s640/IMG_1360.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>Early morning walks</i></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">At nursery they would play in the garden from 8.30-9.30am with snack tome to follow. We kept this the same so her morning routine wouldn't</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> be disrupted</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><u>Examples of Issy's snack time menu:</u></span><br />
<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Fresh Fruit and Yoghurt</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Toast</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">cucumber sticks and hummus</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">a choice of milk or water</span></li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Then Issy would choose and activity to play for an hour. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Here are a few exampled of some activities we laid out for her:</span></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Coloring and drawing - we began to teach her how to colour inside the lines and also how to start drawing shapes and people!</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Puzzles - problem solving and patience with fine motor skilled activities are what Issy was focusing on at nursery, so we got a few puzzles that would help her continue to learn at home</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Play-doh and Lego - creativity and working with your hands</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">dress up - imagination play</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Free play - learning to play independently</span></li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Lunch time at nursery was always quite early - the kids would settle into their chairs at the table at around 11.30. Even though we would usually have lunch an hour later, we decided to follow the same routine as nursery. We tried to vary her options like they do at nursery: sandwiches, hot meals like pasta etc.</span></div>
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwljr16gb_qgu3pUkAPWMhnarjtLt05rbeRkkCO9EGmzyx1TYyQ5plAlAUYOGVqdWEcY8C0pvvbxJ-LM8UGdEdWCtdmZQx2Ntu1uajmjKJocjYb4qFhMBoJUAs79XXUReN84FaQyS6L-t0/s1600/IMG_0201.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwljr16gb_qgu3pUkAPWMhnarjtLt05rbeRkkCO9EGmzyx1TYyQ5plAlAUYOGVqdWEcY8C0pvvbxJ-LM8UGdEdWCtdmZQx2Ntu1uajmjKJocjYb4qFhMBoJUAs79XXUReN84FaQyS6L-t0/s640/IMG_0201.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>Colouring! (at a restaurant pre lockdown)</i></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">After lunch is quiet time. At nursery that means nap time, but Issy doesn't nap anymore! </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Instead we have reading time where Issy would choose a few books from her shelf and read them with her dad. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Then it's independent play where Issy would play whatever she wanted while jack would log onto the computer and begin to set up his work for the evening.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Depending on how Issy plays, we would allow her to watch a movie at 3pm until I came home at 5pm to start the evening and bedtime routine. If she got bored of her activities, she would often start her movie early and afterwards resume playing until 5, or she would carry on playing if she was into her activities until she got bored!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Pretty simple, but it kept her entertained and in a routine that was similar to nursery!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I was at home the first week of the lockdown so was able to make sure the routine was broken in by the time her dad took over!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If you like the routine that Jack and I created, please feel free to download this <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ZbX_eXf6OM6vDuKTwEiv4dCOY26Fmg6-/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">printable schedule HERE</a>! </span><br />
<br />littlegem92http://www.blogger.com/profile/15802530705764563191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6556775100541050361.post-68537909189015032682020-05-20T19:00:00.002+01:002020-05-20T19:00:08.781+01:00Mental Health Awareness week 18-24th May 2020<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This week is Mental Health Awareness week in the UK.</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I've seen a lot of my favourite bloggers and influencers on social media come forward with their stories and it has inspired me to write a post of my own!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It's not a secret that i have anxiety and have suffered a little from depression in the past (hands up if your bored of me talking about it!). </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />I feel like I am quite open with talking about what i am/have been through. Some people may view this as repetitive or boring but actually it is SO important to keep awareness at the surface.</span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">For years I was ashamed of admitting to people that i was unhappy for fear of being labelled but now i realise that the best way to work through that sadness and anxiety is to TALK about it - make people aware of what your going through.</span></div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTJW7LJ-8LX2Iv1PQOI3CVvyuXgxLKftH-XoFlydnXMWXVGd-dAPMMl-YEWYLqszj3kF1eBUJfJKZUc8_KlGjjDTFa_wgW8vOOViMwk4MWTri5SEwNKa0vv38BzlL2QApIiNGY3DRTxDZS/s1600/ts1_0837.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="960" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTJW7LJ-8LX2Iv1PQOI3CVvyuXgxLKftH-XoFlydnXMWXVGd-dAPMMl-YEWYLqszj3kF1eBUJfJKZUc8_KlGjjDTFa_wgW8vOOViMwk4MWTri5SEwNKa0vv38BzlL2QApIiNGY3DRTxDZS/s640/ts1_0837.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Image of me by Tim Steele <a href="https://www.tsteelephoto.com/" target="_blank">www.tsteelephoto.com</a></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><u>My Story - quick notes version!</u></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Ever since i was a child i suffered with anxiety - meeting new people, taking exams, going to parties - even eating in front of people! I have such a vivid memory of being around 5 or 6 years old at my childminder's friends house. She offered me some nuts to eat but because i didn't know the friend I hid behind my childminder's back on the sofa to eat them... no idea why... and ever since then I've been anxious to eat in front of new people! </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Even in my 20's, when i was going on dates, i always insisted on drinks or a coffee until i felt comfortable enough with them... so weird.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I used to get a lot of tummy aches as a kid and my parents, doctors, specialists couldn't figure out why... looking back and talking with my mum, we figured out it was probably anxiety.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I was "OK" from age 18-22, I was in a relationship with my first boyfriend. He had a lot going on in his life that made my issues seem so small - and actually he often pointed that out. So I learnt to bottle things up and stay silent. This made things a lot worse for me when we finally broke up in 2015. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Suddenly i was allowed to feel sad again, and i met people who actually wanted to listen to me. Lottie from "The Tummy Diaries" explained her experience like <i>"flood gates opening" </i>and waves just keep coming. Exactly like it was for me.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIuxgxJB1iPMp3hy6m4EoNP4iVTAGXiigm0yNydK1S7AAAGb7RNRAFgnLgZUa_YZAqYBv_izSgDYi7g0gGlKZ7E7DMudo9hSuXep6OEFP9ZEbkrjmImAr-otaubyfvmEumLrHGj7itZlV5/s1600/ts1_0861.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIuxgxJB1iPMp3hy6m4EoNP4iVTAGXiigm0yNydK1S7AAAGb7RNRAFgnLgZUa_YZAqYBv_izSgDYi7g0gGlKZ7E7DMudo9hSuXep6OEFP9ZEbkrjmImAr-otaubyfvmEumLrHGj7itZlV5/s1600/ts1_0861.jpeg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Image of me by Tim Steele </span><a href="https://www.tsteelephoto.com/" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;" target="_blank">www.tsteelephoto.com</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This was heightened when my daughter was born. I was low all the time and anxious and emotional about nothing! Just leaving the house took me so long! I didn't want to see my friends, which actually meant i lost touch with a few friends from uni, and became more distant with others. I felt really alone.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I didn't know why i was so sad all the time when i had this beautiful little girl and a supportive fiance. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Going back to work was really hard as well. As i was so anxious and emotional, readjusting was difficult. I felt helpless, like i needed to be hand held with everything, My confidence in myself was non existent, which led to a breakdown at work that just tipped me over the edge.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It was seeing my fiance upset about me being upset that made me realise I should think about getting some help. I made an appointment with my GP who was so lovely. She told that i wasnt alone and shouldn't feel ashamed. She said it was likely i have a bit of postnatal depression as well as the anxiety and referred me for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Doing CBT with my therapist was great - i was able to talk through my issues with a complete stranger. She taught me to open up and talk about things, to shake off the habit i'd learned when i was 18 to bottle things up and to stop thinking that my issues and feelings didn't matter.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">She made me realise that I needed to speak up. People are not mind readers and are not going to know whats going on until you tell them. People as a human race are naturally selfish, not in a bad way, but they are not always aware of whats going on with other people until they are told! She even said to me on our first appointment -<i>"you sitting in the waiting room - i would not of guessed you were my next appointment. You, like so many other girls of your generation, dress well, take pride in your appearance etc. I would not have known you were suffering until you had told me."</i></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCKoHZQB6WS9KrOihWoTgHCuU7JF1IbFxrrUxFV0tGleNK9Eh9LnKIoS8VCR0WhwALnBTfTN3kj8nPhMg34nIo-Z_XUiSwh0ue25wnqAy-zdiY_ebeycI5hGD8FfjEtuP45E5g9m9Egppi/s1600/d6f4493b-43f8-4454-9e75-6f7e03d5bc0a.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCKoHZQB6WS9KrOihWoTgHCuU7JF1IbFxrrUxFV0tGleNK9Eh9LnKIoS8VCR0WhwALnBTfTN3kj8nPhMg34nIo-Z_XUiSwh0ue25wnqAy-zdiY_ebeycI5hGD8FfjEtuP45E5g9m9Egppi/s640/d6f4493b-43f8-4454-9e75-6f7e03d5bc0a.jpeg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Photo of me by Gemma Fenlon</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><u>What Has Helped:</u></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Talking - <br />I can definitely recommend CBT. I was adamant that i didn't want to take medication for the depression. There is nothing wrong with it, it's just not what i wanted. I was prescribed a very mild beta blocker to help with symptoms of my anxiety attacks (fast heart beat, light headed, tingly fingers, inability to focus etc) but that's it.<br />CBT worked in a way that it had to get worse to get better. My therapist opened a lot of old wounds that went back right into my childhood and brought forward memories and issues i didn't even know i was holding on to. But by doing this i was able to talk through them and find a way to sort of get over it!<br />She gave me a lot of exercises and ways to think through and deal with new problems. I've gained wonderful life skills. </span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Books - <br />There is SO much literature out there about anxiety. There are self help books that are not for everybody, but they're good if you don't know where to start. I even got books to help me with the little things i was struggling with! For example, I live in a tiny flat, and was getting depressed that i didn't live in a bright and airy space that's super tidy and clean... so i bought a book that helped me to strategise how to clean my home. it might sound silly, but i was getting so bogged down about my home i wasn't taking care of it properly and when i did clean it was very day for hours and i hated it. So i bought a book that would tell me what to do and give me a clear plan on how to move forward . Simple.<br /><br />Some helpful books:<br /><br />- <b>Its not OK to feel blue (and other lies).</b> <br /><i>A collection of stories, poems and personal accounts from celebrities and influencers about their experiences with depression and anxiety. A great reminder that even celebrities can feel this way! </i><a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Feel-Blue-other-lies-Inspirational/dp/0241410886" target="_blank">Link Here</a><br /><br />- <b>The Organised Mum Method</b> <br /><i>the book that gave me back the motivation to take care of my home!</i> <br /><a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Organised-Mum-Method-housework-transform/dp/0349422206/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3TXAAZNG9XQ4&dchild=1&keywords=organised+mum+method+book&qid=1589885887&s=books&sprefix=organised+m%2Cstripbooks%2C138&sr=1-1" target="_blank">Link here</a><br /><br />- <b>The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck.</b><br />A modern Self help book that cuts through all the crap out there regarding anxiety and depression<br /><a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Subtle-Art-Not-Giving-Counterintuitive/dp/0062457713/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1458TUWUAXN3T&dchild=1&keywords=the+art+of+not+giving+a+f+book&qid=1589885957&s=books&sprefix=the+art+of+no%2Cstripbooks%2C138&sr=1-1" target="_blank">Link Here</a><br /><br />- <b>Write it Down, Let it Go</b><br /><i>A nice little journal to write down all your worries to help you work through them.</i><b> </b><br /><a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Write-Down-Let-Go-Journal/dp/1452149194/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=let+it+go+diary&qid=1589886031&s=books&sr=1-1" target="_blank">Link Here</a></span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Positive Social Media -<br />Limit your time on social media if it is making your depression or anxiety worse. I found that looking at these "perfect" Instagram accounts that show rich unobtainable lifestyles was making me feel bad about my life, even though i am actually so happy and content with my little family and lifestyle I've got going on. If its making you feel worse, just unfollow those accounts! They are so heavily edited anyway... probably not even a true reflection of their day to day life.<br /><br />Try and find accounts that will be a positive influence on you. Some accounts that i love:<br /><br /><b>@thetummydiaries</b><br />Lottie - founder of #mybloatedwardrobe. Mainly writes about dealing with IBS but very positive posts about body image and generally a very upbeat account to follow. Has had experiences with depression in the past and has some very helpful insights into dealing with it.</span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxsAoJfut6SuwlNMMIA-0NtAWxAj9cXMRXfBDwyQ5eCS9N395K0IkYGk8JmO27ohqV1oguBeiO9YNFXOj-Pqmigj_XKgRREKiMTwMs1uUTJVecgoWltI_wGAsU2MXjISYPLkDbiYN0-y8u/s1600/IMG_2345.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="762" data-original-width="784" height="622" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxsAoJfut6SuwlNMMIA-0NtAWxAj9cXMRXfBDwyQ5eCS9N395K0IkYGk8JmO27ohqV1oguBeiO9YNFXOj-Pqmigj_XKgRREKiMTwMs1uUTJVecgoWltI_wGAsU2MXjISYPLkDbiYN0-y8u/s640/IMG_2345.jpeg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/thetummydiaries/?hl=en" target="_blank">@thetummydiaries</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span id="goog_2080222748"></span><span id="goog_2080222749"></span><br /><br /><b>@em_clarkson</b><br />Another body positive account! Great look on life and just a real person just winning at life! Very honest, uplifting and refreshing posts. Genuinley looks like a wonderful human being!</span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBn-yQcQPM1MKyLu5cC4EnmPrJfa9VUZ9UOACE_t2e-Q1lnz-bLqljKdZm04zd7y7TDw6-JjAwRQL0cXq_H7sn4ladChQVJbCleE1AK0-iSzNTF62g87UmzY8eoujkqSBifLtr0vwrMdJw/s1600/IMG_2346.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="762" data-original-width="782" height="620" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBn-yQcQPM1MKyLu5cC4EnmPrJfa9VUZ9UOACE_t2e-Q1lnz-bLqljKdZm04zd7y7TDw6-JjAwRQL0cXq_H7sn4ladChQVJbCleE1AK0-iSzNTF62g87UmzY8eoujkqSBifLtr0vwrMdJw/s640/IMG_2346.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/em_clarkson/?hl=en" target="_blank">@em_clarkson</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /><br /><b>@mindset.therapy</b><br />Really helpful quotes and videos on life and dealing with anxiety and depression. Generally, just motivating!</span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0CQncMiHmaKJ_gw3FDxyt7JU2-MTl63DCszCyDXULGiRFYWl_9pgsFTsmgPhVFFMU5qf3XOPtTh5mNuQ6hmlstJcwmzT1vieRR4XDvQOavxRC8WiEi3so7TSnN9h6LsPTakRqjZCpXkNG/s1600/IMG_2347.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="753" data-original-width="780" height="616" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0CQncMiHmaKJ_gw3FDxyt7JU2-MTl63DCszCyDXULGiRFYWl_9pgsFTsmgPhVFFMU5qf3XOPtTh5mNuQ6hmlstJcwmzT1vieRR4XDvQOavxRC8WiEi3so7TSnN9h6LsPTakRqjZCpXkNG/s640/IMG_2347.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/mindset.therapy/?hl=en" target="_blank">@mindset.therapy</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /><br /><b>@rianne.meijer</b><br />Lovely feed, she is mainly a fashionista but she has these posts that remind me that Instagram is all about the angles and editing. she posts "insta vs reality" pictures that are so funny but also so comforting! Her InstaStories are also very funny and relatable!</span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7NNIJWSEkPmsryPv3BmQMjqfPew5wxmCr74PgORZAYGex2_l6Bxasd384hL6-6MLodNdn9BbHsZIn8EPXsDfdpZSZj32cuBgc2qsmbZEFBhPAW7ziJpFdpfCNAf3nCepzrCD7zoC4d7kb/s1600/IMG_2348.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="755" data-original-width="790" height="610" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7NNIJWSEkPmsryPv3BmQMjqfPew5wxmCr74PgORZAYGex2_l6Bxasd384hL6-6MLodNdn9BbHsZIn8EPXsDfdpZSZj32cuBgc2qsmbZEFBhPAW7ziJpFdpfCNAf3nCepzrCD7zoC4d7kb/s640/IMG_2348.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/rianne.meijer/?hl=en" target="_blank">@rianne.meijer</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /><br />I also try and make my instagram content as honest and relatable as i can. I post motivational quotes that I know have helped me in the past and pictures that make me feel good! </span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitmcfHvmucNczMvmEdw5p4A5z6MN4bPLCAZr39jPZMIfl_xBqQ3O0zW184mvyeSVofN2nLbMLCBxgoUYwBqytYXpcIuTsQTK77ITzw2v8LJ1CcF-dcG4nZOxYHxwL9e8AvFiIXP5qRgSlh/s1600/IMG_2349.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="766" data-original-width="783" height="626" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitmcfHvmucNczMvmEdw5p4A5z6MN4bPLCAZr39jPZMIfl_xBqQ3O0zW184mvyeSVofN2nLbMLCBxgoUYwBqytYXpcIuTsQTK77ITzw2v8LJ1CcF-dcG4nZOxYHxwL9e8AvFiIXP5qRgSlh/s640/IMG_2349.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/lazymumclub/" target="_blank">@lazymumclub</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span></li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">There is so much information out there, you just need to filter through and find what helps you. I would definitely say if you learn anything from this post is to start with your circle, your world around you.</span></div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Look at what is influencing you - friends, family, social media, work etc. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">What can you do that will make you happier? Spending less time on social media? cutting out toxic friends? calling your family more? Figure out what makes you feel good and home in on that.<br /><br />Next thing i would advise is visiting your GP. They're not just there for when your feeling ill. They can offer so much more in terms of someone to just have a chat with. They can refer you on to a service that can help you more if you needed, but they are a great first step into getting some help!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Obviously, Depression and anxiety are not the only mental health issues, but they are the ones that i can relate to.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I hope maybe this has helped if you are going through a similar situation... Please comment or contact me through Instagram if you need any advice or someone to just chat to!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYUTvooc7OvHLZ_CAlsi5tZapMEXIkqBu6ho-NMwCMm-htBLKvIJu248Z_oQIoo21nAA9nHy9Dsjs67yUzgNxsY7zPyXZgARD9i7ibGdJAVJwj3ZBrCMBpzNSY2PaJW30Ft02S7HPrj6E7/s1600/160420-MHAW-Kindness-Instagram.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYUTvooc7OvHLZ_CAlsi5tZapMEXIkqBu6ho-NMwCMm-htBLKvIJu248Z_oQIoo21nAA9nHy9Dsjs67yUzgNxsY7zPyXZgARD9i7ibGdJAVJwj3ZBrCMBpzNSY2PaJW30Ft02S7HPrj6E7/s640/160420-MHAW-Kindness-Instagram.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If you would like more info on mental health or how you can get involved this week, please visit <a href="https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/campaigns/mental-health-awareness-week" target="_blank">https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/campaigns/mental-health-awareness-week</a> </span></div>
littlegem92http://www.blogger.com/profile/15802530705764563191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6556775100541050361.post-78415697751351386632020-05-13T19:00:00.002+01:002020-05-13T19:00:04.305+01:00Toddler Lookbook with Next<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hey all! </span><div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hope you're all doing well.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I recently saw the cutest cardigan from Next kids online - a green knitted button down cardigan with embroidered bunnies on the pockets. So sweet, i had to get it for my daughter who is OBSESSED with bunnies! Can you believe she is now 3!?</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Link to cardigan <a href="https://www.next.co.uk/g59480s13/893019#893019" target="_blank">HERE</a></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Available 3 months to 7 years.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp9j-gMpOwjetUxXHeRvVPb_aWjE7cQLeXqxqfew1uoZuqknRZsd3HfjxcgWSpdxqdazVZC2q65Xw7X1ckZuhj-EGW8ZlLLkfQ0w0SU2PBiDg-suBkiXAeXbCXl_i0MVHYAsLHFnS0cfQJ/s1600/IMG_1929.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp9j-gMpOwjetUxXHeRvVPb_aWjE7cQLeXqxqfew1uoZuqknRZsd3HfjxcgWSpdxqdazVZC2q65Xw7X1ckZuhj-EGW8ZlLLkfQ0w0SU2PBiDg-suBkiXAeXbCXl_i0MVHYAsLHFnS0cfQJ/s640/IMG_1929.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I also bought her a few things ready for the summer season and thought we would do a little lookbook for you! So here it is:</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u>ONE CARDIGAN, 3 LOOKS FOR SUMMER</u></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><u>GIRLY </u></i></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The first piece is a gorgeous floral jersey dress. It is made of 100% cotton, so super comfortable for baby skin! It has a high neckline with a ruffled detail, which makes it look kind of vintage looking. The sleeves are short - like capped sleeves, with a loose ruffle. The fit is very loose which is great for my daughter as she does not like to be restricted! </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This dress is a comfortable and floaty piece, super girly with a pink and white ditsy floral print.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUNrHAGkMi-Lu_uPbFuFGZWXX30ApFT8oIXuBAXEsofQ_JphlANP8xmzP36em2UgOELf7RRomgl4E3J2PLO-bLPIWe5uPWZgFkkfx3tmGADhyFDh6CeREcDYM92_MWO5uZJwMtCxl4aSyS/s1600/IMG_1979+%25281%2529.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1453" data-original-width="791" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUNrHAGkMi-Lu_uPbFuFGZWXX30ApFT8oIXuBAXEsofQ_JphlANP8xmzP36em2UgOELf7RRomgl4E3J2PLO-bLPIWe5uPWZgFkkfx3tmGADhyFDh6CeREcDYM92_MWO5uZJwMtCxl4aSyS/s640/IMG_1979+%25281%2529.jpeg" width="347" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You could style it with sandals for a more formal look, or add some trainers!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We teamed it with these glitter Velcro trainers.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Link to shoes <a href="https://www.next.co.uk/g71376s7/772738#772738" target="_blank">HERE</a> </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ3HSbVP7JzxugJg9MvFQLSSwZYX5VS2x51CxLO9suyHHo_XGiJTlBsGSt493E_KMalKd1UaxpZ4a4UG7Y03-1kp67GNIDcMe8k3IkoD7U2FwLcZew8UeingRY9Vp1F2X9pfAna5WYSoQS/s1600/IMG_1960.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1370" data-original-width="777" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ3HSbVP7JzxugJg9MvFQLSSwZYX5VS2x51CxLO9suyHHo_XGiJTlBsGSt493E_KMalKd1UaxpZ4a4UG7Y03-1kp67GNIDcMe8k3IkoD7U2FwLcZew8UeingRY9Vp1F2X9pfAna5WYSoQS/s640/IMG_1960.jpeg" width="362" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The dress looks so cute with the bunny cardigan too for when it gets a bit chilly!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hair band from <a href="https://www.littledaisydot.com/" target="_blank">Little Daisy Dot</a></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">link to the dress <a href="https://www.next.co.uk/g87284s5/772448#772448" target="_blank">HERE</a></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Available</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> 3 months to 7 years.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><u>PLAYFUL</u></i></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The next outfit is a pair of blonde dungarees. These are super cute for those chillier days, classic British summer! They could also carry you well into the autumn and would work well all layered up!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy_Wci34VnsW24DFkKpzrmEasyxhpyKX4SIcO4HJLePL0X8YiEMjv5U8Qp6dnHuzFk8-ZKuZ5MUeSZ00Yj9iuCNohEhHXvBI7jappG8gfsn2-tal_A_c98hBJIF7S703dY6Qu6UZISA63O/s1600/IMG_1961.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1441" data-original-width="767" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy_Wci34VnsW24DFkKpzrmEasyxhpyKX4SIcO4HJLePL0X8YiEMjv5U8Qp6dnHuzFk8-ZKuZ5MUeSZ00Yj9iuCNohEhHXvBI7jappG8gfsn2-tal_A_c98hBJIF7S703dY6Qu6UZISA63O/s640/IMG_1961.jpeg" width="340" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We matched it with a simple t-shirt in the colour grey that we pulled out from the floral motif on the denim material.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The dungarees are a sort of very pale yellow almost cream (they called it blonde on the website). </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtbaiEoGP3TAgTntL43PaMdLteoyJIBkyBs_Kk97Fuf8XtScgm_M2_5rQ4wcFpyF9MlEPH2T-wX8zmqn2MILuC7FhY3bZcZqvZhPLMtnx3U-t3TPVEND2_IO5u_oPEUzbBQJHPybZXmk5P/s1600/IMG_1962.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1464" data-original-width="750" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtbaiEoGP3TAgTntL43PaMdLteoyJIBkyBs_Kk97Fuf8XtScgm_M2_5rQ4wcFpyF9MlEPH2T-wX8zmqn2MILuC7FhY3bZcZqvZhPLMtnx3U-t3TPVEND2_IO5u_oPEUzbBQJHPybZXmk5P/s640/IMG_1962.jpeg" width="326" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It goes perfectly with the cardigan. The yellow tone isn't too bright that it clashes with the cardi, but sort of compliments the colours on the embroidery. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We teamed this again with the pink glittery trainers.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Link to dungarees <a href="https://www.next.co.uk/g69196s16/880070?_br_psugg_q=blonde+dungarees#880070" target="_blank">HERE</a></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Available</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> 3 months to 7 years.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><u>SIMPLE:</u></i></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><u><br /></u></i></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The last outfit is a simple one - a pair of white cropped leggings with a multi-coloured spotted spaghetti strap top. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This is perfect for long walks down the park as its super comfy and stretchy, great for active kids!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXdm7NfMZCQaq4nfkzeKhOmACcPsqDaSG4t581MZLl2868hukyK1UbE8bhaGHnFR16FyccwD6c7QVvJc_csIXY3Fnkw9gQB3B4DB82m3YY0xtoQosLWZqoaRcN4D_98aIf7pkaHm2HbqsR/s1600/IMG_1963.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1439" data-original-width="748" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXdm7NfMZCQaq4nfkzeKhOmACcPsqDaSG4t581MZLl2868hukyK1UbE8bhaGHnFR16FyccwD6c7QVvJc_csIXY3Fnkw9gQB3B4DB82m3YY0xtoQosLWZqoaRcN4D_98aIf7pkaHm2HbqsR/s640/IMG_1963.jpeg" width="332" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Again this went well with the cardigan and the glittery shoes!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The top and leggings are both part of multi-pack sets, which are great for mix and match outfits! Great value of you are on a budget but still want quality pieces that are cute will last!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Link to leggings <a href="https://www.next.co.uk/g59492s4/886944#886944" target="_blank">HERE</a>:</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Link to spaghetti tops <a href="https://www.next.co.uk/g87280s33/487245#487245" target="_blank">HERE</a>:</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We made a little video of all the outfits! Its over on my Instagram @lazymumclub</span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It took such a long time to film, but we are really happy with the result!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Check it out and let us know what you think!</span></div>
littlegem92http://www.blogger.com/profile/15802530705764563191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6556775100541050361.post-19259331936771238772020-05-06T19:00:00.000+01:002020-05-06T19:00:10.494+01:00My Anxiety and the Coronavirus<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">As you may already know from previous posts or through my Instagram, I suffer from anxiety and have problems dealing with stress (you can read more <a href="https://littlegem-92.blogspot.com/2015/11/what-its-to-live-with-anxiety.html" target="_blank">here</a>)</span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
It’s been about 6 weeks since Boris called a national emergency in the UK and started to enforce strict rules for the public to follow to slow the spread of the coronavirus.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
I am a front line healthcare worker for the NHS. I work in a big London hospital as a radiographer so am in contact with people all day.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
The job is already stressful, especially the last few years with the demand for medical imaging increasing constantly! We are always busy. There are no quiet days... we may have an hour or two where we get less patients than usual but still fairly busy.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4DIdChoq_VO2k6X7MX9vaWZvAxrPfSoYMoDEDyjxXgGNgJrFTbvUdMDf7opUgzwOnMCURj_0sV91CWfi-bshCirrxbHeQezfXAjPOUF2Vjhp_iDiaQvI6TZm0_fRG8AeF2TkpBVs_J117/s1600/IMG_1792.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="740" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4DIdChoq_VO2k6X7MX9vaWZvAxrPfSoYMoDEDyjxXgGNgJrFTbvUdMDf7opUgzwOnMCURj_0sV91CWfi-bshCirrxbHeQezfXAjPOUF2Vjhp_iDiaQvI6TZm0_fRG8AeF2TkpBVs_J117/s640/IMG_1792.PNG" width="295" /></a></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
Since the coronavirus outbreak I have been feeling my anxiety worsen. I have a young daughter who has mild asthma, so am constantly worrying about her!<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
At first it wasn’t that bad as the virus hadn’t really spread widely with just a couple of cases in the UK.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
My first anxiety attack came when a patient I had just finished imaging told me she had come from Brighton and she was close friends with one of the GPs who had contracted the virus... <br />
<br />
I realised that I was seeing patients who had come from all over the country, who may or may not have been in contact with coronavirus patients...<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
Then there was talk about closing universities and schools, stopping non urgent appointments in the hospitals and limiting contact with people you wouldn’t usually see on a daily basis.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
My second attack came when Boris decided to close the schools, except for children of key workers. My heart broke a little. I knew it was a good move to ensure that critical workers could carry on going to work, but it made me worry for Issy's safety! I wanted her home where I could control what she was touching.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
I was so stressed I woke with a migraine the next morning - it was awful I couldn’t open my eyes or eat anything! I was too nauseous.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
Jacks company had decided to let their employees work from home until further notice. I wanted Issy to stay at home with him, but it would mean he couldn’t work, which was not ideal.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
I spoke to Issys nursery and jack spoke to his managers and we decided that it would be safer for issy to be at home, Jack would look after Issy and then work a few hours in the evening when I was home to try and make up time.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
For the first week I had annual leave so I was home with Issy, and I established a bit of a routine to follow, so it would be easy for jack to take over by himself the following week.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
Look out for a post in the near future about the routine we made for her, and some ideas of activities to keep your kids entertained during this time at home!</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYlsoddVkZB4nD9pEoDbErgjMH_0ro29dScLVzKLbM59qXvKVv-V6zKT15QN3EuHiuhOnzrBlh8eRnKfmFkmGMbRJz7vGkzxWZanowwEf8FmBKTdKn1Rivmmngvm9NMpVJ58eLGpsunR83/s1600/IMG_1584.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYlsoddVkZB4nD9pEoDbErgjMH_0ro29dScLVzKLbM59qXvKVv-V6zKT15QN3EuHiuhOnzrBlh8eRnKfmFkmGMbRJz7vGkzxWZanowwEf8FmBKTdKn1Rivmmngvm9NMpVJ58eLGpsunR83/s640/IMG_1584.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px;">
<u>HOW I'VE FELT</u></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px;">
<u><br /></u></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
Not very well, if I’m honest.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
It’s been a while since the last time I was truly happy or smiled fully.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
All the uncertainty in the weeks leading up to Boris’ new restrictions made my anxiety worse than it has been in a long time! It’s been bad recently anyway for a different reason, same reason as last year actually to do with friendships and being left out in the dark socially... but the outbreak has aggravated it more!<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
I spent the first few weeks crying ALL THE TIME. </div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
I’m short and snappy when people talk to me and I just don’t feel like being happy. </div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px;">
I've been paranoid, thinking people don't like me or are whispering about me... It’s tiring!</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<u>HOW IVE BEEN DEALING WITH IT</u></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
I try and think of a positive for every negative that pops in my head.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
For example:</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 20.3px;">
<br /></div>
<ul style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">
<li style="font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: 12px;"></span>We have to stay inside on our days off = I get to do all the activities I’ve complained about not having time to do, like blog or sort my wardrobe out.</li>
</ul>
<ul style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">
<li style="font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: 12px;"></span>Issy is taken away from her friends at nursery = she gets to spend time with her parents more, instead of most of her waking hours with nursery. She probably won’t remember this part of her life when she’s older and hopefully it’s short lived enough that it won’t have an impact on her social development.</li>
<li style="font-size: 17px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: 12px;"></span>I have to go into work exposed to this virus = I get to help people feel better during this time. Plus my closest friend are also my colleagues so I get to see them at work.</li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 17px;">I've also been practicing a lot of self care! <br />I've established a skin care routine that i follow religiously to try and keep my skin looking healthy, and also to make me feel better about myself!</span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 17px;">Lots of treats like chocolates and cups of tea have been keeping me sane.</span></span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 17px;"> </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 17px;">I also find joy in food so </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 17px;">I've </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 17px;">thrown</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 17px;"> myself into cooking new meals each week!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 17px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6iAUvI24Nt3YMlCUtK-B25IPgfOJ7dco_uwcp2ALffhN_b9lCvWRpcmvEHD5lL3JGKBssnaZZwz5pBvPWCbWv0xrAoKyP1q6DdJCLhEc_7AtcPO1cjj4BOWANuDPl8cxU2M2Nu6zquGLa/s1600/_MG_3058.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6iAUvI24Nt3YMlCUtK-B25IPgfOJ7dco_uwcp2ALffhN_b9lCvWRpcmvEHD5lL3JGKBssnaZZwz5pBvPWCbWv0xrAoKyP1q6DdJCLhEc_7AtcPO1cjj4BOWANuDPl8cxU2M2Nu6zquGLa/s640/_MG_3058.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 17px;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 17px;">In the next few weeks I will be publishing a post on ways to help combat anxiety. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 17px;">I just wanted to write this diary post first as a kind of life update and to shine a light on anxiety as it is a big issue at the moment that many more people have been struggling with since the lock down recently! </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 17px;"><br />So many people have reached out to me on my Instagram with similar experiences - if you feel like you are struggling, come and say hello over on my Instagram page @lazymumclub or drop me a message/comment if you just need a chat!</span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 17px;"><br /></span></span></div>
littlegem92http://www.blogger.com/profile/15802530705764563191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6556775100541050361.post-68235040856219901602020-04-28T18:00:00.000+01:002020-04-29T13:05:09.614+01:00An intro to PCOS - What is it?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNkpyPySXAOuoCU4TlfJuBD6Uh8Ux4260aMwtJ5wfEbwjZQyQKSWupc90qF8e1xpSRvDyO41neawCUszhXRcrpGPecjksUI4b7BRXv1iFBidW1uN0QIOdx37D4XY0dbwIsx5qQlQRUmnT1/s1600/Selfie.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNkpyPySXAOuoCU4TlfJuBD6Uh8Ux4260aMwtJ5wfEbwjZQyQKSWupc90qF8e1xpSRvDyO41neawCUszhXRcrpGPecjksUI4b7BRXv1iFBidW1uN0QIOdx37D4XY0dbwIsx5qQlQRUmnT1/s320/Selfie.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />A few posts back I may have mentioned that I was recently diagnosed with a condition called PCOS.<br /> I thought I would do a dedicated post to explain what it is and how I am coping since the diagnosis. <br /><b><u><br /><br />What is PCOS? </u></b><br /><br />Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is a condition where there are multiple follicles (not cysts, despite the name!) on one or both ovaries, elevated hormone levels and menstrual irregularities. <br /><br />Women usually show signs of PCOS during their teens, right through to the early 20s. <br /><br />A few common signs are unwanted bodily hair growth, weight gain, acne and sometimes hair loss. <br /><br />PCOS can often affect a women’s ability to get pregnant. </span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1lZyRnMprYofg-hVunxqN7fJOIiR5l3ZmaMqKlrtavwLLyfvSXtXFVA0pYTxYMigQNf3H3zYqjLGxckmuMppZw3kAlIyQJQF4bLUQej6P2cJ0xH1pMJOoUeCYz-RYtVVbQ7XBDB3rZXK2/s1600/pcos-symptoms.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="746" data-original-width="825" height="577" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1lZyRnMprYofg-hVunxqN7fJOIiR5l3ZmaMqKlrtavwLLyfvSXtXFVA0pYTxYMigQNf3H3zYqjLGxckmuMppZw3kAlIyQJQF4bLUQej6P2cJ0xH1pMJOoUeCYz-RYtVVbQ7XBDB3rZXK2/s640/pcos-symptoms.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /><br /><b><u>What made me suspect PCOS? </u></b><br /><br />My menstrual cycles were very long. I would go nearly 60 days without seeing a period and was experiencing a lot of pain in my pelvic area, especially on the left side. I visited my GP who told me about PCOS. <br /> When I was pregnant with my daughter, I had an early pregnancy scan which also showed a few small fluid filled sacs (follicles) on my left ovary which at the time were insignificant. The GP suspected that since then they could have multiplied, and I was referred for an ultrasound <br /><br />PCOS is diagnosed with at least 2 out of 3 of the following:</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /> 1. Symptomatic – hair loss/growth in unwanted places, loss of periods, weight gain etc.<br /> 2. Positive ultrasound – showing multiple follicles on one or both ovaries)<br /> 3. Abnormal androgen levels <br /><br />I unfortunately had all 3. <br /><br /><b><u>What does this mean for me? </u></b><br /><br />I may or may not be able to have more children naturally in the future. It’s very uncertain as I have already had one child so I may not struggle to get pregnant again. However, the condition may have worsened since then, which may make it difficult to conceive. As I have one child already, I would not qualify for IVF with the NHS (quite rightly), but may be able to see a specialist if I can go on record that I have been trying to get pregnant for over a year. <br /><br />At the moment this is not a major concern for me as I did not want another child just yet, so I am trying not to worry too much until I have to! <br /><br /><b><u>Can it be Reversed/Cured? </u></b><br /><br />There is still so much to learn about PCOS, so it is uncertain whether or not it can be cured. There are ways I can change my lifestyle to improve the condition and reduce symptoms. <br /> for example:<br /> <br /> </span><br />
<ul><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The Pill – to regulate my cycle</span></li>
<li> Dairy/gluten free diet – not an official method, but it is thought to cause a lot of inflammation and bloating that can make effects worse.</li>
<li>Lower BMI – you are more likely to develop diabetes with PCOS, keeping your weight down ensures you do not fall diabetic and can improve your body’s hormone balance, therefore reducing inflammation and PCOS symptoms.</li>
</span></ul>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">
<br />There is still so much information out there surrounding this condition and I have so much to learn. I know that I need to find my own ways to deal with it and that not all methods will be effective for me. I plan to document my progress wherever I can.</span></div>
</div>
littlegem92http://www.blogger.com/profile/15802530705764563191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6556775100541050361.post-21137017567022601252020-04-22T18:00:00.000+01:002020-04-22T18:00:01.108+01:00How to propose to your bridesmaids, Plus 10 proposal ideas!<div style="text-align: left;">
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As from one of my previous posts, you will know that I am a big fan of Pinterest. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And it was on there that I fell in love with the idea of proposing to your bridesmaids. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This seems like quite an American thing to do – in the UK you kind of awkwardly ask “wanna be a bridesmaid?” followed by “ok cool” and a long sip of PG Tips tea…</span></div>
<div>
<br style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;" /></div>
</div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEish2Sxvu9DfBfb_SyLf8wd8EQ3XcjOGwp54bh7OXtSxGmhbE4PzpntDlmaYZJwWMNlJxiTAi5BMrwvta9eQTsC1QDwoMtI37Iuyx2Fc5aZ_tvYxQn0_hSZ1SrAh_8z_mCLnEcvghe12xuk/s1600/Untitled+Design.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEish2Sxvu9DfBfb_SyLf8wd8EQ3XcjOGwp54bh7OXtSxGmhbE4PzpntDlmaYZJwWMNlJxiTAi5BMrwvta9eQTsC1QDwoMtI37Iuyx2Fc5aZ_tvYxQn0_hSZ1SrAh_8z_mCLnEcvghe12xuk/s640/Untitled+Design.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I just thought it would be a nice gesture for my bridesmaids to arrange something cute for them, seeing as I will be bossing them about for the next year!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><u>Create a Gift or Gesture to Give To Your Maids </u></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
So I made each of my bridesmaids a box of goodies with things like a personalized robe, personalized Starbucks cup etc… to learn how you can make your own click the link <a href="https://littlegem-92.blogspot.com/2019/09/how-to-create-bridesmaid-proposal-box.htm" target="_blank">HERE</a>!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Alternatively, you could make a card, or a scrapbook of memories, a photo frame…. etc</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><u>Arrange a nice meal, outing, trip etc</u></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Try and get your maids all in the same place – whether this is at your house, a restaurant, the Zoo… whatever! Try and make it special and memorable!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
My first plan was to host at my mum's house and do an afternoon tea type thing, with balloons and decorations. However, it seemed a little far for my friends to travel and I also didn’t want them to suspect anything so decided on something a bit more low key!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I booked a place to have a girly brunch somewhere special and a little different! There is this restaurant in London called <a href="http://www.coppaclub.co.uk/towerbridge/" target="_blank">Coppa Club</a>, where they have outdoor igloos that you can dine in – or in the summer they call them surfer shacks! They overlook the Thames River, where you can see Tower Bridge and the shard in the background. On a nice sunny day, it is a beautiful view, and we were lucky enough to be blessed with the sunshine on that day!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Tip for Coppa Club – The igloos/shacks go very quickly, so as soon as you know you want to go there, book ASAP. I had to book ours nearly 2 months in advance! Also, if you book for 6+ people, you’ll have the igloo/shack to yourself; otherwise you’ll have to share with others!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><u>SURPRISE!</u></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><u><br /></u></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Try and keep it on the down low as much as possible. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
When I invited the girls to brunch I originally just invited them one at a time, implying it would be just me and them. That backfired when they all started talking to one another and figured out they were meeting me on the same day. Then I just created a Watsapp group called "girly brunch" and just said it had been ages since we all hung out so I’ve booked a nice place for casual brunch </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I got to the restaurant 20 minutes ahead of the girls and asked the waitress to put the boxes i had made (see <a href="https://littlegem-92.blogspot.com/2019/09/how-to-create-bridesmaid-proposal-box.html" target="_blank">here</a>) in the girls’ place settings before we are brought to the table. That way the girls wouldn’t suspect anything if they saw me with a bunch of boxes in the waiting area!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><u>Take Pictures</u></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
These will make such lovely memories as part of your wedding journey, try and take as many as you can! You can even secretly video their reactions! I did this when I asked my sister to be my maid of honour!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I don’t think I got any pictures of them on the table settings – we were all a bit excited to open them!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I did get a few pictures of the after math though!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgptJd_1_2VYaFiitXuW-ARQx0d5qBwWe1wXWU17vtTQTJQPWi4PlNFLRqz3_bXXfiEHWI68Kxpylo7T0hBYKNswwK5Pr6oaJVdBAY8BYjcKVNzP7QtEKrisxfjj72Mq3CCFv1gfwQvjBx/s1600/93074c98-47c7-4d38-b3d6-caf265109c32.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgptJd_1_2VYaFiitXuW-ARQx0d5qBwWe1wXWU17vtTQTJQPWi4PlNFLRqz3_bXXfiEHWI68Kxpylo7T0hBYKNswwK5Pr6oaJVdBAY8BYjcKVNzP7QtEKrisxfjj72Mq3CCFv1gfwQvjBx/s640/93074c98-47c7-4d38-b3d6-caf265109c32.jpeg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Here are some other proposal ideas I came across on Pinterest!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
1. Gift box</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>like the ones I created! How to <a href="https://littlegem-92.blogspot.com/2019/09/how-to-create-bridesmaid-proposal-box.html" target="_blank">HERE</a></i></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://littlegem-92.blogspot.com/2019/09/how-to-create-bridesmaid-proposal-box.html" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheoO4mag4wcKFB8gAaiW5eKfbdP_VGO8nvL1bIUuoSq82Nbaappw0Rbp8L8suXeUv_5K_26gteV57_0nmRoHFjalbj2IjFLIevS0qQWerC7f6qYWKFvHiJSpr0JZpiyD0BFw_FYHuyOj6M/s320/IMG_7214.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://littlegem-92.blogspot.com/2019/09/how-to-create-bridesmaid-proposal-box.html" target="_blank"><i>DIY Bridesmaid Proposal Box </i></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
2. Picture frame</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>A photograoh of you and your maid with a message asking them to be your bridesmaid</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1RDfsaKe27fKJvdVFsAqpjagcePWceqmO5Ki2BfankG67f-zS9gaEe6zaZDklYA45XV_j2DCRGzGczYI1tS0SEvD0HFr4JLp_sYZgfifgURxRSFz2LfzmaTZs02eTktyFBGvXo-omSKPV/s1600/photo+proposal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="340" data-original-width="463" height="234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1RDfsaKe27fKJvdVFsAqpjagcePWceqmO5Ki2BfankG67f-zS9gaEe6zaZDklYA45XV_j2DCRGzGczYI1tS0SEvD0HFr4JLp_sYZgfifgURxRSFz2LfzmaTZs02eTktyFBGvXo-omSKPV/s320/photo+proposal.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://pin.it/384uETg" target="_blank"><i>From Pinterest</i></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
3. Jewellery</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>You can get these from places like etsy, which come with a little proposal card too! So cute!</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwFmmc2gl0xLc8ziNdKPlHwx7m6aaacMEKhGM0YQMeDEIy9aGuh1WMbl2hyhHw4qmUzlumQ3PIvZ9ON49r8B6KqewNxJkuYzUtK7kFSGXO5lv4I39y5P-Gt80YbUVrsZaY8z3jsJTB5G5N/s1600/jewelery+proposal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="372" data-original-width="385" height="309" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwFmmc2gl0xLc8ziNdKPlHwx7m6aaacMEKhGM0YQMeDEIy9aGuh1WMbl2hyhHw4qmUzlumQ3PIvZ9ON49r8B6KqewNxJkuYzUtK7kFSGXO5lv4I39y5P-Gt80YbUVrsZaY8z3jsJTB5G5N/s320/jewelery+proposal.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://pin.it/3i64C7L" target="_blank"><i>From Pinterest</i></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
4. Scratch Card</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>A fun way to propose! </i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkQtSAeCBAXG6CZtzFIkXz1ZDtK3JHnUMwaWMSN_XqHjZGaIosjwPmZqbprZ582bUgw8idx1oR1e9pVVgfoorZO0lML8IeMaav3U3BL9zS4z1mz03yIdY2_CxVabrrTFXreruyCemVP99P/s1600/scratch+proposal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="498" data-original-width="447" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkQtSAeCBAXG6CZtzFIkXz1ZDtK3JHnUMwaWMSN_XqHjZGaIosjwPmZqbprZ582bUgw8idx1oR1e9pVVgfoorZO0lML8IeMaav3U3BL9zS4z1mz03yIdY2_CxVabrrTFXreruyCemVP99P/s320/scratch+proposal.jpg" width="287" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://pin.it/6Mwqrcw" target="_blank"><i>From Pinterest</i></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
5. Cake</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>Break out your baking skills! Try making cupcakes and stick a little proposal message on top!</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMvPVuZaTAlwxUC7khcwLlbttsYAhozDEXJ4ZbdzPUaUjvjjtU9mCP9APoN5tiFXB0qKeIY0bL5B7fBTFAEtVLVqduBYkY0icBdT11O6osDlmNZHytSf1pG13_d6brcDOT5RebmbXtebYm/s1600/cake++proposal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="436" data-original-width="452" height="307" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMvPVuZaTAlwxUC7khcwLlbttsYAhozDEXJ4ZbdzPUaUjvjjtU9mCP9APoN5tiFXB0qKeIY0bL5B7fBTFAEtVLVqduBYkY0icBdT11O6osDlmNZHytSf1pG13_d6brcDOT5RebmbXtebYm/s320/cake++proposal.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://pin.it/50JbroY" target="_blank"><i>From Pinterest</i></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
6. Customised Mug or Glass</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>These are super cute and loved by everyone!</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX_eAmC9WNcwy5mPFtzIrRt1noBkzgFSKKfFHQgH4cATexfuyr_xObeqLocQv1u8vZLeX-F7CGUF7N2azFm0XrsLYxr7c_DwvNAgAyQhyphenhyphenG_ryeWJPBU9w8FmNElQaaT0oGsfJpM80IAR88/s1600/mug++proposal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="550" data-original-width="484" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX_eAmC9WNcwy5mPFtzIrRt1noBkzgFSKKfFHQgH4cATexfuyr_xObeqLocQv1u8vZLeX-F7CGUF7N2azFm0XrsLYxr7c_DwvNAgAyQhyphenhyphenG_ryeWJPBU9w8FmNElQaaT0oGsfJpM80IAR88/s320/mug++proposal.jpg" width="281" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://pin.it/4dbOaXy" target="_blank">From Pinterest</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
7. Balloon with hidden message inside</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>Messy, but fun! Have a vacuum cleaner on hand!</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4xe2DnGmRbI64VSSgSgJo7XIxH9fxW8Q0pjw4EaLcMyWioZK_wedtomNB4tQsWi0135eyd852CpX5Hjo-fNrY-f2_X-EyFbAahPEzgyB29KWqo8p1jd8vnYw4VwdjR69PxnlNvkOgCgpv/s1600/balloon++proposal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="453" data-original-width="459" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4xe2DnGmRbI64VSSgSgJo7XIxH9fxW8Q0pjw4EaLcMyWioZK_wedtomNB4tQsWi0135eyd852CpX5Hjo-fNrY-f2_X-EyFbAahPEzgyB29KWqo8p1jd8vnYw4VwdjR69PxnlNvkOgCgpv/s320/balloon++proposal.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://pin.it/2nxuVpN" target="_blank">From Pinterest</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
8. Puzzle</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>Another fun one!</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrbg-xZ1TV6YFm0A5VKmn_OaoyNKbtkFMOT944UmS86dLq6TAXF8buNkJxtNQ8SdkcmFgs3Mc-pVDHMDis994c7YSNeZPKdqQYVrgoTMgVGTzv4QMdUGhQDLNnNrR1WWR312cS054hPLG4/s1600/puzzle+proposal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="412" data-original-width="447" height="294" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrbg-xZ1TV6YFm0A5VKmn_OaoyNKbtkFMOT944UmS86dLq6TAXF8buNkJxtNQ8SdkcmFgs3Mc-pVDHMDis994c7YSNeZPKdqQYVrgoTMgVGTzv4QMdUGhQDLNnNrR1WWR312cS054hPLG4/s320/puzzle+proposal.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://pin.it/5HwmJNI" target="_blank">From Pinterest</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
9. Personalised T-shirts</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>These would be great to take along to your hen too! How cute are these F.R.I.E.N.D.S inspired ones!?</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Y0ghM_8_-F95UBwPW-bi1wunDfoLMrYBynOsifRj6IS4fdjr2yUL-mG1_Bzob07lfDufCszGFoodfrw5hBovXSBv-iX5b3MxltAa_6bJXuiLwE_yI6JN4NXnAH5jm0lJ7mbfEL9rLlNi/s1600/tshirt+proposal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="399" data-original-width="457" height="279" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Y0ghM_8_-F95UBwPW-bi1wunDfoLMrYBynOsifRj6IS4fdjr2yUL-mG1_Bzob07lfDufCszGFoodfrw5hBovXSBv-iX5b3MxltAa_6bJXuiLwE_yI6JN4NXnAH5jm0lJ7mbfEL9rLlNi/s320/tshirt+proposal.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://pin.it/QyuvYEM" target="_blank">From Pinterest</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
10. Simple proposal card</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>You can find these on etsy or even ones that have drawings made to look like you and your maids!</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaPqNBicDssvg0miADbNkywupjYMm_x4Tld9Vx3g8u2kTijjho_gT53fvfIb4aczHfMW3RlXWUl_Vq2sviSYR0UjyZf9SsT2SM1S4OVZsbsSdI3KdGN6FfwAKESBmJ8wkdI4hilOqKoQJM/s1600/IMG_7218.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1201" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaPqNBicDssvg0miADbNkywupjYMm_x4Tld9Vx3g8u2kTijjho_gT53fvfIb4aczHfMW3RlXWUl_Vq2sviSYR0UjyZf9SsT2SM1S4OVZsbsSdI3KdGN6FfwAKESBmJ8wkdI4hilOqKoQJM/s320/IMG_7218.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://littlegem-92.blogspot.com/2019/09/how-to-create-bridesmaid-proposal-box.html" target="_blank"><i>From my DIY proposal boxes!</i></a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I hope this post has given you a few ideas on how to propose to your bridesmaids! If you have any more suggestions please do comment below!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Gem x</div>
</span>littlegem92http://www.blogger.com/profile/15802530705764563191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6556775100541050361.post-35694316526970238102020-03-19T21:24:00.001+00:002020-03-19T21:24:59.780+00:002020 Life Update<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It's been a while since I've last written.</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I always mean to write so much more often but something always gets in the way and it never goes to plan.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have a lot of good ideas, it's just finding the time between being a mum and working full time plus planning a wedding and finishing a post-grad certification for work... </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So to fill the void and get the ball rolling, lets do a quick life update.</span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Mum-life:<br />My little girl is turning 3 in April.Shes growing up so fast, but i am kind of glad to see the back of the terrible twos. She has been a little bit difficult to deal with especially when going out in public - her behaviour can be so unpredictable! For example the other day, I took her to pizza express and she had a full on meltdown for no apparent reason. It was so bad I was too stressed out to eat my food when it came - i had to take it home! I was so embarrassed. I know shouldn't be because one day i'll look back with fondness and laughter.</span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNgWzC3BdtEVKmPnX6flzv0Wc6Jhtl3ZXj_q_BegQNCosSWio76xFVpT1Mved4l-yvVYCUv33pFN_OSeJ1_LmB8lXIjB2CkMg1zeawWNAjYz-jhxY9U0BQOIeo2HpA9lLtUUnavtJWphAL/s1600/IMG_1031.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1377" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNgWzC3BdtEVKmPnX6flzv0Wc6Jhtl3ZXj_q_BegQNCosSWio76xFVpT1Mved4l-yvVYCUv33pFN_OSeJ1_LmB8lXIjB2CkMg1zeawWNAjYz-jhxY9U0BQOIeo2HpA9lLtUUnavtJWphAL/s400/IMG_1031.jpg" width="343" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Wedding Planning</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The major things are all done now - Venue, catering, wedding band, photographer/videographers and cake. I still need to get the bridesmaid dresses, but we have chosen the colour and style of dress so its just a case of ordering more! </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I've had a makeup trial and loved the makeup artist, so pretty sure im going to book with her. May do one more trial as there were a few things that needed tweaking but i think im pretty much there. Obviously this whole Coronavirus thing has messed up a lot of things for us, I'm very reluctant to plan anything else or pay for services when the wedding may not even go ahead - and i'm not even sure if our insurance will cover us fully if we end up cancelling...</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhaPBBZsH_yg7TCaPs7ZjxbHa__QJ-zb-JosctpZvhax3xze7uD7Dis0HA02vkTJaVJn71vF816_neveUQu68jJL4yQpzEc-P-w2N-jd15_9HPOMvZTC28g5XI4kGsXJqCmu2yBZY27R0z/s1600/IMG_1305.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1335" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhaPBBZsH_yg7TCaPs7ZjxbHa__QJ-zb-JosctpZvhax3xze7uD7Dis0HA02vkTJaVJn71vF816_neveUQu68jJL4yQpzEc-P-w2N-jd15_9HPOMvZTC28g5XI4kGsXJqCmu2yBZY27R0z/s400/IMG_1305.jpg" width="332" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In Other News</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I was recently diagnosed with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I noticed that my cycle length was getting longer and longer and i was losing a lot of hair on my head, feeling tired and weak all the time and feeling overly anxious. I suffer from anxiety anyway, but it has been quite bad the past couple of months.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr6Uiaxd-WQ8Q7dV-IVs9WFQr3Y4kL_AYMPdY9ZYxk6Tly_k3qf8QdCbHmC42-m_z6p1yS3E0dmblm0dADPqEBanHkymFESKPeh0gHK0lqlFY8m3zAnqQuxauc0AfdAMTA0vUjwi3sEB1B/s1600/C437BDB8-5AE2-4FF7-B4AD-655995ED8680.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1280" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr6Uiaxd-WQ8Q7dV-IVs9WFQr3Y4kL_AYMPdY9ZYxk6Tly_k3qf8QdCbHmC42-m_z6p1yS3E0dmblm0dADPqEBanHkymFESKPeh0gHK0lqlFY8m3zAnqQuxauc0AfdAMTA0vUjwi3sEB1B/s400/C437BDB8-5AE2-4FF7-B4AD-655995ED8680.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I visited my GP and expressed my concerns and she sent me for an ultrasound scan which showed i had multifolecular ovaries. You can have polycysitc ovaries without having PCOS, so we got a blood test to look at the hormone levels - which came back abnormal.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The two results together confirm that i have PCOS...</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So what does this mean? It means I don;t ovulate regularly which could mean i may have trouble having another baby. Usually people develop PCOS in their teens and struggle to conceive as an adult, so in a way i am very lucky I have had Issy... but i do feel really worried about the future. I really want to have more children. And since i've already had one child I don't qualify for IVF on the NHS... another worry! </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMCZP-exeaRlfibFi6bSfDk7EPvyRhFXgFnfO1-qS3Xr17MShw0uyGK5HEWLG1SDXSTEGI5lGBtwcSI0eaWugnYaJ7v9CA9ERAN81eHABMfwVYne23zt0V-HYqCxToLBB9AfnFy3ImDuWn/s1600/PHOTO-2020-03-19-21-20-46.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMCZP-exeaRlfibFi6bSfDk7EPvyRhFXgFnfO1-qS3Xr17MShw0uyGK5HEWLG1SDXSTEGI5lGBtwcSI0eaWugnYaJ7v9CA9ERAN81eHABMfwVYne23zt0V-HYqCxToLBB9AfnFy3ImDuWn/s400/PHOTO-2020-03-19-21-20-46.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">PCOS also makes it difficult to lose weight, something i have been trying to do for the wedding! So i need to re-evaluate my weightloss program... I have been thinking about going back to the Live like Louise programme. You can read more about that <a href="https://littlegem-92.blogspot.com/2019/04/live-like-louise-workout-progress.html" target="_blank">HERE</a></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have discovered a few PCOS instagram gurus like @pcosweightloss who also does a very interesting podcast with her husband - @acysterandhermister</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Once i come to grips with this whole thing i'll write a whole post dedicated to PCOS, i am still learning about this, but i know this is a very common condition that a lot of women are quietly living with!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I hope you all are staying safe, and staying home if you can! </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Look out for a post about the coronavirus and staying sane and healthy during these times! .</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Gem</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">x</span></div>
littlegem92http://www.blogger.com/profile/15802530705764563191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6556775100541050361.post-18177407638407535342020-03-19T20:57:00.000+00:002020-03-19T20:57:00.989+00:00Live LIke Louise Workout progress<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Hey guys!</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So I have just signed up to the Live Like Louise fitness and nutrition programme, and I thought I would document my progress!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I have been struggling to lose weight since I've had Issy, mainly because I've been so damn lazy with my eating and exercising! </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">After Issy was born I was optimistic that I would get back to my size 6 shape, however I didn't really want to put in any work. I always had excuses - I was too tired from looking after Issy all day, or I was breast feeding so couldn't be on any crazy diets as i needed to pack in the nutrients for the baby. When my maternity leave ended, my excuse was I was now tired from working all day and i didn't have time to exercise or cook anything healthy. But yet i would complain that I was getting bigger or I have had to go up a couple of sizes when I go shopping...</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Recently, a girl on my Facebook posted a picture of herself 1 year postpartum, showing off her body she had worked hard at to get back into shape. I felt awful. I know that comparing myself to someone else can be toxic, however I just felt so guilty that I had done absolutely nothing to help myself! Here was a girl of the same age, who was of a similar shape to me pre-baby and was able to sort her life out and look after her body! So I have decided to do something about it - like really make an effort.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I've been seeing a lot of adverts of my Facebook and Instagram for Louise Thompson and her fiance, Ryan's (Made in Chelsea stars) fitness programme. They have developed a plan based on Louise's transformation from party girl to a well-toned and lean lady, using macro-diets and 45-min workouts. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">They claim you can still eat the foods you love while losing weight - one of the main selling points for me! After living off Starbucks and biscuits for 2 years, going cold turkey would prove difficult, so this seemed like a great idea for me to still have a bit of what i like, while ultimately learning to cut down on the junk. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiL0lvEjeocHOs42-t-DvC-xZLW-hJfPmQl6Ahg8QYTv4IzpCPqKYzZYhCRZKnNo2uiayfkCE-c19gCnTb0f10Y15VNkSEq1Qois_DL2cXI1EDxt0vz_Xr-9oUhvcpMTATKr_eXHxLiZgG/s1600/ryan-and-louise-banner-image-2-LLL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1200" height="332" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiL0lvEjeocHOs42-t-DvC-xZLW-hJfPmQl6Ahg8QYTv4IzpCPqKYzZYhCRZKnNo2uiayfkCE-c19gCnTb0f10Y15VNkSEq1Qois_DL2cXI1EDxt0vz_Xr-9oUhvcpMTATKr_eXHxLiZgG/s640/ryan-and-louise-banner-image-2-LLL.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I've gone for the "Complete Package" which addresses the nutrition and fitness together!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Having read through the 12-week Workout Plan, I've noticed there are some elements that require access to a gym. I do not have a gym membership - I used to but literally was spending £60 a month or a plastic card i never used... So I will need to message them to ask about alternative home workouts, which are adjustments they are able to provide!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I am very optimistic that this will be a good for me, and am feeling pretty motivated to start - partly to do with the fact that I spent a good amount, so want to get my money's worth!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I'll try and post updates of how i am finding it and maybe some photos of my progress. Hopefully this can give some of you an insight into what the programme is like and if it is something for you too!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Love,</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Gem</span></div>
littlegem92http://www.blogger.com/profile/15802530705764563191noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6556775100541050361.post-80063749880936674782020-02-12T18:30:00.000+00:002020-02-12T18:30:06.155+00:00Pros and Cons of using Pinterest to plan your wedding<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.3800000000000001; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /><br />Hey everyone!<br /><br /><br />One of my favourite wedding planning apps has to be Pinterest! It is so easy to spend your time scrolling through the amazing feeds! But as with anything, there are some benefits and limitations to using this app. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijFM0Rf9H9Fqe-DaH6AaNyzBDan1fAO9IKHEZwuVjiCI2JH0ItlGp10xl8t6LCJEybi4OMBsvlioh8s2Cdm3NhEWs6EtA_Wf05XSjePr7jQgmp1Adzonkg21_vXgMUsG4t8ZdYGnxw2Gmk/s1600/pinterest+screenshot.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijFM0Rf9H9Fqe-DaH6AaNyzBDan1fAO9IKHEZwuVjiCI2JH0ItlGp10xl8t6LCJEybi4OMBsvlioh8s2Cdm3NhEWs6EtA_Wf05XSjePr7jQgmp1Adzonkg21_vXgMUsG4t8ZdYGnxw2Gmk/s640/pinterest+screenshot.jpg" /></a> <br /><br /><br />Here are a few Pros and Cons of using Pinterest when planning your wedding.<br /><br /><br /><b><u>PROS: </u></b><br /> <br /><br /><br /><ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Lots of ideas - </span></li>
</ul>
</span><div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Pinterest if full of amazing ideas. Just search for something and you shall find it! Its better than google or Instagram as it pools together pictures from Instagram, blogs, websites that fit the criteria you search for!</i></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /><br /><br /><ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Things you hadn’t even thought of </span></li>
</ul>
<i>There are details that I hadn’t even thought of before I came across them on Pinterest that now I don’t think I would exclude from my wedding! For example, I am getting married in winter and I searched “Winter Wedding” and came across the cutest picture of blankets in a box with a sign that said “To have and to hold, in case you get cold” – TOTALLY DOING THAT!</i><br /> <br /><br /><br /><ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Creative </span></li>
</ul>
<i>Going on the above point, Pinterest gives you plenty of ideas to get a bit creative with your wedding! Lots of details pictured with unconventional things you don’t see at your everyday wedding that will leave your guests stunned. </i><br /><br /><br /><br /><ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Organisation </span></li>
</ul>
<i>You can create boards on Pinterest where you can categorise the different aspect of your wedding! Channel your inner Monica Geller, folks! Its virtual label making!</i><br /><i>I’ve got boards for flowers, boards for different colour schemes, bridesmaid boards, groomsmen attire, makeup ideas and even one for the table place names! Go cra</i>zy! <br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWKNgi_tbIv93wHEUfkhOuaHH6ZsGAg2DyPT3NFENGM-hvyyxSym3kmeSBq2l7L11mmrntE9k2AXg7gmeu_AvjF5Mb6AL4jkqYDo0Qa7teUXfuY-Sv1nh2iY8jT3o2pR7QLaMqoMLVvxjE/s1600/pinterest+boards.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWKNgi_tbIv93wHEUfkhOuaHH6ZsGAg2DyPT3NFENGM-hvyyxSym3kmeSBq2l7L11mmrntE9k2AXg7gmeu_AvjF5Mb6AL4jkqYDo0Qa7teUXfuY-Sv1nh2iY8jT3o2pR7QLaMqoMLVvxjE/s640/pinterest+boards.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Options </span></li>
</ul>
<i>There are so many different ways to hold a wedding, and if you make your boards like I explained above, you’ve now given yourself tonnes of options. If your torn between 2 colour schemes, you could create boards for each and compare the two to help you decide! </i><br /> <br /><br /><br /><ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Diys and Money saving tips</span></li>
</ul>
<i>There are so many different DIY projects you can find, with links to videos or instructional blogs on how to create a DIY wedding. I know I have found a few things that I’d like to create myself! Amongst the DIYs are tips on how to save money. Little charts or informative pictures on what’s important to spend money on and when to hold back.<br />Take a look at these Proposal boxes i DIYed for my Bridesmaids! I got the idea off pintererst, and most of the products from etsy. Click <a href="https://littlegem-92.blogspot.com/2019/09/how-to-create-bridesmaid-proposal-box.html">HERE </a>to find the post.</i><br /><br /><br /><br /><b><u>CONS: </u></b><br /><br /><br /><ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Mismatched </span></li>
</ul>
<i>Although it’s great to get loads of ideas, you risk wanting everything you see on Pinterest and having a bit of a weird wedding where things don’t match… you wouldn’t want to have DIY this that doesn’t match your other DIY that… or a rustic inspired table setting with lego inspired centre pieces… </i><br /><br /><br /><br /><ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Stress to strive for perfection </span></li>
</ul>
<i>I’ve seen this lots. Ladies who spend their life on Instagram and Pinterest wanting the best wedding possible, watching all those youtubers and influencers with their expensive ideas and trying to create the same thing. Simple is more effective. Take a few things from Pinterest by all means but don’t get stressed out thinking "is this insta-worthy enough?" Use things that will make you happy to see them on your special day instead of what you think other people or insta followers would like.</i><br /><br /><br /><ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Might not be available where you live </span></li>
</ul>
<i>A lot of the things I came across on Pinterest were Products or services I was not available to buy in the UK. Most of it came from America or Australia, which was a bit annoying. So be careful what you fall in love with! Or if you’re feeling creative you could try and DIY</i>!<br /><br /><br /><br /><ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Expensive </span></li>
</ul>
<i>Trying to have a lot of the details from a Pinterest wedding can be very expensive. Try taking a few ideas here and be open to other suggestions from suppliers. Don’t base your entire wedding off Pinterest ideas as it will add up! Remember also - a lot of the ideas you see can be from styled shoots, where products will be vamped up and decorated to the max to try and attract customers – not many weddings will have these extravagant showcase details!</i><br /><br /> <br /><ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Confused </span></li>
</ul>
<i>Usually brides (or grooms) will go into their engagement with some sort of idea of what you want. Spending hours looking at Pinterest may confuse you a little and blur the lines on what you want and don’t want, all because you’ve seen examples of things you might not need done amazingly!</i><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>This has happened to me so many times. If you find your getting a bit confused, take a break from Pinterest and come back when you’ve had time to think away from the pictures. Then be strict and delete the boards and pins you don’t need anymore. It will save you going back and thinking “oh maybe I should have picked this colour scheme because these pictures all look amazing…” Trust me, what you have in store for your guests will be amazing and totally Pinterest worthy too.</i></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i><br /><br />You can follow my pinterest account lazymumclub for ideas on how to use pinterest! I have made some of my boards available to you as examples - i also use pinterest for other ideas like outfit inspiration! You can click <a href="https://www.pinterest.co.uk/lazymumclub/">HERE </a>and take a look!<br /><br /><br />I hope this post has given you a little more insight on whether or not to use pinterest to help plan your wedding. If you found it useful please do comment below, I'd love to hear from you! What other apps have you found useful for wedding or even party planning?<br /><br /><br />Gem x<br /><br /><br />*DISCLAIMER* Pinterest have in no way sponsered me to write this post or promote their app - I am writing this purely because i enjoy using the app!*</span></div>
littlegem92http://www.blogger.com/profile/15802530705764563191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6556775100541050361.post-25121619257883787562019-09-25T19:00:00.000+01:002019-09-25T19:00:06.041+01:00How To Create a Bridesmaid Proposal Box<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">During my year and a half since being engaged I spent the
majority of my spare time trolling pintrest to create my perfect wedding. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Amongst my thousands of boards is a bridesmaid proposal
board! </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I had never heard of proposing to your bridesmaids before – it’s not something
that’s usually done in the UK… more of an American tradition I think! That
said, I loved the idea of creating gifts for my bridesmaids to give to them
when I ask them to be my bridesmaids!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNyF56UlZIaAijKlG7m2tp0FPvIZQfreZ9K_N8s4vH0Y2ch0z0zeD2T_rWKGqQGWvfOjyxuB12OVA6Aa7W3i7WY840ictISAhnTMzBfHgUiHRquGx87qWD83k6QcxG_tKugbx92FumH2Zr/s1600/bridesmaid+proposal+box.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNyF56UlZIaAijKlG7m2tp0FPvIZQfreZ9K_N8s4vH0Y2ch0z0zeD2T_rWKGqQGWvfOjyxuB12OVA6Aa7W3i7WY840ictISAhnTMzBfHgUiHRquGx87qWD83k6QcxG_tKugbx92FumH2Zr/s640/bridesmaid+proposal+box.PNG" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have 5 bridesmaids plus my sister, Zara will be my maid of
honour.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Because I have so many bridesmaids, I wanted to keep the price of the boxes
sensible! </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Here’s what I put in each of the boxes! I hope this will give you some ideas of
how to create bridesmaid boxes of your own!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoc7YY62l24BQBrv4MxH5MD2xECB0SCK-8NukrYUPOibGXKFFxKoEoflj8CtbLVJc5WQWDTAVuq7JrjrCocSHAE0l_miDB3r7YK_T6FEY3GeAnq539HYb-JCC7ZZ0pJU82Iafm7xjT9qXY/s1600/IMG_7239.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoc7YY62l24BQBrv4MxH5MD2xECB0SCK-8NukrYUPOibGXKFFxKoEoflj8CtbLVJc5WQWDTAVuq7JrjrCocSHAE0l_miDB3r7YK_T6FEY3GeAnq539HYb-JCC7ZZ0pJU82Iafm7xjT9qXY/s640/IMG_7239.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Bridesmaid robe</span></span></div>
<!--[if !supportLists]--><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I ordered these from etsy by Viola Print (link below). I customised these with
the maids’ names and role in the wedding! I got the silky robes with lace trim
in the colour blush and myself the white one! </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">( </span><a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/675519337/bridesmaid-robe-personalised-wedding?ref=shop_home_feat_3&bes=1" style="text-indent: -18pt;">https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/675519337/bridesmaid-robe-personalised-wedding?ref=shop_home_feat_3&bes=1</a><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">
)</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Bride Squad PJs</span></span></div>
<!--[if !supportLists]--><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">These were on sale on boohoo. There nothing special, just some cute little PJs
that the girls can wear if they want to – or not! No biggie, just thought
they’d be a cute addition</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">( </span><a href="https://www.boohoo.com/brides-squad-satin-short-set/NZZ90023.html?color=133" style="text-indent: -18pt;">https://www.boohoo.com/brides-squad-satin-short-set/NZZ90023.html?color=133</a><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">
)</span></span></div>
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Sleep eye mask</span></span></div>
<!--[if !supportLists]--><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">These were from Missguided, also in the sale!</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Pink gin</span></span></div>
<!--[if !supportLists]--><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I love miniature bottles of spirits but with it not being Christmas, they were
quite hard to find in supermarkets! There is a great website called The Bottle
Club that does miniature versions of your favourite drink! Mine is Gordans Pink
Gin!</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">(</span><a href="https://www.thebottleclub.com/collections/miniatures" style="text-indent: -18pt;">https://www.thebottleclub.com/collections/miniatures</a><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">
)</span></span></div>
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Customised Starbucks cup<br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLjgAcdF2JO3sk6Mnxohkryqfq-YkS5S1NGRKUb5lBAXWDCuu4RD-ZHlhjyJBDf15hz3xXeAwt7LoYhUxTMUNgeMqj44n470QWyJqegowTKz14G_VMUgpbq-uHEZHmDj-fXxqAysDvfRLa/s1600/IMG_7222.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLjgAcdF2JO3sk6Mnxohkryqfq-YkS5S1NGRKUb5lBAXWDCuu4RD-ZHlhjyJBDf15hz3xXeAwt7LoYhUxTMUNgeMqj44n470QWyJqegowTKz14G_VMUgpbq-uHEZHmDj-fXxqAysDvfRLa/s640/IMG_7222.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><br /></span></span></div>
<!--[if !supportLists]--><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I saw this come up a lot on pinterest. I am bloody obsessed with Starbucks and
have been for years. I think people know me best attached to a Grande caramel
latte! So I decided to customise the reusable plastic cups that you can get for
£1 at Starbucks with these fab vinyl stickers from Etsy!</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">(</span><a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/617889208/decal-for-reusable-cup-style-2-decal?show_sold_out_detail=1&bes=1" style="text-indent: -18pt;">https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/617889208/decal-for-reusable-cup-style-2-decal?show_sold_out_detail=1&bes=1</a><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">
)</span></span></div>
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Mini Chocs</span></span></div>
<!--[if !supportLists]--><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Little packs of Ferrero Roche’s!</span></span></div>
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">A photo of myself and each girl with a nice
message on the back</span></span></div>
<!--[if !supportLists]--><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I thought this would be a nice personal touch and a way to tell each girl how
much they mean to me. The girls I have chosen to be my bridesmaids have all
been there for me in one way or another and are very special friends!</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Proposal Card</span></span></div>
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdSXBZZjRFjXTKznCrbOTZs90Iim2_lE_RNJsGACV3GL8UiwejrVE7Bkw9jcTaXwWaXyTzDoKHq69AGvSGr-JsXb6sLxBJGASGnueF2tnUbmfXbOL85cVN_NixfgfBr-wanEDnBNYVJ59A/s1600/IMG_7218.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1201" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdSXBZZjRFjXTKznCrbOTZs90Iim2_lE_RNJsGACV3GL8UiwejrVE7Bkw9jcTaXwWaXyTzDoKHq69AGvSGr-JsXb6sLxBJGASGnueF2tnUbmfXbOL85cVN_NixfgfBr-wanEDnBNYVJ59A/s640/IMG_7218.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><br /></span></span></div>
<!--[if !supportLists]--><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">These little cards add a touch of humour to the box – It was so hard finding a
day that all the girls were free as we all work together too! Plus they all
talk to each other so kinda figured out they were all hanging out with me on
the same day! Not so much of a secret after all… so I turned it into a girly
brunch! They probably figured out what was going on when I told them I only
wanted a certain few girls coming!</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">(</span><a href="https://www.amomentofmagic.co.uk/product-page/now-act-surprised-will-you-be-my" style="text-indent: -18pt;">https://www.amomentofmagic.co.uk/product-page/now-act-surprised-will-you-be-my</a><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">
)</span></span></div>
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Save the date</span></span></div>
<!--[if !supportLists]--><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">These were custom made from Etsy by NiviDesign1</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">( </span><a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/NIVIDESIGN1" style="text-indent: -18pt;">https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/NIVIDESIGN1</a><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">
)</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijd6_cdIXg6kfbtvZGMCnmVgh5qXoXFVFAzSkeMaL2QXqFIvRg_5tfyZaESBip0x1hZt37nF7kiAwkG4OT42OSFwpC7KFe3faY_dknU8muKo38ytfMVmC_GJ2AznhWwkeyg_6MwB5kcQnw/s1600/IMG_7214.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijd6_cdIXg6kfbtvZGMCnmVgh5qXoXFVFAzSkeMaL2QXqFIvRg_5tfyZaESBip0x1hZt37nF7kiAwkG4OT42OSFwpC7KFe3faY_dknU8muKo38ytfMVmC_GJ2AznhWwkeyg_6MwB5kcQnw/s640/IMG_7214.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I hope this gives you a few ideas into what you can create for a bridesmaid proposal! It doesn't even have to be a box - it can be in a gift bag, in a personalised tote bag, or wrapped in wrapping paper etc - whatever you like really! </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Gem x</span></div>
littlegem92http://www.blogger.com/profile/15802530705764563191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6556775100541050361.post-86971741619805023002019-09-20T19:00:00.000+01:002019-09-20T19:00:04.542+01:00Must have baby products<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Hey guys!</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">
<o:p></o:p></span>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">These mini- reviews are mainly for newborn and baby products
but I’ve included one or two for infant and toddlers too!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Just to clarify – I am not getting paid to promote any of
these products… just one lazy mum sharing her honest opinions with other lazy
mums!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUMCPTD8P6RXLWT7oBBkG4ICGLdf6xwXcQBTtm0BS2-WpPmJ6WvLfEgmP6t0qSxA-LqWMmXBDVy4rWw6jHgpol91Fz5o-ynD6TqkQFZezgqomMIdZFpBE60j3OYOEvRRb_GFjixTTjAg4L/s1600/Baby+products+%25281%2529.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUMCPTD8P6RXLWT7oBBkG4ICGLdf6xwXcQBTtm0BS2-WpPmJ6WvLfEgmP6t0qSxA-LqWMmXBDVy4rWw6jHgpol91Fz5o-ynD6TqkQFZezgqomMIdZFpBE60j3OYOEvRRb_GFjixTTjAg4L/s640/Baby+products+%25281%2529.PNG" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I have left links to these products if you want to have a
look on the websites!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">NEWBORN<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="text-align: center; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><u>Gro egg</u></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-decoration-line: underline;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-indent: -18pt;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="text-indent: -18pt;"> I was really anxious about the
temperature in my daughter’s room after scaring myself silly through late night
googling and parenting forums on cot death so bought the Gro egg! It reads the
temperature to the nearest degree and the light on the top of the egg glows a
certain colour for a quick reference on whether it’s safe enough for baby. For
example: 16 degrees C or less – blue light and a :(</span><span style="text-indent: -18pt;"> shows so its too cold. 18 degrees and it’s an orange with a :)</span><span style="text-indent: -18pt;"> so it’s just right.</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-indent: -18pt;">
</span>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i style="text-indent: -18pt;"><a href="https://gro.co.uk/product/gro-egg/" target="_blank">https://gro.co.uk/product/gro-egg/</a></i></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">
<o:p></o:p></span>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: center; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"> <u>
</u></span></span><!--[endif]--><u>Medela pumps</u></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: center; text-indent: -18pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><u><br /></u></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-indent: -18pt;"> I combination fed in the beginning
with my daughter and was producing more milk than she was drinking, so needed
to express. After months of research I decided on Medela. They have a range of
products, from simple manual pumps (which FYI are a bloody lifesaver on nights
away from baby! Super lightweight and easy to pack) to hospital grade (again –
a life saver during an overnight trip to the hospital and a mild case of
mastitis)</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">
<i></i></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i><i style="text-indent: -18pt;"><a href="https://www.medela.co.uk/breastfeeding/products/breast-pumps" target="_blank">https://www.medela.co.uk/breastfeeding/products/breast-pumps</a></i></i></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>
</i><div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]-->
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-indent: -18pt;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> <u> </u></span></span><u style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-indent: -18pt;">Lansinoh Lanolin </u></div>
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="text-indent: -18pt;"> Chapped nipples are not the
one. Grease em up girls</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">
<i><div style="text-align: center;">
<i style="text-indent: -18pt;"><a href="https://lansinoh.co.uk/product/lansinoh-hpa-lanolin/" target="_blank">https://lansinoh.co.uk/product/lansinoh-hpa-lanolin/</a></i></div>
</i><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-indent: -18pt;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> <u> </u></span></span><u style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-indent: -18pt;">Fabric baby carrie</u><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-indent: -18pt;">r </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-indent: -18pt;"> </span></div>
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">So my prenatal yoga
teacher preached about these a lot. I just thought they were a bit hippy-dippy
so ignored her and used the lovely bjorn carrier I got at my baby shower.
Should have listened to her when she said baby’s head would flop around like a
parade flag. The fabric ones were a lot softer and kinder and I could tie it in
loads of different ways to comfort and support her. The bjorn carrier came in
handy a bit later on when my daughter became more mobile and I needed something
to literally strap her limbs down so she couldn’t move…</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">
<i><div style="text-align: center;">
<i style="text-indent: -18pt;"><a href="https://funkiflamingo.com/products/baby-wrap/" target="_blank">https://funkiflamingo.com/products/baby-wrap/</a></i></div>
</i><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><br /></span></div>
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><u>
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></u></span><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-indent: -18pt;">·</u><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; text-indent: -18pt;"><u> </u> </span><u style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-indent: -18pt;">Tommee Tippee formula prep machine</u></div>
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="text-indent: -18pt;"> Ultimate
lazy parenting machine here. A must have if you value sleep and can’t be
dealing with waiting for formula to cool down at 2 am. This machine dispenses
filtered water at the optimum temperature for babies to drink, all you have to
do is put the powder in the bottle! Simple! </span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<i><div style="text-align: center;">
<i style="text-indent: -18pt;"><a href="https://www.tommeetippee.co.uk/product/perfect-prep-machine" target="_blank">https://www.tommeetippee.co.uk/product/perfect-prep-machine</a></i></div>
</i><div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]-->
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-indent: -18pt;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><u style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-indent: -18pt;">Twist n shake thermo flask</u></div>
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Great for on the
go! I used this to carry around warm water for formula. Lovely sleek and trendy
design with matching bottles available too! Fits nicely into baby bags!</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">
<i></i></span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i style="text-indent: -18pt;"><a href="https://twistshake.com/eu/product/115-hot-or-coldp.html" target="_blank">https://twistshake.com/eu/product/115-hot-or-coldp.html</a></i></div>
</i><div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]-->
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-indent: -18pt;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><u style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-indent: -18pt;">Tote Savvy bag organiser</u></div>
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">OMG. If your baby bag
is a hot mess, then you need this. It has loads of different compartments and
pockets for everything you need, with handy things like a clasp for your keys
and an insulated pocket for bottles etc. Even comes with a little changing mat!
I bought this to go inside my Longchamp bag and now use it for work! Super
handy - will change your life. </span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">
<i><div style="text-align: center;">
<i style="text-indent: -18pt;"><a href="https://www.totesavvy.com/collections/organizer" target="_blank">https://www.totesavvy.com/collections/organizer</a></i></div>
</i><div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><u><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">INFANT</span></u></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-weight: 700;"><br /></span></div>
<u style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></u><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-indent: -18pt;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><u style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-indent: -18pt;">360 sippie cup</u></div>
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">These are really useful to
teach little ones how to drink from a cup! It has a “dentist recommended
spoutless design” that is spill free! Great for avoiding messes and soggy
clothes… fyi you can get adult ones too – handy for post-night outs where mess
is inevitable… </span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">
<i><div style="text-align: center;">
<i style="text-indent: -18pt;"><a href="https://www.munchkin.co.uk/cups/spoutless-cups.html" target="_blank">https://www.munchkin.co.uk/cups/spoutless-cups.html</a></i></div>
</i><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-weight: 700;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><u><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">TODDLER</span></u></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-weight: 700;"><br /></span></div>
<u style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></u><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-indent: -18pt;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><u style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-indent: -18pt;">Anywayup cow cup </u></div>
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">
</span>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">A nice transition from bottle
to cup, and non-spill! You can use the 360 cups too but it has a cool cow
design on it and looks cute on instagram…</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-style: italic; text-align: center;">
<i style="text-indent: -18pt;"><a href="https://habermanbaby.com/suckle-feeder/non-spill-sippy-cups/cow-cup" target="_blank">https://habermanbaby.com/suckle-feeder/non-spill-sippy-cups/cow-cup</a></i></div>
<div style="font-style: italic; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Thanks for reading guys! I hope you found this helpful! Please do comment or drop me a message if there are any other products you have found helpful that i havn't mentioned, or let me know if you think I should do a post about products i found a waste of money?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Gem</div>
<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
littlegem92http://www.blogger.com/profile/15802530705764563191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6556775100541050361.post-26980975317849864462019-09-18T19:00:00.000+01:002019-09-18T19:00:05.090+01:00How To Find The Perfect Wedding Venue<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Hey everyone!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I’m trying out this new feature on my blog called wedding
Wednesdays, where every Wednesday I will post a How-to or an update on my own
wedding planning! <br /><br />
I thought it would be a nice insight from someone who is currently planning
their own wedding, and any opinions from fellow wedding planners are absolutely
welcome!<br />Feel free to leave a comment or drop me a message via Instagram etc!
I’d love to hear from you!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So to kick things off, let’s start with:<br /><br />HOW TO FIND THE PERFECT WEDDING VENUE<br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtYwC8EF-6FVx7VHd9i1KDy9jx0rdP_V1XKa5mOPHt4hSpSwfMFe5MF4Pgq28g9XbFQZ488i_Q16T_sSv9Kaon1IXeUk1FgeKWsH4Xy_U7dKVUsxbRd_hdWQEscrM2APrSPrcYHgTwzS-a/s1600/IMG_7334.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1102" data-original-width="735" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtYwC8EF-6FVx7VHd9i1KDy9jx0rdP_V1XKa5mOPHt4hSpSwfMFe5MF4Pgq28g9XbFQZ488i_Q16T_sSv9Kaon1IXeUk1FgeKWsH4Xy_U7dKVUsxbRd_hdWQEscrM2APrSPrcYHgTwzS-a/s640/IMG_7334.PNG" width="426" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Ever since I was a little girl I dreamed of having that big
white wedding, Growing up watching American movies about weddings, like Father
of the Bride, I always wanted to have the same: Loads of people, tonnes of
flowers, huge cake, MAHOOSIVE venue etc etc.<br />
Now that I am a lot older, wiser and actually engaged, the realisation that
this type of wedding in the UK would be extortionate! </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwhIOvGCFqy7HqGK5wKnuaR3Kn9hZdZqbskQ2ZsFpcRsApX9kjBYM995bSgx-_AXFRdHm2vBc5LH0uox7P_8slqYXleZaFj73-tKYUgWoz9jdqKOIz0lSI5iJ9la6Zcp_6_Cb41EGaxCNY/s1600/couple-260899_1920.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1066" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwhIOvGCFqy7HqGK5wKnuaR3Kn9hZdZqbskQ2ZsFpcRsApX9kjBYM995bSgx-_AXFRdHm2vBc5LH0uox7P_8slqYXleZaFj73-tKYUgWoz9jdqKOIz0lSI5iJ9la6Zcp_6_Cb41EGaxCNY/s640/couple-260899_1920.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So I’ve had to find a new dream from scratch. But where do
you start?<br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Step 1: WEDDING FAYRES <br />
<br />
Wedding fayres are great. They are amazing at two points in your wedding
planning journey.<br /><br />1) At the beginning when you’re newly engaged.<br /><br />
Events like this are an amazing jumping off point when you have no clue what
you are looking for. You get to see loads of different vendors and get a feel
for what is available and possible for a wedding. <br />
<br />
In terms of venues, there should be many different stalls that showcase local
venues with members of staff who works there that can answer questions you
have. There you can see the type of venue you could hire: Manor houses, farms
and barns, gardens and orangeries etc. Plus here you can also work out which
venues would fit your budget.<br /><br />
From this you will be able to figure out also what you need from a venue – e.g.
Ceremony and reception together at the same place? Accommodation available? In
house caterers?<br />
<br />
2) Towards the end of your wedding planning, these fayres can be useful to
recruit suppliers for small details – like place settings or sweet carts, to
tie everything together and also to milk the wedding planning process and enjoy
it while you still can!<br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Step 2: INSTAGRAM<br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">For me, an important part of the venue was it had to look
nice in photographs. I trolled Instagram for pictures of all the wedding venues
I was interested in and actually found that some of them didn’t actually look
that great in guests’ photographs! <br />The venue would have hired professional
photographers to photograph the place and make it look amazing.<br /><br />
Find the venue in question on Instagram and go on the tagged photos on their
profile. There you should find photos from previous wedding that guests had
taken on their own cameras or iPhone. <br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwBox1K9xvRpKk1LwYEP2jj8pGYOaU5wp8z9tAthZeQKKxF-EdxN026McjAB-ItlVF_KZR4d1DgvQ3v1NR8kF4avHzpCO80zxVX6EttudMuueQlRkzyzKzOhJ-bu3R4w2sBCMMTieoAJln/s1600/IMG_5455+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwBox1K9xvRpKk1LwYEP2jj8pGYOaU5wp8z9tAthZeQKKxF-EdxN026McjAB-ItlVF_KZR4d1DgvQ3v1NR8kF4avHzpCO80zxVX6EttudMuueQlRkzyzKzOhJ-bu3R4w2sBCMMTieoAJln/s640/IMG_5455+%25281%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Step 3: SHOWCASES<br /><br />Individual venues may offer a showcase or mini fayre where they will dress the
venue like a wedding is actually about to take place, with loads of different
suppliers around (eg cake makers and florists) and allow visitors to walk
around freely. This will give you a chance to see the venue in full swing and
help you to decide if this venue is really for you. <br /><br />Try to visit the venue in
the same season you are thinking of booking. For example if you are having a
December wedding, try and see if the venue holds a showcase the autumn/winter
months. You don’t want to fall in love with a venue all kitted out in summer
flowers and outdoor facilities when in fact it might look a little different in
the colder months. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Again – Instagram may come in handy here to check this via
guest photos! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Step 4: GO WITH YOUR GUT<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">At the end of the day you will need to decide on a venue
that you love and can envision you wedding at. If you can walk through the
venue and see yourself walking down the aisle, see you family sat at the table
and dancing with your friends on the dancefloor then you know it’s the one. If you’re
just looking for a venue that’s convenient then perhaps it’s not for you. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Venue
hire can take a big chunk out of your budget so choose wisely! <br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWhza1nO702guXbnAyXCPKwPuudNKWh0ypqXhJRaAJFGUeTBYqcM7b0rD4zkkCuUQiXaxyBly0Pf_DmRMiqdMoIKZEaB6dCP8vWFuypy-rniRi9x3yYMu2c105pgW3ZzcRjVc52ndVhNZS/s1600/IMG_2183.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="896" data-original-width="505" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWhza1nO702guXbnAyXCPKwPuudNKWh0ypqXhJRaAJFGUeTBYqcM7b0rD4zkkCuUQiXaxyBly0Pf_DmRMiqdMoIKZEaB6dCP8vWFuypy-rniRi9x3yYMu2c105pgW3ZzcRjVc52ndVhNZS/s640/IMG_2183.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">My (new) dream venue.<br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I think one of the biggest trends at the time of my
engagement was rustic weddings. They were everywhere on Instagram and Pinterest
so I think this influenced my decision to book my venue. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I ended up booking
Clock Barn, in Whitchurch – a beautiful renovated barn with a farmhouse out
back for accommodation. It really doesn’t need much décor on the inside which
is amazing and sticks to the simple rustic theme. It’s fairly close to where my
partner grew up, so accessible for his family and not too far from London
either. <br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">But I think the most important thing for me was I could see
myself getting married here. I could picture every aspect of the wedding so
easily and I knew as soon as I visited it this was the one. <br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I really hope this has been helpful and that you have been
able to pick out a few hints and tips to find your venue! Good luck and most
importantly enjoy the process! It shouldn’t be overly stressful so if it does
get too much, take a break and come back to it!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />littlegem92http://www.blogger.com/profile/15802530705764563191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6556775100541050361.post-76832978988035299302019-04-06T23:56:00.000+01:002019-04-14T22:26:07.589+01:00How to deal with sickness and a toddler<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This week has been somewhat mentally and physically challenging for our family. </span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Issy came down with gastroenteritis and it was awful. This isn't the first time we've had gastroenteritis round to visit, Issys had it at least 3 times since starting nursery last year, and once you get it once it keeps on coming back like a stray cat you accidentally fed one day...</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This blog post is a little "How-to" with hints and tips on how to deal with sickness and a toddler at the same time. I'll cover both parental sickness and child sickness as both are equally difficult to deal with and had me up late at night googling what to do!</span></div>
<div>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi25wqcFuD3ewoBpXbGvr9_GbmZw8IPz0zZ164ceu6x_KbcQcHD9qFLXEnVXMowVF2ZtPWIsM83GUbfpaxDavvbBNP0kq_hwO7iZeEQs-stAsKL9i3gGOeeBfq0I6uCMJRM0cQ35T0ECnUw/s1600/Low--3427.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1350" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi25wqcFuD3ewoBpXbGvr9_GbmZw8IPz0zZ164ceu6x_KbcQcHD9qFLXEnVXMowVF2ZtPWIsM83GUbfpaxDavvbBNP0kq_hwO7iZeEQs-stAsKL9i3gGOeeBfq0I6uCMJRM0cQ35T0ECnUw/s320/Low--3427.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Image by Tim Steele </i></span><a href="https://www.tsteelephoto.com/">https://www.tsteelephoto.com/</a><i style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"> </i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>Disclaimer: I am not a doctor, therefore the tips in this post are only pieces of advice given to myself from other mummy's or personal experience, or through hours of midnight research on Google. Please seek medical advice from your GP or A&E if you are really concerned about your kids' or your own well being.</i></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">NHS 111 is a great alternative to A&E if you need urgent advice - they are quick to triage and you can usually speak to a doctor within the hour who can advise you what next to do. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><u>When your child is ill </u></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This can be a really scary experience, especially if you are a first time parent!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You cant help feeling helpless seeing your little one not them selves.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In my case, Issy was vomiting at least once every hour and wasn't keeping any water down, so we were worried about dehydration. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Here are a few tips on how to deal with a sick toddler:</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Young children may not be able to vomit into a sick bowl or toilet, so muslin cloths are your best friend here. Just catch the sick in the cloths and collect in a plastic bag. Once the vomiting has subsided, you can use the shower head in the bath to hose away the sick. Wash the cloths with antibacterial clothes soap in the washing machine on a high temperature cycle. Don't forget your stain removal detergent! Good as new</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Try and keep your little one hydrated, but at the same time you don't want to "feed the bug". This means giving small sips of water every so often, but avoiding big gulps. Keep track of your child's temperature too - a high temperature can be an indicator of dehydration, in which case seek urgent medical attention where possible,</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If they get hungry and can keep down food, start off small with dry foods like crackers or toast. But avoid dairy products so not to upset th. stomach further. Once the stomach is settled, or even perhaps a couple of days after to be sure, reintroduce dairy a little at a time - natural yogurt is a great one to start off with.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Build up to bigger meals, but keep them plain to start off with. Issy did really well with pasta and a teeny bit of pesto to flavour it. Bananas are a good shout too! Good for energy and baby friendly!</span></li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">When you yourself are sick, the last thing you want to do is look after a toddler. These tips saw me through a recent stomach bug, i hope you find these helpful too!</span></div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Your best bet at a speedy recovery is to stay in bed. However this an be difficult if you have an energetic toddler. You could try and make a little nest in the bedroom or on the sofa, complete with plenty of activities and snacks to keep little one occupied. I have a TV in my room so "Paw Patrol" was a life saver those couple of days. I also had a small box of toys and books next to the bed, as well as a few bags of snacks. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Try and keeps trips to the kitchen minimal if you can. Don't worry too much about cooking, its probably best not to prepare food when your sick so services like Deliveroo can be amazing. Nandos do an amazing kiddy menu, as do Wagamamas and Pizza Express! A couple of days eating takeout isn't going to ruin your child so don't feel guilty!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Hand hygiene is crucial when you're looking after a little one when your ill. Wash your hands thoroughly after every bathroom visit and before handling any type of food. Hand sanitiser can be helpful between these washes if you need to handle your child</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If you support at home (partner, grandparents etc), ask them for some time to yourself so you can recover quicker. If both you and your partner are ill, maybe take it in turns to look after the little one so one of you can rest meanwhile.</span></li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Whether you or your child are ill, it is important once you are fully recovered to disinfect. Wipe down surfaces, toys, door handles with an antibacterial spray, clean the bathroom and toilet and wash the bed sheets and towels on a high temperature cycle to kill all left over germs, You don't want that bug to linger!</span></div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Reintroduce rich foods slowly. Your body may be sensitive for a short period after recovering so don't dive headfirst into foods that may upset your tummies again. Stick to things like plain pasta or clear soups. Sausages and Mash are a great first start, just don't use too much milk or butter in the mash and go easy on the gravy!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I hope this was helpful - i know I've spent ages searching the internet for tips, so i thought it might be helpful to put it all in one post!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Good luck and speedy recovery!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Gem</span></div>
littlegem92http://www.blogger.com/profile/15802530705764563191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6556775100541050361.post-2665184213267236712018-09-24T14:36:00.001+01:002018-09-24T14:36:40.104+01:00Why I don't blog anymore<div style="text-align: center;">Being a mum is hard.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">Not exactly ground breaking news, but for me it is. I always pictured myself as one of those mums who have it together - can juggle their work and home life perfectly all the while maintaining healthy relationships with their partner and friends and family too. </div><div style="text-align: center;">I am far from one of those mums. It breaks my heart that I can't be the "perfect mother", but I have found it physically impossible. </div><div style="text-align: center;">If I excel at one part of my life, another is always compromised.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><img id="id_d76d_9747_425d_6d5f" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Ng84eXRq-tU/W6joZoVn72I/AAAAAAAABUA/JRHPD707qwkG1o36HrDQn6S8t6bbSUVowCHMYCw/s5000/%255BUNSET%255D" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 746px; height: auto;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">(<i>My little family)</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">And I guess that's what happened with blogging. </div><div style="text-align: center;">I've always loved the idea of being a blogger and have previously strived to find the time to sit down and write killer posts that would accelerate me high up into the blogging world, to be one of those girls with the insta-perfect life and a beautiful instal feed with healthy blog ratings. </div><div style="text-align: center;">But that never happened. </div><div style="text-align: center;">I never got the ratings I wanted, never could get the pictures just right, never could find the right amount of time to really focus on the blogging side. And because of this I would give up! Like a roller coaster I'd find the motivation to sit down at my keyboard and write, hoping today was the day that I could turn this whole thing around and really go for it, only to crash down a few days or weeks later when I couldn't commit to another post and be consistent.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">That's probably what's happening right now to be honest. I am sat here on my bed during my one day off a month, baby is in nursery, laundry is done and I have a spare hour to kill before I put a chicken in the oven to roast for dinner tonight and I start reading journal articles for my postgraduate course essay that's due in a few months... At least I'm trying!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img id="id_4ba6_d628_5a52_e1f3" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-S_raNi0awI4/W6joZjqbVxI/AAAAAAAABT8/9cIu3fHnw90EL19ueydjztusmWYCnV_mwCHMYCw/s5000/%255BUNSET%255D" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 746px; height: auto;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);">(<i>Please appreciate it took me an hour, 2 cups of tea and 6 rich teas to take this photo...)</i><br></span><br><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">Even though I don't post regularly, I have never given up to the point of deleting my blog. I constantly think of ideas I'd love to write about or come up with ways to relaunch my blog and stick to a plan!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">I always see posts on Facebook and Instagram from girls I used to know who also have found blogging as a hobby, some of them have really taken to it and made it into their main source of income, which is amazing! But I really can't help but hate them a little bit. Maybe not hate, that's a strong word but you get the idea, I'm jealous. </div><div style="text-align: center;">"Turn your side hustle into your main hustle" is the expression that's being thrown about a lot at the moment - I SO want this to be true for me but blogging isn't even my "side hustle" yet! Unlike a lot of those other girls I have a little girl who is dependant on me still and is relying on me working full-time so I can give her a happy and healthy childhood!</div><div style="text-align: center;">One day I wil find my stride and figure this all out. I will have a healthy little blog that I will love to post on, I won't get stressed out about people reading it or being successful from it, because to be honest there is so much content out there on the internet that the chances of my little corner of the world finding the light is very very very slim. And that's ok...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">If you happen to stumble upon my blog, have a read of my previous posts and show some support! leave a comment to let me know your thoughts! Any type of comment, criticism or otherwise is totally welcome.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">Until next time, whenever that may be!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">Gem</div><div style="text-align: center;">x</div><div><br></div>littlegem92http://www.blogger.com/profile/15802530705764563191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6556775100541050361.post-16103156234964328772018-02-13T11:17:00.001+00:002018-02-13T11:17:30.706+00:00How To Survive Valentines Day With A Baby<div style="text-align: center;">Now, I'm not going to pretend that I am an expert when it comes to juggling kids and a love life - I am far from one! But I do have some insight into what it's like trying to keep both healthy!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">Having a newborn or small infant in the house is always bound to put some sort of strain on your relationship, especially after the first few weeks. When you are both constantly busy changing nappies, cleaning up after the little one or catching up on sleep, it's easy to forget to spend time together.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img id="id_1d57_9d69_d428_da9" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mHjOY5sEzFk/WoLJRjsSuMI/AAAAAAAABO0/YjJOUzJFEB8u0R6fH9wUGLaMWdtuT8L9QCHMYCw/s5000/%255BUNSET%255D" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 676px; height: auto;"><br><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;">So here are a few quick tips on how to survive VDay when you have a little one!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">1. Quality Time Together.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">Try to find time to spend together. It's so easy to just crash and go to bed when baby sleeps, but it's important to exist as couple instead of just Mummy and Daddy. </div><div><div style="color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;"><div style="text-align: center;">Put the laundry aside, do the dishes tomorrow and spend some time with each other and just be in the same room as each other without the constant cleaning up or looking after baby!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">2. Gifts</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">Even if it's something small, the gesture will mean so much more. Even if it's just a mug!</div><div style="text-align: center;">Or just a card can also be a sweet gesture, put some thought into a cute message for your loved one - why not include a card from baby too, explaining al the reasons why your other half is such a lovely mummy or daddy to them!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img id="id_e823_48dc_b8f9_4a0f" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Uq18-p6jDvc/WoLJR79k35I/AAAAAAAABO4/KkX3y8mnALMnUlDCQd14k4hQBwzjfES1gCHMYCw/s5000/%255BUNSET%255D" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 314px; height: auto;"><br><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">3. "Rain Check?"</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">Imagine it's Valentine's Day and you've planned a romantic evening together, but baby won't go to sleep. This is the case most of the time in my household, we plan to watch a film together and one of us falls asleep in bed with baby trying to lull them to sleep!</div><div style="text-align: center;">Or maybe one of you has the latest bug that's doing the rounds at nursery. Just swap the day! There's no rule to say you have to celebrate Valentine's Day actually on the day! If finding the time to spend together on Valentine's day is too much, celebrate on another day, or a week later, even next month if you have to... just don't skip it all together. It's important to show each other that this stupid little makeup holiday still matters now you have kids and nothing has changed between you!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">4. Babysitter</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">If you are adamant you want to celebrate VDay actually on Valentine's Day, then why not try to find a babysitter. Finding someone can prove to be a little difficult on this particular day however - all the parents in your area may have the same idea as you! So enquire as soon as you can! Or maybe enlist the help of family members who may not be celebrating this year...</div><div style="text-align: center;">Grandparents, Friends etc!</div><div style="text-align: center;">If that fails, you could always take the above advice and celebrate on another night other than Valentines day when a babysitter is more likely to be available </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img id="id_9e98_90f7_6357_11de" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-P9vRG1t5M4I/WoLJRXP3-VI/AAAAAAAABOw/Vu4pUr3u6j4pPYek1wy50FLGtCu-awulQCHMYCw/s5000/%255BUNSET%255D" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 518px; height: auto;"><br><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">5. Dinner date and a movie</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">Who says you can't have a dinner date and catch a movie with your sweetheart?</div><div style="text-align: center;">If you can't get a babysitter you could always have your big night out IN! </div><div style="text-align: center;"> Instead of one of you cooking and the other cleaning, (attempt to) put baby to bed early or stay up for a late supper if baby won't sleep and cook dinner together. Have some wine, a little dessert and as a special treat watch something other than Frozen! </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">6. Include baby!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div></div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">All of this can still be difficult when you have a little one so why not celebrate as a family! Go out for dinner a local restaurant, sight see or find local events in your area that might be put on for Valentine's Day. I know in London there are always plenty of thing s to do! For example, WinterLand in Fulham is re-opening for Valentine's Day!</div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">Cute cafes are also a great option for Valentine's Day! Elan cafe is perfect with its pink floral motifs, definitely on my bucket list if not for Valentine's Day!</div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;"><img id="id_c4b2_a38e_3c23_6307" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-TAKkyVB7jPE/WoLJScASTFI/AAAAAAAABO8/_ieK8ybZZsAgFzo2-lbIj4yRDtJCgIAbQCHMYCw/s5000/%255BUNSET%255D" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 527px; height: auto;"><br><br></div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">What are your plans for VDay?</div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">If you have any other tips about celebrating with kids, please do leave a comment below, or tweet/Instagram me @littlegem92</div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">Gem </div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">x</div><div style="color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;"><br></div></div><br>littlegem92http://www.blogger.com/profile/15802530705764563191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6556775100541050361.post-16407078205286344142018-01-29T17:10:00.001+00:002018-01-29T17:10:24.708+00:00Body Shop 3 Step Skincare Routine<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-align: start; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">One of my New Years resolutions was to try and keep a better night time skincare routine. </span></div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">I am aware it is nearing the end of January now and I have not yet established such a routine! However, it is never too late to start...</div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">A few years ago in my blog I reviewed the nip+fab range which worked wonders for my skin, so I was on the hunt for the deep cleansing fix. 3 hrs in westfield later i had given up... It seemed to be sold out everywhere! That's when I stumbled into Body Shop. I remembered that I tried the Vitamin C range before and loved it, so decided to try out something new.</div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">Instead of splashing out hundreds of pounds for on high end brands, I've picked out 3 products from The Body Shop to create my own 3 step <i>cleanse, tone and moisturise </i>routine. Totally affordable and something for everyone!</div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">I've tried to tailor my picks to my skins needs rather than go for 3 products from the same range. I suffer from <i>sensitive</i> and incredibly <i>dull</i> skin.</div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;"><img id="id_7c1b_966d_b83_b612" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DvgoMXyOqcE/Wm9VegvvXUI/AAAAAAAABN8/9tpXuMAxWvMRvWAYLmf2UoBnqUia2BMVgCHMYCw/s5000/%255BUNSET%255D" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 669px; height: auto;"><br><br></div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">The products are:</div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">Camomile <i>Sumptuous Cleansing Butter</i></div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">Seaweed<i> Oil-balancing Toner</i></div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">Vitamin E <i>Sink-in Moisture Sleeping Mask</i></div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;"><b><u>Camomile Sumptuous Cleansing Butter</u></b></div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;"><u> </u>Like the Nip+Fab cleansing fix, this is a product that is used to <i>cleanse</i> the skin and <i>remove makeup.</i> Unlike the Nip+Fab however, it is more like a balm than a cream, and is a lot more gentle on the skin.</div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">My issue with a lot of cleansers is they leave my skin feeling a little red, raw and blotchy - especially if I'm cheating and just using makeup wipes as a cleanser! A habit I'm trying to kick...</div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;"><img id="id_3bae_f626_2559_6d32" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ymIH2PPq23s/Wm9VfaLjNGI/AAAAAAAABOE/KUBlvC_9LPQfotky2uqjjLM728etvmNPQCHMYCw/s5000/%255BUNSET%255D" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 974px; height: auto;"><br><br></div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">This balm is made with <b>camomile</b>, a naturally soothing ingredient - perfect for sensitive skin.</div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">Simply apply the balm onto dry skin, massage and watch the makeup start to melt off your face! It's an incredibly satisfying feeling! Then, either rinse with warm water or wipe away with a hot muslin cloth for a deeper cleanse. Luckily, I have hundreds of muslin cloths laying around being a new mummy (I know over investing in muslins would come in handy one day!) so I opt for the hot cloth to pamper my skin after a hard long day of all things mumsy! </div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;"><b><u>Seaweed Oil-balancing Toner</u></b></div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">Toners are a great way to <i>remove</i> all of the <i>excess dirt and oils </i>what were left behind from cleansing. As well as removing leftovers, toners <i>reduce</i> the size of <i>pores</i>, <i>restore PH balance t</i>o the skin and <i>prevents future breakouts</i> by decloggng pores!</div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">This alcohol-free toner does just the jo perfectly, leaving the skin feeling refreshed. I love this toner, the smell is absolutely divine and you can actually feel it working its magic on your skin!</div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;"><img id="id_8ed3_e0c4_b1f3_2c12" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HHcLpr373E8/Wm9VfaP5fCI/AAAAAAAABOA/e4WdYovQXXgo04WhiAZuPAVuVyc8JJu_QCHMYCw/s5000/%255BUNSET%255D" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 974px; height: auto;"><br><br></div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;"><b><u>Vitamin E Sink-in Moisture Sleeping Mask</u></b></div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">I'm fairly happy with my current moisturiser (Nivea Q10 day cream) - it's simple does the job and doesn't disturb my makeup. </div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">However, I was looking for something more to use at night to help plump up my skin. In the morning, my face feels dull and tired, especially when little one climbs into my bed at 4.30 in the morning every night! A foot in the face is not an effective overnight skin treatment!</div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;"><img id="id_b32e_b341_f52_3c90" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_DxVeNJ3a0Q/Wm9VfX3QVRI/AAAAAAAABOI/IlHw_BRumVgQUw9cn0PasKM5ZbGHonqswCHMYCw/s5000/%255BUNSET%255D" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 974px; height: auto;"><br><br></div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">After browsing the shelves at Body shop I stumbled across this beauty. The jelly like consistency for cream was appealing, <i>cooling</i> on the skin and leaving a light <i>barely there</i> feel. <b>No sticky rescue </b>- which I absolutely hate in a night time moisturiser! This cream has such a lovely scent making it a real treat to use! To be used 1-2 times per week after cleansing and toning your skin, you'll wake with perfectly <i>refreshed skin</i> in the morning ready to face the day!</div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">I absolutely love Body Shop products and cannot recommend them enough! I've always been such a fan - I always love their festive range that is brought out around Christmas too! That Green Apple body butter, and the mojito set that came in a cocktail shaker - genius! Plus everything they used is not tested on animals with a lot of their products complete Vegan! Amazing!</div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">I hope you found this review helpful! I'll be sure to keep you updated on how it's affecting my skin - so far so good!</div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">What are your favourite skin care products? Do you have a routine you'd like to share? Let me know!</div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(69, 69, 69); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px; text-decoration: -webkit-letterpress;">Gem x</div></div>littlegem92http://www.blogger.com/profile/15802530705764563191noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6556775100541050361.post-16704135684345158372018-01-20T13:37:00.001+00:002018-01-29T14:27:12.776+00:00Nailuxury Belsize Park Review<div style="text-align: center;">Now, I'm not usually one to go off on a complete anger rant about a company or service I've had a run in with, but one of my New Years resolutions is to review products and services as honestly as I can. My first review of the year is unfortunatley a negative one.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">I live in in the Hampstead Heath/Belsize Park area and there are not many places to get your nails done. You'd think that with all the trendy ladies living in this area there would be, but there is not a lot to choose from.</div><div style="text-align: center;">From what I've seen there are 3 places to choose from: Palm Reflexology in South End Green (opposite Hampstead Heath station), The Pharm and Nailuxury. There is also another lady who has a little room at the back of a hair dressers in Belsize Park (I went once to get my acrylics taken off) but I won't include them in this - only actual salons.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">The Pharm has two branches, one where I live in South End Green and another up in the Hampstead Village. Although the atmosphere is always calm and quiet they are always fully booked and a little over priced for what I go for (£35 for shellac). </div><div style="text-align: center;">I've never had an issue with Palm Reflexology, the people who run it are lovely. However they don't accept card and that always seems to put me off from using their services. It's a bother and finding a cash machine that works in Hampstead is always a hit or miss, so I prefer finding a salon what accepts card payments.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">Nailuxury is a new salon that opened a couple of years ago in Belsize Park. It's interior decor is fresh and clean a stylish nail bar and seats for pedicures - It invites you in! It's a tiny salon but looks like a trendy environment to go relax and get a mani! Up until recently I have NEVER had a bad experience with this salon - I want to express I used to love using their services and ALWAYS walk away happy. However one bad experience is enough to ruin a good thing for fear it might happen on the regular.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Here's my story.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img id="id_db9f_5980_e0fb_98ea" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DTMPpiuRass/Wm8vN4JX-3I/AAAAAAAABNk/lA1SIgvXJ-c2tkyhZN-pgplDPRVVSLA3ACHMYCw/s5000/%255BUNSET%255D" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 369px; height: auto;"><br><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">I walked in on a rainy Saturday morning dressed in a raincoat hat and scarf - all mismatched. I had a suitcase with my as I was taking some old clothes to the oxfam clothes bank to donate. I was greeted by a very sour-faced lady sat behind the desk who looked me up and down. She did not seem happy at all to see me walk through the door. Was it the way I was dressed? I didn't know. I had seen this lady before working in the salon and she seemed very cold but had never dealt with her. I asked her if I could please be fit in to have my nails done (the place was nearly empty) she half rolled her eyes and looked around and said "yeah what do you want?". I said I wanted acrylic nails. She looked at me and demanded to see my nails and told me that "gels we better". I said thank you but I think I wasn't acrylics. "No" she said, "gels are better for you". As a customer I found that incredibly rude! I am paying for a service that is offered by this salon and she is telling me no! I go on to explain that I wanted "ombré French tips" and that's why I wanted acrylics, to which she replies "no". That word again. "We don't do that here."</div><div style="text-align: center;">Right, I said, in that case I will go for the shellac French manicure then, but I'd like to pay upfront (to avoid ruining my nails rummaging in my bag for my purse). So she charges me, I pay and sit down.</div><div style="text-align: center;">A different lady tends to my nails, who may I say was perfectly polite and made conversation with me. She even offered me a drink when the other mean lady failed to.</div><div style="text-align: center;">She offered me the colour chart to pick a colour. "Oh, I've asked for French tips". She explains to me that French tips are £5 extra and I've only paid for a standard shellac manicure. The other mean lady had gotten it wrong. And I can't pay the difference because there is a minimum card spend. I loo at her in disbelief. Not only was I not getting the service that I originally came for I had to change what I wanted entirely. I was so angry. Grudgingly I picked a pale pink which I didn't even want and let her start on my nails. </div><div style="text-align: center;">I questioned the lady as to why I couldn't have the ombré tips - she explained that the lady who did the acrylic nails was not in today. Why couldn't the sour-face lady say this to me instead of rip my head off and say "no" to me. </div><div style="text-align: center;">This woman needs a lesson in customer service - what happened to "the customer is always right". </div><div style="text-align: center;">The only time I saw that lady take the lemon she was sucking on out of her mouth was when an obviously rich customer dressed to the nine in a fur coat and diamond earrings with rings on every finger walked through the door for a manicure. She actually smiled and greeted her properly, offered her a drink right away and laughed and joked around as if they were old friends.</div><div style="text-align: center;">I couldn't wait to leave the place.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img id="id_853a_c7ea_bcc8_d00c" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-apB6P4Aie1A/Wm8vOomgmqI/AAAAAAAABNo/Fbe8hbE2kpg9kyJmZ-NrkLiYcHwPayvhgCHMYCw/s5000/%255BUNSET%255D" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 337px; height: auto;"><br><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">I've never been so disappointed with a service before - and that includes the time my cuticles were ripped out by a nail technician from Blow Ltd (still waiting for my response to my complaint email guys!)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">Would I recommend this salon? No, not now.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Would I ever go back? Maybe, if I was rushed for time and had no where else to go...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">Does anyone else have any reviews for Nailuxury?</div><div style="text-align: center;">Let me know...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">Gem x</div>littlegem92http://www.blogger.com/profile/15802530705764563191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6556775100541050361.post-79283970327429104442018-01-19T14:37:00.001+00:002018-01-19T15:17:06.344+00:00 A Rant About Weaning and Breastfeeding<div style="text-align: center;">As those of you that read my previous post will know, my life recently changed in the most amazing way as Jack and I welcomed our beautiful Issy into our family. My plan is to share as much of this journey as I can with you and to do so in a fairly frequent basis. That means I have to be deciplined with myself and find the time to bash these out whenever possible. Seeing as I currently find myself restraining my child with some sort of leg cage (Jack's note: Wrestling Scissor Lock) to stop her from climbing up the TV stand to lick the screen, what better time is there to bash out a post about all things mumsy - m<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">y first Mummy-post!</span></div><div><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img id="id_92d1_93f5_b824_d956" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-YBK2F4tuPoU/Wk_GLQv6LvI/AAAAAAAABMQ/IZWNkNGZjQIhCbZHEee4LHsI9lt-hkyTwCHMYCw/s5000/%255BUNSET%255D" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 386px; height: auto;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);"><font size="2"><b><i>THE "LEG CAGE"</i></b></font><br></span><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">Today's mumsy post is about feeding and weaning.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Isabella is now 8 months and is well into her weaning phase. However, it has not been an easy journey. As soon as I think she has established an eating routine, something changes and she no longer wants what she once went cray-cray for!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Here's a shocking fact for you all: pre-baby expectant parents think they know it all. They don't</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img id="id_562_ec51_3a96_5794" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DcR3WD7bZcc/Wk_GMFxQcpI/AAAAAAAABMY/E58wPPnBmPYOKMnPpDWVP_7ssyU5LBUywCHMYCw/s5000/%255BUNSET%255D" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 296px; height: auto;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><font size="2">ISSY ENJOYING HER PORRIDGE</font></i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>BREASTFEEDING</i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><br></i></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Since before Issy was born I was adamant I wanted to exclusively breastfeed for 6 months and then follow on with formula and baby-led weaning</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Obviously this didn't work out as planned ...</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><u>EXPECTATIONS BEFORE BABY</u></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">It's a beautiful sunny morning and I have just woken up from a refreshing <i>undisturbed</i> sleep, when I look over to the crib beside me to see my gorgeous little girl still asleep in her bed - a small pretty smile on her face to match those adorable flushed cheeks. I sigh with happiness and roll effortlessly out of bed to the kitchen, my lacey gown trailing behind me. I quickly make myself a healthy breakfast - scrambled eggs and salmon with a side of avocado, and a herbal tea - because you know, its great for breastfeeding mums!</div><div style="text-align: center;">Just as I finish my breakfast I hear the gentle coo of little Issy calling for me! I float back to the bedroom and scoop up my bundle of joy who is so happy to see her mummy! She snuggles into me as I settle into an armchair by the window and begin to breast feed. Issy happily suckles away for a good 45 minutes while I gaze out the window at the birds in the trees thinking about all the things I'll get done that day, including cleaning every room in the house, the food shopping, a play date with Issys friend, baby yoga class, cooking a hearty pie for my love... And oh I'll even make a chocolate soufflé for dessert! </div><div style="text-align: center;">Ah bliss...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><u>REALITY:</u></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">It's God knows what hour (morning? Afternoon?) and wake up with a tiny foot in my mouth because someone did not want to spend the night in her crib... I try to edge away but my moving wakes monster Issy from hibernation. She's hungry. I must feed her before she terrorises the entire village wth her screams. I half blindly pull up my oversized t-shirt I've been wearing the past 2 days (what's a shower again?) and quickly shove my boob in Issys face,</div><div style="text-align: center;"> I pray today is the day she will latch on without giving me a nipple cripple.</div><div style="text-align: center;"> Today is not the day.</div><div style="text-align: center;"> I wince in pain and bite the inside of my cheek as my little shark-baby drinks her morning feed. However half way through feeding she looks up at me and de-latches, pushes me away and starts to cry. Why? Who knows... </div><div style="text-align: center;">Desperately I try and resolve the issue - singing? dancing? more boob? OK NO MORE BOOB! Moo moo the stuffed toy cow? Nothing seems to be working until she suddenly stops, gazing into the distance - a fierce look on her face. I feel a rumble, I hear a soft toot, I feel warmth spreading from her bum up to her neck. She's pooped. It's everywhere. And she wants more boob.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Great.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><u><br></u></b></div><div style="text-align: center;">Yep, in the end I was forced to stop trying to breastfeed the shark full time but bottle feed her expressed milk and formula. Let me tell you - I hated pumping/expressing milk. It took so much time out of my day - no way was I able to fit anything else but tend to the baby into my day. Cooking? Nope. Shower? Forget it! Does anyone else hate breast pumping as much as I do? The only upside was that I was able to watch the entire box set of Fresh Prince of Bel Air...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">Naturally though she was allergic to the formula and broke out in eczema EVERYWHERE...</div><div style="text-align: center;">Which brings me to weaning! Because of said eczema and assorted tummy issues we had to start her weaning early and introduce purée. There goes my baby led weaning idea out the window... (P.s. No dummies, no TV, no YouTube... All pre-baby rules that went straight out the window too! Seriously, those strict plans are not going to work out - sorry, not sorry!)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img id="id_5a5b_8d2b_f5ce_abed" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LAhzpmfiG0Y/Wk_GLbVdqoI/AAAAAAAABMM/byGJK9oATNM7ca8GCPNtALt8p-kz0BbfwCHMYCw/s5000/%255BUNSET%255D" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 189px; height: auto;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);"><font size="2"><b><i>THE ECZEMA AT ITS WORST!</i></b></font></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0);"><font size="2"><b><i><br></i></b></font></span><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i>WEANING</i></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><u><br></u></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><u>EXPECTATIONS</u></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><u><br></u></b></div><div style="text-align: center;">After a wonderful body blitzing morning workout at the gym, I pick up my happy little infant from crèche and we make our way to the delightfully sunny cafe at the back of the leisure centre.</div><div style="text-align: center;">It's 12 noon - lunchtime! Out of my neatly packed baby bag, I pull out a lunchbox and a sippie cup. Issy is sat patiently in a high hair opposite me, playing with her Sophie La Girafe, waiting for me to serve her a delicious baby led weaning lunch. </div><div style="text-align: center;">On her plate I arrange some steamed broccoli, carrots and for dessert some sliced banana!</div><div style="text-align: center;">Issy, the happy child she is munches away on everything, smiling and giggling at the strangers on the next table while I Instagram my quinoa salad, sipping on a kale smoothie ...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><u>REALITY</u></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><u><br></u></b></div><div style="text-align: center;">"Could Miss Fenlon please make her way to the crèche to pick up Isabella... She's been crying for 15 minutes non-stop..."</div><div style="text-align: center;">My attempt at a workout is inturrupted by a nasal PA announcement... Damn, I didn't get to post my #gymbunny #blessed Instagram post in the gym mirror... Maybe on the way out. Gah no time! I rush to the crèche to find Issy bawling her eyes out, snot running down her face. The grumpy nursery worker hands her back to my and rolls her eyes "maybe you should try feeding her?". I thank the lady for her suggestion silently cursing her while giving her back the finger. Quickly, I make my way to the gym cafe, cack-handedly steering the pram while balancing the baby bag on my shoulder with my child in the bundle hold in the other arm.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Other mums and their babies watch as I wrestle Issy into a high hair. I dig around in my overstuffed bag to find a pot of sliced avocado and a banana. Issy stares down at the avo in her hand, gives it a lick and flings it backwards into the lady on the next tables lap. It goes on like this until she's used up all the avocado and the banana is smooshed all over her face and the floor.</div><div style="text-align: center;">I quickly finish my pain-au-chocolat and chug my mocha before quickly assembling Issy back into the pram and make a dash for the exit - averting the eyes of an angry cleaner furiously trudging over to where I'd sat to deal with the aftermath of my attempt at baby led weaning...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">Has anyone else had any issues with weaning?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">At the moment we are at the stage where Issy will have bits of food every other mealtime but also wants purée for dinner - if anything at all!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img id="id_68ae_1ee6_f050_1dc6" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WTcqy8CHlZw/Wk_GLVV8cQI/AAAAAAAABMU/DO0R1em3RvIJhj42LymAJc4I_2vLFvMaACHMYCw/s5000/%255BUNSET%255D" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 246px; height: auto;"><br><font size="2"><b><i>ONE OF MY CREATIONS...</i></b></font></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">It's been such a nightmare - never in a million years did I think feeding a child would be this hard. I see friends with their babies who eat whatever is put in front of them - neatly I may add. Not my child. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Broccoli flying everywhere where I'd be finding little florets in the most peculiar places for days! I found a bit of avocado on the other side of the room from the weaning area stuck to the wall! I shudder to think what guests must find when they come over. Many a time have I trodden in bits of banana.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img id="id_538_6040_11dd_f1ad" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-iJjRYe2b-ko/Wk_GM3S8qlI/AAAAAAAABMg/dXD3u57CjRc3-gSSHoaVmWGKlNzLh5sXQCHMYCw/s5000/%255BUNSET%255D" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 284px; height: auto;"><br><font size="2"><b><i>ONE OF ISSYS FAVOURITES! AVO ON TOAST!</i></b></font></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">Oh, and did I mention, she's allergic to eggs? One of the most easiest foods to prepare and full of nutrition! And it's bloody in everything! </div><div style="text-align: center;">I used to dream about making her little cupcakes and mini breakfast muffins with courgettes and other healthy foods for her to munch on. Nope. Won't be happening.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">And so, now starts the daily struggle of figuring out what Little One wants to eat - if at all!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">The moral of the story is kids - don't put all your hopes and expectations into having a child that will eat perfectly straight away... It almost always NEVER goes the way you planned.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"> What were/are your plans for feeding and did you manage to follow them?</div><div style="text-align: center;">Or if anyone else has any weaning stories, I'd love to hear them!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">You can let me know by commenting on this post, or via Instagram! @littlegem92</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img id="id_da2f_a294_ed01_3966" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LPqj3XVfSKU/Wk_GM3a64VI/AAAAAAAABMc/xKFLk5edNJ0DAXrDPF7xQ0DPwVbG1zIlgCHMYCw/s5000/%255BUNSET%255D" alt="" title="" tooltip="" style="width: 322px; height: auto;"><br><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">Did you know that Isabella has her own Instagram, too? (Yes, I'm one of THOSE mummys) </div><div style="text-align: center;">@isabelladlawrence</div><div style="text-align: center;">Check it out for cute pictures of Issy between tantrums and poop-fests!</div><div style="text-align: center;">DISCLAIMER: Despite this post being all rant and nag about Issy and her eating habits, I do not resent her at all for it! She is the love of my life and brings me so much joy every single day! This type of post is just a way to vent when in actual reality what might sound absolutely horrendous and hard work to deal with is also very fun to watch! Makes great snapchats for family members, trust me! </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">Thanks for reading!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">Gem x</div>littlegem92http://www.blogger.com/profile/15802530705764563191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6556775100541050361.post-2185162337239074512018-01-01T18:32:00.001+00:002018-01-01T18:32:52.204+00:00 New Year, Cringey New Me<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Hello... It's me...</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">This is my first post since... well I can't remember exactly but let's just say a lot has changed since the last time I typed. I've experienced a whirlwind of a year, facing challenges I couldn't have imagined myself capable of overcoming whilst enjoying incredible highs I could never have hoped for. In fact, s</span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">o much has changed since my last post that in planning this post I wasn't even sure where to begin. Given this,</span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> I think it best to relaunch my entire blog and reintroduce myself as the new (and hopefully improved) Gem... Gem 2.0 if you will. I guess you could say, new year - new me (cringe - sorry!).</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">So here we go. I thought I'd give you a quick update on where I was when I last spoke to you, and where I find myself now. My life has changed drastically (for the better!)</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><b><u>Before:</u></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><br></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">If you recall in my last post I had just written about Sultana Fashion and how they were kindly sponsoring me for the Miss England Semi Finals (thank you to every one at Sultana, I remain incredibly grateful for your generosity). To cut a long story short, I just missed out on a place to the finals and well, I was pretty pissed about it! I worked super hard and still was not able to fulfil my dream of competing in the finals. In the build up to the event I was really confident that this year would be my year! I'd doubled down on my diet, focused more than ever on my charity contribution and internally felt better about myself, my body and my spirit than I had done in forever. To miss out on the finals crushed me.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><img id="id_699f_a9ed_5c18_fae6" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-K5YGcivL7yA/WkOy2dWOSBI/AAAAAAAABLY/Rhme02hxl9AGjGEVkFHzXkxUbiCrcxhJQCHMYCw/%255BUNSET%255D" alt="" title="" style="width: 386px; height: auto;"></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> <img id="id_819c_e692_9d25_dac7" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-I4ZjTN-OFdc/WkOy4aF97FI/AAAAAAAABLc/pP9Dvf-ue6s7Jg4oyEHto_npw5fnvYu-gCHMYCw/%255BUNSET%255D" alt="" title="" style="width: 265px; height: auto;"></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I remember coming back on that cold train in the rain the next morning devastated, holding back tears. Those tears shortly turned to anger which then turned to determination to perform even better the next year and I began hatching my master plan. </span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I drew countless mind-maps, wrote list after list, planning all the steps to take to achieve my goals. If 2016 wasn't my year, then 2017 damn well would be.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">However, as with anything in life, things don't always go the way you plan!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><img id="id_1432_b413_8c0_8a0f" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4HU0Ph3vjak/WkOy7QbRiMI/AAAAAAAABLg/bNY5KzRqSDoltNbxMBcvn4o6X3tlcanIgCHMYCw/%255BUNSET%255D" alt="" title="" style="width: 324px; height: auto;"><br></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><b><u>Now:</u></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Enter Isabella Daisy! My gorgeous baby girl, born Spring 2017 - my new life as a mummy had begun!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I absolutely love being a full-time mummy. Every moment with Issy, even those where I'm covered head-to-toe in her poop, is amazing and I adore watching her grow through each milestone; each and every precious moment. I am not looking forward to going back to work, I fear I am so going to miss her too much (maybe not the poop though!)...</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">With regards to my blog, I didn't mean to stop writing, it just kind of happened. Between the sleepless nights, the endless nappies and the constantly chapped nipples (sorry) I didn't give anytime to writing (cooking, exercising, brushing my hair, showering, doing my teeth, anything at all really). I suddenly have this new dream, something beautiful and wonderful to focus all my energy on! Hence why I've not written as much as I would have liked.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><img id="id_1bfd_c227_e8e2_289c" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-VHr77gOsi98/WkOzDTSoLrI/AAAAAAAABLk/YcrQzRfDMYkLftlMiYFJW-NUhK6KBq_RQCHMYCw/%255BUNSET%255D" alt="" title="" style="width: 379px; height: auto;"><br></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">However, with the New Year upon us and the fact that I'm getting on top of this whole 'parenting thing', I thought it was time to return to blogging and share my journey through motherhood with you all. New Year's resolution confirmed!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">So what do I plan to write about now? Well, you can expect to read about all of my highs and lows as a first time mum, plus I'll still be doing my regular beauty and lifestyle posts and reviews where I can! </span><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I had such a passion for blogging before and I regret that I haven't done so more in the past year. As I sit here now writing this post, I can tell I am WAY out of practise and am very grateful to Jack (oh yeah - you'll learn more about him in the future - he's kinda a big deal - his words, not mine) for his help in writing and proofing this. I hope as I continue to post with more frequency the quality of my blogs will increase, and who knows, maybe even be useful to other first time mums (and dads)!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><img id="id_45ce_155c_a400_e02a" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-b_WMD0SfbDI/WkOzYAM7v4I/AAAAAAAABLs/45ifV6MDXj4_E4ODsz67U0h-Stw2DLa-ACHMYCw/%255BUNSET%255D" alt="" title="" style="width: 516px; height: auto;"><br></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I look forward to you following me and reading all about my crazy little life, and hope you may even find some entertainment in reading about my struggles along the way.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Love,</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Gem</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Xx</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Song of the day:</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://youtu.be/YQHsXMglC9A" id="id_c20f_66c4_a85b_5b8b" target="_blank" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><font color="#000000">Adele - Hello</font></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div>littlegem92http://www.blogger.com/profile/15802530705764563191noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6556775100541050361.post-40863886486430391412016-06-10T15:40:00.001+01:002016-06-10T15:40:02.616+01:00Sultana Fashion London<div style="text-align: center;">Sultana Fashion are a company based in North London and specialise in evening wear and dresses for special occasions.</div><div style="text-align: center;">This year they are kindly sponsoring me for the Semi Finals of Miss England at Kelham Hall, Nottinghamshire.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img id="id_8d33_941a_f703_75cf" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-o4fyCl6N9rE/V1rQ6EF22FI/AAAAAAAABB4/drIbY6ruE7s/%25255BUNSET%25255D.png" alt="" title="" style="width: 768px; height: auto;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">I also had the privilege of modelling their dresses at a charity afternoon tea for ladies in May after I was approached by Sundas, a wonderful lady who organised the whole event. The money raised from the event went to a charity that sent aid to Iraqi orphans. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img id="id_bc34_4700_8f85_37" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-akHWvdmXTMQ/V1rRHD5ceFI/AAAAAAAABCA/dYr3rHZ-o9s/%25255BUNSET%25255D.png" alt="" title="" style="width: 974px; height: auto;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">I got to wear a total of 5 outfits. one Arabic outfit, 3 evening dresses and a wedding dress.</div><div style="text-align: center;">They were all so beautiful, I felt so elegant in them all! Particularly the wedding dress. it was so big and princess like, and the detail on the dress was just amazing.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img id="id_2dcc_8219_74a4_2f17" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-35DhHi1D3hM/V1rRJd_VEUI/AAAAAAAABCI/FoIirbAmo9M/%25255BUNSET%25255D.png" alt="" title="" style="width: 410px; height: auto;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img id="id_57c9_6536_9674_a527" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-VXB1_ZYFxvg/V1rROtMhmmI/AAAAAAAABCQ/xfstfEVbkh0/%25255BUNSET%25255D.png" alt="" title="" style="width: 819px; height: auto;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">I really recommend anyone to look at their dresses if you have a big event coming up - prom, a ball, a pageant...</div><div style="text-align: center;">Brides to be, they have a magnificent selection of dresses too, in all different styles to suit any body shape !</div><div style="text-align: center;">I really got the vibe that they can cater to anyone. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="www.sultanafashion.co.uk" id="id_bdec_45b3_4e4f_1d6d">sultanafashion.co.uk</a><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">london@sultanafashion.co.uk</div><div style="text-align: center;">Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/sultanafashionlondon/" id="id_9f7a_81d9_f19d_e20a">sultanafashionlondon</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img id="id_a23a_1914_df26_4f6f" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-n0gyDthMg6I/V1rRQD3-ueI/AAAAAAAABCY/iRbnOaGPBcI/%25255BUNSET%25255D.png" alt="" title="" style="width: 422px; height: auto;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">The people that run the company are all so very kind and could not offer to do enough for me as my sponsor.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">I am very grateful to have them on Team Gemma! </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">If any of you would like to vote for me for the semi finals, please text MISS SEMIFINAL31 to 63333 (UK only)</div><div style="text-align: center;">Texts cost 50p plus network rate.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">You can also donate to beauty with a purpose here:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="virginmoneygiving.com/gemmafenlon1" id="id_222c_cc47_2be_8dfd">virginmoneygiving.com/gemmafenlon1</a><br></div><div style="text-align: center;">Please see my previous posts to see what charity work I've been up to over the past few weeks!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div><br></div>littlegem92http://www.blogger.com/profile/15802530705764563191noreply@blogger.com1