Cosy Christmas crafting with the kids

There's no better way of spending a chilly Sunday afternoon than with a bit of crafting with the kids. I am actually starting to find it quite relaxing, even though I am the enfant terrible of Christmas decoration creation.

We were challenged by Wynsors World Of Shoes to see how cosy and creative we could get by sending us an enormous box of crafting supplies and some lovely snuggly slippers for Caitlin and Ieuan.

Ieuan chose some cute tigers whilst Caitlin was swayed by some booties with pompoms

Bracing ourselves against incoming glitter of many hues, the Husband and I duly mucked in to create some Hobbis family Christmas decorations.  Why did we not have coloured pompoms when I was a child?

I do remember happily coating my hands in PVA glue in the school craft room, leaving it to set and then peeling it off like a second skin.  Hours of amusement, and probably a waste of Council glue funds.

Art is a series business

Actually, it's good to put the iPads down and crafting is a lot cheaper than going to the cinema, isn't it?  Plus, if you wrap the kids up and keep their feet warm, you can get away with turning the heating down a bit.

I think I heard the phrase "get something on your feet" every day when I was growing up.  My parents were convinced walking around slipperless was a quick route to catching something nasty, like a chest cold or the Black Death.

And, as we all know, parents are always right, aren't they?

You can find a great range of slippers (and shoes) at www.wynsors.com with free click & reserve, free click & collect and free UK delivery over £15.

*We were sent two pairs of slippers and a box of crafting supplies for the purpose of this post.  No pompoms were harmed in the creation of the wreath.
  

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Homeopathy - A Small, Simple and Sweet Cure for Skin and Hair Conditions

Every parent knows that it is often very difficult to get kids to take medicines in tablet form - particularly if they come in large, hard-to-swallow capsules.

Not surprisingly then, many kids would prefer to take homeopathic cures which come in the form of tiny, easy to swallow pills. These sweet white balls are just as popular with adults due to their efficacy, safety and easy acceptance.

Homoeopathic medicines are said to attack and cure the root cause of the issue, without any side effects. A very small dose that is made with natural substances goes deep into the body and destroys the root cause of the symptoms.

But before talking about its effectiveness, where did homeopathy come from?

Where did it all start?

Homeopathy first appeared in Germany around 200 years ago and has become one of the most popular alternative forms of medicines today. Samuel Hahnemann is the man who first formulated and introduced homeopathic medicine to the world. Undisputedly, he has helped people all over the world to find a safer treatment for their various problems.

Though homeopathy, like any other alternative medicine, has been praised and criticized in equal measure. If we talk about trusting one form of complimentary medicine over another, homeopathy is is the one most likely to be trusted by the majority of users.

Homeopathy works on a very simple philosophy

Even two centuries ago, Samuel Hahnemann recognised that daily life was going to be challenging and that a medicine which would be easily accepted by the body would help.

He stipulated that there are certain elements which can help your body in highly diluted forms. These active ingredients enter your body and activate certain areas of your body, which are responsible for causing the medical problems you are facing. Once these areas get stimulated, your body heals at an accelerated rate and help you get better.

Since the rise of homeopathy, a number of systemic studies have been conducted on the effectiveness of these medicines particularly for treating hair and skin problems.

The researchers have documented a higher success rate with the use of homeopathic medicines than could be attributed to the placebo effect alone.

Homeopathy certainly has its detractors but an increasing number of people have been coming forward and confirming to the world that, in their personal experience, homeopathic medicines really work.

Hope for Skin and Hair

Human skin is very sensitive and conventional treatments usually end up making it dry and irritable. Homeopathy, however, has been proven to be one method which offers safe and effective treatment.

If you are struggling with any skin and hair problems, you may not have considered homeopathy as an option, but it has actually been found to be highly effective for chronic diseases and skin and hair problems. This is why even many famous doctors now offer these treatments to people who have extensively tried conventional medicines and did not see any results.

The right cure for right purpose

A medicine will only work if you use it for the right purpose. Hair problems like dandruff and hair loss have been treated using this treatment and have produced very encouraging results.

There are many cases where skin problems like Eczema have also been successfully treated using homeopathic medicines.  One such homeopathic solution is Emuaid Cream.

Many people have reported encouraging results from switching to Alternative Medicine and the most successful treatment among them so far have been the ones that involved homeopathy.

If you are not getting results from conventional skin and hair cures, you have nothing to lose by trying a treatment regime which has helped people all over the world get healthier hair and skin. Homeopathy can bring both hope and a cure.

*collaborative post

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Survey Reveals Selfie Stick Voted Worst Christmas Gift

I'm sure by now you are in the throes of Christmas shopping and experiencing that heady panic which demands a ridiculously named, highly calorific 'seasonal' coffee and a mince pie.

And, to compound the stress, a new survey conducted by gifting website www.ijustloveit.co.uk has found that, these days, it's less about the quality time and more about the quality present.

The survey was taken by 2,000 people in the UK - 1,020 women and 980 men. The age range was between 18 – 55+.

I'm sure there's a hefty amount of buying for kids by parents who are dealing with guilt at their long working hours.  Or spending on relatives we've avoided visiting because Facebook is so much easier - and cheaper!

But the irony is that many of those gifts we are feverishly pursuing won't be wanted anyway.

A whopping 60% of those surveyed said that they had received an unwanted gift at Christmas.

Over 50% chose to give their unwanted gifts away and 25% chose to sell their gifts

Over 40% of those surveyed are currently buying for 6-10 people, so potentially at least half will give their gifts away.

It also showed that men are less concerned with the quality of their gifts than women, with more men choosing to keep hold of ‘unwanted’ gifts, whereas women wanted to get rid of them.

When it comes to receiving unwanted gifts, 50% of men would prefer to either keep them compared to 40% of women, with over 60% of women giving them away, compared to only 40% of men.

If you are thinking of gifts to buy this year, the survey also showed that the ‘popular’ Selfie Stick was voted one of the worst Christmas gifts to receive by both men and women, with 40% of the total vote.

Other survey results include:

The highest percentage of people, at almost 40% of the vote, prefer buying for children compared to any other relative or friend, and only 0.45% of people look forward to buying for their grandparents.

Over 10% of people enjoy buying for mothers; while only 1% of people enjoy buying for their fathers. People would rather buy for their pets at 1.40% than their dads! Over 35% of those asked most look forward to receiving gifts from their partners, with grandparents once again receiving one of the lowest votes of only 0.45%

Comparing mother to father again, over 10% look forward to receiving a gift from their mum, and a measly 2% from their dads.

In total, over 40% of those asked said they would spend between £100 - £300 on Christmas gifts. That’s nearly 50% less than data acquired in 2015.

Which rather begs the question - where are all these 'quality presents' going to come from?

Somehow stocking up in the January sales seems like a very good idea. And there's always Ebay.

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Win A Gorgeous Kate Spade Watch From Shade Station

Shade Station is the UK's largest independent designer sunglasses, glasses and watch online retailer with over 140 of the world’s leading brands - and a brilliant place to find Christmas presents for all the family.

I have spent quite some time browsing their ranges which include brands like Fossil, Guess, Emporio Armani, Calvin Klein and DKNY.  They even do prescription glasses - Chanel, Oliver Peoples and Rayban to name a few.

They offer 35 designer sunglasses brands so even the fussiest person should find something they love from Tom Ford, Chanel, Dior, Gucci and Prada to edgier brands including Ray Ban, Carrera, Police and Prada Sport and the sports focused brands including Oakley and Dragon.

They carry a huge range of watches - over 55 brands and I particularly love the Kate Spade Watches.

Kate Spade New York Gramercy Grand Watch

and then there is a great selection of unusual men's jewellery from brands like Storm, Calvin Klein and Emporio Armani.

The husband isn't a big jewellery fan but he will wear cufflinks.

Calvin Klein Cufflinks

Storm Kempa Pendant

although I might persuade him to wear one of these.

Shade Station also offer goggles for extreme sports enthusiasts and lifestyle accessories such as backpacks, luggage, belts, hats, key rings and belts by leading brands including Oakley, Nixon, Dragon and East Pak.

Shade Station also offer free next day UK delivery.

Now to the giveaway.

I have a fabulous Kate Spade New York Holland Watch worth £173 to give away to one lucky winner.

Kate Spade New York Holland Watch worth over £170

Entry is via the Rafflecopter widget and terms and conditions apply (see my competitions page).  The giveaway is open to UK entrants only and ends at 11:59 pm on Friday 16th December.

Entrants must complete all the mandatory questions on the Rafflecopter and leave the answer to the giveaway question in the comments below this post.

Please note that whilst every attempt will be made for the winner to receive their prize before Christmas, this is not guaranteed.   

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Good luck!

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My Problem Page - What Was I Asked In Week 48?

This week I'm talking about age gap relationships and what to do when your parents don't agree with your choices.

If you would like any advice, feel free to message me or pop a comment in the comment box at the end of this post. I promise to be gentle.

Here's this week's questions.

Q: He's 17, I'm 21. I never expected to like a lad younger than me. How do you feel about it?

We met at work.  We didn't even realise we were starting to like each other. After being in a long relationship since I was 17, I need someone to have fun with. We are from different walks of life but we get on amazingly.

A: The problem is, at least in the UK, this lad is legally considered a Minor and this could cause all sorts of problems - for example with your friends, family and work colleagues. 

I can tell you are smitten because you are talking as if you have no control - “I never expected to to’ etc. 

Doesn’t matter. You’re the adult and you need to calm down and just play things very carefully. 

At 17 his emotions may be all over the place so will he see it as ‘just a bit of fun’? 

I’m sure you do get on amazingly but in your shoes, frankly, if you want more than just ‘banter’, I’d wait until he’s 18!

Q: How wise is it to live with your girlfriend or boyfriend before 

A: I think a lot of people would say quite wise because you never really know someone until you live with them. 

You may be amazed to discover their previously unknown annoying habits - chewing loudly, snoring, leaving wet towels on the bed… you can imagine the type of thing. 

Then there are other ‘deal breakers’ - how is your partner with money? Do they want kids? Do you share the same religious beliefs. 

But I think you need to have been with someone for a decent amount of time before you move in or talk about marriage. 

If you meet and move in within a very short space of time, how can you possibly know if your partner is the one you want to spend your future with? 

It does happen of course but generally getting to know each other properly - faults and all - seems the most sensible course of action to me. 

Particularly given the exorbitant cost of both weddings - and divorces.

Q: Is it clingy to tell her that you will do anything for her?

A: A little. I think it’s healthier to put limits around that statement - you’ll do anything within reason. It’s certainly a romantic thing to say but nobody loves a doormat. 

And if you’ve only just met it does sound a little desperate. 

The most important thing is how she reacts when you say it to her. Her body language should tell you whether that level of devotion is welcome or not. 

If she’s embarrassed - it’s not!

Q: I got into a fight with my girlfriend last night over something really petty. She told me she never wanted to talk again.  Now what?

A: It might have been petty to you but it clearly wasn’t to her - and I think it’s your refusal or inability to recognise that which has made her so mad. 

You need to apologise and see if she will talk to you about what happened. 

Approaching it with a “I don’t get why you’re making such a fuss” attitude is not going to get you anywhere.

I think if you’re honest you must at least have an ‘inkling’ of what the real issue is and if it’s something you’re not willing to compromise on or discuss, then you might have to kiss your girlfriend, at least metaphorically, goodbye.

Q: My parents don't like my academic choices. What can I do? My parents won't let me drop a subject (maths) because they say if I do I won't get anywhere in life. They want me to either drop out all together or stay in the class. If I don't make a change I won't graduate. What can I do?

A: Suggest to your parents that they find you a tutor or extra teaching support. 

When you say you are not coping, is it because the work is too difficult or you are anxious due to the pressure you feel your parents are putting on you? 

Does your teacher feel you are not coping? Are you getting bad marks? 

If you are then see if you can get your parents to talk to your teacher who will back you up if they think you will not pass. I’m sure your parents want the best for you but you need a bit of outside help with this one.

Q: My husband compares my social media use as being as harmful as his recreational use of hard drugs. Is this a valid comparison?

A: As far as I know, social media use is not a killer. Recreational use of hard drugs quite possibly is.

I think your husband is trying to justify his habit.

How would you have responded to these questions? I'd love to know. You can find more advice on my problem page.



Disclaimer: All materials included in this post are intended for informational purposes only. This post/information is not intended to and should not be used to replace medical or psychiatric advice offered by physicians or other health care providers. The author will not be liable for any direct, indirect, consequential, special, exemplary or other damages arising therefrom.

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New Scheme Aims To Protect People With Dementia From Financial Scams

A new initiative has been launched across three local authority areas in Scotland to protect residents living with dementia from predatory financial fraudsters.

And, if the project succeeds, we can only hope that it is rolled out across the UK to protect the elderly and people with Dementia from the ever growing blight of financial scamming.

£405,000 has been awarded to East Renfrewshire, Angus and South Ayrshire local authorities, to work together to develop a preventative approach to protect people with dementia from financial exploitation.

People living with dementia are at great risk of falling prey to scammers and carers are often very worried about how to prevent their relative becoming a victim of a scam, particularly in the early stages of dementia when a person still has capacity but may not always have sufficient understanding to exercise good judgement.

Figures issued by Citizen’s Advice in 2014 showed that the most common type of scam takes place via telephone (34%) whilst almost a quarter took place on the internet (24%). 16% came through letters and one in ten scams were via email. Other types of scam include face-to-face visits, i.e. doorstep crime.

The aim of the project is to offer people with dementia an individualised, person-centred package to safeguard them from financial exploitation, on the doorstep, by telephone, by mail or online.

Each of the local authority areas involved will bring together local and national organisations to develop and deliver a package of preventive measures, including practical solutions and various types of useful technology, for example, call blockers.

Call blockers screen incoming phone calls and either block any unknown or unauthorised numbers or transfer them to a nominated family member or guardian.

The scheme aims to help residents with dementia live safely and independently in their own homes without worrying about being bombarded with confusing and intimidating calls or unsolicited doorstep cold callers.

This new initiative will also reduce the rate of financial loss and personal harm experienced as a result of scams.

Peter, whose mother received a call blocker as a resident in East Renfrewshire said, “When my mother came home after a stay in hospital, she had severe anxiety levels. Unfortunately, during the day when we weren’t there, she received numerous calls on a daily basis, from a variety of traders, from PPI people, from insurance companies and from banks. She became confused and anxious. She didn’t know whether she had passed over money and we were terrified that she was going to pass on large amounts of money to potentially rogue traders.

“What transformed things for us was the introduction of the Call Blocker from the prevention team from East Renfrewshire Council. I cannot overstate the dramatic difference this made to my mother. She was calm and she was relaxed. This has resulted in my mother being able to live independently, on her own, for the last four years.

“It has also transformed myself and my sister’s lives. Rather than having to deal on a daily basis with a crisis, we now have no crisis to deal with. We can track who is calling my mother, and where there is legitimate people calling, they have the option of whether to call myself or my sister. Quite frankly, my mother’s happy, we’re delighted and we can support her in putting her energies into making her life as pleasant as possible.”

Something we would all want for our elderly relatives. Here's hoping the scheme puts pay to the callous and heartless scammers who target them.

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Unleashing The Colour With Chalkola Markers

Chalkola Markers are a fun range of pretty unique markers that you can use on non porous surfaces. If you're bored with just colouring on paper and card and want to decorate some different materials, these are a great way to do it.

The kind of non porous surfaces we're taking about are chalkboards, whiteboards, glass, plastic, windows and mirrors.

Why non-porous surfaces?  Because porus surfaces have small holes in them which can absorb the liquid chalk ink and it can be difficult to completely erase your work of art.

It's possible to leave subtle messages for your other half

In any case, it's always best to test the surface you're about to decorate just in case and it's worth noting that, although the markers can be used on chalkboard paint, paint tends to make the surface porous and absorb the ink so be careful there.

Chalkola Markers contain high density chalk ink and you do have to prep each marker by shaking it thoroughly for 2 to 3 minutes and them pumping the nib until the ink starts to flow.

My subtle reminder to Caitlin that she needs to drink more water.

The colours are well worth the effort.  We tested the Chalkola Premium Wet Wipe Markers in 10 party colours with a 6mm bullet tip and the Chalkola Earth Color Series Set of 8 Earthy Colours with a 5.5mm tip.

We tested on a variety of surfaces which the kids found enormous fun, not least because it felt a little like graffiti - still it's OK for Banksy, isn't it?

The markers are very versatile and we tested them on plastic, ceramics (a mug and a plate) and a mirror.

So much fun - but I wouldn't unleash your kids without supervision!

Best of all, once you are tired of your creation, a damp cloth wipes it all away (or you could use a window or glass cleaner).

Caitlin's favourite artwork was her plate which I am now under strict orders to put on show in a cabinet somewhere.

If you would like to try the markers, you can save 20% on the cost of the markers by using the coupon code below.  This applies to all Chalkola products.

Coupon Code - 20OFFSTR

You can find out more at Chalkola.com.

Caitlin's finished masterpiece

We're planning to decorate more plates and some ceramic pots.  I'm hoping Caitlin will be the next Orla Kiely or Cath Kidston!

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Win Amazing Anti-Hair Loss Products From folliOne

When you get to a certain age, particularly around the menopause, or perhaps after surgery or medical treatment, you may find your beloved hair starts to get thinner and that your scalp starts to make an appearance.

There's no denying that it's hard enough for a man to lose his hair but there is far less social stigma about male hair loss than there is for hair loss in women.

These days there's no shame in talking about this issue and there are more and more treatments available to help cope with this distressing condition.

Did you know that nearly 40% of women experience some form of hair loss by the age of 60?  But you need to be sure of the cause.

Women’s hair loss may appear at times of hormonal change and is identified by overall thinning as opposed to a more patchy loss.

Common causes of women’s hair loss include: starting or stopping birth control, having a baby and just before and after going through the menopause.

Women rarely go completely bald but the end result is a visible decrease in the density of the hair in the affect areas.

Also, there's a difference between Alopecia and the kind of hair thinning which may be only temporary - for example after you have had a baby.

With Alopecia, the reason for the hair loss is thought to be a sensitivity of your follicles to the hormones in your scalp, in particular the hormone DHT (Dihydro-Testosterone). This is why treatments for female alopecia include DHT blockers, and antiandrogens, just like the treatments for male hair loss.

If you are suffering with this distressing problem, you should talk to your GP for advice and support but there are products that can help with thinning hair.

I have discovered one such range of products from folliOne who offer a range of treatments including Growth Stimulators, Anti Hair-loss shampoos and liquid hair nutrition to help maximise hair growth.

I tested two of the three following products, the anti hair loss shampoo and the liquid nutrition.

folliOne Growth Stimulator for Women

This non-alcohol based formula is designed to gently strengthens your scalp, allowing the ingredients to penetrate the scalp without evaporating or crystallizing.

Diaminopyrimidine Oxide, one of the main active ingredients in folliOne Growth Stimulator For Women, has been shown through clinical research to disrupt 5α-reductase activity and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) production, these two substances are linked to hair loss.

It also contains Oxothiazolidine Carboxylic Acid to stimulate new hair growth and prevents further hair loss, and it also delays the ageing of the skin in the scalp.

folliOne Shampoo for Hair Growth and Recovery

This shampoo is formulated to stimulate hair growth and prevents hair loss whilst supporting a healthy scalp, new hair follicles, and the growth of hair cells.

It reduced sebaceous secretion from the scalp (oil in the skin) and targets dandruff caused by hair loss. It is also designed to enhance the body’s ability to prevent the recurrence of scalp itching, irritation, redness, and flaking.

This is quite a runny shampoo with a strong medicinal smell and it is quite strong and rather drying. This is what it is designed to do though! You will need conditioner and possibly some conditioning hair products afterwards.  Because it is strong, I would caution against using it on coloured hair - certainly freshly coloured hair.

It does contain the magic ingredient that seems to be the latest buzz word in preventing female hair loss - caffeine and the product is not tested on animals so full marks for that.

I found that this shampoo boosted the volume of my hair and did not irritate my scalp or my skin. In fact, I found my facial skin looked smooth and had more of a glow which is an interesting side effect!

I think it is certainly worth persisting with if you can find a way of conditioning your hair afterwards.

folliOne Liquid Hair Nutrition for Hair Growth

folliOne Liquid Hair Nutrition is a daily dietary supplement designed to give your hair the essential vitamins, amino acids, minerals, and protein it needs for normal growth.

You can take it on its own or mix it with fruit for an easy smoothie.  It has a pleasant orangey taste and the daily dose is 15ml which you can drink straight down - far easier than taking bulky pills.

As well as the usual vitamins you would expect to find, there's biotin, iodine, folic acid and selenium. It is certainly a specific blend rather than a standard liquid nutrition supplement and it is a more powerful way of getting these vitamins and minerals than ingesting them from natural sources.

To give you an idea, you would have to contain 750mg of amino acids from your foods to get the same benefit as 15ml of folliOne Liquid Hair Nutrition.

If you would like to try folliOne products I have a great giveaway for one winner to win two folliOne products of their choice from the range worth £30.

You can find more information about the range at www.follione.co.uk.  You can also find help and advice about hair loss at www.hairlosstalk.com.

Entry this time is via the Gleam app below and the giveaway ends on 28th December. Open Worldwide.  Terms and conditions are on my competitions page.

CLICK THE LINK BELOW

Win a choice of any two Follione products #3

Good luck!

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One in Five Children Don't Know That Milk Comes From Cows Says Cadbury

When Caitlin and Ieuan were little, most of their picture books featured animals, the noises they made and what they produced. They knew quite early on where their food came from.  We had to explain to Ieuan, for example that there is no fish which leaves the ocean covered in breadcrumbs.

So reading that, according to research by Cadbury Dairy Milk Buttons, one in five children don't know that milk comes from cows is a bit shocking, and also a bit sad.

The research was conducted with the help of 1500 UK parents and their children aged between 4 and 8.  The survey discovered that 73% of parents considered that knowing where their food comes from is important to them.  That message doesn't seem to getting through to our kids.

To help teach kids about food provenance, (particularly where the glass and a half of milk in each packet of their buttons comes from), Cadbury's has partnered with Giovanna Fletcher to produce the video below.


Not only do 20% of kids not know where milk comes from, the survey unearthed some rather worrying facts too.

Over one in ten boys (11 per cent) believe milk comes straight from the supermarket

A fifth (20 per cent) of five year olds believe that chocolate is made from eggs.

Almost a third of children (29 per cent) believe a cow’s diet consists of sandwiches and pizza

The research also revealed that children are unsure of what is used to make chocolate, with over a third (32 per cent) of the children likening the ingredients to those found in a cake.

The top 4 ingredients children believe are found in chocolate are:

Eggs (20 per cent)
Flour (12 per cent)
Plants (9 per cent of four year olds)
Wheat (6 per cent of four year olds)

As Catherine Young, Senior Brand Manager for Cadbury Dairy Milk Buttons says “Whilst some of the findings from the research are amusing, it has highlighted that more needs to be done to make farming and food provenance as important to children as it is to their parents."

I couldn't agree more. Check out the video and see what you think.

You can find more information on Cadbury's Facebook and Twitter.

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Sam's Curious Cars - A Great Xmas Gift For Young Inventors

If you're looking for a present that engages young minds whilst teaching them how to create mini machines that work, look no further.

Sam's Curious Cars is a kit from SAM Labs which teaches kids how to build and programme their own cars and games.

The kit contains 5 cars and a separate booklet which contains even more projects to try once you have got the hang of it.

The Husband writes code for a living so this was the perfect thing for him to try out with Caitlin and Ieuan and, of the two kids, it was Caitlin who was most captivated by the kit.

In fact the Huffington Post describes SAM Lab's kits as "Lego for the internet generation" which is very apt. And, even better, the kit is compatible with Lego itself.

SAM Labs' believe that every kid has inventive potential and their kits are built to unleash it - and their imaginations.

The Curious Cars kit contains 5 SAM blocks which all have different functions - for example a light, a motor and a button.

You turn the blocks on and then charge them (this takes an hour).  Then they are programmed wirelessly via an app which the kids used on an iPad, but which is also available for Android and Windows/Mac.

You have to connect the SAM blocks together to make them work via the app and you do this when you have assembled the base of your car and put the wheels on.

Caitlin connecting the blocks via the app

It's a great opportunity for parents and kids to work together.

There are also 5 press out and assemble cardboard cars which sit on top of a base and each of these can be further customised by a little more programming.  For example there is a bulldozer and you can move the shovel up and down using the SAM servo.

I particularly liked that each project is given a star ranking for degree of difficulty and there is also an indication of the time taken to complete each one.  Once you have mastered the hardest project, the Vintage Hotrod, you can design your own.

Sam's Curious Cars is a really unusual and challenging toy which is genuinely educational.  Caitlin has just turned 9 and I would say that this is an ideal age for the kit because patience is needed, along with the ability to read and understand instructions - and practice.

The separate booklet of projects "SAM Book of Crazy Cool Ideas" contains ideas like creating your own game show buzzer or alarm, or even creating a stirring machine.

The kit retails at £149 and in terms of value for money and the hours of educational fun is can provide I think it's excellent. Even I learned something!

The SAM Labs kits would also make a good pressie for not so young inventors and I can see that they would make a fabulous teaching tool for schools and workshops too.

You can find more information at SAM Labs.

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Are We Konmari-ing Ourselves OUT of Joy?

I'm sure you will be familiar with the tidying tome that is creating ripples of almost religious fervour across the UK - The Life Changing Magic of Tidying by Japanese author and organizing consultant, Marie Kondo.

So popular is it that it has even spawned a new verb - to 'konmari'.

To save you reading it, the basic premise is that by decluttering you can create not only a gleaming, if somewhat sterile, home but you will achieve levels of mental peace and clarity - not to mention lots of space and less dusting.

To do this, you should consider whether your possessions "spark joy" and, if not, remove, purge, delete from your life.

In fact, it's not dissimilar from what my mother would frequently yell at me.  "You'd feel a god sight happier if you tidied the mess in your bedroom up".  Strangely, I may also have shared this nugget of wisdom with Caitlin and Ieuan.

But I must confess to feeling a little uncomfortable.  For example, in the Facebook groups dedicated to Ms Kondo's spartan lifestyle,  there seems to be a certain amount of, shall we say, pressure being put on those who like the idea of a tidy living room but who are unsure of what to do with items which hold memories for them.

I have seen posters being advised to get rid of baby clothes, first Christmas ornaments made by the offspring and gifts from their recently dead mothers.

"Does it spark joy" - these hapless declutters are questioned?

Hmmm.

See the thing about us humans is that we are capable of experiencing a wide range of emotions.  I don't know about you but my joy is not sparked very often and, if it were sparked every day I think I'd get a bit bored of it.

Isn't that one of the reasons we love Christmas so much?  All that heightened fervour, bonhomie and goodwill to men, women and pets.

But imagine feeling like that every day.  Exhausting.

I just worry that there are many frantic declutterers out there searching for joy by chucking their most precious possessions out because these things do not evoke jubilation.

What about comfort?  What about sweet sadness?  What about nostalgia?

What about the things that remind us of times where we have grown - even though the time itself was not particularly happy.

What about the things that are a bit of an eyesore but meant so much to someone we loved very much?

What about when our kids ask us in years to come where the heck their baby photos are and we did we never keep anything they made?

Can we take a moment to remember that Ms Kondo has a business to run and books to sell?

Listen.

I would love to be able to declutter to the extent Ms Kondo advises.  And perhaps it is wrong that some of us define ourselves by the things we choose to surround ourselves with.

That is a far different thing to the avaricious accumulation of the latest gadgets and trinkets.  I'm talking about those things that are so precious to us that they become symbols of our life and who we have become.

You may get a frisson of excitement chucking it in a bin bag now but will you still feel like that in years to come?

Will a kitchen worktop so clean you could eat your dinner off it really outweigh your memories?

There will always be those who hoard and those who can't stand being surrounded by stuff.

I'm somewhere in between.  Most of us let stuff pile up and then have an occasional purge.

But if things upset us now (for example, something precious from a deceased relative), why not put it in a memory box and put it away safe in the knowledge that it may one day offer great comfort?

Sometimes we need to visit the bad stuff because there are often good memories attached.  Why is so much importance put on headstones in graveyards?  A bit macabre possibly but you get my point.

I suspect konmari-ing is a trend but for some it's going to cost them a fortune.  Because I'll guarantee in less than a year, they will regret some of the things they've discarded and will be replacing them.

There is some great advice in Marie Kondo's book but I think we need to keep things in perspective.

Now I'm off for a coffee to see if my kettle sparks a bit of joy.

Actually, you know what,  it does!  Think I'll keep it.

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What Are The Top Ten Most Requested Xmas Gifts By UK Kids This Year?

Royal Mail has revealed this year’s top ten most wanted presents asked for by children in their letters to Santa and, unlike most toy surveys in the run up to Christmas, these findings come directly from the children themselves.

Image credit:  Wikimedia Commons

Santa’s helpers at Royal Mail, who have been helping him with his mailbag for 53 years, analysed a number of children’s letters before sending them on to him at the North Pole.

The special letters also reveal the range of questions children ask Santa including; “how many mince pies do you eat around the world?” and “do you like being Santa?”

Traditional toys hold the top three spots for the second year in a row. The results show that the most popular toy is Lego, which has retained its top spot from last year.

It has also remained in the top three since 2013. Scooters have made a new entry as the second most popular Christmas wish in 2016. This is followed by bikes, which have dropped down into third position.

Mobile phones are still proving popular, with Paw Patrol as the fourth and fifth most popular request of Christmas 2016.

There were also a number of other new entries including Pie Face Showdown, Star Wars Spin Action Lightsabre and Barbie 3 Storey Townhouse making entries at number seven, eight, and nine respectively.

Furby Connect has made a comeback as a new entry at number 10 having last been seen in Royal Mail’s list as the most wanted toy in 2012.

The top ten most requested toys of 2016 are:

Lego
Scooter
Bike
Mobile phone
Paw Patrol
Air Patroller Nerf Gun
Pie Face Showdown
Star Wars Spin Action Lightsabre
Barbie 3 Storey Townhouse
Furby Connect

Questions for Santa

The special letters also show that many children like to ask Santa questions instead of just asking for the latest toy as a gift. Some of the questions that children have asked Santa this year are:

How do you deliver all the presents in one night?
How many mince pies do you eat around the world?
How old are you?
How many elves do you have working for you?
Do Rudolph and the reindeers like carrots?
How many children do you deliver presents to?
Do you like being Santa?

Letters to Santa

If your children are going to write to Santa this year, make sure you get your letter to him by by no later than 9 December 2016.

Make sure you write to him using the correct address on a stamped envelope and send the letter to:-

Santa/Father Christmas Santa’s Grotto Reindeerland XM4 5HQ

Don’t forget that Santa needs to know the full name and address of your children to reply so please include this in the letter.

Christmas is a very busy time of year and Santa will respond to as many letters as possible, in between getting the sleigh ready for the long journey on Christmas Eve.

Visit Royal Mail’s special letters to Santa webpage at www.royalmail.com/letters-to-santa

Last Posting Dates

The last posting dates are;

Tuesday 20 December 2nd Class and Royal Mail Signed For®
Wednesday 21 December 1st Class and Royal Mail Signed For®
Thursday 22 December Royal Mail Special Delivery Guaranteed®

Further information is available at www.royalmail.com/greetings

Get the kids writing now to avoid any disappointment.

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My Problem Page - What Was I Asked In Week 47

This week I'm talking about whether nagging wives and girlfriends are a fact of life and whether you should put up with critical, fault finding husbands and boyfriends. Plus, why you do need to ask at least some questions when you're on a date.

If you would like any advice, feel free to message me or pop a comment in the comment box at the end of this post. I promise to be gentle.

Here's this week's questions.

Q: My husband cheated on me while I was pregnant and living apart from him for work reasons. His visiting sister hid his acts from me, including his intention to get a divorce. Was this morally wrong of her?

A: No. She’s his sister and it was only natural that she should protect her brother. 

My question to you would be why are you focusing on the sister and not the scumbag of a husband? He is the one who should bear the brunt of your anger and I’m curious that he doesn’t seem to be. 

Do you think that if his sister had told you things would be different? Do you think she put the idea of a divorce into his head somehow? 

Some men do cheat when their partners are pregnant - but these men are usually immature and desperate for attention. They will claim that it’s unfair that sex is no longer on tap. 

You don’t say how long you were apart from your husband but is it possible you are blaming yourself for being away too long? 

Was the distance so great that you could not meet up regularly? Have you invested more in your work than your marriage? 

Were there problems before your pregnancy? Did your husband actually want this baby? 

You see I think there are a whole host of issues here you need to work through with close friends or even professional counselling. Even better if you can work through this with your husband if he is to be a part of your child’s life. 

By the way, I hope that he will be - despite his dreadful behaviour, that is no reason to cut him out of his child’s life. 

Rather than focus on his sister, I think you need to be gentle with yourself but take steps to talk to your husband to try to understand how you have both ended up in this difficult situation.

Q: For how much time can a married man be separated from his wife before he cheats?

A: Do you mean actually separated, as in taking a break from the marriage -in which case it may technically be classed as cheating but if the relationship has broken down to that extent, it may be the final death knell to the marriage. 

Or, do you mean being physically separated - for example travelling on business or a lads’ holiday? 

If the latter then the question of time is irrelevant. Men are not animals who spontaneously combust if they don’t get sex. 

The question has more to do with the state of the marriage and whether the man is happy in it than it does with some primeval urge to sow seed across the continents. 

It sounds as if there are trust issues here which need to be aired. And if you suspect cheating has already taken place, an urgent discussion is needed. 

There are those who say that “if it’s offered on a plate, most men will take it” and there are some men like that. Equally there are some women like that. 

I’m not sure gender is the issue here. But trust, honesty and fidelity in a marriage are.

Q: Should I bother staying with my boyfriend?

I’m in a great relationship but my boyfriend is having no luck at his job and is thinking of moving. He said that we can stay together until he leaves or we can cut it short. I wish we could work this out but his mind is made up. I don’t know what to do.

A: First off, it’s not a great relationship is it? 

Your boyfriend is basically telling you he is leaving without any discussion or consideration to your feelings. 

What is he saying - that you should stay around, presumably for sex, until he is ready to fly off to his next destination? 

It is quite clear he does not consider yours to be a long-term relationship - “we can cut it short”?! 

That is incredibly self-centered and arrogant you know and I wonder why you consider this man to be such a great catch. 

In your shoes I would say, “yes, I don’t want to waste any more of my time, I’ve better things to do” and leave him. Have some pride and dignity - you are worth more than that. 

With his attitude it’s little wonder he is having problems at work. And I can’t see things improving.

Cut your losses while you can.

Q: Why do wives/girlfriends get mad at their husbands/boyfriends for any little thing that they say?

A: They don’t. That’s a comic book type stereotype that should have gone out with the ark. 

If wives / girlfriends get mad then there’s usually a very good reason and rather than lumping them all into one homogenous pile, better to look at your relationship and work out what it is you’re doing that’s so annoying. 

The basic relationship skills apply across all genders and age groups - courtesy, honesty, open communication, listening without pre-judging and taking how someone is feeling into account. 

This really isn’t a gender issue.

Q: How many women out there continue to live with their husbands who always give them negative comments about themselves and then apologise later? 

A: Many, I suspect. But I think you need to be clear. 

Are you saying your husband is an emotionally abusive man who constantly belittles you and makes you feel worthless? 

That requires action to build up your confidence and decide whether you want the marriage to continue. 

For example, couples counselling might be required to unravel the causes of the husband’s unreasonable behaviour and why his wife continues to endure it. 

But, if your husband is like many other men - a bit set in his ways, has strong opinions on certain matters which causes occasional conflict, then that’s quite normal I think. 

Do you criticise him? Do you make negative comments too? 

Sometimes it’s also easy to forget our own role in these situations. It sounds like some straight talking is needed. 

Q: What does it mean when you are on a date, and your date ask more questions about you then you get to ask about her?

A: It means your date is either more outgoing than you are, or more likely, they are incredibly nervous. 

It also sounds as if your conversation skills need improving. 

Could you not say “but enough about me, tell me about you”? 

Why not think of a few questions to ask before you go - you are interested in this person, aren’t you? 

It may be, of course, that they have issues and have been badly treated in the past. 

What sort of questions are they asking? If they are general then that’s one thing, but if your date is asking for the ins and outs of your last relationship, I’d be more wary. 

Are they asking you some “big” questions - do you want kids - for example? 

I’m guessing you are quite new to the dating scene - in which case practice makes perfect. But you won’t come across as very attractive if you sit there too scared to open your mouth. 

You want a dialogue. Not a monologue.

How would you have responded to these questions? I'd love to know. You can find more advice on my problem page.

All materials included in this post are intended for informational purposes only. This post/information is not intended to and should not be used to replace medical or psychiatric advice offered by physicians or other health care providers. The author will not be liable for any direct, indirect, consequential, special, exemplary or other damages arising therefrom.

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New Releases, Free & Bargain Books Link-up Week 47

How are you all this week?  It's Black Friday so I'm hoping you haven't all maxed out your credit cards.  Among the usual bargains, there are the cheeky gifts where the price has actually gone up! You really do have to read the small print, don't you!

Still, if you want some true bargains, you've come to the right place and there's plenty to choose from on this week's link-up.

Don't forget that I still have plenty to be won on my competitions page and don't forget my problem page here.

Happy bargain and freebie book hunting on this link.

Have a great week!

Sharing the Love of Books
Enjoy our selection of New Releases / Free & Bargain Books this week

Authors please feel free to add your own books
Readers please free to add your own finds
(any genre except erotica welcome)

This weekly link up is hosted by Beck Valley Books & these awesome book loving blogs...
Monday
 Life as Leels | IrishdaisylovesRomance | Book Babble | All Romance Reader
Tuesday
It's My Side of Life | Celticlady's Reviews | First Time Mommy Adventures 
Wednesday
Beck Valley Books | Cinnamon Hollow Reviews
Thursday
Miki's Hope | Nicki's Nook
Friday
Ebook Addicts | I Love Romance | Mother Distracted | Colorimetry | The Ultimate Fan Blog
Saturday
Totally Addicted to Reading | 3 Partners in Shopping | Angie's Angle | I Create Purty Thangs | Wishful Endings
Sunday
Lynchburg Mama | LibriAmoriMiei | Ali - The Dragon Slayer | Wondermom Wannabe | Deal Sharing Aunt | Rambling Reviews 

For Pre-orders post - PRE-ORDER / genre / title /author

For New Releases post - NEW / genre / title / author

For Free Books post - FREE / genre / title / author / end date 

For Bargain Books post - SALE / price / genre / title / author / end date
(Strictly no Erotica please.  Steamy romance is fine but watch those covers people, incase any underage child is viewing it!)

Click here for this weeks awesome selection!

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Parent Only Zones: Romantic Destinations For Those Who Badly Need A Break

Parental life can be a joy. But it can also be very difficult to manage at times too. With school, clubs and shopping, the daily schedule with kids can be demanding.

What’s more many family holidays don’t exactly meet the criteria of having a “break.” Parents have to get up super early on the day of the flight. They have to organize all of the packing. And they have to come up with an itinerary that suits their kids. It’s not exactly what you might call relaxing.

This is why a parents-only break is so important. Parents need a break to recharge their batteries to re-energize themselves for the new school year. Having a break can actually help to reinvigorate family relationships so that they don’t feel so strained.

So where can parents go, and what can they do to escape the stresses of family life? Let’s take a look.

Key West, Florida

Image credit: Pixabay

Key West is one of Florida’s quaintest towns. It has some of Florida’s best beaches for parents to stroll along late into the evening. And it also plays host to some of the area’s most beautiful quays.

There’s plenty to do on the town’s palm tree-lined streets. Here you’ll find world-class restaurants, gingerbread mansions, and cafes right on the sidewalk. Oh, and don’t forget the balmy weather too. The early summer is the best time to pay a visit.

Cancun, Yucatan, Mexico

Image credit: Wikimedia Commons

Cancun is one of the most interesting geological areas in the world. It’s believed that the Cancun area is the place where the meteor that killed the dinosaurs landed. The whole of the Yucatan is like one giant crater, hundreds of miles across. Today there’s very little evidence that anything cataclysmic ever happened here. Cancun is lined with beautiful beaches and has a youthful exuberance about it.

The city itself is world famous as a resort. It’s got attractions here for all different types of couples. Here you’ll find a mix of beach parties as well as long lonely beaches for people who want to enjoy a bit of peace and quiet.

The Mekong, Cambodia

Image Credit: Flickr

The Mekong River is the most famous river in southeast Asia, as well as one of the most beautiful. Since ancient times, the river has been an artery of trade in the area. Today, it’s still contributing to the local economy as a tourist hotspot. All day the river is patrolled by cruise boats from companies like Imagine Cruising. Along the banks of the Mekong, you’ll pass through some of the most important ancient sites on Earth. Among them is the world-famous Angkor Wat, the sprawling temple complex surrounded by jungle. You’ll also visit some of the area’s charming local towns and their floating markets. Tour guides are passionate about their country’s history, so you’re bound to learn something here too.

The Mekong is famous all over the world for it’s stunning, romantic sunsets. Don’t forget to settle down in the evening over a glass of wine and watch the crimson sky turn dark.

St Lucia, Caribbean

Image credit: Pixabay

St Lucia is an ideal place to reignite the passion in a stale marriage. Here you’ll find the island’s characteristic blend of idyllic beaches and fun activities.

The island is also home to some fascinating history. The former plantations of the island are now centers for cooking, eating and celebrating Caribbean food. Alongside many of the former plantations are beautiful jungles and waterfalls that can be explored on foot. If you pay a visit to St Lucia, don’t forget to pack your walking boots. It’s the perfect place for parents to get lost in nature and find stunning new, romantic locations.

New Orleans, Louisiana

Before Hurricane Katrina, New Orleans was one of the most beautiful cities in America - and that’s saying something. But today, ten years on from the disaster, the city has regained much of its charm. One of the best parts of the city for parents is the French Quarter. Here you’ll find atmospheric music as well as juke joints and Blues bars.

There’s also opportunities to see the city by horse and carriage, just like in the old days of the West.

Mykonos, Greece

Image credit: Wikimedia Commons

Mykonos is one of the world’s most popular island destinations - and that should come as no surprise. The island is widely considered to be a romantic paradise, looking out over the Aegean Sea. You can watch the sunset here from under the island’s famous hillside windmills. And after that, you can shuffle off to one of the island’s many traditional romantic restaurants.

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