Mother Distracted

Tuesday, 31 May 2016

Father's Day Gifts He Will Never Forget

I can’t believe it’s Father's Day in a couple of weeks time. June 19th is rushing towards us so it’s time to start thinking gifts. Father’s Day is a great time to celebrate what a fantastic dad he is by giving him a gift from the kids he will always remember.

Here are some great Father’s Day gifts you could consider.

A trip to a brewery or winery

Dads love relaxing with a glass of wine, or a pint of larger, after a long hard day at work. So to get him something he will enjoy, why not arrange for him to go to a brewery or winery for the day?

He will get to understand more about how his favourite drink is made, and might be able to try some new wine or beer that he might love. It’s a full day out so why don’t you arrange for a sitter for the kids and go with your other half.

If you can’t afford to send him to a brewery, why not buy a beer brewing kit so he can make his own beer at home! It will be a lot of fun, and he can get guests to try it as well.

A driving experience

If dad is a fan of driving, you could arrange for him to go on a driving experience. These typically take place at a track in a supercar such as an Audi or a Lamborghini. For something even more unique, you could buy him a tank driving experience where he gets to drive a tank. It will be an incredible experience he will never forget, and you will have to take your camera to get some shots of him driving the tank!

Flickr

Paintballing day

If dad loves adventure, you could arrange for him to go on a paintballing day with his friends. You could team up with your mum friends and buy the gift from all the kids. Paintballing is a lot of fun (but can be painful!) and will be a day he never forgets. You should get a few paintballs included in the cost.

Image Source

A spa day

Dads can get stressed out with work and home life, so a great Father’s Day gift he would never forget would be a spa day. You could book him a treatment so he could enjoy a back massage or an Indian head massage. He can also take the time to swim in the pool and get some exercise in his life. You could go with him or let him go for a lovely day on his own at the spa.

Image from Flickr

A hot air balloon ride

For something unique he will never forget, you could get him a hot air balloon ride from the kids. He can experience views of the city he would never have seen before. You could go up there with him, or send a friend with him if you’re scared of heights. It’s something a person should do at least once in their lifetime as the views are incredible.

File:Colorful hot air balloon ZK-OAK landing at Lift Off Levin.jpg

Image Credit

If you’re strapped for cash, you could stay at home and have a picnic in the garden as a family. He will still love spending time with you all!

*collaborative post

Hot Summer Trends To Update Your Wardrobe At Debenhams

As the temperature continues to rise, we get closer to being able to wear all the amazing summer trends that were featured during Fashion Week. But with so many fabulous styles to choose from, you may find it difficult to narrow down which ones are must-haves.

Here's a list of the hottest summer trends that you need a part of your wardrobe.

1. Backless Dresses

Whether we're talking about a dramatic evening look or a flouncy day dress going back this will be one of the largest trends of the season. Pair this look with strappy sandals a statement clutch for a chic and flirty look.

2. Crop Tops

Lipsy Tribal Embellished Crop Top - £29.40

Whether you pair them with your favorite ripped jeans or a matching full-length maxi skirt, crop tops can add a touch of sexiness to any outfit.

3. Embellished or print shorts

4. Hexagonal or round sunglasses

5. Off-the-shoulder tops and dresses

Oasis Ruffle One Shoulder Dress - £48

6. Tote bags with statement prints

Whether you're looking to pack up your stuff for the beach or use it as a trendy Shopper tote bags with statement prints are an easy way to add some flair to your style.

7. Ruffle dresses

Whether the ruffle is used to embellish the hemline, sleeves or the top you can't go wrong with this fun and feminine summer trend.

8. Leather skirts

Nine By Savannah Miller Black Leather Skirt - £35

9. Slip dresses

Whether you wear them, it's a flouncy cocktail dress or pair them with a casual tee to create a laid back 90s looks adding a slip dress to your wardrobe is a great way to update your style this season.

10. Chunky Heel Sandals

Head Over Heels By Dune Chunky Brown Platform Sandal - £33

This trend looks great whether you pair it with a casual Jersey dress or a tailored work suit. The versatility of chunky heeled sandals makes them a must-have summer item.

11. Heirloom jewelry

12. Coral colored clothing

Jessica Wright Coral Aurora High Neck Plunge Bodycon Dress - £58.50

13. Keyhole lace dresses

14. Loose fit maxi dresses

Maxi dresses are forever on trend but by embracing a looser, more Bohemian look for summer, you'll be able to breathe new life into this old style.

15. Teal color clothing

Little Mistress Teal Lace Bandeau Prom Dress - £51

Now that you know some of this summer’s hottest Trends be sure to update your style accordingly. And to pick up all of these styles and much more be sure visit the Groupon discount code page for Debenhams.

My Sunday Photo - 29/05/2016

My Sister & Her Partner Anil Walking Across The Cardiff Bay Barrage

We had a lovely day today. My sister and her partner came down for the weekend since it was my birthday on Saturday.

We woke to blazing blue skies this Sunday and so walked with the kids across Cardiff Bay Barrage to Mermaid Quay for lunch.

It's amazing how the Bay has changed since I grew up. I can still remember going to the Big Windsor Pub to listen to The Spasm Band and Madassa. I doubt the old regulars would recognise the place now.

One of the joys of living in Dinas Powys (apart from having to put up with Charlotte Church's birthday parties) is that all this is on our doorstep.

Relationship Dilemmas - What Was I Asked In Week 21?

I spend a lot of time responding to the questions I am asked about dating & relationships on Quora.com and I thought I'd share some of my answers with you in case you are going through anything similar.

Obviously I am not an expert but I am a 50-something married mum of two with quite a few years' experience under my belt. I take the view that, sometimes, you need to hear it like you would from your own mother - however tough the truth may be.

Here's just some of the questions I've been asked this week.

Q: I like a guy. I am not sure why but he has started to ignore me. How can I get to know what happened and resolve this?

A: It sounds like he is gently trying to tell you he is not interested. The best thing to do is NOTHING. If he’s not interested if you start chasing him he’ll become even more irritated. If he’s interested, let him take the initiative. Keep yourself busy with your own friends and interests (and other guys). Then he’ll either want to spend time with you because you’ll be more of a challenge to him or you’ll be so busy you won’t be interested in HIM.

Q: It's been two and a half years but I still think about my ex-girlfriend. Is this normal?

A: Entirely normal - and not a problem unless it is preventing you from finding someone new. After such a long period it is unlikely that you’ll get back together so why waste any more time? Go and find someone new, more exciting and who wants to spend time with you. You should be out enjoying yourself, not moping over a lost love.

Q: I cried in front of my ex-girlfriend. Am I a weak person? She's thoroughly disgusted by my behaviour. What can I do?

A: There is absolutely nothing wrong with men crying. Of course you are not a weak person. You don’t say why you cried though so is your girlfriend disgusted at whatever you did to make you cry - were you unfaithful, for example, or is she disgusted because you showed emotion in front of her. It sounds like she is extremely angry with you for some reason so you need to think about whatever you did to make her feel this way and, if you want to win her back, find a way to apologize or make amends. If she’s just disgusted because you cried, on the other hand, she sounds a horrible person and I would not bother pursuing any kind of relationship with her in future.

Q: My friend shows up to my house uninvited and then expects me to entertain him. Is there a courteous way to get him to stop? We have a sort of open door policy and we just show up whenever but my friend has decided to start coming to my house whenever he feels like it. I’ve been manufacturing excuses to not be able to hang out but that won’t last forever.

A: I would just pretend to be out - I’m assuming your friend doesn’t have the keys to your property! Otherwise you just need to be honest - say “I have such and such I really need to do so I need a bit of privacy / space”. Or, look I love having you round but I’ve got a lot on my mind and I could do without the stress of having to entertain you / whatever”. It all depends on whether you want to keep this friendship going or whether you are happy to let it end - in which case you can be as blunt as you like.

Q: What should I do when a girl responds to my proposal by 'friend-zoning' me and saying she doesn't feel anything for me?

A: I think you have to accept that she is not interested I’m afraid. Your best course of action is to give her some space to see if she may change her mind but I would concentrate on building relationships elsewhere. I think she has been entirely honest with you so at least she respects you which is a good thing. You wouldn’t want to end up with someone who doesn’t feel the same, would you?

Q: There's a guy I like but I live far away from him. He likes me too but there's another girl on the scene. Should I keep talking to him or stop?

A: I would find somebody else. Unless he gets rid of the other girl and makes really big steps to be with you I think he’s just playing you both along. Long distance relationships are really hard work and I’m sure there will be someone just right for you much nearer to home.

Q: What are the disadvantages of marrying a girl who doesn't have any ambitions in life?

A: I think the biggest risk is that you’ll get bored if her level of ambition doesn’t match yours. The point is whether you have enough in common to sustain a long-term relationship. There is no law which says you have to be ambitious and some people don’t discover what they want out of life until much later. I would also avoid a ‘shopping list’ approach to finding a mate. Shared interests and goals for your life together are what are most important. If you have a girlfriend who you suspect is using you as a meal ticket and not furthering her own career simply because you can support her at home, then that is something you will need to think carefully about.

Q: Can I tell my girlfriend I'll be with her forever when I'm not sure of the future? My girlfriend asked me if I will be with her forever. I really want to but my experience tells me no one knows what’s going to happen! Should I tell her that? Am I responsible if she got hurt after I break up with her because I told her that?

A: I think you should reassure her but tell her that nobody knows what’s around the corner but you want to be there for her. It sounds to me like she’s seeking a marriage proposal or a long-term commitment. I think that’s what’s really behind this question.

Q: Why do men chase girls they don't like much? A man says he has strong feelings for me but his behaviour doesn't seem to show it. He texts me everyday but doesn't want to have a video or voice chat. We don't live in the same city and I'm really confused.

A: This sounds like the man likes the idea of having a girlfriend so he is going through all the motions of having a relationship without the commitment. I think if he were really interested he’d be up for a video chat or, more importantly, arranging to come and visit. If he’s doing neither of those things I think it’s a case of “actions speak louder than words” and I’d find somebody else. This doesn’t sound like it’s going anywhere, particularly since you’re in different cities.

Q: Should I tell my girlfriend's husband about her past affairs? I went out for a girl for more than 6 years and we were engaged. I had introduced her to my family. She cheated on me and then cheated on the man she left me for. Now she has married someone else and I am tempted to warn him.

A: You know, however tempting it may be to get your own back on this girl, it’s really no longer any of your business and you don’t know if the Husband actually knows and is turning a blind eye to it. And there’s nothing to say she will cheat on her husband. If I were you I would leave well alone and concentrate on your own life. It sounds as if you have not got over this girl yet. There’s also the saying “don’t shoot the messenger” because sometimes both parties turn on the one who brought the bad news. Telling on her might make you feel a bit better but might wreck a marriage which was basically OK.

How would you have responded to these questions?

You can find more dating and relationship advice here.

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.

How are you all this week? It's my birthday tomorrow and I'm hoping for a little something written by Hemsley + Hemsley.

I always find birthdays are a great time for reviewing all those New Year's Resolutions I made (and didn't carry on with). Mind you, after a large piece of cake and some vino, I usually find I've forgotten all about them until the end of the year.

If one of your resolutions was to find more time for yourself to indulge in a bit of peaceful reading, you'll find plenty to choose from on this week's linky.

Here's the fab books on offer this week.

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 week's awesome selection.

And don't forget you can always add some of your own!

What is Hepatitis A?

A third outbreak of Hepatitis A has been confirmed in a South Wales school this week.

But what exactly is Hepatitis A?

Source: Jeff Eaton, Flickr

Hepatitis A is a liver infection caused by the Hepatitis A virus (HAV) and it is highly contagious.

It is usually spread when the Hepatitis A virus is taken in by mouth from contact with objects, food, or drinks contaminated by the feces (or stool) of an infected person.

This is more likely to occur in countries where Hepatitis A is common and in areas where there are poor sanitary conditions or poor personal hygiene.

The average time between exposure to the virus and the development of hepatitis symptoms is about 30 days.

One of the first viral hepatitis symptoms is a high temperature and fever along with feeling tired and unwell.

Other symptoms include:-

- joint & muscle pain
- loss of appetite
- pain in the upper right part of your stomach
- jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
- dark urine and pale stools
- itchy skin

Hepatitis A in children is usually asymptomatic while in adolescents and adults the symptoms are easier to spot.

Because Hepatitis A can be a mild infection, particularly in children, some people might not know that they've had it. It can cause prolonged illness for up to 6 months, but usually only causes short-lived, mild illness.

It does not cause chronic liver disease. In milder cases, symptoms may be similar to a stomach virus (with vomiting and diarrhea).

The best way to prevent Hepatitis A is through vaccination with the Hepatitis A vaccine but this is not routinely offered on the NHS.

If you are travelling to a higher risk area, such as Africa, Asia, Central America, Southern and Eastern Europe, you are advised to get yourself vaccinated.

Immune globulin can be given either before exposure to the Hepatitis A virus (such as before travel to a country where Hepatitis A is common) or to prevent infection after exposure to the Hepatitis A virus.

Otherwise the NHS advice on managing Hepatitis A includes staying away from school or work for at least a week after your symptoms appeared, getting lots of rest and being meticulous about your personal hygiene.

Public Health Wales say "We continue to work closely with Environmental Health Officers to investigate this outbreak and to offer advice to parents, school staff and pupils. All information received is treated confidentially.

People are advised to contact their own GP or NHS Direct Wales on 0845 46 47 if they have any concerns about their health or their child’s health."

Why More People Are Investing In Sterling Silver Jewellery

Sterling silver jewellery is by far the shiniest of all the precious metals. A lot of people choose to adorn themselves with sterling silver pieces over any other metals. In fact, both the popularity and value of silver has risen, making way for even more choices among sterling silver designs.

Here are 5 reasons why people choose to invest in silver jewellery.

1. The Value of Sterling Silver

While it is the most brilliant and whitest metal, sterling silver is also more affordable than platinum or gold. Since it is a fraction of the price of gold, finding a stunning piece of silver jewellery for a modest price makes for more variety and allows customers to feel like they have found something sensational for a good price. You can take a look at the collection of silver jewellery here.

2. Durability of Silver Jewellery

Silver is a harder metal that can stand the test of time. It can be filed down effortlessly and polished to repair a surface that has been damaged or simply worn out with normal wear. Rings can be sized quickly and easily, and repair costs in general for this metal are economical.

3. Artistry and Design

The variety of jewellery designs in silver is abundant. This is mostly because new artists can afford to cast a lot more designs in this metal than in platinum or gold. This means that there are more and more new jewellery designers and new concepts on the market. The Silver by Mail silver jewellery collection has some gorgeous new designs.

4. Different Styles in Silver

Sometimes it is tough keeping up with the latest jewellery trends. But since silver jewellery is more affordable, customers are able to update their wardrobes more frequently and mix and match as they please.

5. Interchangeable

Many customers find that silver jewellery is easily interchangeable with platinum and gold items. They can don stunning silver designs with other items from their jewellery box, which means that a variety of designs can be worn together as unique ensembles.

Many people adore sterling silver for its bright lustre. The marketplace has seen resurgence in sterling silver simply because it is less expensive to produce and buy compared to its platinum and gold counterparts.

Customers love the fact that sterling silver pieces are great value and highly durable. They can keep up to date with the latest designs without having to pay a fortune to procure them.

Today, many high-end designers enjoy casting their unique jewellery designs in sterling silver. It’s not uncommon to see beautiful precious gemstones being set in silver, either.

Jewellery lovers are enjoying this concept and being able to afford new pieces from popular designers.

While sterling silver may require a small amount of special care to retain its simmer, that doesn’t bother today’s customers. They have learned how to look after their precious pieces and find that it is well worth the effort to continue enjoying all the advantages that purchasing sterling silver has to offer.

Mother Distracted

Big This Week

Recent Posts

Tuesday, 31 May 2016

Father's Day Gifts He Will Never Forget

Monday, 30 May 2016

Hot Summer Trends To Update Your Wardrobe At Debenhams

Sunday, 29 May 2016

My Sunday Photo - 29/05/2016

Friday, 27 May 2016

Relationship Dilemmas - What Was I Asked In Week 21?

New Releases, Free & Bargain Books Link-up 27 May 2016

Thursday, 26 May 2016

What is Hepatitis A?

Why More People Are Investing In Sterling Silver Jewellery