Ingenious Space Saving Small Home Ideas

I once wrote a jokey post about small space living, based on my experiences in my first small flat. I was thinking, though, that I might actually have picked up some useful ideas over the years that could be useful, so this is a sensible post about managing when you don't have much storage space. Our house isn't tiny, it's certainly bigger than that first flat, but it's modern and therefore efficient space-wise, not offering much in the way of storage or, indeed, any surplus space. These ideas make the most of the space you have. There are some affiliate links which give us a small profit if you buy through them, and also illustrate what I'm talking about!

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Autism in Adults with BBC Doctors

The recent story line on BBC Doctors following the struggles of foster son James, played by Daniel Kerr, has been a difficult watch. It has been at times harrowing, heartbreaking and thought-provoking, but most of all it has been a joy to behold. The acting has been superb and the story lines have really highlighted some very important points about the care system and the challenges that young people face when they find themselves on the autistic spectrum. Autism is a struggle a lot of parents face, but it doesn't go away when the child gets older and is expected to fend for themselves.

An Evening at Aspects Leisure Park, Longwell Green, Bristol

Last week I was invited on a press trip to Aspects Leisure Park in Bristol, to experience some of the delicious food and drink on offer and let you know what else there is to do there. Like most out of town leisure complexes, there are a lot of eateries and venues in close proximity, making it an ideal place to spend an evening out. It turns out, I've led a fairly sheltered life, as I discovered lots I hadn't experienced before, including gin. I had no idea I liked gin, it really was a revelation! To find out what else I discovered, read our review of Aspects Leisure Park, Bristol. I was treated to free food and drink for the purposes of this review.

Madagascar the Musical Theatre Review

The brand new stage adaptation of Madagascar has just arrived at the Bristol Hippodrome and we were given free tickets in order to write this review. This high energy musical  theatre version of the popular animated motion picture stars X Factor winner Matt Terry, who is making his stage acting debut in this production. On the day we attended, however, Matt was expertly understudied by Brandon Gale due to illness. This production was brought to life by Selladoor, the company behind James and the Giant Peach and Hook, who produced the Olivier Award-winning Rotterdam.

Falk Boy's Winter Jacket from Reima, it's Almost Life-Proof!

Reima have some really lovely items in their winter coat range, all with the usual considered and thoughtful design features. The focus is always on lightweight, durable fabrics, that allow children to move around freely and comfortably, whilst still being warm in the winter weather and this winter is no exception. We were sent the Falk Boys Jacket for free, to try out on an exceptionally fussy almost-teenager. Here's what he thought about it, as well as everything you need to know about warmth, durability and sustainability from Reima's homeland of Finland. 

Taking Care of Winter Skin

It feels a bit strange writing this while the sun is shining and the temperature is 21C, but it is October and we do have to believe that winter is on its way. Your skin probably isn't looking forward to this, as it's the season of dramatic temperature changes and many, many layers of clothing. I suffer from dry skin anyway, so I dread the onset of frosty mornings and central heating. There are lots of steps you can take, though, to protect your skin against dryness during the winter months, and it doesn't have to cost a lot of time or money. Here are my top tips for looking good this winter.

Adjusting when your Child Leaves for University

It's no secret that I had my first child pretty young. 18, in fact. This is not something I'm ashamed of, I didn't feel like I was too young at the time, and she's turned out astonishingly well, as it happens. She left university, armed with her degree and landed a job within 24 hours. I think she's rather brilliant! However, it did throw up a few complications. The problem with having a child young,  is that they become your whole life. I did not know an adult life without her, she was everything I had ever known. So how did I cope when she left home for university? Read on to find out and, trust me, however you are feeling now, you will cope too, honest.

Free Printable No Trick or Treaters Sign

Halloween is a lot of fun for children, but it can be a scary and nerve-wracking time for elderly or vulnerable people. Genuine trick or treating children don't want to venture where they are not welcome or disturb people who would prefer to be left alone, so a sign like this can be helpful to everyone. You are very welcome to print this out and use it if you would like to. You could perhaps take one round to an elderly neighbour or relative if it would be useful to them. Some older people get quite intimidated by lots of people knocking on the door, particularly if they are in costumes and it's not easy to see who they are.

Win a Family Ticket to Madagascar the Musical at the Bristol Hippodrome!

Madagascar is coming to Bristol! The mad-cap antics of zoo-dwelling favourites; Alex the Lion, Melman the Giraffe, Marty the Zebra and Gloria the Glamorous Hippo have made it to the stage and they are coming to Bristol this October. Featuring spectacular costumes and a cast led by X Factor winner Matt Terry, this show promises to be a 'roaring' success (sorry!) and that's not the best news! The really exciting part is that you can win a family ticket to see the show at the Bristol Hippodrome on 9th of October. Simply make your way through the Rafflecopter below. You can complete as many or as few entries as you like and don't forget to come back for your daily free entry, no social media required. Good luck.

Last Minute, Easy Costumes for Roald Dahl Day

Who in their right mind organises a costume day that falls just after the cherubs are back at school.?One minute you're organising new uniform, shoes, name labels, lunch boxes, the next you're having to come up with a costume just when you thought you could finally relax. Roald Dahl Day is a great day to get behind, we should encourage young readers wherever we can, but if you've forgotten about it, not got used to locating and reading the school newsletter yet, or just don't have the time, I've got your back! Read on to find all the easiest, quickest Roald Dahl-inspired costumes you could ever need! 

Kirstie Allsopp's Confession - Would You Smash your Child's iPad?

Kirstie Allsopp admitted today that she smashed her children's ipads to teach them a lesson. I don't want to pass judgement on any parent, since we are all doing a very difficult job and we should be supporting each other, not taking the moral high ground. I also don't agree with trolling and bashing people publicly, especially over what is essentially a difference of  opinion. I hope this post will be viewed more as constructive criticism, or alternative parenting advice. Kirstie, I'm sure you're a great mum, and you must parent how you see fit, but I can't agree with you and so here are all the reasons not to start vandalising anyone's belongings today.

London on a Budget: The Regent's Park

We had a brilliant time on a Blogger jolly to London last week, travelling with Sn-ap on their new Bristol to London coach service. We were given a free trip, in order to try the service, but starting at just £5 per journey, it's pretty good value anyway. London can be very expensive, particularly with children, but don't let that put you off, there are free and cheap activities to be found in different parts of the city. This post explores the best of The Regent's Park, one of London's eight royal parks and shows you one way to visit London without spending the Crown Jewels!

10 Skills all Children should Learn before Leaving Home

University places are being allocated and it's time to start thinking about whether your pride and joy is ready to venture out into the world unsupervised. I'm not sure anyone is ever totally ready, to be fair, there will always be situations no one planned for and initiative will be required now and again. As parents, though, we can help by providing our children with the tools and skills necessary to survive on their own, and take on the challenges life throws at them along the way and it's never to early to start. Here is a list of the skills that all children should learn before leaving home and how to make sure they do.

Shrek the Musical Review - Bristol Hippodrome

I have seen Shrek the film so many times, I could not pass up an opportunity to see how it transfers to the stage. Shrek is one of those shows that appeals to children of all ages, as well as most adults, for many different reasons. The stage musical first wowed audiences in 2011 and this is the second UK tour to take to the road. In our Shrek the Musical Review, find out what myself and the 12 year old thought, as we joined a packed audience at the Bristol Hippodrome. Tickets were provided free for the purpose of reviewing the production. 

Paradise Wildlife Park Review

Recently we travelled a little further afield than our usual Bristol haunts, to review Paradise Wildlife Park, which stands on the old site of Broxbourne Zoo, located in Broxbourne, Hertfordshire. The site was purchased by the current owners in 1984 and has been transformed in this time, building up an impressive array of animals, from big cats to tiny birds, alongside some carefully considered facilities, altogether providing a fun day out for all the family. We received free entry, in return for my time writing this review. All opinions are my own.

Free Activities with Children in Bristol

Bristol is an amazing, vibrant city, with lots of history and culture. It also offers a wealth of colourful entertainment options all year round. From festivals, to amazing street art, including this year's Gromit Unleashed 2 trail, there really is something for everyone. It's easy for the costs to add up though, when you suddenly have children to amuse all day. If you are wondering how you are going to entertain the kids on a budget this summer, here is a round up of all of our favourite free things to do in the city, keeping the costs down, without skimping on the fun!

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Beach Life Hacks - Easy Tips for Seaside Trips

It's been hot for what seems like forever now and, now the school holidays are here, the beach is the ultimate free playground for bored children. The air is cooler and, with enough space to run around and lots of exciting things to dig up, even the most adventurous children should be happy for hours, without spending lots of money. Whether it's a short trip or a long haul to your preferred sandy destination, I've put together this handy guide to everything you need for a stress-free seaside summer. From sand-free supplies to keeping things cool, We've got it covered. 

Free Printable No Cold Callers Sign

I am not an antisocial person, honest, and I really don't want people to think I am. However, cold callers knocking at my door causes people problems. If you have mobility problems, it's a pain to have to answer the door to someone you don't really need to see. Sometimes the unwanted callers are VERY persistent, which is a problem if you have a baby or night worker sleeping during the day. Personally, I don't think I should have to answer the door if I don't want to. Where we live, they call at dinner time, L's bedtime, sometimes when I'm in the garden, so I don't hear them until they've got REALLY loud. It's a real pain and I think we need to reclaim our front doors. 

Ideas for Decorating Holiday Shells

Everyone loves a good day at the beach. Especially me. We spend a lot of weekends at the coast, enjoying the sea air and indulging my favourite pastime of shell seeking. It's a great, low cost activity that everyone can get involved in. The children love seeing what treasures they can find, or dig up. You can tailor it towards their interests, for example looking for pebbles with possible fossils in for dinosaur hunters, or finding shells with holes in, to make into jewellery. Decorating holiday shells is a great craft, with the added bonus of using up old nail varnish.

Coping with Hay Fever, Top Tips and Ideas to Help

Hay fever is a common, and really annoying, seasonal problem for many people. It isn't always taken seriously, but the symptoms can be similar to those of a heavy cold. Although not life-changing, these symptoms can leave the sufferer feeling exhausted and miserable, especially as they can last for most of the summer. The condition is a particular nuisance for students, as it tends to land right in the middle of exam season, which is the last thing anyone needs.  I've put together a few tips that I hope might help, including some ideas we've tried and some that we might! Wishing you a healthy, snuffle-free summer!

Pressure Washing the Patio - Before and After with Karcher

In our own low-budget way, we do try to keep up with the garden. Over the ten years we've lived here, we've turned it into a tidy, functional, yet low-maintenance garden, despite the drawbacks of heavy clay soil and either full sun or total shade in parts. One aspect that has been letting the garden down for some time though, is the ageing, grotty patio and recently, we got the chance to finally do something about it. Read on to find out how the Karcher K2 Compact stepped up to the task and see the results in our before and after pictures! This post is not sponsored, we borrowed the pressure washer from a friend. 

The Play That Goes Wrong - Bristol Hippodrome Review

The Play That Went Wrong is presented by Mischief Theatre, and consists of a very small cast and one equally small, but remarkably flexible, stage set. The whole vibe is reminiscent of traditional theatre, as opposed to the more showy West End musicals we've become used to and this is an aspect that I found really appealing, it brought back memories of school trips and local theatre shows I've seen in the past. The local theatre look is very deliberate and gives a clue to the theme of the show, which is a local theatre production that, well, that goes wrong. The clue is also in the title. 

Thoughts on Homophobia #Pride

I was brought up in an era where being gay wasn't yet fully accepted. It was getting there, but homophobia and bigotry take a long time to die. Relationships in general weren't really talked about and I don't remember ever encountering an openly gay couple until I was in my teens. The word 'gay' wasn't spoken out loud, particularly around children, and it was an era of many, many euphemisms and wildly inappropriate expressions. I can talk quite openly with my children about sex, relationships, anything really, (age appropriately, of course!) but in those days, grown ups were excruciatingly embarrassed. All the time.

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Why I Love Instagram but Still get it Wrong

There are certain things I really like about social media, and certain things I don't. It has great power to affect a person's mood, outlook, even relationships, which isn't good, but on the other hand, it can provide a lifeline for people who are lonely, or just not very confident socially. The key seems to be not to take it too seriously, which is why I'm particularly fond of Instagram. It's mainly inoffensive pictures and quotes and a mindless scroll is quite relaxing. Also I love taking photos and looking at other photos, so it's perfect for me. It seems, though, that I've been doing it all wrong, but I'm not about to change. Here's why.

Thoughts From a Mum on the NHS at 70

Like most parents, I've had a lot of dealings with the NHS over the years, and I thought it was only right that I should recognise its 70th birthday. I have written political commentary previously on the struggles that the NHS faces and I still  do worry about our government's commitment to this service and the effect of budget cuts and sneaky privatisation. Today isn't about that, though, today is about celebrating a service that many of us, including me, don't often stop to appreciate. It's about recognising what the NHS, as a whole, actually means and what it gives to us as a nation. 

What is the Best Age to Start a Family

Having children is one of the biggest decisions you will ever make and many thoughts will cross your mind as you consider your options for starting a family. Maybe you've always known how many children you would like and what age you hope to be, or perhaps life has made that decision for you. Either way, there is always a lot of debate and advice about the best age to have children, with really no right or wrong answers. I have got together with some brilliant parent bloggers to give you the low down on the best bits of parenthood, at different ages and life stages to help you get some perspective on what to expect when the time comes.