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.