My Sunday Photo 08/01/2023

 

What to do with unwanted Christmas presents.

Hey readers, 

Do you have a gift you don't want? Whether it's a book you've already read, a scarf that's not your style, or a hand cream you've never had before, my handy guide will make gift-giving better than accumulating stuff in your attack collecting dust.

Give it to someone. 

If you don't like the gift, you can keep it and give it to someone you think will appreciate it more than you do.

Keep the label and packaging intact and save for next Christmas or birthday.

Remember not to give it back to the person who gave it to you in the first place. Give it back only to people you think will really appreciate it.

Sell it.

If you think selling a gift is disrespectful, it's better than returning it or throwing it in the trash.

These days, there are many options besides eBay when it comes to selling unwanted gifts online. 

For example, there are sites and apps that can be used to sell various items such as Depop, Vinted, Shpock, Facebook Marketplace, etc.

If you decide to sell unwanted Christmas gifts on these platforms, it is important to be as detailed as possible in your product descriptions. 

The more information and photos you add about your product, the more likely it is that it will sell quickly.

Return or exchange it. 

If you have a valid receipt, you can return or exchange the wrong Christmas gift in store. First, make sure the giver has included a receipt with the gift.

 If not, you'll need to have a polite conversation with them to explain why you want the receipt.

Christmas gifts purchased online must be returned or exchanged by the purchaser on your behalf.

Even if you don't have a receipt, some stores will allow you to receive a replacement or credit if you clearly indicate that the item was purchased there.

 However, please note that this is at the discretion of the retailer and is not required to be adhered to by the retailer.

Generally, you have 30 days from the date of purchase to return an item. However, many stores are extending this period during the holiday season to give shoppers more time. 

It is important to review our return policy to ensure timely refunds or item exchanges.

But whatever you do, don't let that unwanted gift go to waste. Instead, turn it into something you or someone else can enjoy.

Donate it. 

Giving away presents is becoming more and more popular. If you don't have time to sell your own, donate your unwanted Christmas presents to a local charity shop to sell them for you.

Some items can be donated directly to charity. for example:

You can donate your child's toys to the hospital's pediatric ward (remember to check what you can donate). 

Books can be donated to libraries, schools, or other literacy-based charities. 

Sports equipment can be donated to local sports clubs. 

Clothing can be donated to homeless shelters. 

Some charities accept gifts such as furniture, bicycles, and computers, but always check with the charity to see if you need the item.

 What do you do with your unwanted Christmas presents?  Love to hear your thoughts in the comment section down below. 

Cheers for reading X 

My Sunday Photo 01/01/2023

 

Happy New Year 2023 🎉🎊

6 things you can use sudocrem for

Hey readers, 

Sudocrem can not make the vast majority of a glamorous addition to your bathroom shelf, but there's a lot a complete host of miracles hidden absent in that itsy-bitsy tub.

Despite largely being known (and loved!) as a nappy rash cream, Sudocrem can be utilized on anything from cuts and lesser burns to skin conditions and even as a confront mask for issue skin.

Intrigued? Keep reading to have an idea of the extremely surprising utilizes for that dinky red and grey pot…

1. As a barrier cream for fake tan and hair dye.

To same as to Vaseline, Sudocrem behaves as a superior obstacle cream. Implement it to the soles of your feet before an artificial tan sesh to halt them from going orange, or around your hairline before colouring your hair to get rid of stains.

2. Insect bites.  

This is part of the brand-approved ways to use Sudocrem. They say that the cream "helps to repair wounds by forming a protective layer more than the vulnerable area, reducing the risk of infection, and additionally contains a gentle local anaesthetic to soothe discomfort."

The zinc in Sudocrem will additionally aid to decrease the chances of any scarring from the bite, so it's crucial for any holiday.

3. Sudocrem for burns.

you can use Sudocrem for sunburns. As well as assisting with prickly heat Sudocrem is a perfect way to hold the soreness out of sunburn. Gently implement a layer to the area, like you would a confront mask, and then let it sink in slowly.

4. Spots.  

Numerous have found that Sudocrem is working well for those pesky spots that pop up. Just add a dab of Sudocrem on the plot in query and abscond overnight.

Plus, by the soaring zinc oxide content material in the cream, Sudocrem is a sparkling way of assisting to take on acne too. Once a week, implement a slim layer of Sudocrem before bed and wash any excess off when you rise in the morning.

5. Feet. 

Who doesn't like the feel of soft, smooth feet? Well, Sudocrem can soften and soothe dry heels and skin on your feet. It contains an ingredient also known as zinc oxide, which breathes new life into the skin.

It removes all the dead skin cells on your feet that cause dry skin and instead makes your feet feel softer. You don't have to.

Who doesn't like the feel of soft, smooth feet?

Well, Sudocrem can soften and soothe dry heels and skin on your feet. It contains an ingredient also known as zinc oxide, which breathes new life into the skin.

It removes all the dead skin cells on your feet that cause dry skin and instead makes your feet feel softer. You don't have to.

6. Plucking your eyebrows. 

In the same as a stroke of beauty-inspired genius, Sudocrem is additionally fab for reducing redness and soothing the sore skin that comes with plucking your eyebrows. Several women even say they make use of it on their legs afterwards a wax as well!

What do you think about Sudocrem? is it something you use? Love to hear your thoughts in the comment section down below.

Cheers for reading X 

How to avoid distractions online when taking an online course.

Hey readers, 

Even while doing your work and studying at home is probably the most practical option, there are many distractions there. We find a lot of our favourite things there! While it can be challenging to concentrate while studying at home, there are several things you can do to cut down on interruptions and finish your job.

Turn off your phone or leave it out of reach.

Turning off your phone can make a big difference if you believe that limiting screen time will still be ineffective. The following time you grasp it to unlock the screen, you'll have to take a moment to think before you act. This advice is for you if you're the type of person that frequently unlocks their phone.

If you really want to go the additional mile, though, you can ask a member of your household to keep your phone until your class is over or your assignment is turned in, or you can leave it in a location that is out of your reach and far from where you work and study.

Workspace study area.

Some of us perform our best work in quiet environments like libraries or coffee shops, while others thrive in noisy environments. Everyone has their own ideal workspace for studying.

Think of it this way: anything that minimises distractions is "perfect." During certain times, you might not always be able to go outside and take your online course at your preferred location. All you have at home will have to suffice.

You can try to imitate and design a work-from-home environment. As much as you can, make this area your preferred study location. If you're in a library, sit next to a bookshelf to study; if you like a coffee shop, prepare yourself a cup as you take your course; and if you want to be near people, phone a friend or study partner during your break.

Routine.

Creating a daily schedule for completing your online coursework is a fantastic approach to cutting down on interruptions. You may ensure that you are focused during the times you plan to work on your schoolwork by creating and adhering to an online study timetable, which will increase your productivity!

Make a plan for your studies first. Determine the times of day that you are most productive. Perhaps the peaceful hours of 7 to 9 a.m. will be perfect for you if you're a morning person. If your family is out and about in the afternoons, you could study during that time instead. Make a conscious effort to approach your new study sessions as "distraction-free" times.

Scheduled breaks. 

It's a wonderful idea to build periodic screen breaks to your online study plan to prevent burnout, boost productivity, and allow the course material to really sink in. As a result, make an effort to schedule five to fifteen minutes every hour or so to stand up and take a quick break from your computer. Fill up your water bottle, get some food, go outside, and relax at this time.

Make sure your break doesn't go over your allotted time if you intend to return to your studies, though. To ensure that your study schedule stays on track, try setting a timer. In other words, try to avoid doing anything online that can distract you from your studying, such as checking any unimportant messages, using social media, viewing films online, or anything else.

Cheers for reading X 

What to do between Christmas and New Year (Twixmas).

Hey readers,  

Do you struggle now that Christmas is very and there is that funny period waiting until New Year's Eve comes well that is called Twixmas. 

What is Twixmas?

Twixmas is the term used to describe the days between Christmas and New Year (December 27-30) when you can take a much-needed break from your work and family schedules. For many of us, it's time to completely unwind and let him go about his day doing nothing.

It can be a struggle with not having any structure to your day and you may be looking for something to do so here are 6 things you can do during this weird time to keep you occupied. 

1. Post-Christmas sales.

Enjoy the after-Christmas sale from the comfort of your sofa. Get home bargains without fighting crowds. Buying tickets such as sofas at a high price is a wise investment if they are discounted at this time of year.

2. Pantomime. 

Many people enjoy pantomimes before Christmas, but the best time is after Christmas. It's a great day today after the festivities have settled down and are less busy. It's a great time to get kids who are usually indoors out of the house. Christmas attractions, such as the seasonal ice skating rink and Christmas Market, are also usually open, so it's a great opportunity to see them even when it's not crowded.

3. Thank you cards.

Sandwiched between tense gift shopping and a Christmas hangover, Christmas cards are always a rush job. But a thank you card? Now that you have time to think about these bad guys, show your appreciation with a heartfelt handwritten message.

4. Clear out. 

You may have gotten some extra belongings for Christmas. It's a great way to spend extra time flashing your home. Put clothes you haven't worn in the last six months in a bag and donate them to a local charity shop if possible. Treat your child's old toys recklessly. everything is broken. All still in good condition but no longer in use? Pack it up and get ready to donate. Tidying up is not only soul cleansing, but it is also for good reason.

5. Go for a walk. 

Many people ate too much this year. Whether you've overdone it with roses or you've been watching Christmas specials in the last 48 hours, put on your big coat and go for a walk. You may be healed by the fresh air and find a new favourite spot. It's the perfect time to embark on new adventures while maintaining social distancing.

6. Leftovers.

No, that doesn't mean you sit down and eat a lot of turkey sandwiches... just bring out your inner chef and try leftovers from the big day. Whether you're flipping through a recipe book or browsing through the many recipes available online, you can use your time to try great new dishes and discover new favourites. If you have too many leftovers, why not donate your fresh produce to the homeless or your local food bank?

What do you think of my list of things to do during Twixmas? Is there anything that you think is good that I have missed on the list? Love to hear your thoughts in the comment section down below. 

Cheers for reading X 

My Sunday Photo 25/12/2022

Happy Christmas everyone ☺ 

 

How to make Christmas Eve speical for the family.

 
Hey readers, 

Christmas is fastly approaching and you may wonder how can you make Christmas Eve special for the whole family. Well, I have a round-up of some fun Christmas Eve traditions for the whole family to enjoy.

1. Gingerbread house. 

For a little more magic, you can even build a gingerbread house with your kids. You can go all out and build it from scratch, or buy an easy-to-assemble kit. Either way, it's a delicious Christmas Eve treat that will keep the kids busy for a while.

2. Santa Tracker.

Follow Santa's journey with the Santa Tracker. Google has created an app called "Santa Tracker" that allows you to track Santa's adventures online or on your smartphone. He "stops" around the world to give gifts to children and tells us a little bit about each place. Gather the kids on Christmas Eve and watch Santa progress together for a magical holiday experience. You can download this app from the Google Play store or use the browser version online.

3. Evening Christmas lights walk.

Wait until dark and take your family for a walk around the neighbourhood to see all the Christmas lights. The streets are always magically lit up and look ready for Christmas. When you get home, you can warm yourself up with a delicious hot chocolate.

4. Look up and see Santa fly by.

With NORAD, not only can you track Santa Claus online, but if you're lucky, you'll see him flying overhead by Christmas. That's thanks to the International Space Station, which usually flies over Britain in December and you can check here to find out more. 

5. Christmas film. 

Gather the family get dressed up in your snuggled PJs and pop on a Christmas film, The Snowman and Father Christmas by Raymond Briggs are lovely, shorter films for little ones that are perfect to watch before bedtime.

 Or maybe even check out Channel 4 as each Christmas Eve bring out a really cute animated short film for kids perfect to get them settled for the evening. 

6. Takeaway dinner. 

With all the cooking planned for Christmas, the last thing I want to worry about on Christmas Eve is dinner. Order your favourite snacks and take a break. Combined with Christmas dinner leftovers, it will last for days.

7. Leave out something for Santa and his crew. 

We all know that Santa needs food and drink to stay healthy on Christmas Eve. Place a plate of what he likes on the table and mince pies. Also, don't forget milk and carrots for Rudolph and the rest of the reindeers.

8. Christmas story. 

Light a Christmas-themed candle (out of reach of little hands), light a tree light, and share Christmas stories with your kids. Doing this after bathing and before removing your stockings will give you a calmer end to the day. Just kidding, they still bounce off walls, but hey, it's a great tradition!

9. Hanging stockings. 

Do not forget one of the most important traditions. How does Santa know where to put his presents when he's not wearing socks? Just go back to sleep and you'll be filled with goodies from Santa.

Whatever you do I hope you have a wonderful Christmas.

Cheers for reading X 

Top 5 christmas movies.

Hey readers,

Can you believe we are in December already, in honour of Christmas I have picked my favourite Christmas movies to get you feeling all festive?

The Grinch.

What can a say it is an adept from Dr Seuss's class book The Grinch who is a green hairy fellow who hates Christmas. he hates it so much he goes to the town where he lives and nicks pretty much everyone's presents, decorations and food. 

Of course, when Christmas day arrives everyone appears unhappy because everything Christmas related has gone, however, they learn to still have a jolly good time together. 

So, what happens to the Grinch and all the presents? well, I let you watch and find out.

The nightmare before Christmas.

Another classic animation movie by Tim Burton. This one was my favourite one as a child and now it is my youngest favourite. 

It involves Jack Skellington bored and a bit meh with the whole Halloween scene decides to take on the role of Father Christmas.

 The problem is it all goes belly up as he is not Santa nor does he have the required skills to take on the role of the big guy. We soon learn about why it is important to be happy with what you have. 

Rather dark and not too sickly sweet either and I have to say the soundtrack to the film is top-notch as well.

The Snowman.

I had to include it, didn't I? Timeless classic! Involved a boy making a snowman in his backyard on Christmas Eve.

 Then when everyone is in bed he comes alive, of course, the boy wakes up to discover the magical process. Then the snowman takes the boy on a magical ride through the valleys and towns.

 Really beautiful illustrations and it doesn't involve words other than the song 'walking in the air. Another thing is that it is not long probably about half an hour max which is perfect for little 'uns who get itchy feet.

Bad Santa.

I love Bad Santa as it is really funny and a little bit cheeky as well. So the gist of the story is these two con men try robbing a store on Christmas Eve. 

They do this by posing as Father Christmas and his little helper the elf at the local shopping centre. Of course, Father Christmas is an alcoholic and it is fair to say he is not the best with children.

 A lot of events occur to keep you amused and the plan to rob a place doesn't go all that well.

Father Christmas.

The same author (Raymond Briggs) who wrote The Snowman turns another book into an adept called Father Christmas.

 This is a tale about Father Christmas what normally gets up to before and the lead-up to Christmas. 

He lives in a house on a normal street, just like a lot of people in England. He also is depicted as being a little grumpy and not the jolly good fellow that is depicted by adults, lol. 

Lighthearted and enjoyable for all the family to enjoy. A fun fact about this film Father Christmas says BLOOMING 72 times no less!

Cheers for reading X

My Sunday Photo 18/12/2022

 

Autism and Christmas

Hey readers,

In this post I want to talk about how Christmas affects me in relation to my autism.

 I am not very good with changes and I always see Christmas as a massive change. It doesent matter whehter it is  good or bad it is still change and something that I have to deal with every year, well until I am dead of course.

Now don’t get me wrong some elements of Christmas I enjoy such as seeing how special Christmas is for chrildren.

 I do love seeing how my children are happy although my eldest as he is getting older and has autism is starting to struggles as well more and more. 

I like Christmas day when going for a walk when it is eerie dead I enjoy; it seems not real as where I live am a city. 

Living in a city means it is always busy but on Christmas day it is silent or very, very, very quiet. which I am not going to moan because I actually enjoy it.

One area of Christmas I struggle with is gift opening as I get sensory overload, after presents are handed out I feel sick because it is something that I am not used to. As it is new I have to look at things in great detail and that is mentally exhausting for me.

One thing that is difficult is change to my routine because everything seems unusual during the festive period. 

However, to help deal with sticking to some routine and change I use a diary to write down what is happening.  I also do a relaxed schedule on Christmas day just to help me keep calm. 

I struggle with having nothing happening so I make sure I schedule stuff in such as giving my boys a bath or going to the park/walk. The last one helps me because I get fresh air and clears my head of so much disruption with toys etc. everywhere.

Another thing I am not very good at is people coming round unannounced. As my husband just casual about these kind of things and says to people he knows just pop round. 

I don’t want to be a pain and appreciate he has social needs just as much as my own needs. So, he can have social gatherings, I do stay for a period but sometimes I need some time alone because it gets chaotic. 

This also helps my autistic son; he normally comes with me for some time out on the bed in the dark, which for me with fewer stimuli around gives my brain a break.

Over the years when it comes to Christmas decorations me and my husband has come to an agreement where my bedroom has no ceiling decorations.

 I don’t like ceiling decorations they make me feel  claustrophobic so as long as I have a safe space which is my bedroom where I go when I need a break that is what works for us in my home. 

My autistic son loves the ceiling decorations so just shows you that autism affects people in different ways. 

I always have vivid memories of being a child and hating those ceiling decorations and now it makes total sense for how I felt which at the time when I didn’t know about autism it was difficult to get my head around.

Cheers for reading X

The best Christmas memes.

Hey readers, 

Christmas is upon us, and you know what puts you in a festive mood???? 

Of course, a good old Christmas meme to make a toy smirk or nod along.

Frosty the snowman.

This hilarious, lighthearted cartoon is everything but perfection. 

Although if Frosty the Snowman melts, I am sure there would be something darkly funny about Santa tripping up in the pool and smashing his head. 

(Oops, I have just leaked some of my dark thoughts, lol).

Haters are going to hate.

What's better than a pug dressed up in a cute Christmas outfit... That's right, a pug with a whole lot of sass!

Batman, you did what?!

Poor guy, for years he has not been in on the bit of the joke that he needs some therapy to get over his anxiety about what people think of him.

Dwight Schrute.

Nothing brings me more happiness than a Dwight Schrute (The Office US) meme; he sums up society perfectly.

 The moment the hand hits midnight on the 1st of November, it instantly turns to Christmas.

 Just look at the shop's Bang Goes Pumpkins, and it is all about the tinsel!

The Rock.

This has to be my all-time favourite meme. 

Of course, The Rock is rocking around the Christmas tree.

 A meme + a pun = perfection.

The Grumpy Cat.

Oh, I have a special place for the Grumpy Cat; he is the true Grinch of Christmas. 

How can you not like a sweet-looking cat that is so grumpy he will claw your eyes out?

Post-Christmas.

This meme sums up the aftermath of Christmas and when you put your tree down. 

That strange empty feeling and that bizarre thought of how your room looks so much bigger when a massive tree has vanished.

Rudolph the red nose reindeer!

You mock Rudolph; he will show you what he is made of.

 Be warned and stop singing about his misfortune, or next time you will hear a bang!

Glitter.

Now I know what to put in Christmas card to piss off someone annoying.

Nothing is worse than glitter everywhere, ugh!

Mariah Carey.

Why is it that Mariah's Christmas hit permanently plays and is always on in the shops. 

Because you know it is all about the especially at Christmas when we all stick together.

Cheeky Santa.

He is a bad Santa and loves nothing better than smoking and leaving a special present for the families he delivers to.

Batteries.

You know since having children you need to be a shareholder in Durrell.

 I am sure most parents have learned the art of cheeky ripping out the batteries of the loudest toys ever. 

I would call this one of the most valuable parent lessons you need to learn during parenthood.

Would you like cream with that dear?

I do love a filthy meme that makes me laugh due to its rudeness.

 This is a cracking one and no more words are needed.

Judge McClaus.

Oh, the irony of Santa having the easy life of working one day a year and the rest he sits back and watches and makes a judgment.

Cheers for reading X

My Sunday Photo 11/12/2022

My sons went to art session and made their own Christmas wreath 🎅