Friday 15 September 2023

Why visiting the Eden Project as a family is a must!

 Hey readers, 

In the heart of Cornwall, England, lies a botanical wonderland that promises an unforgettable experience for families of all ages. 

Why visiting the Eden Project as a family is a must!

The Eden Project, often described as the "Eighth Wonder of the World," is a mesmerizing and educational attraction that offers a unique blend of entertainment, education, and natural beauty. 

Why visiting the Eden Project as a family is a must!

In this blog post, we'll delve into the myriad reasons why you should consider visiting the Eden Project as a family.

Why visiting the Eden Project as a family is a must!

1. Education in Action. 

Why visiting the Eden Project as a family is a must!

The Eden Project is not your typical tourist attraction; it's a living classroom. For parents, it's an excellent opportunity to introduce your children to the wonders of the natural world. 

Why visiting the Eden Project as a family is a must!

The biomes at Eden house an incredible array of plant species from all over the globe. It's a chance for your children to learn about the importance of biodiversity, sustainability, and the environment in a fun and engaging way.

Why visiting the Eden Project as a family is a must!

2. Immersive Experience.

Why visiting the Eden Project as a family is a must!

The Eden Project boasts two colossal biomes: the Rainforest Biome and the Mediterranean Biome. These awe-inspiring structures offer an immersive experience like no other.
Why visiting the Eden Project as a family is a must!

Step inside the Rainforest Biome, where you'll feel the humidity, hear the birdsong, and witness towering trees and exotic plants up close. It's a journey that will transport your family to distant lands without leaving Cornwall.

Why visiting the Eden Project as a family is a must!

3. Adventure for All Ages. 

From the treetop walkways to the outdoor gardens, the Eden Project offers a wide range of activities suitable for all ages. 

Children can enjoy the Adventure Playground, while parents can relax in the beautifully landscaped gardens. It's a destination where every family member can find something to love.

Why visiting the Eden Project as a family is a must!

4. Interactive Learning. 

Eden Project's team has designed an array of engaging activities and exhibits to keep young minds curious. 

These interactive learning experiences allow children to explore science, nature, and sustainability in a hands-on and entertaining manner. It's an ideal way to blend fun and education during your family vacation.

Why visiting the Eden Project as a family is a must!

5. Stunning Architecture. 

Why visiting the Eden Project as a family is a must!

Beyond its botanical wonders, the Eden Project's architectural marvels are reason enough to visit. The iconic biomes, designed by Sir Nicholas Grimshaw, are a testament to human ingenuity and eco-conscious construction.

 Exploring these structures is an inspiring lesson in sustainable architecture and environmental responsibility.

Why visiting the Eden Project as a family is a must!

6. Sustainable Practices. 

Why visiting the Eden Project as a family is a must!

Eden Project practices what it preaches. It has won numerous awards for its sustainable initiatives, from rainwater harvesting to renewable energy sources. 

Why visiting the Eden Project as a family is a must!

Visiting Eden with your family not only provides an educational experience but also demonstrates the importance of environmental responsibility.

7. A Culinary Adventure. 

Why visiting the Eden Project as a family is a must!

Eden's dining options cater to all tastes and dietary preferences. Sample locally sourced, organic dishes that showcase Cornwall's culinary delights. It's a fantastic opportunity to introduce your family to new flavours and support sustainable food practices.

Why visiting the Eden Project as a family is a must!

A visit to the Eden Project as a family is a journey of discovery, education, and inspiration.

It's a chance to bond while exploring the wonders of the natural world, learning about sustainability, and immersing yourselves in stunning architecture. 

Why visiting the Eden Project as a family is a must!

Whether your family consists of young children, teenagers, or adults, the Eden Project offers something for everyone.

 So, plan your visit today and create lasting memories that will inspire your family's appreciation for the planet and its diverse ecosystems.

Why visiting the Eden Project as a family is a must!

Cheers for reading x 

Monday 11 September 2023

How to make slime.

Hey readers, 

Children can improve their hand and finger strength and fine motor abilities by playing with putty.

The putty is a fantastic toy for sensory development because of its smooth and sticky texture and capacity to absorb heat.

The benefits of meal planning.

By creating it at home with your child, you can avoid making a trip to the store and its associated costs.

Below is a simple recipe to make slime that children will love to make and play with. 

Method. 

1. PVA glue is combined with a pinch (less than half a teaspoon) of bicarbonate of soda in a tiny bowl.

2. The finest food colouring to use is gel, and you may even add glitter if you prefer.

 To improve the smell a little, you could also add a few drops of vanilla essence or other food flavourings. Combine once more.

3. Add a few drops of the saline solution and thoroughly combine the mixture until it thickens

Just a few more drops should be added. You don't need to add more. Until the mixture begins to separate from the bowl's sides. Don't stop mixing; keep going!

4. Knead the slime mixture in your hands until it stops adhering to your fingers after it stops clinging to the bowl's sides.

5. Once your slime is formed, you can stretch it, whatever you like!

Enjoy!

Cheers for reading X 

Sunday 10 September 2023

My Sunday photo 10/09/2023

 Me and my youngest went on a tour of our local BBC radio station (Coventry and Warwickshire). 

During the Weekend our local council were running free heritage open days and thought it be fun to take a look around the radio studios to see what it is all about.

My Sunday photo 10/09/2023

My Sunday photo 10/09/2023

My Sunday photo 10/09/2023



Friday 8 September 2023

Best places to visit in Coventry.

Hey readers, 

Coventry, located in the West Midlands region of England, has a rich history and various attractions. 

Here are some places to visit in Coventry:

Best places to visit in Coventry.

1. Coventry Cathedral.

Best places to visit in Coventry.

This iconic cathedral was destroyed during World War II and rebuilt as a symbol of peace and reconciliation.

 Its modern architecture and impressive stained glass windows make it a must-visit attraction.

2. Coventry Transport Museum.

Best places to visit in Coventry.

If you're interested in cars and transportation, this museum is a must-visit.

 It houses the largest collection of British road transport in the world, including bicycles, motorcycles, and vintage cars.

3. St. Mary's Guildhall.

Best places to visit in Coventry.

Dating back to the 14th century, St. Mary's Guildhall is a historic building with beautiful architecture. 

It has served as a meeting place for royalty and is now open to the public for guided tours.

4. Herbert Art Gallery and Museum.

Best places to visit in Coventry.

This museum showcases Coventry's art, history, and culture. 

It features a diverse collection of artworks, archaeological artefacts, and interactive exhibitions.

5. War Memorial Park.

Best places to visit in Coventry.

A peaceful and well-maintained park, it is dedicated to the memory of soldiers who lost their lives in World War I.

 The park offers ample green spaces, walking paths, and recreational facilities.

6. Coombe Abbey Country Park.

Best places to visit in Coventry.

 
Located just outside Coventry, this park offers scenic landscapes, woodlands, and a lake.

 Visitors can enjoy walking trails, picnicking, birdwatching, and even overnight at the Coombe Abbey Hotel.

7. Fargo Village.

Best places to visit in Coventry.

This creative quarter is a hub for independent retailers, artists, and food vendors.

 It's a great place to find unique gifts, handmade crafts, vintage clothing, and delicious street food.

8. Coventry Music Museum.

Best places to visit in Coventry.

If you're a music enthusiast, this museum showcases the rich musical heritage of Coventry. 

It highlights the city's contribution to various genres, including ska, 2 Tone, and punk.

9. Coventry Building Society Arena.

Best places to visit in Coventry.

If you're a sports fan, catch a game or event at the Coventry Building Society Arena.

 It's a multipurpose stadium that hosts football matches, rugby games, and concerts.

10. FarGo Village Street Art.

Best places to visit in Coventry.
Coventry is known for its vibrant street art scene, and Fargo Village is a great place to explore it. 

Take a walk around the area to discover colourful murals and graffiti.

These are just a few of the many attractions Coventry has to offer. 

Make sure to explore the city's shopping districts, restaurants, and cultural events to make the most of your visit.

Cheers for reading X 

Monday 4 September 2023

5 tips to ease migraine pain.

Hey readers, 

All you want during a migraine attack is relief, which is where medication can help for some people. 

Is there anything more you may do, however, to help lessen the attack or ease the symptoms before the medication begins to take effect?

5 tips to ease migraine pain.

Try the following treatments if you need immediate migraine relief.

 The majority are free and without negative consequences.

1. Apply a cold press.

The effectiveness of temperature therapy is well known if you've ever used an ice pack for a wound or a heating pad for a sore back. 

When you have a migraine, this can be beneficial.

Even though cold therapy has been used to cure migraines for over a century, there isn't much research to support this claim

According to some hypotheses, cold therapy may help constrict blood vessels or reduce the nerve signals that cause migraine headaches.

Even more recent research hasn't been able to determine exactly how cold can aid with migraine pain relief Trusted Source, but two recent studies did discover that applying ice packs or neck bands at the beginning of a migraine could dramatically lessen the perception of pain.

To find out what feels the greatest for you, you might need to experiment. Some discover that placing an ice pack on their heads provides peaceful, numbing comfort. 

This is especially useful if the sun or heat causes your migraine.

2. Find a quiet and dark place to relax.

One of the most typical migraine symptoms is sensitivity to light and sound. Suppose you can get away from these things. 

You may experience less pain and tension as a result of this.

Lay down and focus on your breathing. Try inhaling slowly and deeply via your diaphragm.

 As you inhale, feel your tummy rise; as you exhale, feel it descend. You might find this relaxing.

3. Keep a migraine diary.

Maintain a diary to identify your specific migraine triggers. 

If a pattern starts to form, you may be able to lessen the intensity and frequency of your episodes by changing your food and way of living.

Caffeine, alcohol, stress, or relief from stress (the letting go of tension can be a trigger), dehydration, missing meals, getting too little sleep, and lie-ins are some common migraine triggers.

 Certain foods, such as cheese, chocolate, or ice cream, affect some people.

Avoid as many triggers as possible, eat, drink, and sleep regularly, and give up all forms of caffeine, including coffee, tea, cola, and chocolate.

4. If you can go to sleep. 

Go to bed if you can. The greatest thing is probably sleep, which tends to reset the body.

 If you have the option to sleep through a migraine, do so. It's not always doable. (Regular, high-quality sleep may also lessen the risk of migraines.

5. Diet

Your body can be significantly impacted by the foods and beverages you consume. Particularly well-known migraine triggers are alcohol. 

In addition to drinking alcohol, anything that alters your body's physiology can cause a migraine episode. 

Because of this, eating often and in sufficient amounts throughout the day is advised to maintain stable blood sugar levels.

What do you think of my tips to help with migraine relief? 

Love to hear your thoughts in the comment section below. 

Cheers for reading X

Sunday 3 September 2023

My Sunday photo 03/09/2023

 

My Sunday photo 03/09/2023

We went on holiday this week to Cornwall and what better way to spend it than eating ice-cream 😉 

Friday 1 September 2023

What are some common Autism traits.

 Hey readers,

Autism is a developmental condition that affects how a person communicates, interacts and perceives the world. There is no single way to be autistic.

What are some common Autism traits.

Some common traits or characteristics are.
 
Finding it hard to understand what others are thinking or feeling.

* Getting very anxious about social situations.

* Finding it hard to make friends or preferring to be on your own.

Seeming blunt, rude or not interested in others without meaning to.

* Finding it hard to say how you feel.

*Taking things very literally – for example, not understanding sarcasm or phrases like "break a leg".

* Having the same routine every day and getting very anxious if it changes.

* Noticing small details, patterns, smells or sounds that others do not.

Having a very keen interest in certain subjects or activities.

 Liking to plan things carefully before doing them.

Having difficulty with reading comprehension, fine motor skills or attention span.

* Being hyper- or hypo-reactive to sensory input, such as avoiding eye contact, getting too close to other people, or getting very upset if someone touches or gets too close to you.

Autism can sometimes be different in women and men. Autistic women may have learned to hide signs of autism to ‘fit in’ - by copying people who don’t have autism, be quieter and hide their feelings, appear to cope better with social situations, or show fewer signs of repetitive behaviours.

Autism is not a disease. It is a natural variation of human diversity. Autistic people have strengths and challenges, just like anyone else. They may need extra support in some areas of life, but they can also contribute positively to society with their unique perspectives and talents.

If you think you may be autistic, you can see a GP or a health professional to get diagnosed. Getting diagnosed can help you get any extra support you might need.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability that affects communication and behaviour. People with ASD have difficulty with social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviours.

Here are some of the most common autism traits:

Social communication and interaction: People with ASD may have difficulty understanding and responding to social cues, such as facial expressions, body language, and tone of voice. They may also have difficulty initiating or maintaining conversations, and they may not understand or respond to humour.

Restricted or repetitive behaviours: People with ASD may engage in repetitive behaviours, such as hand flapping, rocking, or lining up objects. They may also have a strong interest in certain objects or topics, and they may become upset if these objects or topics are changed.

Sensory sensitivities: People with ASD may be sensitive to certain sounds, smells, tastes, textures, or light. They may also have difficulty processing sensory information, which can lead to problems with attention and learning.

Learning and attention: People with ASD may have difficulty learning new things, especially in social situations. They may also have problems paying attention, which can make it difficult for them to complete tasks.

It is important to note that not all people with ASD will have all of these traits. The severity of the symptoms can vary from person to person.

If you are concerned that your child or someone you know may have ASD, it is important to talk to a doctor or other healthcare professional. Early diagnosis and intervention can help improve the quality of life for people with ASD.

Here are some additional signs of autism in children and adults:

Children:

Avoids eye contact.

Does not respond to name.

Does not show facial expressions.

Does not play interactive games.

Does not share interests.

Does not point to show you something interesting.

Does not notice when others are hurt or upset.

Adults:

Finds it hard to understand what others are thinking or feeling.

Gets very anxious about social situations.

Finds it hard to make friends or prefers to be on their own.

Seems blunt, rude or not interested in others without meaning to.

Finds it hard to say how they feel.

Takes things very literally.

Has the same routine every day and gets very anxious if it changes.

Notices small details, patterns, smells or sounds that others do not.

Has a very keen interest in certain subjects or activities.

If you are concerned that you or someone you know may have autism, it is important to talk to a doctor or other healthcare professional. Early diagnosis and intervention can help improve the quality of life for people with ASD.

Cheers for reading X


Monday 28 August 2023

5 benefits of journaling.

Hey readers.

There are many excellent reasons to journal, not the least of which is that many journals available for purchase nowadays have attractive designs.

 While keeping a notebook as an adult may seem silly and writing things down may seem old-fashioned, the advantages of journaling tend to grow with age and the complexity of your ideas.

You should occasionally sit down with a diary and collect your thoughts since, as an adult, it's simple to become lost in the hectic and complex environment we live in. 

Everyone has different motivations for keeping a notebook, but you can find solace because it's a place where you can focus entirely on yourself without fear of criticism.

5 benefits of journaling.

We urge you to try journaling because it is a valuable and therapeutic technique. And before you get started, look at our top five reasons for journaling.

 1. Keep thoughts organised. 

Journaling enables us to clarify and organise our thoughts. You can jot down daily occurrences, ideas, and emotions related to specific encounters or viewpoints. Your journal entries can be archived and tagged in Journey.

2. Health benefits. 

The benefits journaling can have on your health are some of the most significant and frequently disregarded benefits. 

Journaling can help with anxiety relief and stress reduction, among other health advantages.

 Finding techniques to reduce these sensations is essential since stress and anxiety can negatively affect mental and physical health.

Journaling has other positive effects on your health, such as enhancing your emotional intelligence, mood, and memory.

 Therefore, grab a pen and diary and write everything down if you're feeling anxious or uncertain about anything in your life.

3. Writing practice.

Writing in a journal is a great writing exercise. Anyone who wants to become a writer must put in a lot of practice to master the craft. 

One of the finest strategies to improve your writing is to keep a journal. Writing for a brief period each day will help you develop good sentence structure, word choice, grammatical usage, etc.

4. Changes.

Journaling records development and subtle changes. Human nature makes it easy to miss the subtle signs of growth when you're in the middle of something. 

On those difficult days when it seems like everything is imploding, it's easy to lose sight of the progress you're making. 

You can read about your past to understand how far you've come and gain the perspective that a terrible day isn't indicative of a bad life. 

5. Encourages self-confidence. 

In several ways, journaling can increase your self-confidence. If you keep a notebook to organise your thoughts and routine, you could discover that being organised lessens worry.

 Your ability to effectively manage your time and constantly cross things off your to-do list might serve as positive reinforcement for yourself.

You can discover that being kind to yourself also enhances your general relationship with yourself if you use your notebook to practise good self-talk and fight negative thoughts actively. 

What do you think about journaling? Is it something you do? I would love to hear your thoughts down below. 

Cheers for reading X 

Sunday 27 August 2023

My Sunday photo 27/08/2023


My boys experienced going ice skating this week ⛸ 










Friday 25 August 2023

Dirt pies recipe.

 Hey readers, 

If you want a fun and yukky recipe for kids, look no further, as I have the perfect mud pie recipe.

Dirt pies recipe.

Ingredients.

Ready to roll puff pastry. 

150g of chocolate buttercream. 

2 ready-made chocolate muffins. 

2 tbsp of golden caster sugar. 

75g black ready-to-roll fondant.

Handful of chocolate-covered raisins. 

Handful of mint leaves.  

Method. 

1. Use a cuttie cookie and cut out nine cookie shapes. Place them into a Yorkshire pudding tray, and cook them in a 180c fan oven for 15/20 minutes

2. Place them onto a cool rack for 5 minutes to cool down. 

3. Spread a teaspoon of chocolate frosting into the bottom of each pastry shell and use the back of the spoon to smooth it down.

Dirt pies recipe.

4.
Crumble the muffins into a bowl and stir the sugar. Sprinkle on top of the chocolate frosting. 

5. Sprinkle more sugar on the crumbled muffins to resemble sand. 

6. To make the slugs and bugs, roll the fondant into sausage shapes and add two little antennae on top. Add a few small fondant sausages for the legs of the bugs. Use a knife to add a little detail to the back of the slugs. 

7. Add the chocolate-covered raisins as a pebble path, then small bunches of mint leaves as bushes and chopped chives as grass. Add your slugs and bugs on top as a finishing touch. 

Dirt pies recipe.

Enjoy. 

Cheers for reading X

Monday 21 August 2023

Ibs what is it?

Hey readings, 

Although the exact causes of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) are unknown. 

Correlations to oversensitive gut nerves, food moving through the gut too quickly or slowly, family history, and stress have been made.

Ibs what is it?

You may take steps to assist in alleviating and regulating symptoms even when a remedy has not yet been discovered.

What are the symptoms of IBS? 

IBS symptoms might vary, but they frequently last for a long time. The most typical ones are:

* Abdominal discomfort brought on by having a bowel movement, such as cramps or bloating.

 *  Alterations in the way that bowel movements look
alterations in the frequency of your bowel movements.

* The feeling of incomplete ejection and a rise in gas or mucus in the stool are additional symptoms that are frequently associated.

What causes IBS? 

IBS can be treated in various methods, but its aetiology is uncertain.

An abnormally sensitive immune system or colon are potential culprits.

 A prior bacterial infection in the gastrointestinal system is the root cause of post-infectious IBS.

 It's challenging to avoid IBS because of its many potential causes.

The process of getting a diagnosis of IBS. 

The doctor will want to rule out other illnesses but should be able to diagnose the patient based on the symptoms provided. 

You may occasionally experience IBS symptoms from medications you take for other health issues. 

To investigate if a medication swap is possible, it could be worthwhile to bring up this topic with your doctor.

Blood tests may be utilised as additional examinations and will be used to evaluate the following:

Whether or not anaemia exists.

Functional liver and kidney.

Any indications of bowel irritation. 

*If celiac disease could be the problem. 

To ensure that another bowel condition is not causing symptoms, doctors are now using a stool test called faecal calprotectin to detect inflammation. 

The doctor can therefore be assured that it is IBS. 

IBS and diet. 

There isn't a single IBS diet that will reduce your symptoms. 

This is because the precise origin of IBS is still unknown, and every person's body responds differently to certain foods.

However, studies and evidence-based recommendations have revealed that while some food groups can trigger IBS, others can help ease symptoms.

Take into account the following crucial aspects to attempt and manage your IBS symptoms:

Potential IBS trigger foods and drinks.
 
A successful IBS diet plan entails more than just selecting healthy foods.

 Additionally, it involves avoiding foods and beverages that could cause unpleasant and painful symptoms.

 You may already be aware of the foods that are difficult for your body to properly digest and therefore aim to replace them in your diet.

A wonderful approach to keeping track of what you eat and figuring out which foods can cause IBS flare-ups or symptoms is to keep a food diary.

There is no list of foods to avoid if you have IBS because various people may experience symptoms in response to different foods.

Common foods that cause IBS, however, can include:

Nuts, beans, potatoes, and whole-wheat flour all include insoluble fibre, which can be more difficult to digest and worsen bloating and pain.

Dairy products - For certain IBS patients, foods like milk frequently cause symptoms.

Despite being rich in protein and fibre, beans and legumes can be difficult for some individuals to digest, leading to bloating, gas, and other IBS symptoms.

Processed foods, frequently heavy in fat, sugar, and salt, can cause flare-ups of IBS.

Caffeine and alcohol are both known to make some IBS sufferers' symptoms worse.

Cheers for reading X



Sunday 20 August 2023

My Sunday photo 20/08/2023

 

My Sunday photo 20/08/2023

A good game of monopoly taking over 4 hours to complete 😂

Friday 18 August 2023

No churn Daim bar ice cream recipe.

Hey readers, 

The ingredients for this no-churn ice cream recipe can be combined in only 10 minutes, and then the mixture is left to freeze. 

It's an excellent dinner party dessert to prepare in advance.

No churn Daim bar ice cream recipe.
 
Ingredients. 

* 397g of condensed milk.

* 600ml cream. 

* 6 Daim bars, roughly chopped. 

Method. 

1. Pour the condensed milk and double cream into a large mixing bowl. 

Beat with an electric mixer for about 10 minutes until thick and voluminous. 

Fold in 4 of the chopped Daim bars. Freeze in a lidded freezer-proof container until firm.

2. Scoop into bowls and sprinkle over the remaining chopped Daim bars to serve.

Enjoy. 

Cheers for reading X