My Sunday Photo 03/04/2022

My boys made a special knot for part of their work for cubs this week. 

Cheers for reading X 

         

Autism and lonliness

 Hey readers, 

It is lonely being an autistic person in this world. All I ever see is how to be accepting of your autism, be proud to be different. But no one ever talks about the loneliness of being autistic, of always being on the outside and never quite fitting in. 

Just on Twitter alone the messages I read (problem with autism I tend to read things wrong) but this is my interpretation is that if you dare say anything negative you are a bad person. It feels so skewed and that alone is isolating. The feeling that you can't be your true self or be open because you will get shot down for feeling such negative emotions associated with being autistic. 

Then there is loneliness when for example I am married to a neurotypical person (someone who doesn't have autism) at times it makes me feel angry because my husband is completely different from me. He hasn't the same struggles, he is good at communication and he talks to EVERYONE. 

He is laid back and sometimes he is lonely because of having negative feelings, especially when feelings of not being adequate. I'm constantly being reminded ok it is light-hearted and only meant to be fun but at times it gets to me, I go to a place alone and cry because it is hard living in this world when you never feel you reach a level that is acceptable. 

When you try so hard but you somehow seem to screw it up, you say the wrong thing, or when it is too much you have a meltdown because you just can't cope with the situation that is happening around you. 

You look around and you see people understand these unwritten rules and even though you can mimic them if it is not linear and something slightly changes I end up confused or not doing the acceptable thing. I know people are going to say that it is ok to be different, but is it really because it does feel like that.

 If you're on the outside and people just don't understand. I suppose I bring it on myself because even though I write my blog and it is open in real face to face I am a private person. Plus  I have always been better at writing down thoughts because I can take my time, come back and edit, etc but when I try to communicate it is my anxiety that cribbles me. 

I overanalysis things and it gets to me. I feel alone in this world, even when I am around people, I never feel like I quite fit in. I know I am not the only autistic person to feel like this but it gets lonelier when you are out in the world, not in a little bubble on social media. When you watch people engage, you think why can't I do it or say the right thing that makes you feel so alone, it can be crippling.

 There are days when you wake up and think not again I have to battle being an autistic adult. You dread going to sleep because it takes so much energy to get up and carry on. To be constantly reminded that you don't fit in and you fail. That stuff hurts and gets in deep over the years, it is painful and again the loneliness creeps in and eats away at you. 

I don't really know what the point of this post is, but when you are in a click or watch someone struggle who alone just remembers they may be really struggling on the inside. You never know what is going on in someone's head so just remember to do anything in this world be kind. 

Cheers for reading X 

Shopmium app review.

Hey readers,

I love to save money and a good way to do this is through your phone. There are different apps now on the market that can save you money. One of them that I am going to look at today is called Shopmium. 

Shopmium is a free cashback app where that provides exclusive discounts or free food that you simply scan the food barcode and receipt. Once approved the money will then be returned to your Paypal account within 24-48 hours. 

Shopmium often uploads different offers so be worth checking the app frequently to see if there are any new updates on the app.  

There is a thing called a Shopmium club where you can earn stars which can make you go up a level and there are 3 levels in total. What can help you earn stars are referrals and cashback requests. When you reach a gold level that means you get VIP extras such as getting requests looked at within 24 hours and seeing offers a few days before others on lower levels do. 

Also on your birthday, you will get free gifts such as a box of Lindt chocolate which I think is a nice touch. 

You can download the Shopmium app on android and apple store. You can not use Shopmium on a desktop site. One thing to note is that you can only download Shopmium on iPhone 5 and those models after that running ios 9 as a minimum and Android version 5 (Lollipop).

Generally, It should take Shopmium within 48 hours to get back to you (unless your gold level). You should receive a payment if no problems.

 Now and again I have had Shopmium email me with regards to difficulties reading the receipts that I have scanned in and they simply request for me to rescan the receipt. 

  So the second time made sure the receipt was straight and had good lighting and iv had no problems after that.

If you refer a friend, using your referral code, and they sign up and make their first cashback offer Shopmium will give you £3 of credit and your friend will receive a free can of Pringles.
  
If you so wish you can use my referral code: KYKFGYUL.  

 Navigating is really straightforward as there is a bar on the home page where you can either click through on all offers to see all the offers you can select a certain supermarket.

It is much easier if you are in a certain supermarket to find the relevant offers that the store you are in to click on that specific store. 

Where can I use Shopmium cashback app in-store? 

* Tesco.

* Sainsbury's 

*  Waitrose.

*  Asda. 

Other stores.

*  WHSmith.

*  Holland & Barratts.

*  Co-op. 

*  Amazon. 

When you click on the offer at the bottom there are their icons in the right-hand corner with a red heart which you can on to save for a later date. 

There is the blue pin which shoes were the locations that you can buy the product.

Finally, the green barcode which you scan before buying to make sure you have the correct product if you need that peace of mind.

One thing I would like to mention with this app is where I can get caught out in regard to the deal. 

Below is a screenshot it says 50p off and sometimes in a rush I have been caught out with not thinking straight and misreading the information thinking the product was the amount off as opposed to just the amount of the product if that makes sense. 

If it says the rice is 25p off it doesn't mean that the rice is 25p it means that if the rice is £1.25 then it will cost you £1.00 and you will get the 25p cashback returned to you by Shopmium in your Paypal. 

So always be careful reading what the deal is as you may be short-changed and you may not necessarily get the deal you wanted. 

Overall. 

My opinion of this app is it is brilliant,  I don't think it is good as Checkoutsmart (which is a similar cashback app to Shopmium). Then again there are some really good offers, and I have in the past saved some money so I can't complain especially when often there is a lot of free or reduced food. 

It can give you chance to try something new where you might not normally go and chose a product which I think is a great way of testing something out. 

What is your opinion of Shopmium? have you tried it? love to hear your thoughts in the comment section down below. 

Cheers for reading X

My Sunday Photo 27/03/2022

My eldest did an art piece for school and he put a lot of effort into completing a portrait of King Henry VIII. We are really proud of him and it is going to be hung up in a new art gallery local to us when it gets opened up soon. 

Cheers for reading X 

         

The best Easter decorations to buy this year

 1. Poundland - gonks - £1.

These little fellas are only £1 but come in lovely pastel coloured hats and have showcased their impressive white beards to brighten up your home for Easter.  There are four to collect and they make a great little collection. 

2. T.K.Maxx  - Green moss Easter bunny - £9.99.

This sweet Easter bunny would look great in the garden. I like the contest between the green moss of the rabbit's body and the floral bunnies' ears, definitely something a bit different from your traditional design. 

3. Next - Easter hanging decoration - £5. 

This charming Easter wall decoration from next is subtle in design. I like the play on words with hoppy Easter and the two bunnies sitting together on a bench is so loveable makes you wonder what they are thinking about. 

4. The Range - Louise Brown hare cushion - £10.99.

This beautiful duck egg cushion gives me all the country-living feels. The design is stunning and would make a great addition to anyone's home for Easter or any time of the year actually!

5. Wilko - Easter mug - £4.00. 

**SWEAK** how adorable is this cute play on words Easter mug. It is a perfect cup to pour your morning brew in and put a smile on your face for the day. The design is adorable with the rabbit ears and whiskers incorporated within the text. 

6. Wayfair - Easter wreath - £115.99.

This beautiful wreath covered in pastel eggs would look amazing on the door greeting you when you come home. It is not too overpowering in colour but has enough detail to make a statement so it is a real winner in my eyes. 

7. Poundstretcher - Easter hanging wooden sign  - £1.00. 

A cute but straightforward wooden sign saying happy Easter and heat is even better is that it only costs £1, what an absolute bargain!

8. The British Craft House - bunny rabbit bunting - £22.50. 

My heart just melted at this super adorable bunny punting. How beautiful is it with the great and mint bunnies with blue love hearts in felt material that makes such a cosy vibe feel to a room. 

9. Lights4fun - bunny Easter wreath - £25.99.

This is something a bit different from what I normally see in the Easter decoration section this beavuation rabbit head woven wood with faux flowers and lights attached, It can easily be placed on a door, wall, or even a shelf and it is light up will give a cosy vibe. 

10. B&M - £2.00. 

What an eggcellent way to start Easter breakfast with eggs on toast. These cute bunny egg holders are too cute to resist and would make a great addition to anyone's kitchen (plus you can use them all year round which is a bonus :D ). 

What is your favorite item on my eater decoration list? Love to hear your thoughts in the comment section down below. 

Cheers for reading X

How to deal with panic attacks

Hey readers,

As a person with anxiety for many years I have had to deal with a fair few panic attacks in my time. Now the first thing I want to mention is don't worry if you have expressed panic attacks recently they are nothing threatening and they are just a way for the body to respond to the anxiety.

Historically we had a response called flight or fight in x times where it was a way to survive where we would either fight or run, normally run especially when there is a hungry tiger coming at yours. Sadly, we haven't evolved enough as humans to get rid of that response in our brain so therefore even though most like changes of bumping into a scary animal is like we still respond the same way when we are in an anxious situation.

 The downfall is that we can produce too much adrenaline and lack of oxygen where we panic and do not breathe correctly because we are panicking too much which in turn escalates to a panic attack. One of the symptoms is you feel like you can not breathe properly. So, I am going to give you my top tips on how to manage a panic attack.

1. No worry.

My best advice when it comes to a panic attack does not worry you are not going to die and that the feelings will dispense within time. I used to be scared of panic attacks or do anything to stop them but actually, they come whether you want it or not. Embrace it and go with it. 

A good visualization is like a wave when it builds up high but then it will fall again and that is a  panic attack in a sense. I have had many and they can confirm they do reach a point and you can get back on the even level soon, you just need to relax and breathe is the fundamental goal.

2. Breathe.

If you're breathing quickly during a panic attack, doing a breaking exercise can ease your other symptoms. 

Try this breath in as slowly, deeply, and gently as you can, through your nose. Breathe out slowly, deeply, and gently through your mouth,. Some people find it helpful to count steadily from one to five on each in-breath and each out-breath. Close your eyes and focus on your breathing. You should start to feel better in a few minutes. You may feel tired afterward so do anything too strenuous. 

3. Positive statements. 

When you are feeling anxious and panicky it can be helpful to use positive statements which can be used to remind you that panic is not dangerous and isn't harmful. The type of positive statements are:

* Panic is simply high levels of anxiety.

*  By remembering these symptoms are nothing more than anxiety, I can prevent further symptoms from occurring. 

* My anxiety and panic will pass naturally given time, it doesn't last forever.

* I can continue without needing to escape or avoid. 

* I have never fainted, choked, or had a heart attack. 

Reminding yourself of these facts can help to prevent further panic cycles from happening. 

4. Drink water.

Dehydration can cause more than just thirst and dry lips. It can also set the heart racing and make you feel light-headed and dizzy, all sensations that are common during panic attacks. Be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day to ward off any 'thirsty' mood swings. 

5. Distractions.

Having distractions techniques can help you focus on something else when you're in a panicked, anxious, or distressed state. Although it may seem like a difficult thing to do, it can become a useful and healthy way of coping with the situation. Here are some ideas that you could try out, or ask your close friends and relatives to do with the tour when you need support. 

* Counting things around you for example how many blue things are in your room. 

* Doodling or colouring. 

* Counting backwards from 10, then from 25, and then 50. 

* Focussing on your breathing, but breathing in for forum, holding your breath for four, and then breathing out for four. 

* Image a place where you feel safe, and then imagine the sounds you can hear in that place. 

Have you ever experienced panic attacks? What has worked for you to help reduce anxiety during those difficult times? Love to hear your thoughts in the comment section down below. 

Cheers for reading X

My Sunday Photo 20/03/2022

         

My spring clothing wish list 2022.

 Hey readers, 

As of 20th March, it is officially Spring, yay which means lighter nights, warmer days, and not so many layers in clothing. I have selected 10 pieces of garments that I think are amazing and would love to have for the spring season.

1. Yours Clothing - £23.99.

My first piece is this lovely light green knit from Yours Clothing. It is light but it is not too heavy but great if you just want a little bit of extra clothing on to keep you warm.

2. Asos - £25.00.

This next piece is from Asos is a lovely mini midi dress in bright pink and red with the fun design of flowers on, a great design to brighten up my wardrobe. 

3. Kaleidoscope - £59.00.

Sometimes during changes of season, it can be hard to know what to do regarding coats as sometimes it can be too hot for a full coat and sometimes is enough to protect you from the chili breeze. Well, I have a perfect solution to this dilemma with this stunning purple blazer from Kaleidoscope is a perfect statement piece to have you can wear smart occasions or wear it casual with trainers and jeans making it a very versatile piece to have. 

4. River island - £32.00. 

Coming in next is this casual number from River Island with this light blue oversized shirt for the perfect casual look and it is so versatile whether it is done up or let loose you can make it match any outfit you want.

5. Sainsbury's - £22.00.

Nothing says comfort like mom jeans and these jeans are a little bit different than the norm with the white daisy embroidery on them, they will be perfect to team up with a white t-shirt and trainers. You can purchase these jeans from Sainsbury's.

6. Matalan - £12.50.

This pink top from Matalan is so cute with the thrilled sleeve top, it will keep you warm but not too much so partnering with trainers is perfect for the spring season. 

7. Asda - £12.50. 

Of course, with every great outfit a good bag is a must, Check out this lovely black pleased crossbody bag from Asda. It is black so makes it suitable for a variety of different outfits that you can wear throughout the springtime. 

8. Next - £80.00. 

Having a gilet is a great piece to have in the wardrobe especially during springtime when you want something a bit warm but not too hot this is a perfect solution for the dilemma, This is a longline belted gilet from Next which open and close depending on how warm you are and the colour I really like in khaki green. 

9. Joules - £45.95. 

This dress from Joules is a lovely yellow spring colour with the spots to brighten anyone's day up. It is a lovely floaty dress that you can wear for casual park dates having picnics or dressing it up with tights and a cardigan for when it is more chili days to be had. 

10. Monsoon - 55.00. 

These beautiful green cotton trousers from Monsoon with detailed floral embroidery at the side of the pockets and embellished with miniature beats give all the bohemian vibes. 

What is your favorite clothing item that I have picked for my spring clothing list? Love to hear your thoughts in the comment section down below.

Cheers for reading X 

10 fun things to do on a rainy day.

Hey readers,

When days are wet and you can't bear another day trapped in the four walls while you slowly go insane then you must check out my safe list of places to go indoors. They are child-friendly, dry, and more importantly cheap.

1. Library.

Go to the library, read some books, choose some books and let the kids check them out. It is all very exciting and costs nothing.

2) Garden centre. 

Your local garden centre is great as it has lots of random tat and they tend to have a coffee shop. Not to mention if you are lucky enough fish to see and everyone is happy!

3) Ikea. 

Got to love going to IKEA.  Child-friendly, free play for 3yo, cheap food, and child-themed play areas. Both my boys love this place and they can run around causing them to tire them out, #winning.

4) Coffee shop. 

Hit a coffee shop, my boys adore the mini cups as they feel like an adult. I also appreciate the atmosphere as it is a great chilled vibe.

5) Mcdonalds. 

McDonald's where you can go get a happy meal and it comes with a toy, what more could a child want.  I have written a post here about why I love this place so much!

6) Bus trip. 

Get on a bus for an adventure. My boys love a good trip out on a bus.

7) Green conservatory area.

We live near a free (whoop) green conservatory area for the public. It had plenty of green and a pond full of fish. Beautiful settings and makes a change for me and the boys.

8) Museums.

Faithful museums are free and educational.

9) Pets at Home. 

If in dealt go to Pets At Home, it is basically a free zoo.

10) Odean. 

If you won't have a sit down in a quiet, dark room, go to your local Odean where every morning during holiday time and weekends term time they have tickets for children films for £2.50.

Have I missed out on some good places to take kids when it is pouring down with rain? Love to hear your thoughts in the comment section down below. 

Cheers for reading X

My Sunday Photo 13/03/2022

         

50 of the best Mother's Day captions for Instagram

Hey readers, 

Mother's day is happening on Sunday 21st March 2022 this year and what better way to show your mum some love with a few kind words. Below I picked a variety of captions suitable to add Instagram photos to celebrate your mums in your life. 

Cute mother's Day captions. 

1. No matter how old she may be, sometimes a girl just needs her mum.

2. Not always eye to eye, but always heart to heart.

3. There aren’t enough flowers in the world to show you how much you mean to me.

4. Mum: A title just above queen.

5. Life doesn't come with a manual, it comes with a mother.

6. Who needs a superhero when I have her?

7. Home is wherever my mum is.

8. A mother is your first friend, your best friend, your forever friend.

9. Mums are like buttons — they hold everything together.

10. A mother's hug lasts long after she lets go.

11. The only thing better than having you for a mum is my children having you for a grandma.

12. To the world you are a mother, but to our family, you are the absolute world.

13. Out of all the mums in the world, I am so glad you are mine.

14. My mother is a walking miracle.

15. I love my mum to the moon and back.

16. Behind every great woman is an even better mother.

17. No matter how old she is, sometimes a girl just needs her mum.

18. Mum, I can’t see your heart, but I know it’s made of gold.

19. Thanks for giving me the best things in life: Your love, your care, and your cooking.

20. If I didn’t have you as a mum, I’d choose you as a friend.

Funny captions. 

21. Cheers to the woman who gave up wine for nine months, just for me.

22. Mum, I'm sorry for all the times I didn't take the chicken out of the freezer. I get it now.

22. You're not a regular mum, you're a cool mum!

23. Nothing is really lost until your mum can’t find it.

24. Thank you for giving me life. And thank you for not taking it back during my teenage years.

25. Mum, I forgive you for replacing me with cats.

26. I love how we don’t have to say out loud that I’m your favorite child.

27. My Mother's Day gift to you is apologizing for ages 12-17. Sorry I was terrible.

28. Love you loads, Mum! Speaking of... can you do my laundry?

29. Mothers are a gift to humanity. End of story

.
30. Mum—you’re definitely one of my favorite parents.

31. Sometimes when I open my mouth, my mother comes out.

32. I still can't fold a fitted sheet, but you did a good job.

33. Thanks for always loving me, even though all of my awkward phases.

33. In a surprising turn of events, my mother was right. About everything.

34. Everything I learned about being awesome, I learned from my mum.

35. Mum, you were right about everything. There, I said it!

36. She wore Mum jeans before it was cool.

Quote Captions.

37. "I love you 3000." — Tony Stark, Avengers End Game.

38. "My mother was my role model before I even knew what that word was." — Lisa Leslie.

39. "My mum is a strong woman and I love her for it." — Tom Hiddleston.

40. "To describe my mother would be to write about a hurricane in its perfect power." —Maya Angelou.

41. "Mother is a verb. It’s something you do. Not just who you are." — Dorothy Canfield Fisher.

42. "Acceptance, tolerance, bravery, compassion. These are the things my mum taught me." — Lady Gaga.

43. "A mother’s arms are more comforting than anyone else’s." — Princess Diana.

44. "All that I am, or ever hope to be, I owe to my angel mother." — Abraham Lincoln.

44. "Call your mother. Tell her you to love her. Remember you're the only person who knows what her heart sounds like from the inside." — Rachel Wolchin.

45. "He didn't realize that love as powerful as your mothers for you leaves its own mark." — J.K. Rowling, Harry Potter, and the Sorcerer's Stone.

46. "My mother is a walking miracle." — Leonardo DiCaprio.

47. "Life began with waking up and loving my mother’s face." — George Eliot.

48. "Biology is the least of what makes someone a mother." — Oprah Winfrey.

49. "I would say that my mother is the single biggest role model in my life... She was the love of my life." — Mindy Kaling.

50. "A mother’s love is the fuel that enables a normal human being to do the impossible." — Marion C. Garretty.

Cheers for reading X