Things you can get away with because it's Christmas.

 Hey readers,

 Christmas is a funny old time of year, everything that is 'normal' suddenly goes out of the window.

Then it is replaced with temporary social rules that are seen as acceptable, whereas in any other situation that behaviour could be potentially frowned upon.

 Take alcoholic beverages for example, when it is Christmas you can get away with drinking any old time.

 It doesn't matter whether it is morning, midday or evening although, ideally people expect you to be sozzled by the time the Queen's speech is on.

Any other time you of thinking of drinking alcohol during the day you would be labelled an alcoholic.

 

What is it with chocolate at Christmas? You start Christmas day morning opening chocolate and then you just carry on nibbling away. This then results in your children bouncing off the walls with relatives telling you how to manage your children.

That leads me nicely on to the next point of the fact, Christmas is all about stuffing your face with calorific food.

It is alright at Christmas to have four meals with snacks in between. We are so overindulging in gluttony during this festive time that we forget about moderation and all the other 'messages' about eating healthy.

Christmas time is all about what you can eat like a pig because no one bats an eyelid and in fact, those people are more likely to buy you some more chocolate as a present because you can not get enough sugar.

Christmas is the time when the only numbers you have to worry about is when EastEnders is on. Forget about the calories during Christmas as it is a free calorie zone for the foreseeable few hours.

No guilt what so ever about the telly being on all day long blasting out, it's socially acceptable during the Christmas period to watch TV for 10 hours if you please.

How else are you going to get through the afternoon with granddad snoring in the chair and your children of their tits on sugar?

Who needs routine when you can do as you please on this special day. Forget all about the rules and let's add disruption to the order of the day.

Sit on your arse, watch TV, eat the mountain of chocolate with the drink in the hand at two in the afternoon and do SOD ALL. Why, because it's Christmas, you can be lazy and do nothing during the Christmas period.

The main goal is to relax and make the most of it without the guilt, because who needs guilt on Christmas.

You can wear pj's all day long if you desire without anyone passing judgement or calling you a chav/jobless scum of the earth. Because IT'S CHRISTMAS and the lazier you are better!

For parents, you may secretly help the child with finishing the chocolate after boxing day as they can't live off the mountain of chocolate given from the grandparents.

I suppose the best bet for a parent, like myself, is that I don't have to feel guilty about the indulgent food or the telly being on or even the fact I am looking at my phone too much.

It is that one day that the rules can be broken and anything goes. Mummy guilt can fuck off for one day in the year, result!

Cheers for reading X

Christmas pressure

Hey readers, 

Christmas can be tough especially when you see how good some people live their life on social media. 

But what you must remember is that it is only what you see in a picture, you don't know the whole story. Remember you are not alone and lots of other people feel similar to the pressure of Christmas and the high expectations you put on yourself.

I don't have all the money in the world but I have learnt that it does not matter. I don't need to be perfect nor do I need to put this big expectation on myself to be something that I can not achieve, it is ok too so what feels right for you. 

Everyone is different and the more I accept myself and my situation the better chance I will of enjoying Christmas without the stress.

I think one of the things about the Christmas stress is expectations to be perfect and provide everything for everyone. why put Yourself under that stress when you know it is not achievable if you haven't got the money. 

No point beating yourself up over it, it is ok to have a budget, it is ok not to buy everything in the Argos Catalogue. You do not have to worry as social services will not be knocking on the door because you have not brought your child enough toys for Christmas or the latest gadget.

However, it is also important to remember that Christmas should not be about the money but getting together and being nice to one other. you don't need a million pounds to have a good time. 

You could go for a walk together and that would be just as wonderful be sure you are doing something together as a family. 

Sometimes just being with the people you love is more important. I have been at times the loneliest with no one and I need to remind myself it is so much better now with having the opportunity to spend Christmas with the people I love and love me back.

You don't always to have money to be happy.. of course, it helps with paying the bill's and keeping a roof over your head. but for materialistic gifts, happiness is only short-lived anyway into you want the next thing.

 Anyone can go out and buy something but not everyone is as lucky as me to have a safe roof over their heads or having people in your life that accept you for who you are.

Who cares about all the stresses of Christmas? The only person is you, most kids really care and just hold on the memories.

Don't spend if you can't afford it is ok to do what is right for you and within your means.

No point getting stressed about money do what feels right for you and remember really it's the only day. Enjoy watching telly, eating too much chocolate and being with the ones you love.

Cheers for reading X

My Sunday Photo 04/12/2022

 

Self care activities for December.

Hey readers,

December can be a busy time of year for us all. We can be swept away by everything else that is happening that we forget to look after ourselves or give ourselves some time out to take self-care. 

So, here are some practical self-care activities you can do this December to help reduce the stress of the Christmas period.

Mindfulness.

Practice some mindfulness - look around and see the lights twinkling from the decorations in the Christmas tree.

Bath.

Have a long soak in the bath and unwind. Let your muscles relax and give your body that time to rest.

Sleep.

Have an early night and switch off the technology, even take a book to bed to read and escape with a story.

Exercise.

Go for an evening walk and get some fresh air. Enjoy not having to rush about but just soak up the scenery.

Drink.

Make a yummy hot chocolate and drink it whilst watching your favourite programme. Just focus on the moment and forget about that to-do list.

 There is something lovely about holding a hot cup of your favourite drink in your hands and feeling all cosy.

Being realistic.

If you are feeling overwhelmed by the business of the festive season create limits to stick to. Instead of doing wrapping in one go do it over two days.

 There is no point rushing about when it will tip you over the edge. It makes you feel stressed and causes tension in the home. It is important to break down goals that are manageable and realistic to achieve.

Ask for help.

If you are struggling then ask for help - it is not a crime and you are not a failure in doing this. 

In actual fact, it takes more courage and strength to know when to stop and give someone else the responsibility. It is better productivity that way.

Remember.

Remind yourself that it is ok to stop and not be busy. It is ok to time out for yourself and your wellbeing. 

It is ok to do nothing even though you feel that the festive period is about constantly being on the go. It is ok to have time out for yourself to rejuvenate and charge your batteries. 

Declutter.

During this period I find that decluttering helps my mind. Sorting out through unwanted toys that boys don't use and passing them on to someone else ready for Christmas when they get tons more to replace the space that once was.

I find it relaxing just putting music on and pottering about. I like to get things in order and get areas tidy. It is a calming and I love the feeling after when you get a sense of satisfaction.

Write.

I find writing relaxing (hence why I blog) though you don't necessarily have to do that if you don't want to. 

You could write a gratitude diary where you write the number of positive things that have happened to you that day. It doesn't have too big it could be simply having a shower, getting out of bed.

 It is the small things and getting into this pattern can really help enhance a more positive mindset over time.

What self care activities do you go to during December to help you relax? Love to hear your thoughts in the comment section down below. 

Cheers for reading X

How to make a homemade hot chocolate in a jar.

 Hey readers, 

If you like making homemade presents or giving something with a personal touch then these cute homemade hot chocolate in a jar might be the one for you. 

I think they look really good and perfect to make for someone as a Christmas present. 

How to make homemade hot chocolate in a jar.

What you will need. 

* Mason jar.

* Cocoa powder.

* Sweets.

* Chocolate drops.

* String.

* Christmas tag.

* Hole punch.

* Straw.

 

Method. 

1. Get a mason jar with a lid.

2. Layer each ingredient.

 - starting with 1 cup of cocoa powder.

- 1 cup of sugar.

- 1/2 a cup of chocolate drops. 

3. Finally add a handful of Smarties (or any chosen sweets).

4. With the hole punch place the Christmas tag in and punch one hole. 

5. Next get some Rippon threat through the hole and wrap it around the neck of the jar. Use the ribbon to tie the straw.

6. Finally place the lid to secure. 

Cheers for reading X

My Sunday Photo 27/11/2022

 

My boys made some wooden Christmas decorations for the tree ☺️

My top 10 christmas songs.

Hey readers,

I have compiled a playlist of my favourite Christmas songs to get you dancing around that Christmas tree. 

I love a bit of everything from Jazz, to hip-hop to even the 80s (of course has to be done doesn’t). So grab a mince pie and enjoy.

Driving Home for Christmas – Chris Rea.

My favourite Christmas song EVER is Driving Home for Christmas by Chris Rea. I just think it is a really beautiful voice and that sense of love to it, makes me smile and feel all googly inside.

Let It Snow – Dean Martin.

I love jazz music when it's Christmas time, it just feels classy and a bit like you got to sh*t together. It just has the right collection of notes. Dean Martin’s voice just captures Christmas for me and it makes me think of fires and all the jazz (excuse the pun there).

Winter Wonderland – Frank Sinatra.

My favourite Jazz singer has to be Frankie baby with this classic of Winter Wonderland. it is a perfect compliment when wrapping presents and decorating the Christmas tree.

Baby, it’s Cold Outside – Tom Jones and Cerys Matthews.

Let’s move along in time to the late ’90s with this amazing duet from Tom Jones and Cerys Matthews. It is cheeky, it is fun what more could you want?

Merry Christmas – Mel and Kim.

I can not miss out on adding an 80’s classic to my Christmas song wish list with this timeless song that you hear. It is, of course, Merry Christmas by Mel and Kim. You know this is a fun pop song and you be guaranteed to want to sing along to it.

It’s the Most Wonderful Time of Year – Andy Williams.

A beaut of a song is this is one of the most popular songs of Andy Williams with it’s the most wonderful time of year. What a credible voice and perfect to add to anyone’s Christmas playlist.

Merry Christmas I Don’t Want to Fight Tonight – The Ramones.

Now I have picked something a little alternative and not such a popular Christmas track. It is a song by The Ramones called Merry Christmas I don’t want to fight tonight. I like this track because it is got a raw edge to it. 

 It is a bit more realistic regards to the pressures of family life at Christmas. Let’s face there is a lot of pressure whether it is financial or whatever it can take its toll.

The Little Drummer Boy (Peace on Earth) – Bing Crosby featuring David Bowie.

A beautiful duet with David Bowie and Bing Crosby. To think a glam rocker and a crooner could work so well but it did and thank goodness it was released because it is brilliant!

Santa Claus Go Straight to the Ghetto – James Brown.

Now we are moving on to a bit of soul with the Godfather of Soul James Brown. If you ain’t tapping along with this one what is wrong with you, it is upbeat and full of funk with a mix of Christmas blended in.

Christmas in Hollies – RUN-DMC.

For fun and one you want to turn the volume up Run DMC with Christmas in hollies, for awesome Christmas raps to get you in the spirit of Christmas.

Cheers for reading X

Christmas punch recipe.

 Hey readers, 

What a festive treat is a Christmas punch and it is so easy to knock up. Below is the recipe which takes minutes to do but packs all the punch in a drink. 

What you need. 

* Ice

* 200ml vodka

* 200ml cranberry juice

* 200ml orange juice  juice

* 6 tsp brown sugar (optional)

* 300ml soda water

How to make it. 

1. Fill a large jug or punch bowl with ice. Add the vodka, cranberry and clementine juice and stir to combine. I

2. If you want to add a little sweetness to this naturally sharp-tasting punch stir in the sugar and mix until dissolved.

Enjoy X

My Sunday Photo 20/11/2022

 

31 blog ideas for December

Hey readers, 

Seaming as we are approaching December I have drawn up 31 blog post ideas perfect for December so don't worry but just write. Enjoy :)

1. What is on your wish list this year?

2. New year's resolutions. 

3. A gift guide.

4. Host a giveaway.

5. A list of books you have read this year.

6. Write your year in a review.

7. Create a fiction story that you have made up.

8. Share a cookie recipe.

9. Things that you have learned this year. 

10. What's on in your local area? 

11. Tips and hacks to survive the winter.

12. Share your favourite holiday activities.

13. What can you think during winter? 

14. How do you conquer cabin fever?

15. Write a winter bucket list.

16. What are the best Christmas markets near you? 

17. How do you get over the Christmas blues? 

18. What are your favourite Christmas movies? 

19. Christmas outfit ideas. 

20. Gift ideas for kids. 

21. Share your holiday decor. 

22. Write a letter to Santa. 

23. Favourite slow cooker recipes. 

24. Write about your Christmas traditions. 

25. Have a day off, it's Christmas day after all. 

26. Best activities to do in Winter. 

27. Share your favourite Pinterest boards and explain why. 

28. How do you organise your blog/time?

29. A guide to Christmas stocking fillers.

30. Your Christmas wishlist.

31. Skincare for the winter.

Will you be using any of these blog post ideas? I would love to hear your thoughts in the comment section below.

Cheers for reading X 

Charity at school

Hey readers,

My son received a letter the other day about BBC Children In Need day, where you can come to school dressed up in something spotty and raise money for the occasion. 

The problem I have with this is that I am against schools trying to a) push parents into giving and b) in making a child feel isolated if they do not join in.

With regards to a) my problem is I believe people should have a choice and not be forced by peer pressure to feel included. 

What happens if the parent is skint they can't afford money nor can they meet the requirements, i.e. having anything spotty?

 I know some people who are so stressed about such events that they lie and call in sick due to not having the money to give.

 When will the school be actually about education and not about charity? I am all for charity but I think it is wrong to do it in a school setting. The child has to be there as it is the law so why don't we stop the charity and do it in a location where the person has the choice to attend or not?

It never stops with the charity raising in school and again I think this is wrong. Some organisations for whom I don't trust certain charities to fully give money to the direct charity, which I believe they should because that is the whole point. But that is a different post entirely.

Another point I would like to put forward why is some fundraising is allowed and who gets to choose which charity is more important than another one.

Where is the cut-off to allowing fundraising in school, it just seems to me a growing number of charity events are ever-increasing days and I don't think it will stop any time soon?

My b) point is I don't think it is fair, especially with schools in more deprived areas that may not have the funds to give to charity in the potential to make the parent feel isolated by not giving. It again can have the risk of making the parent feel even more worthless because they can not provide for their child to participate.

So there you have it that is my argument against all fundraising in a school setting. I am going to be brave and speak out as I know this is controversial but I feel that it needs to be talked about.

What do you think about the charity at school? Are you for or against it? I would love to hear your comments in the thought section down below. 

Cheers for reading X

My Sunday Photo 13/11/2022

 

My boys had their first Covid booster and they even got a sticker ✅ 💉 

80 would you rather questions.

 Hey readers,  

A fun game to play with kids, family and friends is would you rather... doesn't really involve much just a load of random questions asking a situation of would you rather and choosing the best option. It is fun and something everyone enjoys. 

I have 80 fun would you rather questions to get you thinking.....

 1. Would you rather have the ability to see 10 minutes into the future or 150 years into the future?

2. Would you rather have telekinesis (the ability to move things with your mind) or telepathy (the ability to read minds)?

3. Would you rather team up with Wonder Woman or Captain Marvel?

4. Would you rather be forced to sing along or dance to every single song you hear?

5. Would you rather find true love today or win the lottery next year?

6. Would you rather be in jail for five years or be in a coma for a decade?

7. Would you rather have another 10 years with your partner or a one-night stand with your celebrity crush?

8. Would you rather be chronically under-dressed or overdressed?

9. Would you rather have everyone you know be able to read your thoughts or for everyone you know to have access to your Internet history?

10. Would you rather lose your sight or your memories?

11. Would you rather have universal respect or unlimited power?

12. Would you rather give up air conditioning and heating for the rest of your life or give up the Internet for the rest of your life?

13. Would you rather swim in a pool full of Nutella or a pool full of maple syrup?

14. Would you rather labour under a hot sun or extreme cold?

15. Would you rather stay in during a snow day or build a fort?

16. Would you rather buy 10 things you don’t need every time you go shopping or always forget the one thing that you need when you go to the store?

17. Would you rather never be able to go out during the day or never be able to go out at night?

18. Would you rather have a personal maid or a personal chef?

19. Would you rather have Beyoncé’s talent or Jay-Z's business acumen?

20. Would you rather be 11 feet tall or nine inches tall?

21. Would you rather be a genius and know everything or be amazing at any activity you tried? 

22. Would you rather dine alone or catch a good movie by yourself ?

23. Would you rather end world hunger or stop crime? 

24. Would toy either wear trousers 3 sizes two big or shoes 3 times too small?

25. Would you rather have to walk backwards forever, or crawl on all fours?

26. Would you rather be able to play every instrument, or speak every language?

27. Would you rather be able to swim like a dolphin, or fly like a bird?

28. Would you rather be a famous actor or a famous singer?

29. Would you rather eat rotten eggs or sour milk?

30. Would you rather only ever eat ice cream or never eat ice cream again?

31. Would you rather have ants crawling all over you, or be bitten by a bee?

32. Would you rather be the richest person in the world, or live forever?

33. Would you rather lose your sight or lose your hearing?

34. Would you rather look like Shrek or look like Donkey?

35. Would you rather have hair to the ground or be bald?

36. Would you rather be a zombie, or marry a zombie?

37. Would you rather eat a bug sandwich or drink a bug milkshake?

38. Would you rather wear summer clothes in winter, or winter clothes in summer?

39. Would you rather never eat chocolate, or only ever chocolate?

40. Would you rather live in the sky or underwater?

41. Would you rather have green hair or a red face?

42. Would you rather have to sing or dance at the school assembly?

43. Would you rather be as tall as a giraffe or as short as a mouse?

44. Would you rather moo like a cow when you cry or squeak like a mouse when you laugh?

45. Would you rather eat your snot, or have a fart milkshake?

46. Would you rather be able to see in the dark, or never be tired?

47. Would you rather live without running water, or electricity?

48. Would you rather be covered in red dots or be as hairy as a gorilla?

49. Would you rather blink all day long, or sneeze every time you want to talk?

50. Would you rather wet your pants every time you laugh, or burp every time you want to smile?

51. Would you rather eat breakfast for dinner, or dinner for breakfast?

52. Would you rather be locked in a room with 100 rats, or 1 hippo?

53. Would you rather need to be always laying down while awake, or sleep always standing up?

54. Would you rather win a million dollars, or find 100 friends?

55. Would you rather have a dragon or be a dragon? 

56. Would you rather always be 10 minutes late or 20 minutes early?

57. Would you rather have one wish granted now 3 wishes granted in 10 years? 

58. Would you rather see into the future or change the past?

 

59. Would you rather speak every language in the world fluently or be the best in the world in one area of your choosing?

60. Would you rather live in the Harry Potter universe or the Pokémon universe?

61. Would you rather have an incredibly annoying high-pitched voice or a really deep manly voice?

    62. Would you rather have a full-blown moustache for a year or permanently hairy legs for tears?

  63. Would you rather give up your phone or only wear Crocs for the rest of your life?

64. Would you rather clog the toilet on a first date or first day at a new job?

    65. Would you rather have an abnormally big toe or an abnormally big ear?

  66. Would you rather be three feet tall or eight feet tall?

    67. Would you rather have to be naked at work for an hour or be dropped off two miles from your house whilst you're naked and you have to try and get home?

68. Would you rather smell like cheese (which has been left in the sun) or a hamster cage (which hasn't been cleaned for a fortnight)?

69. Would you rather be a mad genius or popular but dim?

70. Would you rather have a nose that never stops growing or ears that never stop growing?

71. would you rather have arms as long as Mr Tickle or legs as short as E.T?

72. Would you rather empty a swimming pool using just a fork or get in a swimming pool for half an hour with a jellyfish?

73. Would you rather drink soup out of a farmer's welly or from a binman's sock?

74. Would you rather have no sense of smell or no sense of taste?

75. Would you rather have your name tattooed on your forehead or have no front teeth?

76. Would you rather let a crusty old man drink milk out of your belly button every day for a year or drink milk out of a crusty old man's belly button every day for a month?

77. Would you rather fight a kangaroo or a badger?

78. Would you rather eat a wet loaf of bread or drink a pint of whipped fish?

79. Would you rather live in a world where you dance instead of walking or instead of talking?

80. Would you rather share a bed with a walrus or an eel?

Cheers for reading X