Non-Chocolate Easter gifts for children

Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash

Every-year I buy my kids chocolate Easter eggs and every year most of the chocolate doesn't get eaten, in fact I end up chucking it in the bin. My boys do eat chocolate, but not that much. I still have a tub full of broken Easter eggs in my cupboard from last year. And, this year, I'm looking for an alternatives to an Easter Eggs.

Easter, doesn't have to be about chocolate, you may allergic to chocolate, the kids just don't like chocolate etc. Thus, I've put together a list for some Non-Chocolate alternative gifts for children this Easter. 

My choices:

Lego is always going to be a popular gift for any lego loving kids. Whether it be a classic building set, or something a bit out of the ordinary, you are bound to find what you need with the huge array of choice from Lego.

Build A Bear offer a lovely personalised experience when creating your own teddy bear. There is a huge variety to choose from, including Easter themed furry friends, and the result is a unique soft toy that is bound to become their favourite.

Easter books, activity books, there is a large range for Easter, including colourful sticker book with Easter themed scenes to decorate, stories, and so much more. And, kids love books.

Board Game - My kids love board games, and there are a few bunny themed games out there, our favourite is Bunny Hop by Ravensburger. A great little game that we've enjoyed playing as a whole family. It's a fun playable game that is entertaining for all ages.

Arts and Crafts, you can either buy Easter Themed kits, or buy bits and bobs and put them together to create a basket of arts and crafts with an Easter Theme. 

Hatchimals CollEGGtibles, a nice addition to the mini Hatchimals that we all know and love. Hatching eggs and cute little characters -  You can even get a Hatchimals CollEGGtibles inside a colourful Spring Basket.

Playmobile Easter Egg, offers a few colours and sets to choose from. They are available in many different themes and you can add the set to your Playmobile collection.

What will you be buying your little one this Easter?

Wedding Guest Outfit Shopping

Photo by Una Kao on Unsplash

Its my (middle) brothers wedding in June. 

I love a wedding as much as the next person, but with it being my little brothers, it's an extra special wedding! I can't wait.

As much as I am looking forward to the big day, I'm just as excited in finding the right outfit, but it has to be a dress. I don't get to wear a dress often, and a wedding is the perfect excuse to wear one.

One of my other brothers wedding a couple of years ago, I wore a fuchsia dress from Coast, and navy shoes. This year, I am looking for a Navy Dress with silver shoes - I'm really into navy at the moment.

I've not found the dress yet, I've browsed a few websites, and I will hit the city in the next month, and I'm just as excited to be on the hunt for the perfect pair of ladies silver shoes - shoe shopping is so much fun.

Finding shoes, I always find, is so much easier than finding the dress. I'm petite, so this limits what is available for me (not all brands/shops offer petite). I also have my mind set on the dress being Navy, knee length, but not sure what type yet, whether it be lace, or a pencil, or bodycon - I'm not sure, and I'll have to see what choices are available.  With the silver shoes - which must be mid heel, not too high, I know I will be spoilt for choice, and will end up buying / ordering more than one pair.

I do tend to get my shoes online now adays, whereas I prefer purchasing the dress from a store - with shoes, it's straight forward, I know my size, and there will be a good range available to me, whereas with the dress, the sizes differ from brand to brand, so I need to first try the dress on. The buying process for a dress is not always so straightforward - sometimes I get lucky, but other times, no so - thus, I'm giving meself plenty of time to avoid any last minute (Lack of dress) panic.

 know exactly what I want, and I'm not too concerned about finding the right shoes, but I'm aware that finding the dress will be a little bit more challenging. Wish me luck! 

Road Safety While Travelling With Your Family

Photo by Devon Janse van Rensburg 

Going on a road trip with the family can be loads of fun, a great experience. But, number one safety when heading out on a long journey is a must. If you want to avoid potential problems along the way, prepare for travel, especially if you have kids. 

Here are some simple safety precautions that could save major problems on the road:

Car checks

Before hitting the road, you should check the safety of your car. A tyre check is a must. Check your tyres are not worn out - always replace tyres before they reach the worn out stage, especially for peace of mind; brands like Jet Wheel Tyre help to buy car tyres in Essex. 

Learn how to check the air pressure in your tires and add air to any tires that are low. Most petrol stations have an air pressure gauge that you can use. Learning how to change a tire is another helpful skill.

Make sure that your windshield wiper fluid and oil are sufficient, and make sure your windshield wiper blades are still in good condition. 

Emergency Kit

Having an emergency kit before heading on a road trip is essential.  I like to take along a small torch, juice for the family, the phone charger, first aid kit and other items commonly used in the home that are easy and accessible to bring along in the car. One item I find particularly useful to include is a microfibre towel. Don't forgot you should also include jumper cables and a multi-purpose tool you can use on many parts of your car.

Take breaks along the way

No matter how tight of schedule you face, it’s necessary to stop and rest along the way. This is especially true for the driver. Don’t risk passengers lives by driving when you’re too tired to make good decisions. If possible take turns driving.

Plan your route

Before heading on your trip, check for the best routes. Keep in mind that you’re traveling with family so it’s best to plan a few stops along the way. This gives you time for toilet stops, and to stretch your legs. It's good to take a road atlas as a back up, GPS is not always the most effective or reliable way to get to a destination.

Breakdown documents

You’re heading down the motorway with the family when suddenly a warning light is flashing on the dashboard and smoke is coming out of the engine.

If you have the unfortunate event of breaking down, do you know what your breakdown policy telephone number is? Make sure you have your policy documents in the glove box of the car.

Non-Surgical Nose Job

During my teenage years there were two things about me that I was unhappy about, one my hair colour, because I was bullied, I hated my ginger hair, but as I approached adulthood, it soon became my favourite thing about me.  Then there was my nose. I hated my nose, especially how bumpy it was. I remember holding down the tip of my nose in the hope it would straighten itself out - which of course, it never did, no matter how long and how many times I held/squashed it down.  Again, as I grew older, I learnt to accept my nose, and it's never was a priority for me to be concerned about. But, as I approach 40s and I grow older, I'm finding that I am becoming more conscious about myself and my nose is the one thing that is creeping up on my self-esteem, and it is quickly becoming the one thing I would change about me.

I will probably never be brave enough to get a nose job (surgical), plastic surgery scares the bejabers out of me; going under the knife, long recovery time etc. - reading the horror stories online doesn't help either. 

So what is a non-surgical nose job?

A non-surgical nose job is performed by injecting filler to correct bumpiness and create a smooth slope on the bridge of the nose. Depending on the type of filler that is used, is dependent on how long your result lasts.

It can correct curves, bumps, and lumps, making your nose appear smaller (even though it's technically getting bigger). And, the injections last anywhere from three months to two years, depending on the type you choose, before slowly dissolving.

Although, it still involves needles (needles scare the heck out of me), I think a non-surgical nose job is something I would give a go, to see the results. There is no down time afterwards as well, and is super quick and easy.  

For more information:  http://www.dore.sg/nose-job-without-surgery/ 

It seems from my research that, as with other non-surgical procedures, these types of treatments are becoming more and more popular. Why?, these revolutionary new treatments mean it is no longer necessary to face up to the scalpel! 

Romantic getaways in Tuscany

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Are you planning a wedding or honeymoon or a romantic getaway with your loved one? Well, Tuscany makes for a perfect option as it has ready-to-book itineraries that carry all the romance of Italy. Nothing could be more romantic than to rent a villa in Tuscany countryside or book one of those true honeymoon hotels for a dreamy vacation. Just enjoy the togetherness with your other half on the rolling hills of Tuscany or the vineyards surrounded by a breathtaking panorama. This is your chance to impress your sweetheart and show your warm, fuzzy feelings. All you need to do is look for some inspiration in the small towns of Tuscany, with incredible views and savory flavors.

There are few provinces of Italy such as Tuscany that have so much to offer and so perfectly of as quintessentially Italian. Home to Italy’s best scenery, most iconic pasta dishes and the best wines, you will find that Tuscany is the perfect region to visit on your honeymoon or for some romance. Central Tuscany boasts of picturesque medieval hill towns, stunning scenery, and charming farmhouses. The Tuscan archipelago is perfect for those looking for sun and sand during their honeymoon in Italy. There are coasts with long and sandy beaches, rocky cliffs and steep headlands. Tuscany is indeed a region with many different facets.

Here are a couple of suggestions for you if looking for some romantic spots and getaways in Tuscany.

Florence
Florence is a city that is a synonym for art, beauty, and love. Plan a day in the magnificent city and with no precise routine. All you need to do is just wander on the cobbled stone streets, hand in hand with our partner and get lost in the lanes. Find the perfect wine & cheese shop and in your leisure time, indulge in some shopping. To top the day, make reservations at one of the specialty restaurants or buy a ticket for the opera.

The Tuscan Archipelago
Elba, Giglio, Capraia, Pianosa, Gorgona, Giannutri and Montecristo are the seven islands of the Tuscan Archipelago. Elba is the biggest of these islands, and each of those islands come with their own particular attraction. Nevertheless, the common factor among those islands is their fantastic landscapes and wild nature. Couples will never get bored of those beautiful panoramic views and lovely and characteristic urban areas. Walk hand in hand through the picturesque and winding streets and explore the coves near Punta Capel Rosso or the bay at Campese. Capraia is famous for snorkeling and scuba diving.

Lucignano
If you want to declare your love in a special way, then make a special visit to the Municipal Museum, for the Golden Tree, also known as the Tree of Love. The Golden Tree, in Lucignano, is known to strengthen the love promised between couples. The masterpiece from the 14th-15th century is a symbol of divine love and lovers love to exchange vows in front of its branches for good luck and eternal love. Later, you can explore the charming hamlet filled with small cafes and little vias.

Pistoia
Pistoia is well known for its unique and strong culture made of theater, concerts, and art. Get ready for a spectacular calendar of events in the fantastic town with so many hidden treasures. Explore those fabulous churches, the historic palazzos, and the underground passageways. Pistoia province is quite large and made of hilly and mountainous as well as valleys. One can go skiing or enjoy thermal baths, another important resource for the province of Pistoia. Enjoy some of the most renowned Italian artisan chocolates here.

Pienza
Pienza towards the south of Luciano is a suggestive Renaissance gem. The picturesque town with its labyrinth of vias & vials is easy to get lost in. Just walk through its tiny streets, exploring its soul and right in the heart of the historical center, one will come across Via del Bacio (Street of the Kiss) and Via dell’Amore (Street of Love). What could be better than proposing your love here to your special one?

Orbetello
Located behind the Argentario, Orbetello stands in the center of the lagoon. The Orbetello lagoon is separated from the Tyrrhenian sea by the tomboli, low sandy bars. A part of a Natural Reserve, the road along the lagoon runs to the mainland. Enjoy the local culinary specialties in the lagoon, which is rich in fish. This is an ideal spot for those lovers looking for privacy, amazing views and great dining experience.

Cortona
Cortona became popular and an international symbol with the film "Under the Tuscan Sun." The hilltop town captures the essence of Tuscany truly, what with its intriguing history, stone palazzos and quaint shops. Feast your eyes on the soft hills covered with low-lying forests and olive trees. Your love for each other will get a new life here, and there is plenty to do and see here. Just explore the town dotted with Etruscan tombs, delicious restaurants and do not miss the Etruscan museum.

If you are still not able to make your mind on your romantic getaway or how to impress your sweetheart, then simply settle down in any of the beautiful spots of Tuscany and watch the sunset. No matter where you are in Tuscany, you are sure to enjoy an incredible show. Just opt for a skyline of the city of Siena or the rolling hills of Val d’Orcia or the Terrace in Livorno. Wherever you choose to go, you are sure to enjoy an unforgettable souvenir of your time as you enjoy the panoramic view together.

My Winter Remedies

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I’m actually excited at the prospect of a cold winter this year and hopefully even some snow. I love winter, snuggling up in thick cardigans, or blankets on the sofa, drinking copious amounts of hot chocolate, wearing woolly hats and gloves, and even those heavy jumpers - I love it all.  With the onset of cold weather, the common cold, flu, and general sniffles can become a regular occurrence. That’s why I like to stay prepared with a few natural remedies for winter.

It's a time to be stocking up on remedies (natural and conventional) in preparation for the upcoming cold days, with the aim of dodging and coping with any illness and colds, but not only for me, for the kids too. I've learnt over the years preparation is key.

I’m stocking up on my favourite remedies that I always keep on hand as we approach cold/flu/general illness season:

Orange Juice 

A daily 150ml glass of orange juice (can be fresh or from concentrate, nutritionally they are exactly the same) provides all the vitamin C you need for the whole day and is a source of folate. This makes orange juice a good choice this time of year as vitamin C and folate contribute to the healthy function of the immune system. It's also one of our favourite drinks in this household.

Don't forget, one 150ml portion also counts as one of your five-a-day!

Jojoba Oil

As I write this post, I have cracked bottom lip which is rather painful - I normally get it this time of the year and it only happens once a year.  I find Jojoba oil nourishes my lips. Pure jojoba oil I find, provides a simple, natural way to restore moisture to my lips.

Tea Tree

I've done this for years, as soon as I get a sore throat, I pour a small amount of water into a glass and add 2 to 3 drops of Tea Tree oil, I then gargle it for 60 seconds. I find it has always helped.

Honey with herbal tea or warm water and lemon

I always make sure I have honey, lemon and herbal teas in the cupboard, and the first signs of a cough, making a warm brew with these ingredients is really comforting and can help sooth the cough.

A bowl of soup

I don't eat soup often, only really during the cold months. A big bowl of chicken soup - homemade is best. A bone broth is full of vitamins and minerals, as well as gelatine and collagen, to help get you back on your feet. Make your own to add extra veg and nutrients.  adding vegetables and spices like turmeric, ginger or cinnamon.

Olbas oil

I can't be without Olbas oil, it offers such relief for my sinuses, it's perfect for popping a couple of drops on the pillow at night, or popping some on a hanky (yes I carry a hanky - I find its perfect to use with Olbas oil to help relief with my blocked sinuses).

Vapor Rub

If a cough or cold strikes, I like to have vapor rub on hand. I use it on the bottoms of feet and on the back and chest to calm coughing and congestion - just as my dad did for us when we were kids, and now I am doing the same with my kids. 

Four Simple Ways to Improve Your House

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Turning a house into the dream home you’ve always wanted can be done, it just takes time and some imagination. Simple fixes can create a big impact, and these fixes can be the difference between wanting to move, and never wanting to leave. All you need to do is take the potential of your home and make your dreams become a reality. To help you out, here are four methods that you can use to help improve your home’s look, feel, and function. You can’t live in a home that doesn’t have what you need, but sometimes you can hack your home so that it becomes the perfect fit.

Invest in Bespoke Storage Solutions

One of the biggest issues when it comes to a house is space, which is why when you want to improve your home one of the first things that you should do is look at how you can increase storage. The best way to do this is to use bespoke fittings so that you can add storage and shelving space using the natural shape of your home, for instance on either side of a fireplace, instead of adding more bulky furniture. You will of course loose some square footage, but doing this will ensure that the floor space you have is reserved for furniture you can enjoy, not cupboards.

Give it a Fresh Look

Changing the walls and floors is a great way to instantly improve the look of a place. If you want to truly improve your home, design each room with care. This means using a complementary colour to the rest of your home that fits the furniture and décor you choose. The more effort you put in to decorating, the happier you will be.

Seal It

Having a home that looks good is one thing, but you also need it to be comfortable, too. That is why you need to ensure that you home is sealed so that it is warm, dry, and so that your utility bills can be significantly less. You can do this inexpensively by using thick curtains, carpets, or rugs to keep heat in as well.

If you are truly committed to lowering your utility bills, then the next step is to upgrade your appliances to ones that are highly efficient. Cut down on even more power by installing home energy solutions like solar panels. Combined, you can keep your monthly costs low and help the environment for future generations. 

Make your Garden Magical

Never underestimate the power of a well-designed garden. It can be a beautiful view from your window, and it can be an oasis in spring and summer. For instance, you can design your garden around a stunning backyard pond that even has a fountain feature, just be sure to speak to the experts at Water Garden to seek advice on exactly what you need. The more private and landscaped it is, the more you will find yourself loving your entire property.

The more inventive, imaginative, and effort you put into your house, the more you will love it. Every home has the potential to be the dream house you always wanted, you just have to envision it.

Lottoz

I'm not very good at gambling, I try and understand betting etc. but it's too much of an effort when in the end I'll probably lose my money anyhow, and this is why I prefer to do something easier, that doesn't involve too much money.  I enjoy buying a lottery ticket and have done for years, but there are so many lotteries out there, international, that you wonder how can you get a ticket for it?! 

Well, there are websites just like Lottoz where it gives us access to lotteries that we haven't tried before - worldwide Lotteries. 

How does it work?

You don't buy one of the lottery tickets, instead, you are betting on the outcome of the lottery - but at a more feasible price, then let's say betting against a horse (well a bet where you want to win big that is).  Lottoz concept is a form of betting that gives you the opportunity to play along and bet on lotteries that are not normally accessible to us.  Just like any other UK lotteries - you pick your numbers - hope they are the lucky ones and wait for the draw.

It's as easy as that. 

If you enjoy participating in the lottery but would like to try a different one, maybe the PowerBall (I've read about some big wins) then Lottoz is the place to be.  

What would you do if you won?

If I won, and it was big, I would only tell close family and friends- I would make sure they were treated. And for us, looking for the dream home would be the first thing I did - maybe after an impromptu shopping spree.

The top 3 pros and cons to drinking coffee while breastfeeding

Photo by Nathan Dumlao on Unsplash

When a mother is pregnant, it is understandable that there are certain types of food that needed to be avoided in order to ensure the health and safety of the baby. Oftentimes, right after delivery, mothers tend to go back to their old diet and forget that they still need to consider certain things, especially if they are breastfeeding. One of these is drinking coffee while breastfeeding. To some extent, coffee consumption can greatly affect the baby especially if you are a heavy coffee drinker.

However, there is an exception because, in truth, only 1 percent of the amount of caffeine you take can go into your bloodstream and to your milk. Having less or moderate consumption may not affect the baby. The key here is to consume caffeine moderately. After all, there are also benefits in drinking coffee as well even when you are breastfeeding.

Here are three pros and cons of drinking coffee while breastfeeding.

PROS

Coffee can boost your energy levels

It is important for mothers to have a high energy level to keep up with the demands needed in taking care of a baby. Drinking coffee triggers the release of happy hormones which is responsible for boosting one's mood. It can also help moms to stay alert any day.

It reduces the risk of depression

There are studies that show that women who drink coffee are less likely to suffer from depression. Postpartum depression is a type of mood disorder associated with childbirth. The happy hormones being triggered by consuming caffeine can help in dealing with depression.

It contributes longevity and heart health

Coffee is often linked to longevity and heart health as some studies show that women who consume coffee regularly have a lower risk of heart disease and other illnesses, thus promoting a longer lifespan.

CONS

Babies tend to have more reaction to caffeine

An excessive amount of coffee consumption can cause caffeine stimulation to a child. In such case, babies tend to be jittery and have poor sleeping habits. Some babies may also be a little too restless. Depending on the sensitivity of the baby to caffeine, these cases only happen if the mother has excessive consumption of coffee every day.

It will keep you up at night

This depends entirely on any mother’s sensitivities on caffeine but drinking coffee, especially after 3 PM can greatly affect one's body clock. It takes a couple of hours, mostly 6 hours, to totally wash out our caffeine from our system. Mothers need to have proper rest at night in order to recharge.

It causes stomach acidity

It is a known fact that coffee is an acidic beverage and is not recommended to mother's who have sensitive stomachs. The idea is whatever you eat or drink as a mother while breastfeeding, will ultimately affect your babies as well. Avoiding too much consumption of coffee or avoiding it altogether is necessary if you have a sensitive stomach. Every mother should be healthy so that their babies will be healthy as well.

Umbrella Etiquette: Using Your Umbrella Safely in a Busy Christmas Market

Photo by Ahmed Saffu on Unsplash

In the UK, umbrella etiquette is essential. Holding, closing, carrying, and shaking off your brolly is an art form if you want to avoid poking fellow pedestrians in the eye or showering them in rain when you step into a room. Of course, this becomes even more difficult in busy public places.

At this time of year, town and city centres are filling up with the twinkling lights, decorated stalls and festive food carts of Christmas markets, which have rocketed in popularity in the past few years. If you’re planning on visiting one this year, you can expect two things: typical British winter weather and the need for nimble umbrella etiquette.

To help, Fulton Umbrellas — a UK supplier of birdcage umbrellas and rainwear — has revealed its top tips for safely using your trusty brolly in a bustling Christmas market.

Getting the right size

Don’t make it more difficult for yourself by trying to navigate a huge golf umbrella around a little village market. The course is the best place for these and taking them anywhere busy is likely to irritate passersby. What you need for the best control of your brolly is a walking umbrella that’s large enough to keep you dry but nimble enough to dodge other market-goers.

On public transport

How are you planning on getting to the Christmas market? If you fancy a few mulled wines and are taking public transport, never place your soaking umbrella on the seat next to you. This is a highway to a telling off or, at best, tuts and grumbles from your fellow passengers. Instead, shake off your umbrella outside and put it on the floor at your feet. If it’s still wet, put its cover on or use a plastic bag to make sure you don’t create a slipping hazard.

Raising and lowering to suit the crowd

Once you’ve mastered the umbrella dance, weaving your way around a rainy Christmas market will be a breeze. Basically, the umbrella dance involves lifting and lowering your umbrella in sync with the heights of your fellow market revellers — raising it to allow shorter pedestrians to pass by unharmed and lowering or tilting it away from taller people.

For decent umbrella etiquette in a busy Christmas market, you need to have good awareness and excellent timing. Remember: as the holder of the umbrella, you’re in charge of avoiding clashes.

Get a reliable design

It’s Christmas, so treating yourself is necessary. Avoid flimsy, cheap brollies — that’s the last thing you need on a windy, rainy Yuletide evening — and opt for a sturdy design, instead. Keep an eye out for umbrellas made from fibreglass, as these are especially strong and comfortably lightweight, which is ideal if you’re spending hours looking around stalls and buying gifts. You can even get designs featuring automatic openings, so you don’t have to fiddle around in the middle of a shopping crowd to open your umbrella quickly in a shower.

Keep your mobile in your pocket

Accidents happen and almost everyone you might catch with your umbrella will tell you it’s fine and merrily carry on. However, if you poke a bystander in the forehead because you were too busy texting on your phone to notice them, they might not be as forgiving. If you need to take a call or answer a message, stand at the side or between the festive stalls to make sure you’re safely out of the way and don’t bump into anyone.

Open and close at the correct time

Putting up and closing your umbrella is another crucial part of umbrella etiquette — and can make all the difference between causing fury or damage and having an incident-less evening.

Many Christmas markets have a mix of shops, cafes and stalls, so chances are you’ll head inside to look around or enjoy a hot drink at some point. As superstition and manners dictate, when you step inside, it’s time to put the umbrella down. Before you do this, shake off as much water as you can outside, avoiding any passersby, and (if possible) leave it at the entrance or put it into a plastic bag so you don’t wet the floor and cause anyone to slip. How about if the rain has simply stopped? If it was just a short shower, step to the side of the walkway or path to close your umbrella. Never suddenly stop in a walking crowd, as someone behind you could walk straight into your umbrella spoke.

As for opening your brolly, all you have to do is make sure there’s nobody within touching distance, either in front or behind you.

Place your brolly in the middle

Good umbrella etiquette on snowy strolls around Christmas markets isn’t just about dodging mishaps, it’s also about sharing. If you’re with your partner, child or best friend; place your brolly between you both while you’re walking. Not only will this reduce the chance of hitting a stranger, but it’ll also create the right cosy, cheery atmosphere to enjoy your festive outing.

Holding your umbrella

If you or the person you’re with are big on Christmas, it’s likely that you’ll be stopping at nearly every stall on your way around the Christmas market. When you’re getting free gingerbread tasters and browsing the glass tree ornaments, it’s easy to lose the optimum umbrella stance.

Ideally, you need to hold your brolly so that you can easily see who is approaching, so keep it straight over your head and never:

• Rest it over your shoulder — this only takes up space, which means less walking room for people behind you.
• Let it dangle (canopy open and facing the floor), just because you happen to be under an awning or roof.
• Hold it horizontally under your arm.
• Spin it between your fingers at your side — Christmas markets are full of kids, so you have a good chance of catching one of them at this height.  

If the rain has stopped and you’re carrying your brolly closed, make sure you hold it vertically with the pointed end closest to the floor.

Bear these tips in mind to refine your umbrella etiquette and avoid having to apologise for yourself at this year’s Christmas markets.

Sources:

http://www.commisceo-global.com/blog/british-umbrella-etiquette

http://uk.businessinsider.com/guide-to-umbrella-etiquette-2015-4

Are you ready to win Halfords Big Black Friday Competition?

Halfords are back with another fantastic Black Friday Competition. 

Black Friday is an annual one-day shopping bonanza, where we can look forward to some huge discounts and some crazy low prices. Being an American phenomenon that's now popular here in the UK, it is too good to miss.

By answering a simple question on the Halford's Black Friday website you can win:

• 1st Prize Black Friday bundle worth £2,000 of gadgets including a 7-night holiday with Eurocamp worth £1,000 plus a £1,000 of Black Friday deals.
• 2nd Prize Black Friday bundle of gadgets and goodies worth over £800
• 3rd Prize Black Friday bundle of gadgets and goodies worth over £300.

To enter, visit Halfords and fill out the form by Wednesday, November 22 to be in for a chance to win an amazing prize.

Along with its Black Friday competition, Halfords' have also released super discounts in the run-up to the 24th of November (New deals added each week). Available offers, ranging from motoring products to kids bikes - perfect to stock up on Christmas Gifts. 

What do you wear for a wedding in a different culture?

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Once the excitement of receiving a wedding invitation has worn off, it’s time to start planning your outfit. Choosing a guest outfit for a wedding in the UK is hard enough, but what about if you’ve been invited to a wedding of a different culture? Together with Charles Tyrwhitt, retailers of timeless menswear, we look at how the dress code of a wedding changes depending on the background of the newlyweds.

What will the bride be wearing?

Brides are known in the UK for their flattering white dresses, accompanied by a long train and veil. But how do our own bridal traditions compare to India, Japan and China?

India

In India, the lady’s dress depends on the region of India that they’re from. In some regions, the bride wears a saree which is a garment that looks like a long drape, in others she wears a lehenga which is a long skirt. Often the bride is dressed in red or another vibrant colour, her garments will be carefully embroidered with an impressive design.

The bride and her bridal party often have henna on their palms, hands, forearms and legs.

Japan

Japanese weddings are very elaborate and it is acceptable for families to spend close to £75,000 on a wedding day. It is often the parents of the couple who organise the wedding, and they are willing to spend excessive amounts to save face. Because of the large scale of the weddings, the bride can have as many as 5 costume changes!

At a traditional (Shinto) wedding, the bride wears a white kimono, but more recently Japanese brides wear a dress that has a traditional print.

China

In China, it is likely that the bride will be dressed in red as it is considered a sign of good luck that can warn off evil spirits. In some regions, typically in northern China, the traditional attire for a bride is a one-piece dress that is embroidered with gold and silver designs. In southern China, the typical wear is a two-piece frock.

A bridal crown is part of the wedding costume for some brides too – it is worn for photography or for show at a grand occasion. For footwear, a special pair of shoes are often worn that are embroidered with a symbol — for example, a turtle or a deer which symbolises happiness and longevity.

What will the groom be wearing?

The men often have traditional dress codes that they are expected to follow – however, many of them are opting for a smart suit similar to how a groom in the UK would dress.

India

Similar to the women, it depends on what region of India the groom is from as to what they wear. Some husbands-to-be wear traditional dress, such as a dhoti which is a rectangular cloth ties around the waist. In other regions, they wear a sherwani (a long coat), a kurta (loose falling shirt that hangs below the knee), or a Western suit.

The men also have henna on their bodies but it is less elaborate and often hidden.

Japan

Traditionally, a Japanese groom wears a wedding kimono for the ceremony and then changes into a tuxedo. The formal kimono that he wears is called a montsuki, and often displays the family crest. More recently, younger grooms start the ceremony in a tuxedo too.

China

In China, the husband-to-be traditionally wears a black silk coat over an embroidered robe. Often, in the modern day, the overcoat is not worn.

The groom has to wear certain headwear too – this is usually a black hat with a red tassel. Some younger generations are not following the traditional dress code and simply wear a tuxedo or a Western-style business suit.

What should the guests wear?

It can be difficult to choose an outfit as a guest, as there are many traditions and symbols that you may be unaware of and you don’t want to offend anyone.

India

At an Indian wedding, the bolder your outfit is the better. Wearing vibrant colours will mean you fit in with the Indian guests. Guests should avoid white or black as these are colours worn for funerals and mourning in India. It is also advised that red is not worn either as the bride will probably be dressed in this colour.

Women guests should not bare their shoulders, wear low cut tops or short skirts as this can be seen as disrespectful — a jewel-tone dress with a shawl is one appropriate outfit. The Indian female guests will most likely be dressed in colourful sarees or anarkali suits. Jewellery is important for women too, choose a statement piece for around your neck with matching earrings and bangles.

Men often wear a tailored kurta with a pyjama and a dupatta (shawl) can be added over the kurta. For their feet, sandals, jootis or chappals are often worn as these are comfortable and prevent overheating.

Guests might also be expected to cover their heads if the wedding is held in a temple. For this, women can wear a long scarf or pashmina over their heads and men are usually provided with a head cover such as a large handkerchief.

An Indian wedding is often a long drawn out event (it could be three days long!) so make sure you are wearing something loose and comfortable.

Japan

At a traditional Japanese wedding, men were expected to be dressed very formally with a black suit and white tie. Now however, the dress code is more flexible and it is accepted for men to come dressed in suits other than black with various coloured ties. However, it is advised to avoid white clothes with black ties.

Women often wear dresses that are knee length or a coloured kimono to take on a traditional look. It is best to avoid showing any shoulder as this can be deemed a disrespectful.

China

When dressing for a Chinese wedding, avoid wearing red as this can be seen as trying to steal the limelight from the bride. It’s best to wear pink, peach or purple as these are all symbols of new life and happiness. A formal dress is suitable for a Chinese wedding.

Colours to avoid include black and white, as these symbolise mourning and black is considered to be the colour of bad luck.

Sources

• https://www.everafterguide.net/what-to-wear-to-an-indian-wedding.html
• http://www.chinabridal.com/etiquette/dress.htm
• http://chinesecommunity.org.nz/site/topics/show/391-dos-and-donts-when-attending-a-chinese-wedding
• http://factsanddetails.com/japan/cat18/sub117/item617.html

Simple but Fun Ways to Involve Your Children in Your Wedding Day

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Whether you and your partner already have children together, or either of you has children from a previous relationship, you will, of course, want to involve them in the planning in some way. There are a number of different ways you can achieve this. Not only will it add another element to how special the day is but it will also make your children feel like they are part of the ceremony.

It is a good idea to ask your kids if there is anything in particular that they would like to do on the day. The range of suitable activities will depend on the age of the children in question, as well as their individual personalities and talents.

Arts and Crafts

Picking out wedding decorations can be rather dull. Many couples splash out on wedding decorations because they feel like they should, even though the decorations themselves don’t inspire much in the way of excitement. Having decorations that have been designed and made by your children makes them more special and is a really fun way for your children to be involved. Decorations made by or with your children will be unique and will ensure that there is at least one element to your wedding that is exclusive to you and your family and won’t be found anywhere else.

You could also ask them to write and design the place cards, which tell your guests where they will be seated.

Take Them Cake Testing

Selecting the perfect wedding cake is undoubtedly one of the most fun aspects of planning a wedding.  Not only do you get to sample a range of delicious and beautifully crafted cakes, you will also get to see just how big, elaborate, and expensive they can get. Needless to say, children will love to be involved in this process. Not only will it demonstrate to them that you value their opinions but it will also mean that at the ceremony itself they can proudly proclaim to all your friends and family that they chose the cake. Should your child pick a cake that isn’t to your taste, then you could let them choose a smaller cake in their preferred style to share with other younger guests, or you can speak to the baker about finding a compromise.

Take them to Preview Potential Venues

Selecting the wedding venue can be a nerve-wracking experience. It is, after all, one of the most important elements of the whole thing and couples often find themselves spoiled for choice and trying to decide between a number of equally beautiful locations. You can involve your children in making this decision both by bringing them with you when you visit any potential venues, and also letting them help you to draw up a shortlist beforehand. Websites such as UK Wedding Savings allow you to preview a range of venues from their website; do this with your child nearby to let them know that they are involved in the process.

Involving your children when planning your wedding will go a long way to making them feel that their opinions are valued and also that they are an integral part of the ceremony, after which you will all be a single complete family unit.

4 Sports Your 'Unsporty' Teen Might Enjoy

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For the ‘unsporty,’ there is a lot of pressure to feel like you need to participate and enjoy the everyday sports surrounding you. This can seem daunting for those who simply do not follow football, cricket or rugby; yet, these sports are national treasures. Do not lose faith, though, as there are, in fact, many sports for your teenager to love.

Take time to do a little research and figure out the best options. Attend practices and classes to see if your teen starts to pick up the sport and enjoy themselves. You’re not alone in the battle, so talk to other parents and students about their experience. See four sports your ‘unsporty’ teen might enjoy.

Ice Skating

Ice skating is great because it’s an individual sport that you can work at when you have time. Get yourself a pair of ice skates and practice at the local skating rink. With figure skates from the likes of Graf, Edea and Jackson or hockey skates from CCM, Reebok, Xcess and many others, you're sure to find the right pair at Skates. Their Ice Skates Buying Guide can help you make the right choice. If you enjoy the sport, secure a good coach who can help your teen get to the next level.

Swimming

Swimming is another individual sport that allows you to train and advance at your own pace. It’s likely that your teen has spent some time in the water and has gone for leisurely swims over the years. This is one of those sports where you can practice as much as you want on your own and get really good at the individual strokes. It doesn’t feel like a competitive sport if you’ve been swimming for a long time already and are used to the water.

Bowling

Encourage your teen to look into bowling if they want a new activity to enjoy. There’s a good chance they’ll have beginner’s luck and be able to walk their way onto a team pretty easily. Bowling is challenging and also fun at the same time. You don’t need a lot of special gear or skills to participate and do okay. There’s no need to break a sweat and train vigorously to play. If your teen really takes to the sport, you can get them a pair of shoes and their own ball so they feel more competitive. There are also health benefits of bowling they will reap.

Ping-Pong

Table tennis is an excellent sport for those who are feeling ‘unsporty.’ All you need is a place to play and the willingness to try and hit the ball back and forth with a partner. The better you get, the more fun it is to play and compete with other challenges. It’s one of those games you can pick up pretty easily and work at getting better if you choose; it’s also a great game to bring out at parties. Introduce it to your teen and see what they think.

Conclusion

There are lots of sports to choose from when trying to select one for your child. Stick with the search and try different options before committing to any specific athletics. These are four sports your ‘unsporty’ teen might enjoy.

My simple and Effective Laundry Routine

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With 6 of us, that means a lot of washing, and believe it or not, laundry is one of my favourite chores (not including ironing - I detest ironing). I find it quite theopoetic, sorting through and organizing the clothes. 

The key is to do at least one wash a day otherwise, things quickly fall into chaos. Below are my tips on how I run the laundry in our home efficiently.

Do a laundry wash every day.

Taking the time to throw a load of laundry in each day saves more time in the long run.  15-20 minutes each day to wash at least one load. Once I've unloaded a completed wash, I organize it to dry, and the machine is ready for the next load. 

Organize your clothing

I hate it when I chuck a wash in but miss a sock or one half of PJs! So now I always pair up the socks or PJs before chucking them into the wash.  So much easier and less likely to loose socks.

Inspect the clothes before placing them in the washing machine.

With 4-kids, I see all sorts of stains on their clothes, school white shirts are the worse, and there is nothing more frustrating of emptying a load after the wash cycle, to see there are stains on some of the clothing. To then have to use a scrub it with a stainer remover stick etc. and throw it back in the wash again.  So now, I check each item, and if I spot any that have a stain, I rub a bit of stainer remover before placing it in the wash.

Make sure to use a good detergent.

There is nothing worse than doing a wash and it doesn't clean well and so the whole wash needs re-washing. You need a detergent that gets the job done without a lot of hassle.  I don't like pods, and much prefer liquid. I have a 9kg washing machine, and I prefer how the liquid allows me to put the right amount of detergent needed - whereas, with pods, I find one is not enough, two can be too much.

Don't overfill your washing machine

I learnt the hard way. I had a habit of stuffing my machine full packed of clothes. If you overstuff your washing machine, with little room for the clothing to move around, your clothes are not going to effectively wash. I always leave a bit of space. 

Bio or Non-bio

If you have sensitive skin, as I do and my kids, then non-bio is a natural choice. It's more gentle and caring to the skin, as is Ecover. Ecover is designed to be caring and safe for sensitive skin.  Ecover laundry detergents will do the job without the unnecessary chemicals.

This post is my entry for BritMums #EcoverLaundry Challenge, sponsored by ECover

Money Saving Tips for this Winter

The temperature is starting to fall, and that means the heating system is operating for longer periods of time... and that means bigger energy bills. Winter is an expensive time, and I'm not talking about Christmas. During the winter, household costs shoot up, especially the heating bill.

Small changes and/or big changes will take money off your energy bills. Here are a few tips that you can use to keep your winter household costs lower this year. 
 

Draught proof your property

Most homes, especially most older homes, lose heat through droughts and when you get a chill in the room, this makes it more tempting to turn up the thermostat. Draught excluders for doors can make an instant difference. Don't forget to draught post the roof loft hatch.

Insulate the roof

The recommended thickness is 270mm and you can buy the materials from most DIY stores. By having insulation fitted in the loft you could see a potential reduction in heat loss, saving the need to turn the thermostat up.

Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat

We did this last year as our old thermostat was not the most effective way to monitor the temperature in the house. Instead of basic on/off and temperature control, a smart thermostat allows you manage each minute of your home’s heating schedule from a smartphone, tablet or computer.   You can even install wireless smart radiator valves you can control the heat of each area/room.

Annual Boiler service

It is a good idea to get your boiler serviced each year. It's essential to ensure that it runs efficiently and safely. Heating problems are more likely to occur during the winter when the strain on the system is at its greatest. You can help to avoid having your heating system breaking down if you keep it well maintained. 

Upgrade your boiler

Modern boilers are more efficient, they burn their fuel very efficiently. All boilers built after 2005 must be high-efficiency condensing models which operate at over 90% efficiency. A modern boiler can save up to £340. Replace your boiler and you’ll probably use less gas than you currently do.

Choosing the Right School for Your Child

Photo by Element5 Digital on Unsplash

We all want the very best for our kids and we are all acutely aware of how important their education is, as well as what difference a good or bad school can make to a child’s future. Consequently, parents all over Britain have to, at some point, navigate the intricacies of our education system and try and find a good school nearby. It is not uncommon for parents to relocate their entire family in order to be in the catchment area of a suitable school. Not only do parents have to find the right school they also have to decide between public and private education.

The issues of which education system produces the best results for children and for society is one that is constantly being debated up and down the country and with such passionate arguments being flung so freely between each side, it’s easy to see why parents are confused about which is right for their child. There are numerous misconceptions about both systems. Ultimately, the right school for your child will come down to them as an individual, so below is a quick guide to help you and your child decide on the right school for them.

Public or Private?

It is best to work out, first of all, which system, public or private, you think is best for your child. It is OK to be open to both options. Obviously, this will give you more choice down the line. Private schools charge tuition fees and this limits who they are open to. There is no simple answer as to which system is better; both have their advantages and disadvantages and children can succeed in both systems.

Finding Schools

Once you’ve decided what the parameters of your school search are, it’s time to begin looking! Generally, it is important to be within the catchment area of your desired school, for private schools this is sometimes less important but for state schools, it is often hard to get a place in a school that you aren’t in the catchment area for. If for example, you are looking for a private school in north London such as Salcombe Preparatory School then you can use the official online London school atlas to find schools near you.

If it is very important to you and or your child that they get into a particular school, then you might have to consider relocating. Whether this is viable is obviously dependent upon your individual circumstances, but it can sometimes make the difference between securing a place or not.

Evaluating Options

Once you have identified a shortlist of potential schools then you need to evaluate them. The internet is an excellent tool for this and by searching for the school name and words such as ‘review’ or ‘experience’ you can find links to online discussions about the school. It is also worth checking the Ofsted website.

However, in the last couple-of-years there has been a big increase in parents choosing to home school their children. Reasons can be due to a lack of school choice, unmet special educational needs, which can lead to parents making the decision to homeschool a special needs child. There are also the "rigour and limits" of the current school curriculum, and pressure from the school on families etc,.

Choosing a school or choosing to home school your child is often a stressful experience and it is natural for parents to keep worrying right up until they know that their child is settling in well. We all want the very best for our children, particularly where their education is concerned. Do as much research as you can beforehand and you will be able to make the most informed choice that you can.

Staycations

Photo by Sai Kiran Anagani on Unsplash

While some friends and family have opted to go abroad this year, we’re all about the staycation in this household. The UK is full of incredible places to visit, from beaches and castles to pubs and wildlife trusts - we are truly spoilt for choice (albeit not spoilt on nice weather, unless you prefer the wind and rain)

Researchers from SACO, The Serviced Apartment Company, carried out a poll with UK holidaymakers and revealed one in four Brits believe there is "no place like home" when it comes to holidays.  As do I! There are many places I want to visit and take the kids. I'd love to holiday in the Lake District, Brecon Beacons, Devon...  my list goes on and on.

Staycations are not only cheaper, they are less stressful (I hate airports), and luxury at no extra cost, with places like serviced apartments in Manchester giving you an alternative to hotels, perfect for larger families like mine.

Nearly half of those polled by SACO said the biggest benefit of holidaying in the UK was the fact you could travel at a time of day to suit you and a quarter love the fact you don’t need to take out expensive travel insurance.

Being able to travel by car, avoiding sweltering heat and being able to take the family dog along were also listed as benefits of the staycation – we are planning on taking our dogs on our next staycation next year.

SACO also established:

ULTIMATE BRITISH “HAPPY PLACES”

1. Pub lunch in the Cotswolds

2. Walking/hiking in the Lake District

3. Eating ice-cream on Brighton Beach

4. Eating fish and chips in Padstow

5. Admiring the white sandy beaches of the Hebrides

6. Walking in the Peak District

7. Enjoying a cream tea in the Isles of Scilly

8. Enjoying a pasty in St Ives

9. Visiting the Roman Baths

10. Open top bus ride in London

11. Picking fossils on the Jurassic Coast

12. Swimming in Bude Sea Pool, Cornwall

13. Boating on the Norfolk Broads

14. Eating candy floss at Blackpool Pleasure Beach

15. Walking the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path

16. Walking the dog on Holkham Bay, Norfolk

17. Searching for Nessie at Loch Ness

18. Playing arcade games on Weston Super Mare Grand Pier

19. Building sand castles on Blackpool Sands beach

20. Climbing St Michaels Mount

21. Winning a toy for the children in Barry Island

22. Rock Pooling in Polzeath Beach

23. Exploring Exmoor

24. Playing rounders on Perranporth Beach, Cornwall

25. Strolling over the Clifton Suspension Bridge

26. Riding donkeys on Great Yarmouth Beach

27. Surfing on Fistral Beach

28. Crabbing in Looe

29. Punting on The River Cam

30. Sailing in Salcombe

MUST-DO ACTIVITIES ON A BRITISH HOLIDAY

1. Eating fish and chips

2. A pub lunch

3. Eating a cream tea

4. Building sand castles

5. Paddling

6. Playing arcade games

7. Getting blown about on a beach

8. Skimming stones in the sea

9. Relaxing in a deck chair

10. Getting rained on

11. Playing in rock pools

12. Eating a pasty

13. Playing cards

14. Crabbing

What is your must do activities on your Staycation?

Plastic vs glass greenhouses – which should you choose?

Photo by Thomas Verbruggen on Unsplash

Greenhouses are perfect garden furniture for horticulturists as they allow them to make the most of the seasons, experiment with growing more exotic plants and grow more tender vegetables such as cucumbers, peppers and tomatoes.

There is a range of different glazing options for greenhouses and they all have advantages and disadvantages when compared. The right glazing for your greenhouse will be determined by your requirements, personal preferences, climate and budget.

Together with The Plastic People, retailers of polycarbonate sheets, we look at the pros and cons of creating a greenhouse from plastic or glass:

Fitting a greenhouse

With gardeners keen to grow their own produce in their backyards, greenhouses remain in high demand. Customers first face two choices when they decide that they would like a greenhouse – to build or to buy. Although buying a ready-built greenhouse can save time and energy, purchasing the parts from a supplier and assembling it yourself could save you hundreds of pounds.

Experts at Gardeners World estimate that building your own greenhouse would only take up one weekend too. There are plenty of tutorials online to guide you into building a greenhouse but it consists of five main steps:

·       Ensuring you have a level foundation

·       Assemble each section and attach loosely with clips and bolts

·       Fitting the door runners, the door and any automatic window openers or vents

·       Lining the glazing bars with foam glazing tape or rubber strips to act as a seal. Fit the roof first with glass or polycarbonate sheets and then the wall panes

·       Tighten all the bolts, starting from the top of the fixture

If this sort of DIY is not up your street, alternatively, you can buy one from a garden retailer.

Pros and cons of a glass greenhouse

Gardeners who greatly value the aesthetics of their garden tend to go for glass greenhouses as it gives the ‘traditional’ look. Research by gardeners at The Telegraph found that, compared to twin-wall polycarbonate sheets, glass had a 2-3% higher light transmission. However, this is because the light scatters as it passes through the twin-wall and manages to reach areas that light penetrating through glass cannot which could be advantageous.

One negative of glass is durability. If your greenhouse is in the flight path of any birds or footballs, you could find yourself replacing the panes regularly. Glass is very fragile as a material and can become damaged off a small bump.

Pros and cons of a plastic greenhouse

There are many advantages of introducing polycarbonate panes to your greenhouse. Some polycarbonate sheets, like the ones sold by The Plastic People, were found to be 200x stronger than glass yet half of its weight. This makes the material easier to use and more durable. Due to its hardwearing properties, polycarbonate does not need replacing as much as glass and has been found to be a longer lasting alternative for traditional glass panes. Upon testing (vigorously with a hammer), the plastic sheets were found to be shatter-resistant which is perfect for any mishaps that may occur in assembly or in the garden.

Polycarbonate sheets also filter out nearly all the harmful UV rays that you may become exposed to when gardening in the greenhouse, allowing you to harvest your crop without the fear of sunburn.

If thermal insulation is important to you and key to the growth of your plants, glass is the slightly favourable option. A single sheet of polycarbonate has 0.1 less ‘R’ value (measurement of thermal insulation) than a sheet of horticultural glass. However, this can be solved with a twin-wall polycarbonate panel which assists with useful light diffusion as mentioned.

If twin-wall polycarbonate is your panel of choice, it must be sealed properly as the flutes within the wall can attract moisture, mould and insects – proper assembly would prevent this from occurring.

At one time, a negative property of polycarbonate sheets was clouding over time. However, technological advancements have prevented this from occurring and the sheets remain clear all year round.

So, it appears that polycarbonate sheets could be the new glass when it comes to greenhouse panes. Boasting durability, shatter resistance and light diffusion in all the right places, it is ready to take on any challenge that the UK weather has to offer.

Sources

• https://www.rhs.org.uk/advice/profile?PID=613
• http://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/diy/how-to-build-a-greenhouse/
• https://www.theplasticpeople.co.uk/products/uses/greenhouse-glazing/
• http://www.wintergardenz.co.nz/glass-vs-poly-vs-film.html

5 Tips for Reinventing Yourself

Photo by Ivan Jevtic on Unsplash

Sometimes you can feel like you can’t control how you’re defined and how you’re perceived by others, and you can get tired of a label or an assumption about who you are if it isn’t true or if it isn’t how you intend to come across. However, don’t let your dissatisfaction become yet another observation about you – change some things about yourself if you’re unhappy. There’s nothing wrong with reinventing yourself a little.

The Home

This can be a big dissatisfaction for many people. It might be that you just want an organised and flowing home, but it’s always cluttered no matter what you try doing to it. If this is the case then you need a major declutter. Minimalizing is a great way to bring both a new style and new systems of organisation into your home. Lookout for convenient appliances that provide nifty storage solutions and a modern feel. Alternatively, if your home feels too minimalist, and you want to bring some more life into it, then you may want to embrace an additional style; how about a bohemian edge to your style, or a slight farmhouse feel?

Your Style

Many people worry about how they dress. You might not have thought about your style for a few years but now you’re noticing that people are changing how they dress around you. Don’t be left completely behind. If you don’t want to jump onto any fads because you’re worried they’ll soon be out of date, then that’s fine, but there are some timeless styles that are worth thinking about. You could buy some Levi Jeans in a cut that they’ve been making for decades, like 501s, or why not buy a slightly more modern suit jacket with three buttons and smaller lapels.

Your Motor

Are you still driving around in the hatchback you bought for convenience in the 1990s? Get rid of an ugly or unreliable car that’s embarrassing you, and think about something that the new you might like to be seen driving around in. Checkout the Lexus Glasgow garage for some ideas, and you might find that a new motor completely changes how people look at you. It might be that you already have a smart car but you’re having problems with it – if this is the case, make sure you take it into a garage and have professionals look over it. Don’t let clouds of smoke hang over your newly reinvented self.

Your Taste

It might be that you’re always trying to hide your dated tastes from your friends and colleagues. You shouldn’t get so stuck in your ways that it prevents you from socialising with people. If you’re so sure that the TV and music that your friends and colleagues enjoy is beneath you then there shouldn’t be anything wrong with checking it out a few times – you can keep your cynicism, but at least this way you won’t find it isolating. And you may find that you become the show’s next biggest fan. You should never stop trying new things.