tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-90721161561632527392024-03-06T05:32:37.450+00:00Blue Sky and Buntingreports from the home frontCorinna Harrodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14692366953430512116noreply@blogger.comBlogger278125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9072116156163252739.post-36417205928088000952024-02-24T13:52:00.002+00:002024-02-24T13:52:25.336+00:00Lavender Oil <p>Lavender has been used for thousands of years to help soothe and relax. Not only can it aid sleep and reduce stress and anxiety but it is also fantastic for soothing burns, skin irritations and burns. </p><p>For recipes and tips on using lavender clip the Lavender label</p><p>You can get your lavender here https://doterra.me/DckwP5</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmlWV_N4c-B4C2hKRjg9QUnMAaZ7bDWVibgADyHSbQLVy27DgraU4ILvJokHOweOadnq-o7t2HFUJ-KnRIw0f9veSvMNKJ9bpuPA8G6s1hcOX8lNJD19p2kJjqOV62E9ezj5OyoZrc9B3CdEmftmLCxOo6Tjg8y-Yrdlo5FIS5A5ri2cuo_eKJ68H3uphg/s1080/Oils%20Instagram%20Posts.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="10 Things you need to know about lavdender" border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmlWV_N4c-B4C2hKRjg9QUnMAaZ7bDWVibgADyHSbQLVy27DgraU4ILvJokHOweOadnq-o7t2HFUJ-KnRIw0f9veSvMNKJ9bpuPA8G6s1hcOX8lNJD19p2kJjqOV62E9ezj5OyoZrc9B3CdEmftmLCxOo6Tjg8y-Yrdlo5FIS5A5ri2cuo_eKJ68H3uphg/w400-h400/Oils%20Instagram%20Posts.png" title="10 Things you need to know about lavdender" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><p></p>Corinna Harrodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09207300435514063231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9072116156163252739.post-8818642080009296192024-01-25T10:00:00.002+00:002024-02-24T22:55:54.166+00:00F.L.O.O.T<p>One of my first wow moment with oils was when I had been suffering with a gripey tummy for a week and having tried everything had resigned myself to going to my sisters 40th (already delayed by lockdown) and not being able to eat or drink and feeling rather nauseous the whole time. In desperation I messaged my friend, an aromatherapist, and she told me to take these 5 oils in a vegetable capsule. I did without holding much hope and only realise later, having eaten, drunk and danced all night that there was no tummy pain or nausea in sight. </p><p>This combination is particularly good for colds, flus and other viruses. I always have a rollerball of this made up and for my eldest son, who won't take calpol or paracetamol, this has been my trusty friend in the middle of the night when his temperature is high and neither of us have had much sleep. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHuk8D_GhrwDwts5bvWX0WhEs84Hebh61Ro2wm068ynMqaFunnFGDO9JYCKZCOmeG6xiQnLIcKCIZyo_vIhygSsqsb3xu3R_o55bGtuKCzw_F_foZgW4oLGfjY2CSwwuJ1W2xETW-GdE44Rz6JweZXCpLDAX25pkKyK8LVhmOQHchMihks_bE4wdbE33Il/s1080/Floot.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Floot Doterra Oils" border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHuk8D_GhrwDwts5bvWX0WhEs84Hebh61Ro2wm068ynMqaFunnFGDO9JYCKZCOmeG6xiQnLIcKCIZyo_vIhygSsqsb3xu3R_o55bGtuKCzw_F_foZgW4oLGfjY2CSwwuJ1W2xETW-GdE44Rz6JweZXCpLDAX25pkKyK8LVhmOQHchMihks_bE4wdbE33Il/w400-h400/Floot.png" title="Floot Doterra Oils" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p>Doterra oils are certified food grade (not all of them) so these are the only ones I use. </p><p><a href="https://doterra.me/SKdkzJ" target="_blank">Get everything you need here </a></p>Corinna Harrodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09207300435514063231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9072116156163252739.post-79162775674839712492022-03-11T15:22:00.002+00:002024-02-24T22:56:04.835+00:00On Guard Oil Blend<p>I'm not kidding when I say I use this all over the house. A blend of cinnamon, wild orange, rosemary and eucalyptus these are powerful antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral and can be diffused into the air and used to clean and purify household surfaces.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgxfMowByiB0tmKmxMpnFGTXQytxfHV533nKmOyak49jZZe8298PXknJdfCoA1Imd-UPqmyR32Cqn4roy3pdlVUJeo7-vnUHAZ_uJcbk3MqV-Ikh0ZjpKVY29HtEWVR6bOsQGk0eM8Zvmw9kQD1xbqKJFhMAM7fHeTndEvsapEC95TkG9beDuEaU1olHw=s649" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="doterra On Guard Blend" border="0" data-original-height="649" data-original-width="649" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgxfMowByiB0tmKmxMpnFGTXQytxfHV533nKmOyak49jZZe8298PXknJdfCoA1Imd-UPqmyR32Cqn4roy3pdlVUJeo7-vnUHAZ_uJcbk3MqV-Ikh0ZjpKVY29HtEWVR6bOsQGk0eM8Zvmw9kQD1xbqKJFhMAM7fHeTndEvsapEC95TkG9beDuEaU1olHw=w640-h640" title="doterra On Guard Blend" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><p>Citrus oils are also very uplifting so what I love about this is when I diffuse it when we are under the weather it does give a mood boost. You can also gently inhale straight from the bottle. </p><p>You can mix 3-5 drops with 250ml of water and use to clean countertops and other surfaces but I use our cleaner concentrate to clean pretty much everything in the house. I also love using the toothpaste at night (I use one with more whitening ooomph in the morning) and I add drops of On Guard oil with four other oils (lemon, tea tree, frankincense and oregano) to make a 'flu bomb' which helps the bodies natural defences against cold and flu viruses (and tummy problems!) </p><p>I carry the On Guard spray in my handbag to use as a hand and surface sanitiser on the go - you know when you get on a train and your kids basically want to lick everything, well this helps with that. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0227/7189/2298/collections/on-guard-products_1200x1200.png?v=1593151887" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" height="800" src="http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0227/7189/2298/collections/on-guard-products_1200x1200.png?v=1593151887" width="800" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Corinna Harrodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09207300435514063231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9072116156163252739.post-64517948320328101192022-02-16T20:38:00.000+00:002022-02-16T20:38:00.734+00:00Snow Moon<p>🌕 The full moon for February is usually call the snow moon but can also be the ice moon, storm moon or hunger moon.</p><p>❄️ Its full moon in Aquarius thought to be an unconventional and trailblazing sign so if you are planning or journalling this full moon it's time to put your most creative and inventive ideas space. Time to think about the idea you've had but have always thought 'it will never work'. Its also very passionate so basically get thinking about something that excites you.</p><p>🌕 If you have crystals its time to super charge them in moonlight. Pop them on a windowsill - I always remember looking after my friend Katie's house when she was away and finding crystals on every window frame.</p><p>❄️ Write a list of all the things you're worried about people you'd like to forgive, burn them and release them (this can continue as a ritual as the moon wanes)</p><p>🌕 The full moon is a time of balance, it's a time to focus on the 'harvest'. Pay attention to all the things you've manifested so far and all that's yet to manifest. A full moon bath is perfect to focus on abundance and a time to relax.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiEFRoS3z5V9xv8VyImEF_JLQQbC6XrGzAqh69q-VqT08UysVP0-1yZUHkB_TCV7QkJcsh4n0u1SynbbKFv3GUTmqyofpzSgSNyl8mugd5sUy2t-8TIKRF5mF_CwrGBu_o8WkDNmOWehz6zKDKkmOJCIJIGGdbqf1emqakHhuc5on9tgz8jKD4YClmTzQ=s940" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="February Full Snow Moon Diffuser Blends" border="0" data-original-height="788" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiEFRoS3z5V9xv8VyImEF_JLQQbC6XrGzAqh69q-VqT08UysVP0-1yZUHkB_TCV7QkJcsh4n0u1SynbbKFv3GUTmqyofpzSgSNyl8mugd5sUy2t-8TIKRF5mF_CwrGBu_o8WkDNmOWehz6zKDKkmOJCIJIGGdbqf1emqakHhuc5on9tgz8jKD4YClmTzQ=w640-h536" title="Snow Moon Diffuser Blends" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Corinna Harrodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09207300435514063231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9072116156163252739.post-67306481356412626792022-02-11T17:13:00.001+00:002022-02-11T17:13:37.546+00:00Air Blend<p>Not as glamorous as some of the other oils I use but this one is used a lot in my house. Designed to open and soothe the tissues of the respiratory system it also has antiviral and can help with anxiety, asthma, bronchitis, congestion, and coughs</p><p>It has a really fresh and uplifting smell including bay, Peppermint, Eucalyptus, tea tree, and lemon oils.</p><p>I often diffuse this either on it's own or with Purify and On Guard for extra oomph. I have also made up a rollerball (see below) which I roll on the boys chests and backs when they are blocked up, have a cold or cough. It genuinely makes a difference and it's so nice to avoid the more chemically alternatives.</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Can be applied on the chest, back or bottoms of the feet</li><li>Diffuse into the air or apply to the palms of the hands and cup over the nose and mouth and breathe deeply.</li><li>Inhale from the bottle</li><li>Drop 2-3 drops on the floor of a hot shower and inhale whilst showering</li><li>Ashtma/Bronchitis - diffuse or inhale from bottle</li><li>Coughs - add 8 drops to 5ml fractionated coconut oil in a small roll on bottle and apply a small amount on the chest, back and forehead</li><li>Congestion - 3-5 drops to a small bowl of hot water and inhale</li></ul><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj3WM6nbWIKn0kgKMSGP6y7UjGY-19-cFn38R8Z-TBz9KyznFIupvnjhsPvik_DiJ-qIwU2yycBGCUWON-buzcdWLOWH-y30pz4tlyMfi6pmF4O7GFCJ_MypLi-C9ZoFZirLWNHR1_BVMOVpGhY3OgGoC1JR2AgD4NX3Lq4LV-icpc_0RqL00SZV-M4xQ=s960" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Doterra Air Blend" border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="960" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj3WM6nbWIKn0kgKMSGP6y7UjGY-19-cFn38R8Z-TBz9KyznFIupvnjhsPvik_DiJ-qIwU2yycBGCUWON-buzcdWLOWH-y30pz4tlyMfi6pmF4O7GFCJ_MypLi-C9ZoFZirLWNHR1_BVMOVpGhY3OgGoC1JR2AgD4NX3Lq4LV-icpc_0RqL00SZV-M4xQ=w640-h360" title="Doterra Air" width="640" /></a></div><br />It may not be the most exciting oils but it's one I would definitely not be without - great for all the family. <p></p><p>Get yours here</p>Corinna Harrodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09207300435514063231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9072116156163252739.post-281487899442761372022-01-28T17:07:00.004+00:002024-02-24T22:56:20.255+00:00Balance Blend<p> One of the first oil blends I fell in love with this is still one of my most used oils in my diffuser, especially in my kitchen where it gives Balance to the family after a long day at work and school when we can become a bit ratty. </p><p>The oils in this blend help establish a feeling of calm, peace and relaxation. It can aid the harmonising of various physiological systems of the body and promote tranquility and balances the body and mind</p><ul><li><span class="JsGRdQ">The blend includes: Spruce, Ho Wood, Blue Tansy, Frankincense, German (Blue) Chamomile, Osmanthus</span></li><li><span class="JsGRdQ">Calming/Relaxing: Add 3 drops to 1tbsp (15ml) fractionated coconut oil and use as a soothing massage oil</span></li><li><span class="JsGRdQ">Harmonising/Grounding: Place 3 drops on the bottoms of the feet</span></li><li><span class="JsGRdQ">Balancing: Diffuse in an aromatherapy diffuser</span></li><li><span class="JsGRdQ">Primary uses include: Anxiety, Back pain, Balance, Brain Integration, Bursitis, Confusion, Depression, Energy, Fear, Grief, Hot Flashes, Herniated Discs, Mood Swings</span></li></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiIJ6jFWMSXZbZkD5LGgmrSuJbuWsCBMU0QboMMRjMEjfZ83rdZEJK3bjwk9WQodiNhnGjIFfUSu9yW--gqhXqIIQ4ua6j619mVBw379vKc-Znp9yPCjpDb72wxzkS2ISs6N_PC1Z8ZKs6lV2ttPaf9dPutKWZQp4Moepvj-URwK2ajYOS7CpZtC009FQ=s1186" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Doterra_balance_blend" border="0" data-original-height="1186" data-original-width="1186" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiIJ6jFWMSXZbZkD5LGgmrSuJbuWsCBMU0QboMMRjMEjfZ83rdZEJK3bjwk9WQodiNhnGjIFfUSu9yW--gqhXqIIQ4ua6j619mVBw379vKc-Znp9yPCjpDb72wxzkS2ISs6N_PC1Z8ZKs6lV2ttPaf9dPutKWZQp4Moepvj-URwK2ajYOS7CpZtC009FQ=w640-h640" title="Doterra Balance Blend" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://mydoterra.com/corinnaharrod" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">You can check it out here </a></div>Corinna Harrodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09207300435514063231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9072116156163252739.post-82410932442334754272022-01-21T19:26:00.004+00:002024-02-24T22:56:29.560+00:00Frankincense <p> One of my favourite and most-used oils. Created through steam distillation of resin Frankincense has been used for thousands of years in cosmetics, perfumes, skincare and medicines With a rich, deep, warm scent and blends beautifully with all oils.</p><p>🌳 Focus energy, improve concentration. It eases hyperactivity, impatience, irritability and impatience.</p><p>🌳 Is great to diffuse during yoga practice and can enhance spiritual awareness. In religious ceremonies it was used to help communication with the creator.</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Arthritis: Can be massaged into joints affected by arthritis (with coconut oil)</li><li>Depression: Can be inhaled directly from the bottle, applied neat to the temples or diluted with coconut oil for massage or diffused for depression</li><li>Mental Fatigue: apply neat to the temples, back of neck or feet to relax</li><li>Inflammation: 3 drops with 2 drops lavender in a bowl of cold water and using a flannel apply to the affected area.</li><li>Focus: diffuse with lemon or citrus oils</li><li>I use it with lemon, tea tree, oregano and On Guard in a capsule to combat any lurgy</li></ul><div><a href="http://mydoterra.com/corinnaharrod" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">You can purchase through my shop here</a></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi4tyMIijt-B_MOIExDtDdvO0B62ohZ3e3jdOZ-uws-P887TJngv9vwCOB9o_Hy37p6hwVFm1YdS5fAzoRBCP5NuRweEdyYRSo6uWVd28_fq_hpBIJKiz25U_KTSkTPyAyJfuzhRZqlVVOw-XGRo9A8jxOPODXS0qAicDNAbm5pmUK3BZghwkowcAwfNg=s500" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="Frankincense" border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="500" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi4tyMIijt-B_MOIExDtDdvO0B62ohZ3e3jdOZ-uws-P887TJngv9vwCOB9o_Hy37p6hwVFm1YdS5fAzoRBCP5NuRweEdyYRSo6uWVd28_fq_hpBIJKiz25U_KTSkTPyAyJfuzhRZqlVVOw-XGRo9A8jxOPODXS0qAicDNAbm5pmUK3BZghwkowcAwfNg=w320-h320" title="Frankincense" width="320" /></a></div><p></p><p></p>Corinna Harrodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09207300435514063231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9072116156163252739.post-15549442608747421232022-01-19T07:30:00.003+00:002022-01-21T19:33:06.809+00:00Wild & Stone Dish Cloths<p>I would love this to be a super glamorous post but it's not, it's a post about my quest for the perfect, sustainable washing up cloth and how by god I think I've found it. </p><p>Eco dish cloths either work well but stain and smell or look great and last 2 weeks. But fear not, I've found you not one but two options. </p><p>For my main kitchen sink I have gone for the <a href="https://www.wildandstone.com/products/dish-cloths" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Organic Cotton Dish cloth</a> - get two one for the wash and one to be used. These hold their own, give good heft to whatever you are cleaning and don't get smelly or slimey. They are so good my mum ordered one and thus far she has been incredibly dismissive of all others I've tried often holding them between thumb and finger whilst looking pained. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0304/0336/2955/products/kk4n1v3h4je_1000x.jpg?v=1632304541" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Wild_and_stone_organic_dishcloth" border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" src="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0304/0336/2955/products/kk4n1v3h4je_1000x.jpg?v=1632304541" title="Wild & Stone Organic Dish Cloth" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p>Then for the utility room sink which is mostly washing up the dogs bowls - they are fed raw so I like to keep these very specific - I have got <a href="https://www.wildandstone.com/products/swedish-dish-cloths-compostable-set-of-4" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">these Swedish dishcloths</a>. They are compostable, washable and really sturdy so as of yet, I've only used one from my pack of 4. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0304/0336/2955/products/y2sawggwsww_2048x.jpg?v=1632033999" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Wild_and_stone_swedish_dish_cloths" border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" src="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0304/0336/2955/products/y2sawggwsww_2048x.jpg?v=1632033999" title="Wild & Stone Swedish Dish Cloths" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Corinna Harrodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09207300435514063231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9072116156163252739.post-22845293986649179712022-01-14T07:30:00.001+00:002022-01-14T07:30:00.164+00:00January Morning Diffuser Blends<p> I find one of the ways to make January more bearable is to treat it like a new season so here are some ideas for diffuser blends to make your year get going in the right way</p><p>For any oils you can <a href="http://mydoterra.com/corinnaharrod" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">check out doTerra </a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgatrcHt1ilWE1lAAb31r-TDJAnd78T4ILxyScqeZ29bhjNhaepELhqUq80OcrCCn0-xjve28NhSWcKqt35hRx-whoDijZ4quYVozFSRP9scZSUqcflYWAhYUziZlAAJpJZROcg7e3JcmVnU5aZGKPIs6lWJb8t6SBK35X7STlIpDpcpnMeOEWVKUfjeQ=s940" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="January_morning_diffuser_blends" border="0" data-original-height="788" data-original-width="940" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgatrcHt1ilWE1lAAb31r-TDJAnd78T4ILxyScqeZ29bhjNhaepELhqUq80OcrCCn0-xjve28NhSWcKqt35hRx-whoDijZ4quYVozFSRP9scZSUqcflYWAhYUziZlAAJpJZROcg7e3JcmVnU5aZGKPIs6lWJb8t6SBK35X7STlIpDpcpnMeOEWVKUfjeQ=w640-h536" title="January Morning Diffuser Blends" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Corinna Harrodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09207300435514063231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9072116156163252739.post-46337761841391744822022-01-12T19:57:00.002+00:002022-03-11T15:30:48.304+00:00Sweet Potato Salad<p>I'm late to the sweet potato party but I'm making up for lost time. I'm not a huge fan of potatoes in general and the name sweet potato does not do this delicious, filling healthy object justice. With both of us working from home and me doing the majority of homeschooling I handed the cooking reigns over to Joe but since moving to Hampshire just before Christmas I have taken back one reign and will occasionally do a freezer filler or a filling salad for a healthy lunch and this is one of my go to's. </p><p>You can of course tweak it to suit your tastes - I would always add pomegranate seeds, Joe can live without them - but this should be just what you need to liven up your working-from-home lunch break and you can cook the sweet potato, keep in the fridge and then make the salad when you need to which means it takes a matter of minutes. </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjAp_75X4sie04gdz4AIIqNED0EK7wqtRMwtd5IVYSuKrEJJlgxJ4nEttmlOm59JCztHB4u2_R6aM-bav3bSuLyT3OQOlZSswOIMRdLtucoEBsqy9-44sHj35t_WCfcekRQLO7BGnpdSpk5_JgE3hvyaV3GitVOAUg9JjxL8qrRtiXbeoHCgZMIyNH4tQ=s3024" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Sweet Potato and feta salad" border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjAp_75X4sie04gdz4AIIqNED0EK7wqtRMwtd5IVYSuKrEJJlgxJ4nEttmlOm59JCztHB4u2_R6aM-bav3bSuLyT3OQOlZSswOIMRdLtucoEBsqy9-44sHj35t_WCfcekRQLO7BGnpdSpk5_JgE3hvyaV3GitVOAUg9JjxL8qrRtiXbeoHCgZMIyNH4tQ=w640-h640" title="Sweet potato and feta salad" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p>This is the basic recipe - I tend to do the sweet potato, I usually have feta in the fridge and some herbs and then add whatever else I have. Avocado is delicious in this as are a few spinach leaves. </p><p><u>Sweet Potato & Feta Salad</u><br /><i>serves 2</i></p><p>2 sweet potatoes <br />1/2 block feta, cut into cubes<br />Pumpkin seeds and/or pine nuts<br />Pecans and/or almonds, chopped<br />Half a head of broccoli<br />1 tbsp teriyaki <br />1/2 tsp turmeric<br />1/2 tsp cumin<br />basil or any fresh herb you like<br />salt & pepper</p><p><i>For the dressing:<br /></i>soy<br />honey<br />olive oil<br />fresh ginger</p><p>Pre-heat oven to 200C/</p><p>1. Peel the sweet potato and cut into cubes, you can par boil it or not. If you do it will reduce the time in the oven. Then toss in oil, cumin and turmeric and cook in the oven for about 40-45 minutes or until slightly crispy. </p><p>2. In a small frying pan over a low heat sprinkle the pumpkin seeds and pine nuts with the teriyaki and cook briefly til they are coated and the teriyaki is sort of hardened onto the pan - not too much! If you don't have teriyaki soy will do just as well. Tip into your salad bowl and using your wooden spoon get the teriyaki off the bottom of the pan into the bowl too. </p><p>3. Add the feta and then tear off tiny mini heads of broccoli into the bowl. It can seem ponderous but small bits of raw broccoli are amazing so worth it. </p><p>4. Mix up the dressing and then put the sweet potato into the salad bowl, add the chopped nuts and the dressing. Add the basil and toss. Season to taste. </p>Corinna Harrodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09207300435514063231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9072116156163252739.post-37634210649649293792021-12-08T00:18:00.000+00:002021-12-08T00:18:20.237+00:00Christmas Gift Ideas 2021<p>I wasn't going to do one this year but there are lots of things I keep seeing and thought maybe it would help those of you who are stuck for ideas. </p><p><a href="https://www.bluebowl.co.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Blue Bowl </a>- as always I do a lot of my shopping for here as I can usually find something for everyone. This year I've gone for a <a href="https://www.bluebowl.co.uk/products/gurgling-fish-jug?_pos=1&_sid=b94d4a53a&_ss=r" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">glug jug</a> for my mother in law and I always get some <a href="https://www.bluebowl.co.uk/products/honey-hexagon-earrings?_pos=3&_sid=9f42ba329&_ss=r" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">hexagon earrings </a>for someone. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0878/1120/products/HoneyHexagonEarrings_960x.jpg?v=1593269717" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Hexagon_earrings_by_Bluebowl" border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" src="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0878/1120/products/HoneyHexagonEarrings_960x.jpg?v=1593269717" title="Hexagon Earrings by Blue Bowl" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>Zoeva Brushes - these are some of my favourites (though I haven't used the whole range) and there are some <a href="https://go.magik.ly/ml/1d60k/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">great deals on sets at the moment</a> and my go-to for contouring or foundation on my clients is<a href="https://tidd.ly/3DsrrJH" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> the 110 Face Shape</a> - I must have at least 5!</p><p><a href="http://www.atticusbeetleandbop.com">Atticus, Beetle & Bop </a>- my own online stationery shop I started in lockdown and have yet to mention on here which seems a bit silly but if you need some stocking fillers, a puzzle or lovely matches (which make a fantastic house gift!) then go and have a look. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f8eec985c870a790238fa84/1638273371769-RIF3WPVFTIGC8OPM3QRU/IMG_1729.jpg?format=1500w" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Fa_la_la_la_la_puzzle" border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" src="https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5f8eec985c870a790238fa84/1638273371769-RIF3WPVFTIGC8OPM3QRU/IMG_1729.jpg?format=1500w" title="Fa La La La La Puzzle" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><a href="https://www.nkuku.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Nkuku</a> - I always seem to find something either I want (always useful if you find you get asked what you want and have a mind blank!) or great presents for my family. The things I've got from here have been fantastic quality. </p><p><a href="https://fraserandparsley.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Fraser & Parsley</a> - I love this brand, they are just a joy to follow on social media and their products are beautiful. I would love the <a href="https://fraserandparsley.com/collections/christmas-planner/products/the-five-year-christmas-planner-tree">Five Year Christmas Planner </a>as I'm always so chaotic at this time of year and it would make a fantastic gift but I've also had my eye on the <a href="https://fraserandparsley.com/collections/meal-planner/products/meal-planner-shopping-list-pad" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Meal Planners f</a>or ages. Try as I might to use my phone for things I still find my brain works better when I put pen to paper. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0226/2361/products/DSC_7238_large.jpg?v=1634124359" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Fraser_and_Parsley_Christmas_Planner" border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="480" src="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0226/2361/products/DSC_7238_large.jpg?v=1634124359" title="Fraser & Parsley Christmas Planner" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><a href="https://rubyanddot.co.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Ruby & Dot</a> - one of my favourite small brands that I've discovered this year. I have my eye on the black sweater with gold eye jumper (because it has lightning bolts of course) </p><p>Fizz Goes Pop - another great small business and I spent a lot of time nearly <a href="https://www.fizzgoespop.com/collections/lightning-bolt-earrings/products/mini-lightning-bolt-hoop-earrings?variant=30333792157785" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">buying myself these lovely lighting hoops</a> (in green thanks!) </p><p><a href="https://spacemasks.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Spacemasks</a> - I get these for everyone every year as they are not just an eye mask they are a ticket to some relaxation. Lie or sit down and give yourself a 10 minute break. That's what these say. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0554/2395/9235/products/spacemas_origanal_box_750x.png.jpg?v=1615981257" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Spacemasks" border="0" data-original-height="546" data-original-width="545" src="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0554/2395/9235/products/spacemas_origanal_box_750x.png.jpg?v=1615981257" title="Spacemasks" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Corinna Harrodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09207300435514063231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9072116156163252739.post-79627023739092136712021-11-15T19:48:00.005+00:002021-11-15T19:51:10.540+00:00Guided Meditation for Stress and Anxiety by Radhi Devlukia<p> I'm terrible at meditation without guidance. I either fall asleep or just can't get into it but I really love this meditation and it's helped me just take some time out when I've needed it so I thought you might like it too</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/SIaVziKqMz4" width="320" youtube-src-id="SIaVziKqMz4"></iframe></div><br /><p><br /></p>Corinna Harrodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09207300435514063231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9072116156163252739.post-1991428885893274592021-11-09T21:53:00.003+00:002021-11-09T21:53:28.693+00:00Autumn Diffuser Blends <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaDqWGAK7Lw0Ni-dgP-BiPNze2g2iR68ynrRaksmcvgkS-_A2WtfMzlqOgTG-CLY1tvcJYhuFHLB2lwJ5fGZ08hgX4mT4nAPZ-bnsc98eSgirbP4nhS9VbuokBhPw2X_03RTb5G_hQBwr_/s940/Autumn+Blends.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Autumn_doterra_diffuser_blends" border="0" data-original-height="788" data-original-width="940" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaDqWGAK7Lw0Ni-dgP-BiPNze2g2iR68ynrRaksmcvgkS-_A2WtfMzlqOgTG-CLY1tvcJYhuFHLB2lwJ5fGZ08hgX4mT4nAPZ-bnsc98eSgirbP4nhS9VbuokBhPw2X_03RTb5G_hQBwr_/s16000/Autumn+Blends.png" title="Autumn Doterra Diffuser Blends" /></a></div><br /> <p></p>Corinna Harrodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09207300435514063231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9072116156163252739.post-75872446757261537252021-01-29T12:20:00.003+00:002021-01-29T12:20:45.514+00:0030 Day Tech Detox<p>I don't know about you but my phone use sky rocketed during 2020. I was averaging over 8 hours a day and feeling terrible. Not only that but my children were watching me be a slave to a screen. Over Christmas I had some much needed phone-free time and it was incredible. </p><p>So I've designed a 30 Day Tech Detox which I've been doing for the whole of January, that aims to help everyone have a bit of a tech clean-up and encourage healthier habits. During a global pandemic tech has kept us connected to the loved ones we have been missing and for many of use, have kept businesses afloat. But with no basic tech hygiene in place the positives of connection and industry are getting outweighed by mental health issues, lack of sleep and the addictive qualities of social media. For those of use who suffer with depression and anxiety the last thing we need is to be comparing ourselves to other people for hours every day. </p><p>This detox doesn't aim to make you phone-free, it just helps you reevaluate how you are using your tech and to claw back some of the reality in your real life. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiURKHCqKTwZddQZp_hTAxiK6Bwfngeepvm4EEXRddCYVcROudnm8VTiXQKUdy4sGiGqiuVqQOLBlIrHjGl5BbNa1Vg_2DHu1iz-Jpro_CIo7rcaU9JfJ3H3m8G7onXp2stc-KVDpKVTczT/s2000/2.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="30_day_tech_detox_tips" border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="1414" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiURKHCqKTwZddQZp_hTAxiK6Bwfngeepvm4EEXRddCYVcROudnm8VTiXQKUdy4sGiGqiuVqQOLBlIrHjGl5BbNa1Vg_2DHu1iz-Jpro_CIo7rcaU9JfJ3H3m8G7onXp2stc-KVDpKVTczT/w452-h640/2.PNG" title="30 day Tech Detox Tips" width="452" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAO2TditS0hyFmb6fR5uIYN9C_vpxGDyjgVN9tXPXClGYI3RuiqoV_YiNiAyvqwkPN9FJWZBoFFqjSafMA5hf_BZgvIG-mJNPuLAigfkyFDo3UQY6wVVIHjSEW6x85eHV2ULyS5bBhsQwQ/s2000/1.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="30_day_tech_detox" border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="1414" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAO2TditS0hyFmb6fR5uIYN9C_vpxGDyjgVN9tXPXClGYI3RuiqoV_YiNiAyvqwkPN9FJWZBoFFqjSafMA5hf_BZgvIG-mJNPuLAigfkyFDo3UQY6wVVIHjSEW6x85eHV2ULyS5bBhsQwQ/w452-h640/1.PNG" title="30 Day Tech Detox" width="452" /></a></div><br /><p></p>Corinna Harrodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09207300435514063231noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9072116156163252739.post-662302293623803612020-12-13T12:40:00.001+00:002020-12-13T12:40:03.310+00:00Christmas Gift Guide 2020 - Jewellery and Accessories<p> </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ1KH0B4pOXUp1Ii95XGWm8Xn3dkgO0wV2k-TWCXv196_kPayVE4lapVpTywYpeu0lNkD_ymiDGb1BRM4TzIMvyW1OZpV1RiXjeL11wOTi2cL32KImn6JXZsNLY5gjBdHl_QrDKOcKVpf_/s940/Petite%252BFlower%252Bof%252BLife.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Flower_of_life_ring" border="0" data-original-height="940" data-original-width="750" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ1KH0B4pOXUp1Ii95XGWm8Xn3dkgO0wV2k-TWCXv196_kPayVE4lapVpTywYpeu0lNkD_ymiDGb1BRM4TzIMvyW1OZpV1RiXjeL11wOTi2cL32KImn6JXZsNLY5gjBdHl_QrDKOcKVpf_/w255-h320/Petite%252BFlower%252Bof%252BLife.jpg" title="House of Evergreen Flower of Life Ring" width="255" /></a></div>I think this year especially it's love to send something thoughtful in the post but it can be tricky choosing clothes for people. Jewellery and accessories can be a great option and the majority of people listed below I have bought from and offer fantastic customer services to help you track down the perfect gift. <p></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.bluebowl.co.uk/products/silk-clutch-bag" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Blue Bowl Silk Clutch</a> - these are beautiful, bright and unusual. I can't decide between yellow or turquoise and red. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #172b4d; margin: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; text-overflow: ellipsis;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://marloelondon.com/products/zip-pouch-navy-2" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Marloe</a> - I really love these zip bags. Good for keeping all your stuff in, for me pens, notebooks and glasses in a dark blue with pink writing. For kids to keep their lego or homework bits in. Makes a great present for a godchild or niece/nephew<br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #172b4d;"><a href="https://blackandbeech.com/collections/knits " rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Black and Beech knits</a> -</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #172b4d;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #172b4d;">i particularly like the <a href="https://blackandbeech.com/collections/knits/products/liberte-egalite-sororite-lambswool-feminist-slogan-scarf-forest-green-french-rose" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">forest green and french rose scarf</a> it's spectacular </span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #172b4d;"><a href="https://www.bluebowl.co.uk/products/honey-hexagon-earrings" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Hexagon earrings </a>- </span>I have and love these. Light and easy to wear they are enough dangle to be fun but not annoying and they go with everything. </span></p><span style="background-color: white; color: #172b4d;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.chambersandbeau.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Chambers & Beau</a> - I love this jewellry and have been eyeing up the glasses chain for ages </span></span><div><span style="color: #172b4d;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #172b4d;"><a href="https://sharkieandbear.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sharkie & Bear </a>- beautiful, fun earrings made in the UK from cork. Lightweight and easy to wear these make great stocking fillers too. <br /></span><div><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpW3lkDg5kZ38GokCJ7xP-qY2NvTSIw0PqvSz1ThxrGLslh0ZOUqZ-7DXcyxJQf3ECoC2bU9kTBgnIdCDOmADigV7jWebV12DGAa_hPbAeO-EZvMXlXPDyL3FSelpSE_GJgP1NS32OX7_z/s1280/Maria.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Earrings_designed_by_Maria_Spanou" border="0" data-original-height="903" data-original-width="1280" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpW3lkDg5kZ38GokCJ7xP-qY2NvTSIw0PqvSz1ThxrGLslh0ZOUqZ-7DXcyxJQf3ECoC2bU9kTBgnIdCDOmADigV7jWebV12DGAa_hPbAeO-EZvMXlXPDyL3FSelpSE_GJgP1NS32OX7_z/w320-h226/Maria.jpg" title="Earring by Maria Spanou" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.houseofevergreen.com/shop" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">House of Evergreen</a> - I'm always wearing something from Katie and these are chunky and usual. The canvas bag strap is also fantastic and easy to send in the post. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #172b4d;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://sites.google.com/site/mariaspanougbbo00/home_1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sofianni</a> - stunning unique jewellery designed and made by Maria. She does beautiful commissions and I have my eye on her beautiful hoops with dangling discs. <br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br style="background-color: white; color: #172b4d;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #172b4d;"><a href="https://www.yalajewellery.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Yala Jewellery </a>- beautifully designed African jewellery. Ethical and eco-friendly - I really love these bangles. </span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJCAJe5aoX4Y-MLstUq6epISWH929YjlNMD2fx_AdHT9_-tPJVHZ5N4D39f_F7TXBmUoSRvxpGeLI4GnCnkTErLcfK7rY6L5tra-lkl8v4ogWn_xql0x7ExdNFi1LLSozSMeACmnRWoe94/s960/3BagGroupPhoto_960x.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Silk_clutch_from_blue_bowl" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJCAJe5aoX4Y-MLstUq6epISWH929YjlNMD2fx_AdHT9_-tPJVHZ5N4D39f_F7TXBmUoSRvxpGeLI4GnCnkTErLcfK7rY6L5tra-lkl8v4ogWn_xql0x7ExdNFi1LLSozSMeACmnRWoe94/w400-h400/3BagGroupPhoto_960x.jpg" title="Silk Clutch from Blue Bowl" width="400" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br style="background-color: white; color: #172b4d;" /></span><br /></div></div>Corinna Harrodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09207300435514063231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9072116156163252739.post-39658915162909666122020-12-13T12:37:00.007+00:002020-12-13T12:37:49.288+00:00Christmas Gift Guide 2020 - Stationery<p><span style="background-color: white; color: #172b4d; font-size: 14px;">Would it be complete with out a stationery option? Stationery is a great gift, it doesn't involve commitment, and is always useful. </span></p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5BcS_zof-ajOFiVkLQa2W2v4J_u7vsKLWdNSpi476qCSSN98ZPhCTRSAD6pj9GKg3Ddqc3gvChP9ASEi-WJdw__GYjP4r0JDD8OjUux98CCAH6rgTSVLAw-m_zXlx8LArpsD5eP-tSGLv/s2048/IMG_5541.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Marbled-note-pad" border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5BcS_zof-ajOFiVkLQa2W2v4J_u7vsKLWdNSpi476qCSSN98ZPhCTRSAD6pj9GKg3Ddqc3gvChP9ASEi-WJdw__GYjP4r0JDD8OjUux98CCAH6rgTSVLAw-m_zXlx8LArpsD5eP-tSGLv/w320-h320/IMG_5541.jpg" title="Atticus Beetle and Bop Marbled Notepad" width="320" /></a></div><span face="-apple-system, system-ui, "Segoe UI", Roboto, "Noto Sans", Ubuntu, "Droid Sans", "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #172b4d; font-size: 14px;"><a href="www.atticusbeetleandbop.com" target="_blank">Atticus, Beetle & Bop</a> - my own stationery shop, so I'm just getting going but I have some great stocking fillers ready to go. </span></li><li><a href="https://www.penfax.co.uk/" rel="nofollow" style="font-family: -apple-system, system-ui, "Segoe UI", Roboto, "Noto Sans", Ubuntu, "Droid Sans", "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" target="_blank">Penfax and co</a><span face="-apple-system, system-ui, "Segoe UI", Roboto, "Noto Sans", Ubuntu, "Droid Sans", "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #172b4d; font-size: 14px;"> - there's loads to choose from here and it's a great place to go for fountain pens. They also do these </span><a href="https://www.penfax.co.uk/products/cathian-leather-poker-dice-set?_pos=2&_sid=e66cfd63e&_ss=r&variant=31303757594735" rel="nofollow" style="font-family: -apple-system, system-ui, "Segoe UI", Roboto, "Noto Sans", Ubuntu, "Droid Sans", "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" target="_blank">fantastic poker dice for the poker player in your life</a><span face="-apple-system, system-ui, "Segoe UI", Roboto, "Noto Sans", Ubuntu, "Droid Sans", "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #172b4d; font-size: 14px;">. </span></li><li><a href="https://www.bluebowl.co.uk/products/craft-scissors" rel="nofollow" style="font-family: -apple-system, system-ui, "Segoe UI", Roboto, "Noto Sans", Ubuntu, "Droid Sans", "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" target="_blank">Craft scissors</a><span face="-apple-system, system-ui, "Segoe UI", Roboto, "Noto Sans", Ubuntu, "Droid Sans", "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #172b4d; font-size: 14px;"> - these have been on my Christmas list for ages, yes you could do all your Christmas shopping on </span><a href="www.bluebowl.co.uk" rel="nofollow" style="font-family: -apple-system, system-ui, "Segoe UI", Roboto, "Noto Sans", Ubuntu, "Droid Sans", "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" target="_blank">Blue Bowl</a><span face="-apple-system, system-ui, "Segoe UI", Roboto, "Noto Sans", Ubuntu, "Droid Sans", "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #172b4d; font-size: 14px;"> but for stationery lovers, journallers and planner addicts these scissors are The One. </span></li><li><a href="https://www.galenleather.com//collections/zippered-leather-portfolio" rel="nofollow" style="font-family: -apple-system, system-ui, "Segoe UI", Roboto, "Noto Sans", Ubuntu, "Droid Sans", "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" target="_blank">Portfolio</a><span face="-apple-system, system-ui, "Segoe UI", Roboto, "Noto Sans", Ubuntu, "Droid Sans", "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #172b4d; font-size: 14px;"> - a forest green one of these will be a treat to myself when I hit a goal. I'm not sure what that goal is yet but one of these will be mine. </span></li><li><a href="https://www.tovisorga.com/products/leather-cable-tidy-headphone-holder-wrap?variant=12600175460430" rel="nofollow" style="font-family: -apple-system, system-ui, "Segoe UI", Roboto, "Noto Sans", Ubuntu, "Droid Sans", "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" target="_blank">Cable tidy</a><span face="-apple-system, system-ui, "Segoe UI", Roboto, "Noto Sans", Ubuntu, "Droid Sans", "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #172b4d; font-size: 14px;"> -</span><span face="-apple-system, system-ui, "Segoe UI", Roboto, "Noto Sans", Ubuntu, "Droid Sans", "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #172b4d; font-size: 14px;"> I love the beetle one of these - great for those of use who are forever losing chargers and headphones. </span></li><li><a href="https://www.bluebowl.co.uk/products/squiggle-notebook?_pos=4&_sid=f18318434&_ss=r" rel="nofollow" style="font-family: -apple-system, system-ui, "Segoe UI", Roboto, "Noto Sans", Ubuntu, "Droid Sans", "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" target="_blank">Blue Bowl Notebooks</a><span face="-apple-system, system-ui, "Segoe UI", Roboto, "Noto Sans", Ubuntu, "Droid Sans", "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #172b4d; font-size: 14px;"> - my favourite notebooks. Plain paper, beautiful design and my two favourite sizes.</span></li><li><a href="https://www.inq.ink/paperweights?page=2" rel="nofollow" style="font-family: -apple-system, system-ui, "Segoe UI", Roboto, "Noto Sans", Ubuntu, "Droid Sans", "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" target="_blank">Paperweights</a><span face="-apple-system, system-ui, "Segoe UI", Roboto, "Noto Sans", Ubuntu, "Droid Sans", "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #172b4d; font-size: 14px;"> - these are stunning and I spend a lot of time deciding which I want. I think Carnival Zebra is the winner but there is something for everyone and with lots of people now working in home offices this is a lovely cheering addition to any desk. <br /></span></li></ul><div><span face="-apple-system, system-ui, Segoe UI, Roboto, Noto Sans, Ubuntu, Droid Sans, Helvetica Neue, sans-serif" style="color: #172b4d;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu74vlpgZHXpjqwrb8LHbOBa_AX_N4yiwdFrUsecYMwlzVHp0wSk4VpD4LcTuygvy65FqP7T0l6H1kGIUm4nBdS5ABwnEIS_JJP4YYZg2tBPMbkfPfoP4SjU230ejptjP_8Fp9g1RO24I7/s960/Craft_Scissors2_960x.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Brass-handled-craft-scissors" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu74vlpgZHXpjqwrb8LHbOBa_AX_N4yiwdFrUsecYMwlzVHp0wSk4VpD4LcTuygvy65FqP7T0l6H1kGIUm4nBdS5ABwnEIS_JJP4YYZg2tBPMbkfPfoP4SjU230ejptjP_8Fp9g1RO24I7/s16000/Craft_Scissors2_960x.jpg" title="Blue Bowl Brass Handled Scissors" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><span style="font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><p></p>Corinna Harrodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09207300435514063231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9072116156163252739.post-43516290565271982112020-01-01T07:30:00.000+00:002020-01-01T07:30:11.307+00:0030 Days of Notebook PromptsSo this year I would really like to proactivly get stuff done for me. I'm not one for New Year's Resolutions but in 2019 I made big steps in my business and well, without wanting to sound like a weirdo, my mind so I really want to do some of the things I always mean to do but instead I spend my time doing pointless shit for other people*.<br />
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So one of the things I used to do, before grown-up jobs, husbands, kids, anti-depressants etc is write in notebooks. I used to have one like a security blanket. One group of friends even hilariously used to call me Lyrics because that is often what I wrote. Well I want to get back to it. Back to the notebooks, back to creativity but I've become scared of fucking up so I've created 30 days of prompts to just get me in the habit of using notebooks again. So if you want to up your creativity, spend less time on your phone and just do something for yourself why don't you join in. I'll be sharing mine on Instagram using the hashtag #30daysofnotebooks<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_DgftZx5rlozSDqUkEP4T93n-SG72Z_VzpavCXC9z9PuNHtoD1VNatheokcfsgYqYuy8hiWeWmGpJJemAuwVyRh8dW9NBX2hYyZwuXm4fYN1UNZBP3-p7G-G4ElfwB-qhmcEYLy68lHG5/s1600/30+days+of+notebook+prompts.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="#30daysofnotebooks" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_DgftZx5rlozSDqUkEP4T93n-SG72Z_VzpavCXC9z9PuNHtoD1VNatheokcfsgYqYuy8hiWeWmGpJJemAuwVyRh8dW9NBX2hYyZwuXm4fYN1UNZBP3-p7G-G4ElfwB-qhmcEYLy68lHG5/s1600/30+days+of+notebook+prompts.png" title="30 Days of Notebook prompts" /></a></div>
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*I <i>love</i> doing stuff for other people but my god I need to learn to not fill ever single minute doing everything for everyone else and making myself ill. There. I said it.Corinna Harrodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09207300435514063231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9072116156163252739.post-55381487692215027522018-12-07T08:41:00.002+00:002018-12-08T11:23:32.557+00:00Christmas Gift Ideas (Books)I <i>love</i> books and they make fantastic presents for all ages. Whether you are going to stay with someone and need to take something or are posting something to a niece or nephew, hopefully I've got it covered.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQGCk1riYuV6XEW9vhXRtjpWc7FGr3AdcYxW8hZ7_tLlFtM1f1KB3i6_rvG80k6q78Km-p9cyt1S6YYNmroIl0NuwxrU6VOkeabp-90ypKuvVFSaHK4CXgB2OT6xe_Hbse-77YVS2hSDZH/s1600/IMG_1369.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Mystery of the Blue Train, Nancy Mitford, Timeless" border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQGCk1riYuV6XEW9vhXRtjpWc7FGr3AdcYxW8hZ7_tLlFtM1f1KB3i6_rvG80k6q78Km-p9cyt1S6YYNmroIl0NuwxrU6VOkeabp-90ypKuvVFSaHK4CXgB2OT6xe_Hbse-77YVS2hSDZH/s1600/IMG_1369.JPG" title="Christmas Gift Ideas - books" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://smallprint-online.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><br /></a>
<a href="https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=3787&awinaffid=318011&clickref=&p=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.waterstones.com%2Fbooks%2Fsearch%2Fterm%2Fagatha%2Bchristie%2Fformat%2F16" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Agatha Christie</a> - you know I'm a <i>huge</i> Agatha Christie fan and there are three gorgeous new editions out this Christmas. The <a href="https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=3787&awinaffid=318011&clickref=&p=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.waterstones.com%2Fbook%2Fthe-abc-murders%2Fagatha-christie%2F9780008310226" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">ABC Murders</a>, <a href="https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=3787&awinaffid=318011&clickref=&p=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.waterstones.com%2Fbook%2F4-50-from-paddington%2Fagatha-christie%2F9780008310240" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">4.50 from Paddington</a> (my favourite of the three) and <a href="https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=3787&awinaffid=318011&clickref=&p=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.waterstones.com%2Fbook%2Fthe-mystery-of-the-blue-train%2Fagatha-christie%2F9780008310233" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Mystery of the Blue Train</a> - all great reads and I really love the new colours. How I wish I could have them.<br />
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<a href="https://blinddatewithabook.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Blind Date with a Book Club</a> - this is such a fantastic idea - choose the genre's and every month for 6 months you get a book sent to you or you can choose one book based on it's five line sentence. I personally love the sound of the <a href="https://blinddatewithabook.com/products/last-christmas" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Last Christmas </a>selection.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaic3AWiJcBZSz_lM7TiFOgmNMcTf1UfqtOEt7y131Un1nOcT584vtsI1YVO8SwqEDhYMlQ2CiyeJvLyJ0kpfTX2Tdc3MgCN80tt2vZYUGUDe-2pYdfa32KjcBsQJWhkzjzmJBF3LN93eS/s1600/Safe_About_Sharks_1024x1024.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaic3AWiJcBZSz_lM7TiFOgmNMcTf1UfqtOEt7y131Un1nOcT584vtsI1YVO8SwqEDhYMlQ2CiyeJvLyJ0kpfTX2Tdc3MgCN80tt2vZYUGUDe-2pYdfa32KjcBsQJWhkzjzmJBF3LN93eS/s320/Safe_About_Sharks_1024x1024.png" width="320" /></a><a href="http://www.bluebowl.co.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Blue Bowl</a> - not only my favourite place for presents in general but a <a href="https://www.bluebowl.co.uk/search?page=1&q=books&type=product" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">great selection of unusual books for grown-ups and children</a>. My eldest (6) loves <a href="https://www.bluebowl.co.uk/products/animal-books-by-owen-davey?variant=35456425158" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Smart about Sharks</a> and I'm going to get the middle one <a href="https://www.bluebowl.co.uk/products/animal-books-by-owen-davey?variant=35456425158" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Bonkers about Beetles</a> (his nickname is Beetle) and I love the <a href="https://www.bluebowl.co.uk/products/animal-books-by-dahlov-ipcar" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Dahlov Ipcar </a>books too. For grown-up's t<a href="https://www.bluebowl.co.uk/products/a-country-doctors-commonplace-book" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">his is Florence's latest pick</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/191112790X/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1634&creative=6738&creativeASIN=191112790X&linkCode=as2&tag=lit-21&linkId=6d60e61f7b7093860cff335f67b4c47d" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Home Bar </a>- a great book (dare I say it?) for men. My husband really loves this book and it looks beautiful.<br />
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<a href="https://www.heywoodhill.com/shop/the-nancy-mitford-collection" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Nancy Mitford Collection</a> - from Heywood Hill (where she once worked) this is a beautiful collection of five Nancy Mitford paperbacks in a beautiful box.<br />
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<a href="https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=3787&awinaffid=318011&clickref=&p=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.waterstones.com%2Fbooks%2Fsearch%2Fterm%2Fpenguin%2Bclassics%2Bhardback%2Fpage%2F1%23p_531764" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Penguin Classics</a> - Waterstones are doing beautiful hardback editions. You can get someone their favourite book or if you have a baby why not get the <a href="https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=3787&awinaffid=318011&clickref=&p=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.waterstones.com%2Fbook%2Fa-christmas-carol-and-other-christmas-writings%2Fcharles-dickens%2F9780141195858" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">A Christmas Carol</a> - we got one (in not such a beaut edition) for Ned for his first Christmas and we read it to him at this time every year and it's so lovely.<br />
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<a href="https://smallprint-online.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Small Print Books</a> - a really fantastic independent book shop that has an incredible selection of unusual books for children.<br />
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<a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/1784723703/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1634&creative=6738&creativeASIN=1784723703&linkCode=as2&tag=lit-21&linkId=4e789edd3557b753dc4534ec9c8e215f" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Timeless; A Century of Iconic Looks</a> - Louise Young is <i>the</i> make-up artist when it comes to historical accuracy and I'm so happy to have this book with me when I go on shoots. Not only is it great for make-up artists but a wonderful read for those interested in cosmetics and hair through the ages.<br />
<br />Corinna Harrodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09207300435514063231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9072116156163252739.post-53388701511624403162018-11-29T19:30:00.000+00:002018-11-29T19:30:11.552+00:00Christmas Gift Ideas Of course there is a beauty guide on it's way but for all those non-beauty bits there's this. Everything is in alphabetical order except for the first one because it's the most important.<br />
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<a href="https://choose.love/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Choose Love</a> - buy things for people who have been forced to flee their homes with nothing. From children's coats, blankets and nappies, to hot meals, hot showers and tents. The <a href="https://choose.love/products/mother-bundle" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mother & Baby bundle </a>is a food, clothes and hygiene pack for a mother raising her baby in a refugee camp. You can even get someone <a href="https://choose.love/products/medical-care" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">medical care</a>. I often get cross with people who make me feel that what I do is a frivolous thing for women with no brains (it isn't) but compared to what these people are going through it is even having a bath is a total luxury. I'm thinking about every little thing I buy this year and where I can, I'm cutting back to get from here instead.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfN7pBf5mLsmM2oowLH0PYjQjbEhomMhxA6-sG108sJKXjXnVZLfCf1iP8pp388tf7m2p5A8IsrHwUJHizj7-jyrxC-kiygxO5BVnYfWHU-aWECLOvFbi4p0TcM9USKsFSX1s7HIt1asb5/s1600/Squiggle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Blue Bowl Squiggle Notebooks" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfN7pBf5mLsmM2oowLH0PYjQjbEhomMhxA6-sG108sJKXjXnVZLfCf1iP8pp388tf7m2p5A8IsrHwUJHizj7-jyrxC-kiygxO5BVnYfWHU-aWECLOvFbi4p0TcM9USKsFSX1s7HIt1asb5/s320/Squiggle.jpg" title="Blue Bowl Squiggle Notebooks" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://www.beeswaxwraps.co.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Beeswax Wraps</a> - the ultimate stocking filler or present for someone you just don't know that well. Everyone I know got these last year. A clingfilm replacement that is easy to wrap, easy to post and is a small UK based company. There's nothing about this I don't love.<br />
<a href="https://www.blackdragonpress.co.uk/collections/all" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><br /></a>
<a href="https://www.blackdragonpress.co.uk/collections/all" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Black Dragon Press</a> - I love my Agatha Christie prints from here - they look fantastic.<br />
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<a href="https://www.bluebowl.co.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Blue Bowl </a>- always my first port of call for any present and at Christmas I find I can usually do the majority of my presents here. From stocking fillers (<a href="https://www.bluebowl.co.uk/collections/blue-bowl-faves/products/gold-tassel-earrings" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">these tassel earrings</a> are beautiful and there's <a href="https://www.bluebowl.co.uk/collections/for-men/products/beardscent" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">beard balm </a>for your hairier other half) to <a href="https://www.bluebowl.co.uk/collections/for-children" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">kids stuff </a>via really unusual things in between. <a href="https://www.bluebowl.co.uk/search?type=product&q=squiggle" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The stationary</a> is out of this world (we all know I can't resist a<a href="https://www.bluebowl.co.uk/collections/for-women/products/squiggle-notebook" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> notebook)</a> and this <a href="https://www.bluebowl.co.uk/collections/for-women/products/drum-gold-charm" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">drum charm</a> is stunning. Everything is carefully curated and thought about - the zip bags are handmade with vintage fabrics - I adore this <a href="https://www.bluebowl.co.uk/collections/for-women/products/jungle-zip-bag" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">jungle print</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://www.nkuku.com/search?q=brass+spoons" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Brass Spoons</a> - make a lovely stocking filler and I think the <a href="https://www.nkuku.com/products/stag-brass-spoon-ss32" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">stags</a> and <a href="https://www.nkuku.com/products/elephant-brass-spoon-es32" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">elephants</a> are particularly appealing. £6.95<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiYXuLtwtIVIRuXhKyblVJ7ZAppkXPxckV6a0OUPJ84TSyy2iJjAm2NhnEyKoy7bcV0R6BLDakIU7bo88rxya_rczU-3DNVNEjpIV3vzjXKkv6qTYBvwWfT5AdbXDXKtnHkoFPIL_6tMB6/s1600/Chambers+%2526+Beau+necklace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Chambers & Beau Mini Lunar necklace" border="0" data-original-height="550" data-original-width="550" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiYXuLtwtIVIRuXhKyblVJ7ZAppkXPxckV6a0OUPJ84TSyy2iJjAm2NhnEyKoy7bcV0R6BLDakIU7bo88rxya_rczU-3DNVNEjpIV3vzjXKkv6qTYBvwWfT5AdbXDXKtnHkoFPIL_6tMB6/s320/Chambers+%2526+Beau+necklace.jpg" title="Chambers & Beau Mini Lunar necklace" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://www.chambersandbeau.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Chambers & Beau</a> - I'm obsessed with this jewellery. You know when you love a brand partly because you love the person behind the brand. Well that's what happened here. The jewellery is stunning and made by an incredible woman. Members of my beauty group will know I love a lightening bolt so this brand is perfect for me. The <a href="https://www.chambersandbeau.com/shop/cufflinks/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">cufflinks</a> can be personalised are are lovely - I really like the <a href="https://www.chambersandbeau.com/jewellery/personalised-sequin-cufflinks/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">sequin</a> ones. I particularly want the<a href="https://www.chambersandbeau.com/jewellery/mini-luna-initial-necklace/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> mini lunar necklace</a> with my sons initials on. I have charms on my necklace and I'm always losing them - <a href="https://www.chambersandbeau.com/jewellery/mini-luna-initial-necklace/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">one of these would be heaven</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://www.grahamandgreen.co.uk/set-of-two-gold-mice-cheese-knives" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Cheese Knives</a> - these are very cool and ideal for the foodie man in your life or as a house gift.<br />
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<a href="https://desmondanddempsey.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Desmond & Dempsey</a> - when I'm a grown-up I shall own a pair of these pyjamas. <a href="https://desmondanddempsey.com/collections/women/products/the-jag-print-womens-long-series-navy" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Hopefully these ones</a>. But for now <a href="https://desmondanddempsey.com/search?type=product&q=eye+mask" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">the eye masks</a> are more in my budget - I love the<a href="https://desmondanddempsey.com/products/navy-pink-tiger-eyemask" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Sansindo Tiger print one </a>as it's most likely to withstand the mascara onslaught. From £15<br />
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<a href="https://www.dilligrey.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Dilli Grey</a> - Indian-inspired, ethically sourced clothes and homeware. I love <a href="https://www.dilligrey.com/search?q=elephant" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">these elephants </a>so much I couldn't wait for Christmas and have one above my bed. Their<a href="https://www.dilligrey.com/collections/sleepwear?page=1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> sleepwear </a>is incredibly reasonably priced - for those of you who have wanted my sadly-discontinued floral dressing gown, <a href="https://www.dilligrey.com/search?q=dressing+gown" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">these kimonos </a>are the closest thing I've found and they are stunning.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT0XZ9rLXF2IpcmkQRCTzDINny8joGsRc-izQS50IIHCPRNQ3l-2CfSswFX-kuVvkaKInkyiAUXvjBrbg-h056v7hqkL_EyGNblEg5dJLaAfpXIy0wEyI8rVyeVsVbTb0vQLQVNxFgg5Kz/s1600/IMG_0756.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Dilli Grey Kimono Dressing Gown" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT0XZ9rLXF2IpcmkQRCTzDINny8joGsRc-izQS50IIHCPRNQ3l-2CfSswFX-kuVvkaKInkyiAUXvjBrbg-h056v7hqkL_EyGNblEg5dJLaAfpXIy0wEyI8rVyeVsVbTb0vQLQVNxFgg5Kz/s320/IMG_0756.JPG" title="Dilli Grey Kimono Dressing Gown" width="240" /></a><br />
<a href="https://www.nkuku.com/products/chara-hammered-bottle-lines-cb08" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Hammered Glass Bottles </a>- I love the shape of these - the small one in particular. £16.95<br />
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<a href="https://www.grahamandgreen.co.uk/light-a-balls" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Light-A-Ball</a> - how cool are these? Great for a bit of Christmas cheer or just as an awesome light feature all year round. From £7.30<br />
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<a href="mailto:contact@corinnaharrod.com" target="_blank">LimeLife Walk in the Woods Candle</a> - this candle smells incredible. And it's not just a candle when the soy wax is melted it won't burn you but can be used as an incredible softening hand treatment. And when you've finished the pot looks gorgeous and you can keep stuff in it. You have to contact me to get your hands on one of these.<br />
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<a href="https://www.grahamandgreen.co.uk/mouse-lamps" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mouse Lamps</a> - these are appealing... but I don't mind mice. They come in <a href="https://www.grahamandgreen.co.uk/gold-mouse-lamps" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">gold</a> and <a href="https://www.grahamandgreen.co.uk/mouse-lamps" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">white</a> (my preference). I like the standing one best, it looks like it's offering you the light to help you read. From £63<br />
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<a href="https://www.lakeland.co.uk/60019/Mrs-Bridges-Savoury-Chutney-Trio-in-a-Jute-Gift-Bag-3-x-100g" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mrs Bridges Chutney Trio</a> - I miss the pre-child Christmases where I would treat myself with a 'big shop' from Lakeland to get all my Christmas party bits. It's also a great place to get presents and the famous Mrs Bridges Chutney's come in this cute trio with a jute bag - a great foodie present or house gift.<br />
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<a href="https://www.nkuku.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Nikuku </a>- have a lot of lovely things and 10% off your first order. You'd be able get quite a few things from here I think. These <a href="https://www.nkuku.com/products/sanwi-standing-star-brass-ss26?variant=16691154255970" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">brass star lanterns</a> are chic and festive, I love <a href="https://www.nkuku.com/products/elephant-brass-hooks-bh05" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">these hooks</a> and this <a href="https://www.nkuku.com/collections/gifts-for-her/products/beme-brass-heart-pot-bp32" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">heart dish</a> is delightful.<br />
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<a href="https://www.plasticsfree.co.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Plastics Free</a> - for those trying to be more ethical in their shopping this year I <i>love </i>this shop. I've already got the steel straws for the kids stockings and am going to order the hair cubes in my next shop. If you need inspiration they have a <a href="https://www.plasticsfree.co.uk/gifts" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">great gift selection</a> - the <a href="https://www.plasticsfree.co.uk/product-page/wildflower-beebombs" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">bee bombs</a> are great for the present drawer,<br />
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/redfacesprints?source=aw&awc=6091_1543505665_fb2df8e4131f4e3e958bcd288b934d2f&utm_source=affiliate_window&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=uk_location_buyer&utm_content=196545" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Red Face Prints</a> - I love these vintage style prints. Although there isn't one of my area of London (not trendy enough?) I love the ones of Richmond Park and the South Bank.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilwym_DX-GHCrJE2CTcqNDM8_RQAPLaK_UINTzVivGXTZT6apUEHmjAuONGkcpKxg9tWd22A0DrnKzjjeQQp1MI_TQyZV10uKiRhuNDh2BKkABB43_iwIV5drPXlDkLywf9ebTKB9igtGm/s1600/Red+Face+Prints.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Red Face Prints - South Bank" border="0" data-original-height="807" data-original-width="570" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilwym_DX-GHCrJE2CTcqNDM8_RQAPLaK_UINTzVivGXTZT6apUEHmjAuONGkcpKxg9tWd22A0DrnKzjjeQQp1MI_TQyZV10uKiRhuNDh2BKkABB43_iwIV5drPXlDkLywf9ebTKB9igtGm/s320/Red+Face+Prints.jpg" title="Red Face Prints - South Bank" width="226" /></a><a href="https://www.nkuku.com/products/rose-bottle-stop-rb19" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Rose Bottle Stopper </a>- I've never been one for a bottle stopper but I love these rose shaped ones and the vintage gold and silver finishes.<br />
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<a href="https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=1203&awinaffid=318011&clickref=&p=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.johnlewis.com%2Fbrowse%2Fhome-garden%2Fcandles-home-fragrance%2Fcandles-home-fragrance%2Fcandles%2Fskandinavisk%2F_%2FN-ccbZ1z0isn6" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Skandinavisk</a> - one of the few candle makers who makes products that you can really smell. Even when these aren't lit you can get a waft making them worth their slightly higher-end price tag. Skog is my absolute favourite.<br />
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<a href="https://bambooclothing.co.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Socks</a> - surely a stocking staple and my favourite socks are these bamboo ones from BAM. Super soft and hardwearing.<br />
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<a href="https://www.susiewatsondesigns.co.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Susie Watson</a> - love Susie Watson designs and have her material for the curtains in my bedroom. This <a href="https://www.susiewatsondesigns.co.uk/domed-glass-candle-holder-3.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">domed glass candle holder is heaven</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://www.susiewatsondesigns.co.uk/scented-candlepot-birds-bees.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Susie Watson Candle Pot </a>- I love Susie Watson designs and have her material for the curtains in my bedroom. These candle pots are sweet and would be really useful for teaspoons, hair ties, teabags when the candle's long gone. £15<br />
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<a href="https://go.magik.ly/ml/i2y2/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">White Company Winter Candle </a>- it's not so much the candle that I'm interested in though I have an almost obsessional love for a candle, but the gorgeous mercury pot it comes in which I would use as a trinket dish on my dressing table afterwards.Corinna Harrodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09207300435514063231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9072116156163252739.post-49257079916078497622018-11-28T07:30:00.000+00:002018-11-28T07:30:01.293+00:00Christmas Gift Ideas for ChildrenThis one was really popular last year - kids are hard to buy for especially if you are trying to avoid the plastic tat route! If you have godchildren, nieces and nephews or any littlies to buy for that aren't yours it can be hard to know where to start. Well you can start here...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmFId95BukiV6pqThIcxdiUEYJPWX3uH_Fw2k1x7Ft6wpGrqwvtynu8lJsBRwrVwTQ0w9cEoT9vPsG1FyChwlt5rnxSiKsf6DAYHye_bJap5p6KIK4w081vo0cA_uT6ypM4Lk0n1B4WDjB/s1600/IMG_1283.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Gift Ideas in a collage of 4 " border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmFId95BukiV6pqThIcxdiUEYJPWX3uH_Fw2k1x7Ft6wpGrqwvtynu8lJsBRwrVwTQ0w9cEoT9vPsG1FyChwlt5rnxSiKsf6DAYHye_bJap5p6KIK4w081vo0cA_uT6ypM4Lk0n1B4WDjB/s1600/IMG_1283.JPG" title="Gift ideas" /></a></div>
<a href="https://www.aquarterof.co.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a><br />
<a name='more'></a><a href="https://www.aquarterof.co.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">A Quarter of </a>- if you are going to buy your kids sweets, make them good ones. This is like your old fashioned sweet shop with all the sweeties you loved as a child.<br />
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<a href="https://www.grahamandgreen.co.uk/lighting/lights/animal-lights" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Animal lights</a> - a lovely addition to a children's bedroom or playroom. They have dinosaurs, flamingos and unicorns. Available in 2 sizes from £12.95<br />
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<a href="https://search.gltc.co.uk/search?w=child%27s+apron" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Apron </a>- these are really sweet and can be personalised - great for cooking and craft.<a href="https://www.gltc.co.uk/products/childs-apron-mr-fox" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> I love the fox one</a>. Currently from £13.95 in the sale.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheYzmY2QgzL5hsIgM0KxFS5ok4bk9F_76Io7rIyrTdikJ63FHcrid3q60bwEIjGZ-luw6PytbSSRNtAvhWCc1eWvlSajJwOAgPvnSu0yojs0Gu98h7aCkGmPoQygm3At9weD0SjbLM4ljD/s1600/Junior_Tool_Box_1024x1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Wooden Tool Kit from Blue Bowl" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheYzmY2QgzL5hsIgM0KxFS5ok4bk9F_76Io7rIyrTdikJ63FHcrid3q60bwEIjGZ-luw6PytbSSRNtAvhWCc1eWvlSajJwOAgPvnSu0yojs0Gu98h7aCkGmPoQygm3At9weD0SjbLM4ljD/s320/Junior_Tool_Box_1024x1024.jpg" title="Wooden Tool Kit" width="320" /></a><a href="https://uk.lush.com/products/ickle-baby-bot" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Bath Bombs</a> - my kids love a bath bomb and, if you get it from the right place, they are a wonderful plastic-free, tat-free option. They smell great, look great and there's no evidence of it after it's gone. <a href="https://uk.lush.com/products/ickle-baby-bot" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">These ones from Lush are child-friendly, purse-friendly and look great</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://www.plasticsfree.co.uk/product-page/wildflower-beebombs" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Bee Bombs </a>- I love these. Every now and again I throw one into my garden and hope for the spring.<br />
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<a href="https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=3787&awinaffid=318011&clickref=&p=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.waterstones.com%2Fbooks%2Fsearch%2Fterm%2Fbingo" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Bingo </a>- lots of varieties available. We have the bird one and love it - I'd quite like to get under the sea too!<br />
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<a href="https://scoutandcokids.com/collections/new-arrivals/products/meri-meri-black-cat-purse" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Black Cat Pouch</a> - such a sweet little purse or pouch for special things. Festive sparkly ears but perfect for all year round. £12.50<br />
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<a href="https://www.bluebowl.co.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Blue Bowl</a> - you can do all your Christmas shopping in one place and it's here. But as this is a post for <a href="https://www.bluebowl.co.uk/collections/for-children?page=1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Childrens gift ideas</a> I'll stick to those for now. There's loads to choose from - <a href="https://www.bluebowl.co.uk/collections/for-children/products/wooden-train-set" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">wooden train set</a>, <a href="https://www.bluebowl.co.uk/collections/for-children/products/toy-chopping-sets" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">vegetable chopping set</a>, <a href="https://www.bluebowl.co.uk/collections/for-children/products/pom-pom-hairties" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">pom pom hair ties</a> (another great one for the emergency present drawer) and <a href="https://www.bluebowl.co.uk/collections/for-children/products/pin-a-farm" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">pin-a-farm</a>. <a href="https://www.bluebowl.co.uk/collections/for-children/products/wooden-tool-box" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">This wooden tool box is incredible</a> and my 6 year old would love this<a href="https://www.bluebowl.co.uk/collections/for-children/products/portable-potion-kit" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> portable potion kit</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://www.brightcorner-shop.com/shop" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Bright Corner</a> - these are incredible. Little houses and tents made out of ply wood and lit with a lovely warm glow, even the cable has been thought about - it's fabric.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcecyQemM8TBBiC05oD3e2vhRA9dSa91kqo6XNVVm1xFSZPqPx8IrFky2X-LsdwNvltOTDGYquaGoJPalA_9ijHytkzF5dXv5IW8SoP34b46ldGS8MosgF-Uv-Hka59HJlUffkx8mKA72F/s1600/Graham_and_Green_dino_lights.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcecyQemM8TBBiC05oD3e2vhRA9dSa91kqo6XNVVm1xFSZPqPx8IrFky2X-LsdwNvltOTDGYquaGoJPalA_9ijHytkzF5dXv5IW8SoP34b46ldGS8MosgF-Uv-Hka59HJlUffkx8mKA72F/s320/Graham_and_Green_dino_lights.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://cottontwist.co.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Cotton Twist </a>- this has been my go-to for party bags and it is a fantastic place to go-to for tat-free stocking fillers and gift boxes. Taking your kids to someone else's house over the festive period? Take one of these <a href="https://cottontwist.co.uk/collections/gift-boxes" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">amazing craft kits</a> and they will have something to keep them occupied. I also love these <a href="https://cottontwist.co.uk/collections/christmas/products/personalised-letter-make-paint-christmas-decoration" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">letter decoration making kits</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://scoutandcokids.com/collections/new-arrivals/products/patchy-tiger-basic-custom-kids-jacket-rainbow-letters?variant=18539493883962" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Denim Jacket</a> - these customised denim jackets are heaven!<br />
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<a href="https://www.grahamandgreen.co.uk/dinosaur-string-lights" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Dino String Lights</a> - lovely for a dino loving kids room all year round. £32<br />
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<a href="http://jessicamesquita.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Jessica Mesquita Illustrations</a> - send in a picture of your kid and any pets, hobbies and she will create a beautiful illustration for you.<br />
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<a href="https://www.kidly.co.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Kidly </a>- a great place to find toys for all different ages and I love their <a href="https://www.kidly.co.uk/categories/featured/christmas-shop/go-green/4549" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Go Green</a> section.<br />
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<a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B004PZZCSG/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1634&creative=6738&creativeASIN=B004PZZCSG&linkCode=as2&tag=lit-21&linkId=9a722f57dfd484167d57245a9ac96db9" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Kid O Magnatab</a> - these are a huge hit with all of mine. You can get <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B004PZVX4I/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1634&creative=6738&creativeASIN=B004PZVX4I&linkCode=as2&tag=lit-21&linkId=6dc972e0ef5cc3dbbffa73975eb0a775" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">letters</a>, <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B004PZZCSG/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1634&creative=6738&creativeASIN=B004PZZCSG&linkCode=as2&tag=lit-21&linkId=9a722f57dfd484167d57245a9ac96db9" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">numbers</a> and <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B004PR49EM/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1634&creative=6738&creativeASIN=B004PR49EM&linkCode=as2&tag=lit-21&linkId=d8e2777c802c207c710dd12fa3a7ee20" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">freestyle</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkFwcHJwb2cmUdBEgBs-a6CDdedCFjoEcglJ50lIdbl63F3E_MYChtzkAY97_dL285szuLsXdZp4-pb_ZpOMSTFPxbusddQwn7PZE6exIcy2bfIfUF7do62H8MSHflrCF69iwuqOse3wZv/s1600/IMG_1902.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Ned Playing Kid O magnatab numbers" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkFwcHJwb2cmUdBEgBs-a6CDdedCFjoEcglJ50lIdbl63F3E_MYChtzkAY97_dL285szuLsXdZp4-pb_ZpOMSTFPxbusddQwn7PZE6exIcy2bfIfUF7do62H8MSHflrCF69iwuqOse3wZv/s320/IMG_1902.JPG" title="Kid O Magnatab Numbers" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.kidly.co.uk/products/plan-toys/make-up-set/7234" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Makeup Set </a>- this is pretty incredible though whether it will stop them stealing yours I don't know. £21.50<br />
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<a href="https://www.kidly.co.uk/products/matchstick-monkey/monkey-teether/4709?colour=yellow" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Matchstick Monkey</a> - also seen in my sons stocking last year this is the only teething toy any of my kids has shown any interest in. £10<br />
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<a href="https://merimeri.co.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Meri Meri </a>- lots of lovely little stocking fillers - <a href="https://merimeri.co.uk/collections/hair-accessories" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">hair clips</a> and jewellery are particularly pleasing. They also have lots of <a href="https://merimeri.co.uk/collections/christmas-selection" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">festive bits </a>you didn't know you need!<br />
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<a href="https://scoutandcokids.com/search?type=product&q=*nailmatic*" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Nailmatic</a> - some kids want makeup and nail varnish but it's a minefield trying to find stuff that isn't going to put nasties into them. Nailmatic have it sorted from soaps and lip balms to nail varnishes and bath bombs. Great for stockings, for the child you don't know that well, or as an emergency in your present drawer.<br />
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<a href="https://scoutandcokids.com/collections/new-arrivals/products/phil-phae-velvet-salopettes-graphite?variant=16668397338682" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Phil & Phae Salopettes</a> - gorgeous, velvet and ethical I wish these came in grown-up sizes.<br />
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<a href="https://www.playhooray.co.uk/playprompts" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Play Hooray</a> - Claire is an early years teacher and she has such wonderful ideas on how to get your child playing in all sorts of ways and mostly involving you being able to have a cup of tea. I have loads of her play prompt packs - my youngest got the <a href="https://www.playhooray.co.uk/playprompts" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">First Year play prompts</a> in his stocking last Christmas.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbTgdg7q1SWiwTC95h7QnjtOVM7hUb3BxUEYhw9hI7w66oQ979TYGMLyuET6emobfbowP-94XcuhxZP2ZeYnaNyhA6CHeo25Z236zo62K0qDHcxaAhjoO5tGS4gnCfn4pQCvsHOiFe8hSn/s1600/play+prompts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Play Hooray Play Prompts" border="0" data-original-height="1134" data-original-width="1100" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbTgdg7q1SWiwTC95h7QnjtOVM7hUb3BxUEYhw9hI7w66oQ979TYGMLyuET6emobfbowP-94XcuhxZP2ZeYnaNyhA6CHeo25Z236zo62K0qDHcxaAhjoO5tGS4gnCfn4pQCvsHOiFe8hSn/s320/play+prompts.jpg" title="Play Hooray Play Prompts" width="310" /></a><a href="https://www.polarpost.co.uk/collections/all" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Polar Post</a> - another great place to find unusual gift ideas including books and decorations. I love these <a href="https://www.polarpost.co.uk/products/box-of-glow-in-the-dark-stars" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">glow in the dark stars</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://www.thebrightcompany.uk/" rel="nofollow" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">Pyjamas </a><span style="text-align: center;">- I love these ones from </span><a href="https://www.thebrightcompany.uk/" rel="nofollow" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">The Bright Company</a><span style="text-align: center;">. Ned's TBC pyjama's are his favourites. The </span><a href="https://www.thebrightcompany.uk/collections/children/products/copy-of-slim-jyms-monsteria-forest" rel="nofollow" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">Montserra slim jims </a><span style="text-align: center;">are my favourites at the moment. </span><br />
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<a href="https://scoutandcokids.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Scout & Co</a> - one of those places where you can buy everything for your kids in one place! Lots of lovely ethical clothes and unusual toys.<br />
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<a href="https://kabloom.co.uk/shop/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Seedbom </a>- I love these. You can either get a <a href="https://kabloom.co.uk/product-category/single-seedboms/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">seedbom 'grenade' </a>or one of their lovely <a href="https://kabloom.co.uk/product-category/gift-sets/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">gift sets.</a> I'm particularly fond of the <a href="https://kabloom.co.uk/product/bee-hotel-pollinator-beebom-gift-set/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">bee hotel</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://www.smallbob.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Small Bob</a> - I really love the art deco style of the i<a href="https://www.smallbob.com/collections/prints?page=2" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">nitial prints here</a>. And you can <a href="https://www.smallbob.com/collections/build-your-own-bag" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">build your own gift bag </a>which is a lovely idea for a godchild.<br />
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<a href="https://www.littlegreenhome.co.uk/search?type=product&q=blafre" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Steel Water Bottle</a> - for the eco conscious this is actually really useful. Ned has to go take a water bottle to school, we're constantly looking for one to take to the park or in the car.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjir5Y9Z4mfoauboF0fyRIiOwEFyeyuF-C6K3RJ8HqKc8FyU8qgISOpizD5IyAic4fCbH-lK2_j9i7MF302ZVg_jNQPLOzLC3hz3mCgTSSADnovkfz4-LuOEomQKws2F3StI1Gqys6hQNmV/s1600/Tiger_Head_1024x1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Tiger Head from Blue Bowl" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjir5Y9Z4mfoauboF0fyRIiOwEFyeyuF-C6K3RJ8HqKc8FyU8qgISOpizD5IyAic4fCbH-lK2_j9i7MF302ZVg_jNQPLOzLC3hz3mCgTSSADnovkfz4-LuOEomQKws2F3StI1Gqys6hQNmV/s320/Tiger_Head_1024x1024.jpg" title="Make You Own Tiger Head" width="320" /></a><br />
<a href="https://search.gltc.co.uk/search?w=teepee+tent" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Teepee Tent</a> - not just lovely to have in the garden for summer, these can be put up as a den or reading nook during the winter too. From £60 in the sale.<br />
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<a href="https://www.bluebowl.co.uk/collections/for-children/products/make-your-own-majestic-tiger-head" target="_blank">Tiger Head Wall Decoration </a>- only £10 and made from recycled cardboard - make your own Tiger Head!<br />
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<a href="https://www.kidly.co.uk/products/bigjigs/twist-and-turn-puzzle-board/5933" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Turn & Twizzle Puzzle Board</a> - great for fine motor skills and doesn't take up too much space or look horrendous. £14<br />
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<a href="https://wonderandrah.co.uk/collections/childrens-prints?page=1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Wonder & Rah</a> - gorgeous prints for everyone though these ones I've selected are the children's ones. You can also get <a href="https://wonderandrah.co.uk/collections/initial-prints?page=2" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">personalised initial prints</a> and From £15<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Some links are affiliate links which means I will get a small commission if you click through and buy from them. There is no extra cost to you and if you are not comfortable with that then do feel free to open a separate window and google the product for yourself</i></span></span></div>
Corinna Harrodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09207300435514063231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9072116156163252739.post-54638473543171157322018-09-17T07:30:00.000+01:002018-09-17T07:30:08.954+01:00Packing CubesPacking cubes. I kept hearing about them and thinking, 'surely they are just extra faff'. I mean, can't you just fold more neatly? But packing for 2 adults and 3 children is the stuff of nightmares, no bags ever close, everything spills out, clothes, nappies and necessities are guaranteed to end up on a different floor to where they are needed. I was a woman at the end of my tether so <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B074M6GJPB/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1634&creative=6738&creativeASIN=B074M6GJPB&linkCode=as2&tag=lit-21&linkId=64fafb3e10fa50ece32dc328cb69de3b" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">I ordered some from Amazon</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkEx12NnjNdoG1bdITca4GJM4cySPC3Xu5yvsgJQEGIZIsiEqJLCPDk6NtKuTpzLSL4CGWBuFcbR9cukPjGuRDhSFh0aezMIh_tEwLnssVjcx-GlOg97D2UqkZ_VmVWUTthm2SOXiiWkOy/s1600/IMG_5747.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Packing Cubes" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkEx12NnjNdoG1bdITca4GJM4cySPC3Xu5yvsgJQEGIZIsiEqJLCPDk6NtKuTpzLSL4CGWBuFcbR9cukPjGuRDhSFh0aezMIh_tEwLnssVjcx-GlOg97D2UqkZ_VmVWUTthm2SOXiiWkOy/s1600/IMG_5747.JPG" title="Packing Cubes" /></a></div>
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I was prepared to be underwhelmed and wish for my £19.98 back but I was also desperate. They arrived. I put them to work immediately. The three children and I were going to go to my mother's house for the night - sounds simple but really isn't with one in nappies, one potty training and one who has been known to just wet his trousers rather than stop what he's doing. Also it was hot so I needed to pack swim nappies, sun cream, sun hats and other such fripperies.<br />
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I allocated each child a medium packing cube and I gave myself the large one. Not only did all my bags close but I had room to spare. I rolled all the clothes into the packing cubes and could have fitted in more. When we arrived I put each child's cube in his bedroom and that was it. It meant that said child or whichever poor adult was designated dresser could identify which clothes belonged to which child and the sight of my 5 year old wearing a 1 year olds onsie was less likely to be the first thing I saw in the morning.<br />
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When packing to go home I separated clothes into 2 cubes for clean clothes and 2 for dirty. The two dirty clothes got emptied into the utility room when I got home and that was that. The packing cubes had passed the first test with aplomb. But what about France for 2 weeks with all five of us? Believe me when I say packing was almost pleasurable. <i>Almost</i>. I mean. It's still a massive pain in the arse but being able to put aside clothes for that person and see what you've packed already made the whole thing more bearable. There was room in our case (which I helpfully filled from the markets in France) and packing at the end of the holiday took less than half the time it usually did. Again I sorted clothes into clean and dirty and then by children and grown-ups and unpacking was really easy.<br />
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<a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B074M6GJPB/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1634&creative=6738&creativeASIN=B074M6GJPB&linkCode=as2&tag=lit-21&linkId=64fafb3e10fa50ece32dc328cb69de3b" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">I really cannot recommend these highly enough.</a> They have made surely one of the most boring parts of adulting into slightly less of a trauma and the ones I chose came in green so that's a bonus.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;">Some links are affiliate links which means I will get a small commission if you click through and buy from them. There is no extra cost to you and if you are not comfortable with that then do feel free to open a separate window and google the product for yourself.</span></i></span></div>
Corinna Harrodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09207300435514063231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9072116156163252739.post-87729535749198257342018-06-25T07:30:00.000+01:002018-06-25T07:30:13.837+01:00NotebooksSome of you may know I have a stationary problem. Notebooks in particular. My family know I'm serious about something if I announce 'I'm going to start a new notebook'. I love ?? for my bullet journal because the squares really work for me but for other things I'm constantly gazing at notebooks I would buy and here are my latest favourites. For those super-organised amongst you these would make lovely Christmas gifts for friends so get in early.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw0-zTKcoiprsYQknVeB3ajnM8fIafLs7p-fPHlCGXOxGfeIAHF_vh1lc95bAR-WgSgaaICdxa8teqAFYZ_XBVTVeMH3tdo5MAMF0r8ZKMqPLeT-0wHqfu5ynMp6quuWZOJTvlC3Z1z1Kb/s1600/IMG_4459.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Notebook collage" border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw0-zTKcoiprsYQknVeB3ajnM8fIafLs7p-fPHlCGXOxGfeIAHF_vh1lc95bAR-WgSgaaICdxa8teqAFYZ_XBVTVeMH3tdo5MAMF0r8ZKMqPLeT-0wHqfu5ynMp6quuWZOJTvlC3Z1z1Kb/s1600/IMG_4459.JPG" title="4 notebook collage" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.bluebowl.co.uk/collections/paper/products/squiggle-notebook?variant=12225162674257" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">1. Blue Bowl Squiggle Notebook</a><br />
These are so beautiful it's hard to know which to choose. As pink and green is my favourite colour combo it's a no brainer for me. Available in my favourite A5 or handbag friendly A6. This are handmade in England using wood and recycled board. From £10<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh58HQkwF0i5nZ_DTAdpxiuspRQ6XoMgM9HwiNVum9zeRWBG2eZrpR22WWg1iwSuSERoF3EJWGq4j3Xv0zOGSltrfKutStww88YkWMTMd-8tl6AT5zMDRkdixDrzxMfa7YDE90yDER1cx5o/s1600/Notebook_Squiggle_Green_Trim4_1024x1024_Fotor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Blue Bowl Pink and Green squiggle notebook" border="0" data-original-height="684" data-original-width="831" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh58HQkwF0i5nZ_DTAdpxiuspRQ6XoMgM9HwiNVum9zeRWBG2eZrpR22WWg1iwSuSERoF3EJWGq4j3Xv0zOGSltrfKutStww88YkWMTMd-8tl6AT5zMDRkdixDrzxMfa7YDE90yDER1cx5o/s1600/Notebook_Squiggle_Green_Trim4_1024x1024_Fotor.jpg" title="Blue Bowl Squiggle Notebook" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=1203&awinaffid=318011&clickref=&p=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.johnlewis.com%2Fkate-spade-new-york-dipped-initial-notebook%2Fd%2Fp3246603" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">2. Kate Spade Dipped Initial Notebook</a><br />
It's a sign that the C is in my favourite colour (green). I am not a fan of notebooks with things written on the front but true to form these Kate Spade ones are really chic and the choice of colours are lovely. Hardback and with a silk marker so you can keep your place this has 200 lined pages. Would make great hen party favours or presents for your girl gang. £16<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtr8EGQQJf-FuRuCPGQocfGr5XM-B3oveVXGiBeJFgJiaIRuJ45MGxhYEO63X_GVAvjPlHMqB0v5d-e1nRwU9ZPi2cCSQM7ZXgavd6_qJNHd3H-vPuFByp8OBuitVydX8dVmlkm9wloiwf/s1600/kate+spade+notebook_Fotor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Kate Spade C Initial Notebook" border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="901" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtr8EGQQJf-FuRuCPGQocfGr5XM-B3oveVXGiBeJFgJiaIRuJ45MGxhYEO63X_GVAvjPlHMqB0v5d-e1nRwU9ZPi2cCSQM7ZXgavd6_qJNHd3H-vPuFByp8OBuitVydX8dVmlkm9wloiwf/s1600/kate+spade+notebook_Fotor.jpg" title="Kate Spade Initial Notebook" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=1203&awinaffid=318011&clickref=&p=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.johnlewis.com%2Fsearch%3Fsearch-term%3Dportico%2520sky%2520notebook" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">3. Portico Sky & Miller Notebook</a><br />
These make a great present because you can choose the colour or symbol to suit your friend. My friend Becca would love the orange one with the bee on the front and Florence would want the blue elephant one, I'd like the green leaf. These are made from cruelty free Italian faux leather but feel like the real deal. Usually £25 but some are reduced to £17.50 at time of writing.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibE1-Nqz-IpqhPK5pIErf-UqZX8u1oxGmD4UaAhiq9Yzs-7_7chf6Tsq3twQJ_w3xiWQX8kRbQ3VJY5AREkL8ucStpSe9VFOEV6inRWpydLKLnEU0UmsyjbwSlQbMVskBtV3G5simRdo5A/s1600/Portico_leaf_notebook.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Portico Sky & Miller Leaf Notebook" border="0" data-original-height="1494" data-original-width="1100" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibE1-Nqz-IpqhPK5pIErf-UqZX8u1oxGmD4UaAhiq9Yzs-7_7chf6Tsq3twQJ_w3xiWQX8kRbQ3VJY5AREkL8ucStpSe9VFOEV6inRWpydLKLnEU0UmsyjbwSlQbMVskBtV3G5simRdo5A/s1600/Portico_leaf_notebook.jpg" title="Portico Sky & Miller Notebook" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=1203&awinaffid=318011&clickref=&p=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.johnlewis.com%2Ffenella-smith-ostrich-notebook%2Fp3373298" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">4. Fenella Smith Notebook</a><br />
These are really fun with great prints and foil finishes. I love the palm and toucan or the ostrich. These have an elastic fastening so great for sticking in your bag. £11.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLcA-UzCIc3PhTKXCPS_cQmuvX5R08fFIhxKrldHpm4VtCnctjYvXKTP9eKHyNr1HrT8xSYfNVkL4yNpTp6sRTQySgXiPDn9EKPUay2NlPl8xJkzwJKQXrX9UXhU_7uvwBIPVA-pfzJTKr/s1600/fenella+smith+ostrich.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Fenella Smith Ostrich Notebook" border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLcA-UzCIc3PhTKXCPS_cQmuvX5R08fFIhxKrldHpm4VtCnctjYvXKTP9eKHyNr1HrT8xSYfNVkL4yNpTp6sRTQySgXiPDn9EKPUay2NlPl8xJkzwJKQXrX9UXhU_7uvwBIPVA-pfzJTKr/s1600/fenella+smith+ostrich.jpeg" title="Fenella Smith Ostrich Notebook" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/PoachMyLobster" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">5. Poach My Lobster Notebook</a><br />
Simple eye-catching notebooks designed for foodies. I absolutely adore the blue lobster notebook - surely this is <i>the</i> perfect blue. These have plain, fountain pen friendly paper perfect for those who hate the confines of a line. I think I'm going to have to get one as my next blog notes book - plain paper is a must. £15<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Z33aqaMXdJmiGZYu3UVVUn1RerdD_Uc1IXBkWlKSj_QvnlEymWNhosSX4XkExvNou9Wih5A0ggP-pD-YdoBOVDm9et4927mVN0ru9fhb4vKQMZ2FmJs-07dyEjbB00eTQtGCs-kmHQA1/s1600/Poach+my+lobster_Fotor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Poach My Lobster Notebook" border="0" data-original-height="634" data-original-width="443" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Z33aqaMXdJmiGZYu3UVVUn1RerdD_Uc1IXBkWlKSj_QvnlEymWNhosSX4XkExvNou9Wih5A0ggP-pD-YdoBOVDm9et4927mVN0ru9fhb4vKQMZ2FmJs-07dyEjbB00eTQtGCs-kmHQA1/s1600/Poach+my+lobster_Fotor.jpg" title="Poach My Lobster Notebook" /></a></div>
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Which are your favourites and are there some that I've missed?Corinna Harrodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09207300435514063231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9072116156163252739.post-42558368940147057062018-05-14T06:00:00.000+01:002018-05-14T06:00:04.539+01:00Non-disposable razorsWhen I first became obsessed with plastic, and obsessed isn't an overstatement, it was toothbrushes and disposable razors that flipped the switch. It was the middle of the night, my third baby was about 5 days old, I was in the bathroom (they don't tell you this but when you have just given birth you spend a lot of time in the bathroom for various reasons I won't go into here) and I suddenly thought, 'those razors I shaved my legs with before I went to Abi's party [I was 15] is still out there somewhere, exactly the same, somewhere in the sea or in a landfill' and 'the toothbrush I cleaned my teeth with on our first holiday to Cornwall when I was 2... that's still out there somewhere'. Suddenly every nostalgic thought had a detrimental ecological effect attached to it. Watching my husband change our tiny babies nappy I thought of the nappies my dad might have (but didn't) change are out there somewhere.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_jG1LchqAGHY5YGe__FlPAjl8vWTwebPmXeUzJWkhk_ZAFYrESoXxvCYvjDTmnbVlW1MKqS1aD_jeJDQ7FMs32tFOY7MJ6OGSnt3Q3NYn7_bEdcxM36ti0UJu3LBELZLhw54egjAwgq-E/s1600/Razor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_jG1LchqAGHY5YGe__FlPAjl8vWTwebPmXeUzJWkhk_ZAFYrESoXxvCYvjDTmnbVlW1MKqS1aD_jeJDQ7FMs32tFOY7MJ6OGSnt3Q3NYn7_bEdcxM36ti0UJu3LBELZLhw54egjAwgq-E/s1600/Razor.jpg" /></a></div>
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I felt overwhelmed. But then I thought I'd just do one thing at a time and see how I got on. The first thing I did was order up some non-disposable razors for my husband and I. I searched on Amazon (not very good I know) and decided to get <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B00NEVYV66/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1634&creative=6738&creativeASIN=B00NEVYV66&linkCode=as2&tag=lit-21&linkId=e0b378018d88a73a26337d8f30eea3ac" target="_blank">Jagen David Double Edge Razor</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-uk.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=lit-21&l=am2&o=2&a=B00NEVYV66" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />, they come with a travel case which helps, and some <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B0076126L2/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1634&creative=6738&creativeASIN=B0076126L2&linkCode=as2&tag=lit-21&linkId=ddea0d1fbdf00187535a2a9bd979af6a" target="_blank">Derby Extra Double Edge Razor Blades</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-uk.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=lit-21&l=am2&o=2&a=B0076126L2" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />.<br />
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This has been one of the most successful plastic swaps I have to say. I was slightly imagining my husband would hate the razor and sneakily go back to using disposables but not at all. It's possible he slices his face a bit more than he did before but he's getting better. I know I shouldn't shave my legs (and armpits if you must know) but I don't have the time or money to get waxed and ideally I'd like to get it all lazered. So once I'm back at work I'll be saving for that. Until the though this has been great. I haven't cut myself, a razor blade lasts loads longer than a disposable and when they are too blunt to use I debobble my clothes with them.<br />
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So far the only problem I've come across is the disposal of the blades. I've been using an old plastic tub (from my Japonesque Brush cleaner). Not only is it much better for the environment it is so much cheaper. I mean £7 for 100 blades, £12 for the razor. For monetary reasons alone it's worth making the switch.<br />
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This is the <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B00NEVYV66/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1634&creative=6738&creativeASIN=B00NEVYV66&linkCode=as2&tag=lit-21&linkId=a61359e45f36e29199e565a42790fa1d" target="_blank">razor</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-uk.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=lit-21&l=am2&o=2&a=B00NEVYV66" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> and <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B0076126L2/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1634&creative=6738&creativeASIN=B0076126L2&linkCode=as2&tag=lit-21&linkId=6ed634eec027f256cad0c925347ff456" target="_blank">blades</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-uk.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=lit-21&l=am2&o=2&a=B0076126L2" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> that I use but obviously there are loads out there so you can have a google around and see what takes your fancy.Corinna Harrodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09207300435514063231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9072116156163252739.post-84404837285037162212018-04-23T08:00:00.000+01:002018-04-23T08:00:16.535+01:00Mama Designs Quilted Playmat<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6pH6Gki0WfyyuZafNcgOjNq8voKWtGNVczaCs6TfC1nxTZRGY6fWLncDDRMUxrWz9n21RDTBePYN1gSX-a3PPsbx0hdrZGIlBtDX8-XLaT8NCsUTv4mVZC_QJsr05CibTDU4gS7E0rlNr/s1600/jack_play_mat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6pH6Gki0WfyyuZafNcgOjNq8voKWtGNVczaCs6TfC1nxTZRGY6fWLncDDRMUxrWz9n21RDTBePYN1gSX-a3PPsbx0hdrZGIlBtDX8-XLaT8NCsUTv4mVZC_QJsr05CibTDU4gS7E0rlNr/s320/jack_play_mat.jpg" width="240" /></a>It's hard to know what to get a 5 month old for Christmas, especially if that 5 month old is the third child. We were just going to count his monkey music classes as his Christmas present. He'd never know, we don't need any more plastic and he <i>loves </i>monkey music. But then <a href="https://www.mamadesigns.co.uk/" rel="nofollow">Mama Designs </a>came out with this luxury quilted play mat a couple of weeks before Christmas and it looked so good I pre-ordered it.<br />
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<a href="https://www.mamadesigns.co.uk/" rel="nofollow">Mama Designs</a> is a company I've been aware of for sometime but only since having Jim (in the middle) so I've had to just resist its lovely temptations. But the playmat spoke to me. And for so many reasons.<br />
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It's a great size. It doesn't take up vast amounts of room, it's not so much fabric that someone of 5'2" struggles to lift it, you can pack it in a bag or the back of the car and it barely takes up any space. It comes with a storage bag with a drawstring so you can pack this away and store it somewhere - it will stay clean and ready for use and fits easily into the bottom of a suitcase.<br />
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We have 2 dogs, a metric ton of lego and quite a lot of jewellry making beads. Before Jack was mobile it was so nice to be able to put this down on the floor and know that he was sitting or lying somewhere clean and that was just his. Even the big brothers learned that this was a lego-free zone. When it arrived, before he could sit up it was so great to be able to put this down on the floor and lie him on it without having to worry about how clean the floor was.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwPl2t9eukvwQUdwv9kwZZZPepQbdsDaN4PjF_yoqQAHJj6-2PvuglPXW8qlpRgIZeBGioZ-_m-KaL0gYKwgfF9erUMh0eBNbyBwIzDFUAF5q-4V2uvwrR-VDiTextsRhYK_T0GGe4uhfN/s1600/Jack_Play_mat_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1432" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwPl2t9eukvwQUdwv9kwZZZPepQbdsDaN4PjF_yoqQAHJj6-2PvuglPXW8qlpRgIZeBGioZ-_m-KaL0gYKwgfF9erUMh0eBNbyBwIzDFUAF5q-4V2uvwrR-VDiTextsRhYK_T0GGe4uhfN/s320/Jack_Play_mat_2.jpg" width="286" /></a>Now Jack is at bum shuffle stage (none of mine have been quick to reach any milestones!) so he doesn't stay on the mat for long, but i place this and the soft base to the playpen round and it means on those times when he just keels over (quite often) he doesn't have quite such a heavy landing. It's also nice to have somewhere to put his toys so he's not just roaming around grabbing whatever we can. I quite often put out his musical toys, or something of all one colour.<br />
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I've got to the slightly sad and yet exciting phase where I'm selling baby stuff - the jumperoo has just been listed on Facebook - but this i'm going to wash, fold and keep. My friends are very tolerant of my dogs and chaos but even I wanted my tiny babies to lie somewhere soft and clean and this will be kept for any visiting babies. It is also going to come with us to France in the summer where we are renting a house - you can never tell how soft someone else's travel cot mattress will be and this will be perfect to add a bit of comfort under the sheet.<br />
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It is beautifully designed - we have the grey with the turquoise trim but you can also get it with a pink trim. It's 100% cotton, really soft and you can wash at 40.<br />
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Would make a lovely gift for a pregnant friend or new born baby. Baby showers seem to be more and more of an event in the UK nowadays and this would make a lovely gift to take that they won't get loads of duplicates for.<br />
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If I'd known about this brand when I was getting things for Ned (my eldest) I would definitely have bought the <a href="https://www.mamadesigns.co.uk/product/babasac/" rel="nofollow">Babasac's </a>which are just fantastic and mean you don't have to buy loads of different sleeping bags - the designs are really lovely and unusual too. The<a href="https://www.mamadesigns.co.uk/product/bamboo-washable-breast-pads/" rel="nofollow"> bamboo washable breast pads</a> look great too - bamboo breast pads revolutionised my life when feeding Jack so much more comfortable and easy to use.<br />
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<br />Corinna Harrodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09207300435514063231noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9072116156163252739.post-24808467475412856972018-03-19T09:00:00.000+00:002018-03-19T09:00:19.102+00:00PancakesI think this is originally taken from the Annabel Karmel weaning book. It's one of the few things I can make with the children that isn't cake or biscuit based that they simply adore so I do it from memory now. This is a great one to make with children, measuring flour, sieving, mixing in eggs and milk and then they are really quick to cook. Fluffy American-style pancakes may be all the rage but mine prefer these and you can<a href="http://www.blueskyandbunting.com/2011/06/leftover-bolognese-pancake-bake.html" rel="nofollow"> make bakes with them</a> too! My oldest two have them with maple syrup, the baby has bits with butter and my husband has golden syrup. I'd love to say we have them with bananas and blueberries but that would be lying.<br />
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<a name='more'></a>PANCAKES<br />
<i>Makes about 14</i><br />
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100g flour, sieved<br />
pinch of salt<br />
2 eggs<br />
300ml milk<br />
large knob of butter, melted<br />
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You'll need a smallish frying pan for making the cakes. I make this all in one bowl and spoon into the pan with a tablespoon - a <a _blank="" href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B00N0K9F4O/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1634&creative=6738&creativeASIN=B00N0K9F4O&linkCode=as2&tag=lit-21&linkId=65c36baa0e1c47daaf7bc51ffa7e39a1">Silicone baking Brush</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="//ir-uk.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=lit-21&l=am2&o=2&a=B00N0K9F4O" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> is useful for brushing the pan with butter.<br />
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1. Sieve the flour into a mixing bowl, make a well in the centre and add the eggs.<br />
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2. With a balloon whisk, mix the eggs into the flour then gradually whisk in the milk until just smooth.<br />
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3. Brush a frying pan with melted butter and when it's hot, spoon in 2 tablespoons worth of batter, and cook for a minute or so then flip it over.<br />
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Serve with maple syrup and fruit if you can get it into them... needless to say mine just have maple syrup.<br />
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<br />Corinna Harrodhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09207300435514063231noreply@blogger.com0