I definitely could have done better at being thrifty this month. However tomorrow is a new month for trying again. Update on my phone iy ended up being replaced as it couldn't be fixed and as it was under warranty I didn't need to pay anything phew. So that is definitely a plus for this past month.
Second hand dress
I managed to get a dress to wear for a wedding in August for under £10 off Vinted. Now I just need to find shoes and handbag to go with it.
*This is a collaborative post
Shaping bodysuits stand as a contemporary marvel in the world of fashion. In recent times, their popularity has skyrocketed, and they have proved themselves as key items in any modern wardrobe. We truly appreciate how these handy, stylish bodysuits make us look and feel, offering a smooth, fashionable silhouette.
For a more sophisticated, streamlined look,
try pairing a thong bodysuit with a satin skirt. If you're opting for a
relaxed, casual vibe, wear it with jeans; you won't have to worry about shirt
tucking issues anymore. Bodysuits also offer a sleek base layer under your
favorite leather or denim jacket.
Eager to know how to pick the best shapewear? Fear not! The process resembles that
of choosing shapewear: considering a few important factors. Along with
referring to a bodysuit size chart, here's what you need to know:
Your bodysuit's length should perfectly
match that of your torso, be it long, average, or short. Ensure that the
bodysuit has sufficient fabric length to cover you comfortably, without being
too tight or overly loose. When trying a bodysuit design like a thong for the
first time, test it while wearing the bra you intend to pair it with. Some
movement, like a few squats, will give you a feel for how it sits and moves
with your body.
For the best fit, PowerConceal™ 2.0
V-Neck Thong Bodysuit is highly recommended.
PowerConceal™
2.0 V-Neck Thong Bodysuit
PowerConceal™ 2.0 V-Neck Thong Bodysuit
features robust non-adjustable straps for unwavering support, complemented by
precise center front and side stitching for enhanced contouring. Furthermore,
the inclusion of a cotton gusset with snap closure maximizes comfort and
ensures ease of use.
*This is a collaborative post
The education space has changed at a rapid pace over the last decade making it difficult for the educational institutions to keep up. Schools face a myriad of challenges that are likely to hinder their performance and have a direct impact on student outcomes.
Besides offering a high-quality learning
environment, schools have several different metrics to work on. Whether it's
offering ample training opportunities with the help of excellent HR
advice for schools or struggling to find sufficient
funding, the first step towards excelling in your school performance is
identification.
Post that, you can take the first step towards
initiating meaningful change in your learning institution. In this article, we
will explore the critical reasons that contribute towards your school’s
underperformance.
When you address these issues, you will be on the
path of improvement and growth in due time.
1. Inadequate Mental Health Support
Today, students are increasingly exposed to a wide
range of stressors ranging from academic, social and personal expectations. For
a child to deal with all of these aspects on their own can have a negative
influence on their mental health.
This is all the more alarming when your school
lacks effective mental health support systems, worsening the issue further. You
might notice signs of disengagement, increased absenteeism, and poor academic
performance among children indicating the need for mental health support.
Your support could range from offering
comprehensive systems for childhood
depression treatment and anxiety to providing well-vetted
and qualified counsellors who can help students identify their triggers and
problems.
Research indicates that schools without
comprehensive mental health efforts fail to recognise and treat their student’s
varied needs, thereby ignoring an important part of student development.
As a healthy educational institute, you must
incorporate mental health awareness into your curriculum by providing
professional counselling services and building a supportive environment that
promotes emotional and psychological development. This method supports
minimising mental health difficulties and develops a culture of empathy and
resilience, which are critical for the holistic development of your
students.
Ad – review. I was sent a copy of this book for review purposes and all thoughts are my own.
Cruises are a balance of relaxation, exploration, and indulgence, that combined create an unforgettable travel experience. I've written about the best time of year to go on a cruise along with what to pack for a cruise. Among those items to pack is formal wear, the concept of formal nights adds an extra layer of appeal to cruising. These special evenings are a cherished tradition in the world of cruise travel, offering passengers the chance to absorb themselves in an atmosphere of pure elegance. But what exactly are formal nights on cruises, and do you actually have to attend them?
Formal nights, sometimes are referred to as dress-up or elegant evenings, they are a time-honoured practice in the cruise industry. They are an opportunity for passengers to elevate their onboard dining experience by donning their finest attire and enjoying a more upscale meal. These evenings often feature specially crafted menus, live music, and a heightened sense of sophistication that adds a touch of glamour to your cruise experience.
While the nature of formal nights remains consistent, their execution can vary from one cruise line to another, offering passengers a spectrum of choices:
Some cruise lines adhere to a more traditional approach, designating specific evenings as mandatory formal nights. Typically held in the main dining room or speciality restaurants, these nights come with a strict dress code. Passengers are expected to embrace elegance, often dressing in tuxedos, suits, cocktail dresses, or formal gowns. These dress codes are diligently enforced, and passengers who opt out of participating may be asked to dine in more casual venues.
Other cruise lines adopt a more flexible stance, presenting formal nights as optional events. Passengers are free to decide whether they wish to immerse themselves in the formal atmosphere. Those who choose to participate can revel in the sophisticated ambience, while those who prefer a more relaxed dress code can opt for alternative dining venues or even enjoy a meal in the comfort of their cabin.
On some cruise itineraries, particularly those offered by luxury or speciality cruise lines, themed cruises are the order of the day. These voyages cater to specific interests, such as gastronomy or a particular era, and formal nights can play a significant role in enhancing the overall experience. Passengers are encouraged to embrace the theme and dress accordingly, immersing themselves fully in the cruise's unique atmosphere.
Modern cruise ships often feature multiple dining venues, each with its own dress code. While the main dining room may host formal nights, other onboard restaurants typically offer a range of dress codes, from smart casual to resort casual, providing passengers with a diverse array of dining experiences to choose from.
Camping offers a refreshing escape from our hectic daily routines, providing a unique opportunity to slow down and immerse ourselves in the tranquillity of nature. Whether you prefer a quiet, solitary retreat in the woods or a lively excursion with loved ones, camping delivers substantial mental health benefits.
Let's delve into how these outdoor
adventures can positively impact your mind.
Stress Reduction and Mood Enhancement
The natural calmness of outdoor settings
significantly lowers stress. Research suggests that immersion in nature can reduce cortisol levels, which is beneficial since high cortisol is linked
with stress. The serene environment of a forest, the soothing sound of a river,
or the majestic sight of mountains can shift your focus from everyday pressures
to the simple beauty of the natural world.
Regular visits to such calming locales decrease
stress and enhance overall mood, leading to greater relaxation and joy.
Boosting Focus and Creativity
Disconnecting from the digital clutter and
urban chaos is incredibly beneficial for your mental focus and creative
faculties. Nature captures our attention in subtle yet captivating ways—through
the rustling of leaves or the scampering of wildlife. This helps to reset our
attention spans and sharpens our focus.
Moreover, the peacefulness found when
camping provides the perfect setting for creative thoughts, often inspiring
fresh ideas, and new perspectives away from normal routines.
Ad – review. I was sent a copy of Gather Magazine in return for featuring however all thoughts are my own.
Gather (£6.99) is a brand new launch of a lifestyle magazine from GMC publications. The magazine offers inspiration for readers who care about sustainably and the meaningful connections with the people around them. From grow-your-own guides to community projects and delicious seasonal recipes, each issue explores different ways of bringing people together through home, food, crafts and a shared love of their local environment.
With there being many challenges to face today such as the cost-of-living crisis, the looming threat of climate change and the upending after-effects of the pandemic people are starting to rethink their habits.
*This is a collaborative Guestpost
Many believe our childhood experiences shape us
into who we are today.
It’s kind of funny when you think about how random
places and obscure objects can unlock a treasure trove of memories. I’ve always
found comfort in the nostalgia evoked whenever I think about my
childhood.
Unlike many others, I can confidently say that my
childhood was a happy one and I am grateful for every event that took place in
it.
My dad played a big role in helping make some of my
favourite childhood memories and inspired many of my passions today. He was an
avid fan of various things and I often ended up pulled along for a ride as he
explored his interests.
Join me on a walk down memory lane as I reminisce
about some of the moments that shaped my childhood and made me into who I am
today.
On the Field
One of my earliest memories consists of being
unwillingly dragged to The Oval by my father one bright sunny summer’s
day.
I was only about six at the time and the last way I
wanted to spend my Sunday afternoon was at a boring old sports stadium watching
a game I didn’t even slightly understand. However, my dad felt quite
differently.
I can still vividly recall the look of child-like
joy on his face as the players entered the field. He was a massive fan of the
game and he wasn’t afraid to show it, and still isn’t if I’m being completely
honest.
Sporting his favourite team member’s cricket shirt,
a plastic horn in hand, he proudly yelled out cheers with the crowd. My dad has
always been a rather enthusiastic man, but cricket lit a spark in him like I’d
never seen before.
Ever since that first game, he only continued in
his attempts to convert me into a cricket fanatic. While initially annoying, I
will say that when I actually played my first game of cricket, I was pleasantly
surprised.
For a game I had grown to detest, I was
surprisingly good at it. From arriving early enough to see the complete synthetic
cricket pitch installation from scratch to
staying until the very last over, all those years of watching from the
sidelines truly paid off.
With my dad being my loudest supporter, coming to
cheer me on at every game, just as my dad always had, I soon grew to love the
sport.
Organic food is considered to be healthier alternative than conventional food. This is because It is grown without the use of pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, genetic engineering or ionizing radiation. Organic food is also more nutritious than conventional food because it contains more vitamins and minerals. Organic foods are also less likely to contain toxic chemicals because they are not exposed to these chemicals in production.
The benefits of organic food are many and varied. It helps people live a healthier lifestyle, which in turn has a positive impact on the environment and society as well.
Whilst organic food seemed to be a fad just a few years ago, it is now a growing business with many farmers changing the way they grow the food they sell to take advantage of the increased demand for organic food. Now organic food is so popular that you can pick it up in most supermarkets.
Whilst there are many health benefits to an organic diet, eating organic food is usually much more expensive than conventional food. If you are interested in eating a more organic diet then how do you save money on organic food? This is something that lots of people are wanting to know especially during the current cost of living crisis.
One of the best ways to save money on organic food is to grow your own. In order to grow your own organic food, you will need to start with an organic garden. There are many different types of gardens that can be used for this purpose.
A vegetable garden is a great option because it provides you with an abundance of vegetables and herbs, which are great for using in your cooking or you can simply eat them raw. Vegetable gardens are usually planted in rows and they can be laid out in many different ways depending on the size of the area you have available.
Ad – review. I was sent a copy of this book for review purposes and all thoughts are my own.
Today I am involved in the book tour for The mystery of Yew Tree House by Lesley Thomson. Lesley Thomson grew up in west London. Her first novel, A Kind of Vanishing, won the People's Book Prize in 2010. Her second novel, The Detective's Daughter, was a #1 bestseller and the resulting series has sold over 800,000 copies. Lesley divides her time between Sussex and Gloucestershire. She lives with her partner and her dog.
The temptation of solo travel is undeniable. The benefits of solo travel such as freedom to set your own itinerary, the chance to embrace spontaneity, and the opportunity for deep self-discovery - await those of you who are venturing alone. If you're considering solo travel for the first time, you're embarking on a thrilling and exciting journey that will change your life in ways that you are yet to imagine. To help you make the most of this incredible experience, here's the ultimate guide with valuable advice and insights for you first-time travelers.
Embrace the Unknown: A Journey into Discovery
Ad – review. I was sent a copy of this book for review purposes and all thoughts are my own.
Today I am involved in the book tour for Floored by Chrissie Harrison.
Author Bio –
I’m an incurable romantic at heart, and a sucker for great humour. I’ve been writing for many years, and all the stories contain either love, or humour, or both – I simply can’t keep these elements out of my work.
I’m inspired by the big and small screen as well as books, and have a soft spot for Richard Curtis’ romcoms, timeless TV comedy like The Good Life and Blackadder, less well-known feelgood films and romances (Always, Forget Paris, Roxanne), and books which make me laugh (Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine, The Rosie Project).
I have a soft spot for stories with strong women and nerdy or hapless guys.
Fundamentally, I try to write the books I like to read. I hope to distil humour, romance – and sometimes pathos or bittersweet vibes – into my novels.
Outside of writing, I enjoy photography, great scenery, a nice peaceful train ride, delicious coffee and cake, and catching up with old friends. I’m also something of a geek, fascinated by maths, science and even fonts!
Chrissie Harrison is a pen name.
Hannah and Drew work in the same office.
Hannah and Drew use the same elevator.
Hannah and Drew aren’t looking for love.
They haven’t even met.
Yet something is happening…
Amiable TV production accountant Drew has turned his back on love after the death of his fiancée, an incident which cemented his longstanding elevatophobia. When Drew moves towns and jobs for a fresh start, he hears a voice in the office lift telling him to “be careful”.
Is it his fevered imagination, the ghost of his fiancée, or someone playing a cruel prank? Quickly, he becomes desperate, foolish… and unexpectedly smitten.
Sweet and sassy Hannah wouldn’t mind finding love, but keeps choosing the wrong boyfriends. Her innate social anxiety, deepened by bad experiences with a preying boss, is a huge barrier to dating anyone new.
Yet, to expose her boss’ antics, she needs to be lucky as well as smart. However, talking to a sweet but hapless co-worker isn’t the answer… is it? After all, she could never imagine meeting him in person.
When Drew discovers the adorable girl behind the voice, a relationship blossoms alongside a shared determination to bring justice to their workplace, risking everything.
Ad – review. I was sent a copy of this book for review purposes and all thoughts are my own.
Today I am involved in the book tour for Maid of Steel by Kate Baker. Maid of Steel is Kate’s first full length novel to be published. She also writes short stories and is presently drafting a second novel. She writes at a desk covered in to-do lists and lights candles in the hope the lists disappear in the shadows. She lives in East Anglia in the UK with her husband where they attempt to look after farmland for generations to come. A small, very small, dog can be frequently found on Kate's lap. Otis is her first miniature dachshund.
It’s 1911 and, against her mother’s wishes, quiet New Yorker Emma dreams of winning the right to vote. She is sent away by her parents in the hope distance will curb her desire to be involved with the growing suffrage movement and told to spend time learning about where her grandparents came from.
Across the Atlantic – Queenstown, southern Ireland – hotelier Thomas dreams of being loved, even noticed, by his actress wife, Alice. On their wedding day, Alice’s father had assured him that adoration comes with time. It’s been eight years. But Alice has plans of her own and they certainly don’t include the fight for equality or her dull husband.
Emma’s arrival in Ireland leads her to discover family secrets and become involved in the Irish Women’s Suffrage Society in Cork. However, Emma’s path to suffrage was never meant to lead to a forbidden love affair…
