AUGUST 2024 BEING THRIFTY

Being Thrifty in August was tricky with all the days out and keeping Blake entertained. There are waya though to get discounts on family days out which we implemented. Next month I'm being alot more strict with spending and trying to have a low cost month. As much as I'd love to have a no spend month, I find it's not something that works well for us. Anyway here are some of the being thrifty things I've managed to do this month from deals to freebies etc.

Skin + Me

You may have seen Skin + Me advertised on social media. I decided to give it a try this month and recieved the following for £4.99:

- Daily Doser ( personalised to my skin)

- Serum (trial size)

- cleanser (trial size)

- moisturiser (trial size)

Will I buy them again? Probably not as even though the products are great they just aren't affordable for me. I do however recommend trying them out at £4.99 as the trial sizes are great for popping in a bag when travelling.

Free day trip to Skegness 

We got to go to skegness for free as a local charity was doing a day trip to visit the Eco Centre. We had a great time and got to also visit the arcades etc and do our own thing for a few hours after.

Kids eat Free

We made use of the kids eat for free deal at Prezzo. 

Keratin Hair Straightening: Smooth Locks or Slippery Slope?

 *This is a collaborative post 

Keratin hair straightening has become a popular solution for those seeking sleek, manageable hair. The treatment promises to tame frizz, reduce styling time, and leave hair with a glossy finish. However, before diving into this beauty trend, it's essential to weigh the pros and cons to determine if it's the right choice for you.

The Pros of Keratin Hair Straightening

1.     Smooth, Frizz-Free Hair: One of the most significant benefits of keratin treatments is the ability to eliminate frizz. For individuals with curly or wavy hair, frizz can be a daily battle. Keratin helps to smooth the hair cuticle, resulting in a sleek and polished appearance. This is particularly beneficial in humid climates where frizz is more prevalent.

2.     Easier Styling: Keratin treatments can significantly reduce the time spent styling your hair. By making hair more manageable, you can often skip the daily blow-drying and straightening. This can save you precious time in the morning, allowing for a more straightforward hair care routine.

3.     Long-Lasting Results: Unlike other hair smoothing products, the effects of a keratin treatment can last several months, typically up to three to six months, depending on your hair type and how well you maintain it. This makes it a cost-effective option for those who want long-term results without the need for frequent salon visits.

4.     Reduced Damage from Heat Styling: Since keratin treatments reduce the need for daily heat styling, your hair is less likely to suffer from the damage caused by frequent use of flat irons and blow dryers. This can lead to healthier hair over time, with less breakage and split ends.

5.     Versatile Results: The level of straightness achieved through keratin treatments can be adjusted according to your preference. Whether you want pin-straight hair or just a reduction in frizz and curl, your stylist can tailor the treatment to suit your desired look.

PERSONALISED PHOTO GIFTS WITH MY-PICTURE.CO.UK

 *This is a collaborative post 

We love having photos up around our home  especially classic framed prints, canvases, desktop frames and photo blocks that we can pop here and there around the place. We often like to mix it up and change them out to give our home a bit of a refresh. We've not done this for a while so when My-picture.co.uk got in touch it was perfect timing for me to team up with them and share some of their products that make the perfect photo gifts for family and friends.

My-picture.co.uk offer a wide range of customisable products that are both of high quality and are sentimental, making them perfect gifts. Plus, if you keep reading I've a code that will give you 10% off your order. Here are some of the items that I picked out that are sure to be well received no matter the occasion;

Framed prints

Framed prints are a great way to turn photos into memories. With My-picture.co.uk you will receive a premium high-quality print with a traditional white mount in an elegant frame of choice that has an acrylic glass cover. Available in six different sizes and five frame colour options these slimline framed prints are a great option for your gallery wall.

Desktop photo prints

Desktop photo prints are great for the office, sat on your desk or table as well as your mantelpiece. Thanks to their built in easel back they can stand up on any flat surface for you to display. Your photo is printed directly onto 9mm board, ready to display without the need of an additional frame. Available in three formats they are a quick and easy decor solution that's affordable. 

BACK TO SCHOOL WITH B.BOX

 *This is a collaborative post

With Back to School approaching it's an expensive and somewhat stressful time for parents. With uniform to buy and other accessories such as lunch boxes, water bottles and backpacks these tips on how to slash those costs will definitely come in handy.

If your child has a packed lunch instead of school meals, it is important to have a high quality lunch box and water bottle. Especially ones that will last the whole school year and beyond. That is where b.box comes in as they are passionate about creating functional everyday essentials. 

b.box goal is to make parents lives more easier in an innovative way. Although mainly focused on baby products that puts your little ones on the path to independence they also do a bento style lunch box and drinks bottles ideal for school.

Back to School Giveaway

With the summer holidays almost at an end it's time to get everything ready for Back to School. We've had a great summer so far filled with lots of fun things but we are more than ready to be back into the swing of a routine.

Get ready for an exciting opportunity as some of the top UK bloggers unite to bring you a fantastic back-to-school giveaway! We've teamed up to offer one lucky winner a fabulous collection of school essentials that will make heading back to the classroom a breeze. From stylish lunch bags and durable water bottles, to school shoes and jackets, this giveaway promises to equip you with some great goodies to kick off the school year in style. Join us in this collaborative celebration and enter for your chance to win these amazing prizes. Let's make this school year the best one yet!

The Bloggers

In order to be able to bring you this incredible giveaway, some of the UK’s top bloggers got together. A massive thank you to our bloggers! The bloggers taking part are:

My Balancing Act | The Mum Diaries | Boxnip | Welsh Mum | Wotawoman Diary |  Catch Up With Claire | Synderella Slims |  Pounds and Sense | Jenny in Neverland | Life with Jupiter & Dann | Be Your Own Example | Diary of the Evans-Crittens | Have A Merry Little Christmas | Crafted With Perfection | Thrifty Husband | Norfolk's Best | Joanna Victoria |  Crazy Little Thing Called Love | Birds and Lilies | My Life Your Way | We Made This Vegan | Things To Make And Do | Cosy Cottage Chronicles | Sunshine and Selfies | Single Dad's Guide To Life | Two Plus Dogs | Hannah and the Twiglets | Cats Kids and Chaos | Anything and Everything Else | The Money Making Mum | The Property Investor Blog

The Prizes

Win a pair of Start-Rite school shoes!

Start-Rite Shoes is giving one lucky winner the chance to win a pair of school shoes for their child.

The foundation of any school uniform is a quality fitted pair of shoes, but there is nothing uniform about a Start-Rite school shoe! With 12 new styles added to their school shoe collection this season, Start-Rite is more prepared than ever to protect your children's feet. No one size fits all, as every pair of feet has individual requirements to ensure healthy physical development.

Whether you’re looking to support wide or narrow feet, a high instep, or shoes that double for a special occasion, Start-Rite has a style to suit every child.

EcoSplash Fleece Lined Jacket Navy from Muddy Puddles

Gear up for the ultimate back-to-school season with Muddy Puddles' in our back-to-school giveaway! Included in the prize bundle is a top-tier kids waterproof jacket that ensures your young adventurers are ready for any weather.

This navy raincoat features an impressive waterproof rating of 10,000mm to keep your child dry during heavy downpours, perfect for rainy days. Crafted from durable, breathable fabric made from recycled plastic bottles, it’s both eco-friendly and long-lasting. The soft fleece lining provides extra warmth, while the jacket's design makes it easy to layer across various seasons. Fully taped seams offer robust protection against the elements, and reflective details enhance visibility in low-light conditions for added safety. Plus, it's machine washable at 30 degrees for easy care.

Muddy Puddles has your kids covered for back to school with their back to school jackets, waterproofs, and more—ensuring every rainy walk to school, puddle-jumping session, and chilly playground adventure is tackled in style and comfort!

SMASH lunch bag and water bottle set

Gear up for the school year with an essential lunch bag and water bottle set! The Smash Lunch Bag is your kids perfect lunchtime companion, designed with full insulation and an antibacterial lining to ensure their meals are as fresh as possible. Made from premium neoprene, this lunch bag is not only fully washable but also brings a splash of personality and fun to every meal.

Stay hydrated in style with the Smash Twin Wall Soda Bottle. Made from durable stainless steel, this sustainable bottle features a sleek design and a removable cap, making it an ideal everyday accessory. It’s BPA-free, food-safe, non-toxic, and offers a smart, twin-walled construction.

A Healthy Colon Starts With You: Easy Tips for Better Digestive Health

 *This is a collaborative post 

Your colon might not be something you think about every day, but it's a vital part of your digestive system. It helps your body process and eliminate waste, absorb nutrients, and maintain a balance of good bacteria in your gut. Taking care of your colon is essential for your overall health, and it doesn't require major lifestyle changes. Here are some easy-to-follow tips to keep your colon healthy and happy.

1. Boost Your Fiber Intake

Fiber is essential for keeping your colon functioning properly. It helps move waste through your digestive system and can prevent constipation, which can cause discomfort and lead to other health issues. A diet rich in fiber also supports a healthy gut microbiome, which is important for your colon's health.

You can increase your fiber intake by eating more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Some high-fiber foods include apples, berries, carrots, brown rice, and lentils. Try to include a variety of these foods in your daily diet. If you're not used to eating a lot of fiber, introduce it gradually to allow your body to adjust.

2. Drink Plenty of Water

Water is crucial for your digestive health, including your colon. Staying hydrated helps soften your stool, making it easier to pass and reducing the risk of constipation. Water also helps your body absorb nutrients and maintain overall health.

Make it a habit to drink at least eight glasses of water a day. If you're physically active or live in a hot climate, you might need even more. If plain water isn't appealing, try adding a slice of lemon, lime, or cucumber for a refreshing twist. Herbal teas and soups can also help keep you hydrated.

3. Keep Active

Regular physical activity is not only good for your heart and muscles; it also benefits your colon. Exercise helps stimulate your digestive system, promoting regular bowel movements and preventing constipation.

You don't need to be a gym enthusiast to reap the benefits. A simple 30-minute walk each day can do wonders for your digestive health. If you enjoy more vigorous activities, swimming, cycling, and jogging are excellent choices. The key is to find something you enjoy and stick with it.

Next-Gen Health Gadgets: Redefining Personal Wellness

*This is a collaborative post 

The rise in technology plays a significant role in developing new and innovative health gadgets. These gadgets allow you to track your health issues. This not only helps you save time and money on professional consultancy but also helps you avoid the expected alarming health conditions.

The massive increase in the demand for such gadgets can be seen through their online sales, all because of their positive contribution to society. You can use innovative health gadgets to stay notified of your health conditions. 

Their use ensures better mental and physical health and allows you to make a positive change in your healthy life.

Moonbird

People from all around the world are making new companions, and these companions are their favourite gadgets. A new gadget named ‘Moonbird’ is trending nowadays. This innovative gadget helps you achieve your inner peace. When connected to its app, this device guides you in doing breathing exercises. It is a great gadget to help combat stress and anxiety. 

By doing these breathing exercises suggested by the app, users can track their Heart Rate and Heart Rate variability. Not only this, but this device also offers relief from stress and helps you get a sound sleep. Breathing exercises of different types provide a rapid escape from all the anxieties. The main factor of this gadget’s popularity is its sleek design.

Nicotine Patch

A modern health gadget that helps you quit smoking and acts as a substitute for smoking. These patches come in different strengths, making a hassle-free experience of quitting smoking.

Apply this patch to your body's hairless, clean, and dry area once a day and repeat the same step the next day. Buy one with a doctor's consultation, don't overuse the product, and always wash your skin after removing the patch.

However, this innovative health product has received a lot of criticism. Therefore, alot of people from all around the world see vapes as a safer substitute for cigarettes. According to the research, Hayati Twist 5000 is 95% safer than cigarettes. Not only is it secure, but vaping also gives you a better experience of nicotine, offering you multiple crystal pro max ; choose one according to your taste.

How To Create an Inspiring Book Nook: A beginner's Guide

*This is a collaborative post

Creating a book nook is a delightful way to celebrate your love for reading and showcase your creativity. These miniature worlds, tucked between books on your shelf, offer a whimsical escape into your favorite literary realms. A book nook can be as simple or complex as you desire, making it an ideal project for beginners and experienced crafters alike.

Book nooks come in various styles, from fantasy landscapes to cozy reading corners. The beauty of a diy book nook lies in its personalization. You can design it to reflect your favorite book, genre, or simply a peaceful scene that inspires you. With some basic materials and a touch of imagination, you'll be well on your way to crafting a unique and enchanting addition to your bookshelf.

Key Takeaways

• Book nooks offer a creative way to personalize your bookshelf and celebrate favorite stories

• Designing a book nook allows for endless possibilities in theme and complexity

• Basic crafting skills and materials are sufficient to create a charming miniature world

Designing Your Book Nook

Creating an inviting book nook involves thoughtful planning and personalization. Consider key elements like location, comfort, and individual touches to craft your perfect reading retreat.

Choosing the Perfect Location

Look for a quiet, well-lit spot in your home for your book nook. A window seat offers natural light and a picturesque view. Alternatively, transform a corner of your living room or bedroom into a cozy reading area.

Consider privacy when selecting your location. A secluded alcove or a space partially screened by bookshelves can provide a sense of separation from the rest of your home.

Ensure adequate lighting for reading. Position your nook near a window or install adjustable reading lamps to prevent eye strain during extended reading sessions.

Selecting Comfort Elements

Prioritize seating comfort in your book nook. A plush armchair, a window seat with cushions, or a generously sized bean bag can serve as the centerpiece of your reading space.

Add soft textures with blankets and pillows. These not only enhance comfort but also contribute to a cozy atmosphere.

Consider a small side table or built-in shelf to hold your current read, a cup of tea, or reading glasses.

Temperature control is crucial. Position your nook away from drafts and add a small fan or heater if needed for year-round comfort.

WHY WE SHOULD EMBRACE UNDERCONSUMPTION

One of the latest trends that is going round on tiktok is the underconsumption core. For those of you that aren't aware of this trend it is where influencers are pushing back against consumerism and encouraging followers to fix, reuse and repurpose stuff and basically making do with what they already have. Many people however are saying it's just normal life. But with overconsumption being a big problem maybe it's a trend we should be embracing.

Underconsumption is a bit like having a minimalist lifestyle. From clothing, toiletries to new tech there is always something new on offer and we are inundated with ads on social media, TV, radio etc. So it's no wonder that consumption has gotten out of hand. Not only is it wasteful but it has an impact on your finances and comparison can affect our emotions.

National railway museum york

 The National Railway Museum in York has been a place we've wanted to take B for awhile so we bit the bullet and headed there recently. If you or someone you know is like B and is a trains fanatic than it's definitely a place to visit. I thought I'd put this guide together so that if you plan to visit then you can find the info you need here in one place.

Opening times

The National Railway Museum is open 7 days a week. 10 am until 5pm with last admission being at 4:30pm. A typical visit takes about one and half to two hours.

Location/ Admission 

National Railway Museum

Leeman Road

York

YO26 4XJ

Admission to the Museum is free, although donations are welcome. It is recommended to book your free tickets in advance for ease when arriving especially during busy periods such as the summer holidays.

Ne’er Duke Well by Alexander Vasti

 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 Ne’er Duke Well by Alexander Vasti. Alexandra Vasti loves coffee, beignets, and books, in no particular order. She is the author of the Halifax Hellions series. In between writing swoony Regency romances with hijinks and heart, she teaches British and Caribbean literature in New Orleans.

About the book 

STRATAGEM FOR THE RESTORATION OF RESPECTABILITY TO THE DUKE OF STANHOPE:

Step 1: Find perfect wife

Step 2: Save reputation from ruin

Step 3: Do not, at any cost, fall in love with Selina Ravenscrof

Peter Kent, newly inherited Duke of Stanhope, has developed quite the scandalous reputation -  which must be overturned if he is to win the guardianship of his young half siblings. For help he turns to Lady Selina Ravenscrof, society's most proper debutante (save one tiny secret...). She suggests courtship and marriage to a lady of unimpeachable character - which due to the aforementioned secret is definitely not Selina herself.

A Guide to Selecting Jewelry for Your Wife

 *This is a collaborative post

Finding the right jewelry for your wife can be a rewarding experience. It requires thoughtfulness, attention to detail, and a deep understanding of her preferences. Here are some practical tips to help you pick a piece of jewelry that she will adore.

1. Observe Her Preferences

Start by observing the type of jewelry she currently wears. Does she prefer simple/minimalist jewelry or intricate designs? Does she favor certain types of metals or gemstones? By paying attention to her existing collection, you can gain insights into her taste.

2. Consider Her Daily Activities

Her lifestyle should influence your choice. If she leads an active life, you might opt for pieces that are durable and won't easily get damaged. For a more laid-back lifestyle, delicate and intricate designs could be more suitable.

3. Pay Attention to Hints

Often, your wife will give subtle hints about what she likes. She might comment on a friend's jewelry or show interest in pieces she sees while shopping. Take note of these clues—they can be incredibly helpful in guiding your selection.

4. Choose According to the Occasion

The reason for your gift can help determine the type of jewelry you should buy. Anniversaries might call for something classic and timeless, such as a diamond ring or a pearl necklace. For birthdays, consider something more personalized, like a piece featuring her birthstone.

5. Complement Her Wardrobe

Think about her clothing style when selecting jewelry. If she wears a lot of formal attire, sophisticated pieces might be best. For a more casual look, choose versatile items that can be worn with different outfits.