Mum’s Guide to Safe Driving: Where to Check Your Car Tyres in Wakefield

 *This is a collaborative post 

As a busy mum, ensuring your car is in top condition is crucial—not only to keep your family safe but also to make your daily life run smoothly. One of the most important, yet often overlooked, aspects of car maintenance is checking your car tyres. Tyres are your car’s only point of contact with the road, so it’s essential to keep them in good shape. If you're based in Gainsborough or the surrounding areas, it’s important to stay on top of car tyre maintenance, and Wakefield offers the perfect places to get the expert help you need. But what you can do to ensure your tyres are roadworthy and where to go in Wakefield for all your tyre-related needs, so you can drive with confidence and peace of mind.

Why Tyre Maintenance Is Key for Mums on the Go

Whether you're running errands, picking the kids up from school, or going on a family road trip, your car tyres take a lot of wear and tear. Uneven wear or damage to your tyres can cause reduced grip on the road, increasing the risk of accidents. In the UK, road conditions can change rapidly, and keeping your car tyres in good condition is one of the most important things you can do to stay safe.

A regular tyre check is especially important during the changing seasons. Tyre pressure can fluctuate with temperature changes, and winter months often bring more wet or icy conditions. Whether you’re navigating the winding roads of Gainsborough or driving through Wakefield, the last thing you want is a flat or damaged tyre causing you delays or, worse, putting your family at risk.

Essential Car Tyre Checks Every Mum Should Do

Start by checking the tyre pressure with a tyre gauge. Incorrect car tyre pressure can affect fuel economy, reduce tyre lifespan and compromise safety. Under-inflated car tyres can lead to poor handling, while over-inflated tyres may wear out unevenly.

Next, examine the car tyres for any visible signs of damage like cuts, bulges, or punctures. These can develop from debris or driving over rough terrain, and they can seriously affect tyre performance. If you spot any damage, it’s time to get your car tyres looked at by a professional.

MOTHERS DAY GIFT GUIDE 2025

*Ad- This Mother’s Day Gift Guide 2025 contains gifted items.

 Mother's Day here in the UK falls on the fourth Sunday of lent. This year it falls on Sunday 30th March. As usual I've compiled some great gift ideas to show Mum how much you appreciate her.

Prezzee Gift Card | £5 - £500

A gift card from Prezzee makes a great Mother's Day gift option due to it's flexibility. It allows your Mum to choose from a wide range of retailers so you know that she can choose from a store of her choice and get something she loves.

Not only that but you can personalise a Prezzee eGift Card with a personal video or voice message and a greeting card - you can even customise the eGift Card with your own photo!

Pocket gifts |  AB crafts by Alison | Various prices 

These cute pocket gifts/pins/brooches from AB crafts by Alison make the perfect little gifts. These are ideal for little ones who want to buy something for Mum with their pocket money. Think glitter, fun, and items with a quirky sense of humour. 

fabÜ Supplements | Price Varies

 

Show Mum that you care about her wellbeing by gifting her some supplements from fabÜ. fabÜ Supplements are designed to support women's health and are formulated with active ingredients tailored for your specific needs and optimised for your wellness. fabÜ combines the world’s best botanical extracts, herbs, plants and mushrooms with vitamins and minerals that make a real difference. So give Mum the gift of feeling her best this Mother's Day whether she's looking to improve her gut health, skin & hair, boost her immune system or even to reduce stress. 

fabÜ R & R is a natural formula crafted to deliver deep relaxation and rejuvenating sleep for unstoppable energy and focus. The fabÜ gut culture rebalances your gut flora and revitalises your digestive system. fabÜ gut culture, is designed to promote gut health and overall well-being using potent probiotics and natural fibres.

Carel printed pure linen tea towels | home-landing | £16.50 each

Home-landings stunning pure linen tea towels are a great addition to Mum's Kitchen. The Carel has a beautiful array of multi-coloured spring / summer flowers intermingled with deep green foliage that decorates the fine pale cream linen tea towel. It’s truly a bright and bold design and is trimmed with a border of individual stripes in gorgeous bright colours. The linen tea towel is absorbent and lint free, excellent for drying, polishing glassware and crockery. 

Stress-Free Skincare for On-The-Go Lifestyles

*This is a collaborative post 

A busy lifestyle doesn’t mean you can’t have glowing, healthy skin. Whether you’re a professional juggling work calls, a mum balancing family chaos, or just someone who’s always on the go, caring for your complexion doesn’t need to feel like a chore. With some quick at-home routines and occasional professional treatments, it’s easier than you think to keep your skin radiant. 

Here’s your guide to fitting simple yet effective skincare into even the most hectic schedule. 

Why Skincare Matters (Even When You're Busy) 

Your skin is your body's largest organ, and keeping it healthy doesn't just impact how you look—it also makes you feel confident and ready to conquer your day. Plus, investing a little time in looking after your complexion now can prevent problems like dullness, breakouts, or premature ageing down the line. 

But don’t worry, this doesn’t mean lengthy daily rituals. With smart choices and a few game-changing products or treatments, you’ll have all the tools you need to take control of your skincare routine—even if it’s while multitasking.

 

At-Home Solutions for Glowing Skin 

1. Stick to the Essentials 

You don’t need a 10-step skincare routine to see results. Focus on the basics and make them work for you. 

● Cleanser: Choose a gentle cleanser to wash away dirt, makeup, and oils after your day. A micellar water or foam cleanser works wonders. 

● Moisturiser: Hydration is key! Use a lightweight moisturiser in the morning and something richer before bed. 

● SPF (yes, even in winter): UV rays don’t take a day off, so daily sunscreen is non-negotiable. Many moisturisers now come with SPF, making life even easier. 

2. Multitask While You Treat Your Skin 

Got 10 minutes while making dinner or getting the kids ready for bed? That’s all you need! 

● Sheet Masks are hassle-free options that deliver instant hydration and glow. Pop one on while you tackle a to-do list. 

● Use a sleeping mask before bed for overnight rejuvenation so you wake up looking refreshed.

 

3. Double Down on Hydration 

Long days can leave your skin feeling parched. Keep a hydrating mist in your bag or on your desk. A few quick spritzes during the day will keep your skin looking fresh, even when you're mid-commute or battling deadlines. 

4. Choose All-in-One Products 

Simplify your routine with multitasking products. Think BB creams with SPF for coverage and protection or a serum that tackles multiple skin concerns, like Hyaluronic Acid for hydration and Vitamin C for brightening. 

LIFE UPDATE/ ROUND UP: FEBRUARY 2025

February flew by as always, with the mornings getting lighter and it starting to finally feel a bit warmer my mood has definitely improved. Our 13th Anniversary was on the 4th and we decided to just have a takeaway in the evening to celebrate. Half term was a busy one with days out and a few events that were on etc.

Days out/Events

- The first event we went to this month was the Time by Luxmuralis at the Lincoln Cathedral. It was an impressive light show. B wore ear muffs to help with how loud it was and was completely fine there and loved it. 

- We went for a little walk at Owlett Woods near Blyton followed by some food including ice cream at Blyton Ice Cream. 

- B asked to go bowling during half term. One game is enough for him before he gets bored and he likes going to the arcade bit after. 

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing a New Front Door

*This is a collaborative post 

When it comes to your home’s exterior, your front door plays a crucial role in both the aesthetics and functionality of the space. A new front door can transform your home’s kerb appeal, increase security, and enhance energy efficiency. But with so many materials, styles, and features to choose from, it can be tough to know where to start. This guide will walk you through the key factors to consider when choosing the perfect new front door for your home. 

Consider the Material

The material of your front door is one of the most important aspects to consider, as it influences durability, security, insulation, and style. Here are some of the most popular options:

• uPVC (Unplasticized Polyvinyl Chloride): uPVC doors are affordable, low-maintenance, and energy-efficient. They come in a variety of designs and colours and are great for homeowners looking for a long-lasting, cost-effective option.

• Aluminium Doors: Known for their sleek and modern aesthetic, aluminium doors are incredibly durable and low-maintenance. They offer excellent security features and are also highly energy-efficient, as they can be designed with thermal breaks to improve insulation.

• Composite Doors: Made from a blend of materials, composite doors offer the best of both worlds: the classic look of wood with the durability and low-maintenance qualities of uPVC or aluminium. They’re a great option for security and energy efficiency.

Style and Design

Whether your home is modern, traditional, or somewhere in between, there’s a door design that will fit perfectly. Some key considerations include:

• Traditional Styles: If your home features classic brickwork or a cottage-style look, opt for a traditional door designed to resemble wood. Choose a classic panelled or half-glazed door to maintain the charm.

• Contemporary Styles: For modern homes, sleek and minimalist aluminium or composite doors are great options. Choose a full-glazed or side-light design to maximise natural light and create an open, airy feel.

• Custom Features: Don’t forget to think about any additional features that can make your front door truly unique. This could include decorative glass panels, custom hardware, or unique finishes like stained or frosted glass.

Security Features

Your front door is the first line of defense against intruders, so ensuring it’s secure is paramount. Look for doors that offer:

• Multi-point Locking Systems: These are standard in high-quality doors and provide superior security by locking at multiple points along the frame.

• Quality Locking Cylinder: Opt for a door that has a good-quality locking system, for example an ABS lock like those offered on composite doors from Trade Window Centre.

• Reinforced Materials: Choose a door with reinforced or solid construction, especially if you’re opting for composite door.

The Best Ways to Add More Greenery to Your Home

*This is a collaborative post 

Adding more greenery to your home is one of the simplest ways to create a refreshing and calming atmosphere. Whether you have a spacious garden, a compact balcony, or just a few windowsills, there are plenty of ways to bring plants into your living space. Not only do they enhance the aesthetics of your home, but they also improve air quality and contribute to well-being.

For those looking to embrace more greenery, the key is finding the right balance between indoor and outdoor planting while making the most of the space available. Whether it's through houseplants, hanging baskets, or a dedicated growing area, even small changes can make a big difference.

Using Houseplants for a Natural Touch

Houseplants are one of the easiest ways to introduce greenery into your home, requiring minimal effort while offering plenty of benefits. They help purify the air, boost mood, and add a natural element to any space. Some plants, like snake plants and pothos, are excellent for beginners, as they thrive in low light and require little watering.

For those who enjoy a touch of colour, flowering houseplants such as peace lilies or orchids are great options. Meanwhile, herbs like basil and mint can be kept on a kitchen windowsill for easy access while cooking. Here’s a simple guide to some of the best indoor plants based on care level:

Placing plants in the right location ensures they grow well and complement your home decor. If space is limited, wall-mounted planters or floating shelves can help maximise the available room while keeping plants in optimal conditions.

Making the Most of Your Outdoor Space

Even a small outdoor space can be transformed into a green sanctuary with the right approach. Whether you have a compact patio, a narrow balcony, or a modest garden, there are clever ways to maximise greenery without overcrowding the area.

One of the most effective solutions is vertical gardening. Using wall-mounted planters, trellises, or hanging baskets allows plants to grow upwards rather than taking up valuable ground space. This is particularly useful for small gardens or balconies, where every inch counts. Herbs, strawberries, and even small tomatoes thrive in hanging containers, while climbing plants like clematis and jasmine add beauty and fragrance to walls or fences.

Another option is to use raised beds and container gardening. Not only do these allow for more control over soil quality and drainage, but they also make it easier to move plants around as needed. Containers work well for seasonal flowers, compact shrubs, and edible plants, offering flexibility in how greenery is arranged throughout the year.

For families with children, incorporating kid-friendly planting areas can make gardening a fun activity. Letting children grow their own sunflowers, strawberries, or even a small vegetable patch encourages outdoor play and hands-on learning.

VALENTINES DAY ON A BUDGET

Valentines day is now only a few days away. It's a time for celebrating love and the connection with those that are dear to us. You don't have to be in a relationship to celebrate Valentines day. You can celebrate the day with your children, family or friends or even by yourself as self love is important too. Whoever you decide to spend the day with , remember that you don't need to spend a small fortune on gifts and days out as you can do Valentines day on a budget.

Doing Valentines day on a budget can be fun and a way to save money. So here are some ideas of some cheap ways to spend time together with those that mean the most.

Dinner and a movie at home

Dinner and a movie is a date night classic. However, if you book to go to a restaurant and cinema then it can get pricey pretty quickly. Instead set up a candle lit dinner at home and find a film on whatever streaming service you use. If you don't fancy cooking from scratch together, than supermarket dine in deals are a great option for when it's just the two of you. Most supermarkets now offer high quality dine in deals where you get a starter, main, side, dessert and either a bottle of wine or soft drink.

Have a game night

We love game nights in our home. If you have the kids with you,  you can get out a family friendly game to play together. Don't just think board and card games for a game night think video games if they are more your thing and even a murder mystery game is a fun option for adults to get into.

Take a scenic stroll

A simple stroll through a park or woodland is a great way to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Grab a hot drink and enjoy the fresh air together. Whether you opt for an early morning walk or sunset stroll,  being outside together away from screens and chatting is a brilliant way to connect.

LIFE UPDATE/ ROUND UP: JANUARY 2025

January definitely felt like such a long slog of a  month. Having something to look forward to each week has really helped with my mental health this past month. I'm definitely looking forward to when the days start to be more lighter and the weather warms up. It's definitely been a rather dark and cold month. 

Days out

Land of lights Milton Keynes 

As we were visiting Stuart's mum for a few days we booked in advance to go to the Land of Lights in Milton Keynes. It was incredible and definitely worthwhile going to! Its similar to the Winter Illuminations we went to at Yorkshire Wildlife Park a few years ago. So a walking trail where you see a stunning collection of beautiful lanterns and light displays. 

The Arcade Warehouse 

A new arcade place has opened up in Gainsborough so we headed there on opening day. For £5 per person you get to spend 2 hours playing free play arcade games. We will definitely be back and can see it being popular, especially during the school holidays.

Things I've watched and read in January 

Watched 

I've been to the cinema twice in January. The first was with Stuart at the start of the month. We made use of our Amazon Prime benefit of 2 tickets for £10 with Odeon. We saw Sonic the Hedgehog 3 which was brilliant! I feel that each of the Sonic movies have just got better and better.

Then I went on a solo trip to our local cinema that does tickets for £4.99 per person and saw Wicked. I'm so glad I got out of my comfort zone by going on my own and the movie was amazing! I can't wait for the second one to come out later this year. 

I finally got around to watching It ends with us based on the book by Colleen Hoover. Although I liked it i feel the book was better. 

Family movie wise we watched Inside Out 2 which we had got Blake on DVD for his Birthday. 

Last of all I binged watched Missing You over on Netflix which is based on the book of the same name by Harlan Coben. I've surprisingly not actually watched anything else on Netflix in January.

Choosing the Best Home Security System for Your Home

 *This is a collaborative post 

Ensuring the safety of your home is a top priority for many. Selecting the right home security system can provide peace of mind and protect your loved ones and belongings. This guide will help you make an informed decision by outlining key factors to consider.

Assess Your Security Needs

Start by evaluating what you need to protect. Consider the size of your home, the number of entry points, and the value of your possessions. Identify areas that may need extra security, such as ground-floor windows or back doors. Understanding your specific needs will guide you in choosing the right system features.

Types of Home Security Systems

There are various types of home security systems available. The main categories include:

1. Monitored Systems: These systems are connected to a central monitoring service. If an alarm is triggered, the service contacts authorities. Monitored systems provide immediate response but may involve monthly fees.

2. Unmonitored Systems: These rely on local alerts, such as sirens or notifications to your smartphone. They are typically less expensive but may not provide the same level of response as monitored systems.

3. Wireless Systems: These systems use wireless technology for easy installation and flexibility. They are ideal for renters or homes where running wires is difficult.

4. Wired Systems: Wired systems offer reliable connections and are less susceptible to interference. They require professional installation and are better suited for permanent setups.

Key Features to Consider

When choosing a home security system, consider the following features:

• Alarm Types: Look for systems that offer burglary, fire, and carbon monoxide alarms. Comprehensive coverage ensures all potential threats are addressed.

• Surveillance Cameras: Cameras provide real-time monitoring and can deter intruders. Decide whether you need indoor, outdoor, or both types of cameras.

• Smart Home Integration: Modern systems can integrate with smart home devices like lights, locks, and thermostats. This integration enhances security and convenience.

• Mobile Access: Choose a system that allows you to monitor and control your security from your smartphone. Mobile access provides flexibility and peace of mind.

• Environmental Sensors: Sensors for smoke, heat, and water leaks can prevent disasters and minimize damage.

Budget Considerations

Home security systems vary in price. Determine your budget before exploring options. Keep in mind that more features typically increase the cost. However, investing in a quality system can save money in the long run by preventing theft and damage.

• Initial Costs: Include equipment purchase and installation fees. Wireless systems may have lower installation costs compared to wired systems.

• Monthly Fees: Monitored systems usually require a monthly subscription. Ensure you can afford ongoing costs.

• Additional Expenses: Consider costs for maintenance, upgrades, and potential repairs.

Professional Installation vs. DIY

Decide whether you want professional installation or prefer a do-it-yourself approach.

• Professional Installation: Offers expertise and ensures the system is set up correctly. It may be required for certain wired systems and monitored services.

• DIY Installation: Provides flexibility and can save money. Wireless and unmonitored systems are often easier to install on your own.

Evaluate your technical skills and the complexity of the system when making this choice.

MY 2025 READING CHALLENGE

 For 2025 one of my goals is to complete a reading challenge. There are so many different reading challenges out there, however I've decided to make up my own. For my 2024 reading I only set myself a challenge of how many books to read. This year I thought a reading challenge would be a great way to help me to make a dent in my ever growing TBR.

What is my reading challenge ?

My reading challenge is made up of 25 prompts. The goal is to match a one book to each prompt for a total of twenty five books over the year.  

My prompts are related to book covers, themes, characters, titles etc. I've picked them out based on what books I've got on my TBR and I have at least two books that will fit for each prompt so that when it comes around to choosing them I can have fun deciding. 

How it works?

I thought it would be great to share my prompts in a bookish bingo format so that if anyone else wanted to join in with my reading challenge 2025 they can. So if you do decide to join in the info is as follows: