tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-82251347395686156842024-03-08T19:04:11.981+00:00Wafflemama.A Family & Lifestyle Blog: Loving The Little Things...Wafflemamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04187393033810793920noreply@blogger.comBlogger3028125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8225134739568615684.post-36590998610287695712024-02-01T13:20:00.000+00:002024-02-01T13:20:06.084+00:00Mama Life || From Two To Three: Embracing The Adventure Of First-Time Parenthood<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.wafflemama.uk/2024/02/mama-life-from-two-to-three-embracing.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjMIVxgQzZH7xOA3JEouba75VDYLbTWaYrlB6tmiCqhd3suG7IgYXFgonZExLkdW93tENI05KzzygPrvKAGq22ufCmXK0toj6kxC5NrFwCnBLCeXhjSroLhp8vLHTHram5e1jT9fhnPiY2vpLLvUn57nlAVtj_7BsWXshTI8HC7KI0dGCObDVcXHkStOg/w640-h640/Copy%20of%20Blue%20Photo%20Promotional%20Fall%20Instagram%20Post.jpg" width="640" /></a><span><a name='more'></a></span></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;">Transitioning from a couple to a family of three is an exhilarating time filled with new experiences and learning curves. It’s a period of growth, not just for the baby but for the parents, too. Embracing this change requires adaptability and patience. This journey brings about a transformation in relationships, daily life, and personal identity. It’s a time to celebrate the new life you bring into the world and prepare for parenthood’s joys and challenges.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">The Anticipation Of Gender Discovery</span></h2><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;">Many parents in Ireland eagerly anticipate discovering their baby’s gender, often facilitated by using a baby gender test or an early gender test. This revelation can significantly influence decisions such as personalising the nursery, selecting names, and forming early emotional connections with the baby. When considering a gender test, reflect on how this aligns with your family’s values and expectations. Organising a gender test has become popular for many expectant parents, offering an early glimpse into the baby’s world. If you want to find out, <a href="https://www.alphabiolabs.ie/public-testing-services/baby-gender-test/">buying a gender test in Ireland</a> is easy, thanks to AlphaBiolabs Ireland. Purchase a gender test and consider the reveal a cherished moment in your parenthood journey.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Navigating Sleepless Nights And New Routines</span></h2><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The arrival of a newborn disrupts sleep and daily routines, making adaptability key. To cope with sleep deprivation, try to sleep when the baby sleeps and share nighttime duties with your partner if possible. Establishing a routine for the baby can also bring some predictability to your days. Flexibility is essential – some days will be smoother than others, and that’s perfectly okay.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFyAOcugwHCQVP8YUa2wNUHzMFLa656JujS9nMid45iuUeOVfL1FLRaU1xSKc2E_K1NEdOXYxBYFfgjUlTzyp6Z7wvZRbg7l1olXcZAvBqlyvnvQiXsCnazI1JnR3QxawBbLl56V5GiZZIfZkaS003gGPTsUH2t4lx_OyCdrjYp-IE-cyqeaT3kK__UX8/s1080/Untitled%20design%203.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFyAOcugwHCQVP8YUa2wNUHzMFLa656JujS9nMid45iuUeOVfL1FLRaU1xSKc2E_K1NEdOXYxBYFfgjUlTzyp6Z7wvZRbg7l1olXcZAvBqlyvnvQiXsCnazI1JnR3QxawBbLl56V5GiZZIfZkaS003gGPTsUH2t4lx_OyCdrjYp-IE-cyqeaT3kK__UX8/w640-h640/Untitled%20design%203.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">The Bonding Process</span></h2><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div> <div style="text-align: justify;">Bonding with your newborn is about more than just meeting their physical needs. It involves emotional and physical closeness. Skin-to-skin contact, for instance, can be a powerful bonding experience. Responding to your baby’s cues and spending quality time together strengthens this bond. No matter how small, each interaction is a building block in your relationship.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Partner Support And Understanding</span></h2><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Effective communication with your partner is fundamental during this transition. Share your thoughts, feelings, and needs openly. Listen to your partner’s experiences and challenges, too. Regular check-ins can help maintain your relationship’s strength and provide mutual support. You’re a team, and working together makes navigating parenthood more manageable and fulfilling.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Seeking And Accepting Help</span></h2><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">There’s no shame in <a href="https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/a-z-topics/parenting-and-mental-health">seeking or accepting help as new parents</a>. Reach out to friends, family, or professionals for support. Whether it’s advice, practical help, or just a listening ear, utilising your support network can significantly ease the pressures of parenthood. Additionally, consider joining parent groups or forums for shared experiences and advice.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4ztKzGYo3hzQf4enQ_p8PtguzTP8OZQR8GH9_MskPAbKMMNvXHElgXh9s2PIf4mWQlgAyls4NX38qSbx80L5Sfh1ELBoDnxQ0NuB2EV-lgwZv24D_KbENx9oR_MD2pdBp3yyCYrEqFKD145SY-vNYpwfhoJQeKF7eYg90US0fgvbHoKShhwJhl9lEZs8/s1080/Untitled%20design%202.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4ztKzGYo3hzQf4enQ_p8PtguzTP8OZQR8GH9_MskPAbKMMNvXHElgXh9s2PIf4mWQlgAyls4NX38qSbx80L5Sfh1ELBoDnxQ0NuB2EV-lgwZv24D_KbENx9oR_MD2pdBp3yyCYrEqFKD145SY-vNYpwfhoJQeKF7eYg90US0fgvbHoKShhwJhl9lEZs8/w640-h640/Untitled%20design%202.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Cherishing The Small Moments</span></h2><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">In the whirlwind of new responsibilities, it’s important to cherish the small, everyday moments with your baby. These fleeting instances – a smile, a giggle, or a peaceful nap – are precious. These moments offer profound joy and a deep sense of connection. Savour them as they make the challenges of parenthood all the more worthwhile.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Embrace The Journey</span></h2><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Parenthood is a unique and evolving journey. It’s a path of growth, learning, and immense love. Embrace each stage with an open heart and mind. Remember, every parent’s journey is different, and there’s no single ‘right’ way to navigate it. Trust your instincts, celebrate your family’s milestones, and enjoy the adventure of becoming a family of three.</div><br /> Wafflemamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04187393033810793920noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8225134739568615684.post-88666192601289698392024-01-10T03:47:00.000+00:002024-01-10T03:47:24.027+00:00Healthy Mama || Where To Turn When Your Mental Health Is Bad<p style="text-align: center;"> <a href="https://www.wafflemama.uk/2023/08/healthy-mama-where-to-turn-when-your.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgE979xA8l4d85BCWNjb24hIAS4JE0WrWwQWavkdbTMKZTR7JQNZ2HTep7PtHiWhBjyHqFaVAry30IKt_RnyjSSfRKMJjiofRzHrpt5oQur9ydgqVeQ0pmgKrKtd47o17ZLzJntKDtMlb8W35vr4e-ZoR-oouAcIo2H0_2XkwmJOz3Ji11u1ER_60uFhQ/w640-h640/20230811_113633_0000.png" width="640" /></a><br /></p><span><a name='more'></a></span><p><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">We're all told first and foremost, that if we're feeling low and depressed then our first port of call should be our GP. In theory this makes sense, but have you ever actually tried to get help from your GP? It's a mission.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">At best you may be given a prescription for antidepressants after a half arsed appointment that probably isn't even face to face. However our local doctors have sent me away with weight loss advertising leaflets (WW and SW) as a solution to my poor mental health. I've also been told that it could be a lot worse and to basically think positive and sent on my way. It would be funny if it wasn't so desperately desperately sad. Imagine that was me on a worse day and what a big impact that would have?</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Having struggled on and off for the best part of ten years, I've learnt that unless you can afford to pay for it privately, it's unlikely that anyone will care enough or do enough to help you get healthy. It's really dire out there and it scares me how many people will fall through the net with the lack of support available. Also, the sheer effort of continually having to reach out for help and getting nowhere is exhausting and if anything adds to the low feeling and lack of self esteem.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">I'm kind of resigned to the fact now that nobody will help. People just don't care, and those that do are overstretched and just don't have the time, resources or appointments available. With that in mind, I thought I'd share some other things that can help you along the way, when the official methods let you down, as they most likely will - especially if you live in Lincolnshire!</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Helplines</span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">If you need help right now here's some people that can help - this information is from <a href="http://mind.org.uk">mind.org.uk</a></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Samaritans</b>. To talk about anything that is upsetting you, you can contact Samaritans 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. You can call <b>116 123</b> (free from any phone), email jo@samaritans.org or visit some branches in person. You can also call the Samaritans Welsh Language Line on 0808 164 0123 (7pm–11pm every day).</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>SANEline</b>. If you're experiencing a mental health problem or supporting someone else, you can call SANEline on <b>0300 304 7000</b> (4.30pm–10.30pm every day).</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>National Suicide Prevention Helpline UK</b>. Offers a supportive listening service to anyone with thoughts of suicide. You can call the National Suicide Prevention Helpline UK on <b>0800 689 5652</b> (6pm to midnight every day).</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM).</b> You can call the CALM on <b>0800 58 58 58</b> (5pm–midnight every day) if you are struggling and need to talk. Or if you prefer not to speak on the phone, you could try the CALM webchat service.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Shout</b>. If you would prefer not to talk but want some mental health support, you could <b>text SHOUT to 85258</b>. Shout offers a confidential 24/7 text service providing support if you are in crisis and need immediate help.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>The Mix</b>. If you're under 25, you can call The Mix on <b>0808 808 4994</b> (3pm–midnight every day), request support by email using this form on The Mix website or use their crisis text messenger service.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Papyrus <b>HOPELINEUK</b>. If you're under 35 and struggling with suicidal feelings, or concerned about a young person who might be struggling, you can call Papyrus HOPELINEUK on <b>0800 068 4141</b> (weekdays 10am-10pm, weekends 2pm-10pm and bank holidays 2pm–10pm), email pat@papyrus-uk.org or text 07786 209 697.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Nightline</b>. If you're a student, you can look on the Nightline website to see if your university or college offers a night-time listening service. Nightline phone operators are all students too.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Switchboard</b>. If you identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender, you can call Switchboard on <b>0300 330 0630</b> (10am–10pm every day), email chris@switchboard.lgbt or use their webchat service. Phone operators all identify as LGBT+.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>C.A.L.L</b>. If you live in Wales, you can call the Community Advice and Listening Line (C.A.L.L.) on <b>0800 132 737</b> (open 24/7) or you can text 'help' followed by a question to 81066.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Helplines Partnership</b>. For more options, visit the Helplines Partnership website for a directory of UK helplines. Mind's Infoline can also help you find services that can support you. If you're outside the UK, the Befrienders Worldwide website has a tool to search by country for emotional support helplines around the world.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: #666666;">Urgent mental health helpline</span></b></h2><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>England</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;">If you live in England, you can call a local NHS urgent mental health helpline for support during a mental health crisis. Anyone can call these helplines, at any time.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">These helplines offer similar support to a crisis team. The NHS website has more information on urgent mental health helplines, including how to find your local helpline.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Wales</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;">In Wales, you can contact NHS 111 and select option 2. This will put you through to an NHS helpline offering 24/7 urgent mental health support. Visit the NHS 111 Wales website to find out more about this service.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Look to local charities</span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">You may be able to find face to face, phone or online help from local charities and quite often these can feel far easier to access and more personal being local. A simple Google search should help. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Talk to people</span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">It's cliche but talking does help. Whether it's a friend, a professional or support group, emptying your head can really help you feel less trapped and overwhelmed with life. If you don't want to talk to another human, write it down. You don't have to share it with anyone or even keep it, but just getting those words and thoughts out of your head any way you can is helpful.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Self care</span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">Be kind to yourself. If you need sleep, sleep. If you need to cry, cry. Whatever you feel you need to feel better or get some relief, as long as it's healthy for you then go ahead. You could also try get some therapy, go for a massage, do some relaxation with meditation or music. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">If you're struggling right now please don't let it carry on, do anything positive however small right now! </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p>Wafflemamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04187393033810793920noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8225134739568615684.post-13284666069636263032024-01-10T03:44:00.000+00:002024-01-10T03:44:05.553+00:00School Life || Funding Your Dream Playground: Tips for Schools to Secure Playground Equipment Grants<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEtKtnYqW1LzlcHDvpaJWeQSFG4SwMhxEmJOwUL7hrtOnRfPqn4tMEumcReWnTaLeDUcpgsqo3LkrKxgasSDLoQeJM-Onhu5YUmGKRmhfoweJUhyphenhyphenFUVgw1cvx7qiDsoh0zkU4SITgn4VQ7pjA8Fqr2WXW6lQNX4I6dE2aWd8khWlg8iSd1pafjNc0BbGw/s1080/20240110_033856_0000.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEtKtnYqW1LzlcHDvpaJWeQSFG4SwMhxEmJOwUL7hrtOnRfPqn4tMEumcReWnTaLeDUcpgsqo3LkrKxgasSDLoQeJM-Onhu5YUmGKRmhfoweJUhyphenhyphenFUVgw1cvx7qiDsoh0zkU4SITgn4VQ7pjA8Fqr2WXW6lQNX4I6dE2aWd8khWlg8iSd1pafjNc0BbGw/w640-h640/20240110_033856_0000.png" width="640" /></a></div><span><a name='more'></a></span><p></p><p><i><span style="color: #666666;">Collaborative post</span></i></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Playgrounds are vital spaces for children, offering them a world where imagination meets physical activity. For schools, creating a dream playground containing the latest <a href="https://creativeplayuk.com/">playground equipment</a>, is not just a matter of design, but also of funding. This blog explores effective strategies for securing grants and funding to build or upgrade school playgrounds.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: center;">Understanding the Importance of Playgrounds in Schools</h2><div><br /></div><p><b>Why Invest in a Playground?</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Developmental Benefits: Playgrounds aid in the physical, social, and mental development of children.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Inclusivity: A well-designed playground caters to children of all abilities, promoting inclusivity and accessibility.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Learning Enhancement: Outdoor play is linked to improved concentration and learning outcomes in the classroom.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: center;">Identifying Potential Sources of Funding</h2><div><br /></div><p style="text-align: justify;">Government Grants: Many local and national government programs offer grants for educational and recreational projects.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Charitable Foundations: Numerous organisations prioritise funding for children's play areas and educational facilities.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Community Fundraising: Local businesses, parent-teacher associations, and community groups can be sources of funding and support.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg003mtzUm3_T_lSPquHYy7_dB7F7ma-lCNTvFqjHIoEGkki8KpugIsa9P_dvFstz03Oq8MZpctsWYUx1LyiQbjHmXry4xjiC9A12qwTbpKUcJbi2_5EyaFTqy_F58tP2E2RE78H4CRf5bjeiCgCPI01xOgnMZp8JQYC8JBNF1WznzxcCJOhX6wmek3tiM/s1080/20240110_034025_0000.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg003mtzUm3_T_lSPquHYy7_dB7F7ma-lCNTvFqjHIoEGkki8KpugIsa9P_dvFstz03Oq8MZpctsWYUx1LyiQbjHmXry4xjiC9A12qwTbpKUcJbi2_5EyaFTqy_F58tP2E2RE78H4CRf5bjeiCgCPI01xOgnMZp8JQYC8JBNF1WznzxcCJOhX6wmek3tiM/w640-h640/20240110_034025_0000.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: center;">Crafting a Winning Grant Proposal</h2><div><br /></div><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Key Elements of a Successful Proposal:</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Clear Objectives: Define what you want to achieve with the new playground.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Budget Breakdown: Provide a detailed account of how the funds will be used.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Community Impact: Demonstrate how the playground will benefit the school and wider community.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Inclusivity and Accessibility: Show how your design caters to all children, regardless of ability.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: center;">Engaging with the Community</h2><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Building Support:</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Parental Involvement: Encourage parents to participate in fundraising and decision-making processes.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Local Partnerships: Collaborate with local businesses and organizations for financial or material support.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Publicity: Utilize local media and social platforms to raise awareness and garner support.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: center;">Utilizing Online Resources</h2><div><br /></div><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Online Grant Databases and Tools:</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Explore websites that list available grants specifically for educational and recreational purposes.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Use online tools to assist in writing and submitting grant proposals.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Securing funding for a school playground is a challenging yet rewarding endeavor. By understanding the importance of playgrounds, identifying potential funding sources, crafting compelling grant proposals, and engaging with the community, schools can make significant strides toward building their dream playgrounds.</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b><br /></b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b><br /></b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><i>References</i></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><i><a href="https://www.tnlcommunityfund.org.uk/funding/grants?programme=Childrens%20Play%3A%20Playful%20Ideas">Playground Equipment Grants</a></i></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><i><a href="https://ltl.org.uk/resources/the-good-school-playground-guide/">School Playground Development Resources</a></i></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p>Wafflemamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04187393033810793920noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8225134739568615684.post-54127401968040301522023-11-13T15:06:00.002+00:002023-11-13T15:06:56.427+00:00Home Style || Essential Interior Design Tips For Achieving A Cohesive Home Style<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.wafflemama.uk/2023/11/home-style-essential-interior-design.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirXAXbrtydl7BuN1G1RtGVADSTJULU4hoNF7GpsYysKlvwbWcw1LuKR8Ibp5Xm1-i2aY6dKMbFxaH_f2bHlHCeS9udtSMqyOhCN7vG_FfBbP75rFfH1ZiLUHU7EiBCmvL9ngf89kSIBq_JShvcGLyVRScg4JNNLOLDqt9FbFtfbeGEQKsyaymiwYaR1hw/w640-h640/20231113_150127_0000.png" width="640" /></a><br /></p><span><a name='more'></a></span><p style="text-align: justify;"><i><b><br /></b></i></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><i><b>Home Style - Collaborative Post</b></i></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><i><b><br /></b></i></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Welcome to the delightful world of interior design, where every corner of your home has the potential to be a canvas of creativity and comfort. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Creating a cohesive and visually appealing home style doesn't have to be an intimidating task. With a touch of imagination and a sprinkle of thoughtful design, you can transform your living space into a harmonious sanctuary that reflects your unique personality and preferences. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Let's explore some essential interior design tips that will guide you on the journey to achieving a cohesive and inviting home style.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGv1aliamIO-gwMo-Im40FbqvVpEdtGCBI75Ke23HESeqnoCNVB6m6_dJUgYA1KCJr8PCerYsk-UkrtuFLDEf6olpO88C5AyaZYo-8sfStqJ2hGj7PzTFzTDpmbj7TRfZK5XtcJV9CvracvIJR9W4VbZEgMPgEy0PGI3NkabRCvjQ1esPGFRrFbnnpgDE/s1080/20231113_150443_0000.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGv1aliamIO-gwMo-Im40FbqvVpEdtGCBI75Ke23HESeqnoCNVB6m6_dJUgYA1KCJr8PCerYsk-UkrtuFLDEf6olpO88C5AyaZYo-8sfStqJ2hGj7PzTFzTDpmbj7TRfZK5XtcJV9CvracvIJR9W4VbZEgMPgEy0PGI3NkabRCvjQ1esPGFRrFbnnpgDE/w640-h640/20231113_150443_0000.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Unifying Colour Palette</span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">Begin your design journey by selecting a unifying colour palette that sets the tone for your entire home. Go for a harmonious blend of complementary hues that create a seamless transition from one room to another. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Whether you prefer soothing neutrals, vibrant splashes of colour, or a combination of both, let your chosen colour palette be the foundation that ties your living space together and evokes a sense of unity and warmth.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Here’s a top tip for you – don’t forget your <a href="https://georgehill-timber.co.uk/doors/internal-doors/">internal doors!</a> Investing in a set of stunning timber doors from a high-quality supplier like George Hill will help to ensure cohesion and style throughout your home, whether you opt for doors in shades of golden oak, dark walnut, or pure white. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Consistent Textures and Materials</span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">Embrace the tactile beauty of consistent textures and materials that add depth and character to your home style. Mix and match different textures, such as plush fabrics, natural wood, and sleek metal finishes, to create a visual balance that exudes comfort and elegance. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Whether it's a cosy area rug, a rustic wooden coffee table, or a contemporary metal light fixture, let the seamless integration of textures and materials create a cohesive and inviting ambience that invites relaxation and harmony. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Balancing Furniture Proportions</span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">Strike a balance between furniture proportions to create a sense of visual equilibrium and flow within your living space. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Choose furniture pieces that complement the scale of your rooms, ensuring that they neither overpower nor appear dwarfed by the surrounding elements. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Emphasise a mix of large and small furniture items that create a well-balanced composition and provide ample room for movement and functionality, fostering a welcoming and comfortable environment for everyday living.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Personalised Decor Accents</span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">Infuse your home with personalised decor accents that reflect your unique style and preferences. Incorporate meaningful artwork, family photographs, and cherished mementoes that tell your story and add a personal touch to every room. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Consider displaying your favourite collections, travel souvenirs, or handcrafted pieces that evoke fond memories and showcase your individuality, creating a home that not only looks cohesive but also feels deeply personal and inviting.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Strategic Lighting Solutions</span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">Harness the power of strategic lighting solutions to create a warm and inviting ambience throughout your home. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Combine natural lighting with well-placed artificial lighting fixtures, such as pendant lights, floor lamps, and wall sconces, to illuminate key areas and highlight architectural details. Use lighting to accentuate focal points, create visual interest, and establish a cosy and welcoming atmosphere that adapts to different moods and occasions, fostering a sense of comfort and relaxation within your living space.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Nature's Refreshing Touch</span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">Integrate elements of nature, such as indoor plants, floral arrangements, and natural materials, to infuse your home with a refreshing and rejuvenating ambience. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Bring the outdoors inside by incorporating potted plants, fresh flowers, or <a href="https://www.moderngardensmagazine.co.uk/outdoor-living/decor/nature-inspired-decor/">botanical-inspired decor</a> that adds a touch of vitality and tranquillity to your living space. Embrace the calming influence of nature's beauty, creating a cohesive and inviting home style that connects you with the serenity and vibrancy of the natural world.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Thoughtful Space Planning</span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">Optimise your space by engaging in thoughtful space planning that maximises functionality and flow within your home. Arrange furniture in a way that promotes easy navigation and encourages comfortable social interactions. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Create designated zones for different activities, such as relaxation, work, and entertainment, ensuring that each area serves its intended purpose while contributing to the overall harmony and coherence of your home design.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl_5MIHuJvl1VcHR2sfaQWm2fS_Z2BySU5N5i5gxSatF9CtUoORG0v8lPzdNJG2t3xt27eO96Fxmpjp15E818oP24ta3c_lnWjL5UWHuG5VlpcRwPvxI17k0wYSqc3Aiks9CGs8-iLukt-XS7XQegqRrK5EudHP8Hprz441jmiPdjjLHuiVOD5O4Vd_ZE/s1080/20231113_150425_0000.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl_5MIHuJvl1VcHR2sfaQWm2fS_Z2BySU5N5i5gxSatF9CtUoORG0v8lPzdNJG2t3xt27eO96Fxmpjp15E818oP24ta3c_lnWjL5UWHuG5VlpcRwPvxI17k0wYSqc3Aiks9CGs8-iLukt-XS7XQegqRrK5EudHP8Hprz441jmiPdjjLHuiVOD5O4Vd_ZE/w640-h640/20231113_150425_0000.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Seasonal Refresh and Adaptability </span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">Embrace the spirit of <a href="https://www.scs.co.uk/inspiration-hub/trends/seasonal-home-interior-decor.html">seasonal refresh</a> and adaptability by incorporating versatile decor elements that can be easily updated or changed to reflect the evolving seasons and your changing preferences. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Experiment with seasonal textiles, decorative cushions, and seasonal foliage that infuse your home with a dynamic and ever-evolving ambience. Embrace the opportunity to renew and refresh your living space, allowing it to adapt and transform alongside your evolving lifestyle and the natural rhythms of the changing seasons.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Reflective Accents and Mirrors </span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">Integrate reflective accents and mirrors to create a sense of spaciousness and brightness within your home. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Place mirrors strategically to amplify natural light and create the illusion of a larger and more open space. Incorporate reflective decor accents, such as metallic finishes, glass tabletops, and mirrored surfaces, to add a touch of elegance and contemporary flair that enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of your living space. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Enjoy Your New Decor</span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">By incorporating these essential interior design tips, you can transform your living space into a cohesive and inviting sanctuary that reflects your personal style and fosters a sense of comfort and harmony. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Let your home become a reflection of your unique personality and a haven of creativity and relaxation that welcomes you with open arms every time you step through the door.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p>Wafflemamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04187393033810793920noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8225134739568615684.post-24558513725011103812023-11-07T16:49:00.003+00:002023-11-07T16:49:59.956+00:00Mama Style || Lots Of Clothes But Nothing To Wear?!<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.wafflemama.uk/2023/11/mama-style-lots-of-clothes-but-nothing.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUmh9unjLyx4gF_4MyIIXLP_jsUnq5ounkVWAjxC5QR14N-1p7MT9R7g0L_UQJC_Nh2TMFpDH1u7C7dPJ3hNjQBVQTldx_7i0QD48yPeMwpB4uDbJJ8ZhB3K9IOv-f_ngXI20N2I8sZQtUD5XckoQtyW7ffTEr7Br0R9wF6yAO_cyYI4eOW9E_ikwNFSA/w640-h640/Copy%20of%20Blue%20Photo%20Promotional%20Fall%20Instagram%20Post%20(2).jpg" width="640" /></a><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span></span></p><a name='more'></a><br />I know I won't be alone in feeling this way and maybe it's harder being plus size and pushing 40, but as the title suggests - I have a whole heap of clothes here, but genuinely feel every single day that I have nothing to wear. Technically I do, my wardrobe is overflowing into 'floordrobe' territory, but nothing goes together, nothing is similar in style and my clothes are just all over the place. Garr.<p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">I have clothes that my 17 year old self would have killed for and clothes that the old lady down the road wouldn't be seen dead in. I've got all sorts from crop tops, to knee length cardigans, slogan jumpers to silky tops. I don't know how I got here but for some reason I find it nearly impossible now to put an outfit together and as a result live in the same few items, wash them and repeat. These clothes generally rotate from being worn, to the wash, to a chair, to being worn again, yet I can barely shut my wardrobe...</p><p style="text-align: justify;">I see women in a simple sweatshirt, leggings and trainers combo and they look really well put together, yet when I wear it I look more like I should be out on the streets begging for change, is it just me? I think it's partly my size and not wanting to admit how big I've got and that half my clothes don't fit, but also my age. I don't want to dress older, but can't pull off the clothes younger me would have loved, and I'm struggling to find that middle point that sits right.<br /><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Finding inspiration</span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">For me, when I open my wardrobe to the sea of random ill thought out clothes I feel overwhelmed. I don't know where to start. I've recently been looking for inspiration on Instagram but not from famous people or models, but instead from real women that are either my age, my size or that dress in the styles I like. I must say that watching someone give ideas on how to style certain items has really helped me, even if I haven't found anyone that hits my style perfectly. I've found by searching my clothes size and seeing women in my actual size clothes has helped a lot too, but I also find that many dress in ways that just isn't me or are too girly. The girls that do it best are <a href="https://www.instagram.com/curvyinvienna/?hl=en">curvy in Vienna</a> on Instagram, thought they are a lot smaller than me they are so positive and inspiring with their posts. Say what you want about influencers but some are genuinely really helpful. So if you're reading this and post that kind of content, please know that you really are helping people!<br /><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Streamlining my closet</span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">Step one for me is to streamline my closet, narrow down what I have so that choosing what to wear each days is easier. I think a big part of the problem for me is having too much, so it makes it all feel way more overwhelming that it needs to. So clearing out the unworn, the repeats and the too small is definitely a good place to start! I also have repeats of items that i forgot I had and got another, how bad is that!<br /><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9QwkCdpX0EawJY1ums1kzBdUQfqr96_WnjesQz6frokf8cEPLCOV9mNQ3IYYkBGZDkJx4KbmMNruDfiZXij1HTxUDtCbMHep5tf2GSoUEcV8RZbIoqNjpNfOm_jlZg3X_aN9QIEhCn6ennVb5Z7YzvAdrn67VbZIwLS4a6PKCPCK9w9V89nabDVL-eJQ/s1080/Untitled%20design%20(5).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9QwkCdpX0EawJY1ums1kzBdUQfqr96_WnjesQz6frokf8cEPLCOV9mNQ3IYYkBGZDkJx4KbmMNruDfiZXij1HTxUDtCbMHep5tf2GSoUEcV8RZbIoqNjpNfOm_jlZg3X_aN9QIEhCn6ennVb5Z7YzvAdrn67VbZIwLS4a6PKCPCK9w9V89nabDVL-eJQ/w640-h640/Untitled%20design%20(5).jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Facing facts</span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">Step two is facing facts as to where I'm at in life and what I actually want to wear. I also need to not be storing clothes that I've outgrown, be realistic about my size, only have clothes that fit my current shape and not hang in onto tiny clothes that are unlikely to fit again. I 've said it before, but having clothes that are too small isn't motivation, it's just depressing, they take up space and are a daily reminder to feel crap about yourself. Even if they are just out of sight it's better than having that daily reminder of weight gain. Although I have to for my health and will lose weight, I'd much rather shop again than hold onto all this baggage. Age is another factor. Although I'm a strong believer in wearing whatever makes us happy, I need to focus on my needs and style now and not get clothing that's reminiscent of my youth - which is easier said than done when 90s/00s fashions are in again! Instead I need to focus on things that make me feel good now, don't make me feel silly and that fit my current shape and lifestyle. I think I need a pro stylist or something just to help me put things together, as I love mismatched but it doesn't quite work any more for me and I frankly feel a bit silly and old for a lot of my clothes!</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b>Do you struggle with what to wear each day? If you have any tips please drop them below!</b></p><p><br /></p>Wafflemamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04187393033810793920noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8225134739568615684.post-7788409497458405872023-08-11T09:20:00.000+01:002023-08-11T09:20:05.307+01:00Create || The Impact Of AI for designers <p style="text-align: center;"> <a href="https://www.wafflemama.uk/2023/08/create-impact-of-ai-for-designers.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt5DgffNgR3Nl30Xu93AjJSRF0fH2E0XyfLlp_2DukoxQX5lONL3fetv_KkTBk-ZU1pJ_1jqj1XV_MjBn9lKmbFXD4zgn_ctT0lmOTFCv9_C895yovIuugMRaCP3V8FmKrPHOucsvIJ3N3Zj8vW8_yBsnGSLmeuBJlhrpJof_jixG9owOLYIstWJBsbOo/w640-h640/Copy%20of%20Blue%20Photo%20Promotional%20Fall%20Instagram%20Post_20230811_090650_0000.png" width="640" /></a><br /></p><span><a name='more'></a></span><p><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">As you know, my main work right now is design work, with 99% of it being seamless pattern design. I work every hour I can in the day and night to contribute to our bills and keep food on the table, so anything that takes that work away is incredibly scary. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">You've probably all heard about AI now and for those that haven't, it's basically typing some words in to a computer to make it generate something, this could be a photo, video or pretty much everything you can or can't imagine. There have been swarms of AI pictures and videos on social media, to the point where you sometimes wonder whether something like a nature video is real or yet another fabrication. Most of it is being used in a kind of satire 'how weird is this' kind of way on socials, with things like videos of Arnold Schwarzenegger singing Barbie girl, or pictures of grannies with ten foot knitted cats.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Currently, it's pretty easy to spot most AI productions especially on video form, as you'll notice that it creates pictures of humans with too many teeth or fingers (shudder) and already we are seeing images and styles repeated despite the fact that every image should be different. It looks creepy, bizarre and just not right, but it can only get better. As annoying as it is in some ways, you have to admire how bloody clever it all is and the potential available.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPX9Dfanotqz_eLS_rwyIvR8aYmSPzt93BS2-HCS9tY7dK-34B_7jVSdlwxpFxaYM8LKYH85gzGQYQlLOcLShEOiRZp-QTvjM_Sq3ZIqx12Uew4l6sUNiFqVPKc6SAtmRPW1ePBPPJzf8EYQ43TQV5zLzCdTL0h65EaTTVjTt8opQoNm-RPAvtvrgcoVs/s1080/Untitled%20design_20230811_091045_0000.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPX9Dfanotqz_eLS_rwyIvR8aYmSPzt93BS2-HCS9tY7dK-34B_7jVSdlwxpFxaYM8LKYH85gzGQYQlLOcLShEOiRZp-QTvjM_Sq3ZIqx12Uew4l6sUNiFqVPKc6SAtmRPW1ePBPPJzf8EYQ43TQV5zLzCdTL0h65EaTTVjTt8opQoNm-RPAvtvrgcoVs/w640-h640/Untitled%20design_20230811_091045_0000.png" width="640" /></a></div><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Straight away as this thing picked up traction, I noticed one of the designers in my network listing designs for sale that had been made with AI. This was so so disappointing to see, and again on a market night another designer admitted to using AI to create the main elements which they they constructed into a fabric pattern. More annoyingly, they were even charging far more than me for a mere fraction of the work. To the trained eye though, it was easy to see those weird elements that weren't quite right, the AI look to the characters and the poorly executed joins in the patterns. They did get sales though, so straight away this thing was a threat to my business.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">For designers, this is a worry. Although it's not a huge threat right away as most things look pretty crap, knowing how quickly technology can advance means that this can only get better. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Although we have loyal customers and new ones all the time, if a client can head to a site and generate their own one off patterns for a small fee or maybe even for free, then why on earth would they pay us for one off designs? </p><p style="text-align: justify;">There is a glimmer of hope though as even though the computer does all the work, it does still rely on a human to input the idea and execution. Some of us designers come up with truly unique ideas and styles that would be hard to replicate artificially (for now), so there will always be people I presume that would rather have proper work from a proper human and aren't just looking for the cheapest work out there. It's also questionable where the elements are pulled from and always that chance an element has been used from another artist, so we need to question how unique everything is. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">With times being hard and money stretched for all though, it is a genuine concern where all this could lead. Luckily most people seem to be pretty anti it at present and the designs that went up were very soon called out and pulled down, but there's always that possibility that the technology advances significantly and does our job for us. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">So what can we do? </span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">I've heard of designers in different fields actually using the AI software to generate ideas, so it can be useful to us in some ways if we're wondering how something could look, or to research styles or even just see what stage the tech is at and whether we should feel worried yet. Some people use it to generate images for clients to show potential ideas, or generate design ideas for things like furniture or architecture that would take hours of work for our little brains. It's all scary, but if it's gonna be here we may as well find a way to make use of it too. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Diversify our income</span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">With the potential threat of loss of earnings, it may be a good time to look at diversifying our income. If we focus on just one area of design work such as fabric design in my case, then this could very quickly get taken over by other 'designers' ploughing out computer generated work in seconds, not giving a f but taking in the cash for little work. So it may be worth focusing on other areas of design that require a human touch such as greetings card design or personalised prints, things that require the emotive element of our brains that can't necessarily be chucked together with a quick AI sentence or at least not yet.</p><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">In short</span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">AI does pose a real potential threat to us designers, but at present it's obvious and a bit shit - so although it's not a huge worry right now, it is something we need to bare in mind. We need to not put all our design eggs in one basket and instead think about how we can either use this technology to our advantage such as for inspiration etc, and look at other ways to use our skills that cannot be affected by AI. We can save a lot of time right now by generating images for inspiration that may take us a long time to sketch out otherwise, so there are some advantages even if this feels like scraping the barrel a bit for me.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">If you're a designer is AI something that worries you long term or do you think it could never beat the human touch? </p>Wafflemamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04187393033810793920noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8225134739568615684.post-58393494102950858652023-08-07T17:49:00.002+01:002023-11-08T17:51:58.991+00:00Mama Life || Next Level: Enter Secondary School<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.wafflemama.uk/2023/08/mama-life-next-level-enter-secondary.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1ZMvtu4uLfW41sbFSkk557p-BxeQRyxrAXlS9MYzg-3Ty8clWMq83FHQLJsknOb4YSGMTMsx2hdmIfCnkcneEMxwb9S8QO15ytPRvTeVQENKnhcDqu_QTDcs0ON74R9c7A5hvxroEV96o8K9YcVBSlr1zL8wu9BqGQtYBindJGDM2P7Q37lFo9hhxCII/w640-h640/Copy%20of%20Blue%20Photo%20Promotional%20Fall%20Instagram%20Post%20(3).jpg" width="640" /></a><br /></p><span><a name='more'></a></span><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">I don't even know how it's gone this quickly, but within just a few weeks my baby boy will start secondary school and it's terrifying. When I started this blog five minutes ago he was a toddler.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">I'm so excited for him as he's so so ready for something new, he's really excited and absolutely full of beans for the next adventure with some freedom of his own. Alf is really grown up for his age and has been so bored the last year or two of primary, as I think after COVID the focus has been on pulling the struggling students up to the correct level, so those that were where they should be have kind of floundered just waiting for the next step. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Needless to say, like many my own experience of secondary school was a mixed bag. In some ways I loved it and looking back I had it very easy, it was a nice part of my life in comparison to others and I did have fun. But, at the time there was the odd heart ache with friends or boys and the odd bit of bullying thrown in. I never really felt like I fit in anywhere, not quite cool enough for the cool kids but not quite clever enough for the rest, not pretty enough for the popular girls but pretty enough to still get the odd boy troubles. It was a weird time but I look back on it pretty fondly now knowing how easy it all was compared to things that would follow.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">What scares me now is that times have moved on which is amazing in some ways like for Alf, a budding games creator will get to have coding lessons and he's already so clever compared to how I was with education being so much more advanced. The bad side though is that there's new aspects now like cyber bullying, social media platforms, camera phones, zero fear of teachers and the douche bags got douchier. All things that we'd not even have dreamed of when I was at school, where we were lucky if we had a pager and/or dial up internet at home. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Nowadays there is so much more to think about for teens, nothing is forgotten once it's online and kids can be super cruel. There's pros and cons of course, but as an anxious mother with a rather stupid brain, I do tend to focus on the negatives and overthink.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">I also just have this irrational fear of bullying, which sounds absolutely mental I know. I've already heard of one pupil getting expelled due to carrying a knife at the school we are going to, so I guess on one hand you could say it was dealt with well so that's a positive, but also a kid carrying a knife into school, that's insane isn't it?! I've heard other stories of bullying too and it doesn't matter how amazing a kid is, it just takes one little shit to ruin everything. I really hope mine can sail through without getting caught up in that kind of rubbish as I don't think it's character building, I just think it's rubbish.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">The school itself is lovely and the staff so far that we've met have been great, but it's the breaks and the walks to and from school that scare me the most. We can arm them with as much self love as possible and I guess just hope that they have the strength to deal with anything that comes their way. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">We've started the big uniform shop so it feels like it's really happening now. As soon as that gut wrenching feeling of leaving primary has passed, the nerves are coming back now with this next stage. I'm trying my absolute best to keep my thoughts and fears to myself, I really don't want to taint his excitement with my ridiculous worries, but it's hard isn't it?</p><p style="text-align: justify;">If you're a parent with a kid starting secondary school this year what are your thoughts? Also if you've been where I am in recent times and have any advice etc please do comment below 💓</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p>Wafflemamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04187393033810793920noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8225134739568615684.post-36579336246250477352023-08-03T01:57:00.000+01:002023-08-03T01:57:15.458+01:00Home Style || Adding Privacy To Your Urban Space<p style="text-align: center;"><i></i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://www.wafflemama.uk/2023/08/home-style-adding-privacy-to-your-urban.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKwzDPNFs2xLXfgSNa7qz0GGBhCfqLVuN_fMgk3Akc_ohg3Jg4yMewv0VPb3eEuebR0dw4GVUZsKXNko0cUWh_gMjFeXSVXgABVPhFM3hiTd3r9_QBvYI-TGPaV6cEwYWPmDH_oCH4KAMbLu9WQawVHg566ERPAiZ44NbFoV9EqUUpMnHDAap8pAwiEWY/w640-h640/Copy%20of%20Blue%20Photo%20Promotional%20Fall%20Instagram%20Post%20(1).jpg" width="640" /></a></i></div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><i><span></span></i></p><a name='more'></a><i><span style="color: #666666;"><br /><br />Collaborative Post</span></i><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Living and working in an urban city centre area definitely has its perks. I love being close to everything I need, near to the main transport hubs and having every shop and eatery on the doorstep, but there are of course downsides too. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Lack of decent parking and excess noise can be an issue, but the big one for me is privacy and not feeling over looked in my own home or when I'm working - also from home! I'm also very very easily distracted, so as much as I don't want to feel like I'm on full display, I don't need to be seeing every person/cat/dog walking past to distract me either.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">With this in mind, I thought I'd share some ways that you can successfully get some privacy in your home or work space, to avoid feeling like you have eyes on you while you're trying to relax or work. If like me you work from home, then you still want the light and space around you, just without the distractions of the outside or knowing people can see you. Here's some tips for creating the privacy you need, without having to compromise on the look and feel of the spaces you love.<br /><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Decorative films for windows</span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">If you want something that takes up no space but still allows all that glorious natural light through, you may want to consider investing in one of the many kinds of <a href="https://www.antalis.co.uk/eshop/visual-communication/architectural-films/windows-decoration-films">decorative glass finishes</a> available nowadays. These films come in lots of styles, colours and textures, giving you the option to not only add a little privacy, but improve your decor at the same time. These films don't just have to be used on external windows, but can be used internally too in areas where you just need that little extra privacy or decor, without spending too much or losing much needed floor space.<br /><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Shutters and blinds</span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">If you want something a little more solid that can be used as and when needed, then getting some suitable shutters or blinds for your windows may be a good option, for complete privacy. I always think shutters, although a more costly option, are great because they can be adjusted to the right angles to let in light or block off particular areas in view. There are so many options now and many don't have to be professionally installed, with some clipping into the window frames or simply hanging from hooks. <br /><br /><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0tRn5KQhRM2Orikq0zTm-o1IcGFv3oRw3pTBNUjn7Hr2ylpCDHplauN0O0DppzFXzcSMcZW-nl23pCktHt9FkIC6oSOX7ceEPdgPQjh02WxxJJvGICRbubv6wBtucK1BzKpdfDgqbMPRoeOBMt1Pejnb-i98-YBY4tJcXwY5NmA6o_1AdYs2-elqW6WQ/s1080/Untitled%20design%20(4).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0tRn5KQhRM2Orikq0zTm-o1IcGFv3oRw3pTBNUjn7Hr2ylpCDHplauN0O0DppzFXzcSMcZW-nl23pCktHt9FkIC6oSOX7ceEPdgPQjh02WxxJJvGICRbubv6wBtucK1BzKpdfDgqbMPRoeOBMt1Pejnb-i98-YBY4tJcXwY5NmA6o_1AdYs2-elqW6WQ/w640-h640/Untitled%20design%20(4).jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><p></p><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Use plants and shrubs</span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">You may want to break up the field of view with some plants, which will not only give you a little privacy inside or out, but also help clear the air and add a little life to your spaces. When carefully placed, plants can give you that little bit of privacy you need by just softening the space and helping to feel less overlooked. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">If it's your garden that feels over looked, then higher plants and planters, as well as climbers can help block off some nosy neighbours, without losing too much light and space. If you want a little more privacy, you may even want to add some free standing privacy screens that can be moved where needed.<br /><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Move your furniture</span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">Sometimes, the best way to feel more privacy when your'e at home is to adjust the furniture and workspace you already have. You may want the light from the window, but perhaps can position your desk on another wall, so you get the benefit of the light without feeling over-looked while you're working - or getting distracted by things happening outside! You can even create private spaces by rearranging furniture and sectioning off areas with things like book cases and large planters. By breaking up the space, you'll feel more contained and private.<br /><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>The biggest things to think about when considering you options of more privacy are your budget, how much space you can give up, how much light you may lose and how these additions can really add value to your space whilst only adding to the look and feel. What would you go for?</b></p>Wafflemamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04187393033810793920noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8225134739568615684.post-29210475382415743112023-08-01T14:54:00.001+01:002023-08-07T16:48:00.774+01:00Mama Life || Holiday Packing For An Unpredictable UK Summer <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.wafflemama.uk/2023/08/mama-life-holiday-packing-for.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8bJW5c9caPI5QJEhBBxfUdc3CIxzJBYGYSsQA4nHIx21ZnKsn-O9UXKclPj0VNZVRlrObihXXa_XmXopp0ZWdCox-i1SbBMDd_zQA80YREsYyNgMlJZnXJ8o-Nb4MCtZiCRBmHOPebTUgf24UtIBsaC6QUGJwmMnx0pITjc54yMD_zA6zd_pWgf4AKak/w640-h640/Copy%20of%20Blue%20Photo%20Promotional%20Fall%20Instagram%20Post.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span></span><p><i><span></span></i></p><a name='more'></a><i><br />Caution - British person potentially complaining about the weather</i><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">We all joke about the British weather, with it snowing one minute and sauna hot the next, but this summer is really unpredictable isn't it? </p><p style="text-align: justify;">As I write this, one of my children is snuggled up with the cat under a huge fluffy blanket and the other is wearing a full on double layered dressing gown with a blanket on his knees - it's the first day of August in the <a href="https://www.wafflemama.uk/2017/04/craft-time-school-holidaysweekend.html">school holidays</a>. I too find my self switching between needing either a blanket or a cold blast from a fan most days, so needless to say that packing for our upcoming holiday to the Yorkshire coast is proving much fun. <br /><br /><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRQ7yKXy2-lUuLbOh4BzL0Yvw6Sd5D6JE-nW2ZjvI8nSZevRfVNDEkjBPYwH95YeOkNIijw-J3A-iL4YRiufsGhKS5-lAMJ08GFzTGlgvsZsM7704hNnWy8yEcacVArnMubhV6VWf8QNogwk5T9A6hZ5pfVpcKNBV6rLm_HxVjNGAIrpKlYfriOVRn9Ts/s1600/feath.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRQ7yKXy2-lUuLbOh4BzL0Yvw6Sd5D6JE-nW2ZjvI8nSZevRfVNDEkjBPYwH95YeOkNIijw-J3A-iL4YRiufsGhKS5-lAMJ08GFzTGlgvsZsM7704hNnWy8yEcacVArnMubhV6VWf8QNogwk5T9A6hZ5pfVpcKNBV6rLm_HxVjNGAIrpKlYfriOVRn9Ts/w640-h640/feath.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">We're staying right on the beach, so I'm imagining windy wet weather, but who knows if a heat wave will strike or if we'll feel like we're holidaying in the arctic. So what do you pack, when quite frankly every kind of weather is a possibility?!</p><p style="text-align: justify;">If you're heading to the UK for your holiday this summer too, here's how I've worked out what to pack, because although we don't know if we'll be sunbathing or skiing just yet, we can't bring everything we own, but we can try to pack savvy so we're covered whatever the weather.<br /><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Wet weather ready</span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">The first thing to prepare for with any UK holiday is the rain. I'm not talking about simply packing a raincoat and wellies, although that's a good place to start. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Pack wellies/sensible wet weather shoes for all the family, and make sure they're comfy and fit well before you go (yes, been there) and make sure you have at least one spare pair of shoes each too, for when one pair inevitably gets soaked through or washed out to sea! Also been there.<br /><br /><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOmAgFZxKvh7gyRQcekf6rQbbFgtUGWXYeS4u91uSo11hshh53sWyxlsQd22ZcBe6Px4zYH8qGabitGbKnNFrDsOWOxKLSaONMLtf0bs-HDKRtAej1Unb9rHLNkTOxTdyT08yMUgJVXwxEZCnPWCqr9w7x31CaoRjHI4PXPw13VU6NHfL8x_Tf7kDJrgs/s1440/340106173_6346172478778432_5813334787554341914_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOmAgFZxKvh7gyRQcekf6rQbbFgtUGWXYeS4u91uSo11hshh53sWyxlsQd22ZcBe6Px4zYH8qGabitGbKnNFrDsOWOxKLSaONMLtf0bs-HDKRtAej1Unb9rHLNkTOxTdyT08yMUgJVXwxEZCnPWCqr9w7x31CaoRjHI4PXPw13VU6NHfL8x_Tf7kDJrgs/w640-h640/340106173_6346172478778432_5813334787554341914_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">When packing your raincoats, pack a decent genuinely waterproof high quality coat that will keep you dry from the rain, without overheating. I love my <a href="https://www.lighthouseclothing.co.uk/products/cara-packable-waterproof-jacket-navy">Lighthouse raincoat</a> for this reason, it's super lightweight, breathable but actually keeps me and my clothes dry underneath! Anything that saves on washing and keeps me warm is very welcome. Always take spare carrier bags for wet clothing, and if you have your beloved dog with you, remember a raincoat for them too, as well as a spare towel for those mucky paws. If you're an umbrella person, don't forget to pack that too, although personally I always find them more hassle than they are worth and the less weight I have to carry the better.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzphXSxPjcDhnrdYhVqH7tOxd446t56LWbkYAGulOBvZ3imEhzYcvDD9cc-ZpuEf7iqYHMP9STVQYtIxILS2Bl09QMGuiYzHAA2lJIMB9b8X0qtyoTTPIcmNSm5UnrCnYIm5QbpexMDbvV5hXJOeYAhYNLFh47rpzPwnv5YQE-9Mxat5K-xAbPvdERvto/s1836/PXL_20230807_114636257~3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1835" data-original-width="1836" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzphXSxPjcDhnrdYhVqH7tOxd446t56LWbkYAGulOBvZ3imEhzYcvDD9cc-ZpuEf7iqYHMP9STVQYtIxILS2Bl09QMGuiYzHAA2lJIMB9b8X0qtyoTTPIcmNSm5UnrCnYIm5QbpexMDbvV5hXJOeYAhYNLFh47rpzPwnv5YQE-9Mxat5K-xAbPvdERvto/w640-h640/PXL_20230807_114636257~3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><p></p><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">All about those layers</span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">With the UK weather being utterly unpredictable, layering up is always your best bet for not being caught out if the sun decides to break out. I recommend always keeping your lower half warm enough but lightly dressed, no heavy jeans or super thick joggers, but lighter fabrics and comfy jerseys. for the top half, pack your tees and of course hoodies which are my favourite clothing item! There's nothing better than snuggling up in a hoodie after a beach day, they're the perfect middle layer aren't they?<br /><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Give everyone a bag</span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">If you don't already, get the kids (and other halves) in the habit of having their own bag for days out. This means they can carry their own extra layers, coats and water bottles, saving us parents from being even more donkey like than usual. This also means that if the sun breaks out then everyone can pack their coats/jumpers away and carry them themselves - winner. There's nothing worse than being the one with the backpack when the sun comes out, so you'll thank me for this one!<br /><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Beach ready</span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">If you're likely to be heading to <a href="https://www.wafflemama.uk/2018/07/beach-selfie-photo-project-365.html">the beach</a> on your getaway, then I'd recommend packing a fold away beach tent above all else, as they're amazing whatever the weather. You may need it to shelter from a surprise rain shower, or to simply escape the wind or sun, but I always find it's our most useful beach item! pack spare tees to cover up from the sun if you're swimming, and always bring a bag for rubbish to help keep the beach clean too. Even though hot sun is unlikely this year it seems, I always make sure to pack a high factor sun cream/spray for all of us, as well as a pack-away water bowl for the dog and water bottles all round. If you take insulated bottles, then you can use it to stash a hot coffee in too for cooler days!<br /><br /><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPz2XYLEpYkD2qz1jRW2bh7Tl296SwcMyFAojNM9QHzxxYU4hghnCTanRV2Ny8MYnCA0of0bhDbIcqjjKRIBMYlQK8VzgEeQ_LGn06rWbF9DI5dcfM-8wxJbG1ENmcYWkzfn6DcAlRQiwrYdY3NS4B7ALOxb41vYwFTi1w2Xm723hS_Y9t7Ruuv6XPIsM/s640/starfish%20beach.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPz2XYLEpYkD2qz1jRW2bh7Tl296SwcMyFAojNM9QHzxxYU4hghnCTanRV2Ny8MYnCA0of0bhDbIcqjjKRIBMYlQK8VzgEeQ_LGn06rWbF9DI5dcfM-8wxJbG1ENmcYWkzfn6DcAlRQiwrYdY3NS4B7ALOxb41vYwFTi1w2Xm723hS_Y9t7Ruuv6XPIsM/w640-h640/starfish%20beach.png" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">I think we have everything covered now, without bringing the kitchen sink! Do you think there's anything I've missed? Let me know in comments if you have any other tips for packing for all weather holidays.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p>Wafflemamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04187393033810793920noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8225134739568615684.post-26822052540375317902023-06-22T01:00:00.000+01:002023-06-24T17:43:01.140+01:00Create || The Ups and Downs Of Fabric Pattern Designing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.wafflemama.uk/2022/11/create-ups-and-downs-of-fabric-pattern.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiELB_73lemSBfA3B9cKij4fAMk4vJuS0FyVc9DhLqhDuU06Mzw2hoFQUfP33P3zsbXdJCTq1yN6MIC6fEWByO91ZaN7KLuagT3rxow8diDcqWPnU1WN0kAqNgSX8k2atTDBe1xXOzYEL5De4lpoa7ovIXAIfqcoSpyglYKaVXM7EthKGIYLxRm_D3T/w640-h640/Copy%20of%20Blue%20Photo%20Promotional%20Fall%20Instagram%20Post%20(1).jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span><a name='more'></a></span><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Last year, a friend recommended I try <a href="https://www.wafflemama.uk/search?q=create">creating</a> seamless patterns to sell for fabrics and as someone that loves patterns and also happens to be an ex fabric hoarder, I jumped straight in! Designing patterns has unleashed a whole new side to my creativity, given me a huge boost knowing that people are willing to pay for, print, sew and even wear my designs. This has been mind blowing and pulled me out of my little ditch of self doubt when it comes to art. <br /><br />In just over a year I’ve sold nearly a thousand patterns in multiple colourways and have pretty much spent most my working day on fabric designs. This has sadly meant a lot less blogging, card designing and all the other little creative ventures I have going on in the background, though I have still tried to spin all the plates!</p><p style="text-align: justify;">I’ve seen adults and children wear my designs, seen them hanging in an actual shop and have some customers that have purchased over 50 of my designs each! I’m not here to brag, and far from it as there are so many more experienced designers than me, but as someone that was on the verge of giving up all things art, I’m so so happy I got into this side of design work.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Like most things though, the highs come with the lows, and although I’m still very happy to carry on with this line of work, I have been looking at the pros and cons, so that I can do more of the parts I enjoy and less of the stuff that makes my brain start to wander or anxiety set in. I thought I’d share some of the highs and lows of the fabric design world, that I’ve experienced so far…</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg_k2yq4AY5UI8Crqx7FTqWRhLBnfOzZaRK4OtGAraaD2AhLi9Cd_EU2S4AEXPgjy-SVSHGKE7QlpCO9X-LUv3Ip5lXBRfhJpB5sLbmzB71yB-2bbh4_RyWZxzPB6F15icpTEwWdJoVykQXmqtzdJwLRE6pKPOok3Dul80VEZmGNmh9XvQ8MG1-G7qt" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1588" data-original-width="1588" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg_k2yq4AY5UI8Crqx7FTqWRhLBnfOzZaRK4OtGAraaD2AhLi9Cd_EU2S4AEXPgjy-SVSHGKE7QlpCO9X-LUv3Ip5lXBRfhJpB5sLbmzB71yB-2bbh4_RyWZxzPB6F15icpTEwWdJoVykQXmqtzdJwLRE6pKPOok3Dul80VEZmGNmh9XvQ8MG1-G7qt=w640-h640" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><p></p><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Low points</span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">I’ll start with the low, because I’d much rather end on a positive for this one! There aren’t many lows, but the ones that I’ve discovered do make the whole thing feel very very off putting, especially when it's all new!</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Constant fear of mistakes</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Although I check everything multiple times before sending or uploading to Etsy, I have made a couple of mistakes, so it's constantly terrifying not being 100% sure. The more experience I have, the more I do things without thinking, so although there is rarely mistakes, I have to check more as I'm in robot mode. The good thing is that customers are generally fine if anything crops up and most printers will sort things like gaps in designs anyway.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>It’s a bitchy old world</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;">One things that's really shocked me with pattern design is how cut throat it is! With designers copying and even tracing other people's designs, there is always arguments going on somewhere, with some designers blocking all new ones in an attempt to keep the business for themselves, people openly bad mouthing others online etc etc. There's a big enough world for all of us and although designs to come close or cross over from time to time by accident, there's no need for the cattyness. I try to stay out of things and have a good circle of like minded friendly designers to bounce ideas off and although we occasionally produce similar work, it's never an issue.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Everyone wants copyright designs</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;">There are designers out there that make a full living from simply tracing copyright characters from Disney etc and making them into simple patterns. There are also it seems, plenty of people willing to buy them, but I fear that at some point there could be issues and then I wonder who would take the blame or any fines? The makers could claim they presumed the designer had a license for the design, so it really doesn't seem worth the risk.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>The admin side is tedious</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;">I love the arty side of things but really don't enjoy sharing my work to Instagram, uploading to Etsy and all the saving, emailing and messaging that comes with it. The job has a lot of the admin side, but the fun part is well worth the bad parts.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>People want changes, a lot!</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Coming up with consistent original ideas can be hard work</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>People are struggling with costs now so buying less than when I started</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;">As I'm sure all businesses are finding right now, people are just spending less. Seeing as most my customers are small businesses themselves, I've seen many cut back or even close down recently as they just can't keep up with rising costs and their own customer base dwindling. In turn this effects what they buy, so it's not a great time for any of us but hopefully things will change.<br /><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiKT6tCkwLagGgJ8NxGnE7ssmwAZQ64jyukdzXsoRc3g2qR9Um2qAc_FWmwAya5UEd_AdVO3w5clMysRooZ6Lw1MVQ9qMk8oi5OvQlkau4yFwOzNt0VE_irzhF6RjP6huWQn1pmKRKyKOEcTuzjUmRakKN7qFDWY96F8BxPC8AgS-b5Ydxr9nYBsMCj" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1588" data-original-width="1588" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiKT6tCkwLagGgJ8NxGnE7ssmwAZQ64jyukdzXsoRc3g2qR9Um2qAc_FWmwAya5UEd_AdVO3w5clMysRooZ6Lw1MVQ9qMk8oi5OvQlkau4yFwOzNt0VE_irzhF6RjP6huWQn1pmKRKyKOEcTuzjUmRakKN7qFDWY96F8BxPC8AgS-b5Ydxr9nYBsMCj=w640-h640" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><p></p><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Highs <br /><br /></span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Given me the chance to make money from my art</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Literally everything I've ever wanted - to be able to make art and actually make a decent wage from it day in day out. Although this is up and down depending on which end of the month it is and whether my designs hit the spot, it's still good knowing that people want my art.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Great outlet for selling art compared to any other I’ve tried</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Most creative ventures I've tried bring in little to no money, so it's a huge relief to sell some and actually there is a huge market for it - who knew?! This feels far less of a slog than trying to sell physical art prints or crafts and also means no posting/packaging.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Seeing people wearing your art is the best feeling</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>It’s really fun to draw cool stuff and make money for it</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>I really enjoy it</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>I've made some great friends from it</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Option to buy my own fabric or buy clothes made from it<br /></span><br /><br /></p><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: 700;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiWvCBxIdePJ7jBS1Cxx6lDCeT_uRbaIlkM4hyUk5fu0WU2RvuaFoP0kci7Faius2nXZaEYQwgr16jgEHZbaJkSRBIlpwVubdHAdG2j50_SUMoqFwUi-NMV_yLRvaGtB3aD6MuaUUZbjWGWBPK6G52yESJ-UMdWrSK_rIgh5EMKgCl_EzY9M1pyP-8d" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1588" data-original-width="1588" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiWvCBxIdePJ7jBS1Cxx6lDCeT_uRbaIlkM4hyUk5fu0WU2RvuaFoP0kci7Faius2nXZaEYQwgr16jgEHZbaJkSRBIlpwVubdHAdG2j50_SUMoqFwUi-NMV_yLRvaGtB3aD6MuaUUZbjWGWBPK6G52yESJ-UMdWrSK_rIgh5EMKgCl_EzY9M1pyP-8d=w640-h640" width="640" /></a></div><br /></span></div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>For me, the highs far out weigh the lows, so it's something I'll definitely carry on with while it still works for me. I struggle when I see other companies selling multiple copyright designs and making a lot more money, but at least I can get on with life knowing nothing will bite me in the arse later!<br /><br />I sell my designs on <a href="http://instagram.com/wafflemamadesign">Instagram</a> and <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/WafflemamaShop">Etsy</a> too.</b></p>Wafflemamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04187393033810793920noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8225134739568615684.post-12900055731180181362023-04-30T01:52:00.002+01:002023-04-30T01:54:11.358+01:00Mama Style || How Necklaces Truly Make An Outfit<p></p><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.wafflemama.uk/2023/04/mama-style-how-necklaces-truly-make.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjvAb1U7kIKbIkQBo7-N89XHXaFqmhKV2ZHRmXF_dn33he8S8tvypAzlHR0q294cRjwK2Zqpm9YGPm8AcP6jvy9SO7l1C1CxJ_OY9rEGO_z23p0wWeo0ikXtrvZ6k-cNzrmZldFOiSfLd54_nLz6BxXQuocBIMmMR5yU-TkxSMCn20gnCNBLKuafoG/w640-h640/20230430_014637_0000.png" width="640" /></a></div><span><a name='more'></a></span><p></p><p><span style="color: #666666;"><i><br /></i></span></p><p><span style="color: #666666;"><i>Mama Style - Collaborative Post</i></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;">I’m not always the best at putting outfits together, so I’m forever grateful to live in a world where outfit inspiration is right there at the touch of a button no matter what age, size or shape we are! I’m not the girliest girl either, so I really struggle with anything beyond the basics of jeans and a black top - the staple clothing. One thing I’ve noticed from countless Instagram ‘GRWM’ reels and Pinterest searches, is that putting an outfit together in almost every single case ends with the addition of the perfect necklace and it’s surprising how much of a difference it can make.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">For me, <a href="https://www.daisyjewellery.com/collections/necklaces">necklaces</a> have always been my favourite jewellery item and the one I have most of too. No matter my size, my trusty necklaces will always fit me and can always be hidden away under work uniforms when needed and I love that as they hang close to your heart too, so the special ones are right there where you need them for those little reminders. From choker styles, to longer dangly versions, necklaces really can pull an outfit together, give it that finishing touch, divert the eyes towards things to you want seen, or away from things you don’t, they can jazz up a boring neckline and just add the perfect finishing touch in the flash of a few seconds - totally magic!</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Just recently I was sent a new necklace from <a href="https://www.daisyjewellery.com/collections/all-jewellery">Daisy jewellery</a> to help with this post and I have to say it took me a really long time to finally choose which necklace to try as there were so many I loved. Basically a kid in a candy shop but 39 years young with endless sparkly treasures. I sensibly opted for something that I can wear every day, but that would also add enough of a sparkle for more special occasions too. I also chose one with a mid length chain, as I like them to be seen and stand out, but hate anything too tight around my neck. I think you’ll agree that it’s just perfection in every way shape and form! Perfect for summer too. I chose the Estee Lalonde goddess medallion T bar necklace in silver and I just adore everything about it. What do you think?</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_YFMgPfFkVwHkhk13HXSKswTtlzuLkLmQDwbi7iJyRXAW1Q9iuGKsQBZc2awyApO0UTUZRX4h95rzT0x78cjrpbcEMGNClfdaU4RxOHmQM9JTukDtnpoLtaE6zrTjouAxS1mNyffhQMC5LJGl7rbq5c4aKAe4x_AXKM-Q76O4oJi-QBOnX9nnICob/s2269/PXL_20230428_154042712~2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2269" data-original-width="2268" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_YFMgPfFkVwHkhk13HXSKswTtlzuLkLmQDwbi7iJyRXAW1Q9iuGKsQBZc2awyApO0UTUZRX4h95rzT0x78cjrpbcEMGNClfdaU4RxOHmQM9JTukDtnpoLtaE6zrTjouAxS1mNyffhQMC5LJGl7rbq5c4aKAe4x_AXKM-Q76O4oJi-QBOnX9nnICob/w640-h640/PXL_20230428_154042712~2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1sRSX7NYcIMC0hd24xS6eCAQghKamEb0qp327WkIZlKcdoO6xM0dYDVC7eP7lTJO51zIevMuwk7_XXbgQXeWTGdJn69wXmthuGs0txCBWKRw1bxV9pMvWduWuup91jwatTfmHH19DWB4ARNRqcnjG0-27AkROZj9-XNgbgW9cXAPdx4eXq5sqb_V5/s2269/PXL_20230428_154202676~2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2269" data-original-width="2268" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1sRSX7NYcIMC0hd24xS6eCAQghKamEb0qp327WkIZlKcdoO6xM0dYDVC7eP7lTJO51zIevMuwk7_XXbgQXeWTGdJn69wXmthuGs0txCBWKRw1bxV9pMvWduWuup91jwatTfmHH19DWB4ARNRqcnjG0-27AkROZj9-XNgbgW9cXAPdx4eXq5sqb_V5/w640-h640/PXL_20230428_154202676~2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><p style="text-align: justify;">I’m really into moons, crystals and all that good celestial stuff, so this ties in really well but also gives me that little touch of bling I need to finish off lots of my outfits. I love gold jewellery too, but opted for silver as I just find it goes so much better with the colours I live in, which are mainly black, neutrals and dark blues. But really sit well with any colours, where as I think gold can feel a bit much sometimes. The only problem now is that I think I may just have to invest in the matching bracelet too, it’s just too perfect! I know that this design will stand the test of time for me, which I think is really important when investing in jewellery. The metal will last forever and design wise I would have loved it as a teen as much as I do now - so it’s definitely a winner. Throw in some adorable packaging with flower seed paper and I’m well and truly sold!</p><p style="text-align: justify;">As we’re heading into warmer weather, I thought I’d pop together my perfect summer outfit that sits perfectly alongside this beautiful silver necklace. I love a Beachy boho style and this works perfectly with the goddess necklace.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4Y22bSjZv6KqiVrB-YiCklWU8Bg8RrDPnlGDPhborx0AvOSmtYHqOayBEMes24K1j6HrQzscQpdFFp9YEOGwhYQ96Ximef4qZrrTNGAv2s85CQNa7fhUAtz9B_iPa4K3S2gkj1Q0yv13zdu8lKdkiPMYRQuaLs-4L-ZOcIDKjlwARrT3-9xCIkO9f/s3000/F3E823BC-9C01-42E5-9342-601DA59469EB.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="3000" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4Y22bSjZv6KqiVrB-YiCklWU8Bg8RrDPnlGDPhborx0AvOSmtYHqOayBEMes24K1j6HrQzscQpdFFp9YEOGwhYQ96Ximef4qZrrTNGAv2s85CQNa7fhUAtz9B_iPa4K3S2gkj1Q0yv13zdu8lKdkiPMYRQuaLs-4L-ZOcIDKjlwARrT3-9xCIkO9f/w640-h640/F3E823BC-9C01-42E5-9342-601DA59469EB.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">Necklace - <a href="https://www.daisyjewellery.com/collections/necklaces/products/estee-lalonde-goddess-medallion-t-bar-necklace-sterling-silver">Daisy</a> | Kimono - Zaful | Cami - Mango | Sandals - Studio | Shorts - Shein | Sun glasses - River Island</p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Are you a big necklace fan too? What would you have chosen, gold or silver?</p>Wafflemamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04187393033810793920noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8225134739568615684.post-34857596971994217492023-04-28T00:27:00.006+01:002023-04-28T00:28:27.718+01:00Home Style || Tips For Creating A Healthy Home<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.wafflemama.uk/2023/04/home-style-tips-for-creating-healthy.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0oFdN4SiVw6QKe-oYJ-FGT6atZXK7W9qQf-vODEEIbnyZltJAJ4z7nAPF4V7zCTJhAh8zuecY2yhBK1SU33HWd3SYMah8nC5jfbngXn_2R0wQHIwO-V0e0rUKGBVtmpeSfw1pAY0TqmCszcLQ3YoTDCY9IaBRPjMp2aLs65ix4ZUq5LeilJUjMrei/w640-h640/Copy%20of%20Blue%20Photo%20Promotional%20Fall%20Instagram%20Post.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span><a name='more'></a></span><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Home Style - Collaborative post</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Creating a healthy home can be an intimidating challenge. There are so many details and considerations to bear in mind; it can be hard to know where to begin. But there are simple steps you can take to make your living space as healthy as possible, from the interior through to the exteriors. Here are five simple tips to help you create a healthy home.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="427" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/LHLajb4QDX7tRj0DkT4YjJD6zI-cN7iEhFjDk9Yv_DFvWiP03ffDxublRRN4yZyI1CzCrHFgJgDnY1SdTSWDTW6UUnpRiXbUqv1nUs9dVV1ELx1RtrPawlKK-VapH_G21ld0SCj2zYqSTkQHlxTV_Q=w640-h427" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: justify;">Via </span><a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/four-brown-wooden-chairs-2635038/" style="text-align: justify;">Pexels</a></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">1. Maintain A Clean Environment</h2><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Cleanliness in your home is paramount for maintaining a healthy atmosphere. Regular dusting, vacuuming and mopping will help to remove allergens and bacteria from your living environment while investing in an air purifier or dehumidifier may further reduce allergens while keeping air quality clean in your own space. You could even consider investing in <a href="https://hortology.co.uk/collections/air-purifying-plants">air-purifying plants</a> like Bamboo Palm or Peace Lily to help filter the air in your home. Keep your home well aired too to avoid build ups of unwanted black mould - a classic sign that your house needs to breathe.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">2. Introduce Natural Resources</h2><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Think about introducing natural elements like wood and stone into your home to make it healthier. These materials can reduce the amount of toxins and pollutants in your home in addition to being more attractive and durable. You should also choose linens and cleaning supplies that are eco-friendly and made of natural materials. These will ensure that you and your family are not exposed to harsh chemicals while also helping to limit the number of chemicals and pollutants in your home and beyond.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">3. Address Structural And Superficial Issues Promptly</h2><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Ensuring all structural and superficial issues are addressed quickly is vital to creating a safe and healthy home for you and your family. Even small cracks and holes in walls can allow allergens, dust particles, or other pollutants into your home, so repairing these quickly is imperative to maintaining a healthy home. Using a protective coating such as <a href="https://completeconstructionproducts.co.uk/protective-coatings/bitumen-emulsion/">Bitumen Emulsion</a> can prevent moisture and other allergens from entering through these openings!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">4. Utilise Natural Lighting</h2><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Natural light can help reduce your need for artificial lighting while improving mental and physical well-being, productivity, and stress levels in general. Besides these health benefits, natural lighting is more energy efficient than artificial lighting and will save money over time, so try leaving curtains open during the daytime for maximum natural lighting exposure in your home.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">5. Regularly Inspect For Pests</h2><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Regular inspection for signs of pests in your home is vital in creating a healthy environment. Pests carry diseases and leave behind allergens, so keeping them away is paramount to overall well-being. You might consider investing in <a href="https://www.staffordshire-live.co.uk/news/local-news/six-natural-pest-removers-keep-5543593">natural solutions</a> or pest control treatments while checking and cleaning areas of your home where pests might hide, such as under furniture or appliances will also help.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Conclusion</h2><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Making sure your home is healthy from the inside out is essential for you and your family's well-being. By following these five tips, you can create a safe and healthy home environment that will promote the overall well-being of all members of the family. From keeping the air clean to using natural materials and monitoring pests, there are numerous ways you can create a healthier living space - just remember it's an ongoing journey, and your efforts will eventually pay off!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div>Wafflemamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04187393033810793920noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8225134739568615684.post-14316169906442198112023-04-13T13:58:00.004+01:002023-04-13T13:59:05.628+01:00Healthy Mama || Staying Fresh With Wild Refills<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3z5y1Krv0KctnvvYiOjc1TroLIVl7q_m-qFH4s9klNxYzQ_xFqWIpGqybqm4sNKxJ7-faybVU-pwC8YVAxnVc2AHdirU8DAAUMPITZzHdWnyzXCqSnDEYkMiZKQQyD-MufsYrwbGkUvnDd9vYPNfbbzOp0OzoeDrq0uloFgt1pagVsxPQD7fjaRev/s1080/20230413_134927_0000.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3z5y1Krv0KctnvvYiOjc1TroLIVl7q_m-qFH4s9klNxYzQ_xFqWIpGqybqm4sNKxJ7-faybVU-pwC8YVAxnVc2AHdirU8DAAUMPITZzHdWnyzXCqSnDEYkMiZKQQyD-MufsYrwbGkUvnDd9vYPNfbbzOp0OzoeDrq0uloFgt1pagVsxPQD7fjaRev/w640-h640/20230413_134927_0000.png" width="640" /></a><br /></p><span><a name='more'></a></span><p><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">For some reason as we get older our bodies do weird things, and one of the many things my beloved body has decided to chuck out there this year for fun is an allergy to deodorant! Hooray!</p><p style="text-align: justify;">I've used sprays for years, I've more recently wanted a switch anyway because the environmental impact is horrific, but before I even used up my supplies I started reacting really badly to something in deodorants to the point I was in so much pain I had to go deo free for a few months while my armpits healed. Thankfully it was winter so I didn't have to scare people away with my odour!</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Now I've got to the point where I can't even be near someone spraying it as it bothers my eyes and I get sneezy, how weird is that!? So I decided to try a natural option and went for the blandest simplest option I could in the form of a crystal deodorant. This worked ok I think, but I firstly didn't like that I had to wet it before use as it felt weird and meant I could only put it on in the bathroom. Secondly it had no scent which is ok, but meant I could still smell myself a little which would only get worse in warmer months. The hunt continued...</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Thankfully when I got to the point of table flipping with frustration, I was offered a chance to try <a href="https://www.wearewild.com/">Wild</a> refills, a no nasties vegan friendly refillable deodorant option that comes in snazzy tins and means you no longer have to dispose of gross sprays or plastic bottles, but instead just by refills that come in recyclable packaging as and when you need it. This all sounded great, my only concern though was whether I would react to the deodorant itself or the scent, as I still don't know exactly what my body hates about regular deodorants.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">I was sent the limited edition charity tin, made with 'coppafeel' charity, raising awareness of breast health at the same time as staying fresh and helping the environment. I was also sent the new chocolate fondue scent to try. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOI2VHwXOXKebD36JlDijsNr8KELtNryzSMKDOBA3hLknJUe5kewKCW9AgG-jd19rkAi6oZm_NcEsN82LJb0GURaxOS8nkq-YiMfBo_ionyaBspmLuz_r7pmlXB-OrU5-ZWA5I7ipLYi6u_K8w0ka8_aTfVxG00Y8H56hH3N-gcfQ-PqxBXukDeb19/s1746/IMG_20230408_005519_364.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1746" data-original-width="1746" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOI2VHwXOXKebD36JlDijsNr8KELtNryzSMKDOBA3hLknJUe5kewKCW9AgG-jd19rkAi6oZm_NcEsN82LJb0GURaxOS8nkq-YiMfBo_ionyaBspmLuz_r7pmlXB-OrU5-ZWA5I7ipLYi6u_K8w0ka8_aTfVxG00Y8H56hH3N-gcfQ-PqxBXukDeb19/w640-h640/IMG_20230408_005519_364.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">I'm absolutely delighted that not only does this deodorant work in all the ways it needs to - i.e keeping me smelling fresh, but I also had zero reactions to it, absolutely no itching all day and I enjoyed the chocolate scent even though I'd been a little hesitant of it.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">I'm definitely a convert now, I also found out they do sensitive versions and lots of other scents and designs, so I think I'll try a full family switch now as the kids wear deodorant too and it's so hard to find something gentle that works for their ages. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Right now until the 30th April you can also get 20% off at <a href="https://www.wearewild.com/" target="_blank">WILD</a> with my discount code <b>WAFFLEMAMA</b> and if you're wanting to make a small change to help the earth or try a deodorant that's gentle on your body, I'd highly recommend giving wild a try. I didn't have to post a review of this but I am genuinely so impressed and happy I have an option for keeping fresh with summer on its way!</p><p style="text-align: justify;"> Have you tried Wild Refills before?</p>Wafflemamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04187393033810793920noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8225134739568615684.post-49415746081116469212023-02-23T14:35:00.002+00:002023-02-23T14:35:48.442+00:00Mama Life || Why Photo Booths Are Great For Weddings!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.wafflemama.uk/2023/02/mama-life-why-photo-booths-are-great.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXWfHhUS5A9dQVMHGe9oTEV1xVtNpp78h6Y4q4nVGtZXfF5prpumAGQVaNoPhHCubidp_RMyHPhb-7J1x7Pogc5JBT9y7GIJUeinhKzGWyqLnwjBRT4GN5cZE6UNPVY03O0_TON2DTwHUW-_WE6p2ccewpThOGfGXQbx-Jgo3BBoz29L4bwWcFh1u2/w640-h640/Copy%20of%20Blue%20Photo%20Promotional%20Fall%20Instagram%20Post%202.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span><a name='more'></a></span><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #666666;"><b>Mama Life - Collaborative Post</b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">One of the most common sights at a wedding is the photo booth. After all, it’s a big day for the couple involved and their families, and it’s a joyous occasion that usually always leads to photographs being taken. These photos will be looked at in a few years time, hopefully with a smile, and it’ll remind people about the good time you had.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">But these days, more and more people are starting to <a href="https://vogueballroom.com.au/are-photo-booths-at-weddings-tacky/">find photo booths to be tacky</a>. Whether it’s the cheap props they come with or the lack of quality photographs, it’s an understandable sentiment to have. But photo booths have come a long way and when you get the right one, you won’t regret including it as a form of entertainment for your guests.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">So in this post, we’ll take a look at a few reasons why, regardless of the wedding style, you should always include a photo booth.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="427" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/5_WxgdnHJnj3tZ2uA45B-XAv8KfPkHLzAcMoiCjdV_eMTwUGsd1YN8_rJKbmK3dqfBFbE2nWJo3fZHnV5KYjytdEfBy4oKWU8TvIky1s58h_JHC6HQJsr8B1OKKLKvRPT9cTQgw7Os38zZBFiwTYow=w640-h427" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: justify;">Source: <a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/If--8LCaLPs">https://unsplash.com/photos/If--8LCaLPs</a> (CC0)</div><div><br /></div></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Photo booths are fun and entertaining</span></h2><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Photo booths can be a lot of fun, especially if you and your guests have had a few drinks and are feeling the joy and love. Photo booths encourage you and your guests to take fun and interesting photographs, and they often have some really fun and silly props for you to use. Some people might find them tacky, but at the end of the day, they’re there for fun.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">But there are also services like <a href="https://boothsbylux.co.uk/">Booths By Lux</a> which can offer more unique and interesting photo booths for your guests. They break away from the standard photo booth formula, giving you exciting and interesting opportunities to take amazing pictures. So instead of just looking at typical photo booths, why not try something a little more exciting and out of the ordinary?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Photo booths can be a part of the wedding decor</span></h2><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Photo booths can be styled and dressed up to look like a part of the wedding decor. This is great for themed weddings, especially if you have costumes ready for your guests to wear. It’s one of the most interesting ways to make your photo booth stand out, and you’d be surprised at just how much more interesting and appealing your photo booth will look like once you’ve decorated it.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Photo booths create unique memories</span></h2><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Different people tend to focus on different priorities when creating memories from a wedding. Some people want to look for the <a href="https://www.wafflemama.uk/2021/12/mama-style-finding-perfect-wedding.html">perfect wedding outfit</a> so they look stunning in photographs, but others prioritize their guests. They offer unique experiences and encourage them to take part in activities to make the entire wedding something to remember.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">In the case of a photo booth, your guests have the opportunity to create wonderful memories that are unique, fun, and a lot more exciting than just the typical group photo shoots. You can even combine this with a social media tag so that people can share their pictures to other guests. There are lots of unique ways to turn photo booths into unique memories. Would you have one at your wedding?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div>Wafflemamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04187393033810793920noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8225134739568615684.post-32838306841593967802023-02-22T11:33:00.002+00:002023-02-22T11:34:29.770+00:00Home Style || How To Help Your Home Feel Bright, Airy & Spacious<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.wafflemama.uk/2023/02/home-style-how-to-help-your-home-feel.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ3Qd-r2jB1CDyyy6efYnyqceTo2viYiY5PhNFgBpCclxAo6j7kLKc4wZqiUOdJcY5gFmsLcYvH6wSQgVtX_DzeIFmHxsJP_C4pJnYwtcUAbcTh1sJLOj7rvTqALHid8OMWPSpk1rjtGfpPk1rb_8mb5jdxWrTYFhy0rqdlotvcp_2MFAyCeMMwh1j/w640-h640/Copy%20of%20Blue%20Photo%20Promotional%20Fall%20Instagram%20Post.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span><a name='more'></a></span><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: #666666;">Home Style - Collaborative Post</span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Feeling cramped and contained inside your home is one of the worst things ever, especially when you have nowhere else to escape at the end of a stressful day. A comfortable home is one that is bright, airy and spacious, but if these 3 things are totally unachievable in your current surroundings, then changes need to be made!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Thankfully, this handy guide contains some of the best steps that you can follow to help your home transform into the most inviting and relaxing space around, and it truly couldn’t be easier to get started today. So, what are you waiting for? If you would like to enjoy a bright and airy home, then read on to discover more now.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmqJ0f18s7wsQekLfqfkAuYtdCqmf0-kbHgN5HkPhSzgQNSE2f8eS5xOMYTu52K045hNFs80qWFwc3BBTUItrpLIVYJNrK8su2Tsj0ldzkq-rMQpM1W2bc_AC4lan670bS7NOWLlbVKqoAnwHjTIwAxCFHFKM7jKCMg3ECMzbqABpUq0PN9DRLldxV/s1080/Untitled%20design.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmqJ0f18s7wsQekLfqfkAuYtdCqmf0-kbHgN5HkPhSzgQNSE2f8eS5xOMYTu52K045hNFs80qWFwc3BBTUItrpLIVYJNrK8su2Tsj0ldzkq-rMQpM1W2bc_AC4lan670bS7NOWLlbVKqoAnwHjTIwAxCFHFKM7jKCMg3ECMzbqABpUq0PN9DRLldxV/w640-h640/Untitled%20design.png" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #666666;">Let There Be Light!</span></b></h2><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Light is absolutely key for a home, as having too much darkness can make each room feel dull and depressing to say the very least. A lack of light can leave your home feeling far smaller than it truly is, and the chances are that you’re going to feel pretty low on energy as a result of the low light levels. Instead, when you can take the opportunity to fill your home with all manner of different light sources, you’ll instantly see that your home feels bigger and more spacious! New windows are some of the best options for light at home, as you can let Mother Nature do all of the work on the sunniest of days! You can also choose to add a conservatory to your home, as these extensions often use glass or <a href="https://www.varicoltd.com/polycarbonate.html">polycarbonate sheets</a> that let in swathes of sunlight during the summer months. Of course, it’s not always sunny outside so you cannot rely on natural light all year round. This means you also need to have sufficient lighting inside of your home, including LED spotlights in your bathroom or kitchen, and multiple lamps inside cozy rooms such as your bedroom or lounge space. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #666666;">Use Creative Storage </span></b></h2><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Not having enough storage space inside your home can wreak havoc, as you’ll soon find that you have junk piled high in nearly every room that looks cluttered, dirty and claustrophobic. Allowing ‘stuff’ to take over will ruin any kind of interior decor theme that you have chosen to pursue, as junk is far more distracting and will certainly grab your guest’s attention if you ever have any visitors. Making the most of valuable storage space is key, as you can purchase handy options that double up with another use, such as a storage bench. A storage bench can be <a href="https://www.wafflemama.uk/2017/08/home-style-kids-storage-ideas.html?m=1#more">filled with stuff from kids toys</a> to cleaning equipment, and then you can simply close the lid to create an attractive seating area! Such an option can be amazing for family homes that are often messy within a few minutes of little ones waking up, so be sure to increase your storage if you want a bright and airy home. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWyWGP06PoQi6aZ6_8fe2elHX1Lq6yoil2kxvXJ3BtntgxXZUb7Ds2lJLZQt_bzMjehualajbNXOlqEVImG4yjyH0Ih2YrYzzRe6oo6Ct6BR0bx3QK-AzN5DP9PrbHP7BqE74oGhVB7vkxaaRDNq_lNEYZICkrfN8XlWWzMHRBc2gTL48wNnxn_tj8/s1080/Untitled%20design%202.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWyWGP06PoQi6aZ6_8fe2elHX1Lq6yoil2kxvXJ3BtntgxXZUb7Ds2lJLZQt_bzMjehualajbNXOlqEVImG4yjyH0Ih2YrYzzRe6oo6Ct6BR0bx3QK-AzN5DP9PrbHP7BqE74oGhVB7vkxaaRDNq_lNEYZICkrfN8XlWWzMHRBc2gTL48wNnxn_tj8/w640-h640/Untitled%20design%202.png" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #666666;">Bring the outside in</span></b></h2><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Another way to add to the airy, natural and easy feel to your home is to add plants to the interior of your home. Not only can some plants help to clear the air and improve the quality of the air we breathe, but they are calming to have around and add the perfect little splash of colour to any space too. As well as plants, well placed mirrors can reflect extra light and outside space, making the home feel bigger and lead you to the freshness of the outdoors.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Helping your house to feel more spacious, comfortable and inviting has never been such a simple task!</div>Wafflemamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04187393033810793920noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8225134739568615684.post-42534489558618301872023-01-27T22:48:00.002+00:002023-02-08T20:13:49.035+00:00Mama Life || How To Prepare For Taking Your Children Abroad For The First Time<p style="text-align: center;"> <a href="https://www.wafflemama.uk/2023/01/mama-life-how-to-prepare-for-taking.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWFvAYiWu_hULvIjnBniVRCn2cdJ3nV9l2xvfumDcT1fBODxz4P054gQlZpKMzNDCC5bTNzvtpfOKssSsMPnvTLhP-NxOOhplnROdSSSVnQVovVHfRH92ygvBXFkbp7u_YaIJCGARJ0TmOCWONjXBDcx0Tgv4OQrNvMsR3kTucjQerhE_mabG1B9J7/w640-h640/png_20230127_224133_0000.png" width="640" /></a></p><span><a name='more'></a></span><p><br /></p><p><b><span style="color: #666666;">Mama Life </span></b></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Taking your children on their first holiday can be an incredibly exciting time, with the opportunity to make family memories that your children will remember for the rest of their lives. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">However, as any parent will tell you, children can be difficult to manage. The idea of navigating the stress of an airport is enough to make even the most confident parent nervous. If you’re planning a family holiday but concerned about taking your children, we’ve got you covered. Read on to find out more. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Get Travel Insurance </span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">Children are naturally inquisitive and will eagerly explore and play wherever they are. This can result in them getting into some less-than-safe situations, and they have a tendency to pick up cuts and scrapes anywhere they go.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">If your child was to get injured or to fall ill while on holiday, you could well have to seek out medical assistance. Unfortunately, medical services abroad can be difficult to access and extremely expensive, so you could be faced with a substantial bill should your child require treatment. The best way to protect yourself against such an eventuality is to book travel insurance ahead of your trip. Providers like <a href="https://www.staysure.co.uk/medical-travel-insurance/">Staysure</a> offer a range of different insurance packages, including for people living with pre-existing medical conditions, so have a look and find a reputable provider that is right for you and your family. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Plan Your Trip Thoroughly</span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">Children respond well to <a href="https://raisingchildren.net.au/grown-ups/family-life/routines-rituals-relationships/family-routines">structure and routine</a>. By planning your trip in detail, you will be able to avoid any potential disruption or delay. Your planning should encompass all aspects of your holiday, from waking up and making the journey to the airport to the flight back home. Children can be stubborn and may need attention at any given moment, so ensure you leave your self plenty of time when making travel connections to avoid missing anything. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">As for the holiday itself, drawing up and sticking to a schedule or itinerary can help ease any potential worries or anxieties your children may have. Knowing where you are going and what you are doing can also help you avoid any stress. Deciding on things to do on a whim can be tricky and lead to arguments, by having everything prearranged you can focus on ensuring you and your family have the best possible time. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #666666;">Keep Them Entertained</span></b></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">Children have notoriously <a href="https://www.britishcouncil.my/english/courses-children/resources/attention-span">short attention spans</a>. When they are bored or feeling under-stimulated, they will certainly make you aware of it. This can be a difficult situation to manage at home, but will be magnified tenfold when on a long, busy flight full of strangers. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Make sure you bring lots of toys and games for your children. This will help keep them entertained and distracted during the more boring parts of the holiday and will prevent any tantrums or bad behaviour. These games will prove useful throughout the holiday, they can keep your children occupied while you relax by the pool with your favourite book. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">If you are still concerned about your children’s behaviour on the flight, consider booking a flight at night or during your child’s regular nap hours. This will make it more likely that they fall asleep on the flight, causing less disruption to yourself and other passengers. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Conclusion</span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">The idea of taking children abroad can seem like a daunting prospect. However, with the correct planning and preparation a family holiday can be a fantastic experience for both parents and children alike. Follow the steps we’ve outlined in this guide to prepare for taking your children abroad for this first time. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p><br /></p>Wafflemamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04187393033810793920noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8225134739568615684.post-56320935741439129622023-01-06T00:47:00.001+00:002023-01-06T00:47:07.421+00:002023 Plans - Work, Life & Home<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.wafflemama.uk/2023/01/2023-plans-work-life-home.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq2YqMWkwnJTroD3dEF6Tf1fRz8oRpEiGE1F-TjdvGFC21hU4iLHkc6oRMwQn4MwpisT2lHnfWxPRxIaAlduHTOhpFHEEYEBpPMru6oipLUwmFg2U97cJq-7bxN-3gf-2iI4-ZJC1EvQPVKVJdDanVttNmuEzoPppdzYaqmva7BHQEq7AgBf1oVbdL/w640-h640/Copy%20of%20Blue%20Photo%20Promotional%20Fall%20Instagram%20Post.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span><a name='more'></a></span><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">The last three years have been a total blur, I feel like I blinked and missed most of and suddenly I’m older, the kids are way more grown up and I realise I’ve been on autopilot for a good 18 months, just making it through the days without thinking much further. This year though, I’d really like to be planning ahead a little, sorting out some things in my life and home, so I can end a year looking back and feeling some sense of achievement.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Don’t get me wrong, we had a great year in 22 and made some amazing memories together, but I don’t feel we managed to better ourselves at all and finished each month scrabbling the pennies together waiting for pay day - I hate that feeling. The kids are growing up so fast, so I want to fill the last pre teen years with heaps of adventures before they get older and hang out with their friends instead. Sob.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">So with that in mind, here’s some plans for this year…</p><p><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Work</span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">I spent every night last year working until 2-3 am, I even worked every day through Christmas, my birthday etc etc, which I know doesn’t sound too bad but I so need a break sometimes and I just haven’t been able to get one. I work while the kids are at school and every night when they are in bed; luckily I love what I do, but it’s a lot and it’s really taken it’s toll on my health and my body lock is so far out of whack I don’t know what to do anymore. My first work focus is to organise my time better, work more efficiently and charge for all the time I spend on work for clients, as I’m terrible for undercharging and not valuing my precious time. If I work less but better, I can have more down time and feel more energised for work, or that’s the plan anyway!</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Secondly, I’m cutting a lot of print designs out my Etsy shop, as I don’t make a great deal from them and I really didn’t enjoy that aspect of my work last year. The print market is so saturated that sales are few and far between, so it felt like a chore for not much money with each order. Instead I plan to have a smaller stronger selection of best selling prints that are all printed, packed and ready to go, so when and order comes in I can pack it and post it without printing one at a time. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">As I’m not currently stocking in a shop, I also plan to phase out my small gift items. Again I may stock a few best sellers, but not hundreds of different things that rarely sell. If I start selling in a store again I’ll bring them back, but for now it’s just taking up space and requires a lot of ‘kit’ that takes up room we really need in our little house.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">My main focus now is pattern design and selling digital items, so I mainly work from an iPad, laptop and phone and having most of a room in our house dedicated to workspace is totally pointless, especially when we’re itching for more space, so I’ll be gutting my arts/crafts and product parts to keep only what I will use or the kids will use, as for now having more room in the house to relax in is far more precious than stuff waiting to be used. Also, please ban me from hobby craft! </p><p><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Life</span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">Gash. Life is a rollercoaster as a wise man once said, and last year really was. Mentally I’ve felt better than ever, but with peaks and troughs throughout. My messed up sleep pattern has had the biggest impact I think as it’s meant my waking hours have mainly been used for work and kids school runs etc, so very little energy and head space is left for other things like keeping the house tidy or self care, so I really need to conker that first. I say that whilst writing this at ten past midnight with no intention of sleeping any time soon.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">I have started trying to go up to bed a little earlier and have a pack of Nytol to help me try and kick start a better pattern, as I find if I go to bed earlier, my mind is buzzing and I can easily then lay awake until 5am, which is even less ideal than crashing out in bed at 2am. I’m confident I can crack this though and I think it just stems from when everyone is in bed I can relax more, nobody is out driving or at school, I don’t have to watch my phone for calls or listen out for the door, it’s actually peaceful and although I’m usually working, I actually feel calm. The problem is though I enjoy that part of the day so much it’s just got longer and longer and now it’s a habit, a bad one.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Otherwise generally I need to take care of myself a little better. I’ve started by booking a much needed dentist appointment which means going private as there are no NHS ones here, which I’ve always felt as an indulgence, but actually I just want to keep my teeth in my head for as long as possible. I also really want to get my hair done as I’ve not been to the hairdressers for about 8 years now and I’m debating nails, but maybe that’s a step too far?</p><p style="text-align: justify;">I want to plan things and book them in for the year so we have lots to look forward to. I noticed last year so many events pass me by as I didn’t know they were on, especially locally, so this year I’m doing regular checks so we don’t miss out. With things to focus on and look forward to, it makes the trudge of daily life in between a lot more bearable.</p><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Home</span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">Our house currently resembles a three bedroom two storey skip, so I need to dive in and tackle it big time. I’ve not done a big declutter since lock down, and somehow every nook and cranny is once again filled with stuff. We have numerous charity piles, washing mountains to sort and soooooo many DIY jobs to do that it would probably take a year for a team of 100 pros, so for us two it’s going to be a lot of hare work. I really want to put a new bathroom in as it was so outdated when we moved in nearly 13 years ago and although we refreshed it with some tiles and paint, it’s still a massive shit show and is just not fit for purpose. I’d love to do that this year, but if not, at least be in a position to start saving for it and have the rest of the house sorted so that’s all that’s left. Everything else has been done at some point but all needs cleaning up, with fresh licks of paint, new flooring and just a general update throughout. This is a lot, but it’s so many little things that if we break it down and do a few things at a time it won’t take long. As the kids are getting bigger, they’re old enough really to be keeping their spaces tidier and helping us around the house, so I’m going to get them more involved this year so they can be proud of our home too.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Happy 2023 and I hope it’s a great one for you. Do you have any plans yet for this coming year?</b></p><p><br /></p>Wafflemamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04187393033810793920noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8225134739568615684.post-82223605299542592222022-12-24T00:00:00.002+00:002023-01-06T01:00:51.765+00:00Mama Life || What Is Empty Nest Syndrome & How Can We Cope With It?<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.wafflemama.uk/2022/12/mama-life-what-is-empty-nest-syndrome.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTOhxMndmLjieG_HbNl29Q2tgiQm2RTRmgj66KuQJI4kIKBdoXjEn7f8zHUhDyOf1zNjSyQQctYmX4Q4Kc1iLUir79Rm1PYnkVx68XDqVmvP55lVsMXTLapHgEthiSBbGJcQu-R0Pr7gufYVD-dyS5pyYyEyg6lEo_bMP6cbqdFZ-VD_jbFnIXvC8h/w640-h640/Copy%20of%20Blue%20Photo%20Promotional%20Fall%20Instagram%20Post%202.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span><a name='more'></a></span><div><br /></div><div><span style="color: #666666;"><i>Mama Life - Collaborative Post</i></span></div><div><span style="color: #666666;"><i><br /></i></span></div><p></p><div style="text-align: justify;">Knowing that one day that tiny baby in our arms will grow up and go off to live their own life, is a daunting prospect from that very first day. You may of heard of Empty Nest Syndrome, which is a condition that many parents experience after their children move out of the home for the first time. It can be a hugely difficult time for parents who are used to having their children around all the time and although nothing will ever make you ready for that day, the good news is that there are ways to overcome Empty Nest Syndrome and live a happy and fulfilling life after your children leave home! I know - it doesn’t sound possible, but apparently it’s true. This blog post will discuss what Empty Nest Syndrome is and provide tips on how to try and overcome it.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><span style="font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline;"><h2 style="text-align: left;">1) Understand that it is a transition:</h2><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">For many parents, the transition to an empty nest can be difficult. After having their children around for so long, it can be a jarring experience to find themselves without them suddenly, in this transition phase, remember to converse with others, letting your <a href="https://www.wafflemama.uk/2020/12/mama-life-how-to-make-sure-your.html#more">partner know how you feel</a>. While it is natural to experience some loneliness or sadness during this transition, it is important to recognize that it is simply a life stage and will soon pass, just like all those others - starting school, first trip away from home etc. With patience and perseverance, the emptiness of an empty nest will eventually fade and become filled with new experiences and opportunities for growth. The most important thing to remember about Empty Nest Syndrome is that it is a phase of transition and although it’s hard to let them go, we have to let them create their own experiences and meet people that will shape their lives. This can be as enjoyable to watch as all those stages earlier on, though you may have to watch from slightly further away this time!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: justify;">2) Find new interests and activities:</h2><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Finding new interests and activities with an <a href="https://www.betterup.com/blog/empty-nest-syndrome">empty nest syndrome</a> can be a great way to fill the void of not having your children around quite as much. However, it is important to start by recognizing that this is a natural life stage and to focus on activities that bring joy and fulfilment for you. Some ideas for activities include joining a book club, taking up a new hobby, volunteering in the community, or even taking classes at a local college or university. Taking time to nurture relationships with friends and family can also bring a sense of renewal. Time away from the family home can help too as that nest will only feel emptier the more time you spend there looking at the same four walls.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img height="426" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/bXDj5NHFtE9OMeuhJ6zUCA9Lg8BHO8lIUT6S7yFK9X6RieK7a-lL9FJF5s8TbjXXJOzlXirlUjoq4tWNZDoQI2hMN0EmQr7RW-vHp1KBT4_BfZfHpA9UhS9MTFbBC8pPV9uEsnE6zAMdsfDBe1KY-kOrH4LIbIkPhrD4RbDBchWgt781EfF_aXrNoS3e=w640-h426" width="640" /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.pexels.com/search/empty%20nest/">Via Pexels</a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: justify;">3) Having a child:</h2><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">If you’re younger, having a child while dealing with Empty Nest Syndrome can help fill the emptiness left behind when your children move out. Having another child gives you the opportunity to do it all again if you wish, and although some day they will all grow and move on, it’s always an option. If you need a helping hand <a href="https://www.ivfmatters.co.uk/">https://www.ivfmatters.co.uk/</a> can help you through this process and provide a range of fertility treatments, including IVF and egg donation. Although another child won’t be an option for everyone, if you’re still young enough and healthy, why not! </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></span><h2 style="text-align: justify;">4) Practise self-care:</h2><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">One of the most important things to remember when dealing with Empty Nest Syndrome is that taking time for yourself is ok. <a href="https://www.verywellfamily.com/7-strategies-for-overcoming-empty-nest-syndrome-5180842">Taking care of your physical and mental health</a> is essential for overcoming this life stage and finding contentment in an empty nest. Taking up a new exercise routine, engaging in relaxation techniques, or participating in activities will bring physical and mental health benefits. Additionally, reaching out to friends and family can provide a sense of connection during this transitionary period. If you need extra help, it may be worth seeking help from a qualified therapist who you can guide you through this new chapter. There is no shame in this and it’s very common, especially for mothers who usually find it the hardest after years of school runs and manic mornings.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">In conclusion, Empty Nest Syndrome is a condition that parents can experience when their children move out of the home, but there are ways to cope with this transition and even find joy in it! By understanding that it is just a stage, finding new interests and activities, and maybe even considering having another child, you can successfully overcome Empty Nest Syndrome and live a happy life after your children move out!</div><p></p>Wafflemamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04187393033810793920noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8225134739568615684.post-74788009353899853362022-12-22T12:59:00.002+00:002023-01-06T01:00:51.765+00:00Mama Life || Getting Ready For Your Child Starting School<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.wafflemama.uk/2022/12/mama-life-getting-ready-for-your-child.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQiKarmlIR7TUzsSwxR5V-1-_5XuXrIAEp8F-3XK2jeXGAFMF3LxsLjsEiq1C4eUfUk23Zj3h0ESuJFyfgP_Z0VW5l1hah3fl3J569Lrmvw_nQwXvEnFOHjzqg_LntjQLz3eos3tAtVt6zObBu8aWWb53PBGt3WQAoe1ixhMFlawa-1H6fBwD9K-xv/w640-h640/Copy%20of%20Blue%20Photo%20Promotional%20Fall%20Instagram%20Post.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span></span><span><a name='more'></a></span><p><br /></p><div style="text-align: justify;"><i><span style="color: #666666;">Mama Life - Collaboative Post</span></i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Your child starting school is one of the biggest events in their life and one of the biggest in yours as well. It’s a good idea to try and come up with ideas that are going to help you prepare for your child starting school, which can make the whole process much easier. Make some plans that will help you focus on this moving forward and try to think about the best ways of helping improve the transition for the whole family as much as possible. That first day of <a href="https://indywithkids.com/first-day-school-ideas/">School is a special day</a> in the calendar, and there are plenty of things that play a role in helping you to improve this process as well. Here are a few simple ideas that may help…</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="border: none; display: inline-block; height: 416px; overflow: hidden; width: 624px;"><img height="416" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/I4L_K1fs9-ptCXfV4OEoyPD62e1x3ZJy36wqLF1CS9tVti9EXjbINbQZ4O2ly0ulxq0U-ivxVz7YGVKU3vvtvsIJcNCs5QMeP7EAQTwi_0n3OjbLPKgrofEIuOqLZ8mE4AYI_VrhqxI_NXLRbRMup2ZHJQtCLzUKFK50RFmuj-q2HoR5ow0BsJMGIVCt" style="margin-left: 0px; margin-top: 0px;" width="624" /></span></span></p><p dir="ltr" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 0pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/boy-running-in-the-hallway-3042432/" style="text-decoration: none;"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-variant-position: normal; text-decoration-skip-ink: none; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Picture</span></a></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Prepare for the First Day</span></h2><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Preparing for your child to start school can be nerve-wracking and worrying, but this is also something that will have an enormous impact on their life, and on your entire family. The first day of school is a time that will be filled with excitement and trepidation, and there is a lot to unpack. As a mother, you have a few <a href="https://www.wafflemama.uk/2022/09/mama-life-6-things-to-consider-when.html#more">things to consider when your child starts school</a>, and trying to make this work for you and your child is so important. You need to try to keep them enthusiastic about this as much as possible, and there are loads of excellent ideas that play a role in helping with this right now. With that first day also marking n end to the free spirited toddler days that came before, it can be a really emotional time for parents and kids too, so preparation and enthusiasm (no matter how much you need to fake it) are essential.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Become Au Fait With Their Timetable</span></h2><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/school-help-elementary.html">Familiarising yourself with their timetable</a> is another excellent approach you can take, and this will make a massive difference to the way in which you can approach school, and ease the stress on your child and yourself at the same time. It is important to come up with some ideas that will help you in this regard, and trying to make sure you focus on the upcoming timetable, as well as being able to prepare your child for it, can make a massive difference. School parent life is a whole other level, with so many dates to remember, things to pay for, meals to organise and a whole new level of tiredness for kids and parents too. Getting organised with the school timetable from the get go can really help.</div><br /><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Plan for Trips</span></h2><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Trips are part and parcel of the school process, and they are something you should encourage your child to take part in. One of the best ways of being able to get the right outcome from this is to plan for these trips in advance. There are so many different ideas that you can use that will help you when it comes to improving your child’s school trip, and prepping for something like <a href="https://www.nstgroup.co.uk/geography-school-trips">geography field trips</a> can make a big difference to the experience moving forward. Aside from the trip being educational and fun, they are also a new kind of independence for children and it can be a worry knowing they are away with school. It may be a good idea to do a few practice runs before they start school, letting them have a sleepover with a friend, doing day trips with family and just slowly getting used to that little bit of time apart, so that when school starts it’s less overwhelming for you all.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">As you can see, there is plenty to think about when it comes to that first day and I think the more you can prepare for it, the less scary it will be all round. Just remember, none of us are perfect parents, and the main thing to remember is to do what you can to make the whole event less stressful for you all, and eventually you may just find yourself settling into the new schedule and maybe even enjoying a little time to yourself - even though most of us just end up working or doing chores!</div>Wafflemamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04187393033810793920noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8225134739568615684.post-87729536358773992392022-11-13T22:03:00.004+00:002023-01-06T00:55:28.156+00:00Healthy Mama || Creative Ways To Get Your Kids Enthusiastic About Teeth Cleaning<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.wafflemama.uk/2022/11/healthy-mama-creative-ways-to-get-your.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl8CWHGlFJtnJiAEjsMn9jhCgdnQ1lkDRJY0CpS8s6ybFQMYmMqq4ojjVEDtZGYmQV2yUsjIkOYY0EzK6FKt_sQvE-93VhjXawSTh_dUE_VfJ3C0O9p9BSZCzE20W5ZZMcd21G6YXTuPDVa7yIlCVPBqrNBya7VZ2UIrbbC-0wa_3b9Eil74JpR6jF/w640-h640/Copy%20of%20Blue%20Photo%20Promotional%20Fall%20Instagram%20Post.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span><a name='more'></a></span><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: #666666;">Healthy Mama - Collaborative Post</span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">One of the challenges that comes with being a parent is teaching your child healthy habits. Many of these habits are some they may not always relish – whether it’s eating their veggies or brushing their teeth properly. Many kids may find tooth brushing a bit of a chore, which can make their bedtime bathroom visit a point of contention – and possibly even a prime moment for an epic tantrum.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Fortunately, if you’re struggling to get your little ones excited about <a href="https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-teeth-and-gums/taking-care-of-childrens-teeth/">taking care of their oral health</a>, there are a number of fun things you can do that should help to make tooth brushing time one of the highlights of their day. Not convinced? Read on to find out more and transform your family’s tooth-brushing habits today!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Dance While You Brush (Carefully!)</span></h2><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">For young children, teeth cleaning can often seem like a dull activity which they want to speed through to get to their bedtime story. However, you can make it instantly more enjoyable by playing their favourite song and bopping along as they brush – just make sure they don’t dance too enthusiastically!<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-DQCO1h3xsPM6C30vkY5tufUase1SnuI8Nw8wyzqwhb8rA6drXvm5Etq1-SvUCRHwnmMQLO0bGQT9-QO4YRPabKZCKf_3sNq2Ff0-VMhuc-r3ZKDHDzcdA26_JUnOzIBOu898E2VHJ7sO8K1LSZ0SgrtDi6A73sDMd1qYk5bGb2nUrf1uDcz8367x/s1080/Untitled%20design%20(5).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-DQCO1h3xsPM6C30vkY5tufUase1SnuI8Nw8wyzqwhb8rA6drXvm5Etq1-SvUCRHwnmMQLO0bGQT9-QO4YRPabKZCKf_3sNq2Ff0-VMhuc-r3ZKDHDzcdA26_JUnOzIBOu898E2VHJ7sO8K1LSZ0SgrtDi6A73sDMd1qYk5bGb2nUrf1uDcz8367x/w640-h640/Untitled%20design%20(5).jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Find A Family Dentist They Like</span></h2><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">One way to get your kids keen about brushing is to find a dentist they feel comfortable with and who can encourage them to take their oral hygiene seriously. For example, <a href="https://smilestyledentist.co.uk/">Smile Style Dental Care Centre</a> can cater to all your family dentistry needs and will help to provide an encouraging and stress-free atmosphere during your children’s dental check-ups.<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Brush Side By Side</span></h2><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Setting a good example for your kids and taking part in the activities they may not enjoy so much is a great way to encourage them to do it, rather than handing down commands which they may instinctively want to rebel against.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">If you keep telling them how important it is to clean their teeth, show them by doing it yourself right along with them. Brushing side by side as a family will make the activity more enjoyable for them and could even become a heart-warming family ritual that you wouldn’t want to be without!<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Try A Reward Chart</span></h2><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://www.supernanny.co.uk/reward-charts.aspx">Reward charts can be a helpful incentive</a> for cleaning teeth – as well as for other chores and goals, whether it’s tidying their room or eating their broccoli. Each time they clean their teeth for two minutes, they can put a sticker on their chart, and at the end of each week, they get a little reward. As the jaunty meerkat would say: Simples!<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Let Them Choose A Special Brush</span></h2><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">A simple but effective way of encouraging your little ones to clean their teeth is by letting them choose their own toothbrush – whether it’s a superhero brush, a Barbie brush, or a Minions battery-operated brush. If they chose it themselves, and it has special significance, they are more likely to want to use it.<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Get Their Favourite Toy Involved</span></h2><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Last but not least, an easy way to make tooth brushing more fun is to let them clean their teeth with their favourite toy. You could even get the toy its own little brush, and your child can enjoy a role-playing brushing session every evening with their best buddy. Job done!</div>Wafflemamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04187393033810793920noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8225134739568615684.post-33705630086417690012022-11-12T14:19:00.000+00:002022-11-13T22:29:58.191+00:00Create || 5 Tips For Bringing Back Your Art Mojo<p></p><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.wafflemama.uk/2022/06/create-5-tips-for-bringing-back-your.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2Cjvcl4R1zfHeKdnr3U_r3UjR_bzre5pRSG7w8OZmqCbX8nzdEaDYANUQd9mSjFeB9AY0tBwtySOTSr9waXYcQA-clL0r56xc1cs2HSftr3kBx1LN1UAPDp9GBXUtLaYua1-edob1KQHpevv2LrBYdh8rmdDngtVsktY_W3P-xDOb_RAk9kvogT0-/w640-h640/Copy%20of%20Blue%20Photo%20Promotional%20Fall%20Instagram%20Post.jpg" width="640" /></a></div></div><p></p><span><a name='more'></a></span><p><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">We all have times as artists, where we just stare at a blank canvas and just have nothing come to mind whatsoever. There is nothing worse than losing your creative mojo, especially when it’s your full time job! </p><p style="text-align: justify;">As someone that struggles with this fairly often, I thought I’d share some tips that I’ve found really help to re-spark your brain with some ideas, and get you back into designing, painting or whatever else you’re stuck with.</p><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Have a break</span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">Sometimes switching things up and just having a break to do something totally different can be just the thing to get you mind back into the game. You may want to do something different entirely, or just take a break and relax, but sometimes this can help reset your art mojo.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Start with a colour palette</span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">Sometimes something as simple as having a colour palette for inspiration can get the juices flowing. Google search for colour palettes, with terms like ‘70’s colour palette’ or ‘summer colour palette’ and save or print some images. Sometimes just seeing the colours together in front of you can bring inspiration.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1LvHGpYMs4fdWF-2JkqLCnj2iA7xRZBL-NZLdbncSBZeJfldzNwj9Cdk2F8DqgzX1KUVy0_OP95Y2_lZIuNTIGjZveV5cE3_6HPLnCO0YDEVX1izE9heV3pysFdJ6xIv74_B-eb-W5LLomI8rkuxGMF_mhPKBJiKhiqUfm65usWfnG2-5AZ8OdBvY/s2000/Untitled%20design.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="2000" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1LvHGpYMs4fdWF-2JkqLCnj2iA7xRZBL-NZLdbncSBZeJfldzNwj9Cdk2F8DqgzX1KUVy0_OP95Y2_lZIuNTIGjZveV5cE3_6HPLnCO0YDEVX1izE9heV3pysFdJ6xIv74_B-eb-W5LLomI8rkuxGMF_mhPKBJiKhiqUfm65usWfnG2-5AZ8OdBvY/w640-h640/Untitled%20design.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Try a different creative project</span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">If you’re usually a digital artist for example, make a change for some real life printing on canvas, pen and paper sketching, watch some YouTube tutorials or try a completely new art or craft all together. Sometimes this can ignite some new ideas, give you inspo for mixed media creations or just help you relax enough to re-ignite the artistic side of your brain.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Get into nature</span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">Spending time in nature is true inspiration. Being close to natural waters, trees, wildlife and flowers can give you heaps of ideas, as well as plenty of fresh air and endorphins to lift your mood. You could take photos to work from later on, or sometimes just sitting outside in nature with a notebook can be good fodder for coming up with lists of new ideas.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Look back at your old work</span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">Sometimes we can lose our way a little, but looking back on our old work or where we started our artistic journey can be really inspiring. When we’re creating art for income, it’s very easy to get stuck in a rut with what sells best, but we need to look back to a time when we were just creating for ourselves or for fun. If the work doesn’t inspire, it can at least show you how far you’ve come and how much your art has improved!</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Wafflemamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04187393033810793920noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8225134739568615684.post-18058628639753722372022-11-01T11:02:00.000+00:002023-01-06T01:07:52.105+00:00Home Style || 2 Favourite Colourful Home Insta Accounts<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgbIax0VIrI1ZlQHNJkdpyjbmaebw8-jjUQre6IT8RmH3H-LPsEKdM0b5xgP5tNR8n-2Z2w6pXKrlMuCqPsd4bTWzxGkP__C-7ZBbvG_9HZOnMgD3D4XqD_aNMpXiR7n_09BHA9xu6bZ02qKxVCK5Zp88vFDz7hkf-mMKq002rZzxs4Fd3w9y264UX5=s1080" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgbIax0VIrI1ZlQHNJkdpyjbmaebw8-jjUQre6IT8RmH3H-LPsEKdM0b5xgP5tNR8n-2Z2w6pXKrlMuCqPsd4bTWzxGkP__C-7ZBbvG_9HZOnMgD3D4XqD_aNMpXiR7n_09BHA9xu6bZ02qKxVCK5Zp88vFDz7hkf-mMKq002rZzxs4Fd3w9y264UX5=w640-h640" width="640" /></a></div><span><a name='more'></a></span><p><span style="text-align: justify;"><br /></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;">Our <a href="https://www.wafflemama.uk/search/label/Home?m=1">house</a> is still looking like we've been burgled by a herd of wild horses, but I'm growing ever increasingly more obsessed with stalking other houses on Instagram and seeing how people just throw the best things out there. One thing I'm really loving at the moment which is a stark contrast to the white and greys that flood the home pages is the mismatched multicoloured maximalist houses, packed with colours, textures, thrifty buys, modern art work, the most unusual trinkets and lighting to die for. These houses are just like something from iconic Wes Anderson movies, perfection. A sprinkle of retro, a dash of sparkle and a whole heap of rainbow make these homes just beautiful. Even if they aren't for you for living in, you have to appreciate the decor and how they bring everything together! Here are my two favourite Instagram accounts that I just feel have this down to a T!</div><p></p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhNRZ_ozHZwHBUxRp-SPbFEm8IjLomE6SeDcbBYL5X8bvgLHNjX_tJqMKd0RHO6Qmr_fOl0G6eZDrNe6AKUM45Fy45qL61ZhOQiB4zy59to2b7plmHE6n24nYrja0KqsM_A97A6JgNntmOuI3TkehHc_51s-h84-RVr50A9Q3AVKhcSA266zwOCTopu=s2000" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="2000" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhNRZ_ozHZwHBUxRp-SPbFEm8IjLomE6SeDcbBYL5X8bvgLHNjX_tJqMKd0RHO6Qmr_fOl0G6eZDrNe6AKUM45Fy45qL61ZhOQiB4zy59to2b7plmHE6n24nYrja0KqsM_A97A6JgNntmOuI3TkehHc_51s-h84-RVr50A9Q3AVKhcSA266zwOCTopu=w640-h640" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><p></p><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Kate Rose Morgan</span></h2><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Kate's home styling is just incredible, with an array of glorious pinks - it's just a dream. With a strong pink focus, the house is packed head to toe with soft pastels and beautifully placed contrasting colours with plants, art prints and <a href="https://www.wafflemama.uk/2017/03/home-style-makeover-with-inspired.html">wallpaper</a>. For me, everything is brought together with the flow of pinks and the use of different textures to make up this wonderful home, with metal grid shelving, fluffy faux fur cushions, natural leaves and plenty of vintage thrown in for good measure. Even if pink isn't your thing, I don't think you could deny how well this house flows and how gorgeous it is! Find Kate on Instagram by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/kate_rose_morgan/"><b>clicking here</b></a>.<br /><br /></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6Gzx2WOma2P6tDPh4Rf66SKSRP6g5maL9asTekwDYapCZ6_SJRtz9aOmAD2zK7u6fhc0yEdz0PFekISe1jqXebE2uy_IFKCjpLzZyw9w_RQboJCbse9VBVzDs7H8Oja_jTchVF0OYOGI/s2048/Screenshot_20210319-191727.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1979" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6Gzx2WOma2P6tDPh4Rf66SKSRP6g5maL9asTekwDYapCZ6_SJRtz9aOmAD2zK7u6fhc0yEdz0PFekISe1jqXebE2uy_IFKCjpLzZyw9w_RQboJCbse9VBVzDs7H8Oja_jTchVF0OYOGI/w618-h640/Screenshot_20210319-191727.png" width="618" /></a></div><p><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: center;">Pretty Pocket Projects</h2><p></p><p></p><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/prettypocketprojects/">Pretty Pocket Projects</a> is an account run by Tasha, and it's absolutely incredible. Each room just looks packed with love and stories, with a mixture of colours and the most amazing turquoise and pink kitchen! I've followed Tasha for a while now and she has so much fun creating her perfect home, graffiti painting walls, adding colourful tapes to floors and adding colour to every section of her home - including the toilet! I bet makes it all makes her smile every single day!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">This house is a lot, and it's not for everyone but it's so creative and I love seeing someone make a space their own, using all the space they can and making a house that truly reflects them, I think we should all be a bit more Tasha! Find Pretty Pocket Projects by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/prettypocketprojects/"><b>clicking here</b></a>.</div><br /><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGyzsmsjh_3jReGWrmkhjKEoJOKNjITdensl792LmgD8iqqC3Uch4rC7pvBpT14-cl4tbUCA7Mk72ybDY-2I-oWl-5QX5G5FLskpbaxt9p8nI0eaNzqBADzIr7jAyRz9M4K1jptoqCXn8/s2048/Screenshot_20210319-191857.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2032" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGyzsmsjh_3jReGWrmkhjKEoJOKNjITdensl792LmgD8iqqC3Uch4rC7pvBpT14-cl4tbUCA7Mk72ybDY-2I-oWl-5QX5G5FLskpbaxt9p8nI0eaNzqBADzIr7jAyRz9M4K1jptoqCXn8/w636-h640/Screenshot_20210319-191857.png" width="636" /></a></div><br /><p style="text-align: justify;">I picked these accounts as I love them both so much, the passion that they put into their homes and the talent they clearly have for turning their imagination into reality - something I often struggle with, particularly when it comes to decorating. I'm also really really nosey, so I love accounts that share their homes like this! I think we all need to be a bit more adventurous and create homes that make us smile every single day, but do you love a lot of colour in your home or are you a 'less is more' person?</p>Wafflemamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04187393033810793920noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8225134739568615684.post-15707240967093186722022-10-26T18:18:00.004+01:002023-01-06T00:55:28.155+00:00Healthy Mama || Dentistry & Self-Care: An Unexpected Relationship<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoSSXcDHh1T7A_tdaf0yYqa2vWuVvFFJXfUVRbMeUUjYPcE6FTfFWh20i4oC5sIoZ9jmLKl1W5cOUtYdQcy8CdT3Pt43nqJ_WNssP-zz0IApRpaxAExLZuz-WAEBLdB7BC5rxNKPx7wqyRRvNsn80hQ-4owkPae6HOsRQ2K8hGB8fVqdRjrOgJz2lr/s1080/20221026_181618_0000.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoSSXcDHh1T7A_tdaf0yYqa2vWuVvFFJXfUVRbMeUUjYPcE6FTfFWh20i4oC5sIoZ9jmLKl1W5cOUtYdQcy8CdT3Pt43nqJ_WNssP-zz0IApRpaxAExLZuz-WAEBLdB7BC5rxNKPx7wqyRRvNsn80hQ-4owkPae6HOsRQ2K8hGB8fVqdRjrOgJz2lr/w640-h640/20221026_181618_0000.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span><a name='more'></a></span><p style="text-align: justify;"><i>Healthy Mama - Collaborative Post</i></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><i><br /></i></p><p style="text-align: justify;">In the last few years, there has been a growing interest in self-care, and there are several different forms that it can take. Self-care is all about improving your health physically and mentally. The question is, where does dentistry fall in this? Dentistry safeguards your oral health as well as having an impact on how your smile looks, all of which can then be linked back to your health and wellbeing. Keep reading for more information. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b><br /></b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>What Are The Advantages of Self-Care?</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Participating in self-care activities <a href="https://www.youngminds.org.uk/young-person/coping-with-life/self-care/">does have a number of benefits, both physically and mentally</a>. It can help to improve your health overall as well as boost your immune system. It lowers levels of stress in the body, which allows it to restore itself. Self-care also promotes a healthier relationship with yourself by encouraging you to prioritise your own needs and treat yourself with more kindness and compassion. Finally, by taking care of yourself, you are also better able to take care of others too.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b><br /></b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Where Does Dentistry Come into Self-Care?</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Obviously, dental care is incredibly important to your overall health, and therefore making an appointment could be seen as self-care. Your oral health permeates a lot of different areas of your life; you use it to eat, drink, communicate, laugh and smile, et cetera. Your smile acts as your first impression to other people. The way that your smile looks also has a huge impact on your self-esteem and your confidence too. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">This is why a lot more people are beginning to understand the link between self-care and dentistry. This may be easier said than done, especially if you have a fear of the dentist. Most of the time, this fear can be traced back to an uncomfortable experience with a previous dentist. This is why looking for a dentist - like <a href="https://cornmarketdental.co.uk/">Corn Market Dental</a> in Dorset – that offers bespoke treatment can help to alleviate your anxieties and make you feel more comfortable. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b><br /></b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>What Happens When You Abandon Your Oral Hygiene? </b></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Fear of going to the dentist is incredibly common. A lot of people experience this fear which often means that they simply do not go. This then means that preventative measures aren’t taken, and any oral issues are ignored until the sufferer is unable to anymore, which is when they finally make the appointment. Often times the treatment is then far more invasive and expensive than it needed to be had an appointment been made earlier. In addition to this, in rare cases, dental issues can lead to other health problems, which can be far more detrimental, like heart disease, strokes, <a href="https://www.periodontalhealth.com/periodontal-disease-and-respiratory-disease/">or respiratory issues. </a></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>The Bottom Line</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Dental care is definitely a form of self-care, and in fact, it is one of the lowest forms of personal maintenance in that, for the most part, you only need an appointment twice a year. Taking the time to look after your teeth daily also requires minimal effort, with brushing and flossing only taking a couple of minutes every day. Looking after your oral hygiene is important; you are investing in your own comfort and health.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p>Wafflemamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04187393033810793920noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8225134739568615684.post-45372209468307769692022-09-06T01:15:00.003+01:002023-01-06T01:00:51.764+00:00Mama Life || 6 Things To Consider When Your Child Starts School<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6z3lRTNxLYbLWpDGevvicxzZBffNO9Lw8kvMszXRAewiTcSA5lbxULwWg_X89yPaH0A9bgRiFju-Xs-Fz5rA0F8wVsy_SeGqkKH_U7NP6xgARuSqxHNlqfXqYWzgjdkalNwATZvLuhdEIa7iJWKPB8q4t5jVaOyA9o_z48NrTIHSi1hRa5a20ph4B/s1080/20220905_162619_0000.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6z3lRTNxLYbLWpDGevvicxzZBffNO9Lw8kvMszXRAewiTcSA5lbxULwWg_X89yPaH0A9bgRiFju-Xs-Fz5rA0F8wVsy_SeGqkKH_U7NP6xgARuSqxHNlqfXqYWzgjdkalNwATZvLuhdEIa7iJWKPB8q4t5jVaOyA9o_z48NrTIHSi1hRa5a20ph4B/w640-h640/20220905_162619_0000.png" width="640" /></a></div><span><a name='more'></a></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="color: #999999;">Mama Life - Collaborative Post</span></b></h3><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><p style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Your child’s first day of school is an inevitable part of life. The time leading up to this monumental occasion will be full of excitement, nervous energy, and uncertainty. However, the most important thing to remember is that this is a period of great change. Once your child walks through those school gates for the first time, your lives will never be the same.</span></p><p style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">This isn’t a bad thing, far from it. Although, parents will find this transition much easier if they know </span><a href="https://www.standard.co.uk/lifestyle/london-life/how-to-prepare-child-for-first-day-of-school-a4229061.html"><span class="s3" style="color: #0563c1; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">how to pre</span><span class="s3" style="color: #0563c1; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">p</span><span class="s3" style="color: #0563c1; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">are correctly</span></a><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">. As such, here are a few things that parents must consider when their child starts school.</span></p><p style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"><br /></span></p><h1><span class="s2" style="font-weight: bold; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"><span style="color: #666666;">Enthusiasm</span></span></h1><p style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span class="s2" style="font-weight: bold; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">For the first few years of their life, you are your child’s barometer for how the world works. They will look to you when they are unsure about a </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">situation and</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> base a lot of their reactions </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">on</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> your initial responses. </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Therefore, you shouldn’t be surprised when you notice that your child’s attitude toward their new school is a reflection of your beliefs.</span></p><p style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">A child is going to find the transition into school life much easier if they believe it to be a positive experience. That is why you can get them off to the best start possible by </span><a href="https://schoolsweek.co.uk/how-to-create-a-positive-whole-school-mental-health-culture/"><span class="s3" style="color: #0563c1; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">talking a</span><span class="s3" style="color: #0563c1; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">b</span><span class="s3" style="color: #0563c1; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">out school in an enthusiastic manner</span></a><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">. Spend the time leading up to their first day explaining that school is an opportunity to learn, grow, and make lots of new friends. </span></p><p style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"><br /></span></p><h1><span class="s2" style="font-weight: bold; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"><span style="color: #666666;">It Is Easier With A Friendly Face</span></span></h1><p style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span class="s2" style="font-weight: bold; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">If your child has spent several years in nursery, they will have </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">developed some strong attachments already. Unfortunately, not all their nursery friends will be moving on to the same primary school. Your child will find their first day much easier if they have a familiar face to gravitate toward.</span></p><p style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">You can do your bit by seeing if you can get in touch with some of the other new parents. Try and </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">arrange</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> a play date with at least one child during the summer before their first year and you can provide your child with a friend to help them through this uncertain next phase.</span></p><p style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTZ8KuTNWDsZA4uGokN_F4qQERQbgZZSLbmCSF1fsyuCp5YaxqR2MMM69D5akp0G8KFMvYAF8lEzb8Z1GO-ZRY85y-0gpf6zP8p3Ews8krpP40hBoB0W070s_JAyv3zYfwYDL39HdAB4kgQ1Z7rh1d1xxGHhlJGYBFfP-9kJ-7tf85YjxSvTMAzKx3/s2000/Untitled%20design.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2000" data-original-width="2000" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTZ8KuTNWDsZA4uGokN_F4qQERQbgZZSLbmCSF1fsyuCp5YaxqR2MMM69D5akp0G8KFMvYAF8lEzb8Z1GO-ZRY85y-0gpf6zP8p3Ews8krpP40hBoB0W070s_JAyv3zYfwYDL39HdAB4kgQ1Z7rh1d1xxGHhlJGYBFfP-9kJ-7tf85YjxSvTMAzKx3/w640-h640/Untitled%20design.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"><br /></span><p></p><p style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"><br /></span></p><h1><span class="s2" style="font-weight: bold; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"><span style="color: #666666;">Room Makeover</span></span></h1><p style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span class="s2" style="font-weight: bold; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Your child will be going through a lot of new experiences at school; however, these changes are also going to impact your home life. Getting everyone out of the house on time is going to pose a challenge, </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">but you can make this process easier with the right help.</span></p><p style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Your child’s room is quickly going to become a dumping ground full of everything they bring home from school. This </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">can include homework, P.E Kits, and important letters from their teacher. The best way to ensure that you stay on top of all the chaos is by organising their bedroom correctly. You can invest in a desk to provide them with a dedicated workspace, and </span><a href="https://www.childrensbedshop.co.uk/children-s-beds/cabin-beds.html"><span class="s3" style="color: #0563c1; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">cabin beds</span></a><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> give you an extra bit of storage space to keep the floor clean. You wouldn’t think that your choice of children’s bed would impact your kid’s school life, but one trip to the Children’s Bed Shop will prove you wrong.</span></p><p style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: start;"><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"><br /></span></p><h1><span class="s2" style="font-weight: bold; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"><span style="color: #666666;">Childcare</span></span></h1><p style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: start;"><span class="s2" style="font-weight: bold; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Working parents will notice a huge change in their lifestyle once their child begins school. Over the last few years, your work week will have been dictated by your childcare arrangements. However, school is now providing you with six hours a day where you no longer have to figure out a childcare plan. </span></p><p style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Of course, the standard workday ends at five, so you will still need to have some childcare in place. Fortunately, your child will be spending a lot less time in these locations, which is going to be a lot easier on your wallet. Therefore, you may want to sit down and think about what new childcare solutions you will need and what you are going to do with the extra money you are saving. </span></p><p style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: start;"><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"><br /></span></p><h1><span class="s2" style="font-weight: bold; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"><span style="color: #666666;">Independence Is Key</span></span></h1><p style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: start;"><span class="s2" style="font-weight: bold; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">A standard school day involves more than just learning a syllabus. Your child has to navigate a new world on their own, and there are plenty of extra steps they need to take. They </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">must</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> socialise with both kids and adults, use the toilet, get dressed, and keep tabs on their new equipment. This is a lot for the average adult to cope with, can you imagine what it is like for a child in a new environment for the first time?</span></p><p style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Taking the time to teach your child about these new steps will help them tackle these problems as they arise, but it also encourages independence. You never know what life is about </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">to </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">throw at you next, but an independent mind is always better equipped to deal with these situations. Try to </span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">instil</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> some independe</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">nce in your child before they start school, and you will find they face fewer problems overall.</span></p><p style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"><br /></span></p><h1><span class="s2" style="font-weight: bold; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"><span style="color: #666666;">Be Open</span></span></h1><p style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: start;"><span class="s2" style="font-weight: bold; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">Your child’s first day at school is a completely new experience for them, but it is also something that you have not gone through either. School systems change over time, so it is </span>likely that your child’s first few weeks at school will be very different from your own. sadly, this fact can leave you both feeling a little lost.</p><p style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">The important thing to remember is that everything set up in the school system has been done so for the best interest of every child. Try and remain as open as possible to the</span><a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/education-60875162"><span class="s3" style="color: #0563c1; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> </span><span class="s3" style="color: #0563c1; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">new </span><span class="s3" style="color: #0563c1; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">p</span><span class="s3" style="color: #0563c1; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">r</span><span class="s3" style="color: #0563c1; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">ocedures in place</span></a><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">, even if you find them a bit confusing at first. If you struggle to comprehend the basic structure of the school, the teachers are always there to lend a hand. Always keep a friendly and positive face on</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;">,</span><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"> and you find that you adjust to this new period in your lives just as quickly as your child.</span></p><p style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span style="line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"><br /></span></p><h1><span class="s2" style="font-weight: bold; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"><span style="color: #666666;">Summary</span></span></h1><p style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span class="s2" style="font-weight: bold; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"><span style="font-weight: 400;"><br /></span></span></p><p style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: justify;"><span class="s2" style="font-weight: bold; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Starting school for the first time can be a daunting experience for the whole family. As such, you will benefit from following the advice above to experience a much smoother transition than you may expect. Remember, starting school is a universal experience, so there is always help out there when you need it and plenty of other parents to chat to, who are just as nervous as you!</span></span></p><p style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21.600000381469727px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: start;"><span class="s2" style="font-weight: bold; line-height: 21.600000381469727px;"><br /></span></p></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Wafflemamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04187393033810793920noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8225134739568615684.post-32521474902185425292022-06-15T13:53:00.000+01:002023-01-06T00:53:39.082+00:00Create || Top Tips For Not Comparing Your Art To Others<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh8RiRjkGw4-erF3bcnuth1zSAcVHwzZnRNOy52Q37uOn2t3P2xdit4PdZ_erDe8kSxyVpHm6GWnvP38trmtB-KNGqGRfHBtFQobYxgz52GyvRqtXRoB1LF8hk6G1Wjd-rwtKQmJkd2GuqTFXelqtwXsHPojn3r1FJWdfOQbpmGZm_48N44BhosMK-c=s1080" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh8RiRjkGw4-erF3bcnuth1zSAcVHwzZnRNOy52Q37uOn2t3P2xdit4PdZ_erDe8kSxyVpHm6GWnvP38trmtB-KNGqGRfHBtFQobYxgz52GyvRqtXRoB1LF8hk6G1Wjd-rwtKQmJkd2GuqTFXelqtwXsHPojn3r1FJWdfOQbpmGZm_48N44BhosMK-c=w640-h640" width="640" /></a></div><span><a name='more'></a></span><p><br /></p><p></p><div style="text-align: justify;">A good friend and fellow artist since said to me that 'comparison is a thief of joy' and she is absolutely right! As hard as I try to just appreciate other peoples talents without comparing them to my own, I do find it pretty hard to fight those feelings inside. If it's something I'm not into or something I've never done, like resin work or glass blowing, I can appreciate the skill and talent, I'm in awe, but there is no comparison there. However, when it's another graphic designer, someone who paints, draws or anything else that I technically can do, I get hit with a huge gut punch of shitness, as I compare my shoddy work to theirs, amidst thoughts like wishing I'd thought of that first. As an onlooker, I'd say to another artist that all art is different and all talent is different and appreciated in different ways, but when it comes to myself I can't help but do the compare thing and make myself feel a bit rubbish. This is something we all experience to some extent, but it can improve and we can learn from it. These feelings can also lead to improving our own work or trying new things, so whatever pang of negative feelings arise, it's important to ask ourselves why we feel like that and think about what we can change.</div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgtxJvK3i4nzmiIdhdeFNb6vjCRr2uOsiafplZRACacWUiMS-Ie4UUaDhFb-XPjDn_R3sTPZfnxFntdCbxJPPdXdPEQ8Bk6IVnYNlmvouiKF0CK0sjhTrTj2pazKfTZC_wzfgK-cRQF69lRXEafE_ZchIT_rJfPg24p37KUUe6m1GOvWWbSrxhWpbRt=s7100" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="7100" data-original-width="5000" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgtxJvK3i4nzmiIdhdeFNb6vjCRr2uOsiafplZRACacWUiMS-Ie4UUaDhFb-XPjDn_R3sTPZfnxFntdCbxJPPdXdPEQ8Bk6IVnYNlmvouiKF0CK0sjhTrTj2pazKfTZC_wzfgK-cRQF69lRXEafE_ZchIT_rJfPg24p37KUUe6m1GOvWWbSrxhWpbRt=w450-h640" width="450" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">The thing is though, that as much as I just try and avoid other peoples work, it's in my face daily, on social media mainly, but also in local shops, hanging in the local shopping centre and on every site or magazine I look at, it's just totally unavoidable to see other, better (in my opinion) art from other people. I need to work on my reactions to things like this but it is definitely not easy! Comparing myself and my creations to other people does no good and actually takes away my own joy from doing the thing I love most - creating art.</div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">So, what can we do to stop ourselves comparing our art to others? </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Here's a few things I'm trying to do in order to appreciate the work of others, and leaving it there, without bringing my own feelings into it or doing myself a disservice by insulting my own abilities.</p><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;"><br />Avoid avoid avoid</span></h2><p></p><div style="text-align: justify;">Not the best technique, but by reducing the likely hood of seeing other artwork, you're less likely to get these feelings. So as nice as it is to support other artists, if it's not the right time of you to scroll through reams of endless wonderful artwork, then don't look at it, don't follow those accounts and stop searching for things that will no doubt make you feel worse. Long term though, this isn't a healthy solution as it's really just an avoidance tactic, so it's much better to work on ways to deal with these feelings instead of avoiding them. Sometimes though, you're just in a bad mood or having an artistic slump, so at these times it's good to avoid other art or look back on famous artists for inspiration or to see that actually even some of the most famous artists works aren't technically that great! </div><br /><p></p><p></p><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">If you're going to compare, compare you early artwork to you newer pieces</span></h2><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #666666;">Instead of comparing your work to other peoples which will mostly only bring negative feeling, look back at your first at works, what you were working on a year ago, your first digital design, early paintings etc to see how far you've come. This is a healthy comparison as you can see your improvements, re-live your artistic journey and also maybe even see if you've lost your way a bit or need to go back to basics, to a time when you felt inspired or remind yourself of the reason you started.<br /><br /></span></div><p></p><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Remember art is unique, as are you</span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">Cheese balls I know, but we are all different, we are all unique, and all our art is truly unique. Listen to people when they praise your talent and know that your work will be loved, not by everyone, because everyone has different tastes, but it's unique and special and a one of a kind!<br /><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Learn from the negative experiences with comparisons</span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">When you do scroll through your socials and see some work that stops you in your tracks, don't just scroll by in anger, but take the time to learn from it. Ask yourself why it's so good, why you are comparing it, if it's even similar or something you would enjoy doing? Think about what you like about it, if there's anything you can incorporate into your own work or new techniques to study. Don't just focus on the bad, those feelings happen for a reason, so instead of just absorbing the self hate, think about why and how you can learn from what you are seeing.</p><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #666666;">Do art for the right reasons</span></h2><p style="text-align: justify;">I think it's important to remember why we create art to begin with. We may do it because we simply enjoy it, we need to let out our emotions or simply that we need to make money. Whatever the reason, we need to think about the why, and how we can grow this into something special that truly reflects us as artists. If we are just creating for money or some other reason, it may be time to re-evaluate what we do, so that we feel so much joy in what we're doing, we don't care about anybody else.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Wafflemamahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04187393033810793920noreply@blogger.com