Life, Ninja Killer Cat and Everything Else ...

Wandini - Colour Changing LED Show The Review

2026-05-22T12:25:44.409+01:00

Disclosure : This product was sent to me free of charge and is a honest review

Price £21.99

Age 8 +

Inside The Box

Inside the box you get the main body of the wand, a short string with a finger loop and the stew in top and bottom sections. It is very easy to put to together you just simply just screw the top and bottom section of the wand . It comes with a micro -usb charging cable . The wand charges well and glows red whilst it is charging and changes to green when fully charged.

How It Works

There is button in the centre of the wand which turns on the LED lights, these shine through both ends in a double zig-zag pattern before making the tips of the wand glow brightly. There are 21 preset selections and all the information is available on the comprehensive information sheet.

Because one side of the wand carries a bit more weight, it hangs nearly straight down when the loop is placed over your middle finger and your hand is extended. As it swings freely, you can rotate your wrist, spin your body, twirl the wand, or experiment with various motions and tricks to produce the effect of a floating, smoothly moving beam of light. The illusion becomes even more striking in darker environments.Long-exposure photography becomes even more entertaining with the Wandini, as it can produce striking streams of light and creative visual effects in photos.

To help users master different movements and routines, Fun in Motion supplies a free companion app featuring step-by-step tutorial content. While the in-app YouTube player did not function properly in our testing, the videos were still accessible by opening them externally through a browser or directly in the YouTube application.

The included box serves a useful purpose beyond packaging, as the wand can be taken apart and stored compactly inside when not in use. This makes it much more convenient to carry during trips or outdoor activities, since you do not have to deal with transporting a long, awkward object.

Conclusion

In the end, the Wandini succeeds in delivering an experience that feels both entertaining and surprisingly mesmerising. The smooth floating movements and glowing visual trails create an effect that quickly grabs attention, whether you are practising tricks indoors, performing in low light, or experimenting with photography. Its portable design and more premium build quality also help it stand apart from many novelty light toys currently available.

While the product is not completely flawless, the minor issues we encountered were relatively small compared with the amount of enjoyment it provides. Between the creative possibilities, durable construction, and easy-to-learn tricks, the Wandini feels like a well-thought-out gadget that can appeal to beginners and hobbyists alike. For anyone looking for something a little different that combines movement, light, and creativity, it makes a memorable addition to any collection.

Just make sure you or your child has plenty of space when using this you won't want to be knocking anything precious of your sideboard etc.

Now I have the opportunity for one of you to win one of these the completion is here

Red Squirrels on the Isle of Wight: The Best Place in England to See Native Red Squirrels

2026-05-12T08:35:12.940+01:00

Red Squirrels on the Isle of Wight: The Best Place in England to See Native Red Squirrels

The Isle of Wight is one of the last remaining places in England where red squirrels continue to thrive in the wild. While red squirrel populations have disappeared from much of southern Britain, the island has become a nationally important sanctuary for this iconic native species. Thanks to protected woodland habitats, strong conservation work and the natural barrier created by the Solent, the Isle of Wight now supports one of the healthiest red squirrel populations in the country.

For visitors interested in British wildlife, the chance to see a red squirrel on the Isle of Wight is one of the island’s biggest natural attractions. These agile mammals can still be spotted in forests, woodland trails and quiet countryside locations across the island, making the Isle of Wight one of the best destinations in the UK for wildlife tourism.

Why Are Red Squirrels Still Found on the Isle of Wight?

The biggest reason red squirrels survive on the Isle of Wight is the absence of grey squirrels. Grey squirrels were introduced into Britain during the nineteenth century and rapidly spread across mainland England. Larger and more aggressive than reds, grey squirrels compete for food and habitat while also carrying squirrelpox virus, a disease that is deadly to red squirrels.

Because the Isle of Wight is separated from mainland England by the Solent, grey squirrels have never established a permanent population on the island. This natural protection has allowed red squirrels to survive without the pressures faced elsewhere in the country.

Today, the Isle of Wight is recognised as one of the most important red squirrel conservation areas in southern England.

Where to See Red Squirrels on the Isle of Wight

Several woodland areas on the Isle of Wight are known for regular red squirrel sightings. The best places to look include ancient woodland, mixed forest and quiet nature reserves where food is plentiful and tree cover remains connected.

Popular locations include:

Parkhurst Forest

One of the island’s largest woodland areas, Parkhurst Forest provides ideal habitat for red squirrels with mature trees and extensive canopy cover.

Borthwood Copse

This peaceful woodland near Newchurch is a well-known location for wildlife enthusiasts hoping to spot red squirrels in their natural environment.

Firestone Copse

Managed woodland with excellent walking routes and regular sightings throughout the year.

Alverstone Mead Nature Reserve

A quieter location offering excellent opportunities for photography and wildlife observation.

The best times to see red squirrels are usually early morning or late afternoon when they are actively searching for food.

What Do Red Squirrels Eat?

Red squirrels on the Isle of Wight survive on a varied natural diet that changes throughout the seasons. Their food sources include:

Hazelnuts
Acorns
Pine cones and seeds
Berries
Mushrooms and fungi
Tree bark and shoots

During autumn, red squirrels spend much of their time collecting and storing food for winter. Since they do not hibernate, hidden food supplies are essential during colder months when natural resources become limited.

How Red Squirrels Help Woodland Ecosystems

Red squirrels play an important role in maintaining healthy forests. As they gather and bury seeds, they help support natural woodland regeneration. Forgotten seeds may later grow into new trees, helping forests continue to develop naturally.

Their feeding habits also contribute to biodiversity by spreading fungi spores and influencing woodland ecology. Protecting red squirrels therefore benefits many other native species living within the same habitat.

Red Squirrel Conservation on the Isle of Wight

Conservation groups on the Isle of Wight work continuously to protect red squirrel populations and preserve woodland habitats. Local organisations monitor sightings, improve habitat connectivity and educate residents about preventing grey squirrel introductions.

One of the biggest priorities is maintaining connected woodland corridors. Red squirrels prefer travelling through trees and often avoid crossing open spaces where predators are more dangerous. Tree planting and hedgerow restoration projects help create safer movement routes across the island.

Residents are also encouraged to report any possible grey squirrel sightings immediately. Rapid action is essential because even a small breeding population could threaten the island’s red squirrels.

Why Red Squirrels Are Important to the Isle of Wight

Red squirrels have become a major part of the Isle of Wight’s identity. They appear in local tourism campaigns, wildlife photography, conservation projects and educational programmes across the island.

Many visitors travel specifically to experience one of the few places in England where red squirrels can still be seen naturally in woodland habitats. Wildlife tourism connected to red squirrels also supports local businesses, nature reserves and eco-tourism initiatives.

For photographers and nature lovers, the Isle of Wight offers one of the best opportunities in Britain to observe native red squirrels behaving naturally in the wild.

Threats Facing Red Squirrels

Although the Isle of Wight remains one of the safest places for red squirrels, several threats still exist. Habitat fragmentation, disease and climate-related changes to woodland ecosystems could all affect future populations.

Storm damage and woodland loss may reduce nesting opportunities, while accidental grey squirrel introductions remain the greatest long-term concern. Continued conservation work will therefore remain essential for protecting the species.

The Future of Red Squirrels on the Isle of Wight

The future for red squirrels on the Isle of Wight remains positive compared with many other parts of England. Strong community support, active conservation work and healthy woodland habitats continue to provide a safe environment for the species.

As one of Britain’s last true red squirrel strongholds, the Isle of Wight plays a critical role in protecting an important part of the country’s natural heritage. For anyone interested in wildlife, conservation or British nature, the island remains one of the best places in the UK to experience red squirrels in their natural habitat.

Doodlecat Harness Review

2026-04-29T14:52:57.025+01:00

🐾 Doodlecat Harness Review: A Practical Choice for Everyday Adventures

I recently tried the Doodlecat harness with my cat Arwen and—like most first-time harness experiences—it started with a fair amount of resistance. The usual sequence: hesitation, a dramatic flop, and a look of deep betrayal.

That said, once we got past the initial adjustment period, the results were genuinely impressive.

Design & Appearance

The harness stands out immediately thanks to its bright, colourful design. It’s visually appealing without feeling gimmicky, and it’s nice to have something that looks as good as it functions. If you enjoy a bit of personality in your pet gear, this delivers. And competitively priced too at £17

Fit & Comfort

This is where the harness performs best. The vest-style design offers a secure fit without restricting movement.

The material is soft and breathable
It distributes pressure evenly across the body
It allows natural movement—walking, crouching, and exploring

After a short adjustment period, my cat moved comfortably and no longer seemed overly aware of wearing it, which is often the biggest hurdle.

Security & Control

No cat harness is completely escape-proof, and it’s important to be realistic about that. However, the Doodlecat harness does a solid job.

Dual fastening (Velcro and buckle) adds security
The fit stays consistent during movement
The lead length offers a good balance of freedom and control

While I wouldn’t rely on it in high-stress or unpredictable environments, it feels dependable for supervised outdoor use.

Real-World Use

In a garden or quiet outdoor setting, this harness works very well. It gives enough freedom for natural behaviour—sniffing, exploring, and low-speed prowling—without sacrificing control.

The included leash is practical and well-matched to the harness, making it suitable for casual walks and outdoor enrichment.

Drawbacks

There are a few minor considerations:

The Velcro may lose strength over time with repeated use
Some cats will need a short adjustment period
Not the best option for highly escape-prone or particularly strong-willed cats

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Doodlecat harness strikes a strong balance between comfort, usability, and design. Most importantly, my cat tolerated it quickly and was able to move naturally while wearing it—arguably the most meaningful measure of success.

For everyday outdoor use in a controlled environment, it’s a reliable and well-designed option that should suit most cats and owners.

Adopting A Rescue Cat What To Consider

2026-04-24T14:02:20.243+01:00

With Jack Black the cat passing nearly a month ago we dived in with both feet to get a new cat, the new cat however was not a replacement for jack but instead a new chapter in our cat owning lives. We decided to go with a rescue cat and looked round at various cat rescue places , we were paricualry taken with with British shorthair cat called Bob who was large ( part of his breed ) but unfortunately he had a flat face and an overbite. We felt that this was going to store up potential health problems in the future. I am sure Bob will find a loving home but you just know when a cat isn't right for you.

I spotted Arweb on another cat rescue site on Facebook ( who ever said time was wasted on Facebook , well it isn't especially when it comes to cats. We went to see Arweb ( previous Tabby Tabitha , and we flat that Tabitha didn't suit her as it was too Enid Blyton )

There are many things to consider when you adopt a rescue cat as all cats have different personalities , Arwen's personalty is coming out. She is very friendly and chirps a lot and will come and sit on you sometimes or at least near you , she is very quick and energetic and we have been known to stick Squirrels on Youtube to calm her down of an evening.

Be prepared to spend a lot of time adjusting to how they eat , how they play etc Arwen is very petit and eats like a bird ( bit not real birds ) . You may have to play the food dance of they absolutely loved the stuff the rescue centre was feeding them and when you get them home they hate it.

The next step on the horizon will be letting Arwen go outside when we have a new cat flap put in but currently Arwen is adjusting to the house so going outside will wait till mid May.

Are Collars Necessary For Cats ?

2026-03-31T08:14:00.003+01:00

Are Collars Necessary for Cats? (The NinjaKillerCat Guide 🐾)

If you live with a cat, you already know you’re not the owner—you’re the assistant to a highly skilled, slightly chaotic ninja. Whether they’re silently stalking dust particles or launching surprise attacks at 3am, every NinjaKillerCat has one thing in common: they do what they want. So when it comes to collars, the question isn’t just “are they necessary?”—it’s “will your tiny assassin allow it?”

Let’s break it down.

🐱 Why Collars Can Be a Good Idea

For outdoor explorers and escape artists, collars can be incredibly useful.

First, there’s identification. While microchips are essential (and highly recommended), they only work if someone takes your cat to a vet or shelter to be scanned. A collar with an ID tag is instant—anyone who finds your cat can quickly see they have a home and contact you right away. Think of it as your ninja’s “return to base” button.

Collars also act as a visible signal of ownership. A well-fed cat roaming the streets might otherwise be mistaken for a stray. A collar tells people your cat is loved, claimed, and probably just out on a solo mission.

You can also include important medical information on the tag. If your cat has allergies or specific needs, this could be crucial in an emergency situation.

🐾 When Collars Might Not Be Necessary

Not every NinjaKillerCat needs to wear gear.

If your cat is strictly indoor-only, a collar becomes more optional—especially if they’re microchipped. Many indoor cats never come close to escaping, and for them, a collar might not add much benefit.

There’s also the personality factor. Some cats simply hate collars. If your cat freezes, flops dramatically, or spends hours trying to wriggle free, that’s a sign they’re not on board with the plan. Forcing it can cause stress, and a stressed ninja is not a happy ninja.

⚠️ Safety Rules Every Cat Owner Should Follow

If you decide your cat should wear a collar, safety is everything.

Always choose a breakaway collar. This type is designed to snap open if it gets caught on something, which is vital because cats climb, jump, and squeeze into places they definitely shouldn’t. A regular collar can be dangerous if it gets snagged.

Make sure the fit is just right. You should be able to slide two fingers comfortably underneath. Too tight is uncomfortable; too loose and it might slip off.

Finally, keep it lightweight. Large tags or constant jingling bells can irritate your cat—especially if they take their stealth missions seriously.

🐈 Final Verdict

So, are collars necessary?

For outdoor NinjaKillerCats: absolutely recommended.
For indoor stealth masters: optional, but still a helpful extra layer of protection.

At the end of the day, your cat doesn’t need a collar to be legendary. But if they venture beyond your walls—even occasionally—it can make all the difference in getting your fearless little ninja safely back home.

And let’s be honest: every NinjaKillerCat deserves a way to return to their kingdom (and their food bowl).

Meet Arwen The Rescue Cat

2026-03-25T13:44:00.002+00:00

We lost Jack Black last week. It was the kindest decision to let him go. He had been living with a large lump — one we had removed last year — but it had returned and was starting to affect his quality of life. Even the vet reassured us that it wasn’t the wrong choice.

Cats really do get under your skin, which is why we decided to look into adopting another not long after losing Jack. We took our time. First, we met Bob, who was lovely, but had a very flat face and an overbite due to his breed. He also looked like the sort of cat who’d need his own front door key rather than using the cat flap — and could easily moonlight as a nightclub bouncer.

In the end, we went to meet Arwen (formerly known as Tabitha, though “Tabitha” felt a bit too Enid Blyton). With her pointy ears, a Lord of the Rings name felt much more fitting — especially as our previous cats were called Bilbo and Frodo

Plodding On In Life To Escape The Doomscrolling

2026-03-13T15:34:00.005+00:00

I don’t know if anyone is out there ? I don’t if anyone is reading this ? But you’re doing great I am doing great, I think of myself as a very much a free spirit and I will talk pretty much to anyone and anything ( cats 🐈‍⬛) . Though I will draw the exception if you look Moomins , I can not explain it but they squishy nothingness doesn’t float my boat.

But there’s always something you don’t like isn’t there, like maybe days with a y in them . I take myself to the gym and there’s one treadmill that is mine and I am lost if someone else uses it . I am a plodder and plodder gets me by just fine .

Recently I restricted my facebook usage to about an hour and it suits me fine, if I try and sneak back on it says like an angry parent “ you have had enough “

I don’t need the validation of the doom scroll. I am just a plodder and plodding keeps me calm.I am calmer than a squishy raspberry.

Hello World, Again (Apparently We’re Doing This the Old-Fashioned Way)

2026-03-12T13:57:00.002+00:00

Hello World, Again (Apparently We’re Doing This the Old-Fashioned Way)
Hello world.
Yes, that hello world. The one people used to type when they first launched a blog, back when the internet still felt a little like the Wild West and not a giant shopping mall with fluorescent lights and an algorithm following you around asking if you want to watch another video about productivity hacks.
Anyway.
I’m back up and blogging.
Actual blogging. You know — writing. Words. Sentences. Paragraphs. The ancient ritual of sitting down, thinking about something for more than seven seconds, and then typing it out without a ring light, a jump cut, or a thumbnail of someone making a shocked face.
Once upon a time, this was normal.
Now, apparently, it’s vintage.
Which is funny, because blogging used to be the internet. Before everything turned into scrolling and swiping and refreshing — and doom-refreshing again just in case something dramatic happened in the last four seconds.
Back then you followed people because they had something to say, not because an app decided their content would perform well between two advertisements and a clip of someone power-washing a driveway.
You read posts. Long ones.
You had opinions about them. Sometimes you even left comments, which was basically the digital equivalent of yelling across a pub table — except with worse spelling and a higher probability someone would quote Nietzsche incorrectly.
It was chaotic, messy, occasionally brilliant.
And mostly it was just… writing.
Which brings us to the present moment, where the entire world seems to be operating at a speed that suggests someone leaned on the fast-forward button and then lost the remote.
Everything now is immediate.
Immediate reactions. Immediate takes. Immediate outrage. Immediate applause. Immediate hot takes about the hot takes that were posted three minutes ago.
Now now now now now.
The internet has become a place where people don’t just want information quickly — they want everything quickly. Thoughts. Feelings. Analysis. Conclusions. Preferably condensed into a short video with subtitles and background music so nobody has to endure the horrifying possibility of silence or concentration.
And in the middle of all that noise, here we are.
Blogging.
Just plain old writing.
No trending sound. No viral dance. No mysterious algorithm deciding whether this post deserves to exist. Just a page, some thoughts, and the dangerous idea that maybe — just maybe — someone might read the whole thing.
I know. Wild concept.
In a world that treats attention spans like endangered species, choosing to write something longer than a caption feels slightly ridiculous. Almost pathetic, even. Like showing up to a Formula One race with a bicycle and saying, “Yes hello, I’ll just take the scenic route.”
But here’s the strange thing.
There’s something oddly satisfying about it.
Writing slows things down. It forces a moment of thought before reaction. It asks you to actually sit with an idea for a minute instead of immediately firing it into the endless content cannon that powers the modern internet.
And maybe that’s why blogging feels different now.
Back then it was just what people did.
Now it feels almost rebellious.
Because slowing down — even a little — is practically illegal in the economy of constant attention. Everything is engineered to keep moving, keep refreshing, keep feeding the machine with more opinions, more reactions, more commentary about the commentary.
Meanwhile blogging just sits there quietly in the corner like a slightly eccentric relative who refuses to get a smartphone and insists on writing letters.
And you know what?
That might be exactly why I’m back.
Not because blogging is trendy again. It definitely isn’t. Nobody’s building billion-view empires out of long paragraphs and mild existential observations.
But writing still does something the rest of the internet often forgets how to do.
It makes space.
Space to think. Space to wander through an idea. Space to say something that isn’t designed purely for maximum engagement within the next thirty seconds.
Maybe nobody reads blogs the way they used to.
Maybe they do.
Either way, the act of writing still matters. Even if it’s just for the quiet satisfaction of putting a thought into words and letting it exist somewhere outside the endless scroll.
So here we are again.
Hello world.
The blog is back up.
Vintage internet. Old-school thinking. Plain old writing.
In a world that moves at breakneck speed, it might be the slowest thing left on the internet.
And honestly?
That sounds perfect.

When Tuesday Feels Like A Monday

2026-03-10T08:45:00.000+00:00

When Tuesday Feels Like Monday

Have you ever woken up on a Tuesday and felt absolutely convinced it was still Monday?

Not because you forgot what day it was, but because the feeling of Monday hadn’t quite left you yet.

That was exactly my experience this week. Monday had already been chaotic enough, and somehow the emotional hangover carried straight into Tuesday. Even though the calendar clearly said otherwise, my brain refused to move on.

It all started with something small but frustrating: I couldn’t find my keys.

You know that sinking feeling when you start checking the obvious places — the kitchen counter, the hallway table, your coat pocket — and they’re not there? Then the search expands. Bags get emptied. Drawers get opened. The sense of mild panic slowly builds.

Somehow a tiny object like a set of keys can derail the start of an entire day.

As if that wasn’t enough, there was also an unexpected mystery unfolding outside. Water appeared to be leaking into the garden. Not just a little damp patch, but enough to make me wonder if something had gone seriously wrong. My mind quickly jumped to the worst possibilities: broken pipes, expensive repairs, and a long list of problems I didn’t want to deal with.

So Monday became one of those days where small inconveniences pile up just enough to make everything feel heavier than it should.

Eventually, my husband came home and calmly worked through the chaos that had built up in my head. Within a short time, the situation looked very different.

First, the missing keys were found.

Then the mysterious leak was investigated. Thankfully, it wasn’t anything serious at all. It turned out the water was likely coming from a neighbour’s pond rather than a problem on our side. Once that was identified, the issue was quickly sorted.

Just like that, the two things that had been causing stress all day were resolved.

Problem solved.

Except my brain didn’t quite get the memo.

The next morning arrived — Tuesday — but the feeling of Monday lingered. There were no missing keys, no mysterious water, and no actual problems left to fix. Yet mentally, it still felt like the week hadn’t properly restarted.

This is something many people experience without really noticing it. When a day contains several small stressors, your brain can remain stuck in “problem-solving mode.” Even after the problems are resolved, the emotional tension doesn’t immediately disappear.

It’s a bit like a computer running too many tabs in the background. The tasks might be closed, but the system hasn’t fully reset yet.

One small trick that helps is creating a sense of closure. Sometimes it’s as simple as mentally listing the problems and acknowledging they’re finished:

Keys — found.
Leak — investigated and fixed.

It sounds almost too simple, but giving your mind that clear signal of “done” can help it let go.

Another helpful reset is marking the start of the new day with something small and intentional. A cup of tea, a short walk outside, or even just stepping away from your usual routine for a moment can create a mental line between yesterday’s chaos and today’s calm.

Because in reality, Tuesday wasn’t Monday at all.

Monday was the messy day — the one with misplaced keys and mysterious water in the garden.

Tuesday was simply the day after everything had already been sorted out.

And sometimes that’s the best kind of Tuesday you can have.

2026-03-09T19:35:00.682+00:00

72 hours in the beautiful city of Florence what should you see ? Florence will truly capture your heart and never let it go , there is something magical about Florence it is such a vibrant city full of art culture food and wine and so very mellow well mellow as an Italian city can get! Florence is known as the birthplace of the Renaissance where there was great wealth and so began a great collection of art between the 14th and 17th century.

It pays to get the Firenze card which allows you to visit as many museums and churches etc as you can mange within the 72 hours . The card is activated as soon as you go on your first visit make sure you get your card from the local tourist information at is 10 Euros cheaper than if you buy it form a museum.

We flew straight into Florence as Mr T wanted to be nearer but there is easy access from Pisa airport and that is where most people fly into. You can get a train direct from Pisa to Florence and the Italian trains are efficient and some even have double - decker carriages.

The Magnificence Of The Medici

The Medici ruled Florence for 300 years they had a meteoric rise to power and put their money into arts, the churches and monuments and this makes Florence a truly spectacular city.

Make your way to the Palazzo Vecchio which is the main square Piazza della Signoria. Building was started in 1299, the medieval place has a 94 -metre high tower ( which I didn't climb but let my husband and son climb though ). There is a stately room to visit which seats 500 members. The medici used to have their apartments here till the mid -1500s.

Meander then down to the Palazzo Pitti this is where the Medici came to when they had outgrown the Palazzo Vecchio ,The Palazzo Pitti soon doubled from its initial size. From the outside the Palazzo Pitti looks very much like a fortress yet when you're inside this melts away to reveal paintings by Rubens, Raphael Titan and many many more. There are so many fine rooms to see it is a veritable feast upon the eyes and there are often other exhibitions to see when we were there was one on fashion and Italian motor racing.

Right next to the Palazzo Pitti is the Boboli gardens which are fine Italian gardens and they stretch for acres upon acres they are more than just a garden they are an architectural inspiration for Florence.They are the greatest open -air museum there is in the world, they are the gardens they inspired Versailles.

David

You can't come to Florence and not see David and you find this in the Galleria dell' Accademia for almost 370 years this world famous statue stood outside Palazzo Vecchio there is a copy outside there now.

David stands 17 feet tall and weighs in at 6 tonnes and there is a lot more to see around the Galleria dell' Academia too.

Doumo

This is a must and you see tantalising vistas of this almost everywhere you go in Florence we had a view from our hotel L'Orlogia which is not far away.Admire the facade of the Duomo it took them 16 years to complete the famed Dome (in 1436).

Then go onto the Bargello the oldest building in Florence where you will see works by Michelangelo, Cellini and Donatello’s David. Also here you can see ceramics ,textiles tapestries and coins also there is an armoury here as well.

This is but a snippet of what you can squeeze in 3 days and if you get the Firenze card which I strongly suggest you do then there is a complete list of all the places you can visit.

Always One Glove Away From a Duel

2026-03-09T09:00:00.001+00:00

I am, at all times, approximately one glove away from issuing a formal duel.

Not for dramatic historical reasons. I have not been insulted in parliament. No one has slandered my family name. Nobody has stolen my horse, my land, or my prized goose.

No.

My duels are reserved for the truly serious offences of modern life.

For example: when I hold a door open for someone and they walk through without saying thank you. Not even a nod. Not even the awkward half-smile people give when they realise they’ve made eye contact with a stranger and now must acknowledge the shared burden of existing.

Just… silence.

They pass through the doorway as if the door opened automatically through the power of advanced architecture.

And in that moment my brain quietly loads the software for 18th-century honour culture.

Internally, I remove a glove.

Very slowly.

The glove is imaginary, obviously, but the intent is very real.

I drop it onto the pavement.

“Sir,” I say in my mind, to the man who has just treated my act of door-holding charity like a natural weather phenomenon, “you have wounded my honour and also slightly my wrist which has now been holding this door for seven full seconds.”

Around us, in my imagination, a small crowd gathers. A pigeon watches with interest. Someone whispers, “Good heavens.”

“Tomorrow at dawn,” I continue, “we meet behind the Tesco Express car park. Pistols at ten paces. Or, if you prefer, a strongly worded conversation about basic manners.”

Queue-related crimes are even more dangerous.

There is something about a queue that feels sacred. It is a quiet social agreement between strangers: we are all suffering together, but we will suffer in the correct order.

When someone casually drifts into the middle of the queue like a confused duck who has wandered into traffic, my brain again reaches for the glove.

I approach them mentally with calm dignity.

“Excuse me,” I imagine saying, “but I believe you have accidentally committed a queue violation of the highest order.”

The glove falls.

Gasps ripple through the imaginary spectators.

“Dawn,” I announce. “Bring a witness and a basic understanding of fairness.”

Of course, in reality, none of this happens.

In reality I simply stand there like a normal human being, smiling politely in that very British way which roughly translates to:

“🙂 I will remember this forever but do absolutely nothing about it.”

But the duel energy remains.

Because modern society runs almost entirely on tiny acts of politeness. Doors held open. Thank-yous exchanged. Queues respected. Escalators exited without stopping dead at the top like someone who has just discovered gravity for the first time.

These are small things, but they are the duct tape holding civilisation together.

Remove too many and suddenly we’re all wandering around supermarkets like confused goats with shopping baskets.

So I will continue holding doors.

I will continue respecting queues.

And somewhere in the back of my mind, a quiet duelling field behind a Tesco Express will remain permanently reserved for anyone who forgets their manners.

I already have the glove ready.

Just in case.

Jack The Cat The Boss Of The House

2026-03-08T16:00:00.001+00:00

Jack the Cat (Also Known as the Real Boss of the House)

Every household has someone who believes they are in charge. Sometimes it’s the parent with the calendar. Sometimes it’s the person who controls the television remote. In our house, however, the true authority is a cat called Jack.

Jack did not exactly arrive with a formal announcement. There was no ceremony, no grand speech. One day he was simply there, exploring corners, inspecting furniture, and behaving as if the entire house had always been his.

Cats have a remarkable ability to do that.

Within a very short time Jack had identified the most important locations in the house. These included the warmest windowsill, the chair that gets the best afternoon sun, and the precise spot on the sofa that guarantees maximum human attention. It was clear that he had conducted a thorough survey of the property.

Naturally, he now considers these places to be officially his.

Morning in our house usually begins with Jack. Not because we have carefully trained him to wake us up, but because Jack believes breakfast should be served at a very specific time and he is extremely committed to maintaining that schedule.

His first method is staring.

If you have never been woken up by a cat staring at you from very close range, it is quite an experience. You slowly become aware that something is watching you, open your eyes slightly, and discover two very determined cat eyes looking directly into your soul.

If the staring does not work, Jack moves on to Phase Two: gentle paw taps.

These are not aggressive. They are polite, persistent reminders that someone has forgotten an important responsibility. Eventually someone wakes up properly and the day begins with the ceremonial opening of the cat food.

Jack supervises this process carefully.

Once breakfast has been served and eaten, Jack begins his daily inspection of the house. This involves walking through each room as though he is checking that everything is functioning correctly.

If someone is working on a laptop, Jack appears almost instantly. He has a special interest in keyboards and seems convinced that the best place for a cat to sit is directly on the keys you are trying to use.

If you move him, he returns.

If you move him again, he returns again.

This is clearly a battle of patience and Jack is very confident in his abilities.

Books are also one of Jack’s favourite targets. Whenever someone sits down to read, Jack approaches with great interest and carefully settles himself directly on the page. Not next to the book. Not nearby. Directly on the exact sentence you were reading.

He is extremely precise.

Craft activities attract him as well. As soon as paper, scissors, or glue appear on the table, Jack arrives to investigate. This is particularly exciting if there are small objects that can be pushed slowly towards the edge of the table.

Cats, as everyone knows, take great pride in gravity experiments.

The fascinating thing about Jack is that he behaves as though all of these activities are his responsibility. He is not simply wandering through the house. He is supervising. He observes everything with quiet concentration, occasionally offering assistance by sitting on the most important object in the room.

Of course, such important work requires regular rest breaks.

Jack takes his rest very seriously. During the day he can usually be found asleep in a variety of locations, each chosen for maximum comfort and warmth. The windowsill is a favourite when the sun appears, although the sofa is also an excellent option.

Freshly folded laundry is perhaps the ultimate prize.

There is something about a neat pile of warm clothes that attracts cats instantly. You can spend twenty minutes carefully folding everything, turn around for two seconds, and when you look back there will be a cat sitting proudly on top of the entire pile.

Jack does this with remarkable speed.

He also sleeps in positions that appear completely impossible. Sometimes he curls up into a tiny ball. Sometimes he stretches across the sofa like a furry ruler. Occasionally he ends up with one paw in the air and his head tilted backwards in a way that makes you wonder how it can possibly be comfortable.

But apparently it is.

One of the nicest things about having a cat like Jack is how naturally he becomes part of everyday life. At first a pet feels like a new addition to the house. Everything is unfamiliar and you spend time learning their habits and personality.

Then slowly, without really noticing, they become part of the routine.

Jack is there in the mornings while the house wakes up. He is there in the afternoon when things are busy. And in the evening, when everyone finally sits down, he usually appears to claim a comfortable spot nearby.

Sometimes he curls up next to someone on the sofa. Sometimes he sits slightly further away, observing the room like a thoughtful little supervisor.

Occasionally he decides that attention is required immediately and walks directly across whoever is sitting down. Cats are not particularly concerned about personal space.

Jack also has strong opinions about doors.

Closed doors are unacceptable. If a door is closed, Jack will sit beside it and look offended until someone opens it. Once the door is opened, he may or may not actually go through it. Sometimes he simply wanted the option available.

This seems to make perfect sense to him.

There are also the mysterious evening moments when Jack suddenly decides that running very fast around the house is an excellent idea. One minute everything is quiet, and the next minute there is a small blur of fur racing down the hallway as though he has remembered an extremely important appointment.

Cats, it seems, occasionally operate on invisible schedules.

Despite all of this chaos, Jack adds something special to the house. Pets have a way of doing that. They bring small moments of humour and comfort into ordinary days.

A cat sleeping in the sun, a quiet purr while you sit on the sofa, or the sudden appearance of a furry supervisor on your keyboard can completely change the mood of a day.

Jack may not help with the cooking, the cleaning, or the writing, but he is always nearby when these things happen.

And every household could probably benefit from a supervisor who occasionally falls asleep halfway through the

Board games were one of my great childhood joys… and one of my greatest terrors

2025-08-14T09:18:00.003+01:00

Board games were one of my great childhood joys—and one of my greatest terrors. I adored the click of dice, the scramble of pieces on the board, the thrill of a close finish. But every time my mum sat across from me, all of that joy came wrapped in dread. She didn’t cheat—but she played like losing wasn’t an option, and winning wasn’t complete without absolute mastery. They say you learn through losing, but her version of victory taught me just how painful—and isolating—that lesson could feel.

So, what’s it like to return to the world of board games as an adult? In many ways, it feels like stepping into familiar yet strangely new territory. The memories of childhood game nights, full of tension and high stakes, bubble back to the surface. But this time, I’m an adult—no longer the fearful child at the table, yet still, at times, haunted by the ghost of those old anxieties. My mother’s competitive spirit looms large. If I so much as mentioned I had a copy of Dungeons and Dragons, I’d be accused of trying to summon the devil—or perhaps just channeling an 80s-inspired look with bad haircuts and thick, obligatory NHS glasses.

Returning to board games as an adult can be a deeply emotional experience, often bringing a mixture of nostalgia, anxiety, and freedom. The excitement of revisiting old favorites clashes with a more grown-up understanding of the world—and what it means to truly enjoy a game, win or lose. If you were like me, the game’s outcome once felt like life or death; now, with some distance, it’s more about fun, strategy, and camaraderie. It’s a journey from competition to connection, from anxiety to enjoyment. But I can’t help but wonder: has the meaning of "winning" evolved, or is it still lurking under the surface?

Glue ear and fitting in.

2025-07-21T17:46:00.000+01:00

What do I love about being a mum or Mummy, mm tough one I could go a sugary sentimental journey but hat just not me. So what I love the most perhaps the up most is arguing with my son.

A puzzling choice , not a knee jerk reaction of a other? read on then you will see why I love with my son after all every good story has a truely heart felt conclusion doesn't it.

Well when J was born he was a normal baby until all the problems started happening, the constant eczema which is inherited. The sudden coughing fits and gastric problems. the fussy eating, the projectile vomiting.

As he grew then there was the sudden tiredness and falling asleep anywhere ( asthma ) the allergy to food colourings. The inability to live my side, his allergy to cats ( we had to get rid of our cat)s. yes J was one nervous child constant trips to the hospital seeing various medical professionals.

Then more problems came then there was the problem with him being slightly sugar slow and then the bouts of anemia.

Whilst I appreciate these problems aren't as severe as many problems experience with their child of children it is still heartbreaking as well..

Throughout out this I had noticed that J was not communicating , he had passed his baby hearing test hardly rocket science when he took it.

J was born in September 1998 and looking at an entry from his health book dated June 2000 that he has made little progress with his speech. The silly health visitor said his comprehension appeared good, well it wasn't I assure you. The toing and froing continued with the health visitors still ignoring me. This continued until around October 2001 when J still wasn't really speaking. Eventually after basically a sit in protest at the doctors we got a referral to the hospital where he was diagnosed with Glue ear. He had his operation to have grommets inserted after the usual long weight for an the operation.

Progress was slow but really came into its own on a holiday to Center Parcs in March 2002 when he was three and a half We were on our bikes and J was in a child seat behind me, a squirrel ran in front of me and J said " Bloody Squirrel" and j repeated this all day.

J had been learning sign language at nursery and and a least now there was a focus on his language skills , of course this had now developed. He was a slow learner at Infant School because of his previous problems, nervous and clingy. We had problems with parties etc he still wouldn't leave my side till he was nearly seven. I just plonked him into beavers one day and ran , same with football cruel but kind and as a result he developed.

So that's why I love arguing with him he has developed into a heartfelt young boy who knows his own mind and is making his own way in the world. He is an academic high fly er play rugby for our County , top sport mans for the schooll. Plays a musical instrument he is an all rounder. What more could I ask for than an argument about his sock draw...?

Divorce What Happens After

2025-07-21T10:35:00.003+01:00

Divorce, when it happens, is rarely confined to the two people signing the papers. It’s often described as a rupture within a household—but for children, especially teenagers, that rupture can extend far beyond the immediate family. The ripple effects are subtle, often invisible to outsiders, yet they can last for decades.

I was a teenager when my parents divorced. Like many at that age, I was old enough to grasp the emotional complexity, yet too young to influence any of the decisions that were being made around me. The assumption then—both mine and others’—was that the storm would pass, and relationships would eventually stabilise. In time, the adults would move on, and the family, though reshaped, would remain intact.

What I didn't expect was how the divorce would quietly redraw the boundaries of my extended family. Aunts and uncles, once warm and present, grew distant. Messages were left unanswered. Plans to meet were subtly discouraged or awkwardly ignored. What began as occasional silences turned into lasting absences. Over the years, it became clear that some relatives had quietly placed me in an emotional category I hadn’t signed up for.

It’s a difficult thing to name, this kind of exclusion. It’s not overt. It rarely comes with confrontation or explanation. Instead, it settles in the small spaces: the unreturned call, the empty chair at a gathering, the polite indifference when you reach out. There’s no open hostility—just a faint sense that your presence triggers something unspoken. Something unresolved.

I came to realise that for some family members, I had become a symbol of the past—an uncomfortable reminder of a conflict they never fully addressed. As if, by virtue of being connected to one parent or the other, I had somehow taken sides in a battle I didn’t choose. The irony is that, as a teenager, I was just trying to stay afloat. I had no stake in the politics of it all. I just wanted stability.

What hurts most is not the divorce itself, but the ongoing consequences—the way extended family can turn away, hold grudges by proxy, or retreat into silence. The sense of being cast out not for anything you did, but simply because you existed at the fault line of someone else’s fracture.

Divorce is, of course, complex. Adults have their own grief, and families carry histories that are often too tangled to easily resolve. But those histories shouldn’t be inherited by the children of divorce. Especially not years later, when those children are adults themselves, still hoping to build relationships that weren’t theirs to break.

What’s needed is a deeper awareness of how far the emotional fallout can travel—and for families to reflect on the quiet exclusions they may have justified over time. If someone reaches out after years of silence, it’s not to reopen wounds. It’s to reconnect. And it might just be time to let them.

How to Plan a Holiday (And Lose Your Mind Gracefully)

2025-07-12T21:58:00.000+01:00

How to Plan a Holiday (And Lose Your Mind Gracefully)

Ah, the holiday. That sacred ritual where you escape your daily existence, throw some clothes in a suitcase, and willingly pay hundreds (if not thousands) of dollars to sleep in a bed that's not quite as comfy as yours, eat slightly undercooked chicken in a foreign language, and pretend you're "relaxing" while Google Maps leads you directly into a lake.

Planning a holiday sounds simple in theory: pick a place, book a flight, pack a bag, and go. But if you've ever actually attempted this feat, you know it's less "Eat Pray Love" and more "Cry Stress Forget Passport." So, here's a completely unreliable but brutally honest guide to planning a holiday—with enough humour to keep you from canceling the whole trip and just building a fort under your desk instead.

Step 1: The Destination Dilemma

The first step in planning a holiday is choosing where to go, which is a lot like picking a Netflix movie: everyone has opinions, nobody agrees, and two hours later you're still scrolling and haven’t even packed a toothbrush.

You want somewhere warm. Your partner wants somewhere “culturally enriching,” which we all know is code for “has museums with no air-conditioning.” The kids want a pool and Wi-Fi so strong it can stream Minecraft videos from space.

Eventually, you compromise and settle on Italy. Or maybe Bali. Wait—didn’t Bali have those monkeys that steal sunglasses? Oh no. Back to square one.

After four hours and several arguments involving the phrase “this is why we never go anywhere,” you choose Portugalbecause it has beaches, history, AND pastries. Pastries are the universal language of peace.

Step 2: Booking Flights and Accepting Financial Ruin

Now comes booking the flights. This is when you discover that airline pricing is a game of Russian Roulette played by a caffeine-fueled algorithm. The same flight is £150 at 3 a.m., £600 at noon, and vanishes completely if you dare open a second tab.

You try to outsmart the system by using "incognito mode," clearing your cookies, and booking with a VPN from the middle of the Pacific Ocean. None of it works. You end up paying $489 per person for a flight with three layovers, one of which involves a three-hour donkey ride across the Albanian Alps.

But hey, you’re going on holiday!

Step 3: Accommodation Agony

Booking accommodation is deceptively easy until you realize every hotel with decent reviews is either fully booked or priced like you're buying a small island.

So you try Airbnb. You find a charming apartment with “authentic character,” which turns out to mean “one lightbulb and a shower that electrocutes you if you breathe wrong.”

You briefly consider camping. Then remember you're a human being and not a mosquito buffet.

Eventually, you find a “family-friendly boutique guesthouse,” which is either a lovely retreat or a scam operated by a goat named Marco. Only time will tell.

Step 4: Packing – AKA The Ultimate Mind Game

Packing should be straightforward. It is not.

You start with a sensible list: underwear, toothbrush, sunscreen. Then your brain spirals. What if it rains? You need a raincoat. What if there’s a sudden opera? Better pack formalwear. What if you’re invited on a spontaneous kayaking adventure followed by a black-tie dinner in the forest?

You now have 37 outfits, 4 pairs of shoes, and a snorkel.

Meanwhile, your partner packs one bag with rolled-up shirts and smugness, and your child packs a single plush unicorn and a broken phone charger.

You’ve also forgotten socks. Again.

Step 5: The Airport Experience

Ah, the airport: where time stops, logic dies, and you pay $11 for a bottle of water you’re not even sure you’re allowed to bring on the plane.

Security is where your suitcase gets flagged for “a suspicious banana-shaped object,” and you get intimately patted down while trying to explain your toothpaste tube is regulation size.

You finally board your flight and realize you’re seated between a man eating boiled eggs from a Ziploc bag and a toddler named Hugo who is very passionate about kicking your seat.

Welcome to relaxation.

Step 6: Arriving... Sort Of

You land, bleary-eyed and 14% human, and immediately get lost. The taxi driver speaks no English but offers you a mysterious bottle of green liquid. You accept, because hydration is important and you’re too tired to resist peer pressure.

Your hotel, miraculously, exists. The bed is two twin mattresses pretending to be one. The view is “partial sea,” which means if you lean out the window and use a periscope, you can just see a splash.

But you're here. You made it. Now what?

Step 7: The Activities (AKA We Will Have Fun, Dammit)

You try to relax. But then someone says, “Let’s not waste the day!” and next thing you know, you’re on a 7 a.m. guided walking tour with a man named Fabio who keeps using the phrase “now we climb.”

You learn more about 14th-century pottery than you ever wanted, while sweating through your passport and wondering if it’s socially acceptable to lie down in a fountain.

Eventually, you abandon culture and go full tourist: cocktails at noon, fried food, and enough souvenirs to open a small shop. You spend €18 on a handmade magnet shaped like a fish and declare it “worth every cent.”

Step 8: The Inevitable Meltdown

No holiday is complete without at least one dramatic meltdown. Maybe it’s over a delayed bus, maybe a sunburn the shape of a fanny pack, maybe someone left the hotel key in a cafe two hours away.

There’s yelling. There’s pouting. There’s a moment where someone threatens to live at the airport out of spite.

This is normal.

Have an ice cream and forgive each other.

Step 9: The Return Journey and Existential Crisis

The trip home is always a blur. You’re jet-lagged, broke, slightly bloated, and carrying sand in mysterious places.

You swear you need “a holiday to recover from your holiday.”

And as you collapse on your own bed, one thought runs through your head:

“Next time, let’s just go camping.”

(You won’t.)

Final Word of Advice

Planning a holiday isn’t about perfection. It’s about the laughs, the stories, the weird cheeses, and the fact you survived four airports, two sunburns, and at least one argument about how maps work.

So go forth. Book the flight. Pack the snorkel. Just… maybe leave the opera tux at home.

And don’t forget the socks this time.

Let me know if you'd like a version with specific destinations or characters added!

add France as a destination in the blog post

Absolutely! Here's the revised version of the blog post with France hilariously woven into the narrative as the chosen destination. The rest of the humor and chaos remains gloriously intact.

How to Plan a Holiday (And Lose Your Mind Gracefully)
Featuring croissants, Eiffel Towers, and possibly screaming in French.

Step 1: The Destination Dilemma – “Let’s Go to France!”

Eventually, someone dramatically slaps a travel magazine down on the table and yells: “FRANCE!”

And it begins to make sense. France has it all: romance, art, lavender fields, croissants the size of small mammals, and people who pretend they don’t understand you even when they do. You dream of sipping wine under the Eiffel Tower, strolling along the Seine, and maybe reenacting scenes from Emily in Paris, minus the budget and attractive wardrobe.

Done. France it is.

Step 2: Booking Flights and Accepting Financial Ruin

Now comes booking the flights. This is when you discover that airline pricing is a game of Russian Roulette played by a caffeine-fueled algorithm. The same flight is $150 at 3 a.m., $600 at noon, and vanishes completely if you dare open a second tab.

But hey, you’re going to France!

Step 3: Accommodation Agony – A Room With a View of the Bin

You now face the second boss battle: where to stay.

You start optimistically looking at quaint Parisian apartments. “Charming studio near the Champs-Élysées,” one says. Translation: 12 square feet of tile, one angry pigeon on the windowsill, and a shower that’s also the kitchen.

Hotel websites brag about their amenities like “a complimentary miniature soap,” “continental breakfast (featuring stale bread and a single orange),” and the ever-enticing “partial view of the Eiffel Tower,” which means if you hang out the window with a monocular, you can spot the tip behind an air-conditioning unit.

You settle for a guesthouse in Provence that promises “rustic elegance” and pray that it doesn’t involve livestock inside the bedroom.

Step 4: Packing – AKA The Ultimate Mind Game

Packing should be straightforward. It is not.

You start with a sensible list: underwear, toothbrush, sunscreen. Then your brain spirals. What if it rains in Paris? What if there's a sudden invitation to a French opera? What if you’re mistaken for a celebrity and asked to walk a red carpet at Cannes?

Now you’ve packed a trench coat, three scarves, heels you’ve never worn, and a bottle of shampoo that weighs more than a baguette.

Meanwhile, your partner packs one elegant bag with rolled shirts and smugness. Your child packs a plush unicorn, a Game Boy from 2002, and some crumbs.

You also forgot socks. Again. In France. Sacré bleu.

Step 5: The Airport Experience – Now Boarding: Despair

Ah, the airport: where time stops, logic dies, and you pay $11 for a bottle of water you’re not even sure you’re allowed to bring on the plane.

Security is where your suitcase gets flagged for “a suspicious tube of foot cream,” and you get intimately patted down while trying to explain your toothpaste is regulation size and definitely not explosive.

You finally board your flight and realize you’re seated between a man who brought a tuna sandwich from home and a toddler named Hugo who kicks your seat in Morse code.

Bienvenue à la détente.

Step 6: Arriving in France – The Dream Meets Reality

You land in France, disoriented but proud. You step out of the airport breathing in the unmistakable aroma of fresh bread... and possibly diesel fumes.

The taxi driver speaks only French. You attempt to say your hotel’s address and accidentally order four croissants and insult his cousin. He forgives you with a shrug and drives 140 km/h down the motorway while listening to Edith Piaf and yelling at cyclists.

You arrive at your hotel, which does exist, and is exactly as described online—if you squint and lower your standards.

But you’re in France. You’re HERE. The Eiffel Tower sparkles, the pastries melt in your mouth, and the pigeons are fashionable.

Step 7: The Activities – “Oui, We Must See Everything”

You try to relax. But someone says, “Let’s not waste the day!” and next thing you know, you’re on a sunrise tour of Versailles with a guide named Gérard who calls Marie Antoinette his “spiritual soulmate.”

You get lost in the Louvre, weep at the beauty of Monet’s water lilies, and climb 674 steps of Notre-Dame thinking “This better be worth the cardio.”

You attempt to order lunch in French, mix up the words for “chicken” and “sock,” and end up with a baguette and a confused waiter. You still tip 20%.

Later, you abandon all plans, sit at a café, order wine and cheese, and finally understand why the French just... linger.

Step 8: The Inevitable Meltdown – “I Don’t Care About Castles Anymore!”

It’s bound to happen. Maybe it's a wrong train. Maybe it’s the 42nd crepe you can’t afford. Maybe it’s someone loudly arguing that they “didn’t come all the way to Europe to look at ANOTHER CHURCH.”

There's yelling, foot-stomping, and dramatic sighing. Possibly by you. Maybe even in French.

It’s okay. Have an éclair. Forgive everyone.

Step 9: The Return Journey and Existential Crisis

The trip home is a blur. You’re jet-lagged, broke, and carrying enough cheese to alarm a sniffer dog.

You reflect on the magic of France: the art, the food, the elegant disdain, the nap you took under a sycamore tree in a vineyard while mildly drunk on rosé.

As you collapse on your own bed, one thought runs through your head:

“Next time, we’ll do Italy.”

Final Word of Advice

Planning a holiday isn’t about perfection. It’s about the laughs, the language fumbles, the four-hour lunch breaks, and the fact you survived French plumbing and multiple baguette-related incidents.

So go forth. Book the flight. Pack the trench coat. Try to pronounce "Roussillon."

And don’t forget the socks this time.

10 Films to Watch in a Heatwave (Before You Explode Like a Bag of Hot Mice) – NinjaKiller Cat Blog

2025-07-11T20:12:00.003+01:00

🧊💥10 Films to Watch in a Heatwave (Before You Explode Like a Bag of Hot Mice) – NinjaKiller Cat Blog

Greetings, heat-stricken bipeds and fellow fur-covered beings.

It's me. NinjaKiller. Your local indoor shadow. Slayer of houseplants. Scourge of 4am shoelaces. And currently? A melting pile of feline fury because it's approximately 4,000 degrees outside and Sharon refuses to turn the AC below “mild discomfort.” WHY ARE YOU LIKE THIS, SHARON?

Anyway.

If you’re stuck in a skin prison during this fireball masquerading as July, here’s a list of 10 chill-fueled films that might convince your brain you’re not actually roasting on Satan’s barbecue.

So pour yourself some iced tuna water (or… iced coffee, I guess) and let’s get cold. ❄️

1. The Thing (1982)

Location: Antarctica aka the opposite of Hell

Men in parkas, blizzards, paranoia, and a shape-shifting horror creature? Yes. YES. This film is colder than your ex’s apology text. The visuals alone will make your fur stand on end. And when the storm rolls in, you’ll feel that chill deep in your whiskers.
Bonus: You’ll be too terrified to notice how sweaty you are.

2. Fargo (1996)

Location: Snow. Just… snow.

Oh, ya betcha! This movie's so frozen even my tail tucked itself in for warmth. You’ve got chipper cops, bumbling crooks, and a wood chipper that probably runs better than your AC unit. The snow never stops. The accents? Cooler than a glacier in sunglasses.
Pro tip: Pretend you're in the passenger seat during those icy road scenes. Shivers.

3. March of the Penguins (2005)

Location: Penguin Boot Camp in Antarctica

Morgan Freeman narrates while fluffy tuxedo birds waddle across endless sheets of ice. I mean, come on. This film is pure cold serenity. It’s like watching snow ASMR with heart.
Side effect: You may want to become a penguin. I already tried. Got stuck in the fridge.

4. The Revenant (2015)

Location: Freezer section of the American frontier

Leo DiCaprio gets slapped around by a bear, sleeps inside a horse, and crawls through the most snow I’ve seen outside a Yeti’s vacation slideshow. This film is raw, rugged, and frigid AF.
Warning: Might make you want to go outside. Don’t. You’ll combust.

5. Frozen (2013)

Location: Ice castle realness, population: 1 emotionally repressed queen

Look, you’ve heard the song. You’ve had the glittery merchandise thrown at your head. But Frozen is genuinely one of the iciest movies out there. Snow. Magic. More snow. An actual blizzard of feelings. And Olaf, the sentient slushie.
Let it go? Nah, let the AC blast while Elsa cools your soul.

6. Everest (2015)

Location: Mount OH NOPE

Humans climb a death mountain. Spoiler: it’s cold. Really cold. I got chills watching this, and not just because I spilled ice cubes in my fur. The wind alone in this movie sounds like it wants to murder you.
Human lesson: Stay on the couch. Nature hates you.

7. The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (2005)

Location: Closet → Snow dimension

A land cursed with eternal winter? Yes, PLEASE. Bring me the talking lion and frosty forests. I’d like to live in that wardrobe full-time, thanks. Snowball fights, icy rivers, and a White Witch who is basically Winter in a fur coat.
Bonus points: Mr. Tumnus has strong cozy-vibes. I respect that.

8. Snowpiercer (2013)

Location: Giant ice train. That’s it. That’s the plot.

Earth is frozen, the last of humanity lives on a speeding train, and it’s all a metaphor for class struggle and climate doom. But the OUTSIDE? Literal freeze-pocalypse. It’s cold, it’s bleak, and it’ll make your sweaty apartment feel like a luxury igloo.
Cool factor: Chris Evans with a frostbitten beard.

9. Happy Feet (2006)

Location: Antarctic dance floor

If you liked the penguins but wanted more jazz hands, THIS is your film. Tap-dancing flippers, snowy cliffs, and ocean breezes so crisp you’ll want to lick the screen (don’t). The only fire here is in Mumble’s moves.
Vibe check: Joyful hypothermia.

10. Doctor Zhivago (1965)

Location: Sad Russia, but beautiful

This one's a classic. Long, snowy, tragic. Ice-covered windows, snow-capped love triangles, and more cold trains than a Siberian subway. It’s a slow burn… but the scenery is ICE.
Use case: Watch when you want to feel emotional and frostbitten.

Bonus Round: How to Maximize Your Movie Chill 🍦

Sit in front of a fan. Pretend it’s Arctic wind.
Eat frozen peas straight from the bag like a beast.
Drape yourself in a damp towel. Like a sad seal.
Whisper "I'm in Narnia" every 5 minutes. It helps.

Final Meow 🐾

Look, it’s hotter than dragon breath out there, and you deserve a break—from sweat, from sun, and from Sharon’s refusal to buy blackout curtains. These movies? They’re cinematic snowballs. Mind-ice. Frozen emotional popsicles.

So turn down the lights, crank that fan until it sounds like a spaceship, and let these flicks drop your internal temp by at least 2°C. Or at least enough to stop sticking to your own furniture.

Stay frosty, weirdos.

— NinjaKiller out. 🐾💀❄️

When Did you Read That Last Bedtime Story ?

2025-06-30T09:38:00.000+01:00

When did you last read that last bedtime story ?

When you read that bedtime story to your child ?was it the last one ever? , when did the last bedtime story become the forever thing in the past ? I can't remember the last bedtime story so there is a twang of sadness in my life . I have just read Tattooed Mummy's Randoms on her daughter nearly turning 16 , out children at a similar age though my son is already 16. And you see 16 is that cusp of remembering what you were doing at 16 .... 16 seems now to be that twilight time. I don't have a party popping 16 year old , I have a just got first job sensible 16 year old , putting them selves forward in a job that puts them out of their comfort zone.

SO why do I feel so bereft I was the one that plonked them at Beavers when they were sobbing with their arms clung round my legs with my husband saying he wasn't ready, I was the one who signed them up to try ballet ( despite husband mutterings ) I was the one who signed them up for horse riding lessons. I was the one that booked Cairo and trekked my child in the Egyptian desert , I was the one that booked Dubai and let my child go down the worlds highest water slide. It wasn't pushy parent syndrome.

And when asked "Is this a GCSE text " I nonchalantly said " OOOH no" and handed over a big pile of books while running away. I was the one that said

"WE don't have that as a screen saver"

I am strict and yet I am fair Game of Thrones hasn't been watched by the teen here but he knows what has gone off through discussion on youtube ( his youtube is restricted ) I am the one that checks the occasional attitude ( do some husbands have a filter ? probably laughs like Eddie Murphy)

There was utter panic when I couldn't contact him in the next rural village , it is a mum thing , husbands I think are more chilled out ... SO 5 phone calls later and furious typing on my husbands mobile , we actually went a fetched him from the village mobile blackout spot . I don't think it is the most helpful reply from a certain mobile phone company that suggests if my teen moves 4,000 metres outside the village they will get a better signal. Not the best in a rural location in the dark ....

But I need to see them as an adult in the house and not a Gremlin ... mmmm maybe not yet

As I type this they are still asleep yesterday they worked hard in a pub serving food....

"What will you do with your money ?"

Big shrug of shoulders ...

So when did I read the last bedtime story OOOOH when did I ?

I Am A Cave Woman In A Digital Age

2025-06-27T14:53:00.000+01:00

Ah, yes, the art of writing is totally dead. Everyone’s hopping on the podcast bandwagon now, right? "Listen to me talk about whatever while you fold laundry!" They say podcasts have power. They wrap you up in their warm, velvety tones and carry you off to a magical land where your brain doesn’t have to work too hard. I get it. They’re like an audio blanket that you can just snuggle into. But let’s be real: writing’s not dead, it’s just… a little more complicated now.

There’s something about the written word that still holds that old-school mystique. It’s deliberate. It has weight. (And let’s not forget, writers really work for it—there’s a reason we’ve got "writer’s block," which is basically just the literary equivalent of being stuck in quicksand. Slow, agonizing, and usually followed by a snack binge). I mean, every time I sit down to write, I feel like I’m trying to uncover some long-lost treasure, like Indiana Jones, but with a keyboard and no cool hat. Blogging used to feel like that! Every post was a tiny spark of genius. Now? It’s like blogs are those VHS tapes gathering dust in the back of a closet. Outdated. Replaced by influencers and viral dances. I used to carve out my little niche on the web, but now I just watch from the sidelines as everyone’s streaming, snapping, and scrolling their way into oblivion.

And don’t get me started on the doom-scrolling—the endless cycle of digital noise. Sometimes I catch myself thinking I need to keep up, but then I’m like, “Wait. What am I keeping up with? Someone's 8th avocado toast photo?” It’s a vicious cycle, but there’s something oddly therapeutic about writing. No tweets, no likes, no notifications… just me and my notebook, chilling like we’re back in the 90s. And then—bam—I get hit by the modern world.

Take Monday, for example. I’m at M&S, trying to buy some stuff. Standard. I pull out my card, ready to magically make a payment. I’m like a wizard trying to cast a spell—"Abra-cash-dabra!" And... nothing. Nada. Maybe I punched in the PIN wrong? Try again. Still no dice. So, I think, "Okay, fine. I’ll just waltz to the bank and get a new PIN. Easy fix!" But no. It’s like the universe decided it was time for me to learn the true meaning of technology failure. I get to the bank, input my details, and—surprise! Same error message. It’s like I’ve stumbled into a weird digital Bermuda Triangle where nothing works.

Then, to top it off, the cashier scans my card, and I get this delightful little message: “Card needs unlocking.” Oh, great. I felt like I was stuck in a glitchy customer service nightmare, where you just keep pressing 1 for "I don’t know what’s going on either."

In the age of “digital convenience,” I find myself in an endless loop of frustration. I don’t even have a banking app on my phone. Too many hackers, too many shady transactions. I mean, just the other day I was seriously considering starting a “cash under the mattress” fund. I had more luck with that than my card! At this point, it’s like a simple trip to the store requires a PhD in digital wizardry. I long for the good old days when the hardest thing to do was remember your PIN—not spend hours trying to unlock some mystical, encrypted card that feels like it's holding my shopping hostage.

It’s hilarious, really. I just want to buy a sandwich, and suddenly I’m trapped in an episode of The Twilight Zone where everything’s designed to make you feel technologically incompetent. All I wanted was a loaf of bread, but apparently, I need a manual on how to swipe my credit card. It’s the simple things, right?

Our engines are on fire .. Will you please exit the plane......

2025-06-20T10:24:00.000+01:00

Now when I travel let's me honest I am usually plagued with some trouble of other believe me if there is a travel disaster to behold I am there. One holiday woe was my honeymoon you know the one where you are whisked off into the sunset on a romantic jaunt not leaving your hotel room. Well mine started in disaster there we all were sitting on the plane ready for takeoff to Toronto Canada . The trolley dollies had already done their safety talk exits are here , here and HERE. You listen with half an ear because you know nothing is ever going to go wrong on your flight. You are just busy looking through the duty free magazine looking at the stuff you can't afford. or you are jostling for space with the passenger next to you

We heard a click, clunk and rattle and a half hearted roar and the Captain announces over the the air" The smell of oil will dissipate in a minute, We will try the engines again"

So the Captain turned the key again to start to plane and rev up his engines more clunking , rattling and what's that I see black smoke wafting across the window. Now at this point I wasn't worried I just hate plane takeoff they scare the pants off me , once I am in the air I am fine.. sort of.

The Captain voice comes over the air " The Control tower has informed us our engines are on fire, please Do not panic and exit the plane in a calm fashion...." And so started my honeymoon with the engines on fire and all the plane passengers were calm to be fair. We followed the lights that come on in emergencies and went to the appropriate exits. The doors were opened and We were met with all the emergency services under the sun. So I calmly slid down the inflatable emergency shoot to be whisked off to the safety on an airport lounge.

We waited hours in the lounge will they figured out what to do with us they fed us sandwiches and drinks etc. We were then ferried off to the Metropole in Brighton for the night whilst they organised another place it was my honeymoon night. We were all standing in the line and some Canadian lady pipes up " Surely all the English people can go home as they live near"

Well I just flipped my new husband gave me that look men give you when they don't want a scene . I gave the Canadian a polite piece of my mine and a quick Geography lesson of the Uk. She backed down though now strangely her left eye was twitching .

We finally got to the checking desk and just said" it's my honeymoon night I WANT A NICE ROOM please" What we ended up was David Blunkets room he had just checked out he had been staying there as it had been the Political Party Conference.

So of course we finally got to Canada and all was well. So When we went to Egypt this happened.......

The Joy Of Magic tricks From Mavins Magic Range and Giveaway

2024-11-21T14:54:00.002+00:00

The joy of a moment can stay with you for a lifetime and a photo of that precious moment brings those happy moments flooding back you , innocent times , times before the responsobility of being an adult and having to pay bills. I remember my 8th birthday party very well , I loved my party and I love my presents. One of those presents I remember getting was a magic set and at the time on Tv magic was everywhere . One of the magic tricks I remember was a magic trick with coins it was my pride and joy and filled my days with warmth and wonder.

So you or perhaps your child etc can feel the same joy as I did as a child Wicked Uncle have kindly given a coin trick to me to give as a prize.

This smart set Dynamic coins from the renowned Marvin's Magic range is a precision-made brass trick that looks incredible and is very entertaining. You have to check out the video on the product page!

Perform a sequence of convincing, clever tricks as you make coins appear, disappear and even transform into other coins. With fully illustrated instructions, this handy set can be taken anywhere, ready to baffle and amuse friends and family.

Intriguing tricks with coins that appear, disappear & even shrink!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Win a Drone From Wicked Uncle

2024-11-19T18:34:00.001+00:00

With Christmas coming up how do you fancy one more present under the tree that you don't even have to but though you can if you don't win the competition that will be on offer at the end of this post.Up for grabs is the Force Drone that can safely be used indoors and it is perfect to keep your child amused and will be brilliant fun on their own or with brothers and sister family and friends. And all for the reasonable price of £34.99

Easy to use, lightweight flying drone with infrared sensors that recognise your hand movement.

For indoor use and simple to control, this brilliant 11cm drone features cool infrared technology. The smart sensors detect the surroundings and react to your movements, flying itself. Control with your hands and watch in wonder as it automatically avoids obstacles and performs flips and stunts! Impact resistant with a flexible shock-absorbing outer cage, USB rechargeable for a 5 minute flight time. Simply toss in the air to fly, wow!

For the chance to win this amazing drone just answer the simple question

What Christmas Present have you always wanted ?

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Wicked Uncle Review Of Fighter Henry water Sprayer and giveaway

2024-11-07T09:49:00.010+00:00

The Fire Fighter Henry is a wearable water sprayer very reasonably price at £19.95. It has two adjustable arm straps so it can be worn by your child like a back pack with the water container going on their back and a tube coming from this to the sprayer which they will hold in their hands out in front of them. The sprayer is very similar to when a fire fighter uses a hose and it even has two spray options, single and multiple. The sprayer is very easy to use and has a pump action for added fun.

Not only is this a great product for the garden or park play but during the winter months it’s also great for role play.

A brilliant product that will bring joy to your child and fuel their development ,imagination and creativity.

Fires and fire fighters are always fascinating and this water sprayer is just brilliant.

This fantastic 32cm wide water sprayer has two fully adjustable straps for a perfect fit and is fabulously light for a child to comfortably wear on their back. Perfect for water fights and imaginative play, have fun putting out pretend fires by squirting water, with an easy pump action and both single and multi spraying functions. This mega water sprayer is every tiny hero's dream - brilliant!

If you’ve a mud kitchen this would be a great help to squirt water for those mud pies !

Wicked Uncle is the perfect place to shop on line SO no queues in overcrowded shops! Everything is so well laid out and you pick your age etc and away you go .

Now you can win this water sprayer !

Perfect for slipping under the Christmas tree !

SO the question is What was your favourite Toy to find under the Christmas tree as as child ?

a Rafflecopter giveaway

1. The promoter is Wicked Uncle

2. Employees of Wicked Uncle Ninjakillercat blog or their family members or anyone else connected in any way with the competition or helping to set up the competition shall not be permitted to enter the competition.

3. There is no entry fee and no purchase necessary to enter this competition.

4. Route to entry for the competition and details of how to enter are via Ninjakillercat blog

5. Closing date for entry will be 20th November After this date the no further entries to the competition will be permitted.

6. No responsibility can be accepted for entries not received for whatever reason.

7. The promoter reserves the right to cancel or amend the competition and these terms and conditions without notice in the event of a catastrophe, war, civil or military disturbance, act of God or any actual or anticipated breach of any applicable law or regulation or any other event outside of the promoter’s control. Any changes to the competition will be notified to entrants as soon as possible by the promoter.

8. The promoter is not responsible for inaccurate prize details supplied to any entrant by any third party connected with this competition.

9. No cash alternative to the prizes will be offered. The prizes are not transferable. Prizes are subject to availability and we reserve the right to substitute any prize with another of equivalent value without giving notice.

10. Winners will be chosen by the use of Rafflecopter

11. The winner will be notified by email within 2 days of the closing date. If the winner cannot be contacted or do not claim the prize within 14 days of notification, we reserve the right to withdraw the prize from the winner and pick a replacement winner.

12. The promoter will notify the winner when the prize will be sent.

13. The promoter’s decision in respect of all matters to do with the competition will be final and no correspondence will be entered into.

14. By entering this competition, an entrant is indicating his/her agreement to be bound by these terms and conditions.

15. The competition and these terms and conditions will be governed by [English] law and any disputes will be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of [England].

16. The winner agrees to the use of his/her name and image in any publicity material. Any personal data relating to the winner or any other entrants will be used solely in accordance with current [UK] data protection legislation and will not be disclosed to a third party.

17. Entry into the competition will be deemed as acceptance of these terms and conditions.

18. This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Facebook, Twitter or any other Social Network. You are providing your information to NInjakillercat Pro who will directly send you the prize and not to any other party. All your personal information will be deleted after you are sent the prize.

19. Uk only.

20. You must be 18 or over to enter this competition

Ghosts in the Garden York a free event

2024-09-27T19:05:00.002+01:00

What is free nowadays , what can play the soul like a violin and the sensory delights play a concert upon the heart well that would be the delights of York . York is a an ever popular destination and I know it so well as my son went to university there.York is a pure delight and it doesn't have to cost you any money asides from perhaps getting there and what ever food you want , you make the choices and just run with it. DO you like the sounds of that well jump aboard the bus of enlightened souls and lets go have some fun !

I went to York last Sunday instead of a local scarecrow festival as the weather was so bad in Derby we decided to go North and get ahead of the weather and it paid off as we had a fabulous time. Are you sitting comfortably then I shall begin but take heart it involvers ghosts! Are you feeling brave ? Are you really sure ? Once we begin then there is no turning back !

May I present to you "Ghosts in the Gardens " which is on from the September 21st till the 5th November 2024

It is stunning and I have never been so enchanted as I was last Sunday and we didn't get to see all the ghosts meaning we have to go back ! Yay as I think I left my heart there . I tis fun , it is free and a brilliant excuse to walk round historic York. I ended up seeing parts of York I had never seen before and I have been there many times !

Polar Panic Game Review And Giveaway

2024-09-11T10:39:00.009+01:00

Thanks to Wicked Uncle I have a new game to review and there is a giveaway at the end of this blog post.

This game Polar Panic is a speedy one for two to six players and it is all about finding pairs of funny fish. You take it in turns to flip over the cards to reveal surprisingly similar sealife. When you spot a matching par, slap the cards to claim them for your haul! Keep an eye out for helpful fisherman as well as the sneaky polar wildcard- if he pops up, then it's game over.

The game is a little reminiscent of snap and that I think is what makes it so much fun and also it is a portable games making it great to take to friends and on holidays trips on the train etc.The sturdy storage tin makes this a great option for play on-the-go. Fast, fun and totally cool - brrrrilliant! and is priced at a very reasonable £7.95 from Wicked Uncle

I played this game with some younger members of my family and we had such fun , I can not highly recommend this game enough,

a Rafflecopter giveaway

1. The promoter is Wicked Uncle

3. There is no entry fee and no purchase necessary to enter this competition.

4. Route to entry for the competition and details of how to enter are via Ninjakillercat blog

5. Closing date for entry will be (th October 2024 After this date the no further entries to the competition will be permitted.

6. No responsibility can be accepted for entries not received for whatever reason.

8. The promoter is not responsible for inaccurate prize details supplied to any entrant by any third party connected with this competition.

10. Winners will be chosen by the use of Rafflecopter

12. The promoter will notify the winner when the prize will be sent.

13. The promoter’s decision in respect of all matters to do with the competition will be final and no correspondence will be entered into.

14. By entering this competition, an entrant is indicating his/her agreement to be bound by these terms and conditions.

15. The competition and these terms and conditions will be governed by [English] law and any disputes will be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of [England].

17. Entry into the competition will be deemed as acceptance of these terms and conditions.

20. You must be 18 or over to enter this competition

Life, Ninja Killer Cat and Everything Else ...

Wandini - Colour Changing LED Show The Review

Red Squirrels on the Isle of Wight: The Best Place in England to See Native Red Squirrels

Red Squirrels on the Isle of Wight: The Best Place in England to See Native Red Squirrels

Why Are Red Squirrels Still Found on the Isle of Wight?

Where to See Red Squirrels on the Isle of Wight

Parkhurst Forest

Borthwood Copse

Firestone Copse

Alverstone Mead Nature Reserve

What Do Red Squirrels Eat?

How Red Squirrels Help Woodland Ecosystems

Red Squirrel Conservation on the Isle of Wight

Why Red Squirrels Are Important to the Isle of Wight

Threats Facing Red Squirrels

The Future of Red Squirrels on the Isle of Wight

Doodlecat Harness Review

🐾 Doodlecat Harness Review: A Practical Choice for Everyday Adventures

Design & Appearance

Fit & Comfort

Security & Control

Real-World Use

Drawbacks

Final Thoughts

Adopting A Rescue Cat What To Consider

Are Collars Necessary For Cats ?

Are Collars Necessary for Cats? (The NinjaKillerCat Guide 🐾)

🐱 Why Collars Can Be a Good Idea

🐾 When Collars Might Not Be Necessary

⚠️ Safety Rules Every Cat Owner Should Follow

🐈 Final Verdict

Meet Arwen The Rescue Cat

Plodding On In Life To Escape The Doomscrolling

Hello World, Again (Apparently We’re Doing This the Old-Fashioned Way)

When Tuesday Feels Like A Monday

Always One Glove Away From a Duel

Jack The Cat The Boss Of The House

Board games were one of my great childhood joys… and one of my greatest terrors

Glue ear and fitting in.

Divorce What Happens After

How to Plan a Holiday (And Lose Your Mind Gracefully)

Step 1: The Destination Dilemma

Step 2: Booking Flights and Accepting Financial Ruin

Step 3: Accommodation Agony

Step 4: Packing – AKA The Ultimate Mind Game

Step 5: The Airport Experience

Step 6: Arriving... Sort Of

Step 7: The Activities (AKA We Will Have Fun, Dammit)

Step 8: The Inevitable Meltdown

Step 9: The Return Journey and Existential Crisis

You said:

ChatGPT said:

Step 1: The Destination Dilemma – “Let’s Go to France!”

Step 2: Booking Flights and Accepting Financial Ruin

Step 3: Accommodation Agony – A Room With a View of the Bin

Step 4: Packing – AKA The Ultimate Mind Game

Step 5: The Airport Experience – Now Boarding: Despair

Step 6: Arriving in France – The Dream Meets Reality

Step 7: The Activities – “Oui, We Must See Everything”

Step 8: The Inevitable Meltdown – “I Don’t Care About Castles Anymore!”

Step 9: The Return Journey and Existential Crisis

Final Word of Advice

10 Films to Watch in a Heatwave (Before You Explode Like a Bag of Hot Mice) – NinjaKiller Cat Blog

🧊💥10 Films to Watch in a Heatwave (Before You Explode Like a Bag of Hot Mice) – NinjaKiller Cat Blog

1. The Thing (1982)

2. Fargo (1996)

3. March of the Penguins (2005)

4. The Revenant (2015)

5. Frozen (2013)

6. Everest (2015)

7. The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (2005)

8. Snowpiercer (2013)

9. Happy Feet (2006)

10. Doctor Zhivago (1965)

Bonus Round: How to Maximize Your Movie Chill 🍦

Final Meow 🐾

When Did you Read That Last Bedtime Story ?

I Am A Cave Woman In A Digital Age

Our engines are on fire .. Will you please exit the plane......

The Joy Of Magic tricks From Mavins Magic Range and Giveaway