CocoandCurls

Come along to the sibling creator's of I AM VIOLET launch celebration.

2023-04-06T19:03:00.002-07:00

6 Things I Won't Change in 2018

2017-12-31T17:09:00.002-08:00

Here's 6 things I won't change in the new year for sure. Welcoming 2018 with no pressure being myself. Some things will not be compromised for money, love or tears.

1. Watching TV programmes like House Wives Of Atlanta and Star

My love for some trash TV - I'm addicted to the entertaining ways of learning what not to do in life

2. Being philanthropic

Helping others in need in what ever way I can; working for non -profit organisations, giving clothes to charity shops and just continue to remember others who need assistance.

3. Make sure that I make my ideas come to life

I will spend time planning, researching, actioning and reviewing. I will not stop trying to forfill my pipe dreams

4. I will not give up chocolate

I will keep eating chocolate cake, chocolate bars, chocolate eggs...you get the idea

5. Being a daredevil

I will continue to push myself to try something new, amazing and adventurous

6.Travelling to new places

I will use opportunities to discover different parts of the world, visit friends and enjoy travelling

THIS WEEK: 2x BLOGS + 2x WEBSITES = BUSY

2017-03-08T16:46:00.004-08:00

Yes call me a fantastic fruit cake for managing family life, supporting strangers in strife and balancing the rest of my life with, shooting a video, self-marketing and working on blogs and websites.

WHAT DO I DO? I sometimes ask myself for clarity, so if somebody asked what do you do? I'll remember the concise answer and not spiral into a nonsensical jack of all trades in the doing a bit of this and that answer.

Most importantly I am enjoying most of it as I have time to day dream and make my dreams come true. At the moment I am able to spend time staying connected with people I love.

This weeks daydreaming involved updating my rooms on a small budget and visualising my rooms being decorated on a larger budget in the FFFFUUUTTTUUURRREE.

So here's what the small budget looks like:

https://desenio.co.uk, £6 - £10 prints

Get the look on a big budget

THIS WEEK: Rude Food & Fire Was Lit

2017-02-12T16:47:00.001-08:00

Hey Gems,

This week was about lifting my spirits with some rude food. So, I baked a few
Mug Cakes for the first time. Now the person who gave me the Mug Cake
ingredient book has given me the challenge of my LIFE.

Once I realised that the ingredients were simple and took under 3 mins to bake
in a mug...in a microwave - I knew that I was in trouble. Anyway, getting cosy
with a cake in a mug in front of the fireplace was dreamy and worth the
extra calories...I hope.

Find the full detail including ingredients here or on the In My Kitchen page
if you're up for the challenge too.

This Week: Browsed 7 great websites

2017-01-13T13:26:00.000-08:00

It's so easy to get hooked onto the internet as if it was our only means of
knowing stuff. I am so guilty of doing just that.

I flick through many websites for a number of reasons; to learn how to
make my own websites better, to buy things I need and crave for, entertain
myself and to be simply nosey.

1. http://www.poundland.co.uk
Fitness range for a £1 is pretty impressive so I've bookmarked this as a favourite. I plan on returning to this website for the cheaper
deals at 50p!

2. http://www.mysuitcase.org
A website that replenishes new deals, discount vouchers for flights, hotels and more.

3. http://www.picresize.com
Great for quickly resizing any pics

4. www.missguided.co.uk
I purchased a few bits like reasonably priced jumper dresses on this site

5 . Mr World Premier
Catch up with your TV shows. Being Mary Jane was a good watch.

6. Sky Scanner
My search for flight and holiday deals are not complete without this website,
I love the January sales here.

7. Facebook
I would be lying if I had left this website off this list.

This Week: Christmas Shopping Finale

2016-12-22T16:50:00.001-08:00

I can't go on anymore with days of shopping. This is a cry out for HELP!...LOL

Everyday there are more bits to buy, it seems like it's never going to

end! Tomorrow, I'll collect my vegetables and some fruit - oh yes not forgetting

my Jamaican fruit cake, then that will be it! So no more ~~snack~~ grocery shopping!

Christmas is coming and I'll just wait.

This Week: Christmas Shopping day #1

2016-12-10T10:04:00.001-08:00

Day 1 shopping for Christmas has kicked off. 🛍 I only have to stroll a couple of

minutes from my house to find the must-have decorations, clothes and gifts

for this season. The focus is so much on whatever you want rather than need,

so I must be careful not to immerse myself in the junk shopping, well at

least that's the plan anyway.

So in order to be good whilst shopping I have not participated in any group shopping

like it's a sport activity or shopping with anyone with compulsive shopping disorders.

I have stayed away from those elves in retail, who try to get you to try perfumes

or clothes. Thanks but no thank you... I have this shopping strategy in the bag! 🛒

This Week - Networking with designer labels

2016-12-01T16:42:00.000-08:00

Networking with designer labels...?

Helloooo my Coco Lovelies. This week I was invited to a networking event

at the House of Fraser City, a popular department store in London.

Where Will Excell and LMA hooked me up with free makeovers and 10% - 30%

discounts on all items in the store.

There was a DJ in the house (literally) and if that was not enough to wow me,

they gave me a fantastic massive House of Fraser goody bag stuffed with all

kinds of top notch beauty products including Urban Decay, Lancome, Laura

Mercier, Benefit and my now favourite parfume Flower Bomb by Viktor Rolf .

The best bunch of freebies that I have had in a while.

It didn't end there, there were waiters topping up my glass with cocktails and

Presseco; and we know that alchohol + department store = splurge 😧.

So as much as I wanted to hang around 'til 9pm for their Mulberry bag prize draw

that I traded my business card in for - I had to leave before I became a retail therapy

patient. Here are a few snip bits from the evening.

I ended up networking with designer labels rather than people...

...Nevertheless, it was worth leaving my warm home to attend in the frosty weather.

THIS WEEK: MY SUMMER DIET

2016-08-14T09:10:00.001-07:00

Hey, I have decided to publish details about my successful diet so far.
I have devised a meal plan based on a realistic diet for me which covers my
health and emotional needs. I hope sharing my daily feasts and nibbles will
help someone with their journey to a healthy or healthier ever after too.
Side note: I eat home grown salad and buy organic foods whenever possible.

THIS WEEK: ALL ABOUT THE ART

2016-06-11T08:37:00.000-07:00

So it's raining right now and I was going to play some tennis but now it seems
like painting will be appropriate - what they call wet play in school and wet
play it is.

Also, there is eclectic art home made by my brother "Artist"

Ideas and styles that are different influences from growing up in the suburbs
of South London and travels around Europe.

Now selling encased in a beautiful frame (black or white) 27cm x 42cm. Inquire: info@mysuitcase.org

This Week: My Paycation Journey, Scam or thank you mam??

2016-04-25T14:25:00.000-07:00

My Paycation Journey...

My journey so far; started off being interested in what my friend was doing as a Paycation on-line travel consultant.
I checked out the opportunity myself
(with my trained legal eye).

I've always had an entrepreneur mind set but didn't want to jump in to

investing £60k for a business like a franchise. I saw that this business
matched my idea of a low investment for a share of the license and obtaining
credentials. The X factor for me was getting paid the equivalent of a day job
by simply booking travel with a click of a button on my laptop.

My brother asked me "why would people need your service?" I immediately

explained that there are many people who do not have the time to plan,

shop around for best deals and book travel - I will provide the personal and

convenience service. Indeed, customers including friends and relatives were
waiting for my service. I fired up and was in the pursuit of joyful work.

£99 CAREER vs £99 3 COURSE MEAL

I liked the value in a business so I paid the £99 to kick start my career/

new business which was the equivalent of a 3 course meal. I was immediately
provided with excellent marketing tools, products galore, a professional website,
(human) support and training to provide a professional service to my customers.

I read the technical booklet on what to expect and do as a travel agent

and even passed the CTA test in no time, through Paycation's partnership
with CLIA. I was able to apply to be in the cruise industry - now I'm an approved
CLIA member and able to book big earners from group cruise trips and have
enjoyed booking many great escapes for friends, family and others.
Since then other opportunities have come my way.

Getting Paid To Travel

Booking my own travel was something I did anyway but I wanted my travel agent
perks including earned bonuses and commission to pay for my travels and why not?
So I tried out the perks only for TAs!

I phoned my chosen hotel and gave them my credentials.They were
sweet and happy to accommodate myself and son on a generous travel
agent rate...wow my first experience felt great and my holiday seemed even
more fabulous.

Now people see my business/lifestyle and have joined.

More income for me as I get paid a bonus for each person signing up

whilst helping to grow Paycation globally; smiles all round for customers
and myself. I even received a cool gift from a customer who bought it
whilst on her 5* cheap Greek holiday. I hit the ground running within months of

joining, I have a FB fan page 'mysuitcase.paycation' to be more visible, a

website www.mysuitcase.paycation.com, blog and business cards.

I've learnt so much in a short space of time, learning the art of leadership,
marketing, communicating, managing my business and even my young
teen son has learnt some business skills!

Check out this lovely home-made video put together by Marcia

Sophia Satchell

THIS WEEK: TIME FOR HOBBIES

2016-03-02T09:11:00.000-08:00

Have you ever felt that you've somehow neglected your hobby/hobbies?

I did for a while. Oh but finally this week I have reunited with my babies;
my hobbies which meant having some "me time"! My shame of not writing
the final pages of my fiction and non fiction novels seems likely to soon
disappear - mission almost complete?

I had kept my love for writing novels to myself for a while because I was
conscious of being that "writer" who is writing the never ending story.

It's so encouraging to have the support to complete the finishing touches.
For my first non fiction novel I'm looking at my funding and publishing options
whether to self publish or find a publisher that will accept my trail of
thoughts...take a cheeky peek at my e-book cover below. What do you think?

Book release date coming soon

A moving story called Balcony Child...

Another project that I'm polishing is my children's story
for my 5-7 year old critics, such an empowering story with some
humour and not forgetting the amazing illustrations.
The Left Handed Champ is a true story that means so much
to my family. I hope this story will be inspiring for
children who may lack confidence of being left handed or
experience feeling awkward and alone.

The next stage would be to share it with the world of book lovers but
I need to get funding for this project to be given a chance to make a
difference. I'm hoping to send positive messages throughout schools and
communities.

I would love to share snippets of my writer's journey during this
project with raw notes, ideas, extracts of the story and more of the vivid
illustrations with you as a thank you for your support to keep this fire
burning.

THIS WEEK: THE TRUE MEANING OF FLEXIBLE WORK

2016-02-15T14:15:00.002-08:00

Hey

Just was thinking out loud when I said flexible working hours is
so ideal for me as a mother needing time to engage with my child.

I do not miss the heavy traffic on the roads or the embarrassing close
body contact with strangers on train journeys to and from work.

I saw the POWWOWNOW poster below which made me giggle and I
guess that is what triggered my random thought about flexible work.
I think it illustrates the meaning of flexible work which is getting the
ideal work life balance.

THIS WEEK: COME ON FAB FEB!

2016-02-07T16:31:00.001-08:00

Camera, lights and action for me this month.

So lucky to be a part of a fab campaign for Paycation - making a
difference to lives and providing tips on lifestyle wealth.

Please look out for my debut which I will provide an update once
the filming is published.

As a treat I got some goodies handy for a vacay (hopefully soon)

So excited. Look Loook...

Goodies: A Jetsetter's comforts; a tablet case, vanity case, Lifestyle cap and Tee.

I'm ready to have the experience of a life time.

THIS WEEK: WHY DRY JAN ?

2016-01-25T14:46:00.001-08:00

No need for Dry Jan when there are cheap sales everywhere.

I mean there is no need to sacrifice a perfectly good month when
you can enjoy it's perks of being Jan filled with discounts and sale items.

£8 - Banana Republic Pom Pom Hat

£6 Banana Republic Pom Pom Hat

Zara blanket scarf, £20

THIS WEEK: Happy New Year!

2016-01-02T14:47:00.001-08:00

Happy new year all,

Yes we have said adios to 2015 which hasn't been easy to some
who are still feeling disappointed with their present from their partner
or secret Santa. Worse - some people are still doing the walk of shame
since the office party ("blame it on alcohol") ~~scandal~~ incident.

Many are happy with the fact that life has given them a new year/chapter
for a chance to make the most of a clean slate as the future is always
spotless.

I think a new year is a good point in time to ear mark a start of
a new project, idea, job or even behaviour; and checking
your progress in the Summer and again 6 months later, if needed.

If you want to improve your lifestyle but you are not sure what
goals to focus on first. You may find the following idea helpful:

Get started with three points

1. Personal
2. Business
3. Health

Think about your goals

Think of 2 goals for each point for the next 12 months, 5 years
and 10 years

Write the goals down

Write short term and long term goals and proceed to take
measurable action.

Hope this helps

This Week: It's Christmas Time!

2015-12-26T13:30:00.000-08:00

2015 Christmas Cake with edible snow globe and sledging bear.

On point - made a delish Christmas meal

with a Mmmmm Caribbean punch and as you can see the dessert

above that did not disappoint. Full and happy.

Happy hols.

This Week: A Stream of opportunities are endless!

2015-11-21T16:28:00.004-08:00

JOIN THE TRAVEL ENTREPRENUERSHIP HERE
More info contact us:
info@mysuitcase.org
W: mysuitcase.paycation.com

THIS WEEK: OPPORTUNITY KNOCKS

2015-11-15T05:34:00.001-08:00

The recent exciting launch of My Suitcase Ltd, an international (home -based) travel and booking agency has partnered with the 12 year global travel company Xstream Travel and amazing marketing organisation Paycation. Of course being the director of My Suitcase Ltd and experiencing how to create a legacy for my children - I will shout about it from the Peak Mountains to South London.

This entrepreneurship has already provided benefits to change my lifestyle for the better. I have been to numerous holiday spots with my family for discounted rates and created lovely memories. I have met many wonderful, supportive people and networked with other business owners in the franchise.

It has been an educational and great networking experience. If you also would like to start your own business, I would say to you, don't let this opportunity pass and look into it immediately there are loads of support and forums that can help you. I personally recommend this enjoyable entrepreneurship. For more information about opportunities like this go to www.mysuitcase.paycation.com

THIS WEEK: How to keep your valuables safe on holiday

2015-11-08T16:24:00.000-08:00

How do you keep your valuables secure from the prey?

Today so many of us have gadgets and love them so much that we will travel on the
trains with them or even on holiday in an unfamiliar place. And I am not just talking
about your bog standard camera or mobile.

So how do you keep them safe? After all our suitcases are not 100% secure.
I will tell you why here and now.

Don't worry, I have a solution. Read the article 'Is Your Suitcase Secure Enough?'

for more information on how to secure your precious. There are so many things

that you can do to ensure that you fully enjoy your holiday.

THIS WEEK: BE IN MY SUITCASE TRAVEL CLUB (A FREEBIE FOR YOU)

2015-08-29T16:36:00.000-07:00

www.mysuitcase.paycation.com - 2 step registration process

THIS WEEK - Well REd!

2015-08-23T16:14:00.002-07:00

Well Red

Right now there are many beautiful red shoes.

Sometimes red shoes can be paired up with the wrong items of clothing
whereby, creating an unintended clown impression or a Lady Ga Ga knock off.

For those who care not to make the above mistake - then this one's for you.

Get the right shade

Make sure it compliments your garment, remember this is very important.
REd tend to make a statement because they are very eye catching.

Red shoes can be nice when worn with the top, dress or skirt has a hint of red

Don't overly coordinate it with more red items, Avoid the tomato costume.

Wear with confidence - just be a traffic stopper.

With all this wisdom, you should be ready to wear your red shoes

Love C & C

X

THIS WEEK: Single Parent Holidays

2015-08-13T16:21:00.000-07:00

Single Parent Holiday

Kelly has been on holidays with her son since he was 2 years old. On the first long haul flight with her 2 year old, she packed the 'treat bag' to help keep him happy on the aeroplane - even packed boiled sweets to help with popping ears on the plane.

They was given priority to board the plane and settle before the plane got busy with other passengers.

As the plane finally lifted off into the sky, Kelly's concern melted away by her son's happy expressions. The plane suddenly shook and Kelly's heart was inside of her mouth as she let out a scream...2 year old son looked up at her with his first sign of embarrassment as if Kelly misbehaved.

Then shortly after the plane did the same jerky movement again and again an uncontrollable burst of a scream came from Kelly. "No need to worry, stay calm maaam" said a man with an American accent, calm but firm tone from a row behind. "The plane has just hit a few clouds, don't worry" he continued to say.

Children can be great to fly with and some times it's not just the children that you need to worry about...

Go to http://mysuitcasepicks.blogspot.co.uk/ single parent holiday ideas and help.

Check out My Suitcase an online travel agency great at spotting deals for single parent families.

THIS WEEK: MY SCRAPBOOK

2015-07-23T13:55:00.002-07:00

Egypt - Sharm El Sheik triple bedroom ,All inclu great for family/ friend bonding vacay

THIS WEEK: "MAKING THE SKY MY LIMIT & MY BUISINESS"

2015-07-19T02:58:00.001-07:00