Futures.

What’s the point of an accountant?

2015-07-09T07:30:00.000+01:00

Today I have a guest post from the team at Accounts and Legal. I'm considering getting an accountant myself so this was an interesting read for me. I hope you enjoy.

When you start a blog or find yourself doing one-off jobs in your spare time, you might not think of yourself as an entrepreneur. But if things go well, without even knowing it, you can suddenly find yourself a small business owner. When this happens, business finances are sometimes neglected, and the benefits of an accountant or some basic business advice are often not realised.

At Accounts and Legal, we get calls from small business owners like this every day. They may have been trading for years without keeping any formal accounts, and even if they have registered as a sole-trader or even incorporated a company, they have never really had the time to do their accounts properly. Things are a bit of a mess, and they think they need an accountant, but all they’re really expecting is a bookkeeper.

Not same same – different!

Bookkeeping is the very basic task of entering your company’s income and outgoings into some form of database, and filing returns. It doesn’t take much specialist knowledge, but it is perfectly possible to run a business with a bookkeeper, without an accountant.

Accounting is more complicated. To become a qualified accountant, years of specialist training in tax legislation, accounting best practice, and business theory must be completed. This enables accountants to provide insight into your company accounts. A bookkeeper can make sure your accounts are in presentable order and your returns are filed on time. An accountant can help increase your profit margins and grow your business.

But how?

An accountant will advise you on the most tax-efficient structure for your business, and how to change as you grow. They can help you find large tax savings through their understanding of things like allowable expenses, the VAT flat rate scheme, tax-free benefits, share structures, and how to divide income between dividends and salary.

They can help you write a good business plan, giving your business the best chance for success, and providing an impressive asset for any funding applications. They know all of your funding options, and can advise on the best route for you.

They can evaluate your business’ strengths and weaknesses, and help you develop a strategic plan to increase revenue. They can bring their experience with hundreds of other businesses, and their understanding of markets, new legislation and the economic climate to help with planning and financial forecasting.

Who’s your CFO?

If you’re running a business, but business itself has never been an interest and you don’t have the time to learn, getting a good accountant is like appointing a CFO. If you don’t feel you need the ongoing support of an accountant, it might still be worth approaching one for some one-off advice.

This guest post was written by Natalie Butlin from small business accountants Accounts and Legal, who offer a full range of tax and accounting services alongside real business insight.

BOOKS | RETURN TO BLUEBELL HILL BY REBECCA PUGH

2015-07-08T16:15:00.001+01:00

Who knew we had so many talented bloggers in the midst? Well, I knew we did because everyone showcases their writing talent on their blogs but to turn their writing into books and not have a major publishing deal behind them like the huge bloggers - I have so much respect and admiration for them,

One such blogger is Rebecca Pugh, the lovely lady behind Becca's Books (and one of the loveliest people on Twitter too!). A book blogger herself, her love for the written word is evident and she sure shows this in her debut novel, Return To Bluebell Hill, published by Carina UK.

Return To Bluebell Hill - Rebecca Pugh

Find it on Goodreads // Find it on Amazon

Jessica Adams never truly felt at home. Her parents were medical professionals and never at home and instead she was left in the company of Esme, the nanny/housekeeper and pretty much everything else around the house. Everyone thought living in Bluebell House was such a happy experience but there were cracks in the facade and Jessica got out of there as soon as she could, off to London - without a single look back.

Now Jessica finally has to face up to her fears and make her way back to Bluebell Hill and in particular, Bluebell House. She has to face up to her responsibilities and clear the house out after her parents untimely death. She is adamant she wants to sell and get back to London as soon as she can - but will days spent with Esme and a budding romance with hunky gardener Rueben persuade her that Bluebell House is her home? It remains to be seen.

Let me say - I loved Jessica's character. I did feel a little anger at her over the way she apparently treated her parents - leaving without a goodbye, changing her number and never speaking to them again - but as the story wore on, it was made clear why she had to do what she did and the anger soon dissipated. I loved Esme - she seemed to carry the weight of the past on her shoulders , carrying secrets that are soon brought to the forefront and cause an untold amount of messiness and heartache.

Rueben was an interesting character - from his first few moments with Jessica on the train where she tells him she is going to Cornwall and then to his surprise at finding her in Bluebell Hill - it soon becomes clear that he has fallen hard. But with Jessica adamant that she will only be staying long as it takes to tie up loose ends - is he going to get his heart broken?

This is a perfect summer read if you like a little bit of romance and a touch of intrigue - why does Jessica resent her parents so much? What secrets does Bluebell House hold? I would recommend this to everyone and I am looking forwards to reading any new material from Rebecca Pugh,

Posts I've Been Loving

2015-07-08T15:41:00.000+01:00

I love a good blog reading session. I always try to make the time to catch up with my favourite blogs and even if I don't always get time to comment, I try and tell the blogger that I liked or appreciated their post.

I've recently read a few that I really enjoyed and I think you will enjoy too -

FREELANCERS! HOW TO STRIKE GOLD IN YOUR WORK/LIFE BALANCE by You Baby Me Mummy

Such helpful tips for freelancers!

A NEW COMMUNICATION STYLE by Single Mother Ahoy

I'm a part of the WhatsApp group she mentions and it has been invaluable!

£2,000 CHALLENGE - WEEK 1 UPDATE by From Aldi To Harrods

How inspiring is my friend Emma? She works so hard!

5 TIPS FOR STARTING A FREELANCE CAREER by Zena's Suitcase

Handy tips for anyone thinking about starting!

AVON ULTRA COLOUR INDULGENCE LIPSTICKS by Charli B

I now want them all. So bad

Whose posts have you been loving recently?

Keeping The Kids Cool This Summer

2015-07-07T16:37:00.000+01:00

So far this month we have already seen the hottest July on record, and with months still to go of the summer it can keep cool in the warmer weather. Especially with the school holidays approaching, it can be hard to think of fun activities for the little ones while making sure everybody stays hydrated and safe in the sun.

Keeping Hydrated

On hot sweaty days, it’s even more important to keep track of your water intake to avoid dehydration. Keep a healthy stock of ice in the freezer and if you’ll be spending the day at work or school freeze a bottle of water to carry with you for the day - as the ice melts, you’ll get more water and the remaining ice will keep it cool. Alternatively, for a sweet treat or a fun activity for the school holidays, try making your own ice lollies, which are also great for upping your fruit intake.

Staying Safe in the Sun

Summer is the time to make the most of outdoor activities - cycling, skateboarding, ball games, and hiking are all fun in the sun no matter your age. However, make sure that you don’t burn to a crisp! Invest in sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 (50+ if you have young children or very fair skin), and protects against both UVA rays (which cause ageing) and UVB rays (which cause damage to the skin), reapply it often. Be sure to buy sunscreen specially formulated for children, especially for days out, which is better for sensitive skin and more hardy for active kids.

Dress For The Weather

As well as wearing sunscreen, make sure that you dress appropriately to keep cool and avoid burns. Shorts and t-shirts make sense if it’s hot indoors, but to stay extra cool outside long, loose clothing provides better air circulation - think maxi skirts and loose cotton trousers. Accessorize with an on-trend floppy hat and vintage sunglasses. For little ones, cotton floppy hats are an absolute must, while a large cotton scarf also doubles as a picnic blanket or shoulder cover for when you’re out and about.

Play It Cool

Cool down on a day out by involving water or ice. Put the sprinkler on in the garden, fill up some water balloons for a fight, or go and visit your local outdoor pool. Alternatively, plan a day out to a water park, or get fit and enjoy the cold by going ice skating- everybody can improve their balance or up the competition with a game of ice hockey - just remember to invest in some elbow and knee padding to minimise accidents.

Collaborative Content

Recent Book Buys #2

2015-07-07T11:58:00.002+01:00

Well.. it seems I have been buying quite a few books recently, doesn't it? I've been using up vouchers and picking up some books from my local Books For Free shop (a great resource) and even had my Mum buy me a couple.

So what's new this week?

The first three books were ones I picked up from my local Books For Free store (find the closest one to you here). I love Midsomer Murders so couldn't resist picking up the first book that the series is based on by Caroline Graham - The Killings at Badger's Drift. I have always adored the film and have been meaning to get the book for ages so to get The Princess Bride by William Goldman for free is a bonus! I also picked up The DUFF by Kody Keplinger which was recently turned into a movie.

Two I picked up with my Amazon gift cards were Just What Kind of Mother Are You? by Paula Daly (recommended to me by Laura) and I Let You Go by Clare Mackintosh which I've seen plenty of people raving about all over social media!

Finally I picked up the WWE 50 book for myself and Steve. I've mentioned how much I love it and this book is fascinating, reading through the history of the company and how far it has come.

I am currently in the middle of my Agatha Christie reading month but am so tempted to stop for a day or two and read one from this pile - what one would you suggest?

British Household Debt Spirals Out of Control

2015-07-05T23:43:00.000+01:00

Like millions the world over, Britons have spent the past few years recovering from one of the worst global financial crises in recent history, a crisis that caused many to lose their jobs or businesses, their savings and even their homes. With the economy seemingly on the mend the outlook is brighter in many ways, and people are finally spending money again, making purchases and going on holidays they had put off for years. But now a new crisis seems to be emerging: British household debt is even higher than it was just before the financial meltdown.

According to figures obtained from the Bank of England, consumers now owe £1.46 trillion collectively, up from £1.41 trillion in June 2007 just before the financial crisis. There is no doubt that consumer spending is on the rise, and though that may seem like good news to retailers, it isn’t really good news across the board. Even worse, many consumers seem resigned to a life in debt, with 14% of the borrowers questioned in a recent survey stating that they expect to be saddled with their debt for at least the next two to five years.

False optimism?

Whilst politicians crow about the economic recovery, others ask if what is really happening is what consumer expert Dan Plant recently described as a rapidly growing debt time-bomb. That’s a legitimate question, given that by the end of 2016, the average UK household will owe close to £10,000 in debts such as personal loans, credit cards and overdrafts. A report by PriceWaterhouseCoopers (PwC) titled, “Precious Plastic: How Britons Fell Back in Love With Borrowing,” warns that consumers’ complacency over managing their debt could very well lead to a resurgence in bad debt.

Though the report acknowledged reasons for optimism, it also uncovered “warning signals” – one of these being that people aged between 35 and 44 are increasingly depending on credit to be able to afford essential items. Credit cards were never intended to be used that way, but close to one in five people in this age group said that they have to borrow simply to make ends meet.

Simon Westcott, a director of PwC’s financial services practice, said, “As the total household to debt income ratio heads towards 172% – exceeding its previous peak in the runup to the financial crisis – and interest rates increase, consumers could begin to feel squeezed once again.”

Ouch.

You can avoid being just another statistic.

There are some organisations and resources that are trying to do something about consumer debt. Numerous debt charities exist for this very purpose, and the Centre for Social Justice is trying to tackle the issues faced by the poorest in our society, who pay the highest price for becoming burdened with problem debt.

Most of us have run into money problems at some point in our lives, and many people who have weathered the worst of the recent financial crisis have learned to manage their money more wisely. However, young people who aren’t very experienced in handling personal finances can easily fall into the trap of spending as if there’s no tomorrow. Seasoned spenders aren’t immune to such problems, for as times get better it is easy to grow complacent and fall back into old habits. For all too many people, spending tends to increase with income, and plastic compounds the problem. When people’s credit card limits are raised, or their bank accounts grow, many find it all too easy to whip out the credit or debit card for impulse purchases without really thinking of the actual money that is changing hands.

Money problems can sneak up on you, and what starts out as an occasional indulgence can become habitual overspending, which can lead to a full-fledged personal financial crisis before you know it. To avoid this you need to adopt a practice of mindful rather than mindless spending. Taking an honest self-assessment of your spending habits is the biggest favour you can do for yourself. Even if you’re already in crisis you can take steps to reversing it, but the first step, to borrow a concept from the recovery movement, is to admit that you have a problem in the first place. And then ask for help if you need it.

Collaborative Content

JULY TBR // THE AGATHA CHRISTIE EDITION

2015-07-03T17:07:00.001+01:00

In my post about my summer reading plans, I mentioned that July was to be my Agatha Christie month. I love her as an author and have most of her books, some of which I've read, some of which I haven't got round to just yet. I set myself this challenge for July to get my unread ones read finally and also perhaps delve into some old favourites.

I've made myself quite an ambitious TBR pile this month with 10 books. I've already read one of these and started another so I may be able to do it! If so, I will just pick up another AC from my shelf or if I'm not feeling it, read something else. I mentioned in my reading plans that none of my challenges are concrete and if I am not feeling it, I can try reading something else. So some other books may creep in throughout the month but at the moment, this is my planned TBR. So what do I have?

I plan to read:

NEMESIS // CAT AMONG THE PIGEONS // MISS MARPLE'S FINAL CASES //

CROOKED HOUSE // THE THIRTEEN PROBLEMS // WITNESS FOR THE PROSECUTION // THE MYSTERY OF THE BLUE TRAIN // AND THEN THERE WERE NONE //

DEATH IN THE CLOUDS // CURTAIN: POIROT'S LAST CASE

I've already read Nemesis which was a new-to-me read - I had seen the TV adaptation but that was completely different, hardly any of the characters were the same and the culprit in this was, although the same person in the TV adaptation, a completely different personality if that makes sense? It was an okay read. I've just started Cat Among The Pigeons which is a re-read for me and one of my favourites of all of Agatha's novels,

The other re-reads for me in this pile are And Then There Were None and Curtain - I couldn't have a whole month reading Agatha Christie without including Poirot's last case, could I?

Have you read any of these? What did you think of them?

How I Relax When I'm Not Working

2015-07-02T22:53:00.001+01:00

Not too long ago I posted about five ways to relax this weekend and today I thought I would share with you the ways I relax when I am not working.

I have a number of ways to relax - usually when not working, I am looking after Jack as I try to get most of my work done when he is either at pre school or in bed. However, should I have no work on or I finish up earlier than expected, I have a few things I like to do.

I do, of course, love to light scented candles and have a bubble bath etc. But since my non working time when I am actually alone is usually mid morning, I have a few other things I like to do instead.

READING//

Reading is my first main love when it comes to relaxing and I can happily curl up on the sofa or in my bed with a book or my Kindle for hours. I read quite a lot when on holiday as I was so relaxed and I love nothing more than doing the same at home.

WATCHING TV//

Quite a lazy choice for me here but I have so many great TV shows that I watch so relaxing in front of the TV is a must. Even better if I have some wine and some chocolate, right?

PLAYING GAMES ONLINE//

Whilst Steve loves to play online on his PS4, I am much happier playing games online such as roulette, slots or bingo. Netbet Casino is a recent find and has been added to my list of favourite sites to play from.

GOING FOR A WALK//

I somehow don't end up this doing enough for a number of reasons. Either I don't have enough time to go on a decent walk due to picking Jack up later on or something else crops up. I'm hoping to get a lot more walking done this summer if I can, especially if I need an operation on my foot soon - I need to make the most of it!

What do you do to relax? Is there something in particular that you do?

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Recent Book Buys

2015-07-02T22:21:00.001+01:00

Just before I went on holiday, I ordered a couple of books that had taken my fancy. Some, the Penguin Classics, I had been meaning to pick up for a while but finally ordered after reading a post from Becky and the other intrigued me - I've got a whole series coming up in regards to that one so keep your eyes peeled!

I couldn't resist picking up a few of the Penguin Little Black Classics - here is what I picked up:

Anthem For Doomed Youth by Wilfred Owen

The Wife of Bath by Geoffrey Chaucer

The Great Fire of London by Samuel Pepys

Goblin Market by Christina Rossetti
Lord Arthur Savile's Crime by Oscar Wilde
The Night is Darkening Round Me by Emily Bronte
The Tell-Tale Heart by Edgar Allan Poe

The first few I selected are very reminiscent of my education - I remember learning about Wilfred Owen at school and I always loved Chaucer at school, unlike most. We all remember learning about the Great Fire of London too, right?

I couldn't resist Goblin Market as Christina Rossetti wrote my favourite poem of all time, 'Remember' and the last three were just a few authors that I wanted to read - I've read some work from each of the authors before but wanted to read a few more pieces of their work. At 80p per book, I'm super impressed and can't wait to get stuck in - these are perfect!

The last book I bought was The Selfie Journal: A Photo Journal Of 101 Selfies To Take And Collect. I haven't seen anyone mentioning it yet but it intrigued me enough to purchase it. The idea is to take 101 selfies, prompted by this book, and then stick them in. There is also some free space at the back for any other ideas you may have selfie-wise.

In the past few years, I have become very unhappy with my appearance and I am hoping that by setting myself a challenge of filling this book up, I may start to have fun and start to feel a little happier in my own skin again.

Do you own any of these books? What is the most recent book that you bought?

Netgalley Round-Up #1

2015-06-27T08:30:00.000+01:00

When clearing out my digital bookshelves on my Kindle the other week, I realised I had a few outstanding reviews for Netgalley so made it my aim to get some read and reviewed over the coming weeks. I've finished three so far and I wanted to add my quick thoughts for these three.

AWAKE // NATASHA PRESTON

Some of it was interesting but the insta-love and total far fetched just didn't do it for me. I am happy to suspend belief for some books if they are amazing but I just couldn't get into this. I did finish the book and was surprised as I've previously read some great work by the author but this just seemed a little thrown together and not thought through properly. Disappointed.

I rated this 2 stars.

THE SHAM // ELLEN ALLEN

I don't even know what to say. I just don't get it. The beginning is all over the place and it seems even other readers aren't sure what to make of it with such wide variations in the reviews.

I've heard it gets better after a while but I haven't got time to waste wading through the poor parts to get to the good stuff, sorry.

^^ This is the review I left on Goodreads and I still can't quite grasp my feelings on it. It was a DNF for me as I just couldn't get into it. It seems other readers either love it or hate it, much like Marmite.

As with all my DNF's, I rated this 1 star.

SWEET MYSTERY // MARYANN KEMPHER

An inoffensive mystery story - some interesting characters, however sometimes the plot seemed a little rushed at times. I did work out who the culprit was a long time before the conclusion of the novel but I appreciated the hints to throw readers off the scent. An interesting, inoffensive read, however it could do with some tightening up in regards to editing - I made a few notes where some names were swapped, words were missed out or added when they shouldn't be and other things like that.

Apart from the editing issues, this was a good book for me.

I rated it 4 stars.

Do you ever read and review for Netgalley?

These books were sent to me via Netgalley for

the purpose of review.

Books | Getting Over Jesse Franklin

2015-06-26T08:30:00.000+01:00

I recently noticed that the lovely Stephie Chapman aka i'mcountingufoz was about to release her debut novel. Having met the lovely lady herself at Britmums Live 2013, I was excited to see what her debut title Getting Over Jesse Franklin was all about and quickly pre-ordered. Once it appeared on my Kindle, I quickly got to reading...

Getting Over Jesse Franklin - Stephie Chapman

Find it on Goodreads // Find it on Amazon

We've all been there. There has been that one band with that one favourite member or that one teen actor that you couldn't get off your mind. For me, it was originally Ben Adams from A1 (he actually looks a lot better now than he did back then!). As I grew older, Frank Iero from My Chemical Romance, Ville Valo from HIM and Brian Molko took his place.

Cassie's particular boy of choice? Jesse Franklin. After a wine fuelled evening with her best mate, they can't resist using the World Wide Web to look up their teenage crushes. Finding Jesse on Facebook, Cassie at first takes no action but curiosity finally catches up with her when she is alone and she sends Jesse a friend request, not expecting anything to happen.

Unexpectedly, Jesse accepts and what entails is a back and forth conversation of Facebook messages, a couple of transatlantic trips, a heavy dose of mistrust and misunderstanding and some great, well developed characters to carry the story.

I loved Jesse as a character and I understood why he was so closed off at times - fame isn't everything. Doors may or may not open for your name but you can never be entirely sure if someone is genuine. I found Cassie a little irritating at times, especially when she wasn't with Jesse - but I loved the combination of the two together.

This is a real feel good novel and a great debut from Stephie Chapman. I'd love to see more from her. If you're looking for an easy read that you will definitely find something in common with, give this a try.

Who is your Jesse Franklin?

Help Your Child Learn To Swim With Swimshop | Giveaway

2015-06-25T00:00:00.000+01:00

A recent study found that 57% of children between 7-11 years old cannot swim. In a bid to change this we are running a ‘Save a Life, Learn to Swim’ campaign. Swimshop, known for their great swimming costumes, are kindly offering prizes to TWO lucky readers!

As someone who herself can't swim due to a traumatic incident when I was younger, I am keen for Jack to swim and not be afraid of the pool. We are also kindly being sent some arm bands and a float to aid him in his swimming journey.

To make swimming seem even more fun and increase your child's confidence in the water, Swimshop have collated some fun swimming games for free in the form of a PDF download that you can access here.

If you would like the chance to win some armbands (as seen here) and your choice of float - Steve Sharky or Polly Fish, all you need to do is fill in the Rafflecopter form below.

Giveaway is UK only, ending at 23.59pm on 30th June 2015.

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KiqPlan Beer Belly Blaster App + Fitbug Orb | Giveaway

2015-06-24T00:00:00.000+01:00

Is the man in your life looking to shape up? Perhaps KiqPlan's Beer Belly Blaster is perfect for him! I am very pleased to announce that I am giving the app and a Fitbug Orb away to one lucky winner, in conjunction with Fitbug.

Kiqplan, the line of 12-week personalised training plans from Fitbug Ltd., have released Beer Belly Blaster, a fitness app tailored specifically for men who want to shape up and look their best.

Created by personal trainers, dieticians and qualified fitness experts, Beer Belly Blaster is designed to work in tandem with most smart phones and leading fitness-trackers, including Fitbug, Jawbone, Fitbit, Misfit, Nike+, iHealth and more.

Kiqplan translates the data it receives from your device, and provides you with a personalised training plan, including “how-to” workout videos, nutritional advice, healthy recipes, sleep and step targets, plus much more.

Beer Belly Blaster focuses on trimming and toning the belly and improving general fitness levels. The programme was created for men who haven’t exercised in a while and want to get back into shape. Split into 3 key phases, the programme starts with Total Body Strength workouts, designed to increase muscle mass and kick-start your metabolism. The second phase contains higher volume workouts, designed to increase muscle mass and therefore calorie burn while resting. This phase also includes core exercises designed to trim your waistline. The final phase contains higher intensity circuit-based workouts, designed to increase the calories burnt both during and after exercise and get the heart pumping.

Priced at £19.99, NEW Kiqplan Beer Belly Blaster is NOW available on Amazon and in Argos stores, or ready to download on the Apple app store and Google Play, as well as www.Kiqplan.com

This giveaway is UK only and ends at 23.59pm on the 30th June 2015

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Sugru; The Perfect Present For Dad | Giveaway

2015-06-23T00:00:00.000+01:00

After including Sugru in last years gift guide, I am back again to recommend them. My Dad absolutely loved using his Sugru and has been telling everyone about it. To celebrate, I have a giveaway for one lucky winner to win a pack of the Classic Red and Mossy Green colours.

Sugru is an awesome material described by many as play dough for adults, that sticks to almost anything and sets into a strong, flexible rubber overnight.

If your dad’s motto is ‘waste not want not’, then Sugru will be the most exciting thing in his tool box since the cordless drill. He’ll be able to repair everything from worn out cables to car interiors, protect some of his most beloved gadgets and come up with his own creative DIY solutions ….. the possibilities are endless.

Check out some more fabulous uses any dad can discover with Sugru here.

Loved and used by dads in over 160 countries, Sugru is easy to use and a perfect gift for all handy dads out there with an eye for the latest technology.

So what do you need to do to win? Just fill in the Rafflecopter below. UK only, ends 23.59pm on 30th of June 2015. Please read the terms and conditions.
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Should We Have Guilty Pleasures?

2015-06-22T08:30:00.000+01:00

The other day I completed the 11 things tag and tagged my good friend Kaye over at The Life and Styles of KLF who very promptly posted her answers. One of the questions I posed to her was What is your biggest guilty pleasure? and her response has certainly got me thinking.

Kaye said that we shouldn't feel guilty about things we enjoy and the more I think about it, the more inclined I am to agree. Why should I feel ashamed of my love of cheesy pop, 90's sitcoms and murder mystery shows, an author who other people may detest?

One of my biggest 'guilty pleasures' is one that I am quite vocal about on Twitter (especially when chatting with Charli, Anastasia and Charli but I've never really touched on it when it comes to this blog. You've guessed it - it's professional wrestling and in particular WWE. I love watching it all and get totally immersed in the whole atmosphere.

I am aware that it is scripted and thus fake but the bumps they take are real - and their storylines are often much more believable than the soaps we have on TV nowadays.

I am building up quite a collection of books by or about WWE wrestlers - at last count I had Bret Hart, Shawn Michaels and Rey Mysterio. I recently picked up this Mick Foley book but I have so many more on my wishlist.

I'm no longer going to feel guilty about the things I enjoy because life is far too short. What about you?

Bluebeard's Revenge New Hair Styling Products

2015-06-22T00:00:00.000+01:00

The fabulous team at Bluebeard's Revenge have just released a new range of hair styling products - a pomade, matt clay and matt paste and one of you lucky readers has the opportunity to win some of the products! Let them tell you more..

It is said that the first thing a woman notices when she sees a man is his hair, and no man who takes pride in his appearance can afford to have a bad hair day.

Thankfully, premium men’s grooming brand The Bluebeards Revenge has unveiled three brand new hair-styling products designed to tame the manliest of manes, adding a pomade, matt clay and matt paste to its already impressive grooming repertoire.

Dubbed ‘the world’s manliest grooming brand’, The Bluebeards Revenge is best known for its iconic wet shaving products, starting life as a shaving line aimed at men with tough stubble. It has since expanded to encompass all aspects of grooming, more recently beginning to focus on hair.

Between them, the three new styling products have got every hair-related eventuality covered, with the pomade becoming a go-to for slicked back, high-shine styles and the matt paste suiting those preferring a rugged, textured look.

For low maintenance styles, the matt clay provides invisible hold, creating an effortless look that appears natural yet defined.

The products join a broad range of products already available from the iconic brand, including skincare and fragrance as well as a popular shampoo and conditioner.

The styling products come just in time for those wishing to start the new year with a brand new, better-groomed version of themselves, and are available from The Shaving Shack, priced at £9.99.

If you would like to enter, all you need to do is fill out the Rafflecopter form below. This giveaway is UK only and ends at 23.59pm on the 30th of June 2015.

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30 Signs You Are Getting Old | The Diary Of A Jewellery Lover

2015-06-21T08:30:00.000+01:00

Please enjoy this guest post from a great friend of mine, Mel!

Hi, my name is Mel and I blog over at The Diary Of A Jewellery Lover blog. My blog is a lifestyle blog which covers fashion, travel, food and home amongst other things.

1.You get up early on the weekend because you want to enjoy the day.

2.You save all your money for one expensive top that will be an investment rather than a few cheaper ones from Peacocks or Primark.

3.You finally admit that you do like your relatives and pop into see them when you can.

4.You remember playing hop scotch and playing with a hula hoop.

5.You spend more than a fiver on a bottle of wine as it tastes so much better when you do.

6.If you go to a fast food place you have the healthy option.

7.You know what an amuse bouche is.

8.Candles make you happy.

9. You've made your own pizza, from scratch, base and all.

10.When Top Of The Pops finished you were heartbroken.

11.Instead of buying spot cream at the chemist you end up buying antacid, hair dye and Tena lady.

12. Your specialist knowledge on Mastermind is something educational and worthy and not The Simpsons.

13. You never hold hands in public any more and your partner only kisses you when he wants one thing - yes you guessed it, a cup of tea.

14.You watch X Factor for the freaks and weirdos not the music.

15.You buy a Nutribullet or a Spiralizer as it's the healthy thing to do.

16.You remember John Travolta when he was young and cute.

17.You have a party and the neighbours don't even realise it.

18.Getting asked for ID when buying alcohol makes your day.

19.All your favourite bands are doing reunion concerts.

20.You prefer a pub that isn't noisy where you can talk.

21.You had a ZX spectrum or a Commodore 64 when they first came out and remember having to load games on tape.

22.You enjoy a glass of sherry, brandy or port at the end of a meal out.

23.You remember a Snickers when it was called a Marathon and thought your head would blow off if you ate a packet of Space dust with a can of Coke.

24.You still prefer reading a newspaper than getting your news online.

25.You remember when DJS were known for their banter and music and not other reasons...

26.You can remember watching tv in black and white and when there was only 3 channels.

27.You like getting shortbread at Christmas.

28.You get obsessed with gardening and you can't go away without mowing the lawn and leaving food for the birds.

29.You get annoyed when someone talks in the cinema, or worse still doesn't turn their phone off.

30.You write a bucket list.

Can you identify with these? What are your signs you are getting old?

Astonish Car Cleaning Products | Giveaway

2015-06-20T00:00:00.000+01:00

If your Dad is motoring mad and loves to get behind the wheel of his dream machine then why not treat him this Father’s Day and clean it inside and out using a complete car kit from Astonish, the British cleaning products.

A lucky reader will receive a hamper of products providing you with everything you need to make your Dad’s car dazzle on his special day and beyond.

Included in the kit is the Crystal Clear Wash & Wax, Wheel Cleaner, Spray ‘n’ Shine, Anti-Fog Glass Cleaner, Tar & Insect Remover, Vinyl Trim & Dashboard Cleaner and Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner, along with a bucket and wash mitt.

Perfect for those looking to clean with a conscience, Astonish products are not tested on animals and are Vegetarian Society approved, as well as being Vegan Society and Cruelty Free International registered.

For more details please visit their website or their Facebook page.

To enter, all you need to do is fill out the Rafflecopter below! UK only, ending 30th June at 11.59pm. Good luck

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Dreaming Of Our Family Home

2015-06-19T08:30:00.000+01:00

We currently live in rented accomodation but if truth be told, now that we have been here over three years it really feels like home to us. We know there is the possibility of being asked to move out at any moment but we also knew when we moved in that the landlord may want to sell up at the end of our tenancy. That never happened but the estate agent promised to let us know if it ever happened so we could have first refusal.

As time has wore on, we have grown more in love with the idea of purchasing this house for ourselves as we have so many ideas for it. We are trying to pay off debts and save up for a deposit at the same time so should it ever happen, we are prepared. We do know that we would be offered some help from family should the need arise - so if we do ever get that letter or phone call, we can hopefully be in the position to have first refusal.

We have been here so long now that we hate the idea of uprooting our family - to Jack, this is our home. He moved in here when he was one month old and has never known any different. Just look how small he is in the picture above!

One thing we would definitely do is remove some of the carpets and replace them with some laminate flooring. The carpets in here are old, tired and wrecked - they were before we even moved in but having a toddler running around has made them even worse. The whole downstairs needs a refresh and laminate flooring is the way to go. We would also remove the wall between the kitchen and dining room making it open plan - although where I would move my office to, I don't know.

Perhaps give the bathroom a total revamp and do something about our bedroom too - much as I love having a large bedroom, it is crazily large so I could perhaps move my office there and close it off slightly? The ideas are endless.

Even if we have another child, we are planning and hoping on staying here for a good few years yet. Perhaps eventually these dreams of our perfect family home will be a reality. Until then, I will keep on dreaming.

PR collaboration

ShaveKit Subscription | Giveaway

2015-06-19T00:00:00.000+01:00

If you're struggling for something to get your Dad or just something to get the man in your life, I bet the idea of an online subscription for razors sounds pretty good, right? After all, all men shave!

Well we were very kindly sent a package from ShaveKit, containing a razor head and a set of blades there are currently two subscription packages: the Three Blade Head + Handle for £6.95 a month or the Five Blade Head + Handle for £8.95 a month.

Started in January 2014 and now extremely popular, consumers can choose a monthly, bi monthly or tri monthly delivery. Each delivery contains 4 new razor cartridges with the first delivery including a free razor handle. Customers can have a first month trial to try the razor at a discounted price and can cancel their membership within this month if unhappy.

Why am I telling you this? Well, luckily for you, one of my readers has been offered the chance to win a six month subscription to ShaveKit - great, isn't it? Steve is going to test ours out properly on holiday but he's already chuffed with it on first impressions.

So what do you need to do to win? Just fill in the Rafflecopter below, easy as pie! UK only, ends 23.59pm on the 30th of June 2015

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My Summer Reading Plans

2015-06-18T08:30:00.000+01:00

I'm a total bookworm when my head is in it but I can get myself into a real reading slump sometimes too - already this year I have beaten my overall total of books read from 2014 so at least that's something.

However I have recently been looking at both my physical and digital bookshelves and deleting or giving away those books that I no longer have an interest in, despite the fact that I may not have read them yet. Sometimes I buy or download on a whim and look back later to decide - nope, I'm really not that interested in it anymore.

The problem is that recently I've been looking at my TBR books and feeling a little overwhelmed. There just seem to be so many despite me culling loads from my collection. So I decided to come up with a summer reading plan. It's quite loose - I don't have to stick 100% to it but it may help me cut down my TBR pile a little.

JUNE // KINDLE MONTH

This month I have been making an effort to cut down on my eBooks so I have mostly been reading on my Kindle. I decided at the beginning of the month that June would be Kindle month and I am doing fairly well so far, having cut down my TBR pile quite a bit.

JULY // AGATHA CHRISTIE MONTH

I am a huge AC fan as showcased in my crime bookshelf tour, however I haven't read ALL of my books yet so I plan to read as many as I can in July. If I'm not feeling it, I can take a break and read something else but the plan is to get reading some of my unread Agatha Christie's and perhaps dip into some old favourites that I really miss reading.

AUGUST // FINISHING SERIES

I currently have about four series that I still need to finish and many of them have either now finished completely so I am trying to avoid spoilers or the next installment is due out and I am nowhere near ready to read it.

I am currently halfway through Insurgent and still have Allegiant left to read (plus Four!), I have the last book in the Watersong series by Amanda Hocking and the last Brightest Kind Of Darkness book by P T Michelle. I also need to finish the second book in the Throne Of Glass series plus read book 3 and the novellas before book 4 comes out..oops! I'm sure I probably have even more unfinished series lurking around too - in fact, I'm positive I do!

As I said, these aren't 100% concrete and if I am not feeling them at any time or have a review copy to read, then I am allowed to veer off course. I'm positive though that having these little challenges will help me a little in decreasing my TBR pile and keeping my love for reading alive.

What are your summer reading plans?

Linking up to The List with You Baby Me Mummy and Mum's Days and linking up to Brilliant Blog Posts with Honest Mum

My Top 5 TV Dads // Currys Blogger Competition

2015-06-18T00:14:00.000+01:00

This is my entry into the Curry's Smart 3D Ultra HD 4k 48" LED Curved TV blogger competition

In order to enter this competition, you are asked to write a post about your top 5 TV Dads. Now I watch a lot of TV so I thought this would be pretty easy but it really isn't. I've chosen from a mixture of shows that I've watched over the years - some are still going, some have finished many moons ago but all of the below characters stick in my mind.

1 // JACK GELLER

I know some people may disagree with this one as sometimes he can be so frustrating and annoying but you can tell how much his family mean to him and his heart is always in the right place even if it doesn't always seem so.

2 // MICK CARTER

Hear me out, hear me out. Family is everything to Mick Carter and he won't stop at anything to protect them. He is a total softie when it comes to his kids but knows when to be tough to keep them safe. He provides for them and protects them, what's not to love?

3 // BURT HUMMEL

It may not have always been the case right at the beginning of Glee but there is no denying that over the series, Burt has become a much loved and much needed character. His unwavering support for Kurt and also Finn (plus his devastation at his stepson's death) have always made him a hero in my eyes and that is why he makes this countdown. You can always count on Burt for anything.

4// PAUL HENNESSY

A bittersweet pick here but he had to be added. I never really got into 8 Simple Rules when I was younger but Steve used to watch it all the time - and since we've been together, I have watched it loads. John Ritter's portrayal as Paul Hennessy, father of two teenage girls wanting to explore the world of dating was hilarious to watch. It is such a shame that he died so young.

5 // MARSHALL ERIKSEN

I honestly think Marshall is the best dad from HIMYM. Yes, the show is all about Ted, his children and how he met their mother and yes, it was the making of Barney when his daughter was born. However Marshall is far and away the best Dad, in fact best parent on the show. Having baby Marvin after his father Marvin's death was bittersweet but Marshall certainly honoured his father in both name and actions - bringing up his son in a safe, loving home just like he was brought up. Sure, he hit a few stumbling blocks as all new parents do but he was so happy to be a dad and really lived up to the job.

Now that I've written this I have thought of a few more that I would have loved to include! Who are your Top TV Dads?

Magnitone Collaborative Giveaway

2015-06-17T11:00:00.000+01:00

Once again I have joined with some of my fabulous blogging buddies to share an awesome giveaway with you all - this time for a Magnitone! Yes, that's right - we are giving away a Magnitone! Read more below..

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Summer is almost here; holidays are being taken all the time and so why not ramp up your skin route by winning yourself a Magnitone!

This great little brush is your perfect travel companion, it offers 2 different modes; sensitive and deep clean, while the timer runs for exactly 1 minute (perfect for a morning and night wash) and gives 20 second indications so you know when to switch from one area of your face to another.

The brush takes 12 hours to fully charge but it will give you back up to 2 weeks of usage, or if you are in a rush a 60 minutes charge will last you the day.

With over 10000 rotation-oscillations per minute and being 100% waterproof this facial brush offers you all you need for great face washing tool.

The Magnitone Lucid comes in at an RRP of £69.99, but of course this is a competition, so thanks to the following bloggers one of you lucky people will be winning one for free.

UK Bloggers
Futures
Petit Moi - Big World
Trials and Tribulations of a Brummy Mummy
Life in a Break Down
Beauty, fashion, life & love
Julie's Notebook

To be in with a chance of winning just let us know:
What is your best skincare tip?

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Good luck!

(All other entries after answering the question are mandatory, but do of course give you more chance of winning).

Stuck On You Write On Labels

2015-06-16T11:08:00.002+01:00

With Jack currently attending pre school and about to go up to nursery in September, it is no surprise that we have had to label his clothes and bag/lunchbox to avoid them going home with someone else. With a whole uniform and book bag to label from September, I was on the lookout for some labels to use on his clothes and accessories - enter Stuck On You.

I was sent both the stick on and iron on labels. The iron on labels have been used but are mostly being saved until we have bought Jack's uniform - since Jack doesn't have a uniform for a pre school, we have only used the iron on ones for his jumpers/hoodies - the things he actually wears on a daily basis since the other clothes change daily.

However, we have been putting the stick on labels to good use already - using them for his lunchbox, his bag and lots more. They are really easy to write on - no trouble whatsoever - and they stick fairly well. You do have to firmly press them down to make sure they are stuck fast but once on there, they aren't coming off (unless you have a very persistent toddler 'wanting to play with the stickers' as I found out.

Jack especially like the skull and crossbones sticker as he is currently obsessed with pirates. These stick on write on labels seem to stick to most surfaces and will be especially handy when he goes to 'big school'. The fact that they come in packs of 30 is really handy too as it means you always have a supply ready to hand.

I really like these - they are great quality, don't lose stick and are affordable too! There is currently a sale on so if you are looking for some good quality but inexpensive labels for your child's items, check out Stuck On You.

We were sent these items for the purpose of review.

All honest opinions are my own.

What Jack Is Packing For Holiday

2015-06-15T12:15:00.000+01:00

I have mentioned in recent posts that we are going on holiday shortly and whilst I know what I will be taking, packing Jack's stuff is going to be a little harder. Now that he is potty trained throughout the day but not quite there at night, I need to still make sure I have extra clothes plus I need to make sure I've got all the other things that come with having a toddler.

It will be refreshing to take less than we have in previous years - we're taking a very lightweight stroller rather than his pushchair but I doubt he will use it anyway; barely any nappies; no bottles or anything. Our holidays when he was younger used to consist of a really packed car, it will be nice to have a little more room on the drive to the port this time around!

Jack was very lucky as my Mum bought him his very own suitcase when we couldn't find the one he had been using anywhere. Of course, I have now found it - but he will be taking his own little suitcase, this Moshi Monsters suitcase -

It only cost my mum £4 from a local shop so I can't complain at that - it is just the right size for all his needs. It will fit all of his clothes, shoes and any accessories (I will have the nappies, wipes, first aid stuff etc) and he can have it in the footwell if he wants.

On the drive down there, I am likely to be reading on my Kindle and he is likely to be using our iPad mini although we are considering buying him his very own Fire HD 6 Kids Edition as it comes with a kid proof case, easy to use parental controls and a number of other functions when its released on the 18th. Our iPad mini has taken a battering from Jack but he likes to watch films or play games on it when travelling so maybe investing in a cheap tablet of his own is the way to go.

I never normally mention the clothes he is taking in these types of posts but we did pick up some super cute items from Tesco the other day which I think deserve a mention:

We couldn't resist this Spiderman snapback cap to go with his Spiderman sunglasses that we picked up from Sainsbury's, Jack loves minions so this vest was the perfect pick for him for the beach. We also picked up these fish print swim shorts. We also couldn't resist these octopus jelly sandals for the beach.

We also plan on taking some headphones so he can listen to his movie in the car in peace, the obvious necessities such as sun cream and a first aid kit - and perhaps a couple of small toys too. We still aren't sure.

What do your children pack for holiday?

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