However, it’s been relentlessly wet and rather dark… so to see the blue sky and some sun out amidst the wind and cold as I write is rather lovely.

Forgive me for my less frequent and chatty blogs of late… too many tabs open on the computer (my head!!) and I’m just trying to stay afloat. I know from all your wonderful comments here and on my Instagram and Twitter feeds that you are the kindest of souls and that so many of us are juggling loads.

It’s important therefore to stop and recognise that ‘this is a moment of difficulty’ and knowing others are also experiencing a less than easy time does actually keep perspective.

My Compassion course, which is stage 2 of the Mindfulness Association, is providing an outlet. It’s hard as you look inwards – and crikey there’s a lot in there – that one has to sit with and work through, but I love doing it and I feel this is a year of exploration and development.

Family life is full on here. Maddie forgot her phone this morning and when Dan kindly drove to catch her up on her commute I spotted Joe’s phone on the stairs! What on earth… now that shows there’s some other minds in the house that are also rather too full.

Madds is panicking about her GCSE’s. Dance Practical and Art have become a little overwhelming for her; there’s SO much to do and thank heavens I was able to extract that information from her, so tonight we can calmly look at where she’s up to and I hope I can help.

‘Extracting information’ is actually quite a pertinent phrase at the moment, as I feel it’s all being sucked out of us regarding Tom and his next steps… a challenging time with meeting after meeting and people spending a mere moment in time with us and basing decisions about his future on their findings – bearing in mind he has good days and bad days and so much can also depend on his mood as to what he says and does. I feel fearful, frustrated and uncertain.

Add into to the mix a difficult time for my middle one and the boat feels decidedly rocky. BUT… we talk, we do, we love and we will crack on and navigate into smoother waters. I am certain.

I posted this on my social media page as it really felt appropriate and SO made me laugh…

One piece of advice I’ve been given is to get outside, re-tune with nature, re-balance and renewing. I mean, just look at the genius that is Mother Nature happening quietly, silently and constantly right under our noses.

This hibernation period of winter should maybe teach us a lesson that we too need to stop, re-charge and then, like the little new shoots I’m spotting all around, we too will surge forth with our equivalent ‘new shoots’.

I was beyond fortunate to visit my two happy places last week and breathed in the beauty of the Dales, and then at the end of the week I absorbed the sea air in Suffolk.

It was a flying visit to both, but a visit nonetheless and a morning walk on the beach set me up for the day, that’s for sure. I want to be there NOW… but work is calling !

All this getting-out-more that I have every intention of doing will please my boy Gus immensely. What Labrador wouldn’t look hopeful when that’s suggested!

Correct attire that’s warm and appropriate is needed, so I have been having a sort-out and now have a bag of coats from us all, including footwear to pass on to the local shelter, who do an incredible job in feeding and clothing the people who need it in our area.

A cleanse and a purge can also make a nice little space for some newness!! So a road test of Emu’s by is always a pleasure !

I know Sarah Booker always puts the boots through their paces, as you can see here. More often than not, she too is on a beach near her home.

Beaches are not required in order to own these beauties coming up as this Friday’s TSV (178509).

They are warm, cosy (as we are due some cold aren’t we?) and brilliantly constructed and stylish to boot… see what I did there!? Where on earth do some of these phrases originate from?at a fabulous price. They will look amazing striding out on pavements, flagstones, fields, cobbles and tarmac any-flippin-where !!!!

Oh, hold on… here you go:

The idiom to boot, meaning in addition or besides, has nothing to do with footwear. This sense of boot is left over from the Old English bot

And Middle English bote, where the word meant an advantage or something included in a bargain, and the phrase to boot has been in common usage since the time of Old English “to bote”

Incidentally, is it just me or when you copy and paste, do you hold your finger in the air thinking ‘I mustn’t touch anything else till I’ve pasted as it’s magically suspended in my finger..?!’

So, a new month is looming, so new Pick of the Month’s for Gardening and Beauty will be yours on QVC with zero P&P.

And the Big Deals are a superb selection and the fabulous brands on offer from Sunday midnight for a whole week are Laura Geller, Kim & Co, Vionic and Skullcandy.

There’s still a couple of days left for this weeks offers, don’t forget!

My latest QVC buy that gave me a smile and a little buzz is right here from Joules:

The prints is so happy, sunny and putting a great message out there – and it’s felt the love on my Instagram! Beee yourself, save the BEES, BEEEautiful and possibly my favourite: BooBEES!!

I think my Queen Bee print may buzz off and sell out soon, but it’s also available featuring other gorgeous animals, too!

Oh, and on another note: who even knew Calligraphy was soooo tricky??!! I so enjoyed my workshop experience alongside my sister in law but was surprised at how hard it was!

I assumed I’d be quite good at it (never assume, it makes an ass out of you and me!)… thank you to the dearly missed Jill Goldsmith for that ‘oft said phrase!

Oh, and I admit I was a tad disappointed to be called Claire as it just didn’t look swirly and wooshy enough… I was given the ink and the nib to practice with, so be warned, you may get a handwritten calligraphic blog next (if there ever were such a thing).

Huge love to you all and I’ll tell you as I’m telling myself…. ‘WE’VE GOT THIS!’

See you on QVC soon.

Claire xxxx

The post We’ve got this! appeared first on QCommunity.

New Year… same old rubbish carried around in mine!!!

Never ceases to amuse me and yes I think I’ve blogged similarly before, but it’s ‘Handbag Challenge’ once again! So hold your breath!

But, before I begin, Happy New Year to you all. I do hope it’s been lovely so far. Perhaps not the best choice of words for January – hopefully it’s all normal and unspoiled by things.

If not that, then hopefully you are coping with this wet month. I have to say, I have seen some fabulously inspiring, lovely, lovely things floating around on social media regarding ‘Canuary’ and obviously loads about Veganuary, neither of which I can profess to doing. I’m on the hunker down and Getthroughuary!!! How about you?

Nothing dramatic, but I hasten to add just a feeling of far too many tabs open (like a computer ) and just like the computer, I feel I’m going slow.

And my inability to exercise after this walloping virus/flu malarkey probably hasn’t helped the general mood, but I have a day in my diary marked to DO NOTHING! It’s when I turn the page, so that’ll be smashing! Of course I’ll do something, it’s just right now there are no ‘absolute must-have to do’ stuff!

Now, back to my handbag chatter… release breath!

Here’s MY current extra load of stuff I’m carting around… it does make me laugh…

• Wallet
• Tangle Teezer
• Nail varnishes, all Nails Inc
• Lemon oil
• Glasses case
• Reading glasses… not in the case!
• Fridge magnets
• Car parking permit for QVC
• Tape measure
• Earphones
• Charger, minus it’s wires, so pointless carrying around!
• Set of keys
• Benefit mascara
• L’occitane hand cream
• Bag of fabric for colour matching
• Chewing gums… NOT in packet… nice !
• Pain relief tablets
• Migraine tablet doses
• Pairs of earrings (QVC product… does that count as stealing?! at least I’ve found them!!)
• Pens
• Packet of tissues
• Roller clip
• Silver bag of girlie bits plus
• Hairbands
• La Tweez tweezers
• Spare daith piercing in case mine comes out
• Bareminerals lippies
• Throat sweets
• A handful of loose vitamins
• … and 7p… I’M RICH !

Now, clearly that is not all needed and will not be transferred into this sleek and delightful cross-body bag of dreams. With its padded chevrons and immaculate stitching.

It’s a moment to cherish the filling carefully of the new best friend… may I introduce Clara from Ashwood.

It’s not quite Claire… but close enough for me to feel she’s me!!

She projects a well turned out exterior …

She stands on her own…

She’s medium sized! And she’s all about the detail.

She’s rather glam, bright and vivacious or calm and gentle… yup, I can be both.

… she’s me in a handbag !!

Clara will be coming to your screens in all her glory, for TODAY’S TSV. I for one will be super happily showing her off.

Huge love, and I’ll be back with a proper catch up – as soon as I can close some other tabs!!!

Claire xxxx

The post Today’s Ashwood TSV and what’s in my handbag…? appeared first on QCommunity.

No, me neither… but now I have, and now I wanna know more! I went on a course to find out more and it turns out I’m a Generator. It’s my job to have fun, to show others and to enjoy life.

When we live to our natural ‘designs’, then we are satisfied, but when we are not listening to our gut… frustration kicks in. As a pure Generator, my strong instinct is the “hell, yeah!” versus “no!!!”. I’m finding I’m so much more open to all the marvelous things I’m coming across and eager to learn more, so that’s on my ‘to investigate further’ list.

This coming week I shall have a Cranial appointment, an Amatsu treatment and a nail appointment. It’s all about me… and that’s a good thing (or so I keep being told!), particularly when some days or nights are not my own. Tonight was an ‘in, out, in, out shake it all about’ kind of taxi service for everyone, whilst Dan has done an extra days work effectively this evening in the loft, which is still blummin’ well going on.

I am now so desperate for a new rug in the hall as it’s beyond grubby. It’s making me even more relieved that we wrapped the stairs in a sticky cling film protective thing – three lots of it now as it’s gone on and on, but hopefully we are closer now as there is a lot of activity happening up there in the next few days.

I’m trying to book into some good stuff for us all to look forward to, so I’ve just bought tickets for Tina the Musical, which I hope everyone will love.

Although, I think the jury is still out on that one. It’s interesting, isn’t it… weekends come and go, and when it’s finally here there’s an empty one, and when I have plans to fill it with fabulous things, suddenly I hear: “Oh, I was planning to do/go to (insert any excuse you can think of!), at what stage do our offspring tell and not ask I wonder?

Anyway, as much as I’d always hope to accommodate the children’s needs and wants, on this occasion I’m standing my ground… so, it’s Tina the Musical and dinner afterwards…

Maddie and I had a lovely day in London together, just the two of us. We had a rather pink afternoon tea at EL&N, which is a very sweet floral cafe, and a tiny wander around the shops. Neither of us are typical shoppers in the physical sense… I think we both prefer a more comfortable experience!

I was actually quite relieved I had let the boys off the hook as it would not have floated their boats, for sure! Just a little (a lot) too pink!

So what newness and fresh things are in our world of QVC… well, I came home from QVC with such a BRILLIANT little gadget by LifePrint (519931), which will be one of next week’s Big Deals…

The package was ripped open in a millisecond by Maddie, who was very excited and impatiently waiting for it to charge. It’s a Bluetooth printer which prints all your pictures straight from your phone. So you can print Snapchats, Instagram pictures and even videos that move like magic before your eyes… the works!

They’re so cute, we had fun printing things out, especially as Maddie has started to cover one of her walls in pictures and photos etc. with no space between. It looks amazing , especially as she’s doing it tonally, so she printed a few of these little beauties from our lovely day out together…

Here are a few other things I’ve been loving this week…

What I’ve been wearing this week:
Jumpers! I’m not hot-flushing, so woohoo the jumpers are out! Which reminds me, there is an offer for online Fashion purchases of an extra 15% off if you pop the code FASH15 in the checkout. You’ll get an extra 15% off full-priced items (Easy Pay interest-free instalments are not valid with the deal, so weigh up which you’d prefer… money off, I reckon!)

What I’ve been eating:
Vegetables! My new local delivery services is working well.

What I’ve been feeling:
Sad/happy. Don’t panic! That’s normal life, right?!

What I’ve been buying from QVC:
The silk pillow and eye mask gift set from Beauty Sleep, boots… to mention just a few.

I still want the blue Rino & Pelle faux fur coat but Dan may divorce me!!! (Ok, so update…I did buy it!!! Willpower: zero… ‘twas only left in size 14 but I fancied it looking a little oversized, so I shall assess once it’s mine!).

I just told Jackie Kabler, and it seems she has it too!!!! What is it about coats at the moment .. I also fell in love with one in Liberty when Maddie and I had our day in London together…

What I’ve been putting on the old visage:
I’m properly trialing the GloPro. I’m also using Alpah-H on alternate nights and of course my faithful Elemis, Decleor and Liz Earle. Remember all beauty currently has a reduced P&P of £1.95!

Hair:
I’m due a colour root and refresh… cripes, the brunette I once was has disappeared for sure, I wonder what my percentage of grey is!

I am getting more and more adept and proficient and most importantly speedy with my Dyson Airwrap these days. It’s a more casual curl I can achieve and I probably nail it in 12 minutes I think now.I was pleased to see we currently have it in stock with FOUR interest-free instalments and no P&P to boot!

Oh, and I cannot and would not ever be without Elasticizer. I know, I know, it’s often mentioned on my blog, but I love it and so do many of you. So, just a heads up it has six interest-free instalments on it, so a perfect time to try with just £1.95 P&P for the huge litre size!

And make-up wise:
I’ve been reminded to bronze following a lovely Benefit show with Lisa Potter Dixon, where she discussed the power of it. Not forgetting blush, which I would never go without, but it’s so true, bronzer can really waken you up.

As can this weather! It really wakens you up when it’s frosty and cold, but sunny and dry? Now that’s a perfect day for a walk… I hope you are able to get out and enjoy the fabulous days when they are here (so much nicer than the rain-sodden ones we get sometimes).

I wonder if it will it be a white Christmas? Whatever the colour, white, grey or otherwise, we can certainly have warm dry tootsies whatever the weather, as Emu on Friday will be our Today’s Special Value launching at 9pm Thursday and all day Friday.

The super offer is for a fabulous pair of hiking style boots from Emu called the Explorer Biricet lace-up boots. Stylish, cosy and warm, they’re perfect for whatever the weather throws at us!

Right , I must get away, there’s a vast amount of ‘office stuff’ to wade through and it will not wait… end of year and all that…

Lots of love for now,

Claire xx

The post Mother-daughter day out and so many fab offers! appeared first on QCommunity.

I started so well but then with all the stresses of being the organiser and having a pub rather lacking in service meant I failed at the last hurdle in forgetting the candles and ultimately failing in the photo stakes… mind you, I didn’t see many others of the bunch saying CHEEEEESE!!!

Anyway, Momie was happy and that’s the main thing.

We were able to catch up with my brother who lives in Singapore now but is over for 8 weeks on business all around the globe. Although, don’t you find it hard to chat properly at those kind of do’s? What was lovely was to see my three with their cousins and their other halves all chatting and laughing away.

So… today is technically a day off. I slept like a log and I’ve still not come-to really. So my rambles may be more ramble than usual! I now take a magnesium tablet at bedtime, primarily to keep migraines at bay, but it’s reputedly good for sleep too… so I will continue my ritual!

Off for my nail appointment next and the food shopping. It’s Mother Hubbard stage at home – thank goodness for the chickens still giving me eggs! I’ve started having a veg box delivery, such a lot of fresh fruit and veg and great value too.

Although, Maddie was venting the other day about something or other and yelled at Joe after he’d stolen HER Jaffa cakes… hmmm, I’m sure I bought them! However, her words were: “I’m the one that chooses nice things Joe, if it wasn’t for me getting them with Mummy we’d all just eat flipping cauliflower!”. Note to self: “no cauliflower in the veg box this week!!!!”

Does anyone have any good family recipes? I’m so bored with the usual – remember that Dan is the creative cook in our house and he is so busy with work, plus I’m trying for us all to eat earlier, so cooking is back in my domain… ideas gratefully received…!

I spent an amusing half hour yesterday with Simon. Biagi, we were asked some questions about Christmassy things… all I can say is the moment someone says ‘you’ve got 30 seconds to… that’s it!’ I’m instantly a rabbit in the headlights.

Ask me NOW to name Christmas songs/films etc and they just fall out. I honestly just freeze… luckily Simon suffers from much the same affliction, so if it were indeed a competition, then yes we accept our dismal last place I’m sure!! Coming to my social media account soon I believe, unless we can wipe the tape!!!

I will be mostly spending time connecting with my friends on my days off this week. There is much sadness for so many people close to me and I will be trying to be a support wherever and whenever I can be. Sometimes I have so many good intentions but then haven’t put them into action, so I will be trying to do less thinking and more doing.

Talking of support, I saw a post about an amazing local charity who feed and clothe so many people who are living on our streets. It is such a terrible situation people can find themselves in and I feel incredibly moved and will be looking at ways to help both physically, and by finding good places for my things that I would normally pass to a charity shop.

That feels a good thing, and also by being more specific about items that may be better given directly to those in need during this dreadfully cold weather. It is heartbreaking to realise so many people are in this situation.

Charity shops or directly passing on is a great start, so it will be a wardrobe cleanse next. I’ve said it a few times now, but Goks analogy during our show of ‘you wouldn’t hold onto ex boyfriends…’ made me laugh so much. It’s not that I have many ex boyfriends but a vision of them lurking in my cupboards really made me laugh!!! So when I can muster it up it will be done!

In the meantime, I am on the hunt for new sweaters, specifically to go with some skirts I have. I love the look of a posh skirt and a sweater… it sounds wrong saying that when I re-read my last paragraph but as we know, it is still important to live and love our lives and be grateful for them and what we have. Grateful I am… but it never does any harm to be reminded.

And who’s ready for the acceleration into Christmas? This is the ‘riding the clutch’ kind of period: the coasting, freewheeling bit… forgetting that it’s going to zoom right up on us. Do you think someone steals some of the days between now and then? That’s the only plausible reason for the monumental skid into Christmas week that never fails to happen!

I’ve been casually grabbing things when I spot them and I must admit to loving the Big Deal offers too. Neom’s three-piece fragrance collection has proven irresistible to me as I personally appreciate the benefits of essential oils. I too need to lift my mood sometimes and help calm myself at other times, so it’s only sensible to share that as a gift with others. The Big Deal ends on a Sunday, so you may get Neom’s trio if there’s any left.

New range of footwear alert! Kenneth Cole, though by the time this blog is up I suspect there may be less available. But… high heels, fabulous ones… boots with ..a PADDED heels and a PADDED underfoot made me thoroughly excited that I have ordered a pair to try them out, as I have had some painful ball moments… do not read anything into that statement!!!

My Christmas choir is in full rehearsal mode, I love it! Two hours of tra-laaa-laaaing… I smile during and after, that’s for sure, as indeed I do with my Tao class. I’m struggling to find my exercising mojo at the moment but will keep trying.

Now, let me tell you about L’Occitane’s seven-piece Bath and Body Luxury Gifting collection Today’s Special Value on Saturday. It’s a biggie and it’s a beauty. The packaging is delightful, the contents huge… and the ‘sift and gift’ opportunities, to coin Alexis’s phrase, are immense.

I adore the Almond Oil Shower Gel, so have been loving the small, very giftable sizes within the Warm option. My skin smells incredible and it feels so soft, almost silk-like.

There are huge sizes of either the Rose, Verbena or the Supersize Shea Shower Oil depending on your choice of the TSV, plus a new limited edition packaging of the fabulous Shea Hand Cream that everyone receives.

And new and currently only new at QVC… drum roll please… Shea Rosemary Liquid Soap in the Floral option, Shea Citrus Liquid Soap in the Fresh option and the Shea Butter Ultra Rich Hand & Body Wash in the Warm option – that’s proof of a great and long-lasting relationship between QVC and L’Occitane, right there.

When I brought it home to trial, the presentation box was pounced on by Maddie asking if she could have it if I was allowed to keep it!

The full details of all you receive are in the Houses (referring to the delightful packaging by the way) are all available, where you can order now for the 9pm pre-launch on Friday, and into Saturday where I shall see you on air at 11am.

We all wash our bodies and hands, so who wouldn’t you like to do it with L’Occitane?! Especially at this brilliant price, so slather that cream on, things are getting cold out there, aren’t they? The sandpaper sound is starting to come from my hands for sure!

I took some Hand Cream and a Neom Candle to a friend who has recently given birth… “it’s as if you knew”, she said. I remember it so well all that constant hand washing around a new born, so was glad I had thought – and DONE – on that occasion.

I so hope you are keeping warm and dry with this relentless weather.

Sending lots of love to you all,

Claire xx

The post A family gathering and a luxurious L’Occitane TSV! appeared first on QCommunity.

Mind you, once you’re out and in it looking around, it’s never as bad as it seems, and by Jove, you feel better for it.

I posted a picture of Dan’s work van on my Instagram and laughed at the messages all saying much the same thing! Chivalrous of him to offer to take me… but they reckon walking in the rain would have been a better and cleaner option!

Talking of laughing, I certainly did that this morning, and goodness it was a nice sound. Okay, so it may get lost in translation, but…

Frankie, one of our super make-up artists, was wondering about the huge box containing separate labelled bags with all our names on that had been left in the corridor of our Presenter area.

“It’s Richard Jackson’s new recipe of bird food,” I told her, “we are taking it home to try.”

“So you all have birds then?” She replied.

I spat my tea out and said “well, we ALL have birds outside don’t we?!”

There followed a discussion about us taking it home to trial it and she then said, somewhat sarcastically, “of course, the birds can tell you they loved it right?!”

“Hmm kind of… just by them eating it and seeing how many come and visit the bird table,” I replied. We were properly laughing at her genuinely thinking we all had a parakeet or cockatiel in a birdcage!

Possibly lost in translation but worth a share nonetheless!

As indeed I will share the response of our fine feathered uncaged connoisseurs in due course.

Now, talking of response, I must tell you that the response to the festive seven-piece Elemis Pro-Collagen Today’s Special Value has been mahoosive.

It is available to order here right now, ahead of the 9pm launch on Saturday 9th November. Keeley Aydin and I have been bursting to tell you all about it, and indeed will be doing a Facebook live chat on Friday 8th at 11am so any questions for Keeyley, fire away and I will ask and as ever her brilliance, knowledge and passion will be contagious.

Oh, and by the way, SUCH a fabulous listen is Inside QVC, our new podcast, hosted by the brilliant Will Gowing. This week’s is such a great and in-depth chat with Oriele Frank, the co-founder of Elemis, and with Keeley. I have just listened in the car and I found out so much about them personally and more about the award winning range. It is fascinating and so worth heading to listen to. Oh, and Jackie Kabler, my dressing room partner in crime, is even more fabulous than I even knew, such a great interview with her too. Never have I enjoyed my car journeys in and out of London as much as I do now with Audible books and fab podcasts to keep me company.

So having been trialing the collection, I am hopelessly in love with how hydrated and soft (incredibly soft) my skin has been having used the exquisite Pro-Collagen Rose Facial Oil under the Pro-Collagen Marine Cream. It’s my first time of trying and it’s definitely the choice for sensitive skin that needs hydration. I can completely understand the difficulties! We have created the solution for you in offering two gorgeous seven-piece options, so much so that for me, ordering both has happened!

The beautiful new Modern Rose fragrance has been a pleasure to experience. I already know and love the Skin Nourishing option, you can find the full contents and sizes etc. on the QVC website as it differs depending on your choice. However, you can be assured of the brilliance of the cleansing balm (I’ve adored the Rose version) reliably yet luxuriantly removing ALL make-up, the toner that compliments the Rose Balm is soothing Apricot, and along with the adaptive Pro-Collagen Marine Cream on top of that facial oil, my skin is feeling and looking, though I say so myself, mighty fine!!

I am a Rose fan anyway, so I’ve hugely enjoyed the femininity of the fragrance in the Bath & Shower Milk, Body Cream and Hand & Nail Balm. It has a smidge of orange and a freshness that is unexpected, it’s a triumph from Elemis there’s no doubt about it.

I intend to gift and split up the sets, the additional gift packaging allows for that and makes it even better value as I can spread it out more between friends and family. Note the word “intend”.

To be honest, the Liz Earle, Elemis and the L’Occitaine offers at this time of year are incomparable, I barely even check the contents. I just know from all my 21 years as a QVC presenter that they are MUST-HAVES. This set is worth £170 at an incredibly accessible price of £49.96 plus just £1.95 P&P (which we LOVE during this festive season) plus it’s available with four interest-free instalment payments of £12.49 if you’d prefer.

There’s some videos on my Instagram if you’d like to see me demoing and chatting… more chatting than demoing, to be fair.

I have to shout out to my friends and give them the heads up, as I am you.

So tap away at the link and enjoy, I certainly have!

The half-term was pretty uneventful, though a lovely family walk in our beautiful countryside is always a joy and I need to remember to stop cleaning, sorting and doing things at home and just BE outside more. The day was beautiful and I loved the naturalness of the pics everyone took, Joe’s T-shirt summed us up perfectly, “Motley Crew”! That walk fed my soul and I will be grateful for it.

We had plenty of extra teens in the house most nights with various sleepovers. I haven’t organised any family getaways as everyone said it would be a time for revision for both Maddie and Joe,  funnily enough I’m still waiting to see some!

This weekend we will all be celebrating my lovely Momie’s Birthday.

I’ve managed to get everyone together, as amazingly my brother Neil is in the UK from Singapore so ALL of her children, grandchildren etc are coming together to celebrate her. I have opted out of catering! So there’s 20 of us all converging for Sunday lunch at a pub midway for everyone. I’ve already got my thinking cap on for next year, as it will be a special birthday celebration for her. How exciting, you know how I love to organise a “do” or two, and my nieces are partial to a bit of party organisation as well so we will chat and make plans, how flipping organised is that.

New hair for Miss Maddie this half term

Before, during and after. Four hours of my Saturday spent waiting as she didn’t want me to leave. Though it was a tit for tat really as she had come into London with me to keep me company earlier in the week when it was my turn. She chickened out of going shorter, though still had a chunk off as I now see in her before picture, having some colour was enough of a change, so sensibly she decided to keep a little more of the length. I think she’s beautiful regardless, but she’s super thrilled with it so that makes me happy.

I realised I honestly have a phobia about hair brushing, especially wet hair, I cannot bear it. What with asking them to apply 3 times more conditioner to my hair than they normally would AND onto the root area even though they’re trained not to, and please don’t rub with the towel or I’ll brush it myself… I must be the worst ever client, I’m surprised they don’t hold my head under the water just to shut me up! I had to bite my tongue, as Maddie would have been furious with me, though I had to look away! Is it just me?

Ok, if she allows me, I shall look forward to sharing Momie’s birthday pics with you all next time. ‘Til then,

Lots of love

Claire xxx

The post Getting my hands on the big Elemis offer! appeared first on QCommunity.

Contenders reaaaaaady!!!

So sorry, I’m now laughing as I type this… I started to tell you all about the fab Liz Earle TSV (hence the dramatic ‘are you ready’) that I’m so lucky to have been able to try out at home. I’m LOVING the gorgeous new edition, but as usual I say one thing and I zoom on a tangent! ‘Are you ready’ was all it took and I zipped straight back into the world of Gladiators, where I was a cheerleader for a the Saturday night TV show.

Oh, the fun we had. The shows were long but for the remainder of the night… let’s say were made to party! With 6am bedtimes, a berocca as a nightcap and the hugest bed to sprawl the aching limbs in. Heaven! It was so punishing, although it looked on the TV as if all we did was wave pom poms around gaily. I’ll have you know the choreography was huge, as was the arena. It was exhausting to say the least, so we too were allowed the masseuses that were brought in for the Gladiators!

I had a nostalgic zip through the filing cabinet of my mind after the loft sort-through, then watching Ulrika Jonson on celebrity First Dates Hotel. She was always such a laugh and wanted to join in with our camaraderie…

So, that was my reason for the wander back in time, I think. Plus, the most beautiful of books called Three Things About Elsie by Joanna Cannon (highly recommend – thank you my lovely Ali Keenan for the tip off). There is such beauty in the writing, such a stunning simple and emotive read. I loved it and I’ll tell you no more, but filtering through the filing cabinets of my mind was certainly a huge part of the book.

Now, FOCUS (she reminds herself!!). Back to the fabulous – and did I say AMAZING – offer from Liz Earle that’s available to pre-order now and officially launching from 9pm on Saturday and all through this Sunday.

Magnificent in price and showcasing the ultimate and multi award-winning skin classics… but with a twist with a new Bergamot & Basil scent that is truly thrilling and feels fresh yet with a warming feel, with herbal and citrus notes so artfully combined. It goes without saying that my skin feels soft, fully cleansed and appears clearer and brighter, but let’s not underestimate the power of our sense of smell and the journeys it will take us on…

The collection features Cleanse and Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser in both the original AND the new Bergamot & Basil scent. It was also a surprise for me that Instant Boost Skin Tonic has also been transformed into Bergamot & Basil. This skin-boosting tonic is a must-have step in your skincare routine – honestly the feeling of extra hydration that your skin receives feels so evident when I use it! I know some people miss this step, but seriously, DON’T!!! You’ll thank me when your skin survives beautifully this season!!

It really is a joy to use the collection, with the Body Cream and Hand Repair have also being Bergamot & Basil-ed!

It makes for such an easy gift to give, so do think about splitting up and gifting to make your money go further. I warn you though, it’ll be a FULL set you will want to keep…!

And to make things even more exciting, all beauty (including this TSV) has a P&P of just £1.95! So, what are you waiting for?

I have done rather a lot of laughing this week… mostly at myself, it has to be said. I took part in a fab course that was run within QVC by a couple of the directors.

After hearing so many people say that they’d love to have a go at presenting, cameras, directing etc. etc. they set up a one-off day to ‘have a go at a different role’ – catchy, huh!? It was a resounding success and with feedback such as: ‘I don’t know how they do it’, to: ‘wow, there’s soooo much you need to do, and all at the same time’. So, it appears that a regular course would be much appreciated!

Well, after a number of years it was decided a presenter should also be let loose… they selected the roles I was going to try (I suspected they might) and all I can say is I’m MORE than happy as a presenter, thank you very much!! We all have our own skill sets don’t we, and I’m delighted I was given the skills that make presenting a joy, because I did not get the skills required to produce or direct!!!

It was impossibly hard, yet one of our floor staff was totally BRILLIANT and was clearly born to produce, so I hope that he can embark on some training and go for it. QVC are a company of opportunities, so I’m sure I’ll have his dulcet tones in my ear in the near future. The course is now more aptly named “A Taste of TV” and certainly provided camaraderie, fun and a whole new view on team work and the recognition of how vital all the roles are within broadcasting that make up our fine team.

My weekend with my gorgeous friend Manda was filled with loads of laughter, too. We chilled and chatted, I lost the plot on more than one occasion – she delighted in taking the mickey out of me having a dramatic moment (generally letting off steam and yelling), whilst marching down the lane (in the rain) in my sparkly and seemingly incongruous trainers from Skechers! Who said you can’t sparkle in the rain?

We drank some wine and generally rebooted one another! Maddie filmed us laughing, I sound like a complete crazy lady but oh, how good it felt! It’s on my phone now and I shall play it at all opportunities to make me smile.

Another highlight this week was a catch up with my lovely friends for Lindsey’s Birthday lunch. Always a million things to discuss as we’ve been entwined in each other’s lives now for sooooo long. We visited the Brasserie at La Goccia, which is such a beautiful setting. In fact, I was so surprised by Covent Garden as it seems hugely different. So spacious and upmarket as ever. I think Dan and I need to get out and enjoy London a little more, once work slows down…. ha! ‘You’ve got Bob hope and no hope’! It IS a good thing to be so busy, it’s just hard-going for Dan at the moment.

I shall be at QVC this weekend ‘In the Garden’ and with Skechers, who have a super special value on Saturday for these gorgeous boots (178610).

They’re perfect for this season and yes, probably more weather appropriate than my sparkly pair!!

On Sunday I shall love presenting with Simon Wilson from Butler & Wilson and Julien Macdonald .. is it me or is it actually feeling just a little festive… shh! Strike me down… but maybe just a smidgen!

As ever, I wish I had super powers and could press the pause button for everyone and everything around me, and just gain a little free time to catch my tail!

What would your super power be…????

Loads of love

Claire xxx

The post Are you ready…? A fabulously fragranced Liz Earle TSV! appeared first on QCommunity.

I was even more grateful to have my mindful sit this Saturday morning. It was simply lovely – a dedicated practice that is so helpful. I’d been feeling quite super-duper and able to stay in control – and then boom – I had awoken that morning and felt wrong… a precursor perhaps to the rubbish mess of a headache, weariness and an all-night long hideous upset tummy that followed.

So, today I feel a tad fragile and am nurturing myself!

Although, I did have a lovely weekend around all of that. Our best man returned home to visit with his gorgeous family. We luckily grabbed some time with them and had a bonus of a traditional pub gathering.

I think Murph’s American wife Summer thinks we have accordions and 12 musicians playing folk music every weekend in England! She was absolutely thrilled that it was a true quintessential English experience for her. It was also a joy for us to be able to hang out with Dan’s oldest friend from Primary school, who is now Toms much-loved Godfather.

Birthdays have happened, too, as QVC turned 26 and my Joe’s 17th all happened at the start of the month. I did a mention on Instagram but appreciate not all of you see that. We had a meal out with his girlfriend and his ‘boys’ which was great fun, rather crazy and felt a privilege to be a part of…

Happy Birthday, my gorgeous boy.

The loft, yes… it is still occurring but now has a store room. So, incredibly we seem to have managed to condense our entire loft space into it. I have spent many hours going through the entire contents of the children’s school years, where every single book they had ever used and every picture drawn had been saved.

The classic line of: ‘just put the bags up in the loft, we will sort through them later’ was always uttered at the end of each school year and it appears NOW is ‘later’!

Luckily, I had written dates on most of them and named them… ooh get me, I even impressed myself.

I decided to photograph them and keep just the odd original, super special, precious ones. A crate for each child to fill with their special memories and keepsakes…

I just need to reorganise mine: old photos, diaries, love letters… they all need tidying through and I’m looking forward to it, as so many memories are triggered! I’ll see if anything will be appropriate to feature in my next blog!!

I saw a fabulous suggestion the other day which I wanted to pass on to all new parents, as I think it would be a wonderful idea. When the baby is born, set up an email account in their name and send all precious things to it over the years. Then, at 18-years-old, they will have some incredible memories archived.

Its all going on at QVC, too. I think there is so much that is fabulous and a real feeling of freshness and newness around.

I had a lovely time trying on some of the fashions that caught my eye and while it always takes me to the last possible moment to say ‘hi Autumn, I’m happy to see you’, these delights help a lot and now I actually am delighted!

This check coat from Helene Berman is fab, I love it with the preppy vibe of my gold pumps from Bronx.

I just couldn’t resist buying this purple faux fur jacket from Rino & Pelle. There is a beautiful navy choice but it was love at first sight for this purple shade.

It brought to mind this fabulous poem by Jenny Joseph:

When I am an old woman I shall wear purple

With a red hat which doesn’t go, and doesn’t suit me.

And I shall spend my pension on brandy and summer gloves

And satin sandals, and say we’ve no money for butter.

I shall sit down on the pavement when I’m tired

And gobble up samples in shops and press alarm bells

And run my stick along the public railings

And make up for the sobriety of my youth.

I shall go out in my slippers in the rain

And pick flowers in other people’s gardens

And learn to spit.

You can wear terrible shirts and grow more fat

And eat three pounds of sausages at a go

Or only bread and pickle for a week

And hoard pens and pencils and beermats and things in boxes.

But now we must have clothes that keep us dry

And pay our rent and not swear in the street

And set a good example for the children.

We must have friends to dinner and read the papers.

But maybe I ought to practice a little now?

So people who know me are not too shocked and surprised

When suddenly I am old, and start to wear purple.

The softness and comfort of this Louisa Conti animal-print sweater in zingy lime is fab and so comfy. I’m wearing it as I write, as like I said, I need nurturing! I wear the the M size and I’m a 12.

I received lots of lovely compliments when I teamed the Ruth Langsford faux leather jacket in Cappuccino with the Kim & Co skirt, along with this motif T-shirt – again by Louisa Conti.

A sort out of my wardrobes is now definitely required. A tidy up of skincare is next on my list !

At QVC, it’s treats galore. It is full on keeping abreast of every fabulous thing to tell you…

First up, it’s the extension to our 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee – taking you from now until January 25th for any Christmas gifts you are buying. Helping us shop carefully, thoughtfully and sensibly, enabling the December month to be a pleasure and not a stress!

The £1.95 p&p charge for beauty is also now well and truly up and running. Do watch out for the amazing offers we have on TSV days – but if truth be told, all days on-air and online have super things to grab! All the big beauty brands, like Liz Earle (heads up coming soon…) will have their big Christmas treats for you.

Talking of offers and treats, imagine having an advent calendar equivalent of offers but not having to wait until December to start…? That’s what’s happening at QVC, with our Festive Finds. Check in daily to see what the offer is, from money off codes, offers on an item, a brand etc, etc. It’s everyday, I tell you!

We will do our utmost to keep you updated on-air but my advice is to make a habit of checking in 9pm daily to see what’s what! Oh, and I can tell you that all this month, all Skechers products are on three interest-free instalments…

And breathe!!!

If you haven’t already, tune in to listen to QVC’s new podcast! Nicky Gewirtz MBE is featuring in the latest episode, and the wonderful Will Gowing is in charge! It’s called Inside QVC and you can click here to listen!

It’s so lovely to listen along as you clean, walk the dog, or – as I do – drive home. It’s sooo much nicer to sit in traffic with Will and Ruth Langsford, who did the first episode and Alison Cork. Jackie Kabler’s latest recommendation of the audio-book Blood Orange is also going down a treat too.

Right, I have to have a snooze before I head back to tackle more in the loft! I will SO look forward to seeing you on-air. Until then, don’t forget Instagram and Twitter can keep us in touch.

Have a splendid week.

Huge love,

Claire

The post My style picks, Joe’s birthday and QVC’s brand new podcast! appeared first on QCommunity.

After a gorgeous family holiday, I’m realising that, crikey, it’s September and it’s gonna be ‘go, go, go’ the moment we touchdown (it’s now four days since I started to write this… forgive me as I pick up where I left off!).

Madds has asked for the taxi home to drop her off directly to a party… Joe too is straight out… I guess the fact we had them en masse with us for 10 days was quite a feat and an achievement! So it’s just Tom, Dan and I prepping for the realities of ‘back to it’: me with an early start (now that will be a shock!) and Dan with a mountain of work to catch up on.

Tom is quite delighted to be getting back to a routine, and some cooler weather! He’s definitely not made for heat and has struggled in the cities of Barcelona and Seville… our days were punctuated with multiple drink and food stops.

We had a midway haetus at my brothers place for a few days, where I moved from pool to sun bed and back again in a finely-tuned choreographed routine! This allowed my poor feet to recover after the 1000’s of steps in the punishing heat.

We walked so much and I so wished for Sketchers. I really did, as all my shoes rubbed my feet raw… bless Madds, she lent me her trainers, thank goodness! So, my Seville experience was rather improved.

Blisters and midge bites… us girls’ daily tot up. Why the girls? Any thoughts? No boys were bitten on this trip, I tell you. It’ll be the hormones, I tell you. Hormones are MASSIVE, are they not?!

I have loved the freedom of wafting around semi-clad. The speedy get-ready, when all you need is a waft of makeup here and there. To be able to say that you’ll be ready in two minutes and still have seconds to spare; to leave the hair as is, fresh from the shower in a bun, a plait or a ‘scrumfle’ of sorts (a messy side blob!). I’ve loved it, it’s so freeing…

Back to normal service in a matter of hours now, though. With my ‘on-air ready’ face and hair.

So, Barcelona versus Seville… for us it was hands down Seville. The food, the quaintness of the culture… we loved it. Our hotel was gorgeous, super traditional in style, with a divine collection of courtyards. And the spectacular air-con, of course. Such a treat after the heat of the city.

One of my heart swelling moments was this:

You’ll notice these are clearly on different days. I just loved seeing the other two recognise him struggling. Sometimes I must admit that having a slow 18-year-old attached to you can be testing at times, particularly when it’s hot. You are blister-making at the rate of knots and let’s not mention the inner thighs connecting… crikey, that seriously HURTS!

I snapped these beautiful moments of sibling love. On a grey day that will cheer me no end.

Ok, so now it’s Friday and I will continue where I left off.

It was a delight to be back on-air last Tuesday with you, less of a delight to be in my bed on Wednesday struck down by a migraine. After my Daith piercing in November which had seemingly done the trick. It seems those dragged hormones are refusing to play ball – that and dehydration, I reckon.

Though interestingly the pain was in a different part of my head: the back and neck as oppose to the front. So I’m now wondering if I had the other ear pierced, would that help?

I’m researching supplements, tracking my hormones (there is a pattern I think), so let’s hope I can find an answer. Rest assured, I will share all.

I have just posted this photo of my fresh naked face on Instagram:

Obviously the gentle glow of a tan does wonders, but seemingly the fresh-faced look is appreciated. It is sooo much easier to go bare, so-to-speak, in the summer, isn’t it?

I thought I’d share my current skincare routine and my holiday make-up choices, just in case you are interested…

For skin care, I’ve been cleansing with Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm (a Beauty Award winner once again!), then applying the Elemis Superfood AHA Glow Booster. I love it but I was so disappointed when I failed to screw the lid on thoroughly, so my make-up bag got more benefit than my face… grrrrrrr.

Then I use Alpha-H Absolute Eye Complex, followed by Isle of Paradise Glow Happy Gradual Face Self-Tan – I’m totally obsessed with this whisper of a glow serum.

I’m also loving Liz Earle’s Natural Neroli Superskin Moisturiser for fool-proof and necessary hydration! After fifteen minutes I then top it off with the Decleor Green Mandarine Sun Kissed Cream – new to me and part of a trio that I am loving. I’m also adding little extras along the way if I’m near my cupboard. A girl can’t have too much hydration, after all.

After a sunny summer, our hair needs hydration just as much, so let’s all vow to use our Philip Kingsley Elasticizer more regularly in order to help with the everyday cleanse.

For Today’s Special Value we have a fabulous three-piece Rose & Lychee Supersize Collection with the amazing and skin-balancing Elasticizer in a luscious rose and lychee fragrance, to make the ordinary a joy! You get the same Elasticizer, so no excuses but to make it a new habit. You’ll thank me for it!

Thank you soooo much Philip Kingsley and QVC for also including the ordinary must-haves of shampoo and conditioner in the collection, with the litre sizes of the much-loved and best selling Body Building Shampoo and Moisture Balancing Conditioner.

Talking of hydration, having recognised I lack it with the result of a migraine, I have drunk so much water these last few days, I may pop. It’s so irritating constantly having to go to the loo, but there’s something super gratifying about all those toxins that I’m eliminating that I’m sure I’ll get used to the loo stops. I just look about 5 months pregnant! It would be a water baby… ah, I did love reading the Water Babies by the Reverend Charles Kingsley!

Now, my make-up on holiday consisted of Gatineau Eye Contour Cream and a smidge of Benefit Gimme Brow and Hoola California, Mally Eyeliner and my Tarte eye palette just to soften down the liner.

I also brought alomg some Bareminerals, I either used the punch of Barepro Longwear Lipstick or the gentle Gen Nude shades and boom, pretty much a two-minute make-up routine. I think the lashes take the longest time!

So, September has begun and my three are back in the swing of sixth form, year 11 and college for Tom. I feel it’s going to be a tumultuous year for Tom and heads down for Maddie and Joe. Provisional Driving license has also been applied for (OMG), as Joe turns 17 in a few weeks. How can this be happening?

There is a definite nip in the air now, regardless of sunshine. But I’ll hang onto colour and summer. Well, until I look like a complete idiot and then I’ll slide gracefully into Autumn! That being said, I’m already peeking into the website and admiring/ordering some autumn fashions! We have some great boots coming up from Marc Fisher (178715) on Friday.

As we move into a new season there is less washing on the line and more draped around the home… luckily a Lakeland heated airier (806444) is coming at the weekend. To continue the hydration theme, watch out for the TSV on Sunday 15th September with Elemis 4 Piece Pro-Collagen Skincare Secrets on a great offer.

Now that holiday season is done, I’ll be back to speed with you and look forward to chatting back with you here and on my Instagram and Twitter pages.

Lots of love,

Claire xxx

The post Family holiday and Today’s Special Value! appeared first on QCommunity.

We paid visits to Bolton Abbey, Yockenthwaite, Skipton and Ilkley with a mix of good old sunshine and showers, meaning the sun showed off the beauty of the Dales perfectly. I captured some lovely and relaxed off-duty photos of everyone, most of which I’m not allowed to share here – that’s teens for you!

I also enjoyed a lovely meal cooked by the three of them (tidied up afterwards by Dan and I, no surprise there!).

It really was a highlight and actually very well done, including the retro but always well-delivered prawn cocktail as a starter, nachos for the main (a firm family favourite… go large on the jalepenos). And to finish it off, made from scratch and loaded with calories (“do we add the cream to the Philadelphia?”)… strawberry cheesecake!

It transpires that Maddie is the boss in the kitchen – no surprise there! But there was remarkably little falling out… but I won’t hold my breath waiting for the next time.

But it was fab. A big thank you to my trio, as these holidays I honestly seem to be cooking for five, which turns into a meal for eight, or leaving meals under plates and then reheating them when they don’t arrive home! It’s all-go but as long as I know where they are at any given opportunity, then I’m fine.

While we were away Dan also had to manage his boys and the various jobs he had on. Although, we definitely monitored the discreet disappearance moments! Those generally signaled conversations to Ecuador as Joe’s girlfriend is currently away.

Whilst I would have have liked a screen embargo when we were away, we did allow it. For Dan and I too, to be fair. But I loved the easy chatter on occasions and the bursts of laughter and the shared family teasing. It always makes my heart sing and I love to sit back and observe their relationships. Ever changing, they are typically sibling-like but anchored with deep-rooted love. That I LOVE to see.

We are awaiting GCSE results at the moment. I just hope Joe will get what is needed for his chosen subjects at sixth form. I felt a real shift on social media this week as A-level results were released. It felt more private – less about what the results and grades were and more the general feeling of ‘phew’… and then onto the next stage of life both for the child and the parent.

I am always so very delighted when I see the posts of Tom’s peers. The passing of the driving tests, the off-to-university pictures… but I must admit that I sometimes get a weeny pang and my heart trembles a tiny bit….

But, today in the post arrived Tom’s certificates from college… a very big deal that signifies a year of development and learning and a step towards his sparkling future.

Oh, and by the way we have a date in September to visit Foxes, the specialist college in Somerset that we are determined Tom will attend… somehow! He will be assessed for suitability, then the battle for provision will commence! My biggest battle to date I feel. Contenders, READY…. (a lá Gladiators!!)

As Tom is a young man now, I recognise we have walked the path already that so many are setting out on. What particularly resonated with me this week was a post from a mother who’s young son, also with Downs Syndrome, is due to start mainstream secondary school in September.

It took me back in a split-second to my own fears when Tom was moving on… so I sent her a little video to hopefully lesson her worries. It was of Tom receiving his award for ‘Most Inspiring Student’ on the very last day of his school career.

I also sent a little gem that I came across of Tom and I doing some history homework together! He still remembers the facts, although I’m really not sure that he will be needing them in later life!

So, to ALL parents whose child (with additional needs or not) moves up to ‘big school’: have faith, stay strong and I truly hope your experience mirrors ours.

I did laugh whilst we were away, as so many times I was top-to-toe in QVC – from my shoes to my accessories. I wore a Live Unlimited dress which have such fab colours, as well as Ophia earrings.

A blooming perfect (accidental) match! Are you a matchy-match or clashy-clash kinda girl? I’m both, but was secretly rather thrilled when these babies coordinated! And then I wore my Derhy dress, Baukjen jacket and yup, you guessed it, Ophia earrings with my Aimee Kestenberg bag.

Oh, and we even sell FitFlop at QVC now! Cripes-alive I may even bleed QVC if you cut me!!! Hardly surprising really after 21-years.

The other morning when I came downstairs to find a note left from Maddie reading: ‘pretty please may I borrow your (new) Baukjen jacket…’ my response to her was, in fact, a yes. But with a ‘please be very, very careful. It is new AND expensive, so look after it’. Provisio!

So, how’s your summer been? I know we momentarily had some crazy heat, but really I feel a little cheated. Is it just me? I really don’t feel we have sat outside enough, or had friends over enough, or cranked-up the pizza oven, chilled in the new ‘Love Shack’… is it a sign of the times? Are we too busy being busy or didn’t I pay enough attention? We have been busy that’s for sure, but who isn’t?

That said, I’m currently preparing for our trip to Barcelona. I have one child who packs weeks ahead given half a chance – Tom totally loves a trip away and always wants to keep his Kipling red suitcase out in his bedroom for next time.

Then I have another child who would leave the house without anything if left him to his own devices. But Madds is our super organised Queen of packing, who is loving the Z-pac set, especially as we will be moving around Spain a lot and I don’t want to be rifling through the entire case at each stop.

My hope (…ha ha!) is to reach for a Z-pac and say: “this is ALL you’ll need for the next couple of days?”. We shall see if I manage to be that efficient!! I also need to make sure I have my J Pillow on-hand, especially as we are driving from Barcelona and then ultimately to Seville for our last few days. I always nod-off in the car and have a giraffe neck, so end up so uncomfortable!

My biggest issue when packing is not knowing my mood, so I want to take ‘this and this and this…’ etc, etc. I need to remember I don’t need sooo much, alhough I do like a little outfit, it must be said…

I had such a funny moment at QVC this week when I sat quietly after a Deciem. The lovely Gill Gauntlet was taking a photo for me, when suddenly a voice said: “looking lovely Clairey”. I totally jumped out of my skin – the mirror has a camera inside it! Very freaky and very Big Brother I thought… I shall be very wary next time I look in the mirror, that’s for sure.

Lulu’s Time Bomb has a fab offer for you on Tuesday 20th August, with a fabulous five-piece Glowing Skincare Collection. This means you have brilliant value, of course.

It will come with the launch of the very new and very gorgeous Show-Off Shimmer Lotion, which leaves your skin looking so pretty. Weird how moisture – and a subtle fairy-like sparkle waving its magic over you – can really make skin look better… a bit of love goes a long, long way!

I had been struggling with my body-care after the hot flushes started, but this lotion is light and quickly absorbed to be shown-off in the daytime with its lovely shimmer. It’s been a pleasure trying it out. Also included in the set are the Supersizing Glory Days day cream, which is a 4-in-one moisturiser, along with the award-winning neck and decollete cream Trouble Shooter.

Plus, the superb Bomb Complexion B12 Cocktail (very easy to add in to your skincare, with no feeling of overloading). This amazing product helps you face the world plumper-looking and more revived. It’s funny how we are happy to throw ‘plumper’ into the equation when it comes to our skin, isn’t it!? Smart Balm Eye Cream then completes the fab five-piece collection.

Don’t forget the pre-launch at 9pm on Wednesday 19th August ahead of the midnight launch. It is without-a-doubt a popular slot, with huge numbers of you ordering them It’s nice to get sorted, isn’t it?

I’ve already had lots of questions about the Lola Rose duo of bracelets I’ve been wearing. They are one of our Big Deals on QVC, so are available for a week from midnight Sunday 25th September at a fabulous price.

There are some great colour choices, so choose yours swiftly and they’ll make lovely gifts. I went for the blues, not that I’m feeling it… it just happens to match so many things I’ve been wearing. I notice and I’m not usually a blue girl!

The other Big Deals to look out for this week are from Gatineau, Waterpik and the Amazon Echo Dot, available as a single or double-pack.

Now, I posted this picture on my Instagram of my gorgeous new (bought in a millisecond) gold sign. It was so super reading everyone’s responses, so I’m leaving it right here with the words…

Where’s yours…?

Loads of love

Claire xx

The post Happy places, family fun and upcoming offers appeared first on QCommunity.

Actually, its not crazy – I think it’s rather normal! Certainly with the advent of mobile phones, we all look as if we are doing it. Although, I remember when I was younger I used to walk to the bus stop chatting away to myself (I obviously had a inkling my career was going to involve a lot of conversation and I needed to practice). I would start conversations with pretend people and I would practice speeches! All well and good until you realise someone is watching you.

Even in the early days of mobiles, sitting in your car talking to yourself was a tad embarrassing, wasn’t it..? Luckily now we’re all at it and sometimes it can actually be most productive. I remember writing my speech for my wedding and going over it in the car and I couldn’t do it without tears. And guess what on the day… yup, it was exactly the same. It doesn’t seem that far away, yet Dan and I will be celebrating our 20 year anniversary soon.

Today I had yet another ‘oops’ Claire moment as I arrived at work two hours early. Hmm, note to self: always check the schedule before you head to bed (which I usually always do). Thank goodness I was early and not two hours late! I’m rather partial to muddle ups at the moment, aren’t I…

Now, let’s get down to business and see how we are all doing? Hoping for ‘perky, great and yes all is good’ responses from you all. I’m feeling all of the above and a meal out with friends tonight is a lovely thought, too. Yesterday was a very busy day, I actually managed to film a video for Elasticizer from Philip Kingsley, which is brilliant and on a great offer at QVC this month with no P&P charge.

In fact, following my videos (which you can watch below) I had three messages in five minutes from the three of my friends, saying: “…is it really that good and is it worth it?”. Yes and Yes were my simple answers. If you are yet to have tried it, the offer lasts for the remainder of July and by my reckoning there’s not long left, so what have you got to lose? Oh, and the purple WetBrush I mention in the video is coming up towards the end of July.

I have to share with you a brilliant audiobook, which you can also buy as a hard copy. I do love to listen to things when I’m driving (once I’ve finished chatting). It’s called Period Power by Maisie Hill. I wish I had read it years ago and without a shadow of doubt I shall pass it onto Maddie, for her to appreciate some amazing and enlightening information.

One of the things Hill explains is that our cycle falls into spring, summer, autumn and winter, which makes the greatest of sense. It’s truly fascinating with some brilliant facts, including the suggestion to track ones cycle.

Whilst I am in the beginnings of ‘the change’, I am still able to track my cycle, my mood and therefore my needs. Hill suggests we do not over-commit ourselves at certain times when our energies are naturally higher, as we will need to conserve some for the more difficult times in the cycle. Having this knowledge can help us better prepare to get the best out of ourselves in every aspect of life, as well as for those around us to better understand it/us a little more! If you’ve got some time, do investigate it.

We have a little addition in the garden in the form of a hot tub! It’s actually great fun. We hired one some years ago for a birthday party for Maddie, which was brilliant, but I thought it was a one-hit wonder that we will never use again. Yet, recently we just thought: ‘do you know what? Let’s just do it!’. I couldn’t stop myself humming Victoria Wood in that moment… if you don’t know her fabulous song, that’s lost on you! We are very much enjoying basking in the bubbles and relaxing. I must remember that our voices may obviously be quite loud above the bubbles, so we must pay attention to our discussions in the hot tub.

Right, what’s new in the world of QVC, I hear you cry? In fact, it’s perpetually bubbling with newness and excitement, as I was when I happened upon the very talented and beautiful (he really is a beautiful man) Julien Macdonald’s super candle holder, which is Today’s Special Value.

I was so surprised at the size of it. It makes quite a statement. I thought it could be a gorgeous gift for a person/wedding/brand-new home that already has everything. There are so many facets in the layers, all vying for attention and sparkling crazily when I popped it on my windowsill. Maddie then said how lovely it would be as a jewellery holder and popped it in front of her canvas of pictures. It looked super. Imagine it as a holder for cotton wool or for bits and bobs if you have a dressing table. Let’s not forget how it will look with the flame flickering from the candle.

I loved a little escape with Dan the other day. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: Aldeburgh is good for the soul!

With our busy lives, I feel it important to make the time for each other. Sometimes the days just fly by and the everyday boring bits are just as important to discuss as the big bits. Us girls need to talk about things in order to feel heard, appreciated and understood, don’t we? Particularly in my current state of mind (which, I have to say, has improved vastly so far with the addition of my gels and tablets).

In the photo I am sporting one of the lovely Ghost dresses. Although it was too big, as my size M had sold out… but I needed it! So I bought the large, but I will have it altered as fabulously swishy and chilled. But I LOVE it.

Holidays are arriving and Maddie breaks up in a matter of moments. She is launching herself into a summer of fun and I suspect the summer of boys!! OMG she’s my baby, what’s happening! Joe, meanwhile, is all loved up – it’s been a long relationship in the teen world! And all seems well in his world. He has some gigs in the diary with his band and has started doing some work serving at weddings.

I think that a job serving the public is even more important for our youngsters today. He comes home buzzing and when the money was put in his bank account, so was I!!! Especially as he will be learning to drive and becoming independent next, so it will be so good for him to start saving for important things. Dan says I mustn’t take away the joy of him earning, but I’ve said he needs to learn now and start recognising that some of his wage should be set aside. Am I mean… or realistic!!

I’ll leave you with some lovely things I spotted this week at QVC that are well worth a peek at…

I’m loving all the brights at the moment, so these amazing bags by Lulu Guinness and Amanda Wakeley, plus these shoes by Moda in Pelle and these Nails Inc shades have caught my eye. I also LOVED these shoes from Peter Kaiser… such unusual colours! And these zingy wedges from Marc Fisher have found its way onto my feet a fair few times these last few weeks! Oh, and I love this crystal tiger brooch from Butler and Wilson. Don’t forget it’s their big 50 coming up. We are going to start celebrating from the 23rd July, with Julia and Simon bringing you a special show on 1st August.

Have a happy week! You’ll find me in the hot tub…
Lots of love,

Claire! xxx

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