7 Tips To Get Your Car Winter Ready

Hi, If you read my goals for this month you'll know that I'm planning on sorting out my car before the winter weather really kicks in. Having a car and being able to drive yourself about is great but also comes with responsibilities. To make sure that you keep yourself and others safe, in the months to come, it makes sense to make preparations. Below are some tips and reminders so you can make sure you and your car is winter ready.

Tips To Get Your Car Winter Ready

Check Your Tires

During the winter months the roads can become dangerous if your cars tires aren’t up to scratch. Check the depth of your tires tread, make sure to replace worn out tires. In the UK the legal tire depth requirement is 1.6 millimetres on 3/4 of the most central part of the tires.

Under the Bonnet
Check your oil level and make sure that everything is topped up and add anti freeze where required.

Clear Your Car Before Driving

Whether your clearing misty windows or a nights down fall of snow, make sure your car is clear and you can see before setting off on a journey. Make sure all your windows, license plates, mirrors and lights are visible to other road users.

Stock up on Winter Supplies

Stock up on de-icer for those cold mornings when you need a quick solution. Get yourself a ice scrapper and other gadgets that will make the winter months more manageable.

Prepare for Emergencies

You can easily get stuck in traffic so make sure your phone has enough charge and a spare battery pack incase. During the winter months it’s a good idea to keep a blanket or warm clothing in your car. A drink and snacks are also a good idea.

Check the Weather Forecast

It might be fine when you leave for the day but checking the forecast gives you a heads up of that strong wind or heavy rain due for your evening commute. Knowing what’s ahead means you can prepare and make your journey safer.

Drive Carefully

Even with all of the checks and pre-planning your journey may well still be dangerous so be careful. When roads are wet braking time is increased so take it steady.

Do you have any tips to add?

Sam

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Clocks Go Back | Make The Darker Nights More Enjoyable

Hi, Tonight here in the UK we're turning the clocks back by an hour. It's now going to be dark by 5pm and get eariler and eariler, this is both massively annoying as I hate driving in the dark and exciting as it means that it's now getting close to Christmas. There are so many celebrations at this time of year that would be so different if they where held at the height of summer. Halloween wouldn't be as scary and you'd be forced to wear your costume without the cover of darkness. Bonfire night would have to take place so late in the evening you'd be too sleepy to even watch the fireworks. One of the best parts about Christmas is all the fairy lights and decorative displays which wouldn't look half as good if it wasn't dark.


Today I'm sharing things I'm doing to make the most of the darker nights and not let it become an issue with my mood. It's a bit easier said than done when the weather is so wet and windy but I'm still seeing the beauty in this time of year when the seasons change, Autumn is my favourite time of year. While summer brings the opportunity to stay up till late soaking up the sunshine, Autumn also has it's benefits as a time of relaxation. I tend to slow down during the Autumn months before Winter properly kicks in with all the Christmas and new years parties. Below are some really simple ways to connect with these transitional months. 

How To Make The Darker Nights More Enjoyable

Take Part In Seasonal Celebrations
As I mentioned above we've got Halloween and Bonfire night to look forward too. I feel these celebrations are a kind of consolation prize for the darker nights. Embrace these events where possible.

Get Cozy

When it's colder outside there's nothing nicer than getting all wrapped up in comfy warm clothing. It's time to dig out the fluffy socks and slippers and maybe invest in some big cozy jumpers or even another new set of pajamas. Change out the bedding for snugglier nights and don't forget your blanket.

Update Your Home/Room

Changing up a room to match the season is a good way to make the season more enjoyable. Update your colour scheme or just add more comforting elements like subtle lighting to keep the darkness at bay.

Bake or Buy Nice Snacks
Pumpkin spice is everywhere right now so why not try a new seasonal baking recipe.  Alternatively try out what the shops have to offer in the form of seasonal goodies. Using seasonal ingredients is a good way to embrace the new season.

Hot Drinks

One thing about the drop in temperature is that I now want every drink to be hot. I don't drink normal tea or coffee because I'm weird but hot chocolate is a must in Autumn, preferably after a long woodland walk.

Box Sets and Films

It's darker outside so the allure to go out is lower but that means more free time to catch up on those box sets you've been meaning to watch all summer or find a new favourite. Plan a trip to the cinemas it's already dark so you're not missing the sunshine by going to watch a film.

Stock Up On Bath Bombs

Take the time to have a relaxing bath, I always feel weird having a bath when it's sunny outside like the heat of the water is wrong. The drop in temperature means I'm more than happy to have a bath and it's even better when you get to enjoy some Lush bath art too.

Get Stuck into a Book

I'm so behind on my goodreads target this year so I'm really hoping the darker nights are going to give me a reason to chill out with a book more often. It might be dark and raining outside but in a book you could be traveling the world and enjoy someone else's summer if you're missing the sun.

Start a Craft Project

Extra time means working on those household DIY projects or you could start working on homemade Christmas gifts or start a craft project just for the fun of it.

What's your favourite part about the nights getting darker?

Sam

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10 Fun Things To Do Offline

Hi, This post is going to be the biggest contradiction because I’m technically suggesting you stop reading blog posts to go do something that doesn’t require the internet. I’ve got a selection of ideas for fun things that you could do that require neither the internet or a screen.

10 Fun Things To Do Offline

Go For A Walk
Get outdoors and enjoy the fresh air and scenery. Use it as a reason to try that new coffee place or find a hidden wonderland in the great outdoors.

Do Some Baking
Get creative in the kitchen and you'll have something yummy to enjoy. Maybe pick a themed bake or test a new recipe.

Look Back At Photographs
It's always fun to have a look back down memory lane. Looking at your younger self is always a blast from the past.

Make A Scrap Book
Any excuse to buy all the pretty paper and decorative things to create something to show off. Use photos you've found while looking through the family albums.

Call Someone
Make some time to talk with someone and catch up on each others lives. Why not meet up face to face and turn your phone to airplane mode. 

Have A Bath
Preferably with lots of bubbles and brightly coloured water. Light some candles and create a relaxing space.

Read A Book
Multitask and read a book while in the bath or chill in your favourite reading place. Travel to a new world or get caught up in a mystery.

Colouring
There are so many colouring books that you're bound to find one you love. Reverting back to simple pleasures is one of the funnest things to do. 

Learn A New Skill
Learn an instrument or start a new hobby. Crafts are a great way to spend time offline and you can even end up with gifts or home ware when your projects are complete. 

Play A Board Game
Everyone has a favourite board game, dust it off and spend an afternoon pretending you're having a power cut.

What's your favourite thing to do offline?

Sam

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10 Saving Tips From A Lifetime Saver

Hi, I’ve always saved my money. I don’t know why but from a young age when I started getting money for my birthday I might have bought something small but the rest would go into my saving account. I should really thank my parents for setting me up a saving account in the first place. I have a thing for watching the numbers grow higher and higher, I get way more pleasure from that than spending it. I spend money, I'm just picky about what I spend my money on and I'm always looking for a bargain.

10 Tips For Saving Money

Get A Savings Account

Online banking makes saving so easy. Open up an account and simply move any money left over at the end of the month, this is a great way to build savings.

Budget

With bills and rent it can be quite easy to find your money disappearing. In order to save you need to budget your money to allow for there to be something left at the end of the month to put away.

Set Saving Goals

Motivation is the key to saving, having a goal amount and setting a time limit will help you reach your saving goals. You could use a visual saving chart to watch your money grow.

Have a Loose Change Tin

Having a special place to store cash is great as you'll appreciate and associate the physical act of saving as a positive action. The tin should preferably be one that you can't dip into easily.

Pay With Cash In Store

This is a great tip to stick to a budget while out shopping, by withdrawing your spending budget for the trip and having to physically hand over money you'll make better choices about your spending.

Always Look For Discounts

If you are making a purchase no matter how big or small always do a voucher check. I always check for in store vouchers if I know I'm heading on a shopping trip. Alternatively a quick look online normally reveals a code for shopping online even if it's only a free postage code it's still money saved.

Do You Need It?

One of my key saving tips is to think about a purchase and decide if you really need that item. Chances are you've got something very similar at home already. If you decide you must have it that's fine but make sure you are getting the best price possible.

Pay Outright

Anything that incurs a fee for paying in monthly installments I have always payed in full so I don't have to pay the added interest. When you look at something like car insurance this makes quite a big difference.

Bulk Buy On Offers

Buying expensive items like shampoo while they're on great deals saves lots of money in the long run. If something is half price I buy double the amount of product so it will last me twice as long. 

Use Store Loyalty Cards
Delay shopping for some items until you can get money back via bonus on loyalty cards. Around Christmas is a good time because you'll likely need to spend the money anyway but you can build rewards and get money back to spend at a later date.

I hope these tips are helpful and have inspired you to maybe set a saving goal. Small changes to your spending will all add up before you know it.

Do you enjoy saving? Do you have any tips you would add?

Sam

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5 Tips For Stopping Nail Biting

Hi, Today I’m talking about my bad habit of nail biting and how I plan to stop it for good. I love nail polish and I’d love to have long elegant nails I can paint in all the colours of the rainbow but unfortunately my nails are gross and I prefer not to draw attention to them. I don’t think I have the best nail bed shape to begin with so I don’t think my nails will ever be perfect but I’m going to challenge myself to grow them.

Tips for Stopping Nail Biting

Stopping The Action
Nail biting is a habit and with me an unconscious one, I bite my nails while I’m watching films or generally not paying full attention to my actions. The key to stopping a habit is recognizing it and actively making an effort to alter your behavior surrounding the trigger. Once you’ve made some progress the reward of longer nails should spur you on to continue with your new good behavior.

Deterrents
If you require a further reminder to not bite your nails why not invest in some of the nail polish with the deterring taste. Alternatively you can wear a pair of cotton gloves. This one might sound strange but you won't bite your nails after a few times of getting fluff in your mouth.

Strengthen Nails
Once you’ve mastered stopping nail biting you need to give your nails a helping hand with growing strong so they can stay nice and long. This can be done with products and with a healthy diet. Using a clear strengthening polish is a great way to support nail growth and may aid in stopping the nail biting. Nails are made up of keratin which the human body produces, by eating healthy foods you can boost the production of keratin.

Work Towards A Goal
I’m sure a lot of people set out to grow their nails for weddings etc. I’m going to set a target date and photograph my nail growth to record how well (or badly) I do with my challenge and I’ll report back with my progress. I’d love to have long nails by the time I go on a hen do in May, a few months should do it.

Reward Yourself
The biggest reward will be your new long nails but there's no harm in buying a little treat to make the most of your good efforts. Buy a new nail polish or something which compliments your hard work.

So there are my tips for stopping nail biting, wish me luck because I am going to need it. I'm looking forward to all the pretty nail polishes I can wear during the summer.

Are you a nail biter?
Sam

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8 Packing Tips For A City Break

Hi, I've booked me and the boyfriend a night away in York I wanted to share with you my packing tips. We will be heading to York via public transport so we will have to carry our luggage most of the time until we finally arrive at our hotel. I plan on taking a small rucksack which I will be using over the weekend because they're so spacious and more comfortable to wear.

Packing Tips For A City Break

Make a list
I always start packing by making a list of everything I need to pack. This allows for planning and eliminates the chance of forgetting anything important. I always pack things like train tickets first.

Check out the weather
Pack for the weather and climate of the place you are traveling to not where you are leaving.

Be Strict
I'm the worst at packing for wearing clothing in the future, I never know what I'll want to wear and then I want to pack everything. If like me you pack too much you'll regret the weight later. Work out exactly how much you need and then plan your outfits.

Choose the Best Bag For the Job
I'm taking a rucksack on this journey but depending on how you're traveling or how long you're traveling for a bigger or more mobile bag might be a better option. 

Day to Night
A good tip for space saving is to try and wear outfits that are transitional between day and night with only a few changes like jewellery or footwear. 

Wear Comfy Footwear
Generally when I'm traveling or know I'm going to be carrying extra weight I think it's really important to protect my feet by wearing comfy footwear. I personally live in Dr Martens which are so supportive to feet when worn for a long time, plus really fashionable.

Pack Light Items
You'll be lugging all this stuff around so pack as light as possible. I think dresses are a great option because it's a one piece outfit.

Take Travel Sized
Another way to reduce the weight of your bag is to take travel sized cosmetics or if you're only staying one night forgo them as much as possible and take advantage of what's available at your hotel.

I hope these tips are helpful as starting points for when you're trying to pack. I think these tips become more helpful when you are traveling for a longer time and a further distance but are still really relevant.

Have a great day!

Sam

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5 Ways To Stay Organised | #BLOGMAS Day 8

Hi, This is a busy time of year what with all the social gatherings and preparations for the big day, so organisation is key to staying on top of it all. I'm so bad at being organisied so I decided to have a think about ways I can improve and try to take a little pressure off myself, I've written this post with blogmas in mind but these are tips that are transitional across all Christmas preparations.

5 Ways To Stay Organised

Invest in a planner

I lose track of time really easily so having a visual reference for events and plans makes it so much easier to keep on track. I prefer a physical book so I can make notes on the go but a digital calendar would work just as well if that's more preferable. Who can say no to a good reason to buy pretty stationary?

Make Lists and Check Them

Relating back to the previous point, have a place to make notes and lists so you won't lose them. Once written make a point of checking them and ticking off what's done. You'll refresh your mind on outstanding jobs and feel good about all the checked off items.

Don't Procrastinate

Procrastination is me in one word but when you've decided to do something as big as blogmas it's your own worst enemy. Set goals and task to make sure you're motivated and have a plan of action to make the most of your time. Nothing quite beats the feeling of accomplishment once you've ticked off everything on a to do list.

Allocate Time for Jobs

With things like gift wrapping make time to sit down and get everything ready, stick on the Christmas playlist and enjoy the activity of gift wrapping (It's one of my favourite parts of Christmas). Time management is so important at this time of year, the big day will be here before we know it. So pour yourself some baileys and get the tunes playing.

Plan Ahead

Blogmas would not be happening if I hadn't planned ahead, the same applies for the festive season. I'm sure there are people still shopping on Christmas eve but planning ahead saves you the stress.

 

Do you have any organisation tips for the festive season?

Sam

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Christmas Shopping Survival Guide | #BLOGMAS Day 4

Hi, Every year I have good intentions of going on one shopping trip to get all of my Christmas list bought and put under the tree, only that never happens. The problem with the Christmas shopping spree is that you are one of many people trying to buy the same item in the same stores and well it can all get a bit over whelming. Have you been in Lush at Christmas time? my local store was practically queuing out the door (exaggeration but only because the staff had an genius system in place). My point is that hitting the shops can be rather stressful but I have some helpful tips to get us through our Christmas shopping.

Christmas Shopping Survival Guide

Plan Ahead
Don't leave the house until you have a rough idea of gift ideas for everyone on your Christmas list. Once you know where you want to shop. You can always browse for that one person who's difficult to buy for but you'll save time if you know which stores you need to visit.

Look For Vouchers
If possible save money, look for in store vouchers before you head out to the shops. Make note of online offers too, if you're organised and have time to order those heavier items make life easier and get them deliver.

Enlist Help
Drag the reluctant other half to carry the bags or join forces with an allied shopper to take the sting out of the day.

Dress Appropriately
I think this is obvious but you're going to be on your feet all day so make sure you're wearing shoes that look after your feet and wrap up warm, it's December it gets cold, brrrrr. 

Take Breaks
Don't be afraid to have a break and recharge, a warming cup of hot chocolate will give you the needed energy to continue.

Take Reusable Bags
Now that bags are chargeable in the UK it's a good idea to take some old bags or your trusty tote to the shops to save some pennies. It's also great for the environment so you can feel super about doing your bit by looking after the planet.

You Deserve a Treat Too
You're on a shopping trip spending money on all your nearest and dearest, don't forget about yourself. You could pick up a cheeky bath bomb or a festive nail varnish. 

Finish With a Meal
You deserve to treat yourself after all that hard work, so go grab some food, you'll need the energy to carry all those presents home.

Have Fun
It's Christmas! I love walking around looking at all the lights and decorations which just make everything look so much more magical and takes the darkness away from the winter. The best part about buying gifts is knowing you've got something special that the recipient will love.

 Have you got any tips to add?
Sam

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9 Things To Do For Your Blog When You Don't Feel Like Writing

Hi, We all have those days where we have time to blog but writing a post just doesn't feel like something you want to do or the words just won't form. A blog requires many elements to reach it's full potential, while your posts are what make your blog there's a lot of behind the scenes things you can do to improve your blog.

9 Things To Do For Your Blog When You Don't Feel Like Writing

Brain Storm Ideas
A reason you don't want to blog maybe a lack of ideas or a lack of clarity of how to write a certain post. Brainstorming ideas gives you the chance to step back and take note of things inspiring you at that moment. Alternatively they can help you give extra depth to an idea you already have.

Photography
One of my main issues is not having photos ready to publish a post. By getting creative with props on days when you feel like doing something else you could make yourself some stock images. You could also use you brainstorm to take photos of products you want to review at a later date.

Add Widgets
Widgets are a great way to add some personality to your blog by linking to other social media accounts. Alternatively you could add widgets that make your blog easier to navigate or link to a featured post.

Check For Broken links
Something I need to do a lot more often but a super simple fix once you use a broken link finder. Just google blog broken link checker, enter your blog url and have some fun exploring your old posts.

Add/Update Post Labels
Blog post labels are designed to help people find your post by adding keywords that sum up the content of the post. Go back over your posts and add or group labels, grouping posts means you can add a quick link on your blog to all the same themed posts.

Blog Promotion
One of the biggest things you should do once you've written a killer post is to make sure as many people as possible will see it. You can use sites like Buffer to schedule posts in advance and don't be afraid to link back to old relevant posts too.

Update Old Posts
Something you wrote last year might be just as relevant today so why not go back and update the post to your current standard and show it off.

Link Old Posts
A blog post idea for days when you don't want to write a whole post is to link back to your old favourite post and get some traffic flowing to old posts. You could do a lush review roundup for example.

Improve Your SEO
I still find SEO (search engine optimization) a little intimidating but as a blogger it's worth learning the basics so your posts are search engine friendly. Using keywords in your title and naming images to compliment the post is a good starting point.

I hope that these points are helpful and getting you thinking about any improvements you can make to your blog or help you prepare for future posts. If you're still not feeling like working on your blog don't worry about it and take the time away to be inspired.

What do you do for your blog on none writing days?

Sam

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How To Get Back In To Blogging After A Break

Hi, I wanted to write a post inspired by my lack of blogging recently and share my experience (got to find inspiration where we can right). I stopped blogging for over three months, it's flown and that's what made me want to get back to blogging more than anything. Blogs are after all a very public kind of diary and it's fun to look back at and see what I was interested in this time last year. Blogging is also a very good excuse for funding my addiction to Lush products.

How To Get Back In To Blogging After A Break

Start Slow
While it's taken me this long to get back into blogging I've been brainstorming ideas for a while. Don't feel pressured to come back until you're ready and full of the inspiration you needed. You could always create a stock pile of posts so you're always ahead.

Write For Yourself
Blogging is suppose to be a fun hobby and for most of us that's all it will ever be but that's fine. Blog for yourself first, don't feel like you need to stick to a schedule or pattern unless you want too.

Draft Write Posts
I can't just write a post and hit publish because it would be riddled with mistakes and sentences that make no scenes. Writing without the pressure of the publish button gives you freedom to play around with your writing style and post layout.

Be Social
One thing I missed while not blogging was reading blogs. Just because you don't feel like blogging doesn't mean that you have to be quiet. Take part in blogger twitter chats or link to old posts to continue to get others viewing your blog.

Don't Force It
Come back to your blog when you are ready, if that's never then that's totally fine, do what's right for you.

Re-Brand
One of your issues might be that you and your blog just don't work together anymore. If you feel it's the right move for you there's the option of re-branding and starting a totally new blog.

Photography
Having fun with props or products may inspire future posts or at least give you a back up of stock images. Take your camera with you on a day out to create a day in the life post which requires only a little writing.

Keep Being Inspired
Reading other blogs is a good way to see what's current or inspire you to write your own take on a subject or there's always a tag to do. Use everyday life as inspiration for future posts and make your blog your own.

I hope these points are helpful, I've sat and drafted a few posts which feels great. Taking a step back from blogging was difficult but I found coming back harder. Finding the confidence in myself and what I've got to say gave me the motivation to give it another go.

Have you got any tips for getting back into blogging?

Sam

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10 Tips For Hosting An Outdoor Summer Gathering

Hi, One of my favourite things about the summer months is eating and socialising in the outdoors. I've helped organise a few family BBQ's in the past so I have some helpful tips to share which will hopefully help make it a great day everyone can enjoy including the hosts.

Tips For Hosting An Outdoor Summer Gathering

Dietary Requirements
Not everyone is into the carnivore side of a summer BBQ so it's good practice to have plenty of vegetarian alternative and to ask guested about any special needs they have (these could be health based or life choices but you'll make your guess feel amazing for making sure they are catered for).

Keep it comfortable
Make sure you've got plenty of seating, weather that be picnic blankets or deck chairs. Making guests feel comfortable can only be a good thing right!

Repel the bugs
I live by a river so I know how annoying bugs get. You can set up wasp catchers with old pop bottles and something sugary. In the evening burn Citronella Candles to get rid of midges and other bugs.

Prep as much as possible
Prep food and drinks as much as you can or buy pre-made so you don't spend all day cooking and you can enjoy the party too.

Don't be afraid to ask to BYOB
Organising a gathering can get costly so it's only fair for guest to bring something to contribute to the festivities. It doesn't have to be alcohol, someone could bring their famous secret recipe sauce past down through the generations.

Be weather proof
I'm writing this post in Britain and well you can't totally rule out rain so it's a good idea to have some space that is under cover. Gazebos are great and not that expensive for a standard one, if you're a bit more flush with cash you might consider a party shed (can only dream right?).

Have alcohol replacements
Some people might be driving or others just not wanting to over do it, having a choice of soft drinks or mocktails is a great way to keep everyone happy and ultimately more healthy.

Have some entertainment
In the past we've played games and always had a backing track of the radio playing quietly in the background. Keeping guests entertained means they are going to remember your gathering as great. You could invest in an outdoor board game, twisters always fun.

Parting into the night
If you plan on parting into the small hours make sure you've got plenty of lighting to keep things safe and sociable. Fairy lights make lovely mood lighting, pick up outdoor solar powered ones and you get free energy.

Have taxi numbers at the ready
Not everyone is organised or they don't know the area, having taxi numbers ready for anyone who needs a ride home will save time trying to find one online and you'll be guest free and in bed relaxing a lot quicker.

Have you hosted a summer outdoor gathering? any tips to add?

Sam

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7 Healthy Lifestyle Changes Anyone Can Make

Hi, I have recently been trying to give myself a little bit of a health kick and wanted to share some things which can make us all a little healthier. These are simple things that can easily be worked into your lifestyle and don't require a gym membership.

Healthy Lifestyle Choices Anyone Can Make

Drink More Water
There are so many benefits of drinking water, it's recommended that woman drink 1.6 liters and men 2 liters of water everyday. Some benefits include added concentration, clearer skin and it can even aid weight loss. Keep a bottle of water with you and try setting an alarm to remind yourself to have a drink. Keep it interesting by making fruit infused flavored water, lemon juice is a really nice simple option.

Plan Your Meals
I love to sit down and plan for the week ahead. Planning meals means you can have more control over the food you eat. Having a list to stick to when shopping removes impulse buying and you'll only buy what you need so your bank balance will be a little healthier too.

Cut Out Empty Calories
This relates to the previous point. Eating processed food equals extra calories and added stuff that you don't necessary need to be eating. Start cooking from scratch with fresh ingredient and your food will not only be less calorific but super tasty too.

Walk A Little Further
If you have an office job like myself you'll know how hard it is to keep active. Why not park your car a little further away, get off the bus a stop early, take the steps instead of the lift. Increasing the daily steps you take will make a difference to your overall health.

Get Eight Hours Sleep 
This is an important point and one that I constantly fail on. Get into bed before the time you need to sleep, read a book or get your social media fix but then stop before the eight hour slot of your alarm. Getting your full eight hours means that you'll be more refreshed for the day ahead, which can only be a positive.

See More Of Nature
Get out and about, nature is one of the best natural remedies. Getting some sunshine will boast your vitamin D supply and generally walking and sightseeing in the outdoors will lift your mood. Find a tranquil spot and have a picnic or go visit a beach to watch some crashing waves.

Make Time For You

Mental health is just as important as physical health so make sure you take some proper time to truly unwind. It doesn't matter what you do as long as it's making you happy and giving you a break from the reality of the general day to day.

I hope these tips/ideas are helpful, is there anything you would add?

Sam

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10 Things We Should Make Time For Everyday

Hi, This is a bit of a motivational post and a reminder to look after yourself, I hope it's useful. The idea is that day to day we over look the little things. I've put together a list of daily things we should all do no matter what. I personally fail at doing these myself so I'll be using these pointers to try and improve my attitude to my own mental and physical health.

10 Things We Should Make Time For Everyday

Visualize Your Day
Having an idea of what you want to achieve makes it easier to do. Don't put off the hard stuff, tackle that first and then everything else will seem simple by comparison.

Skin Care
You only get one face so look after it, make sure to moisturise, use SPF and to remove makeup and built up pollutants.

Exercise
It's not all about weight loss, keeping active keeps the body mobile. Keep it simple and go for a walk or do some meditation.

Eating Well
The phrase you are what you eat is pretty accurate. Try to keep high calorie processed foods to a minimum opting for home made versions and try to eat your five a day.

Drinking Water
There are a lots of health benefits from drinking plenty of water everyday. I like to add a dash of lemon juice to make it a bit more interesting.

Organization
Takes the stress out of the day by having a plan of action. Anything from planing your lunch or what you're going to wear the following day. Write lists to help keep focus and remove stress.

Contact Someone
Having a connection with the people around us is grounding and great for unwinding. Arrange to meet up with a friend or have a chat over the phone.

Take Time For Yourself
Relaxation and a chance to sit back and reflect is really important. Use this time how ever you want: escape to a new place in a book, unwind in a warming bath or have a pamper session.

Get 8 Hours Sleep
Not everyone needs it but it's the best way to make sure that you'll be refreshed and ready for the day ahead.

List Things That Make You Happy
Look for the positives in everything you do when possible. The little things are easily forgotten, make lists to remind yourself of them. Maybe even start a memory jar, the big things are welcome too.

What's in your daily routine?
Sam

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10 Nighttime Rituals For A Better Nights Sleep

Hi, The inspiration for this post came about the other night when I just couldn't switch off. Eventually my mind finally stopped twittering on about stuff that really didn't matter and I fell asleep but way over an hour and a half later than I had wanted to be. Needless to say I was a bit tired the following morning and that got me thinking about ways I may be able to improve my sleep in future.

Nighttime Rituals For A Better Nights Sleep

Have A Nighttime Schedule
I've put this point first as I think it's the most important. Have a schedule that you can stick too as much as possible, by doing this your body will naturally know when it's time to go to sleep. The schedule doesn't have to start at getting into bed you can plan your night around things you want to get done or plan time for relaxing. The key is to make time for what you want.

Make Sure You're Comfortable
There are a few factors which can stop you from getting the sleep you deserve based purely on comfort. Making sure the room isn't too hot when possible and dressing accordingly can help. When the seasons change think about coordinating your bedding to maximize comfort.

Do Some Light Exercise
This is something I would love to add into my nightly routine. It's not advised to do full on exercise on a evening but light stretches in the form of Yoga or a bit of meditation are great ways to wind down at the end of the day.

Midnight Feasts Are Not Your Friend
Avoid eating too late in the evening and don't be fooled into thinking alcohol helps sleep. You might get to sleep a little easier but the quality of sleep is effected and you're likely to wake in the night unable to get back to sleep.

Look After Yourself
Make sure you've done all the necessary things like brushing your teeth and removing your makeup, you'll feel a lot fresher for it. A nice relaxing bath will help you unwind and a bit of a pamper is great for positivity.

Plan Ahead
Where possible plan as much in advance for the following day to remove the issues from the mind. You could plan your outfit or make a packed lunch, anything that will help make the morning more relaxed and in turn remove the stress.

Avoid Screen Time
If you are going to watch a film do it with plenty of time before you plan to sleep and avoid using phones and other screen based gadgets. These forms of entertainment activate the mind and make it hard for us to fall asleep.

Keep The Bedroom Tidy
If one room in your home should be Pinterest worthy it's your bedroom. Make sure it's clear of clutter or anything that gets the mind going like letters that need filing. It should be a relaxed environment which your mind associates with sleep.

Try Not To Worry
I know this is easier said than done, but I know from experience that what ever my mind thinks up is always way worse than the reality. If you can't sleep due to things whizzing about in the mind make lists to remove these issues for the time being, you can deal with them later. Another issue is watching the time pass when you can't drift off, remove any clocks and don't be tempted to check the time, it will only make you feel worse.

Read
Lastly reading is always a great way to end the day and will help you sleep. You don't have to be a book worm to read before bed, a short story or a poem or even a selection of quotes will be helpful. Try to pick something filled with positivity as it is great for the mind just before sleep.

   

Do you have any tips for a better nights sleep?

Sam

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10 Budget Friendly Christmas Tips | #BLOGMAS Day 11

Hi, It's no secret that I'm really frugal with my spending and if at all possible I will save money when making a purchase. I don't think Christmas should be any different and if anything it's a time when everyone needs to reassess what they really need as it's such an expensive time of year. Christmas shouldn't be about how lavish a gift you can buy or how many, it's a time for getting together with people we care about and being thankful for the things we already have, I think the commercial side of Christmas gets in the way a bit. Today I've got some tips for saving money over the Christmas period, some of these might be a little late for those of you who are really organised.

Budget Friendly Christmas Tips

Gift Budgets and Secret Santa
This year me, my friends and family have all agreed to have a spending limit on the gifts we buy so that things don't get out of hand. If you have a big family why not consider a Secret Santa system. You could still buy everyone a smaller token gift, but by doing the Secret Santa everyone still gets one special gift.

Hand Deliver Cards
Okay so this one might not be super doable depending on the distance your family and friends are spread around the country/world, but if possible popping into see those people is not only saving you the cost of a postage stamp but brightening someones day.

Buy Tickets In Advance
I personally don't need to travel but I do know that train tickets are expensive, if you plan ahead and pre-book tickets you can save loads of money. If possible why not get someone to give you a lift and pay for the petrol it's probably a lot cheaper, or look at other ways to travel like the Mega bus which has some crazily low prices.

Don't Buy Gift Sets
This one will probably split people because there's something nice about a preboxed gift which is easy to wrap and sometimes with deals they will work out cheaper but in other cases depending on the contents it's way cheaper to make your own hamper of goodies.

Offers and Loyalty Points
If gift sets are your thing make sure you're getting an offer, check for the best price and if possible take advantage of multi buy offers. Buying from stores with loyalty points means you're also getting something back, Tesco have a double up system on points already collected so you can buy even more.

Don't Over Look The Pound Shops
I recently did a £1 stocking filler gift guide and it just shows what amazing things you can pick up for as little as a pound, with a little shopping around sometimes even cheaper. No one said gifts had to be expensive to be good.

Give Homemade
So craft isn't always that cheap but homemade gifts do really show you care. It's the perfect excuse to do some festive baking, you could make some cookies. Alternatively learn to knit and make a scarf for someone.

Start Shopping in The Sales
I'm known for doing this, it helps if you've got the storage room but you can really make some great savings. I don't tend to keep the gifts until Christmas choosing to pick unfestive gifts to give out as Birthday presents during the year. If it's Christmas gifts you want look out for seasonal sales earlier in the year where you can pick up quirky items a lot cheaper. Don't buy items that have use by dates as these will end up being a waste of money rather than a saving.

Don't Pay Postage
This is my biggest annoyance with online shopping. Over the year if you add up how much you've spent on postage with the odd £3.99 here and there you'd be shocked. So when shopping online always do a quick voucher search, it's very rare that I don't find a code. If you're planning a trip into town anyway look at store collection options to see if they're free instead.

Get a Fake Tree
I've only ever had a real tree once and honestly I missed my fake tree. I know there are advantages to real trees but I hate to think of a tree being grown and then cut down and left to die (morbid thought sorry). In the long run fake trees are much better for the environment and a hell of a lot cheaper. Buy one in the sale to make an even bigger saving, along with decorations and lights, that way you're ready for next Christmas.

I hope this was helpful. Do you have any money saving tips?

Sam

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7 Ways To Save Money When Buying Books

Hi, I recently bought quite a few books and I don't feel too guilty about the money I've spent as they really didn't end up costing that much. This got me thinking about how I manage to do a ton of reading without spending a crazy amount of money. I think I'd have a shock if I wrote down what I have spent this year on books but I know it would be a whole lot more if I wasn't following these points. So here are my money saving tips, I hope they are helpful.

Ways To Save Money When Buying Books

Ebooks

I'm yet to get an e-reader as I prefer the feel of a book in my hands but I think they are a great idea. One of the main reasons I wish I had one is for the savings on buying books. EBooks are normally a bit cheaper and are often on really great deals. Obviously you've got the price of the e-reader to offset but I'm sure it'll work out cheaper in the long run.

Charity Shops

I recently found a charity shop selling really good books at only 50p each, what a bargain. The key to charity shops is to have an open mind and not judge the books on their cover too much. You can find some new releases as well if you're lucky. You might have to go in a few shops but I kind of like the element of mystery about what I'll find.

Buy Discounted

I never pay full price for books if I can help it, one of the first places I look if I'm wanting to buy a book is on Amazon. They are currently running a 3 for £10 on paperbacks promotion, depending on what you pick you can make huge savings. Supermarkets are also a great place to find discounts and promotions.

Buy the Bookset

If it's a trilogy/series your looking to buy, see if there is a complete collection you can purchase. I got the Game of Thrones books for £30 which equals about £4.30 for each of the seven books, a lot cheaper than buying them all separately.

Loyalty cards
If you end up buying a lot of books try to buy them from the same retailer with a loyalty rewards scheme to build up points/stamps to qualify for free books. Being on a mailing list also means you'll get sent discounts and promotions.

Join the Library

Most of the books I read come from the library, you'll be surprised by just how good they can be with having recent releases. If they don't have what you're looking for there is the option to get a copy sent to your local library for a small fee. Most library also offer the option of eBooks. I find looking online at the availability and selection of books is really helpful before I make a visit.

Have a Book Swap

Me and my friends have swapped books for years and it's one of the best ways to read more books without paying for them. I think it also makes you read books you might not have picked. There are often places you can swap books, there's a book swap area in my local bus station and a pub crammed with books where they're happy for you to do a swap. Have a look around I'm sure they'll be something similar in your area.

Do you have any tips for saving money on books?

Sam

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