MANAGING TIME

Sometimes I look at my watch and it is already 10:30am and I have literally done nothing.  Sometimes the simplest of tasks like convincing a child to eat their breakfast and then get dressed take me over an hour.  Sometimes it's 5pm and all I've managed to do all day is walk the dogs and feed my child. 

There is always a never ending amount of washing and ironing, there is always a never ending amount of dog hair on my beautiful cream tiles and there is always, always glass that needs cleaning thanks to two wet noses and a pair of constantly sticky hands!!

So how do some do it?  They work full time, their house is immaculate and they still have spare time for playing, arts and crafts and family time.  I barely have time to straighten my hair! 

I'll admit, Harriet isn't the earliest of risers (lucky me), so I take full advantage of this and stay in bed too!  I'm not a morning person, even when I worked full time I would hit the snooze button 74 times before I dragged my butt out of bed.  This I fear, may be my biggest down fall. 

I am always complaining that I can't get any housework done when I'm alone with Harriet.  She tries to ride the hoover and clean the dogs.  She empties the cupboards and drawers as fast as I'm putting things away.  I end up getting about one quarter of my list of jobs completed and it takes me all day.  On the very rare occasions that I am bright as a button early in the morning, it is true I get so much done.  But other days I take full advantage of my husband leaving at silly o'clock for work and I starfish in our bed until I hear 'Mummy, mummy, mummy'.   Does this make me selfish?  Lazy?  I think not.  We all have good days and bad days.  Sometimes Harriet sleeps all night, sometimes she doesn't.  Sometimes I nearly murder my husband when his snoring is still keeping me awake at 4am and sometimes I don't. 

But from the minute she wakes we don't stop.  Most mornings Harriet accompanies me on the morning dog walk along the canal.  It's so peaceful in the morning and so beautiful.  Now she's a little older she can help feed the ducks and we talk about the different animals we meet along the way.  It's then home to quickly change and eat a snack before we head out to her first activity of the day.  We meet friends, we play, we make things and we walk the dogs again in the afternoon.  We are always super busy but sometimes I am my own worse enemy when it comes to time management.

I have really enjoyed writing my blog over the last couple of months but I have been quiet for a couple of weeks.  I complained to my husband I hadn't had time, that every time I sit down to write, a toddler is screaming for my attention.  But truth is, I could be a little more organised.  I do think that because I am not working I am missing structure.  I insist Harriets days are quite structured (but not regimented) but I never follow my own advice.  I need to be more disciplined with myself and start organising my days better especially when she goes to sleep in the evening. 

So although I plan to be more organised and I have promised my husband I will cook more (yeah right!), if you do visit me and my home doesn't look 'insta-beautiful', that's because we are out having fun; we are learning and exploring.  Let's face it, the dogs are going to shed more hair tomorrow and Harriet will spill more food! 

Victoria
xx
   

 

BEING MUM

This has been a post that I wanted to write for a while, something that is very close to my heart since having Harriet.  Before you have children you think that having a baby won't change anything but it changes everything.

Whatever I do, I am always aware that I am responsible for someone else, that every decision I make can affect them.  So what do you do after having a baby?  Do you go back to work full time?  Part time?  Self employed?  Do you work around them, use childcare or do you decide to become a full time parent?  Whatever decision  you make, someone will always have an opinion. 

Before having Harriet I ran a successful ladies boutique but I knew even when pregnant that I didn't want to be going to work every day.  I couldn't bare the thought of missing out on one nugget of anything she did.  When she first smiled, took her first steps, her first word, I wanted to soak up every minute of it.  Like everyone always tells you, they aren't little for long.

For the first year we did everything from baby massage to music and singing groups to swimming.  Every day was filled with learning, laughter and fun.  But all my new mum friends I made slowly started to drift away back to work.  Of course we always kept in contact but I didn't see them on such a regular basis.  When Harriet turned one, I started to feel like I was missing a part of me.  I am aware that I am currently in a very fortunate position and I can be with Harriet full time but I feel I am not contributing anything to the household and I'm slowly losing my identity. 

But what can I do? Having left the office grind a few years ago to venture into the self employed world and now for nearly 20 months being mum, I feel like I don't have the confidence to walk back into a management or supervisory role.  Would anyone take me seriously?  Have things changed too much?  Do I even remember how to do a formula in Excel? 

My passions always have and always will lie within fashion and horses.  Sadly I have zero time for the latter at the moment.  My own horses are on loan and there is no way I could dedicate long hours to a horsey job right now.  So do I venture into the fast paced life of fashion?  I have always had a love for styling and I enjoy helping people feel confident in what they wear.  I am thinking of a move towards personal styling and image consultancy.  I have been researching this for quite a while.  I can chose my hours and days, I can balance both work and spending time with Harriet all whilst indulging in my favourite pastime.... shopping! 

So as I start to research my options and look ahead to the future, I am starting to realise that whatever you choose to do, there will always be positives and negatives.  I am so excited to dip my toe back into the working world.  The most important thing, whatever you choose to do, is valuing every precious second spent with your children and knowing they value it too.

Victoria
xx

BEAUTIFUL GIFTS

So where did the last week go?  I have been poorly which meant it took all my energy to be mummy  let alone do anything else but I have been so excited to share with you some amazing new companies, fabulous products and unique gifts.  Little gems that I've stumbled upon and companies I have used previously and can't fault. 

I shall start with the most luxurious mothers day present ever for the Mother-In-Law (yep, super daughter-in-law points here).   I loathe buying every year the same old same old, for loved ones.  I like to think of new ideas and unique items they will use, not tat that will just gather dust on the shelf.  Ila & Lane https://www.ilaandlane.co.uk/ offer bespoke luxury gifting.  They take the hassle and worry off your shoulders I basically told them my budget, told them a little about her and what she loves and doesn't love, paid and just waited for her amazing gift to arrive.

I was delighted at the quality, size and presentation when her gift arrived.  Such unique gifts all together in one box.  Unicorn chocolate lolly and a chocolate bar finished with 24karat edible gold leaf by Babushka Boutique. This handmade Belgian artisan chocolate is too pretty to eat and who isn't obsessed with unicorns?  The Prosecco and Peony candle smelt divine.  I was so tempted to sneak this out of the gift box and keep it for myself.  Even without lighting it, the fragrance was delicious and I loved the sleek glass jar. Korres bodymilk is perfect for anyone with sensitive skin.  This organic brand use skin friendly ingredients with essential fruit oils and zero unwanted synthetics.  I love brands that have a strong natural approach so I can't wait to hear what she thinks about this.  Last but not least I was really pleased that  Gin & Tonic flavour lip balm was included.  She has been eyeing mine up for a few weeks.  Small and compact, perfect for coat pockets and handbags plus it has been a life saver whilst walking the dogs in the miserable Welsh weather we have had recently.  All in all this gift box was a huge success and I am so pleased with the results.  The fact that Ila & Lane, as well as offering this unique service, also provide a platform for small businesses I think is amazing.  To be able to purchase from lots of different brands all on one website or to receive gifts and discover new brands is such a good idea.  When large companies have huge marketing budgets and a massive presence on social media, small companies sometimes get lost but thanks to Ila & Lane I am discovering new and unique things all of the time.... just don't tell my husband!!!

Roath Farmers Market

Last Sunday we decided to visit Roath Farmers Market in Cardiff.  This market has everything with up to 30 producers selling the best in fresh, local Welsh and organic food, together with delicious home-made ‘world’ foods representing the diversity of Cardiff, from bread and cakes, fish and meat, flowers and fruit & veg, to farmhouse cheese and Welsh organic whisky and a craft section.

I met a lovely lady from Garlic Meadow. A smallholding that is home to award-winning Dorset Downs, geese, ducks and chickens. Producers of Handmade Goats Milk Soap, sellers of their own wool.  I bought some goats milk soap in Strawberry dust and Lavender flavours.  These soaps are completely natural, free from palm oil, harsh chemicals and suitable for vegetarians.  Goats milk is rich in lactic acid which helps remove dead skin cells, rich in vitamin A which helps skins to rejuvenate and rich in natural fats to moisturise.  It is great for both dry and acne prone skin.  A natural product which is excellent value and looks pretty too!

You can purchase these item plus many more from Garlic Meadows Etsy Shop https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/GarlicMeadow

Another company I found at the market although I had already been stalking them on Instagram was Clams Cakes.  An artisan, award winning local bakers that use no hydrogenated fats and only free range eggs.  Follow them on insta and order from their website or pop down to the market.  Trust me you will not be disappointed.

https://www.instagram.com/clamscakes/

Sadly I scoffed all of my cake before taking photos so here is a couple from their own Instagram account.

Roath Farmers Market is every Saturday at the Mackintosh Centre on Keppoch Street, Cardiff (in front of THE GATE Art Centre.

Please support local businesses, visit local markets, eat local food.  Small businesses fuel the economy and invigorate the community.  Don't forget, it only takes one person to start the trend....

Victoria xx

A PERFECT MOTHERS DAY

Motherhood.  Such a huge, exhausting, important, daunting task.  For now I am no longer the centre of my own universe, I have relinquished that position to my daughter.  If it has taught me one thing, that is I can never thank my mother enough for what she has done for us.  My greatest role model, best friend and doting Nanny.  Thank you for always being there, for helping out and giving advice.  For your kindness and patience and always putting everyone before yourself.  We couldn't get by without you.

But Mothers Day doesn't have to be about your biological mum.  Whoever is there for you, cares for you, supports, encourages and believes in you.  To the single dads who have to be both mum and dad, to the grandparents, carers and friends.  We are truly blessed to know you, love you and be part of your life.  So to you all, thank you.

This year I was excited to receive my first handmade card from Harriet.  That beautiful, glittery card takes pride of place on our fridge and I probably will leave it there for weeks.  I guess this is the start of the hoarding pile, all of the things our children make that we never throw away!  I cannot wait to open the cupboard in twenty years and piles of homemade items  spill out. For her to say to me like I have said to my mum 'why don't you throw this crap away?' and like my mother has always replied to me 'no darling, you made all of this, it's special to me'.

All I wanted to do this mothering Sunday was spend time with my family.  My husband, my daughter and my dogs.  We started the day with a huge breakfast just at our local Frankie & Bennys.  Sadly Harriet gets bored in the highchair these days so we get about twenty minutes maximum to wolf down any food before one of us is running around with her.  Therefore are current restaurants of choice are always child friendly!

After visiting both sets of grandparents to show them our appreciation of everything they do for us, we headed off for a fun afternoon in the gorgeous Spring sunshine.

Merthyr Mawr sand dunes in the picturesque village of Merthyr Mawr, Vale of Glamorgan, a relatively large, unspoilt coastal and sand dune habitat.  This beautiful nature reserve is home to many plants and wildlife and is a magical place to visit. 

We walked along the sand dunes for hours whilst Harriet ran and frolicked with the dogs finally reaching the beach at Ogmore.  The tide was coming in so we jumped in the waves and splashed about.  We collected shells on the beach and skimmed pebbles for the dogs to chase.  I carried her back across the dunes in a sling, her little legs exhausted from all the fun.

In our chaotic busy lives, I relish these precious moments.  To appreciate nature and be lost in our own adventure.  Spending time with loved ones away from digital gadgets and time constraints.  These are the things we will remember and talk about for years to come.  These are the things that matter.

Victoria
xx



 




 

BATH & BODY CURRENT OBSESSIONS

Before I became a mum I didn't understand simple pleasures, like going to the toilet alone! In 19 months I think  I've been alone in the bathroom only a handful of times.  Gone are the days I spent hours in the bath with luxury bubbles, a sweet smelling candle, a book and a glass of wine.

These days I am in and out of the shower before I can even choose which conditioner to use or sharing my bath with a toddler and a rubber duck!

I don't have a lot of time to browse the latest bath and body must haves like I used to.  But here are some that I currently use and am loving right now.

I do love The Body Shop and their endless selection of skincare.  When I heard about their Drops of Light range I was keen to see for myself what all the fuss was about.   

I've been using the Drops of Light Resurfacing Liquid Peel for a couple of weeks.  This quick fix claims to visibly brighten the appearance after first use.  A transforming gel-to-peel technology that traps and gently peels off impurities and dead skin cells to unveil healthy looking skin that feels resurfaced from first use.  With brightening Red Algae rich in Vitamin C, minerals and nutrients.

This treatment is very creamy, it is similar to an exfoliator but more gentle and without the grittiness.  It is for both dry and sensitive skin and oily and acne prone skin.  Its aim is to remove dead skin and help to reduce excess oil and grime.  It certainly did not disappoint from the first time I used it. 

It says to use two pumps on dry skin and massage into your skin until clumps form.  I followed the guidelines exactly and was amazed how well it did remove dry, dead skin.  I then washed the debris off my face and instantly my skin felt smoother.  I have always suffered with very oily skin which gets congested very easily.  Since using this product (only 2-3 times a week), my skin looks clearer and brighter and the oil is under control.  I have also noticed a difference when wearing foundation.  It certainly sits better on my skin and doesn't dry. 

For only £18 I think this is definitely worth trying.  I am keen to try other products in the range which include; brightening serum, lotion, eye cream, day cream and a few others.

If you know of a local Body Shop Rep in your area, why not get in touch to order?  You are still ordering the same product from the same company for no extra cost, but you are also supporting someone in their own business.  

I do try to make a conscious effort to buy as many products that are not tested on animals and are vegan approved and Original Source is one of them.  My skin can be quite sensitive so body washes with a lot of hidden nasties usually end up turning me bright red.  These creamy moisturising body washes smell amazing and are gentle on my skin.  They all smell divine, this month I am slightly obsessed with the Coconut and Shea Butter.  It's a holiday in a bottle!

When did we all become so obsessed with white teeth?  Now don't get me wrong, we all want a nice set of gnashers, but I feel I am constantly comparing my teeth to those of celebrities.  They just seem to be getting brighter and brighter!  At the moment, I cannot justify spending over £300 to have my teeth whitened professionally at the dentists and I wouldn't dare visit an unlicensed practice, so that leaves me with various high street products that claim to make your teeth bright white.  I've tried a few, but I haven't really noticed that much of a difference.  I was introduced to the charcoal infused Ecodenta Extra Black Whitening toothpaste by a friend.  It claims to protects against tartar, provide a gentle antibacterial effect, and leave you with a long-lasting feeling of cleanliness and freshness. Presenting a more refreshing toothpaste with more whitening.

Charcoal is certainly having a moment.  Beauty bloggers and vloggers can't get enough of the stuff.  From teeth whitening to soap, this ancient beauty secret is making a major comeback.  But have I noticed a difference?  Well, my teeth are not Simon Cowell white but I have noticed a change.  If you can cope with the weirdness of using a black toothpaste and the black marks it leave in your basin then I would recommend this product.  It is safe to use everyday unlike some of the home made recipes all over the internet and the unique substance Teavigo, not only removes stains but prevents future stains.  Plus it is currently on offer at Holland & Barrett at £1.99.

Men can be notoriously tricky to buy for, they like stylish yet functional items.  My husband always needs a decent size, strong washbag for when he works nights and this canvas utilitarian inspired design from Ila & Lane is perfect.  Made from hard wearing 100% cotton canvas, with a large gold zipper design, it's the right size, unisex in style and lined with PEVA to keep the contents dry and tidy.  At only £15 I may order another one just to stop him moaning when I steal his all the time!  Well, if you have to travel, you may as well keep you toiletries organised in style too!

https://www.ilaandlane.co.uk/products/supplies-zipper-pouch


Victoria
xx

ORIGINAL SOURCE IS MADE WITH NATURAL PLANT EXTRACTS AND AUTHENTIC FRAGRANCES FOUND FROM ALL ASPECTS OF NATURE. WE BELIEVE IN RESPECTING THE WORLD WE LIVE IN AND THAT WE SHOULD LIVE IN IT LOUDLY AND PROUDLY.

WE INNOVATE, WE INVIGORATE.

 

KATIE'S HEART LAUNCH PARTY

I was lucky enough to be invited on Friday to the launch of Katie's Heart and had the pleasure of meeting Emma and Katie, two amazing, vivacious women.  Katie was diagnosed with cervical cancer and at just 36 years of age had a hysterectomy.  Sadly soon after Katie was then diagnosed with breast cancer.  Two years on after breast removal and chemotherapy, Katie is back on her feet and back to her old self.  The pair wanted to start a new chapter, prove that you can come out the other side, you can do whatever you want, and Katie's Heart was born.

If you're attending a festival this summer, be sure to head over to www.katiesheart.com Stocking glitter, rhinestones, hair braid ring kits and handmade customisable accessories, you definitely will be festival ready with these beauties.

The stylish hair kits include rings in your choice of colours, clear braiding bobbles, pliers and pretty charms to add some festival chic to your hair style.  All this comes in a sturdy printed cotton bag that's super cute.  At just £15 these make beautiful gifts.  Excellent quality and so unusual, I can see these flying out as the festival season starts.

Also £1 of every sale goes to 'Look Good Feel Better'.  A charity that helps women with cancer face it with confidence.  To find out more about this fantastic charity click here: www.lookgoodfeelbetter.co.uk

Katie's Heart amazing glitter is guilt free.  It's cosmetic grade and biodegradable.  It has been developed in response to the increasing environmental pressure on the use of plastics in the cosmetic industry.  It is produced from a special biodegradable film which is derived from sustainable and environmentally sourced raw materials.  Just another reason I love this new company.

So if you're heading off to a festival this summer, keep an eye out for this gorgeous company.  Go over and say Hi! Get glittered and support a new local business that's also trying to give something back.

Victoria
xx

FRIENDSHIP, MEMORIES AND MADRID

With mixed emotions and heavy heart I headed off to Madrid for a hen party on Friday.  As excited as I was to celebrate and party with one of my oldest friends, leaving Harriet for the first time was extremely difficult.  At 18 months the longest I have left her is just over 24 hours and that was only once.  So to go away for four days, even though I was leaving her in the hands of Daddy and both sets of grandparents who are perfectly capable, it still left me in a panic.  Harriet is still breast fed, she would never take a dummy or a bottle, I am her comforter.  What if she woke in the night screaming and wouldn't settle without me?  What if my milk dries up?  What if she forgets me?  (Ok I agree the last one is slightly ridiculous but as a first time mum all of these crazy things swim around your head).  So with a list longer than her, and outfits laid out for every day plus emergency outfits, I left knowing that Spain is only 2 hours away and I could jump on any plane to the UK if I had to.

Meeting a group of girls for the first time can sometimes be daunting especially knowing you have to spend the next four days with these women in very close proximity.  A couple were close friends, some I haven't seen since school and some were complete strangers.  However we all hit it off straight away and from the moment I stepped into the airport lounge and saw the Prosecco was already flowing, I just knew we were going to have a good time.

Our apartment which slept 12 was situated on Calle Toledo in the central neighbourhood of La Latina. Most of Madrids important landmarks are within walking distance of this vibrant area and it has the highest concentration of tapas bars.  Nightlife in La Latina has more of an artistic and fashionable flair.  On Sunday's it is home to El Rastro, the world famous flea market.   This area is uber trendy (think Shoreditch).  Pretty tapas bars and trendy cocktail bars make this area a foodies paradise.

March is a difficult time of year, yes it's hotter than Wales (isn't everywhere?) but it can still be chilly.  My staples through out this break have been a leather jacket, nude flats and a fairly neutral cross body bag.  Nearly every item of clothing can be paired with one or all three of these items.  Flats are great for the amount of walking you do whilst away and nude goes with everything.  A leather jacket can toughen up or dress down any clothing.  It's warm enough for this time of year but easy to fling over your shoulders if the sun makes an appearance.  If you are planning a city break then I would seriously invest in a good pair of smart flats.  But make sure you wear them before you go, there's nothing worse than having to spend a lot of time walking with red raw blistered feet.

One of the highlights was an hour Flamenco lesson with Sara Martin Flamenco on Calle Santa Isabel.  The dance studio is above a market, totally raw and authentic.  The beautiful Maria taught us a routine.  It was hard work and difficult but such fun, we practised our moves that evening in the clubs (yes we did, we thought we were amazing after a few cocktails).  At the end she demonstrated her own dancing skills.  The passion and talent that she had was mesmerising, enchanting. It was beautiful to watch.  If you are thinking of a weekend away in Madrid, it is definitely worth booking this.

During this trip we ate, drank and gossiped the nights away.  Tapas, Paella, Sangria, we devoured the local food and drink.  I would name every restaurant and bar we visited but there are so many you will never struggle to find something delicious.

I left Madrid excited to see my beautiful girl and family and happy that the hen had had a fabulous time.  But I also felt grateful.  Grateful for the new friendships I've formed.  These beautiful, intelligent young women have made me laugh, shared secrets, shared hints and tips for all aspects of our lives, shown generosity and most importantly of all inspired me.

Thank you for the amazing memories ladies. Thank you for the super distracting What's App group that I am constantly on, thank you to the beautiful bride to be, thanks to Ally and Claire who organised practically everything.  I raise a glass to you all.  Here's to the wedding....

Victoria
xx