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Bonita Eloise Is Now Live!

Giving Forgotten Treasures a New Life There have been tears, doubts and more late nights than I care to count.But I’m writing this now with a heart full of pride, because Bonita Eloise is finally live. This is more than just a shop.It is a quiet celebration of beauty, imperfection and second chances. Our collections feature vintage pieces that once sat forgotten in cupboards or tucked away on…

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Life Update & Teacups?

It’s been a while since I’ve written a proper update, so I thought I’d pop in with a little catch up because, as always, life has been full on. Between work, juggling my health, and keeping the family ticking along, it’s been one of those seasons where the days just blur. I tried joining choir again (because I do love a good singing session) but honestly, it’s been near impossible to fit it in…

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Is being a mum a job?

Short answer: yes, absolutely. It’s an incredibly demanding, unpaid role that is both physically and emotionally draining. As a parent, you’re always on the clock—there are no sick days, no annual leave, and no opportunity to hand in your notice. It’s a commitment you make for life, and one where societal expectations often prevent you from expressing just how hard it can be. Every day starts…

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The Best UK Deals to Look Out for This Black Friday

Black Friday is practically a national event now, and if you’re ready to shop smart, there are some incredible bargains to be had. I’ve been scouting out the best places for deals this year, and here’s my roundup to help you snag the best buys. 1. Amazon Amazon is the go-to for a reason. From toys to tech, their Black Friday sales are always impressive. Use tools like CamelCamelCamel to make…

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How to Get Christmas Ready Without Breaking the Bank

Christmas is just around the corner, and like every year, the excitement is accompanied by a bit of stress about sticking to a budget. I’ve been there, and I know the juggling act of trying to get everything just right without overspending. So, here’s how I tackle Christmas shopping and preparations without breaking the bank. 1. Keep a Close Eye on Prices If you’re like me, you probably have a…

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My Experience at the Taskmaster Live Experience: A Rare Date Day!

Recently, John and I managed to escape for a very rare date and decided to attend the Taskmaster Live Experience in London. Having read a mix of reviews, we weren’t entirely sure what to expect, but I’m pleased to report that we had an absolute blast! If you’ve been hesitant because of the feedback, here are my honest thoughts and tips to help you navigate the experience. The Parking…

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A Muddy, Magical Day at Church Farm Ardeley – Half-Term Halloween Fun!

This half-term, we set off to Church Farm in Ardeley for their Halloween event with the whole family in tow: John, Eloise, my brother, mum, and even our dogs! We chose this farm because it’s dog-friendly, which meant our pups could join in on the fun. A Muddy Start with a Halloween Twist We braced ourselves for October weather, and yes, there was mud—plenty of it! But that’s all part of the…

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Navigating Emotional Changes in 7-Year-Olds

Over the last few months, we’ve noticed some big changes in Eloise’s behaviour. She’s seven now, and while we knew this age would bring new emotions and challenges, her sudden bursts of annoyance, moments of anger, raised voice, and even the occasional throwing or punching have taken us by surprise. If you’re seeing similar behaviour with your child, know that it’s all part of their growth.…

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Fun October Activities to Do with Kids: Embrace the Autumn Magic

October is one of my favourite months, especially for spending time with Eloise. There’s something so magical about the cool crisp air, the crunch of leaves underfoot, and of course, the excitement of Halloween! Over the years, we’ve built a tradition of embracing everything autumn has to offer, from creative crafts to outdoor adventures. Here are some of our favourite October activities that you…

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Why I Volunteer My Time (Even When My Schedule Feels Impossible)

Have you ever felt like your days are packed, and you just can’t add one more thing to your to-do list? That’s exactly how I feel most of the time. But despite my tight schedule, I still carve out time to volunteer. Why? Because the joy of helping others is worth every second. My Crazy Schedule: Where Does Volunteering Fit In? Let me break it down for you. My weekdays are full-on: work starts…

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Fun Parent-Child Matching Costume Ideas

Halloween is one of those magical times when kids (and let’s be honest, parents too!) can fully embrace their imaginations. In our house, we absolutely love planning for Halloween—sometimes months in advance. My daughter Eloise and I spend weeks thinking up costume ideas and deciding whether to create our own or find something ready-made. This year, Eloise set her heart on being a character from…

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Breastfeeding vs Bottle-Feeding: Finding What Works for You

Feeding your little one is one of the most cherished experiences of parenthood, but it can also bring a mix of joy and challenges. Whether you choose to breastfeed or bottle-feed, what matters most is that you find what works best for you and your baby. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, and that’s perfectly okay! Breastfeeding: Nurturing Connection If you decide to breastfeed, here are…

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The Healing Power of Self-Care: My Oktoberfest Experience

I was really looking forward to letting my hair down at Hertford’s Oktoberfest this year, and it didn’t disappoint! It was exactly what I needed to step out of my daily routine and enjoy myself. We booked a private table, mainly because my anxiety wouldn’t handle the hustle and bustle of being too close to a crowd, and it was the perfect solution. I had a lovely group with me: my husband, my…

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Top Baby Products Every New Parent Needs

Welcoming a little one into your life can be an incredibly joyful experience, but it can also feel overwhelming—especially with the vast array of baby products available today. As parents, we naturally want to make the best choices for our babies, and that’s where expert recommendations come in handy! Essential Products You Might Consider Nappies: Choosing the right nappy can make a world of…

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Dealing with Sickness Bugs, Colds, and Flus During Winter

Ah, winter! It’s a time for warm blankets, comforting cups of tea, and the excitement of the festive season. But along with all the lovely things that come with winter, we often find ourselves facing some unwelcome visitors: sickness bugs, colds, and the dreaded flu. As a parent and a business owner, I completely understand how challenging it can be when illness sneaks into our homes, throwing…

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Balancing Work and Family: Tips for Busy Parents

As a parent and business owner, I truly understand the struggle of trying to balance work and family life. It can feel like a constant juggling act, where the hours slip away, and it seems there’s never enough time to spend with our little ones. Many of you might be working long hours or simply find your mind racing with work thoughts even when you’re at home. Trust me, you’re not alone in…

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Navigating Financial Management at Home

Managing finances at home can often feel like a bit of a juggling act, can’t it? Between daily expenses, bills, unexpected repairs, and perhaps the odd treat here and there, it’s all too easy to feel like you’re losing track. I’ve definitely been there—scrambling to keep everything in check while life throws new expenses our way. But here’s the good news: financial management doesn’t have to be…