tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11084297257463183982024-03-10T20:23:17.858-07:00Storms BlogMotherhood, Beauty & Lifestyle Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger126125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1108429725746318398.post-60401722143014899612023-08-05T12:44:00.002-07:002023-08-05T12:56:02.855-07:00Our breastfeeding journey so far... six months in!<p> Hello, welcome! </p><p>Chances are that if you are here then you will be aware that this week is World Breastfeeding Week and it just so happens that it has fallen on the week when Freddie is turning six months old too (How has that happened?!) </p><p>I thought I would write a whole post about our feeding journey so far... including the struggles, our favorite products (links below), and everything in between. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIfBGAw2hJ9mEUXj9mRVBeiy0Ng4W5Krqg_b_GrqqYBZ_spvIqp9klA1Npzmbvd3uSpZCLtAfDU0dQcVDx-FxZWzOBya5TOqdiphIHQlJuhuHg10ovvbWZRpzOpQldmqCJ0hb3mz4wNMZzPnkbNMFfyoUfDMdfYRnG03tzota6zghIP640QxAKpIBhvA/s2048/359820961_6147724175349791_7050705302427208135_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1754" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIfBGAw2hJ9mEUXj9mRVBeiy0Ng4W5Krqg_b_GrqqYBZ_spvIqp9klA1Npzmbvd3uSpZCLtAfDU0dQcVDx-FxZWzOBya5TOqdiphIHQlJuhuHg10ovvbWZRpzOpQldmqCJ0hb3mz4wNMZzPnkbNMFfyoUfDMdfYRnG03tzota6zghIP640QxAKpIBhvA/s320/359820961_6147724175349791_7050705302427208135_n.jpg" width="274" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">Freddie is my second child however this has been my first breastfeeding/pumping journey because when I had Maci I chose to not breastfeed (and that's ok!) but this time round I knew from early on in my pregnancy that I wanted to attempt to feed Freddie. I did a lot of research of my own and spoke to whoever I could find in *real* life that had breastfed and bombarded them with questions. My pregnancy was very turbulent and I was considered high risk after my traumatic birth with Maci which I think was another factor in wanting to breastfeed. I had already felt like my body couldn't manage pregnancy very well so I wanted to try to breastfeed. </span></div></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipt9oPhfXh0gvXYZodXWgVGpwtyTTa4ShQGbOrW5vHQ8f7BfNM-B6z2lh96EZK-tFVmkOL9GxEaEs7QrnSw98sOYqAQFgGuTkcDLas6bIEYXOvq5ZZYOVrQREloyg8ojM_3ZSwzUnhR8tx8hfp6brHgFM-AtFhkLLQZgswrauJmxEVGw3Du_yLqF1oVw/s1440/327610573_697314385507813_8506840805361099053_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipt9oPhfXh0gvXYZodXWgVGpwtyTTa4ShQGbOrW5vHQ8f7BfNM-B6z2lh96EZK-tFVmkOL9GxEaEs7QrnSw98sOYqAQFgGuTkcDLas6bIEYXOvq5ZZYOVrQREloyg8ojM_3ZSwzUnhR8tx8hfp6brHgFM-AtFhkLLQZgswrauJmxEVGw3Du_yLqF1oVw/s320/327610573_697314385507813_8506840805361099053_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></p><p></p><p>I began pumping a few weeks before Freddie was actually born (he was born at 36+3 weeks) and this was for a few reasons - I was already producing milk so I chose to save my milk by just hand expressing into syringes which we actually ended up using once Freddie was born. There are many mixed opinions about inducing lactation before your baby is born however I was already 'leaking' milk so I collected that. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhkN1tiIrotAswfD8bA___2hap9ySR2ge0p7RXS76jriDOWjk5QhMBgSFM5v9-d_b1-6qdAigjeigPl05DJNrMiqxvIwXWNWT4S1HrDUb4xppHW8d43lxZOQDyKH-R5saKDouy9MUS6MzwZF37TllGD5Q5oGeQ9gwo7ZiPpL5nvRMZXx3nBGudwYoh8Jg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="946" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhkN1tiIrotAswfD8bA___2hap9ySR2ge0p7RXS76jriDOWjk5QhMBgSFM5v9-d_b1-6qdAigjeigPl05DJNrMiqxvIwXWNWT4S1HrDUb4xppHW8d43lxZOQDyKH-R5saKDouy9MUS6MzwZF37TllGD5Q5oGeQ9gwo7ZiPpL5nvRMZXx3nBGudwYoh8Jg" width="111" /></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi-sgQdGorCzoqyZ4uryUr9LsC_A6KpOi_gLgypNjywCIpdToq9tBx8KOHrUziaKD2bKRWJB_cJUFSyUduq0LJrogiSHzKaATSss630hWMk9eiMfdjM9hHSxgOPG1xkgUaVbbf_R_0OhBtf4V56SMzFlIRf64UIwIxck0cM8nbWZkBHNMPwk92_plar-w" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="946" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi-sgQdGorCzoqyZ4uryUr9LsC_A6KpOi_gLgypNjywCIpdToq9tBx8KOHrUziaKD2bKRWJB_cJUFSyUduq0LJrogiSHzKaATSss630hWMk9eiMfdjM9hHSxgOPG1xkgUaVbbf_R_0OhBtf4V56SMzFlIRf64UIwIxck0cM8nbWZkBHNMPwk92_plar-w" width="111" /></a></div><br /><br /><p></p><p>When we had the shock that Freddie was coming premature it meant that my body wasn't ready... my milk did not 'come in' until about day two or three. This meant that for the first few days, Freddie had a combination of my previously expressed colostrum, formula, and donor milk from the hospital's milk bank. I had never even heard of a milk bank but I was so grateful for it in those first few days. Milk banks always prioritize the babies in the neonatal unit as they aren't given formula milk only donated breast milk. </p><p>A few days after Freddie was born my milk finally came in and I was certain that I was going to pump every three hours and then feed him from a bottle. I managed this for a few weeks and let me tell you, pumping is intense. Whilst in the hospital we received some help from the lovely peer support breastfeeding volunteers in the hospital because Freddie's latch was slightly wrong and I had no idea how to position him whilst feeding but we soon got into the swing of things and now I can feed him whilst walking and doing multiple things! </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOho9ynaZHGMwpX14J8VTGn3ed5LZwq-rY81wjWDE50ioN0M10uO6XFo3o6a9PR1TqomPIAhre3r1s6Z-_F4pu-VN6XvydbWuw_Dh1gsTGFY-H8HDa8Rz4oiR_W2b93XosQF1RWmK7W4o2t9FyTq4UfIkQ8RSbiHNopqTmT7E7Er2YOhfmnJT2qPuSfA/s2048/354192740_6045700018885541_5510409600865845139_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="2048" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOho9ynaZHGMwpX14J8VTGn3ed5LZwq-rY81wjWDE50ioN0M10uO6XFo3o6a9PR1TqomPIAhre3r1s6Z-_F4pu-VN6XvydbWuw_Dh1gsTGFY-H8HDa8Rz4oiR_W2b93XosQF1RWmK7W4o2t9FyTq4UfIkQ8RSbiHNopqTmT7E7Er2YOhfmnJT2qPuSfA/s320/354192740_6045700018885541_5510409600865845139_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p>I soon realized that express feeding wasn't for me and I switched to 99% of the time nursing. It meant that I didn't have the hassle of cleaning pumps and bottles. </p><p>Luckily our feeding journey has been fairly straightforward once we got into the rhythm of it (after those first few weeks where you have no clue what you're doing!) I have only had one stint of mastitis which luckily I caught it very early and was given antibiotics. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwitkMJZcr7RWfRodGWR6Ani6cI6_ETVFbEwMdrnOBHf1hqS2wAnbAXOZWpmBGaIZh1LOIBkMb0uIfE4qZ47f9FvD3jGzNtewUD04_PjwgGpgFoOQgyZIWk68t_TyCGe1Ut8gmfO6O2VGGexJjRYtUcjAOor9ZdhPZwKjoUF8Q86-AhNxLrXoPx4MpEQ/s180/th.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="180" data-original-width="148" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwitkMJZcr7RWfRodGWR6Ani6cI6_ETVFbEwMdrnOBHf1hqS2wAnbAXOZWpmBGaIZh1LOIBkMb0uIfE4qZ47f9FvD3jGzNtewUD04_PjwgGpgFoOQgyZIWk68t_TyCGe1Ut8gmfO6O2VGGexJjRYtUcjAOor9ZdhPZwKjoUF8Q86-AhNxLrXoPx4MpEQ/s1600/th.jpg" width="148" /></a></div><br /><p>We are now six months into our feeding journey and I definitely do not see it ending anytime soon. I really enjoy breastfeeding and Freddie finds great comfort in it. It really has been incredible to see what my body can do and how it can grow and nurture my little boy. Breastfeeding really has impacted my life in more ways than I can list, I have become so passionate about normalizing it and helping support others. I have recently enquired about doing a peer supporter course to help run breastfeeding groups in my local community and hopefully eventually volunteer in hospitals to help new mummies who are embarking on their very own feeding journeys. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtUfJtKH70ZUUJWVcwfRBaaRYV3E5It4GZSD2lQk9aFu92mc3zZzkkTzMxfvnt3_j41y5qY7nrUCnVUDbWgCL1NYqTSTwg9VCsxhcELV1FxUTQtZVIu7O4EphUovgVcYwVgdAAmSmIy8SKlN7GkwgSqiD70ahaajczskMqpHYkHI-DEd-PhTHBSuU7zA/s227/download.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="222" data-original-width="227" height="222" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtUfJtKH70ZUUJWVcwfRBaaRYV3E5It4GZSD2lQk9aFu92mc3zZzkkTzMxfvnt3_j41y5qY7nrUCnVUDbWgCL1NYqTSTwg9VCsxhcELV1FxUTQtZVIu7O4EphUovgVcYwVgdAAmSmIy8SKlN7GkwgSqiD70ahaajczskMqpHYkHI-DEd-PhTHBSuU7zA/s1600/download.png" width="227" /></a></div><br /><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Products that have really helped me throughout our feeding journey. </li></ul><p></p><p><a href="https://junojacks.co.uk/collections/new-in/products/the-frankie-nursing-smock-dress" target="_blank">Juno Jack's (Frankie dress - Gifted)</a><br /></p><p>If you follow me on my socials you would have seen many Juno Jack's products photographed... I absolutely love them. They produce breastfeeding-friendly clothing and are a UK-based small business. They have recently added the beautiful <a href="https://junojacks.co.uk/collections/new-in/products/the-frankie-nursing-smock-dress" target="_blank">Frankie smock nursing dress</a> to their collection and I am obsessed. I have very kindly been sent a 'Frankie' dress and I'm so excited to share the images and reel with you all over on Instagram. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvjSepumu0SgP1LEYbeGpPDM5TxyISIG4lvgcuzPFNlXjWrj9Gpzmso09Kyte5Y7g2QAD21yhnN_VLEiIjlTABPbe-KCtElkc3ir4OtYhxw2uG6ea0ktxR8zP0mlwSDf7DnuQJ3AvNX1rKWaf5bTiVVPHTrpXrDRmec70rg3hwrBwfzse0DQ7JPA3aRA/s1170/365904278_6208718162583725_539941993946263071_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1126" data-original-width="1170" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvjSepumu0SgP1LEYbeGpPDM5TxyISIG4lvgcuzPFNlXjWrj9Gpzmso09Kyte5Y7g2QAD21yhnN_VLEiIjlTABPbe-KCtElkc3ir4OtYhxw2uG6ea0ktxR8zP0mlwSDf7DnuQJ3AvNX1rKWaf5bTiVVPHTrpXrDRmec70rg3hwrBwfzse0DQ7JPA3aRA/s320/365904278_6208718162583725_539941993946263071_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div>Nursing in public wearing <a href="https://junojacks.co.uk/collections/trending-products/products/the-florence-breastfeeding-smock-dress-with-zips" target="_blank">Florence breastfeeding dress</a><br /><p><a href="https://momcozy.com/products/momcozy-s12-pro-wearable-breast-pump" target="_blank">Momcozy S12 Pro Pumps</a></p><p>Having an older child and a slightly chaotic life meant that I knew I would not have loads of time to sit pumping. I came across the Momcozy pumps on Tiktok and instantly knew they would be super handy. I personally thought they were quite affordable considering many 'hands-free' pumps are hundreds of pounds. The S12 Pro pumps have a display screen that shows you how many minutes you have been pumping and automatically turns off after thirty minutes. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkhiyHYXMde9einvnj_zzFBcA1gqtVWbcZmowgaJLKl9QU3Yp3B9xGutIFwgmqiNj_F5nu6vOLxmZIHL2t1JgcZANB84JaKpI4KuXM112_Kxe9GjKai5_TjRNMFQ2VVJw2Lq1nQUepV8hmVNdZJ26d2sDGUhS3aaoZshQx3UCnaBp5QuSvrEPEfzKCsg/s300/61+JOHepbDL._AC_SY300_SX300_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="261" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkhiyHYXMde9einvnj_zzFBcA1gqtVWbcZmowgaJLKl9QU3Yp3B9xGutIFwgmqiNj_F5nu6vOLxmZIHL2t1JgcZANB84JaKpI4KuXM112_Kxe9GjKai5_TjRNMFQ2VVJw2Lq1nQUepV8hmVNdZJ26d2sDGUhS3aaoZshQx3UCnaBp5QuSvrEPEfzKCsg/s1600/61+JOHepbDL._AC_SY300_SX300_.jpg" width="261" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><a href="https://www.nanobebe.co.uk/products/50-breastmilk-storage-bags?variant=39280449945674" target="_blank">Nanobebe milk storage bags</a><br /></p><p>Before this journey, I presumed all milk storage bags were somewhat the same... oh how I was wrong! The Nanobebe milk storage bags come with a plastic 'holder' that keeps them nice and tidy in your freezer. The bags themselves are thick and really nice quality. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6zcn9ZaV6F-YEqpVxOk8XkKtj-9WLRa1ahwzjapDaSeEzj-COJvpe3Cxeu3U5DvunIkppWHC0YICVRrn1Ym3hNaopfugVduknE5XVPlX6Jt2rvMrlBBpp2TfeKIA6ILjxB7Cjw6rethO42UpSfKs2-XX12X5zsw5EHACdwOrb32Mb9Lqm0DI9Cg53UA/s1080/nanobebe-25-breastmilk-storage-bags-organiser_1800x1800.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6zcn9ZaV6F-YEqpVxOk8XkKtj-9WLRa1ahwzjapDaSeEzj-COJvpe3Cxeu3U5DvunIkppWHC0YICVRrn1Ym3hNaopfugVduknE5XVPlX6Jt2rvMrlBBpp2TfeKIA6ILjxB7Cjw6rethO42UpSfKs2-XX12X5zsw5EHACdwOrb32Mb9Lqm0DI9Cg53UA/s320/nanobebe-25-breastmilk-storage-bags-organiser_1800x1800.webp" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Tommee-Tippee-Natural-Nipple-423596/dp/B083M7Q8YM" style="text-align: left;" target="_blank">Tommee Tippee nipple cream</a></div><p>This one is pretty straightforward... </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-gGVE9vhn8yrAndnVgrLCCZ25dkscBUrB-vGFRLuHSlykfRc9XjTqrYBDIzCelCEeULSosBLBnYxtrFl_Inq-jcDALPRS6BUBDYqOpe-XidZsApFx_ErTSYKvA42i7GbfA1IHWUs3LAQTUmDl__E8Za8yitj7oslw-yjXw241TlmgYuEcSr2JcmDa7w/s300/51Dq4RCgdCL.__AC_SX300_SY300_QL70_ML2_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="116" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-gGVE9vhn8yrAndnVgrLCCZ25dkscBUrB-vGFRLuHSlykfRc9XjTqrYBDIzCelCEeULSosBLBnYxtrFl_Inq-jcDALPRS6BUBDYqOpe-XidZsApFx_ErTSYKvA42i7GbfA1IHWUs3LAQTUmDl__E8Za8yitj7oslw-yjXw241TlmgYuEcSr2JcmDa7w/s1600/51Dq4RCgdCL.__AC_SX300_SY300_QL70_ML2_.jpg" width="116" /></a></div><br /><p><a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Haakaa-Manual-Silicone-Breastpump-Breastfeeding/dp/B07PSDFMLQ/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?adgrpid=1174279373881250&hvadid=73392673523834&hvbmt=be&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=41502&hvnetw=o&hvqmt=e&hvtargid=kwd-73392638151021%3Aloc-188&hydadcr=10788_1824547&keywords=breast+pumps+haakaa&qid=1691173024&sr=8-2-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&psc=1" target="_blank">Hakka manual pump</a></p><p>I heard about the Hakka pumps at a local breastfeeding group and it has become an essential item. I use my Hakka almost daily to help catch any 'let down' or if Freddie goes slightly longer without a feed and I feel slightly full. The Hakka is easier to clean than the Momcozy pumps and is a lot smaller in size meaning you can keep it in your handbag or changing bag easily. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSHLPMs2leOPjljCpJl7vieZh1aNrQHPssMBalSXgAbEu5CXfASrkM94zQPe5-Wu4VQSD707LHqWP6Oepv9Qbb8O11pdwuGJo2TNlm-D04peDtw9OFw3E7Wf8a3wMjBXPVtCPDN1uWYbYsj0JqR1iWfSUA8dmGnpNAWPRSA5b6NjuQjwUi1T5yrk9VaA/s600/619lgDjXhsL._AC_UL600_FMwebp_QL65_.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="567" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSHLPMs2leOPjljCpJl7vieZh1aNrQHPssMBalSXgAbEu5CXfASrkM94zQPe5-Wu4VQSD707LHqWP6Oepv9Qbb8O11pdwuGJo2TNlm-D04peDtw9OFw3E7Wf8a3wMjBXPVtCPDN1uWYbYsj0JqR1iWfSUA8dmGnpNAWPRSA5b6NjuQjwUi1T5yrk9VaA/s320/619lgDjXhsL._AC_UL600_FMwebp_QL65_.webp" width="302" /></a></div><p><a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Lansinoh-Disposable-Nursing-Breast-Piece/dp/B000WHHKEU/ref=asc_df_B000WHHKEU?tag=bingshoppinga-21&linkCode=df0&hvadid=80608042410909&hvnetw=o&hvqmt=e&hvbmt=be&hvdev=c&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=&hvtargid=pla-4584207584162185&th=1" target="_blank">Breast pads</a></p><p>I do not tend to wear breast pads often anymore as my supply has stabilized however in the early days they were a must-have! The ones linked above were what I used and I never had any leaks. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioDASEzaU417PfZTOspcTmnDfjZnVrf6Uy7VZqq-XMMs_fRd68oQz9yjiFM6VUDUB5aoLTAe5aDB-j800Ax5Cs8PONWHdfCtRTC35gA6ODhx0PD3p3Fhhu3DBDSr0CK2qUQPYXc_tMpwRalZexNrqzMtH-kLzb8fTjb97LJMCpFbfyk-3tyNLNMNWGcQ/s300/71AgROu1aQL.__AC_SX300_SY300_QL70_ML2_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="249" data-original-width="300" height="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioDASEzaU417PfZTOspcTmnDfjZnVrf6Uy7VZqq-XMMs_fRd68oQz9yjiFM6VUDUB5aoLTAe5aDB-j800Ax5Cs8PONWHdfCtRTC35gA6ODhx0PD3p3Fhhu3DBDSr0CK2qUQPYXc_tMpwRalZexNrqzMtH-kLzb8fTjb97LJMCpFbfyk-3tyNLNMNWGcQ/s1600/71AgROu1aQL.__AC_SX300_SY300_QL70_ML2_.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><p>I will be sharing more on our nursing journey so keep an eye out for those posts in the upcoming months. </p><p>Thank you for reading!</p><p>Storm </p><p><a href="https://www.instagram.com/stormsblog/" target="_blank">Instagram</a><br /></p><p><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1108429725746318398.post-72375348662694570232023-07-19T00:57:00.002-07:002023-07-19T01:01:00.561-07:00Hello!<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Hello! </span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">How are you? It's been a while but I have been itching to start blogging again. I get such enjoyment out of the escapism that writing gives me. It allows me to share my feelings, thoughts, and everything else in between without any judgment (well, the comment section is always open...)</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I am now twenty-four years old, I have a little boy called Freddie who is five months old, a lovely fiancé and of course, Maci is doing really well and she started primary school last year. </span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I have a few posts planned and I can't wait to get creating again for you all. As always if there is anything you would like to see from me then please let me know either below in the comments or on my socials. </span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What to expect - </span></p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li style="text-align: left;">Quick and simple makeup routine</li><li style="text-align: left;">Craft ideas to do at home</li><li style="text-align: left;">Weaning essentials</li><li style="text-align: left;">My breastfeeding experience so far</li><li style="text-align: left;">Dealing with Hyperemesis again</li></ul><p></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Here's to the next chapter. </span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Storm </span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCOkf_t9ZLW6S0RaYkkELz4OnkBDsEWpIhCWscsnec2Gb0rU5PP85RxXszolCqIjNcUZjTIaN5mHPOD2EmZ4whzsl-56vkSXlYaVGOLC3FadcGC2cbXcfEgVFJ5nHFHv2CW4pFP12foIlTHCLiqD4Z6qjdT7CIC8v40QsKXv1SkTIOBHvbwdYMCsNbYQ/s4592/IMG_2788.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4592" data-original-width="3448" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCOkf_t9ZLW6S0RaYkkELz4OnkBDsEWpIhCWscsnec2Gb0rU5PP85RxXszolCqIjNcUZjTIaN5mHPOD2EmZ4whzsl-56vkSXlYaVGOLC3FadcGC2cbXcfEgVFJ5nHFHv2CW4pFP12foIlTHCLiqD4Z6qjdT7CIC8v40QsKXv1SkTIOBHvbwdYMCsNbYQ/s320/IMG_2788.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxpUqBELHm_pfuSBAr3QlZa97t75DwMoFGKJrBsMFE2FjxqhBdBEKGPFOONswgN95CIC8HFborINHd3L8NOFvH3bGQusB5Afcir3VAeTWxBNvAaEWj3MyJf0eqDsyxv0PPVXvsXH-hEh2-e7F9xC2XsWf3aKQ9sGSBhwxgEL4N8DX80LmXOUaAeyuEBA/s640/thumbnail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="545" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxpUqBELHm_pfuSBAr3QlZa97t75DwMoFGKJrBsMFE2FjxqhBdBEKGPFOONswgN95CIC8HFborINHd3L8NOFvH3bGQusB5Afcir3VAeTWxBNvAaEWj3MyJf0eqDsyxv0PPVXvsXH-hEh2-e7F9xC2XsWf3aKQ9sGSBhwxgEL4N8DX80LmXOUaAeyuEBA/s320/thumbnail.jpg" width="273" /></a></div><br /><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1108429725746318398.post-86018039262201028312021-06-16T06:55:00.008-07:002021-06-16T06:57:55.147-07:00AD - Big Girl Room Transformation!<p style="text-align: center;"> Hello!</p><p style="text-align: center;">Long time no speak. Life has been kind of crazy over here with various different things. I hope you are all well and are enjoying the fact that the world is slowly opening back up.</p><p style="text-align: center;">Maci has just turned three and I decided that for her main birthday present I wanted to redecorate her bedroom so that it would be a 'big girl' room instead of a nursery/toddler room. I feel like if you're a parent you will fully understand what I mean by this. I knew that I wanted to keep roughly the same colour palette as before so it flowed throughout the house (pink, white and grey) however I wanted to add a dinosaur theme as Maci is currently obsessed. Another big change is that Maci has now gone from a toddler bed to a single bed which she has reacted very well too.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuMr9ECsXtNwU9C_KBv_9_S5ZNgdZ-4woeE4FygcbR2rugFjoudrSLt-PyAOJfmgh9jr42V-2p5b4veQKi8ijDkGkn8YIXkNvoQuElARcbmh1NtjlX2FaHMiDAvtjcFbJ6CBhhOHEBik8/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="628" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuMr9ECsXtNwU9C_KBv_9_S5ZNgdZ-4woeE4FygcbR2rugFjoudrSLt-PyAOJfmgh9jr42V-2p5b4veQKi8ijDkGkn8YIXkNvoQuElARcbmh1NtjlX2FaHMiDAvtjcFbJ6CBhhOHEBik8/w393-h400/IMG_0726+%25281%2529.JPG" width="393" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I was kindly gifted this beautiful canvas for the bedroom wall which fits the colour scheme perfectly (meaning that if Maci decides when she is older she no longer would like it in her room it could go in another room without an issue) I also fell in love with the design, its a mixture of being stunning artwork and educational due to the fact it is a map and included landmarks, animals etc. The canvas came 'flat packed' but was extremely easy to assemble following the instructions provided.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.photowall.com/us/search?q=traveller">https://www.photowall.com/us/search?q=traveller</a><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1lNbe08k6HPpaSGMxXTkGbBviEqH5GkElRXMxZmEpnBY_156S9Q-UQSe1_o2lNuUKLLRMc-ftk90mxBRWwG7ZHRfuysTUYyeBKex2oeYkaLZ45bAz6AtwO_oDK0_wf4XDIDl2HRZ1yKg/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="532" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1lNbe08k6HPpaSGMxXTkGbBviEqH5GkElRXMxZmEpnBY_156S9Q-UQSe1_o2lNuUKLLRMc-ftk90mxBRWwG7ZHRfuysTUYyeBKex2oeYkaLZ45bAz6AtwO_oDK0_wf4XDIDl2HRZ1yKg/w333-h400/IMG_0723.JPG" width="333" /></a></div></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;">Photowall sweden have a large selection of wallpapers, prints and posters and the ability to use your own images to create something beautiful and unique for your home.</p><p style="text-align: center;">If you are wanting to purchase from Photowall Sweden they have also kindly given me a discount code for you to use to receive 25% off of your order - <span face=""Sans sans-serif"" style="background-color: white;"><b>stormsblog25</b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span face="Sans sans-serif"><a href="https://www.photowall.com/us/search?q=world%20maps">https://www.photowall.com/us/search?q=world%20maps</a></span></span></p><p style="text-align: center;">Until next time,</p><p style="text-align: center;">Storm</p><p></p><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagram.com/stormsblog" target="_blank">Instagram</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1108429725746318398.post-52178395327183945382020-10-23T06:41:00.008-07:002020-10-23T06:55:34.538-07:00Three Years Later - What I would tell my eighteen year old self.<p><br /></p><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> <span style="text-align: center;">Throwback to the <b>10th October 2017</b>, the day I took a pregnancy stick unaware that two lines would appear. The day that would change my life forever and the day I realised I was going to be someone's mummy at only eighteen/nineteen years old.</span> </span></p></blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Three years later a lot has changed</b>, I have learnt a lot about people, parenting and life in general so I thought why not compile it into a post that may help someone who may find themselves in the position I was in three years prior.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI0vMleyZ0P43OJfktj6_Fq-KVkxjvYlb0aeDvSm_zFX-96I5eAJrJaGJ6M07SB2oeS_Mx0TUd_h87j9xq7ex0Kv_ll-lYrU_biMwebtNn-Z20Ts3O-CWr4UkPIsRTbaORBSk_MuFNOA8/s2048/HLP_6533.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1367" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI0vMleyZ0P43OJfktj6_Fq-KVkxjvYlb0aeDvSm_zFX-96I5eAJrJaGJ6M07SB2oeS_Mx0TUd_h87j9xq7ex0Kv_ll-lYrU_biMwebtNn-Z20Ts3O-CWr4UkPIsRTbaORBSk_MuFNOA8/s320/HLP_6533.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="text-align: left;"> </span></span></p></blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI0vMleyZ0P43OJfktj6_Fq-KVkxjvYlb0aeDvSm_zFX-96I5eAJrJaGJ6M07SB2oeS_Mx0TUd_h87j9xq7ex0Kv_ll-lYrU_biMwebtNn-Z20Ts3O-CWr4UkPIsRTbaORBSk_MuFNOA8/s2048/HLP_6533.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"></a><b>When you become a parent, not only do you meet a brand new person in the child you have birthed but you will also meet a whole new version of yourself</b> - This for me took a long time to adjust too. Before having children you are rightfully selfish and once you have a child that soon changes. Simple things like just popping for a shower to wash your hair can feel like a mammoth task whereas before it was a simple task. It took me ages to find the 'new/old me' after having Maci and truthfully I don't think I have fully found her yet and I am writing this three years after finding out I was pregnant. It takes time, don't be so hard on yourself.</span></p></blockquote><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaRNDVyyGbJyOfekmJSOK4YsvQ6h7tG5kCT9YWiUl7TIzV7GN9HiguXemf0Eaa5Dk6bw6L9FtTUX17N3jvF9hMu7Fnufu1f30e_AazXh92qUZp5BSuljG2uMBrvhMjIBaOjPSsXwKQqiY/s960/blogs2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="730" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaRNDVyyGbJyOfekmJSOK4YsvQ6h7tG5kCT9YWiUl7TIzV7GN9HiguXemf0Eaa5Dk6bw6L9FtTUX17N3jvF9hMu7Fnufu1f30e_AazXh92qUZp5BSuljG2uMBrvhMjIBaOjPSsXwKQqiY/s320/blogs2.jpg" /></span></a><br /><br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="text-align: center;"> </span><b style="text-align: center;">You will realise who your true friends are</b><span style="text-align: center;"> - When you are pregnant and have a baby it will become apparent who your 'true friends' are. This was another one that I found hard to adjust too. Friends who you think will always be there for you and who say that they can't wait to be an 'auntie'/'uncle' will soon vanish. Now this can't be said for all of them, a select few will stay around and support you throughout this tough time and will love your child like their own and of course you will meet other parents along the way which you will call your friends so don't be too disheartened. <b>People change and that's ok</b>. </span></span></p><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8f-otCVmU_1u2-hPfud_l0D6dU5eC_o3qrBvrc6DrBFRN71dkwxuNu_45xik8UqglnJcnPwVhPwirbfdHlJrdMU5jNC7Ihs_zwbyh75KpIHpDznBYFrqqeam8FyAMwPOWqg3ep400_Wo/s960/36292018_1598515976937323_6406983056824991744_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="718" data-original-width="960" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8f-otCVmU_1u2-hPfud_l0D6dU5eC_o3qrBvrc6DrBFRN71dkwxuNu_45xik8UqglnJcnPwVhPwirbfdHlJrdMU5jNC7Ihs_zwbyh75KpIHpDznBYFrqqeam8FyAMwPOWqg3ep400_Wo/w320-h238/36292018_1598515976937323_6406983056824991744_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Your idea of the 'perfect family' may change - </b>Now for me when I found out I was pregnant I was so excited to raise Maci with someone and to share the experience becoming parents, but sometimes things don't always go to plan and individuals don't turn out to be who you once thought they were and that's okay. This for me is one of the biggest lessons I have had to learn. Sometimes people's intentions are completely wrong and they simply don't want the same thing as you. This does not degrade you as a person or as a mother as long as you do all you can every day for your daughter. Although if you do find yourself in a dramatically different situation than what you once thought, don't forget that it is perfectly normal to 'grieve' what you thought you initially wanted. There is absolutely <b>no shame</b> in being a single parent. Now if someone asks me what my idea of the 'perfect family' is I simply say, 'whatever you are content with'. For me, three years later, that is myself, Maci and Peggy and I wouldn't have it any other way.</span></p></blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFKITyX-TQciMC5o9boIU7bVdGQ-gOC8Za6OkOYob7Evavw_BIXlR0v7kGtcIl4PXiGfO4GM_3U1JuLQpYJpmIF-ECvaFu9_oKPJHKaaPgWkKNM3RPzGcqFiq6CKnEDC5tZ2cvOCHs5tU/s960/83565369_2557210987734479_3026177297553031168_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="726" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFKITyX-TQciMC5o9boIU7bVdGQ-gOC8Za6OkOYob7Evavw_BIXlR0v7kGtcIl4PXiGfO4GM_3U1JuLQpYJpmIF-ECvaFu9_oKPJHKaaPgWkKNM3RPzGcqFiq6CKnEDC5tZ2cvOCHs5tU/s320/83565369_2557210987734479_3026177297553031168_n.jpg" /></span></a></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> <b>Things that seem like a big issue right now, won't be in years time</b><span> - Now I think this stands for most things throughout life but I think we sometimes forget it. It is so easy to get consumed by things that seem like a massive issue in the now but you have to ask yourself, will it matter it in a year or two? You don't want to spend your time being consumed by worries, especially when you're a new parent who is trying to find their feet in your new role. Take each day as it comes...</span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFVvBjUXVr2rD2TctBXt1GSd36SJ59Zy5zGLx2WbxUm8cYzqYI6Ij-o-pxIriayNI9LvFHwa8BM5ZgIa3NkRsB28zw15Ab_HZUnvXVgXSx_PH7Je1sbjEHW6Wp4u8BYKDBsATOMqUcQGc/s960/sassy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="881" data-original-width="960" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFVvBjUXVr2rD2TctBXt1GSd36SJ59Zy5zGLx2WbxUm8cYzqYI6Ij-o-pxIriayNI9LvFHwa8BM5ZgIa3NkRsB28zw15Ab_HZUnvXVgXSx_PH7Je1sbjEHW6Wp4u8BYKDBsATOMqUcQGc/s320/sassy.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Finally, I would like to say to my 2017 self that things will be tough over the next few years. You will have days where it will seem impossible but trust me, things will fall into place. You will survive the Hyperemesis Gravidarum, you will give birth to a beautiful girl who will become your best friend, you will get help to cope with the traumatic birth, relationships will break down but you will flourish from the crappy situation, you will move into a beautiful home and you will continue to raise Maci by yourself and you should be so incredibly proud of yourself and the little girl that you helping to grow every day.<span style="text-align: left;"> </span></span></p></blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Until next time, <span style="text-align: left;"> </span></span></p></blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;">Storm</span></p></blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="text-align: left;"> </span><a href="www.instagram.com/stormsblog" target="_blank">Instagram</a><span style="text-align: left;"> </span></span></p></blockquote><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1108429725746318398.post-61437927786092247862020-10-21T06:38:00.004-07:002020-10-21T06:39:26.457-07:00Having some 'self care' time! - AD Trenza Braidbar Southampton<p style="text-align: center;"> Hello,</p><p style="text-align: center;">For those of you who are parents you will know how tough it is to get some very important 'self care' time. Recently I was invited along to <a href="https://www.west-quay.co.uk/shop/trenzabraidbar" target="_blank">Trenza Braidbar</a> in West Quay, Southampton and safe to say I jumped at the chance to actually be able to sit down for a while, child free and have my hair transformed into an amazing creation. I certainly was not disappointed. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2Kl2mJflWJgaRasZNyV_Sz4nZsryB63hibaFwUy9Eod6tYHfRBWa0XLoHcgJGm6ot9-ogmBU2IvgpUXxakQ7TXTDcu8a9l39OehUqjxyn_rf6Wde7D1iD3HHanENMa0e3qVUPhxJmoTs/s960/instagram+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="830" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2Kl2mJflWJgaRasZNyV_Sz4nZsryB63hibaFwUy9Eod6tYHfRBWa0XLoHcgJGm6ot9-ogmBU2IvgpUXxakQ7TXTDcu8a9l39OehUqjxyn_rf6Wde7D1iD3HHanENMa0e3qVUPhxJmoTs/s320/instagram+2.jpg" /></a></div><p style="text-align: center;">It is important to note that <a href="https://www.west-quay.co.uk/shop/trenzabraidbar" target="_blank">Trenza Braidbar</a> do not just do 'crazy and colourful' creations but they do also do natural braids but for me, I wanted to try something a bit out of my comfort zone hence the vibrant masterpiece that Nicole created for me. Trenza also have a mother and daughter package for those of you who have older little ones who would enjoy having their hair braided.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-OIWuhDQ4UQeKU1SZluRtuR6MOdyvpHz0NIEtOTR8eufyTyVIu7dRBqgO4aMhgsx4nklvWHqJMjCzNl570len9La6tlMuVVzK-nxgds8sES3CjI9ReQ6NZNqKBNIUX5_Z8TBrc1oelPQ/s960/instagram+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="606" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-OIWuhDQ4UQeKU1SZluRtuR6MOdyvpHz0NIEtOTR8eufyTyVIu7dRBqgO4aMhgsx4nklvWHqJMjCzNl570len9La6tlMuVVzK-nxgds8sES3CjI9ReQ6NZNqKBNIUX5_Z8TBrc1oelPQ/s320/instagram+1.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><p style="text-align: center;">You can find<a href="https://www.west-quay.co.uk/shop/trenzabraidbar" target="_blank"> Trenza Braidbar</a> near the Apple Store in <a href="https://www.west-quay.co.uk/" target="_blank">West Quay, Southampton.</a></p><p style="text-align: center;">So next time you have some spare time, why not book in with <a href="https://www.west-quay.co.uk/shop/trenzabraidbar" target="_blank">Trenza Braidbar.</a> It is truly incredibly how confident I felt whilst having my hair in this bubble braid, I instantly wanted to have a photoshoot!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixsu_r86xPE7IqXEeBd2rx2Hbh5cvXasByAU-uu8El_y6D2dQlXrpMvBkjzfVLtln9RlZeDcqIqf1umdeOG5j427jfWWPL98y5iKIdXPTeTnXQF8CIxjvwMOuy7bszUjb_QD0IcfFgYzw/s960/instagram+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="490" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixsu_r86xPE7IqXEeBd2rx2Hbh5cvXasByAU-uu8El_y6D2dQlXrpMvBkjzfVLtln9RlZeDcqIqf1umdeOG5j427jfWWPL98y5iKIdXPTeTnXQF8CIxjvwMOuy7bszUjb_QD0IcfFgYzw/s320/instagram+3.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Massive thank you to the lovely ladies at Trenza for making me feel so comfortable and allowing me some much needed 'me time'.</div><div><p style="text-align: center;">Until next time,</p><p style="text-align: center;">Storm</p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="www.instagram.com/stormsblog" target="_blank">Instagram</a><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1108429725746318398.post-87911159277350500432020-09-06T13:28:00.000-07:002020-09-06T13:28:44.930-07:00My Story - Birth Trauma<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"> What is Birth Trauma?</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="background-color: white;"><i>'Birth trauma is a shorthand phrase for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after childbirth. We also use it for women who have some symptoms of PTSD, but not enough for a full diagnosis. </i></span><span style="background-color: white;"><i>In most cases, what makes birth traumatic is the fear that you or your baby are going to die. We very often see birth trauma in women who have lost a lot of blood, for example, or who had to have an emergency caesarean because their baby’s heart rate suddenly dipped'</i> - <a href="https://www.birthtraumaassociation.org.uk/for-parents/what-is-birth-trauma" target="_blank">Birth Trauma Association</a></span></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjpl7ImXLn5EvWbq4d5-mq6HJpU0FOcrRL50jzGZGo4uZ_B61WDPa238XrBVGdPSD3pP11oQwoK9_95MD0HFeeTa6MgsRMvRwcUxZhyphenhyphenlruaCn2ALhCavn_dLbWwglIPNu7ZCgt11vRgVk/s736/birth+trauma.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="736" data-original-width="736" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjpl7ImXLn5EvWbq4d5-mq6HJpU0FOcrRL50jzGZGo4uZ_B61WDPa238XrBVGdPSD3pP11oQwoK9_95MD0HFeeTa6MgsRMvRwcUxZhyphenhyphenlruaCn2ALhCavn_dLbWwglIPNu7ZCgt11vRgVk/w256-h256/birth+trauma.jpg" width="256" /></span></a></div><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Now this is a topic that I have touched on many times on my Instagram but a topic I have not talked through in depth as such, simply because I could not find the words and I could not figure out how to write it down with any sort of structure, so I do apologise in advance if this post some what jumps from point to point.</span></p><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">If you're new here you will not be aware that on the 13th june 2018 I gave birth to my daughter, Maci. Who weighed 8lbs 11oz a week before her due date. I struggled with <a href="https://www.pregnancysicknesssupport.org.uk/what-is-hyperemesis-gravidarum/" target="_blank">Hyperemesis Gravidarum</a> throughout my pregnancy which resulted in me not being able to work and most days barely leave my flat at the time, it was extremely isolating and a terrible time.The condition itself definitely left a permanent fear of being sick and feeling nauseous. I was so excited to give birth, as any expectant mother I had dreamt about what would happen and that amazing moment I would be able to hold my beautiful baby for the first time. Never did it cross my mind that I would have a very long labour, resulting in 1500+ ml blood loss, episiotomy and a forceps delivery. I have a whole post about my <a href="http://www.stormsblog.co.uk/2018/06/my-labour-and-delivery-story.html" target="_blank">birth story</a> so please take a look if you would like to know about it in more in depth. </span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQzMmKUvEAld15-3VydMFAA29dlvWhwHVkTcCBZ7Dm3RIh1dZVF_md0Qk-ZUmLrJ-6LWb6W3cObmzzz2yZ_e_ud0U32vgwlcj18TrWxtM9HEaNBXeo4qOmm03QzGLuJf7SHS7rhMvJ4h8/s960/35329619_1578055628983358_6861316787728809984_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQzMmKUvEAld15-3VydMFAA29dlvWhwHVkTcCBZ7Dm3RIh1dZVF_md0Qk-ZUmLrJ-6LWb6W3cObmzzz2yZ_e_ud0U32vgwlcj18TrWxtM9HEaNBXeo4qOmm03QzGLuJf7SHS7rhMvJ4h8/s320/35329619_1578055628983358_6861316787728809984_o.jpg" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">You're probably wondering why I have only chosen to speak about my ordeal now, well the lovely <a href="https://www.jodetopia.com/" target="_blank">Jodetopia</a> contacted me and asked if I would like to take part in a collaborative post all about Birth trauma and forwarded me some questions (below) which of course I willingly answered because it is so important that this topic is spoken about more widely. </span></div><p></p><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>How long ago was the birth in which resulted your birth trauma?</b><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">26 months ago, 13<sup>th</sup> June 2018.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">Did you seek, or were you offered, help for your birth trauma? If so, would
you be willing to explain a little bit about the help that you have received?<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I was not offered any help initially despite the traumatic birth that I had
and only being a teen mum. I can’t remember who mentioned it to me (possibly
saw it on social media) that my local hospital offered a service called <a href="https://www.cuh.nhs.uk/rosie-hospital/pregnancy-labour-and-birth/going-home/birth-afterthoughts#:~:text=Birth%20afterthoughts%20is%20a%20listening,happened%20during%20labour%20and%20birth." target="_blank"><i>‘birth
afterthoughts</i>’</a> which was a service in which you could ask for a nurse/doctor to
sit down with you and go through your labour and delivery notes with you. Now
this is definitely an appointment that took a lot of thought about attending,
it was very triggering and emotional although I came out of the appointment
understanding why things happened a little bit more and feeling a bit less ‘robbed’
of the experience of giving birth.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Would you consider yourself ‘recovered’ from your birth trauma?</b><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">No, I don’t think I will ever ‘recover’ from the ordeal. I find myself
talking about it less nowadays just because I don’t think it is healthy to keep
reminding myself of the events but this does not mean I block it out completely
because I feel like that is even more damaging. It has definitely impacted by
decision about having more children though If I was to ever meet someone again.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: arial;">If you answered no, do you think it will ever be possible for you to be
‘recovered’ from your birth trauma? What would ‘recovery’ look like for you?
(see above)<o:p></o:p></span></b></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Do you think that your birth trauma has affected your relationship with your
child?</b><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">It definitely did in the new-born days, I was not able to be the first
person to dress her, feed her or even hold her. Even to this day I do not know
what her first ever outfit was and that does upset me. I had to have blood
transfusions meaning I felt ‘drunk’ as such for the first couple of months of
my daughter’s life, it was a very strange time and I would not wish it upon
anyone. I remember every time I spoke about the birth I would always get the reply<i> 'Oh well atleast Maci is ok</i>' which of course was true but I couldn't help but feel ignored despite what I had experienced a short time before. Regardless of the traumatic birth Maci is now two years old and we could not be closer, so if
you are reading this and you’ve got a new-born, please do not be worried about
the amazing bond you will have with them in the future.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Any advice for other mums out there still struggling with their birth
trauma?</b><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The first time I realised something was truly ‘wrong’ was when I watched a
video by <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eZ0ccXPxHgM" target="_blank">Louise Pentland on YouTube</a> where in which she spoke about birth trauma
and every single point she mentioned brought me to tears. It was a relief that
I wasn’t alone and that there was not something wrong with me that I felt this
way. I personally struggled finding much online content about the subject which
is why I am taking part in this project to help raise awareness and hopefully
start a conversation. And finally do not feel guilty, it is nothing you did that resulted in a traumatic birth. I remember thinking that maybe if i did 'x y and z' that it may of of resulted in the induction which then caused everything to happen so quick.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><b>Anything else you'd like to add?</b><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I would like to add that you are not alone, birth trauma is
more common than we think but for some reason it isn’t spoken about. It is not
something to feel guilty about or ashamed of. We all go into pregnancy and
birth with this ‘perfect’ idea of what it is, although very rarely this
happens. I think it is very wrong that midwives and other maternity staff do
not prepare women for what may happen, despite how scary it may be, it is the
reality of childbirth and I believe that it would have been a lot more
beneficial to me (being only 19 at the time) to of had the various outcomes explained
to me <i>before</i> I was signing a consent form about to be operated on.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">This truly is a subject that I could speak about for a long
time but I would like to say that my direct messages/emails are always open for
anyone who thinks that birth trauma may be affecting them.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Helpful links -</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"> <a href="https://www.birthtraumaassociation.org.uk/" target="_blank">Birth Trauma Association</a></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://www.ptsduk.org/what-is-ptsd/post-natal-ptsd/?gclid=CjwKCAjwkdL6BRAREiwA-kiczANrF0wQihAbU0ljQNTgZs2-Y1VSvZw3fwO_oTPDzPQPNmuMCvEIBRoCQqAQAvD_BwE" target="_blank">Birth Trauma and Post Natal PTSD </a><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eZ0ccXPxHgM" target="_blank">Louise' Video</a></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Until next time,</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Storm</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><a href="www.instagram.com/stormsblog" target="_blank">Instagram</a><br /></span></p><br /><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1108429725746318398.post-38909229798587298762020-06-18T02:23:00.002-07:002020-06-18T02:23:40.977-07:00Two Whole Years Of Maci<div style="text-align: center;">Hello,</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">It seems like only yesterday I was sat writing my pregnancy announcement and now I am creating this post to celebrate the fact that Maci turned two last week and I'm not quite sure how that has happened. I now have a two year old, Maci is no longer classed as a 'baby' but she will always be my little 8lbs 11oz baby Maci. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmUPlwMEMGdtamvTvMZ39qXbYDM5wBXj_SdlABXw0NAHe94bh3dQK7PtDIVfOhbZkjAPT6QvPbD2BYeOCxGPgyMDQ49jRsjg3wUwAaMC2BdihnEXjQDd01OvY0XLZoyuLaY_9-xW4giQg/s960/82168984_2836675456454696_297401539673923385_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="836" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmUPlwMEMGdtamvTvMZ39qXbYDM5wBXj_SdlABXw0NAHe94bh3dQK7PtDIVfOhbZkjAPT6QvPbD2BYeOCxGPgyMDQ49jRsjg3wUwAaMC2BdihnEXjQDd01OvY0XLZoyuLaY_9-xW4giQg/s320/82168984_2836675456454696_297401539673923385_n.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I could never of imagined what would of happened in two years since Maci was born, we have moved house twice and we are now hopefully in our 'forever home', relationships broke down and life got somewhat complicated but despite all of this Maci has thrived as a little girl and is the most caring and entertaining soul. I certainly did not bring Maci into this world planning to be a single mum for her first and second birthdays but life always finds a way to throw a curveball at you and this was ours, I am lucky enough that Maci is not aware of the situation but I certainly am and it has helped me become a stronger and more independent person and for that I am thankful. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1vCv2VviOzQLcmR832p5S3zfYNlnVwKeMde8SAkntGxNqR4AKGFKJ32n-WxC23MvUhFCRwf9SNaGVLXugTduf0rxZJhi6SwC0YrTqLw04CZPRi5wPgR40wIGJ6uSgSuepLMidCdGjJXE/s960/103859710_2836675693121339_4368494565962967039_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1vCv2VviOzQLcmR832p5S3zfYNlnVwKeMde8SAkntGxNqR4AKGFKJ32n-WxC23MvUhFCRwf9SNaGVLXugTduf0rxZJhi6SwC0YrTqLw04CZPRi5wPgR40wIGJ6uSgSuepLMidCdGjJXE/s320/103859710_2836675693121339_4368494565962967039_n.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Maci's birthday's are always an emotional day as is any child's birthday but Maci's especially because I always remember the absolute hell I went through to bring her into this world and quite honestly how lucky I am to be able to celebrate her birthdays with her. I won't go into depth about my whole birth </div><div style="text-align: center;">story but you can read the post here - <a href="http://www.stormsblog.co.uk/2018/06/my-labour-and-delivery-story.html" target="_blank">My Labor and Delivery Story</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm8tMkH8I5SKpoURrWfwVN6lBI5iirR1q6YPFSrBPvGH1a1trEGdbQdmnG4-7oDgvSdJ-UxR-BteuNyDlERpSgAjm1Ua4OaDTiQMB-QpLJnIMdAHDKPfTIInSc5tNtoResZFc3fTgnOyQ/w256-h256/35329619_1578055628983358_6861316787728809984_o.jpg" style="text-align: left;" width="256" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Maci had a lovely birthday despite having to maintain Lockdown conditions due to Coronavirus, we spent the day in the garden with our dearest family and friends, opening presents and enjoying eachothers company from a distance. Maci's birthday cake was from <a href="https://www.instagram.com/pattycakesuk/" target="_blank">Patty Cakes UK</a>, the cake topper and unicorn confetti was from <a href="https://www.instagram.com/wildoneandi/" target="_blank">Wildoneandi</a> <i>(AD)</i> and last but no means least the incredible balloon garland and '2' was from <a href="https://www.instagram.com/luxelistevents/" target="_blank">Luxe List</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkL1xmf4BaYszstyZ2dkl9o8o2D5qKB8DRjZE4WWXZZdbm1jAS2ioEV7z1Jo6JuQqkjccsZKmSms2ilVjTuOebIrbSzxVxwbYw4RObQ5JbvHr5-JmJn-YJk9IzTNjRwlTOv4yLXEVItRo/s960/103983524_2836675573121351_8905534587862313142_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="792" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkL1xmf4BaYszstyZ2dkl9o8o2D5qKB8DRjZE4WWXZZdbm1jAS2ioEV7z1Jo6JuQqkjccsZKmSms2ilVjTuOebIrbSzxVxwbYw4RObQ5JbvHr5-JmJn-YJk9IzTNjRwlTOv4yLXEVItRo/w210-h256/103983524_2836675573121351_8905534587862313142_n.jpg" width="210" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKCBmFp6rh6yDW4q_29coHFMRakZHyVRJrwA-2VO9FsRmnnwJ3WbF2qxV3atWtFulwYYqoW3-DWegW7uMAx-aRuxdOAabjE5KqzoZGlIZ_UzDCj95hWyPlN9qPaI65OI7UC98qGwyY4MA/w256-h256/104412671_2836675626454679_870172537332333328_n.jpg" width="256" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Here's to another year of adventures from Maci and I.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Until next time,</div><div style="text-align: center;">Storm</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="www.instagram.com/stormsblog" target="_blank">Instagram</a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1108429725746318398.post-5610014435650381852020-06-05T02:52:00.004-07:002020-06-05T02:54:48.095-07:00AD - Fathers Day with Funky Pigeon<div style="text-align: center;">Hello,</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">With Fathers day fastly approaching it can be a tough and emotional day for some families although Funky Pigeon cater for every type of family type which I really like and appreciate. I have kindly been gifted a couple of lovely gifts from their Fathers Day range. These gifts are from Maci to my dad, her grandad. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguAq1igq2EHRmRJbyIqz9FLKx92jl2ujAsVNLp6QiasQnDzyEqJZqERQKLc0IqetLpObssJoJ0C41ykbJKsJDiTBpq3IX7jSPNI44ZgDhp7z_tQdovs8R-bH5g-IiUOWe97t0QDznbv-g/s5619/DSC_0070-1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3736" data-original-width="5619" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguAq1igq2EHRmRJbyIqz9FLKx92jl2ujAsVNLp6QiasQnDzyEqJZqERQKLc0IqetLpObssJoJ0C41ykbJKsJDiTBpq3IX7jSPNI44ZgDhp7z_tQdovs8R-bH5g-IiUOWe97t0QDznbv-g/s320/DSC_0070-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This key ring is a super affordable gift, the quality is excellent. You can easily upload an image from your device and edit the placement until you're happy! </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU-ondAl134z2y2AZdOvKpW0pq1ox_L7qmLxELaNbzaSXj6TRezLMwpQQzif1HNTqdzSfxodoccPaRpIAqIWZ7wQFm_cc54JYRvLR1CZMd5K_9DVcXSs8eLkjjzZjHDwIIdg9qRZFPlMU/s6016/DSC_0072-1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU-ondAl134z2y2AZdOvKpW0pq1ox_L7qmLxELaNbzaSXj6TRezLMwpQQzif1HNTqdzSfxodoccPaRpIAqIWZ7wQFm_cc54JYRvLR1CZMd5K_9DVcXSs8eLkjjzZjHDwIIdg9qRZFPlMU/s320/DSC_0072-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The second item I chose was this customised cushion, im one of those people who always think you can't have enough cushions. The cushion once again feels of very good quality material and the image isn't pixalated at all. Overall, I am very happy with these two items and I am excited to see my dads face when we give them to him on Fathers Day.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Funky Pigeon also have a wide range of other gifts available for Fathers Day such as; </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEielWrEM5LIx95ssO2jkP2KfMZP_9kMqopfJqbunnASDIBzUaZZuxRaxZ_95ydao7whPgFYo3vn04kJqu_DpC4z136xJJuMGz3bYPxJjonz8tlH3oKz34WQOb9_pT6NUdteKaVM9Zjl_sM/s373/funkypigeon1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="373" data-original-width="354" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEielWrEM5LIx95ssO2jkP2KfMZP_9kMqopfJqbunnASDIBzUaZZuxRaxZ_95ydao7whPgFYo3vn04kJqu_DpC4z136xJJuMGz3bYPxJjonz8tlH3oKz34WQOb9_pT6NUdteKaVM9Zjl_sM/s320/funkypigeon1.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.funkypigeon.com/gifts/balloons/fathers-day" target="_blank">Customisable Balloons</a> and much more! There really is a gift for everyone.<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.funkypigeon.com/gifts/fathers-day" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="271" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfy9-SOHC-FV_hFG58FjCi1Gtg8cDYrgTmBGq58UpxfADecwa6yu7loorwSnJaYEfr8a-Z_CYWOA81xNVvRZD1XoTV8e-H6gZT16Zn8CRk2nieyoOdgpcogiE3JINlF8VPnxNrglLblwk/s320/dd_ad_fathersday.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.funkypigeon.com/gifts/fathers-day" target="_blank">You can shop the whole Fathers Day range from Funky Pigeon here </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>This post contains gifted items with obligation to post. All opinions are those of Storms Blog.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Until next time,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Storm</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="www.instagram.com/stormsblog" target="_blank">Instagram</a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://twitter.com/stormydoos" target="_blank">Twitter</a><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1108429725746318398.post-90183758719368453112020-05-09T13:10:00.010-07:002020-05-09T13:37:54.091-07:00Two Year Old Gift Ideas <div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><font face="arial" size="2">Hello,</font></div><div style="text-align: center;"><font face="arial" size="2"> </font></div><div><font face="arial">Maci turns two next month and I have found that it is a fairly hard age to shop for. I have decided to compile a list of a few online that I have found that I feel would be perfect for a two year old. All children are different so this list may not be perfect for all but here are a few ideas. </font></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><font face="arial" size="2"><br /></font></div><div style="text-align: center;"><font face="arial" size="2"><a href="https://www.gltc.co.uk/products/pat-a-cake-play-kitchen?gclid=CjwKCAjwqdn1BRBREiwAEbZcRxC5kGm0mISCAQNw90hrMxozlCws1FriDmD5rLNWaYGt9INYgQgHHxoCDigQAvD_BwE" target="_blank">Pat-a-cake Play Kitchen</a> </font></div><div style="text-align: center;"><font face="arial" size="2"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><font face="arial" size="2" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2kk9VC5t5ypafi19NK99ypGHc3MaCuNgiDjLlSBt4SVuSBTSb-TplQs_QljhImzaO9DBqd8f5R-QwdR_FkzKvFRVqu5lqT-7hPIwKuIKb4Mgv_MeZSH5boT0Pxo0T-X_wqeaPqwpXu9Q/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2kk9VC5t5ypafi19NK99ypGHc3MaCuNgiDjLlSBt4SVuSBTSb-TplQs_QljhImzaO9DBqd8f5R-QwdR_FkzKvFRVqu5lqT-7hPIwKuIKb4Mgv_MeZSH5boT0Pxo0T-X_wqeaPqwpXu9Q/s320/single-mom-quotes-14-1556295465.jpg" /></a></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><font face="arial" size="2"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><font face="arial" size="2"><a href="https://www.smythstoys.com/uk/en-gb/outdoor/play-houses-and-tents/my-first-playhouse/p/163571" target="_blank">My First Playhouse</a><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><font face="arial" size="2"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwKmMvT3VR7f-J0-qI7qWg1KhyphenhyphenV8SV4YnqUsJRs4yoEoVq-WiPtR8Dnv0Dz0AT0g0fHXdL9Y2heUuLH0oT6iO0e355v0WHqxNJ-1zHvVcHCSCwbXwJDdTN0Iv-BCPUeakQCnVUaB8eObE/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><font color="#000000" face="arial" size="2"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwKmMvT3VR7f-J0-qI7qWg1KhyphenhyphenV8SV4YnqUsJRs4yoEoVq-WiPtR8Dnv0Dz0AT0g0fHXdL9Y2heUuLH0oT6iO0e355v0WHqxNJ-1zHvVcHCSCwbXwJDdTN0Iv-BCPUeakQCnVUaB8eObE/s320/163571.jpg" /></font></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><font face="arial" size="2"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><font face="arial" size="2">'<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; text-align: left;">My First Playhouse is perfect for imaginative play. Kids will love having a place to call their own, whether in the garden or in the playroom.'</span></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; text-align: left;"><font face="arial" size="2"><br /></font></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; text-align: left;"><font face="arial" size="2"><a href="https://www.smythstoys.com/uk/en-gb/outdoor/pedal-cars/little-tikes-cozy-coupe-car/p/102538" target="_blank">Little Tikes Cozy Coupe Car </a><br /></font></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><font face="arial" size="2"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglIcKIhkrMKUcDwNX6oOTYoFwikimL6ZQFfAlbq7edUq2V3YhWcatIEE1O9tKbsLHjKhTtCeB7WMDQPq02SdtXADI_B-rRkky6dVHnld3usicz53Op_82G-dMuGXS1d7N6I6ntBjGzCPw/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><font color="#000000" face="arial" size="2"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglIcKIhkrMKUcDwNX6oOTYoFwikimL6ZQFfAlbq7edUq2V3YhWcatIEE1O9tKbsLHjKhTtCeB7WMDQPq02SdtXADI_B-rRkky6dVHnld3usicz53Op_82G-dMuGXS1d7N6I6ntBjGzCPw/s320/102538.jpg" /></font></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><font face="arial" size="2"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><font face="arial" size="2">'<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; text-align: left;">The Little Tikes Cozy Coupe Car is an instantly recognisable classic. For 30 years, this child-powered ride on has been loved by kids and parents alike.'</span></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; text-align: left;"><font face="arial" size="2"><br /></font></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; text-align: left;"><font face="arial" size="2"><a href="https://www.smythstoys.com/uk/en-gb/gift-finder-3-5-years/aquadoodle-super-rainbow-deluxe/p/167315" target="_blank">Aquadoodle Super Rainbow Deluxe</a><br /></font></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><font face="arial" size="2"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_hcQhbdwOP6WpwzK5P0WKbp2xcEmH4_Nm_7ul-9qNa23228dwpbNl98hSFvqCh3b7B3ZrZG_4YNR0i1AFNdVtTxJ8ekeAVEVHkvpX4UWfwIjRvfvX8DMtAEMV8LH2IOmiBifsnGLwO0Y/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><font color="#000000" face="arial" size="2"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_hcQhbdwOP6WpwzK5P0WKbp2xcEmH4_Nm_7ul-9qNa23228dwpbNl98hSFvqCh3b7B3ZrZG_4YNR0i1AFNdVtTxJ8ekeAVEVHkvpX4UWfwIjRvfvX8DMtAEMV8LH2IOmiBifsnGLwO0Y/s320/167315.jpg" /></font></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><font face="arial" size="2">'<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; text-align: left;">Let your creative imagination go wild with the new Super Rainbow Deluxe. Simply fill the Aquadoodle pen with ordinary tap water, run the nib over the magic mat and see the colours appear!'</span></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; text-align: left;"><font face="arial" size="2"><br /></font></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; text-align: left;"><font face="arial" size="2"><a href="https://www.littletikes.co.uk/cape-cottage-pink/" target="_blank">Little Tikes Cape Cottage - Pink</a><br /></font></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><font face="arial" size="2"><br /></font></div><div style="text-align: center;"><font face="arial" size="2"><br /></font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd-lFcwoY3dwIqeM5vjgOtby1z8mkAXiKh649CdjHwxNyxK6aojA_UXg-apv9v4hQYOlX0XwpXe3uTDUJyeuT971pQ9aGY9tZytFzLuAvzjjPU4B4O5l_Ph9RqKxpJnXDP_kpjXoL_jS8/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><font color="#000000" face="arial" size="2"><img border="0" data-original-height="1040" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd-lFcwoY3dwIqeM5vjgOtby1z8mkAXiKh649CdjHwxNyxK6aojA_UXg-apv9v4hQYOlX0XwpXe3uTDUJyeuT971pQ9aGY9tZytFzLuAvzjjPU4B4O5l_Ph9RqKxpJnXDP_kpjXoL_jS8/s320/Cape-Cottage-Pink-1.jpg" width="320" /></font></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><font face="arial" size="2"><br /></font></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white;"><font face="arial" size="2">'Let your little one live in effortless style! With modern windows, arched doors and brick details, this is one of our more contemporary playhouses for kids. With two working doors and windows with shutters, as well as details including a letter box and flag holder, little ones will have a whale of a time playing ‘house’. It might only be small in design, but this characterful cottage packs in a lot of fun!'</font></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white;"><font face="arial" size="2"><br /></font></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.preciouslittleone.com/product-information/7/69712/my-little-world-2pc-bedding-set-llama-pink/" style="background-color: white;" target="_blank"><font color="#000000" face="arial" size="2">My Little World 2pc Bedding Set </font></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white;"><font face="arial" size="2"><br /></font></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white;"><font face="arial" size="2"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig7mxoLVggQOSQghIqN6lazkcvLoGLKGfKbIsJNQfL6qAhPMJ7qXIGPKFWGNh-YcCunI9TzFO0Uf0ePfHAve9VGX1NPlwYjHkgnyzB3-x_ie6b_A3uNY06lohT6Ay9fmYFdvHS1u0oC3g/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig7mxoLVggQOSQghIqN6lazkcvLoGLKGfKbIsJNQfL6qAhPMJ7qXIGPKFWGNh-YcCunI9TzFO0Uf0ePfHAve9VGX1NPlwYjHkgnyzB3-x_ie6b_A3uNY06lohT6Ay9fmYFdvHS1u0oC3g/s320/prod_1550151132_2+pc+llama+%25282%2529.jpg" /></a></div><br /></font></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><font face="arial" size="2">'<span style="background-color: white; text-align: left;"><font face="Lato, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 15px;">The My Little World 2pc bedding set in Llama Pink will make an elegant addition to your precious little ones nursery.'</span></font></span></font></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; text-align: left;"><font face="Lato, sans-serif" size="2"><span style="font-size: 15px;"><br /></span></font></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.schuh.co.uk/kids/toddler-igor-star-pink-sandals/8501233560/?gclid=CjwKCAjwqdn1BRBREiwAEbZcR1puait9zY_TqEqithWF6vzr7HWq2SD2GF9bxJwZ9pcqR2LZ_jxT3xoC6ScQAvD_BwE" target="_blank"><font color="#000000" face="arial" size="2">Girls Pink Igor Star Sandals</font></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><font face="arial" size="2"> </font></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAGfLSG86AxAeWlBb28piVZDcm8ySsBj7NNELD67udvloHUxCTt6yDwnwNc57uycKywjtRfJvVj_GSW4aaoamyzhMSB7WJ8rjA9FYt5roXX4_SlvnUm1Nmnu-av0JPbiayuQh7X9Keq1c/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><font color="#000000" face="arial" size="2"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAGfLSG86AxAeWlBb28piVZDcm8ySsBj7NNELD67udvloHUxCTt6yDwnwNc57uycKywjtRfJvVj_GSW4aaoamyzhMSB7WJ8rjA9FYt5roXX4_SlvnUm1Nmnu-av0JPbiayuQh7X9Keq1c/s320/8501233560m1_zm.jpg" /></font></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><font face="arial" size="2"><br /></font></div><div style="text-align: center;"><font face="arial" size="2"><span style="background-color: white; text-align: left;"><font face="Lato, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 15px;">'</span></font></span><span style="background-color: white; text-align: left;">Offering a sweet choice for their summer sandal collection, Igor deliver this adventure-ready jelly shoe. The kids' Star sandal is crafted with a pink man-made upper in a strappy basket design while an easy fasten ankle strap allows independent wear.'</span></font></div><div style="text-align: center;"><font face="arial" size="2"><span style="background-color: white; text-align: left;"><br /></span></font></div><div style="text-align: center;"><font face="arial" size="2"><span style="background-color: white; text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.mymudkitchen.co.uk/product-page/toddler1" target="_blank">My Mud Kitchen</a><br /></span></font></div><div style="text-align: center;"><font face="arial" size="2"><br /></font></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdbcEL8E-hme69S4H00XIfbiqjguykWgI56Hm7oYQUHXKuPP1Wzw5SjpyGEtWgR5U-DzzIESQZzAUD6SsZjHSxW80ZschmOoZknyZcqALrRzwwBq9pj2bXq878hXqMh60ljoPHASlaL2c/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><font color="#000000" face="arial"><img border="0" data-original-height="794" data-original-width="794" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdbcEL8E-hme69S4H00XIfbiqjguykWgI56Hm7oYQUHXKuPP1Wzw5SjpyGEtWgR5U-DzzIESQZzAUD6SsZjHSxW80ZschmOoZknyZcqALrRzwwBq9pj2bXq878hXqMh60ljoPHASlaL2c/s320/il_794xN.1837002503_km4u.jpg" /></font></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><font face="arial"><span style="text-align: left;">'My Mud Kitchen promoted creativity, role-play and imagination - where play is limitless. Outdoor learning through play is strongly encouraged to help with children's growth, confidence and development.</span></font></div><font face="arial" size="2"><br /></font></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.littleboolearning.com/collections/learning-mats/products/personalised-my-name-is-spelling-mat-rainbow" style="background-color: white; font-family: arial; font-size: 15px; text-align: left;" target="_blank">Personalised 'My Name Is' Spelling Mat</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; text-align: left;"><font face="Lato, sans-serif" size="2"><br /></font></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; text-align: left;"><font face="arial" size="2"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYQ_IVw0UhzrlXXrM60MARQGy796y-bQpC0PKOU1Ok3XjuajdoljnkyxAFp2My69OqsLrhkbr78sFW-EdmJYKmAgJSRDHljRBjUuD7Iu5Rdt4MI6UZqV5t9nud8cEJJ-3kQo-kK9eZULs/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYQ_IVw0UhzrlXXrM60MARQGy796y-bQpC0PKOU1Ok3XjuajdoljnkyxAFp2My69OqsLrhkbr78sFW-EdmJYKmAgJSRDHljRBjUuD7Iu5Rdt4MI6UZqV5t9nud8cEJJ-3kQo-kK9eZULs/s320/96084645_2762538427208106_332061526724706304_o.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><font face="Lato, sans-serif"><div style="text-align: center;">Help your child learn to spell their name with our Personalised ‘My name is...’ Spelling Mat.</div></font></font></span><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 19.4444px; text-align: center;"><font face="arial" size="2">Letters attach to the mat with Velcro which means no loose or missing parts and your child can practise over and over again until they learn to spell their name.'</font></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 19.4444px; text-align: center;"><font face="arial" size="2">I hope this post may of given you some ideas on what to buy a two-year-old. </font></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 19.4444px; text-align: center;"><font face="arial" size="2">Until next time,</font></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 19.4444px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; font-size: small;"><font face="arial" size="2">Storm</font></span></p><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 19.4444px; text-align: center;"><a href="www.instagram.com/stormsblog" target="_blank"><font color="#000000" face="arial" size="2">Instagram</font></a></p></div><div style="text-align: center;"><p style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 19.4444px; text-align: center;"><a href="www.twitter.com/stormsblog" target="_blank"><font color="#000000" face="arial" size="2">Twitter</font></a></p></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1108429725746318398.post-61612186697231696292020-05-06T13:42:00.001-07:002020-05-06T13:42:08.957-07:00A Whole Year Of Single Parenting<div style="text-align: center;">
Hello,</div>
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I can't decide If this year has gone quickly or slowly but either way, here I am to share with you the realities of the last 365 days (give or take a few) of single parenting. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr0jvmHOnqbpC1_EPtRqQXwKclrxoC5DrfFocYPpDuBlBBFZbJ9gzisRhhaEW-5YV3mBxAVtmekGRD4QvAErUDune2UnHiuN9w9uZl7a1jmy5yVi-EpplGOqU7ovUiYDQSiwf7XWD6_B4/s1600/singleparent.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="275" data-original-width="183" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr0jvmHOnqbpC1_EPtRqQXwKclrxoC5DrfFocYPpDuBlBBFZbJ9gzisRhhaEW-5YV3mBxAVtmekGRD4QvAErUDune2UnHiuN9w9uZl7a1jmy5yVi-EpplGOqU7ovUiYDQSiwf7XWD6_B4/s1600/singleparent.png" /></a></div>
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A majority of single parents never think that they will end up in this situation and I certainly didn't. I definitely did not have a baby with the intention to become a single parent at the age of twenty. Overnight my seemingly 'perfect' family had vanished and my life was quite honestly a mess and I had to work out how to salvage it. The whole thought of being a single mum at such a young age was quite honestly terrifying, I didn't know much about 'adult' life and I had to work it all out as we went along and it has definitely had it's moments but a year later I think i've got it almost all worked out.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaN1QdYJS-WD5H79B3EEWww2NgQV8N9O4tcOQSeuk_q3xzxifE8B7YgnciMiD1MrbaGeS7GM8kSiZmPOGz5pRxRMUJ4SzKgRz7398nNrIBpoTTSkw8ecX7H6UXFY8TjH6bJbxhDL7aEYs/s1600/47325174_1818832744905644_6275889092899110912_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="770" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaN1QdYJS-WD5H79B3EEWww2NgQV8N9O4tcOQSeuk_q3xzxifE8B7YgnciMiD1MrbaGeS7GM8kSiZmPOGz5pRxRMUJ4SzKgRz7398nNrIBpoTTSkw8ecX7H6UXFY8TjH6bJbxhDL7aEYs/s320/47325174_1818832744905644_6275889092899110912_n.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
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I have learnt a lot the past year, I've learnt that I am a lot stronger mentally than I would've ever thought. I've managed to build Maci and I a new life together and I now realise that this is where we were suppose to be, as crazy as that may sound. We are in a brand new house that we moved into last August and we both absolutely love it. Obviously moving into a house at only twenty years old with a toddler in tow was not easy and working out all the bills and other aspects that come along with having a house was a learning curve but it was worth all the stress.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK9xcEwhRN-PLB3aXnuol5xd5F0RIayfilu2tN-BZP9EoG250n1sMx0-eW_QE5tU7TvbGf-SuqIvk3TXjgiXIxxU7TdMkvws5YHbQGozIygu3H2G2oqOZbUVmsr804rPOjgqQz7JdLJsQ/s1600/images.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="275" data-original-width="183" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK9xcEwhRN-PLB3aXnuol5xd5F0RIayfilu2tN-BZP9EoG250n1sMx0-eW_QE5tU7TvbGf-SuqIvk3TXjgiXIxxU7TdMkvws5YHbQGozIygu3H2G2oqOZbUVmsr804rPOjgqQz7JdLJsQ/s1600/images.png" /></a></div>
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The last year has had its tough moments, ones where i've doubted myself as a parent and myself as a person but it is normal to grieve 'the family unit' that I thought I had and once I accepted that, it has been much easier to move on and continue with mine and Maci's lives. I wouldn't of been able to get through this past year if it wasn't for my wonderful friends, family and my incredible boyfriend who's been my absolute rock the last few months. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0Qf4Dp7WcIQMHJpebpcrN7vsHhRQPs0sLnq1odmMKHqo39v_GVPhFE17K8O7di8iPkn3GLerc_GsaOzI95M8NhYcO_Fdd2mql6hIGMnKU0IP9uVvO-lJoExWF-iK5MO6gACylF8PhYeg/s1600/56819147_1984620174999939_5209809108303085568_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="820" data-original-width="821" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0Qf4Dp7WcIQMHJpebpcrN7vsHhRQPs0sLnq1odmMKHqo39v_GVPhFE17K8O7di8iPkn3GLerc_GsaOzI95M8NhYcO_Fdd2mql6hIGMnKU0IP9uVvO-lJoExWF-iK5MO6gACylF8PhYeg/s320/56819147_1984620174999939_5209809108303085568_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Everyone's single parenting journey is different whether that be because it was a mutual separation, multiple children, ages of children etc there are so any other reasons but all you have to remember is that as a parent you have to do what's right for your child/ren. Sometimes that can be a lot harder than said but there's always a way. </div>
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So, what's my advice for a newly single parent? </div>
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Take each day as it comes - Some days you will feel on top of the world and some days you may struggle to get out of bed. It is likely that this isn't your fault and you should not feel guilty for no longer being in that relationship, as long as you've done what's best for you and your child/ren then you should be so incredibly proud of yourself and hold your head high.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNmi6BMj4eTtr9wevM1eATp7qXKb2ZI5FGuJkmzRsXy61jvrYkFkyrpXtxCme79xmJAbyQqJeUhWBwlh-pT8uMLRd77SR-FWIBS2dMtgntJT4mqgJ8JVO8crcicSZggdnBf5aEBQD-f5Y/s1600/blogs2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="730" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNmi6BMj4eTtr9wevM1eATp7qXKb2ZI5FGuJkmzRsXy61jvrYkFkyrpXtxCme79xmJAbyQqJeUhWBwlh-pT8uMLRd77SR-FWIBS2dMtgntJT4mqgJ8JVO8crcicSZggdnBf5aEBQD-f5Y/s320/blogs2.jpg" width="242" /></a></div>
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It is okay to NOT tell your side of the story - This for me has been one of the hardest parts of the whole situation but I have learnt that eventually the truth will always come out and even if it doesn't I can go to sleep at night knowing that I am a good person and that is all I have to be concerned about. I can only control my own actions, I can't change anyone else's actions or morals. This advice has certainly been one of the biggest points that has helped me move on with my life.</div>
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Do not be too proud to accept help - It is okay to take help from friends, family and even strangers. There are plenty of support groups online for single parents and they have helped me an immense amount. It is so reassuring to know that you are not alone in the situation that you have found yourself in. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu9flUHVyWRHej2aRn1Qcv4ZsCd1YVNN-F7Tdwbx5CPH4fp65LxJbnqp4ehdZh1SZsR_NpDDLSjiE05UiblhW1qb2IumdK-NgJyjS6PC7l6PXErxr_tHff_zNBWJUZtH69_hyphenhyphen7XpjP4ds/s1600/single-mom-quotes-14-1556295465.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu9flUHVyWRHej2aRn1Qcv4ZsCd1YVNN-F7Tdwbx5CPH4fp65LxJbnqp4ehdZh1SZsR_NpDDLSjiE05UiblhW1qb2IumdK-NgJyjS6PC7l6PXErxr_tHff_zNBWJUZtH69_hyphenhyphen7XpjP4ds/s320/single-mom-quotes-14-1556295465.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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Take some time for you - It is so easy to get wrapped up in being a parent and a homeowner that you don't take any time out of your day/week to simply look after yourself. 'Looking after yourself' can be anything from having a relaxing bath to watching your favourite show on telly. A few months ago I really struggled with this point but now I make sure that I do this atleast a few times a week and it has certainly improved my patience and all around mental health. </div>
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And finally, I am proud of you - This is a path nobody ever wants to go down but as someone who has done it for a year let me reassure you that it does get easier. It may not seem it right now as you're reading this but it truly does and it will be worth it.</div>
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My inbox is always open, don't be shy.</div>
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Until next time,</div>
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Storm </div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1108429725746318398.post-63012537967058738042020-04-17T05:46:00.000-07:002020-04-17T05:46:10.356-07:00AD - Let's talk body positivity!<div style="text-align: center;">
Hello,</div>
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Now I never thought I would be someone who would be writing a post about body positivity but ay, how times change.</div>
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Before having Maci I was always quite self conscious, I would wear baggy tops because I didn't like how my tummy looked and this was before I had Maci so as you can imagine pregnancy shocked me slightly. I remember after I had Maci simply crying because of how my tummy looked, my stretch marks were bright red and I couldn't ever imagine myself feeling confident in anyway ever again. Time is a great healer... </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoMbAGAVOrEa031yVvoRGIpTLWXgR212Ty4_l1w59jAaszUlieGxf8Uw3m56Vgj-U1qetELaE2MaRaO_dwghMvt6a5cIpx7N_JpYxwXQ96EuILCyyZrHr2cIzS-JZ6epb4vZuiqeIKlSw/s1600/93422686_2696246760497567_3010506770071158784_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="688" data-original-width="960" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoMbAGAVOrEa031yVvoRGIpTLWXgR212Ty4_l1w59jAaszUlieGxf8Uw3m56Vgj-U1qetELaE2MaRaO_dwghMvt6a5cIpx7N_JpYxwXQ96EuILCyyZrHr2cIzS-JZ6epb4vZuiqeIKlSw/s320/93422686_2696246760497567_3010506770071158784_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Fast forward to now and I couldn't feel happier in my own skin. Don't get me wrong, everyone has 'off' days, even me. My tummy isn't bright red with stretch marks anymore, they're still very much there but no longer 'angry' looking. I wear crop tops and don't panic about people looking at me... because let's face it, people have more important things to worry about in their own lives without being concerned at a bit of tummy being on show.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1aTpP6zH2Epd4lvucKGVsklZ2zQC3YToyzonPcATTKYfljD_pOEQvjVz_Z7eXIiiZiqGDUVIVtJypgIorXMKGjmVdiIsLfMVakGB0_Y_WtwT8KPb0XbtbuTRwCZZp_Z9ng_FKeTk_sMw/s1600/93310579_2696246660497577_4729987512456445952_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="722" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1aTpP6zH2Epd4lvucKGVsklZ2zQC3YToyzonPcATTKYfljD_pOEQvjVz_Z7eXIiiZiqGDUVIVtJypgIorXMKGjmVdiIsLfMVakGB0_Y_WtwT8KPb0XbtbuTRwCZZp_Z9ng_FKeTk_sMw/s320/93310579_2696246660497577_4729987512456445952_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I have just accepted the fact that I grew a little human for nine months, went through a horrendous labour, birthed an 8lbs 11oz baby and now entertain a hyper toddler 24/7 so I am entitled to ice cream and treats and I am no longer concerned about any 'wobbly' bits that I have.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipVo02yQzTfmluO-XRt7jRETW_Z6WRL02g_BRh0WvN788cP4Q207vTIPo7JZRDAgfiZctsqpcylvlRvqCO-lm8cZrCsgJ50oqELAQTf-qQBl5KjqAQhrpo3LNzkUR9Y0BKhSEhdJI-Crc/s1600/93253454_2696246720497571_2290006648749555712_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="780" data-original-width="960" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipVo02yQzTfmluO-XRt7jRETW_Z6WRL02g_BRh0WvN788cP4Q207vTIPo7JZRDAgfiZctsqpcylvlRvqCO-lm8cZrCsgJ50oqELAQTf-qQBl5KjqAQhrpo3LNzkUR9Y0BKhSEhdJI-Crc/s320/93253454_2696246720497571_2290006648749555712_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I have kindly been gifted some lovely items from <a href="https://www.pourmoi.co.uk/" target="_blank">Pour Moi</a> and I have decided to include them in this post because the underwear set does amazing things for my confidence! If you are someone who struggles with self confidence and body positivity definitely do some underwear shopping, I know it is probably the last thing you want to do but honestly, you'll see how incredible you look! I highly recommend Pour Moi, their packaging is beautiful and the quality of their underwear is impeccable. </div>
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You can shop this set here </div>
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<a href="https://www.pourmoi.co.uk/products/logo-high-leg-brief/" target="_blank">High leg briefs</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.pourmoi.co.uk/products/logo-padded-underwired-bra/" target="_blank">Padded Underwired Bra</a></div>
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Until next time,</div>
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Storm</div>
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<a href="http://www.instagram.com/stormsblog" target="_blank">Instagram</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.twitter.com/stormsblog" target="_blank">Twitter</a></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1108429725746318398.post-89461357992779023272020-04-14T12:50:00.002-07:002020-04-14T12:51:28.904-07:00Ad - Who knew a canvas could make you so happy?!<div style="text-align: center;">
Hello,</div>
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As most of you know last August myself and Maci moved into our house and we really didn't have a lot of things to fill it with really. Gradually I have been filling it with items I absolutely love, so when <a href="https://www.photowall.co.uk/" target="_blank">Photowall</a> asked if I would like to work together and of course I jumped at it. I decided to get one of the images from my <a href="http://www.stormsblog.co.uk/2020/04/mothers-day-photoshoot-adgifted.html" target="_blank">Mothers Day shoot</a> on a large canvas to go above my sofa which is a space i've been wanting to fill for ages now.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicG_mvLZlAvx4os69S9L66D5QU_W-PVd4LZ0Z3j5pFG1IpGV8mfKozzaFffm3GG8TKs94KrxJoSr15Feh9QforbVGgWOXbLIy5D2idimdZlAz2dn0G-dMECcTfLXHMkocMKRO5z0CQI2c/s1600/93396805_2696280013827575_8579436643956555776_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="733" data-original-width="738" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicG_mvLZlAvx4os69S9L66D5QU_W-PVd4LZ0Z3j5pFG1IpGV8mfKozzaFffm3GG8TKs94KrxJoSr15Feh9QforbVGgWOXbLIy5D2idimdZlAz2dn0G-dMECcTfLXHMkocMKRO5z0CQI2c/s320/93396805_2696280013827575_8579436643956555776_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The photo was part of my <a href="http://www.stormsblog.co.uk/2020/04/mothers-day-photoshoot-adgifted.html" target="_blank">Mothers Day shoot</a> with a few weeks back. I really couldn't be happier with how this canvas looks in my lounge, it really does just complete the room and it makes me smile every time I look at it. I was slightly worried that because it is a large canvas that the quality of the image may become distorted but it hasn't at all. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_iYv_chV_HUWs-7clx6c9KHZquir8DYtiVCNzqVPTZRy8CLYhyDjH7KhJRLVzTgnYtNaQ4TkZWvT6tnSToy4s8Oke9L-lHK6BPnCTaI6CB2gyyvOAlMXzN-NbEcE3QuTj78kH5enbVT0/s1600/93500988_2696280047160905_3976432596975353856_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="751" data-original-width="750" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_iYv_chV_HUWs-7clx6c9KHZquir8DYtiVCNzqVPTZRy8CLYhyDjH7KhJRLVzTgnYtNaQ4TkZWvT6tnSToy4s8Oke9L-lHK6BPnCTaI6CB2gyyvOAlMXzN-NbEcE3QuTj78kH5enbVT0/s320/93500988_2696280047160905_3976432596975353856_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b><i>They've kindly given you all 25% off of their site all you have to do is enter the code 'stormrose25' at checkout - <a href="https://www.photowall.co.uk/" target="_blank">https://www.photowall.co.uk/</a></i></b></div>
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If you purchase a canvas/print or wallpaper I would love to see what you choose over on Instagram!<br />
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<i>This is an ad/sponsored post but all opinions are those of Storms Blog.</i></div>
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Until next time,</div>
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Storm</div>
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<a href="http://www.instagram.com/stormsblog" target="_blank">Instagram</a></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1108429725746318398.post-35621532122949928592020-04-01T14:12:00.001-07:002020-04-01T14:12:26.400-07:00Mother's Day Photoshoot - Ad/Gifted<div style="text-align: center;">
Hello,</div>
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<i>This post was suppose to go live a while ago now but if you follow me on my socials you will know that myself and Maci have been quite poorly and quite honestly blogging was the last thing on my mind. We are much better now so lets get back to it!</i></div>
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Mother's day is a big day, it is an important day for many women across the world and of course that comes with many strong emotions. Mothers day this year was my first one since becoming a single parent and despite the fact I am incredibly proud of what I have achieved in in the past year and how far I have come, I knew it was going to come with some strong heartfelt feelings because of this. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjiSgmFGt5pXkWgWDYYLYvDRxh13AAiwRfxqal2fc0jth3tfFqbbZjRrwdZ4fg6UliHq95VfbqnqqKGwmXKArHxILR3LnzyF5mLyRUFV7kGP1bJlNdGnQFden2gKRfI-dN9ImdJNwGnl8/s1600/HLP_6255.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjiSgmFGt5pXkWgWDYYLYvDRxh13AAiwRfxqal2fc0jth3tfFqbbZjRrwdZ4fg6UliHq95VfbqnqqKGwmXKArHxILR3LnzyF5mLyRUFV7kGP1bJlNdGnQFden2gKRfI-dN9ImdJNwGnl8/s320/HLP_6255.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I knew I wanted to remember Mother's Day 2020 with some beautiful photos and I requested for local photographers to contact me and the wonderful <a href="https://www.heatherlerrynphotography.com/" target="_blank">Heather Lerryn </a>got in touch with me and I knew the outcome would be incredible. Heather was extremely helpful in planning the shoot, putting together mine and Maci's outfits and flexible when it came to the ever changing weather (Good old UK, huh)</div>
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Outfit Links -</div>
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<a href="https://www.boohoo.com/shirred-waist-cuff-woven-maxi-dress/DZZ30348.html" target="_blank">Storm's Dress</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.next.co.uk/g59490s7/965724#965724" target="_blank">Maci's Dress (Close as possible!)</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.next.co.uk/style/st455633/830537#830537" target="_blank">Maci's Pink Cardigan (Close as possible!)</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.next.co.uk/g59500s14/510190#510190" target="_blank">Maci's Boots</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc9Q0qDADvKasAXdY_En28yoO7x-QdXIpt9DMzD48NxIdtux15Wdvtt0M-oPUU-etFYmJ_iqI0VNTjfueLTm-FTHJb8qvJxx5Qbqn6hPLc-csF7RZoFZWB-YJ4KiPfDvBqIfCz8FofDo0/s1600/HLP_6367.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc9Q0qDADvKasAXdY_En28yoO7x-QdXIpt9DMzD48NxIdtux15Wdvtt0M-oPUU-etFYmJ_iqI0VNTjfueLTm-FTHJb8qvJxx5Qbqn6hPLc-csF7RZoFZWB-YJ4KiPfDvBqIfCz8FofDo0/s320/HLP_6367.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The whole point of this post is that you should plan a shoot with a local photographer, you don't have to feel as so you're 'photogenic' or even enjoy having your photo taken but the memories you will capture last a lifetime and are truly magical. Im aware these shoots are fairly expensive but some photographers allow you to pay them off gradually before the shoot so it is always worth checking.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBfgiJYukP2c8R0MPDtlSvANDSAhL4eqQfeM8-fvnuNV46tN4lRsYWeqWWtXRRek7zo6DRffqnNAzoJKs-9ayOVbqbTPZfMXRZkqU_3O9E1egkEkt3IKmWPN_i3boXJtv25zNAnnLKh_w/s1600/HLP_6430.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBfgiJYukP2c8R0MPDtlSvANDSAhL4eqQfeM8-fvnuNV46tN4lRsYWeqWWtXRRek7zo6DRffqnNAzoJKs-9ayOVbqbTPZfMXRZkqU_3O9E1egkEkt3IKmWPN_i3boXJtv25zNAnnLKh_w/s320/HLP_6430.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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So with all that being said, I would like to share with you these beautiful images that <a href="https://www.heatherlerrynphotography.com/" target="_blank">Heather Lerryn Photography</a> captured for Mother's Day 2020.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJUzVp9a6KQgiQp-nRQRr-W2KNDGCphXtnBs60dK9T_6MNv1imOE8aJ1mzAMU3jXvlLP7osdpucy9CGkuXiDwRCfraK7o3DliQ6Gf2SdXVnVxbU-MwkJmsVAiy62NLh5wVSa9JjeNzm-4/s1600/HLP_6490.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJUzVp9a6KQgiQp-nRQRr-W2KNDGCphXtnBs60dK9T_6MNv1imOE8aJ1mzAMU3jXvlLP7osdpucy9CGkuXiDwRCfraK7o3DliQ6Gf2SdXVnVxbU-MwkJmsVAiy62NLh5wVSa9JjeNzm-4/s320/HLP_6490.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3F_8ShRULMQENehwvaT3nfCte7R1Am073BHF6g7gzTeLggUrLiIoK32cnuKn0r9jYWSkbHVI8g0YHg5OSVYT1_InHkKCBz5AJ_EfjJgMZHq8s1ikZzrXpAtubSgTQHwHSU6xYxYCOLeA/s1600/HLP_6533.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3F_8ShRULMQENehwvaT3nfCte7R1Am073BHF6g7gzTeLggUrLiIoK32cnuKn0r9jYWSkbHVI8g0YHg5OSVYT1_InHkKCBz5AJ_EfjJgMZHq8s1ikZzrXpAtubSgTQHwHSU6xYxYCOLeA/s320/HLP_6533.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I am so incredibly happy with these photos and I will certainly treasure them forever. The whole experience was very laid back and enjoyable. Massive thank you to <a href="https://www.heatherlerrynphotography.com/" target="_blank">https://www.heatherlerrynphotography.com/</a> for <i><b>gifting</b></i> me this shoot.</div>
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I hope this has inspired you to either head out and take some photos yourself or contact a local photographer and plan a family shoot!</div>
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Until next time,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Storm</div>
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<a href="http://www.instagram.com/stormsblog" target="_blank">Instagram</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.twitter.com/stormsblog" target="_blank">Twitter</a></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1108429725746318398.post-79455841560095407042020-03-29T05:08:00.001-07:002020-03-29T05:08:18.886-07:00My 'Lockdown' Skincare/Hair Favourites! <div style="text-align: center;">
Hello!</div>
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Due to the lockdown caused by Coronavirus the country has been forced to stay at home and with every bad situation comes a silver lining, such as I have rediscovered some of my favourite (but forgotten about) Skincare and Hair Favourites. Also being a mum means that I rarely have time for face masks and other 'time consuming' routines, I need products that are quick, easy and effective. </div>
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These products are in no particular order - </div>
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My only Hair product comes from <a href="https://www.notino.co.uk/aussie/miracle-moist-shampoo-for-dry-and-damaged-hair/p-492329/?gclid=Cj0KCQjwjoH0BRD6ARIsAEWO9DtCymgZctXhfWC_3_sXK6Qobi7La2YgHqMpmXk3UZrVP2JsYpp60B8aAqWaEALw_wcB" target="_blank">'Aussie' and it's 'Miracle Moist' Shampoo and Conditioner.</a> Since having Maci I have really struggled with dry skin and a dry scalp so I have found myself reaching for more moisturising products. Despite these products being on the slightly 'expensive' side I find that these two bottles will last me around a month and I wash my hair every two days. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkf1pq9vkxhI7CQXezFHIz9cp_9YDO5ZQA4RUwHVvldSD2XPGCvSiAwq5wuEtSm48EahBhp0ju0W-Yj750ze14qwn82Hcaog-wVesiFpE5RI9sy32tLMYwkzFs44QkwfGsiMtlyl0UGlU/s1600/91369076_2662112423911001_7048784727150428160_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="756" data-original-width="960" height="252" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkf1pq9vkxhI7CQXezFHIz9cp_9YDO5ZQA4RUwHVvldSD2XPGCvSiAwq5wuEtSm48EahBhp0ju0W-Yj750ze14qwn82Hcaog-wVesiFpE5RI9sy32tLMYwkzFs44QkwfGsiMtlyl0UGlU/s320/91369076_2662112423911001_7048784727150428160_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Next up is '<a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Garnier-Micellar-Face-Sensitive-200ml/dp/B01N4I0D27" target="_blank">Garnier's Micellar Cleansing Gel Wash</a> - This product is one that I never use to like, I use to find it would leave my skin not feeling clean but I have been using it for the past week and I have to admit I am really enjoying its consistency and formula this time around. It would not 'budge' heavy makeup I feel although for an every day cleanse it is perfect and easy to use.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMj6_7UWCqD1NTp_bh1c4__H8UKBrUUK85bybaTspZwmoa0bu5CZsp7u0W6c7z6JhEL9UJsmeb6YnfN8in2KPrDEG91rWIddGJ9WLr60N38uOdBr0MI-rvkoT3xFDFKp31cajObpmzuXc/s1600/91174906_2662112440577666_8974467098524778496_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="762" data-original-width="960" height="254" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMj6_7UWCqD1NTp_bh1c4__H8UKBrUUK85bybaTspZwmoa0bu5CZsp7u0W6c7z6JhEL9UJsmeb6YnfN8in2KPrDEG91rWIddGJ9WLr60N38uOdBr0MI-rvkoT3xFDFKp31cajObpmzuXc/s320/91174906_2662112440577666_8974467098524778496_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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If you're like me then you will thoroughly enjoy a good exfoliator and this is where this next product comes in. <a href="https://www.notino.co.uk/dove/exfoliating-body-scrub-pomegranate-seeds-shea-butter-resurfacing-body-scrub/p-15867151/?gclid=Cj0KCQjwjoH0BRD6ARIsAEWO9DtWyVkpwvl-YYK0XWwI_jD3UH-E3B2fc7KF4qBv72Vv2sxYqH6AjTMaAtAyEALw_wcB" target="_blank">Dove's Exfoliating Body Scrub with Pomegranate Seeds and Shea Butter</a> is the perfect body exfoliator. Not only does it smell incredible but the texture and density is consummate. This exfoliator is similar to the other products due to the fact it is long lasting so you definitely get your pennies worth. <i>(Shown in top right of image above)</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI96AssSbhV36UCnrF6W81UhMl5uHI5f7vqtlSeAsm5Jlt6tFp1Ta7SxGndtg2NFTXXEeGwo1xJBViKt2QiLKGjZ3EgQGajS5k7TSjcslrYkmjcYUq6ZN78OrPqJdTB6mvLww0NOxBxaU/s1600/91440596_2662112590577651_647889988330979328_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="774" data-original-width="960" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI96AssSbhV36UCnrF6W81UhMl5uHI5f7vqtlSeAsm5Jlt6tFp1Ta7SxGndtg2NFTXXEeGwo1xJBViKt2QiLKGjZ3EgQGajS5k7TSjcslrYkmjcYUq6ZN78OrPqJdTB6mvLww0NOxBxaU/s320/91440596_2662112590577651_647889988330979328_n.jpg" width="320" /></a> </div>
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Due to the fact we're all staying at home at present it is important now more than ever that we are looking after ourselves and our skin. This product is so easy to use and super effective. The '<a href="https://www.luxplus.co.uk/product/garnier-skin-active-3in1-botanical-hydrating-balm-150-ml?gsmp=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjwjoH0BRD6ARIsAEWO9DuiYeOYuQmFzAycrKh7fI5sB6GEyBlAVwWZ7y5pCtjFXh07j2y6ngkaAlOPEALw_wcB" target="_blank">Garnier Skin Active 3in1 Botanical Hydrating Balm</a>' it is a day/night mask and leaves your skin feeling rejuvenated and replenished and not forgetting smelling like rose water.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXW3gkiik-4BtavpBRv0HMnz_LnjM8xosRUYyBs60DjEdKMBSRHz513-gRzEzxv8VhO61csaufbFEtvFIksgLcCJIWME4FpqvvJh2ojw3TnzTEUqfMh8kj9J3OfXx7GU6zVryTBYxnMHQ/s1600/91513930_2662112557244321_5079797205552857088_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="812" data-original-width="960" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXW3gkiik-4BtavpBRv0HMnz_LnjM8xosRUYyBs60DjEdKMBSRHz513-gRzEzxv8VhO61csaufbFEtvFIksgLcCJIWME4FpqvvJh2ojw3TnzTEUqfMh8kj9J3OfXx7GU6zVryTBYxnMHQ/s320/91513930_2662112557244321_5079797205552857088_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I recently discovered Superdrugs own brand and I have been pleasantly surprised by it. I picked up the <a href="https://www.superdrug.com/Skin/Face-Skin-Care/Face-Serums/Superdrug-Naturally-Radiant-2-in-1-Moisturiser-%26-Serum/p/689952" target="_blank">'Superdrug Naturally Radiant 2in1 Moisturiser and Serum' </a>and It has been a staple product in my makeup bag for about a month now. It hasn't got much of a scent too it which I know some people prefer but it leaves my skin feeling really moisturised which is great especially at the moment. </div>
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The other product shown in the image above is the '<a href="https://www.allbeauty.com/gb/en/1012926-nuxe-sensitive-skin-micellar-cleansing-water-with-rose-petals-200ml?abref=GoogleShoppingCsGoogleUkSandgoogleUkB&utm_source=PLA&utm_medium=CPC&ref=%7Badtype%7D&gclid=Cj0KCQjwjoH0BRD6ARIsAEWO9DuKss0a9Z7sEQU_LH3uXQ6KY2dHl-_Hh8_wsjsk4c1ExMYsZevIA0QaApIcEALw_wcB" target="_blank">Nuxe Sensitive Skin Micellar Cleansing Water'</a> which is a brilliant alternative if you are not a fan of the 'gel' consistency of the Garnier product. Once again this product has a fairly strong scent of Rose petals and leaves your skin feeling cleansed after a hard day sitting in the lounge during lockdown.</div>
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I hope you have enjoyed this blog post, let me know if you have ever tried any of these products by following the links to my socials below.</div>
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Until next time,</div>
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Storm</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1108429725746318398.post-48895750503441944692020-03-15T12:31:00.003-07:002020-03-15T12:31:26.154-07:00Introducing 'Little Beaulieu' - AD/Press Launch<div style="text-align: center;">
Hello!</div>
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The other day we were kindly invited to the launch of 'Little Beaulieu' which is a brand new adventure play area within the grounds of Beaulieu. The enormous structure has cost £0.5m and it based upon the heritage of Lord Montagu's ancestral home of Palace House and Beaulieu Abbey. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBtfM3xJXDLL_r-08K5pIyoQZR6GYn7MDro6SmRx7ATz4904mh39aJa7qxhE-yLDDXM2qV94gHQqwEixqATsNx-eEQOFoWiuPXl4Coz3YEGClEjGI9ln9I9wlYP1hRNO5bg5BKdKlSD0E/s1600/89830540_2633575763431334_8249567543417634816_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBtfM3xJXDLL_r-08K5pIyoQZR6GYn7MDro6SmRx7ATz4904mh39aJa7qxhE-yLDDXM2qV94gHQqwEixqATsNx-eEQOFoWiuPXl4Coz3YEGClEjGI9ln9I9wlYP1hRNO5bg5BKdKlSD0E/s320/89830540_2633575763431334_8249567543417634816_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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You could easily spend all day just within the area of 'Little Beaulieu' as there is now a covered seating area for picnics from the small cafe which you can grab a tasty slice of cake from and a cup of tea. There are also clean toilets also within the proximity of 'Little Beaulieu' meaning you no longer have to worry about getting to the museum or the cafe for the toilets which is brilliant especially for little ones and pregnant ladies or quite frankly those of us who have had children!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6yOGguLY-8cBtCjncLJ842KYA8YSDtVeOKrEKXhZVR12rdv3JGGkH2kwONR6iMsCqlj6FyI3fou2OhoFbuekUDmKBe7GBUQHy1QsBhJHGE0ciADNQYFyj3LnWrNmJWSm3o4w6jrIDmTY/s1600/90327699_2633575696764674_1725984851879788544_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="762" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6yOGguLY-8cBtCjncLJ842KYA8YSDtVeOKrEKXhZVR12rdv3JGGkH2kwONR6iMsCqlj6FyI3fou2OhoFbuekUDmKBe7GBUQHy1QsBhJHGE0ciADNQYFyj3LnWrNmJWSm3o4w6jrIDmTY/s320/90327699_2633575696764674_1725984851879788544_n.jpg" width="254" /></a></div>
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There is a also a special zone of the park which features smaller wooden frames to play on, a large sandpit with buckets, spades and other toys provided. Little ones can then jump on the wooden play bus, modelled on Beaulieu's Veteran Bus at one of the south's leading visitor attractions. The bus was definitely one of Maci's favorite parts of the whole attraction.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzUUK2lre_acjjpz1OGDMcx2XtwyEHE89GIzmWzaMeK_w51riga1q-Lcg_phZ4OuCKKKh9rl7xSpZQg9X-KsripVSWGgCep62v9MwukgMzdJRhNO5ZI1dCQLv9kdxNBk9v1y8CInqYRFc/s1600/89850483_2633575636764680_6663572005180145664_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="892" data-original-width="960" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzUUK2lre_acjjpz1OGDMcx2XtwyEHE89GIzmWzaMeK_w51riga1q-Lcg_phZ4OuCKKKh9rl7xSpZQg9X-KsripVSWGgCep62v9MwukgMzdJRhNO5ZI1dCQLv9kdxNBk9v1y8CInqYRFc/s320/89850483_2633575636764680_6663572005180145664_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Within 'Little Beaulieu' there is a 'play garage' that has a car that the children can sit in and pretend to fix using the wooden tools provided on the workbench to the side. There is even an old fashioned petrol pump so the children can fill the car up with 'fuel'. Every aspect of this play area has been thought of to use imaginations and its incredible. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOIgChFaMbM5W7nNcp8QdvXbuW3JNFvOnpoefCqT8yLHpGb6-8d5ZGmogB620LTPb2iR4P-Q4yPbSlV5YqaEXyOs8pMjOLn-Z557jI0JrYfdFpyBl99tadpwS-f7LPNvzVbuDRtCc6Jjk/s1600/89886396_2633575373431373_8095873264011706368_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOIgChFaMbM5W7nNcp8QdvXbuW3JNFvOnpoefCqT8yLHpGb6-8d5ZGmogB620LTPb2iR4P-Q4yPbSlV5YqaEXyOs8pMjOLn-Z557jI0JrYfdFpyBl99tadpwS-f7LPNvzVbuDRtCc6Jjk/s320/89886396_2633575373431373_8095873264011706368_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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We immensely enjoyed out time at Beaulieu and we are so grateful for the invite to this wonderful launch. This definitely is a day out that would be considered a 'treat' but what a great one it really is. I really like the fact that everything you need is so close to the play area, such as toilets and the cafe meaning you do not need to leave the play area at any time if you do not wish too.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK-zJQEhTEEkK3NfLtp9RowKjLR4lVpMM2antlLdzSpw7zhyphenhyphendCxoytlRC4u3PV848Utr9TSaVJj7zIS719uGZz2bHVTbuf-GukAge9tNpTfx-mf28vvdxSNrY2FPlRLcBtahp1oKa-UAU/s1600/89886659_2633575536764690_2188006827646517248_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK-zJQEhTEEkK3NfLtp9RowKjLR4lVpMM2antlLdzSpw7zhyphenhyphendCxoytlRC4u3PV848Utr9TSaVJj7zIS719uGZz2bHVTbuf-GukAge9tNpTfx-mf28vvdxSNrY2FPlRLcBtahp1oKa-UAU/s200/89886659_2633575536764690_2188006827646517248_n.jpg" width="150" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSvdhkGvgEj530l8RTnbpb_cA5TqGx3EjzBKQr85TGKnLw4rUCtIniNMGZxVmOMpR50ZWmGkidMxUKfiESzfcrR7rxyEj_RoMMVLeHzFlKRxwswpYOXk9dAJVYn4XaBMNpnM2do1l3abo/s1600/90303253_2633575600098017_5725291461126127616_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSvdhkGvgEj530l8RTnbpb_cA5TqGx3EjzBKQr85TGKnLw4rUCtIniNMGZxVmOMpR50ZWmGkidMxUKfiESzfcrR7rxyEj_RoMMVLeHzFlKRxwswpYOXk9dAJVYn4XaBMNpnM2do1l3abo/s200/90303253_2633575600098017_5725291461126127616_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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'Little Beaulieu' will be included in a ticket price to Beaulieu from March 15th. A ticket also includes entry to the National Motor Museum which tells the story of motoring with its collection of over 280 historic vehicles, the World Of Top Gear, On Screen Cars, Palace House, Secret Army Exhibition, Beaulieu Abbey and its gardens and grounds. To book visit - <a href="https://www.beaulieu.co.uk/" target="_blank">Book Tickets</a></div>
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<i>This post was a gifted opportunity with no obligation to post. All opinions are those of Storms Blog.</i></div>
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Until next time,</div>
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Storm</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1108429725746318398.post-2878328889872827022020-02-06T13:43:00.001-08:002020-02-06T13:43:56.609-08:00Let's have a chatter... Im back!<div style="text-align: center;">
Hi,</div>
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I've been putting off writing this post because quite simply I didn't know where to start. </div>
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I have unintentionally had a break from blogging. I say unintentionally because blogging has always been my 'happy place' and what I use to do to calm down and express feelings and somewhere along the line that became lost and it became about deadlines and numbers... and well thats took the 'calming' aspect away and it soon became like a chore to me.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_kBhGBMCUvX0ht3fnTTrlRleygeb9pAm0vedE-labMX345swMKcrrIpeU5MQmq82YEl631SX3QC_OsYb_IF4Vv1ynLtjVxheSWVYsYeyySBow2247YBWblL7kSddx8eXbxnehHJgd1ZE/s1600/blogggggg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="858" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_kBhGBMCUvX0ht3fnTTrlRleygeb9pAm0vedE-labMX345swMKcrrIpeU5MQmq82YEl631SX3QC_OsYb_IF4Vv1ynLtjVxheSWVYsYeyySBow2247YBWblL7kSddx8eXbxnehHJgd1ZE/s320/blogggggg.jpg" width="286" /></a></div>
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I've been trying to plan a big 'come back' post but once again i've put too much pressure on myself and over thought it.</div>
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So instead I thought I would just tell you why I started my blog in the first place back in twenty fourteen. </div>
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When I started writing this blog it simply wasn't a 'normal' thing to do, whereas today I feel like every Tom and Harry has a blog about this or that. I remember hiding it from people at school because I knew they would take the piss out of me for sharing my thoughts on products and other things on the internet. I was always pretty good at writing at school, I was always that strange kid in the corner of the english lesson writing poetry or a story that nobody would ever read because I was too embarrassed. Writing was always my release, my calm place.</div>
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My blog started of as a beauty based page full of reviews and my favourite products, little did I know I would go onto become a qualified Beauty Therapist after I left school. I use to plan my posts in great detail and get so incredibly excited when I would get new readers and as my audience grew (as I still do!) It really was a tremendous feeling that other people appreciated what I was creating for them to read. Obviously since then my life has changed drastically, I am now a mum and have my own house, meaning my posts are usually 'Maci themed' or about general life which has taken me a while to adjust too but i'm realising that its ok to change your content. I am not the same person I was back in twenty fourteen but I do still love makeup and skincare so that won't be completely disappearing from this space.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigKdCEcYyFpiyBdBOJVI3V78Wsq7AdVwLPMIUDfXcc4SiRsnoU_7FQvzwRK9t3gVGO_sxfQjaQd1qQpXhFergv6fLkH3WTAmEZwTmEhlZn_wb6l1r1j6OkFAmIRXoyTbnfw3C5YaPNDS4/s1600/blogggg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="726" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigKdCEcYyFpiyBdBOJVI3V78Wsq7AdVwLPMIUDfXcc4SiRsnoU_7FQvzwRK9t3gVGO_sxfQjaQd1qQpXhFergv6fLkH3WTAmEZwTmEhlZn_wb6l1r1j6OkFAmIRXoyTbnfw3C5YaPNDS4/s320/blogggg.jpg" width="242" /></a></div>
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I can't promise that I will be able to create posts three times a week like I use too all them years ago but I am going to make a conscious effort to stop neglecting my blog. I have spent too many years and hours of hard work to let it go to waste. As cliche as it sounds, I have grown up with it, it has connected me to some incredible people and it has made me who I am today in a way and for that I am grateful. </div>
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Until next time,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Storm</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1108429725746318398.post-81445460116724967942019-10-04T11:08:00.003-07:002019-10-04T11:15:49.470-07:00Twenty nineteen - One I'll never forget....<div style="text-align: center;">
Hello,</div>
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We moved into our new house just over a month ago and I have only just today connected my laptop to my wifi. I honestly haven't had the motivation or inspiration to write anything but today something changed... I remembered why I started this blog six years ago and why I love doing what I do. The reason why I started this blog was to share my thoughts about certain topics, admittedly back then it was light hearted subjects and definitely weren't parenthood related but all the same. So today that's what i'm here to do... let's have a chat. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwV-sHByZm0c4OtBVQqF9zrM-ExmSxGCeqjUHYeZd_X_bF70eERcARs0DfOtWTEul4cYTW3GOgWgBkBJhWhk8uH10Whe3yCU3TfTns5EYxpEk5mmY6gFmgcBiAZu0xmjf58ggNqgoyR5o/s1600/blogs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="868" data-original-width="960" height="289" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwV-sHByZm0c4OtBVQqF9zrM-ExmSxGCeqjUHYeZd_X_bF70eERcARs0DfOtWTEul4cYTW3GOgWgBkBJhWhk8uH10Whe3yCU3TfTns5EYxpEk5mmY6gFmgcBiAZu0xmjf58ggNqgoyR5o/s320/blogs.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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This year has been one I will definitely never forget, a lot has changed... Maci turned one back in June and she had the most incredible party with all of our favourite people. Relationships broke down unexpectedly and we also moved home twice, oh and Maci started walking... a lot has happened in between these big events but when someone mentions this year that is what comes to my mind straight away. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieNNU-k6f5etC_tbsrnkGqlt2ThSDLdtJV69YFAMtciNxZ1p_bbnbFSo9pkGmVASNxU1bt-rdpmtwMcTjfsOyFgdUTVX1sCzz93x7iUOvhkyhyphenhyphenU0nVuLvnj4f_8yWgPya_O_UYnvpFzRo/s1600/62532654_2111068325682083_2501163394392915968_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieNNU-k6f5etC_tbsrnkGqlt2ThSDLdtJV69YFAMtciNxZ1p_bbnbFSo9pkGmVASNxU1bt-rdpmtwMcTjfsOyFgdUTVX1sCzz93x7iUOvhkyhyphenhyphenU0nVuLvnj4f_8yWgPya_O_UYnvpFzRo/s320/62532654_2111068325682083_2501163394392915968_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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So what have I learnt throughout this year so far? I have learnt that everything can change very quickly, your 'normal' can soon become a memory and that you should cherish moments. I also can't believe that whilst I am sat writing this I have an *almost* sixteen month old upstairs asleep, how has that happened? Time goes so incredibly quickly... But ultimately I am so exceedingly grateful for everything I have and the friends and family that Maci and I have. </div>
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Maci is doing incredibly well, she is now walking and almost running about. She now says quite a few words such as; mum, dad, diesel (dog) yes and sit. She's got such a fabulous sense of humour, she finds the most silly things hilarious which I absolutely love. She still isn't sleeping throughout the whole night but we have made progress so ill accept that and she is in size 2-3 year clothes because she's a little chunky monkey. I have just started looking at nurseries for her to attend next September and it's all a bit daunting but I know she will love it an immense amount.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigfPFfS0QRtnN36xuPnGYzAbmVOsK8DgbWU8HBs1PcbL4HCAiRdd8X_umo8pcXTUwmQoNThrGX6CDuE1POr8OKIMJaXX-zscyZKvASagWZhA8U4ENWqBv6jhyvIB8lqpOq-GOAtTOAyQ8/s1600/blogs2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="730" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigfPFfS0QRtnN36xuPnGYzAbmVOsK8DgbWU8HBs1PcbL4HCAiRdd8X_umo8pcXTUwmQoNThrGX6CDuE1POr8OKIMJaXX-zscyZKvASagWZhA8U4ENWqBv6jhyvIB8lqpOq-GOAtTOAyQ8/s320/blogs2.jpg" width="242" /></a></div>
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With regards to me I am still getting use to being responsible for a whole house (and everything that comes in tow!), a toddler, and well... myself! Its very easy to forget about me but I have come to realise how important it is to not 'burn myself out' and that sometimes its ok to sit down and watch television or even have a scroll through your phone once in a while. I have taken a slight backseat with blogging for a while but I have been working with some incredible companies over on my socials which keep me busy. But I am doing okay, so thank you all for any messages you may of sent on other platforms. </div>
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I am aiming to write post frequently again so watch this space and thank you for taking your time to read this little life update.</div>
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Until next time,</div>
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Storm</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1108429725746318398.post-41763628264421874912019-08-08T13:59:00.003-07:002019-08-08T13:59:52.814-07:00'So Divine' Sensual Kegal Balls - Gifted Review<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">For those of you reading this who have had children you'll agree with me that things definitely change once you've given birth. For me it affected my pelvic floor and whilst doing some research I came across Kegal Ball training kits and decided to give it a go. What have I got to lose, right?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">If you aren't familiar with what 'Kegal Balls' are, this is the description of the 'So Divine' Kegal Balls - 'T</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px;">hese discrete Kegel Balls will help strengthen your pelvic floor. Made from silicone and easy to insert, choose from three interchangeable weights to get warmed up and ready to go'</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;">You can read the full item description <a href="https://so-divine.com/product/kegel-balls/" target="_blank">here</a></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJazUqneI9FFWbFUwGtqTB8jpYARjbq25Wjukchc_pn9ua5EkmExuq1WY92khw-Ty27dtNszOnJ8xMXuye-oxvfl98OqRCyYeB_MjEdyONZXWdNpFmGS_6-Tan_T9MGiFMBqD8LS7H6Oo/s1600/sodivine1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="888" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJazUqneI9FFWbFUwGtqTB8jpYARjbq25Wjukchc_pn9ua5EkmExuq1WY92khw-Ty27dtNszOnJ8xMXuye-oxvfl98OqRCyYeB_MjEdyONZXWdNpFmGS_6-Tan_T9MGiFMBqD8LS7H6Oo/s320/sodivine1.jpg" width="296" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Before I started researching the <b>benefits</b> of these items I thought they simply helped strengthen your pelvic floor but I was wrong - they do so much more! They help strengthen</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px;"> and tighten PC muscles, </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px;">Increase blood flow to pelvic region, </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px;">Prevent urinary incontinent, </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px;">Helps recover from physical stress such as childbirth and help im</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px;">prove sexual response and function. </span></div>
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The <a href="https://so-divine.com/product/kegel-balls/">Kegal Ball Training Set</a> from So Divine <b>Includes</b> - <span style="background-color: white; font-family: "montserrat"; font-size: 16px;">3 Individually weighted kegel balls: 36g, 62g, 96g, Exercises & tones pelvic floor muscles, Premium silky soft silicone, Latex & phthalate free, Discreet internal workout, Use with a water-based lube, 'How to guide' included and a Luxury storage bag.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "montserrat";"><b>So do they actually work? </b>The answer is yes... I have been using my training kit for just over two weeks now and I am definitely noticing a difference as always I will continue testing this product and post an update in a few weeks time but I have already noticed a positive difference. Obviously everyone is different but for me they are helping. These sets also aren't just for those of you who have had children it is important for all women to give your pelvic floor muscles a 'workout' now and then! </span></div>
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All packaging which arrives from 'So Divine' is discreet, so no need to worry!</div>
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<span style="font-family: "montserrat";">I will post a further update up on my Instagram in a few weeks to let you all know how I am getting on with this brilliant product!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "montserrat";"><a href="https://so-divine.com/product/kegel-balls/" target="_blank">So Divine Sensual Kegal Ball Training Set</a></span></div>
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<i>As stated this is a gifted product review, all opinions are those of Storms Blog.</i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "montserrat";">Until next time,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "montserrat";">Storm</span></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1108429725746318398.post-84273958314586171432019-07-21T11:54:00.001-07:002019-07-21T11:54:15.951-07:00What I've learnt from my first year of parenting<div style="text-align: center;">
Maci recently turned one meaning I have been a parent for an entire year and gosh have I learnt a lot in that time. I've learnt so many things I couldn't even list them all for you but I decided it would be a good idea to share with you all the 'biggest' things that I have learnt throughout my first year of parenting.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUVFOlS6rZoHd48_sa72iQeB67H8_9zoXY3E9vJikNXEEhjJs1OzNDEP4fi_LSmH7a1dOKwA1_320069UhvLTj-Jq08_pgQTRO1RN0YQfechUG-DBsv04v3RWfp6eu8lHjh3NrPH4snHw/s1600/67263163_2172482802873968_2955905821499719680_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUVFOlS6rZoHd48_sa72iQeB67H8_9zoXY3E9vJikNXEEhjJs1OzNDEP4fi_LSmH7a1dOKwA1_320069UhvLTj-Jq08_pgQTRO1RN0YQfechUG-DBsv04v3RWfp6eu8lHjh3NrPH4snHw/s320/67263163_2172482802873968_2955905821499719680_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<b>Everyone has an opinion (it doesn't matter...)</b></div>
Whether it's about how you feed your baby, how you clothe your baby or even how you gave birth. Everyone has an opinion on EVERYTHING! This is one thing that took me a while to learn and now I know that everyone has an opinion but the only person who knows what's best for their child is you, their parents. Despite the fact I say that other people's opinions don't matter sometimes opinions can be helpful so don't instantly dismiss them.<br />
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<b>When you get the hang of one thing, it's time to change (formula to <a href="http://www.stormsblog.co.uk/2019/01/weaning-essentials-favourite-snacks-and.html">weaning etc)</a></b><br />
Just when you get use to how to sterilize bottles and get into a routine its the time to introduce food. Then weaning is a whole new ball game, working out what foods your baby likes, what they're actually able to chew and what brands of foods to give them. Parenthood is one big 'trial and error' and eventually you will work it out... (eventually!)<br />
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<b>Newborns do not need fancy outfits.</b><br />
Before Maci was born I did that thing every first time parent does. I hoarded outfits mainly pretty little dresses. She wore hardly any of them, Maci was 8lbs 11oz when she was born meaning she instantly went into 3-6 month clothes so she never wore 'newborn' sizes. So yes, newborns do not need 'fancy' outfits. All they need are some babygrows, vests, bibs and scratch mitts.<br />
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<b>The first six weeks are an absolute blur. </b><br />
I remember being told about the dreaded first six weeks and how they will be the toughest of your life as a parent and oh my they were right. I barely remember the first six weeks of Maci's life, it was a muddle of keeping a newborn alive, working out how to make a bottle, change a nappy, dealing with no sleep and crazy hormones! But I promise, it does get easier. Once you establish a routine and workout (roughly) what you're doing it does become easier.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggZ2ccZ4v4VF6MKypC2QLweWLgNs8q2Kp7-vQ6B6M-UVrHs2t1qpEpgcCP2TgYePNXA5OQWPF5nu9XLcnQpHi9y57bhFxK_zRFHmzrGdHhy8dDm2TDDt_Serk_j4FCbQXSQfUkqwQKcy4/s1600/67109147_2172482889540626_7474038364069429248_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="574" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggZ2ccZ4v4VF6MKypC2QLweWLgNs8q2Kp7-vQ6B6M-UVrHs2t1qpEpgcCP2TgYePNXA5OQWPF5nu9XLcnQpHi9y57bhFxK_zRFHmzrGdHhy8dDm2TDDt_Serk_j4FCbQXSQfUkqwQKcy4/s320/67109147_2172482889540626_7474038364069429248_n.jpg" width="190" /></a></div>
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<b>You will end up with 'plastic crap' toys everywhere.</b><br />
Whilst I was pregnant I remember looking at 'aesthetically pleasing' baby toys. I didn't want anything brightly coloured and definitely no noisy toys. Oh how I was wrong... babies need bright coloured toys to help with their development. Unfortunately pastel wooden toys don't cut it.<br />
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<b>Every baby is different (sleep, eating etc)</b><br />
I soon realised that I had a baby that doesn't like sleep and it took me a while to actually accept that. I couldnt work out why other peoples babies were sleeping and why mine wasn't. Surely I must be doing something wrong? I got myself so worked up because I felt like a failure but the truth is every baby is different. Some babies sleep through, some don't.<br />
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Parenthood is tough, every day is a learning curve and that is the main thing I have learnt from the first year of parenting.<br />
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Until next time,<br />
Storm<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1108429725746318398.post-89514024981097279002019-07-03T13:40:00.000-07:002019-07-03T13:44:16.260-07:00What does my dog do whilst I'm not home? - Furbo #AD<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Fancy knowing what your furry friends are up to whilst you're not at home? I know I certainly do. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The Furbo allows me to go out and leave my furry friends at home without having to constantly worry if they're ok. Not only is it the first ever 'treat tossing' pet camera but it also has two way audio (which alerts you if your pet is barking) and a 160 degree HD night vision camera which you can record at the touch of a button. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The Furbo also fits perfectly with my home decor, its only 22.5cm high and is topped with a fashionable bamboo wood cover, it sits perfectly in the corner of my lounge and I always get comments about it from friends and family.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1zaOqDVRt521XldLBkoS11c7P6gVdR_x7UW9Nxr2NRJLEibFPXSVY50tDism5s6lEnE3V5cxP5-4u_iQ-3HXmBPcXTwr-XOJlHWIuxV2dc0GzNTo9KhvYe4NYTyImjDljGX39ZzxTDrA/s1600/DSC_0184-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1600" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1zaOqDVRt521XldLBkoS11c7P6gVdR_x7UW9Nxr2NRJLEibFPXSVY50tDism5s6lEnE3V5cxP5-4u_iQ-3HXmBPcXTwr-XOJlHWIuxV2dc0GzNTo9KhvYe4NYTyImjDljGX39ZzxTDrA/s320/DSC_0184-1.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">When I first received my Furbo I was worried that I wouldn't be 'tech savvy' enough to set it up myself but it was extremely easy. The light on the front of the camera indicates the status of the unit and it only took around three minutes after installing the free Furbo app to my iphone. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcSjtmp9OlqIuQqe_5Gis5HybajC0caFcBpD0pQpxjkIoV6fEVMoRhl4MfZ9igJ-CdADqL8eRMNSyx5lmQSE_cQJja4SDuKY3BJthIt6TcoB4rklwnZo3MaNkrrjzuLesR7xK_Lo8Cu_A/s1600/DSC_0176-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1065" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcSjtmp9OlqIuQqe_5Gis5HybajC0caFcBpD0pQpxjkIoV6fEVMoRhl4MfZ9igJ-CdADqL8eRMNSyx5lmQSE_cQJja4SDuKY3BJthIt6TcoB4rklwnZo3MaNkrrjzuLesR7xK_Lo8Cu_A/s320/DSC_0176-1.jpg" width="212" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The Furbo has allowed me to now go out and not constantly worry about what my pets are up to because now by pressing a few buttons I can see exactly what they're doing and throw them a treat to engage with me through the camera.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The Furbo would also make a great gift for a pet lover! Perhaps if you're stuck on what to purchase someone for an upcoming birthday (or even Christmas) why not treat them to a Furbo? It truly is the gift that keeps giving.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ6uYBtRKs82DwncZFpPewIZj7V-UE-Mrj_uccKvTmo34r1cUnRC3D1x8QFWxzZIvcIl-Gi-7bEPk5ndwLNz_babphcQQ6g7wGKIF1q26n-zH8gnFQY7j5LiUTgQkm7O4_kJejzt1cu20/s1600/DSC_0181-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ6uYBtRKs82DwncZFpPewIZj7V-UE-Mrj_uccKvTmo34r1cUnRC3D1x8QFWxzZIvcIl-Gi-7bEPk5ndwLNz_babphcQQ6g7wGKIF1q26n-zH8gnFQY7j5LiUTgQkm7O4_kJejzt1cu20/s320/DSC_0181-1.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I have been lucky enough to work with Furbo on this post meaning I am able to offer you all an exclusive discount code so you can keep an eye on your pets whilst you're not home! By using this link it will allow you to have £20 off the final price of the Furbo - <a href="https://bit.ly/2XxPWnz" target="_blank">https://bit.ly/2XxPWnz </a></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; text-align: start;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The code is valid in the following countries: UK, Spain, Italy and France (In the countries with Euro prices -20€ off)</span></span><br />
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">(This item was a gifted product, this post is also an AD)</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I would love to see what your pets get up to whilst you're out, please tag me in them over on <a href="http://www.instagram.com/stormsblog">Instagram.</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Until next time,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Storm</span></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1108429725746318398.post-60556449856704268202019-06-21T13:36:00.003-07:002019-06-21T13:36:47.671-07:00A whole year of Maci.<div style="text-align: center;">
13th June, what a significant date. The date I became a mother, one whole year ago.<br />
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I've had many mixed feelings about Maci's first birthday, i've felt excited, nervous, anxious and extremely proud. Proud of her for turning one, she has achieved so much in her 365 days of life earthside but I also feel proud of myself for reaching this milestone as a parent.<br />
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We celebrated Maci's birthday with a trip out to 'soft play' on her actual birthday and then the following weekend we hosted a Picnic Party with all of her little friends that we have met by going to various different baby groups/classes, safe to say I think we were definitely more excited about all her birthday 'happenings' than what she was.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnDZjt3F6eEHf2Fx97Di7RMhD8_S402BHidu63tJBOvfYVg_KFQN8VD3kTcwDeLt8GhljwpjM99ypssXhSYPB8Rp-VmmRzIVgiTw9wPbzRq3drF-9qDKbomDMKGZeuM8h17buCHbIrZ8U/s1600/64267418_2111067849015464_6163092428388564992_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnDZjt3F6eEHf2Fx97Di7RMhD8_S402BHidu63tJBOvfYVg_KFQN8VD3kTcwDeLt8GhljwpjM99ypssXhSYPB8Rp-VmmRzIVgiTw9wPbzRq3drF-9qDKbomDMKGZeuM8h17buCHbIrZ8U/s200/64267418_2111067849015464_6163092428388564992_n.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5Q5ru92glRiknLmYnL4Whwpk7DffXvyUBzpMcXgkkt2xmsUN09GcQOTbQ_MfshPTyJrTvVYWR5HP8w18uUfP_9Dj2iOgOsS2mIJ2L9y38hIAU9p_IFM0X8yGE9v7GipIJ7SCUtq-fmH4/s1600/62532654_2111068325682083_2501163394392915968_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5Q5ru92glRiknLmYnL4Whwpk7DffXvyUBzpMcXgkkt2xmsUN09GcQOTbQ_MfshPTyJrTvVYWR5HP8w18uUfP_9Dj2iOgOsS2mIJ2L9y38hIAU9p_IFM0X8yGE9v7GipIJ7SCUtq-fmH4/s200/62532654_2111068325682083_2501163394392915968_n.jpg" width="200" /></a>I managed to snap a few photos of the party before the other little ones arrived... safe to say the party hats didn't stay that organised very long! We had a lovely afternoon, we had lots of laughs and ate all the cakes.</div>
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All the decorations were from various high street stores.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKnbqm3J_VgoTABYQrBJkppRO1qnEZ9llvNLvuOglEULEIyjzxnuVsNMxPLPeYMNVmyoJvhiX-u9jOfYC9cwiOCHReh4D1o6WW9NPYP0Z7s_9lMMhU1IlZxU_aQAdMiOsJRUU-2y25xRo/s1600/64329964_2111067975682118_1212342591895371776_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKnbqm3J_VgoTABYQrBJkppRO1qnEZ9llvNLvuOglEULEIyjzxnuVsNMxPLPeYMNVmyoJvhiX-u9jOfYC9cwiOCHReh4D1o6WW9NPYP0Z7s_9lMMhU1IlZxU_aQAdMiOsJRUU-2y25xRo/s320/64329964_2111067975682118_1212342591895371776_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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This milestone banner was purchased from a brilliant ebayer and the photos were printed via FreePrints.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbWJ7koOKP2olyGjjQAS9kiYZN-ZdEq2gUNaKhXWIws40ScIjqiqD4XFFI_qgju-Q3OuOvGYCTR9wNXkJ2oAh-hiX272PQuAmyPr7AnoFmHsJvBf-Xkpdkwtm4wHbY4Phou0DNO61-czw/s1600/63008131_2111068099015439_1795670893825884160_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbWJ7koOKP2olyGjjQAS9kiYZN-ZdEq2gUNaKhXWIws40ScIjqiqD4XFFI_qgju-Q3OuOvGYCTR9wNXkJ2oAh-hiX272PQuAmyPr7AnoFmHsJvBf-Xkpdkwtm4wHbY4Phou0DNO61-czw/s320/63008131_2111068099015439_1795670893825884160_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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So for those of you who are parents, enjoy every minute because they do honestly grow up too quickly and I can't believe we now have a beautiful one year old.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQujs6PYBWKYsscpDMEypIehqu6QjAOIqQrIS6bEWzfbzZ9i_gNxK-9N4EL9tl3mfUq61a4uuk2I8vLqDHqje358zemiiB-pjZF_MFty-K_3caxWWV9_G4i0h4nUBR6-CZRgCxF1Xfcdk/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1063" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQujs6PYBWKYsscpDMEypIehqu6QjAOIqQrIS6bEWzfbzZ9i_gNxK-9N4EL9tl3mfUq61a4uuk2I8vLqDHqje358zemiiB-pjZF_MFty-K_3caxWWV9_G4i0h4nUBR6-CZRgCxF1Xfcdk/s320/1.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
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We were also very kindly <b>gifted</b> a Cake smash photoshoot from the lovely Zoe - If you're in the Southampton area I highly suggest having a look at her page as shes incredibly talented and made us feel very relaxed <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Zoe-Louise-at-Photography-New-Forest-1912661305700358/?ref=br_rs" target="_blank">Zoe Louise Photography</a> </div>
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I will also be posting various photos from this shoot on my <a href="http://instagram.com/stormsblog" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUrQkaHXA8T_IGx6ywEk7hyR-aqAxzSqc4khKerXgKGoTRnp1J1rZx27u0slXeJgxOhH37juCPuU5pcE5OMGTD3vqqDaMO9eD6wfKyMm5ohcFVR1_yWDMDIQ2TS9bdrALu0XdGfzb3VE4/s1600/22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUrQkaHXA8T_IGx6ywEk7hyR-aqAxzSqc4khKerXgKGoTRnp1J1rZx27u0slXeJgxOhH37juCPuU5pcE5OMGTD3vqqDaMO9eD6wfKyMm5ohcFVR1_yWDMDIQ2TS9bdrALu0XdGfzb3VE4/s320/22.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The last year has been a whirlwind of emotions, parenthood is definitely the hardest 'hood' I've ever been too. But I wouldn't change it for the world, everyday we are growing together and experiencing new things. All the poo explosions, puke covered tops and sleepless nights (many...) are worth it.</div>
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It's a pleasure to be your mummy Maci, here's to the next year my love.</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1108429725746318398.post-55304872588857458842019-04-17T09:54:00.001-07:002019-04-17T10:43:34.689-07:00Formula feeding - Essential items and tips! <div style="text-align: center;">
Hello!</div>
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Formula feeding can seem a very confusing and daunting thing but it really isn't. Once you get into a routine with cleaning, sterilizing and preparing bottles it's fairly straight forward. This post is going to contain my top Formula Feeding essentials and any tips i've learned along the way. I never did breastfeed, no medical reasons as to why I didn't, just simply didn't want too and that's ok!</div>
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<i><i>Everything in this post is from my own experience, I am not a professional.</i></i></div>
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<b><b>My Top Formula Feeding Essentials and tips - </b></b></div>
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<b>Which Brand Of Bottles?</b> - Every newborn is different although with Maci we started off using the regular <a href="https://direct.asda.com/george/baby/bottle-feeding/tommee-tippee-closer-to-nature-260ml9floz-colour-my-world-feeding-bottles/002607076,default,pd.html?cmpid=ppc-_-george-_-ggle-pla-_-OD16HOME_GARDEN-_--_-dskwid-s92700035482877261_dc&gclsrc=aw.ds&ds_rl=1238816&ds_rl=1254577&gclid=CjwKCAjwndvlBRANEiwABrR32O_xpoic67EqsWykVOq8Q7GFig1C1Bc-kIgV92XE07EzQT9PHeAe2BoCDMcQAvD_BwE"><b>Tommee Tippee Bottles</b> </a>although when she was a few weeks old we realised that she had colic and silent reflux meaning then we swapped her onto the <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Tommee-Tippee-Advanced-Anti-Colic-Bottles/dp/B07B3XRDBL"><b>Tommee Tippee Anti-Colic Bottles</b></a> and they were great. Once Maci was eating more solids (around 6 months) we swapped her from the Anti-colic bottles back onto the regular bottles and we had no further issues. If you think your baby may be suffering from Colic or silent reflux it is best to contact your health visitor or GP and they can provide you with any advice you may need. I also ended up buying a couple of the <a href="https://direct.asda.com/george/baby/bottle-feeding/mam-anti-colic-260ml-bottle-3-pack/002620614,default,pd.html?cmpid=ppc-_-george-_-ggle-pla-_-OD16HOME_GARDEN-_--_-dskwid-s92700035482877261_dc&gclsrc=aw.ds&ds_rl=1238816&ds_rl=1254577&gclid=CjwKCAjwndvlBRANEiwABrR32CpBTjnHSzc639soYKccq1duNwKEM3OG6dOmywJEsY64_RYradwDEhoCh6MQAvD_BwE"><b>MAM Anti-Colic bottles</b></a> too although I had a few issues with these, I found they leaked quite a lot due to the fact the bottom of the bottle unscrews so that they're easy to sterilize.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuYh3vPXdmN1WOPu4GYiazGwk_cfu-gbOZ6_yYTdMa-v3VQLlSk49imTgkiPCnckWGfSo-OOuoDZG0wHjvbfXlU7N-y0i4JT-TrNfN5jFQ9o-us2LrUTsDXNDFFX2GYCGEjmpDF33IRls/s1600/Tommee-Tippee-Closer-to-Nature-Easivent-150ml-Bottles-3-Pack.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1500" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuYh3vPXdmN1WOPu4GYiazGwk_cfu-gbOZ6_yYTdMa-v3VQLlSk49imTgkiPCnckWGfSo-OOuoDZG0wHjvbfXlU7N-y0i4JT-TrNfN5jFQ9o-us2LrUTsDXNDFFX2GYCGEjmpDF33IRls/s320/Tommee-Tippee-Closer-to-Nature-Easivent-150ml-Bottles-3-Pack.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Tommee Tippee Prep Machine</b> - If you've read some of my other posts you will already know my love for the prep machines. They allow you to make bottles in an instant at the perfect temperature without having to boil a kettle and wait around for it to cool down (which isn't fun at 3am with a screaming newborn!) I have recently only just sold mine as Maci no longer drinks warm milk often so it wasn't needed anymore and it does take up quite a lot of room. One thing you need to know before you make the decision to purchase one of these is that they need filters which are around £9 and need changing every couple of months or so.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKpBwLOj5jqUG_ajMCH_6WKW9fn6ivkfOftKFsfmV87r0Sb7IOCFJP_hGkj5QqIeLRoPcPoBPQ8aF3h9NXd-wS1ucwcwnbpnMRnBCmoJX9epbDtxqXCXq34lyvGgXQ6mV_sRsXIXZlEmA/s1600/_95157449_perfectprep.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="371" data-original-width="660" height="178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKpBwLOj5jqUG_ajMCH_6WKW9fn6ivkfOftKFsfmV87r0Sb7IOCFJP_hGkj5QqIeLRoPcPoBPQ8aF3h9NXd-wS1ucwcwnbpnMRnBCmoJX9epbDtxqXCXq34lyvGgXQ6mV_sRsXIXZlEmA/s320/_95157449_perfectprep.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b style="font-weight: bold;">How it works</b><b> - </b>You select the ounces you're needing to make on the dial, the first time you press the button it will do a 'shot' of hot water into the bottle, the second time you press the button will complete the bottle with cold water. This creates the perfect temperature bottle but always check before feeding your baby.</div>
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<b>Milk Powder Dispenser</b> - One of the most frequently asked questions is how I prepare bottles whilst I am out and about. As I said above I always have bottles filled with sterilized water so when I go out they're ready. I measure 8 oz (what Maci drinks now) of formula (so 8 whole scoops) into each section of her milk dispenser meaning when I am out I can simply pour 8 scoops of powder easily into a bottle of sterilized water. You can buy these containers from any local supermarket or online and they're definitely a necessity.</div>
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<b>How to clean bottles and sterilize them</b> - There are quite a few different ways as to how people clean their bottles although I find the best way is to allow them to soak in Fairy Washing Up Liquid as it is an antibacterial formula too and then rinse them and clean them with a <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Dr-Browns-Bottle-Teat-Brush/dp/B000N0SNHY/ref=sr_1_3?adgrpid=53885248980&hvadid=259034555411&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9045699&hvnetw=g&hvpos=1t1&hvqmt=e&hvrand=6684425206562966654&hvtargid=aud-612526058146%3Akwd-357735909033&keywords=bottles+cleaning+brush&qid=1555518856&s=gateway&sr=8-3">B</a><b><a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Dr-Browns-Bottle-Teat-Brush/dp/B000N0SNHY/ref=sr_1_3?adgrpid=53885248980&hvadid=259034555411&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9045699&hvnetw=g&hvpos=1t1&hvqmt=e&hvrand=6684425206562966654&hvtargid=aud-612526058146%3Akwd-357735909033&keywords=bottles+cleaning+brush&qid=1555518856&s=gateway&sr=8-3">ottle cleaning brush.</a> </b>Once I have done this I then place them into my <a href="https://www.google.co.uk/shopping/product/12319972001778263427?lsf=seller:80823,store:27816607761736806&prds=oid:9769506719707616358&q=tommee+tippee+steam+steriliser&hl=en&ei=QVW3XPzPNbyN1fAPzqe20A4&lsft=s_kwcid:2dxLIA-FASHION,tmad:c,tmcampid:2&lsft=gclid:CjwKCAjwndvlBRANEiwABrR32IE6OTcrA66XQO-NkbzQOseqvcQDTrjnEx6J05ZRmfQbtLwAf62GaBoC_QgQAvD_BwE,gclsrc:aw.ds"><b>Tommee Tippee Steam Steriliser</b></a> along with the right amount of water in the bottom of the sterilizer. Once the bottles have been sterilized and removed, wash the bottom of the sterilizer out and it is ready to use again. Every now and then you will need to remove any limescale build up from inside it (there are different methods to do this, I use the milton sterilizing liquid and allow to soak and wash out)<br />
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<b>What Formula Brand?</b> - This is a big question for any expecting parent... I remember spending hours researching the benefits of each 'brand' and what they contained etc. For us we chose <b>'Cow & Gate' </b>formula, simply because it is easily accessible from local shops, contains all the nutrients needed and it is what hospitals provide if you need it whilst you're there. Which in my mind means its been researched and tested enough and I am happy with that! Cow & Gate have different formula combinations for each age for example they have; 0-6 months, 6-12 months (follow on milk) and it continues. This is because after 6 months usually babies have began weaning and the milk goes alongside a weaning diet.</div>
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If you're wanting to bottle feed and wondering how you go about starting once your baby is born, you can purchase <a href="https://www.tesco.com/groceries/en-GB/products/283467953">'Cow & Gate' starter kit</a>s from supermarkets which contain 6 pre-made bottles in each box, perfect for your hospital bag!<br />
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<b style="font-weight: bold;">How To Make A Bottle</b><i style="font-weight: bold;"> - </i>Believe it or not, when I brought Maci home I had no idea how to actually make a bottle and yes, I resulted to the internet.. So this is my contribution to anyone who may be holding a newborn wondering how to feed them!<br />
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Newborns usually drink warm milk meaning you either need a prep machine to make instantly warm bottles or boil a kettle a while before the water is needed. Allowing the kettle to cool is difficult because newborn drink milk very, very regularly<br />
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The number of ounces is the same as the number of scoops of formula. For example if you're making a 4oz bottle you will need 4 whole scoops of formula powder.</div>
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Now Maci is older I boil the kettle and fill her bottles and leave them on the side and put the formula in as and when she is hungry. I always have filled bottles with water in them so I am ready!</div>
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I hope I have covered everything in this post - I am aware it can seem very daunting and like you've got a lot to learn but honestly once you get into a routine it all becomes second nature. If you have any questions please leave them below and I will be happy to answer them! </div>
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Until next time,</div>
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Storm</div>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1108429725746318398.post-67237167090008315272019-04-11T11:03:00.001-07:002019-04-11T11:03:44.745-07:00Baby Playgroups - Don't knock it till you try it! <div style="text-align: center;">
Hi, how are you?</div>
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I'm guessing you're here to read about my slightly controversial opinions on the benefits of baby playgroups and classes.</div>
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Since Maci was three weeks old we've been regularly attending local playgroups and classes. The point of this post is to hopefully address some of the misinterpretations of what playgroups are actually like... It is not to make anyone to feel guilty for not attending groups, that is the last thing I want. I am actually hoping that by reading this post it may actually give you the confidence to go to a group near you and see what im talking about first hand and then form your opinion about them. </div>
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The most frustrating thing for me is when I recieve messages or comments about how other parents don't like groups/classes but have only ever been to one, there are many different types and it may take a while to find one that you're comfortable with. But every group you go to that you may not go to again, provides your baby with new experiences which are teaching them new things.</div>
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(Tiny Maci!)</div>
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First of all I would like to say that these groups/classes are <b>not</b> always as expensive as one may think. A big reason I hear mums use for not taking there little ones' to groups is that they're 'too expensive' well most of them are free!</div>
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Myself and Maci go to three playgroups a week, one of which costs £1.50 for two hours of playtime (including a hot drink for the parents, drink and snack for the children) and the other two are entirely free because they are at local libraries. When Maci was younger we did attend a few more groups, we went to a fabulous one ran by <a href="https://www.adventurebabies.co.uk/">Adventure Babies</a> which was a weekly sensory class and cost around £40 a term (this was the most expensive group/class we've ever gone too) but this group was ran by a lovely lady and had more structure than the 'playgroups' we attend now. </div>
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Since Maci was very little she has always been advanced (professional opinion also, not just a crazy mummy!) and she gets bored very easily. I find it very hard staying at home all day and entertaining her and to be honest I don't want her to be cooped up, I want her to experience new things! At Maci's 8-12 month check she was asked to do numerous tasks which tested her social and emotional developmental skills and once again she was advanced. Maci knows how to interact with other children, share toys, pick toys up using her whole grasp or fingers, points at toys and can say words. I genuinely believe that these skills have been excelled by attending playgroups and having playdates too. </div>
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Another misinterpretation of playgroups/classes is that the mums are extremely 'clicky' - This is not the case at all! I have only ever had one negative experience at a playgroup and even then I went back the following week to see if the atmosphere was different but it wasn't, so we didn't go again. I also find being a 'young mum' I am more likely to receive an unfriendly welcome at groups but I don't! </div>
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One thing you have to remember is that most of the parents there are in exactly the same position as you, they're learning about their baby every single day and they're likely just as anxious as you about walking through those doors into the group. I can honestly say I have met some fabulous people through attending groups and now call them my good friends. You all have something in common, your beautiful babies - so conversation rarely 'dries' up! </div>
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I ask for some questions on Instagram on this topic, here they are! </div>
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<b>What groups/classes would you recommend for different ages?</b></div>
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I think that babies (0-1 year) really benefit from a 'sensory' based class. As I mentioned about we attended our local Adventure Babies classes but there are different ones all over the country. Not only do these classes help your baby to develop but it also helps improve your bond as parent/s and baby. Experiencing new things with your baby is truly magical. </div>
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I cant speak for babies older than 10 months currently but I always find a typical 'playgroup' session is a big hit with Maci. There's always a big array of clean toys to stimulate her brain and teach her new skills, it also means you don't waste lots of money buying toys that they won't like. You can find what they like at groups and then purchase them for your home. </div>
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<b>Anything you dislike?</b></div>
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The only thing I can think of is that there simply isn't enough groups/classes around. I'm not sure if this is just my area but there isn't a massive choice. </div>
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<b>What do you find useful?</b></div>
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Once again I find not having to buy lots of toys that Maci doesn't like is a great thing, meeting new friends with children is also great as you already have something in common. I find just getting out the house useful, it gives Maci and I something to do instead of driving each other crazy at home and getting bored.</div>
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At the end of the day we all want what's best for our children, the thing with playgroups/classes is that you shouldn't knock them till you try it! </div>
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I really do hope this post has inspired some of you to see what groups/classes you have near you. I would love to hear from you if you do decided to attend a group alternatively if you're still a little worried please feel free to pop me a message via Instagram. </div>
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I find this app <a href="https://hoop.co.uk/">(HOOP)</a> very helpful to find groups/classes near me (your local libraries should also be running FREE baby playtime and rhyme time sessions weekly!) </div>
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Until next time,</div>
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Storm </div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1108429725746318398.post-41747724230220512622019-04-04T12:07:00.000-07:002019-04-04T12:07:28.601-07:00Maci's Baby Shower (Rustic, Floral Theme) <br />
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You may be wondering why you're only just seeing this post and that is because I simply forgot to write it at the time (terrible I know!) some details may be slightly inaccurate but I shall try my best to recreate the day of my baby shower back last year. I was lucky enough that this baby shower was organised by a family member who is also an event planner hence the extravagant event, I hope it may inspire some of you in the future! This post is mainly an excuse to relive the day through photos...</div>
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For any expectant mum a Baby Shower is a big deal, it's a celebration of how far you've come in your pregnancy journey so far and a celebration of what's to come in the next few weeks/months. As we found out Maci's gender at 16 weeks of course the theme was pink! <a href="http://www.stormsblog.co.uk/2018/01/gender-scan-experience-boy-or-girl.html">Gender Reveal Post</a></div>
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My Baby Shower was hosted in a 16th century rustic barn which added a beautiful rustic theme to the day, the barn also has large gardens in which we had picnic tables and live music. It was a truly unforgettable day. We had pink lemonade on tap, pink glitter cupcakes, confetti balloons and cake pops, what more could you want?!</div>
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The ceiling was covered in fairy lights and other decorations.</div>
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I knew for this I didn't want lots of trivial games because to be honest at the time I could barely stand without wanting to be sick and I just wasn't in the mood for silly party games and I don't regret it at all! I handed out some little 'guessing sheets' for my guests to fill in and I then kept them all in a book to show Maci when she's older. They included things like 'guess the name, weight, length, birthday etc' and I really enjoy looking back at them now!</div>
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One feature that made this day extra special was that we had a polaroid camera, I waddled around taking photos of my guests and then I also stuck them into an album with little handwritten notes next to them too.</div>
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I remember at the time I was concerned about what to wear. I brought numerous dresses which I remember crying once I tried on due to the fact that I was almost 31 weeks pregnant. In the end I decided to go for comfort over anything else and I am so happy I did. I wore a white blouse with a black and baby pink pattern and leggings. No fancy dresses here! </div>
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I am extremely privileged to of had such a luxurious Baby Shower but you don't need all of this to have a truly priceless and memorable day. All you need is your friends and family with you to celebrate how far you have come in your Pregnancy journey so far and to celebrate the miracle/s that will be coming into the world in the upcoming weeks/months. </div>
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If you are currently looking for inspiration for your own shower i'd like to take a moment to say Congratulations and enjoy every second. </div>
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(I am extremely sorry that this post has taken me a year to publish...)</div>
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Until next time,</div>
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Storm</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1108429725746318398.post-89106673302853246552019-03-14T13:25:00.000-07:002019-03-14T13:25:13.636-07:00Everyday Makeup - Mummy Life<div style="text-align: center;">
Since becoming a mummy wearing makeup has gone from being an everyday necessity to a rarity (hence the lack of beauty related content) When I do manage to put some makeup on my face I keep the products to a minimum meaning the products I do choose to use have been carefully selected!</div>
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<i>(Contains Gifted Products - Includes only my honest opinions)</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2AOingGhpGW7KVR6qp-0rqzNtZsJA4Pk3EMwsMqSlwM_BPTWqcHXcImZJqRjpx5eIbC7-IXiuVw0HmbBohQxMzQo-WTUgTcMEow-cB1e3daap0PXjhWuk5xRNp2GEjVJyjl5B3_jiUQo/s1600/DSC_0024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1600" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2AOingGhpGW7KVR6qp-0rqzNtZsJA4Pk3EMwsMqSlwM_BPTWqcHXcImZJqRjpx5eIbC7-IXiuVw0HmbBohQxMzQo-WTUgTcMEow-cB1e3daap0PXjhWuk5xRNp2GEjVJyjl5B3_jiUQo/s320/DSC_0024.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Nowadays the 'pregnancy' glow is definitely lacking so I always apply <a href="https://www.maccosmetics.co.uk/product/13824/364/products/skincare/moisturizers/strobe-cream">MAC's Strobe Cream</a> in first of all. This product is one that is more expensive than ones I would usually buy but it lasts so it's worth it. </div>
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When I'm in a rush (every day) I don't tend to apply a full face of foundation but instead I will apply the <a href="https://www.urbandecay.co.uk/en_GB/face/concealer/naked-skin/UD503.html">Naked Weightless Concealer</a> to my T-Zone and to any blemishes I may have. Another issue since having Maci is that I now have very dry skin in areas but this concealer doesn't 'stick' to those problem areas at all. I use the shade 'Fair Neutral' which matches my pale skin perfectly unlike some other brands.</div>
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For me contour is a big part of my makeup routine and it's taken me years to find a product that doesn't look 'muddy' (If you know, you know!) I always use the incredible <a href="https://www.cultbeauty.co.uk/charlotte-tilbury-filmstar-bronze-glow.html?variant_id=8501">Charlotte Tilbury Filmstar Bronze & Glow Duo Palette </a>- The duo also includes a beautiful, subtle highlighter and mirror.</div>
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<i>(Gifted)</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Re2UDWmUwayQtihpPNcSD9MI0hr8kwL90D0DjPoznXMU5L_wbeMDp3x8QxAg4DccQSeWqNuXETRqGY0PC3nrIPP_x9t9EmFQCE7vR1oVonyqRIY8HlMP1LfM2VuYAzUAJYIFdvIz9fU/s1600/DSC_0032.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1600" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Re2UDWmUwayQtihpPNcSD9MI0hr8kwL90D0DjPoznXMU5L_wbeMDp3x8QxAg4DccQSeWqNuXETRqGY0PC3nrIPP_x9t9EmFQCE7vR1oVonyqRIY8HlMP1LfM2VuYAzUAJYIFdvIz9fU/s320/DSC_0032.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Brows... they're challenging things are they. It's also taken me years to find what I consider to be a brilliant brow product. I stumbled across this one by accident and I was shook at how fabulous it is! It's also an absolute bargain. One end is a spooly brush and the other is the wax product.</div>
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It is of course the <a href="https://www.beautybay.com/p/wet-n-wild/ultimate-brow-retractable-pencil/">Wet N Wild Ultimate Brow Retractable Pencil</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNLj7no1XH_NqYEVoIZa2AFDsNfXGzlPBlaMpmk5ZTcdDf0q-mUoJH0VTahl6ZPIQR4SCXrVS-GeQVSdDm3VC0SSLgyOHwWr6tUrGxbAPgZI87SSkuM57fWvxdRXKdH85Udll7sWNc6Hc/s1600/DSC_0037.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1600" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNLj7no1XH_NqYEVoIZa2AFDsNfXGzlPBlaMpmk5ZTcdDf0q-mUoJH0VTahl6ZPIQR4SCXrVS-GeQVSdDm3VC0SSLgyOHwWr6tUrGxbAPgZI87SSkuM57fWvxdRXKdH85Udll7sWNc6Hc/s320/DSC_0037.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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My absolute favourite mascara is the <a href="https://www.feelunique.com/p/Charlotte-Tilbury-Full-Fat-Lashes-Glossy-Black-8ml?gclsrc=aw.ds&&gclid=CjwKCAjw96fkBRA2EiwAKZjFTUI30DGIez9fc7ulOqQa_1XnORiSMViyaxVnAiFZN1eECIVonhheJhoCjboQAvD_BwE">Charlotte Tilbury Full Fat Lashes</a> which is also cruelty free. This mascara is a 5-in-1 product, giving your lashes a lovely full look.</div>
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<i>(Gifted)</i></div>
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<i><br /></i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnnjsGtaJya6U5CMA9FGL_hjx9-wOc52Q6e_0LNOMl37gsxv3HtrMUyK3_wK5CYKX2FIe0cxI03RDCy13I6uN9x7tg8eBOfXxRGtChjzNLdsJwSeF6V7RGYRiLQE_-RtxA3f5MYrEsMuo/s1600/DSC_0043.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1600" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnnjsGtaJya6U5CMA9FGL_hjx9-wOc52Q6e_0LNOMl37gsxv3HtrMUyK3_wK5CYKX2FIe0cxI03RDCy13I6uN9x7tg8eBOfXxRGtChjzNLdsJwSeF6V7RGYRiLQE_-RtxA3f5MYrEsMuo/s320/DSC_0043.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFChYGtSu1g7q3BYSog13Vnr0VqQ3jCFwO26NVsYI02tLDB9sKL0dX5Rjmm_0uyxyneJh_8-88FJIb0PtXQ-URMj9qSHdQpBy2dUkkqKOb9H2OTwTUNWVRvX-7WBQb3vCFzwpNvSzhWQg/s1600/DSC_0041.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1600" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFChYGtSu1g7q3BYSog13Vnr0VqQ3jCFwO26NVsYI02tLDB9sKL0dX5Rjmm_0uyxyneJh_8-88FJIb0PtXQ-URMj9qSHdQpBy2dUkkqKOb9H2OTwTUNWVRvX-7WBQb3vCFzwpNvSzhWQg/s320/DSC_0041.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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And last but no means least, my go to lippy! Once again it's a show stopping product from Charlotte Tilbury, it's the <a href="https://www.charlottetilbury.com/uk/matte-revolution-lipstick-pillowtalk.html?istCompanyId=3dfffc45-1529-45a3-a883-dba601d7c955&istItemId=xirxqlrqqw&istBid=tztx&gclsrc=aw.ds&&gclid=CjwKCAjw96fkBRA2EiwAKZjFTQNKFpaD2We0qK6sRpIeAY9rslv5yh4n7oVpQsAFD8_Cj6-JOsprqRoCWvIQAvD_BwE">Matte Revolution Lipstick </a>in the shade 'Pillowtalk'. The product isn't drying at all despite it being matte and it withstands lots of baby kisses! </div>
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<i>(Gifted)</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip_hRiNh3ig_5yuIDEGJcDhRiJjTpcPv1yUJbRFGgaA9xkNLL46tP0haNpqhGaQ2VG0EMvbnhg5Pq1JZjX3-q7F7T3TpcI_tRxkSJM9WaKPO8XrojSmBcYHRhRxXS2TFryg9TsbGWEgOI/s1600/DSC_0045.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1600" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip_hRiNh3ig_5yuIDEGJcDhRiJjTpcPv1yUJbRFGgaA9xkNLL46tP0haNpqhGaQ2VG0EMvbnhg5Pq1JZjX3-q7F7T3TpcI_tRxkSJM9WaKPO8XrojSmBcYHRhRxXS2TFryg9TsbGWEgOI/s320/DSC_0045.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I would love to know what your favourite products are below in the comments! I have really enjoyed writing some beauty based content once again. </div>
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Until next time,</div>
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Storm</div>
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