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Mamma Fairy

Home & Interiors

Top Tips for moving house

We have moved house 3 times over the last 10 years each a different stage, before kids, with one kid and when pregnant with our second. While im no expert I can certainly share from a practical point of view what worked for us thus making a stressful process a little easier on all involved. Moving can be especially hard on kids. I have actually written about this before so if its relevant to you have a read here.

  • Planning – I know this may sound like im stating the obvious but planning really is key from the outset, line up the trades, the dates, the help etc.
    House for sale sign

    Pic Credit: Pixabay

    The aim is that it will flow as seamlessly as possible. Having been through this before as much as we all hope it goes smoothly it does take a huge effort to try to achieve this so don’t get disheartened if things do slip a little.

  • Removal Company – Unless you have access to a van or lots of help you will like us most probably need to assistance of a domestic removals company. The key here is to shop around, get personal recommendations if you can.  You want somebody who will pack and transport as quickly and as efficiently as is possible and if needs be work with your timetable which can often move.
  • Charity/ Dump/ Sell –  You need to be a little ruthless when packing up. If you haven’t wore it or used it in years what are the chances you will now? Lots of options to either donate good quality clothing, dump or even use site like ebay or local deal site to sell goods. This can sometimes even be a nice way to earn a little bit of extra cash for the house move.
  • Labels, labels, labels – I went a tad crazy with white labels and my sharpie, every box had labels, notes, instructions and priority rankings as I was never going to  have it all unpacked in a few hours! Slightly related also is a tip from my Dad to take a pic of the cabelling for TV’s etc as for the non techie like me, trying to piece that kind of thing back together wouldn’t be the easiest task. However bad the packing up the unpacking can be twice as bad!! If you can pack up as efficiently as possible room by room it will make the unpacking that bit less stressful hopefully.
  • Help! – Take all the help you can for either packing or unpacking or even making dinner until you get sorted. Particularly if moving any large furniture yourself.  And crucially don’t stress to have it all done in a day, likely not possible so my advice is to take your time and do it right. It will work out far better in the long run.

Ill be the first to admit moving is so stressful but hopefully with these simple tips it can make it a little easier.

 

Note: This is a collaborative post however I retain full editorial control
Features

Graduation – A time to celebrate

graduation hat

Pic Credit: Pixabay

I have been involved in University lecturing in some guise since 2009. A question I get asked time and time again, is whether I still feel the same sense of pride when my latest crop of graduates leave for pastures new?  I can honestly say hand on heart I do and I think I always will. I have been there twice myself and as an undergraduate and as a post graduate and that sense of personal pride is immense.  It is not just a celebration for the graduate themselves but also their family and friends who will likely have been with them from the start, cheering and encouraging them every step of the way.  It really is a day to cherish and celebrate.

Some of the key takeaways that I have gleaned over the years are set out below.  But above all else its so important to enjoy the day and celebrate you, after all you put in the hard work and deserve the day to revel in the celebrations.

Some tips for your graduation

One of the things that I have seen grow in popularity over the years is the invites, from senior announcement cards to college graduation party invitations and to the oft forgotten but very important in my view – thank you notes.   Some of my favourites are below. Check out the clear see through ones. Love love love them.  Really fantastic service, with unlimited color combinations, custom samples, over 40 different envelope colours and a free address collection service.

Some more practical tips to share with your guests:

  • Know where the venue is before hand and check out the parking situation in advance especially if it may be limited

    graduation robes and hat

    Pic Credit: Pixabay

  • Have your outfit picked in advance to save stress on the morning – comfy shoes!!! There could be a lot of standing.
  • Try to get a good nights sleep and eat a decent breakfast before hand
  • Take extra hair pins, make up etc as some can be long days, even a few snacks is no harm.
  • Be ready for lots of photos – smile and smile and smile some more!
  • Also be ready for lots of clapping!!
  • Don’t forget the graduation card for your friends. Mine remain treasured keepsakes of that day.
  • Don’t be late!! Give yourself plenty time to get to the venue, locate the hall and take your seat.

Above all else do enjoy, its a momentous day and you should be so proud. Enjoy the celebrations.

 

Note: This is a collaborative post

 

Features

The best dog breeds for companionship

Most people get a dog because they want a companion. After all, dogs are often referred to as man’s best friend! Typically, most dogs live for quite a few years, which means an owner gets to spend many years with a pooch and create the ultimate bond. However, some dogs make for better companions than others. Of course, every dog is different and has different characteristics, you can read more about that on the Pupster Passion website, but there are some breeds that are considered the ultimate companion. 

Golden Retriever

dog walking

Pic Credit: Pixabay

This lovable pooch may just be the top contender for the best companion. The humble Golden Retriever has a charming tempered nature and loves being loved. This pup will happily cosy up next to you on a sofa or lay next to you in bed. Not to mention, they’ll often be around your feet craving your attention. Golden Retrievers are very easy going and are usually a calm dog. You can often spend a lot of pleasant time with one another. Plus, these pooches are eager to please, so they’ll be at your beck and call. That’s why these dogs make great service dogs too.

Poodles

The Poodle breed is incredibly intelligent, and they are known for being easily trained. However, they also have the added benefit of being a great companion too. They will listen to the commands of owners and love an owner unconditionally. There are three types of Poodle, standard, miniature, and toy, all of which offer the same loveable tendencies. These are the perfect companions for owners who don’t want a dog that malts or may be allergic to wired dog hair. However, they do require daily exercise, which may not be ideal for someone with minimal mobility. They’re also adorable too!

Spaniel

There are various breeds of spaniel, and they are mostly known for being an incredibly energic dog,  which is great for any owner who is fit and active as this pooch will undoubtedly be able to keep up! Although there are varieties, this breed is considered a loyal companion who will love you until their last breath. It’s no wonder these dogs have been used for centuries as working dogs and companions. The calmest Spaniel breed has to be the Clumber Spaniel, but this pooch is still very active. You can exercise with these dogs or enjoy gentle strolls; it’s up to you. 

Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus are often forgotten about when it comes to dogs that can provide companionship. However, they are a cute, lovable, and friendly breed. They require daily maintenance, such as brushing and trimming the fur, but that can only help develop a strong bond between pet and owner. This breed is also excellent with children, making it a great choice for a family pet. Everyone in the family can benefit from this companionship! This breed doesn’t require too much exercise per day, so it makes for an ideal companion for those who have busy schedules or may not be able to get out much. A small garden is all that is required. 

There are, of course, other great breeds for companionship, such as Terriers and German Shepherds. However, it all depends on what an owner wants and needs from their companion, as well as the care required for the dog. Some owners want a dog that will lounge around the house all day; others want a dog that will bounce around and have energy from sunrise to sunset. Before getting a dog, it’s important to note that you can keep up with their needs so that they can be as comfortable as possible and provide the ultimate companionship. 

 

Note: This is a collaborative post
Mamma Reviews

Polk Partners can be there for you in difficult times

looking at laptop

Pic Credit: Pixabay

Never in recent times has the world been facing such an unprecedented situation.  It is unheard of, job losses are high, ways of working have changed and we are facing a health crisis of unknown proportions. For most of us know we are turning to look at our finances in order to keep them in check as best as we can while the world faces this crisis. Financial difficulty is something we really dont need the added stress of right now.  But there are things we can do to help our situations. While some of us may like to borrow to assist with this current situation, some other may look to solutions which prioritize what a  clients need by offering a single monthly payment with low interest rates.

The last thing you want to do is become saddled with high interest bearing, repayable on demand credit cards.  Sites like Investopedia or Wikipedia can be useful if there are terms you don’t understand as often the financial world can be full of jargon which the average one of us might struggles to succinctly understand.  The fear of the unknown can be daunting and like most things in life knowledge is power.

Polk Partners

There are lots of organisations available who can help you in this regard, one that I am aware of is Polk Partners  who have a toll free number you can call if you do have any queries around high interest rate credit card debt. While doing some research for this article I was blown away by some of the statistics surrounding credit card debt in the USA – the average US consumer owns 3 credit card and county wide the total revolving debt stands at over a trillion. That is just mind blowing considering how expensive it is.  Which leads me to the average interest rate being around 16% – huge. In terms of the demographic, its those mostly in the 35-65 age category who has amassed the most credit card debt.

Some more tips

Some other things you can do to help your won debt situation include:

  • Switching cards – seeking out the best rates and moving your balance across
  • Switch to generic, shop brands for some items rather than the high end brands
  • Bring you keep cup for teas and coffees to avail of discounts or better still take your own from home
  • Review your utility providers – is there better value out there? Would switching save you money or even do you need all of them, eg some of the streaming services? Some provide very similar offering so maybe you don’t need all of them
  • I have written about this before, im a massive fan of the “loose change jar”. It is as it says we stick our odds and ends of loose change into a jar and then cash in for our spending more for holidays. Its simple but very effective. Its actually surprising how quickly it builds us.
  • Another thing that I do but probably not as much as I should is bring my lunch to work. I worked out I was spending an eye watering amount of money on lunches and vowed to cut that in half which I have done im delighted to say. There is room for improvement but my increased awareness has me making better decisions to save the extra cash to pay off loans or treat myself!!

 

Note: This is a collaborative post
Features

Living Arrows – 13/52 – and breath

Kahlil Gibran – “You are the bows from which your children as living arrows are sent forth”

Second week in a row now having rejoined Donna from What the Redhead Said linkie inspired by the above quote, delighted with myself.

This week its all about about re grouping, enjoying the simple things in life. We were supposed to be back in Iceland this week but that couldn’t happen so im just happy everybody is safe and well and we are learning to enjoy a much slower paced life.

This week was all about getting fresh air, stretching the legs while observing the imposed restraints. The boys are thoroughly enjoying the scooters Santa brought. Who knew back then we would be getting so much use out of them for this reason. It does the head and the heart good to get out so we try every day to get out for a breath of fresh air, always conscious of social distancing.

Keep safe, keep well and keep following the advice. We can and we will come out the other side of this.  Each night going to bed myself and the boys plan what we will do once all this is over and we cannot wait.

 

Living Arrows
Features

KEEPING YOUR DISTANCE WITH MIGRAINE: Some simple steps

migraine relief - relaxing

Pic Credit: Pixabay

I think its important to set out at the outset, that I am not a medical professional, im actually an accountant, who enjoys blogging and sharing useful content. I happened across this very useful article and though in the times we are facing, it was an opportune time to share in the event it could help somebody. Other supports and resources are available on www.speakyourmigraine.ie or from the Migraine Association’s website www.migraine.ie. It goes without saying always consult a medical professional if you have any concerns. 

Migraine is Ireland’s fifth leading cause of disability, affecting over 10% of the population.[i]. Managing the condition can often feel like an uphill battle on any given day. Now, along with the usual symptoms and fears surrounding a chronic migraine attack, navigating our new ‘normal’ during COVID-19, brings additional challenges – from working at home and keeping the kids occupied to social distancing and drastic changes in daily routines.

Here are 6 simple tips and actions that can help you to manage your migraine during this uncertain period.

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Mamma Musings

Living Arrows 12/52 – Our new norm

Kahlil Gibran –  “You are the bows from which your children as living arrows are sent forth”

During 2018 and 2019 I took part in the fabulous linkie run by Donna from What the Redhead said. It is inspired by the above quote and runs each week. I really love reading other peoples post in this linkie so despite vowing for months to get back to it, I have finally decided to get back to wring more on the blog. 

Our New Norm

It’s all a bit surreal isn’t it? Hard to know what day of the week it is. Working from home for the foreseeable, kids off school for the foreseeable, social distancing the new norm.  One thing I have learned so far is that kids are super resilient. Every day my pair wake up full of life, happy out. The roles have been reversed they are now teaching me how to live a “slow life” , to enjoy the little moments, to live in the present, to not be stressing about rush here and there.

Our days are filled with board games, socially distanced walked, facetime calls with grandparents. Very different to the rush and fast paced of the ‘norm’ for us. So rather than fret and worry, we are doing our best to embrace this new norm for the next while.

So take care, stay home, stay safe and we will meet on the other side of this when im guessing many of us will have a renewed appreciation of life and our loved one. We can and will do this. Lets learn from the example set by our kids.

 

 

Living Arrows
Features

Practical Tips for Working from Home with Children

Glandore, Ireland’s longest serving & leading provider of serviced offices & coworking spaces, have very kindly shared helpful advice for those trying to juggle working from home whilst keeping their children occupied.   I am very thankful for their kind permission to share the below in these highly unusual times.

tips working from home laptop phone

Pic Credit: Pixabay

1.            Set up a daily structure: Childcare professionals’ advice is that routine is vitally important when it comes to maintaining happy children. If your children’s day starts at 8.30am in crèche or school, try to start their home care at the same time. Establishing a routine at home will help everyone transition to this new ‘norm’ more easily. If your children are used to breaks at certain times, make sure to build those into your day. As we all know, children’s attention spans are much shorter than ours, so exercise and snack breaks are important to schedule in, for both the child and the parent. Try to finish up your home crèche or school at the same time as their regular day. 

Top tip: set an alarm to go off, so everyone knows that it’s family time now. The alarm doesn’t have to be the sound of a school bell ringing, it could be one of your children’s favourite songs instead.  

 2.            Have a designated space for mess: The length of time that we will be working and schooling from home is unknown and therefore it is recommended to designate a school/crèche area in your home if possible. Children need space to play and that play can often be messy so it might be wise to make the kitchen your home childcare centre. With paint, glitter, Lego, dolls and action figures, children’s toys can easily take over the house. They are used to being in the same room for the day, whether in crèche or school, so keeping the home childcare space consistent will help with their sense of routine. Again, be mindful of your child’s attention span; they may only stay with an activity for 10 or 20 minutes depending on their age. This should also match the projects you are setting yourself; if you have something that needs your focus then perhaps leave that until everyone is in bed.   

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Fairy Travels

Creating an Adventurous Life For Your Family

It’s commonly assumed that a person’s adventurous side comes to life when they’re younger, and then, once they have children, they settle into a life of responsibilities and quiet joys. While this might be true for many people, it’s not as if it’s a force of nature that everyone must bow to. It is possible to have a life filled with adventure, even if you have three children and a full-time job. Want to know how? Check out our tips below.

Ask For More From Your Weekends

woman hiking with child in carrier

Pic Credit: Pexels

Life will give us what we ask of it, so why not ask for more? If it’s an adventure that you seek, then make the most of the weekends. You’re given two full days to live life to the fullest, so don’t settle for a couple of days pottering around the house. Instead, see what’s possible. What this will be will depend on your interests and where you live, but whatever and wherever that is, you’ll almost certainly find something fun and exciting going on near to you. It’s all about having a can-do attitude and mustering up that little bit of energy that’s required to make things happen.

Trips In the Outdoors

We spend so much of our time in urban areas, that we tend to forget that the bulk of the UK is rural. Indeed, only around 10% of the UK is built on — that’s all the roads, shops, homes, everything. So there’s a lot of land to discover! The outdoors can give us virtually everything that we seek, including an adventure. So why not look at taking a trip to one of the beautiful corners of the UK for a weekend of camping? You’ll need a few essential camping supplies, and a reliable car that can handle rural terrain; if your current vehicle isn’t up to the task, then take a look at Reed Autos and find something more suitable. You’ll find that a few days spent in the outdoors can provide a level of adventure that city-life just can’t provide. 

Adventurous Holidays Abroad

There’ll be times when you want to go on fun family holidays: the question is, what kind of holiday will it be? While there’s plenty of fun to be had by taking a trip to a sunny destination for a week of fun on the beach, that’s far from the only option. If you’re looking for adventure as a clan, then take a look at visiting those destinations that are more off the beaten path, or that have adventure running through their veins (any mountain area, for example). Another option is to look at alternative trip options, such as those offered by Workaway or HelpX. You can meet interesting people from all over the world, learn a new skill, and all-around find yourself in interesting and adventurous scenarios, without even trying.

Incorporate the above tips and adopt an adventurous, ‘anything is possible’ attitude, and you’ll find that your family life is filled with plenty of memorable and exciting moments. 

Note: This is a collaborative post
Mamma Musings

Tips for Taking Care of Your Jewellery

Everyone knows that person (or maybe it’s you) who has all their jewellery shoved into one box. It’s full of tangled up necklace, miss-matched earrings and likely a lot is broken. When properly taken care of, your jewellery can last for many years and stay in the same condition it was when you first bought it. If you invest in beautiful, quality jewellery pieces, you want them to last, so that one day you can pass them on to someone else. 

Use these tips to take care of your jewellery pieces and ensure they stay in tip-top condition. 

1.      Store in a cool, dry place

pocket watch

Pic Credit: Pixabay

Humidity and moisture are the biggest enemies of jewellery. Couple that with heat from either the sun or internal sources and you’ve got a potentially volatile situation for your precious pieces. Over-time heat can degrade certain materials and sunlight can distort colours. Humidity can lead to tarnishing, so keep it in a cool, dry space. 

2.      Keep chalk in your jewellery box

If you have quality silver pieces, like those from Fjewellery.co.uk, store them with a bit of chalk. Chalk is known for its ability to absorb moisture, so it will ensure that your silver stays completely dry. On top of that, it can also filter out chemical residue that could cause damage to your jewellery. Chalk will not cause any damage to your pieces even if some of the dust gets on them. 

3.      Don’t stack it

Stacking jewellery on top of each other is asking for damage. When you pile things up, it can lead to chipping and scratching. Store your jewellery in a way that your pieces aren’t being thrown against each other every time up put something away. Any plated jewellery will easily chip, and even your non-plated items can become scratched. If you’re storing necklaces than they will become tangled and can easily break if you’re piling them all together. Instead, hang your necklaces and get a jewellery box with individual slots for your rings. 

4.      Avoid swimming

Don’t wear your jewellery when you’re swimming. Whether you’re at the beach or in a pool, both contain harmful substances that will damage your jewellery. If you’re at the beach, the saltwater will get into all the nooks and crannies of your jewellery. It can be extremely damaging and hard to clean out. Beyond that, the moisture will encourage tarnishing. If you’re swimming in a pool, you’ll be subjecting your jewellery to chlorine damage and the chemical can wear away at your pieces, making them appear dull. 

5.      Store diamonds on their own

Diamonds are the hardest stone on the planet. Though they might not feel it to the human touch, they are much harder than any other gems. If you have sapphires, emeralds, rubies or any other stones or crystals, make sure you keep them separate. Diamonds can cause severe damage to the surfaces of different gems and scratch gold and silver jewellery. Store your diamonds in their own pouches to keep them from coming into contact with any other pieces in your collection.  

 

Note: This is a collaborative post