Spring and Summer clothing essentials for those who love to travel

*This post contains affiliate links The seasons are changing and we are finally coming out of the long winter and into what will hopefully be a lovely spring and summer! That means a change of clothing, fewer jackets, fewer layers but still being ready for adventure, exploring and travel. So I thought I would put together some of my favourite summer essentials for those who are hoping to hit the road this year, things that are practical and hard-wearing but also suitable for a variety of occasions.  1. Durable lightweight flat shoes If you planning on a city break to some hip cultural European capital or even if you're going to spend the day wandering around historical places like York, you are going to want a good pair of flats, that is lightweight but will last a long time while also being super comfy. Something like Keen women's waterproof trainers which are a hybrid hiker trainer suitable for city adventures as well as off the beaten track trails. 2. Super comfy sandals Wh......

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5 Family Friendly events in Cardiff this summer

There are plenty of fantastic things going on in the Welsh Capital city this summer, almost to the point that one could easily get overwhelmed with the choice of what to do but I thought I would share 5 events that are particularly great for families and offer something for both children and their parents. So if you're looking for something a bit special that provides an action-packed day out do check out these great events. 1. Pride Cymru's Big Weekend    August 23-25th I'm listing this first because I think is so important to teach children about equality and diversity from a young age and first hand and there is nothing more positive than Pride which takes places over an August bank holiday and promises to be 3 days of fun, love and plenty to keep all ages entertain. This year there are going to be 4 stages, street food, community market, funfair rides and a dedicated family area which will include things like face painting and making flags and many more ......

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5 Summertime Family Fun Activities

The summer sun is calling you and your family to come outside to play, relax, and simply have fun. There is so much to do in this great wide world. From the UK to Canada to Florida, and everywhere in-between, there is an adventure right around each corner. No matter where you live, seek out activities and ideas to last throughout the summer without denting your budget.  You have worked hard and now is the time to schedule some summer me time that benefits everyone physically, mentally, and spiritually. Spending time outdoors performing various activities helps to lessen stress, infuses our creative powers, keeps us focused, strengthens our bones and muscles. Summer Activities Here are a few great summer ideas to have memorable summer fun with those you love. 1. Backyard Barbeque Throwing a backyard barbecue is a fun time had by all including vegetarians and vegans. Set up the grill, invite family, friends, and neighbors. Put some hamburgers, veggies, and hot dogs on the......

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Ethical Summer Style Inspiration

It's been a while since I did a summer style inspired post and even though I am still trying to minimalise my life I'm also in need of a few key pieces moving forward into summer that is fun, versatile and perfect for festivals, travel and exploring. I think with age I have become more experimental with clothing and as they say, fashion should be fun! I don't want to look back at photos and think all I wore was monochrome (as much as I like monochrome). Here are a few inspirational pieces I am loving at the moment and there is something for everyone's budget. First up has got to be a pair of summer short dungarees by Lucy and Yak , I already own a longer pair which is great for colder months but now moving into summer I am loving these. They are practical yet fun and on trend and perfect for a spot of camping. They are also a Living Wage employer and have excellent fair pay and low waste credentials.  An easy way to keep cool and stay cool this summer i......

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Going on a Road Trip? 5 Essential Car & Tyre Checks you need to do

I love a good road trip, we have been on many which I have documented on this blog as well as growing up in South Africa and driving extensively across that country. Over the years we have had very smooth trips to equally disasters ones such as breaking down near Exeter on the way to the Isles of Scilly in the middle of the summer holidays and having to wait on a hard shoulder with two small children for more than 2hrs, which is no fun believe me. With a rise in staycations more and more of us are hitting the roads in the UK and exploring what is on our doorstep, as well as some taking the step further and driving across Europe. Of course you cannot foresee every unexpected mishap along the way but you can prepare and make sure that your vehicle is in the best condition it can be to hopefully prevent any issues as well as being organised in the event you do breakdown. Here are 5 essential car and tyre checks you need to do before heading off on a road trip. 1. Check Fluids ......

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Keeping Kids safe online this summer

Even though my near 8yr old has very limited screen time and what he does have isn't connected to an internet browsers that doesn't mean I haven't taken a lot of time and thought when its come to keeping him safe as it can be so easy to overlook. I'm always aware as he gets older he is asking to play games and want more digital freedom so knowing how to keep your kids safe online is key. Kids today are digital natives. They might not know how to interact with relatives at a family gathering, but if they are pre-teens and upwards they do know how to comment on Facebook, like a picture on Instagram and make a Snapchat. Kids these days are experts at socialising online and you can't blame them, as they are growing up in an age where everything is shared online and some things are done solely with the purpose of posting it on social media. While it has made everything global, people stay connected all the time and staying in touch with your high school friends is......

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Summer budgeting tips to ease family financial stress

The summer holidays are without a doubt a welcomed break but can also quickly become a very expensive time for most families. It often feels like we cannot leave the front door without spending money and even "free days" can add up when you factor in petrol, parking and any snacks you may need to pick up on the go. What should be a fun time making memories together can quickly become a stressful one especially if you work freelance and are having to take time off to look after your kids which can cause even more of a pinch on the finances. We all know that money itself cannot buy happiness or true fulfilment but on the flip side it does ease stress and financial worry which can way heavy on families. No matter how we get around money can affect relationships but by working together, planning for the future and having good communication means you can often avoid any major issues and create a real sense of stability. I always find the summer holidays come really quickl......

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Müller Anniversary Games - The Family Sporting event of the Summer

I don't know about you but I am really looking forward to the summer holidays and making is as action packed as possible and making the most of every single day. After what has felt like a really long winter and spring it's so nice to feel the sunshine and get outdoors for hours on end and it's als the perfect time to encourage kids to get active and into sport. Having done a lot of sport growing up it's something that I am pretty passionate about and want to get my eldest enthusiastic about too so when Mumsnet and the Muller Anniversary Games go in touch to see if my family and I would be interested in coming along for an action-packed day of world-class athletics. They recently had a launch event at Park Primary in Stratford for an extra special sports class for some of the pupils with two leading British stars the 100m British champion Reece Prescod and para-Olympic gold winner in long jump Stef Reid. For those who don't know the Muller Anniversary Gam......

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5 Short-Haul Exotic European Destinations

When it comes to exotic destinations we often thinks of places like Thailand, Costa Rica or far-flung Caribbean islands but you really don't have to hop onto a long haul flight to find those white sands and crystal blue seas as there are plenty of short haul exotic destinations right here in Europe, making them a great for a mini-escape when you have had frankly enough of the unpredictable British weather. This list could easily be doubled what I am going to share but I thought I would put together a mix of places I have either been to or want to visit and certainly capture that exotic far-flung feeling. 1. Isles of Scilly Less than a 10-minute flight from Lands End and you are instantly transported to somewhere so unique and special you will wonder why you have never visited before. We spent a week exploring the Isles of Scilly in 2016 and have been dreaming of going back ever since. Every morning we woke up to the most beautiful views and would take barefoot strolls on ......

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