This week my Word of the Week is: Unfair! #WotW

This week my Word of the Week is:

As negative as the word unfair is this blog post isn't all doom and gloom. We have had a good week, in fact a great one! Certain things have happened over this past week which have meant we can draw a line under things that have been going on in real life, away from my blog. All is good now and the worry and stress seems to be over.

Of course I am going to talk about the football. It seems unfair that we got to another final and didn't win but on the night the best team came out on top. I have seen lots of unfair comments about Gareth Southgate saying he was a useless manager throughout the tournament but he's done more in the time he has been in charge than any other manager that I can remember.

The football had an effect on the next thing that was unfair this week. Stu was asked to go into work on Monday along with a few others just so they had some reliable people in who wouldn't call in sick. That was fine, the extra money was nice and he wasn't needed at home. It turns out quite a few people did call in sick and so many hours had to be made up so everyone had to do 3 hours overtime. His company is contracted to do so many hours a month so the hours need doing. It is unfair that people phone in sick when they were just hungover or tired from the football and others have to make the hours up. I think those that phoned in sick should have made up their 9 hours over the month. Stu has only had half an hour for lunch and then worked until half past five. It's only half an hour later on an evening but it means he isn't getting in until coming on for 8pm instead of 7pm. Ugh.

The girls went into Hull during the week and had a great time without me, how unfair! They of course went to McDonalds and bought up a feast. £30 worth of food and actually ate it all. Eesh! I am glad I wasn't paying for it, Becky treated her sister. They ended up in Primark and Becky bought a Dirty Dancing t-shirt which I had planned to buy myself. Hmmf. Now I can't, she doesn't want to be matching with her old mam! More unfairness. hehehe

The weather has changed for the better and it's unfair that I haven't been able to enjoy much of it as I have been busy with various things. There has been a lot of adulting going on this week with appointments and errands to run. It was a scorcher yesterday and it looks like the nice weather is going to last for the next week at least. Hooray! It feels like summer is here!

How has your week been? I hope you have had a good one!

What I have loved this week! Week 29. #FridayFavourites

Hello and happy Friday! We have had a quiet week which has been nice. The girls have had a couple of days out in town, just looking around the shops. They went to our nearest town one day and then Hull, which is a bit further away but has more shops another day. I have just been pottering around at home. Today I am of course linking up to the Friday Favorites with Erika and Andrea as I have quite a few things from the last week which I have loved!

The England football team.

We didn't win the Euros, hmmf. The win went to Spain, they won 2 - 1 but England did well. Obviously we were all gutted when the final whistle blew but it was a bit of excitement and one of those things which brought the whole country together. The manager Gareth Southgate has now quit, he got us to a couple of finals and the team has improved but he just couldn't get the big win. Now everyone is speculating who the new manager will be. 

The weather!

Over the weekend an until mid week the weather wasn't great. On Saturday we put the heating on for half an hour as it was so wet out and chilly. It was so nice to feel cosy and warm. I felt like the rain was never going to stop but it has. We are supposed to have some gorgeous weather over the weekend and into next week. Summer might have arrived, finally!

A new barber!

My eldest Becky has short hair and realised a while ago that she can go to a barber's which just cuts men's hair a while ago. She has been going into town to get it done and has been paying about £18. A couple of weeks ago a new men's hair stylist opened just up the road from us and she gave it a try. She said it's the best hair cut she's ever had and he only charged £10. She will be going back! The guy took his time and listened to exactly what she wanted.

The Death of Slim Shady!

I used to be a massive fan of Eminem in the 2000's when he was shocking but I think I have got to a point where I can't be shocked anymore by him. I have been laughing so much at younger people being majorly offended by him and his new album, The Death of Slim Shady which was released last week. Even my girls who have heard Eminem's music before were shocked by some of his songs. What he raps about it nothing to laugh about but he has made a living from being offensive and fair play to him.

A new menu!

Our local pub has shared their new menu which I am very excited about trying. They've added a ton of "light bites" which sound perfect for a lunch time, the starters are now for every day instead of just a Sunday and their mixed grill sounds amazing! We will need to give them a try over the next couple of weeks.

Weekend plans!

I am very excited about this weekend. We have a few plans which I will be talking about next week. We are out for a meal tonight, having a family day out tomorrow and some plans for Sunday too. My fella finishes work early today and is off now until Tuesday and Becky has the weekend off work too.

Strawberry Aero!

I love Aero chocolate and always try the new flavours when they come out. I tried the strawberry one on Sunday and wasn't a fan but it's chocolate and I wasn't letting it go to waste. Since eating more of it, I like it more. It's not my favourite of the Aero flavours, that will always be orange but it's something different.

What have you loved over the past week?

50 Ideas for summer blog posts!

Summer is just starting and whether you're just about hanging on in there to the end of the school year, lounging by the pool or just trying to keep cool there's always something worth writing about. Grab your sunglasses and a cold drink and enjoy these sizzling ideas for summer blog posts!

1. Top Summer Destinations: Explore the best places to visit this summer, from tropical beaches to your favourite places near where you live!

2. Summer Travel Tips: Share advice on packing light, finding deals and staying safe while traveling.

3. Beach Day Essentials: List your must have items for a perfect day at the beach!

4. Outdoor Adventure Guides: Talk about activities like hiking, camping or just visiting your local park. 

5. Summer Fashion Trends: Discuss the latest in summer fashion and how to style them. What do you like to wear when it's hot out? New things that you have bought!

6. DIY Summer Crafts: Provide tutorials for fun and easy summer crafts.

7. Refreshing Summer Recipes: Share recipes for cold drinks, salads, and BBQ favourites.

8. The Best Summer Reads: Compile a list of books that you are wanting to read over the summer.

9. Garden Tips: Offer advice on maintaining a summer garden.

10. Healthy Summer Snacks: Share nutritious and delicious snack ideas to keep your little one's full.

11. A Guide to what's going on locally: Highlight upcoming summer events that are local to you! 

12. Summer Fitness Routines: Discuss workout plans to stay fit during the warmer months.

13. Home Decor Ideas: Provide tips on giving homes a summery feel.

14. Summer Skincare Routine: Share tips on protecting skin from the sun.

15. Eco-Friendly Summer Tips: Discuss ways to enjoy summer while being environmentally conscious.

16. Budget Friendly Summer Activities: Suggest inexpensive or free activities for families and individuals.

17. How to Host a Summer BBQ: Provide a guide on planning the perfect BBQ.

18. Best Ice Cream Spots: Review local ice cream parlours or share some unique ice cream recipes. Years ago we made these Ice Cream Cone Cupcakes which went down really well!

19. A Summer Bucket List: Create a list of must do activities before summer ends.

20. A Music Festival Survival Guide: Offer tips for enjoying music festivals safely and comfortably.

21. A Summer Hair Care Tips: Discuss how to protect hair from sun and chlorine damage.

22. Weekend Getaway Ideas: Suggest short trips perfect for a summer weekend.

23. A Summer Movie List: Recommend movies that capture the essence of summer.

24. Pet Care in Summer: Share tips on keeping pets cool and safe.

25. Summer Date Ideas: Offer romantic date suggestions for warm weather.

26. A Water Sports Guide: Highlight activities like, swimming, paddle boarding, jet skiing, and snorkelling.

27. A Seasonal Produce Guide: Discuss fruits and vegetables that are in season and how to use them.

28. The Best Summer Cocktails: Share recipes for refreshing summer drinks.

29. Camping Tips for Beginners: Offer advice for those new to camping.

30. Summer Wedding Trends: Discuss popular themes, colours, and ideas for summer weddings.

31. Staycation Ideas: Suggest ways to enjoy summer without leaving home.

32. Photographing Summer: Provide tips for capturing the perfect summer photos.

33. Outdoor Game Ideas: Highlight fun games for picnics and gatherings. 

34. A Summer Bucket List for Kids: Create a list of fun activities for children.

35. Sun Protection Tips: Discuss the importance of sunscreen and how to choose the right one. Talk about how to stay safe in the sun!

36. Road Trip Essentials: List items needed for a successful road trip.

37. Garden Party Planning: Offer ideas for hosting a great garden party.

38. A Summer Playlist: Curate a list of songs that capture the summer vibe.

39. Picnic Recipes: Share easy to make recipes perfect for a picnic like these Pizza Scrolls!

40. Summer Safety Tips: Provide advice on staying safe in the sun and water.

41. How to Create a Summer Reading Nook: Offer ideas for a cosy reading space.

42. Exploring Local Parks: Highlight the best parks and outdoor spaces in your area.

43. Travel Photography Tips: Share tips on taking great travel photos.

44. Summer Decluttering Tips: Discuss how to declutter and organise for the season.

45. Yoga in the Park: Suggest ways to practice yoga outdoors.

46. Festive Summer Drinks for Kids: Share non alcoholic drink recipes for children.

47. Summer Fashion for Men: Discuss trends and style tips for men.

48. Seasonal Beauty Products: Highlight beauty products perfect for summer.

49. Exploring Farmers Markets: Share tips on shopping at local farmers markets.

50. End of Summer Reflections: Write a reflective post on the summer, favourite memories and lessons learned.

Have you got any ideas for summer blog posts?

Fun tips to keep hydrated all day long!

Although the weather hasn't been scorching hot here so far this summer we are all about staying hydrated! After Ellie's little stay in hospital for being dehydrated (mostly down to alcohol but partly down to the heat). I keep banging on about drinking enough and my dad is sick of listening to me. He doesn't drink enough, not enough water anyway, he is more a coffee drinker.

Staying hydrated is crucial for maintaining overall health and well being. Our bodies are about 60% water, and we need this vital fluid for various functions. Keeping hydrated is not just about guzzling down gallons of water, it’s about making hydration fun and part of your daily routine. These tips will help you stay refreshed and hydrated.

Carry a Fun Water Bottle

Let’s face it, a cute water bottle makes all the difference. Invest in a bottle that makes you smile every time you see it. Whether it’s covered in glitter, has your favourite characters on or even a motivational quote. A fun bottle will remind you to take a sip regularly.

Fruity Water!

Plain water is great but you can jazz it up a little. Add slices of lemon, cucumber, strawberries, or mint leaves to your water. Not only does it add a burst of flavour, it looks pretty too!

Remind yourself!

We all get caught up in our day and forget to drink. Set hourly reminders on your phone or download a hydration app. Some apps even turn drinking water into a game the more you drink, the more virtual plants you grow!

Eat Your Water!

Did you know that you can eat your water too? Munch on fruits and veggies with high water content like watermelon, cucumber, oranges and strawberries. It’s a delicious way to boost your hydration levels.

Make it a Ritual!

Start and end your day with a glass of water. Make it part of your daily rituals like brushing your teeth. Drinking water in the morning kick starts your metabolism and a glass before bed keeps you hydrated through the night.

Make Water Accessible!

Place water bottles or glasses of water in key areas around your home or office, next to your bed, on your desk, and in the kitchen. The more accessible it is, the more likely you are to drink it.

Tie it to Tasks!

Associate drinking water with routine tasks. For example drink a glass every time you finish a meeting, before meals or after bathroom breaks. It’s all about creating habits.

Healthy Hydration Alternatives!

If you’re not a fan of plain water, try other hydrating beverages like coconut water, herbal teas, or low sugar electrolyte drinks. They can add variety and make hydration more enjoyable.

Team Up!

Everything’s more fun with friends! Encourage your friends, family or co-workers to join you in a hydration challenge. Keep track of each other’s progress and motivate one another to stay on track.

Listen to Your Body!

Your body gives you signals when it needs water. Dry mouth, headaches, dark yellow urine and fatigue are all signs you might be dehydrated. Keep an eye out and drink up when you notice these signs.

Staying hydrated doesn’t have to be a chore. With these fun and easy tips you’ll be well on your way to meeting your hydration goals and feeling fantastic.

Do you always stay well hydrated?