I am always on the hunt for things to do in the Midlands which don’t cost the earth and keep the kids busy. Arlo is growing up, so I can’t use the “kids under three go free” deals anymore on family days out. I’m constantly searching for cheap things to do in Birminghm and … Read more
Birmingham offers an array of indoor family activities for rainy days, from Star City’s laser tag and games to Cadbury World’s chocolatey delights. Attractions like Rock Up Birmingham provide climbing challenges, while educational experiences can be found at Thinktank Science Museum. Nearby, the Butterfly Farm and Splash Landings offer immersive nature and water-based fun, respectively. For movie fans, local cinemas provide a dry escape, and thrill-seekers can visit the Bear Grylls Adventure. All these and more ensure kids and adults alike have ample entertainment, regardless of the weather.
Before I became a single mum, I didn’t even have the time to think about self-care. I let myself go, because honestly, I didn’t feel good in myself. I was stuck in a cycle of emotional exhaustion, sarcasm, and trying to please someone who barely noticed whether I’d made an effort or not. I didn’t … Read more
One of the scariest parts of becoming a single parent is the moment it hits you that it’s all on you. The rent, the bills, the childcare, the food shop. When you’re suddenly the only adult in the house, everything feels like a cost and the pressure can be overwhelming. But there are things you … Read more
Going on holiday as a single parent is a whole different experience. You’re excited to make memories, but the logistics and responsibility can feel like a mountain. Everything is on you: the planning, the packing, the childcare, the navigating. You don’t get to tag anyone in or take a break, and at first, it can … Read more
One of the most liberating things about becoming a single parent is realising you don’t have to keep paying for someone else’s life. You get to choose what stays and what goes. You start to see what you were spending money, time and energy on — and how little of it was actually for you. … Read more
If you’ve been following our adventures for a while, you’ll know how much I love documenting days out, mini missions, and little magical moments with Arlo. That’s exactly why I created the Amazing Adventures of Me Journal, a playful, practical, and inspiring space for kids (and grown-ups too!) to record the fun things they do, … Read more
Colouring might seem like something you grow out of, but I’m fully grown and fully obsessed. It all started on a flight to Edinburgh. I’d picked up a cheap colouring book for Arlo to keep him busy, but I ended up hogging it. For twenty minutes, I wasn’t glued to my phone or mentally juggling … Read more
There’s something about spring that just feels like a reset. Maybe it’s the sunshine starting to peek through or the buzz of Easter holidays, but it always gets me in the mood for fresh air, animals and a bit of adventure. Last weekend we packed up the car and took a trip to Cotswold Farm … Read more
The joy of planning your dream garden can quickly turn to regret when you realise you’ve invested in a paddling pool that’s now sitting deflated in the shed or a massive slide that’s never used. We’ve all been there—getting swept up in a Pinterest-perfect vision of what our outdoor space could be, only to find … Read more
Surviving Hay Fever Season: My Reality as a Mum, Teacher, and Lifelong Snuffler For as long as I can remember, hay fever has been an annual battle I didn’t sign up for. It’s not just the odd sneeze or a bit of sniffing. It’s the full package: itchy, streaming eyes, nose like Rudolph, and that … Read more
Today we spent the day at Trentham Gardens and it was absolutely beautiful in the spring sunshine. We went mainly for the Shaun the Sheep: Find the Flock trail, but ended up doing so much more than we planned. From fairy hunting to barefoot walks and lakeside daisy chains, it turned into the kind of … Read more
Last night we headed to Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live at the Birmingham Utilita Arena—and wow, what a show! Every single one of us (grown-ups included) left buzzing from the energy, the noise, and the pure adrenaline-fuelled madness of it all. If you’re wondering whether it’s worth the hype, here’s everything you need to know … Read more
If you’re looking for somewhere that feels completely different to anywhere else, Puzzlewood is exactly that. Tucked away just outside Coleford in the Forest of Dean, this ancient woodland is one of the most enchanting places we’ve ever visited. It’s the kind of place where imagination takes over from the very first step. Stepping Into … Read more
If you’re looking for a family-friendly way to explore the Forest of Dean, the Colliers Trail is an absolute must. This scenic, waymarked cycle route winds through ancient woodland, over old railway bridges, past lakes, and even connects with the Forest’s famous Sculpture Trail. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or riding as a family for … Read more
One of the highlights of our recent family trip to the Forest of Dean was a completely spontaneous detour to Symonds Yat Rock. We were driving through the forest after a day of exploring when we saw the sign for this famous viewpoint. On a whim, we decided to follow the winding road up. The … Read more
If you’re planning a family trip to the Forest of Dean, the Wye Valley Butterfly Zoo is a must-visit. Tucked away in Symonds Yat West, this indoor tropical paradise is a peaceful, fascinating, and educational stop that children and adults alike will enjoy. Whether you’re a fan of wildlife, a budding entomologist, or simply looking … Read more
Tucked away on the edge of Gloucestershire, the Forest of Dean is one of those rare gems that manages to feel both wild and welcoming. With its ancient woodland, quirky attractions, and peaceful views, it’s the perfect destination for a family getaway, especially if you’re travelling with kids who love the outdoors. We recently spent … Read more
Spring is in the air, and with Easter just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to dust off your Cricut machine and get crafting! Whether you’re making gifts, decorating the house, or prepping party favours, these beginner-friendly Easter Cricut projects are super simple and made using templates and images from Cricut Access. Because they’re … Read more
If you’ve got a child who’s animal-obsessed like mine, you’ll know how quickly you work your way through all the local zoos, farms and wildlife parks. We’ve visited just about every animal attraction within driving distance more times than I can count. So when Arlo suddenly developed a fascination with Capybaras and Caimans, I started … Read more
Iron is an essential mineral that helps your body produce red blood cells and transport oxygen. If you have low iron levels, you may feel tired, weak, or dizzy. The good news is that you can increase your iron intake naturally through diet. Why Is Iron Important? Iron deficiency can lead to anaemia, which causes … Read more
As a teacher, I expect to feel exhausted by the end of a long term. It’s part of the job. But this time, something felt different. Since October, I’d had a lingering cold that refused to shift, followed by a nasty bout of norovirus. I brushed it off as winter bugs, but by January, I … Read more
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