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The Official 24 Day Ultimate Elf On A Shelf Ideas Kit

advent calendar, Children, Christmas, Family Life, Gifts for children, Home

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

Advertised as ‘Santa-approved’ this Elf On a Shelf kit takes the stress out of December and the run-up to Christmas with a plethora of ideas and everything you need.

The kit includes accessories for each of the 24 days running up to Christmas, with 24 corresponding ideas cards for you (ahem, I mean Santa) to create the scene every night. They’re all fabulous ideas from a Christmas baking set, train on a track and even sandcastle with bucket and spade. There’s over 70 small pieces in all with a table and a reversable Christmas tree included. There’s 3 double-sided backdrops to stage or take photos with and the combination of the different accessories means you can create your own new ideas or have more than one elf. For instance, there’s several sports, cooking or kitchen ideas that can be combines.

The first day and last day also has a letter to the family with a space to sign the name of the elf. It’s important to note though, that there is no elf included with the kit, so you have to buy him (or them) separately. However, they are everywhere this time of year so that’s not a problem.

The pieces are also not suitable for children under 3 years old. They’re quite small and easily chewed.

This is a brilliant idea to keep things simple at Christmas, and you can use it year after year or even pass it on if your children become too old. The combination idea is great to keep children entertained and it all comes in a box which is big enough to store with your Christmas decorations. The photos you can take with all of the scenarios are worth the price of the kit alone, keeping up the Christmas memories alive from year to year.

Available from £24.95: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Elf-Shelf-24-Day-Ultimate-Kit/dp/B0D2DV2GJ1/ref=sr_1_2?adgrpid=189242712711&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.z43QdnIkYC9Z4_Mzn2lLVbmq1soFw_PweR4zlLcuweZR7Zz0bUfKug0qCOgoP_c3-m411XIoMWFOlL6_rEfTWW6rgKRcWhZZkFxwT5O0Dso-JEA50Q18HSn6-YvtsqVRXEIMZ-caNgWZZs9JJOTu1ymlYnB7p0dLKg_LYcGKpyPDoFyZLSWXdbox-env9okq3vgS0GPk14Jtgpd6I0dqN-wjXdaAYSW5bzY-OhYw7XjcI8XxSUQeWvI1TULeKFu-tx4W9NCZu9pngbLeuykxM2BfukC_ZcCJVd1qdSPFujc.TGNH_w0vagkLzYzrKk5PXpQKQ5KkV6qt7nw7CytHQ6A&dib_tag=se&gad_source=1&hvadid=779246044974&hvdev=c&hvexpln=0&hvlocphy=9045872&hvnetw=g&hvocijid=14819389411957032071–&hvqmt=e&hvrand=14819389411957032071&hvtargid=kwd-2367840715418&hydadcr=16825_2198398_365668&keywords=24%2Bday%2Bultimate%2Belf%2Bkit&mcid=089c141e8d7b3a3ea52fd9375cf3c159&qid=1761997997&sr=8-2&th=1

Fatso Chocolate

Birthday Gifts, chocolate, Christmas, Food & Drink, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Gifts for teachers, secret santa, Stocking Fillers, Vegan

Disclaimer: We received these products free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own.

I’m a real chocoholic and it doesn’t take much of an excuse for me to reach for a bar of chocolate, so with Christmas around the corner, I’m really enjoying “researching” the festive chocolate selection.

This year, my taste buds have been utterly spoiled by FATSO, a brand that never fails to surprise with its inventive and indulgent flavours. Their chocolate is rich, bold, and just a little bit cheeky – just what you want when the nights draw in and you fancy something comforting (and possibly a little naughty). FATSO chocolate is sourced exclusively from Luker, a family-owned, Colombian co-operative that champions ethical, sustainable cocoa farming. Their beans have earned the prestigious Fino de Aroma classification – a mark of exceptional quality and their work supports local communities, biodiversity, and better farming practices. So, every bite not only tastes good but it does good too!

Top of my Christmas list this year is FATSO’s Drunk’n Monkey (RRP £7.25), a gloriously grown-up combination of spiced rum, banana chips, and salted crackers, all covered in FATSO’s signature dark Colombian chocolate. It’s a real tipsy treat and just as delicious as it sounds.

If you haven’t tasted FATSO chocolate before then the FATSO Foursome (RRP £15) is the perfect introduction. The giftset contains four individually boxed 40g bars –

Sweet Tart – a wonderful combination of cherry, almond and shortbread that balances sweetness and crunch beautifully.

King’s Ransom – for mint chocolate lovers. It contains mint, pistachio and cocoa nib and is minty without being overpowering. The pistachio and cocoa nibs add a nice crunch.

Home Run – 60% cacao chocolate with generous chunks of salted pretzels, whole almonds and honeycomb. The saltiness of the pretzel takes away some of the bitterness of the dark chocolate and sweetness comes from the honeycomb. Nuts add a satisfying crunch to this bar making it impossible to stop at just one bite.

Nan’s Stash – this contains peanut, toffee and digestive biscuit and is incredibly moreish – I challenge anyone to stop after only one piece!!

FATSO has set the Christmas chocolate bar (quite literally) high this year, and I can honestly say it’s the best chocolate I’ve tasted in quite a while. If you’re a fellow chocoholic – or shopping for one – FATSO should definitely be making an appearance this Christmas!

Yoto Stories for Halloween

Birthday Gifts, Books, Children, Family Life, Gifts for children, Halloween, Tech, Toys

Disclaimer: We received the Yoto Cards free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own.

As the nights start to draw in and pumpkins begin to appear on windowsills and doorsteps, there’s nothing nicer than curling up in front of a roaring fire with a good book – or better still, listening to one. As we’re almost at Halloween it’s the perfect time to listen to some spooky tales and Yoto have a fantastic selection for all ages. From famous witches to laugh-out-loud tales of mischievous goblins, these audio stories capture the enchantment of the season without ever tipping into nightmare territory. Whether they’re played on a long car journey, during a pumpkin-carving session, or at bedtime with the curtains drawn against the October chill, Yoto’s Halloween lineup has something for everyone – with just the right amount of shiver.

This week we’ve been listening to a spine-tingling selection: Room on the Broom by Julia Donaldson, Tales of Tricks and Treats by Enid Blyton, The Worst Witch by Jill Murphy, and Roald Dahl’s The Witches – each one favourites of my childhood and I’m really enjoying a trip down memory lane whilst sharing these tales with our mini reviewers.

Julia Donaldson’s Room on the Broom (£7.99) is a favourite in our house – a fantastic rhyming tale of friendship, kindness, and teamwork with a few twists and turns along the way. The witch, far from being wicked, is generous and brave and the lovely story is perfect for little listeners.

I loved Enid Blyton’s books as a child so I’m not sure who enjoyed Tales of Tricks and Treats (£9.99) more – me or the children! There’s thirty short stories of wizards, fairies, and the occasional naughty goblin on this card with mischief afoot in every one – from games that go delightfully wrong to wishes that refuse to end.

Then there’s The Worst Witch (£9.99), Jill Murphy’s superbly silly, spellbinding classic. Lovable but accident-prone Mildred Hubble stumbles, crashes, and charms her way through Miss Cackle’s Academy for Witches – a boarding school where broomsticks, black cats, and chaos reign supreme. It’s impossible not to root for her.

Finally, The Witches (£9.99), Roald Dahl’s deliciously dark masterpiece, read here by the brilliant Lolly Adefope. Enhanced with fizzing sound effects and original music, it’s a fantastically immersive experience. These witches are real – terrifyingly so – but in true Dahl fashion, the children (and the listeners) have the last laugh.

Four wickedly wonderful listens – perfect for a Halloween that’s full of giggles, gasps, and just a touch of goosebumps.

BOSH! Plant Based Foods

Autumn, Food & Drink, Vegan, Vegetarian, Winter

Disclaimer: We received these products free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own.

While my family isn’t vegetarian, we do try to have a meat free day each week. I’m a keen cook and love nothing more than making meals from scratch and experimenting with flavours but during the week, I’m afraid it’s a different story. By the time I get home from work, I’m shattered and the last thing I want to do is start cooking so all I want is something quick and easy that I can pop in the oven or microwave. So I was so delighted when BOSH! got in touch to see if we wanted to try a selection of their new plant based meals.

If you haven’t heard of them before the brand was founded back in 2016 by Henry Firth and Ian Theasby and are now one of the UK’s most influential plant-based food brands. With over a million cookbooks sold, 3.5 million social followers, and 4 billion video views they’ve inspired countless people to eat more plants, and even Gordon Ramsay has credited them with “putting vegan food on the map.”

Now, they’ve brought that same passion and creativity to supermarket shelves with a new range of eight ready meals and pizzas, launched in Tesco stores nationwide at the beginning of October. It’s one of the biggest plant-based food launches the UK has seen in years, with each dish inspired by BOSH!’s most popular recipes. The meals are packed with flavour, nutrition, and plenty of plant-based protein and start at just £3.95, which makes them great value for busy families who still want a proper meal at the end of the day.

The line-up includes:

N’duja Sourdough Pizza
Margherita Sourdough Pizza
Creamy No-Duja Pasta
Goan Chickpea Curry
Creamy Mac & Greens
Teriyaki Mushroom Noodles
Hearty Vegetable Lasagne
Ultimate Bean Chilli

So on to the important part – how do they taste?

The Hearty Vegetable Lasagne was delicious, packed full of vegetables, and layered with a beautifully smooth béchamel sauce – proper comfort food and perfect for chilly autumn nights. My personal favourite was the Goan Chickpea Curry, rich and warmly spiced, every bit as good my homemade version. The addition of onion bhajis on the side took it up a level and was the sort of thing you’d expect from a takeaway, not a ready meal.

The Creamy No-Duja Pasta was another favourite. The sauce was rich and had plenty of flavour and the broccoli still had a bit of bite – no soggy vegetables here! My husband, a devoted meat-eater, tried the Ultimate Bean Chilli and was pleasantly surprised. He said the texture was lovely, and the seasoning spot on and he didn’t miss the meat at all.

I’m quite fussy when it comes to ready-made pizzas, all too often, the bases are tough and there’s very little toppings on them so these were a nice surprise. The Spicy No-Duja Pizza came with a sachet of hot maple drizzle that gave it a wonderful balance of sweetness and heat, while the Margherita Sourdough Pizza was lifted beautifully by a drizzle of vibrant green basil pesto. The crusts were crisp and fluffy and tasted more like a restaurant pizza than a ready made one. I really do hope they consider making these in a larger size!

We’re really impressed with the BOSH! meals we tried, they’re convenient, but more importantly taste absolutely delicious. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or just want to cut down on meat, these meals are proof that quick food doesn’t have to mean compromising on flavour or quality.

Colour Spin Bracelet Maker

Birthday Gifts, Children, Christmas, Family Life, Fashion, Gifts for children, Jewellery, Stocking Fillers, Toys

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

The Colour Spin Bracelet Maker from Fab Lab might just save your 6 year old’s sanity on these cold nights! A brilliant indoor craft, the Colour Spin Bracelet Maker includes instructions on how to create bracelets using the spinner machine and included tubes, pens and clasps to create fun bracelets which your child can wear.

The kit includes the spinner machine and full instructions and designs. For ages 6 and upwards they can use this on their own, otherwise with the supervision of an adult if they’re younger. Choose a template for the machine and add one of the included bracelet tubes. Press the button to spin and add the colour to the bracelet using the pens provided. You can make a bracelet without a template, part of the fun is making up your own design! Once the bracelet tube is coloured in, you can add the clasps and wear straight away.

Fashion interested children as well as those interested in crafts will love this kit, which counts as quiet and creative play around the Christmas holidays.

Available online from £16.99: https://www.johnlewis.com/vivid-colour-spin-bracelet-maker/p113997640?s_ppc=2dx_mixed_fashion_BAU&tmad=c&tmcampid=2&gclsrc=aw.ds&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=20151162654&gbraid=0AAAAAD2el1z-28A_cfDh0iaEzNMNRgJww&gclid=CjwKCAjwx-zHBhBhEiwA7Kjq6wc8Adaoj1Dnta3oqiJFUPoAPC-9y_pm7wSZfPFRMIAnu_KriNoSKBoCg8MQAvD_BwE

Jelly Blox Shepherd Set & Farmer Set

Birthday Gifts, Children, Christmas, Games, Gifts for children, Stocking Fillers, Toys

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

Carrying on from our Jelly Blox review, these character sets from Jelly Blox make excellent additions to the starter sets, or just as small toys on their own. Each of the sets (Farmer and Shepherd) contains a character, a dog and a squishy cow or sheep! The sheep has white pom-poms inside whilst the cow has black and white pom-poms.

If you’re not familiar with Jelly Blox, they are building blocks that are twisty, stretch and smooshy and can be played with on their own (think: imagination play) or you can create big sets of them which allows children to create their own play whether it be a make-believe town, re-creating a family holiday or just building a structure that they can knock down!

The parts are large enough that small children can’t swallow them, and these sets are aimed at age 2+. Older children will probably find them fun to play with in a different way though; making up stories or testing gravity. The textures of the blox make them appealing even to adults!

Jelly Blox Shepherd £4.99: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Jelly-Blox-Character-Ouch-Free-Imaginative/dp/B0F6YX24MD

Jelly Blox Farmer £4.99: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Jelly-Blox-Character-Ouch-Free-Imaginative/dp/B0F6Z8W36W/ref=sr_1_1?crid=AY0XXYVYMVM3&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.U-TSSJq4oECjin-vof1hxjNesNXOzbPUvuM9TNM0Tt-nOOMxL31EDP-MRLutr4RUfHpa-cpY3q6t6mKeclhyzrsNuFD1JZ4IvCnx3xxzl5OMpnRW45_yFKRl8HLzDQbaX0XW4UbYvoVhb6GDQ6ykFA.GTda7o0xYLugSWZS8ZgepQRWQCqCXKK3IpqDMJzbIVs&dib_tag=se&keywords=jelly+blox+farmer&qid=1761315460&s=kids&sprefix=jelly+blox+farmer%2Ctoys%2C92&sr=1-1

Vamoosh Washing Machine Cleaner

Autumn, Home, kitchen appliances, Pets

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

As autumn arrives, we end up using the washing machine for more clothes, more layers and bulkier keep-warm items. If you have pets, then you’ll find that their long hair is coming in and so there’s more chance of your washing machine clogging up!

Vamoosh Cleans have a special Christmas edition of their washing machine cleaner in Spiced Apple fragrance. The Vamoosh cleaning crystals are easy to us. Add a packet to the washing machine dispenser drawer and with the drum completely empty, put the washing machine on the hottest cycle you have. For most machines, this is around 90 Celcius. A normal length cycle should do the trick.

Vamoosh is different to other washing machine cleaners on the market because it dissolves hair. This is essential in a washing machine that gets clogged up because hair can stay hidden in the pipes for a long time and cause not just smells, but parts to break that will need replacing. It also eliminates residues and limescale with powerful cleaning, and eradicates 99.9% of bacteria too, which often causes a lot of the smells.

After a cycle of Vamoosh Spiced Apple, my washing machine was cleaner and fresher with a glow about the window of the drum that was like having your windows cleaned! I’ll be cleaning my washing machine more often now, in the knowledge that I’ll be eliminating bacteria too.

Available from £9.99 for two sachets at: https://vamooshcleans.com/products/washing-machine-cleaner-pink-grapefruit-for-deep-cleaning-washing-machines

Swizzel Sweets for Halloween

Autumn, Children, Family Life, Food & Drink, Gifts for children, Halloween, snacks, Stocking Fillers, Women

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

There aren’t many times in the year when you can legitimately purchase a huge box of sweets like the Swizzel Sweet Shop Favourites, but Halloween is one of them! Swizzels have all you need for Halloween Trick Or Treating, and they sent us a huge selection of what’s on offer. Did we sample them? Yes we did. Did we get fed up of so many tubs, pouches and boxes of sweets? No, not yet!

The tub is the largest of the packets in the range at 650 grams. This also doubles up nicely as the bowl that you dish out the sweets from, so we’re going to use this to start with and then fill it up with the rest of the packets! The box is probably the next easiest to use on Halloween and is 324 grams. The pouch is great for filling up your bowl and is 375 grams net.

The Swizzels Sweet Shop Favourites contain Love Hearts, Drumstick, Refreshers, Double Lollies, Fruity Pops, Parma Violets, Fizzers and Drumstick Squashies. Each one of them reminds you of your childhood (my favourites are Refreshers and Love Hearts) and they’re the perfect size for little hands to help themselves on Halloween Night.

From £12.99: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Favourites-Delicious-Twisty-Birthday-Christmas/dp/B0DK1NN3F4/ref=asc_df_B0DK1NN3F4?mcid=3862be2c2578395b84946a83b61d7e3a&hvocijid=13748858106778312890-B0DK1NN3F4-&hvexpln=74&tag=googshopuk-21&linkCode=df0&hvadid=696285193871&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=13748858106778312890&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=1006886&hvtargid=pla-2281435176618&psc=1&gad_source=1

Tolpa Dermo Face Rosacal Products

beauty, Christmas, Gifts for Her, Mother's Day, Stocking Fillers, Valentine's Day Gifts, Women

Disclaimer: We received these products free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own

Tolpa is a Polish skincare brand and it’s now available at Boots. I’ve already used the Lipidrio range and now I’ve trying a couple of products from the Rosacal range, designed for those with sensitive skin.

The Strengthening Regenerating Cream (RRP £12.99) is a real multitasking night cream, it promises to do more than just moisturise, also helping to strengthen and seals blood vessels, making them less sensitive to external factors. It also claims to soothe erythema, calm irritation and even conceal redness thanks to its natural green colouring. On top of that it helps tackle fine lines and wrinkles. That’s quite a list of promises but with my skin in need of some extra TLC, I was hoping that it would make a difference.

The texture is lovely, it sinks in easily without that heavy, greasy feeling some night creams can leave behind. When I wake up, my skin feels soft, calm and properly hydrated. According to Tolpa’s own tests, the cream can reduce persistent redness by 10% after four weeks, even out skin tone and lessen the appearance of spider veins. Hydration levels also jump by 29% after the very first use and last a full 24 hours. After a month I’m pleased to say that my skin is looking much better, it feels plump and hydrated and I’m starting to see a small improvement in my fine lines too.

One thing I really like is the packaging. The cream comes in an aluminium tube, which not only helps keep the product fresher but is also better for the environment. Plus, it’s more hygienic than a jar – no dipping fingers in and spreading bacteria!

I’ve also been using the Rosacal Strengthening Face and Eye Area Micellar Wash Gel (RRP £8.99), which has slotted perfectly into my morning and evening routine. I massage it in gently and rinse with water, finishing with a damp flannel. It’s gentle enough for sensitive skin but still effective – it removes light makeup easily, though I do reach for a stronger cleanser if I’ve gone heavier on the foundation. My skin feels clean, refreshed and never tight or dry afterwards.

Tolpa’s skincare range is exclusive to Boots, both in store or online. The Rosacal range consists of four different products so as well as the two I’ve been using there’s also a Strengthening Micellar Liquid for cleansing and a Strengthening Soothing Cream

Right now, Boots have a great offer on – buy two Tolpa products and get the second half price – so I think that’s the perfect excuse to pick up the other two products in the range and give them a go!

Jelly Blox Toys

Children, Christmas, Family Life, Gifts for children, Learning, Stocking Fillers

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

Jelly Blox Creative Kit

A brilliant starter kit to the Jelly Blox empire is the Jelly Blox Creative Kit. Aimed at children aged 2 years plus, the jelly blox are squeezable, squishy coloured blocks which can be used to buld models or make creative play. They’re brightly coloured, and some of them have sand, glitter or shapes inside of them.

The Jelly Blox Creative Kit has 20 pieces of brightly coloured blocks which can stretch and bend but don’t break. They stack or build with ease and because they’re so soft to handle, they don’t hurt when trodden on or dare I say it, thrown! The kit contains blocks with shapes inside such as stars and foam beads, and they come in different sizes so that children can build with them. The texture is slightly sticky too so that they stay together, but so that they also give children some sensory play.

Jelly Blox Tractor Vehicle Set & Newbie Kit

Once you’ve started with the Jelly Blox Creative Kit, build on their collection with the Tractor Vehicle Set and the Newbie Kit. The Newbie Kit has 11 pieces of more fun, with shames that include sand or mini bricks. The texture of the bricks and sand inside the Blox gives an added dimension to their play. The generic shapes make it easy for them to build their own toys or create imaginative worlds.

The Jelly Blox Tractor Vehicle Set is slightly different because it has shaped pieces and a blue person! The Blox fit together to create a tractor with wheels and crates on the back that contain mini apples! Think of the different role playing scenarios that could lead to? The 12 piece Tractor Vehicle Set adds a different dimension to your child’s overall Jelly Blox set.

If you’re starting with Jelly Blox, the Jelly Blox Creative Kit is a great place to begin and you can add to the collection to make even bigger play by adding the Newbie Kit and then something like the Jelly Blox Tractor Vehicle Set. Once you add all the pieces together from all 3 sets, you will have 43 Jelly Blox to play with. Perhaps start creating your own farm?

Jelly Blox Creative Kit £19.99: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Jelly-Blox-Creative-Ouch-Free-Imaginative/dp/B0D1GG2PHB/ref=sr_1_4?crid=X52MBT8HNDN8&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.fO8SddsCUjb1s4Q-TrWttfM-RTc_3qCPH9EqOTbwk4br4dMKkJr6XcsKI_v0pjN1WmnVtD76i67r8pkLCTsuO1dc3pIa2pAVjxOMIjyJB0RXDvLU70WTk2I9QKaofWkFb6XeHe6d4D1FwMhJrD0r9iTkCsLFSsT38S4_mOosXT59L9VZ2JPz1NZs-EP7GBGPsVBZWwQEUPjR4d0z7zF_hwtafA-3sjcqaV8BhWYcYWtZ-3skpN4YgzLFPrJL1nu-AdJxuKxMg6LMyx8vDH52yVlFd0Cp7PX08rIb4-nxdKU.KxgdDRoO2JeUokfcGWwHXfYK0wYfu1bzFDQvll4qfZU&dib_tag=se&keywords=jelly+blox&qid=1760875819&sprefix=jelly+blox%2Caps%2C115&sr=8-4

Whaoo! Spooky Chocolate filled crepes

Autumn, Children, Family Life, Food & Drink, Halloween, snacks

Disclaimer: We received this product free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own.

With Halloween just around the corner, the shops are packed with spooky-themed goodies. As well as the traditional pumpkins, there’s a super selection of Halloween-inspired food and drinks that are perfect for parties for all ages.

Our mini witches and ghosts have been busy trying some spooktacular Halloween snacks, and the limited edition Whaoo! chocolate-filled crêpes have been a big hit. They spotted the fun, spooky packaging straight away (it’s covered in cheeky little ghosts and monsters!) and couldn’t wait to tuck in.

The multi packs each contain 6 crêpes which are individually wrapped, making them ideal for lunchboxes, party bags or as a treat when the trick-or-treaters come knocking.

Made with quality ingredients and free from artificial colours, flavours, preservatives and palm oil, they’ve also won a Loved By Parents Best Child’s Snack Platinum Award which speaks for itself.

You’ll find Whaoo! Halloween crêpes in ASDA, Co-op, Morrisons, Tesco and Ocado, with prices starting from £1.88. But be quick -they’re only here for Halloween, so grab a pack (or two) before they vanish in a puff of smoke! 🎃

The Last Seed Keeper Trilogy – books

Birthday Gifts, Books, Children, Christmas, eco friendly, Gifts for children, secret santa, Stocking Fillers

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

The Last Seed Keeper and New Sanctuary by Paul Russell are the first two books in the trilogy of The Last Seed Keeper. Aimed at young adults in the cross between sci-fi, environmentalism and fiction, the books explore the future of mankind through the eyes of teenagers.

Set in the future, The Last Seed Keeper scopes the lives of two girls, Ivy and Skylar. Ivy lives on Earth still (a Groundling) whereas Skylar lives in the sky as part of a new technical world deemed, ‘a haven of technology’. There isn’t much nature in Skylar’s life, or either lives as nature has been pushed out thanks to the World’s reliance on technology but then Ivy discovers something that changes not only her life, but the life of millions. The change is not well received though and the lives of both girls unravels.

The second book, New Sanctuary, continues the story and delves into the friendship Ivy and Skylar have forged. They are both looking for their fathers. They have discovered secrets, and through that they are finding more opposition and more enemies than they thought possible. Their friendship remains strong though and along the way they pick up new friends and allies.

This is a different type of Young Adult book that looks at friendships in the future and what happens when we rely too much on technology. The premise of there being no nature around is also heavy in the books and thought provoking. It makes a real change to the relationship books young adults are normally given! The books are beautifully written and well thought out. Look out for the third book in the trilogy when it’s published!

Available for £9.19:

The Original Mastermind Game

Birthday Gifts, Children, Christmas, Family Life, Gifts for children, Stocking Fillers, Toys

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

Take Christmas retro this year with the original Mastermind game from Goliath. I remember this from my childhood, but since then it’s been updated for the 21^st Century and includes more pegs this time (which over time you’ll realise is a must!) The rules are the same though; the codemaker creates a 4-peg code using the colours white, red, blue, green and yellow and hides them behind the shield. The second player, the codebreaker, has to guess what the sequence of colours is. With each correct colour, a red peg denotes that it’s in the correct place. If the colour is correct but in the wrong place a white peg is used. If there are no correct colours, no pegs! There are 10 tries to get the code correct.

Endless fun, this game doesn’t need much explanation nor much skill. It works across all the age ranges and even across languages and can be used as a quiet game to help wind down after Christmas Day or Boxing Day. The colours and pegs are tiny though, so they’re best not left around small children, and the warning is that under 3 year olds shouldn’t play with it. It also recommends over 8 years old to play. However, the ease of the game means that younger children can play as long as they’re responsible with the small pieces. I especially think children who are good at logical thinking or prefer strategic games would love this. It only needs 2 players too, making it even more accessible. Great fun at Christmas, but the rest of the year too.

Available from £19.99: https://www.amazon.co.uk/GOLIATH-GAMES-Mastermind-Original-Strategy/dp/B0DYNWM1J1/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?adgrpid=116794205515&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.qe8rEG44iDPNwiNHBWKTakWJJaZMD4Ywu7OfQYLCfqh3do25gywe8cqJnNeudTffzTwc6853M4ZhqvAClMdI3brS6XDw-3RVIkHC85BBSF5OOpuwfQ_I3MLmDpwqcQ3PXuHvMhWF5os6cFw89EVOU2eLwQPpDqKCcv3MRW5kdqVWouszB2yIrvXI0ZmjuFHN30_QgTYQgkn68tjGMLa0hnycB6iNI9GR7cMrW6GiMqnN-zfc6Tu3KkQxypFDePyRsbgQa92b52NJz68b7pJ4-BmERZexVV-adsXeWiHwAqY.obdTuQuKhYg39kK0LpL4ZUqfulLvAtpmyMxBT1p3r0g&dib_tag=se&gad_source=1&hvadid=606015528652&hvdev=c&hvexpln=0&hvlocphy=9045873&hvnetw=g&hvocijid=806721731880523576–&hvqmt=e&hvrand=806721731880523576&hvtargid=kwd-358441249379&hydadcr=24405_2302427&keywords=mastermind%2Bthe%2Bgame&mcid=64481edc745b3c8892d1870abc1131eb&qid=1760871099&sr=8-1-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&th=1

Marshall Emberton 3 Portable Speaker

Birthday Gifts, camping, Children, Christmas, Family Life, Gifts for children, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Tech

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

Marshall are the premiere name in amps and speakers and their ranges of portable speakers are legendary – much like their rock and roll history. The Marshall Emberton 3 is their newest portable speaker, with some clever future-proofing and unexpected features.

The Marshall Emberton 3 is only 16cms long and less than 7cms tall, weighing only 670grams. It still packs a punch as a portable speaker. The gold dial on the top is for volume and skipping tracks, plus there’s a battery level, the Bluetooth pairing button and on/off switch. Beyond that, there’s only the cable output for charging but the biggest feature is the 360 degree sound from the speakers – front and back.

Connecting to Bluetooth from any device is easy. Just press the Bluetooth button until the light pulses red then connect on your device. You won’t be able to tell, but the Bluetooth is LE-Audio ready, meaning it will keep up with the Bluetooth capabilities planned in the future. I would recommend downloading and connecting the Emberton 3 with the Marshall app though, as it checks for firmware updates regularly and allows you to make changes to the sound balances. It’s much easier to use the app as a remote control as well, especially if you’re seated further away!

The quality of the sound is amazing, as you would imagine. If there is something wrong with your speaker though, there is an authorised repair service and spare parts through the website. The balance of the sound as well as the clarity are exceptional, even without changing it on the app. The volume is also really generous, with a normal household level being about half way. The full volume would have woken the neighbours so I didn’t dare try and go to top volume The battery on the Emberton 3 lasts 32 hours but even when it is completely flat, a full charge only takes 2 hours. That’s amazing!

One of the added treats in the Emberton 3 is that it can be submerged underwater for up to 30 minutes. That really means it can be sitting at the bottom of a swimming pool, dropped in a bath or submerged in a puddle and it will be OK. It’s a great gimmick if you have children, or if your teenagers are going camping or to a festival and you don’t know what conditions they’re going to end up in. Bonus points to Marshall too for 79% of the plastic in Emberton 3 being recycled. It’s PVC-free too, which is better for the environment and human health.

Whether the Marshall Emberton 3 is for you or as a gift, it has longevity, durability and above all it sounds astonishing and will last the whole weekend, no matter what you get up to with it!

Available from £149 at: https://www.marshall.com/gb/en/product/emberton-iii?pid=1006884&utm_campaign=UK+%7C+Brand+%7C+Models+%7C+Speakers+%26+Headphones+%7C+Search&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=21339682274&gbraid=0AAAAADxIffWHZXnWYasbPYQvX-a8shHom&gclid=Cj0KCQjw9czHBhCyARIsAFZlN8QZ4aj8ogfFrwW-mIYXkF2dk2_TO-VTYp-rGANJqI3Ehjyrshyf81kaAj74EALw_wcB

Tumbledown Gin

alcoholic drinks, Christmas, Drinks and Mixers, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

Tumbledown Gin is one for the gin connoisseurs, the lovers of a particular stature of gin and gin making which can only be found in smaller, independent distilleries. Tumbledown Gin is probably made in the most remote distillery on Earth – the Falkland Islands.

Ex-soldier Taff stayed in the Falklands way longer than any of his colleagues and began building a distillery despite the Falklands Government saying ‘no’. Along with fellow islanders John and Saul, they built up a business and a following thanks to the cruise ships that passed and spread the word, finally shipping 8,000miles to the Isle of Man via Royal Navy Fleet Auxiliary. This is where the gin was finally bottled and where it was launched from.

We sampled some of the purest gin ever as a straight gin and then with a tonic. The gin itself has a slightly citrus flavour to it, and you can taste the purity of the stream-fed water from Tumbledown Mountain on the Falkland Island. The botanicals, including seasonal scurvy grass, can also be traced. The pureness of the water allows the flavours to come through and at 46% proof, it’s very strong! I would recommend pairing Tumbledown with a tonic unless you are a real gin fan. Adding it to a cocktail seems sacrilege though, as it’s far too good in quality.

Although pricy at £95, it does have to travel a long way, and as a gift for a gin lover, it’s almost guaranteed to be something which your loved one has not even encountered before, let alone tried!

Available from £95: https://www.falklandislandsspirits.com/product/small-batch-gin-tumbledown-gin-50-cl/

Strong Roots Cauliflower Hash Browns

Children, Christmas, Family Life, Food & Drink, Gluten Free, Vegan, Vegetarian

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

Does a hash brown belong on the Christmas dinner plate? Well we think so, and after trying Strong Roots Cauliflower Hash Browns you probably will too!

Made mostly with cauliflower (42%) and with potato (13%) and onion, these delicious hash browns retain the hash brown flavour, but are lighter thanks to the cauliflower being the main ingredient. The structure is very similar to a hash brown so you can still use it for your fry-up or at dinner time. It’s just as tasty as your potato hash brown, and I preferred it thanks to the seasoning and added flavour of the cauliflower as well as potato and onions. They’re also low in sugar and low in saturated fat, and vegan friendly.

Strong Roots Cauliflower Hash Browns aren’t just breakfast or as a side dish. You can substitute them for break in beans on toast, east them with soup or simply with poached egg on top as a meal or as a snack. They don’t go soggy like some hash browns do, and we found that they cooked brilliantly in the air fryer, which is an added bonus when you don’t have much time.

As for Christmas, why not try them as a side dish? They’re vegan too, so you can have them as a starter with cranberry sauce or for vegetarians you can melt some Brie on top with some cranberries to make them extra Christmassy!

Available from £6 at Ocado, Sainsburys, Morrisons and other outlets: https://www.ocado.com/products/strong-roots-cauliflower-hash-browns/657936011?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=21042674809&utm_content=non-brand&gclsrc=aw.ds&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=21032609502&gbraid=0AAAAADi6iHkPhWiZzLIoqmBKPVJYctUk5&gclid=Cj0KCQjw9JLHBhC-ARIsAK4PhcqlutvZ_zPVk4NezrS5E73-X5JuNIXsGkLe3I1kubbFCGCbrFQvrDUaAoA-EALw_wcB

Boux Avenue Bow Check Cotton Pyjamas in a bag – Red mix

Christmas, Family Life, Fashion, Gifts for Her, Stocking Fillers, Winter, Women

Disclaimer: We received this product free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own

Boux Avenue recently sent me a pair of their Christmas pyjamas, the Boux Avenue Bow Check Cotton Pyjamas in a bag – Red mix which have quickly become a bedtime favourite.

Let’s start with the fabric, made from brushed cotton (99% cotton and 1% metallised fibre) they feel wonderfully soft and cosy when you put them on. The fabric is also very durable, making them perfect for both lounging about and sleeping in.

Now, onto the design – the red bow check pattern is the perfect blend of classic and chic with a distinctly Christmassy twist. The little white bows scattered across the red check background add just the right amount of festive charm but not so much that you couldn’t wear them all year round. This limited edition print for 2025 feels nice and Christmassy without being over the top and the style will suit everyone – from teenagers to Grandma – you could even get matching pairs for fun Christmas photographs!

Fit-wise, I’m a size 16, and I’d say they’re true to size. Available in sizes 6 to 18, they strike the perfect balance, not too loose, not too snug, just right for curling up in comfort. The relaxed long-sleeved top has a neat pocket and is trimmed with white piping around the collar, cuffs, and front while the matching bottoms feature an adjustable paper bag waistband that stays comfortably in place without digging in, letting you drift off in comfort.

They arrive packaged in a matching bag, making them a lovely treat for yourself or a nice gift for someone special. Boux Avenue also offer free gift wrapping – so that’s one less thing for me to think about on Christmas Eve!

Speaking of Christmas Eve, we have a family tradition of new pyjamas, a festive film, and plenty of Christmas treats before bed – and these pyjamas fit the bill perfectly. Cosy, festive, and practical, they’re everything I want for that special night of the year.

Boux Avenue has a fantastic range of nightwear, lingerie, loungewear, and swimwear, with something to suit every taste. You can shop in one of their 30 UK stores or online, with delivery from £3.99, free delivery on orders over £50, and free returns. Plus if you join their community by signing up with your email, you’ll get 15% off your next purchase – a lovely little bonus.

RRP £40 available here

If you prefer shortie pyjamas do take a look at our review of the Candy Pink Stripe Christmas Shortie in a bag pair.

Christmas Beauty Gifts -Curlsmith Hair Products, Rubis Tweezers and Wonderbalm Lips

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, cruelty-free, Gifts for Her, Mother's Day, secret santa, Stocking Fillers, Valentine's Day Gifts, Vegan, Winter, Women

Disclaimer: We received these products free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own

I know it’s only October, but it’s the perfect time to get started on your Christmas shopping. The shops are beginning to fill with festive gifts, and by picking up a few now, you won’t be rushing around at the last minute. We’ve been trying out some brilliant beauty treats this week that are perfect as stocking fillers or Secret Santa gifts – little luxuries that are bound to be well received on Christmas morning.

First up, the Rubis Tweezers – in my opinion these are the holy grail of tweezers and perfect for anyone who likes to keep their brows neat and tidy in between salon visits. Lightweight but surprisingly sturdy, they’re well made with an ergonomic design that makes them very comfortable to hold. Each pair is hand-finished in Switzerland from surgical stainless steel and they pluck even the finest hairs easily, with no pinching or snapping. They come in a neat zip-lock pouch (no more rummaging through your make-up bag) and even have a protective cap to keep the tips in perfect condition. At £27.98, they’re an investment, yes – but one that will last for years. Available from Amazon.

If you’re shopping for someone with curls then you really need to look at Curlsmith products. The Shake & Shine Curls Refreshing Mist (£24) is my go to product for refreshing my curls – a few spritzes of the lightweight mist and a quick scrunch and tired curls spring back to life looking bouncy and defined again. It locks in moisture (up to 41% more, according to Curlsmith’s tests) without weighing hair down.

The In-Shower Style Fixer (£24) is an anti-frizz styling gel designed to be used on soaking wet hair. Like the name suggests the best place to apply it is in the shower and I just smooth it down my hair using the “praying hands” method before scrunching it and drying with my diffuser.

Curlsmith products are vegan, cruelty-free, and packed with natural ingredients. I’m really impressed with these products – my curls are shinier, smoother, and, on most days, even cooperative. Every so often they do their own thing, but that’s curls for you!

Both products are available from Boots along with other products in the range and there’s currently 20% off – so another reason to start shopping early!!

And finally, for those who can’t be without a lip balm (and let’s face it that’s probably most of us in winter?), Wonderbalm Lip Balm is a handbag essential. Made with shea butter and infused with a blend of botanical oils, butters, and waxes, it glides on smoothly and doesn’t leave your lips feeling sticky or greasy. Whether you’re out walking, sat in an office or battling a cold December wind your lips will be lovely and soft and hydrated all day long. At £8 it’s a lovely treat for lips and the perfect size to fit in a Christmas stocking.

So, while the Christmas countdown may feel far away, now’s the time to start gathering those small and special gifts. Pop a few of these in your basket now, and by December, you’ll be feeling calm, smug, and ever so slightly festive.

Mr White’s Gin

alcoholic drinks, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Drinks and Mixers, Food & Drink, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Gifts for teachers

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

Even the bottle, with it’s white and read marketing and the name ‘Mr White’s Gin’ will scream Christmas at you. The Mr White which is referred to is Marco Pierre White, Michelin-starred chef and London restaurant entrepreneur who has produced this new 70cl and 40% gin and is bringing it to Christmas via some festive cocktails.

Mr White’s Gin is a dry London gin, with a tangy juniper taste to it. It’s perfect for Christmas with its slight aromatic scents and enhanced floral tones. You can tell that it’s a good quality gin because it’s so smooth to taste, but this Christmas, it works wonderfully in some festive cocktails.

We particularly like the Rosemary & Red Yuletide Blush(below) which uses Mr White’s Gin as well as cranberry juice and orange liqueur. Enjoy!

Rosemary & Red – Yuletide Blush

A merry twist on a modern classic. This festive Cosmo blends the crisp botanicals of MR. WHITE’S GIN with tart cranberry juice, fresh lime, and a splash of orange liqueur—evoking the brightness of winter berries and citrus under twinkling lights.

Ingredients

40ml MR. WHITE’S GIN

20ml Cointreau or triple sec

10ml fresh lime juice

30ml cranberry juice drink

Fresh rosemary and glacé cherry to garnish

Method

Shake all ingredients with ice, strain into a tall-stemmed glass, and garnish with a glacé cherry pierced with a sprig of rosemary.

Available from £30 at: https://www.sainsburys.co.uk/gol-ui/product/mr-whites-london-dry-gin-70cl

Salomé by Oscar Wilde – Theatre Royal Haymarket, London

Days Out, Theatre, Women

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

Wow. Oscar Wilde’s Salomé is probably one of his least known plays (Lady Windermere’s Fan, An Ideal Husband) but was actually one of his biggest grossing and most controversial. The Gesher Theatre Repertoire take this production stratospheric with their portrayal of the Biblical story in an amazing, West End production.

The story of Salomé is easy to follow despite the dialogue being over 100 years old. Salomé (Neta Roth) is the stepdaughter of King Herod (Doron Tavori), who is married to her mother (Lena Fraifeld). Jon the Baptist (Shir Sayag) is referred to as Jokanaan in the play, and is imprisoned by Herod for Jokanaan’s comments about Herod’s wife, Herodias. Herodias. Thinks nothing of Jokanaan, but her daughter Salomé is obsessed by his voice and wants to meet him. Her obsession grows, and she wants to touch him and kiss his mouth but Jokanaan, believing she is the “daughter of Sodam” tells her to stay away from him and that she will never kiss him.

Herod becomes infatuated with Salomé and begs her to dance for him, exclaiming that she can have anything in his kingdom if she does so. Herodias begs her daughter not to dance for her husband, but eventually, Salomé dances the dance of the seven veils for her stepfather. In return, she tells him only after he has sworn on oath to give her anything, that she wants, “The head of Jokanaan on a silver platter.” The discussion goes on for some time as Herod offers her anything but the death of John the Baptist, as Herod is fearful of what may happen if he kills a prophet. He eventually relents though, and Salomé gets her wish.

I won’t give away the ending but let’s say it’s fitting, and very dramatic.

The creative production of this play is beyond amazing. Based on the troubles in the Middle East, there isn’t a corner spared which hasn’t been thought out carefully. You forget that this play is 125+ years old as the costumes, stage scenery and acting are exemplary. I cannot over emphasise how good the acting is in this production, especially Neta Roth and Doron Davori, who create the most amazing energy and Roth especially, who is in nearly every scene of the one-act play, has a talent you only see in the West End. I also need to pay respect to Shir Sayag who plays John the Baptist. The scenes where he is captive and then again when Salomé meets him face-to-face are astonishing.

I came away from the play with a new found respect for Wilde, but this production takes it to a whole new place. It’s a very thought provoking, modern take on an ancient story but an exceptionally well written Oscar Wilde play. I could go back several times and see this production, for the creative freshness it brings but the outstanding cast and their interpretation of the story, it left me in awe. Exceptional!

Salome runs at The Theatre Royal Haymarket until 11 October. Details and tickets: https://trh.co.uk/whatson/salome/

Boldilocks – book by Deborah Frenkel & Carla Hoffenberg

Birthday Gifts, Books, Children, Christmas, Family Life, Gifts for children, Learning, Stocking Fillers

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

Bellamy is a boy with A LOT of hair. BIG hair. It swooshes and shimmers all day, people stare and people point because his hair is spectacular!

Bellamy is the star of the book Boldilocks, aimed at 4-8 year olds who are learning to read or are being read a bedtime story. The book goes on to explain how being different can be a blessing or a curse, depending on how you value differences. Bellamy’s family, and whole community, value his long hair, so much so that people he loves and the people around him all want to be like him and have his hair! Not everyone is as fortunate, but we can all be open minded, no matter what our differences are.

This hardback book has easy sentences for reading, and rich illustrations for each of the sentences on the pages. There’s a lot of detail in each drawing too, such as the labels on the door of the florist and hairdresser shops, and the accessories worn by people in the street scenes. There’s plenty to point out and look at here, and a cross-section of life for asking questions, (What are all the different type of hair products for? Did you notice the boy with the hearing aid? Why do some people have tattoos?)

This is a great stocking filler, or gift to give at a birthday party as it’s not Christmas based and one that a child can read along to from an early age.

Available for £10.99: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Boldilocks-Deborah-Frenkel/dp/1921966378/ref=sr_1_1?crid=X3VGBR016EQ3&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9._jfxJ30byvXQLbNwX_4xgA.vwy80wPo0K5u1IjvNtrj1T8dSKumBW1Zjsa39CcOLoY&dib_tag=se&keywords=boldilocks&qid=1759080442&sprefix=bollocks%2Caps%2C88&sr=8-1

Elemay Starry Nights Luxury Refillable Ceramic Candle

Autumn, Christmas, Fragrance, Gifts for Her, Gifts for teachers, Home, REUSABLE, Stocking Fillers, Vegan, Winter, Women

Disclaimer: We received this product free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own.

When it comes to candles, I’ve found it’s worth paying a little more for a better quality candle. While cheaper ones will flicker away quite happily, many are made with paraffin wax, which can release soot and toxins into the air. Spend a bit more, however, and you get something altogether different. Natural wax candles burn more cleanly, with a steadier flame and the scent actually smells like what it says on the box.

Which brings me to Elemay candles – they’re made from 100% natural soy wax with lead-free cotton wicks, making them just as as kind to the air as they are beautiful to look at. The brand was dreamed up by Ellie while she was on maternity leave. And you can tell – this isn’t some faceless corporation churning out identical jars of wax. Every scent has been chosen with care to bring a sense of calm, joy and a little bit of luxury into your day. And I think we can all agree, we need more of that.

With notes of jasmine, zesty citrus, sweet musk and vanilla, the Starry Nights fragrance is inspired by Steephill Cove on the Isle of Wight with Ellie wanting the candle to capture the magic of a clear summer night under a starry sky.

In my opinion candles should look as good as they smell and Elemay certainly delivers on that front. The luxury refillable ceramic candles are in handcrafted ceramic pots, made exclusively for the brand by Sussex-based artist Beth. Each pot is uniquely glazed and the Starry Nights pot has midnight blues and dusky purples to reflect the starry sky above the coast. Mine even arrived with a photograph of the cove taken by Ellie’s dad, and it’s incredible how Beth has echoed the image in her design.

I was surprised to discover that in most areas of the UK, candle jars can’t be recycled, so Elemay’s refill option is such a great idea. It’s not only a more sustainable choice but also a more cost-effective way to enjoy their candles. Refills are priced at £15, while the Starry Nights candle itself is £35.

The 220g candle has a burn time of around 40 hours comes with a care card and refill guide, and is packaged in a reusable linen gift bag, making it a perfect treat for yourself or a lovely Christmas gift.

Bare Hands Rescue Kit

Autumn, beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Gifts for Her, Gifts for teachers, health, Mother's Day, secret santa, Stocking Fillers, Women

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

With autumn here and the cold of the winter around the corner, hand creams and lotions make excellent Christmas gifts. Bare Feet & Hands have a lovely array of products this year, including this Hand Rescue Kit which includes a Buff & Shine tool, Glass Nail File, Conditioning Nail & Cuticle Serum and Conditioning Cream. You can purchase them individually but this set is for Christmas and comes in cheaper than if you were to buy them piece by piece.

Starting with the Conditioning Nail & Cuticle Cream, this smells divine because it contains sweet almond oil, ginger extract and manuka honey. The honey is for hydrating as well as antibacterial and the ginger helps with fungus and bacteria too. The combination of the fragrances is lovely though! The serum helps condition nails and skin before you apply the cream. It can be applied alone, but I like to apply it before I’m sitting down at my desk to work, so that it works in all the goodness as I type.

The Conditioning Cream is the ‘top coat’ which is a rich, sweet almond and aloe vera combination, with added cucumber. You can really smell the aroma of the cucumber when you apply it, and as it absorbs in, it leaves a softness to your skin. In combination with the serum, the two work together so that you have long lasting nourishment to help your hands last winter.

Lastly, there’s the glass file and the Buff & Shine tool. The glass file lasts forever (literally, they never smooth) so this is a really good gift or life-long apparatus to keep by your side. The Buff & Shine tool is used on naked nails to take away any ridges or unevenness on your nails, and gives them a shine before you take the paint to them.

Bare Hands Rescue Kit isn’t just for a gift, although it is a nice gesture for Christmas and works brilliantly as a stocking filler. It’s a fab gift to yourself to have available when your hands are dry or if like me, you just like to have them ‘on hand’ whist you’re working!

Available for £25.00 at

Hand Rescue Kit

Boux Avenue PJs In A Bag For Christmas

Children, Christmas, Family Life, Gifts for children, Gifts for Her, Stocking Fillers, Women

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

Every year, I buy a new pair of pyjamas for myself for Christmas. Sometimes I’m on holiday with the family, and sometimes we stay at home, but it’s a lovely tradition to be able to choose what I want to wear for Christmas Eve and what will last me the rest of the year.

Boux Avenue sell lots of lingerie, nightwear and accessories and this year they’ve produced the PJs In A Bag Christmas Sets. They sent us this Christmas Candy Pink Stripe Christmas Shortie In A Bag set for us to try. If you’re wondering what a ‘shortie’ is, then it’s a pyjama set that has shorts for the bottoms instead of trousers. In this set, the top is a short sleeved, button-up top with a collar too. If you’re wondering about the bag issue, then look no further than the photos! As these are Christmas Gift Sets, they all come in a presentation bag which is easily posted or wrapped up as a gift and look fabulous when opened on Christmas Day!

This limited edition 2025 design is a matching set in candy pink, complete with pink Christmas trees, candy canes, soldiers, wreaths and a festive pink car with Christmas Tree on top! Don’t forget the bright pink stripes too, set off with pink buttons. It’s made of 100% polyester to give the slightly flannelled effect but it also contains 30% recycled fibres. It’s washable at 40 degrees centigrade. The shorts are elasticated waist but with a draw-string too for extra comfy, and the cut for both top and shorts is a comfort fit. The bag is also in the polyester material, which you can use to store the pyjamas or as part of the gift set which makes for a lovely stocking filler as well.

They’re a comfortable fit and useful for when the heating is on high at Christmas or even in the summer when it’s hotter (yes, I wear Christmas pyjamas all year round!) I like that they are shorts in this set, but there are other sets which are full pyjamas and in different designs. There’s a softness to them that makes them easy to sleep in. They come in sizes UK6 to UK18 and delivery is free when you spend over £60, but there is a sale on at the moment. Even better, they come in a beautiful presentation box too!

Available online from £35.00 at: https://www.bouxavenue.com/pyjamas/striped-christmas-pyjama-shorties-in-a-bag/211783_20PC.html

Teoxane Discovery Set

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Gifts for Her, Gifts for teachers, Stocking Fillers, travel, Women

Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.

The Teoxane Discovery Set is a travel sized version of Teoxane’s signature products. It. contains 5 items; Micellar Solution, RHA Serum, R(II) Eyes, Advances Filler (normal to combination skin) and UVA Shield SPF 50+. The Discovery Set is also a travel bag, which in clear plastic means it could go on a plane as well but works nicely as a make-up case for holidays.

TEOXANE RHA is a patented hyaluronic acid, for skin hydration and anti-aging. Teoxane RHA forms a mesh on the surface of the skin to maintain moisture in the epidermis and strengthens the skin by preventing moisture loss. This leaves the skin looking not just hydrated, but plump and smooth too.

The Discovery Set includes 5 products that are used in combination to create optimal skin conditions. The Micellar Solution cleanses the skin in preparation for the treatments. R (II) Eyes is for the delicate areas around the eyes whilst RHA Serum is for the rest of the face and neck. Advanced Filler Normal to Combination create the deep hydration for skin whilst the UVA Shield protects morning and night, and whenever skin is exposed to sun.

The Teoxane Discovery Set is pricy at £45 but it’s for older skin and with an emphasis on repairing and anti-aging. It makes a great kit for someone who is going away on holiday during the summer so that they have everything they need to protect from the sun and repair, all in a small travel size. It’s very luxurious too, with a slight fragrance but it screams luxury!

Available for £45.00 at: https://www.teoxane.co.uk/product/700177-00?srsltid=AfmBOoq4Y9OACGzshLCCdrV9iR0x_w-YotJoVwJQ0XGpxalNVYofsTIK