Category: Christmas

Sanctuary Spa Lily & Rose Perfect Pamper Parcel

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Gifts for Her, Gifts for teachers, 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.

For the woman in your life, at Christmas, there’s nothing easier than getting her a paper set, especially one from Sanctuary Spa. This year the Perfect Pamper Parcel contains all she needs for pampering in 2026 and we were sent this selection to be able to test out its contents before the holidays. Lucky us!

The Sanctuary Spa Lily & Rose Perfect Pamper Parcel contains Bath Float, Body Wash, Body Scrub and a body sponge for the pampering, plus Body Lotion and Hand Cream for the finishing touches.  With the floral Lily & Rose scent in each of the bath and body products, the light fragrance carries through from bath to bed and all day long.  I like how you can mix and match too by having just the bath set, or the body wash or hand cream available and it makes for a multi-use hamper of treats that can be used any time of day.

At just £20 it’s a steal too, saving money but in a lovely gift set that can be given to teenagers right up to Gran!

Available from £20 at: https://www.next.co.uk/style/su872044/v12927?gclsrc=aw.ds&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=17309306546&gbraid=0AAAAADm_5UW07HjWIjczR8vWt23t5AiGD&gclid=CjwKCAiAzrbIBhA3EiwAUBaUdSqTUJ1WzyY3LWZcqrY4n5LBcFAOORjiQuBCyBcZu5s2G7pG3Ko74hoCJGEQAvD_BwE

Cadbury Dairy Milk Lotus Biscoff Chocolate Chunk Advent Calendar

advent calendar, Children, chocolate, Christmas, Food & Drink, Gifts for children, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him

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

These days advent calendars have lots of different goodies hiding behind the windows, including beauty products, alcohol and toys, but I much prefer the ones that contain chocolate – after all what other time of the year can you get away with chocolate for breakfast!! 

For more than 200 years, Cadbury have been at the heart of British chocolate making, famous for its distinctive smooth, creamy taste and of course those instantly recognisable purple wrappers. This year they have teamed up with the popular biscuit brand Lotus, who make Biscoff, the delicious crunchy caramel biscuits, and have created the ultimate Christmas countdown. Having tasted one of the new Biscoff chocolate chunks I must admit, I was a little disappointed to discover there’s only 12 of these in the calendar – the remaining 12 days contain a classic Dairy Milk chunk. However, it does add a lovely element of surprise – you never quite know which one you’ll discover each morning!

The packaging is simple but elegant with a striking red and purple design mirroring the two well-known brand colours. Each window holds an individually wrapped chocolate and while I can never resist eating mine straight away, the wrapping does mean you can save it for later – that’s if you have better willpower than me!!

Whether you’re buying for a loved one or simply treating yourself, this advent calendar is a must-have for any chocolate lover this year.

RRP: £7.79

Available from the Cadbury website as well as supermarkets and independent retailers nationwide.

LUSH! Yum! Christmas Giftset

beauty, Christmas, cruelty-free, Gifts for Her, Gifts for teachers, secret santa, 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.

Looking for the perfect Christmas gift? Why not treat a loved one, or even, treat yourself! to the Yum! Gift Set from LUSH. It’s already beautifully wrapped, which makes it perfect for last-minute gifting or as a “just-in-case” pressie under the tree for those surprise guests. The bright orange ribbon and contrasting paper look super stylish, and the packaging is all eco-friendly too, made from 100% recycled paper and board, with biodegradable “eco pops” inside.

I’ve been a LUSH fan for years and I can never resist popping in to their stores “just for a look”… which always turns into a little treat for myself! So, you can imagine how thrilled I was to get my hands on the festive Yum! Gift Set.

Inside the box are four festive treats:

✨ Yog Nog Shower Gel (120g)
✨ Catch Me If You Can Bath Bomb
✨ Humbug Scrubee Body Scrub Bar
✨ Yule Log Soap (100g)

Even though I’m use LUSH products regularly these four products were all new to me so I couldn’t wait to try them.

The Catch Me If You Can Bath Bomb is shaped like a cheeky little gingerbread man and  fizzed away beautifully in the bath filling the room with a lovely  Christmassy scent. The yellow and blue swirls created gorgeous golden patterns in the water before turning the water a very bright green – think the colour of Grotbags face (if you’re old enough to remember her – google her if you’re not!!) whilst the zesty lime and sweet wild orange oils smelt divine and were perfect for helping me relax after a busy day. The illipe butter and extra virgin olive oil in the bath bomb helped leave my skin feeling soft and nourished.

Next up, the Yog Nog Shower Gel and wow, this one’s a Christmas dream. It’s glittery, golden, and smells like sweet, spiced caramel. LUSH shower gels always turn a quick shower into a mini pamper session, and this limited-edition scent might just give my all-time favourite, Snow Fairy, a run for its money!

The Humbug Scrubee Body Scrub is shaped like a cute little bug and is packed with ground almonds and coconut shell for a gentle exfoliation. It also contains hydrating butters and pomegranate molasses which melted into my skin, leaving it lovely and soft. It has a double dose of peppermint and spearmint oils which gives a fresh, tingly feeling which has been perfect for waking me up now the dark winter mornings are here.

If I have to pick a favourite product from the box it has to be the Yule Log Soap. As a self-confessed chocoholic, this one was always going to win me over. It looks just like a slice of Yule log and even smells chocolatey. Made with maple syrup, cocoa butter, and macadamia nut oil, it gives a creamy lather that not only cleans my skin but soothes and hydrates it too. It looks and smells good enough to eat, though best to stick to admiring it every time you wash your hands!

There’s such a fantastic range of LUSH gift sets this year, all wrapped in vibrant, eco-friendly paper and ready to pop straight under the tree and the Yum! Gift Set is certainly one of my top picks.

RRP £35

Helly Hansen Running Accessories

Autumn, Birthday Gifts, camping, Christmas, Fitness, Gifts for Her, hiking, National Walking Month, secret santa, Spring, Stocking Fillers, Summer, Winter

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.

Great for stocking fillers, Secret Santa or anyone who is serious about running and outdoor sports, Helly Hansen have a huge range of items for both men and women which you’ll love this year. We were sent a selection of running items to review, and none of them disappointed!

Winter skiers will appreciate the Alphelia Gloves, seen here in white.  With waterproof material to prevent hands getting wet (and therefore cold) on the slopes, they have elasticated cuffs and Velcro cuff clasps to keep water out. The fastening clips keep the gloves together when not in use or to fasten to a ski outfit when après ski. These fit snugly to give particularly good grip when manoeuvring the slopes, but there’s no reason why you can’t wear these in a British winter, outside, driving or even in snow (if we ever get it!) the waterproof membrane makes them particularly versatile and if you’ve ever worn ski gloves you’ll know they’re ten times as warm as High Street gloves. A definite winner in the gift ideas department too.

Carrying on the theme of winter wear, the Helly Hansen Pile headband can be worn on the slopes or even just every day in exceptionally cold weather. Designed for women, it has a fleecy texture and can be used for keeping your hair out of your eyes or for keeping ears warm at the same time. It’s made of HH pile material, which is also recycled, so you’re helping the environment too. This is a great gift for a stocking, or to take skiing in winter when you’re limited on luggage.

The Helly Hanson Rib Beanie, seen here in lavender is great for home or away. This beanie has the classic HH branding and is designed for women and comes in 7 different colours. It’s designed to be for women but the standard size and range of colours would suit anyone. It’s made of polyester and acrylic to make it both stretchy and adorable and again makes a great Christmas gift.

Finally, for when the summer comes around again, there’s the HH Trail Cap. So called because it’s for trail running when you don’t know whether you’re going to be blinded by the sun at the brow of a hill or rained on at the other end of the course, this Purple Clay colour is for camping, running or hiking and can be easily packed thanks to the light material which is polyester and elastane.  There’s vents at the side of the hat, which for anyone who has ever run in the hot weather, you’ll know that this design is essential.  Not much chance of using it in this country any time soon, but I’m looking forward to a spring day run with this gem.

Helly Hansen Alphelia Gloves £120: https://www.hellyhansen.com/en_gb/alphelia-glove-67637?color=623494&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=22662295361&utm_content=186507109571&utm_term=&cq_src=google_ads&cq_cmp=22662295361&cq_con=186507109571&cq_term=&cq_med=pla&cq_plac=&cq_net=g&cq_plt=gp&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22662295361&gbraid=0AAAAADpHlLyIcNHa82VL2ooPjLEoH9ovi&gclid=Cj0KCQjw35bIBhDqARIsAGjd-cYkSdyx302OPoo6bAlUwIoK_8aGfhHmIUu9l6eYVmgBQk16QM5VoPQaAoF1EALw_wcB

Helly Hansen Pile Headband £20: https://www.hellyhansen.com/en_gb/hh-pile-headband-67563?color=623494&utm_source=kelkoouk&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=kelkooclick&utm_source_platform=KelkooGroup&utm_term=Helly+Hansen+Pile+Headband+Beige+STD+-+S&utm_campaign=kelkooclick&utm_medium=cpc&utm_source=kelkoouk&utm_source_platform=KelkooGroup&kgclid=Cj0KCQjw35bIBhDqARIsAGjd-cZcTUCMYz2WIIM-1zxeMDiLYsR7DPPsHSAErnqW92Xhv2Yt_FzHu1saAm2SEALw_wcB&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22911025392&gbraid=0AAAAADGtTT9ufx0OfcAbLtMOW-DTlscwD&gclid=Cj0KCQjw35bIBhDqARIsAGjd-cZcTUCMYz2WIIM-1zxeMDiLYsR7DPPsHSAErnqW92Xhv2Yt_FzHu1saAm2SEALw_wcB

Helly Hansen Rib Beanie £25: https://www.hellyhansen.com/en_gb/hh-rib-beanie-54020?color=634122

HH Trail Cap: https://www.hellyhansen.com/en_gb/hh-trail-cap-67546?color=634011

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!

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

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

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 21st 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

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

Anua Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Gifts for Her, 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.

If you’ve never used oil to remove dirt, make-up and clean pores before, then let me enlighten you… most make-up removers used to be 100% oil. This was a long time ago, when they weren’t fragranced though, and if you held onto them for too long, they would go rancid and smell. Think Petroleum Jelly but a bit softer! Oil does indeed remove dirt, but nowadays we have a more sophisticated approach and a much nicer selection to use.

Anua Heartleaf Pore Control is a cleansing oil which removed make-up, but also dirt, build up and generally anything that gets into the pores on your face. It’s lighter than most oils, and has a slight, fresh fragrance about it but nothing heavy. To use Anua Cleansing Oil, it takes just a small amount distributed over the dry skin of your face and massaged in for a minute or two. You can feel the softness of the oil as it works over your skin.  To remove the cleanser, use warm water and I like to use the reusable make-up remover pads that you can put in the wash. They seem more robust than most cleansing pads, and yes, they help remove both the oil and the dirt that the oil removes!

After a light brush of warm water, my skin is cleaner and Anua Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil manages to remove traces of make-up and dirt, including stubborn mascara.  The cleansing oil also kept my skin hydrated, which is what you’d expect from an oil but in these autumn and winter months, air conditioning and heating really don’t help your skin.  If you are in need of some de-puffing during the Christmas season, then I can highly recommend Anua Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil for some facial massage too. Oil is essential for facial massages and this lighter, more nutritious oil worked a treat!

Available online for £16.00 at:

https://www.boots.com/anua-heartleaf-pore-control-cleansing-oil-200ml-10352040?srsltid=AfmBOoozgX1_p6erbijBceUMPN0NbkopBIBKGxryD1Mqn_BwY1l8yxZU

Orchard Toys Advent Colouring and Activity Book

advent calendar, Children, Christmas, Winter

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

Judging by my inbox and Instagram feed, it seems September is the crucial time to start thinking about Advent calendars. If you’re on the lookout for an alternative to the traditional chocolate version for younger children, the Orchard Toys Advent Colouring and Activity Book is a lovely choice – and it has the added bonus of keeping little ones happily occupied in the run-up to Christmas.

From the 1st of December right through to Christmas Eve, children can enjoy a daily festive activity including a word search full of Christmas treats, pictures to colour, and even a recipe for no-bake Christmas puddings. The activities are varied and perfect for getting little ones into the mood for Christmas.

Little ones always love stickers and there’s plenty in this book, each completed page earns a number sticker and there’s also a pull-out Christmas scene at the back of the book, ready to be decorated with special stickers as the days tick by. By Christmas Eve, children will have created a festive picture which can be kept in the book or pinned on the wall.

Another nice touch is the letter to Santa, if a photo of it is sent to Orchard Toys by the 18th of December, Santa will reply!

The activities are designed to fit easily into busy December days. A puzzle or quick game is perfect in the morning before school, while the colouring pages make a lovely wind-down activity later in the day when there’s more time.

So, if you’d like an advent calendar that offers more than just a daily dose of sugar, this one is perfect and at £4 it’s cheap enough to buy one for each child making the countdown to Christmas just that little bit more magical.

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