French Soaps Mother’s Day Gift Set

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’re struggling for a Mother’s Day Gift, or want to supplement something bigger, French Soaps have a genius gift for you to give on Mother’s Day.  From their range of soaps on their website, they’ve created a Mother’s Day Gift Set which contains 6 vegan soaps, and arrives in a magnetic box with a denim washbag.

Contained in the soap set are fragrances;

  • Tilleul (Linden blossom)
  • Honeysuckle
  • Verbena leaf
  • Cotton Flower
  • Lily of the Valley
  • Aloe Vera

Each soap is made using traditional French soap making techniques and enriched with plant oils and shea butter. They lather up beautifully and can be used every day, but I like to use these in the guest bathroom, or for the bath where the scent can be appreciated. There’s also a washbag that can be used for the soaps or separately, which is surprisingly large and can carry a lot, including all the soaps.

Each of the soaps has a distinctive aroma with the usual ‘soap’ fragrance to them. They’re actually quite pungent so you can smell them as you open the box! They are beautifully wrapped individually with some wrapped in paper, muslin and in presentation boxes. They’re imprinted with the name of Savon de Marseille name and the flavour of the soap so that you can distinguish them. They’re very handy in the magnetic box so that they don’t get damaged in transit which also make them a perfect gift, even if you are splitting up the set and giving the soaps out to different people.

This is a brilliant gift set, or a way of sampling a range of soaps for yourself to see what you like.  There’s a lot of thought gone into designing these soaps as well as making them and giving them the creative edge which you don’t find in the High Street brands, making them more unique than just any beauty of health gift set you can buy everywhere.  They’re a lasting gift too, probably lasting until Christmas when you can buy the French Soaps’ next gift set!

Available from £25 at: https://www.frenchsoaps.co.uk/products/mothers-day-soap-gift-set-2026?utm_source=chatgpt.com

Libi & Daughters No 27 Sun Shield SPF 50

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.

Step up your summer beauty regime this year with the Libi & Daughters Sunshield cream with SPF50.  The family run company believes that products should, “Have everything you need and nothing you don’t,” which runs true through all the products they produce.  The list of products on their website is impressive with everything from lip balm to charcoal soaps and you can see that the products are tailored for women and actual needs, not commercial revenue.  We were sent Libi & Daughter’s new No 27 Sun Shield SPF 50 to test, and thankfully there have been a few sunny days this week to try it!

No 27 Sun Shield SPF 50 is made fresh to order, like all the Libi & Daughters products, using olive squalane, jojoba esters and beeswax among other natural ingredients.  Most sun screens leave a white, insoluble film on the skin when applied, but No 27 is made with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide with natural ingredients to help protect the skin from environmental factors and tint the skin to give a warm glow and a dewy look.

No 27 Sun Shield SPF 50 is ideal for all skin tones, but especially for darker or olive skin and can be warn daily.  I would wear this on holiday as it has the slight tinting quality but also because of the high SPF which protects on days with more sunshine than we typically get in the UK!  You can tell that this is a more natural cream because it’s very organic to the touch, and not typical of High Street cosmetics.  Although heavy at first, once you blend in the No 27 Sun Shield, it absorbs and leaves a slight tint, but not as much as you would get with fake tan.  I found that the more I worked it into my skin, the more it gave an even coverage and did indeed leave my skin dewy. There was a definite difference in the reflection of the light after a few minutes, which is how long it takes for the cream to dry properly.

I can’t test how effective the SPF is yet, but with No 27 Sun Shield you do get a hydrating, natural base face cream which peps up your complexion beautifully. There’s hardly any scent to it, except a slight earthy fragrance from the natural ingredients but this is perfect for a holiday or to get yourself ready for work easily in the morning and not having to wear layers of foundation and base creams.

Available from £100 at: https://libi.com/products/nº27-sun-shield-spf-50

MANTA Healthy Hair Brush 

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.

It’s time for hairbrushes to get a glow up! The MANTA Healthy Hair Brush uses FLEXGUARD technology to create a hairbrush that sits in the palm of your hand and has a heat resistance of up to 80 degrees centigrade (175 Fahrenheit).  The bristles are super gentle on hair and scalp, even flyaway hair and create shine when the hair is brushed from scalp to ends. It’s anti static and can be used on wet or dry hair. As the bristles are far apart, they don’t snag as they pull through fine hair, and if the ends are dry, you don’t rip away and break strands of hair as you brush. The MANTA Hair Brush can be used on all types of hair including hair extensions.

The MANTA sits in your hand comfortably by I found it easier to use on myself if I hold it from the handle and work my way through the length of my hair, starting at the scalp. Although this is a hair brush, it actually works perfectly as a scalp massager, taking the tension out of the scalp as you massage the brush through your hair. Taking the MANTA from the front of your scalp to the back of your neck and then to the ends of your hair, you’re also transferring the good oils to the rest of the hair and conditioning the cuticles as you do so.  It feels absolutely amazing! As the bristles aren’t really close together, it gives a good massage as well as not damaging the hair too much. I loved using it after washing my hair to distribute the styling products without disturbing my natural curls. It’s great for putting your hair back into a messy pony tail too once your hair is dry. 

This is a great investment for yourself or as a gift for someone else. It’s perfect for taking on holiday though with the travel pouch it comes with and the hand-held size that means it can even fit into your hand luggage!

Available from £30 at: https://www.boots.com/manta-original-healthy-hair-and-scalp-brush-pink-10345639

Eyeam Bi-Phase Magnesium Body Treatment Spray

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 ever come back from the gym already aching from a workout, felt tired enough in the evening and need something to help you wind down or still feel tired when you wake up, then it could be a lack of magnesium in your diet. Thankfully, magnesium can be absorbed through the skin to boost your energy.  Eyeam have created the Bi-Phase Magnesium Body Treatment Spray to aid your magnesium absorption, but to also tone your skin and add vitamins such as C and E.

Either at bedtime, or after exercise, shake the bottle to combine both treatments and spray on your legs, torso and arms.  Massage into the skin and muscles to feel the full benefit of the magnesium and oils.  The Treatment Spray has a slight citrus scent to it, but doesn’t act like a lotion, it’s more like an oil. It absorbs into the skin easily and hydrates, giving a slight matt glow which works perfectly for after the gym when your skin is dehydrated by the blood is circulating.  The added vitamins help nourish the skin as well.  The added botanicals help calm the mind too, so it’s ideal for night time when the magnesium makes you sleepy, and the vitamins and botanicals support your sleep routine.

This is not your usual body lotion – it’s a treatment for those serious in getting healthier skin and absorbing the correct nutrients and making your skin look the best it can be, long term.

Available from £49.00 at: https://eyeamworld.com/collections/shop-all/products/magnesium-bi-phase-body-treatment-spray

11:11 Self Heating Eye Masks

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.

Relax this Valentines Day with some self-care, or give some love with the 11:11 Self Heating Eye Masks. These 3 single use eye masks are great for when you need some quiet time, or when trying to get to sleep and travelling thanks to their heating ability and some rose and oud scents.

The eye masks are felt-like pads with heat pouches inside. They instantly start to warm up as soon as you open the packet. The elastic ear loops allow you to wear the eye patches whilst you lie back for up to 25 minutes (I found the heat lasted for more than 30 minutes though) and the fragrance of rose and oud oozes from them.  The packet contains a complimentary audio ritual to work with the eye patches and allow them to calm you even more. The sound bath music and soothing warmth around your eyes helps you drift into slumber, or simply relax.

I wore these before bed and was pleasantly surprised by how they calmed my mind mostly. The eye patches aren’t for blocking out light, but they do warm up the area around your eye and your eyelids. Not specifically for beauty, I did find that my eyes were nicely relaxed and slightly softer thanks to the effects of the heat!

Available from £9.95: https://sensoryretreats.com/products/11-11-self-heating-eye-masks

Bow Embroidered Cotton Pyjama Set from Boux Avenue

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.

Mother’s Day is notoriously difficult to buy for, but taking time to buy Mum something luxurious, which she’ll use regularly.  Boux Avenue have a range of lingerie, nightwear and swimwear that are perfect for Mother’s Day as gifts. This week, we were sent the Bow Embroidered Cotton Pyjama Set to try out from the Boux range, in size 16.

This button-up, collared pyjama set is 100% cotton with a crinkly texture to it, adorned by white bows. The pink colour is particularly flattering and the little bows add a touch of femininity.  The shirt is collared and button down the front, and the trousers are elasticated string tie.  I’m not particularly tall (5’ 5”) and the shirt is long enough to tuck into the trousers, and the leg length is just below my ankle.  There is minimal tailoring on the shirt but there is a breast pocket, and the trouser legs are wide all the way to the ankle to be more comfortable.

When wearing these pyjamas, I found them to be very warm in this weather, as the cotton material adapts to different temperatures. They wash beautifully and there was no shrinkage.  They look really good in photos and are great for holidays or sleepovers, but not only for Mother’s Day Gifts, it occurred to me that these would be great bridesmaid gifts or for a Girls Night In because they’re so photogenic!

Available for £52 at: https://www.bouxavenue.com/new-in-nightwear/bow-embroidered-cotton-pyjama-set/211950_20PX.html?cgid=1000458

Neve’s Bees Beeswax Tinted Lip and Cheek Balms

Tucked away in the rolling countryside of North Oxfordshire, Neve’s Bees is a family run business, founded by Julie Macken and named after her daughter Neve. After a bout of hands-on tinkering with beeswax, natural plant oils and rich butters, Julie realised that she could make skincare products that were kinder, richer and infinitely better for your skin than most high street brands. From those early “lotions and potions”, Neve’s Bees was born. Today, they offer a wonderful selection of natural products, including these fantastic tinted lip and cheek balms. Available in three flattering shades, Berry, Bronze and Maple, each balm costs £9.95 and comes in a handy little tin which is the perfect size for popping in my handbag or coat pocket.

RRP £9.95

Footsie Foot products

My feet do an awful lot of work and like most people I’m guilty of not showing them the care they should receive. Walking across hills, tucked into sturdy boots, squashed into heels over the Christmas period and constantly swaddled in socks and wooly tights they had become quite dry and a bit rough around the edges. So when a couple of footcare treats arrived from Footsie, a new footcare brand with a range of six new products designed to properly pamper hardworking feet, it felt like a gentle nudge to finally give mine the TLC they were desperately in need of.

First I needed to get rid of the dry skin so the Smooth Operator 2 in 1 Glass Foot File, (RRP £7) was quickly put to use. The dual-action file made light work of the hard skin on my feet, smoothing my heels and soles quickly and effectively. Made from 100% toughened glass, it feels nice and robust and being made of glass it is hygienic and will last a long time. The file can be used on both wet and dry skin and has two different textured surfaces, the coarse edge is designed to remove hard, thick skin and the finer side is used for gentle exfoliation.

Once filed and exfoliated it was time for a taste of the tropics with the Tropical Toes Coco Luscious Foot Butter (RRP £7). This rich, indulgent cream melted beautifully into my skin leaving my feet nice and hydrated and refreshed. It is also great as an overnight treatment, a generous application before bed then I pop a pair of cotton socks on and by morning my feet feel lovely and soft and ready for action. I’ve been using it every evening for the last couple of weeks and my feet are looking so much better. The dry skin on my heels has completely gone and my feet look and feel cared for again.

Now that my feet have been well and truly pampered, they’re ready to carry me across hill, dale and anywhere else I choose to wander.

The Footsie products are all available from Boots

Dr PawPaw Your Gorgeous Skin SPF Day Cream and Lip Balm

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.

Award-winning Dr PawPaw have sent us their SPF Day Cream and Lip Balm to test before the summer holidays start in earnest, and based on the lovely fruity scents when opening the products, we couldn’t wait to get started!

Dr PawPaw is a British based company started in 2013 with most of the products made here too. Originally, the products were for soothing owners Pauline and Johnny Paterson’s young daughter’s eczema, but their following soon grew and they branched out into other products.  The company pride themselves on using eco-friendly materials, which are recycled and biodegradable when possible.  

The Dr PawPaw SPF Lip Balm and Day Cream are both vegan and cruelty-free, like all their products. The Lip Balm, which has added SPF 30, is targeted at keeping lips soft but also has the Dr PawPaw healing properties. It’s a very light application which can be used in the sun, or every day especially if you’re not wearing make-up. I like to use it at night to condition my lips as a I sleep. As you don’t need very much, it absorbs easily and has a lovely pawpaw taste to it which lingers when you put it on. It lasts enough of the night too so that your lips are still conditioned when you wake up.

The Dr PawPaw SPF 50 Day Cream is equally as fruity scented and a rich day cream, but it actually blends in very easily. My skin wasn’t oily with this day cream, but there was some light refraction to leave my skin looking like it had a glow. It contains hyaluronic acid and vitamin E for enriching the skin and the SPF 50 really helps when the sun comes out! This 45ml tube would be great for taking on holiday.  I can’t wait for the day when the sun is out and I get to test out the SPF on both of these Dr PawPaw products!

Dr PawPaw SPF Lip Balm £4.95: https://www.drpawpaw.com/products/lip-balm-spf

Dr PawPaw SPF 50 Day Cream £18.00: https://www.drpawpaw.com/products/spf-50-pa-day-cream?selling_plan=7776010475&variant=43817267855595

Airy Home Reed Diffuser 

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.

We all struggle for Valentines gifts especially if we want something that’s not mushy! Airy Fragrances were born in Japan, based on the Japanese art of Kōdō where fragrance is not a function, but a feeling. The company was started by two Japanese women in 2024 who realised that the Japanese way of scenting the home was not the same as in Europe, and so the Airy home reeds were developed.

We were sent the Airy Elegant Harmony Home Reed Diffuser to try out in White Tea scent. A beautiful presentation box arrived with a bottle of scent, five reeds and the round, glass bulb. Setting up the diffuser is easy with the lid of the bulb vase easily detached and then replaced before the reeds are inserted. The circle of the round glass represents the concept of ensō, symbolising harmony, impermanence and quiet beauty. The Elegant Harmony scent is very soft, floral, and a touch musky. I can detect the slight vanilla scent as well which is what carries most in the home. 

Although expensive, the Airy Home Reed Diffusers make a great gift and last 2-4 months each. The fragrances can be bought separately so you can replace them without having to replace the bulb vase as well. They’re also alcohol free. The website is set up to send the diffusers as gifts so you can send them straight onto the recipient.

Unlike other diffusers, the Airy Home Reed Diffuser is much lighter in fragrance and feels like there’s equally less heavy ingredients.  They make great gifts because they’re so beautiful and have a range of different scents which can be purchased online, and no doubt more scents will follow. They’re a beautiful fragrance for the house and the scent carries really quickly, making it a gift which will last.

Available from £43 at: https://www.airyfragrances.com/products/elegant-harmony-whitetea-reed-diffuser

Original Squishmallows Micromallows Plush 10 Pack

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

If you have young children you are bound to have heard of Squishmallows. These super cute stuffed egg-shaped cuddly toys are available in a wide selection of characters and have a habit of quietly taking over bedrooms and sofas. Fortunately, they’re nice and soft so when you accidently sit on them it doesn’t matter!

Micromallows are a smaller version of  Squishmallows and have all the softness and charm of the originals, but are much smaller and a lot more portable, meaning they can be stuffed into pockets, bags, and glove boxes and taken on lots more adventures. Designed for collecting, displaying, and imaginative play, Micromallows allow children to construct entire plush-based worlds without needing an extension on the house!

The Micromallows plush 10-pack contains a selection of favourite characters including Hans the Hedgehog with his cute green bobble hat, Natnat the Alien who brings a touch of intergalactic fun to playtime while Puff the Penguin looks prepared for either a polar expedition or a well deserved nap. Malcolm the Mushroom, a Squishmallows celebrity is there too.

Compatible with all Micromallows Accessory and Storage Display sets, these tiny plush characters are easy to display, carry, or include in elaborate imaginary scenarios. They fit neatly into display cases, backpacks, or play scenes dreamed up by collectors of all ages.

The set makes a lovely gift, but you can also split it into stocking fillers or why not use them as a cute name place holders at the Christmas table?

Whilst officially aimed at children aged three to ten, they are also adored by older children and teenagers.

RRP £19.99 and available from Smyths Toys where they are currently available for £12.99

Neve’s Bees Beeswax Lip Balms

Tucked away in North Oxfordshire, Neve’s Bees is a charming family run business, named after founder Julie’s daughter, Neve. Following a spot of experimentation with “lotions and potions,” – blending beeswax with pure, natural plant oils and butters, they soon realised they could create an entire range of skincare products using only genuinely natural ingredients – ones that felt far better on the skin than anything they’d bought before. And so, Neve’s Bees was born. Today, they offer a wonderful selection of natural products, including ten different lip balms, available individually for £6.50 or as a trio for £18. Whether you prefer something floral, zingy, minty or simply plain and gentle, there’s a balm to suit every taste. Each one is blended with 100% natural ingredients -organic wherever possible – bringing together nature and a touch of science to create a beautifully rich, premium product. All of the balms are made with natural beeswax from Neve’s Bees own bees along with organic apricot kernel, organic jojoba and coconut oils, plus natural vitamin E for extra nourishment. The lip balms are in little slide tins which are small enough to slip into a coat pocket or handbag to keep lips moisturised when out and about.

I always seem to get chapped lips in winter and much prefer natural lip balms as they seem to soothe my lips much better. Using them both morning and night has become second nature, so I was quite excited when the parcel of Neve’s Bees lip balms arrived  and I could tell from the minute I opened the first tin that these lip balms are much better quality than an off the shelf lip balm. They smell lovely and have a silky smooth texture which glides easily onto lips, The balm is quite solid in the tin but quickly warms up with the warmth of a finger and once on your lips it doesn’t feel greasy or sticky and it leaves my dry lips feeling soft and hydrated.

I’ve been spending a lot of time outdoors this week, so I’ve been able to really put these lip balms to the test.  My ideal lip balm is one that pampers and nourishes lips, keeping them soft and hydrated no matter what the conditions are and these lip balms definitely ticked all these boxes. Whether I’ve been out walking, cycling or when I was battling Storm Claudia, a quick application of this lip balm has helped to keep my lips protected and prevent them from drying out and I’m confident they’ll continue to keep my lips hydrated as the cold weather settles in.

The three balms I have been trying out are  –

Honey Vanilla – this is Neve’s Bees least fragranced lip balm and has just a hint of vanilla to soothe lips and allows the natural honey take centre stage.

Rosey is my favourite of the three balms, it is made from thousands of crushed rose petals and  scented with Rose Otto and Rose Geranium. It is rich in vitamins A and E and it’s really helped soothe my dry lips.

Buttermint is inspired by the classic sweets and contains a blend of vanilla and peppermint. This lip balm is great for the men in your life who need to protect their lips but don’t want a flowery or feminine fragrance. This nourishing lip balm is full of goodness and is ideal for restoring softness and moisture.

These Neve’s Bees lip balms make brilliant little gifts and are just the thing for popping into a Christmas stocking, adding to a Secret Santa bundle, or slipping into a card along with a money gift.

Neve’s Bees also donate 10% of their profits to wildlife causes, helping to restore precious wildflower meadows and providing vital habitat for bees and other pollinators so when you buy their products you’re also making a difference to the natural world.

The lip balms are available from the Neve’s Bees website here

Silk Eye Mask from The Silk Club

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.

A little treat for yourself before the spring sunshine sets in or some nice cosy nights early to bed, the Silk Eye Mask from The Silk Club is useful to everyone.  Made with 100% Mulberry Silk, it’s available in 5 colours and two sizes; Small- Medium and Medium-Large.  As it’s made of pure silk, it’s also environmentally friendly and biodegradable. Does it work though?

The softness of the silk means it fits most faces with just the elastic band in place and covers the whole eye area. It’s not uncomfortable to lay on the mask to sleep either, and as the elastic band is covered in silk too, it’s very delicate on the skin.  Silk means it’s kind to your skin microbiome and helps prevent pillow face. I know a lot of women who swear by silk pillowcases to help prevent wrinkles and the Silk Eye Mask is similar.

To block out light, the mask is padded to give maximum blackout.  Once you get used to having something over your face all night, it becomes comforting especially in the spring and summer when the sun comes up. It’s particularly good for travelling too, when you need to sleep on planes or in a car. Sadly, it doesn’t do anything for noise but it does help you concentrate on sleeping! The combination of noise cancelling headphones and the Silk Eye Mask is an absolute winner. They look very stylish too, with the plain block colours in pale pinks and blues.

A lovely gift for a friend who travels or for those who have trouble sleeping – but like their bed wear stylish too!

Currently on sale for Black Friday at £29.99: https://thesilkclub.co.uk/products/pink-mulberry-silk-eye-mask

Instant Confidence – book by Ant Austen

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.

Ultimate confidence is something which is learned, not given.  You aren’t born with confidence in the way that you’re not born to be able to project your voice when public speaking or to be able to handle stress, but it is something you can actively teach yourself. 

Confidence comes from knowing yourself though, not from being brave and standing in front of a room of people and giving a PowerPoint presentation. That’s the first lesson that Ant Austen is teaching you in his book, “Instant Confidence.”

Starting with a heart-wrenching back story, the book sets the scene for what confidence is.  Going through some simple exercises, Ant helps you to identify your limiting beliefs and where they come from using a series of questions. There’s a long section on being truthful with yourself, which is ultimately how those questions are answered and then worked on to be able to eliminate your limiting beliefs and grow.  

Following these truths, the book goes on to deal with any guilt you hold, the fear of changing these limited beliefs, and the freedom that comes when you break through. Only after reading through the book and the exercises can you find out what that freedom means to you or how you want to achieve it to get instant confidence.

The book is a self-help, short read that you can pick up and put down easily and has just 61 pages. Great for commuting, you can come back to it and do the exercises all over again and pick up a different limiting belief before you work on yourself and move on to even greater levels of confidence.

Available for £6.99 at: 

Solecup Reusable Glass Travel Cup

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 super-sized SoleCup is a travel mug with no compromise. The cup is built from a toughened glass so it not only resists breaking but it keeps the taste of hot drinks fresh without the plastic sensation. If you know anything about saving the planet, then glass cups are much better all-round. The glass doesn’t leach plastic into any hot drinks either, which can be a problem with cheaper plastics and can cause health issues long term.

The lid of the SoleCup seal (which is in black in this sample) is a non-splash design which makes it easier to keep in the car. It’s a screw lid with a seal over the drinking lid so that you can keep it safe. There’s a cuff to protect your hands from the heat of the drink too, and all of it can go in the dishwasher. On the website, you can buy tea infusers and smoothy filters as additions, which is a nice alteration to the original purpose. 

This is a solid travel mug and a chunky 18oz or 510ml size to be able to carry it around and make a meal of it. In fact, the size makes it perfect for a smoothie as a replacement meal, or if you’re on a long car journey and need a hot drink to keep you going. I love the glass design that’s sleek as well as practical and you can tell whose drink is whose – no more having to taste them to find out if you’ve picked up your partner’s one by mistake!  

I love this as a gift idea too. Everyone needs another travel mug and most people love a hot drink most days. This is great for anyone going to work on public transport, and I would even say it’s great for long walks, running or exercise thanks to the non-spill design.

Available from £20 for this size at: https://solecup.com/product/reusable-coffee-cup/

Brick Like This! LEGO Card Game from Asmodee 

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.

This Christmas, Lego have a genius card game for after dinner or Boxing Day, or as a great gift for families who love constructing with LEGO.

The game is usually played in pairs where one person is the builder and the other a communicator. The communicator takes a card with a diagram of an abstract Lego design and has to describe it to their partner. The game is timed, so the team who build the LEGO model quickest gains the most points!

There are 92 models to build and 20 challenge cards to make the game more interesting, like having to communicate without speaking or building with just one hand! 

The game includes 48 LEGO pieces which pertain to the designs on the cards, and the pieces are full sized LEGO pieces. It can be played with 4-8 players and is aged from 7 years upwards but you do need a stopwatch or time keeper of some kind. The small parts are not suitable for younger children either.

This is a really fun and easy to understand game for everyone. There’s nothing complicated about it and you don’t have lots of rules to memorize before you can play. The scoring is easy, but the actual building of the models is more difficult than you think so it’s really eye-opening to see how people cope with having to describe an abstract shape.  The timing element of the game makes it more urgent and therefore more fun, especially at Christmas time when everyone is more jovial anyway! I loved this game and the whole concept of building with LEGO and can see us playing this as a family throughout the year.

Available from £18 at: https://www.argos.co.uk/product/7716074?deeplink=true&gclsrc=aw.ds&&_$ja=tsid:11675|acid:169-582-1252|cid:10199914028|agid:102806174795|tid:dsa-44200048968|crid:763987808626|nw:g|rnd:5883392337404542790|dvc:c|adp:|mt:|loc:9045872&utm_source=Google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=10199914028&utm_term=&utm_content=text&utm_custom1=102806174795&utm_custom2=169-582-1252&cmpid=GG05X&GPDP=true&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=10199914028&gbraid=0AAAAAD9II9kL59fDoEw9wHarGCcZoHXlj&gclid=CjwKCAiAraXJBhBJEiwAjz7MZb-m_opPTTM2pjGuiQLV7uW6JAwZmTizGM7ZYBHPIeqkEaf3t-U8lxoCkYsQAvD_BwE

Mighty Wheels

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.

It’s time to get MIGHTY!

Mighty Wheels is based on the cartoon series of the same name and contains a world of all sorts of trucks as toys as part of their range. Not just any trucks though, an assortment of dump trucks, tow trucks, cranes, tractors and even fire engines. The best part is that they’re made of steel and hardy plastic so they’re super hard wearing and can take about as much tough love as the real things! We were sent the “Super” Dump Truck and the Mighty Man Deluxe Figure as part of the extensive range available this Christmas.

The ”Super” Dump Truck is definitely super. It’s 16” in length and certainly lives up to its name of being “Super” thanks to the massive size of it. The yellow tipper is made of steel whereas the wheels and body are made of tough plastic. The tipper literally tips up and the wheels rotate making it easier to manoeuvre.  This is a beast of a dump truck and it has to be seen to be believed so make sure you have enough room for it at home! It’s great for playing with scenarios where you can actually carry something worthwhile like if you’re on the beach or in the garden.  

In addition to the “Super” Dump Truck, the Mighty Man figure is also from the cartoon show. It doesn’t fit the truck though, so don’t think you can use it as part of the role play. Instead, this is a toy in itself with batteries and accessories. Press the button on the belt and it has three phrases, “It’s time to get Mighty!” and “What do you think team? Can we do it?” as well as, “I got my Mighty Tools, my Mighty Hat and my team of Mighty Wheels!” He wears his famous hat, plus has a toolbelt with a detachable hammer. This is actually a really cool toy that I enjoyed playing with the phrases!

Just a word to watch out though – these toys have small parts that aren’t suitable for children under 3 so be careful with babies. They’re fabulous toys as part of a range of equally collectable and useable toys that children will love and can interact with in different ways depending on their age.

RRP £14.99: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Mighty-wheels-Man-Action-Figure/dp/B0CD2X7P85/ref=sr_1_1?crid=MLUQZDPMLNUZ&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.AcmO13USZGfmDnJ8yarwmW7ipqvRmafkRRrDZXYfBqZCwK0Wu5wrcxl6YtMB900x81odkIPfHYc-W5Yl5wul5DxQvsWb2rDrfaTYPufzu2QBMvPfOSlPMpuHcNQ_eKdHWAZ_WTeaeK3aOoOLFynptqrJ9mo9CcKBq834ivLA_C5PBkOcoTtxPlyILKJGvzdlNID5PyJCa5EUei_iiuZX1eRB7naMEuUdJMvqBN8Qgsg.MxC1YZdwFbUTS24z3XXimeBaIji5BDb6xz8BtUH1GTU&dib_tag=se&keywords=mighty%2Bman&qid=1763402210&sprefix=mighty%2Bman%2Caps%2C120&sr=8-1&th=1

Super Dump Truck £21.99: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Mighty-Wheels-Construction-Movable-Free-Wheeling/dp/B07YMBMFB1/ref=sr_1_2?crid=BZ5T5UM08W7D&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.I-SB0Jw8B7mzg_Ro4YXHCLZGs425oQAFiu59UV8W939DuPYp-mtii3hCTK25LUxBIGAGE2OxsOMi4YeC6FeMBDJAA996DZWr7m-JJRZllsUwp5YMGu2oPQhTQoXgEpumIjFdtwtujYH-tBPY8Hn9d7sb_uR-SpM_YQjN6tbcNezD08C3HPC8vbSxu3nzy4nu0-uZyDnrKCWfXdZM-vAM56tmA0JMqNOW0w9TOqyZFDFdKqSg0n7I81NQ8QJX_pTEPdxRjPlaqQAv57vdjDSCG-E5uZ2__DUvC_8f_alqAHk.9GEJtBit0MDDFNUJC3vKYGpR-AZcak8X_5aeBi87YbI&dib_tag=se&keywords=mighty%2Btruck%2Bsuper&qid=1763402249&sprefix=mighty%2Btruck%2Bsuper%2Caps%2C91&sr=8-2&th=1

Sanctuary Spa Gift Sets

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

There has been talk in this office this week of our annual Secret Santa and with a budget  of £15, these Sanctuary Spa gift sets fit the bill perfectly. Sanctuary Spa is such a well-loved high-street favourite, with plenty of gorgeous sets available at a range of retailers this Christmas. With Black Friday and Christmas offers popping up everywhere, it’s well worth keeping your eyes peeled – you might just snap up a bargain!

Now, even if you don’t know your Secret Santa recipient terribly well, you simply can’t go wrong with a beauty gift set and we would love to discover these Sanctuary Spa sets under our Christmas Tree this year.

The Sanctuary Spa Discovery Body Cleansing Collection (£15) is available from Boots (and is in the 3 for 2 deal) and includes four 75ml body washes – Aqua Serenity, Lily & Rose, Golden Sandalwood and Signature – all neatly presented in a clear, reusable wash bag. The body washes are the perfect size for travelling and they are also a great way to try some of the other fragrances in the range.

The Sanctuary Spa Signature Restoring Spa Collection (currently £10 at Tesco with a Clubcard) includes a 150ml Signature Body Wash, a 150ml Signature Body Lotion and a 100ml Body Scrub. With a fragrance blend of jasmine, grapefruit and vanilla, this trio really does bring that “spa-at-home” feeling to life. Cleanse, buff and moisturise and step out with soft, beautifully scented skin.

So whether you’re hunting for a Secret Santa surprise, a stocking filler, a gift for teachers, or simply fancy treating yourself (and why not?) a Sanctuary Spa gift set is the perfect choice.

Weleda Christmas Gift Sets

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

Christmas is coming (yes, already!), and it’s the perfect excuse to treat your friends, your family…. or yourself! Beauty gift sets always feel special, especially at this time of year and at Christmas many include reusable wash bags or cosmetic pouches. I also find they are usually much better value than buying everything separately. If you’ve never dipped your toe into Weleda before, a gift set is a wonderful way to be introduced to their gorgeous natural products without committing to full sizes straightaway.

This year they have some lovely sets and here are two of my absolute favourites:

The Skin Food Essentials Gift Set (RRP £10) is a brilliant stocking filler. It contains a 10ml tube of Skin Food Original along with a Skin Food Lip Balm (8ml) which are the perfect size to keep in your handbag so you are always ready for winter emergencies. Skin Food is one of those iconic products that is loved by everyone, it’s been around since 1926 for a reason, and its fan club spans generations. I use it for soothing dry patches of skin, doubling as a rich night cream, even calming my eczema. It’s quite thick but it doesn’t  feel heavy or greasy on my skin. The nourishing plant oils, protective natural waxes and Skin Food’s signature herbal blend make it nice and hydrating and perfect for my sensitive, eczema prone skin. It also contains rosemary to boost circulation, sunflower and sweet almond oils to feed the skin, and beeswax and lanolin to lock all that goodness in. Paired with the Lip Balm, you’ve got the ultimate winter rescue duo for dry or chapped lips.

If you want something a bit more indulgent, the limited edition Very Cherry Gift Set (RRP £19.95) is a very festive treat. Tucked inside the gorgeous velvety cherry-red make-up bag are three fantastic products – Cherry Shower Cream (200ml), Hand Cream (50ml) and a Lip Balm (4.8ml).

The limited edition Weleda Very Cherry is new this year, and I do hope that they decide to keep it on a permanent basis. The fragrance is fruity and uplifting and leaves my skin delicately scented. The Shower Cream is rich and creamy, lathering beautifully and leaving my skin feeling fresh, clean, and hydrated. The Hand Cream simply melts into my hands and doesn’t leave them feeling greasy. As someone with very dry hands, I use hand cream regularly and the 50ml tube is the perfect size to pop in my bag so I can keep my hands nourished throughout the day.

The Lip Balm has that subtle cherry scent and glides on effortlessly, giving a lovely hit of moisture. It feels protective and soothing, exactly what you want when the winter wind picks up.

Every product in the Very Cherry collection is made from 100% natural origin ingredients and certified by NATRUE, which only adds to the feeling that you’re treating your skin to something honest, gentle, and genuinely good.

This is one of those Christmas sets that not only looks great but is even better to use. Perfect for anyone who loves a bit of fruity freshness, or for the friend who needs a bit of everyday pampering

If you’re hunting for great-value Christmas gifts (or just fancy treating yourself ), these Weleda sets tick every box – natural, beautiful, practical, and perfect for newcomers and long-time fans alike.

Original Source Crisp Apple Shower Gel

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

Every family has its Christmas traditions, and in our house the stockings always have certain gifts stuffed in them. Yes, there’s the expected chocolate, socks, and underwear  but every year, without fail, Father Christmas tucks in a bottle of shower gel. And more often than not, it’s Original Source. They slip neatly into a stocking, for one thing, and their bright, uplifting scents mean there’s a bottle to suit absolutely everyone.

I’m not what you’d call a natural morning person so I need something brisk and cheering to get me going which means my shower gel has to work hard to wake me gently but firmly. I’m a big fan of Original Source’s Zesty Lemon & Tea Tree, but this year I’ve tried their Crisp Apple Shower Gel which is fresh and crisp and is exactly the thing to nudge me into the land of the living. From the very first use my skin felt refreshed, hydrated, and – dare I say it – almost enthusiastic about the day ahead.

It’s vegan, made in the UK, and fragranced with 100% natural ingredients. The bottle itself is made entirely from recycled plastic and can go straight back into the recycling when you’re done.

A 250ml bottle is currently just £1 at Superdrug and Morrisons so at that price, it’s worth stocking up to guarantee a zingy start to Christmas morning and beyond.

Baker Ross Christmas Crafts and Gifts

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

December can be such a busy month so it’s nice to slow down every now and again, enjoy some quiet crafting time and make a few special decorations or gifts for family members. Having used Baker Ross kits before with my Cub pack, I know how good they are so I was really pleased to try out a selection of their Christmas craft kits with our mini reviewers. Their ready-made kits take all the stress out of crafting with everything you need included in the sets. This week we tried three of the sets – the Reindeer “Christmas Lights” Bead Threading Kits, the Christmas Tree Kits and the Santa Chocolate Holder Decorations.

Our little ones love rolling up their sleeves and creating something magical, and these kits kept them entertained for a good couple of hours. The Santa Chocolate Holder Decorations (£5.95) were definitely the favourite  – although the excitement may have had something to do with the chocolate “nose”! Each kit includes a Santa template, foam decorations, ribbon and simple instructions and as there’s no glue required, it’s completely mess-free. Available in packs of 8 or 32, these Santas are brilliant as gift tags, party treats or table gifts. Just assemble, decorate with the self-adhesive pieces and pop in a chocolate (Lindt truffles fit perfectly).

The Reindeer “Christmas Lights” Bead Threading Kits (£5.95) took a little longer to do, but they all enjoyed making them. With five assorted designs, the children enjoyed choosing their beads, threading them onto the black cord and wrapping them around the reindeer antlers to create the look of twinkling lights. Each one has a ribbon hanger so they can be used as a gift tag or Christmas tree decoration.

Finally, the 3D Christmas Tree Kit (£6.95) which contains foam pieces which slot together to form an 18cm tree, ready to be decorated with self-adhesive baubles, candy canes, snowflakes and stars. There’s four trees in the set and it kept our little ones busy for a good while.

As well as their brilliant craft kits, Baker Ross also offer a wonderful range of stocking fillers and party bag treats. Once our little ones had finished their decorations, they were more than ready to dive into a few extra festive goodies.

The Penguin Touchable Bubbles (currently £4.95 for a pack of 10 were an instant hit. These colourful little tubes create magical bubbles that you can actually touch without them popping. The children loved blowing the bubbles and trying to catch them as they floated down. They’re ideal for stockings, party bags or simply adding a bit of fun to a cold, winter afternoon.

The Snowman Pull-Back Racers (currently £4.50 for a pack of 6) were great fun to play with. Each snowman wears a brightly coloured scarf making it easy to spot the winner if you race them. They are ideal for Christmas Day races and are just as entertaining for the adults as they are for children.

It isn’t Christmas in our house without some building blocks and it’s nice to include some festive ones like the Penguin & Snowman Building Bricks in the Christmas stockings (£3.95). Each kit is individually bagged and includes easy-to-follow instructions and once assembled, the figures stand around 6.5cm tall and are perfect for festive play.

We’ll definitely be heading back to the Baker Ross website to stock up on more crafting treats for the Christmas holidays, and I’d happily recommend them to any family looking for easy, creative festive fun.

Green People Christmas Gift Sets

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

Avoid that last-minute Christmas shopping panic this year! You know the feeling – searching high and low for something special for those “difficult to buy for” friends and relatives. Well, relax, because organic skincare experts Green People have Christmas all beautifully wrapped up for you.

With over 25 years of experience in creating luxurious, gentle, and eco-friendly skincare, this pioneering British brand knows exactly how to spoil the people you love — and maybe even treat yourself too!

Green People was founded by Charlotte Vøhtz, who began her journey after struggling to find natural products kind enough for her daughter’s sensitive skin. What started as a mother’s mission has become a global success story — the world’s very first certified organic skincare brand, no less!

Now, with 300+ awards under their belt, Green People continue to shine in the world of ethical beauty. Every product is cruelty-free, vegan, and brimming with natural, fairly traded ingredients — usually between 80% and 99% organic. They’re proudly recommended by the Vegan Society, PETA, and the Soil Association, and are completely free from parabens, SLS, and gluten — perfect for anyone with sensitive or allergy-prone skin.

The Age Defy+ Pure Luxe Duo is a lovely choice for anyone over 30 who want to give their skin a real treat. Inside the sturdy gift box you’ll find two products – Pure Luxe Hand & Body Wash and Pure Luxe Hand & Body Lotion. The box has a bright orange interior and the elegant black-and-white illustrations of sliced citrus on the box and bottle gives a big hint to the zesty fragrance of the products.

The hand and body wash and lotion are both infused with an uplifting blend of Citrus, Cardamom, and May Chang and they feel really luxurious but are gentle on your skin. The  white minimalist bottles are definitely the ones style to keep on display rather than being tucked away in the bathroom cupboard!

The Pure Luxe Hand & Body Wash lathers nicely producing a rich, creamy lather whilst releasing a refreshing citrus aroma of orange and pink grapefruit which is just the thing to brighten up my morning routine. It leaves my skin feeling soft, clean, and hydrated and gently fragranced.

The Pure Luxe Hand & Body Lotion sinks in beautifully leaving my dry skin feeling silky smooth and hydrated. Layering both products helps that gorgeous fragrance linger longer – a little everyday luxury you’ll never tire of.

RRP £40

If you’re after something smaller for a Secret Santa surprise or a stocking filler, look no further than the delightful All Is Bright gift set (RRP £15)

Packaged in a festive cracker-style box, this set includes:

  • Gentle Cleanser & Make-Up Remover (30ml)
  • Vita Min Fix 24-Hour Cream (10ml)

These travel-sized treats are perfect for popping in your bag when you’re off visiting friends or family over the festive period. The Gentle Cleanser melts away makeup and impurities, leaving your skin fresh and comfortable, while the Vita Min Fix Cream delivers rich, lasting hydration and is perfect for winter skin that needs a little TLC.

Together, they make a radiant duo that keeps your complexion glowing, no matter how busy the Christmas season gets!

So whether you’re gifting to a friend, your Secret Santa recipient or simply treating yourself, Green People’s Christmas collection offers something luxurious for everyone.

MCoBeauty Super Pen 4-In-1 Liner

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.

This is a brilliant stocking filler – a ‘pen’ which can be taken anywhere thanks to the click-down selection. Yes ,you do remember these from school!  With the same format as a Biro, you can click to have an eyeliner (black), lip liner (pink), brow liner (light brown) or highlighter (white). The are all inter-useable in this lightweight pen style which can be put in a handbag or on holiday in a make-up bag where space is tight. Also brilliant for a night out when you don’t want to take many items!

The liners have different textures so I wouldn’t recommend mixing them together, but the eye liner could be used as a brow liner if the light brown colour isn’t a match for you.  I personally wouldn’t use the highlighter that much but the light pink lip liner would be very well used by me daily.  They’re all really good quality though, and there is a good supply there in the pen.  

This is the type of product that would change how you do your make-up just because it’s so convenient to carry around, and it’s really easy to use. Teenagers would particularly enjoy this as a way of carrying make-up around but I know I’ll be taking this on holiday with me!

Available from £9 at: https://www.superdrug.com/make-up/eye-makeup/eyeliner/mcobeauty-super-pen-4-in-1-liner/p/855096

Rosalique 3-In-1 Miracle Gift Set

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 Rosalique beautiful gift set of Miracle Brush and the 3 In 1 Anti-Redness Miracle Formula SPF 50 combines a skincare concealer with a beautiful (and oh so soft!) brush to hide away those rosy cheeks. The 3 in 1 Anti-Redness Miracle Formula works by covering, treating the skin for long term redness and protects from outside irritants like pollution and the sun. The SPF 50 help protect on a UVA and UVB basis too.

Combined in this gift set, the 3 In 1 Miracle Formula has a brush for applying it daily.  The two of them work together to create a long term anti-redness. The coverage works, and also feels very soft and light against your skin. It’s great for using instead of a standard foundation but also works if you’re not wearing make up at all for the day but still want some protection from the sun and elements, and something that gives you the even colour daily.

This is a great gift for Mum or Gran who might want to have some colour coverage as well as something more medicated for redness. I’d also recommend taking this on holiday with you in case you end up burnt or a bit red from alcohol too!

Available for £54.58 at: https://rosalique.co.uk/collections/gift-sets/products/rosalique-gift-set-2

By Terry Lip & Cheek Bliss Duo

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.

By Terry have an excellent range of gifts this Christmas, including this Lip & Cheek Bliss Duo available at Sephora, Next and John Lewis for £39.  The gift set contains a CC Liquid Blush and Lip Care, which is a lip repair gloss to condition lips.

The By Terry gift pack contains the 7 gram click brush liquid blush and 2.3 gram bottle of Lip Care (called Baume De Rose).  The Liquid Blush clicks to reveal the colour which you can blend into your cheeks with ease, or if you’re creating a look, it can obviously blend into your contouring application too. It gives a bright, dewy look to your skin and lasts all day, although you might want to apply a second coat at night if you’re going out, just to finish off the look!

The Lip Care is a regenerating salve which cools, comforts and sooths lips. Perfect for cold weather, it hydrates rather than colours lips but works great in tandem with the liquid blush to create a look, especially if you’re on the go or on holiday, and there’s the added bonus that the Lip Care is hydrating and regenerating too.

These make great stocking fillers or gifts for teens who don’t want to be wearing too much make-up or all the time.

Available for £39 at: https://www.sephora.co.uk/p/by-terry-lip-cheek-bliss-duo?curr=GBP&gclsrc=aw.ds&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=23232543001&gbraid=0AAAAADm1HxHnQlSMYbMSmazIE8QUhklD3&gclid=CjwKCAiAt8bIBhBpEiwAzH1w6euWvuI-O02VUZAbw0Zz_ZdoykqVQmc6fhNtc-xPzcLvvqhfrbmpzBoCOx0QAvD_BwE