Category: Summer

St Tropez Self Tan 

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Fashion, Gifts for Her, Spring, Summer, 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.

This whopping 200ml bottle of St Tropez is the latest formula from St Tropez to get you glowing in time for summer 2026!

The St Tropez self-tanning serum is made with 100% natural tanning active and scient backed skincare ingredients.  That sounds very scientific, but if you’ve been a self tan fan in the past and been put off because of the smell, then rest assured that the St Tropez Self Tan of today does not have that odour.  In fact, I don’t think it has any odour at all which is why I could put it on in the morning and then forget about it!

The St Tropez Self Tan is a clear serum that goes on with out streaks and then develops over 8 hours. You need to exfoliate and moisturise first, and you’re supposed to use a St Tropez mitt but I was able to put mine on in the morning and let it dry. There’s a slight shimmer to the serum that allows you to see where you’re applying it which is really helpful when you haven’t got the deep brown colour to guide you. It takes a while to blend in but once it’s dry you can neither see it nor feel it whilst it works its magic.

You can apply just once to get a week’s worth of glow or apply it over a few days to get a deeper tan. It never goes really dark though, it’s more of a gradual tan but that looks more natural. I’ve tried it for a one-off party and it gives a sin-kissed glow, much the same as you get over summer if you’re just in the garden, but building up over a few days you get a lot more depth. Could be a life saver for the Christmas period! 

If you’ve fallen out of love with self tan, now is the time to get back to St Tropez and start the glow again…

Available from £17.50: https://www.boots.com/st-tropez-self-tan-luxe-body-serum-200ml-10322771

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

Sure Whole Body Deodorant

beauty, Sport, Summer, Women

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

Sure recently sent me a few products from their Whole Body Deodorant range to try. Now, as a woman of a certain age, I’m no stranger to the dreaded hot flushes – and when you add in a daily cycle commute, it’s fair to say I get through a lot of deodorant, especially in the summer. So, I was interested to see how these products would cope on a hot day full of pedalling, meetings and general running around.

I tried the fresh citrus stick deodorant first and, just in case, popped it into my bag for a lunchtime top-up. But to my pleasant surprise, lunchtime came and went – and I was still as fresh as when I left the house.

Now, I’ve never used a cream deodorant before and wasn’t sure what to expect but was it was a surprise hit! It has a creamy texture and feels more like a body lotion than deodorant and even on a hot day I didn’t need to reapply it. The scent is fresh without being overpowering, and it didn’t irritate my skin at all, even straight after shaving. It’s also really versatile, you can use it on your feet, chest, or anywhere you tend to sweat more.  

Then there’s the Wild Rose aerosol, with its light, floral fragrance that felt delightfully summery. It’s brilliant for a quick all-over refresh after cycling to the office and it doesn’t just mask odour, it helps prevent it from forming in the first place.

Dermatologically tested and approved by the British Skin Foundation, the range contains 0% aluminium and are designed to neutralise odour before it even begins. I’ve found that all three styles keep me feeling fresh all day long and easily fit in my handbag so I can freshen up whenever I feel the need.

The Sure Whole Body Deodorant products are available in four different scents – Ocean Rush, Active Fresh, Fresh Citrus and Wild Rose.

If you’re looking for something reliable to get you through the summer, whether it’s cycling to work, running errands, or just trying to stay fresh this range is definitely worth a try. Practical, portable and, most importantly, it works.

All the products have a RRP of £5.25 and are available from Boots

Levitex Anywhere Travel Pillow

Birthday Gifts, camping, Children, Christmas, Family Life, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, health, Home, Summer, travel

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 traveller, taking some home comforts with you on your journey is the perfect remedy to long distance flights or uncomfortable car rides. Levitex, the sleep posture experts, have a travel sized pillow in their customary design which can be taken on a plane as hand luggage or packed away.

Measuring approximately 30cms by 35cms when inflated, the pillow comes in 4 sizes (S-XL) and the website details how you work out what size is needed depending on your height and your sleeping position. The Levitex Anywhere Travel Pillow also differs from other pillows because it is completely compressible and can deflate into a roll, secured with the enclosed strap so that you can take it with you in a rucksack or hand luggage.

To inflate the pillow to the correct pressure, you use the valve to allow air in to maximum size. Then, by literally punching the pillow with your fist to a depth of about 1cm, allow some of the air to escape then close up the valve. The firmness of the foam in the pillow give your head and neck the support needed to compose a good sleep posture to be able to sleep anywhere, and as it’s individualised to you in both pillow size and the firmness of the inflation, you can adapt it subtly to give you an even better sleep. 

No more carrying bulky neck pillows at the airport and having nowhere to store them!  Levitex Anywhere Travel Pillow is also great for keeping in the car on long journeys or for children needing a pillow to travel. It also comes in a drawstring bag to protect it but allows you to keep it packed in between journeys.

Available online from £65 at: https://levitex.co.uk/products/anywhere-travel-pillow

Got2b GLUED Blasting Freeze Hairspray and got2b GLUSED Brows & Edges

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Fashion, Gifts for Her, Stocking Fillers, Summer, 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.

I’ve never seen the got2b GLUED range before so I was pleasantly surprised to see how well their products work. I was sent the got2b GLUED Blasting Freeze Hairspray and got2b GLUSED Brows & Edges, both of which are available at Boots and Superdrugs.

Got2b GLUED Blasting Freeze Hairspray is a silicones-free, vegan hairspray for maximum hold that lasts up to 72 hours. It can be used on all hair types, and has a hold that sets in seconds. A quick spray shows that it sets promptly and manages to hold even the heaviest of curls.  I tried this when styling after straightening my hair and adding a ‘flick’ to the ends. Even with tying it back, my hair stayed firm until I brushed it out. It does wash out easily though and isn’t sticky. This will be a great lifesaver when I have to have my hair styled the day before a wedding and I need to travel without flattening my barnet!

The got2b GLUSED Brows & Edges is a 2 in 1 gel for brows and the edges of brows, especially if they have just been dyed.  The generous brush fixes brow hairs in place whist the gel, which is also vegan and silicones-free, keeps brows where you want them.  It’s easily washed away with make-up remover at the end of the day but I particularly like this for something like a wedding or an all-day even where you want everything to stay in place. It’s called GLUED for a reason! You can feel it drying too, which is also reassuring when you’ve spent ages doing your make-up. Just be sure not to use it on your eyelashes or close to your eyes. 

Available from Boots and Superdrug: https://www.boots.com/schwarzkopf andhttps://www.superdrug.com/hair/got2b/b/418015

Schwarzkopf Haircare for Summer – Protection Spray, Hair Gloss and Blow-Dry Straightening Cream

beauty, Gifts for Her, Stocking Fillers, Summer, 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.

Summer hair is so different to the rest of the year if like me, you can dry it naturally in the sun. Summer also means we have to treat our hair differently with all new products though, which is why Schwarzkopf have a range of different products perfect for this weather!

I was sent the Schwarzkopf Protection Spray, Hair Glass and Blow-Dry Straightening Cream to try out. I started with the Hair Gloss, which was a new product to me. I have dark hair which is dyed so this product was intriguing.  It promises a chocolate coloured shine boost to dyed hair that lasts 5-6 washes and promotes a healthy glow. Used as part of the conditioning phase of a hair wash, the Schwarzkopf Hair Gloss recommends using gloves to apply the cream, leaving on the hair for 5 minutes and then rinsing off and styling as usual. I tried this in the shower where I have a timer for my conditioner, and thankfully it didn’t stain my hands but it does run the water a funny colour like hair dye does once it’s rinsed out, so be careful of towels etc. I agree though, it’s great for in between dying as it compliments your natural colour as well as your dye and leaves a deeper shine to your hair. If you have undyed hair, I can see it bringing out natural colour too.

The Schwarzkopf Blow-Dry Straightening Cream is great for when you want to eliminate frizzy hair that’s dried naturally.  It’s very light, so applies easily and doesn’t leave a heavy residue on the hair. Use it on damp hair then blow dry with a round brush to get the softer but sleeker texture than you get from straighteners. You can of course use it with straighteners too but I won’t be doing that until I really have to in the winter to allow my hair to recover from the heat whilst the weather is still warm.  The Schwarzkopf Blow-Dry Straightening Cream left my hair soft and sleek and easily styled.

Finally, the Schwarzkopf protection spray is a heat protection for straighteners and blow dried hair.  Use it on damp hair, but don’t put straighteners straight onto your hair. The heat of the straighteners on wet hair can damage it so it’s best to use a hairdryer or let it dry naturally first!  The heat protection works very well to flatten the hair length and prevent or remedy frizziness. I also like to use it on dry hair to help style it when I’m brushing back into a pony tail with a course brush. Schwarzkopf Protection Spray is 0% alcohol so it doesn’t leave your hair sticky at all.

All of the products in the Schwarzkopf range are great for summer, but I especially like the idea of using Schwarzkopf Hair Gloss before you go on holiday, and taking the Straightening Cream and Protection Spray with you to combat Holiday Hair.  Even better, they will last throughout the autumn and winter to nourish your hair during the cold season too.

Items available in supermarkets or details at: https://www.schwarzkopf.co.uk/products.html?Index.sort=titleasc

Levitex Sleep Posture Pillow

Family Life, health, Home, Sport, Summer

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.

Most of us complain about bad sleep but we rarely do anything about it, just accepting that it’s part of life.  Levitex however, have designed a sleep posture pillow that combats some of the causes of sleepless nights including the aches and pains associated with bad posture when sleeping.

I was asked to have an online consultation with founder James Leinhardt; a sleep posture expert with 15 years experience in working with patients who have complex neurological conditions. He explains that after seeing people lying in beds following operations, accidents and neurological complications, he could see why they weren’t sleeping well and waking with more pain than they should. It was all down to their sleep posture.

James started by explaining his background then asking questions about my sleep. How long does it take me to get to sleep? Did I wake up with aches and pains? Where were they?  What position do I sleep in and what position was I in when I woke up?  After gauging some background and no doubt looking at my posture as I spoke to him on the laptop (yes, I was hunched over and we spoke about that too!) James suggested that I try the Levitex Sleep Posture Pillow in the 8cm (small) size.  This, along with sleeping with another pillow under my knees as I’m a back sleeper, would help my back relax and give a better posture when sleeping.

The Levitex Sleep Posture Pillow arrived in beautiful presentation box with some information from James about the company and how to use the pillow. It looks different to my usual fluffy feather-filled pillows because it’s made of foam and therefore has a more defined shape.  It’s only 8cm high too, which is far smaller than my usual height of pillows but this was the purpose of the consultation – to find out if I was supported enough when I slept.

The Levitex pillow is a bit smaller than your usual pillow case size but it still fits so your bed aesthetics are safe!  I tried out the pillow for a nap first of all because it was obvious that a change in sleep posture was going to be a jolt.  Firstly, the height took a while to get used to. Having half the height of my normal pillows meant I had to completely change the way I sleep, but that is the point.  I also had to get used to sleeping on foam which has a different texture and a slight scent to it which takes a while to fade.

After a trial nap, I then tried sleeping with it on the bed.  Again, a full night takes a while to get used to the change in posture. As I sleep on my back, I had to adjust where the pillow meets the back of my neck to get the optimum angle to be able to sleep comfortably.  It probably took one night of waking and adjusting the position before I could comfortably say that I was in the right place to be able to sleep and have my body relax into the posture needed.

In the morning, it was a gradual wake up and wiggle of the toes to find that my shoulders were more relaxed and refreshed. I also noticed that my face wasn’t as puffy as sometimes, presumably because the pillow allowed for better lymphatic drainage from my face. Over time and with the adjustments James suggested to my sleep positions, I’m hoping I will be able to continue the good nights’ sleep even more!

Available from £80 at:

Sleep Posture Pillow

Brainbox Games

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

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

We’re two weeks into the school holidays, and so far the weather’s been, well… uncooperative. Grey skies and drizzle have meant we’ve been spending more time indoors than we’d like, which in turn means the board games have come out in earnest. Finding a game that holds the attention of little ones and keeps older children (and to be honest, adults too) entertained can be a bit of a challenge so we were really pleased when BrainBox sent us a couple of their games to play – Maths, The World and the pocket-sized Space version and I’m pleased to report that they’ve all gone down a treat – even the Maths!!

With a RRP of £13.99 RRP, these games are a brilliant blend of fun and learning – just don’t tell the children about the learning part! They’re simple to learn, engaging enough to keep everyone involved, and with a wide range of themes you can easily find one that matches your family’s interests.

Each BrainBox game includes 55 colourful cards, a ten-second sand timer, and an eight-sided dice. Players take turns drawing a card and studying it for ten seconds before rolling the dice to determine which question they’ll be asked from the back of the card. Get it right, you keep the card; get it wrong, it goes back into the box. After ten minutes – or longer if you want – the player with the most cards is declared the winner.

It’s not just memory that’s tested. The World edition, for example, covers 55 different countries, with questions not just about geography, but colours, objects, and flags and it’s easy to tailor the challenge to the age of the child. Even reluctant readers get swept up, our eight-year-old, who usually avoids books, especially in the holidays, happily reads the questions aloud, thrilled to uncover quirky facts about animals, landmarks, and places he’d never heard of.

The Maths game is a great confidence booster for children who might find numbers a bit daunting. It sneaks in numeracy practice without it feeling like homework, and our mini reviewers were so busy playing, they didn’t even realise they were learning.

The pocket-sized version (RRP £6.99), like the Space edition we’ve been playing, is perfect for holidays. With 25 cards and 150 questions, plus 25 conversation starters, it’s just the right size to slip into a bag or backpack. Ideal for long journeys, by car, train, or plane, it’s bound to keep little hands and minds busy while you navigate the motorway or airport.

So, if you’re looking for something to keep your children entertained, thinking, and maybe even a little bit wiser over the summer holidays, BrainBox games are a fantastic choice. Even just a quick ten-minute play before bed or in the car on a day out can help build knowledge, encourage curiosity, and with any luck, ease the back-to-school transition come September.

Who knew a little cardboard box could hold so much fun – and so many facts?

Age group 8+

Available from Amazon and all good toyshops

SEA LIFE Aquarium London

Birthday Gifts, Children, Days Out, Family Life, Gifts for children, Summer

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.

When it comes to summer holidays, the weather is always better the week before children break up from school, making it difficult to book things to do! The SEA LIFE Aquarium London is the safest bet yet for planning as it’s completely indoors and therefore weatherproof!

Located on the South Bank, in the old County Hall building and next to The London Eye (giant ferris wheel) there is plenty to do in the area.  Book tickets to SEA LIFE Aquarium online and you can reserve your entrance time and plan your day ahead, including transport.

The SEA LIFE Aquarium starts with the Atlantic section. There are more than 10 sections throughout the aquarium including Antarctica and Rainforests, acting as a tour around the world via aquatic life.  The aquarium follows a path where you meet fish and sea creatures in different tanks with informative digital displays that tell you the fish contained within the tank as well as information about their habitat and how endangered they are. There are all sorts of fish, star fish, lobsters and other animals to look at which the children found fascinating and there was certainly something for everybody. You can read as much or as little about the species as you like, or just watch them swim around. Photos are also possible.

As you travel round more tanks, you come to the main attraction of the underwater exhibition – a huge tank containing sharks, turtles and stingray!  There are ample windows around the tank and seating points for small children as well as adults to be able to sit and watch, or in the case of most children, to sit and point at the animals. The sharks are seriously impressive due to their size and their elegance but the turtles are huge, and look just like Crush in Finding Nemo! The stingray and turtles swim around and come up to the glass to ‘greet’ onlookers which makes for some fabulous photos. Some of the sharks swim too, but there are a couple of basking sharks at the bottom of the tank which you can see up close.

Walking around the rest of the exhibitions, there’s an area with Ben Fogel talking about the habitats of the rainforest, an area of rockpools where you can touch shark eggs and star fish and learn about their lifecycles from a member of staff. We loved hearing about how the turtles in the main display were rescued from a turtle farm and brought to London and got to see a real turtle shell, its skeleton and be able to touch it.

The displays are interspersed with different types of interactions, professional photos, a virtual reality lab and activities for children of all ages. We saw babies being carried forward facing so that they could look into the tanks and toddlers being able to watch the motion of the fish for what must have seemed like hours to them!

For both adults and children, the best display has to be the penguins. A large pool with an equally large area of hardstanding behind big glass walls houses the penguin colony who were entertaining and inquisitive. They didn’t seem to mind the number of people watching them and seemed genuinely nosy and came face-to-face with the public with no fear. We watched for ages as they did dove into the pool, swam for fun, swam for hunting and then hopped out of the water onto the ground. There’s ice being churned out all the time to keep them cool and the viewing window (a globe above ground where children can stand and watch them) was especially good fun. The children loved the antics of the penguins and how close they could get to them and we loved watching them. I could sit there for hours! 

Before finishing, you go through a sea of jellyfish too, which were magical and fascinated the smaller children with their illuminous properties. The SEA LIFE Aquarium finished with a huge gift shop selling all sorts of soft toys, mugs and keyrings as well as more for the grown-ups. You can purchase the photos at this stage too before walking out to South Bank where you are right next to the London Eye and Shrek’s Adventure.

It took us about 2 hours to walk round the whole exhibition with stopping to see the fish in each display, taking photos and roughly reading the information boards. By the end of the day, we were buzzing from all the sights and sounds of the aquarium and being able to see animals and fish we would never usually get to see in London. It’s a fabulous day out!

Tickets available online at: https://www.visitsealife.com/london/

BBox Insulating Flip Top Bottle

advent calendar, Birthday Gifts, camping, Children, Days Out, Family Life, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, hiking, National Walking Month, REUSABLE, Sport, Summer

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 insulating Flip Top Bottle from BBox is one of those items you don’t know you need until you start using it. The 690ml bottle (shown here in spearmint colour but is also available in varieties of blue, green and pink) appeals to both adults and children thanks to the colours as well as the easy of use and volume.  It has stainless steel inners with a similar stainless steel straw and a flip top spout so that it doesn’t spill. There’s a bendy carry handle too which makes it easy to fix to a backpack or carry by hand and not get broken.

I found this really easy to use. It’s easy to fil up with the screw lid coming off to reveal the stainless steel. Your water doesn’t have to touch any plastic.  I am particularly passionate about not using plastic bottles because of the damage they do to the environment, but few people know what damage plastic does to our bodies, so stainless steel is the best option.  I like the fact that the BBox Insulating Flip Top Bottle can keep drinks cold as well as hot, so it has use during both the summer and the winter. 

It’s great for take out on trips, and the robust design means it can be taken to football games, put in the car (the insulating layers means it won’t get hot quick) or in a backpack for lunchtime.  The huge capacity means though, that you can stay hydrated all day on just one fill up. It can take drinks from temperatures as low as -20C right up to 120C. Tell me who wouldn’t want to use a versatile insulating bottle with those credentials?

Available from £28.99 at: https://uk.bbox.com/products/690ml-insulated-flip-top-bottle-spearmint?_pos=3&_sid=55527eae2&_ss=r

My Little Sudocrem Aloe Vera

beauty, camping, Children, Family Life, health, Stocking Fillers, Summer, 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.

Sooth summer with Sudocrem’s Aloe Vera skin cream.  In the long line of My Little Sudocrem range, the ever popular Sudocrem comes with the cooling effects of Aloe Vera this summer, in the same handy-sized pot that you find all the My Little Sudocrem characters.

Sudocrem is great for dry skin, relieving itches, as a barrier cream especially when in nature, and calms redness and irritations such as rashes and eczema.  The aloe vera has added soothing properties, often used on sunburn and to help heal inflamed, burnt skin. Many people associate the smell of aloe vera with summer and holiday time, which is no wonder given its healing properties.

The My Little Sudocrem Aloe Vera is the same rich Sudocrem but with the added aloe vera you have a fresh and slightly fruity fragrance too.  I loved using this on my knees and elbows when working from home (it’s a bit rich for hands and if you use it on the face, make sure you really rub it in). It’s also great for holidays because it’s only 22 grams so it’s well under the airport limit.  I found that the Sudocrem Aloe Vera left my skin soft and hydrated with the lovely fragrance of aloe vera that lasted all day.

Available from £2.99 at:

https://www.boots.com/mam-easy-start-bottle-set-small—pink-10340965?srsltid=AfmBOor5K-mPy6VkdIxGr4QX0_rN_4BxTTQVjK_HaDeS0m5Q2xHSjXqF

Schwartzkopf Curl Products

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Christmas, Gifts for Her, Mother's Day, secret santa, Stocking Fillers, Summer, 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.

Summer heat can be the ultimate test for curly hair – one moment, your curls are perfectly defined, the next, they’re overtaken by frizz and start to look a little wild!  Those with curls will agree, when the weather is hot, curls require a lot more care and attention to maintain their shape and keep them hydrated to keep the dreaded frizz at bay.  Fortunately, I’ve found a collection of Schwarzkopf products that that are proving indispensable for keeping my curls in check and they are working tirelessly to keep every curl controlled, moisturised, and impeccably styled.

Let’s start with my two haircare essentials – the Curl Mousse and Curl Balm. Both are vegan-friendly and formulated with innovative HAPTIQ® technology, which strengthens the hair’s micro-bonds while infusing it with a light fresh fragrance. For my shoulder-length curls, I apply a golf ball-sized amount of mousse to soaking wet hair, scrunch it in thoroughly, then follow with the balm. I then diffuse gently to create beautifully defined, soft curls that hold their shape all day – with zero frizz. These formulas deliver essential moisture to my dry curls eliminating that dreaded straw-like feel and leaving my curls soft, bouncy, and healthy-looking.

Both products cost £6 and are available at Boots

To protect my hair from heat damage, I’ve been relying on Schwarzkopf Protect and Repair Spray. The vegan-friendly formula offers protection against temperatures up to 220°C, making it ideal whether I’m diffusing my curls or reaching for the straighteners. Like the rest of the range, it’s enriched with HAPTIQ® technology, which not only creates a protective barrier between heat tools and hair but also helps to smooth strands, reduce frizz, and enhance shine. The spray itself is ultra-fine and evenly dispersed and a little goes a long way.

The final step in my haircare routine is the Schwarzkopf Caring Hairspray – a beautifully lightweight mist that delivers long-lasting hold without leaving my curls feeling stiff or crunchy. Once again, it’s infused with HAPTIQ® technology, and the vegan-friendly formula works to strengthen and smooth each strand, leaving hair with a healthy, polished finish. It’s the perfect way to lock in your style while maintaining natural bounce, softness, and shine. Whether I’m up against frizz or unpredictable weather, this hairspray keeps my curls perfectly defined and under control – all day long.

Both products cost £6 and are exclusive to Superdrug

So yes, summer heat can be a challenge, but with the right products and a little expert care, your curls can look sensational, whatever the weather.

Helly Hansen Scout Duffel and Scout Wash Bag

beauty, Birthday Gifts, camping, Family Life, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, hiking, Summer, travel

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

Whether you’re camping in the Yorkshire Dales, catching a flight to somewhere hot and sunny or heading to a cosy countryside hotel, there are two pieces of kit every traveller needs  and they are  a decent wash bag and a sturdy holdall.

Over the years I’ve owned plenty and the quality really does vary from brand to brand. Broken zips, flimsy fabric that doesn’t stand up to wear and tear, and wash bags that fail to contain leaks – I’ve seen (and cleaned up) the lot. So, when Helly Hansen got in touch and asked if we’d like to test out their Scout Duffel and Scout Wash Bag, I was more than happy to put them through their paces.

A wash bag might not be the most glamorous piece of travel gear, but it’s one of the most useful – and one of the most abused. It needs to be strong, practical, and large enough to carry all the essentials and the Helly Hansen Scout Wash Bag (RRP £25) impressed me straight away. It’s made from tough 600D polyester with a water-resistant TPU membrane and is ideal for keeping the inevitable shampoo or shower gel leaks contained and away from the rest of your luggage.

Inside, there’s one spacious main compartment, plus a mesh ventilation pocket for smaller items like lip balm or toothbrushes. The hanging loop is sturdy and ideal for use in campsite toilet blocks where surfaces can be few and far between. It’s deep enough to stand travel-sized bottles upright and even fits a few full-sized products without becoming bulky. The only thing I’d add is another mesh pocket for a bit more internal organisation, but all in all, it’s a robust, functional wash bag that is made to last.

Now, on to the Scout Duffel. This one comes in four sizes – 30L, 50L, 70L, and 90L – so there’s one for every kind of trip, from overnight stays to longer adventures. We tested the 30L version and found it to be the perfect size for weekends away. It’s got a wide, U-shaped zip opening that makes packing and unpacking nice and easy and even when empty, the bag will hold its shape, which makes organising your things that little bit easier. A handy separate zipped compartment at one end is great for shoes or dirty laundry, and if you want to keep your hands free, padded shoulder straps are tucked away in the top lid so you can wear it as a backpack.

Like the wash bag, it’s made from tough 600D nylon with a TPU coating for water resistance – handy when you’re navigating train stations in the rain or hauling your bag across a muddy field. There’s also a lockable zip on the main compartment, offering that extra bit of security if your bag’s going in the hold or overhead rack.

Both the Scout Wash Bag and Duffel come in a range of colours – Rain Blue, Purple Clay, Alpine Frost, and classic Black so there’s something to suit every taste.

In short, these two bits of kit are practical, well-designed, and built to withstand the demands of regular travel. Whether you’re a camper, a weekender, or a frequent flyer, the Scout range from Helly Hansen is well worth a look.

Warmies Yellow Flower Pot

Children, Gifts for children, Gifts for Her, Gifts for teachers, Home & Garden, secret santa, Stocking Fillers, Summer, Toys, Valentine's Day Gifts, Winter, Women

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

At first glance this adorable Warmies Yellow Flower Pot looks like a cheerful soft toy, but this little beauty has a soothing secret! Filled with natural grains and gently scented with real French lavender, it’s designed to help you relax, unwind and even drift off to sleep. Simply pop it in the microwave -for 60 seconds if your microwave is 600–800W, or just 45 seconds for 850–1000W and the comforting warmth releases the most calming lavender scent. Perfect for those nights when you need a bit of help winding down.

And here’s a clever twist for summer: it’s just as effective cooled! Pop it in the freezer for a little while and it becomes a refreshing cold compress, ideal for warm evenings, little bumps, or even giving a spot of relief from menopausal hot flushes.

I’ve been using mine instead of a traditional heat pad, and it’s worked wonders for cramps and aches. The little ones have totally fallen for it too, cuddling up it at bedtime, and it’s really helped them settle quicker and sleep more soundly.

There are three gorgeous colours to choose from, yellow, blue, and orange and the bright, happy flowers look fantastic on a shelf. Plus, no watering required!

Whether you’re after a sweet bedtime soother or a cute, cooling cuddle buddy for the warmer months, this lovely little flower pot is a total summer must-have.

RRP £24.99

FIGGI Beauty products

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Gifts for Her, Gifts for teachers, Mother's Day, Stocking Fillers, Summer, 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 team at FIGGI Beauty have sent us a whole hamper of lovely beauty products to try from their FIGGI range. So many products in fact, that I have had a hard time keeping up with all that there is to try!  FIGGI Beauty is rooted in a philosophy that skincare should be gentle, effective and rooted in self-care. The range is produced by Jeanne, who turned her life around after a diagnosis and decided to create her own skincare range based on her favourite product – South African Rooibos!

The first set of products is the FIGGI Beauty Purify The Goddess Makeup Dissolving Balm-to-Oil Cleanser for dry/sensitive skin and Refresh The Goddess Gentle Gel Cleanser for dry/sensitive skin.  Both bottles, used together, are 100ml pumps that remove make up and daily dirt. Purify The Goddess starts off as a balm and then melts into the skin nicely, to be able to wipe away make up. It’s not heavy at all but it does have the properties of an oil to be able to glide over the skin. It also dissolves any make up that it encounters! The second stage is Refresh The Goddess which is a gel. This doesn’t melt as much, and it seems more hydrating so it seems fitting that the two of them work together to combat dry skin. The lack of alcohol in these two products means your skin doesn’t dry out when they’re used and they do really work to dissolve make up effectively. I haven’t had any reactions to the products either. 

Nourish The Goddess Evening Rescue Cream (also made with Rooibos) is a great follow-up to the cleansers. It’s light, with no fragrance and absorbs easily. A night cream doesn’t have to have a heavy SPF so Nourish The Goddess hydrates the skin, leaving it with that subtle dewy look.  It’s certainly hydrating and doesn’t clog pores at night allowing your skin to renew.

Nurture the Goddess Antioxidant Enriched Day Cream managed to hydrate even my tough skin and although it’s fragrance-free too, it did seem to have a lovely ‘aura’ about it when I put it on. This Goddess Day Cream strengthens the barrier of the skin and defends against daily environmental factors. I used this throughout the day at my desk to hydrate my face in the ridiculously hot weather. Unlike the Evening Rescue Cream, Nurture The Goddess doesn’t leave a shininess to the skin. Instead, it’s a matt finish which allows you to wear make up on top of it.  I like how light this cream is, and it goes a long way so you don’t need much. I can highly recommend leaving it on your desk to use frequently too!

The Slow Glow Gentle Retinol Renewal Serum for Dry/Sensitive Skin provides a gentle base to your FIGGI skincare. Worn under the Nourish The Goddess Evening Rescue Cream, Slow Glow needs to be used 1-3 times a week and then built up over time until it is used nightly. This is because retinol is a powerful ingredient but works with the Night Cream to make your skin more luminous. I have used this a few times but not every night so far (I’m building up to it!) and it does give a lovely base and I can feel my skin more hydrated.

Finally, FIGGI Miracle Mist is a Rooibos infused Toner-Mist which is also aimed at dry or sensitive skin. It’s also fragrance free and Essential Oil Free.  This 120ml spray was a life saver during the hot weather, and I highly recommend leaving this on your desk too! The refreshing spray hydrates the skin but I also found during the heatwave that the evaporation helped loads especially in the evening. It’s no wonder that Miracle Mist won silver in the Universal Beauty Awards 2025 with the duel hydrating and antioxidant properties.  It’s a great addition to your skincare bundle.

The whole FIGGI range is available to buy at: https://www.figgibeautyuk.com/collections/all with some products already in bundles. Postage is free when you spend over £30.

Delph Sun Care SPF Sun Cream

beauty, camping, Family Life, hiking, Sport, Summer, Vegan, Women

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

A trip to the Welsh coast during the hottest week of the year was the perfect opportunity for us to put Delph sun care products to the test. With a campsite right by the beach and long coastal and mountain walks planned, I knew we were going to need plenty of sun protection.

Suncream can be pricey, especially when you need to keep reapplying throughout the day, but Delph offers a fantastic budget friendly option that doesn’t compromise on quality. Both the SPF30 and SPF50 are very reasonably priced (RRP £8.99 and £9.99 respectively), and they’re also extra water resistant making them perfect for beach days, swimming and hiking. Delph sun cream are also one of only seven brands that can be prescribed by doctors for people with medical skin conditions so they’re perfect for those with sensitive skin too.

Over the course of the week, I used both the SPF30 and SPF50, applying in the morning and topping up during the day, especially on my neck and shoulders, which are prone to burning. I also reapplied after going in the sea. Despite hours of blazing sunshine (we definitely picked the right week!), my skin didn’t burn and is now looking healthy and golden.

After a day in the sun, good after sun cream is essential and the Delph After Sun Lotion (RRP £3.99) contains soothing Aloe Vera, moisturisers, and Vitamin E to help soothe and calm your skin after being in the sun. The rich, nourishing lotion helped cool and hydrate my skin, sinking in easily and leaving it feeling soft and refreshed. It is also helping my tan last a little longer with no sign of any peeling.

With its UVA, UVB, and water resistant properties, Delph sun creams offer great all-round protection, whether you are playing on the beach, walking, sailing or just out and about in the sun. Affordable, effective, and kind to skin they are summer essentials.

Available from Delph Sun, Independant Pharmacies, Amazon and Weldricks

Altamura Vodka for Father’s Day

alcoholic drinks, Birthday Gifts, Drinks and Mixers, Father's Day, Food & Drink, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Gifts for teachers, Summer

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.

You probably don’t associate vodka being Italian, bu I bet you didn’t know that Altamura Vodka was made from ancient grain, making it 2,000 years old? The ancient durum wheat is grown in Altamura or neighbouring Puglia to produce vodka which can confidently say that it’s been around longer than most other spirits!  

At 43% proof, this is one for cocktails, which Altamura is perfectly suited for thanks to its raw wheat taste which blends to a soft finish. There’s tones of lemon and grapefruit there too, not unlike the hills of the Altamura region in Italy.

For vodka lovers, Altamura is a great choice as something different yet classic. There are fewer ingredients which gives it a clearer taste and makes it excellent for making cocktails with.  Versatile vodka is great for Father’s Day or as a birthday present, especially if Dad likes Italian spirits!

Available for £36.25 at: https://www.masterofmalt.com/vodka/altamura/altamura-vodka/?utm_content=altamura/altamura-vodka&currencyCode=GBP&utm_source=database&utm_medium=base&utm_campaign=mom_base_1&gad_source=4&gad_campaignid=17147192555&gbraid=0AAAAADr4rM2JLNRmgLeQLC1RQMhK-LIxU&gclid=Cj0KCQjwu7TCBhCYARIsAM_S3NhTrnTaW3PNe9xSs8Y00q0eoblHeZO8FBotZaRj0H6Soxl1kChHBK0aAiEQEALw_wcB

Mr White’s Gin

alcoholic drinks, Birthday Gifts, Drinks and Mixers, Father's Day, Food & Drink, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Summer

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.

Marco Pierre White is known as being Britain’s premier Michelin Star winning chef from the 80s to today with number other awards under his belt, and well as making more hot dinners, well than you’ve had hot dinners!  Did you know that he’s ventured into making gin though? Mr White’s London Dry Gin was created by Marco with Master Distillers to use to top of the range ingredients and the best distillery process to make this top tier, 40% gin.

The London Dry gin has been described as ‘redefining a London Dry’ due to the gin being juniper-forward. This is not a gin for a first-time taster, but more the pinnacle gin for those who have tried every gin out there and got bored.  Wanting to try a more sophisticated flavour, connoisseurs will love the simplicity of this taste that incorporates the smooth texture of London Dry as well as the gin/juniper flavour. 

The taste is not ostentatious.  You can tell that it’s been cultivated in copper pot still because of the clean taste but it’s also powerful and hits like a gin from first sip to aftertaste. The 40% proof is evident, and I would suggest only drinking neat the first time then mixing afterwards, or creating a fabulous cocktail with it that exemplifies its pureness.

The bottle is gorgeous (white of course!) and signed by Mr White himself. The bottle is also huge, but only the average spirit size of 70cl. You’ll notice Marco Pierre White’s name at the top and ‘Established 1961; which refer to the chef himself, not the age of the spirit!

This is a brilliant Father’s Day gift for gin lovers, or anyone who appreciated a really good bottle being added to the collection. If you’re serving cocktails to that special man this Father’s Day, you might like to try this…

The MR. WHITE’S Classic Negroni Bianco

* 30ml MR. WHITE’S GIN

* 30ml White vermouth

* 30ml Suze.

Method

Add all ingredients into mixing glass and stir with ice. Strain into a clear, heavy tumbler, with a single large ice cube or ice ball and garnish with grapefruit peel.

Available at: https://www.sainsburys.co.uk/gol-ui/groceries

The Photo Creator Mini Digital Keyring Camera 

Birthday Gifts, Children, Family Life, Games, Gifts for children, Home, Learning, Stocking Fillers, Summer, Tech, 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.

Although this is meant to be a toy for children aged 8+ years, I found myself enjoying playing with this myself! Photo Creator’s Mini Digital Keyring Camera is only a few inches square, the perfect size for a keyring but is also a fully functioning digital camera. It comes with a keychain, USB cable and 1G memory card which is actually more than enough for a child to play around with it until it’s time to download the photos, and it’s amazing that it all fits into one little camera!

Surprisingly, it also takes video as well as photos. If you want to add a memory card with more than 1G then it’s possible, especially if your child wants to take movies. The viewing screen is 1 inch from corner to corner, but it does contain a flash as well as a microphone. I would have loved this as a child! Think of all the adventures you could have and the memories stored when you’re too young for a phone but old enough to know how work a camera?

There’s only a few buttons on it – Camera/film, on/off, and a scroll button on the side to be able to go through the photos before they’re uploaded. The SD card and the cable outlet are on the bottom.  The photos upload really quickly too and they’re good enough quality!

The MiniCams come in different colours and styles. Our one is a Vintage style, which is purple and in the style of an old camera. There’s also Original (green), Retro (blue), Pro (light green), Compact (pink) and Instant (orange) which means children can collect them or they can have a set of them to share on adventures or school holidays.

This is brilliant as a gift for taking children on a plane or on holiday to keep them amused, plus it adds to their creativity as they look at the world through a photographic lens but without having to have a smart phone. It also introduces young children to how digital cameras and uploading photos works. At the price of less than £15, it’s a stocking filler too, or a gift in the post from Godparents. I love it!

Available from £14.99 at: https://www.very.co.uk/studio-creator-photo-creator-mini-digital-camera/1601152164.prd?sku=sku29130795&cm_mmc=google-_-PLA+-+Generic-_–_-__[*AdID*]&utm_campaign=Generic_TGB+%26+Seasonal+-+PMAX+-+Toys+%26+Games&utm_medium=cpc&utm_source=google&utm_term=&campaigntype=shopping&gclsrc=aw.ds&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22329058728&gbraid=0AAAAAD2k1i3Ch60Tzk1BTNFV356uct_Ih&gclid=Cj0KCQjwxo_CBhDbARIsADWpDH4DcrxPwlqfkp6_2NVe2NnYPq_AvIJTHLXW96AudHkx4oW2Bwa7YWkaAjXzEALw_wcB

Elegear Cooling Blanket

Birthday Gifts, camping, Family Life, Father's Day, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Him, Home, Summer

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’ve been lucky with the warmer weather this spring but what we’re not lucky with is air conditioning! When the weather gets too hot, it’s difficult to cool down in the summer without some help. Luckily, Elegear have this Cooling Blanket that has Arc-Chil technology to literally cool down your body when it’s warm and wick away heat. We were sent a blanket to try out!

The blanket comes in sizes relating to bed size, so our blanket was 150cm by 200cm, which is a double bed size.  He instructions say to keep the ‘cool’ or shiny side of the blanket in contact with your body, which might be counterintuitive but this is the side where the Arc-Chil technology works. The blanket absorbs heat from the body and vaporizes sweat away using the layers of nylon and micro materials, keeping the body at an even temperature all over.

The blanket feels huge but it’s actually quite thin in texture. Our blanket was grey but there are other colours available such as pink, blue, beige and green and other sizes. When it comes to ease of use, it’s very easy to just wrap around you, and the more I think about it, the more I realise it could be used at home, camping, BBQs, for children or for the elderly.  The blanket really does evaporate away heat! It’s noticeable that it stays cool, much like the cold side of the pillow when you’re trying to get to sleep.

The Elegear Arc-Chil Cooling Blanket can be washed at 30 degrees centigrade but is not to be tumble dried, ironed nor dry cleaned. It is best to hang it outside to dry, and in the shade so that the colour doesn’t fade.  It’s a great price as a gift too!

Available online now for £27.19 at: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0897H7LMN?th=1

Rio Mare Insalatissime Tuna Salads

camping, Family Life, Food & Drink, health, Lunchbox Fillers, snacks, Summer

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.

Rio Mare have launched t heir Insalatissime Tuna Salad range in the UK, and we can understand why it’s so popular in Italy!  Tuna salads got serious with their range of snacks and we were sent a ton of them to try…

From Mexican Style to Sweetcorn with Peas, Carrots & Olives and the very tasty Couscous with Chickpeas, Peas & Cherry Tomatoes, these handy snack pots were a blessing when I was hungry. They’re super easy to store in the fridge and you can just eat them straight from the can, although I added them to toast or salad! Great for picnics or a school lunchbox too, I like the way that there are so many varieties you never get bored of them.  I was pleasantly surprised by the taste as well. There’s tuna in each can, but there’s also a mix of vegetables so you get a whole meal in one or an accompaniment to another dish, much like a mini-tapas serving.  

We were also sent 3 varieties of tuna in cans too; Tuna with Pepper, Tuna with Lemon & Black Pepper and Tuna with Olive Oil. These cans can also be eaten on their own as a snack or part of a meal, but are more versatile as they can be added to dishes.  These little cans of between 65grams and 80grams are great for sandwiches or adding to a pasta dish as they already have the oil and lots of flavour, and the cans keep them super fresh. Most of the cans are MSC too, so they’re helping the ocean wildlife.

I was a fan of tuna anyway, but I usually mix a plain can in with mayonnaise or eat it on toast but now that there are these easy to open smaller cans, and the brilliant 160grams tins that can replace a meal, I’m going to rethink how I ‘tuna’ in the future!

From £3.80 at: https://www.ocado.com/search?entry=Rio%20Mare

https://www.riomare.co.uk/products/insalatissime-en/

Harris Outdoor Painting Brushes

Family Life, Home, Home & Garden, Summer

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

As the glorious weather continues, thoughts go to spending time outdoors and doing those DIY jobs. Harris are one of the leading manufacturers of brushes, so it makes sense to start your job right with the correct tools. We were sent the Harris Ultimate Shed & Fence Swan Neck Paint Brush and the Harris Seriously Good 4 Inch Shed, Fence & Decking Roller Set. Links are below so that you know what they look like!

Starting with the Swan Neck Paint Brush, the swan neck gives an ergonomic angle to be able to paint any surface either at 180 or 90 degrees. Perfect for staining decking too, the brush comes with a cover to keep the bristles from drying out for up to 2 weeks, or if you’re storing it for longer, to protect the bristles over winter.  The handle is available in two lengths – 100mm and 120mm.  The ergonomic handle allows you to paint up to 40% faster and there’s the No-Loss guarantee of no bristle loss.

The Harris Seriously Good 4 Inch Shed, Fence & Decking Roller Set is a brilliant all-in-one starter set to get your outdoor project going. Comprising of a paint tray, roller and 3 interchangeable roller sleeves and a 2” brush, you have everything you need to get started on the outdoor woodwork.  The whole kit is designed to give you maximum coverage with the size of brush and rollers that will allow you to cover most shed panels and fence feathers easily.  

All of the products are high quality, and I already knew that if you wanted to have a good finish, use a Harris brush. I didn’t know that Harris also did outdoor brushes too so this was a nice surprise. All of the brushes and rollers are able to be cleaned and used again too, which makes these a brilliant investment.

Harris Seriously Good 4 Inch Shed, Fence & Decking Roller Set
Ultimate Shed & Fence Swan Neck Paint Brush 120mm

Filippo Berio Oils and Condiments for Summer

Family Life, Food & Drink, Home, Summer

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.

Until you really look at the aisles, you don’t realise what delicious condiments are out there and ready to use. Filippo Berio have your very handy Extra Virgin Olive Oil but have you ever used Filippo Berio’s Chilli Flavoured Olive Oil? Or their Balsamic Vinegar of Modena?  Along with a jar of Filippo Berio’s Classic Pesto and a bottle of Filippo Berio’s Classic Glaze with Balsamic Vinegar of Modena, we were sent a set to try, just in time for summer!

Filippo Berio’s Extra Virgin Olive Oil is well known for cooking and dressings, and is my go-to when making salads and especially pan frying. Occasionally I have been brave and tried to make bread with the olive oil, but I must confess I’m not great at bread baking!  Still, the quality of Filippo Berio’s olive oil makes it perfect for any kitchen, no matter how adventurous you’re trying to be. This Extra Virgin Olive Oil has a slight bitter taste to it, just like you find in Italy when you buy olive oil from the source.

To add a bit of fiery to your meals, Filippo Berio’s Chilli Flavoured Olive Oil is just that – their famous olive oil but infused with chillis to give a spicier kick.  This one is great for pizzas and pasta or I add it to a chicken sandwich to give it more flavour. It’s pretty hot if you use it liberally and probably not one for children as it contains real pieces of dried chilli.  Try it with tuna too to make a salad more interesting.

The Filippo Berio Classic Pesto is just that. I don’t buy any other brand because I don’t like how bitter they are but this classic recipe, made with Italian basil and olive oil, it’s incredibly versatile. I use it on salmon to give a tasty topping as it cooks in the oven, but it goes well in chicken and even on toast if you want a snack.  I also put it on roast potatoes with the skins still on and add a bit of parmesan to give an extra Italian flavour.

We also loved the Filippo Berio Premium Balsamic Vinegar from Modena.  If you’ve not tried this with olive oil and bread then you’ve never tasted Italy!  In many restaurants, they bring this out before you order with a bowl of olive oil and several different breads. Pouring the Balsamic Vinegar into the bowl, you dip the breads into both and the flavour of the vinegar and olive oil work together to give a uniquely Italian taste. Balsamic vinegar is created from grape must and this recipe is traditionally made in the Modena region and certified by the IGP European Designation. This is also great for salad dressings or in soups and meat dishes.

Lastly, the Filippo Berio Classic Glaze with Balsamic Vinegar of Modena. Glazes can be used similarly to vinegars, although they are thicker and give a good coating to meats if needed. This glaze with Balsamic Vinegar is also good for sweeter dishes like ice cream and with fruits but I prefer it on chicken to give a sticky finish that’s also delicious!

Next time you’re in the condiments aisle, skip past the ketchup and have a look at what Filippo Berio has to offer and you might be surprised at what flavours you find.

All items available in most supermarkets or online at: https://www.filippoberio.co.uk/filippo-berio-our-products/

Hair Syrup Pre-Wash Conditioner

beauty, Birthday Gifts, Gifts for Her, Mother's Day, Summer, 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 folks at Hair Syrup are serious about hair care. With various ‘flavours’ of syrup, their aim is to treat hair to give you your best look regardless of how brittle, frizzy, oily or thin it is.  We were sent the Original Hair Syrup this week to try out for ourselves.

The premise of Hair Syrup is that it’s a ridiculously thick oil which repairs damaged hair.  The bottle says to leave on your hair for 1-3 hours, so not one for disobeying orders, I put the Hair Syrup on my own hair, making sure all areas were covered and set about my normal weekend routine for just over 3 hours. I made sure all areas of my hair were covered, right down to the tips, as well as the scalp. My hair had only been washed the day before, but needs a trim so the ends were a bit dry – a good test for this pre-conditioner I thought!

I only had to tie my hair up to let the Hair Syrup magic work, but I could feel over time that it was really heavy. This was partly because after about an hour you can feel the syrup drying, so in the height of summer like this, I might cover my head next time so that it doesn’t dry. It was a nutritious oil which was working on my hair.

When it came to shampooing it out (and they suggest on the bottle that it takes 2 shampoos) I was able to get most of the by now dry, brittle mixture to come out with one shampoo. The second one was to make sure it was completely clean.  Conditioning as normal as I did (you can leave out the conditioner if you like) I then rinsed off to see the effect.

After just one treatment (of 3 hours) my hair was much more conditioned. I let it dry naturally, and instead of the frizziness I usually have and then have to straighten, I had my proper, big curls back.  They weren’t perfect, but this was after just one treatment and with no product, drying on a hot day.  It’s seriously impressive that I didn’t have to do much else, nor spend that much time or money on the result.

I think Hair Syrup is one for the long term. Once I get my hair trimmed this week, a few more Hair Syrup pre-conditionings and I’ll have some seriously slick hair!

Available for around £15.95 online and on the Hair Syrup website:

SYRUPS

Helly Hansen Women’s Verglas 2.5 Layer Fastpack Jacket

Autumn, Birthday Gifts, camping, Days Out, Family Life, Fashion, Gifts for Her, hiking, National Walking Month, Spring, Summer, 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.

In our final item from the Helly Hansen delivery, we have the Women’s Verglas 2.5 Layer Fastpack Jacket.  This extremely lightweight jacket can be folded into one tiny sized pocket to take on hikes, or can be worn whilst running or hiking without getting in the way due to its weight. It’s waterproof too so you can keep the majority of the weather away from you. It’s breathable too so you can wear it in the rain, when it’s windy or hot or a combination of all three!

The added benefits of. The Verglas 2.5 Fastpack Jacket include a hood, zip-up pockets, fleece chin guard, elastic cuffs and hem, and the 2.5 layer material construction which adds the waterproof and breathable functions.  It’s pricy at £200 but it’s meant for the serious outdoor types who love the wet weather!  This is a quality piece which can be worn or taken out for years.  I wear a size XL in this and it’s a bit snug, so if you’re bulked up with layers underneath, it might be worth getting a larger size than normal.

The Veriglas 2.5 Layer Fastpack Jacket is brilliant for putting in a backpack on a long journey, even if you’re just travelling by train across the country or leave it in the car because it’s so light it can’t not be useful.

Available from £200: https://www.hellyhansen.com/en_gb/w-verglas-25l-fastpack-jacket-63313?color=290002