FacebookTweetPin Sentimental Pet Lover Gifts That Will Melt Their Heart     Part of the reason I love writing gift guides, like this one full of sentimental pet lover gifts, is because these are genuinely the kind of gifts I’d love to receive myself or give to someone special (and, honestly, I often do!).   I always like to think of things that are a little outside the box, so when you give the gift, the person can see how much thought has gone into it. It’s the kind of gift that says so much more. It shows you truly know them and what means the most to them, in this case, their beloved pet.   Pets are honestly gifts in themselves. Whether it’s a dog gift, a cat gift, something for a small pet like a rabbit, or even a bigger pet like a horse, there’s always a perfect, thoughtful surprise you can find for the pet lover and their sweet little companion.   What I love about pet lover gift ideas is that you can either choose something for the pet, or for the pet owner, and either way, they’re going to find it touching and meaningful.   The key is always to think about the person and what they love, or what would make their life easier. For example, some of the best pet lover gifts I’ve ever received were a tote bag covered in poodles (I adore poodles, obviously!) and an extendable dog lead, because at the time, I really needed one. If you’re looking for pet lover gifts that feel a little more personal and meaningful, I’ve found some of my favorite thoughtful picks below.     Sentimental Pet Lover Gifts That Will Melt Their Heart   1 Personalised paw print   Photo credit: PoochPrintsOfficial Use the sweet pet’s paw to create a personalised gift, like this thoughtful paw print mug. You could put the print onto anything like a tea towel, cushion, or even a homemade card, and customise it with the gift recipient’s favourite colour too. Buy on Etsy     2. Pet portrait in famous painting Photo credit: WatercolourWishing Buy on Etsy A pet painting is a beautiful gift, but this unique idea of your pet in a famous painting takes it to a new level. Imagine unwrapping this and then noticing your sweet pet in the picture, something so worth displaying.   3. Pet into stickers Photo credit: SunshineStickerUSA Buy on Etsy If your friend loves stickers or fun little things, I think this idea is so quirky. You can take any photo of their pet and turn it into a whole roll of custom stickers.     4. Personalised pocket pet Photo credit:  HandOfSpice Buy on Etsy I have no idea how the creator makes these, but I am in awe. They are seriously amazing! Imagine turning their own pet into a little pocket-sized buddy. Such a cute and thoughtful gift idea.     5. Interesting facts about your breed       Whatever pet your friend has, or maybe even multiple pets, an interesting or fun fact book will be a lovely read for them. We can never get bored of learning about the things we love, and there’s always more to discover.   6. Book a dog groom   If the pet lover has a dog, booking them in for a dog groom or paying for a pamper session is a brilliant choice. As a dog owner, I know this would be greatly appreciated.   7. Meal at a pet-friendly resteraunt   A voucher for a meal at a pet-friendly restaurant. I can’t tell you how much my pet-loving friend and I value a restaurant or pub that allows dogs. The vibe is always so relaxed, you don’t have to worry about leaving your dog at home, and it makes the whole outing feel much more enjoyable and inclusive.   8.  Airtag Cat collar   This sweet idea is perfect for adding an Apple AirTag to the pet’s collar. You’ll be giving the gift of peace of mind, which is invaluable!   9. GPS Dog tracker   This GPS dog tracker is genius! I know I need one for one of my little dogs who loves to detour and often ventures too far. It’s such a wonderful, thoughtful gift for any pet lover.     10. Door mat for muddy paws   The gift of making a clean home easier for a pet lover, this idea would be gratefully received and oh so useful. Plus, machine washable makes it even better! I love my machine-washable rugs and couldn’t recommend them enough!   11. Animal puzzle   Whatever pet your friend has, you’re bound to find an adorable puzzle with a pet-inspired theme. Puzzles are also calming to do, making this a love-filled gift for any pet lover.     12. Pet lover top Photo credit: MarketstallShop Buy on Etsy A pet lover top can also be stylish, just look at the one above, I love it! With so many options to customize, or even a cute quote like the one above, you’re spoiled for choice when finding the perfect gift for a pet lover.   13.  Custom bookmark Photo credit: ZKPortraitsWorkshop Buy on Etsy Is the pet lover also a book lover? Then how perfect is this gift! Their very own pet’s photo as a bookmark, unique and thoughtful. I absolutely love this idea!   14. Pet and owner birthstone necklace   Photo credit: BuzzyBearShop Buy on Etsy I got excited when I saw this because I have a friend who would absolutely adore it. It’s such a beautiful way to show that you understand how much their pet(s) mean to them. That’s the special part of gifting, and it’s why I love coming up with ideas so much.   15.  Personalized story about your pet   Photo credit: MySpecialTales Buy on Etsy I thought this idea was super sweet for any creative gift givers out there. […]

FacebookTweetPin Beautiful and Easy Toddler Girl Bedroom Ideas You’ll Love Toddler girl bedroom ideas.   Photo by Justin Simmonds on Unsplash   I recently have been decorating my daughter’s bedroom, and it is the MOST fun. Probably one of the most enjoyable rooms I’ve decorated. There are so many adorable ways to decorate girls’ bedrooms that I couldn’t wait to share some wonderful tips and ideas with you. It doesn’t matter if you have a large space, small space, or a very uniquely shaped space to work with, because there are countless ways to make your girl’s toddler bedroom perfect for her style and needs. I decorated my daughter’s bedroom by myself, so I wanted to share what I’ve learned with you. I know there are many of you out there who also want to enjoy the project with as few bumps in the road as possible. I have been searching all over for beautiful girls’ toddler bedroom decor and girls’ toddler room furniture to find the perfect pieces. Whatever your vision for your toddler bedroom girl is, I want to help you bring that to life.   You may love: Beautiful Yet Simple Decorating Ideas For The Home I’ve Used   Beautiful and Easy Toddler Girl Bedroom Ideas 1. Statement bed   View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Rozalia Kapłaniuk (@life_of_rozalie)   I feel like this is an important one. When I put my daughter’s bed in her room, it completely made it her space. I went for a sleigh bed, and I think it is just beautiful. There are many other gorgeous optios too. Such as canopy beds, upholstered beds, wrought iron beds, day beds, tufted beds, four poster beds, tepee floor beds and rattan beds.  Some best picks I found for you: 2. Complimentary light shade   View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Four Little Pigs – KIDS INTERIORS (@fourlittlepigs_kids_interiors) This light shade is possibly one of my favourites I’ve seen yet. The softness, character, and finish a light shade can bring make it a joyful addition to shop for, and I’ve found some gorgeous ones.     3. Cozy Rug   View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Project Nursery (@projectnursery)     An inviting, warm, and cozy rug adds so much love to your toddler girl’s bedroom. It’s a simple way to bring in colour, brighten up the space, or keep things soft and neutral, whatever suits your style. It also adds that extra layer of texture that makes a room feel complete. And as a bonus, if it feels amazing underfoot, it’s a lovely little sensory moment too. 4. Smart storage   View this post on Instagram   A post shared by 𝚉𝚘𝚎, 𝙼𝚊𝚝𝚝 & 𝙵𝚒𝚗𝚗 (@reno_on_the_park)   It’s very smart to think of clever storage options for your toddler girl’s room. Well, not only because they seem to need SO much stuff (shall I say toys), but it also keeps things easy to organise. I also feel like it helps them learn brilliant skills for keeping their space tidy, as we can make it easier and more simple for them. What a gift all around. 5. Display the special things   View this post on Instagram   A post shared by 𝙹 𝚎 𝚗 𝚗 𝚢 (@hausnummereinszwei)   I love how they’ve displayed the clothes here instead of putting them away in a closed wardrobe, because don’t we just adore girls’ clothes?! This could also be keepsakes from special occasions, their own little artwork gallery wall, or even a wall of family photos. Including these as part of your toddler girl’s bedroom decor makes the space feel just as homey as it is stylish. And it’s such a lovely thing for you to put together, and to keep adding to over time. 7. Reading corner   View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Amanda. Content Creator. UGC. Aus (@happiwanderers) A reading corner is a little quiet luxury for any bedroom, especially when it comes to inspiring a young reader and planting the seeds for a future love of books. It’s also just so lovely to have a cozy spot where they can snuggle up with their teddies and enjoy some calm, peaceful time.     8. Wall decor   View this post on Instagram   A post shared by The Little Jones • Kate (@thelittlejones) What I’ve noticed is that wall decor brings that comforting, lived-in feeling to a toddler girl’s bedroom. By carefully choosing your textures, styles, visuals, even the words, you can wrap it all up into a space that feels as complete as a present tied with a pretty bow. Your toddler will be delighted as she looks around her room, and there are so many lovely options to make it feel just right for her.   8. Choosing the right curtains   View this post on Instagram   A post shared by HALI VAGONU (@halivagonu)   I feel like curtains are another beautiful toddler girl’s bedroom idea because they’re such a personal choice. And truly, no one can tell you what’s right for your own little girl’s room. Luckily, there are so many stunning fabrics and patterns out there for you to match with your decor and suit your needs perfectly.   8. Small details pull it all together   View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Emily | DIY & Affordable Home Styling (@thebluesprucedhome)   Small details, like the gold handles on the chest of drawers in this beautiful toddler girl’s bedroom, the wooden personalised frame with her name on it, and a carefully chosen plant, add that special touch that makes the space feel unique and luxurious. So don’t forget about the little things, because they really do add up to the bigger picture.   9. Add the fabrics   View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Sarah 💫 (@mynorthernabode)   Fabrics add coziness, layers, and […]

FacebookTweetPin Dreamy Large Kitchen Ideas to Transform Your Space         How exciting to be dreaming up large kitchen ideas for your perfect cooking, entertaining, and gathering space.  Some things to consider are how you live. Do you love entertaining? Then maybe a large island with gorgeous, comfy seating is perfect for your large kitchen design. If you love cooking, then think about extra counter space, deep drawers for cookware, and high-quality appliances to make your kitchen layout work beautifully for you. These little details can make a huge difference in your overall kitchen decoration. Thinking about your layout and flow can help to make the space your cup of tea. For example, how do you move about when you cook, and what would be most convenient for you? Make the spaces between zones feel natural and easy, which is such an important part of creating a practical large kitchen design. Prioritize storage that fits your lifestyle. Pull-out shelves, deep drawers, and built-in racks with hidden appliances can really help you maximize your kitchen decor ideas and keep everything feeling organized and beautiful. Now the fun part — let your personality come out! Choosing colors, finishes, and lighting that feel like home will make the space beautiful, homey, and welcoming. Be creative with patterns, textures, and materials that you adore! These special touches are what truly make your kitchen decoration feel unique and full of life. A dreamy kitchen is both gorgeous and works well for you. Durable countertops, easy-to-clean surfaces, and wonderful lighting will make your space somewhere you truly enjoy cooking and relaxing.   You may love: 20 Genius small kitchden ideas for style and space   Dreamy Large Kitchen Ideas to Transform Your Space   1. Lake house inspired     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Jill Brecheisen (@kitchens_by_design_jill)   This kitchen just gives that warm, welcoming lake house vibe, which is inviting. The white cabinets with glass doors make it feel so open and light without losing any storage, and the warm grey island adds the softest touch of character. It’s the kind of space you can actually imagine your whole family gathering in, chatting, cooking, laughing and just being together.   2. Evergreen Elegance     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by deVOL Kitchens (@devolkitchens) The storybook colour combinations in this photo are so charming. Painted with rich greens and situated on deep natural wood tones, it gives you a sense of comfort and style.    3. Seating and art wall     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Vivir Design (@vivirdesign) Bring together art and comfort in the most gorgeous way.    4. Large roof lights     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Christian Blake Kitchens (@christianblakekitchens)   Letting in endless natural light, large roof lights open up the kitchen and make the space feel expansive and airy. Add in all of the kind of detail that makes for both drama and calm, we love it all and its perfect for modern family living. 5. Reeded cabinets     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Wescott Building (@wescottbuilding)   Textured and timeless, reeded cabinets bring subtle movement and interest to your kitchen spacw. They’re a small detail that can make the space feel totally different, especially when you are using other kitchen design ideas like carefully thought-out countertops or statement lighting. 6. Leather seats     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Greenview Renovation (@greenviewrenovation)     Leather seating adds that rich, comfort texture to a kitchen. You can explore different ideas like warm tan stools at the island or sleek black leather at the dining table.   7. Crittall-style bi-folds     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Roxanne Fregona (@vincent_the_house)   These dramatic black-framed glass doors look stunning and they allow you to connect the indoors with the outdoors. They make the kitchen open with natural light and give you that open, breathable feeling, especially in a large space. 8. Light wood mixed with light colour     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by emilyfollowillphotographer (@emilyfollowillphotographer)   Create that gorgeous feeling of harmony and calm with pale woods paired with muted colours. It’s a combination that feels fresh, relaxed, and just really easy to live in. 9.  banquette seat     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Natasha Quick (@natasha_quick)   This banquette seating is so charming and a great way to add function and comfort. Just imagine cozy breakfasts or long dinners with friends, and you can dress it up with cushions or built-in storage underneath. 10. Colourful      View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Kitchen Bath Industry Show (@kbis_official)   This will suit someone who loves a bit of (or a lot of) colour in their kitchen decor. Have fun looking at ideas such as a bright tiled backsplash, painted cabinets, or colourful bar stools, it’s a way to bring your own personality into your large kitchen decorating. 11. Patterns     View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Kate Walker Design (@katewalker_design) Pattern can add a lot of fun to the space and they can also be soft and subtle too. Consider tiled floors, wallpapered nooks, or patterned upholstery that brings a playful, layered feel to your kitchen/ 12. Timelessness ‘   View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Nancy (@simplysmashingdesigns)   Timeless kitchens aren’t about what’s trending right now, no, they’re about lasting beauty. There  is so  much to explore with timeless kitchen decor ideas, such as neutral tones, classic hardware, and layouts that just make sense. These kinds of kitchens look lovely now, and still will in ten years. 13. Make the space work for you     View this post on Instagram   A […]

FacebookTweetPin Things I Did For Self-Care Day That Genuinely Helped     If you’ve been feeling the pull to pour more into yourself, recharge, and reconnect with what makes you feel more like you, this real self-care day might give you that little nudge and prompt. I created space to slow down, notice the little things, and soak in the quiet moments. Journal prompts and connecting with nature are some of the things I discovered are a part of having the self compassion you deserve.   This post is my version of a self-love guide from me to you. It’s one that focuses on emotional self-care, intentional living, and the kind of peaceful, slow living that helps you romanticize your life again. You could be planning a wellness day at home, a mental health reset, or just looking for gentle ideas to nourish your soul, and I hope these cozy practices inspire you in your own soft, feel-lovely day.   Things I Did For Self-Care Day   Woke up slowly and gently There was no rushing, no harsh alarms.I let my body wake when it was ready, and when I got up, I moved slowly, allowing myself to ease into the morning. Sometimes, just opening the window and looking out at the trees and sky brings that soft, grounded feeling. It reminds you of the calm that’s always there, and the freeness of nature that we always have access to. Ate a comforting but nourishing breakfast  Looking forward to breakfast is my secret hack to wanting to get out of that warm, cozy bed. Knowing there’s a bowl of something like creamy oats with cinnamon, honey, and a handful of berries waiting for you to dive into. Not to forget the large cup of your soothing drink, like a rich oat milk coffee, or a calming herbal tea. To uplevel your morning treat, I love to situate myself near the window and look out at the morning birds, reminding me of nature’s pace. Washed my face and moisturised  The feeling of caringly washing your face in the morning feels so refreshing and nurturing. Not for the sake of it, but for the feeling of it.  Replaced negative thoughts with positive ones We all have negative thoughts pop into our  heads, but to mindfully think of an alternative, self serving thought, that makes you feel good is a true act of self love for your self care day. For example from “I’m not doing enough” to “I am enough, as I am.” and really feeling into that and leading from that belief with pride. Put on the right music Music can be so harmonious and expressive for us. “Knowing yourself and which music you pair with your emotions will improve self-regulation, or “feeling your feelings.” So if you want help with validating how you’re feeling today, and helping you to move towards clarity and pure happiness, try out different music and go with what feels right. Research shows that music can not only validate how someone is feeling (by matching their current emotional state) but also help improve their mood (by shifting to more uplifting music). Went into the garden barefoot/touched the soil If you take your shoes off and go walk in your garden (or anywhere that’s safe), or maybe go and do a little gardening – report back here and tell me how you feel. I want to hear! I have started doing this more with my children and it is one of the times we feel most regulated and happy.Research on earthing shows that connecting with the Earth’s natural energy, like walking barefoot on grass or sand, has been linked to positive changes in the body and feeling better overall. Likewise, Earthtrust explains how touching soil can let in a bacteria called Mycobacterium vaccae, which helps you release serotonin, the chemical that makes you feel good. Bought the comfy and cute dress  Iam one for getting the most enjoyment for buying things for my children. But when a self care day comes around, I am heading to a shop i like to browse in, i am heading to the clothing section, and I am taking my time to look through, eeling the different fabrics, watching how the dresses flow and fall,until I find something that feels like an elegant, comforting treat for my body. Someting that reminds you of how good you deserve to feel. Bought already-made lunch  I didn’t feel like making my own lunch today, and seen as there was no one else to make it for me, my daughter and I popped out to the shop and chose a pre-made meal deal. I fancied coronation chicken with some flavoured water so that’s what I had. A little already-made gift, simple but felt kind and caring.  Drove to a scenic place to eat We also didn’t feel like eating at home or in the car, so we drove to a beautiful lakeside park, taking in the fresh air and soothing sound of flowing water while we enjoyed our meal. Sent messages to friends  Checking in on your friends and showing them love helps you feel good too—it s uplifting because it helps you to feel connected to what matters to you.  Cleaned the space where I like to write  It’s a feeling like no other writing in your journal, connecting with yourself in that quiet, peaceful space where your thoughts can flow freely. When the space around you is clean and clear, your mind follows. It’s simple, beautiful, and a powerful act of self-care. Hung up a gift  “It’s such a simple thing, but it means everything. My daughter made me a beautiful Mother’s Day gift at preschool, and I’d been wanting to put it up. I finally gave myself the time to do it. When you slow down, you realize there’s space for these sentimental little things. Now, every time I see it, I get this warm, wholesome feeling. Wore my comfort cardigan  Some of […]

FacebookTweetPin Romanticize Your Life Tips: Master Slow Living & Everyday Luxury       Romanticize your life by mastering these empowering slow living and everyday luxury habits. You didn’t end up here by accident. You came here because you are serious about the power found in slow living, intentional living, and the beauty of romanticizing your life.You want to make everyday luxury habits a natural part of your flow. By stepping into the art of mindfulness and aligning with your truest self, you can transform the mundane into the extraordinary. We’re not stepping lightly here — we’re going all in. We didn’t come to play small or tiptoe into our potential. We came to claim our space, and not be afraid to take it up. With grace, with quiet self-assurity, we’re exploring self-care, self-love, and every day magic.   You may love: How i get a good night’s sleep with these simple sleep tips   Romanticize Your Life Tips   Noticing when you’re rushing Photo by Anastasia Nagibina Why it works If you are always rushing around or onto the next thing, firstly I want you to recognize that it’s a wonderful thing to have motivation. If you’ve ever experienced having lack of motivation, that can be really tough (and from my experience usually means you need rest and you need lots of emotional self-love & care). So this is why I say it’s important to value that motivation but also protect it by not rushing around trying to do all of these things.  As fitness coach John Kobal says, “Most of us don’t realize the stress this can cause our bodies. This can actually slow us down instead of spring us forward.” He was speaking about physical training, but I feel like this applies to everyday life too — often, we think we should push ourselves, but rest is actually what helps us keep going. So what’s the balance? Slowing down. This works because it honors our motivation while also preserving our energy for it. As Laura Malloy from Harvard’s Benson-Henry Institute says, “It’s about enjoying the moments and putting more energy and enjoyment into fewer things.” That really sums up what it means to romantisize your life — doing less, but allowing yourself the energy for the things that truly matter to you. How to? Being mindful and noticing when you are rushing anything, and setting the intention about “Oh I’m rushing again, let’s slow down and realize there’s no need to rush.” When you’re walking somewhere, notice things on your walk. You could set a little game to, for example, find a certain type of bird or notice flowers you like. Listen to the different types of sounds you can hear. Break your day up into different sections so you feel like you have time for each part. I often feel like I’m rushing through the day to get to a certain part, but when I do this I feel more relaxed and appreciate different parts of the day.   Make yourself the occasion Photo by RDNE Stock project What if we treated ourselves like we mattered..every day? Why? Because if you only take care of yourself when there’s an event, etc., then you’re treating yourself like you can only feel good when something is happening. I know because I can fall into this, spending days not bothering much with what I’m wearing, or feeling no “reason” to put on my moisturiser. Yes, it’s great to have days where we’re in Pj’s and don’t bother with our hair. But you deserve to take care of yourself as a routine, as the sole reason- that’s what it means to romanticize your life. How? It could be that you do your skincare routine even if you want a PJ day. It could be that you put your favourite outfit on when you pop into the local shop. Put in the diary or the calendar a night where you do a deep conditioning hair and face mask, it is a celebration. Just do it for you. See it as important, because it is, you are.   Practice self-validation   I say practice because that is what it takes- practice. And that’s perfect.  This has been one of the most powerful practices I have been applying to my life.  I have been someone who very much wanted to hear confirmation from others before feeling good about something.  And this might feel good, to get that outside validation. It does, it’s natural. But when you can listen to that inner knowing, that intuitive validation that really has your back, that’s when you start to align with your truest path.  And wow, that is exciting. How to? When you find yourself reaching out to ask someone something you’re unsure of, ask yourself first, what is my first feeling about this? When something good happens, ask yourself, how proud of myself do I feel? When you feel like you need to take care of yourself in any way, respond to that without permission from anyone else.  When it feels like someone’s missed your point or invalidated your need to feel a connection or be seen, come back to yourself. Don’t abandon how you feel — stay with you. They didn’t get it, and that’s okay. They’re still learning. But say  “I know the way I feel is real”.   Practice self-approval   By self-approval, I mean holding yourself as the authority over yourself. Forget what you learned at school, where you need permission to use the toilet and eat (when you think about it, it’s absolutely weird right?), and just trains your body that someone else has approval over it.  They don’t. Why? Because you are the authority over you. I want you to forget about what you’ve been told, yes we respect rules that keep everyone safe, and yes we respect other peoples boundaries, but this all comes with, and not the cost of, our own boundaries and rules. And when you […]

FacebookTweetPin Beautiful Yet Simple Decorating Ideas For The Home I’ve Used Photo by feey on Unsplash We moved into our 3 bedroom family home 2 weeks ago. We moved from a 2 bedroom apartment. Our new home suits our needs so much more which gave me a huge boost to make it look and feel like the home we’ve always truly wanted and needed.  But this has had me thinking how can i decorate my home in a simple way?  I wanted to find easy decorating ideas and affordable home decor that I could do myself, and do it quickly. I never really understood how different it can make you feel to be in a home that you love. And I’m learning that when you really love your home, it really loves you back. That’s why i am currently on a fast and easy home decor makeover. Also having no one else around to help me with DIY has meant I’ve needed to go searching for some really easy to do DIY home decorating hacks. I love getting creative, but with two children and two fluff balls, I don’t have as much time. I mean, the amount of times I’ve been sat on the floor crying because I cannot get the nail to drill into the wall, or had to give up halfway through a project because they just are not safe to do around a toddler!  But luckily, there are wonderful inventive people out there creating things that make decorating for beginners easy. So thank you to those people, I’m so grateful for you! Now, let me take you through my project so far of easy decorating ideas and quick home decor tips for your home.  Consider this your review, and you can always ask in the comments for updates so you don’t have to waste your money or time before knowing how they perform.    You may love: Genius Small Kitchen IdeasFor Style And Space   This post contains affiliate links   Beautiful Yet Simple Decorating Ideas   Easy but transformative flooring I adore real wooden flooring. However, the home I’ve moved into—although ideal for us right now—isn’t my dream home. My dream home is a cottage by the sea, so until then, I don’t see the point in laying that dream flooring. That’s why I found that self-adhesive oak floor planks are an easier yet impressive alternative. Just look at the picture of my floor above. They give you the natural wood aesthetic, they’re easy to clean, waterproof, and so simple to put down. This is a flooring you can lay yourself, and it’ll transform your room into a space that makes you feel proud! It makes the battle between the mess my two children and dogs create and my tidying up a lot easier. I’ve even ordered a bleach oak version for my bathroom. Self-adhesive is amazing!   Something I’ve learned is that me and nails/drilling do not go well together. I don’t know what it is, but no matter how much I try, it always goes wrong. The only part that’s easier is repairing the mess I make in the walls—since I found this easy-to-use wall repair kit, and I love it. Self-adhesive strips and tape came to save me from the hassle of drilling (and my walls). I wouldn’t use them for things that can easily break, like heavy mirrors, however, they’re brilliant for so many other things.   Ditching what you don’t EVER use Photo by Bailey Alexander on Unsplash So this isn’t technically an easy decorating idea, however, it is a easy way to instantly feel like yiou have a fresh new space. I know it’s hard to get rid of things, but if you get into your mind that you’re only going to keep what you’re likely to use, it’s a bit easier. I just think to myself, Is holding onto this more valuable than having a clearer space (which also makes me feel happier)? I know it can be overwhelming, and it’s so much easier to store things away so you don’t have to think about them—I do it often. However, what I find manageable is storing everything away so it’s not in your beautiful space, then taking out one box or bag at a time to sort through—maybe once a week or once a month. It all depends on how you feel.   Putting away what you don’t regularly use If you don’t use it every day, could it go in a cupboard or a drawer? This helps keep your home looking gorgeous and feeling amazing. I used to keep everything out, but my friend—whose house always looks so nice—showed me her little trick of just putting things in the cupboards for an instant calm feeling. This also means you can show off the things you love to look at!   Little touch ups make a huge improvement!    Yes, it’s great to paint a whole room and gloss all of the trims in the house for that fresh look. However, that’s a lot of time and work—especially if you’re having to do it by yourself. A quick and instant tip is to just touch up the parts that need it. You can get little tubes of touch-up paint that cover most materials. It’s less messy and takes very little time. I’d say it’s even enjoyable and oh-so satisfying to instantly see the results. Another way to refresh things is by getting marks off surfaces. My toddler went through a phase of drawing on EVERYTHING. It was at a time when I was just so tired—still trying to catch up on sleep from postpartum days and running around after my son. Something had to slide, right? And unfortunately, that meant my home decor took the hit. I initially thought I’d need to replace everything, but I love using The Pink Stuff—it has saved so many things that were looking really shabby. Now, they all look lovely and fit right […]

FacebookTweetPin How I Get a Good Night’s Sleep With These Simple Sleep Tips     You wake up in the morning with that amazing feeling of having slept all night. The sun is warm on your face as it peeks through the gap in your curtains, you hear the birds singing, and a sense of peace and calm flows through your body. You slowly stretch, looking forward to your delicious and nutritious breakfast and favorite drink.  These are the mornings we dream of, right? I wanted to share my own experience of getting a good night’s sleep in case it helps you too. And I’m a lone parent of two children, so sleep is both precious and hard to come by sometimes. But these are the simple changes that have helped me and my children get a good night’s sleep so that we now really look forward to the evenings and our bed time routine.   Your sleep environment is your sanctuary   Firstly, I want to mention that when i started to take my sleeping environment seriously, it really started to get better quickly. The temperature of your room and the feel of it can help you to sleep amazingly. The Sleep Foundation reports that the ideal temperature for sleep is between 65-68 °F.  I’d also like to mention that regularly washing our bedding, de-cluttering, and cleaning the room regularly can help reduce dust buildup and prevent congestion, especially for those sensitive to allergens like me! Tip: Use a room temperature monitor and an air purifier to assist you with an ideal sleep environment.   Your day matters   I find that when I have smoother days—whether they follow a general routine or are filled with happy, connected moments with friends or family—it often leads to a calmer bedtime because I feel more regulated. On the other hand, when I take on too many demanding tasks in a day or get thrown out of routine for long periods, it can make it harder to relax and fall asleep. Doing physical activity every day can help with sleep, according to research. But figuring out the best time of day for you to work out is something you can have fun discovering.  From my experience, what matters more to me is what I am actually doing. For example, I find running and walking really quite boring. I’m sorry, but I do! However, I get so much enjoyment from swimming or bike riding—it feels like you’re floating on air or flying through the sky! Daylight is really important too. I love going outside sometimes just to do nothing but soak in the sun—you can almost instantly feel that happiness boost it gives you. Tip 1: Journal your day and take note of what’s going on and how you sleep. This can help you spot patterns and show you what works for you and what doesn’t. Tip 2: Preparing for the next day can help you to relax. Make a list of anything that needs preparing for tomorrow so you can get these done at a natural pace rather than rushing last minute and going to bed feeling rushed. Tip 3: Give yourself small and enjoyable exercise goals, for example “I’ll try swimming for 30 minutes with a friend” Tip 4: “Grounding/Earthing” – The Counselling Directory mentions a study from the Journal of Environmental and Public Health that found grounding improves sleep, reduces pain, and decreases stress levels. So if you can make your garden safe, go outside barefoot, or head to the beach and take your shoes off! I LOVE how this makes me feel.   Your evening matters   This also leads me to talk about your evening. Evening routines aren’t just a trend—they really do help you get a good night’s sleep. I find that I really look forward to the evenings because they’re calm. I laugh and cuddle with my children and my dogs, we go to bed early, and I’ve made our bedrooms cozy and inviting to be in. Little things like a comfy pair of oversized pajamas, a rug that feels amazing on your feet, and putting on a podcast that makes you feel comfort and happiness can make a big difference. You may prefer listening to nature sounds—whatever you do, just try not to spend too much time on your phone. If you need to use it, do what you have to do and check what you have to check, but please be self-aware if you’re just scrolling from boredom when you could be cozying up and enjoying your evening. Be mindful and experience genuine and lasting joy from your bedtime routine. Tip 1: Do something you find both enjoyable and relaxing before bed. For example drawing or coloring. The trick is to do something that makes you feel in the moment, nothing that makes you feel like a task or a job. This helps to wind down and unplug for a while. It truly feels magical when you find the “thing” that calms your mind and grabs your attention like this. Tip 2: Spend a moment reflecting on things that went well in your day this will help you to go to bed feeling happy and content. I Use this 5 minute journal, It’s short but lovely to fill out.    Comfort and connection are everything   What makes you feel calm and comforted? These are the things to surround yourself with at bedtime. Wanna know something some could consider a little embarrassing? I LOVE taking to bed those TY squish toys. I’ve collected quite a few. They feel even better than pillows, in my opinion, and they’re adorable. I love having these in my bed because they make me feel comforted, and it all adds to that feeling of falling asleep easily. Find bedsheets in a material that feels comforting to you. Some people love brushed cotton (I personally find it too hot). I like a cooler cotton fabric that is super soft. Experiment […]

FacebookTweetPin 30 Positive Quotes for Difficult Days        Positive Quotes for Difficult Days The way we talk to ourselves when we’re having a difficult day can bring a couple of things: it can be our greatest cheerleader, lifting us up with kindness and hope, or our harshest critic, weighing us down with doubt. The choice of our inner voice can make all the difference. What feels better? Being your own biggest cheerleader, right? So choose that. You may have been spoken to negatively before, and those echoes might still ring in your ears—but you get to toss them aside. You decide what feels right and what you believe because you have the power to listen to your own truth. Remember, practicing self-love and self-care is essential for building resilience and nurturing self-compassion. Embrace your inner strength and empowerment with gentle mindfulness and positive self-talk. Let your inner voice remind you that through emotional wellness and personal growth, healing and comfort can flourish—even on the most challenging days. This is your personal pep talk, a celebration of your capacity for encouragement, gentleness, and lasting healing. And if my little pep talk speaks to you, read on to these quotes for difficult days. I’ve poured wisdom and pure love into them because I care about how you feel and I want you to experience the power of giving yourself comfort and gentleness when days are tough.   30 Positive Quotes for difficult days    Let them be wrong about you, they’re learning too    You are just as lovable when you make mistakes as when you get it right    Close your eyes.. Imagine you’re the happiest you’ve ever been. Where are you? What are you doing? Who are you around? That’s exactly where you’re headed.   People will judge in you what they haven’t yet accepted and loved in themselves    What you feel like your body needs holds authority over what others tell you to do    If you watched yourself in a movie, you’d be rooting for you    Sometimes the right thing to do is throw out your plans and have a self love day    Having down days are a gentle nudge to generously fill up your cup    There is someone smiling right now because they remembered something you said or did    Some days are for listening to the birds and drinking your comfort drink    Your importance stays the same no matter how you’re feeling    If you were a child, how would you look after yourself? Because there’s nothing stopping you from doing that right now    You are designed perfect for what you desire    Difficult days are designed to pull you back to propel you    When you slow down, it’s easier to enjoy what really matters    Just because it’s what everyone else is doing, doesn’t mean it’s always right for you    Go with your body’s natural rhythm, not what’s expected of you by others    Not all days are for running the race, some are for appreciating where it’s already got you    You are born with your dreams because they are meant for you, you come as a package    Treat yourself as you would the love of your life, because you are    Huge happy moments are built upon tiny happy moments    Your worth is not defined by how productive you are, your worth is your birth right    Some days your goal is to love yourself a little bit more    The more difficult you feel, the more gentle you should be with yourself    You are allowed to rest, you are allowed to feel, you are allowed to just be    Commitment sometimes means being gentle to yourself, over and over    Messy, complicated, emotional. You’re human, and that’s beautiful    There’s a voice that always whispers, ‘I love you when you’re sad, happy, crying, and smiling.’ That voice is you   When you listen to yourself, you are always being loved, protected, and guided   Difficult days show us the power of treating ourselves with love and respect    Have trust that you are on your path to something greater    Know that even when the path seems cloudy, the right answers will come to you if you relax and allow them to  FacebookTweetPin