The Best Puffa Jackets From Next

Leanora and I headed to Clapham Common for a much needed stroll, nothing quite like getting out and breathing in the autumn chill air to clear our lungs and embrace the new seasonal change in weather and peruse the new autumn leaf colours and collect a few on route too, before we hit the playground for a short period, which turned into hours.

I don't know what it is, but no matter the weather, come rain or shine, Leanora never wants to wear a coat, you would think she is some half reptile girl child, but luckily that is not the case, as I was there at you know and then again at childbirth....I think ha! But seriously am I the only parent who has a nutbag of a child who never wants to wear a coat? Well maybe not, after chasing Leanora for 20 minutes around the park I gave up, A because what's the point, she will only take it off when my backs turned B I feel a bit silly chasing after my child around the busy park and somewhat embarrassed C embarrassment left when I saw a mother having a go at her little one for taking off his shoes and running around barefoot! And breathe, normality restored, I'm not the only frenzied parent trying to get their kids clothes on and stay firmly on.

 
With new seasons come new outerwear and what better way to get in to the swing of winter than with a new seasonal appropriate padded puffa jacket. They uber cosy and great for snuggling up in now that the weathers as dropped rapidly. I love that they come in so many different lengths and colours and Next are spoiling us both with so many different choices and styles on offer.

 
I picked up Leanora's yellow one as its bold plus great to brighten up these dark ice days. Great for wearing it to preschool as it's bright enough to spot her, plus it's perfect as it's fluffy wool lined on the inside and has a hood perfectly keeping her head warm. I styled it with some navy blue leggings and cosy tights underneath, worn with her lucky long-sleeved sweater and sparkly kitty trainers, because which girl does not love sparkly kitty trainers!
 

I decided to opt for a nice bold red, the colour of the season. I love that it has a high neck to help protect me from all the icy chilly air. I paired it with a mid blue skinny denim jean but works well with any colour denim. I wore a warm tan jumper and white trainers, making it a perfect relaxed look for any day. Why not dress it up with some knee high boots, black skinny jeans and a sparkly top underneath.

With so many different puffa jackets on offer from Next, you are totally spoilt for choice and I'm glad we bagged a few, as when we roll out the house it feels as if we are still at home snuggled in our duvet.

The puffer this winter is our total saviour, has it been yours?

A massive thank you to Next for keeping us warm and feeling like angels wrapped in fluffy clouds and collaborating with us on this post.

London Mumma xx

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A Lazy Day Off

Nothing better than enjoying a lazy day off. Sometimes we all need a little downtime, just to kick back and recharge our batteries. With busy hard working and parenting lives, it can be Duffy to find a day, just to simply enjoy the little things in life and those little things can be simply doing nada!

Let me be frank with you guys, for the past few months I've worked my un-manicured fingers to the bone and I was quite simply burnt out, and a few days ago, I became a stroppy threenager and instead of all jumping out of bed, I turned to Leanora and said 'look, I'm not adulting or parenting today and I ain't getting outta bed, let alone the house' I was surprised when she smiled and said 'high 5 buddy, now go get me a bot-bot, put on my little pony and get back to bed and relax your batty mummy' That's my girl, my little partner in crime, she makes me proud lol! 

At that moment, for her my little threenager to understand and love the fact  that we were going to have a day off, no work, no preschool run, I even went as far as no social media 'shock horror' the only time the phone was picked up was to order pizza for lunch and Chinese for dinner! Told you super lazy day! But for her realise that I, we even need a day of it must have been apparent, just why does it take us so long, why wait to the point of exhaustion. Reason being, we all want that much more, be it success, money and a fighting passion to never give up, regardless if you are a parent or not!

But I think I've got the key to success to mastering the perfect lazy day off and you know what I am not ashamed to say it we took it on our stride and rocked it like an OG.

The first step is to not be all jovial and wanna get outta bed at 5 am, relax take it easy, for get the shoulda woulda coulda and just chill, this or time and your day why mess that up and get out of the comfort of our bed, when quite frankly you probably are not ready too, your body and mind will thank you for it and when your ready to move on to the next stage, be it brekkie in bed or heading to your local cafe for a spot of alfresco breakfasting with a little reading of your newspaper or new found book the day and decision is yours. 

Once you've completed phase one, why not head of for a leisurely stroll, no rushing and darting around for you, you've got nothing but time and some fresh air, plus a little sightseeing of your local area, could open up to new eatery or shopping finds, great for a spot of light browsing, nothing quite better than having fun exploring your neighbourhood.

Comfortably heading in to lunch, that new restaurant you spotted on your leisurely stroll why not swing on back grab a table and tuck in and when you are done and filled, why not spend the rest of the afternoon doing something for you, be it crafting, whipping up a batch of cookies, watch a movie, to simply taking a little siesta, but whatever it is that you do make sure it is what you want to do- no more, no less.

Evening fast approaching, why not try out a new comforting satisfying dish for those cold chilly nights such as butternut squash mac n cheese or aubergine lasagna whatever is tickling your taste buds, a little too much work on your lazy day off, simply order in. 

Nothing more relaxing in preparation of a good night, then a nice hot bath, filled with some amazing aromatherapy scents for an early night of unwinding with a good book, to help you have the perfect nights sleep.

London Mumma xx

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Christmas Stocking Fillers

Christmas is officially on and here and it is time to start thinking about gifts, the words every child, ok and adult too like's to here. With festive markets popping up all around and Christmas lights all switched on, it is a great excuse to throw on your chunky knits and wrap up warm and spend a day perusing in merriment and illuminated lights and a great opportunity to purchase some Christmas stocking fillers.

I be honest even though it may be only November I am itching to get my Christmas tree and decorations up, friends and family thought I was ridiculous but I only asked their opinion in a rhetorical manner of course and yes I've done it anyways, subtle though, just some fairy lights and stockings....for now! They are looking a little lackluster and need some filling up. The idea of finding the perfect present for loved ones can be a bit tricky and stressful, you want to make sure everyone gets a little something no matter how big or small, but I like to start with the smaller items and get the Christmas stocking fillers first, so let me introduce a few that I've bagged and got my eye on.

You can never go wrong with a gift card if you are unsure what to buy why not let your loved one choose there own gift. A gift card is a perfect Christmas gift for women or men and teenager too.

We all know of a beauty lover, who knows all the latest trends can list all of the latest collections of foundations, eyeshadow pallets, beauty blenders, moisturisers, Rihanna's latest beauty collection to Glossier's pop up store here currently in London before you can say mulled wine! Why not treat them to the perfect Trilogy beauty collection.

'Tis the season for traditions, every year I like to find new puzzles to pop into the stocking be it with princesses, pirates or teddy bears and robots nothing more fun than sitting with the kids whilst waiting patiently for the turkey to cook than puzzling, well I say that, then you find yourself turning the house upside down looking for the last few pieces only to find grandad sitting on them.

With the big boys in the garden playing football, or snoozing in front of the TV with there feet up why not spoil them with some fun festive socks, such as these which you can bag on NotOnTheHighStreet.com.

You can not spoil the whole family without including your pets and this Felix goody bag will certainly earn your snuggle points with your pet cat.

Do you have any special stocking fillers that you will be getting for your loved one?

London Mumma xx

Simple Things To Do To Get Your Life Back On Track

Simple things to do to get your life back on track and get focused, it may sound unrealistic, simple things,  but that is because right now you are probably in a negative mindset and not ready, but trust me you will be, it is as simple as A B & C and some determination.

This year for me has been a crazy and most likely the worst year of my life, but I had to reevaluate my life and my head and thought how I can I change that and make it work for me and be in a much better and healthier place!? I have great friends & family who have got me out of my funk, but there is only so much they can do, the only real person who can get my life back on track for me was ME!

Face your demons

In order to conquer what is holding you back and keeping you in a rut, face it head on, stand up for yourself instead of allowing it to hold you back and drag you down, make a change for you, don't let it change you! As scary as it may be you have to face it and challenge your fear. Those demons are the ones making you second guess yourself and that is what puts doubt in your mind, but I assure you by standing strong will put those demons in check and restoring normal order in your life allowing you to take back control.

Focus

Get organised, declutter your mind, life and home. Put things into perspective, make a list know and understand what you have to do to get back on track when you do, don't rush it, it takes time, keep a steady clear and focused mind.

Carve out your own success

Step out of the shadows and step into the light and create your own success, there is nothing better no matter how big or small an idea, be it lucrative or not, creating and forming something (not just babies) that has come from you is the first step to success and happiness.

Take care of you

I loved running it was my thing before I became a mother, but work being a single parent and support for just some me time was scarce unless I was working. But I had a few hours to myself and instead of coming home putting a load of washing on and doing the ironing, I got out my old running (reminds me I need some new gear) kit and went for a 45-minute run and it felt great, exhilarating even. I stopped making excuses as to why I shouldn't and took care of me, after all, if I can't take care of me who is going to!

Result

Don't just think about the outcome but think and process the journey you are on and why and how you have had to come down a path in order to get back on track, once you are able to understand the journey to make you better you will approach more the result in bettering you.

Forgiveness 

I am not going to lie, it is the hardest thing, especially when you have been hurt. But learning to forgive others and yourself as cliche as it sounds will set you free from all that pain and heartache, don't think of it as being for others but for your own peace of mind to move forward.

Remeber...Do not get sidetracked, by people that are not on track.

London Mumma xx

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MINTD Winter Skincare

I don't know about you but I am pinching myself with excitement over this month's MINTD box. I have been getting them for about a year now and every month I am truly blown away. This month's box contains 4 full size and 1 deluxe sized luxury beauty products, all tailored for the winter month's ahead, aimed to help protect, repair, balance and nourish your skin from the winter air and god knows that mine is in of need of protection since the temperature has dropped.

It is all about keeping my skin hydrated and nourished in the colder months, unless you live in warmer climates, but then you would still need that extra attention, as we all know how bad air-conditioners can be and can cause havoc on one's skin, especially as it will be extra sensitive to the change in air. 

The value of the Winter Skincare box is £207, but only costs £65 a whopping saving, leaving you with a few extra, well £100+ extra to spoil yourself for the Christmas period or in the black Friday cyber sales which is fast approaching, plus for those that are ordering for the first time with my code WELCOME17 you will get free delivery, no matter where you are in the world to help you combat the winter chill. 

Ok, so let's dive in shall we....

What I love and the best part about MINTD box, neatly inside you have a manual a brochure even, all about your goodies for the month and we when best,  day or night to use them to give your skin that winter warm up and to help maintain a nice healthy glow all whilst keeping your skin protected.

As the weather drops, so can the look of your hands and I've raved about it before, the African Botanics Hand Cream and I am going to rave about it all over again. This stuff is perfect and gives you just the boost of hydration that you need from this rich cream, it is also a great treatment for those that suffer from chapped, sensitive and irritated skin. So if you do suffer from irritations do not be put off by this hand cream which smells insane thanks to the calming ingredients of geranium and rosemary, I assure you, even I who suffers from sensitive skin, I've reached for this product time and time again, it has even helped calm my dry hands and bring them back to life thanks to the nourishing oils, butters and botanical ingredients.

I've been taking the POTION London hyaluronic acid for a few weeks now, 3 to be precise! Did you know that almost half the body’s hyaluronic acid is found in the collagen of your skin! It is the moisture retaining properties of hyaluronic acid which keep the skin hydrated and looking plump and smooth. So needlessly to say, you know i've not been a fool to let these go, yes I can say that it has worked for me and it will for you too, but I think that is a stretch as everyone reacts differently and notices different results, for me I have seen a change not a drastic one but a good one, and I have faith that if I keep on taking these supplements my skin will reap the benefit of it. 

Guys! I have been waiting I mean waiting to A see if we would get this product and YES the MINTD Beauty Gods have answered my prayers B does this product live up to all it's hype. Well, first of all, let me say this, it is pricey, Rodial Skincare Dragon’s Blood Velvet Cream at £75 hence why I've been reluctant to buy it myself, but that is the great thing about MINTD the SAVINGS! For those in there 30's or for those that suffer from red patches, then guys this is the product for you. This cream is rich, but no way at all greasy I've noticed that my skin in the morning

as I like to use this cream at night does look plumper and hydrated and less red in the morning, is it worth its weight in dragon blood? Yes, every penny.

Winter is a total nightmare on our skin, the cold weather strips off our natural moisture which can leave our face very vulnerable, but with Tula's, exfoliating treatment mask which I like to apply a thin layer of, as a little goes a long way a few times a week after my nighttime cleanse, this mask just gives it that extra cleanse and exfoliation all whilst restoring moisture back in to your skin. Something I've recently noticed is that mud mask does not put back moisture, but instead I find that it dries out the skin further, and that is not what I want in winter or any other months.  The exfoliating treatment mask is a great step to add to your beauty routine to help prepare your skin for the next.

Up next, is the darling deluxe sized Ila Spa beauty balm which I am obsessed with, it is not just aimed for women but men too and this is the perfect treat for your feet a few times a week at night, or before you go to bed even (i hate wearing socks in bed). Whilst this balm can be used all over your body, I like to use this on my feet once I've gotten out of the bath, pull some nice cosy socks on and let it just work its magic and restore hydration back into your feet, elbows and knees too.

And there you have it, this month's Winter Skincare box from MINTD! Have you tried it yet, what are your thoughts, the above products even?

London Mumma xx

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Butternut Squash Mac n Cheese

Sweet baby cheesus, I have gone in to comfort heaven this Autumn and I am not gonna lie, I am loving it, bring on all the comfort dishes I say. The cold chill has finally reached us and all I am looking for at night, is some cuddles and a little tlc from a bowl of my new autumn dish, butternut squash man n cheese, whilst wrapped up in my new mermaid blanket.

A little twist on a classic and boy is it a good twist. Of late, my dad has been coming round every week, with butternut squash, god knows what that is all about, you would think he has opened up a squash shop, but not one for wasting food I gotta cook it up before it spoils, but trust me, I am not moaning about my squash drop off's, as I am sure to be making a big batch of this every week.

For the past few weeks I've been feeling shattered and tired and a little over worked and now I am currently poorly, so stuck at home, feeling groggy there is nothing better on a cold sick day, than this to cheer you up and warm up your cockles, plus it is great for the kids and is always a big hit in my home.

Ingredients

1 butternut squash 

1 small onion

3 cloves of garlic

1 1/4 cup vegetable stock

4 oz. shredded cheddar or a mix of cheese

2 oz. cream cheese

Directions1. First, peel the butternut squash, remove the fleshy insides along with the seeds. Dice remaining squash in to small cubes, peel and roughly chop ur onion, followed by your garlic, place in your deep pot and top with stock mixture and bring all to the boil, then turn down, place your lid on top, the aim of the game is to cook until so soft that when forked the vegetables (squash) falls off, so for around 20-30 minutes.

2. Boil some fresh water in another pot and cook your macaroni as per instructions of the packet. You will notic I do not use salt, as my stock, I used bouillon is quite salty, so no need to add! Once macaroni cooked, drain and place to one side.

3. Vegetables all nice and soft, grab your blender, pour in vegetables with stock into your blender whizz up for a minute, you are after the consistency of a soup. Pour back soupy squash in to your pot, place over a low heat. Pour in your cooked macaroni, bung in your cream cheese, your mountain of glorious cheese, I go for a mix of shredded mozzarella and cheddar. Give it all a stir and serve immediately!

Fantastically tasty, comforting and oh so good for you and perfectly winter warming!

Any left over, makes for a great work lunch.

Tuck in!

London Mumma xx

4 Reasons To Love Mondays

I know most are not fans of Mondays, but they can be the best day if you let it. So today let me help you change your mindset by giving you 4 reasons to love Monday's.

I know the feeling, of not wanting to get out of the bed, you want to just take it easy, lie in and hit the snooze button on repeat and wish you had a three day weekend,  but who said this couldn't be a weekend day on a Monday which you can love and enjoy!

Set new goals

Monday's are the perfect day to make and set new goals, routine's, workout plans to managing the kids or your home, they do not have to be boring goals, but fun things to do or to try something new for the week, the world is your oyster and Monday's can be too.

Weekend Kick Off

If you have had an awesome fun productive weekend, you will feel like a million bucks come Monday and feel super productive, so why not take the Monday to set a goal or fun thing to do over the weekend, to help make you love your Monday's and go on as you mean.

Healthy Start

You are what you eat! Yes, Monday's can be depressing and we cheer ourselves up by tucking into chocolate or your naughty vice treat, but step away from that kit kat and reach for that healthy fruit and meat-free Monday dish, you will be raring to go and not feel lethargic, by eating healthy it will give you that extra spring in your step, ready to power through the week.

Try Something New

Mondays are great to experiment and try something new, be it a new book, a new recipe or even a new route to work, or surprising a loved one with flowers or a card so that not just you, but they too can love Monday's. Nothing better than making someone else's day too.

What are your best tricks to help you love your Mondays? I would love to hear in the comments below. 

London Mumma xx

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Friday Favorites

Can you believe we are in November, not long to go until Christmas, 51 days to be precise! But before we start going frantic present shopping and get rid of our darling Pumpkins and delving into the whole Christmas spirit, lets take this time to relax, and grab some woolly socks on and relax by the fire or radiator, as today we are sharing a few of our Friday Favourites from this week's findings....

Falling in love with Autumn night air, we are eyeing up and getting ready into the party spirit and what better way to sparkle the night through than with Anthropologie's darling sequined skirt.

We were invited to see the new collection of ClubL, who are currently stocked in Asos and soon to be Topshop and we fell head over heels in love with the brand and all that work there. What intrigued me was, not just the designs but the quality is insane, plus they do not think of the Club doll just being one type of size or body shape they cater to the masses, those of us that are, slim, medium or more voluptuous, to the shorter lady to the taller lady and to see some of the great designs on offer check them out over on ASOS.

With the Autumn air, our skin is in need of some saving and with a little helping hand from the fabulous natural skincare brand Trilogy their products are a total lifesaver for your skin this Autumn.

What are you favourites that have caught your eye this week? Would love to hear in the comments below!

London Mumma xx

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