Although I'm always candid about the tougher parts of parenting on the blog (Honest Mum, right), I love to share the more joyful moments too, of which there are many, because childhood should and so often is, pretty magical is it not?... And this post certainly demonstrates that so read on but be prepared it's a bit of a heart-melter.
'What isn't in my make up bag?!' is probably a better title to this post and video because wo, amigos, making this film made me stop, recognise and importantly reorganise- not just my make up bag but also my life.
Going on holiday and the proceeding weeks (not my usual regular shoot after shoot kind of weeks) have led me to a realisation, somewhat of a (hair) epiphany, if you like.
I LOVE my locks WILD like my spirit!
I want to start by writing how incredibly grateful I am that this blog means wonderful travel opportunities for my family and I which allows us to see and experience parts of the world we've not visited before, both near and far.
Blogging is utterly brilliant isn't it?! Thanks to my style blog Mummy's Got Style originally and this post HERE, stunning luxury designer baby bag brand Nova Harley hired me to model their beautiful changing bags, and nearly 1 year to the day, and 3 campaigns later, I'm hugely proud to be their model and ambassador.
I love working with me&i, they're a brand I personally feel truly confident in, they really understand what women (and kids) want and need from clothes- well cut, chic pieces that are durable and really last, with a super-cool vintage feel to them.
On Saturday, my eldest son, my floppy haired, bright eyed Oliver turned 5. I actually can't believe I'm typing this out-5, it sounds so, well grown up.
The family got together for a little New Year's Eve shindig at our house this year which was just so relaxed and warm, and well, overflowing with laughter and love.
A mush-ball of a sentence I know, but so flipping true.
So yesterday saw me head to Manchester for a special meeting with renowned modelling agency Nemesis. One of the biggest modelling agencies in the UK, they discovered and made so many of today's British stars, famous: Robbie Williams, Gary Barlow, Melanie Sykes, Vernon Kay, Michelle Keegan and as of today, they're representing little old me!
My kids, Oliver (4 nearly 5 and Alexander, 2) have never been the greatest of sleepers (they take after me) but sleep patterns seemed to have gotten worse towards the end of the summer with a serious lack of structure, outbreaks of tonsillitis for my toddler and a period of nightmares (my eldest and I to be honest) pre-school starting!
We were all shattered!
Fast forward to Oliver starting and settling in at school (he's so happy), a more structured routine and a few dietary changes and the boys are sleeping better than ever. So, I wanted to share what has worked for us.
Those that follow this blog know my great, sometimes obsessive LOVE of make up. I refer to it as my armour, it gives me confidence and helps to hide dark circles from the many sleepless nights I suffer sadly (thanks kids)-making me feel awake on the outside if not in.
For those who follow my blog, you'll know just how passionate I am about healthy food and snacks for my kids and myself.
I love that this video by Ella's Kitchen has been dubbed a 'Good Snacking Revolution' and is basically a mini picketing demonstration from a bunch of socially conscious tots who are standing up for their right to healthy snacks!
