Mother Distracted
A Family Lifestyle Blog In Wales

Great Children’s Books For Lockdown Reading

Whilst we’re all still stuck at home with our little ones, it’s a great opportunity to catch up with some reading.  In this post, you’ll find 10 great suggestions to keep your little ones entertained – and to hopefully help them keep up with their reading and English development whilst the schools are closed.  Heads up – this post does contain affiliate links which means I may receive a small payment to help run Mother Distracted.

All our family are avid readers – and I have to confess that my Amazon wishlist is currently of epic proportions.  Thankfully, Caitlin and Ieuan take after their parents and, once removed from the Wi-Fi, will happily delve into the pages of a book – albeit now they are into young adult and adult fiction (carefully vetted of course).  They are great late night readers too.  I am a firm believer that a book at bedtime helps you sleep.

Here are my suggestions for younger children:

Gaspard the Fox by Zeb Soanes and James Mayhew

Meet Gaspard the Fox as he sets out one summer evening in search of adventure and something to eat. This charming and humorous picture book celebrates urban foxes and their relationship with the humans and animals they share the city with. With stunning original illustrations by award-winning children’s book author James Mayhew, this is the first in a series of collaborations between Zeb and James following the adventures of Gaspard and his friends.

The Very Silly Dog by Nick Cope

Loved by listeners around the UK and internationally, children’s singer-songwriter Nick Cope’s work takes on a new form in this series of illustrated books, with original artwork from Nick and his son, Burt.

The Very Silly Dog begins with an inevitable mishap by its titular character, with some very amusing consequences…

Includes song lyrics and guitar chords at the back of the book for children and adults to play and sing along

Why is the sky blue? by Nick Cope

Why is the Sky Blue? is an entertaining take on the inquisitiveness of young children, featuring Joe and his dad and all the weird and wonderful questions Joe has about the world.

No I don’t wanna do that! by Nick Cope

No I Don t Wanna Do That is the story of young Joe, who, put off all the range of activities his mum suggests, would rather have fun at home instead. How endearing a choice this is, in the end, is really down to any parents reading!

Thimble Holiday Havoc by Jon Blake

Jams lives with his mum, dad and his best friend Thimble, a hugely clever monkey who isn’t exactly one of Dad’s biggest fans. (Don’t tell anyone what Thimble did with the superglue…) When Mum organises a house-swap holiday to France, what can possibly go wrong? Then Thimble and Dad find the keys to a speedboat, a drill and a makeshift burglar outfit…

Thimble Monkey Superstar by Jon Blake

Life is never boring now that Jams and his family have a monkey to look after. Jams and his mum love Thimble, but Dad is determined to get rid of him – to a zoo, a school, even a demolition site. But when Jams and his dad are in mortal danger, Thimble proves once and for all why he is a Monkey Superstar! Thimble is very clever and very naughty – and just the best friend Jams has been waiting for.

Steve and the singing pirates by Dan Anthony

Life is tough for nine-year-old Steve and no one understands him, least of all his family or his piano teacher. But when the call comes from the Library of Dreams Steve takes charge of the baton in an eighteenth-century sing-off complete with pirates, wigs and a rascally cut-throat edge. Second in the Steve’s Dreams series about lovable loser Steve.

Steve’s Dreams – Steve and the sabre-toothed tiger by Dan Anthony

It’s the summer holidays, but for nine-year-old Steve life in his home town is full of hidden menace. He believes he must protect his family from a dangerous, unpredictable world. But he can’t solve all the problems on his own. He’s just not quite big enough.

Alex Sparrow And The Furry Fury by Jennifer Killick

Catching the school’s runaway guinea pigs is not giving Alex job satisfaction, but how can he find a bigger test for his and Jess’s awkward superpowers? Jess is more worried about the bullied new boy, whose Mum runs the animal sanctuary. She volunteers at the sanctuary, but soon realises that something is very wrong; the animals are terrified. People report strange events: things missing, property destroyed, and the local squirrels have turned mean. The police have no suspects. It looks more and more like a job for Agent Alex…

Pete and the Five-a-Side Vampires by Malachy Doyle

Pete and his faithful companion, Blob, love to go wandering in the pitch-dark night, then stumble over a van-load of vampires… And end up at the most frightful fancy dress party ever!

There are plenty of other children’s favourites of course, David Walliams and Roald Dahl, for example, or why not consider some real children’s classics?

Happy reading!

Posts may contain affiliate links

Win “PR School Your Time To Shine” Book By Natalie Trice

Back in my marketing days, PR (Public Relations) was often viewed as a bit of a dark art.  It was all about connecting with the right people for the right reason at the right time – and that often involved a sizeable budget and a PR agency worth its salt.

As any experienced freelancer or blogger knows, you have to promote your business while working in your business – and that can be stressful, time-consuming and something that constantly gets put on the back burner.

But a new book by Natalie Trice throws light, literally and figuratively on the subject with her new book, “PR School:  Your Time To Shine – A Masterclass In Publicity For You And Your Business”.

Natalie has over 20 years of experience of working in the PR industry with some pretty heavyweight clients.  Her passion is to inspire and teach us to share our story and promote our business without losing the plot.

Natalie’s book is for you if you:-

  • are left out in the cold whilst your competitors are all over the press
  • are dying to tell your story but don’t want to be seen as bragging
  • want to work with influencers but don’t know where to start (*waves)
  • want to drive sales and raise your profile but are fed up shelling out for ads with no return

Let’s be honest – it’s tough out there at the moment and, given the current political chaos, even established businesses have their work cut out to stand above the crowd and be heard.

Author & PR Expert Natalie Trice

Natalie’s book teaches you how to plan your PR strategy and make it happen by being your own PR. Written in a breezy, down to earth style, you’ll love her practical advice – but be warned, there will be homework.  It is a PR School, after all.

PR School: Your Time to Shine includes:

  • Clear explanations of what PR is and how it can help businesses to thrive, and individuals to be seen as experts in their field
  • Creative exercises put learning into practice and results become tangible
  • Comments from experts, journalists, and influencers, give a real insight into the world of PR and how to get it right
  • An industry worthy resource centre for all things PR and business
  • Confidence boosting tips and ideas that will take readers out of their comfort zones and beyond their wildest self-promotion dreams

Natalie describes her book as “a business development adventure that helps readers to tell their stories in a powerful, convincing way so they can cut through the noise, make an impact and potentially change their lives as their sales increase and their profile is raised.

There are even expert comments on mindset, bravery and banishing imposter syndrome so that self-doubt and procrastination are left behind and an exciting new phase can begin in 2020.”

What a great way to start the new decade!

Natalie at her home in Devon

Find out more about one of the best books for PR 2020 at PR-school.co.uk and buy the book on Amazon.  Plus I have one copy of the book to give away.

Simply enter via the GLEAM widget in the usual way.  You’ll find terms and conditions on my giveaways page.

The giveaway ends at 11:59 pm on Tuesday 17th December.  UK entrants only.

PR School Your Time To Shine Book

Win A Bundle of ACE Cleaning Products Worth £40

Thank heaven it’s nearly half term.  Because, if you’ve kids in school, you may well have spent the last 7 weeks wrestling with bundles of school uniforms, scrubbing off mud from footie and dabbing away stains from pasta bolognese and heaven knows what else!

To help you cope with the onslaught of the next 7 weeks, I have a fabulous bundle of cleaning supplies worth £40 from ACE, the leading stain remover, to give away to one lucky winner.

This bundle will help you to get rid of everyday stains, add sparkle to your household surfaces and brighten up your wardrobe – and the best part is the products start from just £2 each.

In the bundle you’ll find:

  • 2 x ACE Colours
  • 2 x ACE Colours Powder – the new plastic-free alternative
  • 2 x ACE for Whites
  • 2 x ACE Power Mousse and
  • 2 x ACE Stain Remover.

ACE for Colours has been specially formulated to remove the toughest of stains and yet be gentle on even the most delicate clothes. You can even use it on silk, wool and cashmere.

Its 8+ system will tackle food, grease, outdoors, trapped dirt, body soils, drinks, cosmetics and vegetable oils.

ACE Colours Powder brings the power of active oxygen into the wash to remove even tough stains (such as wine, tea, coffee and fruit) and bad odours, at just 30 degrees!

ACE for Whites helps to brighten dull whites while still being gentle on delicate clothes.

ACE Power Mousse combines the might of bleach with ACE cleaning power to keep household surfaces and white laundry bright and clean.  It’s a bleach and a degreaser in one.

ACE Stain Remover is great for tackling germs, grease and stubborn stains and is suitable for use around the home and on coloured clothes.

For more information visit www.acecleanuk.co.uk or to buy head to your local Tesco’s, Morrison’s, The Range, Wilko, Waitrose and Sainsbury’s.

The giveaway

To win the bundle as outlined above, just enter via the GLEAM widget below.  The usual terms and conditions apply which you can find on my giveaways page.

The giveaway is open to UK entrants only and ends at 11:59 pm on Friday 15th November.

Ace Cleaning Bundle Worth £40

Good luck – and don’t forget to leave your best laundry cleaning tip!

Win A Beautiful Welsh Slate Clock From Valley Mill

We have discovered that we don’t have enough clocks.  This is largely because getting the kids out of the door in the morning is a challenge of herculean proportions.  Frankly, my nerves are frazzled and the kids need reminding at least once every ten minutes that playing with the cat or watching Captain Underpants does not count as ‘getting ready’. No, more visual reminders are what they need!

So it is entirely appropriate that our newest clock is a beautiful Welsh slate clock from Valley Mill.  Valley Mill uses only slate quarried from Blaenau Ffestiniog, North Wales.  (If you’re up that way, incidentally, a visit to a slate mine is well worth the trip).

The slate is sent to Valley Mill’s workshop in Crynant where it is hand cut, engraved, oiled and then fashioned into a wide range of lovely homeware items and gifts. They also offer handcrafted Welsh slate house signs, trophies, memorials and wedding signage.

They also make a lovely range of Valley Mill soaps, candles and wax melts I’m particularly fond of.

Welsh Slate Clocks

Mine is the deep engraved Welsh Slate Clock made from high-quality 6mm thick Welsh slate with deep engraved numbers.

The Welsh slate is hand-cut to give a rustic chipped edge and a unique finish – no two clocks will be exactly the same.

It comes complete with Quartz clock workings and packaged in a gift box.

The clock is of 300mm diameter and needs just one AA battery (not supplied).

Being made from slate, it is a heavy piece so bear in mind that you will have to use a strong nail to secure it.  But I love the weathered feel and the touch of Welshness that it adds – very appropriate since we are a three quarters Welsh household.  I’m English but having lived here since 1969 I think I might be an honorary Welsh woman now.

Mine is one of a range of Valley Mill Welsh slate clocks featuring Welsh dragons, the lyrics of Calon Lan and even one with the numbers in Welsh words to help little ones (and bigger ones) improve their Welsh.

What I particularly love is that you can discover who made your clock.  This one was designed by Kevin Thomas who has been designing his range of handmade products for over 10 years. His products include Welsh slate and Welsh Oak homeware but also home fragrance and natural soaps.

For a small extra charge, you can even personalise your clock with text and artwork.  Just add your required text and image under the ‘Personalise Your Product’ tab.

Their slate house signs are pretty special too, or how about a beautiful Welsh slate cheeseboard or some placemats and coasters?

There are loads of really special and unique gifts so you can give something a little more out of the ordinary this Christmas.

Take a look at their site at www.valleymill.co.uk.  Valley Mill has stores in Neath and Swansea and you’ll find their gifts in lots of tourist gift shops such as the one at Caerphilly Castle.

You’ll find them on Facebook @valleymillhomeware and Twitter @valleymillshop.

The Giveaway

I also have one deep engraved Welsh slate clock as featured above to win worth £41.50.

Entry is via the GLEAM widget and the usual terms and conditions apply which can be found on my giveaways page.

The giveaway is open to UK entrants only and ends at 11:59 pm on Friday 4th October.

Valley Mill Deep Engraved Welsh Slate Clock Worth £41.50

Good luck

 

 

Win A Gorgeous Silver Sample Ring From Abelini Jewellery Worth £85

Everyone loves a bit of bling, don’t they?  But sometimes you need a piece of jewellery that’s a little classier and a bit more special – whether to accessorize an evening outfit, to add some pizazz to otherwise dull workwear or just to give as a gift.  I was sent this gorgeous silver sample ring from British jeweller, Abelini.  In case you’re wondering what a sample ring is, read on because I have one to give away to a lucky winner.

Abelini offers engagement rings, diamond rings, earrings, bracelets and pendants at prices to suit every pocket and they are currently challenging their customers to find their perfect Abelini piece to add some sparkle to their busy day.

All their designs are manufactured with love by British craftsman and I don’t know about you but I’m all about supporting British businesses in these rocky BREXIT times!

Abelini Jewellery invests great care in ensuring they use only ethically sourced materials when crafting their jewellery and their business ethos is to provide choice, security and to give back to the community. And because they source their diamonds themselves and cut out the middleman, they can offer huge savings of up to 78% off high street prices.

Each piece is carefully reviewed before it is dispatched and comes with a lifetime warranty and a no-quibble 100% money back guarantee within 60 days of purchase.

If you are in London you can also visit their Hatton Garden showroom to try on their pieces in person or request their bespoke design service to create something truly unique.

What makes Abelini pretty special in my book is their Diamond Rings Home Trial service.  You can have 3 samples sent to your door and you can take up to 5 days to select your favourite.

Each sample is manufactured from high-quality silver and topped off with an artificial diamond to give you the complete ‘try before you buy’ experience before you commit to purchasing.

The choice of an engagement or wedding ring is just such an important decision that shouldn’t be rushed and should, above all, be an enjoyable one that you can make with confidence.

Ring sizes are available from H all the way up to S1/2 and you can choose from Rose, White and Yellow Gold and Platinum.  You can take your pick of the important ‘3Cs’ when selecting your diamonds (Carat, Clarity and Colour) and there are different band widths too, as well as plenty of different stone shapes to choose from.

The whole process is incredibly well thought through and set up to make choosing your ring as simple as possible.

I was sent one of their lovely sample rings to try. It’s a sample of one of their 4 Prong Setting Asscher Shape 2 Raw Halo Diamond Engagement Rings.

Made from Silver and Cubic Zirconia, this particular design strikes just the right balance between subtle and ‘bling’ for me.  It’s a striking design which is definitely noticeable!  Obviously, I will be suggesting to the Husband that the full diamond upgrade would be just the thing for Christmas!

I also have the exact same silver sample ring to give away to one lucky winner (worth £85).  Entry is via the GLEAM widget below and the usual terms and conditions apply which can be found on my giveaways page.

The giveaway is open to UK entrants only and ends at 11:59 pm on Sunday 6th October.

Note that the ring is adjustable and will fit up to ring sizes N and Q.

Abelini Silver & Cubic Zirconia Ring Worth £85

Good luck!

 

Review: Nixplay Seed Smart Photo Frame – And A Giveaway

There’s nothing quite so special as family photographs and I have discovered a brilliant way to display them around the home – the Nixplay Seed 10.1 smart photo frame.

We already stream our music with multi-room audio and this is a similar concept, but for all the photos you love, without having to search for them on iCloud for hours or thumb through old family photo albums.

It’s also a far cheaper way of displaying your photographs than trekking off clutching a USB stick in the quest to find somewhere to print them off.  Realistically,  there are only so many photo frames you can display without cluttering up the place.

I can also add more photos as I go along with just one click and create different albums of our family days out and holidays.  The possibilities are endless – a Christmas album, birthdays, any family celebration you can think of.

Photo sharing is a doddle too – simply email to the relevant Nixplay account.  You could send photos of the kids to the grandparents’ Nixplay Seed – how many of us remember to send a postcard when we are on holiday these days?  It doesn’t have to be your personal frame.

What’s in the Nixplay Seed 10.1 box?

The frame comes with a regular plug, a travel plug, connection cable, remote control and the digital 10.1-inch frame. At the back on the frame already attached is the stand and it can be placed either horizontally or vertically.

It’s quick and easy to set up.  Simply attach the connection cable to the back socket and plug in at the wall.

How to set up the Nixplay Seed 10.1 Smart Photo Frame

Setting up the Nixplay Seed was really simple to do, even if you’re a bit technologically challenged, as I am.

Firstly, make sure you download the free mobile app via the App Store. The app gives faster photo optimisation and 15-second video for both iOS and Android users.

Then you pair the frame to your phone which takes no time at all.  You are then ready to transfer your photos. The best way to organise your photos is on the app you’re able to create an album, give it a name and then add your photos and videos to it. You could even add captions if you wanted to. The photos and videos are then instantly sent to the frame.

Features of the Nixplay Seed 10.1

This is a pretty impressive piece of kit as the husband would say.  The Nixplay Seed offers:-

  • Instant sharing from anywhere in the world using the app or email
  • Simple connection via WiFi
  • Nixplay friends – invite family and friends to send photos directly to your frame
  • Access to all your photos via different devices using your Cloud account
  • High-resolution display – with clear and vivid colour photos
  • Hu-motion sensor – the frame automatically turns on when you enter a room

I started by sharing photos of our recent family day out to Dan Yr Ogof Caves in Wales and Kingsbridge in Devon. I created the album, added my chosen photos and sent them to the frame. As you do this, the frame alerts you that it has new photos to display which is particularly helpful if you are sending them to someone else’s frame.

The quality of the photograph display on the frame is excellent – at least as good as looking at them on an iPad or mobile phone.  And, with Father’s Day coming up on 16 June, what a great idea for a gift.

Head to the Nixplay site on May 30th as they’ll have marvellous promotions. You can get up to 25% off ALL Nixplay frames in Nixplay’s Father’s Day promotion.

You can also win a Nixplay Seed 10.1 worth £149.99 in my giveaway below.

Caitlin and Ieuan loved the frame and the idea of being able to send their own photos to it.  Having a blogging mother has certainly given them an interest in photography too.

You can find a full range of digital frames at Nixplay.

I’m really impressed with our Nixplay Seed frame.  Having your photos constantly on display is a lovely reminder of special times and is the memory boost you need to keep refreshing your photos and sharing them with the rest of the family.

The Nixplay Seed 10.1 giveaway

One lucky reader can win a frame like mine worth £149.99.  The giveaway is open to UK entrants only and ends at 11:59 pm on Sunday 23 June.

Entry is via the Gleam widget below and the usual terms and conditions apply which can be viewed on my giveaways page.

Nixplay Seed 10.1 Smart Photo Frame

Good luck!

 

Win A Year’s Worth Of Oilesen Vitamin D3 For the Family

Even though the sun is threatening to make a reappearance, it is still important for us to keep our levels of Vitamin D topped up.  Vitamin D is known as the sunshine vitamin but, spending time outdoors is clearly not enough as it is estimated that 1 billion people worldwide, across all ethnicities and age groups, have a vitamin D deficiency.

Vitamin D plays many roles in the body, one of the most important being to enable the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, both of which are involved in a number of essential processes that occur inside our cells.

Vitamin D also promotes the laying down of minerals in bone (bone mineralisation) and supports the function of nerves and muscles.

It is particularly important for infants and young children because it is needed for the development of strong and healthy bones and teeth and it is also important for the functioning of the immune system.

You may have an extra risk of a Vitamin D deficiency if you are in one of these groups:

– individuals with darker skins who cannot synthesise vitamin D efficiently from the UK’s
relatively weak northern sunlight;
– individuals who cover their skin whilst outdoors;
– Individuals with minimal exposure to sunlight.

That certainly describes me – and, I suspect, most of us whose employment keeps them indoors for the majority of the day.

Whilst Caitlin and Ieuan do play outdoors during school playtimes, at home like many other children they spend a large amount of time indoors in front of screens.  Yes, we do our best to drag them out whenever we can but, like many parents, it is often a herculean struggle!

Did you know that, according to national surveys, one in five people have low vitamin D levels which are associated with a higher risk of poor musculoskeletal health such as rickets, osteomalacia, falls and poor muscle strength?

Even more concerning, a report published in December 2018 by the University of Queensland, reported that new-borns with vitamin D deficiency had a 44 per cent increased risk of being diagnosed with schizophrenia later in life compared to those with normal vitamin D levels.

In fact, Public Health England currently advises that in the UK all children under five take a daily vitamin D supplement year round and all adults throughout the autumn and winter months.

Sobering stuff!

We’ve been trying the Oilesen Vitamin D3 range from Swiss pharmaceutical company Valentis, containing high-grade natural ingredients including Extra Virgin Olive Oil.  The products are vegetarian, family friendly and competitively priced.

The products are intended to provide supplementary vitamin D3 and there’s a format to suit each member of the family: pregnant women, babies from birth through to older children, adolescents and adults, as well as individuals who may be housebound or who avoid sun exposure.

The product range includes Oilesen Vitamin D3 500 Spray; Oilesen Vitamin D3 400 Drops; and Oilesen Vitamin D3 1000 Soft Gel Capsules.

OILESEN™ Vitamin D3 500 Spray – RRP £7.00 for 30 ml (320 doses)

Really easy to use, you simply spray directly under the tongue or on the inside of the cheek for fast absorption.  It has a pleasant orange flavour too. Children aged 4 to 10 years should be given 2 doses per day whilst children over 10 years and adults need 2 to 4 doses per day. Each dose contains 12.5 ug of vitamin D3.  This was Caitlin’s preferred way to take it as she could do it herself and feel very grown up (under supervision, obviously!).

OILESEN™ Vitamin D3 1000, soft capsules made with Extra Virgin Olive Oil – £8 for a box of 80 capsules.

Children over 5 years and adults simply take 1 capsule per day during a meal. If there are issues with swallowing, the capsule can be chewed or the contents squeezed into a meal, a drink or directly into the mouth. 1 capsule contains 25 μg of vitamin D3.  Luckily Ieuan has never had a problem swallowing tablets and has lots of practice with his travel sickness pills.

The range also includes Oilesen™ Vitamin D3 400 Drops – RRP £6.00 for 10 ml. With a base of extra virgin olive oil which aids absorption, this product is intended to provide supplementary vitamin D3 for babies.

The dropper enables Mums and Dads to easily add a daily dose directly into the baby’s mouth or mix into food or drink.  Babies can be given 1 drop per day to be taken with a meal from birth. 1 drop contains 10 μg of vitamin D3.

The Oilesen Vitamin D3 range is available from local pharmacies nationwide and online
www.oilesenvitd3.com.

The giveaway

I have a year’s supply of Oilesen Vitamin D3 products worth £87 to give away, comprising 2 x drops, 5 x sprays and 5 packs of capsules.

Entry is via the GLEAM widget below and the usual terms and conditions apply which can be found on my giveaways page.  The giveaway ends at 11:59 pm on Friday 26 April and is open to UK entrants only.

Please note any emails submitted will be used solely for the purpose of contacting the winner and will not be retained.

Year’s Supply Of Oilesen Vitamin D3 Products

Good luck

 

Share Your Money Saving Tips To Win A £20 Nando’s Gift Card

It’s just a couple of weeks until the dawn of 2019 and, as usual, I am busy compiling a list of New Year’s resolutions that I might not keep much past the first week of January.  Still, the thought’s there, isn’t it?

Generally, all of my resolutions either involve getting healthier or saving money – and there’s nothing like January’s credit card bills to focus your mind on your expenditure and income (or lack of). Yes, that Christmas debt hangover can be hard to shake off.

Plus there’s that extra long wait until January’s payday if you were paid a week or so early in December. No wonder the second Monday in January is known as Blue Monday!

So, I’m asking you to share your best ideas for saving money in the New Year and there’s a £20 Nando’s gift card up for grabs too.

Will you cut up all your cards and just use cash?  Thinking about it I rarely use cash these days!

Or will you stop your occasional spending on large takeaway coffees?  Or save at the supermarket by buying own brands?

Will you be ditching takeaways and cooking from scratch?  Or perhaps you’ll be selling all your old clobber in boot sales or online market places.

Whatever it is, I’d love to hear and I’ll use the best suggestions in a roundup post later in January.

Nando’s Gift Card Giveaway

So with an eye on your budget, I have a £20 Nando’s gift card to give away to one lucky winner.

You could try their new Fresco Burger – PERi-PERi chicken breast, smashed avocado and tangy pickled cucumber, topped with rocket.  Then there’s the Butterfly Burger – two succulent chicken breasts joined by crispy skin, packed in a Portuguese roll and topped with tomato and lettuce.

There is a selection of veggie options to including the Supergrain Salad – a fresh mix of grains, greens and beans with avocado chunks and an avocado & buttermilk dressing, served on mixed salad leaves. Or what about the Veggie Cataplana?  Chickpeas, chargrilled veg and beans in a spicy tomato and coconut sauce are served on spicy rice and sprinkled with toasted coconut shavings.

Entry to the Nando’s gift card giveaway is via the GLEAM widget and the usual terms and conditions apply which you can find on my giveaways page.

No cash alternative and 1 entry per household. Winner selected at random.

The giveaway is open to UK entrants only and ends at 11:59 pm on Friday 11 January 2019.

I can’t wait to hear your boredom busting ideas and the best ones will be published in a post in a few weeks’ time.

£20 Nando’s Gift Card

Good luck!




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Win A Bespoke HARIBO Supermix Snuggle Pod Worth £250

HARIBO has unveiled an even creamier, soft, smooth and squishy HARIBO Supermix!

To celebrate the variety of comforting moments that come from eating the Jelly Men, Milk Bottle, Ice-Cream and Sheep pieces that are available in the mix, HARIBO is offering one lucky fan the chance to win their very own limited edition Supermix Snuggle Pod worth £250!

Haribo Supermix snugglepod

Just like Supermix, the snuggle pod brings to life the comforting feeling that the new, creamier treats provide and offers the perfect opportunity for a #SupermixMoment of comfort on this 160cm long beanbag.

Supermix now boasts vibrant colours and creamier flavours; experience the new lemon meringue and peach flavoured Little Jelly Men and delicious vanilla in the Sheep and Ice-Cream treats. You can also enjoy popular raspberry, blackcurrant and apple flavours, in vibrant pink, purple and green colours.

For more details about HARIBO Supermix and the rest of the range, please visit www.haribo.co.uk.

The Giveaway

Entry is via the Gleam widget and the usual terms and conditions apply which you can find on my giveaways page.

The prize is one HARIBO Supermix Snugglepod worth £250.

The giveaway ends at 11:59 pm on 10th December. UK entrants only.

Every attempt will be made to get the prize to the winner before Christmas, however, this is not guaranteed.

HARIBO Supermix Snugglepod worth £250

Good luck!

 

 


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Super Ski Jump Tabletop Game From Drumond Park Giveaway

When I was young, we’d gather around the TV every Sunday night and watch Ski Sunday.  I was always fascinated by the bravery of those attempting the ski jump – remember Eddie The Eagle?  Needless to say, I’m not brave enough to attempt it but this version I might.  Drumond Park has launched their Super Ski Jump tabletop game (rrp £19.99, age 8+).

Super Ski Jump Tabletop Game from Drumond Park box

Super Ski Jump is a game for 2-4 players over 3 thrilling rounds – and the aim of the game is to send your skiing character flying down the sizeable ski ramp to score the most points by doing tricks and nailing the perfect landing!

super ski jump tabletop game from Drumond Park box contents

Players take it in turns to jump once in each round, choosing which of the four characters and the playing piece (Sledge, Bath Tub, Snowboard, Skis) they would like to use. Once you’ve assembled and set up the ski jump ramp, you’re ready to go – although if you’re a competitive soul, you’ll want to have a practice session first.

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The youngest player goes first – placing his or her character at the top of the ramp, and adjusting the height of the ski ramp to one of the three different levels.  To start your jump, turn the wheel to send your character whizzing down the ramp.  Now for the skilful part … press down on the lever to raise the lower part of the ramp and send your character off into the air!

Make sure you watch your jump closely to count the number of flips and the style of landing.  When you’ve finished your jump, count the points based on which playing piece you chose, how many flips you managed and how you landed.  Mark your points on the scorecard and it’s on to the next player.

Family playing Super Ski Jump Tabletop Game From Drumond Park

Repeat the process for all players over the three rounds to complete the game.  At the end of the final round, the players are ranked based on their single highest scoring jump, and of course, the winner is the player with the highest score!

If any two players have the same highest score, they must enter into a nail-biting ‘Jump Off’ competition against each other – with a single jump to determine who is the overall Champion this time round!

There are some nifty hints and tips included in the instruction sheet, with additional scorecards available to download online at www.drumondpark.com/superskijump

For example – why not try capturing your amazing, acrobatic ski jump feats on your phone (maybe even in slo-mo!)… and while you’re at it, you can also upload videos to social media using #superskijump!

Super Ski Jump is the ultimate trick challenge that’s set to have everyone hitting the slopes this Autumn – jumping, flipping and landing as skilfully as they can.

Perfecting your technique and gaining points is fabulous, addictive fun – and guaranteed to keep everyone entertained for hours!

For more information and stockists please visit www.drumondpark.com or get in touch on Facebook facebook.com/drumondpark or Twitter twitter.com/drumondpark.

The giveaway

I have 1 Super Ski Jump tabletop game to give away.  Entry is via the Gleam widget and the usual terms and conditions apply which can be found on my giveaways page.

The giveaway is open to UK entrants only and ends at 11:59 pm on Friday 7th December.

Super Ski Jump Tabletop Game From Drumond Park

Good luck!




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Dress For Success & Win A Suit From Dobell Menswear

As September approaches and we say goodbye to summer, many of us start to reevaluate our lives.  I suppose it’s because we remember the excitement of starting a new school term.  Life has the same feel, doesn’t it?

If you’re looking for a new job or you’re a student about to take your first step on the career ladder, you’ll be busy sharpening your CV and crossing your fingers that you’ll get an interview.

win a suit - suited man's outstretched hand for a handshake

One of the most important things to remember is that first impressions really do count.  I know from my days interviewing that, very often, I knew how a candidate was going to perform from the moment they stepped through the door.  And how you look is crucial.

To help any guys out there about to embark on the interview circuit, I have an amazing giveaway where you can win a suit from Dobell Menswear, about which, more later.

In the meantime, whatever your gender, here are three tips to dress for success in your next interview.

1.) Dress for the role.

If you’re interviewing for a fashion or a creative position then you can step outside of the traditional suit. And if you’re dressing for a non-managerial role then you may be able to go without the suit coat – a pair of slacks, a button up shirt and a tie are likely acceptable.

However, it’s always a good idea, if you’re undecided to overdress for your interview rather than underdress. A suit will always look better than jeans.

Traditional interview wear includes suit trousers or a skirt in a neutral colour, a button-down blouse or shirt, a tie if you’re a male, and a suit coat.

2.) Conceal your body art.

This is a tricky one. For some, body art like tattoos and piercings are the way they choose to express themselves. Many companies understand this and they may be perfectly acceptable to have them on show once you have the job. However, when you’re interviewing for a job you may be better off keeping these covered.

Remove your piercings and cover your tattoos if possible. It may also be a good idea to review the company policy on body art so if you do get the job, you show up for work dressed appropriately.

Win a suit - shower head spraying water

3.) Personal Hygiene.

Always take the time to shower, shave and present yourself to the interviewer at your personal best. Clean nails, brushed teeth and hair and clean clothes are imperative. It’s also important to make sure you don’t have any body odour.

Skip the perfume and cologne as well. Or if you must wear it, use it sparingly. Some people are sensitive to fragrances and too much can make them feel ill. Certainly not what you want them to remember you for.

Less is more when you’re wearing jewellery, makeup or doing your hair too. You want to look, clean, groomed and professional for your job interview. Save the personal expression for other times.

Win a suit - bearded man shaking another man's hand across a desk

Looking your best and dressing for success helps you position yourself positively in your interviewer’s mind. Make sure your first impression represents you in the best light.

Win a suit from Dobell Menswear

Now to the giveaway!

Dobell Menswear has kindly provided a man’s suit for a lucky Mother Distracted reader.

Win a suit from Dobell Menswear - black suit

Dobell menswear has created fine men’s suits, tuxedos and wedding suits for over 10 years, and create handsomely fitted suits and formalwear accessories, at great value – up to 50% cheaper than the high street. And at the moment there’s 30% off all suits.

They stock leading suit and shirt brands such as Paul Costelloe, Tommy Hilfiger, Noose & Monkey, Esprit, Lambretta, Paul Gross, and Alexander Dobell.

win a suit from Dobell Menswear - blue suit

They also cater for men who want to look and feel correctly dressed when they’re attending black tie dinners, weddings, balls, business conferences or calendar events such as Glyndebourne and Ascot.

There’s free standard delivery, and free UK returns, a next day delivery service, and international delivery. Their site offers on-site expert advice articles and sizing guides or, if you prefer, you can talk to their dedicated customer service team who are on hand to help from 9 am to 6 pm weekdays.

For a chance to win a suit, just enter via the GLEAM widget below.  Terms and conditions apply (please see my Competitions page).  UK entrants only. No cash alternative.

The prize is one Dobell branded man’s suit in the winner’s preferred colour and size (jacket and trousers) up to a value of £120.

The giveaway ends at 11:59 pm on Friday 24th August 2018.

Dobell Menswear Suit Giveaway

Good luck.

 

 

It’s Game On This Xmas With 2K & A Great Giveaway

This year it’s money in the bank as you slam dunk your family’s Christmas gifts.

2K has you covered this Christmas with their flagship video game titles NBA® 2K18 and WWE® 2K18. Whether it’s wrestling over the remote or being coached by Mum on the British Monarchy, the gaming giant has the solution to all of your Christmas conundrums.

NBA® 2K18 – The ball’s in your court this Christmas

WWE & NBA2K video game giveaway for PS4

The highest rated annual sports title of this console generation is back with NBA 2K18, continuing the franchise’s tradition as the gold standard of basketball simulation with unrivalled realism and true NBA gameplay.

Shape your MyPLAYER and write your own narrative in an all-new open neighbourhood setting and much more in the perfect game to jump shot your way through Christmas.

Developed by Visual Concepts, NBA 2K18, rated PEGI 3, is available on PlayStation®4 and PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system, Xbox One, XBOX360, Windows and Switch.

The game is fronted by the NBA legend, Kyrie Irving – a.k.a The Ankletaker.

Available from: GAME stores RRP: PS4 & Xbox One £49.99 Standard Edition, £84.99 Legend Edition

WWE 2K18 – Be Like No-One this Christmas

WWE video game giveaway - WWE2K18

Bored of family guests that outstay their welcome? Fed up of listening to your Dad question what you’re doing with your life? Want to take out your frustration but can’t be bothered to leave the sofa? WWE 2K18, the forthcoming release of the biggest video game franchise in WWE history, is here to let you lay SmackDown on all those Christmas annoyances.

Packed with new game modes, additional match types and even deeper creation capability, the latest iteration of the flagship WWE video game franchise promises to bring you closer to the ring ever before. You’ll be able to enjoy hard-hitting action, stunning graphics, drama and excitement alongside everything you’ve come to love from WWE 2K.

Available on PlayStation®4 computer entertainment system, Xbox One and Switch, the game is fronted by Seth Rollins, the former WWE Champion, United States Champion, WWE Tag Team Champion and “Mr Money in the Bank®.

Developed collaboratively by Yuke’s and Visual Concepts, a 2K studio, WWE 2K18 is provisionally rated PEGI 16.

Available from: Amazon.co.uk

RRP: PS4 & Xbox One £49.99 Standard Edition

The Giveaway

I have one copy each of the WWE video game WWE 2K18 and NBA 2K18 to give away to one lucky winner on the platform of their choice (Xbox One or PS4).

Entry is via the Rafflecopter below and terms and conditions apply which you can find on my giveaways page.

UK entrants only and the giveaway ends at 11:59 pm on Friday 15th December.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Good luck!

THIS GIVEAWAY HAS NOW ENDED.  CLICK HERE FOR ALL MY CURRENT GIVEAWAYS.