Accessible Travel - Making Life Easier

If you have accessibility issues, then are many things you need to take into consideration when travelling. Check out this post on making life easier when travelling with a disability. 

 Planning is key 

If you are planning to go on holiday somewhere you have never been before planning is key. Go to the tourist board website and find out about transport options to get to where you are going. Then check with the transport company's website to see if the journey is accessible. Check out YouTube and blogs to see how accessible a place in. Blogs that focus on accessible travel can be particularly useful like Curb Free with Cory Lee. 

 Do-it-yourself or go for a package

 There are a number of speciality travel companies for disabled people that can take the stress out of choosing a suitable accommodation for you and it's worth considering booking a package through them as they are experts in their field.

 Check out the hotel beforehand

 If you are looking to book a hotel yourself, big chains such as Marriott and the Hilton will definitely have an accessibility policy, accessible rooms and lifts, check out their rooms and their policy on their website. Smaller historic hotels will often be keen to help and provide accessible rooms if they can but due to the structure of the building, there may be stairs and no lift.  Email or ring the hotel if you are in doubt about their facilities for accessibility. 

Consider renting for the trip

If you have bulky health equipment consider renting to take with you or to pick up at the destination.   Oxygen concentrator rental, rollators and mobility scooters can be organised beforehand and the benefits of renting are that you can get the most up to date equipment and can avoid carrying it to your destination if you pick up when you get there. 

At the airport

Be aware of the airline's policy on accessible travel and also the accessibility of the airport. Check out the airline's website and if the information isn't clear message the company on social media far enough in advance. Many airports have a designated department to assist people and can help you through security or provide wheelchair assistance.  This may also apply to those with ADHD and autism. 

Don't forget transport to the accommodation 

Don't forget transport from the airport, bus or train station. Arrange accessible transport in advance to make life easier for yourself. 

Travel with a doctor's note

It's worth travelling with a note from your doctor if you are planning on travelling internationally, covering your illness or condition, medication and any special needs or relevant information. When you get to the destination be sure to make a note of where a local doctor can be reached in an emergency. 

 Lastly, don't forget travel insurance

 Travel insurance is so important, and appropriate insurance for the country you go to as well. Medical insurance cover for the US, for example, needs to be much higher than the majority of countries due to the high cost of medical treatment. Be sure that any pre-existing conditions are noted otherwise the company may not pay out if there is a claim.

Check out this useful guide to disabilities and travel abroad. 

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The Benefits Of Double Glazing

If you are looking to change your windows in your home you may have considered double glazing. Double glazing does, however, cost money so you need to way up the benefits of having double glazing installed. In this post, I will look at the benefits so you can work out if it is the best option for your home. 

Better energy efficiency

Double glazing will keep your home warm all year around. The two layers of glass with a gap between that provides insulation, makes double glazing energy efficient.  The heat won't escape like it does with normal windows too. 

 Cheaper energy bills

 You can turn the thermostat down and be safe in the knowledge that your home will be warmer with double glazing. It will cost less to heat your home as double glazing helps retain the heat. Due to this, it is eco-friendly as it reduces energy consumption.

Improved security

 Double glazing is super tough and the materials used, make it hard to force an entry. The two panes of glass are harder to break than normal glass, making your home more secure. This is especially comforting if you live in a ground-level house or apartment.  It's very difficult to smash a window with double glazing. It's worth mentioning you have double glazing when you get a quote for home insurance.

 Increased property value

When people look to buy a home, many look for double glazing, knowing about its benefits to lower energy costs and also less upkeep than older sash style windows. Having a home with double glazing installed can be an added benefit and can add to the value of your home when you go to sell it.

 Noise reduction 

 Double glazing reduces noise, due to the two pains of glass involved and the vacuum in between. This is particularly good if you live in a noisy area, such as on the main road for example. If you are looking to buy a home in a bustling area or near an airport, double glazing is a must-have for sure. 

 Simple maintenance

Double glazing does not take any heavy maintenance. A simple wipe of the windows and window frame on a regular basis will remove condensation and any dead insects and keep the windows as good as new. A little WD-40 applied to the hinges and locks will also keep them in good working order.

So as you can see there are many benefits of double glazing. If you have money to invest in your property double glazing is well worth considering.

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Arranging A Prom On A Budget

If you have teenage kids you may know all about the pressure of prom night. In my day we just had a disco and that was that. There wasn't the pressure that we have today with social media, and many teens wanting the perfect outfit for Instagram.

Often there is the added pressure of trying to outdo each other as well. We can see that in the US especially. If you have a girlfriend there is the 'promposal' according to the New York Post. where the proposer has to have a level of creativity and thoughtfulness!

So if you are a parent of teens what can you do to take the pressure out of the prom? Here are some ideas you can try.

1. Have a heart to heart


This is especially important if you are on a limited budget. Talk to your child about prom night. Explore the fact that you have a limited budget to prepare for the prom or why not encourage them to contribute themselves financially if they work. Realistic expectations are important. Ask them what their plans are and get creative to limit the cost. Getting in the right mindset is important, it can be a perfect prom without everything costing a fortune.

2. Getting to the prom

If they are looking for a limo to get to the prom, can they get together with friends to split the cost? You can get them to ask around parents to see if anyone has a classic or sports car to use to get to the prom, and would be willing to use it for petrol money. If you don't live far away you can always walk to the prom and show off your outfit on the way.

3. Prom dress


If they, you, or a friend are a whizz on the sewing machine you could make them a dress. Another option would be to get a prom dress second hand from an auction site, charity or vintage store. Alternatively, choose your prom dress or suit from a budget online or high street store. You don't have to spend hundreds to get that perfect dress. When in doubt go for something that looks classic, don't forget you will look back on the photos in years to come. Then use accessories to make them look unique.

4. Accessories

Accessories like a bag and shoes can be picked up relatively cheaply if you know where to look. Browse charity or vintage shops for that bag or jewellery no one else will have. Look for shoes in the sales or go for a classic pair of courts you can wear again. Accessories can really make a look but don't spend a fortune on them, it's not worth it. No one will remember what bag you had in 20 years time.

5. Hair and makeup

Having your hair and makeup done obviously costs money, so maybe you can help to style their hair and do their makeup for them or get them to practice beforehand and do it themselves. There are a lot of YouTube hairstyling videos out there as well as makeup videos. Alternatively maybe one of their friends is great with hair or makeup.

6. Photos



Don't forget to take photos of the prom girl or boy and their partner if they have one. Some natural photos of them getting ready as well as more posed photos will be great for them to look back on. Do you have a garden to take some photos, as the lighting may be better? If you are not great with a camera maybe a friend or family member is better and will come to take some photos for your child.

7. Build their confidence

Don't forget to tell them how amazing they look. It can be a nerve-wracking time for your child. Sometimes confidence comes in numbers so ask if they want to invite their friends or prom date over to all go from one place.  As you wave your child goodbye tell them to take a deep breath and enjoy!


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How To Avoid Spending Temptation

Let’s be honest, we’ve all experienced it. That sudden, irresistible temptation to purchase a new pair of jeans, splurge on an expensive dinner or buy beautiful homeware. Frivolous spending is the cause of many dwindling bank balances, and it can be hard to kick the habit. But it’s important to stop yourself from spending beyond your means, as this can lead to increasing debts that are hard to pay off. If this sounds familiar, have no fear, here are some top tips that will help you to avoid overspending so that your finances can flourish.

Budget, budget and budget some more 



One of the best ways to stop yourself splurging on things you don’t really need is to set yourself a strict (but realistic) budget. The easiest way to do this is to work out your disposable income — simply start with your monthly salary and take off any definite outgoings, such as mortgage/rent, food shopping, electric and gas bills, etc. This will leave you with the amount you have left to spare. To start saving those all-important pounds and pennies, give yourself a certain proportion of this to spend each month, and a certain proportion to save.

If you’re not sure how much to save and spend, a good rule to go by is the 50/20/30 rule. 50% should be spent on essentials (such as rent and household bills), 20% towards savings, and 30% on anything else.

Hit that unsubscribe button 


If you enjoy the occasional (or regular as the case may be) online shopping binge, then getting constantly bombarded with marketing emails from your favourite shops won’t be helping the cause. While it might be nice to have a scroll through the latest must-have’s, it can lead you down a dangerous path to overspending.

To stop yourself impulse buying items you really don’t need, hit that unsubscribe button on the marketing emails in your inbox. While it may be difficult to wave goodbye to your daily update from that clothing store, it will make all the difference to your savings. Bye frivolous spending, hello booming bank balance!

Shopping trip? No thanks! 


It may sound obvious, but if you want to reduce your spending, simply don’t put yourself in situations that involve splashing the cash. If you don’t have enough money in your budget to go on a shopping trip, then don’t go. If an expensive meal out will leave you out of pocket this month, then eat at home. It might be difficult if your friends or family are inviting you out, so try and suggest cheaper alternatives, such as a fun dinner party at home or an afternoon walk.

The same goes for your weekly food shop. If you regularly spend way beyond your means in the supermarket, it might be worth trying online shopping instead. The great thing about this is that you get a running total so you can closely monitor the cost of your shop. Plus, you avoid the temptation within the aisles to grab a packet of chocolate biscuits or crisps that you could live without!

Once you’ve got your spending in control thanks to a few habit and lifestyle changes, you can start to enjoy well-managed finances that will lead you on a path to a stable and secure future.

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Celebrity Style Steals: The Rise Of Wedding Dupes

Shopping for your wedding items can be incredibly stressful, particularly if you’re hoping to emulate some of your favourite celebrity ceremonies. We don’t all have a celebrity budget to help us achieve our dreams, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t create something similar that’s just as special! In recent years wedding ‘dupes’ have grown in popularity, with retailers competing to reproduce some of the most memorable pieces at a fraction of the original price. Here are some of the best celebrity wedding dupes on the market right now. 



Cartier earrings: Meghan Markle and Prince Harry

Many of us are fascinated by royal weddings, from the glamourous gowns to the star-studded guestlists. When the royal couple tied the knot back in 2018, The Duchess of Sussex wore the stunning yet simplistic Cartier 18 carat white gold and diamond galanterie stud earrings, and they complemented the timeless elegance of her fitted gown. The earrings were a perfect statement in line with her overall wedding day look, understated and simply ethereal. If you’re still in awe of these beauties, then head to the online retailer Etsy where you’ll find an extraordinarily similar pair for around £17 — a notable saving when compared to the Cartier price tag of $16,500 (£13,500).

Chandelier tiers: Kaley Cuoco and Ryan Sweeting

Kayley Cuoco’s wedding cake was one of the most unique creations we’ve ever seen. The tiers were assembled upside down, finished with an extravagant chandelier suspended on top. While most bakers might not want to brave such a daring design, The Butter End Cakery took Kayley’s cake dreams and made them into a reality. Want to give your own wedding cake an a-list makeover? Ask your baker to let their creativity run wild with suspended tiers which can wrap around your wedding cake, adding a unique touch.

Engagement ring: Beyonce Knowles and Shawn Carter (Jay-Z) 

Not every man would feel comfortable heading into the jewellers and finding the perfect engagement ring for their partner, but Jay-Z picked a stunning Lorraine Schwartz 18 carat platinum ring with a price tag of $5 million. If you’re looking to convey the same luxury look for a split shank band, and in terms of style emerald cut, or bespoke diamond rings are the best bet.

Flower wall: Kim Kardashian-West and Kanye West 



Looking for the most Instagram-worthy wedding décor? A statement backdrop could be the way to go, taking some inspiration from the music mogul Kanye West and businesswoman Kim Kardashian West. The couple marked their first moments of married life by posing in front of a decadent wall of flowers, and the delicate toned blooms added to the ethereal ambience of their special day. While not all of us can stretch our budgets enough to accommodate such aggrandized features, there are a few alternative ways to recreate this, and it will look just as gorgeous in your pictures. Consider adding some flower-lined arches, or look at lining the walls of your venue with some paper flower creations, for a quirkier, less pricy option.

Evening dress: Meghan Markle and Prince Harry

Although Meghan’s original wedding dress was a classically beautiful design, it was her second dress that really stole the show. Meghan changed into an uber-chic halter neck dress designed by Stella McCartney, a fitted floor-length piece fit for the radiant princess. Shortly afterwards, the eCommerce fashion retailer ASOS unveiled a dress which captures the same understated elegance, with a more payday friendly price tag of £120. Surprisingly, the actual dress is available to buy online, a rarity when it comes to garments designed for an event with the gravity of a royal wedding; but if the £3,500 checkout total is over budget, then rest assured that you’ll find some dupes which are outstandingly close to the real deal.

If you’ve been looking for wedding inspiration in bridal magazines or on your favourite celebrities social media pages, it’s worth having a shop around because chances are you’ll be able to find the perfect dupe at an affordable price! 

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Veggie Shepherds Pie Recipe With Hello Fresh

Recently I was contacted by Hello Fresh, the recipe box company, to work on a collaboration. Hello Fresh, provide ingredient boxes, with fresh ingredients delivered to your doorstep, as well as step-by-step instructions. I've tried Hello Fresh in the past and was impressed with the ease of use. Everything is measured out for you, there is no waste and the recipes I tried were tasty and delicious.  It's been a while since I tried the recipes but I was looking forward to recreating one for my readers. 

We are meat eaters in our household but my husband doesn't eat much red meat, so we try and eat vegetarian food at least twice a week. I decided to try out the Veggie Shepherds Pie recipe. This is my take on the recipe with slight adjustments. For example, the recipe calls for coriander but we are not fans of the dried variety so we left it out. That's the genius of Hello Fresh. You have all the ingredients provided for you, but you can still adapt the recipe as you see fit. A point of note Worcestershire sauce traditionally contains anchovies, so you can use an alternative like HP brown sauce which is vegetarian or find a vegan Worcestershire sauce as there are some out there. 

Veggie Shepherds Pie



 Serves 2
Preparation Time 40 minutes

 Ingredients


1 large potato, 
1 onion
1 small punnet of chestnut mushrooms
1 clove of garlic
2 sprigs of rosemary
1 small bunch of flat-leaf parsley
1 tin of lentils
1 pack of tomato passata
1/2 vegetable stockpot
30 gms salted butter 
110 mls water
1/2 tbsp HP brown sauce 

 Topping (leave this out if vegan)

 60 gms of cheddar cheese, grated 
1/2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce or HP brown sauce if vegetarian
Method

 1. Peel and then chop the potato into large chunks. Add to a pan of water, and boil for 15 mins until soft. 


2. Peel, halve and chop the onion into small pieces. If you have someone who doesn't like mushrooms in your family, I suggest you chop the mushrooms very finely as the flavour of tomatoes is strong in this dish and it will disguise the mushrooms. 


3. Peel and grate or finely chop the garlic. Pick the rosemary leaves from the stalks, and discard the stalks. Chop the rosemary leaves finely.

4. Heat a little oil in a pan, then add the onion and mushrooms, and salt and pepper. Cook with lid on until the vegetables are soft. Chop the parsley and add 


5. Drain the lentils in a sieve, and rinse under cold water.

6. Stir the garlic, rosemary, and 1/2 tbsp of Worcestershire sauce into the vegetables. You can leave the Worcestershire sauce out if vegan as it contains anchovies. Then pour in the passata, the stockpot and 110 MLS of water. Simmer slowly for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. 


7. When the potato is cooked, remove from the heat, and drain. Add the butter or vegan alternative and seasoning and then mash with a potato masher until smooth.


8. Preheat your grill to the highest setting. Dish up the lentil mixture, into individual dishes and let the mixture cool slightly.


9. Top with the mashed potato, and smooth carefully with a knife or back of a spoon until all the lentil mixture is covered. Top with grated cheese and sprinkle the remaining Worcestershire sauce on top. If you are vegan leave this topping out.


10. Put the dishes under the grill until the Shepherd's Pie is bubbling and golden on top. 


11. Serve with carrots and broccoli for a hearty dinner, full of flavour.



Hello Fresh has a range of scrumptious recipe boxes delivered to your door. Use my link here for a discount if you sign up. Also, check out Imperfect Mummy's review of how Hello Fresh makes like easier for new mums. If you are looking for gifts for bakers check out this link too. Let me know, have you tried Hello Fresh? Do you like trying vegetarian recipes? 

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