Wednesday 24 December 2014

Little L's Christmas Wishlist

I feel extremely unorganised this Christmas, still lots of things to do and to buy, but at least all our relatives are aware of what L wants for her first Christmas. 

Just few weeks ago I wasn't sure if I want to buy personalised presents for L's first Christmas. I didn't want a teddy bear, or booties or socks or a bib (the list can go on and on) but I have decided that a christmas bauble is a great keepsake and can be used every year. As you can see I'm more of a practical person, so L's wishlist consists of toys she will need up until she is 1.



1. Lamaze Toys Balancing Bug Stacker
2. ELC Sensory Stacking Rings
3. ELC Discovery Cylinder
4. Fisher- Price Cookie Shape Surprise
5. ELC Baby Percussion Mat
6. LeapFrog My Pal Violet
7. World Apart A-Zebra Square Sensory Ball Pit
8. Tumble doll


Tuesday 23 December 2014

Kiddicare Christmas Gift Guide

Few months ago I have started creating L's Christmas wishlist as I wanted to get her something she can use till her 1st birthday. I couldn't find any gift guides by age and my only source at that point was online community for parents. It helped me greatly and made me think that maybe online toy shops should implement an idea of age gift guides to be available at all times as mums like me always on a search for a toy or a book for a little one.



Few weeks ago I came across Kiddicare Christmas Gift Guide, if only I could buy all the toys in the world for L, but I have settled just for few.       
Kiddicare have a wide selection of toys that would make great Christmas presents for toddlers and babies. The products cater for a range of ages and prices so are ideal for stocking fillers or more expensive main presents.

You can have a sneak peek at:

The first Noel category is perfect for my almost 6 months old baby, but I have picked 2 items from different ranges:
Learn With The Very Hungry Caterpillar Book from First Noel and Buzzing Brains Xylophone from Early Years.


The Very Hungry Caterpillar is a set of 4 board books: numbers, words, colours, animal sounds. 
This compact set of books are for little hands to hold, board pages that are durable enough to withstand the rough and tumble of toddlers. It is filled with collage art, and large and simple text.

This is a great set of books but I feel that L cares more about putting things in her mouth and colourfulness of things rather than the educational side of it. 
From the very first day L was eager to put them in her mouth, we even made a joke that she is learning through chewing. They already show signs of use as you would expect from a tiny baby but I hope they can last us longer so that she can learn a little bit more about the world with The Very Hungry Caterpillar. 

Buzzing Brains Xylophone- a 
classic toy xylophone with 5 different colour keys, each a different tone.
Features:

  • Helps develop hand eye coordination
  • Early introduction to music
  • Great for learning first scales and simple tune
  • 5 different colour keys, each a different tone
  • Two wooden beaters to help develop left and right handed play and sharing

It is a more of a success for us even though it states that the toy is suitable from 12 months I think it's the ideal musical toy which helps stimulate her senses and develop her skills as well as just an ideal addition to L's musical instruments collection.

Disclaimer: I was sent the above items for the purpose of this review. All thought and opinions are my own.

Monday 22 December 2014

Nib Nibs review and giveaway #5


We are passionate about nibbling and love creating moreish quality snacks that are full of the very best of everything. We personally source our ingredients and always ensure they are the finest quality and wherever possible most definitely British. 

We also produce all of our snacks at our bakery in North Yorkshire. We are reassuringly local and a true artisan producer.



Have you heard of Nib Nibs before? These lovely cheesy pastry straws are an alternative to Mini Cheddars. 

I have received:
Mininibs Roasted Salt & Pepper Jumbo Peanuts (70g)
Mininibs Exceptional Cheddar Cheese Straws (65g)
Mininibs Exceptional Cheddar & Spicy Chilli Straws (65g)
Mininibs Exceptional Cheddar & Cheeky Onion Straws (65g)

Nib Nibs are also available in four delicious flavours: Sea Salt & Cracked Black Pepper; West Country Cheddar; West Country Cheddar and Cheeky Onion and West Country Cheddar & Spicy Chilli, in a generous 175g pack.

I am a big fan of pretty much everything cheese related and was very eager to try Mininibs. Mininibs tub has a pull- back foil seal which can be left or you can easily peel it away and use just the re-sealable lid.
Save to say that the contents of each tub was finished within few minutes mainly by myself. I had to share them with my husband but as a breastfeeding mother ;-) I had the most of it.

From the 3 different flavours my favourite one is cheddar and onion. I thought that it's very tender and onion flavour is not overpowering at all, where as cheddar cheese straws were a little bit too strong for me. The real "heat" for us were cheddar and chilly straws, they definitely have a kick to it, but it is quite gentle which is great as I prefer to eat spicy food and to enjoy the flavours rather than not to be able to taste anything.

My second favourite- salt and pepper peanuts, I liked them so much that I had to lick the whole tub afterwards, I just couldn't get enough of them!
These are absolutely delicious, I have previously tried peppercorn crisps from a different brand which my husband brought from work which I thought are way too strong, I felt as if the actual peppercorns were stuck in my throat and had a weird pepper after-taste in my mouth. So having tasted the crisps I knew what to expect. I was totally wrong! Mininibs peanuts are much nicer and more enjoyable!

The only problem I had was with finding local stockists, there is just one farm shopc in my area who might stock Nib Nibs (I haven't checked yet), I have managed to find an online store, where you can purchase Mininibs at £1.95. If you would like to find your local stockists please click here.

I am very please to offer my readers the chance to WIN a selection of their own Nib Nibs simply fill in the Rafflecopter form below.




Where do you nibble yours?

Disclaimer: I was sent the above items for the purpose of this review. All thought and opinions are my own.

Thursday 18 December 2014

Little L is 5 months

I can't believe L is 5 months!! We've been through lack of sleep, lack of time, arguments, doubts, crying, smiles, poonamy, rolling back and forth, touching toes and lots more. 
As L is tiny comparing to other babies her age, she is now dropped to 2nd centile line, I thought that 5 months is the best time to introduce solids. She is showing the interested in what we eat or drink and gets upset if I'm not sharing a glass of water with her. She is obsessed with bottles especially if they have something inside, every time she sees a bottle she wants to grab it and every time she sees a glass of water she holds it with 2 hands if I give it to her and pretends to drink.

Her 2 bottom teeth are pretty much there for everyone to see, so weird to see these changes. L has all signs of teething- has rash on her body and face, grumpy and has odd days of long naps . We have tried Dentinox and now testing Anbesol, but none of these seem to work. 

Sleep during the day or night has been the main issue for me this month, she won't fall asleep on her own, for the past couple of weeks it happened just once, when I try to calm her and then leave the room she starts crying, it either takes us hours or she falls asleep and wakes up at 10 pm ready to be entertained.
I thought that when we move house and start solids she will sleep better, I was fooling myself. Health visitor suggested to put L in a cot with a comforter, we have previously tried comfort blanket and my pillow- it never worked, but I'm willing to try it again. Health visitor's method is slightly different to mine, I used to sleep with comforter so that it smells of me or put it in my bra and then leave it next to L in her cot, health visitor suggested to have comforter with us at all times, few days later to try and leave L on her own in a cot but with the comforter, apparently it can take 3-4 days and it should work. Fingers crossed!

It is fascinating to watch L grow and develop! Sometimes she is lifting her hand and looking at it from a different angle or when she is trying to roll but one of the arms is on the way or her weird laughter if something is incredibly funny or weird noises she makes!

I think I'm obsessed with her, can't help myself but we are so attached to each other that I don't trust anyone with her. She sees her grandparents, aunties and cousin but I worry a lot about her playing on a cold wooden floor or her being to close to cats or too close to someone smoking or coughing. I feel overprotective and full of love towards her!

Monday 15 December 2014

Nordic wipes review

When L was born I started to use water wipes but just few days later I have noticed that she has a nappy rash. I decided to use baby wipes when on the go and for day to day bum wiping to use well- known cotton wool and water. 

Few months ago I came across Nordic Wipes and thought that it's a great alternative to cotton wool.
We are two Danish mums that have started a company called Nordic Wipes, that specializes in unique allergy friendly wipes, which can help prevent nappy rash. These wipes have been used my mums and nurseries in the Nordic countries for decades. Moving to UK we realized that these wipes did not exist, and after having family and friends bringing them over for years, we decided to start our own company.

Today the wipe is recommended by Nordic midwives and health visitors, to be used on newborns and babies as it is good for sensitive skin, and helps prevent nappy rash. 

The Nordic Wipe is:
100% Allergy friendly
100% Fragrance Free
100% Parabene Free
100% Free of preservation substances
100% Free of colouring and bleaching agents
100% Disposable
100% Oeko-Tex certified


Nordic wipes (100 wipes in a pack) come in a vacuum compressed bag once I had opened the pack it expanded.
I have received a pack of full size wipes, they also come in half size. The total price for a box of 5 packs of wipes is £9 including postage. You can purchase them here.

It is very easy to use Nordic wipes just follow these easy steps:
- open the pack
- take the wipe out
- wet the wipe
- squeeze excess water if needed
- apply the wet wipe on your baby's skin
Wipes are made of soft foam and become even softer when wet and don't leave any irritations on baby's skin. Even though they are foam wipes when wiping nothing comes through and your fingers will be poo-free.
We have been cutting wipes into small strips or just torn bits for "topping and tailing" and at every nappy change, by doing so they lasted longer.
I wasn't brave enough to use them when out and about as recommended on the website, as I think it might get messy especially when changing area is lacking in space. 


The only minor concern I had was with storing the wipes, as from the moment you open a pack you can't put the wipes back in it's packaging, but if you can find a tin or a small box it won't be a problem. I have also noticed that over the time wipes became yellow- ish but this didn't affect it's properties.

Recommendations: as per my previous comment it would be great to see a range of products from wipes to storage boxes.

Disclaimer: I was sent the above items for the purpose of this review. All thought and opinions are my own.

Monday 1 December 2014

It's the most wonderful time of the year with Webbs of Wychbold


GROTTO
Last Wednesday was a truly magical for us! We were invited to the Webbs Garden Centre in Wychbold to visit their newly opened outdoor Ice rink and Santa's Grotto.

Families with young ones or just the young at heart can visit the Winter Wonderland, which has been created at the award-winning garden centre, and see the animated elves in their workshop, the polar bears skating on the ice rink and enjoy songs and dance from the playful electronic penguins before being greeted by elves and taken to meet Father Christmas himself.

After telling him their festive wish, children will then enter the toy warehouse and choose their own gift as an early festive treat – but only if they’ve been good!

The grotto will be open from 9am – 4.30pm on Saturdays until 20th December, 10am – 4.30pm on Sundays until 21st December, 1pm – 5pm on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 26th November to 5th December, 1pm – 6pm on 10th, 11th, and 12th December, 9.30am – 6.30pm from 15th – 19th December, 9am – 6.30pm on 22nd and 23rd December and from 9am – 2.30pm on Christmas Eve.
Grotto tickets are priced at £7 per child, which includes one accompanying adult and a free gift worth £5. Booking in advance is recommended, and can be made in-store or online at www.webbs.co.uk.



I have never been to the Grotto before therefore didn't really know what to expect apart from the obvious bits- meeting Santa and a present.
Prior to the visit my expectations were not high, I thought that we will be rushed throughout our visit to the Grotto and thought that Santa would be friendly but I didn't expect him to be nice. 

How little did I know! We were really impressed with the welcoming service, decorations, animated polar bears, penguins and elves on the way to Santa, staff members dressed as elves and of course Santa!! I take it back, he was great!!







When we walked into the room where Santa sat we were greeted by a girl elf, who took pictures of us all with Santa, we were also allowed to take our own pictures.
As L is tiny and can't talk Santa asked me what I want for Christmas, I couldn't think of anything at that moment so said that I wish for L to have lots of presents this Christmas. 
After all the pictures were taken we were offered to visit Santa's toy warehouse to pick a toy. 

Oh my, it was tough! We were told that one boy spent more than half an hour trying to pick 1 toy out of 6 he had picked as well! Not surprised!
Further more, in the next section staff members offered us to pick and purchase photos which were taken earlier by the elf.


ICE RINK

Unfortunately we didn't use ice rink which is a shame as I really wanted to, but with 4 months old it was impossible.

Here is a little it more about it from Webbs Chairman, Ed Webb “There’s nothing to make you feel festive more than skating outdoors on real ice. And this year we have our biggest rink ever plus a great clear roof covering so you can skate whatever the weather. It’s a great activity with family or friends and we are thrilled we can bring such a cool experience to our customers again this year.”

He added, “It’s magical skating outside in the early evening with lights twinkling and frost in the air and just as much fun in the quieter sessions, perhaps teaching your children to skate.”

The ice rink will be open seven days a week until Sunday, 4th January (closed Christmas Day & Boxing Day), including some evening sessions. Each session is 45 minutes long and ticket price includes skate hire. The rink-side Christmas Café will make the experience complete. Ice skating tickets are from just £6.






Disclaimer: I was offered to visit Webbs of Wychbol for the purpose of this review. All thought and opinions are my own.

Monday 24 November 2014

Printed.com personalised invitations review

Here at printed.com we like to describe ourselves as an easy-to-use online print destination that puts the power back in your hands. You can mix ‘n’ match your size, papers and finishes to suit your designs — because print shouldn’t be one size fits all.

Printed.com have kindly offered to review one of their products and I knew straight away that I want to review 1st birthday invitations. I know it is a little bit too early for the 1st birthday preparations but I like to be organised and to plan ahead. 
To be honest with you I have never heard of this website prior to this review and was hoping that it would be an easy process of simply scrolling through few designs and ordering. It took me a little bit longer than I expected as I had to work out how to use Photoshop (that is something I have never used in my life), but first things first.

Printed.com is an online printing company where you can personalise products ranging from leaflets and flyers to wedding stationery and posters.

If you don't know where to start "How it works" section is here to help. You can also find video tutorials if you don't know how to submit your artwork and much more to help you out along the way.
All the products are listed on the left hand side in the Products section or you can follow the link from "How it works". 
Choose your size (it varies depending on a product), select printed sides (one side or both sides, paper and finishes (each option has a picture sample), paper weight options, envelope options (from white to gold), quantity, upload your artwork and order! 

"Choose a design"option from "How it works" is a little bit misleading as I spent ages trying to find designs. With the help from Printed.com representative I found out that they don't stock any designs and I would need to provide my own artwork. Big bonus is that you can find artwork templates.  I was struggling with this one as I have never used Photoshop before but if you know your way around it will be easy!

File (-s) itself you can upload either from your computer or from Dropbox and preview the file once uploaded. If you stuck and don't know what and how to do "Upload files" section has some valuable advice at the bottom of the page.
I have opted for 25 folded invitations on a Gesso 250 gsm paper with white envelopes, with an estimate price £25 without delivery costs. For delivery you can choose from the following options:


I have opted for the cheapest option- Royal Mail first class which was delivered the next day, pretty quick, right?!

And here is invitations I have ordered:

I am slightly disappointed with the way it looks on a Gesso paper, but taking into consideration that I had no clue how an invitation on a certain paper type will look like and didn't know what to expect it's not too bad.

What do you think?

Disclaimer: I was sent the above items for the purpose of this review. All thought and opinions are my own.

Friday 7 November 2014

Secret Santa for UK Bloggers 2014

Freedigitalphotos
This year, My Little L Blog decided to run a Secret Santa for UK bloggers.


UK bloggers will be randomly assigned to Secret Santa blogger. Ideal budget for the challenge would be £5-£10, the present can be something that represents you and your personality or it could be something that you feel your Secret Santa partner would love.
I will be using Elfster to send invitations and to pair bloggers.

Elfster is a website that makes it easy to organize your gift exchange and doesn't cost a cent! For starters, the site randomly pairs up gifters and giftees. Then it allows you to set constraints, like the spending limit, time period for signing up, and where the exchange will take place. You can also search on the website for gifts that you can place on a wish list or suggest to someone.


To join Secret Santa for UK bloggers please provide me with your email address in the comments below so that I can invite you to join Secret Santa UK bloggers 2014 facebook group and to Elfster.

P.S. the deadline for joining is 30 November.

Hope YOU can join me!

Wednesday 5 November 2014

What we can do after pregnancy

Freedigitalphotos

Here is a lighthearted post from me!

Are you over the moon that you are no longer pregnant?!

 I came up with the list of things we- women can do again or feel like after giving birth:
  • Can see my toes
  • Lie on my back comfortably
  • Can sit at table on something other than an inflatable ball
  • Bladder holds loads now
  • Can walk straight without pain in pelvis
  • Not in a state of waiting
  • Can sneeze without a potential accident
  • Feel light
  • Can go up and down the stairs
  • Can breath
  • No longer have heartburn
  • Ankles have returned!
  • No more thrice weekly hospital visits
  • Can squeeze through small gaps
  • Can eat pâté 
  • Can eat mouldy goats cheese
  • Can drink wine
  • Can lay on my front
  • Can hug other half properly or other children
  • Miss being pregnant
  • Miss the bump and kicks
  • Miss the anticipation
  • Body feels better
  • Can ride a bike again
  • Love being able to stand up for a longer period of time
  • Can climb the ladder
  • Can walk at a normal speed
  • Being able to bend down
  • Being able to do a coat/jacket up
Feel free to add what YOU can and feel like doing after giving birth!

Tuesday 4 November 2014

Lapland Mailroom Letter from Santa review


This Christmas is a little bit more special for us as it's L's first Christmas. 
I was delighted when Lapland Mailroom contacted me as it meant that I can order a special 1st Christmas Letter from Santa.

There's nothing like the magic of a letter from Santa to light up every child's face this Christmas. A personal greeting from Santa as they open their presents will add even more joy and laughter to the happy day.


It is quite easy to find your way around the website. Pretty much regardless of what button you press you will be directed to the letter section.

Click "Order a Letter" from Home page and pick suitable package.


From this page you can click "Back" (under each package) it will send you to the Home page, click "View Letters" or click "Next" which sends you to "View Letters" page.

If you click onto "Mail package 1" or "Mail package 2" it directs to the "View Letters" and if you click onto "Mail package 3" it directs to the personalisation page, where you can choose and personalise any package.

Each Lapland Mailroom Pack includes a very special personalised Letter From Santa / Father Christmas Letter, each traditionally designed letter from Santa is printed on high quality bespoke Christmas paper and has many personal references that enhances the excitement of Christmas for your child. There is a choice of 4 different letters which are all written slightly differently so siblings do not receive exactly the same letter!

When on "View letters" page you can click and see what parts of the letter can be personalised, personalise your own letter:


No matter where you click there is always an option to go back if you scroll down the page or choose different page (at the top of each page).

To make sure your order is delivered in time for Christmas you can find "Postal dates" here. Please note, Lapland Mailroom delivers worldwide.

And here is our own 1st Letter from Santa to L( dispatched within 3 days of the order):

I like the idea of Santa letter's, and it's great that L will have her own personalised letter. I wish I had one!

I like the style of the website, it's design, my only recommendation would to delete "Next", "Back" buttons and maybe join those sections "Order Letters" and "View Letters" together.

P.S. For all my lovely readers Lapland Mailroom offering 20% discount, type in xmaspromo14 at a checkout to receive 20% off.

Disclaimer: I was sent the above items for the purpose of this review. All thought and opinions are my own.

Friday 31 October 2014

What Little L wore- Halloween Special!

This is L's first Halloween outfit, she looked so cute in it!  We bought it on Ebay (unknown brand, 75% cotton, 25% polyester) and even though it was used it looks great and just like new! After I washed it, still looks like new!

I have tried putting L in a pumpkin to take few cute pictures of her sitting in a pumpkin but she didn't want to stay still. 

Little L is 4 months


Last month was very eventful, we had good and bad days.
Couple of weeks ago L had a weigh in and she put on 800 grams, which is very good as only at 3 months she put only 400 grams.I was a little bit worried about L weight as she is smaller than other babies her age, but Health Visitor reassured me that she is doing fine and we should carry on with exclusive breastfeeding without any supplements if obviously I'm happy with feeding every 2 hours. I really don't mind but can't wait to start weaning as feeding every 2 hours followed by entertaining L and putting her to sleep means every 2 hours I have deja vu!



We had few exciting milestones- L rolled from back to front and she touched her toes. So exciting!

She is more vocal, makes girly noises or talks non-stop the only problem she tends to wake up at night wen dummy is out of her mouth and it takes her ages to fall asleep in the evening! Don't know why such a sudden change maybe because we moved er from the moses basket to a cot bed.
L also had 2nd set of jabs and as always she was fab! 


This month we went on a small break to Forest of Dean, every day we went to different places and L didn't mind being carried at all! 


Next month I am planning to prepare for the big milestone-weaning, write the list of veg and fruit we will start with and hopefully we will take L to the swimming pool for the first time!

Wednesday 29 October 2014

How to entertain a baby?!

FreeDigitalPhotos
When L was 6 weeks I had a dilemma what to do with her, how to entertain her, how to make her last longer on a play mat in order for me to do other things.
The more I thought about it or discussed with fellow mums the more I realised that it is normal for L to behave this way. 
Some babies just don't last long, L at around 7 weeks lasted no more than 5 minutes on her play mat, 10 weeks later she is interested in what's around her rather than her hanging toys.

So here is my list of list:
  • talking and making silly sounds (still one of our daily things)
  • dancing on mummy's arms (I don't think L realised what is going on but at least she didn't cry)
  • bounce and watch mummy faff around in the kitchen (that was once and never happened again)
  • look at the patterns on toys or mummy's clothes (I have a maternity top with patterns and L is mesmerised by it every time)
  • singing along to songs from Youtube, nursery rhymes (sometimes I just make up songs, it's so much fun, but my husband hates when I sing, I wonder why?!)
  • kicking session on the baby gym (I can't say L doesn't like it, she can play for few minutes and then turns her head towards me)
  • walks around the house (that was on top of the list few weeks ago as the only way to settle L)
  • carried in a sling while mum gets on with doing stuff (tried few times, it's just not for me)
  • massaging (L likes when I massage her legs and tummy)
Sometimes it seems like a groundog day, but her rewards like talking or smiling keep me going.

What can you add to the list?

Monday 27 October 2014

Ardo Easy Freeze milk storage bags review


Before I gave birth I was very determined to breast feed my baby. I thought it is going to be relatively easy, why it wouldn't be...How little did I know, that hand expressing would be my only option and L needed to learn how to latch and suck hence it took me ages to do a review of these storage bags.

The Easy Freeze bags (pack of 20 bags and 2 fastening strips £7.95) have been designed to be used with all ARDO Pumpsets and pumps, including the manual Amaryll manual pump.

We use premium-quality, FDA tested, double coating to protect against odours. The materials used are safe and Plasticizer (PVC) free.


As I have just about enough milk for L, I managed to use only one bag so far. 

To my surprise you can express straight into the pre-sterilised bag where the expressed breast milk is safe and no drop is lost due to the resealable fastening of the leak-proof bags. 

All you have to do:

  1. remove the upper part by separating or cutting along the perforated line
  2. undo the zip fastener
  3. put the pump (pump shell), the part which "seals" with the bottle into the bag
  4. and fasten with strip which you need to put through both eyelets
  5. start expressing milk
When finished unfasten the bag, take the pump shell out of the bag, gently press on the side of the bag to expel the air and zip the bag closed.

For those who hand express or prefer to transfer milk from a bottle into the bag it's even easier:  
  1. remove the upper part by separating or cutting along the perforated line
  2. undo the zip fastener
  3. transfer expressed milk into the bag
  4. gently press on the side of the bag to expel the air 
  5. zip the bag closed
The bag itself can fit maximum 180 ml (6 oz), for easy measuring, each bag is graduated. At the front of the bag is the section for your notes-  the name, time and date. Last but not least bag has integrated heat indicatorwhen you wish to use the milk, the the bag will show when the milk is warm. 

Inside the box you will find very useful information about: 
  1. storing breast milk: 6 hours at room temperature, 5 days in the fridge, 3-6 months in the freezer compartment, 
  2. defrosting it: warm water or placing in the fridge, 
  3. warming up breast milk: open the bag briefly, close the bag again, stand the bag in water at about 60 degrees, the temperature indicator will start to fade when the breast mill at the right temperature it will fade completely.

Milk storage bag is one of the must products for breastfeeding mothers. It's such a shame I only use it once. Maybe next time!



Disclaimer: I was sent the above items for the purpose of this review. All thought and opinions are my own.

Friday 24 October 2014

What Little L wore- Tu at Sainsbury's

Up to 1 month, 9lbs, 56 cm

These are mine and L's favourite baby vests. L looked incredibly cute in them. My mother in law bought this set of 5 cotton vests (£7.50) when I was pregnant and they were worn loads for the first 2 months of L's life.

L looked incredibly cute in them, especially the one with fish.


What's you little one's fav vest or outfit?

Wednesday 22 October 2014

Baby Massage

"Massage is a lovely way for you to express your love and care for your baby. Massage can soothe your baby and aid sleep as well as being a great way for you and your partner to bond with your baby. Massage has many added benefits, including aiding digestion, improving circulation and easing teething pain".

A month ago or so me and L have attended a 5 week course run by one of the local children centres. We had to miss the very 1st class because of my back problems (as I couldn't pick L up, basically couldn't do anything without a help), but as it is the only class in our area I couldn't miss the opportunity. We paid £15 for 5 weeks , normally you would have to pay £45 for one private session, as well as we were picked up by a minibus who took us there and back for free.

Each session started with mums picking up babies and giving them cuddles and kisses, followed by singing "The more we get together song". Then we sang "If you happy and you know it", "Head, shoulders, knees and toes" whilst showing or pointing to baby at her body parts.

Whilst babies were in a good, smiley mood we put them onto a changing mat, undressed them and started massaging with oil.

During massage we concentrated on baby's tummy, legs, toes, arms, hands.

After massaging we did something which I didn't expect it to be, it was a fun, sensory way of interacting with your baby. We had all sorts of toys and things which we can find in our house and introduced them to babies.

At the very end of the session we put babies in the circle, and sang "Twinkle, twinkle" whilst holding a "parachute" or blanket with stars. At this point some of them were asleep giving mums a chance to complete a scrap book with fun stickers and photos from previous session.

I really enjoyed these session, L was a bit fussy in last 2, but we both learnt so much.

Monday 20 October 2014

Silly Billyz fleece car seat sleeping bag review & giveaway

Being a mum definitely changed my way of thinking, my priorities. I feel unconditional love towards my daughter, I am bursting with love and worries.  
I worry about not having enough milk, lack of poo during the day (not mine obviously), reasons of L's crying, worry about her being alone upstairs with the scary blanket keeping her warm (baby Matilda is always on my mind), is she warm or cold etc. 
The last one is quite relevant due to the weather outside. To keep her warm in the house I put heating on, to keep her warm when we are out and about I use Silly Billyz fleece car sleeping bag (£34.96) from BPM UK.

This Car Seat Sleeping Bag is ideal for your newborn and will keep them snug in the car seat or pram. Made from 100% polyester Faux Fur Sherpa Fleece with a quality polycotton backing, the front cover zips off completely for use in the summer time. Fits most 5 point harness systems. Plus it’s stain resistant, machine washable and tumble dry safe.


We have received the cover few weeks ago and so far used in our carry cot and 2 car seats as it is compatible with most car seats and prams.

Features:
  • velcro detachable head support
  • removable front cover (zips off) for temperature control
  • sections for car seat belts
  • elastic band at the back of the cover for further support
  • can be used from birth upwards
  • covers most of the baby's body depending on a size
  • comes in black, navy, pink
Very easy to use- just pop on the car seat, put car seat belts through and done. And if baby falls asleep you can just pick him/her up knowing that your baby will be all snuggled up in this cover.

We've been using the cover every time it was raining, chilly outside and I couldn't be happier knowing that she is comfortable and warm.  How I know- during and after every walk I have checked her feet if they are warm or cold and every time we had car seat cover her feet were warm! It is very soft to touch and looks like new even after I washed and tumble dried it.

Silll Billyz are GIVING AWAY a fleece car sleeping bag to one lucky reader. Good luck!


How to enter:

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2 points (daily entries)
Retweet this message:
I've entered to #win @SillyBillyzUK fleece car sleeping bag at @MyLittleLBlogJoin me! Enter here: http://my-little-l.blogspot.co.uk/2014/10/silly-billyz-fleece-car-seat-sleeping.html RT #giveaway #competition

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Terms and Conditions:
The giveaway is open to the UK mainland only.
All entries will be checked.
Winner will be drawn randomly.
The prize is supplied by BPM UK
There is no cash alternative and prize cannot be exchanged
The winner will be contacted by email or via social media 48 hours after the giveaway ends and if the prize isn't claimed within 28 days the new winner will be selected.
The giveaway will end on 4 November at 12 am (GMT)


Disclaimer: I was sent the above item for the purpose of this review. All thought and opinions are my own.



Win competitions at ThePrizeFinder.com - See more at: http://www.theprizefinder.com/content/silly-billyz-fleece-car-seat-sleeping-bag#sthash.vodnRrO2.dpuf

L's first Halloween

Freedigitalphotos.net
We don't normally celebrate Halloween but now we have L and it is time for a change!
At 4 months old she won't understand a thing but as it is a very first L's Halloween I would like it to be special!
We bought her a " little mummy's pumpkin" sleepsuit which she will be wearing on the day. 

We won't be trick or treating but we will certainly take her for a walk in this outfit. 
I would also like to do something creative this year, something like a pumpkin photo session. My plan is to buy a pumpkin, take all the bits out of it and to use the pumpkin itself as a prop.
Depending on L's mood (she started teething) I would like to take some cute pictures of L sitting or maybe even playing in the pumpkin. Can't wait!!
I hope to introduce each year more and more "Halloweeny" bits into our life. Need to start thinking about how to explain the spooky part of the celebrations.

What's your plan for this Halloween?

I have written this post to enter an amazing Next competition. 

Friday 17 October 2014

Sport shoes running kit review


I never was into exercising, I hated PE at school, if I had a gym membership I would cancel it 2 months later.

Few years ago my husband bought a treadmill and I actually started using it more than he did. I liked the fact that I'm in the comfort of my own home and I can decide when I' m ready and want to use it.

When I got pregnant I was determined to stay healthy and fit and if you remember from my bump updates I used treadmill every day. My priorities slightly shifted since we had L but I'm hoping that one day L will be happy to play on her own and I will have few minutes to spare for running.

Few months ago Sport shoes contacted me and offered to review their products. I thought that it's an amazing opportunity to get myself a proper running kit.

I have opted for:


NIKE VICTORY CONTOUR WOMEN'S SUPPORT SPORTS BRA (£12.49)

The Nike Victory Contour Women's Support Bra is designed for a compression fit and locked in feel. This Nike Lady Victory Contour Support Bra features a lightweight chest band that eliminates bulk, a bonded seam that provides support and lift that helps you for medium-impact sports. It also features mesh panels on the back for improved ventiliation, and Dri-FIT fabric that wicks away moisture to help keep you dry and comfortable.

It feels quite tight and holds breasts quite nicely which gives them support whilst running or walking, plus no need for a push-up bra!
I would definitely wear it everyday if I wasn't breastfeeding!

ASICS LADY SHORT SLEEVE POLO T-SHIRT (£6.99)

Made of soft pique fabric that helps you move with ease, this polo shirt is extremely comfortable to wear and it also features an enhance moisture management with pique knit designed for keeping sweat away.
I was always a big fan of polo shirts, I'm planning to wear it with Nike trousers I picked not just for running but to play gold as well.

NIKE LEGEND REGULAR POLY WORKOUT
PANTS (£17.49)

Designed for everyday workouts. These versatile trousers deliver an extra-soft feel with a flared hem and body-skimming fit through the hip and thigh. And, they're comfortable enough to wear all day, from studio to street.
Slightly looser-fitting, this pants feature a flared leg to form to your curves. The inside waistband is made of powermesh fabric for a compression effect that slims, flattens and flexes while helping to eliminate creases and lines for a smooth, flattering look. The rise was lowered in the front and tilted up at the back for perfect coverage, no matter how you move. To enhance your curves, a subtle v-shaped seam connects the waist to the legs, and seams were moved back to sculpt the line of the leg.

Straight away after I put them on I thought that they flatter my figure, hide all the bumps and lumps due to a high and wide waistband and stretchy material. 
I'm not a big fan of flared trousers in general but in this case it certainly helps to look skinnier. 
When my mum saw me wearing them she thought that I'm wearing work trousers which shows that they can nicely blend with you everyday activities. 
Trousers also have a small waistband flap pocket for cash, ID/credit cards or even media player, which is great and suitable for those you don't know where to put small items whilst on the go.

ASICS WOMEN'S HOODED RUNNING TOP (£14.99)

This jacket delivers excellent comfort and great performance.
The hoodie is specially designed to keep you warm with French terry fabric designed to wick moisture away from your body keeping you at your best.

I was wearing it with a thin t-shirt underneath and a thin waterproof jacket, it was more than enough to keep me warm during cold, rainy days or evenings.

SAUCONY ULTRA CUSHIONED ANKLET RUNNING
SOCKS  (£3.49)

The Saucony Ultra Cushion Anklet Running Socks offer soft, plush cushioning ensuring your feet are comfortable throughout your run. The RunDry Control provides maximum breathability, while also keeping your feet dry with its moisture transportation technology. A irritaion is reduced and a secure fit is ensured through the reduction of movement provided by the socks' engineered arch stability control.

I could never have imagined that socks can provide support and feel so soft and comfortable, after few washes they look like new.


SAUCONY JAZZ ORIGINAL (RETRO) WOMEN'S RUNNING SHOES (£27.49)

The Saucony Jazz Original (Retro) Women's Running Shoe is one of the most popular shoes amongst fans of the 80s. Available in a broad range of colours, the Jazz Original utilises a comfortable and soft fabric upper lining that provides an optimally comfortable ride.
For grip on slippery surfaces, the design of the outsole (Triangular Lug and XT600) provides ample traction off road and robust durability on-road. Wherever your run takes you - run in comfort, style and confidence.

I can't express enough how much I like my new running shoes. These are the best of the bunch!
They not just look funky, they are extremely comfortable. They feel soft and cushioned, it's springy sole makes me faster when I walk and run ( the latter is very rear now unfortunately). The only negative point I found- they are slippery, therefore I would suggest wearing them when it's not raining.

Overall, I am quite happy with items and their price tags. I can certainly recommend Sport Shoes as you can find good quality products for a small price.

Disclaimer: I was sent the above items for the purpose of this review. All thought and opinions are my own.