post pregnancy weight loss rate | Paris with toddlers staying in a strangers home

post pregnancy weight loss rate

If you follow my blog or any of my social media (what?! You dont?! Get clicking to your right!), you will know that last weekend, me, my husband and daughter spent the weekend in Paris with our good friends and their beautiful 8 month old daughter too.  In an attempt to not bore you with my descriptions of this very beautiful city, because lets face it, we have all seen the Eiffel Tower, I thought I would do a little round up of how we found travelling with two little ones and how I found staying in a strangers home (and no, we are not involved in some strange Parisian wife swap). 

We travelled to Paris by Eurostar which was actually brilliant. The trip seemed to be so quick and there was plenty of room for our luggage and pram / pushchairs.  So far so good.  Until that is, we arrived at the station where you needed to have a flying pram to be able to get about. I think its more commonly known as Gare du Nord. Apologies if we blatantly missed any lifts, but, after several laps of the station the only way we could get to any of the connecting platforms we needed was to carry everything down several flights of stairs. All I can say is the need to be accessible to all has clearly bypassed this station and after much huffing and puffing, we all arrived safely onto the platform, albeit minus a bag of M&S Percy Pigs that got damaged in transit.  RIP. 

Our accommodation for the weekend was a beautiful apartment we had rented from a site called Airbnb. Airbnb is a website whereby you can search properties all over the world and basically rent peoples houses (they are not in them at the time!).  The houses have reviews and are rated by people who have previously stayed there.  Some of the places to rent are absolutely stunning and you can rent whole houses, studios, flats or even just a room. As someone who only ever books hotels, I was a little dubious about using this service, but it is such an amazing concept.  I guess people rent their homes who maybe have other properties or go on holidays themselves.  The apartment we rented was amazing.  It was spotless (very important to me), it had three bedrooms, two balconies and my daughter had her own little playroom!!! Whilst it was strange being in someones house with their belongings still in, it was lovely to have a homely base for the weekend right in the middle of Paris.  

The person whose apartment it was met us at the door, showed us round, had bought us a few essentials, like bread and milk and even left us a range of maps and local information. Of course I didnt do any snooping (but I could tell the owners had excellent taste with their Laura Mercier bath collection).  I would certainly use Airbnb again, in fact we are, when we travel to New York in May.  Its definitely worth a look if you are going away and want something a bit more flexible than a hotel.  For us, it worked out cheaper between us and also gave us a bit more freedom when the children went to bed so we could sit on the balcony or in the living room, whereas if you stay in a hotel you can be a little stuck in the evenings. 

We spent the weekend taking in the glorious sights of Paris and also ate our way through the delicacies.  We used a shuttle water bus to get back from the Eiffel Tower which was really nice as it transported us along the river right through the heart of Paris.  Pre-children I think we would have all managed to walk back to the apartment (maybe with a few bar stops along the way), but with hungry little ones in tow we found the boat ride perfect. It was a lovely Parisian weekend away.  

Readers of this blog maybe keen to know if I managed to befriend Kim Kardashian as it was Paris Fashion Week whilst we were there. I can confirm I did not.  I have the eyes of an eagle when it comes to any celebrities (please dont judge me)and I didnt see a single one of them. But quite frankly, who needs celebrities when you have the Eiffel Tower and a macaroon in your hand? Exactly. 

Thanks for reading, 

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post pregnancy weight loss regime | The BiB Awards 2015 and a question

post pregnancy weight loss regime

Votes for the Brilliance in Blogging Awards, hosted by BritMums, are now officially open, and its your chance to nominate the best blogs that you love. Apart from that time I mistook getting nominated for a Liebster Award as a blogging Oscar (you can read about that little mistake here), this is the first time in my very short blogging life that there are actual award nominations open.  Woop woop!  

Now to be quite honest, there is alot of competition.  And I mean alot of competition. There are so many talented writers and bloggers out there that I have thought of not writing this post at all.  I often doubt my writing ability and question my blog.  But, my page statistics tell me a different story.  Somewhere, somehow, some lovely lovely people actually take the time to read and comment on my little blog. So, whilst this post may only serve as a reminder to my mum to vote for me (thanks mum), Im publishing this post regardless.  Whilst I would LOVE any nominations, at all, writing about the awards is also an excellent chance to celebrate the blogs I love too and share my nominations.  There are lots of different categories, so heres my nominations and a question for you...

Inspire Category

Without a doubt I nominate the lovely Katie from Pouting in Heels.  Her blogs are truly inspirational and so uplifting.  She is a very gifted writer. I adore her blogs and her attitude to life. I highly recommend a look at her fabulous blog here. 

Social Media Category

For me, there is one blogger who really engages on all social media platforms. Whilst I am still getting to grips with Google plus, this lady has all aspects well and truly covered and she is very supportive of sharing and helping other blogs too.  Its Victoria from Verily Victoria Vocalises.

Writer Category

My nomination here has to go to Brummy Mummy of Two.  This lady is hilarious and her blogs keep you hooked.  When I first found her blog I think I spent a whole afternoon reading.  She is not only a fantastic writer and actually makes me laugh out loud, but she also is a champion of not beating yourself up and taking parenting in your stride.  

Photo Category

For this category I nominate Kate from Mummy, daddy and me.  I have a slight obsession with her and her blog.  She shares the most gorgeous pictures and has a very inspiring blog which is so pretty and yes, I may also stalk her on Instagram. 

Family Category

This is a really tricky category as there are so many blogs that I read and love. But I have decided to nominate Potty Mouthed Mum. I find her blog very open and honest and just a pleasure to read.  

Outstanding Category

Without a doubt I think Honest Mum should win this award.  This lady is a truly talented blogger and has the most beautiful site and blogs.  She is also so supportive of other bloggers and it really shines through. You can tell she works so hard to deliver amazing content daily.  If you want to see how a professional blogger does it, this is your lady. 

And finally.... Fresh Voice Category

Hmm...do I dare? Yes, yes, I do. This is the category for new bloggers, celebrating new content and blogging style.  And here is where I ask you to consider voting for me (feel free to vote for me in other categories, but I felt this might be a good one).  I have only been blogging since July 2014, and I feel my blog and writing style has really evolved in this time. I may just be a tiny spec in a vast ocean of other bloggers, but I hope that if you do enjoy my blog you would consider voting for me. You can find all the details and the voting form here at Britmums Brilliance in Blogging Awards 2015.

I wish all the other amazing bloggers the best of luck, and as always, thanks for reading, 

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7 week pregnancy weight loss reviews | Turn the day around

7 week pregnancy weight loss reviews

Whether you have got those Monday morning blues, feel like a zombie on 2 hours sleep or are just having one of those days, here are a few of my tips to help turn your day around. But first, a little disclaimer. This list will not make your worries magically disappear, nor stop your child from throwing their potty/food/nappy/hard plastic toy at your head (delete as applicable).  But, I hope this list will turn one of those days into a day that isnt quite so bad.   

1. Its OK

Seriously, when we have a down day or feel a bit sad, how many of us beat ourselves up for even thinking this way? How dare we feel sad when we have a roof over our heads, a beautiful family and children, money in the bank account. How dare we feel a bit down! We are so unappreciative!!! And then, we feel guilty.  So now not only do we feel down, we feel guilty too.  Perfect.  Everyone has their better days and their not so good days. Thats what makes us human.  That is life. Let yourself feel what you feel. Accept it and recognise that feeling. And now give yourself a break. Take a deep breath and onto the important bit...try and turn the day around. 

2. Get dressed, brush your hair and plan to do something you like to do
Nothing makes you feel worse than when you peer into the mirror and resemble a cave woman (no offence).  Make yourself look vaguely presentable and ready to face the day and then do something that feels good.  This could be painting your nails, watching a funny movie, eating chocolate or ringing a friend. If you only have 5 minutes why not read a magazine and grab a cup of tea? Whatever is your thing, go and do it.  Be kind to yourself. If you have a little one in tow, then maybe its more about avoiding the danger zones. Dont under any circumstances get the paints /glue /water table/ play dough out. Any type of messy play plus a bad day is a recipe for disaster. 

3. Shut that gremlin in the cupboard

I dont mean any annoying family members here.  I mean THE gremlin.  Oh yes, you know the guy.  Hes the little voice inside your head that tells you that you look awful in the mirror. He criticises your hair.  Makes you feel stupid.  We all know him only too well. Gremlins especially like to hang about and wait for a day when you are your most vulnerable and then he whispers his rubbish to you and you start to believe him. Stop! Ok, so you may not have Jennifer Anistons hair or Gwyneth Paltrows body...but so what?! And I hate to be the bearer of bad news but you didnt have their hair or bodies yesterday either.  So shut him in the cupboard for today and give yourself a break.   

4. Do something for someone else
So this might seem a bit of an odd thing to include, but bear with me here.  Dont you find when you do something nice for someone else you just feel better? It might be sending a thank you note to someone or sending a nice text to a friend or loved one. Or maybe smiling at a stranger (though not in a creepy way) or complimenting someone on their hair or clothes.  By doing something nice for someone else we not only make someone else feel better, but as if by magic, that good vibe stays with us to. Try it. 

5. Smile and dance 
Have you heard that phrase fake it until you feel it? It actually works. So you want to feel happy and feel like this is the best day ever? Act like it is.  And why cant this be the best day ever? Its just a day. Put Beyonce on full volume (or maybe your toddler is demanding Frozen), turn up the volume and get those feet moving.  This can and will be a good day. 

5. If all else fails...tomorrow is another day

When I first had my daughter and was weeping at being too exhausted to brush my own hair, my mum used to say to me, dont worry Laura, tomorrow is another day. And she was right.  Sometimes you have to just accept those bad days and welcome the next day with open arms. But everything isnt going to end today. Your track record in surviving the off days is pretty good so far isnt it? Exactly. So today might not have gotten off to the best start, but thats OK.  In fact, its all OK. Take a deep breath, and lets get this day started. 

Have you any tips for turning bad days around? Would love to hear your thoughts in the comments below. 

Thanks for reading,    

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post baby weight loss regime | Style Sunday A Weekend in Paris

post baby weight loss regime

This weekend we are off to Paris for fun, food, wine, and, did I say food?! (I dreamt I was being chased by a pain au chocolat last night!). Joining me, my husband and daughter on our travels are our lovely friends and their daughter too.  We are all sharing a house in the centre of Paris via Airbnb, which is where you basically rent a person houses.  Stay tuned for a review!  We travel by the Eurostar which I have never been on before, so my husband has warned me I must try to pack light! As someone who packs for all eventualities, packing light isnt really my forte, but I have given it a good go.  I thought I would give you a peek into my case at my weekend outfit choices. 

To travel down to Paris, Ive chosen my ever comfy converse, ripped jeans (Primark), black vest top (Vera Moda) and striped jacket (Topshop). 

For our Saturday Parisian adventures it had to be my new striped dress from ASOS (full pictures and review here) paired with tights, ankle boots (Clarks) and  a pop of colour with this ASOS cardigan. 

There is just time on Sunday for brunch before catching our return train home, so Ive chosen a denim dress (Topshop) paired with tights and either my converse or boots depending on what sort of mood I am in! 

Its Paris Fashion Week too, so you can depend on me to be invited to absolutely no shows whatsoever.  But, I promise you that if I bump into Kim K I will be asking her to make a special appearance on my blog (giggles to self at this prospect). 

To keep up-to-date with everything Parisian you can stalk my weekend with any of my social buttons to your right! Thanks for reading, 

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post pregnancy weight loss routine | Quicksmart BackPack Stroller Review

post pregnancy weight loss routine

Toddlers only have little legs (obviously!) and I find that my daughter, who is now nearly three, starts off the day wanting to be very independent and walk everywhere herself. What we both tend to block out is that her legs only carry her so far, so after approximately 30 minutes I end up carrying her, and end up with an aching back and juggling things in my teeth.  Our original pram that we bought when she was a baby does convert to a pushchair, but we find it quite heavy and cumbersome now and not ideally suited to a heavy toddler. I blame its poor manoeuvrability on the many toes I may or may not have ran over. This year, we are very lucky in the fact that we are doing lots of travelling, so we thought we would invest in a light weight pushchair.  It needed to be lightweight, easy to fold and put up and also compact.  

After much research we found the QuickSmart back pack stroller and it is fabulous. What immediately drew our attention was that it folds down and fits into an over the shoulder bag.  We thought this was perfect for times when our daughter wanted to walk so we could actually comfortably carry the stroller.  

Its extremely lightweight (7.5kg) and folds out into a stroller in just three easy clicks which you can actually do with one hand, and if youre interested, whilst taking blog photographs. It folds down in another three clicks, but I found you need both hands to do this.

We trialled the stroller on our recent trip to Paris and it was perfect. Because it is so compact, it is ideal for storing in compartments and we found that when in its bag, it neatly fitted into the overhead storage on the train. We also found it great on the underground for times when we struggled to find lifts, we could quickly take our daughter out, fold the pushchair, pop it into its bag and then walk onto an escalator. 

It handles really well and you can steer single-handedly which is no easy feat with a heavy toddler sitting in!! There is a tiny bit of storage underneath and a pocket to the back, but to be honest, we really didnt want that much storage space.  It also comes with a rain cover and a safety harness, and the seat has an upright position and then a reclining position.  

I think this stroller is the perfect partner for travel and its great for that stage of being too big for a pushchair but not quite being able to walk everywhere. I really recommend it. QuickSmart is an American company so you do have to search for where to buy. We found the stroller on Amazon here.  

Even Pablo gives the stroller his paw of approval. 

Thanks for reading and have a fantastic weekend, 

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baby losing weight reasons | Toddler Vitamins

baby losing weight reasons

I have always been a little sceptical of vitamins.  I truly believe that you can get adequate vitamins and nutrients from a healthy and balanced diet.  I had made a very big effort when my daughter was weaning to give her a very varied diet and let her try as many different tastes and textures as possible.  But, when my little daughter turned into a gremlin toddler, it all changed. 

Welcome to the toddler diet.  One day my daughter will eat the entire plate of food like a child possessed and the next day she is too busy taking all her clothes off to eat a single mouthful.  One day she adores salmon the next she tells me its yuk and taste like socks and jam (thank you to the makers of Peppa Pig for such a lovely phrase). I have to say, I am quite strict.  If she doesnt eat what Ive cooked then she will not get anything else.  There are no alternative foods.  There is no bribery with puddings.  She either eats it or goes hungry.  I know I might sound awful, but, I really believe that if she is hungry she will eat what she is given.  If she doesnt, she isnt going to starve.  

But, I did start to worry, that on certain days when she was hardly eating anything, if she was getting the vitamins and minerals that she needed. The Department of Health actually recommend that all children under 5 years need a supplement of vitamins A,C and D (link here). As we were strolling in Boots (who I am kidding, when my daughter was tearing round the store with her mini Boots trolley), I saw these vitamin packs and thought I would give them a go.  They are for children 3 years and above and contain a range of vitamins.  They come in individual little packets of gummy bears and are also free from artificial colours, preservatives and flavours.

After trialling them for a few weeks my daughter loves these! She actually thinks they are a little treat and asks if she can have her special gummy bears if she has been good!!! I tend to let her have a packet as a morning snack with some fruit.  I still refuse alternative meals when she refuses what I have made her, but, I feel a little more comfortable that even if she doesnt eat much, she is getting the nutrients she needs everyday. There are lots of childrens vitamin products available, but you can find the ones we have tried here.

Do you give your toddler vitamins? Are they a good eater or are they like my daughter and a bit sporadic to say the least? Comments below please, and thanks for reading. 





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