Category: Lifestyle

lifestyle blog posts focusing on home, lifestyle, parenting, pregnancy, family life and home and style. Home decor and working at home, working at home as a self employed freelancer and blogger. Family lifestyle blog posts including family reviews, family products and saving money as a family. Being a more eco friendly family.

  • 7 Reasons Business Storage Solutions Need to Be a Part of Your Business

    7 Reasons Business Storage Solutions Need to Be a Part of Your Business

    Not all business owners realise the value of good storage solutions. If you don’t pay attention to the way in which you store things, then your business costs can go up needlessly. In turn, this will make your enterprise less competitive compared to other companies that are similar in size. Remember that nearly all commercial enterprises in the UK require storage either for items that will be used to render a service or for holding stock. It is not just something for the big warehousing and logistics firms to be concerned with.

    1. Cost Saving With Good Business Storage

    All of your firm’s space has a cost associated with it. You may own your own premises rather than have to fork out for quarterly rent charges, but even so, storage space costs money. For example, any store room needs to be heated to keep items inside from freezing in winter and for allowing staff to work in it at a reasonable temperature. You will also need to pay for lighting and the size of your storage area will also add to the overall cost of your business rates. Therefore, you need to make the most of the space you have.

    1. Integrated Supply Chains

    To avoid bottle-necks or any operational lags, it is very important to have a proper system for storing your SKU’s or business goods. WSSL’s business storage solutions offer integrated systems which mean that even modestly sized businesses can integrate their on-site storage with their supply chain. For example, pallet racking for stock rooms can be fitted which will mean goods can arrive and go directly into storage ready for shipment without the inefficiency of needing to unpack them. Mezzanine floors, short span racking, long span racking are also other forms of storage options for a more organized supply chain.

    1. Keeping Track of Items

    Modern software systems allow you to keep a better grip on your stock. When an order enquiry comes in you need to know whether you have the necessary items to fulfil the order immediately. In effect, you need to think of your storage solutions as becoming a key part of your customer service offering.

    1. Lessen Wastage

      With properly installed warehouse equipment, like cantilevered racking and inspection points which can be made at either side of a shelf, you will find that fewer items get lost or cannot be located immediately when needed. This means buying in fewer items to deal with wastage, thereby helping your business’ bottom line.
    2. Get to Work Quickly

    When you need a tool to complete a job, accessing it rapidly is important for being able to work efficiently. If you have an overstuffed storage facility, then you won’t be able to reach what you need straight away. As a result, customers can start looking elsewhere, so investing in good storage helps to protect your level of customer loyalty.

    1. Maximise Floor Space

    By installing racks which extend all the way up to the ceiling of your warehouse or stock room you can quite simply store a greater number of items. Investing in picking equipment like forklifts that can cope with higher racks is significantly cheaper than renting additional storage space elsewhere.

    1. Eye Level Working

    Proper storage systems allow you to keep all of your key components and fast-moving lines at eye level where staff can find them easily. Without a well-designed stock storage system, picking operatives need to reach over things and may miss or break items, as a result. Keep this problem in check with a truly integrated business storage solution.

    This is a guest post.

  • Vintage Fashion for Spring

    This is a collaborative post.

    Spring is the perfect time to update your wardrobe. The last few weekends we’ve really been gutting out our clothes, packing away the winter wardrobe so we can make the most of these sunny spring days and of course hope they continue. There are some gorgeous vintage clothing around at the moment too and as fashion is on a constant cycle, always coming back to us, having a clear out can really help us find some old favourites we use to love and see us mixing it up with more modern prints and styles.

    There is a great range of vintage and modern pieces around. I find myself not only digging through my older clothes that have been hidden away in storage but also heading into local charity shops as well as finding some absolute bargains online.

    Trying to get my stuff sorted for #blogfest16 tomorrow! I’ll be wearing this…probably.

    A post shared by Kayleigh Woodland (@katcandyfloss) on

    I can usually be found in a dress with leggings because that’s what is comfortable for me and it’s so nice to be able to mix a few styles. I love a good tea length dress and I do prefer ones with a bit more in the arm. A perfect style for spring as it keeps you a little on the warmer side but still with the hope of summer. I’ve always really liked a good bag too, and this floral print is one of my favourites. The colours, I find, go with just about anything and it’s lovely to have a bag that seems to suit all seasons.

    Floral Vans, Vintage Satchel, Floral Print Bag

    I always struggle for shoes this time of year though, I like my flats but recently I’ve been finding myself in my gorgeous floral print Vans. They’re super comfy and the floral print has a real vintage feel to it I think. Plus, they look really nice with a good dress and I have plenty that match. I’m really liking the floral prints actually and it’s something I’ve found myself being drawn to a lot over the last year.

    The only thing I feel I’m really missing this spring is a decent light jacket. I love the big fluffy winter coat I found last year but it’s just too big and heavy now. I’d love a jacket to partner with a nice dress that was lightweight but still kept the warmth in.

    What’s your favourite fashion piece? Are you updating your wardrobe or having a clear out?

  • Vintage and Retro Inspired Turntables

    This is a collaborative post.

    There are some super stylish turntables around for playing vinyl these days. No matter the style of your home, if you are looking for something to play your favourite Vinyl records on there are plenty of modern, stylish and retro turntables for you to choose from. Those that collect Vinyl records may be looking for a way to bring the old into the new and below are some features that I think will really have that affect. I love mixing retro and modern designs together. Nowadays there are so many different turntables available suitable for each user, some with modern features and some just to play those favourite, classic songs. Here are a few of my suggestions.

    If you’re looking for something simple and modern then this Photon LED turntable might be a great choice. Perfect for bedrooms or those on a budget. It’s a simple, contemporary design with built in USB to enable you to convert your favourite albums digitally.

    Photon Led Turntable
    Image Source: HMV

    If you’re looking for something with a more retro appearance then consider the Crosley Cruiser turntable which is available in a great range of fun and funky colours. Featuring dynamic full range speakers, headphone jack and three speeds. I love the design on this one, it is modern, stylish and I just love the case.

    Crosley Cruiser Turntable
    Image Source: HMV

    If you like the design of the Crosley range then why not consider upgrading to the Crosley Snap turntable which plays 7″, 10″ and 12″ records. I like the stylish design and this also comes with USB enabled connection and looks awesome both open and closed. This one really builds on that retro vibe.

    Crosley Snap Turntable
    Image Source: HMV

    For those wanting something sleek, sophisticated and featuring Bluetooth technology then I recommend checking out the Ion Air LP Bluetooth Streaming turnable. It’s a compact design designed to bring the old and new together.

    Ion Air Turntable
    Image Source: HMV

    Do you have a favourite Vinyl record? Which one of the above would you choose?

    Let me know in the comments below!

    Are you looking for other ways to update or improve your home? Check out my tips on using plastic in the home.

  • An Open Letter from a C-Section Mother

    An Open Letter from a C-Section Mother

    Have you seen that screenshot making the rounds on social media? A photographer refusing to take photos of a baby because the mother had a caesarean section. Each to their own, whatever, but saying a c-section isn’t birth? Really? It made me angry, as a mother that birthed my daughter through c-section. This is my response.
    C-Section Mother Response to That Photographer
    Originally posted on Facebook.
    Dear Photographer,
    I recently read how you view a c-section mother. I’m sure you’re just another one of those internet trolls begging for viral fame and attention (congratulations, by the way) but I couldn’t let what you said slide.
    I couldn’t just say nothing.
    Birth is birth. It doesn’t matter how that baby comes out, vaginal, Caesarian, ventouse, forceps, natural, epidural, surrogate whatever. Birth is birth.
    Birth is the shortest stage of pregnancy, and the day that you finally, hopefully get to hold someone that you have grown to absolutely worship for nine long, hard months. Birth is the hardest part of pregnancy, it’s also absolutely terrifying. It’s hard work. It doesn’t matter if you’re breathing through the contractions or being prepped for major abdominal surgery.
    You do realise that’s what a Caesarian is don’t you? It’s not just a quick nip, it is major. It is a twelve week recovery process. It is a blade that cuts through stomach, muscle, womb…it takes around forty odd minutes to stitch each of those layers back up. 40 minutes before you can really hold your baby.
    My c-section was terrifying. Because my c-section was life dependant. My c-section saved my daughters life. I’ve already felt like I failed because I didn’t push her out but oh gosh I tried. I pushed and pushed for two hours despite not having slept for three days and not feeling the contractions probably from my epidural. And I had a fever. I remember then saying I was burning to the touch but I couldn’t stop shaking and I was so so cold. I felt freezing. And I couldn’t push. And I didn’t know what to do. And then many, many faces ran in my room. Forms were pushed in my face, signing away my consent for a c-section that I desperately didn’t want. I didn’t ask for surgery. I didn’t ask to cut the corners you believe us section mothers have. I was frightened for my life, my babies and I was oh so tired.
    Then my daughter was born. And eventually I got to hold her. After the stitches. After insisting I felt like I was going to throw up and being given an egg carton to do it in.
    When I came home I couldn’t do anything. I couldn’t even get on my bed because it pulled. I couldn’t properly step into my bath for a shower because it pulled. I couldn’t walk for long miles because it pulled. I couldn’t sit in the car for long because it pulled.
    Then after I thought everything was okay. I got a wound infection. I was terrified my scar would split open, that I would actually die. Possibly because of over exaggerated hormones and sleep deprivation but I still felt that fear.
    Even now my scar twinges, still pulls. It’s there as a reminder of the day I safely brought my daughter into this world. It’s a reminder that I am and will always be a mother. It is how my daughter was born.
    It was not easy. Birth is not easy, birth is trauma on the body. However it happens, no one takes the easy way out. No one cuts corners. No one gets a medal. Well, we get our beautiful babies. And that is worth more to me than any medal.
    Sincerely,
    A C-Section Mother
    Baby After Birth, Open Letter from a C-Section Mother,  #pregnancy #birth #delivery #newborn #motherhood #birthisbirth #labour #csectionbirth
  • Auberge de Cendrillon Review – Disneyland Paris

    Auberge de Cendrillon Review – Disneyland Paris

    Are you considering dining with the Disney Princesses on your next trip to Disneyland Paris? At Auberge de Cendrillon you will meet three Princesses during your meal. It is the best way to get fantastic interaction with the Princesses. We did last Valentines Day during our family holiday. If you have a Disney Princess mad child then this will be an absolute highlight for the whole family. The sheer joy on my daughters face when she saw the Disney Princess Dancing is a memory that will last a lifetime.

    Auberge de Cendrillon Disneyland Paris Review

    Booking Auberge de Cendrillon

    You can book this extra special meal when booking your holiday, you can also book when you get there. We knew it was something we wanted to do and paid £145 for the three of us to have a five course lunch for the adults and a three course meal and drink for children. That meant when we arrived we only had to pay for extra drinks.

    Aubege de Cendrillon Review
    The golden pumpkin carriage outside the Auberge de Cendrillon

    Upon arriving at our hotel we were presented with our dining vouchers. If you have selected the Premium Dining Plan you can also dine here with your vouchers. My advice is to call up and book sixty days in advance or book in with the guest services as soon as you get there. You can, of course, wait until the day you want to go however there may be a long wait for a table.

    Table Setting on Valentines Day, Auberge De Cendrillon

    Auberge de Cendrillon

    The restaurant is easy to find and is just behind Sleeping Beauty’s Castle in Fantasyland. It is a truly stunning place to enjoy a meal with family.

    On the walls you will find famous scenes from the Cinderella film. Once you arrive you check in with the host and Suzy and Perla may lead you to the table. It was lovely watching the mice take Evie to our table, hand in hand. Our meal was on Valentines Day and if you can visit the restaurant on a special occasion they make so much effort. It is so lovely inside. Very warm, cosy and the staff are friendly, helpful and all speak English.

    Character Dining at Disneyland Paris, Auberge De Cendrillon
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    The Food at Auberge de Cendrillon

    The cuisine here is typically French, however, the food for children is simple.

    Auberge de Cendrillon Menu, Childrens Food
    Children’s salmon with carrots, rice and a cream sauce on the side in a pot

    Everything can be served separately for fussy eaters. Evie had hers with the cream sauce on the side. You can choose a meat with rice or potatoes, and I believe there is a pasta dish too.

    Auberge de Cendrillon Menu
    Smoked Duck Salad

    The adults menu is a little more advanced. I recommend booking in later in the afternoon as the food can be very rich. We found this a little tough to digest at 12noon so soon after breakfast. Our meal started with a fruit mocktail which is very tasty. It is a table service experience so any extra drinks will be brought to you and then you can pay any extras at the end of the meal. You will also have bread bites bought to the table to share with butter. Here are a few photos of our meals. Auberge de Cendrillon Menu

    Auberge de Cendrillon Menu

    Auberge de Cendrillon Food Menu
    Scallops and Asparagus
    Auberge de Cendrillon Food Menu
    Surf and Turf with Steak, mushrooms and polenta

    The highlight of the meal is the pudding.

    Auberge de Cendrillon Dessert
    Adults Dessert at Auberge de Cendrillon
    Auberge de Cendrillon Food Menu
    Childrens Dessert

     

     

    The Princess Interaction

    The Princess interaction is faultless at Auberge de Cendrillon. Then the Princess enter with smiles and waves as they walk through and then on the hour, every hour they dance by the fireplace.

    Auberge de Cendrillon Princess Interaction
    The mice will lead you to the table.

    Suzy and Perla will approach the tables and ask the children to join them. If your table is toward the back of the restaurant you can walk over and watch the dance. It is lovely.

    Auberge de Cendrillon Princess Interaction

    When Evie came back from watching the Princesses dance I thought she was about to cry! They make the children so happy. You will meet three Princesses during the meal and they walk around to every table speaking with every child.

    Auberge de Cendrillon Princess Interaction

    This is the perfect opportunity for some photos. We met Cinderella with Prince Charming, Snow White and Ariel during our lunch.

    Auberge de Cendrillon Princess Interaction
    It was so lovely to meet Cinderella and Prince Charming

    Our Experience

    It was fantastic. Yes it’s a little expensive but absolutely worth it for our family. It really is brilliant for the Princess interaction and the food is fine. I found the staff to be very accommodating. Next time we head to Disneyland Paris I will be booking in with Auberge de Cendrillon again.

    Auberge de Cendrillon Princess Interaction

    Why not take a look at my other Disneyland Posts to help you plan your trip?

    Rainforest Cafe
    Earl of Sandwich
    Annettes Diner
    Disneyland Paris Travel Diary
    Sequoia Lodge Hotel Review

    Have you been to Disneyland Paris? Have you dined in Auberge de Cenrillon? I’d love to know what you think!