Dealing with loss is such a traumatic thing, the first few days/ weeks are an emotional rollercoaster of emotions and a massive blur, you have a million people to tell a million things to sort but your also a parent and only a human!

Telling your children about a loss is no easy task and one you think you won't have to do until they are alot older but sometimes the universe has other plans for your loved ones and then the task begins.

Photo By Pixbay

Sit your children down and be as open and honest as you can, try be very blunt and not go into massive details so they understand more, Death won't be anything they have dealt with before. I personally sat my children down and told them that daddy had gone to heaven and he wasn't coming back, daddy is now a star in the sky but he is always with you in your heart.

Alot of older children may ask questions about how or why and it's important to be honest about it and explain what happens next like talk about a funeral or memorial to remember the person.

Grief is different for all people and all ages especially children, you may find younger children will cry one minute and be absolutely fine the next and it's not to say they aren't bothered by it but they aren't in a pool of grief like us adults are, children dip in and out like puddle jumping and for them it's a very normal and very healthy way to grieve. Although you have to 'get on' with parenting it's okay to show your emotions, crying is okay and you should explain that to your children too, it's a normal part of loss and being sad is okay.

Remember to take time for yourself, I'm sure you will be surrounded with love and support from people and my advice is to take it! Don't turn down a cooked meal or a babysitter, you need time to grieve your own way too and even if it's 10 minutes to have a shower by yourself or wash your hair take up the offers from people, it will take a whole load of stress off you and let yourself be you for a while.

After the first few days the hurdle comes for planning a funeral/ memorial or wake, you will need to register the death of your loved one (this takes about an hour so I'd advise not to take children with you) , after that you can choose a funeral director of your choice and find a plan suitable to you. Keep in mind that help Is available from DWP and a Go Fund Me is a good idea for help with funds too! Don't feel bad for asking for help if you need it!

Children can help with funeral plans maybe choosing music or readings they like, choosing their loved ones clothes to wear or maybe even drawing a picture to be placed inside the coffin. Try not to let them feel left out as this is a huge thing for them to understand and deal with too.

Give your child the option of attending the funeral, some children say it helps with closure and to say goodbye if the death was sudden. There is no age limit for a funeral and all children are welcome to attend. If they are skeptical you can always take them to the funeral venue/crematorium to show them where it is being held and what will happen.

The day of the funeral will be full of heartache and sadness and there will be lots of tears, if your children aren't coming think about childcare and also how they will feel on the day too so your not rushing about to do school pick ups or nappy changes. 

Although the hard work is over the feelings don't just magically vanish with it, some days will be extremely hard for you and for your children and it may affect their/your sleep, school/work or even friendships so try to prepare for big changes and don't let it get to you too much, children seem to bounce back very quickly.

Overall just go easy on yourself, loosing a loved one is traumatic and you are only human, know your loved ones are at peace and you may see them again one day x

If you need any help with breavement you can visit Nelsons Journey, DWP -breavement, NHS, Cruse Breavement or even Widowed and Young

I hope that this article helps and I Love to you all x

 

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When you're over 30 and single, sometimes it feels like the odds are stacked against you. You want to find someone special, but it seems like everyone else is coupled up. Don't worry – we've got your back! This blog post will give you eight science-backed tips to make your first date unforgettable. So whether you're meeting a new flame for coffee or dinner, read on for some tips to help make the night go well.

1) Start with a positive attitude:

It's been scientifically proven that having a positive outlook about the date can make it more enjoyable for both parties. Even if things don't go according to plan, stay optimistic and be open-minded about new experiences.

2) Engage in conversation:

Studies have shown that people are more attracted to others who listen intently and ask thoughtful questions. So put away your phone and engage your date in good conversation – ask them questions (but not too many!) and really listen to what they say.

3) Smile more:

Smiles are incredibly contagious – research suggests that smiling more can make your date feel more at ease and even make them smile back. So don't be afraid to show off those pearly whites! Wahroonga Dental will make sure your teeth are looking their best before the big date.

4) Find common ground:

Look for topics you both have in common and use them to spark a conversation. Do they like the same type of music as you? Did they recently read the same book? Discussing shared interests can be an effective way to create a connection with someone.

5) Let go of expectations:

If you want your first date to be successful, it's important to let go of any unrealistic expectations or anxieties about how it should play out. Enjoy the moment and focus on getting to know each other without putting too much pressure on yourselves.

6) Self-care:

It's important to take care of yourself before any date. Make sure you get enough rest the night before, eat a good breakfast in the morning, and engage in calming activities like yoga or meditation if they help.

7) Dress appropriately:

Your attire should reflect how you want your date to remember you. Avoid anything too flashy or revealing – instead, opt for something that makes you feel comfortable and confident. You should also make sure you smell nice, but don't overdo it with cologne or perfume.

8) Make eye contact:

When someone looks into your eyes while they're talking to you, it will make you look more confident in yourself. It also helps create an emotional connection between two people – so don't be afraid to look into their eyes when speaking or listening.

Having a successful first date isn't impossible – it just requires some planning and preparation. Be sure to follow these eleven science-based tips, and you'll be sure to make a great impression! Who knows, maybe your first date will even lead to the beginnings of something special. With time, patience, and mutual respect, anything is possible. Good luck!

Disclosure - This is a collaborative post.

Making the decision to transition your parents into a care home is not an easy one. It can be difficult to know how to go about it and what to expect. You want to make sure that your parents are comfortable and happy in their new home, and you also want to ensure that they are getting the best possible care. This blog post will provide some tips for guiding your parents through the transition process and also discuss some of the things you should keep in mind when choosing a care home facility.

via Pexels

1) Do your research

Doing your research is essential when transitioning your parents into a care home. It would be best if you started by understanding the different types of care homes, from assisted living and memory care to nursing homes and hospice care. Next, consider the amenities offered, such as meals, personal care services, activities, and transport services. Finally, make sure the facilities have a good reputation, with well-trained staff who provide quality care according to best practices.

Visit multiple facilities in order to gain insight into what they offer and make an informed choice based on your parents’ needs. When researching online, read reviews from other families who have already used the facility. Then, carefully weigh all of the pros and cons before you make your final decision, and provide your parents with as much information as possible throughout the process.

2) Take it slow

It can be overwhelming for your parents to move into a care home, so make sure to take it slow. Start by visiting the facility with your parents and introducing them to staff members, other residents, and their new environment. Allow them time to adjust gradually rather than making a sudden transition. You may also want to consider bringing some of their familiar items from home – such as pictures, furniture, or favorite books – so that they have something familiar in the new space.

3) Hire professional movers

Hiring professional movers can be beneficial and provide peace of mind when transitioning your parents into a care home. Professional interstate removalists are experienced in handling delicate items, such as antiques and collections, and can transport them safely to the new facility. This will help ensure that all of your parents’ belongings arrive intact so that they can feel more at home in their new space. Professional movers also have specialized equipment for large or bulky items that may not fit through doorways or up stairwells.

Additionally, they have the necessary insurance in place to cover any damages that may occur during the move. Finally, hiring professional movers will give you greater confidence that your parents’ belongings will get moved safely and securely, allowing them to transition into their care home with ease.

In conclusion, transitioning your parents into a care home can be an emotional and difficult decision. However, by doing your research, taking it slow, and hiring professional movers, you’ll be able to guide them through the process with minimal stress and disruption. Follow these tips to help ensure that your parents have a smooth transition as they start their new life in a care home.

Disclosure- This is a collaborative post.

 

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Most -people know that buying a car brand new is often a waste of money, usually because the moment you drive a new vehicle away from the garage, it loses up to 40% of its value. So, while the car might be great, the instant wiping out of asset value isn’t the most ideal scenario. 

For this reason, looking for a used car tends to be the smartest way forward. This can be easier said than done, however, as when buying from other people, inconveniences, unexpected outcomes, and plain annoyances can make themselves known. All of this can be tiring to deal with, and so it’s a good idea to consider how to subvert those potential obstacles before they even begin. 

Luckily, this guide is here to help you with that. We hope than anyone who dreads having to purchasing a vehicle can find some comfort in its practical steps:

Do Your Research Online

Luckily, there’s plenty of online content to help you figure out everything about a car before you go and inspect it. Someone selling their vehicle is financially incentivized to make certain the car looks great in your eyes and to get the best price for it, and sometimes that might mean eschewing issues with the car that you wouldn’t have noticed. But if you’ve looked at some owner’s forums, read the specifications, understood the known issues and are able to go for a test drive, you can identify anything that the owner is hiding rather quickly, and you can also spot undeclared repairs like new seams in a bodykit or fresh paintwork. A little preparation goes a long way.

Opt For A Reliable Garage

Purchasing from random road users can get you a great deal if you’re sharp and make good on the opportunities that might be within an acceptable distance to travel, that said, sometimes you’re just looking to get a good car at a reasonable price and with smooth paperwork processing. In that case, visiting great used car dealerships, particularly those with an expertise in a current brand of car you wish to use, can be tremendously insightful. Here they may have room to negotiate, and will be able to offer finance plans or many other support schemes you may have use of. 

Use A Professional Mechanic For Inspection

It can be helpful to bring along a mechanic or someone you trust, or ask for the car to be inspected before you make a full purchase. A quick once-over with no damage or interference to the vehicle can usually bring up most of the common issues that you may not have spotted, and in some cases, if you pay for it, you can ask for the owner to have this checked before you put an offer in. They’re free to reject that of course, but if you’re hoping to really verify the car’s condition in your mind, then it can’t hurt to suggest and pay for this kind of resolution.

With this advice, we hope you can more easily lessen the frustrations of used car purchasing.

Disclosure* This is a collaborative post.

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A good oral hygiene routine is essential for achieving and maintaining optimal oral health. Did you know that over 30% of women aged 25 to 44 worldwide have untreated cavities? Ignoring dental concerns has massive implications not just for your oral health but for your overall general health.

This post looks at some ways to improve your dental health after 30.

Drink Water After Meals

While reaching for the toothbrush after eating can be tempting, drink some water and let the acid neutralise. This is because brushing directly after consuming acidic food can cause more damage if you brush directly into your teeth. 

So drink some water, wait 30 minutes, and then brush.

Have Your Teeth Cleaned Professionally

Bruising and flossing daily do not substitute for a good cleaning by a dental hygienist. There will always be spots you might miss, and a qualified dentist or dental hygienist can see inside your mouth and give you tips and advice for improving your oral care if required. As well as this, a professional cleaning can remove plaque and tartar build-up that regular brushing can't.

Change Your Diet

An ideal diet consists of heart-healthy foods, foods rich in vitamins and minerals and lacks too much sugar or acidic foods that can damage the enamel on your teeth.

Your diet plays a massive part in how healthy all aspects of your body are, including your oral health. Cut down on junk food, drink fewer fizzy drinks and alcohol, eat more whole grains and vegetables, and don't forget to include calcium-rich foods. Calcium levels drop considerably as you age; calcium is essential for strong bones and teeth.

Overcome Your Fear Of The Dentist

If you are hesitant to visit the dentist, this can be detrimental to maintaining healthy teeth and gums into your 30s. While professional cleaning is helpful, it doesn't replace semi-annual dental checks and treatments. Whether you are booking a check or need to visit a dental practice such as Mona Vale Dental Implant Centre for more extensive treatment, ensuring you keep up with your regular appointments is vital as you age.

Stop Smoking

Smoking is terrible for your health, linked to lung cancer, and increases the risk of periodontal or gum disease. Aside from this, smoking can give you bad breath and cause staining in the teeth, giving them a yellow appearance. So if you are serious about your gum health, you must quit smoking.

Use Fluoride Products

Pay attention to your toothpaste and ensure it does everything you need. We all know the importance of using fluoride toothpaste. Most UK toothpaste brands include 1,450ppm of fluoride to help you keep your teeth strong and healthy. In addition, look for toothpaste with additional ingredients to keep enamel healthy, help with sensitive teeth or protect your gums when brushing. The enamel's outer layer will demineralise as we age, leaving you susceptible to further damage.

Conclusion

As you age, your body requires different products and support to be as healthy as possible. This includes your oral health and dental care too.

Disclosure* This is a a collaborative post 

Spring is just around the corner it's so close I can just feel it! There's nothing better than getting back from work and it still being light or going for a sunny spring walk with the family on a Sunday, So grab your sunglasses and bucket hats it's time to update that dull winter wardrobe with Trendhim!

On Tuesday 17th January 2023 I lost the love of my life Michael Wright, now even though me and mike haven't been together for 3 years we still loved each other and had another baby together, he was my absolute soul mate and I still believe I'll never find another in anyone else.

Mike was 33 and overall healthy, he had bouts of depression but that never stopped him getting out and being a good dad to his 4 children. Mike suffered from a heart attack at his home and called 999, they then took over 2 hours to get to him and after 20 mins of being at hospital he went into cardiac arrest and his heart stopped beating :( 

It's been nearly 2 weeks now, i feel totally numb and just sick to my stomach. I've had so much support and so many people donate to the Go Fund Me Im absolutely crapping my pants about affording a funeral with sod all money and yes I have done the dwp grant but believe me it's not as much as you think. But being in debt isn't in the cards I have 3 kids to look after and futures to plan and save for.

These last nearly 2 weeks have been a blur and It feels like only yesterday I was getting a call to come to the hospital. I've seen him twice sleeping and it's so so heartbreaking I don't ever want to do that again. I keep "seeing him" and having to double take people or seeing things id have bought him but I now cant :(

Planning a funeral is hard and mega cruel..like sorry your husband just died but here's a debt of 4/5k on top! Being 31 and knowing absolutely nothing about them or what your expected to do or say to people is just shit! It definitely makes you think about life insurance or even a will!

Mike didn't have much and he never had a will or even discussed about a funeral, we never thought wed have to talk about it this early! I thought we'd just grow old together and sort it then! It was just so sudden and horrible.

I want it to be a nasty hoax or prank on his behalf but I know deep down it's not and this is real :( my heart aches and so do his children's. I will never let his memory die and even our 1 year old will know who daddy was!

One day I'll be with you again mike 🖤

And if love could of saved you, you would of lived forever x

Thanks for reading if you've got this far!

Also if you want to donate please click the link above, all donations are greatly appreciated and honestly will be put to use x

Mumma x

I recently came across this stunning looking laptop bag from Estarer and as a self employed mother of 3 this looked amazing.

The bag itself is super stunning, (did I mention that?) And really stylish, it's extra roomy and big enough for a larger laptop/MacBook for on the go, it has a sturdy velcro flap to keep your laptop from sliding out and a pouch just Infront of that for all your cables and wires.

It comes packaged in its own fabric bag for safety and then inside plastic too so it's well protected from scratches and marks along the delivery journey and I thought that was just amazing.

The bag is super spacious, it has 3 large pockets 1 with a zip and 2 without and 2 pen spaces so you'll never have to root around for one again in that important meeting! The bottom of the bag has 4 metal studs to keep the bag getting dirty on the floor and the material is also water resistant with a Pu leather bottom.

The bag comes with leather handles and a detachable shoulder strap that hooks onto 2 sturdy D rings so it's comfortable as a messenger bag or a handbag. This definitely is the most stylish and functional working womens bag I've come across and to tell you the truth im obsessed.

So go over to Amazon and take a look for yourself and maybe even buy it as a late Xmas present!

We hope you all have a lovely Christmas and a very happy new year!

Mumma X

*This review is my own personal opinion for a gifted product*

 It's been a long ol while since I actually wrote a personal post and I have to say what a crazy 8 months its been since flick was born.

She's such a beautiful little girlie, she sleeps all night 8pm-7am she very rarely cries or whinges and she's such a chubba wubba!

At 11 weeks felicity caught covid, she was so very ill with it she was in hospital for 3 days and I literally couldn't do anthing to help her it was so awful to see her like that, since then she's had an ear infection and recently she got bronchiolitis (in the middle of bloody summer) so it's all been a bit of a mess this half term! Felicity loves her food and can now sit fully unaided too! She loves to dance to music and can say Da-dad, mum-mum and ey-yahh! It's so adorable!

Lilli and Olli are doing great starting year 5 and year 2 tomorrow how exciting! (and I'm super excited to ship them off to school!) they've both had a really lovely summer and made some great memories!

Im doing OK, I've decided to not go back to work because of childcare I'd probably end up paying more out than actually earnings it's not worth it! Life's just throwing me a curveball at the moment but hopefully when im back in a routine I'll start feeling OK!

Anyway thanks for reading! 

Until next time

Mumma x

I love to get personalised gifts, I love to give and receive them, it makes a present so much more personal and the emotion that comes with it is so beautiful too. 

Printster have such a wide selection of personalised gifts that will make your soul happy when giving! 

Every year it's the same thing, I'm stuck on what to buy my boy for his birthday, I go onto Google or Amazon and search for terms such as Toys for 6-year-old boys and I end up getting a load of stuff that's so unrelated or out of his age range, but finally, I found a site that is so helpful, Wicked Uncle - it's a brilliant site that has a great feature that you can choose toys specifically to an age group, for boys, for girls and for all, ages go from babies all the way to over 100! Find kids gifts that they'll love! 

It's nearly my boy's 6th birthday and to be honest, I've really been struggling with what to buy him, he's not asked for anything specific other than 1 Xbox game, so the time came to do some searching and I found some perfect presents that are in his exact age range like a spiderman puzzle and a Quizzie robot who squirts water at you if your wrong! They were super easy to find and although I searched by age you can also search by category too which is super helpful! 

I absolutely love the range of gifts this site stocks, they really are so different and unique, and that's really what my boy is into, they're so perfect to give from a family member or a friend, especially from a Wicked Uncle ;)

But don't be fooled this site isn't just for kids, Wicked Uncle stocks gifts for even teens and adults like this smart grey book lamp which I absolutely love it's perfect for nighttime reading and folds up so compact and fits right in the bedside drawer.

This site is so helpful and is definitely getting bookmarked for future use! The selection of gifts is so amazing and perfect for even just a quick gift for a birthday party in a couple of weeks or even that gag gift you wanted for your colleague! They have a 99% feedback rating on FeeFo with so many 5 star reviews so in my eyes that's really comforting to know that it's such a well-trusted company already, I really do hope it helps you as much as it has for me, definitely go check it out and happy shopping :) 

If you are struggling with party planning or just need some tips you can read my article here!

Lots Of Love, Mumma Monster! xo

*This is a sponsored post, all views and opinions are my own*