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life update-studying for a Diploma in Early Childhood Education

A Little Life Update

Hey everyone, it’s time for a quick life update! I just wanted to jump on here and share with you a bit about what I have been up to. And that is–I’ve finally taken the plunge and enrolled in further studies. Yep, it’s happening! I am in the process of working towards a Diploma in Early Childhood Education. So let’s backtrack a little. After finishing school I had my sights set on being a child psychologist and while I was at uni I sort of fell into working in early childhood education. You can read all about that journey here. Now fast forward 27 years (that’s how long I have been at my current job) and things have changed a lot! When I first started, my role as a teacher’s assistant was primarily focused on prepping crafts and handling the messy tasks that come with working with young children. But as time went on, expectations began to shift big time. Nowadays my role is not just about the paint and the glue. Now there’s also a greater emphasis on the educational aspect of childcare. So in addition to the hands-on activities, my role now includes observing children’s development, recording progress and setting educational goals. Recently, I have also taken on grown-up responsibilities like parent-teacher meetings and that sure has pushed me right out of my comfort zone! I’ve also stepped up to teach when the classroom teacher, who also happens to be the director is called away, which happens quite often given her dual roles. Switching up my routine although daunting at first, feels great and stepping into the teacher’s shoes has opened my eyes to a whole new side of things. I have really loved the challenge and the opportunity to learn new skills. It’s fun leading the class and doing group times. I’m learning what works and what falls flat – little kids can be a tough audience! What’s even more inspiring is our new director’s approach. She views us as a team of teachers and has redefined traditional teacher-assistant roles at our preschool. She is constantly encouraging the whole team and her faith in me is so motivating. So here I am doing all of these new tasks but my pay doesn’t reflect this. Why? because I don’t have my Diploma in Early Childhood Education….sigh! My amazing friend and work colleague, she’s such a gem. She has been encouraging me to study for my diploma for a while now. My answer was always the same ” I can’t, I have no time!”. And it was true that between working full time and caring for my mum, I was barely keeping my head above water. Then I started blogging and loved it so much ( I still do) and I just didn’t want to spend a second of my life worrying about assignments and studying. No way! I also didn’t want to pay thousands of dollars to enrol in the Diploma course. But then life changed dramatically and suddenly I had no more excuses. To top it off there is such a shortage of diploma-trained educators that the government made the course free! Can you believe it? So while this has been me on most days ever since I started. I know that it will be worth it when I’m done, and any opportunity for further learning is always a good thing, right? Plus a pay increase would be a welcome bonus,  especially since early childhood education doesn’t pay big bucks! I’m feeling better about things lately and less overwhelmed. It’s been a huge relief to be able to tackle the assignments over the last few days while I am on school holidays. Instead of squeezing in study time before or after work. I even think that the cobwebs in my brain are starting to clear! Yay!! For now, the downside is that I have less time to devote to blogging. While I am still managing to post articles and join in the link-ups. I’m finding it tricky to find time to read and comment on my favourite blogs right away. I really love this community and I want to keep up the connections. So these days I’m mainly catching up on my blog reading on the weekends. I also keep reminding myself that this isn’t forever (it just feels like it sometimes). And I’m determined to finish this self-paced online Diploma in Early Childhood Education done and dusted pronto!  So that’s a little life update today. What’s new in your world and keeping you busy? I’d love to know. Thanks so much for stopping by.  

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April Cousin Connect

Hi friends, I hope you are having an amazing day! Today I’m recapping our April Cousin Connect get-together. I meant to share more about our fun night last week. But things got so busy, I ran out of time and I basically just never got around to it. Now that I’m on school holidays I finally have a chance to catch up on some blogging. So here I am on a Tuesday — better late than never, right? As I’ve shared before, our small family had kind of drifted away from getting together regularly. This was sad, especially because we all live so close by. But you know how it is–life gets crazy busy and before you know it, months go by without realising how much we missed seeing each other. Until about two years ago, we were only really catching up for some birthday celebrations and Christmas. Then everything changed after my beautiful mum passed away. It was a huge wake-up call for my family, and it made us all realise how we had let the busyness of life drift us apart! So we decided to make a change. We started meeting up on the first Saturday of every month and that’s how Cousin Connect came to be. One of my cousins gave us the name because, despite some being parents and children, we’re all cousins in the end. It’s a bit confusing but trust me we are all cousins except for an aunt hahaha! April Cousin Connect Anyway, we usually take turns hosting and up until the last catch-up, the host would provide all the food. But with everything being so darn expensive and because we’re saving up for a Cousin Connect adventure. We decided to go pot-luck where everyone brings something to share. And I honestly think it’s the best decision! There’s something special about sharing the load, bringing ingredients and then working together in the kitchen–even if it’s a tiny kitchen like mine. Here we have our charcuterie king preparing the best charcuterie board. He is a master! We had some salad whizzes making Caprese salad and bruschetta. Can you tell we had an Italian theme? I made a big pasta as well as some chicken I forgot to take a picture of. We ate in the cozy courtyard. Then we finished off with a tiramisu compliments of my dessert cousins. We also changed things up from our usual board game and played Celebrity Heads instead. What a hoot and it’s a lot harder than you think! And that was our April Cousin Connect! It sure was a fun night, and I love how we have changed things up. Not all of us can always make it to our Cousin Connects (my son Luke and his partner couldn’t make it this time) but I love that we all make an effort to prioritise our family time. We also try not to focus solely on the food and we always say—It’s not just about the food (even though there’s always so much food!), it’s about coming together regularly! Thanks so much for stopping by!    

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5 reasons to repair and maintain your roof this spring

5 Reasons to Repair and Maintain Your Roof This Spring!

If you’re finding yourself in a back-and-forth about fixing your roof, it’s easy to let it slide until it becomes a major headache. But hey, waiting might not be the best idea! That little issue could snowball into something bigger and more expensive. While it’s important to stay ahead of all the latest home improvement trends, let’s not forget the basics–keeping it safe and secure. Ensuring your roof is in top shape is key to maintaining your home’s structural integrity. So why wait? Taking action now not only gives you peace of mind but also saves you money in the long run. Ready to jump into action? Here are five fantastic reasons to repair and maintain your roof this spring! 5  Reasons to Repair and Maintain Your Roof This Spring! 1. It May Deteriorate Over Time Ready to take charge of that roofing issue? It’s time to seize the moment! Procrastination is the enemy here – waiting around could lead to bigger troubles down the road. That seemingly insignificant leak? It’s like a ticking time bomb, just waiting to explode into a major headache. Turning a blind eye to it only sets the stage for even more significant problems later on. But hey, here’s the silver lining: tackling those issues head-on now isn’t just about fixing your roof; it’s about safeguarding your peace of mind. So, why put off until tomorrow what you can fix today? Seize the opportunity to take control of the situation, ensuring you’re always one step ahead of potential issues. Don’t wait any longer – prioritize your peace of mind by scheduling that essential roofing repair today! 2. Hidden Damage May Go Unnoticed Ensuring your roof is well-maintained is just as critical as addressing urgent repairs, and here’s why: often, the damage isn’t immediately visible to the naked eye. It’s like a silent threat, lurking beneath the surface, waiting to cause trouble. That’s where the expertise of professionals comes into play. With their trained eyes and diagnostic tools, they can unveil any hidden issues that may be plaguing your roof—think moisture problems festering out of sight. By opting for a comprehensive inspection, you’re peeling back the layers to reveal the true extent of the damage. Armed with this knowledge, you can take proactive steps to address the underlying issues and safeguard the integrity of your roof. 3. The Elements Could Make Matters Worse One of your roof’s worst enemies is the unpredictable weather. It’s a fact: when storms hit, even the smallest problem can turn into a big headache. Think about it: rain pouring down, wind howling—those loose tiles you’ve been ignoring. They’re just waiting to cause trouble. But here’s the good news: you’re not helpless against the elements. By taking action early, you can stop those issues in their tracks and keep your home safe and snug. So why wait for the next storm? Get ahead of the game and make sure your roof is ready to weather any storm that comes its way! 4. Getting a Maintenance Professional Might Take Longer Than Expected Ever been stuck in a bind trying to schedule your roof repairs? It’s a common headache, especially when demand peaks. Imagine you’ve got a leaky roof, but finding an available maintenance professional immediately feels like searching for a needle in a haystack. It’s a game of chance you’d rather not play. But there’s a simple fix: book your maintenance in advance. By securing your spot early, you’re not only ensuring peace of mind but also sidestepping the stress of last-minute searches. Imagine the relief of knowing your roof repairs are already scheduled, sparing you further damage and worry while waiting for an appointment. So don’t leave it to chance—plan and secure your spot. By doing so, you’re not just looking after your roof; you’re taking charge of your home maintenance and saving yourself unnecessary stress. 5. Your Insurance May Not Cover You As a responsible homeowner, you’ve likely got building insurance in place to shield your investment. It’s your safety net against any unexpected structural mishaps that could strike your property. But here’s the thing: many insurance policies come with a catch. They operate on a timeline, meaning they may not cover damage that’s left unattended for too long. Think of it as a race against the clock: the longer you delay addressing issues, the greater the risk of your insurance claim being denied. It’s a headache no homeowner wants to deal with. By acting promptly to tackle any structural concerns as soon as they arise, you’re not just protecting your home—you’re also safeguarding your insurance coverage. So don’t let time slip away. Act swiftly to ensure your insurance policy remains your safety net when you need it most. After all, when it comes to your home, it’s better to be safe than sorry! Roof Repair: Your Key to a Safe and Secure Home In conclusion, your roof is more than just a cover over your head—it’s your home’s first line of defence against the elements. By prioritising timely repairs and maintenance, you’re not just preserving its structural integrity, but also safeguarding your peace of mind and financial security. So, don’t delay any longer. Take action today to ensure your roof is ready to weather any storm that comes its way. Repair and maintain your roof this spring and enjoy the benefits of a safe, secure, and worry-free home for years to come!    

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weekend happenings - Hello Monday

Weekend Happenings

Hi friends and happy Monday! It’s great to be back today to recap some weekend happenings. I’m very excited to be on school holidays because term one felt so long! It actually was longer and went on for eleven weeks. We usually only have ten weeks and although one extra week doesn’t sound like much. It sure is in the preschool world! I always think that term one of preschool is a bit like childbirth, you always forget how painful challenging it is! Haha!! Saturday Anyway here is what Saturday looked like. Back to warm and sunny autumn! Earlier last week the temps dropped and I thought that it was goodbye to those beautiful warm autumn days we had been having. Saturday morning I woke up feeling pretty great so I went for a sunny walk and it was fun exploring some new streets around where I live. But from now on I have made a mental note to pay closer attention to the uneven footpaths instead of getting carried away looking at the beautiful trees and the flowers in people’s front gardens. I almost tripped over, but fortunately, I managed to pull off one of those miraculous saves where your legs go everywhere, and you somehow manage to land on your feet. Phew! It must have been a funny sight and although I gave myself a good scare, I almost burst out laughing….almost. I got home around midday and I was hungry so I made some scrambled eggs and a banana, walnut and honey milkshake. Steve went to work and Sam was competing in a weightlifting contest. I was all excited to be at home without having to spend any time thinking about the next working week. I got comfy in a beanbag with some snacks and started binge-watching a new series on Netflix called ‘Bonus Family’. In between the end of an episode and the beginning of another. I checked my phone and saw on my newsfeed that there was a tragedy unfolding at Bondi Junction Westfield. Then about a minute later my phone rang and it was Luke. He was asking me if I was OK and if I was home. He knows that I like to shop there, especially during the school holidays. I turned off the series I had been watching and turned on the regular TV. Sure enough, every channel was covering the stabbing that had just occurred inside the shopping centre. Then my family started checking in on the group chat, making sure everyone was ok. Bondi Junction is only about a 20- 30 minute drive away. It’s a great place to shop and there is always a possibility that one of us could have been there. One of my cousins used to work there a couple of years ago. My warm, fuzzy and carefree mood ended and I sat there talking to Luke, texting my bestie and messaging on the family group chat while I watched the news. We were all equally shocked to learn that a man had just randomly stabbed people in the shopping centre and by the end of the night we heard that six people had died. There are victims still in the hospital including a nine-month-old baby. It’s just so sad and the sentiment is the same everywhere – these things just don’t happen in Australia. But sadly, I guess they can. Sunday On Sunday morning, I woke up with a sore neck and a headache. I have this annoying habit of slouching in front of the computer for hours on end and watching the news with my body all tensed up for most of Saturday evening didn’t help. A while ago I decided to stop watching or listening to the news. It’s the right decision for me because constantly hearing about the state of the world is just so depressing. I’m pretty sure I’ve more than made up for it now! I did some stretching on the yoga mat and took some Panadol and Neurofen. In the afternoon, I started to feel better so I made a quick trip to the shops. Steve and I enjoyed some seafood for dinner. We weren’t celebrating anything but it’s been such a crazy and busy last couple of weeks. So a relaxing Sunday evening is exactly what we needed. We watched the latest episode of Survivor and went to bed at 10.30 which is early for me. I have been burning the candle at both ends and my body has been yelling at me to stop. So even though I am in full school holiday mode and don’t have to worry about getting up early, I’m going to listen and go to bed at a decent time. Pinky promise! Thanks so much for stopping by and I hope you have an amazing day! Linking up with Holly and Sarah

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New Year's recap

Two Favourites

Hey there, friends! Happy Friday! As of 3:46 PM today, I’m officially on autumn break – time to finally take a breather! I’m excited to join Andrea and Erika for Friday Favourites. Can you believe I only managed to remember to snap three photos this week? It’s been quite a week, and I seem to be saying that a lot lately. Probably because term one of preschool has been quite interesting! Haha, I was trying to come up with a way to describe it, but I think I will stick to calling it ‘interesting’. Anyway, I made it through, and now it’s time to enjoy the break! Two Favourites It’s going to be a short and sweet Friday Favorites post today because I’m feeling pretty tired. Next week, I’ll be back to share all about our latest Cousin Connect get-together and a life update. Even though I’m sure I had plenty of favourite moments during the week, I forgot to take photos, and now I feel as if everything is a blur. So, for today, I’m sharing two favourites and three photos. My husband bought a new phone, a Samsung Galaxy something (I can’t recall the full name). His old phone was about 6 or 7 years old and didn’t have any sound. So he couldn’t hear it when it rang, which was pretty annoying whenever I tried to call him. It was definitely time for an upgrade. I think I was more excited about his new phone than he was! I used his phone to capture a photo of a massive drop of water that was on the plant by our front door. After a torrential downpour the night before, this huge drop of rain must have accumulated on the leaf. Isn’t it amazing! What’s also amazing is that as I was about to take the photo with Steve’s fancy new phone, I said “Wow” out loud, and guess what? The phone just went ahead and took the picture all on its own! I was so surprised and I thought it must have been a fluke so I tried it again and yep, it did the same thing. WOW!! Midweek dinner out with friends was a fun favourite! Cheers! Oh my goodness, that night I had the best burger I’ve had in a very long time! I mean, it might just be my favourite burger ever, I think! The burger patty was so tender and full of flavour. It was cooked so that it was quite rare, which is not a thing over here. All our burgers are always well done and if we ever see any pink in the middle of the patty it’s an instant cause for panic and fears of immediate food poisoning. But we were in a very nice restaurant and this burger was no ordinary burger. I can still vividly remember the flavour of the truffle aioli! So good! The shoestring fries were also divine, crunchy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. My only complaint and that of my friends was that it needed a pickle on the side for some crunch and acidity. Haha, we sat there critiquing the burger as if we were food critics. The plush atmosphere must have gone to our heads or maybe it was the Aperol spritz! Nah, it really needed a pickle! And that’s it for today friends! A very short and sweet look at two favourites. I hope you have an amazing weekend and thank you so much for stopping by. I’m going to hop off, have a shower, eat dinner and watch an old favourite movie. I haven’t decided which one yet but I’m sticking to an oldie because chances are that I will fall asleep halfway through, if not before! Happy Friday!  

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Home Improvement Ideas post

Home Improvement Ideas:Create a Space You’ll Love

Owning a home comes with a whirlwind of tasks every day, but hey, it’s all about turning that house into a haven you’re proud to call your own, right? Time to shake things up and make your place the envy of the neighbourhood! First things first, let’s brainstorm some big ideas to jazz it up. Then, get ready to dive into some exciting projects and transform your space into the ultimate dream home. Ready to explore some home improvement ideas for enhancing your space and making it an absolute pleasure to be in. Let’s go! Home Improvement Ideas Update The Master Bathroom Let’s talk about upgrading your master bathroom! It’s a space that both homeowners and potential buyers value greatly. Whether you’re aiming to enhance your own comfort or attract potential buyers, sprucing up this essential room doesn’t have to mean a complete renovation. Consider simple yet impactful upgrades like installing brighter lighting to create a more inviting atmosphere or expanding your shower for added luxury. Perhaps a fresh coat of paint or a stylish vanity makeover could breathe new life into the space. And don’t forget about practicalities – keep an eye out for signs of blocked drains and address them promptly with professional help if needed. Plus, ample storage solutions will keep clutter at bay and maintain a tidy, organised appearance. Dive Into A Renovating Adventure Let’s embark on a redecorating adventure and give your home a dazzling makeover! Now’s the perfect time to reimagine your space and infuse it with fresh energy. Embrace a minimalist approach and declutter to simplify your space, allowing only your favourite pieces to shine. It’s all about curating a collection that reflects your style and adds a modern edge to your home. But why stop there? Shake things up by rearranging furniture to breathe new life into tired layouts. And who can resist the allure of colourful area rugs and flowing curtains? They’re like instant mood lifters for any room! So, grab your paintbrush, fluff those pillows, and create a vibrant and dynamic space. Get ready to fall in love with your home all over again! Freshen Up Your Walls With New Paint Elevate your home’s ambience with a fresh coat of paint. Opt for a timeless neutral palette that exudes modern charm and enhances your home’s appeal, whether you’re staying put or considering selling down the road. Feeling adventurous? Then painting is a project you may want to tackle on your own to save some money and unleash your creativity. But before diving in, explore some paint samples and test them on your walls to see how they fare in different lighting and throughout the day. If you want to add a dash of personality. Then why not consider painting an accent wall or experimenting with bold hues in smaller spaces like bathrooms? With a splash of paint and a sprinkle of imagination, your home will feel brand new in no time! Create Your Ultimate Home Office With more time being spent at home, particularly if you’re working remotely, having a dedicated workspace is crucial. That’s where the idea of setting up a home office comes into play. Start by selecting a location that offers privacy and plenty of natural light. Ideally, opt for a room with a door that can be closed, allowing you to concentrate without interruptions. Then, unleash your creativity as you plan and decorate your space to match your personality and taste. But why stop there? Consider practical enhancements such as incorporating a pull-out bed. This addition can effortlessly transform your office into a welcoming guest room whenever friends or family decide to stay over. With just a bit of effort, your home office can evolve into a harmonious blend of productivity and comfort, making both work and relaxation seamless experiences. Conclusion As you embark on your journey to enhance your home, remember that the possibilities for transformation are endless. By implementing these home improvement ideas, you can turn your space into a haven that reflects your style and meets your needs. Whether you’re updating your master bathroom, embarking on a renovating adventure, freshening up your walls with new paint, or creating your ultimate home office, each step brings you closer to achieving the home of your dreams. So, don’t hesitate to explore, experiment, and make your home improvements a reality. With dedication and creativity, your home can become a place of comfort, productivity, and joy for years to come.    

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4 home improvements that increase the value of your property

4 Home Improvements That Increase The Value Of Your Property

Isn’t it just wonderful when your home reflects all the hard work and care you’ve put into it, becoming a source of pride when you entertain guests? And if you’re anything like many homeowners, you’re always seeking ways to enhance your home’s appeal and functionality, including home improvements that increase value. But here’s a thought: have you ever considered exploring home improvements that operate behind the scenes, away from plain sight? While it may not seem obvious, these upgrades can make a significant impact, whether it’s about trimming your energy bills or maximizing the utility of your living space. Let’s explore a few of these home improvements that go beyond the surface, transforming your home into a haven of contemporary comfort and convenience. 4 Home Improvements That Increase The Value Of Your Property 1. Embrace Solar Power While solar panels might not be the most visually striking addition to your home, their impact is undeniable. By harnessing the power of the sun, you’re not only reducing your carbon footprint but also slashing your energy bills. Imagine the satisfaction of watching your electricity meter tick downward as your home generates its own clean, renewable energy. Plus, with potential tax incentives and rebates, the initial investment becomes a savvy long-term financial decision. 2. Upgrade Your Home’s Insulation for Comfort and Savings Often overlooked, the condition of your home’s insulation is key to keeping it cozy and efficient. If you’re in an older house, chances are your insulation has seen better days. Particularly if your home was built between the 1920s and the 1970s, it might still be insulated with asbestos, which can pose health risks. In such situations, it’s crucial to bring in professionals to safely remove the asbestos and replace it with modern, energy-efficient wall insulation. While this upgrade might not catch your attention right away, its benefits are huge. Not only will it make your home warmer and more comfortable. But it’ll also save you money on heating bills in the long run. Investing in quality insulation isn’t just smart for your home’s energy efficiency – it’s also a vital step in protecting your family’s health and well-being. 3. Transform Unused Spaces Ready to unlock the hidden potential of those overlooked spaces in your home? Whether it’s a neglected garage, cellar, or attic, it’s time to transform them into something truly remarkable. Just imagine turning that dusty garage into a cozy guest bedroom or converting your cluttered attic into the home office of your dreams. Not only will you make better use of your home’s square footage. You’ll also create new spaces to entertain and impress your guests. Plus, adding these functional rooms can significantly increase the value of your property. So why wait any longer? Take those forgotten areas and turn them into standout features of your home! 4. Time To Pave The Way For A Driveway If you’ve been without one, it’s worth considering adding this feature to your property. Sure, you might need to jump through a few hoops to get planning permission, but the perks are worth it. Not only does a driveway add an intriguing touch to your home. It also enhances safety for your vehicle, lowers insurance premiums, and boosts your property’s curb appeal for potential buyers down the road. So, why not look into what you’ll need to do to get permission to have a driveway installed? It’s another opportunity to elevate your home and enjoy the fruits of your hard work. By investing in these strategic home improvements that increase the value of your property, you’re not just upgrading your living space; you’re future-proofing your home for years to come. So go ahead, think beyond the surface and transform your house into the ultimate expression of modern living.

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Reduce Car Maintenance Costs

Maintaining your car doesn’t have to be an endless financial burden. Whether you’re a seasoned driver or just starting out, the expenses of keeping your vehicle running smoothly can swiftly add up, urging the need to find ways to spend less. No need to worry! You’re not alone in facing this challenge. There are straightforward steps you can take to reduce your car maintenance costs and improve your financial health. By implementing these strategies, you’ll maintain your car’s condition while saving money. Let’s get started on cutting those costs! Reduce Car Maintenance Costs Buy New One of the most significant ways to reduce car maintenance costs is to consider buying a new vehicle. While it may seem like a hefty upfront expense, investing in a new car can actually save you money in the long run. Newer cars typically experience fewer issues and require fewer repairs during the initial years of ownership. By opting for a new car, you can potentially avoid costly maintenance and repair bills down the line, leading to substantial long-term savings. Quality Parts Matter In addition to purchasing a new car, opting for approved parts is another effective strategy for reducing car maintenance costs. When it comes to replacing parts in your vehicle, it can be tempting to choose cheaper, unofficial options. However, this often results in more frequent replacements and additional costs over time. It’s much better to use official parts, such as Tesla car parts for a Tesla, Ford for a Ford, and so on. By prioritising official parts recommended for your specific make and model, you ensure better quality and longevity, ultimately reducing car maintenance expenses over the life of your vehicle. You’ll spend less overall this way and enjoy much higher quality in the meantime. Stay Ahead With Regular Servicing Regular servicing is also essential for minimising car maintenance costs. While servicing your car may appear as an added expense, it’s a crucial step in preventing major issues and expensive repairs. Following the manufacturer’s recommended service schedule allows you to identify and address potential problems early on, saving you money in the long term. By staying on top of regular servicing, you can maintain your vehicle’s performance and reliability while avoiding costly breakdowns and repairs. Drive Carefully Furthermore, practising responsible driving habits can significantly impact your car’s longevity and maintenance costs. By driving carefully and avoiding sudden stops and accelerations, you can minimise wear and tear on your vehicle, reducing the need for repairs and maintenance. Additionally, driving responsibly can help you save on fuel costs, further reducing your overall car maintenance costs. By incorporating these strategies into your car maintenance routine, you can take control of your expenses and enjoy a smoother ride both on the road and in your wallet. Whether you’re considering purchasing a new car, opting for approved parts, staying on top of regular servicing, or practising responsible driving habits, taking proactive steps to reduce car maintenance costs can lead to significant long-term savings. So, the next time you’re behind the wheel, remember to drive smart and invest in the long-term health of your vehicle. Your bank account will thank you for it!  

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makeup and hair products post

My Favourite Makeup and Hair Products

Hey friends! It’s time to link up with Adrienne, Dara, Jen, Joanne, and Sarah to chat about our favourite makeup and hair products. My Favourite Makeup And Hair Products Makeup Products While I usually stick to the basics and don’t have a huge makeup collection, shopping with my makeup guru bestie always inspires me to try different beauty products. So over the past couple of years, I’ve slowly ventured beyond just tinted moisturiser and lipstick and started using products like contour and highlighter. Concealer has also become my new best friend. This is my favourite tinted moisturiser which I have found out has recently been discontinued. It’s not easy getting a good colour match and I was happy with this shade. A touch of cream blush for that dewy look. This is my favourite eyeshadow palette but I tend to only wear it for special occasions and don’t use it every day. I’m also a big fan of this liquid eyeliner and hope to build up the courage to try a bold Sophia Loren-inspired look someday. Chanel mascara for fancy lashes. These are my favourite lip colours. Underneath my makeup, I use this sunscreen. At the end of the day, I wash my face with Neutrogena face cleanser. Then wipe off any residual make-up with micellar water. It’s great stuff! Here is my favourite local place to buy make-up products. I haven’t visited in a while because I prefer to use up what I have first. Having said that, my concealer is running a bit low so I will probably visit Mecca during the autumn break (4 days to go!) Hair Products Onto hair products, where I’ve perhaps invested a small fortune in taming my frizzy hair. It’s been quite the battle! I’ve experimented with all sorts of conditioners, shampoos, serums, and hair masks – you name it, I’ve tried it! While these hair products were good, my hair was just too crazy. Here are just a few. In the past, I didn’t need to check the weather forecast because my hair would tell me if it was going to rain or not. Any chance of rain and my hair would puff up like a big puffy frightened cat (not pretty). But all that changed recently when I got keratin treatment and it’s the best thing ever. The other day I walked home in the torrential rain, TORRENTIAL!! I’m talking buckets! And guess what? My hair stayed tame. Sure it got slightly wavy but it wasn’t the usual scary, frizzy mess. I was so happy that I didn’t mind being drenched or that my shoes were absolutely soaked from wading through ankle-deep puddles. I looked like a real mess but I was a mess with good hair – priceless! My hairdresser suggested I use shampoo free from sulphates to make sure it doesn’t ruin the keratin treatment. So I’m currently using these hair care products. I also colour my hair with Garnier Olia light brown hair colour. And that’s about all of my favourite makeup and hair products. Thanks so much for reading and I hope that you have a wonderful day! Related Articles Simple Things You Can Do To Improve Your Skin      

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Friday favourites

Friday Favourites

Hi, friends! Welcome to Friday Favourites! I’m so thrilled that this short week actually felt shorter. Usually, four-day workweeks drag on like any other, but not this time. Although I must admit, I was a bit confused about what day it was throughout the week. But all that confusion disappears today because it’s my favourite day of the week. Friday, I love you! This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase. Ok, so it’s time to share a few favourites, thanks so much for being here! Up until today (it’s pouring with rain at the moment!) I had been thoroughly enjoying perfect autumn weather where the mornings and evenings are cool yet the days are so warm! I had been checking the forecast constantly, trying to brace myself for a sudden drop in temperatures as I’m not a fan of the cold. Thankfully, apart from today, it has been smooth sailing. I’m so happy that according to the weather forecast, next week will still bring temperatures in the mid-20s (celsius that is) phew! Warm autumn weather means that flowers are still blooming. On Wednesday I mentioned that I had replanted the ivy from its tiny cramped pot into a more spacious one, hoping that it would finally take off and flourish. I’ve had it for over a year and it’s still only small. The other plant I keep on the open shelves in the kitchen is thriving and I love the touch of greenery it adds to this space. Green is good! I can’t get enough dark chocolate! or coffee! My sweet, kind friends bought me a bag of coffee beans. I had been wanting to grind my own coffee beans so it was the perfect excuse to buy a manual coffee grinder. Ahh, there’s nothing like the smell of freshly ground coffee. It’s just amazing! Another cozy favourite this week was enjoying a cup of frothy hot chocolate while watching TV. I used this butter chicken blend from Gewurzhaus Spice House and our butter chicken tasted so good! The mix of spices makes cooking up tasty meals super easy. I also love their speedy spaghetti blend. One of my favourite things to do is have a movie playing on my iPad while I cook. The other day I made a spinach, feta and ricotta pie to take to my aunts for our Easter lunch. While I was cooking I watched my favourite movie ‘Volver’ with Penelope Cruz. Have you seen it? Tomorrow night, I’m hosting Cousin Connect, we usually play a board game after dinner. This time, I thought that we could switch things up a bit by playing a new game. My wonderful work friend and supplier of all fun resources lent me her game of Hedbanz. I’m planning to use the headbands from Hedbanz to play a variation of Celebrity Heads. Today when we had a spare minute at work, I asked some of my work buddies to write the names of celebrities on cards. I haven’t peeked at what they wrote so that I can play and join in the fun too! I’m going to jump off (crawl more likely as it’s been a day!) the computer and tackle a couple of chores, then it’s couch time for this tired chook! I hope you have a wonderful weekend and I look forward to being back here on Monday! Linking up with Andrea and Erika    

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