Brilliant Baby Books

Aloha Sprinklerinos,

Ever since Baby Glitter was first born, Matt and I have read to her. We are both keen readers (I'm not talking Shakespear, but chicklit, magazines, boy books, newspapers, blogs, you get it, reading stuff) and we wanted our Daughter to follow suit as there are so many benefits.

Not only does it stimulate baby's mind, encourage language and feed their imaginations, it gives you a good opportunity for snuggles and quality bonding time.

I have recently started taking Baby Glitter to the library, but I thought I would start off by sharing some of our favourites from her own bookshelf first.

(As you can see, I got a little app happy and took today's image on my phone. The app is free and called pixlromantic if you are interested.)

Ten Little Fingers and Ten Little Toes

This is the most recent edition to our collection and I think Mummy loves it more than baby. It reads in a lovely melodic fashion and the pictures look like the watercoloured ones we had as children ourselves. I'm really not a big fan of computer generated 4-d type images. I like my picture books old school. Haha, so specific!

The Tiger Who Came To Tea 

This was the first book I bought for Darcy and I think I will cherish it for all of our lives. I've read it so many times I know it off by heart and even sent a copy to a chum in America. The illustrations are a joy, it's a cute, harmless silly story and just the right length for an infant. Baby Glitter will sit on my lap and be enthralled for 5-10 mins max. You could read this in 3-5 I think.

Say Goodnight To The Sleepy Animals

This is not a favourite of mine (I prefer classics) but is one she ALWAYS reaches for. Each page is the cat saying goodnight to an animal, so perhaps she enjoys my fantastic animal noise impressions-ha. It's quite handy for talking about different things (night, bedtime, creatures, sounds, how many, etc) and very colourful.

All three of these books that we have are board books because they are easy for little hands to turn and are not going to die a death by crumpling and ripping like some of our others- eep! They make great baby shower/new baby/birthday gifts, if you don't have a baby yourself too. Woohooo easy gifting!

I have quite a collection of baby books, so if you would like more mini reviews, do let me know.

Toodlepip!

xx

This month my Ultimate Advertiser is Dashing Divas. If you would like to know more about advertising on Sprinkle of Glitter, check out my 'Sponsor' page up at the top!

PS- Nope, still don't know why blogger won't let me make links pink. Gargh.

LOTD || Video #1

Aloha Sprinklerinos,

How are you enjoying these LOTD's so far? I'm rather enjoying writing them :)

Since Saturday is a kick back and relax kind of a day, I thought it might be fun to have a video. The challenge is to find one video (I'll probably always pick from YouTube but you don't have to) that you like and share it. It can be about anything you like at all, we are free as birds. 

Saturday will always be : Video.

I chose this video as it is one that I have watched about 5 times and adore. It makes me realise that there is so much joy, hope, happiness in the world, but sometimes it is clouded by all the sad things we see in the news and read about in papers. I hope this couple live harmoniously together for years and years and sit in hover-rocking chairs (it's the future, anything can happen) and tell their grandchildren about this proposal adventure. 

If you would like to join in, simply copy and paste the image above (please link this blog with it), find your favourite video and share it with the world. Feel free to let us know in the comments if you have done this and we can all mooch about together!

Did this video make you smile? Have you had a similar romantic experience?

Toodlepip!

xx

This month my Ultimate Advertiser is Dashing Divas. If you would like to know more about advertising on Sprinkle of Glitter, check out my 'Sponsor' page up at the top!

Budget Bling

Aloha Sprinklerinos,

Remember those days, before I made a small human in my tummy, before the little thing came out and started to pull on every shiny thing she saw- earrings, necklaces, bracelets, etc? They were good times. I wore so many beautiful accessories. Nowadays, I stick to studs and my wedding/engagement ring because I value my earlobes so much.

Today I had a little sort out and fell back in love with all my chunky cocktails rings. Ahhh, I missed you old friends. 

Rings can be so affordable and to me, really finish off an outfit. I used to work in an office and I loved wearing a bit of finger bling and watching it twinkle all day as I typed. 

With the current trend of TRIANGLES in mind, I went cheapy ring hunting. Has anyone else noticed that everyone has gone gaga for that little three sided shape?! 

(Image: Ebay, seller linked below -geo gloating ring)

This  Geo Floating Triangle Ring is a snip at £4.50 and something I have never seen before (check out the sellers other images to see how it's worn, it's quite clever) and comes in 3 colours- yay for choice! (Hmm, not sure why the link won't go pink. Gr!)

Oooooohhhhhh this Jewelled Triangle Bling Ring is JAZZY. Seriously, if you like sparkly, coloured, big things, you'll like this. At only £4.99, I'm buying!

If you're being ultra swish and combining triangles AND aztec, you'll lurve this Silver Aztec Engraved Triangle Ring for £3.99.

Last but not least, this Vintagey Cat Ear Ring THRILLS me! I know it isn't technically a triangle things, but the ears are pointy- does that count? Haha. Also, for £1.10 inc. P&P it's the best BARGAIN ever! Thrifty would be so proud of me!!

So there you have it, a ring for every finger (but not thumb, I'm not sure where I stand on thumbrings- you?) and all under £5. You can't argue with those digits! Ahahahaha I crack myself up! Tehehe.

Are you an affordable accessories kinda gal? Or are you in a love triangle with pricey jewels (oh me oh my I'm on fire today with these puns).

Toodlepip!

xx

This month my Ultimate Advertiser is Dashing Divas. If you would like to know more about advertising on Sprinkle of Glitter, check out my 'Sponsor' page up at the top! 

LOTD || Fact or Quote #1

Aloha Sprinklerinos,

At an office Matt and I used to work at (ahhhh working together, living together, almost killing each other haha), we used to have 'Factday Friday', so this is sort of a throwback to those happy days. The challenge is to share either in interesting fact or an inspiring quote and spread knowledge and cheer to all.

Friday will always be : Fact or Quote

 

This is a quote I saw on Pinterest and pinned straight away as it's just so gosh darn cute. I'm actually a huge fan of the rain as it makes me feel cosy, but clearly this has a magical 'life message' too. I like it alot.

If you would like to join in, simply copy and paste the image above (please link this blog with it), find your favourite fact or quote and share it with the world. Feel free to let us know in the comments if you have done this and we can all mooch about together!

Does this quote inspire you?

Toodlepip!

xx

This month my Ultimate Advertiser is Dashing Divas. If you would like to know more about advertising on Sprinkle of Glitter, check out my 'Sponsor' page up at the top! 

I kid you not, it's raining as I type this- how very apt! Haha. 

Lou's Reviews || Angelica Hydration Face Mist | L'Occitane

Aloha Sprinklerinos,

What with this marvellous summer we are having *looks outside to grey clouds and whistling winds* I was glad when I was given an Angelica Hydration Face Mist to try from the lovely lady at L'Occitane.

I am quite a newbie to facial mists, the only other one I have tried was from Avene and I used it whilst in labour. To be quite frank, I was so drugged up on meptid that I could have been spritzing urine on my face and I wouldn't have cared, so I don't think that gave me a well rounded opinion of the product! The times I did use it un-drugged-on-labour-meds however, I had really liked it, so I had high hopes for the L'Occitane version.

L'Occitane themselves claim that this product 'instantly refreshes' the skin and can be used to set and prolong your makeup. Sounds good. 

Wellllll I have mixed feelings on this item. Firstly, it's nice. It feels nice to spray a gentle cool mist of water over your face, it smells very fresh and clean, I didn't have any bad reactions or breakouts and I can see that it would be really handy in hot climates or on aeroplanes/coaches etc. Secondly, the packaging is pleasant and functional.

However (and here is where I feel guilty for not rav-rav-raving but I always promise to be honest), I don't really buy into it's magical  properties. I didn't feel like my makeup lasted any longer than it would have without a fine mist of special water, after I had been refreshed I felt like I needed to apply moisturiser sooner and with my current lifestyle (staying at home with the baby in a moderate climate), I felt it wasn't really needed.

I am aware that the PR lady didn't know this and if I had been taking a transatlantic flight to somewhere hot this summer I may well have shouted from the rooftops about it, so please don't think me mean. I just feel that if I hadn't been gifted this product, I would not have spent the rrp of £15 on it. 

All in all, not a bad product at all, just not something someone like me really needs. Sorry L'Occitane!

Are you a fan of face mists? When do you use them most?

Toodlepip!

xx

This month my Ultimate Advertiser is Dashing Divas. If you would like to know more about advertising on Sprinkle of Glitter, check out my 'Sponsor' page up at the top!

LOTD || Ebay #1

Aloha Sprinklerinos,

Today's LOTD challenge is to find a fun/affordable/crazy/brilliant item on ebay and share it with us. I'm a big ebay fan and have spent many a paypal penny (paypal feels like pretend money and so the guilt is less hahaha) on there. I know a lot of other bloggers who heart it as much as me, so hopefully Thursday will be a fun day all round. 

Thursday will always be : Ebay.

This week I have found a new love of my life. Move over Matthew, imPress nails are in town! I recently bought a few packets in boots for £8.99 each. I would love to have more in my stash but feel that nearly £9 is quite an expense so hunted for something more affordable.  This seller is offering 2 packs of imPress nails for under £15, including P&P- Yayy!! They have a massive range of colours/patterns/effects and so I was pleased as punch when I found my new supplier (ooohh, that sounds dodgey!). 

If you would like to join in, simply copy and paste the image above (please link this blog with it), find your favourite ebay item of the day and share it with the world. Feel free to let us know in the comments if you have done this and we can all mooch about together!

Have you tried imPress nails? Were you impressed with today's find (hahaha see what I did there?)

Toodlepip!

This month my Ultimate Advertiser is Dashing Divas. If you would like to know more about advertising on Sprinkle of Glitter, check out my 'Sponsor' page up at the top!

A Bit-a Glitter News

Aloha Sprinklerinos,

I don't always share my YouTube videos on here, but realised that a lot of you may not check your subscription boxes or simply may not be YouTube folk, so I shall endeavour to embed them in this little slice of the web more, so that it's nice and easy for us all. Hurrah!

If you are struggling to watch the embedded version, click HERE to go to my channel. Whilst you're there, feel free to subscribe :)

This video was a bit of a bummer actually. I have decided not to add Baby Glitter into any of my videos anymore after feeling it wasn't a safe environment for her. I removed the videos she had been featured in but decided to leave my blog images of her, I just won't upload anymore that display her face. 

I have been overwhelmed by the amazing support I have received regarding my choice and have felt such warmth from this magical little community, so thank you so much for that. 

Happier posts tomorrow I promise!

Toodlepip!

xx

LOTD || Book #1

Aloha Sprinklerinos,

Today's LOTD is slightly nerdy- books! I am a self confessed bookworm so I thought it might be nice to bring that into blogland a bit. Wednesday's LOTD can either be a book you have read and enjoyed or a book you plan to/would like to read.

Wednesday will always be : Book.

Today's book is The Goddess Guide by Gisele Scanlon. This has long been a favourite and I'd put money on you loving it too if you like things like this blog, pinterest etc. Each page is a feast for the eyes and packed full of tips on beauty, travel, lifestyle and relationships. In short, it's great!

If you would like to join in, simply copy and paste the image above (please link this blog with it), find your favourite book and share it with the world. Feel free to let us know in the comments if you have done this and we can all mooch about together!

Have you read this book before? Are you a book worm like me?

Toodlepip!

xx

This month my Ultimate Advertiser is Dashing Divas. If you would like to know more about advertising on Sprinkle of Glitter, check out my 'Sponsor' page up at the top!

Amazing Advertisers || June 2012

Aloha Sprinklerinos,

This month has flown by hasn't it?! It's time for Amazing Advertisers again, which is your opportunity to get to know the lovely ladies that have been nestled in the left hand side bar this month.

If you would like to advertise on Sprinkle of Glitter in May, look up to the tabs under my header, and 'Sponsor' has all my advertising packages within it.

(Image : weheartit.com)

Briar Rose Beauty

Briar (her blog name) is a peach. We met last month at a conference and have spoken a few times since and she is honestly one of life's 'good people'. Her beautifully girlie blog keeps her sane as she lives in a house full of boys (her Husband and two sons) and I'm really glad that she has created her little online haven. Do go and relish in it too. 

Dashing Divas

Dashing Divas is a blog run by three lovely ladies, all with a passion for exercise and healthy eating. They don't blog about crazy fad diets or extreme weight loss, but instead provide helpful tips on the latest exercise gadgets, motivation to get going and a place to find support and ideas for those looking to start or continue with an exercise regime. None of them confess to be 'skinny minnies', they are regular women with a desire to keep fit. Is that's your bag, you'll love this site!

A Thrifty Mrs

El is my buddy. We chatter daily about all manner of things and she is one of the most knowledgable women I have ever come across. Need to know how to stop your dishwasher leaving grit on glasses? She knows. Need to know where you can find a plus size pleated skirt? She knows. Need to know the meaning of life? She knows. Almost. Basically, she's a winner in my books so go and smother her with winner's glory! Ooerr. 

Secret Diary of a Fashion Journalist

Laura is having a complimentary month this June because she is my most frequent Amazing Advertisers and has had to take a few big scary trips to the dentist. Going to the dentist is in my top three of things I hate (alongside giving birth and driving on the motorway) so I really empathised with her. Naturally, the dentist costs a small fortune (paying for pain, lovely) so this months on me because she's a good egg. Go and check her out, if not for her blog, but to console her for her hurty mouth. Poor lamb.

Becaboosmakeup

Rebecca writes about a little bit of everything, from makeup to fashion, to tags to YouTube, there are a wide variety of posts to choose from. I just had a lovely long look through her blog and am in the mood for a Summer holiday- very jealous of her upcoming trip! I've noticed that she also offers advertising packages that look remarkably similar to mine. Copying is the best form of flattery eh?

Aspirations of Glam

Liz probably won't see this as she is currently off jet setting round the Thailand area- the lucky ducky!! Whilst she's away, do check out her blog as it is an absolute pleasure to read. However, if you are a sho-aholic and fight the urge to buy amazingly bargainous shoes, it may well be dangerous- eep. Oh, and don't call her freckles cute, she's going for glam dontchya know! ;)

Wonderful You

You know when you find a blog that you want to immediately sit and read every single post of? That's what Meg's blog is to me. I feel so inspired and rarring to go after a few minutes over there, not to mention a little envious of her OOTD's and beauty photos. I'm not normally a fan of taking photographs of products in grass, but the way Megs does it makes me feel like I'm a little ant in a wonderland like 'Honey I Shrunk The Kids'. If I'm not making sense (which I doubt I am), hop on over and see for yourself. 

Emma Cossey The Freelance Lifestyle

Emma is a savvy lady with an impressive portfolio of places she has written for- The Times Wedding Section - Oh la la! As well as being a Freelance Writer/Editor/Ambassador, she also runs her own blog about all manner of interesting or helpful things. She has pointed me in the direction of some great online media tools and I particularly enjoyed her post about Introverts and Extroverts. Check her out and find out what you are.

Fivolous Mrs D

Elena is living the dream. She is married with 2 fluffy kitties and runs her own business- A cupcakery!!! Who doesn't want to have cats and make cupcakes for a job?! Her blog is jam packed with nail of the day's (I now want to pull off my impress nails and do mint polka dots like hers), OOTD and beauty reviews. Cakes and makeup, I'm all over it!! Such a sweet blog, a must have for your reading list. 

The Beauty of Louise

Louise's blog (oohh that feels weird saying that when my name is Louise too haha) has just had a total makeover and is an absolute beauty! You will find well thought out posts, great images and BRILLIANT nail ideas! Ever seen 'thread nails'? I hadn't until I read her tutorial and LOVED it. Go and make your nails all thready cool please. I foresee a new nail trend! 

If you would like to book a slot for next month (July), I am now responding to all enquiries and spaces will book up fast, judging on the amount of emails I already have in my inbox- eepp!!! Contact me on louise.pentland@hotmail.co.uk.

Who's blog are you hearting this month?

Toodlepip!

xx

This month my Ultimate Advertiser is Dashing Divas. If you would like to know more about advertising on Sprinkle of Glitter, check out my 'Sponsor' page up at the top! 

LOTD || Blog Post #1

Aloha Sprinklerinos,

Tuesday's LOTD is 'Blog Post'. This means you are to share a blog post that you have read and enjoyed/felt inspired by/learnt from/all that good stuff. You can choose one of your own or someone elses, from any time, on any subject. This is an opportunity to share the love.

Tuesday will always be : Blog Post.

Todays I have choosen to share a blog post written last year by Erin from Carosello called 'Mermaid Party'. I would never have thought to throw a mermaid themed party for Baby Glitter, but Erin has shown it is possible and beautiful. Roll on party-time!

If you would like to join in, simply copy and paste the image above (please link this blog with it), find your favourite blog post and share it with the world. Feel free to let us know in the comments if you have done this and we can all mooch about together!

Are you a mermaid party fan? I know I am!

Toodlepip!

xx

This month my Ultimate Advertiser is Dashing Divas. If you would like to know more about advertising on Sprinkle of Glitter, check out my 'Sponsor' page up at the top!

Lou's Reviews || Impress Nails by Broadway

Aloha Sprinklerinos,

I try a lot of beauty products. A lorra lorra beauty products. Over time, it's taken a little bit more to excite me and a product has to be a little bit special to make me rave rave rave about it. Well, Impress Nails by Broadway have hit the spot. Yeah baby.

I bought this set of nails for £8.99 from Boots a few weeks ago and this weekend, finally got round to giving them a whirl. It was actually by accident as I was on a conference call (oh la la) with Mrs Thrifty for our upcoming project (any guesses) and started fiddling with the package. Within minutes I'd worked out how these little beauties worked and applied a full set. I can't stress how easy they are to do!

Each clear plastic bottle-case comes with 24 nails in 12 varying sizes. Each nail is like a little plastic shell. There is a double-sided-sticky-tape layer on the underbelly (as opposed to the patterned top area) with a tiny tab to allow you to peel it off easily. All you do is peel the tab, reveal the sticky underneath area and press on to your nail in the place you want it. And it's set. No glue mess. No drying time. Done.

(oooff pass me the Lemonyflutter cuticle butter please!)

I am THRILLED with this product. I think the packaging is cute, the range of patterns and effects is wide and the speed and ease in which you can have perfect nails is great!

The only downside for me was the price. £8.99 per pack is a lot of money. When you consider that they only last a week and if you wanted to reuse them you'd have to buy some nail glue, it's a hard sum to swallow. I looked into more affordable alternatives and I found an American Ebay seller who you can buy 2 sets from for less than £15 and that included P&P which is good news. You can rummage round that shop for yourself HERE. Or, if you would prefer to pay more/are loyal to Boots, you can find them HERE.

*So far I have only worn these for 2 days but they are still in perfect mint condition. I will come back and pop in my 'findings' on this blog post at the end of the week, so do pop back if you are interested. 

All in all, love love lovity love having gorgeous easy nails. This is a bit naughty and please pretend you didn't hear it from me, buuuuut, these would be great if you had chipped nails and were in a massive rush. Simply stick on over the top and no-one's the wiser. I doubt they would last as long but I'm always up for a last minute problem solver, tehehe. Shhhh.

Are you as impressed as me with Impress nails? If not, why not?

Toodlepip!

xx

This month my Ultimate Advertiser is Dashing Divas. If you would like to know more about advertising on Sprinkle of Glitter, check out my 'Sponsor' page up at the top!

LOTD || Clothes #1

Aloha Sprinklerinos,

So as we discussed yesterday, today is the start of my Love Of The Day feature.

Monday will always be : Clothes.

Today I have mooched through ASOS and am lusting over this beautiful Flower Pocket Flippy Skirt. It comes in blue (which looks grey to my eyeballs) and peach, and I'd go for the first option personally. I love the way she is wearing it up high and think it could be dressed up for evening with heals and a clutch bag, or down for day time with sandals and vest top. You can't beat multifunctional items!

If you would like to join in, simply copy and paste the image above (please link this blog with it), find your favourite clothing item of the day and share it with the world. Feel free to let us know in the comments if you have done this and we can all mooch about together!

*A Little Edit : For those of you who have asked/who are on twitter, the hashtag for this feature will be #LOTD. That way we can all see who's posted and spend way too much money! haha*

Are you a flippy skirt kinda gal?

Toodlepip!

xx

This month my Ultimate Advertiser is Dashing Divas. If you would like to know more about advertising on Sprinkle of Glitter, check out my 'Sponsor' page up at the top!

Love Of The Day || LOTD

Aloha Sprinklerinos,

This is a post to tell you all about something exciting and shiny coming to Sprinkle of Glitter. A new feature! Huzzah!

 

(This image is from my pinterest board -linked below- and has not much to do with anything, but it made me smile, do you like it too?)

One of my absolute favourite things to do in life is to mooch round the internet. There is something deeply satisfying about mooching, pottering, meandering, exploring. I often find that after a few clicks here and there, I have stumbled across something to put on my wish list, or a product I want to blog about, or an item that is a total bargain, so I decided to bundle all this goodness up and make a special thing of it, celebrate it if you will.

For the next 10 weeks (this is my challenge to myself at least) I will blog every single day about ONE thing I have found. Each day of the week will have a specific topic so you'll know where you are (nobody likes to be all confused and unsettled- or is that just me?) and as an extra bonus, you are welcome to join in (more on that to come tomorrow).

I will still be posting regular blog posts about beauty, baby and lifestyle, so nothing will change in that department, just that you may see an additional shorter post (the LOTD) pop up in your feeds. 

Yes, this will be quite a challenge, but it's a little selfish too. I love flicking back through this little slice of the web and seeing what I was interested in last year, what I was up to and reflecting on how time marches on- oohh we're getting philosophical now!

Also coming up this week we have my 7 Things Update, Amazing Advertisers (if you have emailed about this, I will be answering you soon), two beauty reviews, a haul, some Baby Glitter-ness and a lifestyle post- B IS FOR BUSY!

Also, 'Aloha' to all my new Pinterest followers. I was pretty shocked at how many of you went over and looked through my boards. It's addictive isn't it! 

What are you enjoying reading from the bloggersphere at the moment? Or, what are you enjoying writing about yourself?

Toodlepip!

xx

his month my Ultimate Advertiser is Dashing Divas. If you would like to know more about advertising on Sprinkle of Glitter, check out my 'Sponsor' page up at the top!
 

Gift Ideas for Dashing Dad's

Aloha Sprinklerinos,

All my life I have struggled with buying gifts for men. This Father's Day I did myself proud though. So proud, I'm going to share my idea with you. I should probably point out at this point that it was my friend Marie's idea, but seeing as she lives on the other side of the world in America, I don't think she'll squeal on me any time soon! 

 (I have editted the flower over Baby Glitter's chest because naturally I don't want her topless on the internet. In real life, that's not there! Matt was THRILLED with his gift and can't wait to hang it in his study.)

How to make this Dashing Dad's Gift

1. Think about the word you want to use and buy the correct frame. I wanted 'D.A.D', so I only needed a tripple window frame (mine was from Ikea). 

2. Buy the letters you need to make the word and paint them the colour your choose. I used some paint I had in a little B&Q tester pot, so you really don't need to be Mrs Fancy here. 

3. Get snap happy! I dressed Baby Glitter in a little tutu and pink bloomers, sat her on a blanket which I held up behind her, whilst Zoe clicked away. You may have to take a fair few shots (especially with young children and babies) but hang in there and be patient. If possible, ask a friend to help because it makes life so much easier! Thank You Zoe! 

4. Take your snaps to the developer and frame. Simples. 

: TIPS :

Try this for the Christmas season but with 'J.O.Y' or 'N.O.E.L' and a festive outfit. You don't need a baby/child for this, I made one for my Dad with these photographs. Don't I look spiffing?! Haha.

Buy a double windowed frame and hold numbers to make a unique birthday gift. 

Use a four windowed frame for words like 'LOVE', 'LIVE', 'LUCK', 'BABY, 'HOME'.

To make photographs look extra swish, consider using a free photo editting site like picmonkey. You don't need a professional camera to make brilliant images, just a bit of creativity.

If this was a gift from children, buy a simple frame and allow them to embellish it with gems, paints, buttons or sparkles.

HAVE FUN!

Is this an idea you like and might try? Do you have any great DIY ideas for the menfolk in your life? Share the love. 

Toodlepip!

xx

PS- I am now on Pinterest and you are welcome to come and snoop through my boards/follow me. Go on, you know you want to ;)

This month my Ultimate Advertiser is Dashing Divas. If you would like to know more about advertising on Sprinkle of Glitter, check out my 'Sponsor' page up at the top!

Turquoise Gold

Aloha Sprinklerinos,

With Summer in full swing (or at least whenever it feels like it), I have noticed that I am migrating towards warmer colours in my accessories.

I find that in S/S I go for golds and warm tones and then in the Winter I prefer silvers and purples. Why is this? There must be some psychology behind it.

(Oooooooohhh faannnccyyy- rounded corners!)

A couple of pieces I have been wearing a LOT of late are this bead and skull bracelet* from Unique Beads (£5) and these dinglydangly earrings from River Island (£12).

The earrings are long, jazzy and make a little tinkling noise as they move. I heart them so very much with volumised curly hair and a plain top/dress. This is a bit old school Disney, but they sort of remind me of Esmarelda from the Hunchback of NotreDame. Hmmm, I wish I was a French gypsy girl who could do mysterious tricks and look that hot in rags!

Just a quick post today because my cousin and her chums are coming over to have a trial run for their prom makeup that I'm doing. If they'll let me, I'll show you the before and afters. This year I'm doing 6 girls prom makeup looks, so I'm very excited.

What colours do you migrate to in Summer?

Toodlepip!

xx

This month my Ultimate Advertiser is Dashing Divas. If you would like to know more about advertising on Sprinkle of Glitter, check out my 'Sponsor' page up at the top!

Interactive! 7 Things for 7 Days :: June

Aloha Sprinklerinos,

Have you been enjoying my recent '7 Things for 7 Days' posts (like HERE and HERE)? They are where I set myself realistic weekly goals in a bid to motivate myself to achieve the things I want to do and against all odds (ie. I have the willpower of a flea), it's worked!

Since starting a few weeks ago, a lot of you (yay) have contacted me to say you are unofficially joining in and are enjoying the support of the blogging community AND achieving your goals.

I have decided that it might be fun to make this interactive and allow us all to be a lot more involved. So if you have a blog and would like to join in, here's how:

1. On your own blog, write the 7 things you aim to achieve. They don't have to be in 7 days, they can span an entire month. The key is to do what feels comfortable to YOU. 

2. Copy and paste the picture above and link this blog post so that people know the feature you are running/joining in with. 

3. Let me know in the comments that you have posted your '7 Things' by June 30th. Next month, I will run this post again (but with ':: July') and put a link to everybody who joined in so that we can all be a friendly little group, have a look at who aimed to do what, have a nosey of their blog, make new blog chums etc. 

Simples!

The idea is that if someone clicks on your blog and like your targets, they'll stick around and see if you had success. Spreading the positivity and all that jazz!

Please don't feel that if you have a blog you absolutely have to do this, I just thought it might be interesting to try something a little more interactive and see what everyone else gets up to.

Feel free to pinch my goals, make giant goals, make tiny goals, or change your name to 'goal girl' via deed poll. Too far? Maybe. If you don't manage to tick them all off, that's alright too, there are far bigger problems in the world. This is a FUN challenge, not a rigid chore.

Looking forward to letting you know how I got on with last weeks 7 Things and seeing who takes part. 

Are you in?

Toodlepip!

xx

This month my Ultimate Advertiser is Dashing Divas. If you would like to know more about advertising on Sprinkle of Glitter, check out my 'Sponsor' page up at the top!

Super Staycations

Aloha Sprinklerinos,

I was recently approached by Tots100 and asked to talk about one of my favourite sorts of holidays, now that I am a Mummy. There are several other bloggers championing different getaways (such as camping or luxury locations), but I chose staycations. 

A staycation is quite simple. You take time out from ordinary life and do relaxing/fun/holiday activities, all whilst staying in your native country. 

I think a lot of people automatically assume that a holiday needs to include airports, villas and swimming pools. Obviously, these are all exciting things to do, but they are not the epitome of a holiday and there are other options available.

(Baby Glitter enjoying the breeze on her face whilst playing with water on a hot day. Ahhh Summer Bliss)

Rather than waffling on and on like a waffle (good analogy there), I thought I would share a few of my top reasons for thinking staycations are super!

Budget :: By staying in the country, you eliminate buying passports for little ones (Baby Glitter still doesn't have one), the cost of flights and possibly rule out the price of vaccinations. When Matt went to Costa Rica last year, we shelled out a small fortune for him to get all his jabs. Sheesh!

Less Fuss :: At the moment, we are introducing Baby Glitter to lots of new foods. She is pretty fussy and knows what she likes. I think if I were on holiday, I would want to know that she was happy in what she was eating and wasn't going to kick up a fuss. A bit of drama over dinner at home is fine, but if it was Matt's week off work and we wanted a really special time, I know I would want happy meal times. If you are in the same country, you know you have access to exactly what your children will eat. Saying that, I loooveee trying foreign foods so I'd be happy as a clam haha. Also, if (touch wood) a family member were to need medical attention, you have much smoother access to hospitals, doctors and medicines.

Reunions :: Matt and I met a lot of our friends at university. Over the years, a lot of our chums have moved to different areas of the country and so this is a great reason to take little minibreaks, see new areas and catch up with friends. We love taking a road trip to visit family or pals, 'car chats' are one of our happy things.

Time :: Sometimes it's fun to have a 'holiday day' rather than take a whole week out of your schedule. You'd be amazed how many fun days out there are in England. From fish and chips at the seaside, adventures at historic castles, sight seeing in London/Liverpool (my favourite cities), roller coasters at theme parks or spa days in the country side, the possibilities are endless.  

Other reasons you might prefer to stay closer to home are if you have pets and you want them to accompany you, you are nervous about facing language barriers or you have a fear of flying (my Mother in Law is a good example of this).

As some of the other bloggers involved in this feature have talked about their favourite types of holiday, ParentDish have offered a fab competition where you can win a family day ticket to Thorpe Park. If you would like to enter that competition, you can find it HERE.

Or, if you like competitions (are you a 'comper'?) and would like to vote for Staycations to be your favourite type of getaway, ParentDish are holding a little poll with the other bloggers taking part in this feature and you can vote for my holiday HERE.

Some of my best trips have been weekends away up North with Matt or weeks by the beach in Cornwall with my family. What are you doing this summer? Do you have any holiday tips for travelling with young children?

Toodlepip!

This month my Ultimate Advertiser is Dashing Divas. If you would like to know more about advertising on Sprinkle of Glitter, check out my 'Sponsor' page up at the top!

Sponsored Post

Accidental Mice

Aloha Sprinklerinos,

This is an accidental post. I say 'accidental' because it wasn't planned, and the idea was stumbled upon purely by chance. 

Earlier, as I typed something into my search bar, I made a typo and ended up on Etsy. Woooopps. I actually love Etsy, so it was no hardship for me to stick around and enjoy myself a little while.

Whilst browsing, I found THE cutest little plushy toys ever. In real life (as opposed to internet lust life), I have no need for cutesy toys, no need for more 'stuff' and nowhere to house these little creatures, and yet they call to me. They call to me like the moon calls to the shore. How romantic. 

I thought I would share my find with you, just because I liked them and figured you might like them too. Yes yes?

Blue Felt Mouse

 

Pink Felt Mouse

Pink Felt Mouse

 

Mint Green Mouse 

These little mice cost £14.09 plus P&P. I think they would make charming gifts for the beautiful little girls in your life.

I don't know the seller, the shop, nor am I being in any way sponsored or compensated, I just really, rreeaalllyy think these are too cute to go unnoticed! 

What do you think? Do they make you smile as much as me?

Toodlepip!

xx

This month my Ultimate Advertiser is Dashing Divas. If you would like to know more about advertising on Sprinkle of Glitter, check out my 'Sponsor' page up at the top!

PS- These images have been taken from the seller's page, which I have linked under each photo.

Fantastic Father's Day

Aloha Sprinklerinos,

As tomorrow is Father's Day and I have a love of crafts, I decided to put my creative hat on and make something rather marvellous for both Matt (from Baby Glitter) and my Dad (from me, obviously).

I won't show you the finished product yet because despite saying they don't read my blog, it would be Sod's Law that they read it tonight and spoilt the surprise.

So here's a teaser....

I know it's a bit slushy but I really don't know where I'd be without my Dad. Aside from orphaned of course! He is always on hand when I need advice, supports me in all my mental little ideas and projects and knows all that 'Dad stuff' like what to do when you smash your car up or how to arrange life insurance. How do people learn that kind of thing?! They really should teach 'life' lessons in school.

If you are lucky enough to have a good Father in your life (and I appreciate that not everybody is), then don't forget to tell him you care, I bet he'll be glad to hear it. Men are emotional deep down. 

What have you done for your Dad this Father's Day? Can you guess what I made? You'll have to wait and see...

Toodlepip!

xx

June Window Shopping List

Aloha Sprinklekrinos,

Lately I have been spending far too much time watching other Beauty YouTuber's monthly favourites videos. I really enjoy seeing what products people have had success with and why they love them so much.

I think I have been stuck in a 'I know what I like' rut and recently have been taking tentative steps out of it and loving making new discoveries.

Last night, I sat and flicked through feelunique.com for about 3 hours (whilst chatting to chums on skype/watching TV, I'm not that obsessed haha) and found myself throwing things in my trolley willynilly. Obviously I won't be buying everything, but I thought I would show you my virtual basket and share the window shopping experience a bit.

If you like, I might make this a monthly feature?

Here's what's enticing me this month -

Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat

£9.85 and Free Delivery

I have heard such great things about this top coat. I'm pretty lazy and sometimes don't bother using my current top coat (by China Glaze) but know that when I do bother, it makes all the difference. I'd be quite interested to see if this does live up to the hype.

Nubar Ridge Filler

£6.80 and Free Delivery

Since being pregnant, my nails have really suffered. Whilst I was carrying Baby Glitter, they developed lots of little ridges and so when I apply my nail polish, these show through. I had hoped that after pregnancy they would return to normal, but sadly, they haven't. A small price to pay for a delightful Daughter, but still, I'd like to alleviate the sight of them. I'd like to see if this ridge filler does the job.

Garnier Soft Essentials Replenishing Day Care Cream

£5.30 and Free Delivery

This is a moisturiser I have used up a fair few pots of and really got on well with. Since I'm going to do a bit of a shop, I may as well throw this in too. Woohoo!!

Neal's Yard Remedies Organic Eye Makeup Remover

£10.20 and Free Delivery

Neal's Yard is a brand I have not yet sampled but have read great things about it. Muhsine from Bubblegarm has featured it quite a few times on her blog and I have always been interested in the natural properties it boasts. This attached blurb with this suggests that it can take of even waterproof mascara, a high claim indeed. I'm looking forward to putting this to the test!

Burt's Bees Nourishing Mango Butter Lip Balm

£2.99 and Free Delivery

I am coming to the end of my current lip balm and so am in the market for a new one. I'm not keen on the type that are presented in a little tin, because I despise rubbing my fingers on my lips (weird I know). I also think it's pretty unhygienic to constantly dip your digits into a product because your hands touch so many germies in a day. I know you could wash your hands prior, but I like to have something I can apply easily on the go. Also I like mangos. Also I like things under £3. Also I like saying 'also'. Also.

Bare Escentuals Get Started Eyes Cheek Lips Kit

£35.70 and Free Delivery

Zoe absolutely swears by Bare Escentuals and look at her! She's a total beauty! If this will make me look half as gorgeous as her, I am happy to part with me £35.70. That is all I shall say on the matter. Hahaha.

 

Benefit Confessions of a Concealaholic Brightening Kit

£28.50 and Free Delivery

I bought this kit two years ago for my wedding day (I did mine and my bridesmaids makeup) and I absolutely loved it! It had everything in it that I needed, plus a little instruction booklet to help show where everything should go. It really was a fantastic little kit and a great way to try out a selection of Benefit products if you are thinking on shelling out for the full size. Plus, I do love a mini!

Shiseido Suncare Protection Foundation

£28.00 and Free Delivery

This is a foundation that Fleur raved about a few months back and I was intrigued by the unusual packaging. With summer (hopefully) just around the corner, a foundation with SPF 30 can only be a good thing.

YSL Rouge Volupte Lipstick

£23.50

This is a total luxury buy. I have never spent this much money on a lipstick but everyone who has tried one of these has said they were gorgeous and felt amazing. Also, loooookkk, ppprreeettyyyy packaging!! Haha, I'm such a sucker for a bit of glitz.
 

Stila Crush Lip Cheek Stain

£16.00

I recently purchased a couple of other Stila products and have been absolutely loving them. I usually find that when I trust a brand, I want to try lots of other things from them, so these are calling my name. I remember ages ago I used to like some Ruby and Millie ones that looked a lot like these, so I have high hopes. *Sings hiiiighhh hopes* hehe. 

So that is my rather extensive wish list! I plan on having a little splurge of those products towards the end of the month, so expect to see a haul or some reviews- hurrah!

Are you interested in any of those? Do you ever so a spot of online window shopping?

Toodlepip!

xx

This month my Ultimate Advertiser is Dashing Divas. If you would like to know more about advertising on Sprinkle of Glitter, check out my 'Sponsor' page up at the top! 

All images were lovingly borrowed from the feel unique website. 

OOTD :: Rainy Summer

Aloha Sprinklerinos,

It was a toss up between a beauty or fashion post today and since I have some clothey photographs lurking around my laptop, I thought an OOTD would suit. Suit...clothes...get it? It's a laugh a minute round these parts. 

Mummy Glitter
Coral Wrap Dress :: H&M (this season)
Blue Cotton Summer Scarf :: H&M (this season)
Grey Leggings :: Primark (last season, but I saw they still stock them)
Brown Boots :: Dorothy Perkins (last season)
Pale Demin Jacket :: Primark (last season)
Glass Earrings :: Miss Selfridge (many moons ago- this post explains the rather romantic story behind them).

Baby Glitter
Cream Beanie Hat :: Tesco
Ditzy Print Cotton Jacket :: John Lewis
Navy Leggings :: Sainsburys
White Shoes :: Boots
Oodles of energy :: Goodness knows where!!

This is an outfit I wore for the Jubilee Bank Holiday when we had Matt's parents come to stay. We took them to a country craft fair and for a lovely pub lunch, so all in all, it was a very British day indeed. Rather aptly, the weather celebrated too and in true form and we saw sunshine, grey clouds, heavy rain, spitting droplets ('that fine rain that soaks you right through') and gale force winds. Ahhh good old Blighty. 

I really enjoyed this outfit because it was so layered. It felt like that by removing the jacket and/or scarf, I was changing the whole thing and I also know this dress works with bare legs and heels too. Ooooh I do love a bit of versatility! 

As you may have noticed, I had tried to dress Baby Glitter and I in a jubilee-esque fashion and incorporated the red, white and blue into our outfits. I do love the royal family. I know they won't see us looking all patriotic but I enjoy to be swept along in the atmosphere of things. Can you believe she's almost walking? It truly doesn't feel that long ago that I was uploading my ultrasound pictures. Time is fleeting eh?

I took a few more snaps over the festive weekend, so perhaps I will share those with you in another post.

Do you have a staple piece that works with everything? Let us know so we can all be fashion goddesses!

Toodlepip!

xx

This month my Ultimate Advertiser is Dashing Divas. If you would like to know more about advertising on Sprinkle of Glitter, check out my 'Sponsor' page up at the top!