Family Life

Chocolate Peanut Muesli Slice

2011-09-27T11:40:00.000-07:00

Continuing with the recipe theme here is another one for you:

Chocolate Peanut Muesli Slice

Suitable for vegetarians, Egg Free, Soy Free

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Storage: Keep in the fridge for up to 1 week. Freeze for up to 1 month.

Makes 12 bars

200g / 7oz Essential chocberry porridge mix

100g / 3 ½ oz Essential superfood muesli

60g / 2oz dried cherries

2tbsp Essential desiccated coconut

60g / 2oz Essential Chocolate drops

2tsp ground flaxseed

1tsp xanthum gum

115g / 4oz Essential coconut oil

75g / 3oz Essential peanut butter

250g /9 oz pitted dates

1. Preheat the oven to 180ºC, gas mark 4. Grease and line a traybake tin with baking parchment, approximately 20cm by 28cm (8inch by 11inch).

2. Place the chocberry mix, superfood muesli, coconut, chocolate drops, flaxseed and xanthum gum in a large bowl and stir to combine.

3. Put the coconut oil and peanut butter in a pan and warm gently to melt the coconut.

4. Place the dates in a blender or food processor with the melted coconut and process to form a thick paste. Stir into the dry ingredients and mix thoroughly until completely combined. Press the mixture firmly into the tin using the back of a spoon and your fingers.

5. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

6. Allow to cool in the tin completely before cutting into slices

Nutritional Information

Per bar

Calories: 326kcal

Protein: 6.1g

Total Fat: 17.7g of which saturates 10.8g

Carbohydrates: 36.3g of which sugars 21.4g

Per 100g

Calories: 441kcal

Protein: 8.2g

Total Fat: 23.9g of which saturates 14.5g

Carbohydrates:49g of which sugars 28.9g

Pea and Mint Soup

2011-09-26T08:17:00.000-07:00

Peas are not big favourites in my house as a side vegetable, so I thought I would try this recipe to see if they would eat them this way and it was a winner! Which is great from my perspective as it is really quick to make and really easy.

You will need:
250g frozen peas
450ml hot vegetable stock
handful of fresh mint leaves, roughly chopped
a few fresh thme stalks, leaves picked
salt and black pepper
pinch of nutmeg

Instructions:
Put the peas in a bowl, then pour over boiling water and leave to stand for about 5 minutes, then drain.
Use a blender, whiz the peas, stock and herbs until smooth and combined. You may have to do this in batches. Add more stock if the soup is to thick. Season well with salt and pepper and whiz again.
Either serve it hot or cold and add stir in some creme fraiche if you wish.

For the record I doubled the ingredients so that I had some left over for tomorrow.

Chocolate Brownie Recipe

2011-09-25T05:50:00.000-07:00

Cannot believe it is over a month since I last posted, so much has been going on!

Kate who worked with me in the office at workITgibraltar over the Summer introduced us to Chocolate Brownies! With the promise that they were really easy to make, I tried to create them for the family, and boy was she right! Easy to make and easy to eat! So for all those friends of mine who have asked for the recipe, here it is:

375 g soft unsalted butter
375 g best quality dark chocolate
6 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
500 g caster sugar
225 g plain flour
1 teaspoon salt
300 g chopped walnuts

Directions:

1

Preheat the oven to 180°C.
2

Line your approximatley 33 x 23 x 5 1/2cm brownie pan with foil or baking paper.
3

Melt the butter and chocolate together in a large heavy based saucepan.
4

In a bowl beat the eggs with the sugar and vanilla.
5

Measure the flour into another bowl and add the salt.
6

When the chocolate mixture has melted, let it cool a bit before beating in the eggs and sugar mixture, and then the nuts and flour.
7

Beat to combine and then scrape out of the saucepan into the lined brownie pan.
8

Bake for about 25 minutes.
9

When its's ready, the top should be dried to a paler brown speckle, but the middle still dark and dense and gooey.
10

Keep checking the brownies as they cook; remember that they will continue to cook as they cool.

Remembering 9 years ago....

2011-08-28T06:13:00.000-07:00

Today 9 years ago I got married to the love of my life. We had been together for many years and finally we had reached the stage where we were both felt ready to get married. We had done the courting bit, had moved in together, had 3 kids and finally we decided to tie the knot. There were lots of reasons why it had taken us so long and why it felt right to do it then.

Remembering back to when we decided and the following short period of time we had to arrange it, makes me laugh. We really did not want a big fuss so we only invited a few people and of course upset many because of that. We had planned to invite nobody and if it was not for the Rabbi being so horrified and insisting we invite our family at least that is what would have happened.

Thinking back now, I feel we should have invited more people to it, but to be honest we just wanted something simple and uncomplicated. I look at the pictures and it is amazing to see, as to who is still in our lives, some have passed away and others have drifted out of our lives for one reason or another. But many are still a huge part of our lives and for that I am grateful.
Life has changed so much in the last 9 years, we are both older the kids are growing up. We now live in a different country, we have 4 dogs and Joe is semi-retired and I am back working full-time on my own business workITgibraltar Limited.

The preparations for the wedding of course could not go smoothly, family issues meant there were problems to overcome. Getting my middle child into a smart outfit was also a challenge, one that meant that using bribery, in the end he allowed the shirt and trousers to be put on top of the football kit! As long as he was able to keep the football boots on! I also drove myself to the Synagogue and then onto the reception. Hubby to be, even managed to get there on time...which is a record for him - people were running a book on how late he would be!

But the day itself was a lovely sunny day and we were able to have pictures outside of the Synagogue and at the venue itself which was great. We had a lovely lunch with music playing and an entertainer for the kids and then after the speeches my darling husband decided that he should head back to the office. So the rest of us decamped back to our house so the party could continue.

All in all it was a great day and despite all the ups and downs of the last 9 years we are still together and very much in love. So happy anniversary my darling husband who will not read this as he does not go online!

Chilling

2011-08-22T12:51:00.000-07:00

Finally listened to what my business partner had to say and have put a vacation responder on my emails, am not going anywhere but the pressure is off to actually respond asap to them. I plan to spend this week, working, chilling and having some ME time!

I know how selfish am I? It is day one and already I am already feeling more relaxed and chilled, so much so I may treat myself to an early night!

What are your plans for this week?

This Week!

2011-08-20T09:21:00.000-07:00

This week has not been the best week and by yesterday I was exhausted by it all! I think I have gone through every emotion this week and to be honest I am not the most emotional of people. I like to think of myself like my star sign - balanced and level for the majority of the time.

There has of course been good times this week, my middle child turned 15 and that is a great thing to celebrate and to spend it with friends who I have hardly seen this Summer due to the fact that work has been my major thing in my life. Although too much chatting nearly see some of the dinner ruined!

Eldest son got his A level results back and he was pleased with them, he is busy...well he tells me he is busy job hunting. He is going down this route rather than go to Uni which I feel is the best option, not everybody is Uni material.

As I am a positive person, I am not going to mention the negatives in this post as I do not feel they need to be aired but they will make me stronger and I have learnt several new lessons from this.

So next week will be a better week for sure!

UK Riots

2011-08-10T03:27:00.001-07:00

Much has been written and spoken about the UK Riots and I was not going to bother adding my two-pence views in, but then I thought about it and decided I would.

I have been vocal on Facebook about my disgust at the behaviour of these fools that are behaving so badly and vocal of my support for the people in the services and in charge of the clean-up operations as well as supporting the people who are trying to help pick up the pieces.

At the end of the day it boils down to a generation growing up with no boundaries and no respect not for themselves, their families, authoritative figures or even other people's property.

The do-gooders and human rights pro-supporters have created this generation of monsters who feel that it is their right to behave badly and that they should get away with it!

Saying that they are the MINORITY! There are many more of this generation who are appalled at the behaviour they are witnessing and they should not be tarred with the same brush.

Personally I feel until we give the authorities the power to stamp this out we will always have a problem. I would also like to see National Service brought back for those from age 16-25 who are not in full-time education or have a job. People should not be able to claim unemployment benefit until they have completed a minimum of 6-12 months National Service.

Before you start jumping down my throat saying this is unfair, I do not mean that these kids should be sent to war, but we should make use of the old army barracks, get ex-army/police members in to oversee them and get them doing practical things...whether it is learning new trades, helping in the community, just basic skills which a lot of them are lacking.

A lot of the people who are responsible for the looting are members of gangs as they feel that is the only way they can belong, but if we can give them a place where they can learn to belong but DO GOOD at the same time, think of the benefits to themselves and the community.

Make them all get up at 7am, go for a run, then come back and make breakfast, then laundry chores, then do some work, make them self-sufficient get them doing things which they can then sell and make money from so they learn some self-respect and learn the value of things.

It's not difficult or impossible but it needs investment, it needs time and it needs a leader! Any ideas who could head up such a task?

Lets try and learn our lessons from what has happened in the last few days and lets make a pledge to make changes for the better!

Gaby is home!

2011-08-08T00:43:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I picked up a very tired Gaby. She had a fantastic time at the Learn & Experience Camp in Yorkshire and would be happy to go back again next year! Big thanks should go to Jackie and Jean for giving up a week of their time to take the 10 kids to Yorkshire, they have all benefited hugely from the trip and of course a big thank you should go to Kusuma Trust for sponsoring the trip.

This month see's us having friends over to visit. Most of them are not staying with us, but it means that we will be going out more and entertaining more just to catch up with them. It seems strange that I am working everyday and having to plan seeing our friends around this.

The weather has also hotted up immensely this weekend, hitting nearly 40 yesterday! Of course this would be the time that the air con decides to go on the blink! Had to go out and purchase a few more fans at the weekend just to try and get some semblance of coolness in the rooms.

Work is going great and this morning see's us planning what we aim to do to promote National Day in Gibraltar (10th September), it is a major event in the Gibraltar calendar and this year falls on a Saturday.

Ok, well update done, at least it has not been so long this time.

August...already!

2011-08-04T05:27:00.000-07:00

I cannot believe that it is August already! Where has July gone? It has passed in a whirl for me. WorkITgibraltar is going from strength to strength, with Wendy off to Ireland I have drafted in help including Kate, Simon and Hannah to help Jo, Gillian and I to keep the office fully operational this Summer.

To find out more about what workITgibraltar has been up to click the link.

Beginning of July saw us attend Hannah's Bat Mitzvah which was lovely and Gabriella gave a brilliant speech and a lovely canvas to Hannah, it was a really lovely weekend, but I think the highlight was the Dodgems...the kids loved them!

TGF is also still going incredibly well so if you need any natural living tips this is the place to go check them out.

Ok better go, hubby has just arrived and my secretarial skills are needed for another round of emails!

10 Canine Commandments

2011-07-02T03:37:00.000-07:00

10 Canine Commandments

This was in my monthly newsletter from Adana Dogshelter in Estepona, Spain. It is so true and I think all prospective dog owners should read and digest. For more images of the dogs available and information on how you can help them, check out their Facebook page now!

1. My life is likely to last 10 to 15 years. Any separation from you will be painful to me. Remember that before you buy me.

2. Give me time to understand what you want from me.

3. Place your trust in me. It’s crucial to my well-being.

4. Dont be angry with me for long, and don’t lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your entertainment and your friends. I only have you.

5. Talk to me sometimes. Even if I don’t understand your words, I understand your voice when it’s speaking to me.

6. Be aware that however you treat me, I’ll never forget it.

7. Remember before you hit me: I have teeth that could easily crush the bones of your hand, but I choose not to bite you.

8. Before you scold me for being un-cooperative, obstinate or lazy, ask yourself if something might be bothering me. Perhaps I’m not getting the right food, or I’ve been out in the sun too long, or my heart is getting old and weak.

9. Take care of me when I get old. You too will grow old.

10. Go with me on difficult journeys. Never say: “I can’t bear to watch it”, or “Let it happen in my absence.” Everything is easier for me if you are there.

REMEMBER THAT I LOVE YOU.

Will the La Linea Government never stop impeding the good work that Animal in Need do?

2011-06-20T10:40:00.000-07:00

We brought home Lily from the Animal in Need Dog Shelter in La Linea, two years ago they do an amazing job, as do all the other animal rescue centres up and down the coast. But it seems that the Spanish governments will do all they can to impede rather than help these selfless individuals who try and rescue and rehome as many dogs as they can. If you can help by donating money or time to the shelter please do! Below is a plea from one of their volunteers after the latest setback.

The town hall in La Linea has fined the shelter with a penalty of 3.000€ because they say that the shelter doesn’t comply with the sanitary conditions for having animals. I think it’s a typical maneuver to turn back the shelter in a killing station and get rid of Animal in Need as they refuse to give them the shelter license. The fine is because the old sandy kennels of wood and metal elements must be removed and the clinic and other rooms must be tiled so that they are more hygienic, the large sandy areas must be covered with concrete, pavement or turf.

This will cost a lot of money that the shelter and the organization don’t have. In this crisis times the people donate less and less. How can we do that? The money doesn’t even cover the food for nearly 600 dogs and cats and now we have to pay the fine also.

If we are obliged to dissolve the sandy areas with the old wood and metal elements we would have to put to sleep a lot of dogs. The most dogs that live there are the big ones and we have no other place.

Each animal rescue shelter that is not a killing station seems to be a thorn in the side of the Spanish authorities and get continually problems. La Linea is no exception.

Our staff are fighting every day against this throwaway society in terms of animals, irresponsible and cruel people, robberies, diseases of the animals, a constant lack of money and in the end the constant threats and obstacles of the authorities .There are nearly 600 dogs and cats that must be fed daily, and they want us to spend the money in their fines?

We know how many animals and shelters are having a hard time in Spain and other countries, but if you only have a few Euros left, then please donate whatever is in your possibilities. We need to tile the clinic and keep on building concrete kennels to avoid the town hall to give us more penalties or close the shelter.

RABO BANK in ARNHEM.

Animal in Need Second Chance Foundation

IBAN NL14RABO0102 6440 39 and

BIC code RABONL2U

Fab recipe from Provamel - perfect for Summer

2011-06-17T05:17:00.000-07:00

Over at The Green Familia, we have reviewed some yummy Provamel Yogurts and so I thought I would share with you here a scrumptious sounding recipe, which is just perfect for hot sunny days!

Provamel Lime and Lemon Balm Yogurt Smoothie with Lavender and Goji Berries

Preparation Time: Less than 5 mins

Serves: 1

Ingredients:

300ml Provamel Lime and Lemon Balm Yogurt

4 frozen strawberries

1 tbsp Goji berries

1 tsp lavender syrup or ¼ tsp lavender flowers

1 tsp Manuka honey

Method:

- Add the Provamel Lime and Lemon Balm Yogurt to a blender along with the rest of the ingredients and blitz until smooth. Pour into a glass and enjoy for its relaxing qualities and powerful nutritional ingredients.

workITgibraltar first year round up

2011-06-17T00:59:00.000-07:00

This is a copy of the speech that Paul, Wendy's husband gave at our end of first year round up, this will be the first of many parties for this year.

A chance meeting at a party in June 2010 hosted by Gary and Yvonne Brown in Spain raised a business idea between friends Brenda Cuby and Wendy Moody.

Social Media had started to snowball into a phenomenon first embraced by the youth followed by their parents then business.

Brenda had a self taught passion in the subject becoming an internet entrepreneur, a blogger and an expert in this rapidly developing means of communication.

Wendy`s background in sales and marketing quickly embraced Brenda`s view that here is an opportunity but what shall we do about it!

Throughout July and August a plan evolved to deliver seminars on “Discovering Social Media” followed by training workshops on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and blogging.

WorkITspain was launched in September to deliver a programme to the residents of Sotogrande who had a curiosity and need to know more about Social Media.

Jo Ward came on board to promote the programme through PR, an email campaign followed by a newsletter. Jo is a journalist by background and a professional writer.

The first seminar was held in the Terra Sana Restaurant to thirty attendees paying 30 euro each to “Discover Social Media”. This was promptly followed by a second seminar recorded by Sotogrande TV for broadcast on the internet.

In October, November and December well attended workshops on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter followed with specialist workshops for both beginner and advanced bloggers were held at the Maritimo Hotel.

During this period small local business engaged Brenda for specialist confidential advice on how they could best embrace social media and Anglo Wines retained our services to set up their Facebook initiative.

Business clients became the way forward and nearby Gibraltar became the target with workITgibraltar Ltd formed to commence in January 2011.

John Hodgson Director of the Sovereign Group in Gibraltar took a personal interest in the evolution of the business in the first few months and could see a wider opportunity for his own business in the financial services sector with offices in 25 countries.

WorkITgibraltar were retained to help develop and maintain their social media strategy coordinating with the Sovereign Group head office in Hong Kong and the local office in Gibraltar.

Anglo Wines our first client are part of the Anglo Hispana Group of Gibraltar and John Isola CEO quickly retained our services to develop the social media strategy of their Pizza Hut franchise and train their team how to self manage their own programme.

Another key development was to join the Gibraltar Chamber of Commerce the interface of 281 local companies with both the Government and local community.

Ed Macquisten, CEO of the GCC immediately recognised the importance of Social Media for his members who primarily operate serving both corporate clients and many high net worth individuals.

In January the GCC hosted a seminar to their members on “Discovering Social Media” delivered to a capacity audience at The Eliott Hotel. Gibraltar Television coverage attracted more interest and the seminar was repeated two weeks later.

Social Media became the hottest topic in this period with the civil unrest throughout the Arab world accelerated by the people power use of this new medium to change their world.

In every newspaper everyday and on every television screen reference is made to this phenomena and doing nothing is not an option for business today.

A programme of specialist business workshops organised by the GCC in their offices every two weeks from February to May rapidly introduced the business members in Gibraltar on how they could best embrace social media into their marketing activities. Specialist in house training courses followed to member clients.

This further raised the profile of workITgibraltar in the business community and further projects in the financial services, legal and retail sectors quickly followed.

In April with the generous support of Mary Waterous the first office was opened at No 14/1, Bomb House Lane and the home offices reserved for evening and weekend working.

As the client base increased so did the demand on the team essentially outsourced specialist home workers delivering blogs, web design, programming, technical support and marketing services.

Helle Pedersen formally with Jyske Bank joined to manage the financial affairs.

Gillian McClafferty brought her Irish charm and dynamism as new account sales manager.

On the 4^th of June workITgibraltar held a party to thank so many who have supported and contributed to the success of this new business now at the forefront of social media implementation and marketing in this region.

Many challenges and opportunities are ahead and the future is bright….

Looking back on what we have achieved and all the possibilities for the future is invigorating and gives me such a buzz. I really am such a lucky person to be able to do a job I love day in and day out.

Open letter to Monarch Airlines

2011-05-29T09:40:00.000-07:00

Dear Monarch

One of the reasons I have championed your airline with my friends and one of the reasons my family and I have chosen to fly with you for many years rather than the other options available to us was the fact that you allowed teens the chance to fly on their own. Both my boys have flown unaided with your airline since they turned 12 and my daughter has been counting down the days to her 12^th Birthday this year in the anticipation that she could also do this.

To be told by one of your Vantage Club telephone assistants today that you have changed the goalposts a couple of months ago, was to say at the least very disappointing. I also feel that this change has been brought in sneakily as I was not aware of the change in policy and do not remember receiving any communication from your company as to this decision. When asked about the change, the assistant was vague and could not say when or why the change had been implemented.

My children are seasoned travellers and have been travelling since birth and since our relocation to Gibraltar over four years ago they know the route Gibraltar-Luton backwards neither airport being a major problem in navigating. This is hugely inconvenient and now means that when they have breaks from Boarding School or if they wish to travel to see family and friends they are severely restricted in doing so. The freedom that they once enjoyed has been somewhat curtailed.

I would appreciate an explanation as to what has prompted this decision and why no communication has been transmitted to your existing and very loyal customers. Over the years we have spent a huge amount of money with you and you have been our preferred choice of airline, now it may seem we have to look elsewhere.

Since starting to write this post, I have now completed my return trip and spoke to your ladies at Luton who have said this change has been live for a long time, and that the information is on your website. I do feel that with the technology that you have available to you that it is slightly remiss of you not to have contacted the people directly, especially your Vantage club members who have travelled unaccompanied below the age of 16 previously, seemingly a flight taken by my son a few months ago on his own would have been null and void if it had been picked up by the check-in team, if this had happened I would have been furious not saddened as I am now.

What is worse, having taken the option of our teens flying unaccompanied you have not replaced it with the unaccompanied minor escort service, so we will now have no option but to look elsewhere for flights….a huge shame. Why when others can offer the service can you not? Also why the change? That is what is infuriating that nobody can give a definite answer as to why the policy has changed?

Royal Wedding

2011-04-29T14:59:00.000-07:00

Today like many others I watched the coverage of the Royal Wedding, I started first thing this morning whilst getting ready for the party organised by my lovely neighbours, then again on the big screen at the party. There was an abundance of food and drink and a wonderfully convivial atmosphere where I met new and old friends and had a lovely time.

For me one of the best things that today has achieved is the uniting of so many people in the country, the ones who camped out and the others who came to join in the days festivities with a smile on their face.

Everybody has their view on the Royal family, but today has shown the richness of the Great British heritage, which is something that should be preserved and it should be a platform that is used to keep Great Britain united. We need the Royal family and all the pomp otherwise our glorious history will disappear.

The viewing figures and the all day coverage of the Royal wedding shows that people are interested and that is something that should be encouraged and nurtured. The way that all 4 countries that make up Great Britain were featured in this Royal wedding and the fact that British designers were used to make the glorious outfits and hats that were worn shows that we have a wealth of talent in this country that needs to be highlighted.

If you visit other countries you are asked to respect their wishes and viewpoints without fail, yet in Britain we are often asked to take on new beliefs and traditions rather than the incoming people accepting our historical roots and so we are left as bystanders watching whilst these fade away and become extinct due to all the do-gooders interference and European laws etc.

Let today be a fresh start and lets unite and be one nation that is strong and proud of our Royal family and the heritage that it gives us. Let us hope that the street parties that have been organised today and the getting together of local people will extend further and give us another push to a future out of recession.

Happy Easter

2011-04-24T10:27:00.000-07:00

Easter greetings to those that celebrate it. We are celebrating Pesach at the moment, so am full of Matzah rather than bread! It has been an up and down few weeks, lots of travelling back and forth due to an unexpected death in the family, then I came down with flu and to top it all I fell down the stairs last week and fractured two ribs!

My family have had a wake-up call as they have had to help out around the house, my middle son has been a complete and utter star, he has helped out the others well....am starting to feel slightly better, the painkillers are working I think I have had more in the last 10 days than in my whole life!

The boys are home and getting them to study is tough, the eldest thinks the holidays are to party and celebrate his freedom from Boarding School.

Work continues, I am thankful that I work from home and can continue without too much inconvenience, since falling ill. I am also entering into an exiting phase of www.workITgibraltar.com and www.thegreenfamilia.co.uk is growing from strength to strength so things on that front are good.

An still having my internal battle over whether to get an android tablet or the iPad2, think I just need someone to buy it and then the decision is made!

Hope you all have a fab week and if you are watching the Royal Wedding on Friday, then enjoy the day!

Review: Diamond Dog Caper

2011-04-23T09:46:00.000-07:00

We were sent an advance copy of the Diamond Dog Caper DVD to review. It is being released on the 25th April and the RRP is £9.99. You can pre-order your copy from Amazon now.

The DVD is all about a boy called Owen and a Golden Retriever and their story of how they came to meet and their subsequent journey mixed in with laughs and some antics from petty thieves who have stolen some diamonds.

My daughter who watched the DVD really enjoyed the story and has watched it with her friends again and they certainly enjoyed the slapstick humour. Probably not one that the serious adults would enjoy, but as a family video it works.

Go check it out.

Hot Picks from John Lewis

2011-04-18T09:24:00.000-07:00

Hot picks from John Lewis this are:

Wedding Gifts & Accessories

iPad Accessories

Reduced to clear Womenswear on selected brands including Kaliko, Coast, Dune and LK Bennett

Reduced to clear Menswear on selected brands including Polo Ralph Lauren, Diesel,
T.M Lewin and Gant

La Redoute Summer Collection

2011-04-17T09:02:00.000-07:00

Here are a few of clothing items that have caught my eye from the La Redoute Summer Collection.

Embroidered Tulle Sleeveless Cotton Voile Cardigan £27.00

Long Sleeveless Dress £17.00

Cotton Voile Blouse £35.00

Boden Mid Season Sale is now on

2011-04-16T05:19:00.000-07:00

For all of you who love Boden, their mid season sale is now live.

The extra 10% off and Free P&P and returns can be redeemed by using the code AF12 at checkout.

I particularly like the look of the Cornwall Tunic which was £55 now reduced to £32.

Boots Spring Offers

2011-04-15T04:10:00.000-07:00

Soltan Family Pack - £12.99 Ends: Until stocks last

Save up to £60 on selected Braun epilators - Ends: Ongoing,

3 for £15 on selected Holiday Essentials - Ends: 06.09.2011

Kiddicare Offers

2011-04-15T02:35:00.000-07:00

Here are some Kiddicare offers which maybe of interest to my friends who have little ones!

Huggies Drynites Bed Mats (pack of 7) – £4.25

Pampers Underjams Pyjama Pants Boys – £5.18

Bambino Mio White Potty – £4.95

Get 20% off with Baker Ross

2011-04-14T09:19:00.000-07:00

Get 20% off the entire Easter Range at Baker Ross (excluding special offers and applies to goods values only)! Hurry, offer must end Midday Tuesday 19th April 2011!

Easter Cookie Cutter Set

Bake and decorate a batch of delicious Easter biscuits in cute seasonal shapes - the pack includes 4 metal cutters - egg, chick, tulip and bunny.
Was £3.99
Now per Set of 4 £3.19

Make Your Own Easter Bonnet

Look good this Easter! Everything you need to make a colourful, fun Easter bonnet is included in this easy-to-make kit. Age 4+.
Was £2.99
Now £2.39

Easter Egg Hunt Kit

Everything you need for an 'egg-citing' Easter egg hunt is included in this fun kit. Comes with 4 masks, 4 baskets, pointers and crayons - just add eggs and watch them 'scramble' to find them.
Was £2.99
Now £2.39

Gift Ideas for Adults

2011-04-14T03:58:00.000-07:00

How about giving the gift of a fruit tree? The Conference Pear Tree Gift is ideal for pear lovers - The Conference pears is the best selling English pear, it is sweet enough to eat with a slight crunch.
The Conference Pear tree produces white flowers in Spring time and a good heavy crop of fruit ready from picking in late September.

Price is £42.99 from Tree2mydoor.

Kids Gift Idea

2011-04-14T03:54:00.000-07:00

Need to buy a pressie, then check out the

Remote control 'Air Striker' helicopter

Available from Debenhams -

40% off Silverlit remote control helicopter, from 12/04 – 20/04

Was £25.00
Now £15.00

Thomas the Tank Bed

2011-04-14T03:18:00.000-07:00

Oh gosh another month has passed and have not managed to be posting on her...oops! What can I say life is busy, which is great. www.thegreenfamilia.co.uk is going from strength to strength which is great and the team I have on board there are great. www.workITgibraltar.com is doing well, we have a real mix of clients and our popular workshops are very much in demand. Plus I have been travelling back and forth to the UK quite a lot.

Anyway my boys are back today from boarding school, so will have a full house for this week. Lots happening, Pesach is coming up, kids are on hols and work to continue with.

Just wanted to share with you a recent purchase that my sister made for my gorgeous godson! A Thomas The Tank Engine Bed, his first big boys bed and it is fab!

Available to buy from The Entertainer: Little Tikes Thomas & Friends Train Toddler Bed with Mattress
was £279.99 now £251.99 10% off + Free Delivery

Please help support these worthwhile charities

2011-03-07T01:50:00.000-08:00

Let me ask a question: how do you feel when you hear about animal cruelty?

About the slaughter of innocent animals?

When you read of once-loved family pets being abandoned and left to fend for themselves?

Does it make you cry? Does it make you angry?

Does it make you want to do something about it?

If Yes, then please read on…we are just a small group of people with a common interest: we love animals: we want to put an end to animal cruelty: we want to make a difference! Please join us… Help us to Help Them!

Two spectacular Gala Evenings are being held in order to raise funds and awareness of various animal charities, both here and abroad, the first is a buffet dinner show to be held at Pizza Express, Ocean Village on Thursday 26 May and the following evening, a sumptuous gala dinner show at the El Paraiso Country Club in Estepona on Friday 27 May.

Entertainment on both evenings will be in the form of the internationally renowned Katy Setterfield (www.katysetterfield.com) – a delightfully diverse and extremely talented performer!

At the Estepona evening there will also be further supporting acts including a popstar from Finland, and fashion show. Plus both events will host a charity auction, raffle and various local businesses demonstrating their wares. Both evenings promise to be incredibly entertaining, fun and memorable.

The target is to raise 10.000€ to be shared equally between the following charities:

WSPA World Society for the Protection of Animals
GSPCA Gibraltar Society to Prevent Cruelty to Animals
Refugio de Los Barrios
ANBADMarbella
& Animals in Need in La Linea

WSPA is an international charity that does a lot of work worldwide, they work hard to get governments to change legislations. For example they are working with the Vietnam government to try and stop the sale and export of dog meat, working with the Chinese to try and put an end to the horrific bear bile farms.

The second cause may be a smaller issue but equally as important. There is a huge problem locally with abandoned dogs. The good news is that there are several local animal shelters manned by caring volunteers and even though they are over run with dogs (for example one in La Linea is designed for 50 dogs and currently has 600), no healthy animals are being put down. Currently they are sending about 250 local dogs to loving “forever” homes in Finland, Germany, Sweden and Netherlands, but for this important work to continue they need funds.

As you can appreciate events like these tend to cost a huge amount of money and therefore sponsorship is currently being sought, plus donations for the raffles and auctions are needed. If you are able to help, please contact Andy Baker at info@alcaidesalive.com.

Further details of all the charities can be found on http://www.alcaidesalive.com/charity

It is hoped that all costs required will be raised through sponsorship, enabling 100% of everything taken in tickets sales, raffles and auctions to go directly to saving the lives of innocent animals, whose only voice are people like us.

Currently you can buy tickets online at www.alcaidesalive.com however shortly we will have 2 or 3 outlets in Gibraltar, 2 in Estepona and 1 in Torreguardio.

Tickets will be ready to purchase at outlets from the 14th March 2011.

For full names and address of outlets please visit http://www.alcaidesalive.com/charity after this date.

Time is flying again....

2011-03-06T10:35:00.000-08:00

I went to show a friend my blog as she wanted to see examples of different blog styles for her own and it made me realise that I have not posted over here in a while again....

Life is hurtling along like a bullet and I am having lots of fun as well as working all hours. In Feb I did manage to take a week off, which is a first for a long time. I went to Cardiff for my brothers wedding. We had a truly fab time, all the family was there and I got to spend TIME with my kids chilling.

Gaby got to be a bridesmaid finally and she loved the whole day. See above picture.

Work is going brilliantly, we are getting good feedback on what we are doing and slowly identifying people who will be able to help us on this journey.

This month see's me off to UK for a business meeting, checking out Leeds Uni with Josh, in case he does decide to take that path and a catch up with old friends, what plans have you got for March?

Review: Barbie - A Fairy Secret

2011-02-15T10:01:00.001-08:00

We received a press copy of Barbie - A Fairy Secret last week and my daughter and her friends sat down to watch it last weekend.

They loved the music and the animation, which was high tempo and lighthearted. The older ones (10 years upwards) got the feelgood messages that were all to do with friendship and how you need to work together.

If your daughter is a Barbie loving girl, I am sure she will enjoy this DVD.

The RRP is £14.99.

Please sign this Petition

2011-02-06T13:41:00.000-08:00

For those that know me well, you will know that we have 4 dogs, 2 Spanish Water Dogs that we brought from the breeder and 2 strays, one we got from the animal home Prodean in La Linea and one that we found on the street.
I never imagined that we would end up with 4 dogs, but the situation here is so dire that so many people breed without thought or end up getting a puppy and then throwing it out when the novelty factor has worn off. Dogs are not just for now they are for keeps.
I have just read the most horrific story through a link on Facebook. http://www.thepetitionsite.com/2/dogs-and-cats-being-gassed-in-spain/
Please sign the petition even if you are not a massive dog/cat lover, nobody human or animal deserves to die like this or should be made to work in this environment.
Please also share with your friends and family.

So much for good intentions!

2011-01-24T14:41:00.000-08:00

So I thought I would blog here once a week and before I know a couple of weeks have passed and nothing...
Life is manic but so much fun. I maybe turning the big 40 this year, but there is so much to do that life just seems to be running away with itself.
workITgibraltar has launched this month, to great success. We held a seminar for the local Gibraltar Chamber of Commerce and had 58 people turn up, with others wanting to come so a 2nd one is in the planning. Wendy and myself were interviewed by GBC and were on the radio and tv talking about social media and Gibraltar.
What has been amusing, yet very telling is that everyday I see more Gibraltar orientated Facebook and Twitter pages starting up, so we are obviously stirring people into action which is great.
Kids are all back at school, eldest has managed to get all his hair shaved off due to a mishap when getting it cut, middle child is happy he is now back in the cricket nets and the youngest won Star of the week at school for the second time this year due to her contribution in a drama lesson.
Am off on my travels again this week, Missy needs to be fitted for her bridesmaid dress...only 25 days to go! I am looking forward to catching up with old friends who I have not seen for absolutely ages and then I am off to the James Khan seminar on the Saturday, which should be really interesting.
Well I am going to hit the sack, have a early start tomorrow and a busy day, which will hopefully be a productive day.

One of those weeks...

2011-01-07T15:19:00.000-08:00

It has been one of those weeks, where so much has gone wrong, resolutions have gone out the window, bad things have happened, everyday somebody else has died or has been diagnosed with a serious illness and as I get to Friday night I just want to curl up in a ball and hideaway.

Good things, have happened too but they fade into the background faster than you can say YES!!!!!!Thank you lord. I hope this is just a test of my strength and character and that I come through it with a pass.

I am grateful for so many things. least not the fact that my eldest walked away from the car accident with hardly a scratch or a bruise on him, thank you angels for looking after him and protecting him when I could not be there.

But I do feel terrible guilt over other things that have happened this week and deep sadness for any hurt or pain caused to others by those close to me.

So as this week closes, I give apologies to those who deserve them and try to have faith that next week WILL be a better week!

Decision made!

2011-01-04T12:04:00.000-08:00

As I wrote the other day, I wanted to figure out what to do over here, and now having slept on it for a few days, I have decided that I want to make it more about me! So I am going to have a bit of a redesign of the blog, take out bits I do not want or need and add in new bits that will fit with who I currently am.

I will post about once a week, more if I have time or if there is something I really want to share with you and hopefully it will become give you all an insight into who I am and all that goes with being me!

Thanks for bearing with me and I hope we can connect more either through the blog or Twitter.

Decisions, Decisions, Decisions...

2011-01-01T14:24:00.000-08:00

A belated merry xmas and a happy new year to you all! I have been very neglectful of my home here on Blogger in recent months and it is something which I am thinking about a lot as we enter 2011.
I feel I can not give up on it, but not sure what I should be doing with it. I have www.thegreenfamilia.co.uk for my green living blog, I have my Brenda Cuby Posterous blog for newsy items which do not fit TGF but I want to share and I have my two social media blogs for that passion www.workITspain.com and www.workITgibraltar.com.
So I am searching for ideas that will stay the course, show another side of me but that will not be a time drain. One suggestion from Twitter is Chocolate! Well I love chocolate and maybe I could blog about the different types of chocolate I enjoy and what is on the market, but one of my 2011 resolutions was to eat less...so not sure if that is wise. Maybe I will get back into photos and upload one a week...again can I really commit to something new when my time is already pushed to the limit.
Decisions, decisions, decisions...once I have the answer you will of course be the first people I share it with.

Delicious Dessert using After Eight Mints!

2010-12-10T00:39:00.000-08:00

I have a dinner party tonight and was looking for a quick and easy dessert to make that would make my guests think WOW! so I am going to try the following:

After Eight winter berry yogurt sherbets

Serves: 6

Preparation time: 5 minutes

Ingredients
350g frozen fruits, e.g. Black Forest mix or red fruits
200g fat free ( 0%) Greek yogurt
25g icing sugar
6 After Eight mints
To serve: fresh berry fruits

Method
The fruits must be frozen; put all the ingredients into a food processor and blend, just until you have a chunky mixture. Spoon this into 6 little ramekins and serve straight away…semi-freddo. Tip
From a few simple ingredients, you can create an almost instant dessert, full of wonderfully sharp and fruity flavours. Serve it scooped into tall glasses if you prefer.

Review : The Snowman and Father Christmas DVD's

2010-11-18T12:34:00.000-08:00

My daughter was very excited at the thought of another review and so when the rain fell down one day, her and a friend made stacks of popcorn and got the duvets down and snuggled down to watch the old classic The Snowman, which has just recently been released.

Adapted from Raymond Briggs famous book (which she also loves to read), it is a magical story about a boy and a snowman which comes to life at the bewitching hour of midnight. They have lots of magical fun together.

It is a great feel good film that all kids will enjoy and is perfect for this time of year.

With the new re-release you get a pack which includes a sticker sheet and a colouring in book.

The girls also watched the DVD Father Christmas which is another famous Christmas story from Raymond Briggs. They loved the story and the scenery.

Available to buy from Amazon for £7 and the Father Christmas DVD is only £3.97.

Boots Autumn Offer

2010-10-14T13:09:00.000-07:00

Check out this fab offer from Boots.

You've entertained the kids all summer and Christmas will be upon us before we know it, so now's the time to turn the attention on yourself. With 3 for 2 Mix & Match across loads of pampering products* it couldn't be a better time to indulge.

3 for 2 Mix & Match on over 1000 selected facial skincare, hand and body products

3 for 2 Mix & Match across over 1000 selected haircare products

3 for 2 Mix & Match across 100s of selected indulgent bathing products

*Cheapest item free. Offer available from 06/10/10 until 02/11/10

Starry-Eyed at Armathwaite Hall Country House & Spa

2010-09-29T09:42:00.001-07:00

Stargazing has rocketed in popularity following 2009’s ‘Year of Astronomy’; a quarter of a million people in the UK now take a keen interest! What’s more, the Lake District has been appointed as one of the top ten UK locations for this with one of the lowest light pollution levels in Britain.

With clear Autumn nights rapidly approaching, the coming months are set to be perfect for star spotting, and so Armathwaite Hall Country House and Spa has launched its ‘Starry Eyed’ package for visitors to appreciate the full celestial glory of this region and as a lasting reminder of their visit they can even name their very own star which will be registered on the Intergalactic Star Database for eternity.

On a clear, cloudless night, thousands of stars, planets, and even galaxies can be viewed from the specially installed telescope in the conservatory. The skyline allows sightings of the Milky Way in addition to the double-clouster constellation of Perseus, and even the galaxy of Andromeda! Visitors can also relax and enjoy the starry skies from the deliciously warm waters of the outdoor hydrotherapy pool.

The brand new ‘Starry Eyed’ package includes:

- Two nights accommodation for two sharing a room

- Full English breakfast each morning

- Two Gourmet table d’hôte dinners for two (excluding wine)

- The opportunity to name your very own star

- A choice of one of these two fabulous treatments that will leave you feeling like a star yourself. Choose from:

Absolute Pearl Brightening Prescriptive Facial – 60 mins [ comfort zone ]

For glowing, radiant skin, this facial is ideal before a special occasion or just as a treat. Reoxygenation of the skin and delicate exfoliation give the face luminosity and an immediate brightening effect. It is also ideal for sun damaged or pigmented skin.

OR

Armathwaite Organic, Prescriptive Full Body Massage- 60 mins

This treatment is ideal if you have specific areas of concern! The therapist will use their skills to focus on areas most in need; stimulating blood circulation and relaxing tense muscles using Neom organic oils.

The Starry Eyed Package is from £375.00 per person sharing a room available throughout September, October and November 2010 subject to availability.

Armathwaite Hall Country House Hotel and Spa is a privately owned luxury hotel set in one of England’s most glorious stately homes. Located in 400 acres of deer park and woodland near Keswick, the hotel overlooks the regions only real lake, Bassenthwaite, in which reflections of the stars are illuminated. What’s more, the spa at Armathwaite Hall offers a full range of face, body and holistic treatments from luxury skincare lines Terraké and [ comfort zone ], chosen to complement the traditions, ethos and integrity of Armathwaite Hall and for being results driven to ensure complete customer satisfaction.

For further information contact Armathwaite Hall, Bassenthwaite Lake, Keswick, Cumbria CA12 4RE

For the hotel T. 01768 776551 E. reservations@armathwaite-hall.com or visit www.armathwaite-hall.com

For the spa T. 01768 788900 E. thespa@armathwaite-hall.com or visit www.luxuryspauk.com

Who remembers the Honey Monster?

2010-09-16T03:10:00.000-07:00

When an email dropped into my inbox with this fab video (below) attached, it brought back long forgotten memories of my childhood!

I am sure I can not be the only 30 something...who loved the telly adverts featuring the Honey Monster!!! We used to spend hours trying to get the adults to say the infamous line " don't tell 'em about the honey, mummy!" In a monster voice of course!
I have just shown the new video to my daughter and the original and she loved both, she has even decided it might be worth to try the Honey Waffle cereal off the back of it, which for a non-cereal eater is a massive step!
So for a semi-nostalgic walk down memory lane, check out this video and look out for the new tv adverts appearing on your screens now.

Ewan McGregor speaks about Pakistan and the floods

2010-09-13T14:27:00.000-07:00

Ewan McGregor is an ambassador for the charity Unicef and here on this video below he urges you to do your bit for the children affected by the floods in Pakistan.

Humans and their Pets

2010-09-09T01:57:00.000-07:00

I was recently sent this email from my mother and thought I would share it with you as I laughed so much!

FOR THOSE OF YOU WHO HAVE PETS,
THIS IS A TRUE STORY.
FOR THOSE WHO DON'T,
IT IS A TRUE STORY.

The following was found posted very low on a refrigerator door.

Dear Dogs and Cats: The dishes with the paw prints are yours and contain your food. The other dishes are mine and contain my food. Placing a paw print in the middle of my plate and food does not stake a claim for it becoming your food and dish, nor do I find that aesthetically pleasing in the slightest.

The stairway was not designed by NASCAR and is not a racetrack. Racing me to the bottom is not the object. Tripping me doesn't help because I fall faster than you can run.

I cannot buy anything bigger than a king sized bed. I am very sorry about this. Do not think I will continue sleeping on the couch to ensure your comfort. Dogs and cats can actually curl up in a ball when they sleep. It is not necessary to sleep perpendicular to each other, stretched out to the fullest extent possible. I also know that sticking tails straight out and having tongues hanging out on the other end to maximize space is nothing but sarcasm.

For the last time, there is no secret exit from the bathroom! If, by some miracle, I beat you there and manage to get the door shut, it is not necessary to claw, whine, meow, try to turn the knob or get your paw under the edge in an attempt to open the door. I must exit through the same door I entered. Also, I have been using the bathroom for years - canine/feline attendance is not required.

The proper order for kissing is: Kiss me first, then go smell the other dog or cat's butt. I cannot stress this enough.....

One more thing, staring at me while I eat to try to direct my mind to give you my food will not work (usually). I am too old and too tired. Go stare at the kids. They are younger and more susceptible to mind control. If you don't believe me, notice how they all dress alike so they can be individuals.

Finally, in fairness, dear pets, I have posted the following message on the front door:

TO ALL NON-PET OWNERS WHO VISIT AND LIKE TO COMPLAIN ABOUT OUR PETS:

(1) They live here. You don't.
(2) If you don't want their hair on your clothes, stay off the furniture. That's why they call it 'fur'-niture.
(3) I like my pets a lot better than I like most people.
(4) To you, they are animals. To me, they are adopted sons/daughters who are short, hairy, walk on all fours and don't speak clearly.

Remember, dogs and cats are better than kids because they:

(1) eat less,
(2) don't ask for money all the time,
(3) are easier to train,
(4) normally come when called,
(5) never ask to drive the car,
(6) don't hang out with drug-using people;
(7) don't smoke or drink,
(8) don't want to wear your clothes,
(9) don't have to buy the latest fashions,
(10) don't need a gazillion dollars for college and
(11) if they get pregnant, you can sell their children

Fill Bellies Not Bins!

2010-09-04T13:57:00.000-07:00

Next week (6th Sept 2010) people across the UK are being challenged to reduce the amount of food that goes to waste. National Zero Waste Week, hosted by Myzerowaste.com, sponsored by global carton manufacturer Tetra Pak, and supported by celebrity chef Brian Turner CBE, will ask people to think twice before throwing their leftover food into the bin, to help save money and the environment.

Celebrating its third anniversary, National Zero Waste Week is focusing on food waste following research by WRAP that reveals households throw away 8.3 million tonnes of food and drink every year, costing the average family in Britain £50 per month (1). Most of this is avoidable and could have been eaten if people had planned, stored and managed the food in their homes better. Brian Turner CBE, will share how he views food as an asset on the MyZeroWaste website and will demonstrate "a compost while you cook" approach during National Zero Waste Week.

Rachelle Strauss, founder of National Zero Waste Week said: "I was shocked by the volume of food we, in Britain, were sending to landfill and wanted to do something to address it. We are making this year’s Zero Waste Week accessible to everyone by asking people to make very simple pledges which can make a huge amount of difference. We look forward to building on the success of previous year’s National Zero Waste Week."

People will be able to make pledges to reduce their food waste online (http://myzerowaste.com/zero-waste-week) and two lucky entrants will receive £50 vouchers from Natural Collection and LUSH. Pledges can be anything from putting fruit and vegetable skins in your compost bin to freezing food before it goes past its sell-by date.

Celebrity chef Brian Turner CBE said "I'm a great supporter of National Zero Waste Week. I think it's a wonderful idea and everyone should give join in. Once you've done a week, then it's only another 51 to go!"

Autumn Gardening Chores

2010-09-03T13:07:00.000-07:00

Whilst I am still trying to kid myself that Summer is still here sun is shining what more do you want? Just because it is September does not mean I have to say we are in Autumn, there are a few things that we must do.

Chores around the garden is one of them.

If we take care of our garden according to the season that we are in, you will find that it is a lot easier to maintain and keep looking nice.

So lets start with the Autumn lawn care advice: keep picking up the fallen leaves, rake the lawn on a regular basis, check for any patches of nasty moss growing, if you do not have any air or drainage channels then create some on the lawn, if you are like me, you will probably have a few bald patches, then this is a great time to sow some new grass seeds and last but not least treat your old lawn to some nice specialy created Autumn lawn food.

Passing this information on, just in case...

2010-08-31T10:38:00.000-07:00

Not sure how true this information is, but I thought I would publish it just in case it is!

While driving on a rural end of the roadway on Thursday morning, I saw an infant car seat on the side of the road with a blanket draped over it. For whatever reason, I did not stop, even though I had all kinds of thoughts running through my head. But when I got to my destination, I called the Police and they were going to check it out. But, this is what the Police advised even before they went out there to check....

"There are several things to be aware of ... gangs and thieves are now plotting different ways to get a person (mostly women)to stop their vehicle and get out of the car.

"There is a gang initiation reported by the local Police where gangs are placing a car seat by the road...with a fake baby in
it...waiting for a woman, of course, to stop and check on the abandoned baby.

"Note that the location of this car seat is usually beside a wooded or grassy (field) area and the person -- woman -- will be dragged into the woods, beaten and raped, and usually left for dead. If it's a man, they're usually beaten and robbed and maybe left for dead, too.

DO NOT STOP FOR ANY REASON!!!

DIAL 9-9-9
AND REPORT WHAT YOU SAW, BUT DON'T EVEN SLOW DOWN.

"IF YOU ARE DRIVING AT NIGHT AND EGGS ARE THROWN AT YOUR WINDSCREEN, DO NOT STOP TO CHECK THE CAR, DO NOT OPERATE THE WIPER AND DO NOT SPRAY ANY WATER BECAUSE EGGS MIXED
WITH WATER BECOME MILKY AND BLOCK YOUR VISION UP TO 92.5%, AND YOU ARE THEN FORCED TO STOP BESIDE THE ROAD AND BECOME A VICTIM OF THESE CRIMINALS.

THIS IS A NEW TECHNIQUE USED BY GANGS, SO PLEASE INFORM YOUR FRIENDS AND RELATIVES.

THESE ARE DESPERATE TIMES AND THESE ARE UNSAVOURY INDIVIDUALS WHO WILL TAKE DESPERATE MEASURES TO GET WHAT THEY WANT."

Please talk to your loved ones about this. This is a new tactic used. Please be safe.

Get started NOW -- SEND THIS MESSAGE TO ALL YOUR FRIENDS AND LOVED ONES TO BE CAREFUL AND AWARE OF EVERYTHING AROUND THEM SO AS NOT TO BECOME A VICTIM.

Learn to Break Dance with the Fruit Shoot Juice Crew!

2010-08-18T09:18:00.000-07:00

My kids have been known to enjoy a Fruit Shoot or two and when I got asked to check out this video, they were most impressed with the moves that the boy was demonstrating.
So have a look at this You Tube video and see what you think of it.

Review: Adventures of a Teenage Dragon Slayer

2010-08-13T01:37:00.000-07:00

We got offered the chance to review a copy of the newly released Adventures of a Teenage Dragon Slayer. It arrived in time just for a rainy day in the school hols.
The kids decided to play at going to the cinema and so turned the lounge into a darkened cinema room complete with all the necessities...i.e. popcorn, drinks, hotdogs and sweets.
This is a bit of information on the DVD: Branded as a 'nerd' and harassed by the school bully, 12-year-old Arthur is one day rescued by a magical troll who knows that the boy unwittingly holds the secret to defeat an evil dragon. Arthur's loving mum, struggling to keep her devious ex-husband from gaining custody of Arthur, dismisses her son's 'fantasies' until she realizes the all-too-real immediate danger. She joins forces with Arthur, the troll and a dashing but washed-up video-game master. Together, they hope to conquer the dragon and the wicked vice-principal who threaten civilization!
My daughter really enjoyed it, it appealed to her imagination, as she too likes to live a bit in her own world, but my son was not that impressed with it, he likes films with a bit more action or more true to life stories.
As a family we rate it as 3.5/5
Available to buy from Play for £5.99.

Discounts and special offers newsletter

2010-07-30T09:55:00.000-07:00

For the last few weeks I have been sending out a weekly newsletter which gives friends and family access to discount codes and special offers, if you are interested in receiving a copy of this, sign up here: http://forms.aweber.com/form/43/484990143.htm

Below is a copy of this weeks newsletter:

Welcome to this weeks discounts and offers. Please feel free to pass onto your friends and family or ask them to sign up.

The Fish Society

The Fish Society are pleased to announce the extension of their two fantastic voucher codes. For more information, please see below;

Code - summer
Promotion - 10% off when you spend £40.00 (can only be used on products in The Main Fish Hall)
Expires - 30-08-2010

Code - newcust
Promotion - 10% off when you spend £30.00 (will only work for new customers and can only be used on products in The Main Fish Hall)
Expires - 30-08-2010

Terra Plana

Terra Plana are offering 20% discount off all Vivobarefoot products until Monday 2nd August 2010. Customers just need to use the following code when prompted during the checkout:

KINGS

**Please note: This coupon code is not applicable during the guest checkout and can only be used when customers are logged in at the checkout.

Click here to see our Vivobarefoot range.

Baker Ross

Baker Ross are pleased to announce that they have a new voucher code which runs for the entirety of August. For orders over £75 you will recieve £5 off, so take advantage of this great code while you can.

New Voucher Code

Code - MWB5
Promotion - £5 off when you spend over £75
Starts - 01-08-2010
Expires - 31-08-2010

Boots

Top Promotions

1) When it's gone, it's gone!
Don't miss out, products from as little as £1
Valid until: while stocks last

Debenhams

20% off womens shoes & boots

Gold knotted strappy sandals

Was £20.00 > Now £16.00

Urban Outfitters

For Women

The Swedish Hasbeens are back in stock!

Swedish Hasbeens Peep Toe Super High
£129.00

Johann Earl Butterscotch Lace Dress
Web Exclusive
£48.00

Looking forward to August

2010-07-30T09:45:00.000-07:00

As we head out of July shortly, with over half the year gone August is just upon us.
It will see my middle child turn 14! My hubby celebrates his birthday and also we shall have our anniversary to celebrate.
I think we are maybe in for a few visitors as a few people have indicated that they may come and visit! Both the hubby and I had planned to make August a no-fly month, but it looks like he maybe needed back in work as yet again none of the other directors can get their act together and arrange to split the school holidays so that always one of them would be there...too much to ask I suppose!
August is going to be a mad month for me as I try and get ready for the launch of two new businesses, plus keep TGF ticking along and keep on top of all my other interests.
Also will have all 3 kids at home for the last time before the boys head off to Boarding school in September.
So if I am quiet over here, please be patient with me, I am not ignoring you just running out of time!

August is National Road Victim Month

2010-07-29T10:05:00.000-07:00

As a parent who has a teenage son learning to drive as we speak, it is one of my greatest fears that he will have an accident. I know we all have learnt and we all thought ourselves invincible when we were teens but to be in that position now is SCARY!!!

August is National Road Victim Month and this year’s focus will be on trying to save young lives. Every year, about 1.2 million people die in traffic accidents. One third of these victims are young people under the age of 25.

Young men aged are nearly three times as likely as women of that age to be killed in a road-traffic accident according to the World Health Organisation’s Youth and Road Safety report 2007.

August is a poignant month for road safety because it sees an increase in the numbers of children being injured on our roads while they are off school. Young Marmalade, the provider of insurance for young drivers, are members of the Parliamentary Advisory Council for Transport Safety, they are directly involved in the government’s policies towards safety on our roads.

Young Marmalade are offering a new kind of insurance policy for young drivers designed to inspire careful driving by improving access to newer and safer cars and cheaper insurance.

They have teamed up with 13 car manufacturers and sell new (or nearly new cars) to young drivers. They use the volume sale discounts to subsidise the cost of insurance. Youngsters are required to complete a Pass Plus driving course before being eligible.

This year, Young Marmalade’s learner-driver arm, Provisional Marmalade, signed up with motoring accessory giant Halfords to provide young drivers with the extra road practice time that they need. This new, radical type of car insurance allows provisional drivers to purchase fully comprehensive insurance on a family or friend’s car for only £3 per day.

Halfords spokeswoman Diane Perry said: ’The high insurance premiums for young drivers deprive many of the opportunity to gain that vital practice needed to supplement tuition from qualified driving instructors.”

“The Driving Standards Agency recommends over 20 hours of private practice alongside professional tuition and this insurance policy has removed one of the biggest concerns facing parents when helping their children behind the wheel – the risk to their No Claims Bonus. We believe this insurance product will help save young lives,” said Nigel Lacy from Young Marmalade.

Check out this funny You Tube video http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yZfveJd17as&feature.

The world’s first victim of a road traffic accident was Mary Ward who fell under an experimental steam car in Ireland in August 1869. Bridget Driscoll was the first person killed in the UK by a car in August 1896 at Crystal Palace.

Young Marmalade was presented with a road safety award by Prince Michael of Kent last year.

Giggles Computer Games

2010-07-11T05:53:00.000-07:00

I have just been tidying up my stock area and have realised I still have a few of the Giggles Computer Games from my Artlight Design days. Normally these were retailing at £19.99 plus p&p, but as I want to get clear I will sell them for £12 including p&p.

If you are interested then get in touch with me at brenda (at) thegreenfamilia (dot)co (dot) uk.

Weekly Newsletter

2010-07-07T15:21:00.000-07:00

Instead of cluttering up my personal blog and personal facebook page of special offers, discounts, sales etc, I have decided to compile them all into a weekly newsletter which will go out on a Friday. Just out of impartiality, most of these will be affiliate offers, which means that if you do click through and order something, I will earn a few pence off the back of it...I am sure you would not begrudge me that line of earning, especially if you were going to buy the product anyway!
If you would like to sign up for the Weekly newsletter, then click on the link and it will take you through to my sign up form.
A big thank you to all of you who have already signed up (and bought!) or will sign up!

Summer Hours are here!

2010-07-06T01:58:00.000-07:00

Now the kids are off on their summer holidays from school, I have finally been able to switch into my favourite thing about summer, my working hours.
I can get up slightly later, work for a bit, do house chores, spend time with the kids and dogs if around or awake, work for a bit, lunch, more time for the kids and dogs, then siesta time, then work, dinner and then more work. I find the late nights are my most productive time, as there are little distractions going on. So if you see emails in your inbox from ungodly hours from me do not worry too much.
Wishing you all a very smiley summer and happy holidays when they happen.

Happy Days!

2010-07-05T11:00:00.000-07:00

The sun is shining, my hubby is back home from his trip away and the kids are finally finished with school, Am now able to fully go onto summer working hours.

I love the sun, it makes everything seem ok, even if it is not. I am very lucky and give daily thanks for all the positives in my life. I have a wonderfully supportive husband, 3 gorgeous kids, 4 naughty dogs, work that I love with a passion, living in a wonderful place, and very supportive friends and family.

So today I want to say THANK YOU ALL for everything. What is it that you are thankful for in your life? Let's share some happiness around, we all have enough to give and sometimes people just need a little bit of thanks to prop them up when they are having a bad day or moment!

Step-Children!

2010-07-04T06:49:00.000-07:00

I have been asked to post this guest post by a reader of this blog, who wishes to remain un-named and I have decided to do so, only because I too can relate to certain parts of this post!

When my first husband died leaving me with my son, it never really crossed my mind that I would get married again. I know certain friends seemed to be more concerned about finding me a partner than just giving me time to refind myself and my son.
When eventually I did dip my toe in the dating stream, I was really lucky to find a great guy almost immediately, he too had lost his wife and had a couple of teenagers and so we started dating and taking it easy. After a few years of being together he asked me to marry him and move with my son into his house, it made sense he loved me, I loved him what more did we need?
At first his daughter was still living there and boy did she make it known she was not happy, but still I was kind of oblivious to it all, she would make snide comments, would say nice things when her father was around then go all mean when he wasn't. She made up lies just to cause trouble between us and so on.
We had not been trying actively for a baby, but neither were we doing anything to prevent this from happening and so when we found out I was pregnant we were shocked but still kind of happy as we felt it was a gift from god. Our little daughter was born on time and has since given us nothing but joy. My own son is fantastic with his little sis and has been such a help with her, unfortunately I can not say the same about my two step-children, yes when their dad is about they make the right noises, but their actions speak much louder. Birthdays are often missed or a present will turn up much later, not wrapped and sometimes bought from the credit card daddy has given them!
The jealousy and bitterness that spews from their inner being is so evident that everybody can see it...apart from their father, who being a man of the world must definitely see it but just refuses to acknowledge it as it would mean he would have to deal with it.
I feel desperately sorry for my husband and that is why I have spent many years trying to recreate a loving family for him, including his children wherever possible. But as my friends will testify every person has a limit and most people would have walked away before now. I am not proposing to walk away, I have never been a quitter and despite all the badness from the step-children the main point is I still love my husband and he is the person I married and he is a wonderful father to my son and to our daughter and a brilliant husband who provides for his family fantastically.
Having a few friends that are in the same position has helped because we can relate to each other and give each other strength to carry on despite the continual onslaught of barrage from the hateful step-children, who are only interested in their share of their inheritance rather than their fathers happiness. Of course if they were to get over their hang ups and actually be happy for their father, then they would increase their own chances of personal fulfillment. But no that would be too easy, they like to harp on that they never had this or that as a child, yet forgetting all they get now and that the fact if it was not for their father they would not have that nice house they live in or drive that new car!
So for all of you who are coming out of a relationship and thinking about a new one, please do take on board that the older the step-kids get, does not necessarily mean their behaviour will get any better, I know from my experience that the older they get the more bitter and twisted they become when they see you and their dad enjoying your life, whilst they are still stuck in the same old rut, and it is only because I love my husband and know that he loves me that I am still here.
If you have had any similar experiences and have advice on how to deal with negativity from step-children I would appreciate any help I can on how to rise above it!

Code of Conduct

2010-07-03T13:07:00.000-07:00

Having been brought up to be respectful to others and to be thankful for what we have, it amazes me that certain people seem to have no respect for other people or their belongings.
The way certain people speak to their parents and their partners with no respect only disdain is very disappointing. The trouble they go out of their way to cause is just astonishing. You would think they would put their own lives in order first before poking their nose into other peoples...oh I forget it is because they are so unhappy in their own lives that they cannot bear to see others happy!
Now summer is here again, I find that my house which previously has been classed as dangerous, too far to visit etc is now an ok place to go because of the lovely heated swimming pool in the garden, which I may add is costing us to heat and keep clean for these visitors to use.
Of course you would think that knowing that we are out of the country that if people came to use the house that they would leave it as they found it, wouldn't you? Well seemingly not, seemingly it is ok to come as you like and leave as you like. So if any of you are thinking of taking a visit to our house whilst we are not there, here is my code of conduct:

Bring your own towels, leaving damp towels lying around or slung back in the airing cupboard really is not appropriate.
Please tidy up after yourselves and put all rubbish in the outside bin.
Please be respectful with your noise levels, as I do have neighbours and although you do not know them I really do not like having to make apologies for the noise level on your behalf.
Snooping about in my bedroom is also a major NO-NO!
If you have kids, I would appreciate it if they did not go into my kids bedrooms, they still class them as their rooms and they are kind of protective over their space.
Also a courtesy call to myself about your impending visit would make me look more favourably on you. I know I may not live there all the time but at least have the decency to acknowledge that it is my house you are visiting!
Finally no more pilfering of my household belongings, it appears now I only have one full set of bedding for my bed and will now have to go out shopping on my next trip back to buy new bedding!

So my lovelies if you do feel like a visit, you are more than welcome, just show a little bit of respect and we will get on fine.

Buffy and Merlin TV Star Backs Family Charity's Summer Campaign to 'Banish the wee Horror'

2010-06-29T01:49:00.000-07:00

‘Buffy’ and ‘Merlin’ actor Tony Head (photograph attached) is backing a national family charity’s awareness-raising campaign this summer.

The ‘Banish the Wee Horror’ campaign is launched today (Tuesday 1 June) by family charity ERIC. It highlights the one in 12 local youngsters who dread summer camps, sleepovers and holidays because they wet the bed at an age long after they would have expected to have stopped. The campaign promotes the support, advice and information that’s easily available on the end of a phone and on the internet.

Tony Head, star of Merlin, Buffy The Vampire Slayer and Little Britain, amongst many other roles, said: “Any parent with a child who wets the bed knows how the embarrassment makes it hard to talk openly about it. The child can be too frightened to take part in fun sleepovers or school camps, in case anyone finds out. The child feels isolated from their friends.

“So it’s reassuring to know help is at hand this summer for the half a million families affected. The ERIC website www.eric,org.uk has a wealth of advice and information. And friendly experts at ERIC can give confidential, personalised advice on 0845 370 8008.”

Last summer saw ERIC’s first ‘Banish The Wee Horror’ awareness-raising campaign. As a result, calls to the charity’s helpline rose by a third, while visits to eric.org.uk also soared.

ERIC Director Jenny Perez said: “We’re aiming this year to reach even more families so we can help their children have uninterrupted nights and to enjoy fun summer sleepovers without the fear of the ‘wee horror’.

“Only one in three affected families currently comes forward for help. Our summer campaign will reassure thousands of children and parents they are not alone, increasing awareness of just how difficult sleepovers can be for young people who wet the bed. Information leaflets, posters and a ‘viral email’ are being distributed nationwide.

“The good news is that there are a range of things that can be done to help over come or manage the problem. A phone call or a visit to eric.org.uk is the first step to putting the wee horror behind you.”

Co-sponsors Brolly Sheets Ltd, Ferring Pharmaceuticals, Hippychick and UnderJams are supporting this year’s campaign.

Looking after our Garden

2010-06-27T01:16:00.000-07:00

With four dogs!!! Keeping a nice looking lawn is kind of hard. Not being very talented in the area of gardening myself makes it even harder. Luckily for me the hubby is a perfectionist so he is happy to pay somebody to come in and do the major gardening and it is their job to make the lawn look good.

We have had such a wet winter and spring this year, so much so it was only recently that the gardener put down a lawn treatment on our lawn. I have to say that I was slightly sceptical at first, it looked as if they had just put a whole load of sand on the lawn, but after a short while I started to see results.

So much so that with our recent entertaining for the England matches, friends have actually remarked on how well the lawn is doing and how surprising considering the fact we have 4 dogs and 3 kids who like to play football or cricket on the lawn.

So if your lawn is in need of a little bit of tlc, why not give it a go, it is really easy to do if you know how and the results are well worth it!

John Lewis Clearance Sale

2010-06-25T14:46:00.000-07:00

The John Lewis Clearance starts tonight, with up to 50% off thousands of products.

Clearance starts online at johnlewis.com at 8pm tonight and in shops tomorrow Saturday 26 June.

Plus, from 8pm tonight there will be new lines and extra markdowns added in the John Lewis Fashion Clearance!

Debenhams Free Delivery Offer

2010-06-25T14:26:00.000-07:00

Go shopping on Sunday 27th June at Debenhams this Sunday and get free delivery.

Code: SHR2

Offer: Free Delivery on all orders

Start: Sunday 27th June

End: Midnight Sunday 27th June

Terms & Conditions: Free delivery on all orders on Debenhams.com, 27th June when you input SHR2 at the checkout online. This code is not available on Personalised Wedding Stationery, any products from the Debenhams curtains, electricals, kitchen appliances, entertainment, personalised art, personalised cards, flowers, hampers, wine and champagne websites.

Boots Offers

2010-06-25T14:09:00.000-07:00

Save yourself 20%, plus collect triple points at Boots this week on Britax Pushchairs and Car Seats. Valid until the 29th June 2010.

Horsey Gifts

2010-06-24T13:38:00.000-07:00

My daughter is horsey mad, she rides most days and loves anything to do with horses. So when I found this online shop last year, it solved a lot of problems of what to get her. I even bought her the horse monopoly which she adores.
Anyway I digress, this weekend they are offering free shipping from Friday 25th June (9am) to Sunday 27th June (midnight). So am off to plan out my order and stock up on a few things for her. For more information check out the site here www.Horsey-Gifts.com.

Father's Day Ideas

2010-06-15T01:22:00.000-07:00

This Father's day why not spoil your dad by arranging for a yearly subscription to one of his favourite magazines. Great idea if you are leaving the present buying to the last minute!
Magazines involved in this promotion include:
Top Gear
CountryFile Magazine
BBC History
Focus
Gardener’s World
Sky at Night
Who Do You Think You Are? Magazine
BBC Wildlife
BBC Music
Lonely Planet Magazine
Olive
Radio Times
Good Food

Handmade Scottish Stoneware Honey Pot

2010-05-24T06:17:00.000-07:00

This is lovely! Handmade and from Scotland...land of my birth! Great table decoration, so if your family is partial to a bit of honey then I suggest you invest in one of these.
Available from Biome Lifestyle for £15.

Handbags from Debenhams

2010-05-23T23:11:00.000-07:00

If you are looking to treat yourself to a new handbag for summer, then check out the ones at Debenhams. You can get up to £20 off on selected handbags.

Daisy Dress from People Tree

2010-05-13T02:16:00.001-07:00

I am loving this week, this Daisy Dress from People Tree.

Daisy Gathered Dress

£40

Gathered v-neck, organic cotton jersey dress with draped sleeves and self fabric belt. Made in India.

Love Music? Then Check out Stacey Jacksons new track!

2010-05-11T06:13:00.001-07:00

This glamorous Chelsea mum of four has literally come out of nowhere to have a hit charity record. Stacey Jackson is raising money for leading UK Music Charity ‘Music for Youth’ with an album called ‘Upside Down’ - a collection of Motown classics which have been revamped and updated with a rock edge.
The album features some of the best musicians from MFY, who were invited to London to record in top London studios with Stacey. Stacey’s first single ‘Band of Gold’ was a massive success, peaking at no.17 in the Music Week Club Charts and top ten in the Charity Singles Charts, and she is now preparing to release her second single ‘I Hear a Symphony’ which has been hotly tipped by the Guardian and is expected to surpass the success of the first and reach the top of the club charts.
Stacey is a busy mum of four young children in her 40s who runs a mission control from her kitchen, juggling the responsibilities of motherhood while spearheading this worthwhile charity campaign. All profits from the album go to MFY and it is Stacey’s mission to raise awareness and funds for this important charity. We’d love for you to get involved and help drive the project forward.
You can watch Stacey here on You Tube
You can buy the album from iTunes here http://tinyurl.com/yjg83nz.

Great products from Wikaniko

2010-05-10T04:53:00.001-07:00

As some of you may know I have a natural living blog called www.thegreenfamilia.co.uk and to complement that I started up my own distributorship for a great company called Wikaniko. You can check out the full range of products that Wikaniko do at my online shop www.myecobiz.co.uk.

Here are some of my current favourites this week:

Bio D Washing Powder - price is £3.60 for 1kg.
Kitchen Herb Incense Collection - price is £9.95.
Bag Tube - price is £1.19.
Indigenous Tree - price is £4.
Leaf Sack - £2.49.

For more information on these products check out the website www.myecobiz.co.uk.

Sorry for being quiet this week!

2010-05-09T14:39:00.001-07:00

Apologies for being quiet on this blog this week. It has been a mad few weeks and each time you think that you are getting over a hump another one comes and hits you straight away. I feel that I have been climbing a massive hill and have got nowhere!
Tomorrow will be one week since my beloved Honey Dog left the earth. Still a day does not go by without the tears falling. But I know in the short time that we had found each other that she knew she was loved and that she knew how much I appreciated her love and devotion she bestowed upon me.
Her loss has meant that we had a void in our lives and one that my darling family wanted to fill for me, even though I myself did not feel the need to do this. So off we went to Adana the dogs home that we had a few months ago deposited two more abandoned dogs that we had found in search of a doggy that needed a loving home.
On the way there I managed to miss the turning TWICE!! Now for somebody who normally has a good sense of direction this was odd, then going up the hill to Adana my petrol gauge tried to tell me that I had lost 100km worth of fuel so I started to panic that we were going to get stuck all very unusual behaviour for me!
We get to Adana and I tried to hang back and let the hubby and Gaby check the dogs out, in fact I was putting off seeing the two dogs we had dropped off, I did not want them to see me as I felt bad that they were still there. Anyway to cut a long story short, we saw Madison the dog we first took to Adana and she instantly recognised us, as soon as our eyes connected I knew she was coming home with me.
After that I could not wait to get out and get the papers signed and bring her home where she belongs. She is the most elegant dog we own, she is such a sweetie and adores all the family and gets on well with the other three dogs. She is settled into our routine, like she never left only this time she is the one sleeping and sitting beside me in the office rather than my Honey dog.

Blogs I have read this week

2010-05-03T07:07:00.000-07:00

I am part of a network called www.seededbuzz.com. Through that I have come across a variety of new blogs, so here is what I have been reading this week.

Links to blogging traffic by Brandon Connell.
Performed @ Adlib by Flyprints.
E.G.B.D. by Ancedotally Speaking.
Do folks not read anymore by Angelique, The Novelist's Blog.

Have you read any good blog posts this week that you think we should be reading, drop me a line and let me know.

Dominos Pizza

2010-04-26T14:11:00.000-07:00

For those who read my social media blog over at www.gibraltarconnected.com you will know I did a post recently on Dominos Pizza and the fact that they are the first company to really embrace social media in a big way. They have created a widget to be used on social media sites like Facebook, Myspace etc as well as blogs. So I decided that I would upload one here and on my personal Facebook page to see how interested people are in this kind of thing and see whether they will embrace it or not.
I would be interested to hear your thoughts on this, whether you think it will take off or not?
If you are planning on ordering Dominos pizza, then I would love it if you would click on my link as it would give me a few pence in commission, which will never make me rich, but may help to buy me a coffee!

Great idea for travelling kids

2010-04-24T08:23:00.000-07:00

Take it, Pack it, Strap it!

The innovative TrayKit™ is a fantastic all-in-one child’s backpack which straps to train, plane and car tray-tables to provide an extendable play surface with raised sides – no more picking up toys from the floor again and again and again… making travelling with children more fun for them and more relaxing for you!

Children love to have their own bag to pack and keep their toys in, but TrayKit™ gives them their own play space too. It straps easily to a tray-table or sits on a lap, and once in place unzips to provide the perfect space for drawing, playing with toys, writing a novel – what ever your child wants to do. There are even special pockets for storing pens, snacks, games consoles and favourite toys and the clever design means it stays open even if the person in front reclines their seat. An extendable shelf makes a larger play area if needed and TrayKit™ has a raised edge all the way round to stop playthings rolling onto the floor.

Each TrayKit also comes with a collectable Travel Bug™ that clips onto the outside. Available to buy separately too, get a new one for each trip! Content&Calm TrayKit™ is available in May 2010 in pink polka dot or blue camouflage from contentandcalm.com and good independent retailers. RRP £24.99 For local stockists call 01823 323363 or visit www.contentandcalm.com

Special Offers from Boots

2010-04-23T01:18:00.000-07:00

Exciting news! From today you can get a full-size No7 Protect & Perfect Day Cream, Night Cream and Protect & Perfect Intense Beauty Serum in a box for only £31 – that’s a huge 50% saving off the combined RRP of £62.50! This offer is strictly limited stock in Boots stores and Boots.com. Hurry while stocks last!

No7 Protect & Perfect Intense Skincare Regime Kit – £31.00

Collect 124 points with this purchase

Product code 7519818
Your complete Protect & Perfect regime!

Details:
Your complete, daily Protect & Perfect anti-ageing skincare regime that will help to reveal a younger, more revitalised you.
The set contains:Protect & Perfect Day Cream 50ml – No7 Protect & Perfect Day Cream is created to be used with our No7 Protect & Perfect Beauty Serum which has active ingredients to deliver long-lasting moisturisation and longer-term protection of the skin. No7 Protect & Perfect Day Cream works to improve the resilience of your skin to the ageing effects of the sun and pollution, smoothing fine lines to leave your skin with a healthy renewed radiance.

Your FREE gift when you spend £22 or more on selected No7

Marbella Art Festival needs some volunteers!

2010-04-22T13:14:00.001-07:00

Marbella’s Art Festival, Festival Internacional de Arte Marbella 2010, Needs Volunteers

An essential ingredient for a successful and smooth running of Marbella’s Art festival is the kind people who volunteer their time and knowledge to help with various tasks during the days of the festival. We hope you will be one of them. Leading up to the festival, early June, we will arrange one or two meetings to introduce all volunteers to each other, circulate contact list and give a brief of the event, people, procedures, dealing with any incidents, reporting etc. A final pre-event meeting will be held 17^th June to show the set-up and to ensure all are happy and comfortable with their roles. After the event, we will have a thank you get together for the volunteers.

Areas to be covered during the festival:

Festival tent (providing relevant information to visitors)
Press and media co-ordination in Festival tent –Spanish/English speakers
VIP event check-in for inaugural evening 17^th June.
Receiving and “checking in” artists on their arrival at Alameda parking garage for set-up Thu 17^th June 8am -1pm and break-up Sun 20^thsame hours.
Organizing and overseeing student helpers. Distribution of programmes
Assist Ana Matias at her tent at times to be agreed with artist
Carry out survey of visitor response to the Festival

If you think you can help and interested in more information then please visit http://artemarbella.com/volunteers/ , where you can view and download the Volunteers Form. You can also contact contact Yvonne Sjokvist on mobile no: 617368414 or email: yvonne_sjokvist@hotmail.com

3D TV comes to John Lewis

2010-04-22T05:27:00.000-07:00

Today John Lewis has launched 3D TV’s on johnlewis.com. The £1,800 Samsung C7000 is the first consumer 3D TV to hit store shelves.

The first 40-inch TV is available from John Lewis’ flagship store on Oxford Street as well as at John Lewis Online.

What’s more is that John Lewis are offering two free pairs of 3D glasses if the £349
3D Blu Ray player is purchased on top of the 3D TV. Purchasers will also get a copy of
animated Dreamworks film Monsters vs Aliens on DVD.

John Kempner, buyer for vision at John Lewis says, “3D TV is an incredibly exciting technology, and once again John Lewis is first to market. Manufacturers like to use us as their launch partner because our customers are always early adopters of new technology.”

“It is worth remembering that even though 3DTV content is limited at the moment, this new breed of TV provides fantastic picture quality for regular 2D viewing, so a 3DTV is a great investment purchase,” said Mr Kempner.

Samsung UE40C7000 LED 1080p 3D TV, 40″, Built-in Freeview HD, 3D Blu-ray Player & 3D Glasses
£2,148

Samsung BD-C6900 : Free 2 year guarantee
Samsung 3D TV: Free 5 year guarantee
Sams 3D Glas: Free 1 year guarantee

Hot new discount codes to share with you

2010-04-20T05:23:00.000-07:00

Here are some hot new discount codes to share with you this week. Happy Shopping!

BHS

£10 off homeware products

Code: Home10cat

Expires: 31st May 2010

Boden

10% all orders and free delivery

Code: LN9P

Expires: 30th April 2010

Dell

20% off computer monitors

Code: 176400VNNPSCL?

Expires: 30th April 2010

Glasses Direct

10% off all orders

Code: ten2010

Expires: 31st July 2010

The Gift experience

10% off when you spend £30

Code: GIFT

Expires: 31st May 2010

Habitat

20% off all orders

Code: S1JOY

Expires: 25th April 2010

Love Your Shoes

10% off all orders

Code: LYOURSTEN

Expires: 30th April 2010

Play.com

20% off TV series on DVD

Code: TVDISCOUNT

Expires: 23rd April 2010

Oli.co.uk

10% off all orders plus free PP

Code: RHTP

Expires: 31st May 2010

Viners

15% when you spend £30

Code: 15VINERS30

Expires: 22nd April 2010

Press Release I just had to share with you!

2010-04-19T04:34:00.001-07:00

I received this press release today and just had to share it with you. For all you yummy housewives out there are you doing the Molly Maid Workout?

- A third of UKs women would reconsider their gym membership if they knew how to combine exercise with household chores

- Super Slim and squeaky clean how to get fit while you clean

A domestic revolution is about to be unleashed on Britains households a new Workout by MOLLY MAID, the UKs leading domestic cleaning company, in an effort to encourage UKs women to combine exercise with their cleaning routines something which MOLLY MAID has long known about.

With only a few modifications to the MOLLY MAID cleaning system, which has been used to clean homes for more than 25 years, the MOLLY MAID Workout enables women to burn up to an extra 150* calories an hour. The MOLLY MAID Workout is set to transform the lives of many busy women who find it difficult to juggle day-to-day tasks at the expense of their health and fitness. With the Workout, guilt-ridden and time-poor women will have the opportunity to address two tasks simultaneously whilst freeing up valuable time for other duties and activities.

The MOLLY MAID Workout, which may change the way we do cleaning in the home forever, is very simple, yet has surprisingly effective results. Along with a physical fitness expert, MOLLY MAID has expanded on some of their routine household cleaning chores to make house cleaning even more of a physical workout. The MOLLY MAID Workout incorporates tasks including dusting, cleaning the bathroom or vacuuming, with simple yet vigorous exercises such as stretches, lunges, squats and bends to increase fitness.

The MOLLY MAID Workout was put together following a recent survey (OnePoll February 2010) revealing that while almost half of the 2,000 women questioned complained that they did not have enough time to exercise, an astonishing 70 percent admitted they would like to lose weight.

Furthermore, two thirds of the women surveyed spent between one and three hours cleaning a week, so MOLLY MAID pinpointed this as an ideal opportunity to combine exercise and fitness with the usual household cleaning routine.

By following the MOLLY MAID Workout, it is possible to burn the same amount of calories in two hours of continuous cleaning, as in an hours running, or an hours vigorous swimming.

Now, those weighed down by both the drudgery of housework AND those extra unwanted pounds, could begin to feel like domestic goddesses as a result of incorporating the MOLLY MAID Workout into their weekly routines.

Pam Bader OBE, Chief Executive of MOLLY MAID, added: Our survey showed that a third of respondents would go so far as reconsidering their gym membership if they could combine exercising with household chores. With over 25 years of experience, weve burnt a few calories and stretched a few muscles at MOLLY MAID, so were happy to share some of our top tips in this Workout.

For many of us time-poor individuals cleaning is a chore, so with the onset of Spring and with Summer just around the corner its good to know that you can actually make your spring clean work twice as hard for you. Of course, if the whole concept is too daunting you can always rely on the experts!

If you do find that you prefer a brisk walk in the fresh air as opposed to cleaning the loo, or going for an invigorating run rather than dusting the bookshelves, or, if like a third of the ladies surveyed, you find the thought of a wholesome spring clean overwhelming, then visit MOLLY MAID at www.mollymaid.uk to call in the professionals.

Fran Silver, a Register of Exercise Professionals (REPS) personal trainer at FS Fitness, has some top tips when taking part in the MOLLY MAID Workout.

Always ensure you start by warming up and get the blood pumping put on your favourite music, and dance while you dust.
With vacuuming rated by 50 percent of survey respondents as the most satisfying household chore, you can now use this task to ensure you are also working larger muscle groups quads, glutes and hamstrings.
Finish off by focusing on the smaller muscles groups shoulders, biceps, triceps (bathroom, work surfaces).
And if youre still feeling energetic then throw in 20 abdominal crunches at the end!
To cool down walk round your house for 5 minutes admiring your handiwork. Stay away from the sweet treats as a reward though!

I am loving...If you care firelighters

2010-04-17T07:32:00.000-07:00

Get the barbie going in eco friendly style this summer with the new If You Care Biomass Firelighters made from 100% renewable resources.

Perfect for fireplaces, grills, wood burning stoves and ovens as well as outdoor activities such as BBQ’s and campfires, these biomass firelighters are an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional kerosene and paraffin wax firelighters.

Made using wood from sustainably managed forests and vegetable oil, the firelighters are from 100% renewable resources.

Quick and easy to use, just place 3-4 firelighters under wood or on top of charcoal and light each firelighter on the fractured side of the cube. The cubes will burn for 8-10 minutes each with the first 5 minutes producing the strongest flame.

Each pack includes 72 pieces.

Available from ECOutlet for £3.99.

Free Style with Corbin Bleu is launching and we have 4 free copies to giveaway!

2010-04-17T02:47:00.000-07:00

After the success of High School Musical, which is one of my daughters favourites! What becomes of the stars?

Well Corbin Bleu, has gone on to star in other film roles that help to showcase his abilities and appeal to his loyal fan base, including his new film - Free Style.

Free Style is an uplifting story in which he plays a determined young man who is reaching for his dreams and finding romance along the way, despite all the hurdles along the way. The film also stars Madison Pettis, Penelope Ann Miller and Jesse Moss.

The film is released by High Fliers on rental and DVD on the 26th April 2010. It has a run time of 90 minutes and a 12 certificate. The RRP is £12.99.

We have 4 copies to give away of the Free Style DVD, all you need to do is leave a comment below and on the 25th April we will randomly choose the winners and get a copy sent out to you.

Stevie Wonder - The Definitive Biography!

2010-04-16T01:44:00.000-07:00

Celebrate Stevie Wonder’s 60th birthday with ‘Signed, Sealed and Delivered:
The Soulful Journey of Stevie Wonder’
by Mark Ribowsky

Signed, Sealed and Delivered: The Soulful Journey of Stevie Wonder’ by acclaimed popular music writer Mark Ribowsky is the definitive biography of one the world’s most influential and inspirational living musicians.

The book explores a career spanning almost fifty years that has seen Stevie Wonder earn more than thirty Top 10 hits, twenty-six Grammy Awards, and a place in both the Rock and Roll and Songwriter Halls of Fame - and he's not finished yet! On the verge of turning sixty, he is still composing, still touring, and still attracting dedicated fans around the world.

Released to coincide with the celebrations surrounding Stevie Wonder’s 60th birthday on 13 May 2010, ‘Signed, Sealed, and Delivered’ takes an in-depth look at Stevie Wonder’s remarkable story and his evolution from Motown prodigy into a seminal recording artist and live performer whose music helped lay the groundwork for the evolution of hip hop and rap.

Mark Ribowsky, who has previously produced the definitive popular music biographies ‘The Supremes: A Saga of Motown Dreams, Success and Betrayal’ and ‘He’s a Rebel: Phil Spector – Rock and Roll’s Legendary Producer’ delves deep into Stevie Wonder's life and extraordinary achievements as a singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and producer.

Mark Ribowsky has conducted extensive interviews with Motown producers, music executives, songwriters, and musicians, including founding Temptation Otis Williams, Mickey Stevenson, surviving Funk Brother Eddie Willis, synthesizer genius Malcolm Cecil, guitar legend Michael Sembello, and many others.

‘Signed, Sealed, and Delivered’ traces Stevie's personal and musical development through the decades, from the early 1960s R&B of "Fingertips" to the social and political themes of "Living for the City" and other 1970s classics, through periods of musical and personal confusion, uncertainty, and, later, renewal.

Exploring the life, achievements, and influence of one of America's biggest musical icons and set against the history of Motown and the last fifty years of popular music ‘Signed, Sealed and Delivered: The Soulful Journey of Stevie Wonder’ is essential reading for anyone who is interested in the life and work of one of popular music’s true all-time greats.

The RRP of the hardback book will be £16.99.