Motherhood at 5

Aloha Sprinklerinos,

Earlier this month, my tiny baby turned five. An entire five years of living. Half a decade. 

When I look back, 5 years feels like nothing but also a lifetime. So much has changed. 

Over her birthday I thought about the day(s) I was in hospital bringing her into the world, the hopes I had for her future and the things I learnt during that time. I found delivering Darcy the hardest thing I've ever done. No ifs or buts, child birth and the postpartum recovery can be very rough. I think about it every year and feel little pangs of panic and trauma but each year she gets older, it feels a bit easier. This was the first year I felt really unsupported in those feelings but I know in time I will grow and strengthen and they won't feel so painful. Life is funny isn't it? You have to do the hardest thing you can ever imagine to get the best thing you can ever imagine. She is the best. 

(Thank you so much to my friend Zoe for taking these pictures. I plan on printing some for the house)

Watching Darcy enjoy her day and feel so special was magical. This is a beautiful age. I love that we can talk about fairly deep things, I love the way her mind ticks over and mostly, I love that I can feel our bond deepening. I'll always be her Mother and I'll always love her but honestly, I adore this child. I know we'll be friends when she's an adult. We have similar personalities and I feel like very often I can understand her emotions and thought processes not just because I'm her Mummy and care giver, but because my mind works the same way too. I just get her. 

When she was born I optimistically hoped that our life would be that of the classic family and we'd all eat croissants in bed on a Sunday morning and laugh over dinner each night (and yanno, other non food based activities haha) and all be merry and bright. As you know, life didn't pan out that way and we are now a team of two, Darcy and Louise, on life's big adventure. 

I thought that as I went from parenting team to solo Mama that I would flounder. I thought I would fall short and not be able to give the nourishment that is required. A lot can change in a year. I feel like this has been my best year of Motherhood and that I've truly found my footing with it. When I walk past the Yummy Mummy's at the school gates, I don't feel inferior or like I'm pretending to do an OK job, I feel equal. I am doing a good job. 

(The gorgeous dress Darcy wore for her birthday was from Mothercare and these gifts are from Alfie and Zoe)

I always knew I would love being Darcy's Mother but I didn't always know I would love Motherhood. Does that make any sense? You can love so much to care for your own child but sometimes the role of Motherhood can be a title you don't want to take. It bands you in this big club of navy and white striped tops, sensible handbags with enough space for a bento box, endless chats about who's had what sniffle when and the constant arranging of meet ups at garish soft play centres. For a while I mocked this elite group and steered as far away from it as possible. And then, something changed. 

(Sneak peak of the incredible cake I ordered from the cutest bakery near my house. I'm obsessed with the colours, the glitter, the details. I'll upload the photos of her party soon and show you it more!)

(This is definitely being printed, framed and hung somewhere)

I realised life in the group is better. Motherhood is a privilege. Being with other Mother's is a joy. Their children play with your children, social development heightens, your calendar is filled, your happy memories are plentiful. Darcy loves all the fun we have with her little friends. We go to farms, have parties, have friends over for dinner, go swimming, play in the park and more. She does all these things with children her own age and you hear nothing but giggles and chatting and sweetness. 

For me too, Motherhood has been a saviour. It has been support and kindness and inspiration and motivation. I even have a penchant for a navy and white striped tee. What can I say? They're stylish AND practical haha. 

I made Darcy but Darcy has been the making of me. She has taught me a new kind of love and allowed me to find a new kind of strength. I walk with my head high and my heart full and one day when she's big enough, I will tell her how she made my life complete. 

For now though, she is five and I will let he be that. 

Happy Birthday Darcy, my sweet baby girl. 

Toodlepip!

xx

Darcy Does My Makeup

Aloha Sprinklerinos, 

How are your day's going? Mine is going well but I'm sooooo sleepy. I'm battling the urge to nap on my laptop!

Earlier this week I uploaded one of my most requested videos, 'Baby Glitter Does My Makeup'. It was an absolute hoot to film. Have you ever let a 4 year old loose with a whole load of colourful makeup and glitter? You should. Just to say you've experienced it!!

(Source)

Darcy really enjoyed the opportunity to make Mummy's face 'beautiful' and be in front of the camera- she's such a little ham. 

I definitely need to make more fun videos like this. Sometimes you can fall into the trap of trying to make serious or information-y content but this just-for-the-jollies piece was so worth the time and mess! I love hearing her little voice and all the strange little things she said as she was creating. 

(Screenshot from the video. What does this even mean??? Ha)

If you have a spare 5 minutes, please do go over and check the video out, it's suuuuuuper cute!!! You can watch it HERE or I have embedded it below (fingers crossed technology favours me!!)

Toodlepip! 

xx

Darcy at the Salon

Aloha Sprinklerinos, 

Did you all have lovely weekends? I spent mine in London hosting a meet & greet with Simply Be to celebrate my new #GlitterClothes range and taking zillions of smiling selfies with some of you lovely ladies (and a couple of men too!) and at home, catching up on Game of Thrones and eating yummy food. Basically the perfect weekend!

Darcy is with me the next few days (Matt and I share her 50/50) and we have a lot of fun things planned.

I've started taking a lot more snaps when I'm out and about and whilst Darcy is on her Easter holidays, life is a lot more fun. Oooeee, I can't wait for the Summer holidays now! They'll be here so quickly!!

This kiddo wants always to have things in her hands. Even when we go swimming she takes toys. Busy little thing.  

Very careful brushing. 

Last week I had an appointment at the salon and Darcy's love for blow drying continued to grow! She really likes coming with me. All the girls make such a fuss of her, they have a little stair case with a platform on that she pretends is a stage, she 'helps' do my hair and draws a lot of pictures for everyone there. She's such a treasure. 

Blow dryers to Darcy, are the MOST fun. 

I know this is blurry but I just love her sweet expression. 

Obviously the best things are special trips, playdates and days out but we also try to make every day activities fun too. These are precious days whilst she's small and so I want to cherish as many moments as possible. 

Life feels so sweet right now. Darcy is a joy, I feel creative and motivated to work and I feel stable. I am so grateful. 

I'm going to try and blog a little more this week, perhaps the photos from her party so do be sure to check back or follow me on twitter/facebook for updates. 

Have a great week Glitterbugs!

Toodlepip!

xx

PS- Check out my instagram to see my new 'do'! It's beaut!

Spring Cleaning Rewards

Aloha Sprinklerinos, 

This is a paid for advertorial. 

It's been a while since I posted my videos on here but now that I'm dipping my toe back into blogging I thought it might be fun to share a few, I hope you agree!

Luxuriating in a squeaky clean bath is heavenly!

With the sun shining a bit more and the sound of birds tweeting, we can all be thrilled that it's Spring and time for floaty skirts and denim jackets- hurrah!! One thing I try to do at this time of year is give my house a bit of a spruce up, organise my mess treasured possessions and spring clean. When the people behind the #DanceAsYouClean Campaign contacted me and asked if I'd like to let you all know about their competition, I thought it would be so fun! You can check out the website to see how you can win music themed prizes to help you dance as you clean! 

Click HERE to watch the video!

I'm not naturally tidy but on a cleaning day I love to blast out my music, pump up the volume and dance my way through the dirt grease and grime. I find having great products helps too and in this video I featured and loved Fairy, Febreze, Flash and Viakal. With a bit of music and products that work beautifully, you'll be luxuriating in your gorgeous sparkly house in no time!! 

A little close up of the goodies that made my house so sparkly!

My absolute favourite thing to do is quieten everything, turn my phone on silent, step into my shiny clean bathroom and have a well deserved soak in the bath. There is something very satisfying about rewarding your spring cleaning efforts with a bit of pampering! I recently had my bathroom renovated so I love taking care of it and enjoying feeling like I have a mini spare next to my bedroom. 

Will you be Spring cleaning this year? What do you do to make it more fun? 

Toodlepip!

xx

This is a paid for advertorial. 

Simple Pleasures

Aloha Sprinklerinos, 

This weekend we celebrated Darcy's birthday (the actual day is tomorrow) with a magical Princess Party for her and all her friends. Zoe and I took a billion photos but it's going to take me a while to edit all through them so give me a little bit of time please, this Mama is going to be busy!

A few days before the party, I did something pretty out of character and I thought it might be fun to talk about it. I joined a Health Club! Say whhhhaaaaaa?? 

I think it's fairly obvious that I'm not in the best physical shape and don't lead the healthiest lifestyle. I've been wanting to put a bit more effort into my health for a while and when I found out that some of my YummyMummy friends were members of a really nice Health Club in my town, I figured it wouldn't hurt to go and check it out. 

I was quite nervous so asked one of my sister's to come with me for a looksie but I was happy with everything, joined and we've been 3 times so far! I signed up both me and Darcy so that we have somewhere fun to go, rain or shine and because we know a few friends (and their Daughter's) who are members so we should have lots of people to play with. In my membership I have access to everything (gym, spa, pool, classes, restaurant etc) and in Darcy's, since she's probably not desperate to go and press some hard weights haha, she has access to the pool with me and can go in the children's club whenever I book her in. She also really likes the sweet potato fries and soft play area in the restaurant!

The pool is lovely with sections for children filled with floatie toys, rubber duckies, watering cans etc, spa facilities and Darcy's favourite - hairdryers in the beautifully swish changing rooms. Yep, this kid was MOST excited by the prospect of blow drying her own hair. The entire time we were in the pool today she asked about it. Her specific requests were to have a shower with her goggles on, dry her own hair (the dryers and flat irons are GHD's by the way, yessss) and take a single cotton pad and ear bud from the complimentary beauty bar thingy. I obliged on all of her requests and she was thrilled. Literally more happy with that than all the playing we did in the pool (I pushed her 20 lengths on a floatie noodle. I want to work that number up in time). 

Naturally it's a bit tricky to take pictures in a pool- I feel weird taking a camera where so many people are half naked and there are lots of children in not much attire, so I took these snaps of Darcy loving life with the hair dryer instead, just on my phone. 

I love that Darcy and I have this new place to add to our list of fun things to do and look forward to increasing my fitness levels a smidge whilst spending time with this funny little thing I made! Right now our lives are about enriching them with the best possible experiences and spending as much time together as possible. We love being our team!

Do you take you littles to the gym or health club? What do they like to do there? 

Toodlepip!

xx

This Child Of Mine

Aloha Sprinklerinos, 

Thank you so much for all the love on my last post. It's nice to know that even though I left you for a while, you are still here. You're a good lot. 

This week I have been thinking a lot about Darcy. I think about her a lot every week but this week, the week before her 5th Birthday, I have been thinking about the bond we share and about what it means to be her Mother. 

I feel very grateful to have been given this sweet child. Any Mother is obviously biased towards her own but honestly, we suit each other. We get on. If I had to trial out being a Mother to a few different kidlings, I'd pick her, haha. 

I love a lot of things about my Darcy. I love the sound of her voice when she says, 'for real' with the most earnest eyes as she tries to impress upon me the validity of whatever she's saying, I love the silky feel of the palms of her hands when she strokes my arms as a comforter whilst she watches her programmes, I love the way she shuffles into her little seat at dinner time and I love the way she called me her 'princess queen' when I tuck her into bed at night. 

I love the way we live. We feel like a team. It's my mission as a Mummy to try and fill her days with as many golden childhood memories as possible. These early years are so precious and so fleeting that if I can find a way to inject magic into a day, I'll do it. 

We have friends over (I have a lot of Mum friends with young children now so we're never short of a playmate), we go to adventure playgrounds and ice cream parlours and tiny cafes that my Mum used to take me to. We sing in the car, we make things at home, we have a LOT of parties (our favourite is a fish finger party like THIS one) and we celebrate anything we can think of (Easter, Valentines, Spring, the weekend)!! I can sense a great love of life in her. She is a forward marcher and wants to enjoy these experiences with me. We are both positive thinkers, we both love home comforts (this kiddo would opt for a luxury hotel above camping any day- just like her Mama!), we both love to snuggle with blankets and we both love to dress up. A lot of people tell me she is a mini me and I tell you, that makes me smile so much. 

As for me as a Mother of a 4 year old, I'd say I'm fairly relaxed. I'm pretty strict on manners and bedtimes and trying hard at school work but I'm pretty lax on things like the time (picture above) she found her face paints and gave herself a 'makeover'. I want her to be free. I want her to experience childhood with the wind in her hair and glitter in her imaginations and to all the time feel safe, knowing that her Mummy is watching over and loving her. 

This little girl, this thing that messes up my house and tires me out and demands so much, makes my life so full. She allows me to love her unconditionally and feel her love back. It's blissful. 

I've had her now almost half a decade- how time flies. I hope each day goes slowly and each memory is cherished and each giggle and cuddle and sweet look is remembered because being this baby's Mama is my most favourite thing. 

Toodlepip!

xx

Hello, We are Happy.

Aloha Sprinklerinos,

It's been a while huh? How have you been? I've missed you. 

I wish I had a big long reason for not blogging much lately but I don't. Last year was hard (THIS video explains why), I ran away to Seattle to escape (THIS and THIS video document that adventure) and then I decided to take a few things off my plate. The blog was one of them and I have to say, it's been good for me. 

For the first time, in a long time, I can truly say, I am happy. <-- I love that I just typed that. It gives me the warm fuzzies. 

With so many things on my shoulders last year, I couldn't cope. This year I have allowed myself to only deal with the things I need. 

I have invested so much more energy into my surrounding community, made Mummy friends (an amazing network for me and Darcy to enjoy the company of, turn to in times of need and explore new child-friendly places with), I am much happier with the videos I'm putting up on my main channel (I still want to pour more into my second channel!), my second clothing line was successfully released, I'm thinking about a couple of new book ideas (it's very early days, still just sparkly seeds in my head) and I make so much more space in my life for non-screen time. I socialise regularly, I say yes to more local activities and I feel like my life has been enriched. 

Now, of course, things aren't perfect but I feel hopeful that the future is looking bright for us. I no longer feel like a feeble broken family that is shakily taking steps forward but a strong, competent, confident family of two that is ready to stride ahead and enjoy everything life has to offer. We have friends to play with, petrol in the car to go anywhere and thanks to this weekend, we now have matching yellow raincoats to wear on our adventures!! I'll have to get some snaps of these!! We have a lorra lorra love in our home. 

Recently I have added another person into my life, a man type, but more on him another time perhaps! He's nice too but it's early days and baby steps. I'll keep you in the loop though!

I wish I had more to tell you but then I'm glad I don't! At the start of 2016 I hoped that this year would be kind to me and so far, it has been. It's been gentle and warm and secure and stable and that's what we needed. Thank you 2016. 

I don't know where I stand with blogging, but with a bit of luck, it'll creep back onto my plate. Spring is such a wonderful season and I would like to dust off my camera so let's see. For now, I just wanted to check in and say, 'Hi, I'm so happy, I love you a lot, are we still friends?'. 

Let me know how your year has treated you so far and what, if anything, you'd be interested to read on this little slice of the net. 

Toodlepip!

xx

Glitter Glasses || ad

Aloha Sprinklerinos,

If you've been following my vlogs for a long time, you might have noticed that sometimes I wear glasses. The times I don't, I'm wearing contact lenses because without either of these, my sight is about as good as a little mole, IE, terrible! With that comes annual vision checks and every now and then, new frames! I'm always on the hunt for gorgeous glasses to suit my face so when Red or Dead got in touch to ask if I'd like to look at some of theirs, I said yes!

#glitterspecs #redordeadlondon

Very aptly I chose these beautiful glitter glasses that are available in Specsavers and I think, are so so perfect for the upcoming party season if you want to add a touch more glamour to your outfit. I love that the gold glitter is on a black background because there's nothing that doesn't go with and I love that the frame has that fun 1950's feel to it. 

I wear glasses at least 2-3 days a week and if I'm on planes because I think they feel nicer on your eyes than contacts and this pair just make me really happy. 

I think glasses are often overlooked as a fashion item because they are there to serve a pretty serious function but that doesn't mean you can't have fun and go glitzy!

I'm due to change my glasses soon so I'll definitely be keeping my little peepers on Red or Dead's twitter and instagram! What do you think? Are you as in love with these glittery beauties as much as I am? I'm obsessed!

Toodlepip!!

xx

PS- The case is sparkly too! Wooo!! 

Mini Happies || October Diaries

Aloha Sprinklerinos,

Today has been blissful. 

It was diarised to go into London but with so much happening at the moment, Maddie and Natalie very kindly took it out my diary and gave me a 'home day' to, as I so eloquently put it, 'get my shit together'. I know it can look like I'm doing nothing but it never feels that way. I'm constantly working on things behind the scenes, adjusting to living alone (and so being the only person to do all the shopping/keep on top of stuff), being a Mama and yanno, just living normal life things. I love it but I tell you, 'home days', they keep me sane. 

I uploaded THIS video earlier today. It was filmed way back in July but it's a goodun. I really like it a lot. 

Today I feel like life cut me some slack and I got on it. I was on time, nay, early!,  for dropping Darcy off at school and managed to pack every single thing she needed (including PE kit and money for a bookbag thank you muchly). I mean, I looked like a stick of crap dropping her off but she looked adorable in pigtail plaits and freshly laundered shirt, these are the things that count I think. 

I came home, did admin. My favourite. By lunchtime I was editing THIS video and reading articles about me. That sounds really weird (because it is) but today there seemed to be a little flurry of things (I'm not talking the Telegraph here, I'm talking about people who write sweet reviews of my book tours or publishers featuring my fundraiser etc) and I'm always interested in what's said. Does that make me crazy vain? I hope not! *checks self in mirror and flicks hair* jks. 

Before I knew it I was driving to collect Darcy from school and I had such a lovely moment. It's quite a scenic little trip and I was singing to a good song on the radio and orange leaves were falling from trees and the sun shone through their branches making the road look dappled and I just thought about how, in that moment, I was so so happy. I felt confident driving, everywhere looked gorgeous and I was about to pick up my most favourite thing in the world from a place she loves being. I know this word is so overused but I felt, brace yourself, blessed. Buhlessed. 

We arrived home and her friends from across the road came over to play. I love having them over because they all entertain each other AND these kids are crazy tidy and clean up after themselves- it's great!! I was in my room working so I could hear what they were up to and I heart squished a bit when I heard them playing 'weddings'. Abi said, 'Ok Darcy I'll marry you. I will never break a promise to you, I will love you most in all the world and I will always look after you' and then they were an item. 

It got me thinking how pure childhood is and how perfect Abi's vows were. In her young mind, those were the most important thing and I think as we grow we loose sight of those sometimes. This last week or so I have been spending more time with Matt than we have done in months and it's been really nice to enjoy each others company again and do some of the things we used to enjoy in the olden days like watch Downton or be way too excited for pizza. We've talked about the vows we took and the love we had and although it isn't that way anymore, I'm so pleased that we're learning to develop a healthy friendship and are able to visit those conversation topics and that despite having separated parents, Darcy is seeing a Mother and Father that can respect and care and co-operate. I am so keen to continue fostering this, what I hope to be, lovely environment for her. 

After the girls had gone home and Darcy had eaten dinner and done her homework (yep, my 4 year old has homework. We had to stick a leaf to a hedgehog, very taxing) and had her bedtime stories read (I'm loving all the new stories she brings home from school. I think reading bedtime stories is just about my favourite thing to do ever), my gorgeous friend Clare popped over for some much needed chat time. I haven't had proper chats with her for over a month so we had plenty to catch up on and really put the world to rights. It felt great. I'm really excited to spend more time with her over the following months. 

On top of all these 'big' things in the day, I'm caught up on laundry, my kitchen is clean and tidy, I've eaten healthily and I'm ready for tomorrow. Winning!

I'm so pleased that the peaceful feeling from last week has carried through. I don't fully know if it will stay because I'm a temperamental creature but I hope it does. It's feels so, so, so good to be stand strong on some personal choices I am currently making and I feel empowered and motivated for the coming weeks. Please cross your fingers that this feeling lasts! 

Tomorrow I have a big London day for Google's Brandcast event so I'm not sure how much energy I'll have to blog but keep an eye on my instagram for updates!

Toodlepip!

xx

PS- I just watched THIS video and loved it so thought you might too. It's a Disney mash up. Disney. What's not to love?! Also, THIS Carrie Hope Fletcher video has been on repeat as I wrote this blog post. What a voice. Little chunks of happy.

Broken and Stronger || October Diary

Aloha Sprinklerinos,

Today went from 'meh' to A-meh-zing! in one big swoop today. It was so good that I'm not even sorry about that terrible bit of word play.

I woke up tired and rushed like crazy to get Darcy and I ready for London. We were due to meet a girl who had won a competition through my first book at Waterstones Piccadilly and since I valued making sure we had everything we needed in my bag over making my face ultra glam, I basically looked very 'tired'. That's the word Dan kindly used as he accompanied us into London on the train. To make up for this though, he entertained Darcy for a full 45 minutes so I could close my eyes and hopefully this helped me look slightly less like a haggard crapbag. 

We arrived (a tiny weeny bit late) and helped Zoe, the sweetest 11 year old you ever did meet, choose a selection of books that Simon & Schuster (my amazing publishers) were gifting her. Then we popped upstairs for the most delicious afternoon tea I've had in a long time. I never knew that Waterstones had such a sweet cafe (with great views) on it's 5th floor but if ever you're around there you really should check it out. It wasn't busy despite being a Sunday afternoon and the food was plentiful and very nice. My hot chocolate was perfection and I think if you took a couple of freshly purchased books up there you could really enjoy a couple of hours. I clearly like to live life on the edge. 

I mosied round the store and bought Darcy a few new books to add to her collection too. I am obsessed with finding the classics and building her up an entire bookshelf of amazing stories and since I'm the one that reads them all to her, I think it's a healthy obsession to have! 

My sister Tiyana joined us and Zoe headed home (with her Mum, she wasn't just sent off into central London alone!) and I said goodbye to Maddie, my Manager. That woman. I don't think I'd actually do my life without her haha. 

Narna (Tiyana) and I jumped in a cab and headed over to Covent Garden where she wanted to spend a couple of vouchers that she had. On the way to MAC we went into Kate Spade and hot damn, that was a big mistake. That shop is heaven. Everything in there is perfection and I feel like they designed it with my magpie eyes in mind. From the tray of twinkly gold jewellery to the way they lay the glitter encrusted purses out like sweets, I can't resist it. I may have bought a thing. A beautiful, pink, shiny thing. *drools*

After I'd severely dented my bank balance we did Narna's errands and took a few minutes to wander round Covent Garden and soak up the sunshine a bit. It was so lovely to just be in a familiar comfortable place, on a sunny day, with people that mean so much to me. 

After my super lonely day earlier this week I feel like things have really picked up. Sometimes you have to feel a bit broken to feel strong again I think. For the first time in quite a few weeks I feel like I'm doing it. I don't know quite what I'm doing but whatever that is, I'm really giving it my all and trying hard. I told Maddie on Friday, 'this morning I woke up and felt such a peace'. I still do. Let's hope it continues another week!!

Toodlepip!

xx

So. Much. Cheese || October Diary

Aloha Sprinklerinos,

Notice :: Do you live in Tribeca New York? If you do and would like to come and hang out, I'll be at Barnes & Noble on 97 Warren Street from 4pm on Friday October 16th signing my book Life With A Sprinkle Of Glitter and would LOVE to see you! More details HERE. 

Oh Saturday, you've been good to me. Thank you. 

The day started really beautifully with Darcy being dropped off by Matt and us dashing about running a couple of errands. By 12 noon we were at the station picking up my lovely friend Daniel J Layton Actor (this is the full name that we fully call him by) and we zipped out into the countryside to visit Lamport Hall which was hosting it's annual craft fair. 

(I let Darcy choose a little irredescant silver fairy tree ornament and she was THRILLED to carry it round all day!!)

Now, call me middle aged but I try to go to this every year. There is something so pleasing about being in ye olde surroundings (imagine Downton Abbey, it's like that) and gently moseying round looking at stalls of handmade goodies and sampling fudge and cheese. Oh man, the cheese. We went gaga for it. Sometimes I wanna dance in a club until 3am and flirt mercilessly with hot, tall, brunette men and then sometimes, i want to wear stretchy leggings and say, 'Oh Daniel, there's a table of handmade honey over there!'. Swings and roundabouts folks, swings and roundabouts. 

Darcy enjoyed looking at the owls (whilst I hovered nervously hoping she didn't have her little eyes pecked out) and sharing fish and chips with me. After spending/being conned into spending £15 on olives, we climbed back into the Minimobile and headed back to surburbia. 

After a quick pitstop at the farm shop to buy pumpkins we were home, snuggled up on the sofa with Darcybird to watch Harry Potter And The Philosopher's Stone. I started reading Darcy the new illustrated book this morning and thought it might be fun for her to watch the film so that as we read, she can understand a little better. I think 4 years old might be a little young for Harry Potter (just the first one, I think they get much older after book 2) but we're gonna take it slow and see how we go. With any luck she'll be hooked and I can relive my Potter love through her. 

So here I am, on my sofa at 6pm with blankets, Darcy, Dan, cheese, olives, crisps, fairy lights and a couple of kitties. I could not be happier! 

Shortly my cousin is swinging by and we'll order pizza and crack open a bottle of something (no cleanse on a Saturday haha) and enjoy the evening. 

This is exactly what I need. No worries, just cosies. I love it. 

Which is your favourite Harry Potter film? 

Toodlepip!

xx

Amazing Advertisers || October 2015

Aloha Sprinklerinos, 

It is officially Autumn and this pleases me. I'm all about the cosy blankets, fairy lights and darker evenings. Not to mention it's almost acceptable to begin the countdown to Christmas! It'll come around quick I can tell ya! Before then though we have a few more Amazing Advertisers to get through, so grab a hot beverage of your choosing and lets get going! 

Source

Paws and Prada

Oh my little ovaries, you’re in for a cuteness overload. Paws and Prada is a doggy blog written by the lovely Joy, and what a joy she is! (see what I did there?) If you’re a poochy lover, then you’re in for a treat. Joy writes about all things canine, from advice to reviews and even birthday wishlists for your favourite furry companion. Whether you’re a dog owner yourself, thinking of purchasing a pup, or just enjoy puppy pictures that make you squeal (we all do it), Paws and Prada is definitely worth a gander. Grab your nearest furry friend (pet, not person) and enjoy.

The What Now Blog

I’ve discussed my love for Louise’s blog many times, she’s an inspirational gal that always gives me a bit of pep in my step after I’ve had a read through her posts. The What Now Blog is a lifestyle blog designed to help you get the best out of life, be it work, play or self-love, Louise has tackled it all. This month I thoroughly enjoyed Louise’s post on all to consider before quitting your career, I can draw on her advice muchly after I said goodbye to my office job days, I would recommend that post to anyone considering a career change! Wow Louise, what a knowledgeable woman!

Hooked On The Music

I’m intrigued by Hooked On The Music, it is written by student and music lover Amy, who reviews various artists and their tunes on her blog for our enjoyment. I’m pretty convinced that this is a brill new way to discover music to please your ears, Amy my gal you’re onto something there! I’m guilty of listening to the same music on repeat and never really giving new artists a try, so I like the thought of sitting and having a gander of someone else’s music loves to decide whether or not I would enjoy it too. It’s a modern world out there, switch off that radio and get reading!

Love and Blossom

Love and Blossom is a ‘little bit of everything’ blog written by good egg Kat. Kat writes about everything from tasty food, make up loves and even a little segment called ‘brand focus’ which I’m quite the fan of! You’ll have to have read to see what that’s all about! Kat writes well, her photography is crisp and lovely and Love and Blossom is quite simply just a good ol’ blog. It’s beautiful to look at, and reading it pleases me muchly. Kat, you officially have another fan, keep up the good work and don’t stop sewing!

Silverspoon London

Angie is another returning advertiser with Sprinkle of Glitter so I’m sure you’re all a fan of her fabulous blog by now. Silverspoon London is a lifestyle, food and travel blog written by one of the most beautiful ladies you ever did see, Angie. Angie visits some of the swankiest places around, eats the most delicious foods and takes glorious photos along her way all for our viewing pleasure, and I’m always interested to read what she has to say about her experiences. I trust Angie’s reviews and I’m always intrigued by her recent travels and tastes. If you love food or travelling, take a virtual trip with Angie!

Collective Strand

Collective Strand is another ‘little bit of everything’ blog written by Aussie gal Alexandra. Alexandra is a new advertiser with Sprinkle of Glitter so I made sure to have a right good gander of her posts and I am pleased as punch to have done so. Also she’s a Harry Potter lover, so extra brownie points there. Alexandra writes some lovely posts about life and making the most of it and it’s always refreshing to read. Recently Alexandra shared some of her favourite ‘lifey’ and I was all over that, I do love a good quote! Alexandra writes some top notch posts and I look forward to reading future content from her, lets show her some Sprinklerino love and say a big hello! 

And that my lovelies is the end of October Amazing Advertisers! 

Toodlepip! 

xx

Good Women | October Diary

Aloha Sprinklerinos, 

Notice :: Do you live in Tribeca New York? If you do and would like to come and hang out, I'll be at Barnes & Noble on 97 Warren Street from 4pm on Friday October 16th signing my book Life With A Sprinkle Of Glitter and would LOVE to see you! More details HERE. 

Today has been a warm fuzzies in my heart kind of day. Such a stark difference from the lonely day, hooray. 

(Little video I uploaded today on my main YouTube Channel, Sprinkle of Glitter)

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I woke up early and without my alarm, hopped in the (broken but just about manages) shower, tidied the bathroom a bit, pulled all the junk out of the under-the-stairs-cupboard and Judith (my auntie) came over with her bag of tricks to potter about my house and get me in shipshape. 

Shortly after the plumber and bathroom designer called by to measure the bathroom (hence the tidying) for a re-fit and look at the cupboard-under-the-stairs (again, hence the emptying) to see if I could install a toilet and sink in it. I know it's terribly old and boring but I'm really crazy excited about the prospect of having a downstairs cloakroom. I want to hold more work meetings from home and by having some tinklywinkly facilities downstairs I can keep my upstairs floor nice and private and still feel like it's a home and not and office. I'm also excited to choose paint colours or wallpaper patterns and hang knickknacks on the walls in there. This blog actually started as a 'doing my home up' place so I'm excited to be revisiting that area of life. 

I feel a great sense of calm today. Lately I have felt like all my emotions are a big scribble but today, at last, they feel more like individually drawn lines instead of a big tangled mess. I hope this continues. When I feel emotionally calm I am a lot happier. I am able to stand strong in my choices and feel confident in my decisions and with such a cray cray life, this is a tonic!

The sun was shining and my car had a full tank of petrol so I headed on up to Nottingham for another Diary book signing. It was the best! The girls/women that came were all engaging and funny and the staff at WHSmith really were fabulous. It can be a bit hit and miss with these things but today was a total win. 

On the way home we (Maddie and I) were joined by Hannah my Publicist from Faber & Faber and I basically love her. We chatted for a solid two hours about books we love and films we enjoy and after a while I realised I had been smiling for a really long time. I spend a lot of life talking about work, Darcy or men (urgh), so it was really liberating to discuss something different and be with such smart, charismatic women for a few hours. I felt very uplifted by them actually. 

A short pootle home after dropping them off at Northampton train station and I was in cosied up with a bowl of risotto and a glass of peach squash. 

I'd resigned myself to a night of cats and netflix (not a bad night to resign yourself to I must say) and then my neighbour messaged to see if I fancied a glass of wine. I'm sticking to my cleanse so it's squash for me but I'm glad she's popping over, she's a lovely addition to my life. 

So today has been a day of good women. I'm happy. I hope the weekend is good. 

Toodlepip!

xx

Driving Fears || October Diary

Aloha Sprinklerinos,

I was right, today was a better day. Thank goodness. 

I woke up without my alarm (always nice) and without having a bunch of distressing dreams (always even nicer) and got dressed and ready in a calm, lovely manner. 

I picked up Natalie from the station and we drove up to Sheffield for my first proper book signing for the Diary. This sentence might not seem like much but it's BIG. For as long as I've had a licence, I've been petrified of driving on the motorways. I missed out on events, took super lengthy train rides and paid for really expensive taxis just so I wouldn't have to face that fear. This last month though, I've cracked it. I've done a couple of big journeys and although I don't much like it, I can do it. The sense of freedom is incredible. I can go ANYWHERE now! So, that was a high point. 

The signing itself was dreamy. Lots of smiling happy faces and lovely little chats were had. My Publicist, Hannah, is a hoot and I think knows more about Harry Potter than JK herself. I like her a lot. I have another signing today in Nottingham at the WHSmith in the Victoria at 4pm, wristbands are available on the door so do pop in and say hello. 

The car journey home was long (thank you traffic) and so Natalie and I weathered it with out of tune signing to a selection of super cheesy pop songs. Amazing. 

I popped into Matt's for dinner (oh hi Dominos pizza) and now I'm home and thinking about a bath and/or netflix. Who knows??

All in all, a much better day! 

Since it's gone midnight, I've got about as much energy as a drunk flea so won't type too much but I'm enjoying these little updates. Diaries are good for the soul I think. 

Toodlepip!

xx

Lonely || October Diary

Aloha Sprinklerinos,

I've been fighting it all day but today, I am lonely. Loneliness is actually my least favourite emotion and I think the one that cuts deepest. 

I woke up early and trotted out to a salon appointment and enjoyed a chitchat with my oh-so-brilliant stylist who I love. I knew I was feeling down at that point because I had horrible dreams all night that really effected me. 

When I got in I did a little bit of work but really couldn't focus and since I'd barely slept I thought I would just take an hour to have a snooze and 're-set' myself. It didn't work. I slept for a long time (I was meant to have a shoot today and it got cancelled so I had the spare hours) and then when I woke up Matt text to say it was his night with Darcy (we alternate Weds) and that he'd collect her from school. 

I tried to edit my vlog that I've now uploaded (watch it here if you like) but really, I just felt super flat. I'm vlogging today and I'm powering through but I know it's not going to be a cheerful one. Urgh. I hate this. I hate not being able to just switch a button and feel ok. 

I know in my brain that I'm OK. I know that my life is so, so full of amazing, exciting things and that I am so much more fortunate than billions of other people but my heart, sometimes it doesn't hear my brain and so we have a little problem. 

I feel all my emotions. I'm not very good and brushing things aside and moving on. If I'm sad, I'm sad. If I'm happy, I'm happy. I'm cool with this because it makes things simple. I know where I am with things, I'm seldom confused. 

So, that's today. Diaries are not places you can hide. Sometimes things just are a bit flat and you have to accept and carry on. 

Tomorrow, I'm sure, will be much better. 

Toodlepip!

xx

A Good Audience || October Diary

Aloha Sprinklerinos,

It's 11.19pm and I'm listening to Heather Traska One Woman Medley's. You should check her out, she's incredible. 

So, today. A GOOD day. 

Woke up to my alarm (hurray no sleeping through) and got Darcy ready. She takes forever to do what she's meant to but I do love our mornings. We chat in the car on the way to school and it's nice to hear her thoughts and give her a little pep talk. 

Babykins dropped off and I was home and chatting to Marie on skype for an hour. We haven't chatted in a few days because Luca was in hospital (all better now) and so I missed her a lot. It's funny how you can have a best friend on the other side of the planet but still feel so close to them. 

After a bit of housework (my least favourite thing), I hopped in a cab, a train, another cab and I was at the Gleam offices in Shoreditch, London. I love being there. There is always such a buzz in the office and I feel super pumped to do this YouTube thing. 

I had a meeting about my next project that I'm working on and feel reeeeaaalllyyyy excited about it. I want to tell you all about it but I've been shh'd on that one. For now though, just know I've got something up my sleeve and you're gonna like it. Woo!

Another fun thing about the Gleam offices are when other YouTubers pop in. Today Marcus was there and it was so good to see him. We're going to make some videos together soon so if you have any collab requests or ideas, do send them my way please. I'm all ears. He's a good boy. 

The best part of my day was at Waterstones Piccadilly where I hosted a Q&A session to celebrate the launch of my 2016 Diary. The session turned more into a mini LouiseLIVE and I laughed so hard at some points that I thought I would cry. It was such a great event. I really felt like it was a super warm audience and a good crowd. I always enjoy events like this but the audience make all the difference and today they were brilliant. I feel all buzzy and happy from them. Squueeeee. I'm doing signings in Sheffield and Nottingham this week so check out my FB for more details if you're interested. 

In the car on the way home (I wasn't driving) I had the best text chitchats with Matt. I'm so glad that we are building such a nice friendship. It feels nice. 

I got in, heated up some pasta, fed the cats, put PJ's on, caught up on YouTube subscriptions, checked my Just Giving page (can't even talk about how emotional and grateful I feel about that) and here we are. I'm thinking about either having a soothing bath or falling asleep to netflix. I can't decide. 

I realise this blog post is short and sweet for such a huge day but I think this is the best my brain can do right now haha. I'm at home all day tomorrow so I think I might vlog it since lots of you say you prefer the homey videos. Keep your eyes on my Chatter channel tonight because I'm putting a video of my weekend up. Woooo!

I'm tired but happy. Life is being very good to me at the moment. 

Toodlepip!

xx

You Warm My Frazzled Heart || October Diary

Aloha Sprinklerinos,

(Little Notice - If you are in London today, I will be in Waterstones Piccadilly at 6.30pm giving a talk and Q&A session to celebrate my Sprinkle of Glitter 2016 Diary. Tickets are available HERE and I'd love to see you.) 

"If this were any other day, you'd be a broken woman by now"- Hazel Hayes describing my day haha. 

So things didn't get off to a good start. 

Matt was going to collect Darcy at 7.30am to take her to school. Usually I take her on a Monday but arrangements were shifted about a bit because he had plans the night before and yadda yadda long story short, I slept through my alarm. 7.38am and there he is, knocking on the door whilst Darcy and I are still fast asleep.

Morning panic ensues with me trying to get a sleepy kiddo dressed and ready for school as fast as possible, all whilst Matt is waiting and getting later and later for work. I felt so awful. I think I sent about three different apology messages!

After a rare night of being up and down (Darcy woke up several times wanting a drink or a cuddle or whatever else) I was pooped so decided to go back to sleep for a couple of hours and make the most of my morning off. Nope. The washing-machine-fixing-man arrived at 9am and so he had the lovely sight of me bleary eyed in a dressing gown whilst he fixed the machine and very kindly told me I'm an idiot and all I needed to do was clear out the filter now and then. Who even knew there was a filter to clear?? Not me. 

Just time for a quick wash and face sort and I had two more house related appointments and a bunch of emails under my belt. My Darcy & Me blog post was drafted, I uploaded the Pink Hair Story video, check all my social platforms, sorted out some details for a future video with a clothing company, planned my travel logistics for tomorrow (or your 'today') and it was time to dash out for my nail appointment. An oasis of calm. I do so love Chloe my nail lady. It's an hour just to chitchat about nothingness and fill her in on life bits and hear all of hers and watch my nails be made pretty. Well worth the £20 if you ask me!

Back in the car, a quick stop in Waitrose to pick up some sour cream (and then fifty other things that I didn't really need but hot damn I'll be glad of the 'perfectly ripe' avocados in the morning) and I was back in the car to collect Darcy from school. Never has a woman felt more smug than me when I was 5 minutes early at the school gate. Look at me other Mum's! I've got this school run thing down too!! I also am a together woman who can stand here casually reading the notice board and smiling about nothing! Yes! Here I am! I'm bloody doing it!!! 

Darcy was full to the brim with excitement. There had been a 'fire malarm' and they'd all had to stand outside in their PE kits in the rain. She was soggy and exhilarated. I was sort of pumped for it too. In the car home I was regaled of how the 'malarm' went 'wooowoooowooooowoooowooo' and the 'whoooollleeeeee school even the big girls' stood in the rain outside. Big time drama, big time happies. 

Home and dinner (rice and chili with the sour cream) and cuddles. Darcy requested Home Alone 2 (great taste kiddo, great taste) and we watched it together snuggled up for a solid 23 minutes before her attention wained and she went upstairs to play, 'discos'. 

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I tinkered about on my video upload and once it was live, stepped away from my laptop and popped across the road to my neighbour's house for a chitchat and to let Darcy run wild with her daughter's. Sometimes just 10 minutes away from a screen or your own house can really lift your mood. I wasn't feeling down but the day was hectic and that was the first time I really let go and breathed.

Home again and by now my ironing had been delivered. OK, let's talk about this. Ironing services. Amazing things. When my washing machine broke last week, I was in a bad place. I'd not kept on top of the laundry, clean garments were low in stock and Darcy was down to her last few pairs of clean knickers. I rang a local laundry service and voila, one night last week a nice lady comes round and takes my crumpled up stuff away. A weekend later and a few pounds down, there it is, in my porch in vacuum packed bags, washed and ironed like some kind of domestic dream. I was utterly thrilled by this whole process. I think even more so than Darcy with the fire 'malarm'. I've promised myself I'm not going to do this again and that now my machine is fixed (and I know about filters), I won't splurge on this luxury but wow, everything was so lovely. I felt so able to live my life knowing my laundry was in ship shape order. Let's see how soon I'm addicted shall we? 

After I'd put it all away, Darcy had FaceTimed her Dad and I'd read 3 bedtime stories and sung a lullaby (Fresh Prince of Bel Air theme tune counts right?), I popped back downstairs to see how my video was getting on. 

I was blown away by this community's generosity. I've never asked for charity like this so I wasn't sure how it would all go but oh my, it was amazing. My JustGiving page is currently at £7,081.83 of the £10,000 goal and it's only 9.20pm on Monday night as I write this. That's incredible. That will make a difference. I am so proud to be a part of this community and to be constantly shown the amazing hearts that make it up. If you'd like to donate, my page is HERE and the video is HERE. 

So, yes, Hazel was right. Normally missing my alarm or being a mess in front of the plumber or dashing about like a wild thing (I've had a few private appointments today too which took up time and energy) would frazzle me to tears. I cry very easily. But today, not so much. I feel strong and capable. Maybe that's the magic laundry service, maybe it's how much I loved Darcy's enthusiasm for standing in the rain in her PE kit or, maybe, it's you lot. 

I know we don't speak in the conventional chitchat terms but I always feel you, I always know you're there and I feel so much love that it's hard to quantify it in writing. Sometimes, without even realising it, you do good fuzzy warm heart feels to me. 

Toodlepip!

xx