The London Mummy, Author at The London Mummy

12 Apps For An Easier 2017

And a very Happy New Year to you all! There was a fleeting moment when I thought my first post of the year would be my resolutions/goals for 2017. However, not being self deprecating – I discarded it pretty quickly as thought it wouldn’t particularly benefit you (less sugar, more walking – yawn yawn yawn) and my ultimate goal is to inform you, not bore you! Instead, I thought a list of my favourite apps would be a great way to kick start the year!!

Cozi

This app ‘made me’ say goodbye to my trusted Filofax as I could no longer read what I had written. Husband to Diddi Dance and (2yr old) in Japan. Just no. You get the picture.

With Cozi, everyone has the app (our au pair does too) and each person is assigned a colour. Anyone can enter an appointment or holiday and it updates on everyone else’s app. There is also an area for to do lists and shopping lists. I LOVE IT.

Task Rabbit

This is great if you have a one-off small job i.e looking for waitresses, someone to walk the dog or a patient person to build you your Ikea shelves. Book them in (they can come within the hour) and per them per hour. Super duper.

Amazon Alexa

We have just kindly been given the Amazon Dot which is ‘dot’ that you have in the kitchen – connected to your phone and the wifi – and you can ask it questions, play music and rather dangerously order things (you have to have an Amazon Prime account) It is such fun too and a great way to bribe the kids. ‘The first one to finish your broccoli gets to ask Alexa a question…’ (They love ‘Alexa – tell us a joke!’)

Touchnote

One of my friends asked me jokingly the other day ‘have you forgotten how to write?’ as she received another thank you letter from me using Touchnote. Basically, you buy credits, upload a photo, enter the recipients address, write your blurb and press send. I do think it is as personal as a hand written thank you as you get a personalised photo! (Justify justify…)

Photobox

I have lost my phone and the subsequent photos one too many times to make the misatke of not printing out my photos.

With Photobox, you upload your photos from your phone directly onto the Photobox app, order them and they will arrive within 48hrs. You can also order personalised presents.

Waze

Why was I using a separate Sat Nav for so long when this beauty was around? Move over Google maps (and trad maps for that matter). Simply put in your destination postcode and it will navigate you to the place you are going to, whilst avoiding any heavy traffic along the way. (You can even choose Sue Perkins as the voice!)

Uber

If you haven’t downloaded Uber yet, what have you been doing? No, seriously, it is a fantastic way to get from a – b for a reasonable price. I have a discount code to give you £15 off your first ride TLMUBER if you are a newbie (My pleasure)

Deliveroo

Perhaps I shouldn’t mention this at the start of the year when most people have healthy intentions BUT you really should have this app if you like a variety of takeaways (Carluccio’s take away? win!) With a minimum order of something ridiculous like £10 it is a great option if you are home alone too. #snoutfest

My Fitness Pal

Leading on from the above, if you want to watch what you eat, My Fitness Pal is a great calorie counter. Enter your goal weight, how much you exercise and it will give you your calorie limit for the day. Then simply enter your food – they even have specific meals from restaurants – drink and exercise each time something passes your mouth and you will see how many calorie allowance you have left (for that glass of wine at the end of the say!)

Hoop

I have written about the fantastic Hoop before here. If you are ever at a loose end with your kids, enter your postcode and it will show you what’s on around you. Genius.

Mush

If you have just had a baby or moved to a new area and are looking for some like-minded mum pals, Mush ‘the tinder for Mum’s’ has made this app a perfectly acceptable and practical way for meeting other mums in your area.

Zipjet

Schedule your washing to be collected and dropped off at a specific time. Can also do your dry cleaning! I have only used this when our washing machine packed in but could easily get used to it!

I hope you have found this useful. For more Apps & Services, please have a look at The Ultimate Directory. I always love to hear what makes your life easier (and if I am missing a trick!) so drop me an email hello@thelondonmummy and say hi (or if you receive my emails, simply reply!) xx

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Events

What’s On Television For Kids Over Christmas?

Last year I did a summary of programs and films over the festive period (mostly terrestrial) and some of you have asked for it again as you found it helpful to have it all in one place. To be fair, a monkey could do this (going through the Radio Times) picking a few programs for the kids, alas – there are no monkeys to do it, so it’s down to me. (We do it anyway actually, so I am so happy to share it with you!) Be warned however, I am no TV Critic so don’t blame me if some things are rubbish!

Anyway, I hope you find it as helpful as last year.

Just quickly – yesterday’s post has had great feedback form you – thank you!! If you missed it you can catch it here 8 Tips For a Happy Christmas With Your Other Half

Wednesday 21st December

The Borrowers 5.20pm C5

Puss in Boots 1.45pm BBC1

Thursday 22nd December

James & The Giant Peach 12.30pm C5

How To Train Your Dragon 3.40pm BBC1

Friday 23rd December

A day to do something other than television as there isn’t much on that day!

Christmas Eve Saturday 24th December

Father Christmas 8.40am C4

Zootropolis 1215 & 6.15pm Sky Premiere

The Snowman & The Snowman & the Snowdog 4.45pm & 5.15pm C4

We’re Going On A Bear Hunt 7.30pm C4

Christmas Day Sunday 25th December

Still baffles me why there is so much watchable TV for children on Christmas Day, which is actually the one day you don’t really need it! Swap it the 27th I say! Anyway…

The Cat In The Hat 7.35 BBC2

Tom Thumb 8.50am BBC2

CBeebies The Nutcracker 9am BBC1

The Bee Movie 1020 BBC2

The Croods 11.50am BBC1

The Polar Express 1.05pm ITV2

The Farmers Llamas 1.20pm BBC1 (Featuring Shaun The Sheep)

The Jungle Book 1.30pm & 8pm Sky Premiere

The Lion King 3.10pm ITV

The Wizard of Oz 3.35pm TCM

Annie 4.30p, W

Oliver 7pm W

Boxing Day Monday 26th December

The Flintstones 9am ITV

The Adventures of Tintin 11am BBC2

Brave 2.40pm BBC1

The Lion The Witch & The Wardrobe 4.10 C4

Bank Holiday Tuesday 27th December

Gnomeo & Juliet 9.10am BBC1

Kung Fu Panda 3 1.40pm & 7.15pm Sky Premiere

Mr Peabody & Sherman 3.50pm BBC1

Wednesday 28th December

Snow Babies 8.25am CBeebies

Tinkerbell & The Secrets of the Wings 9am BBC1

Muppets Most Wanted 3.35pm BBC1

Ethel & Ernest 7.30pm BBC1

Thursday 29th December

Chicken Run 1050 BBC1

Room On The Broom 3.55pm BBC1

Shrek the Third 4.20pm BBC1

Inside Out 9.35am & 8pm Sky Pixar

Friday 30th December

Shark Tale 9am BBC1

Flushed Away 1050am BBC1

Stick Man 3.40pm BBC1

Wreck It Ralph 4.10pm BBC1

The Fox & The Child BBC Iplayer Free to view

So these are what have caught my eye. I am especially excited about We’re Going On A Bear Hunt as that book is a firm favourite in our house.

We are going to try and remember to Sky Plus this and a few other favourites before we head off for Christmas as I forgot last year!

I know most people have Netflicks, Amazon Prime etc for movies on demand but I think Christmas is the one time of year it is good make your children wait for something special on TV.

What do you think?

Anyway, have a very Happy Happy Christmas! xx

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Family Life

8 Tips For a Happy Christmas With Your Other Half

We all know that Christmas is a pressure cooker of emotions, routines and expectations. It is meant to be a happy time of year but it can end up being the most stressful. What’s most important is that you and your other half are on the same page because if you are united – children playing up, traffic jams and the fact you have forgotten the presents – will be all the more bearable if you aren’t at each others throat.

So, how to do that?

Plan

Planning isn’t sexy, but if you take time to plan in advance – it will pay dividends in the long run.

Decide who is doing what, what your timings are and who is in charge of what, before the holidays commence.

This is part of our check list that we will delegate between each of us –

Wrapping
Packing clothes
Packing car
In Car entertainment
Route planning
What we are doing each day (without zapping every last minute plan)
Mealtimes

(I just made that up now, I don’t actually have a check list that I make us go through!)

Anyway, you get the picture.

It’s Not a Competition

You both work hard. You are both knackered. You both deserve a break. But remember, it is not a competition who is the most tired/over worked etc. Treat each other how you would like to be treated.

‘Are you ok?’

‘Would you like anything?’

‘Is there anything I can do for you?’

These are a few thoughtful questions that will make the other person feel valued and understood.

Remember, it is not a competition.

Divide and Conquer

When we first had kids, we did everything together at weekends. Now we have 3 it life is a bit more hectic.

It is sometimes more effective and peaceful to divide and conquer.

Why not factor in giving the other one total guilt free time off a couple of hours a day?

I am going to suggest 1 of us does breakfast (him!) we all have lunch together and 1 of us does kids tea (I opt for this ones so it can coincide it with a glass of wine!)

Get Some Rest

Each family has their achilles heel. For us it is tiredness. We know that we don’t function well if we have over cooked it or had a late night.

Once or twice during the silly season is a given – it would be rude not to let your hair down at Christmas, but otherwise we make sure we get a good nights sleep so we are on the best form possible for the next day.

Early drink, early bed!

Anything to keep Vivian emerging (my alter ego!)

Compromise

Are there things that you are pre-empting? Talk about them. This is one tiff that always arises which we have worked out how to overcome.

My husband likes sharing his food. I don’t. Especially when he wants my last mouthful. (Yes, i am greedy/selfish) Anyway, we have overcome this by compromise.

I will share my food at the beginning of my meal but heaven forbid he wants my last mouthful!

Lower Your Expectations

If you don’t expect anything, you won’t be disappointed.

Ok, this may seem like a negative way to live but in terms of presents, behaviour and the amount of alone time you want etc look at everything as a bonus rather than an expectation.

Chill out!

Family & OCD are not a good combinations. If you both have different standards, this can often be a bone of contention.

I know that my husband likes me to leave the bed made, curtains pulled, clothes put away if I leave the bedroom last and he is a bit irksome at kids mealtimes, so I want him to leave me to it. (hence why he will be doing the morning shift!)

But remember, don’t sweat the small stuff. It’s not worth it. Will you remember when you are 86?

Live In The Moment

These years when the kids are gone will be gone in the blink of an eye.

Live in the moment.

Enjoy it.

See the good on everything.

Make happy memories.

Put down the phone.

Don’t wish it away.

Love each other.

Keep your mouth shut.

Don’t react.

Be still & etch the joy on your kids faces this Christmas in your heart forever.

Have a very very happy Christmas

Love

Lucinda xxx

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Activities Family Life Spotlight

How To Drop a Dress Size In Two Weeks with Amanda Stotesbury

Crash dieting/exercise is frowned upon by (mothers!), nutritionists & fitness gurus as it is deemed unhealthy and unsustainable. ‘You will only put the weight back on…’ blah blah blah Perhaps this is true (we will wait and see!) but if you are like me, you need a kick-start to see results quickly. Therefore you feel encouraged and hence it is easier to continue… So, how can you drop a dress size in 2 weeks?

Basically, it started as the stars aligned. I didn’t think, ‘oh December is going be my month to get healthy!’ (Why would anyone choose this month?)

I haven’t eaten breakfast for a long time, but when a nutritionist from Nestle Breakfast Cereals said

‘If you don’t put fuel in a car, it will stop suddenly, so why would you not put fuel in your body at the beginning of the day?’

I really felt she was talking to me! I always crashed at 11 and made unhealthy choices, so since then in November I have started having breakfast with the kids (usually porridge)

This helped me energy levels enormously.

When I heard about Amanda from Bella Bello and her two-week kick-start course, I jumped at the chance to give it a go. Amanda is a personal trainer and pilates teacher and works throughout London.

She came to my house 3 times a week and either trained me at home, interval training in the park or on an actual jog. I must say, I loved the boxing the most – might have to get some gloves!

Amanda may even bring her dog Goose!

She also enlightened me about a common problem woman have after pregnancy. No, not weak pelvic floor (although that is super important!)

Diastis Recti

It is basically the gap in your abdomen after pregnancy and unless you close it through breathing and pilates exercises, normal sit ups will futile and only make the problem worse, hence never getting your abs back. We worked on this and she showed me some exercises to narrow the gap.

If you would like her to check your Diastis Recti, drop her an email and she will very happily swing by for 10 minutes and give you a quick prognosis!

Anyway, usually at this time in December, my face is puffy, I am grabbing a croissant for breakfast due to a permanent hangover and I am tucking my tum into Spanx.

But not this month!!

I actually went for a jog this morning. This is a view of the Thames from Hammersmith Bridge.

She also recommended two great apps Gym Boss for interval training and Nike Training for prompts & encouragement whilst you train.

I have also just bought a Nutri Bullet from a friend who is moving back to the States and I have got the kids on board too. They are loving the concoctions.

Amanda gave me so many top exercise and nutrition tips over the course of two weeks and has left me with a little plan to continue what we started.

Amanda’s 5 Nutrition Cheats

Replace pasta with butternut squash spaghetti (spiralized butternut squash) M & S is my favourite
Freeze blueberries as a delicious snack and you are far less likely to eat the whole punnet if it’s frozen.
To battle my mid-week chocolate craving I keep a low-calorie chocolate powder in the cupboard or have a matcha latte.
Instead of ice cream, slice up bananas and freeze. Then put in a blender with anything you’d fancy to make healthier ice cream!!
Eat from smaller plates and bowls this is an old trick but it really works!!

Amanda’s 5 Training Cheats

If you’re struggling to get out and run, just say you’re only going to do 10 minutes. I find the moment you get to 10 you always want to carry on for another 10!
If you really can’t get motivated for the gym put on YouTube at home and find a workout. I love Fitness Blender but there are tons of workouts on there to choose from.
Buy new fitness clothes! This always inspires me to workout.
Not really a cheat but get a personal trainer! No self motivation needed we do all the work for you!
If you don’t fancy running one day then don’t force yourself instead do a 30 minute hiit workout! Similarly if you can’t face lifting weights go for a jog! It’s all about consistency so whatever gets you up off the sofa go for it!

Amanda’s Favourites

Restaurant : Kurobuta Kings Road / Marble Arch or Nama Vegan 222 West Kensington

Hotel : Costes in Paris

Website : Net-a-porter

Shop : Maje, Sandro, Baar and Baas, Sweaty Betty

Holiday Destination Tough one! Our villa in Majorca, Ibiza or Tulum Mexico!

So the real test will be Christmas. With the help of My Fitness Pal I will be able to spread out the calories and if all else fails, I will just book some more sessions with Amanda!

Why don’t you book her for January?

£240 for 6 1 hr sessions.

Now that would be a great Christmas present!

amanda@bellabello.co.uk

bellabello.co.uk

Amanda is also giving away 2 FREE sessions. She will come to your home/office/park and put you through your paces. (Don’t worry, she is firm but fair!)

Email me hello@thelondonmummy.com with Amanda in the subject to be entered into the draw. Draw will close on 21st December.

Good luck! xx

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Gift Guides

22 Gift Ideas for Babies

Warning. This list may make you broody. It has only been 2 years since my youngest was a baby but I am sure there weren’t so many nice things around then. Whether I was in a fog (probably), my eyes have been opened since starting this blog or there are actually more beaut clothes & toys on the market (probably a combination), you’re in luck if it’s babies presents you are after.

By the way, if you still need inspo with your present buying, have a look at my Gift Guides, where you will find Granny, Grandpa, Mum, Dad, Girl, Boy and Au Pair!

Rice DK Melamine Set – Indian Summer Start at £4.50

Why not get a little baby there first plate, cup and cutlery? I love the bright vivid colours from Rice DK. They are smash proof, dishwasher safe and look very cool! (I didn’t know Rice DK had such an extensive range of homewares. To see more head to Sisters Guild.)

Buzzy Bees – Bunny Bee Designs £40

The clever artist Mel (or Bunny as I know her!) behind these wonderful designs also painted the chair for my son in the photo above! (Christening Present!) See her full range of paintings, treasure boxes and chairs over at Bunny Bee Designs.

Ochre Yellow Dungarees – Dotty Dungarees £41

There isn’t much sweeter than a little one in dungarees. Dotty Dungarees have so many gorgeous designs and colours to choose from. I love these Ochre Yellow ones – versatile colour to be worn throughout the whole year and also works on both boys and girls. Perfect if you have a Jack and a Gill as these will definitely be able to be handed down. The quality is second to none.

One 4 One Toy Campaign – Finn & Emma £25.50

For every hand knitted toy that is sold in December, Natural Baby Shower will be donating a toy to mother and baby refuges this Christmas. Now that’s an inventive to buy a gorgeous hand knitted toy for a little baby!

Garnet Bloomers – Pipkin Clothing £22

Not only are these bloomers pretty darn cute, they look very festive (and won’t show the dirt!) Pipkin have a gorgeous range of traditional children and baby clothes all lovingly handmade. A lovely business that is going from strength to strength.

Kiddy Music Bench – Melody Mix £39.99

This is one gift that has stayed in our toy cupboard for the last 5 years and continues to be used over and over. Well made and looks good too.

Peppa Pig Muddy Puddle Mat – Bladez Toyz £12.99

I am sure this will be a great hit at Christmas, unless part of the fun of muddy puddles is it’s forbidden – but we will give it a go!

Alternative Milestone Cards – Pudding & Chops £10.99

Not strictly for a baby but I am all for pushing the boundaries (i’m so crazzzzzy) this would be a fun stocking filler for a mum to be. I love the ‘Still No Baby’ card… great one to put on Facebook 6 days overdue to lull the questions.

Rainbow Stacking Toy – Grimms £64.99

If these had been around when I had a baby, I would have snapped them up. Part of a good present is that they look nice too and these are stunning!

Navy Moccasins with Liberty Trim – Lottie & Reu £10

So cute. Love the trim and tassel.

Muslin Pyjamas – Willa & The Bear £35

These muslin pjs are so versatile and comfortable. There is a vest and a wrap around top for extra warmth in the winter. Breathable, light, soft and cosy, I love this concept and so does my daughter who has a pair.

Large Muslin Swaddle – Hullabaloo Prints £22

My 3 kids are huge fans of their ‘muzzy’s’ when they are little. When a friend has a new baby, my default gift is a large muslin as I know how useful they have been to mine. My favourite one is this Hot Air Balloon one from Hullabaloo. This large one also doubles up as a swaddle when they are newbies. They also sell two smaller ones in a lovely gift bag.

Monogrammed Duck Baby Bundle – SARAHK Designs £61

This is a very reasonable price for a blanket, pillow and a monogrammed pillow case, either with initials or date of birth.

The Messy Tunic – Messy Me £9.50

Every kitchen suits a bit of ‘griege’ and this tunic would work for both mealtimes and arts and craft. Comes in lots of other colours too.

Bebelux Pink Dolls Pram – Bebe’s Boutique £240

If your baby is showing a penchant for babies, why not get one good long lasting dolls pram rather than lots of little ones. Well, that’s what we have done. It is sturdy and well made that I expect we will be able to keep it for Grandchildren. (Did I really just say that?) Order by 16th December to have it in time for Christmas. They also do doubles and traditional prams too. We obviously went for pink, but they do smart beiges and navy’s if demure is more your thing! Here ours is in full use with her Baby Annabel sitting comfortably!

Liberty Footmuff – Betty Bramble £79

Ok, perhaps this is more on the girly side but if you are a fan of Liberty prints this footmuff is gorgeous.

Baby Polo Mallet – pampeano £19

Points for originality! Budding polo player? This is awesome and would double up as a fab ornament too.

Coffee Maker – Hape £20

If your little one is anything like mine and barks ‘babychino’ every time we walk past a cafe, this may be for you.

Silver Birch Tree Gift – The Present Tree £35

A silver birch represents new beginnings and protection so would make a lovely long lasting and meaningful present for a new baby on the block. This would be a great ‘babies first Christmas’ present form a Godparent.

Velour Angel Wing Onesie – Marie Chantal £68

Oh so indulgent but it’s Christmas – why not. Well, at £68 that may be a reason not too, but for the person who has everything and the person who can afford everything, you couldn’t beat this. Adorable. You could also box frame it afterwards!

Personalised Muslin Squares – Fofolino £15

The muslin squares are available in a range of delightfully embroidered edges or lace trims. In addition, personalised baby name embroidery are available on request, really making these muslin squares one-of-a-kind. They are highly versatile and long-lasting. This is a super present for newborns & toddlers.

Baby Romper – Panda & Ping £26

Award winning new brand Panda & Ping has a delightful range of colourful and comfy range of rompers, bedding and blankets. My favourite is the pram blanket in a bag

This is my last Gift Guide until Valentine’s Day! If you don’t want to miss out on any or have just discovered my blog recently, why don’t you sign up to The London Mummy List?

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Events Family Life

Teach Your Children About Giving This Christmas

‘I want that for Christmas…’ for the 17th time during the adverts for Peppa Pig was starting to pain me. So we had the chat. ‘Some children don’t even have a roof over their head, let alone Christmas presents…’ The two year old drew a blank, but the boys got it! I saw an opportunity…

They really wanted to give something this Christmas – so I looked into a few ways they could do that. I hope you will find this rather refreshing after all the recent posts on Gifts!

Salvation Army Christmas Present Appeal

Go and buy a few nice presents and drop them at your nearest Salvation Army. The Salvation Army are receiving new unwrapped gifts to distribute to adults and children who are homeless this Christmas.

Christian Aid Worldwide Christmas Appeal

Go online and choose a practical present for people fleeing violence this Christmas. A hygiene kit, a pair of boots and a days worth of food for a Syrian Refugee. It will also aid you in explaining that most things we take for granted.

Operation Christmas Child with Shoebox World

It’s too late to buy and send a real shoebox filled with treats, so go online and pack a virtual one for a child which they can choose the gender and age for. This then will become a tangible shoebox to children around the world.

I thought The Wellspring Charity Foundation PND Hamper was worth a mention too.

Through The Wellspring Charity Foundation PND Hamper Fighting Poverty you can donate a hamper to someone who is in financial difficulty who you suspect has PND or has been diagnosed with PND. There is even an option nominate yourself.

Another way you can donate is the NSPCC Letter To Santa

Each letter is £5 which goes straight to the NSPCC Christmas Campaign and your child will receive a personalised letter from Father Christmas. No excuse not to really!

Lastly, The Mayor of London website is a great resource to narrow down your search and find opportunities to volunteer in your borough.

Remember, actions speak louder than words and the best way to teach your children is through example, so go and volunteer, buy some presents or get online.

You could even just wear your slippers for Shelter today!

If you know of any other 2016 Christmas Campaigns, please let me know and I will add them xx

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Days Out Family Life

A Gift From Me To You With Uber

Are you at the forefront of discoveries or do you get to the party a long time after other people? I totally missed the Uber phenomena until a friend made me download it in the middle of the night in Piccadilly as there were no taxis around… and the rest is history.

(OK not the type that will be bound and preserved in a museum but you get what I mean)

So when Uber asked me to help with a little collaboration, I was more than happy to oblige.

The fab team at Uber are giving you £15 off your first ride (or free if your first ride is under £15) if you use the code TLMUBER (No catch!) IOS or Android

PS. In case my mother is reading this – IOS is Apple/Ipad/Iphone etc & Android is Smart Phone (Samsung etc)

What’s So Great About Uber?

I have been known to take a bus back on my own at 2 in the morning, trek through rush hour on a freezing night and not drink a drop at a friends dinner party as I knew I had to drive back. Oh yes, I was that person.

I don’t like to call myself tight, just careful. Hey, I would prefer to spend money on other things. Nails are my ‘thing’. This is my next look. Strong isn’t it?

Mustn’t sway from the subject in hand.

So when I finally downloaded Uber – actually the friend downloaded it for me (despite in hindsight it being uber (!) simple and ordered my first car.

Not to be dramatic but my (social) life changed in an instant.

I didn’t get that sinking feeling as soon as I put the kids to bed that I had to do public transport to a destination nowhere near any public transport.

For the price of a Donner kebab (yes, we have been known too – especially if we are walking home!) I could arrive at my destination in the cool calm and collective way that I envisaged how I would at the ripe old age of 35 years. I could even where high heels!

You know what’s even better though, have you tried Uber Pool?

If you pool your ride with someone else, it is even cheaper. It may mean a little divert and being dropped off slightly before your destination but if it saves you a fiver – win! One more Martini Expresso.

I ordered an Uber for my parents from the River cafe in Fulham to Oxted in Surrey. The car and friendly driver arrived in 5 minutes. It took 50 minutes to get home (super speedy) and it was only £30.

My husband took an Uber from Heathrow to home and it was also only £30 – usually it would be about £70.

As you can see, I am genuinely excited. Uber is going to transform my Silly Season!

So, what are you waiting – Download the app here and book that first trip!

This post was written in collaboration with Uber (obviously!)

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Gift Guides

33 Gift Ideas For Mum

It’s here! So many wonderful courses, handmade goodies, super stylish clothes and accessories and life changing beauty products that I have carefully put together for yourself, a friend, your mum or any other lovely lady in your life. Please forward to this gift guide to the person who is meant to be buying for you too! I promise they will appreciate the guidance…

Apricot & Rose Faux Bouquet – Abigail Bryans Designs £39

These are so pretty and good enough… to believe they are real. Abigail sells beautifully crafted handmade signs and arrangements.

Amanda Stotesbury – Personal Trainer

Book a 2 week personal training January kick starter block with the lovely Amanda. She can either come to your home across London (or park if you prefer!) 6 x 1hr sessions in 2 weeks (between 9.30 and 5.30) for £240. I have shed a couple of excess pounds (I am 2/3 of the way through my two weeks) and feel amazing. She has laden me with tips, tricks and recipes and I am ready to conquer Christmas armed and ready. Book her now so you can relax over Christmas knowing you will be in her capable hands come Jan!! amanda@bellabello.co.uk

Amalia Embellished Waistcoat – Monsoon £69

If you haven’t had a peruse of Monsoon since you were first looking for your VIP ball dress when you were a teen, I urge you to take another look. Tops that I bought 10 years ago are still going strong, the quality is that good, and the fit and style of lots of their clothes are just right. This waistcoat is fab to dress up a casual outfit to smart and more edgy.

Cashmere Wrist Warmers – Cove £39

These work so well as you can still can still show off your manicure whilst keeping toasty. I have the grey and neon ones and can vouch that they are gorgeous!

10% Discount for The London Mummy readers. USE TLM10 at Checkout!

Rose Hip Oil -Trilogy £20

Every night I whisper a quiet thanks to the friend who introduced me to this oil. If you feel your skin is a bit tight and dry, whack this on after cleansing morning and night and you will feel as flexible as a 2yr old at Gymboree!

Selection of Jewellery – TLM Edit

A shameless plug for my website but I haven’t done it for a long time! I couldn’t chose one, there are so many lovely pieces. I like the spiky earrings!

3 Star Jumper – Marie & Lola £40

This style comes in red & black, electric blue & navy and khaki with black stars. Why not get all three! The top 1/3 is mesh so good for the evening too. As a huge fan of everything Marie & Lola, I can assure you they fit well and wash beautifully. Contact her through Instagram.

PS. If you want to know about my next house sale where Stephanie from Marie & Lola will once again be selling, sign up here to receive the information.

Changing Clutch Gold Snake – Tibi & Marl £35

Charlotte Tilbury Magic Cream £70

Ok, being a CT fan may soon become a bit of a cliche amongst the London mum’s, but it is popular for a reason as makes you feel fantastic. This cream is above my usual allowance but for Christmas if someone is asking, ask for this – you won’t be disappointed!

Perfect Peace 3 Wick Candle – Neom £45

The smell of this candle is so fresh. As there is only a subtle hint of Christmas, it could also see you through into the NY if you can hold off from having it burning for the whole month of December – it is delicious.

Gold Clutch – Davina Mulford £40

I haven’t taken off Davina Mulford’s Cross Body Bag since I received it earlier in the year and this gold clutch is a firm favourite in the evening too.

Grace Silk Camisole Top – Parasol Rose £110

Now this is the time to receive new nightwear/underwear! Forward Parasol Rose to your other half and let owner Mim help him out to get you the perfect wear for you.

Bespoke Beanie – Arkell & Wills

New brand Arkell & Wills have hit the nail on the head with their personalised beanie service. Choose the colour, pattern, motif and pom pom and I guarantee you won’t look like everyone else in the playground with their uniform pom pom hat on!

Indian Cookery Course with Meri Rasoi

Whether you are a complete beginner or a dab hand at Indian cuisine, Meri’s 3 week courses at her home in Southfields will teach you how to cook confidently at home.

Glossy Box Subscription Box 3 month plan £9 per month

Who has time to learn about new make up and experiment with different colours and styles? Not me! (Although I am going to do a ‘What’s in My Make Up Bag’ series next year!) Why not be spoon fed with a subscription box each month!

Clare Haxby Prints £249

The incredibly talented Clare Haxby is selling her fabulous prints for Christmas. They arrive carefully in a robust tube, ready to adorn your wall.

Door Mat – Larktopsham £20

Oh so fun, especially for a harassed mother of young children!

Rebecca Challis Gift Card £50

This would be a great present for a loved one who is just starting a business or needs new marketing materials of themselves or their products. I am currently running a competition to giveaway 3 x £50 vouchers for a normally £200 photo shoot, so take a look and enter!

4 Pack of Tea Towels – Happy + Co £25

Every room has to have a bit of black in it so why not start with these gorgeous tea towels from new company Happy + Co. All their interiors are black and white and everything is sent in a lovely gift bag, making it all the more special. Gorgeous!

Bottle of ‘Garden’ – Seedlip £29.99

Perfect for a pregnant mama. A distilled non alcoholic spirit. It tastes as good as the real thing (i.e. Gin & Tonic)

Monmatre Rose Gold Watch – Auree £130

I am so over using my phone to tell the time, especially if I want a bit of a tech detox. This the watch I have my eye on. Auree have now expanded into watches too. Watch this space! (Sorry)

Dark Night Shawl – Pom Amsterdam at Hengelo £59

These shawls are heaven. Whichever way you put them on, they fall so you look like a ‘shawl’ expert. They aren’t too bulky either. The colour combinations are fab too. They come in a lovely box and would make a gorgeous present.

Triple Star necklace – Cabbage White England £75

I have this necklace. It hasn’t come off since it arrived! Here is a snap of me wearing it – it sits perfectly. If you are a fan of stars, check out their earrings, bracelets and necklace range. They are awesome.

Over Night Bag – Pirates & Violets £98

Heavy Duty with leather handles and the option to monogram. Yes please!

Trinket Trays – Ibai Direct 3 for £18

Pretty machine washable trinket trays. Perfect to make all our nonsense actually look pretty.

Top Mum (& Daughter) – Envie de Fraise £37.99

If you think twinning is winning but find it hard to find mother and daughter combo’s, check out this French brand. As they are French they evade being too cheesy so the twin look is more acceptable!

Mama Clutch – Jem & Bea £45

Love this new range and this is my pick if I were lucky enough to receive one… (*cough)

Gel Lash Fibre Extension Mascara £14.99

I can’t tell you how amazing this mascara is! I have actually been asked by friends if I have had extensions put on when I wear it. The beauty is, it also comes off as easily as it goes on so no panda eyes in the morning.

Stack Bracelets from Zojora

I am perfecting my arm candy at the moment and these are an integral part of it. These gorgeous friendship bracelets are made in Singapore and are exceptionally well prices. She also does incredible bright fabric cuffs that I have my eye on…

Friday Night Make up Bag – Anna Wright £17.50

Everyone needs a new make up bag once in a while and I love this one designed by artist Anna Wright. Fun and Christmasy!

Yummy’s Club – Members Card for Parents

This is a great club to be a member of. If you do clubs, activities and host parties for your little ones regularly, you will the discounts from a variety of wonderful companies that are signed up to Yummy’s to give reader discounts. A great present fro a busy mum.

Alice from Yummy’s has a reader offer for The London Mummy readers. 20% off the normal price of £50 a year membership. Enter TLM20 at checkout.

Oval Overware – Alice Peto Start at £15

I couldn’t decide which dish as they are all so scrum, so I have included a selection of Alice Peto’s amazing ovenware. Imagine being served lasagne and having a little electric blue penguin saying hi half way through! She also does tableware – check out her hot pink palm tree range – MEGA.

Mantra band – Nordstrums £24

I am majorly into cuffs at the moment and at this price, I think I could add this to my cuff collection. A great stocking filler.

I hope this has given you a few ideas for yourself and any other ladies who you have to buy for. Please tag me if you receive any of these goodies – I would love to hear!

Lucinda xx

If you missed my other gift guides, take a look here

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