SOCIAL MEDIA

· · ·

5 Amazing Gift Ideas for New Mums

No comments
Disclosure - This is a collaborative post

Welcoming a new addition to the family is an exciting time, but it can also be overwhelming for new Mums as they navigate the challenges of motherhood. One way to show your support and appreciation for the new Mum in your life is by choosing the perfect gift. In this article, we'll explore five amazing gift ideas that are sure to bring comfort, joy, and convenience to any new mum.

baby feet



Amazing Gift Ideas for New Mums

Comfortable Nightgown
After a long day of taking care of the baby, every new Mum deserves to relax in comfort. A soft and cozy nightgown is the perfect gift to help her unwind and get a restful night's sleep. Look for nightgowns made from breathable fabrics like cotton or bamboo. Cool-Jams nightgowns are great because they feature stretchy designs that accommodate her changing body post-pregnancy. Bonus points if you can find one with easy access for breastfeeding, making those late-night feedings a little bit easier.

Back Massager
The physical demands of caring for a newborn can take a toll on a new Mum's body, especially her back. A portable back massager is a thoughtful gift that can provide much-needed relief from muscle tension and stress. Choose a massager with adjustable settings and ergonomic design, so she can target specific areas of discomfort. Whether she's nursing the baby or simply relaxing on the couch, a back massager will help her feel rejuvenated and ready to tackle the day.

Children's Books
Introducing the joy of reading to a newborn is a gift that will last a lifetime. Children's books are not only entertaining but also educational, stimulating a baby's cognitive development and language skills from an early age. Consider selecting classic titles or modern favourites that the new Mum can enjoy reading aloud to her little one. Opt for sturdy board books or cloth books that are durable and baby-friendly, with colorful illustrations to capture the baby's attention. Building a library of children's books is a wonderful way to create lasting memories and foster a love of reading in the family.

Personalised Baby Onesie
Celebrate the new arrival with a personalised baby onesie that's as unique as the baby itself. Customised onesies with the baby's name or a special message are a thoughtful and adorable gift that will be cherished by the new Mum. Choose soft, organic cotton onesies that are gentle on the baby's delicate skin and easy to care for. Whether it's a cute animal print, a funny saying, or a heartfelt message, a personalised onesie adds a special touch to those precious early months.

Bath Bombs
Self-care is essential for new Mums, but it can often be overlooked in the midst of caring for a newborn. Treat the new Mum in your life to a luxurious bath bomb that allows her to indulge in a relaxing spa-like experience right at home. Opt for bath bombs made with natural ingredients like essential oils and botanical extracts, which nourish the skin and promote relaxation. Choose soothing scents like lavender or chamomile to help her unwind and destress after a long day. With a bath bomb, she can enjoy a moment of tranquility and pampering whenever she needs it most.

Choosing the perfect gift for a new Mum is a wonderful way to show your love and support during this special time. Whether it's a comfortable nightgown for peaceful nights, a back massager for relief from muscle tension, children's books for early learning, a personalised baby onesie for a personal touch, or a bath bomb for moments of relaxation, there are plenty of amazing gift ideas to brighten her day. Whatever you choose, your thoughtful gesture will be greatly appreciated and remembered for years to come.

text banner





- If you enjoyed this post leave us a comment.

-  Like us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and follow us on our adventures.

- If you have visited any of the attractions mentioned in this post share photos with us on our socials. 

- If this post has helped you in anyway you can Buy Us A Virtual Coffee to say thanks.

- If you would like to work with us please visit on Work With Us page for more details

Michelle
Read More

10 Ideas To Keep You Busy In February

No comments
February may be the shortest month of the year but there are still plenty of things to help keep you busy. From awareness days, weeks and even the whole month. 

a snow covered field


LGBT+ History Month, February 1st - 29th 2024
LGBT+ History Month 2024 is a month-long, annual celebration of the history of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community. The aim of this month long awareness is to promote both equality and diversity.

Time to Talk Day 2024, February 1st 2024
Time to Talk Day is an annual event that raises awareness of the importance of talking. Time To Talk Day helps to encourage people of all ages to talk about their mental health and wellbeing, saying exactly how they are feeling. 

Children's Mental Health Week, February 5th -11th 2024
Children's Mental Health Week is an annual event dedicated to raising awareness about children and young people's mental health. This important event is a brilliant opportunity to open a discussion about mental health and wellbeing with children and young people.

Safer Internet Day, February 6, 2024
Safer Internet Day is an event organised in the UK by the UK Safer Internet Centre, which aims to promote the safe, responsible and positive use of digital technology for children and young people. The event has grown year-on-year, and it is now celebrated in approximately 170 countries worldwide!

Chinese New Year. February 10th 2024
Chinese New Year 2024 will take place on the 10th of February, with the beginning of the year of the Dragon. Celebrations will last from the 9th of February (New Year’s Eve) until the 15th day of the New Year. It's a great opportunity to look at the culture and history and if you are local you can even visit Chinese restaurants in Liverpool and Chinese Restaurants In Manchester.

Half Term, February 12th - 17th 2024
Although these dates may not be for every school the children will enjoy their first break this year. Why not plan a week away or some fun days out. It may still be cold outside but there are usually lots of fun things to do over half term no matter what the weather. 

Pancake Day February 13th 2024
If you are a pancake lover then today is your day when you can show off you 'flipping' skills. There is just one question to ask 'what's your favourite topping?' Sugar? Lemon? Strawberries or Chocolate?

paper hearts


Valentine's Day, February 14th 2024
Valentines Day is a day dedicated to the one you love. 

Random Acts of Kindness Day, February 17th 2024
It's nice to show kindness to others when they least expect it. Random Acts Of Kindness day gives you the opportunity to spread kindness. It doesn't mean you have to rush to the shops to buy gifts you could take a friend out for a coffee, offer to babysit for someone who is in need of a night out or even just help a neighbour with bringing their shopping in to the house.

National Chip Week February 20th - 26th 2024
Chips are known for being the nations favourite fast food item. Why not pop to your favourite fast food restaurant and treat yourself to a portion of chips this week. 

As you can see there are lots to celebrate or think about in February.

READ THESE NEXT




text banner





- If you enjoyed this post leave us a comment.

-  Like us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and follow us on our adventures.

- If you have visited any of the attractions mentioned in this post share photos with us on our socials. 

- If this post has helped you in anyway you can Buy Us A Virtual Coffee to say thanks.

- If you would like to work with us please visit on Work With Us page for more details

Michelle
Read More
· ·

Pretty Woman The Musical Review

No comments
I have waited what seems an eternity since receiving my tickets as a present to see Pretty Woman The Musical and I can honestly say it was worth the wait. I always worry watching the stage show version of such an iconic movie such as Dirty Dancing and The Rocky Horror Show but they are always done so well and Pretty Woman The Musical was everything I had hoped it would be. 

pretty woman the musical poster


I'm sure you all know the plot to the movie Pretty Woman but if you don't then Pretty Woman is a true fairytale. Vivian works on Hollywood Boulevard with her room mate Kit as they try to make enough money to pay rent. Edward is a successful business man who finds himself in need of some directions to his hotel room at the prestigious Regent Beverly Wilshire. 

What starts as just a one time thing, Edward and Vivian are drawn to each other and after making a business deal to spend the next 6 days together we watch as their love for each other grows and grows and the unlikely couple soon seem a perfect match. 

I knew I was going to love Pretty Woman The Musical as it is one of my favourite movies but I absolutely loved the songs. I thought both Edward and Vivian really showcased their vocal talents but for me Edward stole the show. His singing was effortless and I'm glad he got the chance to showcase his talent throughout the show. Filling Richard Gere's shoes is a hard task, but he did the job!

Pretty Woman The Musical is touring the UK and more information on venues and dates can be found below. 

23 Jan - 3 Feb 2024 - Liverpool Empire

5 Feb -  10 Feb 2024 - Hull New Theatre
Book Your Tickets Online Here

12 Feb - 17 Feb 2024, New Wimbledon Theatre

20 Feb - 24 Feb 2024, Grand Opera House York

27 Feb - 16 Mar 2024, Palace Theatre Manchester

19 Mar - 30 Mar 2024, Milton Keynes Theatre

2 Apr - 13 Apr 2024, Edinburgh Playhouse

15 Apr - 20 Apr 2024, Theatre Royal Plymouth

29 Apr - 5 May 2024, Wales Millennium Centre

6 May - 11 May 2024, Churchill Theatre, Bromley

14 May - 25 May 2024, Leeds Heritage Theatre

28 May - Sat 8 Jun 2024, Sunderland Empire

15 Jul - Sat 20 Jul 2024, Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent

20 Aug - Sat 24 Aug 2024, The Alexandra, Birmingham

Have you booked your tickets to see Pretty Woman yet?

READ THESE NEXT



text banner





- If you enjoyed this post leave us a comment.

-  Like us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and follow us on our adventures.

- If you have visited any of the attractions mentioned in this post share photos with us on our socials. 

- If this post has helped you in anyway you can Buy Us A Virtual Coffee to say thanks.

- If you would like to work with us please visit on Work With Us page for more details

Michelle
Read More
· · ·

Murder In The Dark Review

No comments
Disclosure - we were invited to watch Murder in the Dark. All thoughts and opinions are our own. 

I have loved going to the theatre since I was a little girl and it's only until the past few years that I have started to enjoy shows that are not musicals. Musicals have always been my favourite but since watching The Mouse Trap it opened a new door for me and now I have seen a wide range of stage shows and I hope to continue to enjoy them as much as I have. This week we went along to one of our favourite theatre venues in the North West, The Lowry to see Murder In The Dark. 

Murder in the dark programme


I'm not a fan of reading reviews of theatre shows before I've seen them however I had heard that Murder In The Dark was a show that would keep you on the edge of your seat with an atmospheric staging and plenty of jump scares. It certainly did have me jumping in my seat a few times and the staging was the perfect setting for this show. 

The show takes place on New Year’s Eve, when the 'has been' pop sensation Danny Sierra crashes his car on a deserted road. Luckily Mrs Bateman is soon to the rescue and she brings the famous but troubled singer Danny Sierra and his dysfunctional family to an isolated holiday cottage in rural England. As soon as she shows them to her cottage the atmosphere becomes spooky with lights turning off and on sporadically as well as the TV. 

the cast of murder in the dark around the table


Over the course of the night we dig deep in to Danny's past as he is joined in the cottage with his much younger girlfriend Sarah, his ex wife Rebecca, his late teens son Jake and his brother who he was once in a band with. We find out that the choices and the sacrifices Danny made in the past will always come back to haunt him. 

Murder In The Dark is touring the UK with a list of venues and dates below.

Jan 23 - Jan 27 2024 , Salford, The Lowry
Book Tickets Online Here

Jan 29 - Feb 03 2024, Southend-On-Sea, Palace Theatre
Book Tickets Online Here

Feb 06 - Feb 10 2024, Cambridge Arts Theatre

Feb 27 - Mar 02 2024, Cardiff, New Theatre
Book Tickets Online Here

Mar 05 - Mar 09 2024, Cheltenham, Everyman Theatre

Mar 12 - Mar 16 2024, New Brighton, Floral Pavilion Theatre & Blue Lounge

Mar 19 - Mar 23 2024, Richmond Theatre, Surrey

Mar 25 - Mar 30 2024, Glasgow, the Pavilion Theatre
Book Tickets Online Here

At the moment the show is only touring until the end of March 2024 however I am sure it will continue beyond this date as it really is a great watch and a great cast including Tom Chambers and Susie Blake. 

Have you booked your tickets to Murder in the Dark yet?

READ THESE NEXT




text banner





- If you enjoyed this post leave us a comment.

-  Like us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and follow us on our adventures.

- If you have visited any of the attractions mentioned in this post share photos with us on our socials. 

- If this post has helped you in anyway you can Buy Us A Virtual Coffee to say thanks.

- If you would like to work with us please visit on Work With Us page for more details

Michelle
Read More
· ·

Penguin Experiences In The UK

No comments
This post was last updated Jan'24 and contains affiliate links. 

This year Penguin Awareness Day is celebrated on 20th January and whether you are a penguin lover or not it's sad to hear that each year penguin numbers are dwindling. Celebrating Penguin Awareness Day or National Penguin Day can help support penguins by donating to charities or you can visit your local zoo to find out more about penguins. You can help save penguins by buying a tracking bracelet where a portion of proceeds go to the global penguin society or penguin experiences are a great way to get up close to the penguins and learn more about them. 

penguin


Penguin Cove Experience At Chester Zoo, Chester CH2 1LE
Chester Zoo offers penguin lovers the chance to feed the penguins from their purpose-built feeding area. The Humboldt penguins who live in the penguin habitat will search for the fish as you throw them in the water. 

You will be given an expert keeper as your dedicated guide at Penguin Cove. Here you will learn fascinating facts and your guide will be able to answer all of your penguin related questions.

Each experience lasts 1 hour which include 20 minutes on the Penguin Cove feeding platform.

It's the perfect way to meet and feed the Humboldt penguins.

As a reminder of this unforgettable experience you will be given an exclusive gift and personalised experience certificate

As the experience takes place inside Chester Zoo, free admission is included within the price of the Penguin Cover Experience. 


penguin lying on the ground


Adopt A Penguin At Blackpool Zoo, E Park Dr, Blackpool FY3 8PP
Have you ever wanted to own a penguin? Unfortunately in the UK it would be really hard for us to have a penguin as a pet however at Blackpool Zoo you have the opportunity to adopt a penguin. 

Adopting a penguin helps to support Blackpool Zoo maintain a high standard of animal welfare. It also gives you the opportunity to learn about your favourite animal. 

When you adopt a penguin at Blackpool Zoo you will receive:
12 month adoption of your penguin
Two admission tickets to Blackpool Zoo
Personalised certificate of adoption
Fascinating factsheet
Thank you letter
Name on our adopter's board


penguin swimming in the water


Meet and Feed The Penguins at Welsh Mountain Zoo, Old Hwy, Colwyn Bay LL28 5UY
The Welsh Mountain Zoo gives you the opportunity to get up close to their Humboldt Penguins.

The meet and feed the penguins experience includes 20-30 minutes meeting and feeding Humboldt Penguins. You will have a one to one chat with the penguin keeper giving you the opportunity to find out some interesting facts.


penguin


Penguin Encounter, Twycross Zoo, East Midland Zoological Society, Burton Rd, Atherstone CV9 3PX
A chance to get up close and personal with one of the most popular animals at Twycross Zoo, Penguins. You will enter the Penguin Pool area giving you the opportunity to feed the penguins. 

Each encounter lasts approx 30mins and will include time with the keeper, feed the penguins and a penguin souvenir. 

Admission to Twycross Zoo is not included however you can receive discounted, one-day admission when purchased during the booking process. 


two penguins


Penguin Keeper Experience, London Zoo, Outer Cir, London NW1 4RY
Have you ever dreamt of being a penguin keeper? Finding out all about penguins and what they get up to behind the scenes? London Zoo have the opportunity for you to be a penguin keeper for 90 minutes. You will head to London Zoo's Penguin Beach and will have the chance to experience exactly what it's like to look after a colony of penguins.

As part of the experience you will get the chance to clean, prepare food for the penguins, learn how to conduct basic health-checks, and you will finish your experience by feeding the penguins.

This is a very intimate experience up close with the penguins and will give you plenty of opportunities to ask everything you've ever wanted to know about penguins and life behind-the-scenes at London Zoo.

Admission to London Zoo is not included and tickets for this experience go on sale from February 1st. 


two penguins one standing one lying


Feed The Penguins Experience, Drusillas Park, Zoo Park Ltd, Drusillas, Berwick, Polegate BN26 5QS
Drusillas Penguin Feeding Experience is the perfect chance to get close to the Humboldt penguins! It's an amazing one-to-one experience allowing you to spend time in the penguin enclosure. 

You will go behind the scenes of Drusillas Park and feed the penguins their favourite treat. The encounter also gives you one-on-one time with the Zoo Keeper who will be there to answer any of your penguin related questions.

As a memory of this special experience you will get the opportunity to get some close up photos of the penguins from inside their enclosure. 

Entry to Drusillas Park is included for the Penguin Experience participants


penguin


Penguin Feeding Experience, Marwell Zoo, Thompson's Ln, Colden Common, Winchester SO21 1JH
Head to Penguin Cove with the opportunity to go behind the scenes and feed the penguin colony at Marwell Zoo. You will get the chance to learn all about the penguins from those who know them best!

Your experience will last approx 30 minutes and entry to the zoo on the day of your experience is included. You will receive
10% discount in the gift shop, an E-certificate and an E-gift card (no further details given on this?)


penguin swimming in the water


Penguin Magic Moment, Edinburgh Zoo, 134 Corstorphine Rd, Corstorphine, Edinburgh EH12 6TS
A Penguin Magic Moment at Edinburgh Zoo is ideal for penguin lovers who would love the opportunity to get up close and feed the Gentoo Penguins their favourite fish. You will also get the chance to learn all about the penguins who live at Edinburgh Zoo and facts about the species. 

Entry to Edinburgh Zoo is included and you will also receive 10% discount in the gift shop and free car parking.


penguin


Meet The Penguins, Belfast Zoo, Antrim Rd, Belfast BT36 7PN
The Meet The Penguin experience brings you up close and personal with the colony of gentoo and rockhopper penguins that live at Belfast Zoo. The experience lasts 30 minutes and includes feeding the penguins and the opportunity to talk to the keepers who care for penguins. 

Each experience includes admission to the zoo for the participant, an experience certificate, fact sheet and penguin photograph.


Have you ever enjoyed a penguin experience? If so we would love to hear about it. 

READ THESE NEXT



text banner





- If you enjoyed this post leave us a comment.

-  Like us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and follow us on our adventures.

- If you have visited any of the attractions mentioned in this post share photos with us on our socials. 

- If this post has helped you in anyway you can Buy Us A Virtual Coffee to say thanks.

- If you would like to work with us please visit on Work With Us page for more details

Michelle
Read More
· · ·

How To Beat The January Blues

No comments
This post was last updated January '24

Blue Monday is the 3rd Monday in the month of January. If you haven't heard of blue Monday before or have no idea what it is well it's supposed to be the day when we can get very sad and down in the dumps. It's not surprising really because January is probably the worst month of the year as it's the month after all the Christmas festivities and there is not much to look forward to. If you are feeling a little blue today then read our tips on how to beat the January blues.

a path through the woods


Get Outside
On these darker days its only natural to want to stay inside and curl up on the sofa however it is best to try and head outside for some fresh air. if you can. Going for a walk and getting some light can make us feel a whole lot better. In between Christmas and New Year we went out to the park a few times and it really did help. Just that bit of fresh air cleared our minds and dusted off the cobwebs.

Go Shopping
Taking a trip to the shops in January can really help beat those 'down in the dumps' days. There are lots of January sale bargains still to be had out there and finding something you want or need at a reduced price can give you a lift that you need.

Disneyland Paris castle
Plan A Trip
After Christmas we all want something to look forward to so planning a trip is a great way to lift your spirits and have something planned in your diary. January is when I start browsing the Internet for cheap flights or breaks away, usually it involves a trip to Disney however we have already booked our Disneyland Paris trip this year. That doesn't mean though that I can't try and sneak another holiday in. 

Try Something New
January is the month for resolutions, aims and goals but they are usually made up of things we want to change about ourselves. Whether it is our weight, our job, our lack of exercise. However it would be nice for one of our aims or goals to be something positive. Think about something you've always wanted to do whether it's learn a new language or join a dance class and do it. It's good to try something new once in a while and get out of our comfort zones. One interesting idea would be to treat yourself with a fun and exciting experience - our friends from Experience Gifts have plenty to choose from! 

books

Me Time
We all need a little 'Me Time' however most of us tend to put others first and we forget about us. It's important to remember that we need time for ourselves away from busy work schedules and every day life. We need to make sure we take care of ourselves and January is the best time to start a new routine for ourselves whether it's a weekly pamper night, an early night or just curling up with that book that you've been meaning to read for a year. I am determined this year to read more and although last year I did pretty well since joining my book club. 

If you are suffering from the January blues this year just remember you are not alone. Most of us don't like January but its just one month out of twelve and thankfully it's almost over.

Michelle

text banner

- If you enjoyed this post leave us a comment.

-  Like us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and follow us on our adventures.

- If you have visited any of the attractions mentioned in this post share photos with us on our socials. 

- If this post has helped you in anyway you can Buy Us A Virtual Coffee to say thanks.

- If you would like to work with us please visit on Work With Us page for more details

Read More
Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)
Copyright © Playdays and Runways. Blog Design by SkyandStars.co