As a social policy graduate politics interest me.  In my mind they should interest everyone and using your vote is very important.  I was the women's officer when at University - not just because I got free chips and cheese from the Student Union but because it gave me a voice.  I thought seriously about standing as paid student union rep the year after finishing my course but Lee got headhunted down to Kent and the thought of staying in the … [Read more...]

If you think you are consuming too much energy at home and want to reduce your utility bills, there are various things you can do. Drastic steps include turning the heating off and having cold showers; however this is probably a little too extreme. Alternatively, you could switch your gas or electricity supplier, in the hope of finding a more cost-effective and cheaper deal. But how about making some practical, yet economical, changes to … [Read more...]

This week Donna tagged me in a meme that was started by Mich asking what are the life lessons that I want me children to know.  So here goes. 1. Education is a gift and will open doors for you.  I know I am on your case to make sure you try your hardest.  I didn't work hard enough enough at school and could have done better.  I don't want you to ever think that.  Chloe you have GCSE's coming up and whilst the grades won't matter especially in … [Read more...]

In order to save money and save time you need to know what your skills are. I am often asked what it is like taking the leap from the classroom to self employed. I can honestly say I love it. I finally feel that I have balance in my life, the children benefit from me being at home and being able to support them with their own schooling. Gone are the days when marking and other peoples children came before my own. As I have said many times both … [Read more...]

Spring cleaning - doing you still have a big clean out in the spring?  It used to be a time for stripping back and really having a good deep clean after a winter when you did less on the home.  Now I like a nice clean home like the best of us but this blog is all about saving money and saving time.  Therefore here are a few of my short cuts that makes cleaning a little easier and quicker. One thing I notice is that come the spring I want … [Read more...]

I have been a mum for over fifteen years now and it has got me thinking about how much has changed in that time.  Mothering came easy to me, I was just 23 when Chloe was placed in my arms after a difficult labour.  As we took her home to our little rented house we had great plans for a future.  We wanted to buy a house and I wanted to train as a teacher.  Over the next few years we achieved that, buying out first little house and both Lee and I … [Read more...]

I hold my hands up I am rather sentimental.  I find it hard to throw away cards or little things that I have attached memories too.  Obviously we don't need stuff, memories are treasured in our hearts and heads but I also like to have those little notes, cards and mementos to touch, to smell and to see.  If you looked inside our garage you would spot boxes that sit on the rafters and they have moved with me.  Only a couple of weeks ago my dad … [Read more...]