In true Codie style, I have not kept up with a monthly series I wanted to do! It seems I am too much of a free spirit and cannot be tamed by my own schedule. To make up for my all round uselessness, I’ve decided to review the most recent books I’ve read since my last proper book blogger post.
Howl’s Moving Castle (or trying to leave behind your favourite fictional worlds) – Bethan
Bethan is suffering a pretty bad book hangover – she’s not ready to leave behind the world of Howl’s Moving Castle and the only way to ease the pain is to blog about it,
February Book Roundup
Once again, late to the party (a book reading party?! That would be the best!), here are my February reads! Thanks to long bubble baths and equally long, but less fun train rides, I’ve managed to plow through a decent amount this month! A few of these have been sent to me from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. …
January Book Roundup
It’s halfway (ish) through February and I decide that I want to start doing monthly round ups of the books I’ve been reading. This is the kind of idea that should have come to me in December so I could start it off nice and fresh and on time, but sadly that is not the way my brain works. So …
The Book of Everyone
Just before Christmas, the lovely folks at The Book of Everyone, kindly gave me the chance to make my very own Book of Everyone! As someone who never found her name on anything in a gift shop, and therefore is a little obsessed with anything personalised, this is such a wonderful idea! Basically, The Book of Everyone, gives you the …
Best Books of 2015
Look, it’s technically still January (is it just me or has this month lasted forever?!) so I feel like doing a ‘books I read in 2015’ roundup post is kinda okay, right? I know not all of these books were released in 2015, but that’s when I read ‘em, so hopefully you’ll find something to tickle your fancy (oh-er) on …
#BEDN: What you Left Behind – Jessica Verdi
An advanced copy of this book was kindly sent to me for review by the publishers.
This book follows super popular, football star (of course) Ryden as he navigates life with a small baby after the death of his girlfriend to cancer. So, it’s pretty heavy, though ultimately enjoyable to read.
What We Left Behind – Robin Talley: A Review
It’s important to preface this review by saying that I, personally, do not have any experience of being transgender, and therefore cannot comment fully on whether this book is an accurate representation or not. I do, however, have a few trans* friends, from whom I have learnt as much as possible, and so I can only really base my critique of that part of the story, on the knowledge I have picked up through research and conversations, and not through lived experience, which of course, would be far more valid.
The Scorch Trials: Book VS Film
Today’s post was written by a dear friend of mine, Rachel Hatton. Rachel has amazing taste in books and films, as well as being a hugely talented writer, and so she’s easily the best person to write this comparison between the Maze Runner series of books and the recent film, The Scorch Trials
Carefully Everywhere Descending – L.B Bedford – Review
I was lucky enough to be sent a copy of this book ahead of its release on October 1st by the lovely people at Harmony Ink Press.
So, I Quit my Job…
So… I quit my job! Okay, there’s a little bit more to it than that. It wasn’t a dramatic, slamming doors, “I quit” moment at all. In fact, I shakily handed in my letter of resignation, after spending a good while considering my decision and of course I still have to work my four weeks notice, whilst my boss tries …
North West Bloggers Meet: 13th July!
On Sunday 12th July, I found myself in a room full of people, frantically swapping business cards, taking arty pictures of bowls of popcorn and tweeting incessantly. This was my first blogger meet!
AD: My Spring Etsy Faves
Seeing as we can’t exactly go window shopping right now, I’ve found myself doing a whole lot of online window shopping. I spend hours idly browsing through sites and adding stuff to my favourites from the comfort of my home. Etsy is one of my favourite places to do this, because you just don’t know what you’re going to find.
AD| Men’s Gift Guide*
It can be so hard to buy for the men in my life. I want to get them something cool, but there’s either nothing they want, or they have super expensive taste that just doesn’t align with my meagre budget. Still, this year I’ve found some cool stuff that I think will be much loved. Watercolour portrait This might be …
Women’s Gift Guide*
Some of the items in the gift guide have been gifted in exchange for a review, others are affiliate links, but all are things I love. It was hard to not just make this a list of things I want for Christmas if I’m honest! I tried to do a good mix of things, thinking of the different women in …
AD| Teenage Boy Gift Guide
I genuinely think that teenage boys are the hardest to buy for. I am not, nor have I ever been, a teenage boy and if I thought I was out of touch with teenage girls, it’s nothing compared to this. That said, I have to try because there are a few teen, and pre-teen nephews on my shopping list, and …
AD| Teenage Girl Gift Guide
It’s been a long time since I’ve been a teenage girl, and I am very out of touch. Thankfully I had a helper or two to give me some advice on this one! Soph x Skinnydip Astro Wash Bag This wash bag is so beautiful and would make such a cute gift for a special teen in your life – …
Tween Christmas Gift Guide*
Disney The Little Mermaid Kiss The Girl Pink Sweater With Sleeve Print I love this sweater, but there is no way I could pull it off. I imagine as a tween you could absolute rock this while filming Tiktoks and singing along to Ariana Grande (my knowledge of Tweens is limited as you can imagine). I love that the image …
Children’s Gift Guide*
We buy for a LOT of Children for Christmas. Between niblings, Godchildren and little besties there are around 16, ranging from 1-16! So not all of them will fall in this category, but a lot do! Here are some things we recommend. How to Spot an Artist This book is stunning! It’s visually beautiful, as you would expect, but also …
Toddler Christmas Gift Guide*
I can’t believe my little Roo is going to be 2 just before Christmas! A lot of the presents we got him are from the Aldi wooden toy sale but here are some other bits and bobs that I think would be great for a toddler.
Baby Christmas Gift Guide*
For Ruben’s first Christmas, he was only 10 days old, and so his main Christmas present was the gift of life after a 3 day back-to-back labour. We did get him a few little bits, and last Christmas we did buy quite a few more presents. Here are some of the best gifts for a baby in your life this year.
AD| Spooky Treats you can make for a Halloween party at home
So, it looks like Halloween is going to be pretty weird this year and I have to admit, I’m a little gutted. That said, I’m determined not to let the Rona ruin everything, so if we can’t go out to parties, or Trick or Treating, let’s bring the fun home and make the whole of October full of spooky snacks and games.
Getting Control of my Finances*
I have always been a little bit rubbish with money. My parents were rubbish with money and it seems it rubbed off on me. There was a point in my late teens where I had to resort to payday loans, to, y’know, eat and stuff, so my credit rating isn’t the best. That said, I am determined to buy a …
What is a Life Coach? and are they worth it?*
We have one life, it’s very precious, and it deserves our fullest attention – Lauren Iles. When it comes to investing in myself in anyway, I’m a little stingy. I always find something that Ruben would like, or the house could use, and talk myself out of spending money on myself. So when Lauren Iles asked if I wanted …
AD| Planning our dream home
We’ve been wanting to buy our own house for years now, and there always seems to be something in our way – right now, it’s Corona and the banks changing their lending to a max of 80%, leaving us to find a 20% deposit! That said, because we have been looking and lusting for so long, I feel pretty confident …
Precious Keepsake Ideas for your Babies
Some of these products were gifted, but the words and opinions are all my own! I’m a sentimental person – even more so since having a baby. Just last week it was Ruben’s first hair cut and you better believe that I chose a salon specifically based on the fact that they provide you with a certificate and a lock …
AD| My Favourite Easy Veggie Meal for the Whole Family
This is a sponsored post with the supermarket, Jacks. But all words and opinions are my own. When it comes to deciding on weekly meals, I always try to find at least a few dishes that we can all have together – partially because it’s nice to all have the same thing, and it encourages Steven and I to eat …
AD| Using SVGs for Crafting
This is a sponsored post but all words and opinions are mine. One thing you might not know about me, is that I love to craft. Whether that’s decoupaging anything that stays in one place for too long, trying out some Pinterest painting techniques, or upcycling odds and ends from around the house, to create a DIY Music wall. That’s …
Life after Lockdown: A “When This is Over” Bucket list
The lovely Victoria from The Manifestation Collective mentioned writing a life after lockdown, When This is Over bucket list, and I thought it was a really lovely idea. I’ve been adding to it for a few days and I finally think I’m ready to share it. What will Life after Lockdown even be like?! I’m quite lucky on one hand, …
AD| Things I’ve learnt about getting through lockdown*
The photos in this blogpost feature paid-for sponsored items, however all of the thoughts, opinions and words are my own. I know that every blogger and their dog has posted a similar post to this, and it almost put me off doing it, but one reason I keep this blog, is fo ray own memories and reflections. I absolutely love …
AD| Imagining my Dream Office
My current working space is either on the sofa, or in bed, working (physically) around my children. Occasionally, if I’m really lucky, I’ll find myself working at a table at a soft play centre with a luke-warm coffee. I’ve not worked in a proper office for such a long time, but I’ve recently had a cheeky promotion in my “real” …
An open letter to my first born, before you become an older brother
The teeny-tiny love of my life. I’m watching you sleep, your little toes buried in the squishy flesh of my thighs, something you have done for as long as I can remember, almost as a way of knowing I’m here even deep in slumber. Long dark eyelashes resting on the softest cheeks. Cheeks that are no longer quite as chubby as they once were, now that you are growing.
Visiting Thomas Land in 2021
Thinking of going to Thomas land at Drayton Manor and want to know what the rides are like? Or what the COVID situation is? I got you! I am an incredibly anxious person, which is totally at odds with the fact that I’m a huge adrenaline junkie who LOVES theme parks, and also someone super spontaneous. Which is how I …
My Baby was a Super Late Walker
My son didn’t walk until he was almost 2 years old and I spent every day for weeks googling. “When should you worry when your baby doesn’t walk?” “My toddler isn’t walking” “How to help my baby learn to walk” “Medical reasons for baby not walking” “Am I the worst Mum ever because my baby just will not walk?” And …
My Experiences with a Pandemic(ish) Pregnancy
I really intended to document a lot more of this pregnancy, especially with it being during a global pandemic. I imagined I would be one of those amazing bloggers who manages to post entertaining and informative weekly updates to look back on, but honestly, between a toddler, a business, gallstones and life I’ve barely managed to snap a few bump pictures!
Private scans: Are they worth it?
How does a private scan work? Are private scans worth it?
Why I’m terrified about having Baby Number 2
In July, I will become a mother of two. Two boys to be exact. Me. A woman who laughs at fart jokes and always spills her food down herself. As thrilled as I am, I’m also absolutely terrified, for so many reasons, and as I pride myself on being honest, I wanted to note them down. I’ve been mentally writing …
5 Reasons I love using cloth nappies (Plus a competition!)
I’ve been using cloth nappies with little Roo since he was 6 weeks old and I bloody love them. I love chatting to other cloth bum Mums and also to those who are just curious about the realities of using cloth – I know for sure I have converted a few families into cloth nappies and I love spreading the …
The Best Gifts for a One-year-old
Hilariously, it’s taken me 6 months+ 9 months to write this guide to the best gifts for a one-year-old, because having a baby is super busy. I started this when he’d just had his first birthday, and although it’s massively out of date now, I still wanted to finish it as I think it’ll be really useful for people looking …
Visiting Center Parcs after Lockdown (With a toddler and children)
We’ve just come back from a lovely weekend in Center Parcs – our third time visiting Center Parcs but first time staying in Sherwood. I’d love to try one of the other locations next. I was a little worried about going to Center Parcs after lockdown, and for a while I wasn’t sure if our little holiday was even going …
Precious Keepsake Ideas for your Babies
Some of these products were gifted, but the words and opinions are all my own! I’m a sentimental person – even more so since having a baby. Just last week it was Ruben’s first hair cut and you better believe that I chose a salon specifically based on the fact that they provide you with a certificate and a lock …
Haute Dolci Luxury Desserts*
When it comes to luxury, I am not a fancy lady at all. I don’t wear designer clothes, and I’m happy enough in a budget hotel, however, one luxury area I can get on board with is desserts, so when I was invited to try out Haute Dolci and their range of deliciously decadent desserts, I didn’t hesitate in saying yes!
A Week in Menorca – Where to Stay, What to Do
We just got back from Menorca and it was a dream! Check out where we went, and lots of pictures.
Why The Florist is the Ultimate Night Out
I was recently lucky enough to be invited to The Florist for their pre-launch weekend and it was incredible. Here is why you need to include The Florist for your next night out, boozy brunch or big event.
Family Festival Traditions (+ A Family Ticket Giveaway!)
I’m giving away a family camping ticket to Down by the River Festival!
Mind, Body Soul Experience Manchester Giveaway
Win one of 2 pairs of weekend tickets for the Mind, Body, Soul Experience in Manchester!
The Low Down on LA
Read all about the LA leg of our big honeymoon road trip!
Bongo’s Bingo – Does it live up to the Hype?
If you haven’t heard of Bongo’s Bingo, where have you been? No longer just a hobby for the blue-rinse-brigade, Bongo’s combines the number-daubing game, with music, drinking and dancing on benches, plus a whole load of weird and wonderful prizes. I recently attended a Bongo’s Bingo event for the first time in Leeds the other week and it was… interesting!
Planning a Trip to Toronto? Check Out These Hot Spots
There are several diverse communities in Toronto, each with its own architectural style and attractions. Real Estate in Toronto was already hot before the pandemic, but in the last two years, prices have skyrocketed amid a frenzy of house buying in the Canadian capital. Check out Kensington Market and The Danforth if you’re searching for a great vibe and lots …
AirBnb – Is it worth the hype?
For NYE we tried out Airbnb for the first time, and here’s what we found out!
Best things to see and do in Las Vegas
We did some pretty amazing things while in Vegas for our honeymoon! Some obvious, and some not so – check them out here!
Music In Unison – A Must-Try Class
Some people are wine connoisseurs (I personally like ‘em sweet and cheap – like me.) while others know everything there is to know about designer handbags, but me, I like to think of myself as somewhat of an authority on baby classes. I bloody LOVE a good baby group, whether it’s messy play or Makaton, a majority of my hard-earned …
Am I a mummy blogger now? Rebranding!
I’ve never really known where exactly (if anywhere) I fit into the blogosphere. I’m certainly not a beauty blogger – I barely remember to take my make up off, and just a quick look at my dinosaur dress will tell you that I am not a fashion blogger. I do write about travel, but let’s be honest, I don’t have …
How to support a nursing partner with breastfeeding
Just because you’re not lactating yourself, doesn’t mean that the process is nothing to do with you! Even if your partner isn’t planning on expressing or combi-feeding, which means you can’t help by giving bottled milk, that doesn’t mean there isn’t anything you can do to help. My husband was super helpful, especially in those incredibly difficult early days, and …
Simple Self-care for Busy Mums
When you’re a mum (which I have been for over 6 months now and still can’t believe it!), self-care is the last thing on your mind, behind feeding the baby, changing the baby, winding the baby, naps, cleaning, developmental milestones, sensory play, potential dangers, future schools, and attempting to leave the house with the least amount of vomit on your clothes.
How to celebrate your birthday during COVID-19*
Birthday parties are great excuses to meet your friends after a long time, and have a whale of a time with them as you party all night. However, in the current times of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have had very quiet birthday celebrations just within the four walls of our homes. Why let the pandemic dampen our spirits when we …
Being a Mum: the Good, the Bad and the Ugly
I can’t believe that this Mother’s Day, I’m an actual Mum. Last year I was a bit sad as we had been trying to conceive and it felt as though it was never going to happen. Thankfully, this year I am writing this while Baby Roo sleeps next to me, looking precious and making my heart want to burst. Obviously it’s a bittersweet one, as it’s my first one as a Mum, but also my first without my own Mum. But today, I want to focus on my first 3.5 months of Mum’ing and what it’s really been like.
How to shop for everyone on your Christmas list using only Etsy
Think you can’t buy something for everyone on Etsy? Challenge accepted!
The Basic Tag
I’m basic and proud! SpookyKiah started this tag so here are 10 reasons I’m basic AF!
The (Broken) Vagina Monologues: Part 5 – A Vaginal Video Game
Hello again friends! It’s been a while! My broken vagina and I have actually been busy growing a little human (I am aware that it’s my womb doing the growing, but it makes more sense poetically to say it’s my vag), and in a few months time (December to be exact) I will be pushing him out of it too! If I thought sex was painful, I feel like childbirth is going to be a whole other level… However, I realise I left you on a bit of a cliffhanger (or a clit-hanger as my pals at My Dad Wrote A Porno blog would say), and it’s time to catch up!
Why I Deleted my most Popular Blog Post Ever
My most popular post ever was raking in thousands of views a month. But I deleted it.
Lush Haul!
I filmed this in March, I am rubbish! Figured I’d get it edited and published before I get my booty from the Oxford Street Store – Watch this space! Tooth Tab Review: https://codiekinz.co.uk/review-lush-toothy-tabs/ Please like, comment and subscribe for free rainbows! Tweet me: @Codiekinz Instagram: @Codiekinz Snapchat: Codiekinz Blog: www.codiekinz.co.uk
I freaking LOVE Slam Poetry!
If you follow me on Twitter (@Codiekinz), you’ll know that when I am doing anything creative, I obsessively listen to slam poetry. I am in love with the words, passion and feelings that come with this particular type of poetry and so I felt as though it was time to share my favourite Youtube playlist for anyone else who may …