PARENTING - Baby Making

Trying for that second baby... well I can honestly say as it only took 3 months for me to fall pregnant the first time I was hoping it would be similar this time. However times change as do circumstances, I was 29 when I fell pregnant the first time, a healthy weight and healthy in general. Now I'm 34, I'm over weight and far from being the healthiest version of myself. 

Since having Autumn Iv had spinal surgery and been diagnosed with fibromyalgia all whilst being put on a large amount of prescription pain killers. Which at times I can't work out if they are a help or a hindrance to me wellbeing. 

We have been trying since May... it's now December and nothing, each month the dreaded period arrives. It's both frustrating and heartbreaking for me as we had a miscarriage in 2015 which I took quite badly. 

It also doesn't help having chronic pain so half the time I'm not up to baby making.  

I'm quite frustrated in my physical health as it not where I saw myself at 34 and I'm struggling to come to terms with it all. 

So rant over ..... maybe December will be a lucky month for us. 

Love Aimee 

LIFESTYLE: Christmas has arrived at the Bradleys

So December has landed and I'm actually really looking forward to Christmas this year, autumn is nearly 5 and is really loving the magic of Christmas. 

This also means she managed to talk me into writing to Father Christmas to ask if we can have an elf visit us this December ..... *eye roll*. 

I know I know it's all fun and makes a wonderful tradition but Christmas is stressful enough without extra things to do!  Who invented this elf on a shelf? Honestly. 

So I caved and wrote to Father Christmas asking for us to have our very own special elf visit .... welcome to Sophie the elf, Autumn named her and we filled in her birth certificate. She isn't your usual creepy red elf that truly is terrifying, Sophie is a plush style elf from card factory, she was under £5 and cokes with an activity book, crayons, stickers and a birth certificate. I then found myself in pound land buying elf accessories, if I'm doing this thing it will be done right. 

Mind you I was a little behind and did all this during school time in December 1st, bad mummy! So when autumn arrived home from school she was greeted with Sophie and advent items. 

Sophie brought us all a chocolate calendar, Autumn was extra special and received a wilkinson own brand lego advent calendar which was only £6 bargain! As well as a book. Iv decided to do a book advent calendar and each day Sophie gives autumn a new day right up to Christmas Day. ( I still have around 16 more to wrap ... ). 

Autumn absolutely loved it and was super excited all the way home from school. 

It's now December 4th and Sophie has been super busy in the bradley household. On Saturday the 2nd she had a midnight chocolate feast with a bag of santa chocolates also from Poundland (this shop is a life saver)... she did leave some for us to share which was super kind of her! She also gave autumn an arts and crafts activity to make some fun Christmas glasses, sadly no time on Saturday to make but we made a good start on Sunday. 

we put up the Christmas tree, I did the tree, lifts and tinsel and autumn did some of the hanging decorations although she quickly got distracted by the Christmas music and started to boogie.

I then re arranged all the balls when autumn went to bed. 

Sunday the 3rd  Sophie had been busy over night as she clearly wanted to help decorate the tree. 

Autumn came downstairs to find all but one pair of her pants had been hung on the tree, with a very pleased Sophie sitting at the top. Autumn was just thankful they were her clean pants, Sophie left autumn her second advent book in the tree for her to read as well as some more funky glasses to make. 

It's now the 4th of December and Sophie clearly wanted a little bit of excitement in her life and has zip lined across the front room using a candy cane, she has left one for autumn as a little treat with a note and her 4th advent book. 

 

So far I'm actually quite enjoying having Sophie around as autumn is so excited to see what Sophie has been up too at night. 

So far all of Sophie's little things have been super easy to achieve and I look forward to scrolling through Pinterest for another 20 ideas. 

I will do a weekly update on Sophie's adventures in the run up to Christmas. 

All our love from the Bradley's and happy Christmas my lovelies 

BEAUTY: Pop Colour Polish

So every Wednesday I'm going to share with you my colour on the week. This weeks a little cheat as it's actually two colours but I just love them together! 

I popped into my local Sally salon services and found these beauties. It's from the news collection they have stocked called colour club. 

And after having a snoop on their website I'm even more excited about the colour collection they have to offer. 

I picked up LSC878 - take me to your chateau 

This is a one step colour polish so ideally you just need the one coat. 

It is great coverage and if you get a good all over smooth coverage on the first (and supposedly only coat) go you won't need another. However I'm a 2 layer kinda gal and still stuck to 2 as I wanted to get it as smooth as possible. 

My second colour choice was 1136 - constellation prize. 

 

This is an outstanding mix of iridescent pinks, pearls and blue glitter flecks. It's honestly so so pretty. This is defiantly a two layer polish to get the perfect consistency of glitter on the nail. 

You can check out their online shop here 

Or pop into your local salon services to see what goodies they have. 

Hope you LOVE these two colours as much as i do! I defiantly think they keep the feeling of summer alive as the days are getting cooler.

LIFESTYLE: Living with Chronic Illness

This post is a little out of my comfort zone, its pretty personal and shows a very vulnerable part of myself I prefer to keep hidden away under lock and key.

I have since 2013 been living with a hidden chronic illness, this means I know its there and I'm in constant debilitating pain almost every hour of every day, yet no one else can see it. I look like everyone else and unless you took a look at my medication or my medical records you would think I was perfectly healthy. I find I am constantly judged by everyone, this can span from friends, strangers to professionals. 

I am in a constant state of defence, having to prove myself and my disability, for heavens forbid i have a good day where i can walk unaided, or get into a bath safely, or take less than two hours to get up dressed and ready to leave the house without the help of y 4 year old daughter.

I don't look ill or disabled every single day. Some days in fact I actually look normal on the outside (whatever normal is?). 

However on the inside I feel like I'm being consumed by the pain, breathing, eating, sleeping and moving all makes me want to scream at the top of my lungs.... however I'm sure if I actually did that it would be frowned upon so I put on my best fake smile which is the front for a painful grimiest. 

I get strange looks when I use my walking stick or crutches - I'm too young to be needing a hand with walking right?  Should have seen strangers faces when I had to use my Zimmer frame and the supermarket mobility motorised scooter. 

Everyday when i wake up is a complete surprise for me .... what have I been dealt with today? 

Some days my pain is so low I can function, be a human and a mother and wife... the down side to this ? Well you see I get over excited and do far to much, more than my body can take. So when I awake the next day, my body is against me, I cant move I can't turn in bed or reach for a drink. I can't get to my pain medication, I'm in a limbo of tears and fear. I suffer with memory problems, known as fibro fog this in its self can mean i miss important dates, appointments and scheduled items. Everything in my life has to be written down or there is a chance i may miss it.

I say yes to spending time with friends then when it get to the day I'm too tired, in too much pain to even contemplate leaving my house, sofa or bed, and i cancel AGAIN! 

What people don't see is the constant tears, struggling to wash myself and my hair. Reaching down to put on my underwear and socks (my 4yo daughter does this for me, thankfully she loves to help), it's humiliating. 

What's worse is when I'm in public using my stick, crutches or blue badge and I get remarks generally in the region of 40+, these remarks bring on my anxiety. 

You far to young use use a stick ..

Excuse me your parked in a space for people who are disabled and your too young to need it. Stop being so lazy. 

Your using your stick with ease are you sure you really need it?

Some days I don't use my stick, the result ... I fall a lot, the pain is more unbearable than normal (what ever the bloody hell normal is)!

I spent far more time in hospital than i have ever wanted t.

My illness is hidden, much like my worse days. On my worse days I can barely make it to the toilet, dressing myself is out of the question. I worry what my daughter must be thinking seeing her mother like this, to her and in her eyes i am meant to be indestructible and super hero like. 

I have spinal nerve damage (this is a result of being left too long to be operated on), i have damage to my L4, L5, S1 discs, there were severely herniated and i have had surgery to try and ease the issue, however this was not as successful as we would have hoped and i am left with permanent long term damage. I have Fibromyalgia, something i had never heard of untill i was diagnosed with it in 2014. 

I now have new health concerns, leading to a number of tests for to see what's going on with my poor excuse for a body.  

Remember your not alone, even though sometimes you have never felt more alone. 

Let the tears run down your cheek, the washing and house work can wait till another day. You need to put your self first for once, and this is something I'm learning slowly to do. 

Love aimee. 

Xx

FASHION: OOTD Floral Vibes

It's not often I do an OOTD, but I felt pretty good about myself today and decided to show it off.

I am wearing a gorgeous red floral dress by new look, about 3 seasons ago I'm guessing as it was a hand me down from my best friend, (its also part of the maternity collection) but it still looks great when not sporting a bump.

It's a size 14 and fits really well, and where I have gained a few unwanted pounds it it super flattering.

I teamed it with my new Fiorelli tan bag from TK MAXX current stock from the in store collection. 32.00

Mt gorgeous Queen necklace in Stirling silver which I was kindly given by Constance Hall's Sister at her London meet and greet event back in April.

And finally my well loved satin bow sliders in baby pink from eBay for a bargain price of 7.99 including postage.

What do you think of the look ? I love it as its super comfortable and very light for summer. 

My makeup was simple foundation, highlighter as eyeshadow in a pretty pink, mascara and a nude lippy with highlighter on top.

Love Aimee 

Pretty purple nails NOTD

Time for a little pamper so I have decided to pin my nails in pastel purple with a hit of glitter. 

The polish is rimmel London wild-er-ness by Rita Ora and the glitter is by stargazer laser purple. 

I think it's a super cute combo ! 

You can get the Rimmel Polish in Superdrug or boots in store or online here. 

And stargazer I got from good old eBay

What's your thoughts  ?

BEAUTY: Beautify rose gold mirror beauty and jewellery collection

I am totally in love with rose gold at the moment, it's just beautiful. 

Beautify have really channelled beauty, practicality and rose gold all into 3 stunning jewellery boxes. 

I'm lucky enough to have two of the 3 in my bedroom standing pride of place onto of my chest of draws. 

The pictures really don't do them justice they really are gorgeous. 

I brought the rose gold mirrored 4 draw first as I really couldn't resist it. 

It's currently priced at £11.99 plus postage on Amazon here. 

It's worth every penny and comes with a cleaning cloth so it remains shiny and new. 

It has velvet Lined draws and crystal handles, and any woman would love to have this is a gift. It's well made and really makes a statement. 

They also offer a smaller version in a two draw look which is currently £7.99 plus postage on Amazon here. 

I am yet to own this but it's a bargain price and will finish my collection perfectly. 

Lastly they have the most beautiful one, Iv saved the best till last. Again velvet lined, rose gold mirrored with crystal handles and a complimentary cleaning cloth. 

It has 3 draws and 9 storage sections which can be used for both jewellery and makeup storage. Perfect for creams, brushes and perfumes. 

Mine holds my rose gold brushes and bottled lotions and potions. 

It's currently £24.99 plus postage on Amazon here. 

It's worth every penny and the perfect gift for the women in your life! Birthday, Christmas or just because I would be so happy to be opening this. Beautify kindly gifted me this to check out and it's too beautiful not to share. 

All 3 are also available in silver mirrored also which is equally gorgeous. 

Please do check out my beautify Christmas wish list as they have so many gorgeous pieces to offer.

They come in a beautify branded box and well packaged. 

Love the collection? shop it here

What do you think of the beautify rose gold mirrored collection? 

REVIEW: Pretty Little Parcel

I couldn't wait to receive this and share it with you, this is my second pretty little parcel and I'm so pleased with it. 

I promise I will do a throwback on the first parcel I received soon! 

I love the idea of this because as much as I LOVE makeup and skincare there is only so many boxes you can try before it gets repetitive. 

This parcel is only £10 per month and that includes postage. The value of contents varies from box to box as do the number of items. I can honestly say I have not been disappointed with either the quantity or value of the items Iv received in both the boxes and cannot wait for the next one to arrive. 

It's super easy all you do is make an account and set up your monthly payment through PayPal. 

The April box included 4 gorgeous little home items. 

The first is a silver hammered effect heart tea light holder, Once used the tea light is easily changed. This is really pretty and looks perfect on my bedside table. 

Tie a Wish bracelet. 

Iv seen these before and am aware they come with all different meanings and sayings on the cards that come with the bracelet. Iv always wanted one but never actually gone ahead and brought one, so I'm so pleased this was included.  

My card says: Feathers appear when Angels are near. 

I love the sentiment behind it because when you tie the bracelet to your wrist you make a wish, and you don't remove it until it breaks and when it does your wish will come true. 

I will have a good long think about my wish before putting it on. 

 silver beaded decorative hanging star. 

This is really pretty and has a gorgeous sheer white organza tie to hang it to the wall or where ever you choose. 

It's a good weight and very well made and even though is is a small hanging decoration it is so pretty that it will stand out. 

 kitchen wall plaque. 

I don't have much decor in my kitchen but this is really pretty and would suit my kitchen very well. 

It says Life is like a cup of tea, it's all about how you make it. 

It's a sweet verse but also very true, I can't wait to hang this in my kitchen (little job for Mr B there). 

All in all I love this box. There isn't a single item I wouldn't use or want. 

All are extremely good quality and well made and will make wonderful little additions to our home. 

I cannot recommend this little parcel enough it's from pretty little home and I highly recommend you check out their online shop as it is full of treasures for your home to really make it stand out. 

Sign up for your monthly subscription here 


Have you tried this monthly box? Is it something that you would consider?

LIFESTYLE: My Latest Amazon Purchases

I have to admit it I am an absolute amazon frequent flyer, I have amazon prime and video as well as their music player.

But I'm also always buying lots of goodies from them too so I wanted to share my latest with you.

MagiGlow A4 Enhanced Cinematic Light Box -£15.99 

I have seen these everywhere and I had to get one I love it.

They are popping up on social media everywhere and this didn't disappoint at all. For the price it's great value for money and good quality.

My Little Pony 'Equestria' Single Duvet Set - £9.99

Autumn is living My little pony (thanks to the Argos advert) and she really wanted a bed set, now I struggle to change to a different theme and end up washing it in one day to get it back on the bed before bed time. It's a good quality set and she loves it. So that's one happy mummy.

My Little Pony 'Equestria' Double Duvet Set - £17.99

Yes ok so I got myself a matching one, my husband face was Honestly the best when he came home to it. I love it!

Trolls Poppy "Dreamworks Illumi-Mate" Colour Changing Light - £7.99

Autumn has wanted this since she first saw it, we have recently started as data chart with her and every Sunday she gets the chance to and something small and this was one of choices. She really loves it the battery last for around 3 to 4 nights if kept on for the whole night.

 Home Sweet Home Laundry Powder Box - £11.9///////////9

I love this style and I'm so pleased with it, I'm planning of getting the whole set for my home.

Selfie Light Luminous iPhone Case - £20.99

This is great for photos, looks pretty and comes in different colours. Very pleased with this. I have been after one for a long while and this doesn't disappoint its a good quality case and very sturdy.

Lightweight Foldable Headphones  - £13.59

I went for pink it's a pretty pink, the sound quality for ne is perfect. I'm pleased with them so when the footie is on I can watch some betflix in the iPad. Happy wife. These are good quality affordable headphones which match my IPhone and IPad perfectly. They are very sturdy and look good.

Bob the Builder DMM55 Mash and Mould Construction Site Playset -9.99

Saw this on one of those YouTube videos the ones with the annoying voice which showcases lots of toys. Well I was sweet talked into it by autumn. She is yet to earn it however but it's ready for her when she does.

IPAD 2 / 3 / 4 GENERATION CASE COVER FLIP MY LITLLE PONY -£11.99 plus postage

So we can see a theme I am a sucker for retro and this had to be brought for the family iPad. Love it. And Autumn loves it too, so basically she has decided its her Ipad. 

Jawbone UP2 Orchid Circle Rope Activity Sleep Tracker - £29.99

I decided to upgrade my tracker and I live jawbone as a whole so choose the up2 in purple. Mainly because of the cost. Very happy so far.

 Exfoliating Foot Mask Papaya & Chamomile Extract - £9.99

Over priced and not worth it to be honest. I followed all instructions and nothing happened to my feet at all. No peeling or soft feet for summer, and they don't respond to emails.


So what do you think? Let me know if you have had any of these or would consider buying them. 

I'm so pleased to be back and blogging again, so keep an eye out for more posts from the Bradley's.

Lots of love guys xx

*All prices were correct at time of publish, all items were brought by myself