Sleepyhead Deluxe+ Pod | Review

30.4.18


From the moment we arrived home from hospital with our little Lilah, we've used our Sleepyhead Deluxe+ Pod. She's now been sleeping snuggly by our side in it for over three months, and I must say it's quickly become one of my favourite baby items. And one I would recommend to parents new or old a million times over!

The Sleepyhead Deluxe is the original baby pod. Designed and produced by Swedish company Enfant Terrible, it has been thoroughly tested to ensure it's safety. The pods comply with the British standard on air-permeability (a test designed to replicate a baby placing its mouth on an item and breathing through it), so is therefore safe for supervised overnight sleeping.

Lilah has slept in her Sleepyhead every night since she was born, and I like to think it's one of the reasons for how well she sleeps at night. When she was a newborn we had the clip at the bottom closed to create an even snugglier 'womb like' environment. However now she is 3 months, and stretched out a lot more, we have unclipped this to give her a little more room. The Sleepyhead Deluxe is suitable for up to 8 months (approximately 22lbs) though, so there's still plenty of growing room left.



As well as overnight sleeping, the Sleepyhead Pod has multiple other uses. Day time naps, supervised tummy time, playtime or even just a safe and comfortable spot to place baby during the day. With two older children at home, we've found the Sleepyhead to be a perfect safe space to place Lilah. The Pod creates a perfect barrier between her and everyone else in our bed - plus it's lovely and comfortable for her too!

The Sleepyhead Deluxe is hypoallergenic, so there's no need to worry about the materials against your newborns delicate skin. The cover is fully removable and washable too, which is an absolute must with a baby! We've washed ours a number of times now, and although the cover is rather tricky to get back on (although very easy to get off thanks to it's zips), it's definitely worth it. You can purchase spare covers, but as these are quite pricey we've chosen not too. 

The updated Deluxe+ version of the Sleepyhead, has been designed to be compatible with the Mobile Toy Arch and toys (both sold separately). So although we mainly use the pod for overnight sleeping, it's lovely that we can use it for playtime too. The toys are crinkly and engaging, and the black and white on the arch is perfect for babies. Lilah has just started reaching and grabbing for toys, so this is a perfect addition for her now.





Overall we absolutely love our Sleepyhead Deluxe Pod. Lilah has slept well in it from the very beginning, and I love putting her to bed knowing she is comfortable and snug. We love the pod so much we even packed it in our suitcase on our recent holiday to Disneyland Paris! The pod is light so it was easy to transport, plus it was much more comfortable for her to sleep in than a hard travel cot.

The Sleepyhead Deluxe+ Pod is available to buy from a number or retailers including John Lewis, Mothercare and Amazon. It retails at around £130, which I do believe it quite high - however it's definitely worth it for a good nights sleep for you and your baby!

We received this item in exchange for our review. All opinions are honest and my own. This post contains an affiliate link which means if you buy the product when using my link, I’ll receive a few pence in return.

We Made Me Wuti Wrap | Review

26.4.18


I have been lucky enough to try out a number of different baby wraps and carriers with our lovely little Lilah. They have been an absolute essential this third time around, and I can happily say I'm a baby wearing convert now!

From trying out a few, I have come to find that the stretchy baby wrap style is definitely my favourite. The Wuti Wrap from We Made Me is the latest wrap I've been trying, and I've really enjoyed using it so far.


When I first got it out of the box and unwrapped the loooooong piece of material I was a bit concencerned...
How was this piece of material going to hold my baby? 
How on earth did I put it on?

But I had absolutely nothing to worry about! The box comes with an educational baby wearing guide, as well as step by step instructions on how to wear the wrap (complete with lovely illustrations). The wrap has tapered and contrasting coloured edges to help guide you as well.

I found following a video the easiest way to put the wrap on correctly, as it can be a little tricky to get right at the beginning. Now I've been using it for a few weeks though it's become second nature, and I can get the Wuti Wrap on whether I'm at home or out and about!



The wrap is comfortable to wear, as the length of the material means that it gives extra support over your arms and back. Lilah is 3 months now and still feels secure and snuggly when I'm wearing her. The wrap is suitable from birth to 9 months (8 - 35lbs), so I've still got plenty of time to keep wearing her too. There's no need to worry about the wrap getting dirty over this time period either, as it's machine washable at 40°C.
I will say though that the material doesn't feel as stretchy as other wraps I've used in the past. I found when I first started using the wrap I would put it on too tight, and then struggle to get Lilah in. It's definitely a case of trial and error, but like I said above, once you've got the hang of it it's so simple to use. I do love that the mesh design feels extra breathable though - especially now the weather is improving and it's getting hotter!

Overall we've loved using the We Made Me Wuti Wrap. It makes trips out with three little ones so much easier, and I love that Lilah snuggles in and falls asleep when I'm wearing her. The wrap also comes with it's own storage bag which is a perfect little extra, especially as we mainly use it when out and about.
We received the We Made Me Wuti Wrap in exchange for our honest review. All opinions are 100% my own.

Lilah at Three Months Old

20.4.18

Our little Lilah Bear is three months old, and I'm sooo not okay with it. She's growing up and changing far too quickly, and I feel as if I'm going to blink and she'll be running around before I know it!

At 3 months Lilah weighs a dainty little 11 lbs and 14oz. She's just like her big brother and sister and isn't gaining weight very quickly, but the HV wasn't concerned. She's following her curve nicely, and just the other two, I know she'll have those glorious rolls before I know it. This does mean we're still in 0-3 month clothing though, which although I love, it means I'm not getting to put her in her pretty summer clothing during this recent heatwave!


Routine-wise, we've really seemed to have settled into our groove now with Lilah. She wakes most mornings at roughly 7am, and goes to bed around 7pm. She has five 7oz bottles throughout the day (7am, 11am, 3pm, 7pm, and a 10pm dreamed), which she takes really well now. We've finally stopped with the Infacol for her wind which - fingers crossed - seems to improved a lot.

Lilah is very much a cat-napper, unless she's in the car or constantly on the move in her pram. But I honestly can't complain too much, as she does sleep through most nights now (occasionally waking for her dummy or a cuddle). I'm still not keeping my hopes up though, as the four month sleep regression is just around the corner... wish us luck!

This month Lilah has really grown and developed, and I don't think we can really call her a newborn anymore... sob! She's cooing (although she's still very quiet), trying to laugh, and she's been rolling from front to back since she was 11 weeks old. She absolutely loves her hands, and just like Parker she settles with a muslin next to her face to snuggle. 


I adore writing these monthly updates, especially as I have all three of the Littles growing up to look back on now. Lilah is so like her big sister Indie. Not just the fact that they are practically twins as babies, but also with their milestones and routine. It's crazy!

Little Tikes Fountain Factory Water Table | Review

19.4.18


Now that the sun is shining, there is nothing the Littles love more than to get out in the garden to play. We have a few toys out there, but nothing that has kept their attention for very long. That was until now though...

We were sent the Fountain Factory Water Table from Little Tikes, and it's been a huge hit with both Indiana (aged 4) and Parker (aged 2)... and myself (aged 20-something!). The Fountain Factory water table is perfect for little ones aged 24 months to 5 years and beyond. It's been designed to not only be fun to play with, but actually provide STEM learning for preschoolers through science and engineering learning.

When I first opened the box and saw how many parts were included, I must admit I was worried. But the instructions were really easy to follow, and most parts went together with ease. The only bit I struggled with was putting the plug in, but it was nothing a bit of wiggling and jiggling couldn't fix!




The instructions show you how to put together the fountains and pipes in one configuration, however the table can be used in a number of ways. The pieces and accessories are all interchangeable, meaning that your little one can make different paths for the water to follow. The pipes pull apart easily and the taps are simple to work out, so although you can get involved in the fun too (and I'd definitely recommend it!), you can just leave your little one to play without them needing too much assistance.

Indiana especially loves the pump which splashes water out of the top of the funnel. And Parker loves using the included water cup to fill up the funnel and pop up character. My favourite feature has to be the included plug, asalthough it was the trickiest bit to put together, it makes emptying the water table soo much easier.


The table retails at £59.99 and is definitely the perfect addition to our garden this Spring / Summer! 

We received this product in exchange for our review. All opinions are honest and my own.

Izmi Baby Carrier | Review

15.4.18


Baby wearing wasn't something I really knew much about, when we had our first child almost 5 years ago. But when our third little one came along this year, there was absolutely no way we could cope without it! It not only keeps your hands free, but it is perfect for baby snuggles too.

We have been trying out the Izmi Baby Carrier from Cheeky Rascals for a few months, and it's definitely become my husband Jack's go-to carrier of choice. The award winning Izmi Carrier combines the comfort and closeness of a fabric sling, with the support and comfort of a buckled carrier. I know Jack's not too sure on wrap style carriers, so I think this combination is perfect for him.

Suitable from birth until walking (7-33lbs), it has been designed to adjust and grow with your child as they do. It has also been designed to be hip-healthy, which is the best possible way to carry your little one (as well as being a lot more comfortable for the wearer too!).



We did find the Izmi carrier a little tricky to put on at first. It is definitely a little fiddly to pop on with such a small baby, as you have to reach around to secure the buckles. But now we've been using it for a while Jack has found it much easier and quicker to put on. But I'm sure if you were an experienced baby wearer this wouldn't be an issue for you though!

Also, while the carrier is easy to adjust, we have found that it is something we haven't really wanted to do. We would have to adjust it every time Jack or I wore it, so it would become a bit of a pain. This has meant the carrier has become the one that Jack solely uses. Which although is a shame, isn't really much of an issue for us!

We have only used the carrier in the traditional front carry so far, as Lilah is still quite little. The Izmi Carrier can also be used in three other ways though - front facing, hip carry and back carry. Lilah seems to really enjoy the carrier though, and will happily fall asleep within minutes of being in it and snuggled close to Jack.


Overall we are really impressed with the Izmi Baby Carrier, and it is definitely a baby item we would recommend to new parents! It is a little fiddly to work out at first, but once you get used to putting baby in the carrier, it is comfortable to wear and feels lovely and secure. The carrier also comes with it's own storage bag, so it's easy to take out and about with you too!
"The Izmi cotton baby carrier was designed by Emily Williamson, a mother and expert babywearing consultant. After extensive research with both Mums and Dads tackling common problems Emily designed the Izmi carrier in the UK to be comfortable, supportive and long lasting with the approval from the International Hip Dysplasia Institute."
We recieved this carrier in exchange for our review. All opinions are honest and my own. 

The Siblings Project | April 2018

I cannot believe another month has passed with these three little loves - time really does fly! Lilah is now 3 month old, and has honestly slotted into our family so perfectly. Every morning all Indie and Parker want to do is see her, and give her all the cuddles and kisses. And this probably doesn't stop throughout the whole day!

Lilah tolerates all the craziness rather well, and you can see just how much love she has for her big brother and sister already. Always giving them beaming smiles whenever they're around, and watching them as they play. Although she is so quiet sometimes you can easily forget she is there... the life of a third child I suppose?



Indie and Parker have spent a lot of time together this month, as they've both been home over the Easter holidays. They're in such a love / hate stage at the moment, and I won't lie, it's exhausting! One minute they are playing together so nicely. Indie is being a caring big sister and they are giggling and smiling away. But then the next minute she doesn't want to play with him, or Parker is being the typical little brother and winding her up.

It's hard to keep up some days, and I feel like a referee constantly separating them and sorting out their arguments. But I'm hoping once we're back to normality, and Indie isn't around so much, they'll enjoy each others company a little bit more. Or at least tolerate it for longer than 5 minutes!

The Siblings Project - Dear Beautiful

Is Decorating the Best Part of Moving House?

9.4.18

Stop thinking about the negatives when it comes to moving home (because we know that’s what you’re going to be doing at the minute). We know that it can just be one big pain in the bum, and your finances will take the biggest hit they've ever had. But you’re probably forgetting about the most exciting part of actually moving home - the fact that you’re going to be able to decorate it exactly the way that you want it!


The whole process starts before you even try and move. The planning that goes into the decorating process determines how your home is going to look when you get there. Hours scrolling through 
Pintrest and Instagram getting inspiration and design ideas. And who doesn't love creating their dream home on Pintrest? There is soo many inspiring posts on there now, you'll be sure to find something you love.

When thinking about the budget for your move, make sure you factor in how much you're planning on spending on decorating too. It’s not all about spending a ton of money though. You can make your home look exactly how you want - you just need to be savvy with your spending. Although, a new home is a perfect excuse to splurge on a few exciting items! So don't feel you need to save money at every opportunity.

The decorating process is going to come in a few stages. Of course a bed to sleep on is an essential, but don't forget made to measure curtains, to ensure that your have the privacy you need (and they'll also keep the light out too). As your home starts coming together, you can think about the finishing touches such as artwork and picture frames, to really make your house feel like a home.

This is a collaborative post.

5 Simple Ways to Redecorate your Child’s Bedroom

5.4.18

I remember dreaming of the perfect nursery when I was expecting Indiana.  Floral prints and cutesy accessories, and of course a design that was all me. But now as she is getting older, and she has her own ideas and favourite things, it's definitely time to update her room. Even more so as she shares a room with her brother, who I'm not sure if so keen on the floral and complete girlyness!


Redecorating doesn't need to involve anything drastic or expensive though. You can make a room look refreshed and new with just a few simple changes! So here's 5 simple ways to redecorate your child's bedroom:

Fresh Paint

Just refreshing the paint on the walls can bring a room back to life! If you went gender neutral (or even extremely girl / boy themed), adding some colour or picking something a bit more toned down can really change how a room looks. We've currently got cream walls in the Littles bedroom, but I'd love to repaint them white with a colourful feature wall.

New Bedding

Letting your child pick out some new bedding can not only update a room, but let them show their personality too. Indiana is still absolutely unicorn obsessed and got lots of unicorn accessories for her recent birthday. J D Williams have a whole collection of unicorn duvet covers and bedding that you can see here - I think even Indie would struggle with what one she'd like most!

Rearrange the Furniture

If the space allows it, just simply moving the furniture you already have around can make a huge difference. It can open up spaces that you previously didn't use or even make more room altogether! We found we had so much more room when we moved the Littles beds - this extra space gave them more room to play and made their room look bigger too!

Personal Art

If your little ones are anything like mine, then you'll have countless pieces of their artwork around the house. So what a better way than to display their art and also jazz up a room, than to use their drawings and paintings as decorations on the wall! Alice shared this fantastic post on how she used Amelia's art work.

Wall Stickers

I know these aren't everyone's cup of tea, but they are a great and relatively low priced way of decorating a room. You can get reusable wall stickers in thousands of designs now, so they're another fantastic way of showing your child's personality in the room too. I know my two would love choosing and sticking their stickers up!

What simple things would you do to redecorate your child's bedroom?
This is a collaborative post

Three US States you Need to Visit!

2.4.18

A trip to the USA can involve a lot of hard work and planning, and that's before you even step foot on the plane! The country is home to no less than fifty states, so you'll need to conduct a lot of research if you want to make sure you see the best sights and make the most of your trip. With that in mind, I've picked three different states that I think you MUST visit this year. I promise you won't regret it!


Illinois

Illinois is a mid-western state that many people seem to overlook when they visit America. The area has a heavy French influence, as it is where many European people settled hundreds of years ago. Chicago is the biggest and best city in Illinois, and so you might like to spend some time there if you enjoy the hustle and bustle. However, there are lots of small towns and cities you should visit, and that is where you will find the real America. The Crazy Tourist and lots of other blogs publish articles that give you a heads up on the best places you won’t want to overlook. 

Louisiana 

New Orleans might have been devastated a few years ago by Hurricane Katrina, but the city is thriving once more these days. If you only visit one place in Louisiana, make sure you stop off for at least a few days in New Orleans. It is the jazz and blues capital of the US, and you’ll find streets with hundreds of bars playing live music all day long. It’s also an excellent place to visit during Mardi Gras if you enjoy the festival atmosphere. Best of all? Accommodation and food are both cheap due to the lack of visitors at the moment, and that means you won’t have to wait around to get served at the bars too!


Tennessee 

Tennessee is a fantastic place to visit if you enjoy country music history. Home to the iconic city of Memphis, you will find Sun Studios and just about every Elvis-based tour and museum in the country - definitely an essential stop on your adventure. Tennessee is also home to some of the best whiskey and bourbon in the world, and so most people like to visit the Jack Daniels distillery if they have time. You can keep costs down by staying at mom and pops-style hotels. You can also sleep in late, watch country musicians all night, and get a feel for cowboy and cowgirl America.

The USA is a big place, and it would be a shame if you only visited the most popular tourist traps. Don’t hesitate to try something different and visit sites others avoid because that is the bases for an excellent adventure. So why not try one of these three more unique states next time you plan for trip to the States!
This is a collaborative post.